Committee reviewed the report and noted concerns about the parkland lots on blocks 74 and 75 south of the proposed development, referred to commonly as the buffer zone. Members noted concerns that the diagram provided of the proposed development appears to encompass the outlined parkland lots. Members inquired about the following items: if there was the intention to implement a form of privacy barrier, if lots 74 and 75 had been surveyed and indicated with stakes, and on the intent for placement of the stormwater pond. Ms. Zander noted that the draft plan from 2017 was prepared by a surveyor. It was noted that survey stakes were confirmed to be present on the south side of the proposed development. Ms. Zander noted that the developer is responsible for providing privacy barriers as a requirement, and made it clear that the Township could detail the preferred type of barrier (tree planting, fencing etc.) in the subdivision agreement. Ms. Zander noted the intent to place the stormwater pond on the abutting lands north of the proposed subdivision, which also belongs to the Lockwood Brothers. Ms. Zander highlighted the future need of a maintenance agreement for the continued upkeep of the stormwater pond.
Members inquired about the proposed use of lots 55-58, and whether that parcel of land was owned by the Township or developers. It was noted that two pathways and two park blocks were planned for the area, and are owned by the developer but are required to be conveyed to the Township as per the 2017 draft plan conditions.
Members inquired if the developer intended to meet the Provincial guidelines of 25% of the development being dedicated as affordable housing. Ms. Zander noted that the initial application did not require these conditions, however, the developer has expressed his commitment to addressing affordable housing. It was noted that most of the units will range from 1000-1500 sq/ft to assist in making the homes more affordable.
Committee inquired if the sewer and water servicing has been confirmed. Members noted their interest in having curbs and gutters implemented, noting that it would coincide with the Township's recent drainage project suggestions to construct curbs and gutters in Johnstown. Committee reached a consensus to request the implementation of curbs and gutters be outlined in the subdivision agreement. It was noted that the initial application requested capacity for 106 water and sewer connections, noting the need to factor in only 40 more connections. Ms. Zander noted that she would supply the servicing capacity report as soon as it is available.
Committee inquired if the supplied renderings of the proposed units were the intended builds for the proposed subdivision. It was noted that the designs supplied were units previously built by Lockwood Brothers Construction, noting that no specific designs have been determined for this particular subdivision.
Members noted that through the intensification of the subdivision, many of the affordable housing issues are being addressed. It was noted that many of the design discussions regarding the subdivision could be addressed later in the design and finalization stages. It was noted that added development costs, such as incorporating curbs and gutters and sidewalks, will add to the overall cost of each individual unit, which highlight Members concern with the affordability of the proposed dwellings.