Planning and Environment Committee meeting, February 3, 2026
Attendance
Councillor Priya Raman (Ward 2) chaired the meeting. Members present were Councillor Tom Beaudry (Ward 3), Councillor Arjun Sidhu (Ward 5), and Councillor Helen Marchetti (Ward 6). Mayor Danielle Okafor-Price attended as an ex officio member. Staff in attendance included General Manager of Infrastructure and Planning Samuel Adeyemi and a Senior Planner.
Delegations
A resident from the Benchlands neighbourhood spoke about winter trail safety and requested more frequent clearing after recent storms. A representative from the Tamsin Valley Conservation Authority also attended to discuss shoreline maintenance guidelines along the Tamsin River.
Reports and decisions
Winter Home Insulation Grants
The committee reviewed the new Winter Home Insulation Grant Programme, which offers financial support to residents looking to upgrade their homes. The committee approved the program details, confirming that eligible homeowners can receive up to $4,500 to cover insulation upgrades. The grant aims to reduce energy costs and improve comfort during the cold months. Carried.
Benchlands Lookout Trail Closure
Staff presented a report on the closure of a section of the Tamsin River Trail at Benchlands Lookout Park due to unsafe ice dams. The committee directed staff to proceed with the emergency ice dam removal immediately. They also approved the installation of temporary safety signage and barrier tape to keep the public away from the hazardous area while crews work. Carried.
Laneway Housing Zoning Review
The committee examined the proposed changes to the Zoning By-law to allow laneway housing on certain residential streets, including Mercer Street. After discussing the design standards and parking requirements, the committee recommended the by-law to City Council for final approval. Carried.
Transit-Oriented Development Corridor
General Manager Adeyemi presented an update on the Transit-Oriented Development Corridor project. The committee discussed the need for affordable housing near transit hubs and forwarded several recommendations to Council, including a call for a public consultation period before the zoning changes are finalized. Carried.
By-laws
No by-laws were passed at this meeting. The committee recommends by-laws to City Council for adoption.
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:45 p.m.