Planning and Environment Committee meeting, October 6, 2026
Attendance
Members present were Mayor Danielle Okafor-Price (ex officio), Councillor Priya Raman, Councillor Tom Beaudry, Councillor Arjun Sidhu, and Councillor Helen Marchetti. Councillor Marcus Lindqvist sent regrets. City staff included General Manager of Infrastructure and Planning Samuel Adeyemi and a Senior Planner.
Delegations
Two delegations were heard. A resident from Ward 3 spoke in support of increased green space requirements for new developments. Representatives from the Downtown Wrenford Business Improvement Area presented on proposed streetscape improvements along Mercer Street.
Reports and Decisions
Site Plan Control Application (45 Mercer Street)
The committee reviewed the site plan for a proposed mixed-use building. Staff recommended approval subject to conditions regarding landscaping, pedestrian pathways, and waste management facilities. The motion was carried unanimously.
By-law 2026-079: A by-law to amend Zoning By-law 2016-040 (Transit-Oriented Development Corridor)
Members discussed the proposed zoning amendments to encourage higher density housing near transit hubs. The committee recommended the by-law be referred to Council with support. The motion was carried 4-1.
Minor Variance Application (12 Mercer Street)
The applicant requested a minor variance to reduce the required rear yard setback by 0.5 metres to accommodate a new laneway suite. The committee considered the impact on neighbouring properties and staff conditions regarding fencing and screening. The motion was carried 3-2.
Heritage Alteration Permit (15 Mill Street)
Staff reviewed the application to restore the original façade of the heritage property. Conditions included the use of historically accurate materials and a schedule for the restoration work. The motion was carried unanimously.
Development Application (88 Mill Street)
The committee reviewed a proposal for a new rental building. Staff recommended approval with conditions requiring a 10 per cent contribution towards affordable housing and updated traffic impact studies. The motion was carried 4-1.
Zoning Amendment (42 Mercer Street)
The application sought to permit a secondary suite in a residential dwelling. The committee reviewed the neighbourhood character and parking provisions before recommending approval. The motion was carried unanimously.
By-laws
Committees recommend by-laws to Council; Council passes by-laws. No by-laws were passed at this meeting.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:15 p.m.