Executive summary
The following are key points for consideration with respect to this report:
- Zoning By-law Amendment application D14ZBA21.001 was submitted in December 2020 seeking to refine the boundaries of the lands zoned Conservation Special (O3-1) to facilitate the development of an industrial warehouse for food distribution at 11450 Steeles Avenue (Premier Gateway Employment Area).
- The Statutory Public Meeting for the application was held on March 1, 2021; no comments or concerns from the public have been received to date.
- The submitted Environmental Impact Study (EIS) has been reviewed by Conservation Halton and the Region of Halton who concur with the study conclusion that refinement of the O3-1 Zone will still allow for the Regional Natural Heritage System to be suitably protected.
- This report is recommending approval of Zoning By-law Amendment Application D14ZBA21.001.
Climate implications
This report impacts and/or helps address climate change and the Town’s Net Zero target through climate mitigation. The Green Development Standards (GDS) checklist submitted by the Applicant proposes to include several environmental initiatives that should help reduce climate change impacts from the development. These include but are not limited to:
- The use of Low Impact Development (LID) techniques and rainwater retention by including permeable pavers within a portion of the parking lot
- Providing electric vehicle charging stations
- Bicycle infrastructure (accessible bike parking spaces and indoor amenities to encourage cycling)
- Walkway connections to future possible transit opportunities
- Shade trees to be planted within parking areas
- Use of “cooling” roofing materials to reduce energy use
- Native plantings to reduce watering needs