Mr. Harding summarized Report COA2020-005, to request relief from zoning provisions to facilitate the construction of a main floor addition to the existing building.
Mr. Harding brought to the attention of the Committee a typo error in Report COA2020-005, page 3, rationale, last sentence, which read: "…5 accessory and 2 regular…" which should read: "…5 accessory and 3 regular…". Also in the report, page 2, Conditions, the conditions were omitted in the original printed version due to a software issue. Two conditions have been added to the hardcopy to reflect the digital report and were distributed for the Committee’s and applicant’s review. Mr. Harding noted that since the writing of the report, comments were received from Community Services, noting no comments or concerns.
The Committee asked if the parking spaces exist. Staff clarified that the parking surface exists but the lines are yet to be painted.
The Committee questioned the proposed aisle width from a safety aspect, noting that large vehicles are used for accessible parking. They were concerned whether it is acceptable according the Zoning By-Law as well as the AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act) to have aisle widths of the proposed size. Mr. Holy, Manager of Planning, replied that the parking lot area is substantially constrained due to the location of the church, septic system and cemetery, and recognized that multiple turns may be needed to successfully navigate the smaller aisle if backing up from a parking space. The proposal achieves the best design possible given the site constraints.
The applicant, Paul Heath, Warden Representative, was present and spoke to the Committee. He spoke to the preservations of the Churches in rural areas. Their intention is to bring the Church up to code by making it more accessible as they have an ageing congregation. The Church would like to be a community hub where elections can be held, as well as meetings and events. Being an accessible building will facilitate its ability to be a community hub.
The Committee questioned why the Diocese did not approve the improvements suggested in 2012. The applicant, Mr. Heath responded by saying that the Diocese reviewed and suggested applying for a grant. The Diocese rejected the proposal as it was focused on dealing with declining congregations and church closures.
The Committee asked Mr. Heath what made the Diocese change their mind and support the upgrades. Mr. Heath replied, due to having the right Minister and positive atmosphere resulted in a thriving congregation. The Diocese saw revenues increase and the congregation in good spirits, and in return decided to support the addition.
The Committee also had some questions about the location and status of the tile bed. The Committee asked staff if the parking lot is paved. Staff replied yes. The Committee asked whether the pavement over the portion of the tile bed has been removed.
Ms. Murchison, Chief Building Official confirmed due to the weather it will be spring before it can be pulled back. Mr. Heath confirmed that they had spoken with the parking lot installer and had scheduled the partial removal in spring.
The Committee asked about the number of cars present at services.
Emil Nychka, Warden, was present and advised that due to carpooling about 15-20 cars are parked during regular church events, but this can increase substantially during the holidays.
No further questions from the Committee or other persons.