Staff asked the Commission to reflect on 2023 - what worked well and what could be more efficient.
Member comments included:
- Items are reviewed on an individual basis to not set a precedent and it's disappointing when Council disagrees with recommendations from APC;
- Enjoyed the year, thank staff for sharing their knowledge;
- Adjusting the schedule to accommodate members allows for all Commission members to provide input;
- Suggestion for more notice to be provided if Vice Chair is required to chair the meeting;
- Purpose of APC is a positive in the application process;
- 3 year term with 2 year renewal is good;
- Would appreciate a status update on applications seen by the Commission - running list instead of just decision letters;
- Enjoyed the diversity of applications coming forward;
- Would like for Council or the Mayor to join commission meetings at the beginning or the end of the year.
An update on Provincial changes to planning legislation was provided to the Commission. Significant changes coming to small scale multi units over 280 sq ft. allowing 4 units on parcels. These changes offer additional units and streamline the application process. Additional changes also include that the City must not hold a Public Hearing if the application is consistent with OCP and more than 50 percent residential. It is anticipated that there will be changes coming to Commission bylaw in the future to ensure processes are aligned and to ensure the Commissions time is being use valuably.
Staff thanked the Commission members for their work in 2023.