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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPSD-107-08Clarington Le~rng the way REPORT PLANNING SERVICES Meeting: GENERAL PURPOSE AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE ~ /- Date: Monday, October 20, 2008 ~~~+~ pYl~~Pfi7 ~~D~-~~ Report #: PSD-107-08 File #: PLN 38.1 By-law #: Subject: OFFICIAL PLAN REVIEW -FIRST PHASE OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION RECOMMENDATIONS: It is respectfully recommended that the General Purpose and Administration Committee recommend to Council the following: THAT Report PSD-107-08 be received for information. Submitted by: David J!Crome, M.C.I.P., R.P.P. Director of Planning Services Reviewed by: Franklin Wu, Chief Administrative Officer ~-~=~ LB/COS/sh October 14, 2008 CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF CLARINGTON 40 TEMPERANCE STREET, BOWMANVILLE, ONTARIO L1C 3A6 T (905)623-3379 F (905)623-0830 REPORT NO.: PSD-107-08 1.0 PURPOSE PAGE 2 1.1 The purpose of this report is to provide Council with an overview of the results of the Official Plan Review First Phase of public consultation that took place from June to September 2008. 2.0 BACKGROUND 2.1 On May 12, 2008, Council approved in principle the preliminary workplan for the Official Plan Review. The workplan recommended extensive public participation during all the phases of the review process. The resolution passed by Council directed staff to consider public comments and to prepare a public engagement strategy. 2.2 The public engagement strategy will be the subject of a more detailed report later in the year. Staff is still reviewing the results of the 2008 residential and Business Survey. In addition, the Municipality is the process of retaining the consultants for the Growth Management, Intensification, and Healthy and Sustainable Communities components of the Official Plan Review process. One of the key components of the Request for Proposal is a requirement for a detailed public participation process for these components. Staff will report to council on the public engagement strategy once the review of the 2008 Surveys is complete and the consultants are retained. 2.3 Since May, staff initiated the first phase of public consultation for the Official Plan Review. This first phase consisted of: Community sessions o Bowmanville o Courtice o Newcastle o Newtonville o Orono o Solina ^ Stakeholder Meetings o Agricultural Advisory Committee o Living Green Community Advisory Committee o Clarington Board of Trade (CBOT) o Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) o Visual Arts Centre Board ^ Community Surveys 0 400 Clarington residents 0 75 Businesses ^ Government Agencies o Regional Planning Department o Intra-ministry Working Group o Ganaraska and Central lake Ontario Conservation Authorities o School Boards REPORT NO.: PSD-107-08 PAGE 3 o Municipal Departments ^ Public Meeting May 12 0 11 presentations 0 6 written submissions 2.4 Approximately 80 residents attended the different community sessions and about 60 participated through the stakeholder meetings. About 10 submissions/presentations have been made as part of the Special Meeting of Council. Combined with the surveys, more than 600 residents have participated in the first round of public consultation. 3.0 KEY FINDINGS OF COMMUNITY SESSIONS 3.1 Community sessions were held in June in six communities - Bowmanville, Courtice, .Newcastle, Newtonville, Orono, and Solina -and five stakeholder groups -Agricultural Advisory Committee, Living Green Community Advisory Committee, Clarington Board of Trade (CBOT), Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD), and Visual Arts Centre Board.. During each session, participants were asked to complete a questionnaire, answering the following open-ended questions: ^ What do you enjoy about Clarington and what sets it apart from other communities? ^ How has Clarington changed in the past 10 years? ^ What changes would make Clarington even better? ^ What issues need to be addressed in this Official Plan Review? 3.2 In addition to the questionnaire, session participants were asked to complete a visioning exercise, answering the following questions: ^ What do you like about the current vision? ^ What would you like to change? ^ What do you think is missing and would like to add to the vision? 3.3 Responses to questions from each of the sessions were combined in order to extract the dominant themes. The tables summarizing the dominant themes are attached to this report as Attachments 1 and 2. 3.4 A detailed report with the results of the Community and Stakeholder Group sessions is enclosed as Attachment 3 to this report. .'.Agricultural Advisory Committee, BILD, Visual Arts Centres Board have yet to submit their questionnaires, thus their responses will not be included in this overview. REPORT NO.: PSD-107-08 PAGE 4 3.4.1 SUMMARY OF QUESTIONNAIRE RESULTS What do you enjoy about Clarington and what sets it apart from other communities? Abundance of Green Space: As stated by residents, the Municipality of Clarington is privileged to have a vasl natural system of green space linking its communities. Many participants state that this wealth of green space is what they enjoy most about their community and they also believe that it sets Clarington apart from other communities. Urban and Rural Mix: Respondents believe that Clarington's unique "mix of urban and rural" communities sets it apart from many of the other municipalities in the GTA. They enjoy the "variation from urban to rural" and the quiet, "country feeling" of Clarington. Residents also enjoy the benefit of having a large agricultural sector with accessible local produce, yet still remaining in "close proximity to significant urban centres". Cultural Heritage: Clarington residents pride themselves on living in a community that still maintains a rich and "unique cultural heritage as compared to the rest of the GTA". Residents have respect for the "depth of heritage" in the area and many enjoy living or working within walking distance of Bowmanville's historic downtown. Community Character: Residents credit Clarington's community character to three key attributes -small town scale, family focus, and sense of identity. Respondents also believe that the small town character of Clarington's individual and unique communities makes the Municipality distinct from other areas of the GTA. Access to Amenities: Residents enjoy living in proximity to a rural environment, while still maintaining access to an extensive transportation system and major economic centres. Respondents are also quite content with the amenities that Clarington has to offer, including shopping, local produce, healthcare services, schools, and recreational opportunities such as green space, trail systems, and entertainmerit. Housing Affordability: Residents state that they are "privileged to enjoy lower priced homes of comparable sides to those in other GTA municipalities". Being able to afford larger homes on larger lots is something residents particularly enjoy about Clarington. Safety and Security: Respondents state that they "can still enjoy some measure of public safety" in Clarington due to its feeling of small town character and the helpful and friendly people living in the area. REPORT NO.: PSD-107-08 PAGE 5 Good Governance: Some residents recognize the Municipality as being a well governed area with open and responsive officials. They believe that the quality of governance in Clarington distinguishes it from other communities. ii. How has Clarington changed in the past 10 years? When asked how Clarington has changed in the past 10 years, the majority of respondents identify changes that they perceive as being negative. Increased Development: Residents most commonly mention increased development as one of Clarington's major changes over the past 10 years. They are concerned about the. rapid growth of residential subdivisions leading to "bedroom communities", as well as "big box' commercial developments threatening the downtowns. Loss of Farmland: Respondents are concerned with the loss of Clarington's farmland due to increased development. Some state that this has caused Clarington's air quality to suffer. Population Growth: Residents identify both positive and negative aspects of the increased population. Some see population growth as being "positive and progressive", partly due to an expanded tax base. Other residents see the population growth of the last decade as being responsible for a decline in Clarington's sense of community, the crowding of schools, the loss of jobs, and a "lack of adequate social services, especially for families in crisis". Local Traffic Congestion: Questionnaire respondents perceive local traffic congestion as having increased considerably in the last decade. They are concerned about Clarington becoming much busier, with "no significant improvements in road infrastructure". Demographic Shifts: Residents believe that over the last 10 years Clarington "has grown to include more people from cities" and of increased "cultural diversity". They also observe an aging population, which may have major implications for Clarington's employment base, community services, and facilities. Diminishing Community Character: Some residents have noted that Clarington's community character has lessened over the last decade due to the Municipality's rapid growth. They are concerned that Clarington is "becoming more urban and beginning to lose its identity" along with its architectural heritage. They also believe that "big box" REPORT NO.: PSD-107-08 PAGE 6 growth has led to the loss of small local businesses. and a lessening "sense of community". Improved Access to Amenities: Of Clarington's major changes over the last decade, improved access to amenities is perceived by residents as the most positive. This has included "better transit throughout the Municipality", improved retail and business opportunities, enhanced medical services, more recreational facilities and programs, and natural trails which have opened up access to valley lands. iii. What changes would make Clarington even better? Planning for Sustainabilitv: Residents suggest planning for brownfield development, eco-friendly housing, more green space, pedestrian linkages, solar or wind power technology, and improved access to buying local produce. Respondents also suggest "taking a lead on sustainable living programs", such as improved recycling programs. Controlled Growth: Residents believe that slowing down .residential growth to allow infrastructure to catch up will help make Clarington a better community. One questionnaire respondent suggests that Clarington should grow at a rate that can be absorbed by the community and not at a rate that absorbs the community. Residents desire a "clear definition between urban and rural land use", without compromising the existing farmland with sprawling developments. Transportation Improvements: Respondents suggest transportation improvements for the Municipality's road network, as well as public transit systems, particularly the GO Train expansion to Bowmanville. Industry and Emplovment Opportunities: Overall, respondents are in .support of less commuting and suggest that Clarington "encourage more outside investment" to allow for economic growth and new industry. They also suggest that the Municipality "develop energy and employment parks to improve the local job and tax bases". Preservation and Enhancement of Cultural Heritage and Community .Character: Residents recommend that cultural heritage and community character be preserved and further enhanced to make Clarington even better. Suggestions include the enhancement of traditional downtown neighbourhoods and business districts, a "focus on preserving existing community attributes", and .providing opportunities for "more arts, culture and passive recreation". They also suggest that "more thought should be given to appearance" -for example, the strength and character of Clarington's individual communities should be maintained via gateways and visual cues. REPORT NO.: PSD-107-08 PAGE 7 Increased Access to Amenities: Respondents suggest that improved access to amenities would make Clarington a better place to live. Many desire mixed use neighbourhoods that are "denser" and "allow for easier access via foot and bike to amenities" such as shopping, school, work, parks, and waterfront or beach areas (particularly in Courtice). In terms of amenities, residents are interested in more "recreation, theatres, 'and parks". Greater Housing Affordability: Residents suggest that the Municipality should be dedicated to maintaining a stable housing stock and housing prices. They also desire more choice in accommodation for seniors (e.g., not for profit housing). Safer and Healthier Communities: In terms of safety, respondents desire provisions for "better lighting in parks", improved "community policing", a "new fire hall in Newcastle", and the widening of secondary roads "to allow people to walk and bicycle more safely'. Residents also feel that healthier communities would improve quality of life in the Municipality. They suggest better access to healthcare and more opportunities for active living. Council Autonomy and Public Engagement: Residents noted that Council should be more autonomous and concerned about Provincial and Regional directives. They also desire continued publicinvolvement. iv. What issues deed to be addressed in this Official Plan Review? Sustainability and Growth Management: Residents suggest that policies should be refined to better encourage sustainable development in Clarington. They also suggest that Clarington's Official Plan include policies for controlled growth. Other important issues to consider are the short- and long-term impacts this type of development will have on Clarington and respondents suggest generating "scenarios that review the way the future may develop". Transportation and Accessibility: Respondents have expressed concern over automobile dependence and local traffic congestion and they identify the need to incorporate policies that encourage transportation that is not car dependant. Industry and Employment: Concerns have been raised over Clarington's lack of local employment opportunities and suggestions include policy changes that will "attract higher profile employers" in a variety of sectors. Residents also suggest the creation of "scenarios for the immediate future' relating to the economy and the changing times (e.g., impacts of General Motors shutdown and oil prices on commuting). REPORT NO.: P5D-107-08 PAGE 8 Cultural Heritage and Community Character: Residents suggest provisions for "keeping heritage areas intact", designing places to work as well as live, enabling service sector opportunities, and encouraging more community-focused events and festivals. They also suggest that the Municipality should consider "how Clarington integrates into Southern Ontario" and what future image is desired (i.e., traditional v. Wal-mart). Demographic Shifts and Housing Affordability: Respondents believe that this issue should be addressed by incorporating appropriate provisions for mixed income housing and "senior living" facilities in response to anticipated changes in demographics. Governance and Public Participation: Issues that residents feel need to be considered include "ease of access to the politicians", the effective management of "multiple communities and multiple servicing requirements" (e.g., fire services, libraries, recreation facilities, etc.) and the coordination of timelines with the Regional Official Plan. They also believe that "public input needs to be further encouraged" and actively taken into account. 3.4.2 SUMMARY OF VISIONING RESULTS In addition to the questionnaire, session participants were asked to complete a visioning exercise. The current Official Plan seeks to achieve a vision for Clarington as: ^ A place where each community can build on its individual character but share a common economic base and a distinct collective image; ^ A place for people to live, work, and play in a safe, vibrant, healthy, and prosperous environment; ^ A place where people, business, and government balances growth with protection, management, and enhancement of the cultural and historic landscape, natural resources and the environment. i. What do you like about the current vision? Individual Community Character: Residents like that the current vision focuses on "maintaining each community's identity". Comprehensive and Balanced: Respondents describe the current vision as "comprehensive', "inclusive", and "all encompassing". They like that it balances live, work, and play, as well as economic, social, and environmental factors. Forward Thinkjng: Residents believe that that current vision forward thinking and "ahead of its time for 1996". They state that it effectively "fits current thinking". REPORT NO.: PSD-107-08 PAGE 9 Strong Value System: Respondents like that the vision holds a strong value system and "caters to a responsible image". They describe the vision as "noble", "idealistic", "hopeful", and "people focused". What would you like to change? Language: In terms of language, residents have two different views. Some believe the vision to be "long" and "wordy" and that it should be less specific. Others think the vision is "vague" and "elusive" and that it should be more specific and include more detail. Emahasis on Communities: Participants also suggest contradictory changes in terms of the vision's emphasis on communities. Some residents would like the vision to be more reflective of the whole Municipality and not just individual communities, while others desire more emphasis on the identity of each individual community. Social. Environmental, and Economic Focus: Residents would like to see a stronger focus on social, environmental, and economic resources. Implementation Tools: A few residents reveal that they would change nothing about the vision at this time, but rather "acquire tools, partnerships, and incentives to implement it". iii. What do you think is missing and would like to add to the vision? Sustainability: Residents would like the vision to include a "statement about leadership in sustainable living". Transportation and Infrastructure: Residents believe that the vision should give reference to transportation throughout the Municipality, as well as the need for infrastructure, services, and facilities to "keep up with the growth" and change of Clarington. Economic Base: Residents would like to add a statement about increasing industry and employment opportunities in order to support the community's economic base. Existing Assets: Respondents feel that the current vision is missing mention of Clarington's existing assets (e.g. "landmarks", "conservation areas", "Ganaraska Forest", "Long Sault", "Enniskillen", "agricultural diversity", "built heritage", community identity, REPORT NO.: PSD-107-08 PAGE 10 etc.). They believe that these assets should be referenced in the vision as a way to "attract people to the area" (e.g. "agri-tourism"). 4.0 COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PUBLIC ATTITUDE SURVEYS 4.1 In 1993, staff undertook a community survey in preparing the first Official Plan for the Municipality. This survey was mailed to 21,000 residences, with a return rate of approximately 26% (5391 surveys). In 2008, Oracle Poll Research was retained by the Municipality to execute telephone interviews, regarding the current Official Plan, with 406 randomly selected residents and 75 randomly selected business owners/managers in Clarington. The margin of error for the residential sample was +/- 4.9%, 19/20 times. 4.2 The three surveys (1993, 2008 Residential, 2008 Business) had a number of questions in common, which has allowed for the comparative analysis of 1993 and 2008 public opinions. 4.2.1 Community Perceptions: Residents in 1993 and 2008 were asked to rate their level of agreement with statements about the community (Table 1). The 1993 and 2008 perceptions are rated in virtually the same order, with the exception of the last two statements which are switched. In 1993, there is slightly more agreement with each of the statements than in 2008. 4.2.2 Top of Mind Challenges: Respondents were asked what they consider to be the most important challenge facing Clarington as it continues to grow (Table 2). "Planning/ balancing development/ growth/ sprawl" are considered by respondents in both the residential and business community as the most important challenges facing Clarington. Both residents and business owners consider "traffic" as the next important challenge. The other challenges that were REPORT NO.: PSD-107-08 PAGE 11 considered important by residents and business owners alike include "roads/ maintenance/ widen roads", "infrastructure/ services", and "employment", issues that are also related about balancing growth in the community. 4.2.3 Planning Priorities: This question was asked on the 1993 survey, as well as the 2008 Residential and Business surveys. Respondents were asked to rate a series of priorities for the Municipality to consider when it plans for the future (Table 3). "Attracting more employment opportunities", "preserving the natural environment", and "preserving agricultural lands" are the top three priorities in 1993 and in the 2008 Residential and Business surveys. The only difference is that 2008 residents feel that "preserving the natural environment" is more important than "attracting more employment opportunities". It is interesting to note that "improving public spaces and access to the watertront areas" is rated by 77% of 2008 residents and 75% of 2008 business owners as important, yet in 1993 only 54% of residents rated it as important. REPORT NO.: PSD-107-08 PAGE 12 4.2.4 Various Neighbourhood Uses: Residents in 1993 and 2008 were asked to rate their level of support or opposition to having various uses in their residential neighbourhood (Table 4). The top five most supported neighbourhood uses are the same from 1993 to 2008, though there is slightly more support for "doctor's office" and "family restaurant" now, with less support for "children's daycare", "home offices", and "variety store" than there was in 1993. "Apartments in homes", "residential apartments over stores", and "group homes" are the least supported neighbourhood uses in both 1993 and 2008. REPORT NO.: PSD-107-08 PAGE 13 4.2.5 Environmental Protection versus Development: Residents were first asked whether they would support the protection of green spaces over development (Chart 1). In both 1993 and 2008, residents were more in favour of green space protection; however there is 10% more support for protection in 2008 compared to 1993. This trend continued when residents were asked whether they would support the protection of agricultural land over development (Chart 2). Though a majority of residents in both years support the protection of agricultural lands, approximately 10% more residents support protection in 2008 compared to 1993. Chart 1: "Would you support the protection of green spaces or development?" DonY Know Support De~.elopment Support ProteCion ^ 2008 10.0 6 s.s°~ ^ 1993 12. 24.7% 8.0% 68.8° 0% 20% 40°h 60% 80% 100% REPORT NO.: PSD-107-08 PAGE 14 Chart 2: "Would you support the protection of agricultural land or development?" Dont Know Support De~.elopment Support Protection ^ 2008 7.0% 4.s°io ^ 1993 11. /o 22.5% 83.0% 72. 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 4.2.6 Managing Growth and Development: This question was asked on all three surveys. Respondents were asked how they would rate the way that growth and development is being managed within Clarington (Chart 3). These results are slightly more difficult to compare between the years as the 2008 respondents were given the option of choosing "Neither Poor nor Good", while the 1993 respondents were not. Many of the 2008 respondents took the liberty of choosing the neutral option, which may have skewed the results. However, it can be generally noted that in 2008 a much lower percentage of respondents believe that growth is "not managed well" when compared to 1993. Overall, the 2008 business community gives the growth management of Clarington the highest rating. Chart 3: "Overall, how would you rate the way that growth and development is being managed within Clarington?" Don't Knaw /Neither Poor nor Good 27. 10.6% Growlh Not Managed Well Growth Managed Well 20.3% ^ 2008 Business ^ 2008 Residential ^ 1993 42.8% 0% 10% 20°k 30% 40°k 50% 60°h REPORT NO.: PSD-107-08 PAGE 15 4.2.7 Handling Future Growth: This question was asked on all three surveys. Respondents were asked whether growth should be halted or restricted, maintained at current levels or grow at a higher rate (Chart 4). The most popular answer on all surveys is that growth should be "maintained at current levels". Residents in both 1993 and 2008 are least likely to want growth "at a higher rate", while the 2008 business owners are more in support of growth "at a higher rate" than they are of growth being "halted or restricted". Overall, respondents are more supportive of growth and development now, in 2008, than they were 15 years before, in 1993. Chart 4: "Should growth be halted or restricted, maintained at current levels or should it grow at a higher rate?" Other /Don't Know Grow at a Higher Rate Mairrtained at CurteM Levels Halted or Restricted ATTACHMENTS: 4°h 3.2% 14.8 ^ 2008 Business 2a°k ^ 2008 Residential 1 s. °k 12.2°k ^ 1993 9°k 53.9% 40.6% 13% 26. °~ 32.4% 0°k 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70°k Attachment 1 -Dominant Community Themes Attachment 2 -Dominant Visioning Themes Attachment 3 - Clarington Official Plan Review: Community and Stakeholder Groups Consultation Summary Attachment 1 ~ ~ ~ ~ To Report PSD-107-08 W W 2 H ~_ Z 0 U H Z Q Z_ O D • r ~ N ~ C f6 U ~ ~ c • C N f6 f6 N p7 L ~ C ~ O) CO ~ L U f6 d ' f0 ~ '= ~ N w O ~ ~ C ~ ~ ~ o ~ N - ~ _ a n ~ ~ L N Q Z, i. m 3 ~~ c ~ f6 f /l f A t~/1 O 7 ~ O L ~ ~ .V • to ~ C f6 N U 7 - Q w ~ ~ ~ '6 O S • O fnarn H ~ O ~ m O U c°> N o~m O C~ a • • • • • • • N ~ U ~ _ N U C • O 7 U £ `O C • ~ c C 3 f0 ~ ''C ~ ~ ~ r ~ m o ~ ~ ~ • C U lD f6 ~ 7 O Q ~ ~ U Q 2 C7 • • • • • • .-~ • ~ U E ~ ~ L " L ~ C N O) L + w • O C N N l0 O O U U •N + . f6 7 O + ' N ~ L N ~ E N C f6 O N L C f6 • 01 N . N N N C ' . , a p O ? ~ y N~` N C N~ ~ C C N p O - O fl N L '~ f6 U N N O N t= 0 ~ f0 l`4 - ~ O ~ . L U c ~ ~ U 0 0.. N U H O d N f6 C cG fA U • L N U ~ ~ L f6 ~ w C f6 ~ y U ~ U C N C C m U C L C • N ~ '~ C O ~ ~ O_ ~ ~ Vl O- '~ ~ f 6 ~~., N al L C UI 7 • > l 7 U C O C ! Q. ~_ E • C~ J d J U D D U • • • • • • N N T w 7 a ~ ~ ~ U O • • N fUp O ~ ~ O ~ f A ~ ~ L ~ ` ~ • ~ rn m ,r • ..+ ~ ~ j N U 2 C7 tY U ~ Q cA • • • • • • N cW C W H Z Z N Z Q Z O 0 ~ c o ~ ~ N a~ ~ ~ U O f0 ~ O O 7 ~ ~ N f6 ~ O N (n H ,~ ~ W W • • • • • U . ~ O C U N ~ N C C 7 E f6 c VI o N O • U O O O ~ • N O W ` C f 0 C ~ .N f6 N - N ~ C r ~ f6 N O U N d J W !n O E • • • N L U N • • C 7 C f6 N +- E ~ Y C N • U ~ N L L " 7 t6 ~ . ~ ~ N ~ ~ 2 C C O U C ~i O (A Attachment 2 To Report PSD-107-08 Attachment 3 To PSD-107-08 CLARINGTON OFFICIAL PLAN REVIEW COMMUNITY CONSULTATIONS SUMMARY October 2008 Planning Services Department Community Planning and Design Branch TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION ...........................................................................1 COMMUNITY CONSULTATION SESSIONS ...............................3 TWHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT YOUR COMMUNITY?T .................................. 3 THOW HAS CLARINGTON CHANGED IN THE PAST 10 YEARS?T ..................... 7 WHAT CHANGES WOULD MAKE CLARINGTON EVEN BETTER? .......................1 O WHAT SETS CLARINGTON APART FROM OTHER COMMUNITIES? ...................15 TWHAT ISSUES NEED TO BE ADDRESSED IN THIS OFFICIAL PLAN REVIEW?T18 VISION CONSULTATION SESSIONS .......................................22 TWHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT THE CURRENT VISION?T ................................22 TWHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO CHANGE?T ..................................................23 WHAT DO YOU THINK IS MISSING AND WOULD LIKE TO ADD TO THE VISION?T 25 CONCLUSION ............................................................................ 27 APPENDIX A: LISTING OF CONSULTATION SESSIONS....... 31 APPENDIX B: TABLE OF COMMUNITY THEMES ................... 32 APPENDIX C: TABLE OF VISIONING THEMES ...................... 33 TABLE OF FIGURES Figure 1: Clarington Open Space ................................................................................ ...................................................3 Figure 2: Bowmanville Creek .:.................................................................................... ...................................................3 Figure 3: Clarington Farmland .................................................................................... ...................................................4 Figure 4: Heritage Plaque ........................................................................................... ...................................................4 Figure 5: Heritage Mural ............................................................................................. ...................................................4 Figure 6: Downtown Bowmanville ............................................................................... ...................................................4 Figure 7: Community Festival ..................................................................................... ...................................................5 Figure 8: Shopper Drug Mart on Longworth Avenue ................................................... ...................................................5 Figure 9: Newcastle Recreation Facility ...................................................................... ...................................................5 Figure 10: Larger Homes on Larger Lots .................................................................... ...................................................5 Figure 11: Crossing Guard .......................................................................................... ...................................................6 Figure 12: Residential Development ........................................................................... ...................................................7 Figure 13: "Big Bob' Development .............................................................................. ...................................................7 Figure 14: Subdivision Encroaching on Farmland ...................................................... ...................................................7 Figure 15: Greenfeld Development ............................................................................ ............................:......................8 Figure 16: Ongoing Construction to Support Growth .................................................. ...................................................8 Figure 17: New Development to Support Growth ....................................................... ................................................... S Figure 18: Westbound Traffic Congestion ................................................................... ................................................... S Figure 19: Kingsway Arms Retirement Centre ............................................................ ...................................................9 Figure 20: "Big Box" Growth ....................................................................................... ...................................................9 Figure 21: Clarington Transit ...................................................................................... ...................................................9 Figure 22: Bowmanville Mall Expansion ...................................................................... ..................................................9 Figure 23: Sustainable Transportation ........................................................................ .................................................10 Figure 24: Wind Energy .............................................................................................. ....................................... ..........10 Figure 25: Solar Panels ............................................................................................... ................................................10 Figure 26: Sprawling Development .............................................................................. ................................................11 Figure 27: Protected Countryside ................................................................................ ................................................11 Figure 2S: Highway 401 ............................................................................................... ................................................11 Figure 29: Bowmanville Park and Ride ........................................................................ ................................................11 Figure 30: Clarington Toyota ....................................................................................... ................................................12 Figure 31: St. Marys Cement ....................................................................................... ................................................12 Figure 32: Rehabilitated Castle Hotel .......................................................................... ................................................12 Figure 33: Streetscaping Features ............................................................................... ................................................12 Figure 34: Visual Arts Centre ....................................................................................... ................................................13 Figure 35: Waterfront Trail ........................................................................................... ................................................13 Figure 36: Construction of Townhouses ...................................................................... ................................................13 Figure 37: Apartment Buildings .................................................................................... ................................................13 Figure 38: Curb Extension ........................................................................................... ................................................14 Figure 39: Council Chambers ...................................................................................... ................................................14 Figure 40: Access to Green Space .............................................................................. ................................................15 Figure 41: Clarington Farm .......................................................................................... ................................................15 Figure 42: Downtown Newcastle .................................................................................. ................................................15 Figure 43: Downtown Orono ........................................................................................ ................................................16 Figure 44: Prices' Country Market ................................................................................ ................................................16 Figure 45: Longworth Avenue Townhouses ................................................................. ................................................16 Figure 46: Apartment Building ..................................................................................... ................................................16 Figure 47: Clarington Municipal Administrative Centre ................................................ ................................................17 Figure 48: Renewable Energy ..................................................................................... ................................................18 Figure 49: Hydro Tower ............................................................................................... ................................................18 Figure 50: Higher Density Development ...................................................................... ................................................1 S Figure 51: Bowmanville GO Station ............................................................................. ................................................19 Figure 52: Residential Pathway ...........................:....................................................... ................................................19 Figure 53: Darlington Nuclear ...................................................................................... ................................................19 Figure 54: Holbum Science Park ................................................................................. ................................................19 Figure 55: Orono Gateway Sign .................................................................................. ................................................2D Figure 56: Rehabilitated King Street Bridge ................................................................. ................................................20 Figure 57: Strathaven Retirement Residence .............................................................. ................................................20 Figure 58: Aspen Springs Condominiums .................................................................... ................................................20 Figure 59: Public Meeting ............................................................................................ ................................................21 INTRODUCTION The Municipality of Clarington has begun a review of its Official Plan. The Official Plan is the Municipality's key planning policy document that provides a framework to guide future land use, development, and community decisions over the next 25 years. The Ontario Planning Act requires municipalities to determine every five years if a review of their Official -Plan is necessary. The existing Clarington Official Plan was approved in 1996, however over the past few years changes to Provincial legislation have had important implications for the Municipality. It is now necessary to renew the Official Plan to reflect the community's current values and aspirations. The Official Plan Review process is an opportunity for everyone to contribute their ideas over the next three years towards helping shape the future of the Municipality of Clarington. A key component of the Review process is public participation which will be achieved, in part, through community consultation sessions. These community sessions are aimed to inform the public about the project, get input on defining issues, confirm, and update the current vision and encourage ongoing participation. Their purpose is to gather ideas that will result in an updated Official Plan that will continue to: • Ensure that current needs can be met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs; • Promote a healthy community and a high quality of life for residents; and • Manage growth and development efficiently. To date, sessions have been held in six communities - Bowmanville, Courtice, Newcastle, Newtonville, Orono, and Solina -and two community groups -the Clarington Board of Trade (CBOT).. and the Living Green Community Advisory CommitteeZ. (see Appendix A for session dates). During each session, participants were asked to complete a questionnaire, answering the following open-ended questions: • What do you enjoy about your community? • How has Clarington changed in the past 10 years? • What changes would make Clarington even better? • What sets Clarington apart from other communities? • What issues need to be addressed in this Official Plan Review? Each question generated a wide variety of answers from which a range of appropriate themes are identified (see Appendix B for table of themes). This report provides a summary of the responses received at the community consultation sessions, organized by question and theme. '. The Clarington Board of Trade (CBOT) provides business and economic development services in partnership with the Municipality of Clarington. ?. The Living Green Community Advisory Committee has the purpose of developing a community strategy that would include local actions, policies, programs, and projects for climate change, energy conservation, clean energy alternatives, and promoting more sustainable development practices. 1 The current Official Plan seeks to achieve a vision for Clarington as: • A place where each community can build on its individual character but share a common economic base and a distinct collective image; • A place for people to live, work, and play in a safe, vibrant, healthy, and prosperous environment; • A place where people, business, and government balances growth with protection, management, and enhancement of the cultural and historic landscape, natural resources and the environment. In addition to the consultation sessions, the six communities - Bowmanville, Courtice, Newcastle, Newtonville, Orono, and Solina -also participated in a discussion of the vision, as stated above. The community participants were asked the following questions: • What do you like about the current vision? • What would you like to change? • What do you think is missing and would like to add to the vision? The results from these vision consultation sessions are also summarized in this report (see Appendix C for table of vision themes). 2 COMMUNITY CONSULTATION SESSIONS Community consultation sessions have been held in Bowmanville, Courtice, Newcastle, Newtonville, Orono, and Solina, with the Clarington Board of Trade (CBOT) and with the Living Green Community Advisory Committee. Session participants were asked to complete a questionnaire, answering the following questions: • What do you enjoy about your community? • How has Clarington changed in the past 10 years? • What changes would make Clarington even better? • What sets Clarington apart from other communities? • What issues need to be addressed in this Official Plan Review? Responses to questions from each of the sessions were combined in order to extract the dominant themes. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT YOUR COMMUNITY? The questionnaire began by asking participants what they enjoy about their community. Overall, Clarington residents seem to most enjoy the green space, rural atmosphere, cultural heritage, community character, access to amenities, housing affordability, and safety and security of their respective communities. ~ ~: b 4~~F ~` -. f ~`x ~~ ~ '. 'ate ,~ ,~ ~ ~ ~, ~~ ar - .,~: ~.,,~ . ra ~,': j,^ ..,, ~~ :; .r ~.~ r Figure 1: Clarington Open Space Figure 2: Bowmanville Green Green spaces can be the defining features of a community and important components to a healthy environment. "No longer considered frills, green spaces are integral to intellectual and physical growth" (Hume, 2007). Thus, the Municipality of Clarington is privileged to have a vast natural system of green space linking its unique communities. Many participants name open spaces as what they enjoy most about their community. Clarington's clean, quiet, and wide open green spaces allow residents to hear birds and see the stars at night, while still maintaining easy access to and from Highway 401 and local businesses. Walking trails throughout Clarington's parklands further enhance residents' ability to enjoy the opportunity afforded by such an extensive system of green space. 3 870 Rural Atmosphere Figure 3: Clarington "Strong rural communities are key to the health and vitality of Ontario" (OMAFRA, 2004). The rural atmosphere of Clarington sets it apart from many of the other communities making up the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Residents report that they enjoy the "variation from urban to rural" and the quiet, peaceful "country feeling" that Clarington affords. Highlighted is the benefit of having a large agricultural sector with accessible local produce, yet still remaining in "close proximity to significant urban centres. Many Clarington residents place high value on living in a "close-knit" community that offers the tranquility of "village Living", while still being able to take advantage of the nearby urban amenities. Cultural Heritage Cultural heritage means many things to many people. It can encompass historically significant structures, sites, streetscapes, archaeological resources, landscapes, vistas, and ridges-lines, among other interpretations. As revealed in many questionnaire responses, Clarington residents pride themselves on living in a community that still maintains a -rich and "unique cultural heritage as compared to the rest of the GTA". Residents have respect for the "depth of heritage" in the area and many enjoy living or working within walking distance of Bowmanville's beautiful and historic downtown. Community Character Community character is the distinguishing physical and social quality of an area shaped by natural, cultural, and socioeconomic forces. A community with character is often accompanied by strong community spirit. Questionnaire responses suggest that residents credit Clarington's community character to three key attributes -small town scale, family focus, and sense of identity. Residents feel as though their community is "small enough to relate to" -people actually know their neighbours whether they live at the next house or the next street. Residents enjoy Clarington's small town 4 $71 atmosphere, without the "hustle and bustle" of larger urban areas. Clarington is identified as walkable and "people sized", which allows for a strong sense of community. Figure 7: Community Clarington is perceived as a family oriented community with a charming atmosphere, friendly people, and community involvement. Many people choose to reside in Clarington because their families live in the area. A sense of identity has been achieved in Clarington largely owing to the active downtowns of Bowmanville, Newcastle and Orono, which have been improved over the years and contain unique businesses with localized personal touches. The plentiful community events and festivals in the area further encourage strong community spirit. Access to Amenities The ability of residents to easily access facilities and services within a community is of key importance. Questionnaire responses reveal that Clarington residents greatly enjoy the quick access to major economic centres without actually having to live in them. Respondents are also quite content with the amenities that Clarington has to offer, including shopping, local produce, first class healthcare services, schools, and recreational opportunities such as green space, trail systems, and entertainment. Some residents can even enjoy the luxury of biking to work and walking to buy groceries. Housing Affordability The price of housing is a major determining factor when choosing a community in which to reside. The issue of affordability is an ongoing problem in the GTA where a great number of households pay more than 30 per cent of their income on housing. Clarington residents, however, are "privileged to enjoy lower priced homes of comparable sizes to those in other GTA municipalities". Questionnaire responses reveal that being able to afford larger homes on larger lots is something residents particularly enjoy about Clarington. 5 872 Longworth Avenue Figure 9: Newcastle Recreation Facility Figure 10: Larger Homes on Larger Lots Safety and Security In order to achieve a high quality of life, it is imperative for residents to feel safe and secure in their communities. Questionnaire respondents state that they "can still enjoy some measure of public safety" in Clarington due to its feeling of small town character and the helpful and friendly people living in the area. 6 873 HOW HAS CLARINGTON CHANGED IN THE PAST 10 YEARS? When asked how Clarington has changed in the past 10 years, the majority of respondents identify changes that they perceive as being negative. Such changes include increased development, loss of farmland, population growth, local traffic congestion, demographic shifts and diminishing community character. Identified as a positive change, however, is improved access to amenities - a change that occurs as a response to many of the negatively perceived changes listed above. Development Increased Development According to a recent analysis of the applications for plans of subdivision in Clarington, there were over 4,671 units in draft approved or registered plans at the end of 2007 -this represents a five to six year supply of housing (Municipality of Clarington, 2008). Thus, it is not surprising that residents most commonly mention increased development as one of Clarington's major changes over the past 10 years. With regard to type of development, questionnaire respondents see residential subdivisions and "big box" commercial strips as the dominating trend. The rapid growth of residential subdivisions, however, is not looked upon kindly by many Clarington residents. They believe that "cookie cutter" developments are closing in on existing single dwellings and there is little new industry or infrastructure to complement this influx of residential. Citizens are concerned that Clarington is "becoming a bedroom community" for commuters. The increase of commercial development is perceived as both positive and negative. While many residents appreciate the increased variety of retail outlets and amenities closer to the small hamlets, some see "big box" developments as threatening to the downtowns and small local businesses. In the midst of this increased development, it is stated that Clarington has moved "too slowly with respect to transportation, supportable industry, and infrastructure". Loss of Farmland Although the Greenbelt Plan that December 16, 2004 identifies should not occur in order to came into effect on where urbanization provide permanent 7 874 Development Encroaching on Farmland protection to rural areas and ecological features, residents are still concerned with the loss of Clarington's farmland due to increased development. Some respondents state that significant farmland has been sold or lost to the development of subdivisions and, as a result, Clarington's "air quality has suffered" considerably. Respondents also observe reductions in trees, green spaces, and public waterfront areas. Figure 16: Ongoing to Support Growth Population Growth As stated in Ontario's Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, the population in the GTA is expected to grow from 7.4 million to 10.5 million from 2001 to 2031 - a 43% increase. For Clarington, this means an estimated increase from the 2006 population of 77,800 to a population of 133,900 by 2031 (Durham Region, 2008). Clarington has already experienced rapid growth in the last decade, with a 28% increase from the 1996 population of 61,000 (Municipality of Clarington, 2008). The significant growth of Clarington is reflected in questionnaire responses where residents identify both positive and negative aspects of the increased population. Some see population growth as being "positive and progressive", partly due to an expanded tax base. Other residents see the population growth of the last decade as being responsible for a decline in Clarington's sense of community, the crowding of schools, the loss of jobs, and a "lack of adequate social services, especially for families in crisis". Local Traffic Congestion "Traffic congestion in Ontario has spread from the largest urban centres to many smaller and medium- sized communities. No longer just a "big city" problem it contributes to lost productivity, rising costs, increased health and safety risks, and a reduced quality of life for commuters" (ORBA, 2006). In reaction to Clarington's growth, residents perceive local traffic congestion as having increased considerably in the last decade. Session participants reveal that they are concerned about Clarington becoming much busier, with "no significant improvements in road infrastructure". 8 875 Development Support Growth Figure 18: Westbound Traffic Congestion ~: 20: "Big Box" Growth g~ y_.. ~~- ~~ Bowmanville Mall Demographic Shifts Population growth often breeds change in the demographic make-up of a community. Residents note that over the last 10 years Clarington "has grown to include more people from cities" and of increased "cultural diversity". An aging population is also observed in some areas of the Municipality, which may have major implications for Clarington's employment base, community services and facilities. Diminishing Community Character Rapid expansion can leave communities at risk of lasing their identity. Some residents have noted that Clarington's community character has lessened over the last decade due to the Municipality's rapid growth. Questionnaire responses reveal that Clarington is "becoming more urban and beginning to lose its identity" along with its architectural heritage. "Big box" growth has led to the loss of small local businesses and a lessening "sense of community". Improved Access to Amenities "Denser development leads to a much stronger business case for both public (e.g., community centers, parks) and private (e.g., supermarkets, coffee shops) amenities and programs. It also fosters a public realm that is able to generate high-quality activities that encourage the interaction of neighborhood residents" (Holland & Toderian, 2008). Of all Clarington's major changes over the last decade, improved access to amenities and programs is perceived by questionnaire respondents as the most positive. Clarington's rapid growth has allowed for "better transit throughout the Municipality", improved retail and business opportunities, enhanced medical services, more recreational facilities and programs, and natural trails which have opened up access to valley lands. "Strong growth in the energy sector and a more positive image about nuclear energy" has also made Clarington more appealing in recent years. 9 876 Figure 19: Kingsway Arms Retirement Centre Expansion WHAT CHANGES WOULD MAKE CLARINGTON EVEN BETTER? In response to being asked to list the changes that would make Clarington even better, session participants identify options that include planning for sustainability, controlled growth, transportation improvements, industry and employment opportunities, preservation and enhancement of cultural heritage and community character, increased access to amenities, greater housing affordability, safer and healthier communities, and council accountability. Planning for Sustainab Figure 24: Wind ~' .,, Figure 25: Solar Panels sustainability means meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Environmental sustainability seems to be of key importance to Clarington residents who indicate that having a plan for sustainability would make the Municipality even better. "A sustainable community needs to be structured into complete, well- connected, mixed-use neighbourhoods that allow residents to work, live, play, shop, and learn within a convenient walking or transit distance" (ibid.). Residents' suggestions for "taking leadership as a green community" include brownfield development rather than greenfield, eco-friendly housing, more green space and pedestrian linkages, the use of solar or wind power technology, and improved access to buying local produce through the maintenance and enhancement of Clarington's agricultural base. Respondents also suggest "taking a lead on sustainable living programs", such as improved recycling programs or educational programs to overcome any fear of growth and change. One respondent states their interest in the Brookhill Neighbourhood project as it incorporates sustainable neighbourhood principles; however there is still concern regarding the project's depletion of farmland. The point is raised that Clarington is currently "one of the leading producers of cleaner energy in the GTA" and one session participant believes that an incinerator should not be built in the Municipality because of its perceived negative environmental implications. 10 877 Transportation Controlled Growth Controlled growth or "Smart Growth", as stated by the Smart Growth Canada Network, encompasses "the idea of managing urban growth to reduce environmental impacts, make cities more socially inclusive and more efficient to build and maintain" (2007). This model of growth comes as a reaction to urban sprawl, which is the term given to identify the uncontrolled growth of urban and suburban developments. Residents believe that slowing down residential growth to allow infrastructure to catch up will help make Clarington a better community. One questionnaire respondent cleverly suggests that Clarington should grow at a rate that can be absorbed by the community and not at a rate that absorbs the community. Residents desire a "clear definition between urban and rural land use", without compromising the existing farmland with sprawling developments. Transportation Improvements As stated by Ontario's Minister of Transportation, "safe, efficient and integrated transportation infrastructure supports economic investment, spurs job creation, preserves the environment and contributes to a better quality of life" (MTO, 2001). Residents similarly feel that an improved local transportation system will enhance Clarington's quality of life. Transportation improvements for the Municipality's road network and public transit systems are suggested by questionnaire respondents. In response to the traffic congestion Clarington currently experiences, residents desire better traffic flow by means of improving the existing road infrastructure. Suggestions include improvements to the Highway 2 corridor, a bypass of downtown Bowmanville, "arterial roads without schools to facilitate easy north/south transportation across town", and "upgraded road works for feeders to the Highway 407 extension". It is also suggested that the Highway 407 extension be built further north. Ride 11 878 Development Figure 27: Protected Countryside _, ~~ ... . ;~ _ Figure 30: In terms of public transit, questionnaire respondents desire improvements for the local bus system, as well as for GO Transit. Most desired is the extension of the GO Train to Clarington, though also suggested is a GO Bus service to Newtonville and better parking throughout the Municipality for GO commuters. Other forms of sustainable transportation proposed include bike lanes and pedestrian pathways. Industry and Employment Opportunities According to Statistics Canada, the total population of Clarington residents participating in the labour force in 2006 was 40,115. Of this population, however, only 11,370 (28%) worked in Clarington, leaving 25,140 (63%) residents commuting to jobs held outside of Municipal boundaries (this excludes those 3,605_ with no fixed workplace address) (2007). Considering this data, it is not surprising that questionnaire respondents believe that increased industry and employment opportunities would make Clarington a better place to live. Overall, respondents are in support of less commuting and suggest that Clarington "encourage more outside investment" to allow for economic growth and new industry. It is also suggested that the Municipality "develop energy and employment parks to improve the local job and tax bases". it Preservation and Enhancement of Cultural Heritage and Community Character Clarington residents are proud to live in a community with character and a rich cultural heritage. However, now and in the past, new developments have replaced historic buildings and previously open agricultural areas, drawing activity away from the traditional town centres. As a result, the Municipality is threatened with losing its character. In order to make Clarington even better, questionnaire respondents recommend that cultural heritage and community character be preserved and further enhanced through various means. Residents' suggestions include the enhancement of traditional downtown neighbourhoods and business districts to "protect historical values" and achieve "a 12 879 Figure 32: Rehabilitated Hotel Figure 33: Streetscaping Features thriving downtown"; a "focus on preserving existing community attributes" such as the waterfront; and providing opportunities for "more arts, culture and passive recreation" through enhanced walkability and more community squares. Respondents also suggest that "more thought should be given to appearance" -for example, the strength and identifiable character of Clarington's individual communities should be maintained via gateways and visual cues, and the image of the Municipality from the 401 should be considered. Increased Access to Amenities Having amenities easily accessible within a community is an important indicator of quality of life. Generally, people desire "communities where housing, jobs, schools, and shopping are all easily accessible with no commuting required". Questionnaire respondents suggest that improved access to amenities would make Clarington a better place to live. Residents would like to see well-designed, mixed use neighbourhoods that are "denser" and "allow for easier access via foot and bike to amenities" such as shopping, school, work, parks, and waterfront or beach areas (particularly in Courtice). In terms of amenities, Clarington residents are interested in more "recreation, theatres, and parks". Greater Housing Affordability The residents of Clarington are generally privileged to enjoy affordably priced housing in a great location; however they reveal that more affordable housing could make their community better. Questionnaire respondents suggest that the Municipality should be dedicated to maintaining a stable housing stock and housing prices. More choice in accommodation for seniors (e.g., not for profit housing) is also desired. Though good quality mixed residential housing (e.g., single, semi-detached, townhouses) is advocated for, some residents also express their desire to keep high- rise apartments or condominiums to a minimum. 13 880 Townhouses Safer and Healthier Communities Figure 39: Council As mentioned previously, quality of life is greatly improved when residents feel safe and secure in their community. For Clarington residents, achieving this feeling of safety would involve provisions for "better lighting in parks", improved "community policing", a "new fire hall in Newcastle", and the widening of secondary roads "to allow people to walk and bicycle more safely". The residents of Clarington also feel that healthier communities would improve quality of life in the Municipality. This could be achieved through better access to healthcare (e.g., "bringing back maternity ward and hospital expansion") and more opportunities for fitness in under serviced areas of the community (e.g., north Bowmanville). Council Autonomy and Public Engagement The Municipality of Clarington's corporate mission is "to provide essential infrastructure and quality services to our community stakeholders through leadership, accountability and respect". Questionnaire respondents are interested in seeing more self governing from Clarington's Council and concern about the impact of Provincial and Regional directives (e.g. intensification). Also desired is continued public involvement in important processes such as this Official Plan Review. 14 881 WHAT SETS CLARINGTON APART FROM OTHER COMMUNITIES? When asked what sets Clarington apart from other communities, respondents identify mainly positive characteristics. The dominant themes established are an abundance of green space, an urban and rural mix, small town character, access to amenities, housing affordability, and good governance. Many of these attributes are previously identified as what residents enjoy most about their communities. Abundance of Green Space Clarington is advantaged to enjoy a great abundance of green space. Residents state that Clarington's wealth of green space sets it apart from other communities. Many of the Municipality's "significant natural features" and agricultural lands can be found throughout the Greenbelt and Oak Ridges Moraine policy areas. Lake Ontario's "extensive waterfront" also comprises some 37 kilometres of wetlands, meadows, forests, bluffs, and beaches. These beautiful open spaces offer residents an accessible and clean natural environment with "less smog and congestion" than many other areas in the GTA. Urban and Rural Mix Clarington's unique "mix of urban and rural" communities allows "balanced growth" and sets it apart from other areas in the GTA. The urban areas, mainly found along the lakeshore, are bounded by considerable rural and agricultural lands, yet still in close proximity to other major economic centres. Residents also note that the urban communities in Clarington have "lower density neighbourhoods" than do the rest of Durham Region's urban areas. One questionnaire respondent, however, identified Clarington as "neither urban, suburban nor rural", having no traditional development pattern and thus making it "difficult to call a community". Small Town Character The small town character of Clarington makes it distinct from other places in the GTA. Particularly unique are the small communities within the Municipality (e.g., Bowmanville, Newcastle, Orono, etc.) that "each have their own personality yet blend 15 882 together to make one larger community". Residents believe that the small town feeling is brought out by Clarington's friendly environment, cultural heritage, community spirit, and unique festivals. One questionnaire respondent states their belief that, when compared to communities to the east, Clarington has less culture -though it is also revealed that the people of Clarington are still very involved in their community's culture. Session participants further mention that, unlike several other GTA municipalities, Clarington is not yet a bedroom community - it remains an "industry" town owing to the success of the Ontario Power Generation Darlington site and St. Mary's Cement. Access to Amenities A key characteristic that distinguishes Clarington from other communities is its access to amenities. Residents can enjoy a rural environment with the perks of green space and "local produce", while still maintaining access to an extensive transportation system and major economic centres. Within municipal borders, essential social facilities (e.g., schools, healthcare, etc.), commercial and recreational opportunities are also easily accessible. Housing Affordability Affordable housing is a quality that sets Clarington apart from other communities in the GTA. According to questionnaire respondents, Clarington offers "more affordable homes" when compared to other municipalities to the west. In fact, it was reported in a Globe and Mail article in August that while Clarington's "western neighbours -Ajax, Whitby, and Pickering - have struggled to find new land to develop for low-rise homes, Clarington and Oshawa remain the only municipalities in Greater Toronto where new-home buyers can purchase a detached house for under $350,000" (Raymaker, 2008). 16 883 Townhouses Good Governance Figure 47: Clarington Administrative Centre Some questionnaire respondents believe that the governance in Clarington distinguishes it from other communities. The Municipality is recognized as being a well governed area with open and responsive officials. There is "willingness on everyone's part" to make Clarington a balanced community and residents are hopeful that through participation there will be an opportunity for public desires to be reflected. 17 884 WHAT ISSUES NEED TO BE ADDRESSED IN THIS OFFICIAL PLAN REVIEW? The final question asked session participants to identify the issues that they think need to be addressed in this Official Plan Review. Major issues revealed include sustainability and growth management, transportation and accessibility, industry and employment, cultural heritage and community character, demographic shifts and housing affordability, and governance and public participation. Figure Figure 50: Higher Density Development sustainability and Growth Management In response to the negative impacts of urban sprawl (e.g., depletion of farmland, threat to water and energy supply, pollution, traffic congestion, big box developments, suburbs, run-off, etc.) questionnaire respondents identify the topics of sustainability and growth management as being essential for consideration in the Official Plan Review. "sustainability must become a primary goal of public policy if we want to ensure the long-term health of communities" (Jepson, 2007). Residents suggest that policies should be refined to better encourage sustainable development in Clarington. This would include enhanced policies for renewable energy (i.e., source in new methods through "changes in zoning regulation"), air quality, public transportation, waste disposal, green building practices, sustainable health and community service improvements, the preservation of natural spaces (e.g., wetlands, sensitive areas, bio-regional support systems, waterfront, etc.), and the long-term planning and "preservation of agriculture as a sustainable industry". With particular regard to growth management as a form of sustainable planning, session participants suggest that Clarington's Official Plan also include policies for controlled growth, brownfield development, intensification, high density housing in downtown areas and less "big box" development. Some respondents, however, are against high density developments and request that the traditional low density lot sizes of Clarington be maintained to avoid creating a "large city feel" in the area. Also requested is the removal of Greenbelt restrictions from Bowmanville to the new Highway 407 extension and/or 18 885 f compensation for Greenbelt land. Other important issues to consider are the short- and long-term impacts this type of development will have on Clarington. Respondents suggest generating "scenarios that review the way the future may develop". Transportation and Accessibility As reported by Metrolinx, "outside of the City of Toronto, transit use, walking, and cycling drop markedly to less than seven per cent of all trips. Most suburban neighbourhoods were designed on the assumption that the car would be people's primary, or even sole, means of getting around" (2008). Clarington residents have reasonably expressed concern over automobile dependence and local traffic congestion, thus transportation and accessibility are issues that need to be addressed in the Official Plan Review. Questionnaire respondents identify the need to incorporate policies that encourage the means for transportation that is not car dependant, including having "road allowances wide enough to allow for sidewalks and bike lanes", pedestrian pathways, and "improvements in local and Region wide public transit" (e.g., GO Transit expansion). It was also suggested by some participants that the management of Highway 407 and the access to Highway 401 be addressed during the Review process. Industry and Employment "Rural and small town places across Canada face crises as they struggle with sustainability and viability" (Halseth, 2008). Concerns have been raised over Clarington's lack of local employment opportunities and questionnaire respondents clarify the need to address the issue in the Official Plan Review. Suggested are policy changes that will "attract higher profile employers" in a variety of sectors (e.g., semi- industrial, light industrial, health, science, service, commercial, agriculture, etc.), thus encouraging Clarington's independence and preventing the progression of a "bedroom community". Also suggested is the creation of "scenarios for the immediate future" (e.g., 2 and 5 years) relating to the 19 886 Figure 51: Station economy and the changing times (e.g., impacts of General Motors shutdown and oil prices on commuting). Figure 57: Residence Cultural Heritage and Community Character As a community expands and populates, it becomes increasingly important to preserve its heritage and maintain a unique identity. The residents of Clarington believe that cultural heritage and community character are issues that should be addressed during the Official Plan Review process. Concern has been expressed over the loss of built and natural heritage features and community identify. Residents recommend that through this review process the Municipality identify policies to ensure that community heritage and character are respected, preserved, and enhanced. Suggestions include provisions for "keeping heritage areas intact", designing places to work as well as live, enabling service sector opportunities (e.g., places of worship, service clubs, volunteer arrangements, etc.) and encouraging more community-focused events and festivals. Also considered should be "how Clarington integrates into Southern Ontario" and what future image is desired (i.e., traditional v. Wal-mart). Demographic Shifts and Housing Affordability An article in the Wall Street Journal suggests that "rising affordability concerns in some home and rental markets remain a challenge... but with more immigration and people living alone, demographic shifts are pressing developers to reconsider what's worked in the past" (Gerencher, 2006). Questionnaire responses reveal that demographic shifts and housing affordability are significant issues that need to be addressed during the Official Plan Review process. As demographic shifts occur -particularly the aging of the population - the changes will need to be accommodated in the design of Clarington and, therefore, should be reflected in Official Plan policies. A related issue is the stress of finding affordable housing, which is most often borne by retired seniors and young families buying their first homes. Residents believe that this issue should be addressed by 20 887 Street Bridge Figure 58: Aspen Springs Condominiums incorporating appropriate provisions for mixed income housing and "senior living" facilities in response to anticipated changes in demographics. Governance and Public Participation Though many questionnaire respondents state that they appreciate Clarington's current level of governance, it is also disclosed that governance and public participation could be further improved and, thus, should be addressed in the Official Plan Review. Issues that residents feel need to be considered include "ease of access to the politicians", the effective management of "multiple communities and multiple/duplicate servicing requirements" (e.g., fire services, libraries, recreation facilities, etc.) and the coordination of timelines with the Regional Official Plan. It is also believed that "public input needs to be further encouraged" and actively taken into account. 21 888 VISION CONSULTATION SESSIONS "Community visioning is simply a process through which a community imagines the future it most desires and then plans to achieve it" (Ames, 1997). Clarington's current Official Plan seeks to achieve a vision for the Municipality as: A place where each community can build on its individual character but share a common economic base and a distinct collective image; A place for people to live, work, and play in a safe, vibrant, healthy, and prosperous environment; A place where people, business, and government balances growth with protection, management, and enhancement of the cultural and historic landscape, natural resources, and the environment. During consultation sessions, each community was also asked to participate in a visioning exercise, answering the following questions: What do you like about the current vision? What would you like to change? What do you think is missing and would like to add to the vision? "Through visioning, citizens come together to create a shared image of their preferred future" (ibid). The results of Clarington's visioning sessions are summarized in terms of dominant themes. These themes will be of great significance in improving Clarington's current vision because residents "will be more likely to support what they help to create" (The Planning Center, 2001). WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT THE CURRENT VISION? According to Booher, successful visioning requires members of a community to "build consensus on a description of the community's desired future and on actions to help male goals for the future a reality" (2004). When asked what they like about the current vision, session participants generally believe that the current vision includes "good general principles" that are "not too hard to read and understand", but "will take a lot of work to fulfill". Participants also express their appreciation for the opportunity of public involvement. In particular, there are four main themes that residents identify as what they like about the current vision: it recognizes individua! community character, it is comprehensive and balanced; it is forward thinking; and it presents a strong value system. Individual Community Character Many residents appreciate that the current vision recognizes the individual character of communities within the larger Municipality of Clarington. They like 22 that there is a focus on "maintaining each community's identity", while still allowing for "some growth in all communities". Comprehensive and Balanced Several session participants describe the current vision as being "comprehensive", "inclusive", and "all encompassing". They like that the vision "balances" live, work, and play, as well as economic, social, and environmental factors (e.g., farmland preservation, culture and heritage, natural resources, controlled growth, etc.) Forward Thinkin Respondents admire that the current vision is "forward thinking". They believe that the vision is "ahead of its time for 1996" and that it effectively "fits current thinking". Strong Value System Residents appreciate that the current vision "presents a strong value system" and "caters to a responsible image". The vision is described by respondents as "noble", "idealistic", "hopeful", and "people focused". They state that "all three points have merit" and elicit a "feeling of safety" for readers. WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO CHANGE? This review process allows the public to have significant input in changes made to Clarington's Official Plan. When asked what they would like to change about the current vision, respondents indicated that they would like to see changes in the vision's language; it's emphasis on communities; and it's social, environmental, and economic focus. However, some residents feel that the vision doesn't need to be changed, but rather the Official Plan's implementation tools need to be enhanced. Language Many session participants would like to change the language of the current vision statement. There are, however, two conflicting views - some respondents state that the vision is "long" and "wordy", while others see the vision as being "vague" and "elusive". Those who believe the vision is "wordy" desire a less specific, "simple vision for everyone to understand". One resident states that "the third point seems too specific for a vision statement" and suggests that "it could be a guiding principle instead". 23 The respondents who believe that the language is too vague would like the vision to be "more specific" and to include "more detail". One resident notes that the points "dance around a number of buzz words" making the language unclear and difficult to comprehend. They suggest that the wording be corrected for everyone to understand. Emphasis on Communities Session participants have conflicting views regarding the vision's emphasis on communities, and thus contradictory changes are suggested. Some respondents desire a vision that is "more reflective of the whole" and "not just individual communities". They suggest an enhanced focus on a united and shared Municipality. Other respondents, however, would like to see "more emphasis on the identity' of the "individual communities" in a vision that focuses on the maintenance and enhancement of their unique character. Environmental, and Economic Focus Residents would like to see the vision changed to include a stronger focus on social, environmental, and economic resources. In terms of social resources, respondents desire an increased emphasis on "health" and "educational support", "recreational facilities", lifestyle changes, and affordable housing - especially for "young families". Respondents would also like the vision to have a stronger emphasis on environmental and agricultural protection. Regarding economic resources, residents would like the vision to incorporate "more details" pertaining to "economic development", "industry', and the local employment base. Implementation Tools A few residents reveal that they would change nothing about the vision at this time; however, some feel that the current vision "only looks good on paper" and have concerns over "how" the vision will actually be achieved. One participant suggests that "rather than changing the vision, acquire tools, partnerships (e.g., with organizations, builders, developers, and investors, etc.), and incentives to implement it". Some respondents state that the effective implementation of the current vision also requires "a responsible, accountable, trustworthy government" and public participation in planning. 24 WHAT DO YOU THINK IS MISSING AND WOULD LIKE TO ADD TO THE VISION? "Successful visioning efforts address all aspects of a community, recognizing the interrelatedness of land use, economy, community health, and so forth" (Altman & Morse, 2008). Session participants were asked to identify what aspects they think are missing and would like to add to Clarington's current vision. Participants indicate that the topics of sustainability, transportation, infrastructure, economic base, and existing assets are missing from the vision and should be added when it is reviewed. Sustainabil Respondents feel that the concept of sustainability is missing from the current vision. They believe that the vision should include a "statement about leadership in sustainable living" touching on "long term sustainability" in the face of global climate change, peak oil, Greenbelt, etc. Residents state that the vision needs to "address newer ideas", including references to Brownfield development, green building practices, "energy conservation and efficiency", "renewable energy sources", mixed use neighbourhoods, and the concept of "lifestyle balance". Also desired are "more specific plans to reach each goal" (e.g. energy conservation through working from home and the issue of Internet availability in rural areas). Transportation As declared by session participants, the topic of transportation is missing from the current vision statement. Many residents feel that Clarington's vision should include a reference to transport throughout the Municipality. "Increased public transit", "active transportation", and "access to amenities" were listed as important points to be considered when improving the vision. Infrastructure Session participants reveal that the issue of infrastructure is also missing from the Municipality's current vision. They suggest that the vision include a statement about the need far infrastructure, services, and facilities to "keep up with the growth" and change of Clarington. Economic Base Residents believe that Clarington's current vision lacks focus on the economy and should be improved to emphasize the need to expand the Municipality's economic base. They suggest that the vision give reference to increasing industry and employment opportunities in order "to support the service based community". 25 Assets Respondents feel that the current vision is missing mention of Clarington's existing assets (e.g. "landmarks", "conservation areas", "Ganaraska Forest", "Long Sault", "Enniskillen", "agricultural diversity", "built heritage", community identity, etc.). They believe that these assets should be referenced in the vision as a way to "attract people to the area" (e.g. "agri-tourism"). Many residents enjoy the "small community feeling" of Clarington's individual communities and would like to take advantage of this in creating an "identity" for Clarington as a whole. 26 CONCLUSION In order to make informed. community driven decisions during the current Official Plan Review process, me municipauty or aanngton nas neia consurcauon communities - Bowmanville, Courtice, Newcastle, Newtonville, Orono, two community groups -the Clarington Board of Trade (CBOT) and Community Advisory Committee. Questionnaires were completed and variety of answers from which a range of appropriate themes we questionnaires reveal the following: What do you enjoy about your community? o Green space; o Rural atmosphere; o Cultural heritage; o Community character; o Access to amenities; o Housing affordability; and o Safety and security. How has Clarington changed in the past 10 years? o Increased development; o Loss of farmland; o Population growth; o Local traffic congestion; o Demographic shifts; and o Diminishing community character. What changes would make Clarington even better? o Planning for sustainability; o Controlled growth; o Transportation improvements; o Industry and employment opportunities; sessions with six and Soling -and the Living Green generated a wide e identified. The o Preservation and enhancement of cultural heritage and community character; o Increased access to amenities; o Greater housing affordability; o Safer and healthier communities; and o Council accountability. What sets Clarington apart from other communities? o Abundance of green space; o Urban and rural mix; o Small town character; o Access to amenities; o Housing affordability; and o Good governance. What issues need to be addressed in this Official Plan Review? o sustainability and growth management; o Transportation and accessibility; o Industry and employment; 27 o Cultural heritage and community character; o Demographic shifts and housing affordability; and o Governance and public participation. The Municipality has also held visioning sessions with the six communities, generating a number of comments about Clarington's current vision. The visioning sessions reveal the following: What do you like about the current vision? o Individual community character; o Comprehensive and balanced; o Forward thinking; and o Strong value system. What would you like to change? o Language; o Emphasis on communities; o Social, environmental, and economic focus; and o Implementation tools. What do you think is missing and what would you like to add to the vision? o Sustainability; o Transportation; o Infrastructure; o Economic base; and o Existing assets. The responses to these important questions will assist Municipal staff in determining which direction Clarington will take when looking ahead to the next 25 years. 28 REFERENCES Altman & Morse, "Creating Their Own Futures: Community Visioning and North Carolina Local Governments," Popular Government (2008). 23. Ames. (1997). Community Visioning.• Planning for the Future in Oregon's Local Communities. Retrieved October 1, 2008 from: http://www.design.asu.edu/apa/proceedings97/ames.html Booher, "Collaborative Governance Practices and Democracy," National Civic Review 93 (2004): 36. Durham Region. (2008). Growing Durham: Appendices -Draft Recommended Scenario and Policy Directions Report. Retrieved September 25, 2008 from: http://www.region.durham.on.ca/growthplan/Durham_Appendices_09.18.08.pdf Gerencher. (2006, November 7). Generation X May Boost Sagging Real-Estate Market. The Wall Street Journal, MarketWatch, http://www. realestatejournal.com/buysell/markettrends/20061107- gerencher.html?refresh=on (accessed on September 22, 2008). Halseth. (2008). Canada Research Chair in Rural and Small Town Studies. (University of Northern British Columbia). Retrieved September 22, 2008 from: http://web. unbc. ca/geography/facu Ity/greg/research/research chair. htm Holland & Toderian. (2008, April 28). The Case for Density in Sustainable Cities. Planetizen, Community/Economic Development, http://www.planetizen.com/node/30970 (accessed on September 22, 2008). Hume. (2007, July 13). Why parks are important. The Toronto Star, Columns, http://www.thestar.com/News/article/235503 (accessed on September 19, 2008). Jepson. (2007, February 5). Incorporating Sustainability into Community Development. Planetizen, Op-Ed, http://www.planetizen.com/node/22756 (accessed on September 19, 2008). Metrolinx. (2008). Sustainable Transportation: An Overview. Retrieved September, 19, 2008 from: http://www. metrolinx. com/docs/1 /WhitePapersNVhitePaperBrochu reMay08f. pdf Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH). (2005). Greenbelt Plan. (Government of Ontario: Queen's Printer for Ontario). Retrieved September 15, 2008 from: http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Asset1277.aspx Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal (MPIR). (2006). Places to Grow: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe. (Government of Ontario: Queen's Printer for 29 Ontario). Retrieved September 15, 2008 from: http://www. placestogrow.ca/images/pdfs/fplan-eng-web-all.pdf Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO). (2001). Ministry of Transportation Business Plan 2001-2002. (Government of Ontario: Queen's Printer for Ontario). Retrieved September 17, 2008 from: http://www. mto.gov.on.ca/eng lish/about/bplan/2001 _02. htm Municipality of Clarington (2008). Official Plan Review: An Introductory Discussion Paper. (Planning Services Department). Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA). (2004). Growing Strong Rural Communities - a Consultation Paper (Draft June 2004). (Government of Ontario: Queen's Printer for Ontario). Retrieved September 19, 2008 from: http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/rural/rural plan/rural plan cslt.htm Ontario Road Builder's Association (ORBA). (2006). Municipal Roads and Traffic Congestion. Retrieved September 19, 2008 from: http://www. orba. org/lib/db2file. asp?fileid=1086 Raymaker. (2008, August 29). Detached home prices lowest in Durham. The Globe and Mail, Arts, http:i/www. theg I obeand ma i I. com/servlet/story/LAC.20080829. D I GS29/TPStory/T PEntertainment/Ontario/ (accessed on September 18, 2008). Smart Growth Canada Network (SGCA). (2007). Useful Research. Retrieved September 16, 2008 from: http://www.smartgrowth.ca/research_e.html Statistics Canada. 2007. Ottawa, Ontario. (table). 2006 Community Profiles. 2006 Census. (Ottawa: Statistics Canada Catalogue). http://www12.statcan. ca/english/census06/data/profiles/community/Details/Page. cfm?Lang=E&Geo1=CSD&Code1=3518017&Geo2=PR&Code2=35&Data=Count &SearchText=Clarington&SearchType=Begins&SearchPR=01 &B 1=All&Custom= (accessed September 16, 2008). The Planning Center. (2001). Growth Visioning for Sustaining a Livable Region: Visioning Design Process. (Southern California Association of Governments: RFQ #01-117). 30 APPENDIX A: Listing of Consultation Sessions .. Living Green Community Advisory Committee Open House June 10 2008 Courtice , O en House and Vision Consultation June 10 2008 Clarington Board of Trade , Open House June 12 2008 Newtonville , O en House and Vision Consultation June 16 2008 Orono , O en House and Vision Consultation June 17 2008 Newcastle , O en House and Vision Consultation June 25 2008 Solina , O en House and Vision Consultation June 26 2008 Bowmanville , Open House and Vision Consultation 31 s _~ L~ Mr W X Z W a Q • a a c ~ ~ ~ 0 ~ m N O f 6 T C ~~ .~'. C ~ ~, a C ~ 7 L~ O V L m E ~ ~ O N ~ L ~ O"C " ~ ~ U m ~ L o ~ o Q N E~ n a ~ . ~ ~ ~ ~ ? Q j U f0 ~ L ~ ; .U • ~ N Cn ~ ~ ~ f6 ~ N U f6 U ~ (6 c`~6 ~ Q u • • • • • • X ~ U . ~ C . ~ O N ` c • . 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