A controversial zoning amendment that paves the way for a major expansion of the Muskoka Landing long-term care facility tops the agenda of Wednesday\u2019s planning committee meeting.<\/p>\n
The applicant is requesting a zoning amendment that would allow for an addition of 101 units – down from the 130 units originally proposed – to the existing building, the development of 14 townhouses adjacent to the shoreline area, an increase to the parking area, and new docking facilities.<\/p>\n
Further, the applicant is asking that the redeveloped building be 18 metres in height. Section 4.2.1.5 of the Town\u2019s Official Plan states that the height of buildings in the Urban Area should not exceed 11 metres (36 feet).<\/p>\n
It is the proposed height that remains the most controversial aspect of the rezoning application. The Town has received many letters from concerned neighbours and citizens as well as a petition against the 18 metre height signed by 37 people. Many are expected to fill the council chamber on Wednesday.<\/p>\n
According to the Planning Committee agenda, staff requested additional information on the visual impact of the proposed building when viewed while travelling east on Highway 60 past Hanes Road. According to the agenda notes, the applicant responded by providing new renderings showing the proposed building addition at 18 metres in height in relation to adjacent buildings. Based on the information provided, staff now feel that a maximum height of 15 metres would be more in keeping with the intent of the official plan.<\/p>\n\n\t\t