AGENDA - Economic Development Advisory Committee - 20150514ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MEETING AGENDA
THURSDAY,MAY 14,2015
7 P.M.
LEKSAND ROOM
AURORA TOWN HALL
PUBLIC RELEASE
May 7,2015
TOWN OF AURORA
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MEETING AGENDA
DATE:Thursday,May 14,2015
TIME AND LOCATION:7 p.m.,Leksand Room,Aurora Town Hall
1.DECLARATION OF PECUNIARY INTEREST AND GENERAL NATURE THEREOF
2.APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
RECOMMENDED:
THAT the agenda as circulated by Legal and Legislative Services be approved.
3.ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of pg.1
April 9,2015
THAT the Economic Development Advisory Committee meeting minutes of April
9,2015,be adopted as printed and circulated.
4.DELEGATIONS
5.MATTERS FOR CONSIDERATION
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Page 2 of 3
6.INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
1.Economic Development Flow Charts pg.5
RECOMMENDED:
THAT the Economic Development Flow Charts be received for information.
2.Memorandum from Manager of Long Range and Strategic Planning pg.7
Re:Economic Development Action Plan Update
RECOMMENDED:
THAT the memorandum regarding Economic Development Action Plan
Update be received for information.
3.Business Retention &Expansion Action Plan:Progress Update pg.10
RECOMMENDED:
THAT the Business Retention &Expansion Action Plan:Progress Update
be received for information.
4.Memorandum from Manager of Long Range and Strategic Planning pg.14
Re:Activity Report
RECOMMENDED:
THAT the memorandum regarding Activity Report be received for
information.
5.Memorandum from Manager of Special Projects pg.16
Re:Establishment of a Business Improvement Area (BIA)
RECOMMENDED:
THAT the memorandum regarding Establishment of a Business
Improvement Area (BIA)be received for information.
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Page 3 of 3
6.Memorandum from Manager of Long Range &Strategic Planning pg.19
Re:Medical Marihuana Production Facilities Study/By-law
RECOMMENDED:
THAT the memorandum regarding Medical Marihuana Production Facilities
Study/By-law be received for information.
7.NEW BUSINESS
8.ADJOURNMENT
TOWN OF AURORA
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MEETING MINUTES
Date:Thursday,April 9,2015
Time and Location:7 p.m.,Leksand Room,Aurora Town Hall
Committee Members:Councillor Paul Pirri (Chair),Don Constable (arrived 7:38 p.m.),
Rosalyn Gonsalves,Marilee Harris,Paul Smith,Bruce
Walkinshaw
Member(s)Absent:Councillor John Abel (Vice Chair)
Other Attendees:Councillor Tom Mrakas (arrived 7:38 p.m.),Councillor Michael
Thompson (arrived 7:38 p.m.),Anthony Ierullo,Manager of
Long Range and Strategic Planning,Michael Logue,Program
Manager,Economic Development,Stephen Huycke,Town
Clerk,and Linda Bottos,Council/Committee Secretary
The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.
1.DECLARATION OF PECUNIARY INTEREST
There were no declarations of pecuniary interest under the Municipal Conflict of
Interest Act.
2.APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Moved by Bruce Walkinshaw
Seconded by Rosalyn Gonsalves
THAT the agenda as circulated by Legal and Legislative Services be approved.
CARRIED
3.RECEIPT OF THE MINUTES
None
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Minutes Page -1
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Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Thursday,April 9,2015 Page 2 of 4
4.DELEGATIONS
(a)Stephen M.A.Huycke,Town Clerk
Re:Advisory Committee Member Education and Training
Mr.Huycke provided a PowerPoint presentation and handout entitled “Advisory
Committee Orientation 2014-2018”,and highlighted the roles and responsibilities
of advisory committees,committee members,and staff.He also reviewed the
political decision-making process and relationships,including procedural matters,
within the framework of civic engagement between the public and Council.Each
Committee Member received a copy of the “Corporate Policies,Programs and
Procedures Policy for Ad Hoc/Advisory Committees and Local Boards”dated
December 16,2014,the Town’s Procedural By-law Number 5330-11,as
amended,and the Terms of Reference for the Economic Development Advisory
Committee (EDAC)2014-2018 term.
Moved by Don Constable
Seconded by Paul Smith
THAT the delegation by Stephen Huycke be received for information.
CARRIED
(b)Anthony Ierullo,Manager of Long Range and Strategic Planning
Re:Item 1 –Memorandum from Manager of Long Range and Strategic
Planning;Re:Economic Development Program Overview
Mr.Ierullo provided a brief overview of the current economic development
programs and highlighted the strategies and services delivered by the Town in
the key areas of investment attraction,business retention and expansion,and
tourism.He indicated that staff would be providing a status report to the
Committee regarding the areas identified as economic development priorities in
the “Economic Development Action Plan 2012-2014”.
Moved by Don Constable
Seconded by Marilee Harris
THAT the delegation by Anthony Ierullo be received for information.
CARRIED
5.MATTERS FOR CONSIDERATION
None
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Minutes Page -2
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Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Thursday,April 9,2015 Page 3 of 4
6.INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
1.Memorandum from Manager of Long Range and Strategic Planning
Re:Economic Development Program Overview
The Committee inquired about the number of active businesses in Town,
business visit reports,and the type of information collected.Staff advised that
physical business locations numbered in the range of 1,300 to 1,400 as of mid-
2014.He stated that core business information such as the number of
businesses,the number of people employed,and sectors is collected in
partnership with York Region each summer and an update would be available in
September 2015.Staff added that information such as the type of business,its
location,and number of employees is available through the employment survey
published on the Town’s website.He further advised that business visits are
documented,but recently they are more about specific issues and building
relationships rather than a survey with standardized questions.
The Committee inquired about the objective for further business retention and
expansion surveys.Staff noted that 156 surveys,using a standardized form,
were conducted in 2012,and that a condensed version was being considered for
2015.
The Committee inquired about the Economic Development Action Plan,with
reference to Item 4 of the June 2014 Pending List,and expressed a desire to
maintain continuity with the achievements of the previous four years.It was
requested that a progress report on various elements of the Plan,and the flow
chart requested in June 2014 itemizing the different projects that fall within the
purview of EDAC as they relate to the Official Plan and Strategic Plan,be
provided prior to the next meeting.
The Committee discussed the direction to establish a Business Improvement
Area (BIA)and inquired whether this matter would be part of EDAC’s mandate.
Staff provided background information,including the process and requirements of
establishing a BIA,and advised that Jim Kyle of the CAO’s office is leading the
project.It was noted that an update report had been provided to Council and it
was requested that this information also be shared with the Committee prior to
the next meeting.
Moved by Bruce Walkinshaw
Seconded by Rosalyn Gonsalves
THAT the memorandum regarding Economic Development Program Overview
be received for information.
CARRIED
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Minutes Page -3
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Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Thursday,April 9,2015 Page 4 of 4
2.Pending List
Committee Members suggested that the Committee would benefit from reviewing
the Pending List provided to EDAC in June 2014 to maintain continuity from the
previous term.Staff indicated that continuity would be achieved and that an
updated,consolidated economic development activities flow chart and other
requested updates would be sent to the Members prior to the next meeting.
Moved by Paul Smith
Seconded by Bruce Walkinshaw
THAT the Pending List be received for information.
CARRIED
7.NEW BUSINESS
The Committee expressed an interest in holding monthly meetings rather than the
currently scheduled bi-monthly meetings.The Chair committed to calling a meeting
during each of the non-scheduled months,with the exception of July and August,
beginning with May 14,2015.
The Committee inquired about the availability of a broadband gap analysis map and
the status of the broadband strategy in Aurora.Staff advised that a study had been
conducted by York Region and the Chair noted that this matter would be investigated
for further information.
8.ADJOURNMENT
Moved by Marilee Harris
Seconded by Paul Smith
THAT the meeting be adjourned at 8:40 p.m.
CARRIED
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS ARE NOT BINDING ON THE TOWN UNLESS
ADOPTED BY COUNCIL AT A LATER MEETING.
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Minutes Page -4
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Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 1 Page -1
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Council
Strategic Plan
Vision,Mission,Values
Goal,Objectives,Actions
Guiding Principles
External
Pressures
Community
Expectations
Long Term Strategies
Official Plan
Master Plans
Ec Dev Action Plan
BR&E Action Plan
Promenade Strategy
Organizational Plans
Excellence Matters
Service Level Reviews
Organizational Reviews
Administration Plan
Departmental Goals,
Objectives,Actions
External Pressures
requiring immediate
response
Operational Plans
10-Year Capital
Departmental Workplans
Annual Budget
Products &Services
for the Community
Advisory
Committees
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 1 Page -2
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MEMORANDUM
DATE:May 14,2015
TO:Economic Development Advisory Committee Members
FROM:Anthony Ierullo,Manager of Long Range and Strategic Planning
RE:Economic Development Action Plan Update
RECOMMENDATIONS
THAT the memorandum be received for information.
BACKGROUND
A major focus for the Economic Development Advisory Committee during the 2010 –2014
term was the development of an Economic Development Action Plan.The Plan identified 5
priority actions that guided economic development activities in Aurora.As requested,staff
have prepared the update below outlining the status of each activity highlighted within the
Action Plan:
Lead Actions Complete Major Actions To-Do
Anticipated
completion
Proposed
Funding
Activity
Entertainment
District LRSP Project deferred by
Council and removed
from 2015 Budget.
Reintroduce project
and funding for
consideration as part
of the 2016 Budget.2016
70,000 as
part of
Tertiary Plan
Permanent
Farmers’
Market
Special
Projects
/LRSP
Secured Aurora Armory.
Pilot project underway
to allow the Aurora
Farmers Market to
operate in location
during winter months.
N/A Complete
100 John West Way
Box 1000
Aurora,Ontario
L4G 6J1
Phone:905-727-3123 ext.4742
Email:AIerullo@aurora.ca
www.aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Planning &Development Services
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 2 Page -1
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Economic Development
May 14,2015 -2-Action Plan Update
Lead Actions Complete Major Actions To-Do
Anticipated
completion
Proposed
Funding
Activity
Implement the
BR&E Action
Plan
LRSP
BR&E Action Plan
approved and
implemented (detailed
update provided
independently).
Business visitations
limited to 50 per year
due to budget
restrictions.
Continue to
implement Action
Plan.Seek additional
resources to expand
business visitation
program.Ongoing
Staffing
request (PTE)
Administer the
Town’s
Business
Concierge
Program
LRSP
Program launched,
marketing materials
prepared,staff
education completed.
Continue to
implement program.Ongoing N/A
Bio-medical
campus LRSP
Planning Study
completed.Several key
development sites sold,
rezoned and
redeveloped.Staff
considering alternative
options for project due
to the lack of viable
redvelopment sites
within the study area.
Completion of follow
up report outlining
potential project
options.2015 TBD
Innovation
Incubator LRSP
Supported SeneMAC
concept in partnership
with Seneca College.
Explored potential
partnership with
confidential alternative
partner.
Continue to discuss
partnership options.
Prepare and present
project business case
when appropriate.2015 TBD
Post
Secondary
Presence
Special
Projects
The town,in
partnership with the
Town of Newmarket,
prepared a submission
to partner with York
University on their
proposed York Region
Campus.Campus was
awarded to the City of
Markham.
N/A N/A TBD
*PTE =part-time equivalent
employee
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 2 Page -2
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Economic Development
May 14,2015 -3-Action Plan Update
CONCLUSIONS
As directed by Council through EDAC,staff are committed to continuing to advance the
initiatives outlined in the Economic Development Action Plan.The focus of these activities
has been summarized in this memorandum for both EDAC and Council.EDAC may also
want to consider reviewing the Economic Development Action Plan and recommending
modifications to Council if appropriate.
ATTACHMENTS
None
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 2 Page -3
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TownofAuroraPlanningandDevelopmentServicesBusinessRetention&ExpansionActionPlan:ProgressUpdateEconomic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 3 Page -1
-10 -
HowWeGrow:ContinuedSmart&SustainableGrowth,AvailabilityofAppropriateSpaceorLand,Retaining&AttractingBusinessesActionAccountabilityTimelinesIndicatorsProgressRegularlymonitor&reportonpopulationandemploymentgrowth,includingbyindustrysectorEconomicDevelopmentAnnually,beginning2014Bi-annualReporttoCounciloutliningtrendsReporttoCouncilin2014completed.Latestemploymentdatarequiredfor2015updatejustreceived.Investigateopportunitiestopre-installhighcapacitybroadbandinnewdevelopmentareasEconomicDevelopment/PlanningQ12014Explorewithpotentialproviders&developers2Cdevelopmentunderway.EvaluateopportunitiestofurtherstrengthenemploymentprotectionpoliciesinOfficialPlanEconomicDevelopment/PolicyPlanningQ32014ResearchcompletedtocontributetoplannedOfficialPlanreviewin2016ReviewofOfficialPlanpoliciescompleted.Proposedchangestobeconsideredaspartofplanned2016OfficialPlanupdate.ExpandBusinessRetention&ExpansionprogramandbusinessvisitationsEconomicDevelopment2015Completionof200BusinessVisitationsAnnually(ConditionalonthehiringofaBR&ESpecialist)BR&ESpecialistremovedfrombudgetdeliberations.Reducednumberofshortervisitstargetedbyexistingstaff(50)BetterpromotionofavailablespaceandlandinTown,throughbusinessaurora.caEconomicDevelopment/GISmappingQ22014Creationofrevised/newwebmappingtooltopromoteavailablepropertyPostponeduntilwebsitehasbeenrefreshed.Phase1,contentreviewofbusinessaurora.cahasbeencompleted.Investigatingcostingofwebmapsoftware/tools.Workwithpartnerstoattractaninnovationincubator/post-secondarypresence/skillscentretosupportlocalbusinessesandattractnewstart-upsEconomicDevelopmentOngoingApprovalofanewfacilityby2020DiscussionswithSenecaCollegeprovedunsuccessfulin2014.Newdiscussionsinitiatedandplanningmeetingtobescheduledwithpotentiallocalpartner,Q22015.Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 3 Page -2
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ServicesforBusiness:MakingSenseofDevelopmentApprovals,ConnectingBusinesseswithResidents,BusinessNetworking&JointMarketingActionAccountabilityTimelinesIndicatorsProgressWorkacrossdepartmentstostreamlinedevelopmentapprovalprocessandresolveconflictsEconomicDevelopment,withPlanning&BuildingQ12014FormallaunchofBusinessConciergeProgramin2013BusinessConciergeprogramlaunched,promotionalmaterialsprepared.Conductinformationsessionsforbusinesses&landownersondevelopmentapprovalprocessPlanning&BuildingQ22014Thedeliveryofatleasttwoworkshopby2014SessionsplannedforQ32015Promote'HowTo'guidesonthedevelopmentapprovalprocessviabusinessaurora.caEconomicDevelopment/PlanningQ12014Materialspostedprominentlyonbusinessaurora.caandaurora.caHowtoguidecompleted.Refreshofbusinessaurora.caplannedfor2015Investigateopportunitiestomonitorandhost,linkto,orconsolidatelocaljobopportunitiesthroughbusinessaurora.caEconomicDevelopment/GISmappingQ22014Creationofrevised/newwebmappingtooltopromotelocaljobopportunitiesPostponeduntilwebsitehasbeenrefreshed.Phase1,contentreviewofbusinessaurora.cahasbeencompleted.Investigatingcostingofwebmapsoftware/tools.InvestigateholdingajointjobfairincoordinationwithlocalserviceprovidersEconomicDevelopmentQ22014ReportoutliningopportunitiestopartnerwithlocalserviceprovidersonhostingajobfairPartneredwithRNCEmploymentServicestoofferjobfairatAuroraCulturalCentreSept2014,featuringTownofAurora,StateFarm,TranscontinentalPrinting,CubePlastics,BulkBarnEncourage&assistwithbusiness-driveninitiativessuchasshoptours&'shoplocal'promotionsEconomicDevelopment/ChamberofCommerceAsrequiredAtleastonebusiness-driveninitativeperyearPreparedmaterialstoencouragesporttourismvisitorstoshoplocally,Q12015ExploreopportunitiestoworkwithYorkRegiononsectoralclustermappinganalysis,tohelpinformnetworkingandlocalsupplychainopportunitiesEconomicDevelopmentQ3-Q42014ReporttoCouncil,disseminationofresultsSectoralanalysisincludedinEmploymentAreaAnalysisreportPL14-006,upcomingreportonHousing&Economy.Sector-specifictargettingtobeconsideredaspartofwebsiterefresh,furtherreporttoCouncilQ2-Q32015.PromoteChambereventsonnetworkingandjointmarketinginitiatives,andsupportmakingthemavailabletonon-membersEconomicDevelopment,ChamberofCommerceOngoingPromotionofatleast12eventsperyearEventscontinuetobepromotedonbusinessaurora.cacalendar,andinBrightLightseconomicdevelopmentnewsletterEconomic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 3 Page -3
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EnhancingExistingResources:RevitalizingDowntownAurora,ImprovingPublicTransit,IncreasedCommunications&SupportProgramsActionAccountabilityTimelinesIndicatorsProgressEnsurecoordinationofdowntownrevitalizationeffortsexploredthroughvariousprocessesviaworkplanandregularreportingEconomicDevelopment/PlanningAnnually,beginning2013/14PreparationofannualAuroraPromenadeworkplantoclarifyandcoordinateworksrelatedtodowntownrevitalizationPromenadedoor-to-doorvisitsplannedfor2015withanemphasisonpromotingtheStreetscapePlan,CommunityImprovementPlan,BIAandOutdoorPatioPolicyReviewEconomicDevelopmente-newsletterforreach(subscriptions)andcontentEconomicDevelopmentQ12014DeliverrevisedeconomicdevelopmentnewsletterquarterlyBack-endaccesstosubscriptionsreceived.FirstnewsletterplannedforQ32015.Offer&promotesupportservicesprovidedinpartnershipwithYorkRegion,AuroraChamberofCommerce,localserviceprovidersEconomicDevelopment/externalOngoingTrackinquiries&supportservicereferralsInternaltrackingsystemsetup&maintainedAdvocateYorkRegionforimprovedeast-westtransitserviceandservicetoemploymentareasEconomicDevelopment/Infrastructure&Env.Q12014Increasedtransitroutes/frequency/ridershipLetterwrittentoYRT2014,reiteratedconcernsatmeetingQ12015.Awaitingresponse.AdvocatetheProvinceforregulartwo-wayandweekendGOtrainserviceEconomicDevelopment/Infrastructure&Env.Q12014ReporttoCouncilrecommendingformalrequesttotheProvinceTwowayservicebetweenAuroraandUnionStationtobeginin2016.InvestigateopportunitiestoimprovedowntownaccessibilityforallmodesoftransportationEconomicDevelopment/Infrastructure&Env.Q42014PreparationofaTransportationStrategyfortheAuroraPromenadeStreetscapePlanapprovedbyCouncilin2014.Self-guidedwalkingtours,withpotentiallymultiplethemesEconomicDevelopment/HeritagePlanningQ42014Atleastonebusiness-focusedtourcreatedDelayedto2015,partlyduetoheritageplanningstaffresourcesTemporarysidewalkpatiopolicyorpilotprogramPolicyPlanning/EconomicDevelopmentQ12014Program/pilotinplacefor2014patioseasonProgramlaunchedin2014.ImprovingpublicaccesstodigitalinfrastructureinthedowntowncoreEconomicDevelopmentQ2-Q32014ReportoutliningoptionsandpartnersProjectimplementationledbyYorkRegion.Delayedto2015.Supportmeasurestoattractpedestrianactivitydowntowninsupportoflocalbusinesses:Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 3 Page -4
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MEMORANDUM
DATE:May 14,2015
TO:Economic Development Advisory Committee Members
FROM:Anthony Ierullo,Manager of Long Range and Strategic Planning
RE:Activity Report
RECOMMENDATIONS
THAT the memorandum be received for information.
BACKGROUND
Inquiries
The Economic Development Office received seven investor inquiries between April 1,
2015 and May 1,2015.The natures of these inquiries were related to:
Proposed commercial uses
Proposed manufacturing uses
Business Openings
The Town of Aurora’s Economic Development Office was advised of ten new business
openings between April 1,2015 and June 1,2015.Please join me in welcoming the
following businesses to Aurora:
o SYMPOSIUM CAFE
444 HOLLANDVIEW TRAIL
905-503-8899
o N2N CONSULTING SERVICES
83 AUTUMN WAY
416-660-2586
o DIGITAL MARKETING EXPERTS
159 AURORA HEIGHTS DR
416-629-9876
100 John West Way
Box 1000
Aurora,Ontario
L4G 6J1
Phone:905-727-3123 ext.4742
Email:AIerullo@aurora.ca
www.aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Planning &Development Services
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 4 Page -1
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May 14,2015 -2-Activity Report
o CUBE PLASTICS
200 INDUSTRIAL PKWY N
905-750-2823
o NATURE BALANCE WELLNESS
225 INDUSTRIAL PKWY S
905-841-7997
o GOL TEA
159 AURORA HEIGHTS DR
416-333-2887
o AUROPOL
235 INDUSTRIAL PARKWAY S
905-503-1739
o INNER LIGHT
15263 YONGE ST
905-727-8883
o ULTRAMAR
15255 LESLIE ST
905-726-3784
o GLOBAL GYMNASTICS
6 VATA CRT
416-503-5225
Upcoming Events
•Aurora Chamber 33rd annual Golf Classic –June 25,2015
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 4 Page -2
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Date:May 14,2015
To:Economic Development Advisory Committee
From:Jim Kyle,Manager of Special Projects
Re:Establishment of a Business Improvement Area (BIA)
RECOMMENDATIONS
THAT the memorandum regarding Establishment of a Business Improvement
Area (BIA)be received for information.
BACKGROUND
On September 28,2010,Council adopted “The Aurora Promenade Concept Plan –
Urban Design Strategy”for the Yonge and Wellington Corridors.
Goals for the study include:
•Stimulate economic development and make it a more profitable location to
do business;
•Intensification along the Yonge and Wellington Corridors;
•Return Downtown to being a focal point for retail/service and special
events in the community;
•Create a vibrant street life and maximize use of upper floors;
•Improve the appearance of downtown through restoration of heritage
resources/façade improvements;and
•Create a positive image of the downtown as a desirable place to work,live,
shop and invest.
The Implementation section of the Promenade Plan indicates that the Town should work
with the business owners to establish a BIA.
COMMENTS
A Business Improvement Area (BIA)is an innovation that allows local business people
and commercial property owners and tenants to join together and,with the support of
MEMORANDUM Special Projects
Office of the Chief Administrative Officer
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 5 Page -1
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May 14,2015 -2 -Establishment of a BIA
the municipality,to organize,finance,and carry out physical improvements and
promote economic development in their district.
Traditionally,a BIA is a body established by a municipality using the specific business
improvement area provisions in the Municipal Act,2001.It is governed by a board of
management.
Business Improvement Areas are a means for a commercial district to invest in
promoting and improvements so as to enhance the area’s appeal for shoppers and
ultimately to generate more business.Once a BIA has been established,money is
raised through a tax levy which is then used to promote and improve the area.
Streetscape improvements,decorative lighting,planting,banners,festivals and special
events are some of the ways in which BIAs invest in their communities.In general,BIAs
focus on beautification,as well as general upkeep and maintenance of streets and open
spaces;promoting and marketing the area;programming and events to attract traffic;
and advocacy for the interests of business in the area.
Key Steps to establish a BIA
The request to designate an area as a BIA usually originates with the local business
community affected and is developed in consultation with municipal staff.A request to
the municipal council to designate an area identifies the need for a BIA and sets out the
boundaries for the proposed area.Some customary important steps in establishing a
BIA are outlined below:
Step 1:Establish the Need –Business Case
Step 2:Communicate with all Interested Parties
Step 3:Establish a Steering Committee
Step 4:Establish Goals and Objectives
Step 5:Prepare Preliminary Budget Proposals
Step 6:Establish Proposed Boundaries
Step 7:Formalize a Request to the Municipality
Step 8:Notification of a Proposed BIA Designation
Step 9:Pass a Municipal Bylaw
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 5 Page -2
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May 14,2015 -3 -Establishment of a BIA
Progress to date
Staff developed a BIA information package and met with approximately 15 business
owners in the Downtown area.Each business owner was provided ten copies of the
information package and asked to help promote the idea of the creation of the BIA to
other businesses in the downtown area.Staff has also met with representatives of the
Chamber of Commerce to discuss the implementation of the BIA.
On October 16,2014,the Town hosted a BIA information session at Aw Shucks
Restaurant.Representatives from the Bloor-Yorkville,Georgina and Newmarket BIA’s
presented at the session and answered questions pertaining to BIAs.The session was
very well-attended and well-received by business owners in the Downtown area.
Next Steps
Staff is currently working with business owners to establish a BIA steering committee
which will be made up of approximately ten business owners within the Downtown area.
This is not a Committee of Council but will receive staff support and may include
members of Council.
A steering committee has several roles,including:
Establishing a set of preliminary goals and objectives;
Establishing proposed boundaries;
Preparing preliminary budget proposals;
Communicating the proposals to all interested parties;and
Formalizing a request to the municipality.
It is anticipated that the BIA Steering Committee will be established within one month.
Once the Committee is established,a memorandum will be presented to EDAC to
outline a work plan and timeframes.
Jim Kyle
Project Manager
Special Projects
Ext.4345
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 5 Page -3
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MEMORANDUM
DATE:May 14,2015
TO:Economic Development Advisory Committee
FROM:Anthony Ierullo,Manager of Long Range &Strategic Planning
RE:Medical Marihuana Production Facilities Study/By-law
RECOMMENDATIONS
THAT the memorandum regarding the Town’s Medical Marihuana Production
Facilities Study/By-law be received for information.
BACKGROUND
Council passed an Interim Control By-law to prohibit the use of the Town’s Employment
Lands for medical marihuana production on May 27,2014 for a period of one year.This
was in response to a request from a licensed medical marihuana producer inquiring as
to whether medical marihuana production was permitted on a specific property that is
zoned for industrial uses.The response from Town staff was that medical marihuana
production was not listed as a permitted use and that the Town intends to complete a
study to determine the appropriate location and zoning for such a use.
Staff have completed the study and the results of the study,as well as proposed zoning
provisions,were presented to Council at a Statutory Public Planning Meeting which was
held on April 8,2015.At this meeting,staff were directed to draft an implementing by-
law to be considered at an upcoming General Committee meeting.The draft
implementing by-law has therefore been scheduled for discussion at the May 19,2015
General Committee meeting.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment 1 –Public Planning Report No.PL15-028;dated April 8,2015
100 John West Way
Box 1000
Aurora,Ontario
L4G 6J1
Phone:905-727-3123 ext.4742
Email:aierullo@aurora.ca
www.aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Planning &Development Services
Economic Development Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday,May 14,2015 Item 6 Page -1
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TOWN OF AURORA
PUBLIC PLANNING REPORT No.PL15-028
SUBJECT:Interim Control &Proposed Zoning By-law
Medical Marihuana Production Facilities (MMPFs)Study
File No.ZBA-2014-02
FROM:Marco Ramunno,Director of Planning &Development Services
DATE:April 8,2015
RECOMMENDATIONS
THAT Report No.PL15-028 be received;and
THAT staff be directed to draft an implementing Zoning By-law amendment
pertaining to Medical Marihuana Production Facilities (MMPFs)for review and
discussion at an upcoming General Committee Meeting.
PURPOSE OF THE REPORT
The purpose of this report is to present to Council and the public the findings of the
Town’s Medical Marihuana Production Facilities (MMPFs)study and to fulfill the Town’s
Statutory Public Planning Meeting requirements under the Planning Act.
BACKGROUND
History of Interim Control By-law No.5626-14
Council passed ICBL No.5626-14 to prohibit the use of Employment Lands for MMPFs
on May 27,2014 for a period of one year.This was in response to a request from a
licensed medical marihuana producer inquiring as to whether MMPFs were permitted on
a specific property that is zoned for industrial uses on employment lands.The response
from Town staff was that MMPFs are not listed as a permitted use and that the Town
intends to complete a study to determine the appropriate location and zoning for such a
use.
History of the Marihuana for Medical Purposes Regulations (MMPR)
In response to a court case that required reasonable access to a legal source of
marihuana when authorized by a physician,the federal government introduced the
“Marihuana Medical Access Program”and the “Marihuana Medical Access Regulations”
which allowed individuals to produce medical marihuana in their homes in 2001.
Attachment 1
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Under these original regulations,qualified individuals were licensed to grow marihuana
in their homes or purchase it from Health Canada for medical purposes.Concern was
expressed by various stakeholders including police,fire officials,and municipalities
regarding public health,safety and security.
As a result of enormous growth in the program (less than 100 authorized users at the
start of the program to almost 40,000 currently),the regulations were recently revised
and renamed “Marihuana for Medical Purposes Regulations”(MMPR).These new
regulations came into force on April 1,2014.Under these new regulations,licenses to
produce marihuana are only given to commercial producers,and include permission to
grow marihuana plants as well as permission for the processing,selling,and shipping of
marihuana.The new regulations allow health care practitioners to sign a document
enabling patients to purchase marihuana from licensed producers.Health Canada
licenses the commercial producers,who are required to comply with regulations
regarding product quality,personnel,record-keeping,safety,security,disposal,and
reporting.
COMMENTS
Best Practices
The location of MMPFs in industrial zones has been a challenge for numerous
municipalities since the new regulations came into effect.Several municipalities have
passed zoning by-law amendments to regulate MMPFs by restricting them to certain
zones and requiring appropriate setbacks to residential zones or sensitive uses.
Attachment 1 provides a summary of the approach used in a number of municipalities to
plan for MMPFs.
Within York Region
Within York Region,The Towns of Newmarket and East Gwillimbury are also studying
MMPFs.Newmarket intends on bringing a zoning by-law to Council in the future.
Furthermore,Richmond Hill has already passed a by-law to regulate MMPFs which
contain the following provisions:
MMPFs are only permitted in industrial zones;
MMPFs are not permitted on lots that abut an arterial road;
MMPFs are required to have a minimum distance separation of 70 metres (229.6
feet)from any sensitive land use (dwelling units,long term care facilities,public
schools,private schools,day nurseries,community centres,parks,places of
worship and hospitals);
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a lot containing an MMPF is not permitted to be used for any other purpose;
on-site retail is prohibited;
all activities associated with the MMPF are required to be carried out in a wholly
enclosed building;
outdoor storage is prohibited;and
loading spaces are required to be located in a wholly enclosed building.
The City of Markham is currently undergoing a comprehensive zoning by-law review
and will examine if any special provisions,such as distance separations,are necessary
as they relate to MMPFs.Currently Markham interprets MMPFs as a commercial
manufacturing facility and permits them in their industrial areas/zones.
Other Ontario Municipalities
Through this study,staff found that all municipalities which have zoning by-laws
specifically regulating MMPFs also regulate their distance to residential and other
sensitive uses.Typically municipalities use a distance separation of either 70 metres
(229.6 feet)or 150 metres (492 feet).The 70 metre distance separation is consistent
with the MOE Guidelines for Separation between Industrial and Sensitive Land Uses.
The industry representatives who were consulted through this study recommended a
distance separation of 150 metres;in order to mitigate against any potential odor
emissions.
Furthermore,staff also found that MMPFs are typically only permitted in
rural/agricultural zones and industrial zones.Other zoning provisions used to regulate
MMPFs include those listed above being used by Richmond Hill,as well as the
prohibition of retail uses,advertising type signage and minimum distance separation
between MMPFs.
Security Requirements
One of the primary concerns regarding medical marihuana production is security.The
MMPR introduced stringent security measures which were not required under the old
regulations.Under these new regulations,the perimeter of a MMPF site must be
visually monitored at all times by visual recording devices.Furthermore,the perimeter
of the site must also be secured by an intrusion detection system that operates and is
monitored at all times.If any occurrence is detected,the personnel must make a record
of the date,time of the occurrence and the measures taken in response to it;including
the date and time when they were taken.
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There are also stringent regulations with respect to access.The MMPF site must be
designed in a manner that prevents unauthorized access.Access to each area where
cannabis is present must be restricted to persons whose presence is required by their
work responsibilities.A responsible person in charge or their alternate must be
physically present while other persons are in the areas where cannabis is present.A
record must also be made of the identity of every person entering or exiting those areas.
Air Filtration
The new regulations also contain provisions with respect to air filtration,and requires
MMPFs to be equipped with a system that filters air to prevent the escape of odours;
and if present,pollen or other particles.
License requirements relevant to local municipalities
In addition to the above noted security and filtration requirements,there are other
MMPR licence requirements which are relevant to local municipalities.The applicant
must now make a declaration in writing verifying that they have provided notice to local
authorities (municipality,police and fire department)of the application and location of
where the applicant proposes to locate the MMPF.Furthermore,any production must
be indoors and not in a private dwelling;however production can occur in a greenhouse
provided the required security measures are in place.Finally,retail is not permitted as
part of any licensed operation;product is required to be shipped through secured
shipping methods only.
Proposed Implementing Zoning By-law
Although an implementing zoning by-law has not yet been drafted,some of the
provisions which staff intend to include are:
MMPFs will be only be permitted in the business park area located along the
Highway 404 corridor;
150 metre (492 foot)distance separation between MMPFs;
150 metre (492 foot)distance separation to a sensitive land use;
a lot containing an MMPF is not permitted to be used for any other purpose;
on-site retail is prohibited;
all activities are required to be carried out in a wholly enclosed building;
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outdoor storage is prohibited;and
advertising is prohibited.
The above zoning provisions are based on best practices as described in this report.
With the application of the 150 metre (492 foot)distance separation to sensitive land
uses,the only viable location for MMPFs within an employment area is the business
park located between Leslie Street and Highway 404.The exception to this is the
Industrial Parkway South and Engelhard Drive area.However,staff are recommending
the business park area located along the Highway 404 corridor for MMPFs due to its
location and because it is a greenfield development area.
LINK TO STRATEGIC PLAN
Assuring the appropriate location for MMPFs will support the Strategic Plan goal of
supporting an exceptional quality of life for all.
ALTERNATIVE(S)TO THE RECOMMENDATIONS
1.Council can direct staff to implement the regulation of MMPFs through the new
zoning by-law consolidation process.If council chooses this option,they may
wish to extend the ICBL to ensure protection against private zoning by-law
amendment applications.
2.Council can also direct staff to report back to a future public planning meeting
identifying how any unresolved issues have been addressed.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Not applicable;the MMPFs study is being conducted by Town staff.
PREVIOUS REPORTS
Report No.PL14-040 dated May 27,2014.
CONCLUSIONS
Council passed Interim Control By-law No.5626-14 to prohibit the use of Employment
Lands for MMPFs on May 27,2014.This was in response to a request from a licensed
medical marihuana producer inquiring as to whether MMPFs were permitted on a
specific property that is zoned for industrial uses.Since that time,staff have been
studying MMPFs,including best practices being used by other municipalities,so that
they can be properly regulated through the Town’s zoning by-law.
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Attachment 1 to Report No.PL15-028
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Attachment 2 to Report No.PL15-028
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