Agenda (Appointed) - Heritage Advisory Committee - 20260209Town of Aurora
Heritage Advisory Committee
Meeting Revised Agenda
Date:Monday, February 9, 2026
Time:7 p.m.
Location:Holland Room, Aurora Town Hall
Meetings are available to the public in person and via live stream on the Town’s YouTube channel.
To participate, please visit aurora.ca/participation.
Pages
1.Call to Order
Note: Added items are marked with an asterisk (*).
2.Land Acknowledgement
3.Approval of the Agenda
4.Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
5.Receipt of the Minutes
5.1 Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of December 8, 2025 1
That the Heritage Advisory Committee meeting minutes of
December 8, 2025, be received for information.
1.
6.Delegations
6.1 David Heard, Resident; Re: Heritage Fund Request 5
*6.2 Christopher Watts, The Aurora Heritage Authority; Re: Management of
Aurora's Interpretive Plaques
30
7.Matters for Consideration
7.1 Memorandum from Manager, Parks and Fleet; Re: The Protection and
Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees that Hold Natural and Cultural
Significance
31
That the memorandum regarding The Protection and
Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees that Hold Natural and
1.
Cultural Significance be received; and
That the Heritage Advisory Committee comments regarding The
Protection and Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees that
Hold Natural and Cultural Significance be received and referred
to staff for consideration and further action as appropriate.
2.
7.2 Memorandum from Manager, Policy Planning and Heritage; Re: Heritage
Permit Application HPA-2026-01 - 15375 Yonge Street
38
That the memorandum regarding Heritage Permit Application
HPA-2026-01 - 15375 Yonge Street be received; and
1.
That the Heritage Advisory Committee comments regarding
Heritage Permit Application HPA-2026-01 - 15375 Yonge Street
be received and referred to staff for consideration and further
action as appropriate.
2.
7.3 Memorandum from Manager, Policy Planning and Heritage; Re: Plaque
Wording - 10-12 Spruce Street
45
That the memorandum regarding Plaque Wording - 10-12 Spruce
Street be received; and
1.
That the Heritage Advisory Committee comments regarding
Plaque Wording - 10-12 Spruce Street be received and referred to
staff for consideration and further action as appropriate.
2.
8.Informational Items
9.New Business
10.Adjournment
Town of Aurora
Heritage Advisory Committee
Meeting Minutes
Date:
Time:
Location:
Monday, December 8, 2025
7 p.m.
Holland Room, Aurora Town Hall
Committee Members: John Green, Aurora Historical Society Representative (Vice
Chair)
Linda Duringer
Bob McRoberts, Honourary Member
Rocco Morsillo
Chris Polsinelli*
Members Absent: Councillor Wendy Gaertner (Chair)
Cynthia Bettio
Other Attendees: Councillor Ron Weese
Adam Robb, Manager, Policy Planning and Heritage
Linda Bottos, Council/Committee Coordinator
*Attended electronically
_____________________________________________________________________
1. Call to Order
The Vice Chair called the meeting to order at 7:10 p.m.
2. Land Acknowledgement
The Committee acknowledged that the meeting took place on Anishinaabe lands,
the traditional and treaty territory of the Chippewas of Georgina Island,
recognizing the many other Nations whose presence here continues to this day,
the special relationship the Chippewas have with the lands and waters of this
territory, and that Aurora has shared responsibility for the stewardship of these
lands and waters. It was noted that Aurora is part of the treaty lands of the
Page 1 of 46
Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
December 8, 2025 2
Mississaugas and Chippewas, recognized through Treaty #13 and the Williams
Treaties of 1923.
3. Approval of the Agenda
Moved by Linda Duringer
Seconded by Bob McRoberts
That the revised agenda as circulated by Legislative Services be approved.
Carried
4. Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
There were no declarations of pecuniary interest under the Municipal Conflict of
Interest Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. M.50.
5. Receipt of the Minutes
5.1 Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of October 6, 2025
Moved by Rocco Morsillo
Seconded by Linda Duringer
1. That the Heritage Advisory Committee meeting minutes of October 6,
2025, be received for information.
Carried
6. Delegations
6.1 Christopher Watts, The Aurora Heritage Authority; Re: The Town of Aurora's
Sesquicentennial Plaques
Christopher Watts presented background on the Town’s commemorative
sesquicentennial plaque program implemented in 2017 and requested
that details of the program and heritage properties that received the
Canada 150 plaque be made available to the public.
Moved by Bob McRoberts
Seconded by Rocco Morsillo
Page 2 of 46
Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
December 8, 2025 3
That the comments of the delegation be received for information.
Carried
7. Matters for Consideration
7.1 Memorandum from Manager of Policy Planning and Heritage; Re: Heritage
Grant Application HGP-2025-01 - 220 Old Yonge Street
Staff provided an overview of the memorandum and grant application for
the repair of significant heritage attributes at the subject property
designated as the “Parteger House,” also known as the “Bunker House.”
The Committee made various inquiries and staff provided clarification on
the two contractor quotes, the impact of a mid-project property ownership
change, and the annual grant funding cap balance.
The Committee expressed support for the grant application and its
categorization as “major” work eligible for funding of up to $10,000.
Moved by Bob McRoberts
Seconded by Linda Duringer
1. That the memorandum regarding Heritage Grant Application HGP-
2025-01 - 220 Old Yonge Street be received; and
2. That the Heritage Advisory Committee comments regarding Heritage
Grant Application HGP-2025-01 - 220 Old Yonge Street be received and
referred to staff for consideration and further action as appropriate.
Carried
7.2 Memorandum from Manager of Policy Planning and Heritage; Re: Heritage
Grant Application HGP-2025-02 - 57 Fleury Street
Staff provided an overview of the memorandum and grant application for
the maintenance of heritage attributes at the subject property designated
as part of the Northeast Old Aurora Heritage Conservation District.
The Committee inquired about the distinction between minor vs. moderate
works and staff provided clarification on the scale of work involved and
significance of the heritage attributes. The Committee further inquired
about the potential to allow unused portions of the annual grant funding
cap to be carried over to subsequent years, and staff confirmed this would
Page 3 of 46
Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
December 8, 2025 4
be included in a report to Council for consideration. The Committee and
staff discussed the Heritage Grant Program criteria in the context of being
more impact-based while appreciating the uniqueness of any application.
The Committee expressed support for the grant application and its
categorization as “moderate” work eligible for funding of up to $5,000.
Moved by Bob McRoberts
Seconded by Linda Duringer
1. That the memorandum regarding Heritage Grant Application HGP-
2025-02 - 57 Fleury Street be received; and
2. That the Heritage Advisory Committee comments regarding Heritage
Grant Application HGP-2025-02 - 57 Fleury Street be received and
referred to staff for consideration and further action as appropriate.
Carried
8. Informational Items
None.
9. New Business
With reference to the earlier delegation, the Committee inquired about the status
of the Town’s commemorative sesquicentennial plaques dating back to the
Canada 150 celebrations in 2017. Staff indicated they did not have information
on the plaques but would continue to investigate the matter.
10. Adjournment
Moved by Chris Polsinelli
Seconded by Bob McRoberts
That the meeting be adjourned at 7:54 p.m.
Carried
Page 4 of 46
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Delegation Request
This request and any written submissions or background information for consideration by either Council or
Committees of Council is being submitted to Legislative Services.
Council or Committee (Choose One) *
Heritage Advisory Committee
Council or Committee Meeting Date *
2026-2-9
Subject *
Heritage Fund request
Full Name of Spokesperson and Name of Group or Person(s) being Represented (if applicable) *
David Heard
Brief Summary of Issue or Purpose of Delegation *
As a curator and historian I have for many years enhanced Town events and community with my extensive
historic vinyl collection.
I am seeking support to build on this momentum including our 175th anniversary of the arrival of the train.
Thousands of hours and dollars have been invested by myself with huge rewards for community partners.
I am seeking partnership with the Town & H.A.C. via funding from the Heritage Fund.
Have you been in contact with a Town staff or Council member regarding your matter of interest? *
Yes No
Full name of the Town staff or Council member
with whom you spoke
Adam Robb / Phil Rose/ CAO etc
Date you spoke with Town staff or a Council
member
2026-1-12
I acknowledge that the Procedure By-law permits five (5) minutes for Delegations. *
Agree
I acknowledge that I understand and accept the delegate conduct expectations as outlined in Section
32(b) of the Procedure By-law 6228-19, as amended (link below) *
Agree
Click to view Procedure By-law 6228-19, as amended.
Page 5 of 46
NAVIGATING ONTARIO FOR NEAR A QUARTER OF A CENTURY; “DAVE” LOCATED A STUNNING RARE ANALOG / VINYL RECORD ARCHIVE.HISTORY UNCOVERED & RECOVERED.A POTENTIAL TOURISM GEM CULTIVATED VIA STORYTELLING, SUCH AS OUR FIRST NATIONS.D A V E ’SS V I N YLL PA R T YIS AN ENHANCEMENT & EXTENSION OF EXISTING SERVICES, EVENTS, AND PROGRAMS.WE MOTIVATE, EDUCATE, STIMULATE, INVIGORATE, AND NAVIGATE HEALTHY COMMUNITIES & INDIVIDUALS WITH OUR UNPRECEDENTED 100,000 +++ VINYL / ANALOG ARCHIVE.Page 6 of 46
OONE OF THE MOSTDIVERSEE COLLECTIONSS INN CANADA.NEWCOMERS,, MOBILITYY CHALLENGEDD && THOSEE WITHH MENTALL HEALTHH HURDLESS WILLL BENEFIT.THEE AGEDD WILLL CELEBRATEE && RECALLL USINGG OURR RESOURCEE ANDD SERVICES.YOUTHH WILLL ENGAGEE ANDD SHINE.WEE WILLL ENHANCEE QUALITYY OFF LIFEE VIAA ARTS,, HISTORY,, MUSIC, CULTURE,, EDUCATION,&& MOVEMENT.A HUB & A HUG PRESENTED TO COMMUNIT Y &FACILITIES.DAVE’SS VINYLL PARTYY ISS AA PIONEERR && HEALTHYY FUTUREE FORR THEE REGIONN && BEYOND.Page 7 of 46
MOTIVATING PEOPLE BACK INTO THEIR GROOVE IS OUR MISSION & KEEP THEM ON TRACK.DON’T LET THE TRAIN LEAVE WITH YOU STILL ON THE PLATFORM.JOIN IN THE JOURNEY OF HEALING, COPING, & RESILIENCY OF DAVE’S VINYL PARTY.T H E REE ISS N O T H I NGG L I KEE T H ISS INN Y O RKK R E G I O NF O U N D EDD BYY AA R E S I L I E NTT S U R V I V ORR A NDD S O C I ALL S E R V I CEE W O R K E R( S E N E CAA H I GHH H O N O R S)) ## G R O U PSS A NDD I N D I V I D U A LSS I M P A C T EDD ISS I M P R E S S I VEE Page 8 of 46
MISSIONN VISIONN VALUEE Mission:: Wee fosterr authenticc humann connectionn too historicc musicc andd createe lastingg experiences.Vision:Deliverr historical,, educational,, visual,, tactile,, && auditoryy programss inn today’ss distractingg overwhelmingg digitall worldd withh groundingg && mindfulness.Value:Wee reconnectt communities,, groups,&& individualss too relaxationn andd calmm usingg ourr expansivee analogg researchh museumm collection.Page 9 of 46
*PICTURED DDO O RSS O P E N2025 AURORA/ONTARIO464 GUESTS FROM ACROSS ONTARIO TAKE IN MUSIC,HISTORY,ARTS.O T H ERR P R O G R AMM D E S I G NSS I N C L U D E•INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY •EMANCIPATION CELEBRATION•BLACK HISTORY IN MUSIC •MUSEUM ARTIFACTS SUPPORT ETC ETC Community engagement Displaying the brand.Page 10 of 46
EXPANDD OPPORTUNITIESS ANDD PARTNERSHIPSS THATT CONTRIBUTEE TOO THEE CELEBRATIONN OFF CULTUREE INN THEE COMMUNITYY NURTUREE ANDD CONTRIBUTEE TOO THEE DEVELOPMENTT OFF YOUTHH .ENCOURAGEE EVERYY AGEE COHORTT TOO INTERACTT ANDD SHAREE EXPERIENCES.RECREATIONN PROGRAMS,, SERVICESS TOO MATCHH THEE EVOLVINGG NEEDSS OFF AA GROWINGG POPULATIONN CELEBRATEE …INCLUDINGG HERITAGEE MUSICC && ARTSS WORKK WITHH COMMUNITYY PARTNERSS TOO DELIVERR AA SERIESS OFF COMMUNITYY BUILDINGG EVENTSS THATT CELEBRATEE DIVERSITYY ANDD MULTICULTURALISM (TOWN OF AURORA STRATEGIC PLAN) .E V I D E N CEE // P RO OFF OFF C O N CE PTT • A U R O RAA F A R M E RSS M A R K E T(RECORD ATTENDANCE) •T O WNN OFF A U R O RAA C O M M U N I TYY G A R A GEE S A LEE •(RECORD ATTENDANCE)•A U R O RAA S E N I O RSS C E N T R E TTO WNN S Q U A REE •A U R O RAA L I B R A R Y DDE L M A N O R YYO RKK P R I D E•A U R O RAA L E G I ONN A U R O RAA B L A CKK C A U C USS A U R O RAA M U S E UMM && A R C H I V E SPage 11 of 46
A U T I SMM P A N D E M ICC I D E N T I TYY D E P R E S S I ONN C O PDD G R I EFF T I N I T USS D E M E N T IAA B R A INN I N J U R EDD A N X I E TYY C A N C ERR T H ISS ISS N OTT T HEE P R O G R AMM M A K I NGG C L A I M S.. T H ISS ISS F I R S T H A NDD S H A R I NGG OFF H OWW T HEE P O S I T I VEE D I S T R A C T I O NSS M A DEE T H EMM F E E L .PERSONASS IMPACTEDD = YOUNG & OLDER Page 12 of 46
****AWARDD WINNING***** “ M U S ICC C ANN M A KEE P E O P LEE F E ELL ATT E A SEE W H I CHH ISS W H ATT DAV IDD H ASS AC H I E VE D.. DAV IDD H ASS AA G I FTT INN M A K I NGG P E O P LEE F E ELL T H EYY A REE PA RTT OFF T HEE W H O L E .”“ C O M P LIM E NTSS F ROMM T HEE PAT RO NSS A REE A LWAYSS SOO P O S I T IVEE A B O UTT H OWW WO N D E RFULL T H EYY F E ELL W I THH H ISS M U S I C.. HEE H ASS B E C O MEE AA P RO M I NE NTT R E A S ONN T HEE M A R K ETT ISS T H R I V ING.”ARTISAN THEMED MURALS ARE POSITIVE DISTRACTIONS &RETURN MEMORIES..Page 13 of 46
HISTORICAL MUSICAL CHALLENGES (AURORA LEGION & AURORA LIBRARY) ATTRACTED VISITORS FROM TORONTO, WHITBY & BROOKLAND.THE AURORA FARMERS MARKET ATTENDANCE INCREASED UP TO 300%.A cognitive musical trivia event designed by D.V.P.Page 14 of 46
DIVERSE INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENTAL ENHANCEMENT INCREASINGG SOCIALL MEDIAA REACH&& ACCOLADESS FROMM MUSICC ICONSS && MOREJUNOO WINNERSS && ALANN CROSS.. Page 15 of 46
U P C Y C L I NGG A NDD E N V I R O N M E N T ALL C O N S C I E N CEE D R I V ESS MYY A RTT C R E A T I O N .H A NDD C R A F T EDD P I C T U REE D I S CSS K E EPP P. V . C. O UTT OFF L A N D F I L L S .T H ISS M E D IAA ISS AA F I R STT A NDD P R A I S EDD BYY T HEE A R T I S TSS T H E M S E L V E S .D I S P L A Y EDD O V ERR 900 D A YSS NOO C H A R GEE E N H A N C I NGG T O WNN S Q U A REE Page 16 of 46
AUDITORY AND VISUAL DISPLAYS UTILIZING THE COLLECTION HAS BROUGHT HERITAGE & TOURISM TO AURORA & REGION.DAV E 'SS V I N YLL PA R TYY DISTRACTS THE DISTRACTIONS OF OUR BUSY WORLD & MINDS. Copyright 2025 Dave's Vinyl Party Page 17 of 46
•D.V.P. HAS ASSISTED STUDENTS TO BE THE BEST VERSION OF THEMSELVES.•PROVIDED COACHING TO HELP WITH TRANSITIONING THROUGH DISTRACTING ENVIRONMENTS LEADING TO HUGE POST SECONDARY SUCCESS.•GAVE ACCESS TO SUPPORT THESIS & RESEARCH•UNCOVERED INCREDIBLE AURORA HISTORY & BEYOND Page 18 of 46
2026 GOALS MANY VINYL LOUNGES ONE PROGRAM MONTHLY (MINIMUM)3 HERITAGE WEEK OFFERINGS 8 LIVE PRESENTATIONS A.F.M.COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE DOORS OPEN MODULE BI-WEEKLY CURATION COURSE ON VINYL. ++++++G O ALL // O B J E C T I VEE ISS TOO B R I NGG H E A L I NGG TOO C O M M U N I T I E SBYY E X PA N D I NGG T HEE H U BSS TOO M O REE L O C AT I O N SH I L L A RYY H O U SEE N A T I O N ALL H I S T O R ICC S I TEE ( M E D I C ALL M U S E U M )L O N G - T E RMM C A REE F A C I L I T I E SPage 19 of 46
P R E S E NTT M O N T H LYY E X P E N SEE B U D G ETT ( D A VEE F U N D I N G )RENT AND STORAGE SPACE $2625 PHONE $100 INTERNET $100MILEAGE $160WEBSITE $50 INSURANCE $60SALARY / DRAW ZERO ANNUAL = $37,140 Page 20 of 46
F U T U REE R E V E N UEE S T R E A MSS PODCASTING GRANTS SPONSOR A RECORD SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN GO FUND ME SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS LIVE PRESENTATIONS RAREE VINTAGEE ARTISANN MERCHANDISEE SALESS Page 21 of 46
•D A V E ’SS V I N YLL P A R TYY E NDD G O ALL ISS TOO E S T A B L I SHH AA H UBB B E T W E ENN 5 0 , 0 0 0-- 1 0 0 , 0 000 H I S T O R ICC P H Y S I C ALL A R C H I V E S .•MORE DIVERSE AND MORE ACTIVE THAN T O R O N TOO R E F E R E N CEE ORR S C O TTT L I B R A RYY ( Y O RKK U . )*BOTH ORGANIZATIONS ADMIT POOR MAINTENANCE OF ARCHIVE LEADING TO LOSSES.Torontoo Reference Libraryy Collectionn Page 22 of 46
9A FREE CENTRALLY LOCATED HUB NEAR TRANSIT AND USERS.9LOCATED NEAR COMMUNITY PARTNERS.9FOCUSING ON RESILIENCY & HEALING, ART, HISTORY, CULTURE & EDUCATION UTILIZING THIS HIGH DEMAND AND RARE COLLECTION OF ANALOG RECORDINGS.9THIS IS A LEGACY PROJECT WITH A GOAL OF SUSTAINABILITY.DAVE’SS VINYLL PARTYY VISIONN Museumm Libraryy Healingg Spacee == Dave'ss Vinyll Partyy Page 23 of 46
N OWW I M A G I NEE T HEE I N C R E D I B LEE T O U R I SMM O P P O R T U N I TYY OFF AA F L O ORR M U R ALL OFF 1 000 2 000 3 000 H O R S ESS ?O NEE OFF AA D O Z E NSS OFF I N S T A L L A T I O NSS INN C U R A T I O N .T HEE A U R O RAA H O R SEE S H OWW P UTT A U R O RAA ONN T HEE M A P…… A G A I N.. Page 24 of 46
TAKEE THEE SHOWW ONN THEE ROADD •ST. LAWRENCE MARKET – TORONTO MURAL •NIAGARA FALLS – BUTTERFLY MURAL •WOODBINE / INNISFIL– HORSES •PRIDE ANYWHERE –RAINBOWS •NEWMARKET–CAR SHOW •KINGSTON–TRAINS •CALGARY STAMPEDE – HORSES •TIFF TORONTO –MOVIES *THEE POSSIBILITIESS AREE ENDLESS** Page 25 of 46
2028 THE CELEBRATION OF R.A.I.L.WITHH VOLUNTEERSS ANDD COMMUNITYY PARTNERSS THEE MOSTT INCREDIBLEE ARTT DISPLAYSS CELEBRATINGG THEE ARRIVALL OFF THEE TRAINN TOO AURORA.UPCYCLINGG UNWANTEDD P.V.CC .,, AA HISTORICALL ENVIRONMENTALL ARTISANN COMPETITIONN WORTHYY OFF CELEBRATION.R.A.I.L.AA celebrationn soo bigg wee needd 22 yearss too plan. Copyrightt Feb.. 20266 Davidd Heardd // Dave'ss Vinyll Partyy Page 26 of 46
THE PASSIONATE ASK?$ 30,000 FOR SPRING 2026 –SPRING 2027 OR $50,000 FOR 2 YEARS.(INSTALLMENTS) SEEKING COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP & SPONSORSTHE RETURN = COMMUNITY & TOURISM FULL RECOGNITION AT ALL VISUAL & AUDITORY PRESENTATIONS.IFF AA P ICT U REE ISS WO RTHH 10 000 WO R D S …W H ATT A REE 10 0 , 0 000 + +++ M U S I C A L LYY V I S U ALL && H I STO R I C ALL G E MSS WO R THH ?Page 27 of 46
LET’S INCLUSIVELY WORK TOGETHER TO PRESERVETHIS GEM.22 Yearr plann // Outlookk •An Advisory Board •Not For Profit Status •Legacy Contract in Place•Centralized Location Including Healthy Refreshment Area / Research Area / Listening Stations / Gift Shop Page 28 of 46
DAVE'S VINYL PART YENHANCES ENVIRONMENTS ECONOMICS SHOULD NOT PREVENT EMOTIONAL GROWTH, HEALING & EDUCATION. *All Slides Copyright 2025 Dave's Vinyl PartyPage 29 of 46
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Delegation Request
This request and any written submissions or background information for consideration by either Council or
Committees of Council is being submitted to Legislative Services.
Council or Committee (Choose One) *
Heritage Advisory Committee
Council or Committee Meeting Date *
2026-2-9
Subject *
Problems with Management of Aurora's Interpretive Plaques
Full Name of Spokesperson and Name of Group or Person(s) being Represented (if applicable) *
Christopher Watts, The Aurora Heritage Authority
Brief Summary of Issue or Purpose of Delegation *
To review a selection of 14 interpretive plaques with the committee and discus the problems inherent in the
current process that staff has been following with delegated authority.
Have you been in contact with a Town staff or Council member regarding your matter of interest? *
Yes No
Full name of the Town staff or Council member
with whom you spoke
Patricia Rossi
Date you spoke with Town staff or a Council
member
2026-1-28
I acknowledge that the Procedure By-law permits five (5) minutes for Delegations. *
Agree
I acknowledge that I understand and accept the delegate conduct expectations as outlined in Section
32(b) of the Procedure By-law 6228-19, as amended (link below) *
Agree
Click to view Procedure By-law 6228-19, as amended.
Page 30 of 46
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Memorandum
Operational Services
Re: The Protection and Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees that Hold
Natural and Cultural Significance
To: Heritage Advisory Committee
From: Matthew Volpintesta, Manager of Parks and Fleet
Date: February 9, 2026
Recommendation
1. That the memorandum regarding The Protection and Commemoration of Aurora’s
Oldest Trees that Hold Natural and Cultural Significance be received; and
2. That the Heritage Advisory Committee comments regarding The Protection and
Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees that Hold Natural and Cultural Significance
be received and referred to staff for consideration and further action as appropriate.
Background
The following motion was carried by Council on September 23, 2025:
Whereas Aurora is home to a handful of trees believed to be senescent or
centenarian in nature, re presenting important natural, cultural and historical
significance; and
Whereas these trees serve as a living testament and hold future cultivar legacies to
Aurora’s ecological heritage and is valued by residents and visitors alike; and
Whereas the preservation of significant natural features aligns with the Town’s
ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, public education, and the
protection of its natural assets;
1. Now Therefore Be It Hereby Resolved That staff be directed to identify these
trees, assess the health, species, and estimated age of these trees in
collaboration with certified arborists and local environmental groups; and
Page 31 of 46
The Protection and Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees that Hold Natural and
Cultural Significance
February 9, 2026 Page 2 of 5
2. Be It Further Resolved That staff report back with recommendations on
measures to ensure the long-term protection and maintenance of these trees,
including hazard risk assessments, long-term health plans with yearly
evaluations and other necessary practices to extend longevity; and
3. Be It Further Resolved That the report should also include commemorative
recognition element s such as an interactive plaque at the site highlighting its
ecological, cultural, and natural significance to the community; a neighbourhood
ribbon cutting event to foster community pride; and collaborative tours or map-
based integration with the arboretum; and
4. Be It Further Resolved That staff consult with the Town’s Museum and Archives,
Heritage and Environmental Advisory Committees, if applicable, for input on the
design and wording of the commemorative plaque; and
5. Be It Further Resolved That staff develop an afterlife life plan should the tree
perish such as architectural art; repurposing of wood; and cultivating seeds and
cuttings to expand its genus strain; and
6. Be It Further Resolved That any costs associated with the plaque, assessment,
and preservation measures be considered as part of the next applicable
operating or capital budget or funded through available grants or sponsorship
opportunities.
In response to the above referenced motion, staff have conducted a best practice
review and prepared a working draft of an End-of-Life Tree Management Guide (the
draft Guide) attached as an appendix. Through this report, staff provide details of
considerations made in working toward a go-forward approach for strategizing efforts
to protect, celebrate and extend the life of Aurora’s heritage trees.
The draft Guide provides a structured framework to manage heritage and mature trees
approaching the end of their lifecycle. The draft Guide was formulated through a review
of tree policies from municipalities across Canada, including provincial and municipal
legislation, best practices from urban forestry organizations and innovative programs
such as TreeCycle Canada. Some examples on municipalities reviewed include
Middlesex Centre (Ontario), Burnaby (British Columbia), LaSalle (Ontario), and
Whitehorse (Yukon Territories), which embed end-of-life considerations within broader
tree management policies.
Page 32 of 46
The Protection and Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees that Hold Natural and
Cultural Significance
February 9, 2026 Page 3 of 5
Furthermore, building on policies from Ontario’s Forestry Act, Ontario Heritage Act, and
Municipal Act combined with best practices from urban forestry organizations such as
Tree Canada, who developed an Urban Forestry Guide that emphasize lifecycle
management, risk assessment and sustainable disposal, key components reveal
themselves as core functions of a successful management guide.
Several key components around assessment, preservation, and commemoration form a
comprehensive End-of-Life Guide.
The following details the key components proposed within the draft Guide:
Assessment and Decision Framework, and Registry of Trees
The first step is to establish criterion including what characterizes a tree as having
cultural or natural heritage significance, being; age of tree; species; geographical
location; or other historical occurrences. Once a criterion is set, the tree should be
thoroughly documented, including photographs, measurement, and record of historical
significance for archives.
As part of this assessment, risk assessment should confirm structural decline and
assess health under existing tree inventory categorization. There is also a public
engagement component, which would seek input, including notifying public community
and stakeholders; consider commemorative options.
Tree Protection or Preservation Strategies
Dependent on risk assessment, this can involve species and lineage preservation
strategies (seed bank, nursery reproduction). Further, additional strategies include
heavy pruning focusing on structural integrity, vertical mulching and deep root
fertilization and watering regime.
Disposal and Repurposing
Recycling and re-use are excellent options should failure/removal occur. This includes
urban lumber programs, and partnerships with local sawmills or artisans to turn logs
into park furniture, tables, public art installations.
A cited example is TreeCycle Canada who partner with municipalities to urban wood
(biomass energy) into clean energy or wood products.
Page 33 of 46
The Protection and Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees that Hold Natural and
Cultural Significance
February 9, 2026 Page 4 of 5
Commemorative Practices
Commemorative practices may involve a myriad of options which include memorial
plaques in place of heritage displays, archival and repurposed wood through options
detailed above such as public art.
Replacement and Ecological Continuity
Plant native or climate-resilient species near the original site or genetic duplicates
through preservation methods detailed above such as nursery reproduction This is also
a potential consideration as a commemorative practice. It is also recommended to
exceed tree replacement policies and By-law (example: multiple young trees for one
large heritage tree).
Policy and Program integration
This focuses on including end-of-life options in Tree Protection By-Laws and Urban
Forestry Master Plans. Further, there are options to integrate practices into other
programs and municipal strategic goals, such as canopy cover targets.
Communication and Education
Communication and Education play a pivotal role in the process from the outset through
the course of the Management Guide. At the outset, engagement and education help
formulate a list and criterion for designation as having significant. Through the
Management Plan for a particular tree, engagement and communication allow for
promotion of the tree, in celebrating any commemorative practice or enlightening public
on the process to protect or repurpose a tree.
Funding
Funding is a key component to this work and a consideration when applying this Guide
to Town trees. Considerations around archiving, and tree protection/preservation are
likely the most significant when accounting for budget needs, as would repurposing.
Communication and education also may impact a need for funding, should materials be
produced. There is a possibility of revenue generation which may contribute to funding
the end-of-life program, through sale of repurposed materials.
Page 34 of 46
The Protection and Commemoration of Aurora’s Oldest Trees that Hold Natural and
Cultural Significance
February 9, 2026 Page 5 of 5
Next Steps
Staff will consolidate feedback from the presentation of this report and the draft Guide
to the Town’s Advisory Committees, including the Environmental Advisory Committee
(EAC), Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee (PRAC) and Heritage Advisory
Committee (HAC) early in 2026. Once received, staff will report to Council with a go-
forward approach and complete Management Guide, including assessment and listing
criteria, and funding strategy to begin this process.
It should be noted, once a final guide is presented, staff will incorporate any endorsed
practices or procedures into the Town’s associated Tree By-laws which are planned to
be updated in 2027, such as the Tree Protection By-law.
Attached for comment is an initial draft of the End-of-Life Tree Management Guide for
any initial comment or consideration.
Attachments
Attachment 1: Draft End-of-Life Tree Management Guide (v.1)
Page 35 of 46
Town of Aurora – Parks Division January 7, 2025
Town of Aurora End-of-Life Tree Management Guide – DRAFT v1
1.a) Registry of Heritage Trees
•List: Establish criterion and list of municipal owned heritage tree registry in
Aurora
•Documentation: Photograph, measure, and record historical significance for
archives.
b)Assessment and Decision Framework
•Risk Assessment: Confirm structural decline, assess health under existing tree
inventory categorization.
•Public Engagement: Notify community and stakeholders; consider
commemorative options.
2. Tree protection or preservation strategies (dependant on Risk Assessment)
•Species and lineage preservation strategies (seed bank, nursery reproduction)
•Heavy pruning focusing on structural integrity
•Vertical mulching/deep root fertilizing
•Watering regime
3. Disposal and Repurposing Options
Recycling and Reuse
•Urban Lumber Programs: Partner with local sawmills or artisans to turn logs into:
o Benches, picnic tables, or park furniture.
o Sculptures or art installations for public spaces.
Example: TreeCycle Canada: Converts urban wood into clean energy or wood
products.
•Community Projects: Donate wood to schools or makerspaces for educational
use
Attachment 1 Page 36 of 46
Town of Aurora – Parks Division January 7, 2025
Biomass and Energy:
• Chipping for mulch or compost.
• Biomass energy generation through municipal or private facilities.
4. Commemorative Practices
• Plaques and Memorials:
o Install plaques at the original site or on replacement trees.
o Include QR codes linking to digital archives or tree history.
• Heritage Displays:
o Use sections of trunk for interpretive signage in parks or museums.
• Public Art:
o Commission local artists to create sculptures from salvaged wood.
5. Replacement and Ecological Continuity
• Plant native or climate-resilient species near the original site.
• Follow or exceed tree replacement policies and Bylaw (e.g., multiple young trees
for one large heritage tree).
6. Policy and Program Integration
• Integrate End-of-Life Management guide into associated Town programs and
policies/
7. Communication and Education
• Host farewell ceremonies or community planting events.
• Share stories via municipal websites and social media to highlight sustainability
and heritage value
8. Funding Models
• Revenue: potential with sale of commemorative items, or possible sale of
nursery pots of direct lineage
Page 37 of 46
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Memorandum
Planning and Development Services
Re: Heritage Permit Application HPA-2026-01 – 15375 Yonge Street
To: Heritage Advisory Committee
From: Adam Robb, Manager, Policy Planning and Heritage
Date: February 9, 2026
Recommendation
1. That the memorandum regarding Heritage Permit Application HPA-2026-01 – 15375
Yonge Street be received; and
2. That the Heritage Advisory Committee comments regarding Heritage Permit
Application HPA-2026-01 – 15375 Yonge Street be received and referred to staff for
consideration and further action as appropriate.
Background
15375 Yonge Street is a Part V designated property located within the Town’s Northeast
Old Aurora Heritage Conservation District. The house was constructed circa 1885 and is
considered an L-shaped vernacular building. The property is historically associated with
William Graham, a military veteran who also owned land in south Aurora that eventually
became donated to establish the Cenotaph and War Memorial.
Analysis
The owner is proposing to open a single-physician healthcare office at the property. The
property is recognized as part of the Aurora Promenade due to its location fronting
Yonge Street, and a mix of uses are encouraged. The majority of the proposed work to
the property would involve interior alterations as part of the change of use and not
necessitate a heritage permit. However, minor alterations are also proposed to the
exterior, which include:
New roofing and shingle replacement, including any necessary plywood repairs
where sagging is present
Page 38 of 46
Heritage Permit Application HPA-2026-01 – 15375 Yonge Street
February 9, 2026 Page 2 of 2
New signage for the healthcare office
Repainting of the existing painted façade to a classical cream colour (Benjamin
Moore OC-45)
Repair/replacement of old and rotting wood at the rear addition to uniformly be
board and batten style
Alterations to rear non-heritage windows
The application is being presented to the Heritage Advisory Committee for review and
input prior to proceeding to delegated approval for the heritage works. The owner will
still be required to submit for a required building permit and change of use permit with
detailed review of building technical matters to also occur.
Attachments
Attachment 1 - Site Plan and Drawings
Page 39 of 46
1A1.0 SCALE: 1:100SITE PLANGENERAL NOTES:JAMES DOUGLAS ARCHITECT6335 17th SideroadSchomberg, ONL0G 1T0647-406-7160jamie.douglas.arch@gmail.comSITE PLAN &SITE STATISTICSA1.015375 YONGE STREETAURORA, ONAttachment 1Page 40 of 46
MECHANICALB04CRAWLSPACE (ASSUMED - INACCESSIBLE)B01STORAGEB02CRAWLSPACEB03ENTRY / WAITING ROOM105RECEPTION106TREATMENT ROOM 2109EXAMINATION ROOM 2102ENTRY FOYER101REFRESHMENTS104EQUIP RM107TREATMENT ROOM 1108EXAMINATION ROOM 1103UNIV WC107GENERAL NOTES:15375 YONGE STREETAURORA, ONTARIOJAMES DOUGLAS ARCHITECT6335 17th SideroadSchomberg, ONL0G 1T0647-406-7160jamie.douglas.arch@gmail.comKEY PLANPROPOSED BASEMENT PLANAND GROUND FLOOR PLANA 2.01A2.0 1/4" = 1'-0"PROPOSED BASEMENT PLAN - EXISTING TO REMAIN2A2.0 1/4" = 1'-0"PROPOSED GROUND FLOOR PLANPage 41 of 46
OFFICE204OFFICE201WASHROOM202STAFF ROOM203GENERAL NOTES:15375 YONGE STREETAURORA, ONTARIOJAMES DOUGLAS ARCHITECT6335 17th SideroadSchomberg, ONL0G 1T0647-406-7160jamie.douglas.arch@gmail.comKEY PLANPROPOSED SECOND FLOOR PLAN& CHANGE OF USE NOTESA 2.11A2.1 1/4" = 1'-0"PROPOSED SECOND FLOOR PLAN2A2.1 N.T.S.CHANGE OF USE NOTES3A2.1 N.T.S.CONSTRUCTION ASSEMBLIESPage 42 of 46
15375 YONGE STREETSIGNAGEGENERAL NOTES:15375 YONGE STREETAURORA, ONTARIOJAMES DOUGLAS ARCHITECT6335 17th SideroadSchomberg, ONL0G 1T0647-406-7160jamie.douglas.arch@gmail.comKEY PLANELEVATIONSA 3.11A3.1 1/4" = 1'-0"WEST ELEVATION - EXISTING TO REMAIN2A3.1 1/4" = 1'-0"SOUTH ELEVATION - EXISTING TO REMAIN - NEW B&B SIDING EAST END3A3.1 1/2" = 1'-0"PROPOSED NEW SITE SIGNPage 43 of 46
ENTRY / WAITING ROOM105RECEPTION106UNIV WC107GENERAL NOTES:15375 YONGE STREETAURORA, ONTARIOJAMES DOUGLAS ARCHITECT6335 17th SideroadSchomberg, ONL0G 1T0647-406-7160jamie.douglas.arch@gmail.comKEY PLANELEVATIONSA 3.21A3.2 1/4" = 1'-0"($67 ELEVATION - NEW B&B SIDING / WINDOW RELOCATION2A3.2 1/4" = 1'-0"NORTH ELEVATION - EXISTING TO REMAIN - NEW B&B SIDING TO EAST END3A3.2 1/4" = 1'-0"ENTRY SCHEMATIC SECTIONPage 44 of 46
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Memorandum
Planning and Development Services
Re: Plaque Wording – 10-12 Spruce Street
To: Heritage Advisory Committee
From: Adam Robb, Manager, Policy Planning and Heritage
Date: February 9, 2026
Recommendation
1. That the memorandum regarding Plaque Wording – 10-12 Spruce Street be received;
and
2. That the Heritage Advisory Committee comments regarding Plaque Wording –
10-12 Spruce Street be received and referred to staff for consideration and further
action as appropriate.
Background
Heritage Permit HPA-2025-03 for 10-12 Spruce Street was approved by Council in 2025
with a condition that a commemorative heritage plaque be installed by the owner. The
draft wording of the plaque is being presented to the Heritage Advisory Committee for
review.
Analysis
The proposed plaque wording for 10-12 Spruce Street is as follows:
On this site once stood the home of the Watson family, who moved to the
property circa 1910. Wilmot Watson was the founder and dairyman of Elm
Leaf Dairy and Watson’s Dairy, which also operated on this site. The dairy
business history on this site would continue as the dairy buildings were leased
to Cousins Dairy (1928), and then acquired by Markle’s Dairy (1930), before
eventually becoming owned by the Aurora Dairy (1934). The Aurora Dairy was
operated by Charles E. Sparks, his wife Annie, and their son Charles Lyle
Sparks. In 1938, the Sparks also purchased a property at the northeast corner
Page 45 of 46
Plaque Wording – 10-12 Spruce Street
February 9, 2026 Page 2 of 2
of Yonge and Centre Streets, building the new Aurora Dairy commercial
building there. Mr. Charles E. Sparks further served as the Reeve of the Town
of Aurora from 1941 to 1947.
The plaque wording remains draft and can be reviewed and refined by the Heritage
Advisory Committee as required.
The final grading and landscaping of the property is still to occur, upon which the plaque
would be installed thereafter. The plaque is anticipated to be cast iron and can
potentially be mounted on a landscape stone visible from the sidewalk. Staff are looking
to finalize the plaque wording to prepare for installation shortly after final grading and
landscaping are completed on the property.
Attachments
None
Page 46 of 46