Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Agenda (Appointed) - Heritage Advisory Committee - 20260413
Town of Aurora Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Revised Agenda Date:Monday, April 13, 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 February 9, 2026 1 That the Heritage Advisory Committee meeting minutes of February 9, 2026, be received for information. 1. 6.Delegations *6.1 Christopher Watts, The Aurora Heritage Authority; Re: Interpretive Plaques 7 *6.2 David Heard, Resident; Re: Heritage Events Report (Heritage Week)8 7.Matters for Consideration 7.1 Memorandum from Manager, Policy Planning and Heritage; Re: Heritage Permit Application HPA-2026-02 - Victoria Hall (27 Mosley Street) 14 (Presentation to be provided by Consultants: Ryan Giuricich, Project Principal, CS&P Architects; Joey Giaimo, Principal, Giaimo; and Sara Shemirani, Associate, Giaimo) That the memorandum regarding Heritage Permit Application HPA-2026-02 - Victoria Hall (27 Mosley Street) be received; and 1. That the Heritage Advisory Committee comments regarding Heritage Permit Application HPA-2026-02 - Victoria Hall (27 Mosley Street) 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 - Revised Plans for 15375 Yonge Street 81 That the memorandum regarding Heritage Permit Application HPA-2026-01 - Revised Plans for 15375 Yonge Street be received; and 1. That the Heritage Advisory Committee comments regarding Heritage Permit Application HPA-2026-01 - Revised Plans for 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: Summary of the 2026 Heritage Week Event 91 That the memorandum regarding Summary of the 2026 Heritage Week Event be received; and 1. That the Heritage Advisory Committee comments regarding Summary of the 2026 Heritage Week Event 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, February 9, 2026 7 p.m. Holland Room, Aurora Town Hall Committee Members: Councillor Wendy Gaertner (Chair) Cynthia Bettio Linda Duringer John Green (Vice Chair), Aurora Historical Society Representative Bob McRoberts, Honourary Member Rocco Morsillo Chris Polsinelli* (departed 9:02 p.m.) Other Attendees: Councillor Ron Weese Matthew Volpintesta, Manager, Parks and Fleet* Adam Robb, Manager, Policy Planning and Heritage Linda Bottos, Council/Committee Coordinator *Attended electronically _____________________________________________________________________ 1. Call to Order The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. The Committee consented to extend the hour to 9:30 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 Page 1 of 94 Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes February 9, 2026 2 lands and waters. It was noted that Aurora is part of the treaty lands of the Mississaugas and Chippewas, recognized through Treaty #13 and the Williams Treaties of 1923. 3. Approval of the Agenda Moved by John Green Seconded by Cynthia Bettio 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 December 8, 2025 Moved by Cynthia Bettio Seconded by Rocco Morsillo 1. That the Heritage Advisory Committee meeting minutes of December 8, 2025, be received for information. Carried 6. Delegations 6.1 David Heard, Resident; Re: Heritage Fund Request David Heard presented an overview of the Dave’s Vinyl Party project, an expansive, historical vinyl record archive, including its positive impact on the community, groups, and individuals; tourism potential; support of the Town’s Strategic Plan related to the celebration of culture, heritage music and arts, diversity, and multiculturalism; 2026 goals; and funding request. Page 2 of 94 Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes February 9, 2026 3 Moved by Rocco Morsillo Seconded by John Green That the comments of the delegation be received for information. Carried 6.2 Christopher Watts, The Aurora Heritage Authority; Re: Management of Aurora's Interpretive Plaques Christopher Watts referred to item 7.3, Plaque Wording – 10-12 Spruce Street, and expressed concerns regarding the proposed plaque wording and mounting location, and the current guidelines for interpretive plaques. Moved by Bob McRoberts Seconded by John Green That the comments of the delegation be received for information. Carried 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 Staff provided an overview of the memorandum and draft End-of-Life Tree Management Guide. The Committee and staff discussed various aspects including the program’s initial focus on town-owned trees; consideration of privately- owned trees; the protection of trees on designated heritage properties and criteria for previously designated heritage trees; growing trees from seeds; repurposing of heritage tree wood; the role of historical research, staff, and community resources to help identify significant trees; penalties for illegal tree removal; and plans for review and enhancement of the Town’s private tree protection by-law. It was suggested that most of the trees in the pet cemetery should be protected, and that new trees not be planted too close to the road. The Committee further highlighted the need for standards and metrics, and clarity on the significance of the heritage tree designation and associated responsibilities. Staff reviewed the next steps. Page 3 of 94 Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes February 9, 2026 4 The Committee expressed general support for the framework of the draft Guide and suggested an alternative name for the Guide as opposed to “End-of-Life”. Moved by Cynthia Bettio Seconded by Linda Duringer 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. Carried 7.2 Memorandum from Manager, Policy Planning and Heritage; Re: Heritage Permit Application HPA-2026-01 - 15375 Yonge Street Staff provided an overview of the memorandum and proposed alterations to facilitate the opening of a single-physician healthcare office on the designated property at 15375 Yonge Street, located within the Northeast Old Aurora Heritage Conservation District. The Committee and staff discussed various aspects including exterior replacement materials; signage for the healthcare office; and accessibility. The Committee expressed general concern regarding the protection of heritage trees on the property, and suggested that the colour for repainting the existing painted façade should be more of a cream tone. The Committee was generally supportive of the application. Moved by Cynthia Bettio Seconded by Rocco Morsillo 1. That the memorandum regarding Heritage Permit Application HPA- 2026-01 - 15375 Yonge Street be received; and Page 4 of 94 Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes February 9, 2026 5 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. Carried 7.3 Memorandum from Manager, Policy Planning and Heritage; Re: Plaque Wording - 10-12 Spruce Street Staff provided an overview of the memorandum and proposed wording for a commemorative heritage plaque to be installed on the property at 10-12 Spruce Street, located within the Northeast Old Aurora Heritage Conservation District. The Committee and staff discussed the location options and proposed plaque wording. The Committee expressed support for the draft wording with the exception of a minor grammatical revision, and further expressed support for the plaque to be either pole- or rock-mounted. Moved by Chris Polsinelli Seconded by Rocco Morsillo 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. Carried 8. Informational Items None. 9. New Business The Committee referred to the Victoria Hall refurbishment item on the February 10, 2026 Committee of the Whole agenda and inquired about why the matter had not been first considered by the Heritage Advisory Committee. Staff provided a response, noting that the Committee would become involved through any future Page 5 of 94 Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes February 9, 2026 6 heritage permit process. The Committee expressed its concerns and preference for a potential use of Victoria Hall. The Committee and staff discussed the ongoing efforts to improve building façades and signage of properties in the downtown core noting that, while some owners have been compliant with the rules, others have not. There was further discussion on sign permit issues and efforts to enforce the Sign By-law. Staff noted that Building enforcement is continuing to review signs in the downtown and work with owners on compliance. Staff agreed to provide updates at a future Committee meeting as they are available. The Committee provided a status update on the planning and preparations completed for the Heritage Week celebrations starting on February 16, 2026. Staff expressed appreciation for the efforts of the working group. The Committee expressed support for the earlier delegation and efforts of David Heard, and encouraged their further presentation to Council. Staff advised that Parks Canada will be shutting down its Canadian Register of Historic Places website, on the basis that Parks Canada has indicated the searchable database had become technologically outdated. It was noted that staff had saved all of the Aurora property portfolio information and that various groups have made an effort to protect and share the information further. 10. Adjournment Moved by Linda Duringer Seconded by Cynthia Bettio That the meeting be adjourned at 9:30 p.m. Carried Page 6 of 94 100 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 * 2026-4-13 Subject * Interpretive Plaques Full Name of Spokesperson and Name of Group or Person(s) being Represented (if applicable) * The Aurora Heritage Authority Brief Summary of Issue or Purpose of Delegation * To outline several concerns and operational deficiencies in the town's policy surrounding interpretive plaques and point out several that are missing and the lack of documentation and public access to details. 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 HAC - February Date you spoke with Town staff or a Council member 2026-2-9 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 7 of 94 100 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 * 2026-4-13 Subject * Heritage Events Report (Heritage Week) 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 * Heritage event planning and teamwork. R.A.I.L. (175 Aurora ) 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 Date you spoke with Town staff or a Council member 2026-4-2 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 8 of 94 1853 -2028 Page 9 of 94 MUSIC FESTIVAL RAIL THEMEDCOSTUME FESTIVAL RAIL THEMED RAIL EXHIBITS & MERCHANDISE ART CONTEST RAIL THEMED 100 /175 / 300 SQUARE FOOT RAIL THEMED MURALSRAIL EXCURSIONS EXPO RAIL THEMED Page 10 of 94 TOWN OF AURORAAURORA FARMERS MARKET AURORA HISTORICAL SOCIETY TOWN SQUARE AURORA LIBRARY METROLINX MULTIPLE REGIONAL ORGANIZATIONSPage 11 of 94 AURORA HERITAGE AND TOURISM 7 MEMBER ADVISORY BOARD & PLANNING COMMITTEE INTRAPENEUR AURORA HISTORICAL SOCIETY TEAM GRANT WRITING (Focusing on $50,000 & $250,000 grants researched.)Page 12 of 94 Page 13 of 94 100 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-2026-02 – Victoria Hall (27 Mosley Street) To: Heritage Advisory Committee From: Adam Robb, Manager of Policy Planning and Heritage Date: April 13, 2026 Recommendation 1. That the memorandum regarding Heritage Permit Application HPA-2026-02 – Victoria Hall (27 Mosley Street) be received; and 2. That the Heritage Advisory Committee comments regarding Heritage Permit Application HPA-2026-02 – Victoria Hall (27 Mosley Street) be received and referred to staff for consideration and further action as appropriate. Background Victoria Hall is an individually designated heritage property located within the downtown Aurora Promenade area Victoria Hall is a Gothic Revival building individually designated under the Ontario Heritage Act through By-law 5081-08.R. The building is notable for its significant historical, design, and contextual value as a community asset within the downtown Promenade. Notable heritage features include the front gable roof, gothic windows, buttresses and brick exterior. The building was originally constructed in 1883 to house the local Disciples of Christ congregation. By 1922, the property was sold to the Trustees of the Aurora Public School, where it became a health hall. In 1945, the building transitioned to a library, which remained open until approximately 1963, while the property was transferred to the Town in 1951. Since then, the building has been used for a variety of purposes and programming but has remained vacant since the construction of Town Square. Page 14 of 94 HPA-2026-02 - Victoria Hall (27 Mosley Street) April 13, 2026 Page 2 of 3 Council has approved a capital project to refurbish the building Victoria Hall is approximately 1,650 square feet in usable space, and due to the location of the property as part of the downtown Aurora Promenade, adaptive re-use of the property is encouraged. In 2025, Council authorized Community Services (Facilities) staff to issue a Request for Expression of Interest (REOI) for Leased Space Operators at Victoria Hall. Further, through capital project AM0259, Council tasked Community Services (Facilities) with refurbishing and completing repairs to Victoria Hall. Community Services has retained CS&P Architects as the design consultant for the project. Analysis Heritage Permit review and approval is required prior to construction commencing Heritage Permit review and approval is required for the proposed alterations to Victoria Hall. The capital project and proposed alterations to Victoria Hall include: - Removal of the non-heritage rear addition at southern end (built circa the 1970’s) - Addition of a new rear entrance (southern end) - Addition of accessible ramp and stairs (southern end) - Interior layout alterations including relocation of washroom facilities - Opening of a Cathedral ceiling (removal of non-heritage drop ceiling) - Restoration of certain heritage elements including bricks, and replacement/enhancement of features such as the doorway and guardrails - Improvements to other non-heritage infrastructure/technical components, such as electrical systems, mechanical, flooring/building structure etc. These items are generally outside the scope of heritage permit review, but the Committee can also provide comments on these matters as appropriate. The intent of the capital project is to refurbish Victoria Hall and enable the adaptive re- use of the site. Conceptual elevations, site plan drawings and renderings are attached to this memorandum, and the consultants for the capital project have also provided a Heritage Impact Assessment for further review by the Heritage Advisory Committee. The Heritage Impact Assessment ultimately concludes that the proposal conserves the cultural heritage value of the site and represents a minimal and acceptable impact. Page 15 of 94 HPA-2026-02 - Victoria Hall (27 Mosley Street) April 13, 2026 Page 3 of 3 Comments provided by the Heritage Advisory Committee will be noted in a future report to Council for ultimate approval of the Heritage Permit Application. Attachments 1. Attachment #1 – Location Map 2. Attachment #2 – Conceptual Site Plan, Elevations and Renderings 3. Attachment #3 – Heritage Impact Assessment Page 16 of 94 ••$WWDFKPHQWLRFDWLRQ0DS0RVOH\6WUHHW9LFWRULD+DOOSUBJECT LANDS02550MetresPage 17 of 94 VICTORIA HALL RESTORATION AND RENOVATION Town of Aurora Attachment 2 Page 18 of 94 TOWN OF AURORA | VICTORIA HALL RESTORATION AND RENOVATION M O S L E Y S T R E E TV I C T O R I A S T R E E T+0.0 +0.500 CU-2 CU-1 REDUCED TOWN SQUARE PARKING (2 SPACES REMOVED) EXISTING HERITAGE BUILDING NEW ADDITION 1:15 RAMP MAIN ENTRANCE PLANTING BED VICTORIA HALL - SITE PLAN 25 Mosley St, Aurora, ON L4G 1R2 1:200 Page 19 of 94 TOWN OF AURORA | VICTORIA HALL RESTORATION AND RENOVATION MECH/ ELEC M O S L E Y S T R E E TV I C T O R I A S T R E E T+0.0 +0.500 CU-2 CU-1 BF WRWR VICTORIA HALL - GROUND FLOOR PLAN 25 Mosley St, Aurora, ON L4G 1R2 1:150 Page 20 of 94 TOWN OF AURORA | VICTORIA HALL RESTORATION AND RENOVATION SOUTH elevation NORTH elevation FLOOR LEVEL FLOOR LEVEL ROOF ROOF VICTORIA HALL - NORTH AND SOUTH ELEVATIONS 25 Mosley St, Aurora, ON L4G 1R2 1:150 Page 21 of 94 TOWN OF AURORA | VICTORIA HALL RESTORATION AND RENOVATION WEST elevation EAST elevation FLOOR LEVEL FLOOR LEVEL ROOF ROOF VICTORIA HALL - EAST AND WEST ELEVATIONS 25 Mosley St, Aurora, ON L4G 1R2 1:150 Page 22 of 94 TOWN OF AURORA | VICTORIA HALL RESTORATION AND RENOVATION VICTORIA HALL - 3D VIEWS 25 Mosley Street, Aurora, ON L4G 1R2 Page 23 of 94 HERITAGE IMPACT ASSESSMENT Victoria Hall 27 Mosley Street Aurora, ON L4G 1R2 Date: 2 April 2026 Prepared for: Town of Aurora 229 Industrial Pkwy. N. Aurora, ON L4G 4C4 Attachment 3 Page 24 of 94 Executive Summary 1 1 - Introduction 2 1.1 Report Scope 2 1.2 Methodology 2 1.3 Site & Context 2 1.4 Heritage Status 10 1.5 Contacts 10 2 - Site History & Design 11 3 - Policy Framework 14 3.1 York Region Official Plan 15 3.2 Town of Aurora Official Plan 15 3.3 Town of Aurora Heritage Impact Assessments and Conservation Plans 16 4 - Cultural Heritage Value 17 4.1 Statement of Cultural Heritage Value or Interest 17 4.2 Description of Heritage Attributes 18 5 - Building Condition Assessment 19 5.1 Limitations & Extent 19 5.2 Methodology 19 5.3 Building Assessment 20 6 - Proposed Work 26 7 - Assessment of Impact 28 8 - Conservation and Mitigation Strategies 31 8.1 Conservation Approach 31 8.2 Mitigation Strategies 31 9 - Conclusion 33 10 - Sources 34 TABLE OF CONTENTS Appendices 35 A - Project Personnel 35 B - Heritage Designation By-Law 36 Page 25 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 1 Giaimo 2 April 2026 Introduction Giaimo has been retained by the Town of Aurora (the “Owner”) to provide a Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) for Victoria Hall at 27 Mosley Street (the “Site”) in the Town of Aurora, Ontario. The Site is located on the south side of Mosley Street in Aurora’s downtown area. This HIA considers the Site’s rehabilitation and the potential impact of the proposed design on the designated cultural heritage resource. Site History & Design Victoria Hall was constructed in 1883 for the local Disciples of Christ congregation. It is a modest Gothic Revival building built of local yellow brick and distinguished by its steep front gable roof, pointed-arch openings, and projecting buttresses. After the property was sold in 1922, the building served a number of civic and community functions. It remains an important historic resource within downtown Aurora and contributes to a long-standing cluster of public and institutional uses in the surrounding area. Cultural Heritage Value Victoria Hall is designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act by Town of Aurora By-law 5081-08.R, passed on November 10, 2008. The property was designated for its historical, associative, architectural, and contextual value. The designation by-law identifies Victoria Hall as a “good and rare example of a smaller church building built in the Gothic Revival Style” and recognizes its long-standing role in Aurora’s community life. Assessment of Existing Condition The building is overall in good to fair condition and includes a small utilitarian brick addition at the rear elevation. The masonry appears to be generally in good to fair condition, with select areas of cracking, parging at the EXECUTIVE SUMMARY buttresses, mortar loss, and incompatible repairs. Painted wood elements and windowsills show weathering, peeling paint, and localized deterioration. The principal entrance door has been altered, and the historic transom seems to be concealed. Proposed Development The proposed work involves rehabilitation of Victoria Hall, including a one-storey glass addition and accessibility upgrades at the rear elevation. The proposed work is intended to support the continued viable use of the heritage building while conserving its identified heritage attributes. Assessment of Impact The proposed development will have a minimal and acceptable impact on the heritage resource. Since the project is primarily rehabilitative in nature and directed toward the continued use and repair of the building, it will conserve the building and extend the life of the designated resource. Potential impacts relate mainly to selective exterior interventions and the future integration of mechanical elements, but these can be mitigated through detailed design, selection of compatible materials, and careful placement that respects the heritage attributes of the historic place. Conservation and Mitigation The conservation strategy for this project is rehabilitation. Documentation of the existing building, including measured drawings and photographic recording, should form part of the conservation approach. A separate Conservation Plan document is not recommended. Instead, the conservation work could be implemented through a Heritage Permit application including drawings and trade specifications. Exterior restoration work should be carried out by a qualified heritage contractor. Page 26 of 94 2 Introduction 1 - INTRODUCTION 1.1 REPORT SCOPE This Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) has been prepared by Giaimo + Associates Architects Inc. (“Giaimo”), who has been retained by the Town of Aurora, to assess the proposed work at Victoria Hall, 27 Mosley Street (the “Site”), in the Town of Aurora, Ontario. Victoria Hall, also known as the Disciples of Christ Church, is designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act (OHA) by the Town of Aurora By-law 5081-08.R, passed on 10 November 2008. The Site is located on the south side of Mosley Street. This HIA assesses the potential impact of the proposed design on the Site’s cultural heritage value and heritage attributes, and considers the rehabilitation of the building including a one-storey addition and accessibility upgrades to the rear elevation. An HIA, according to municipal terms of reference, is intended to identify cultural heritage resources, evaluate their significance, and assess how proposed development may affect those resources. This report considers the designated heritage resource on the Site and recommends conservation and mitigation measures intended to minimize adverse impacts while supporting the long-term use and viability of Victoria Hall. 1.2 METHODOLOGY Preparing the HIA included review of the heritage designation by-law, background material, and the current proposed design package. The building was also reviewed through site observations undertaken by the project team on March 25, 2026. The heritage resource has been assessed with reference to the Ontario Heritage Act, and the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada (Second Edition). Further details regarding existing condition are provided in Section 5 of this report. 1.3 SITE & CONTEXT Victoria Hall is situated within a mixed low-rise context characterized by institutional, religious, civic, and residential uses. To the north, the site fronts Mosley Street, with St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church located on the northeast corner of Mosley Street and Victoria Street. To the east, across Victoria Street, is Holy Forty Martyrs Church. To the south, the site interfaces with the Aurora Town Square parking and access area. To the west, the property abuts a two-storey house. This immediate setting reflects a varied but predominantly community-oriented context, where religious, cultural, and residential building types coexist within the historic core of Aurora. The immediate context consists of a mixed institutional, civic, and residential context: • Low-rise residential built form to the north and west • Religious/Institutional buildings to the east and northeast and • Cultural/civic open area and parking to the south The following pages include current site photos, aerial imagery, and streetscape views showing the Site in relation to the surrounding area. All photos are taken by Giaimo on March 25, 2026 unless otherwise noted. Page 27 of 94 Parcel Municipal Boundary York Region 2025 Imagery RGB Red: Red Green: Green Blue: Blue This map is a user generated static output from an Internet mapping site and is for reference only. Data layers that appear on this map may or may not be accurate, current, or otherwise reliable. © 2026 The Regional Municipality of York, King's Printer for Ontario 2003-2026 010 20 30 40 m± Map Title Notes Sources: Esri, Vantor, Airbus DS, USGS, NGA, NASA, CGIAR, N Robinson, NCEAS, NLS, OS, NMA, Mosley Str e e t Mosley Str e e t Victoria StreetVictoria Street Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 3 Giaimo 2 April 2026 Fig. 1.1. Aerial view showing the subject property within the context in dashed lines. Discover York Interactive Map, annotated by Giaimo. Page 28 of 94 Victoria HallVictoria Hall 4 Introduction Fig. 1.2. Bird’s eye view looking west Google Earth. Annotated by Giaimo. Fig. 1.3. Bird’s eye view looking east Google Earth. Annotated by Giaimo. Victoria HallVictoria Hall Page 29 of 94 020’40’40’80’ Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 5 Giaimo 2 April 2026 Fig. 1.4. Map showing the subject property shown in blue at the southwest corner of Mosley and Victoria Streets within the immediate context Town of Aurora Zoning, annotated by Giaimo. Fig. 1.5. 1981 survey of Plan 65R-4553 (cropped), with the subject property annotated in blue. Page 30 of 94 6 Introduction Fig. 1.6. North (principal) elevation facing Mosley Street Fig. 1.7. East elevation facing Victoria Street Page 31 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 7 Giaimo 2 April 2026 Fig. 1.8. South elevation Fig. 1.9. West elevation Page 32 of 94 8 Introduction Fig. 1.10. Looking north along Victoria Street, photographed from the building’s side, with the building itself out of frame and St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church at right. Fig. 1.11. Looking south along Victoria Street, with Victoria Hall to the right and the Aurora Town Square located further south behind it. Page 33 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 9 Giaimo 2 April 2026 Fig. 1.12. Looking west along Mosley Street and the neighbouring residences. Fig. 1.13. Looking southeast from Mosley Street towards Victoria Street, with Holy Forty Martyrs ahead and Victoria Hall on the right. Page 34 of 94 10 Introduction 1.4 HERITAGE STATUS Victoria Hall, also known as the Disciples of Christ Church, is designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act by Town of Aurora By-law 5081-08.R. The designation identifies the property as having historical, associative, architectural, and contextual value. 1.5 CONTACTS Heritage Consultant: Joey Giaimo, OAA, MRAIC, CAHP Giaimo 213 Sterling Road, Suite 204 Toronto, ON M6R 2B2 e. joey@giaimo.ca t. 289-326-3233 x3 Page 35 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 11 Giaimo 2 April 2026 2 - SITE HISTORY & DESIGN As the property is a designated heritage resource with an established Statement of Cultural Heritage Value and defined heritage attributes, a comprehensive historical research component was not required by the Town. Accordingly, the following provides a concise contextual overview to support an understanding of the property and to inform the assessment of potential impacts associated with the proposed development. The Town of Aurora is located within the traditional and treaty lands of Indigenous peoples who have stewarded this area for generations. The Town of Aurora is part of the treaty lands of the Mississaugas and Chippewas, recognized through Treaty #13 as well as the Williams Treaties of 1923. Prior to European settlement, this broader area formed part of long-standing Indigenous cultural landscapes, movement routes, and relationships to land and water. European settlement in the area that became Aurora followed the opening of Yonge Street northward in the 1790s. A small hamlet developed around the intersection of Yonge Street and Wellington Street, and by the early nineteenth century the area had begun to emerge as a local service and commercial centre. The community was name Aurora in 1854, incorporated as a village in 1863, and later became a town in 1888. As Aurora developed through the nineteenth century, the historic core expanded around Yonge Street and its side streets, with institutional, commercial, residential, and religious buildings contributing to a compact town centre. Mosley Street formed part of this evolving urban fabric east of Yonge Street and within walking distance of Aurora’s historic commercial core. Victoria Hall’s location reflects this period of town-building, when churches and civic institutions were established close to one another and became anchors of community life. The Site’s present context continues to reflect this historic pattern of development. The property at 27 Mosley Street is contextually linked to a historic concentration of public, religious, and community uses in downtown Aurora. As identified in the designation by-law, the building is one of a number of public and religious institutions and public spaces within the blocks bounded by Larmont Street, Mosley Street, and Metcalfe Street that have made the area a community focal point for more than a century. This broader setting contributes to Victoria Hall’s contextual value and helps explain its continued importance beyond its original ecclesiastical use. The surrounding neighbourhood evolved over time from a mixed nineteenth-century settlement pattern into a more defined civic and institutional area. While individual uses changed, the Site remained associated with public life and community gathering. This continuity of public and community use is an important aspect of the building’s heritage significance. Page 36 of 94 12 Site History & Design Victoria Hall was constructed in 1883 as a church building for the local Disciples of Christ congregation. It is a small-scale institutional building that remained associated with the congregation until it was sold in 1922. Thereafter, it served a variety of community-oriented functions under Town ownership, including use as a Health Hall, the Aurora Public Library, and a public meeting hall. These successive uses reflect the adaptability of the building and its long-standing place in the civic life of Aurora. In 1951, it was purchased from the Public School Board for use as the town public library, as well as later images showing its continued public use in the 1950s and during Old Home Week in 1963. These references indicate that the building underwent functional changes over time while maintaining its recognizable historic form. Fig. 2.1. 1950s, Aurora Library Source: Heritage Designation Brief, September 2008. Fig. 2.2. Victoria Hall, Built 1883 Fig. 2.3. 1963, Old Home Week Headquarters, Aurora centennial. Source: Heritage Designation Brief, September 2008. Page 37 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 13 Giaimo 2 April 2026 Fig. 2.4. 1951, northeast corner of the building, during the period it served as the public library. Source: Heritage Designation Brief, September 2008. Fig. 2.5. Present-day image of the northeast corner; the exterior remains largely unchanged. Page 38 of 94 14 Policy Framework 3 - POLICY FRAMEWORK 3.5.2 PARKS CANADA STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES FOR THE CONSERVATION OF HISTORIC PLACES IN CANADA Parks Canada’s Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada provides nationally recognized guidance for decision-making when planning for, intervening on, and using historic places. The document establishes a consistent conservation framework and is widely used as a benchmark for assessing proposed interventions to heritage properties. In the context of this HIA, the Standards and Guidelines provides an appropriate framework for evaluating the compatibility of proposed restoration, rehabilitation, and new servicing interventions at Victoria Hall. 3.5.3 ONTARIO PLANNING ACT AND PROVINCIAL POLICY STATEMENT (2024) The Planning Act identifies “the conservation of features of significant architectural, cultural, historical, archaeological or scientific interest” as a matter of provincial interest under section 2(d). Planning authorities are required to have regard to matters of provincial interest in carrying out their responsibilities under the Act. The Provincial Planning Statement, 2024 came into effect on October 20, 2024 and replaced both the 2020 Provincial Policy Statement and A Place to Grow: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2019. It provides province-wide land use planning direction and is to be applied in its entirety. Section 4.6 of the Provincial Planning Statement, 2024 provides direction regarding cultural heritage and archaeology. Policy 4.6.1 states that The following section contains a summary of all relevant in-force and emerging policy and guideline documents that relate to the Site. 3.5.1 ONTARIO HERITAGE ACT & ONTARIO REGULATION 9/06 The Ontario Heritage Act is the principal provincial legislation for the identification, protection, and conservation of cultural heritage resources in Ontario. The Act enables municipalities to designate individual properties under Part IV, designate heritage conservation districts under Part V, maintain a municipal heritage register, and enter into heritage easement agreements. Victoria Hall is designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. Evaluation for cultural heritage value or interest under the Ontario Heritage Act is guided by Ontario Regulation 9/06, which sets out the prescribed criteria for determining cultural heritage value or interest. A property may be designated under section 29 of the Act if it meets one or more of the prescribed criteria. Victoria Hall is designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. Page 39 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 15 Giaimo 2 April 2026 protected heritage property, which may contain built heritage resources or cultural heritage landscapes, shall be conserved. Policy 4.6.4 states that planning authorities shall not permit development and site alteration on adjacent lands to protected heritage property unless the heritage attributes of the protected heritage property will be conserved. Policy 4.6.5 requires early engagement with Indigenous communities and that their interests be considered when identifying, protecting, and managing archaeological resources, built heritage resources, and cultural heritage landscapes. The following concepts, as defined in the Provincial Planning Statement, 2024, are fundamental to understanding the conservation of cultural heritage resources in Ontario: • Built heritage resource means a building, structure, monument, installation, or any manufactured or constructed part or remnant that contributes to a property’s cultural heritage value or interest. • Conserved means the identification, protection, management, and use of built heritage resources, cultural heritage landscapes, and archaeological resources in a manner that ensures their cultural heritage value or interest is retained. • Heritage attributes means, as defined under the Ontario Heritage Act, the attributes of the property, buildings, and structures that contribute to their cultural heritage value or interest. 3.1 YORK REGION OFFICIAL PLAN The Town of Aurora is within York Region and is subject to the York Region Official Plan 2022, Office Consolidation June 2024. The Regional Official Plan provides the upper-tier planning framework for growth management and community planning to 2051. It recognizes York Region’s cultural heritage, including heritage buildings, cultural landscapes, and archaeological resources, as part of the Region’s local identity. The Plan also establishes a framework for more detailed planning to be carried out through local municipal official plans and secondary plans. In this context, the York Region Official Plan provides broad policy support for the identification and conservation of cultural heritage resources, while more specific heritage conservation direction for this project is provided through the provincial framework and the Town of Aurora’s heritage policies and guidelines. 3.2 TOWN OF AURORA OFFICIAL PLAN The Town of Aurora’s Updated Official Plan was approved by York Region in May 2024, subject to minor modifications, and is the current municipal official plan framework for the Town. Aurora’s Heritage Planning division manages the Aurora Register of Properties of Cultural Heritage Value or Interest, processes heritage designations under Parts IV and V of the Ontario Heritage Act, and processes heritage permit applications. Aurora’s heritage policy framework supports the conservation of significant heritage resources and allows the Town to require a Heritage Impact Assessment and a Restoration/Conservation Plan for development proposals or other land use planning proposals that may affect a designated or significant heritage resource or a Heritage Conservation District. The Town’s current Official Plan also prioritizes on-site retention and integration of heritage resources, with adaptive re-use identified as a preferred approach before considering relocation. Page 40 of 94 16 Policy Framework 3.3 TOWN OF AURORA HERITAGE IMPACT ASSESSMENTS AND CONSERVATION PLANS The Town’s Heritage Impact Assessments and Conservation Plans Guide provides local guidance on when an HIA or Conservation Plan may be required and how such studies should be prepared. The Guide notes that the Town may require a Heritage Impact Assessment and Restoration/Conservation Plan for development proposals that may potentially affect a designated or significant heritage resource or Heritage Conservation District. As such, the Guide is directly relevant to the preparation of this HIA and to the Town’s review of proposed alterations to Victoria Hall. For this Site, the above policy framework supports an approach centered on retention, adaptive re-use, conservation of identified heritage attributes, and the careful design of any new interventions so that the cultural heritage value of Victoria Hall is conserved. Page 41 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 17 Giaimo 2 April 2026 4 - CULTURAL HERITAGE VALUE Victoria Hall, also known as the Disciples of Christ Church, is designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. It was designated by the Town of Aurora under By-law 5081-08.R on November 10, 2008 (please refer to Appendix B). The following Statement of Cultural Heritage Value or Interest is reproduced from Schedule “B” of the designation by-law. 4.1 STATEMENT OF CULTURAL HERITAGE VALUE OR INTEREST “Victoria Hall” also known as “The Disciples of Christ Church” has excellent cultural heritage value. The building is a good and rare example of a smaller church building built in the Gothic Revival Style. For most of the 20th Century, the former church has served a variety of local functions and has been an important part of community life in Aurora. Historical or Associative Value The building at 27 Mosley Street has historical value in its association with the Disciples of Christ Church for whom the structure was built, and the Town of Aurora for which it has served a number of capacities since it was sold by the Disciples of Christ Church in 1922 including the Health Hall, The Aurora Public Library and a public meeting hall. Architectural Value The building at 27 Mosley Street has architectural value as an example of a modest, Gothic Revival Style Church built of local yellow brick in the late 19th Century. Distinctive features include its pointed gothic arches over the windows and door and projecting buttresses. Contextual Value 27 Mosley Street is of contextual value as one of a number of public and religious institutions and public spaces located within the blocks bounded by Larmont Street, Mosley Street and Metcalfe Street which have made the area a community focal point for more than a century. Page 42 of 94 18 Cultural Heritage Value 4.2 DESCRIPTION OF HERITAGE ATTRIBUTES The Description of Heritage Attributes includes the following heritage attributes and applies to all elevations and the roof including all facades, entrances, windows, chimneys, and trim, together with construction materials of wood, brick, stone, plaster parging, metal and glazing, their related building techniques and landscape features: Attribute to be Conserved: • Victoria Hall also known as "The Disciples of Christ Church" 27 Mosley Street. • Exterior Elements of the Attribute to be Conserved: Exterior Elements • Front gable roof with steep Gothic pitch • Gothic wood pointed sash windows on the side and front elevations • Historic sills • Buttresses at the sides and front of Victoria Hall • Front projecting entranceway with Gothic point above the doorway that originally contained a window with intricate tracery. • Yellow brick exterior • Datestone • Remnants of the historic doorway Interior Elements • Side trim and wainscoting. Page 43 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 19 Giaimo 2 April 2026 5 - BUILDING CONDITION ASSESSMENT 5.1 LIMITATIONS & EXTENT The material in this report reflects the opinion of Giaimo at the time of the site visit. The descriptions and observations are solely based on physical evidence reviewed during the site visits. In addition, invasive, physical, or destructive testing on or off site was not undertaken prior to developing this assessment. The observations included in this assessment may change following receipt of supplementary information, further reviews, and any additional coordination with stakeholders and consultants involved in this project. The review was targeted toward visible elements of the building. The following aspects are excluded: • Detailed survey; • Reviewing and summarizing of past reports and studies; • Review of existing building conditions in concealed or inaccessible areas; • Roof membranes; • Investigations or exploratory work; • Laboratory analysis of building components; • Study on the types and conditions of the building structure; • Study on the types and conditions of mechanical and electrical systems; • Building Code and/or regulation compliance analysis; • Hazardous materials review and/or characterization, or analysis of air quality or potential contamination (asbestos, molds, etc.); and • Review of any components that are not specifically identified as being included in the mandate. 5.2 METHODOLOGY This assessment is based on a 25 March 2026 site visit to review and evaluate the building condition. The observations are high level and based on a visual review of the building; no intrusive investigation was undertaken. The exterior review was conducted from grade. The roof was viewed only from grade. The interior review was visual and conducted in accessible spaces only. Some existing conditions might not have been observed. The visual review completed included the exterior masonry, doors, windows, and visible components of the roof, as well as the interior of the building. The building components were graded using the following assessment system; • Good: The assembly or component is mainly intact and is at minor risk of damage or deterioration due to normal service conditions (e.g. environment, loading) in the short term (1 to 5 years) • Fair: The assembly or component is compromised and is at risk of damage or deterioration due to normal service conditions (e.g. environment, loading) in the short term (1 to 5 years) • Poor: The assembly or component is lost or at considerable risk of loss due to normal service conditions (e.g. environment, loading) in the short term (1 to 5 years) Page 44 of 94 20 Building Condition Assessment 5.3 BUILDING ASSESSMENT 5.3.1 EXTERIOR Victoria Hall is a modest single-storey Gothic Revival building of buff yellow brick on a stone foundation, with a steep front gable roof and pointed-arch openings. The north elevation is the principal façade and includes the projecting entrance, datestone, front buttresses, and the strongest expression of the building’s Gothic Revival character. The east and west elevations are longer side elevations defined by pointed wood sash windows, historic sills, buttresses, and brick masonry walls on a low foundation. The south elevation is simpler and more secondary in character, though it remains part of the overall historic form of the building. Overall, Victoria Hall appears to be in fair to good condition. The building retains substantially all identified exterior heritage attributes. The most notable issues are localized rather than systemic and are concentrated at the buttresses, window and door arches, mortar joints, foundation repairs, painted wood sills, portions of the eaves and fascia, and the altered main entrance. Masonry The buff brick masonry appears to be in generally good condition overall, with several localized areas of fair to poor deterioration. Areas of concern include parging and deterioration primarily at the buttresses, chipped and cracked brick units, cracking at select window arches on the east and west elevations, cracking beneath the first-bay sill on the west elevation, cracking at the main entrance arch, and localized brick spalling, including at the base of the entrance. There are also areas of widespread unsympathetic mortar repairs, localized mortar loss, and cement-based repairs at portions of the foundation, particularly on the west elevation. The rubblestone foundation appears to require repointing. Future masonry repair and repointing should be sympathetic to the historic masonry in material, profile, and finish. Overall, the masonry may be characterized as generally good, with localized areas of fair to poor condition where cracking, parging, spalling, or incompatible repair is concentrated. Windows & Doors There are three pairs of pointed arch windows with exterior storms on west and east elevations. There are two additional pointed arch windows on the principal elevation placed on either side of the entrance. The windows appear to be original, though the upper glazing varies, with decorative patterned glass in some openings and plain glass in others, which may indicate later replacement of select units. All windows have been sealed shut. Weathering is most evident at the wood sills, which are painted and are overall in good to fair condition, with peeling and flaking paint and signs of deterioration. The main entrance has been altered through replacement of the door and removal or concealment of the transom. Archival photographs indicate that the original entrance composition included a decorative transom and a double-leaf door arrangement, and this historic configuration appears to be recoverable at least in part. Overall, the openings can be described as good, with the main entrance in fair condition due to alteration and possible concealed deterioration. Woodwork Painted rafter tails and eaves appear to be generally in good condition, with only select areas of weathering. The rear elevation soffit and fascia appear to have been replaced or covered with aluminum, which suggests earlier alteration and loss of original material in that area. Any surviving wood elements should be carefully inspected during detailed design so that repair can be prioritized over replacement where feasible. Page 45 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 21 Giaimo 2 April 2026 Roof The roof is currently finished in asphalt shingles, which appears to be a later roofing material and may not reflect the original historic roof finish. The roof over the main portion of the building seems to be in fair condition, however, the roof at the principal elevation entrance is in poor condition with evidence of biological growth on asphalt shingles and lifting. 5.3.2 INTERIOR The building seems to be used as storage currently. The interior has been modified over time, with a dropped ceiling concealing the roof structure. The flooring material is vinyl tiles with areas of lifting and damage. The wainscoting, a heritage attribute, is painted and overall, in good condition. The rear addition is not finished and serves a utilitarian purpose. Page 46 of 94 22 Building Condition Assessment Fig. 5.3. West elevation, typical buttress condition and localized masonry weathering Fig. 5.2. West Elevation, buttress with parging, staining, and localized deterioration Fig. 5.1. West elevation showing overall wall condition Fig. 5.4. Front entrance, cracking and deterioration at base of entrance Fig. 5.5. Front entrance, asphalt shingle roof at the front entrance in poor condition and evidence of biological growth Fig. 5.6. Front entrance, parging and deterioration at junction with brick masonry Page 47 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 23 Giaimo 2 April 2026 Fig. 5.7. Northwest corner, downspout discharge at foundation with localized masonry deterioration Fig. 5.9. Northeast corner, condition of lower buff brick wall and downspout area Fig. 5.8. Foundation and lower wall showing brick deterioration, and incompatible repair Fig. 5.10. Front entrance, penetrations in the wall Fig. 5.11. Mortar loss and cracking at the foundation stone, brick weathering Page 48 of 94 24 Building Condition Assessment Fig. 5.12. Eaves, soffit, and downspout showing existing rainwater management and roof edge Fig. 5.15. Masonry cracking at the pointed window arch Fig. 5.13. Window sill and jamb showing weathering, and localized deterioration Fig. 5.16. Localized brick spalling and mortar deterioration at base Fig. 5.14. East elevation, buttresses with parged finish Fig. 5.17. West elevation, buttress with parging and localized deterioration at lower portion Page 49 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 25 Giaimo 2 April 2026 Fig. 5.18. Main hall side trim, and wainscoting Fig. 5.20. Exposed services, and insulated ceiling assembly against historic brick wall Fig. 5.19. Existing rear elevation addition, ancillary space showing alterations, and exposed utilities Fig. 5.21. Close-up of pointed window opening Fig. 5.22. Cracking at the pointed window arch visible at majority of the openings Fig. 5.23. Interior wood wainscoting Page 50 of 94 26 Proposed Work The proposal includes rehabilitation of the existing designated heritage building, a new addition and service space at the south elevation, and an accessible entrance sequence designed by CS&P Architects Inc. The proposal retains the historic building while introducing new work in a contemporary architectural language. As shown in the ground floor plan dated April 2, 2026, the primary entrance is proposed through the new addition rather than through the historic entrance on Mosley Street. The plan shows an accessible ramp at a 1:12 slope with a total length of 8.45 metres leading to an elevated entrance level of +0.70. The historic Mosley Street entrance is shown as an exit in the current plan. The scheme illustrates a new entrance addition as a lightweight, transparent volume set against the existing buff brick heritage building. 6 - PROPOSED WORK Fig. 6.1. Rendering illustrating the proposed south elevation addition, proposed stairs and ramp. CS&P Architects Inc The addition appears to be predominantly glazed, with a flat roof and narrow-profile framing, allowing the existing form, brickwork, and steep gable of Victoria Hall to remain visually legible behind it. The new work reads as clearly contemporary and distinguishable from the historic structure. Within the existing building, the north end is partitioned to include two new washrooms along the east side and an additional room to the west, without obstructing the north entrance. The existing doorway between the current addition and the main building will be widened. Additionally, an original infilled opening at the southeast corner will be reinstated to improve flow between the new addition and the building. Overall, the current proposal seeks to support the long-term use of Victoria Hall while maintaining the existing heritage building as the defining built form on the site. Page 51 of 94 M O S L E Y S T R E E T V I C T O R I A S T R E E T+0.0+0.70 REDUCED TOWN SQUARE PARKING (2 SPACES REMOVED) BF WR WR PRIMARY ENTRANCE EXIT RAMP 1:12 (8.3%) Total Length 8.45m +0.70 +0.0 EXISTING BUILDING 1,260 SF NEW ADDITION 233 SF SERVICE EXISTING SIDEWALKEXISTING SIDEWALK VICTORIA HALL - GROUND FLOOR PLAN 25 Mosley St, Aurora, ON L4G 1R2 2026-04-02 1:150 NProposed interventions Modified openings Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 27 Giaimo 2 April 2026 Fig. 6.2. Proposed ground floor plan illustrating a new primary entrance addition, ramp and stairs at the south elevation, and the addition of two washrooms at the north end. Issued April 2, 2026 by CS&P Architects Inc., annotated by Giaimo. Page 52 of 94 28 Assessment of Impact The proposed design is expected to have a minor impact on Victoria Hall’s cultural heritage value. The following table identifies and assesses possible effects of the proposal on the building, and the second evaluates changes to identified heritage attributes (Statement of Cultural Heritage Value provided in Section 4). Overall, the current proposal conserves the cultural heritage value of Victoria Hall. The main areas requiring careful resolution through detailed design are the interface between the new glazed addition and the existing brick building and the treatment of interior heritage attributes that may be obscured by the proposed design. Section 8 of this report provides mitigation strategies to minimize any potential impact on the cultural heritage values and heritage attributes of the property. 7 - ASSESSMENT OF IMPACT Page 53 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 29 Giaimo 2 April 2026 DIRECT AND/OR INDIRECT ADVERSE IMPACTS LEVEL OF IMPACT (POTENTIAL, NONE, MINOR, MODERATE, OR MAJOR) RATIONALE Destruction of any, or part of any, significant heritage attributes or features None The original portion of the building is proposed to be retained in its entirety. While the existing rear elevation addition will be removed and the current doorway leading from the addition to the main building widened, these interventions do not lead to the destruction of any heritage attributes. Alteration that is not sympathetic, or is incompatible, with the historic fabric and appearance. Minor The proposed rear addition replaces a previous addition that does not contain any heritage attributes. Furthermore, the addition is contemporary, visually distinguishable, and sympathetic to the historic building. Shadows created that alter the appearance of a heritage attribute or change the viability of an associated natural feature or planting, such as a garden. None The proposal does not involve a large new volume or substantial increase in building height. The new glazed entrance element is low and lightweight, and is not expected to create meaningful shadow impacts on identified heritage attributes. Isolation of a heritage attribute from its surrounding environment, context or a significant relationship. None Victoria Hall will remain in its historic location and continue to contribute to the surrounding cluster of civic, public, and religious buildings identified in the designation by-law. Direct or indirect obstruction of significant views or vistas within, from, or of built and natural features. None The new glazed entrance addition will alter the perception of the elevation. However, because the addition is visually light and largely transparent, the historic form and profile of Victoria Hall are expected to remain legible. A change in land use (such as rezoning a church to a multi-unit residence) where the change in use negates the property’s cultural heritage value. Potential/ Minor No specific tenant or final use has been determined at this time. While a change from the building’s former community and institutional uses may introduce some potential for impact, continued active use is anticipated to support the long-term conservation and viability of the property. Land disturbances such as a change in grade that alters soils, and drainage patterns. Minor The proposed accessible entrance sequence and associated site work will require localized intervention at grade. The changes appear limited in extent. Page 54 of 94 30 Assessment of Impact HERITAGE ATTRIBUTE IMPACT Front gable roof with steep Gothic pitch Direct adverse: None anticipated based on the current proposal, as the overall building form and steep front gable roof are proposed to be retained. Indirect adverse: N/A Positive: The proposal retains the building in situ and supports its continued use, which helps conserve its overall form. Gothic wood pointed sash windows on the side and front elevations Direct adverse: None anticipated, as the current proposal does not indicate changes to the pointed sash windows or historic sills. Indirect adverse: N/A Positive: The proposal supports ongoing conservation of these elements, including repair and replacement of exterior storm units where required by a qualified heritage contractor. Historic Sills Buttresses at the sides and front of Victoria hall Direct adverse: N/A Indirect adverse: N/A Positive: The buttresses will be restored through removal of parging, replacement of masonry and repointing as required. Front projecting entranceway with Gothic point above the doorway that originally contained a window with intricate tracery Direct adverse: N/A Indirect adverse: Minor. The new entrance addition and revised circulation sequence alter how the historic entrance is experienced. In the proposed design, the historic primary entrance is utilized as an exit. Positive: The main entrance will be restored through asphalt replacement, repair of deteriorated rafter trails, and replacement of damaged masonry. Yellow brick exterior Direct adverse: N/A Indirect adverse: N/A Positive: The project supports masonry repair and conservation, including treatment of cracked units, parging, and incompatible mortar repairs. Datestone Direct adverse: N/A Indirect adverse: N/A Positive: N/A Remnants of historic doorway Direct adverse: N/A Indirect adverse: N/A Positive: As part of the restoration efforts, the existing covering at the transom can be removed to investigate whether original material remains beneath. [Interior] Side trim and wainscoting Direct adverse: Minor. Based on the current floor plan, the interventions at the north end of the building will obscure some of the interior side trim and wainscoting. Direct adverse: N/A Positive: N/A Page 55 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 31 Giaimo 2 April 2026 8.1 CONSERVATION APPROACH Section 7 of this report identified that the current proposal conserves the cultural heritage value of Victoria Hall, with limited and generally minor impacts that have been addressed through the sensitive design of the interventions and can be further mitigated through the strategies outlined below. The main considerations relate to the interface between the proposed glazed entrance addition and the existing heritage building, the treatment of interior heritage attributes, and the final placement and visual treatment of any new mechanical elements. This section outlines the conservation approach and mitigation strategies recommended to guide the project team in conserving the property’s cultural heritage value and heritage attributes. The selected conservation treatment for this project is rehabilitation, with selective restoration of specific heritage attributes where sufficient physical and archival evidence exists. The Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada (S&Gs), describes rehabilitation as: The action or process of making possible a continuing or compatible contemporary use of a historic place or an individual component, while protecting its heritage value. Rehabilitation is the appropriate primary treatment to allow continued contemporary use of the building, together with a new entrance addition and accessible entry sequence. Selective restoration remains appropriate for certain heritage attributes, including masonry repairs, removal of unsympathetic parging and mortar repairs, investigation and possible recovery of the historic north entrance transom and door composition, repair of wood sills and trim, and compatible roof replacement where required. 8 - CONSERVATION AND MITIGATION STRATEGIES The required conservation work should be implemented through a coordinated drawing package and trade specifications prepared as part of the project documentation. 8.2 MITIGATION STRATEGIES Documentation Prior to any construction or conservation work, the existing building should be comprehensively documented through measured drawings, current photography, and targeted recording of heritage attributes that may be affected by the proposed work including the wainscoting. Qualified heritage contractor/trades Exterior restoration work and any repair of historic fabric should be undertaken by a qualified heritage contractor or appropriate heritage tradespersons. This is particularly important for masonry repointing, selective brick replacement, repair of painted wood sills, investigation of the historic entrance transom, and any restoration of the entrance composition. Masonry conservation The buff brick masonry, buttresses, arches, and foundation should be repaired using methods and materials that are sympathetic to the historic masonry in material, profile, texture, and finish. Unsympathetic mortar repairs, parging, and localized cementitious repairs should be removed where appropriate and replaced with more compatible repair work. Selective brick replacement should be limited to units that are cracked, spalled, or deteriorated beyond reasonable repair. Particular attention should be given to the buttresses, cracks at the window arches, cracking at the main entrance arch, areas of mortar loss, localized brick spalling at the entrance base, and the rubblestone foundation. Page 56 of 94 32 Conservation and Mitigation Strategies Windows, sills, and wood elements Existing pointed sash windows, historic sills, rafter tails, and other surviving wood elements should be retained and repaired where feasible. Repair should be prioritized over replacement, and any replacement of exterior storm units or localized deteriorated wood elements should be limited to what is necessary and carried out in kind or with a physically and visually compatible material. Painted wood sills showing peeling, flaking, or weathering should be repaired and repainted as part of the conservation work. North entrance restoration The historic north entrance should be conserved and, where feasible, selectively restored. The interior plywood at the transom should be removed to confirm whether the original transom survives behind the later covering. The entrance composition, including the transom and door arrangement, should be restored in a manner consistent with the building’s Gothic Revival character. Archival images referenced in Section 2 can be used to guide this work. Roof and water management The asphalt shingles at the front entrance porch is recommended to be replaced in kind. Eavestroughs and downspouts should also be replaced throughout the building as required using compatible profiles and detailing. New glazed addition and interface with the heritage building The proposed glazed entrance addition is designed in a contemporary language, visually light, compatible with the heritage building and it maintains the existing form, buff brick masonry, steep gable, and heritage attributes of Victoria Hall. The interface between the addition and Victoria Hall should be detailed with care, with particular attention to materials, proportions, and reversibility. Mechanical interventions Any proposed mechanical elements, including intake and exhaust air grilles, should be located in the least visually prominent areas and should avoid heritage attributes. Their number and size should be minimized, and penetrations through historic fabric should be limited where feasible. New mechanical elements should be physically and visually compatible with, subordinate to, and distinguishable from the heritage resource, consistent with Standard 11 of the S&Gs. Where such elements must be introduced at the roof or façade, they should be integrated in a manner that minimizes visibility from the public realm and avoids disruption to the building’s roof profile and overall heritage character. Interior heritage attributes Based on the current floor plan, some of the wainscoting may be obscured by the new room and washrooms at the north end. Elsewhere in the building, historic wainscoting should be retained and conserved where possible. Page 57 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 33 Giaimo 2 April 2026 This report finds that the proposed development described in Section 6 conserves the cultural heritage value of Victoria Hall while supporting its continued use. The proposed development represents minimal to minor and acceptable impact on the designated heritage resource. Victoria Hall will be retained in situ, and its cultural heritage value will continue to be expressed through the conservation of its historic form, buff brick masonry, pointed openings, buttresses, roof profile, datestone, and other identified heritage attributes. While the proposal includes a new glazed entrance addition and accessibility upgrades, these interventions can be accommodated in a manner that remains compatible with the heritage resource, provided the mitigation measures outlined in Section 8 are implemented. The proposed work also creates an opportunity to address existing areas of deterioration through appropriate restoration and rehabilitation work, including masonry repair, removal of unsympathetic parging, repair of wood elements, and selective restoration of the north entrance where feasible. It is recommended that mitigation and conservation measures be integrated into the proposed approach. Conservation measures should be incorporated into a coordinated drawing package with outline specifications to guide implementation and, if required, support a Heritage Permit application. All conservation work should be implemented by qualified heritage contractors. 9 - CONCLUSION Page 58 of 94 34 Sources Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, Ontario Heritage Tool Kit. 2025. Ontario Provincial Policy Statement. 2024. Parks Canada, Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada, 2nd edition. 2010. Seaman, Michael, Heritage Designation Brief - Victoria Hall and Disciples of Christ Church. September 2008. Town of Aurora Official Plan. 2024. York Region Official Plan. 2022. 10 - SOURCES Page 59 of 94 Victoria Hall Heritage Impact Assessment 35 Giaimo APPENDICES Giaimo, established in 2015, is a Toronto-based architecture firm integrating design and heritage conservation. We specialize in developing contextual and creative solutions within existing buildings, fostering environmentally, socially, and culturally sustainable places through adaptive reuse, renovations, interventions, and integrating new with old. As architects, designers, and heritage specialists, we have over two decades of experience in all project stages, including research, heritage assessments, feasibility studies, concept design, detailed design, and construction. Collectively our staff of ten have worked on hundreds of projects, ranging from housing and offices to museums and community spaces, and have been honoured with numerous awards, including the Lieutenant Governor’s Ontario Heritage Award for Excellence in Conservation, the Canadian Architect Awards of Excellence, and the Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals Award. Collaboration is at the core of our studio, and we actively engage in Canada’s architectural culture through mentoring, teaching, research, publishing, volunteering, and exhibitions. Joey Giaimo, MRAIC, OAA, CAHP, is founding Principal at Giaimo and brings more than 25 years of experience in the architecture and heritage professions, including an extensive portfolio in integrating design and conservation. He is a registered Architect (OAA) and a professional member of CAHP. He currently lectures on heritage conservation and teaches undergraduate and graduate design studios at Toronto Metropolitan University’s Department of Architectural Science, with an emphasis on conservation and adaptive reuse. He has presented his work at conferences and exhibitions including AZURE’s Human/Nature, the Society for the Study of Architecture in Canada, A - PROJECT PERSONNEL the Association for Preservation Technology, and the National Trust for Canada. Joey's approach to architecture sources the value and characteristics of existing buildings and spaces. This process recognizes and records the state of things as they are, and intervenes with them in respectful and sensitive ways. Sara Shemirani, BArchSc, CAHP, is an Associate at Giaimo. She is an architectural designer and heritage professional (CAHP) with over five years of experience in design and conservation projects across Ontario. Sara holds a Bachelor of Architectural Science from Toronto Metropolitan University. Her work spans residential renovations and heritage projects across multiple project stages, as well as the design of exhibitions and heritage interpretation installations. Passionate about heritage conservation, Sara volunteered with the non-profit Architectural Conservancy Ontario (ACO), where she most recently served as an ACO NextGen Vice Chair. As a TMU alumna, Sara contributed to the Department of Architectural Science as a member of the Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Committee from 2022 to 2025, collaborating with students, faculty, and staff to identify, evaluate, and address EDI barriers inside and outside the classroom. Page 60 of 94 36 Heritage Designation By-Law B - HERITAGE DESIGNATION BY-LAW Page 61 of 94 Page 62 of 94 Page 63 of 94 Page 64 of 94 Page 65 of 94 Page 66 of 94 VICTORIA HALLHeritage Advisory Committee Meeting, April 13, 2026Page 67 of 94 Victoria Hall – HAC MeetingApril 2026 | 1Victoria Hall – HAC MeetingSite & ContextAerial view showing the subject property within the context in dashed linesPage 68 of 94 Site & ContextApril 2026 | 2Victoria Hall – HAC MeetingBird’s eye view looking eastVictoria HallPage 69 of 94 Building ElevationsApril 2026 | 3Victoria Hall – HAC MeetingNorth (principal) elevation facing Mosley StreetEast elevation facing VictoriaStreetSouth elevation West elevationPage 70 of 94 Site History & DesignApril 2026 | 4Victoria Hall – HAC Meeting1950s, Aurora Library1963, Old Home Week Headquarters1951, northeast corner of the building serving as a public libraryPage 71 of 94 Description of Heritage AttributesApril 2026 | 5Victoria Hall – HAC MeetingAttributes to be Conserved:Victoria Hall also known as “The Disciples of Christ Church” 27 Mosley Street.Exterior Elements•Front gable roof with steep Gothic pitch•Gothic wood pointed sash windows on the side andfront elevations•Historic sills•Buttresses at the sides and front of Victoria Hall•Front projecting entranceway with Gothic pointabove the doorway that originally contained awindow with intricate tracery•Yellow brick exterior•Datestone•Remnants of the historic doorway/ŶƚĞƌŝŽƌElements•Side trim and wainscotingPage 72 of 94 Victoria Hall – HAC MeetingApril 2026 | 6Exterior ConditionDownspout discharge at foundation with localized masonry deteriorationCementitious repair and deterioration at junction with brick masonryGeneral view of gable end and rooflinePage 73 of 94 Victoria Hall – HAC MeetingApril 2026 | 7Exterior ConditionCondition of lower buff brick wall and downspout areaMasonry cracking at the pointed window archParged buttressesPage 74 of 94 Victoria Hall – HAC MeetingApril 2026 | 8Interior ConditionExposed services, and insulated ceiling assembly against historic brickAncillary space showing alterations, and exposed utilities(current south elevation addition)Main hall showing window openings, side trim, and wood wainscotingClose-up of pointed window openingPage 75 of 94 Victoria Hall – HAC MeetingProposed WorkApril 2026 | 9Proposed ground floor plan illustrating a new primary entrance addition, ramp and stairs at the south elevation, and the addition of two washrooms at the north end.Page 76 of 94 Victoria Hall – HAC MeetingProposed WorkApril 2026 | 10Rendering illustrating the proposed south elevation addition, proposed stairs and rampPage 77 of 94 Victoria Hall – HAC MeetingPotential Impacts on Heritage AttributesApril 2026 | 11HERITAGE ATTRIBUTEIMPACTFront gable roof with steep Gothic pitchDirect adverse: None anticipated based on the current proposal, as the overall building form and steep front gable roof are proposed to be retained.Indirect adverse: N/APositive: The proposal retains the building in situ and supports its continued use, which helps conserve its overall form.Gothic wood pointed sash windows on the side and front elevationsDirect adverse: None anticipated, as the current proposal does not indicate changes to the pointed sash windows or historic sills.Indirect adverse: N/APositive: The proposal supports ongoing conservation of these elements, including repair and replacement of exterior storm units where required by a qualified heritage contractor.Historic SillsButtresses at the sides and front of Victoria hallDirect adverse: N/AIndirect adverse: N/APositive: The buttresses will be restored through removal of parging, replacement of masonry and repointing as required.Front projecting entranceway with Gothic point above the doorway that originally contained a window with intricate traceryDirect adverse: N/A Indirect adverse: Minor. The new entrance addition and revised circulation sequence alter how the historic entrance is experienced. In the proposed design, the historic primary entrance is utilized as an exit. Positive: The main entrance will be restored through asphalt replacement, repair of deteriorated rafter trails, and replacement of damaged masonry. Page 78 of 94 Victoria Hall – HAC MeetingPotential Impacts on Heritage Attributes (continued)April 2026 | 12HERITAGE ATTRIBUTEIMPACTYellow brick exteriorDirect adverse: N/AIndirect adverse: N/APositive: The project supports masonry repair and conservation, including treatment of cracked units, parging, and incompatible mortar repairs.Datestone Direct adverse: N/AIndirect adverse: N/A Positive: N/ARemnants of historic doorway Direct adverse: N/AIndirect adverse: N/A Positive: As part of the restoration efforts, the existing covering at the transom can be removed to investigate whether original material remains beneath.[Interior] Side trim and wainscoting Direct adverse: Minor. Based on the current floor plan, the interventions at the north end of the building will obscure some of the interior side trim and wainscoting.Direct adverse: N/APositive: N/APage 79 of 94 Victoria Hall – HAC MeetingConclusionApril 2026 | 13The proposed design represents minimal to minor and acceptable impact on the designated heritage resource. Victoria Hall will be retained in situ, and its cultural heritage value will continue to be expressed through the conservation of its historic form, buff brick masonry, pointed openings, buttresses, roof profile, datestone, and other identified heritage attributes.Page 80 of 94 100 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 – Revised Plans for 15375 Yonge Street To: Heritage Advisory Committee From: Adam Robb, Manager, Policy Planning and Heritage Date: April 13, 2026 Recommendation 1. That the memorandum regarding Heritage Permit Application HPA-2026-01 – Revised Plans for 15375 Yonge Street be received; and 2. That the Heritage Advisory Committee comments regarding Heritage Permit Application HPA-2026-01 – Revised Plans for 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 heritage property built circa 1885 and located within the Town’s Northeast Old Aurora Heritage Conservation District. The owner of the subject property initially applied for a heritage permit application and submitted drawings, which were reviewed by the Heritage Advisory Committee at its meeting held on February 9, 2026. Since then, the owner has now revised their plans, which necessitates a new review and approval process of the subject heritage permit application. Analysis The Owner has revised their plans to now demolish the existing rear garage portion of the structure The owner of the subject property intends to open and operate a single physician healthcare office at the property. The owner has revised their initial plans with the intent of removing the existing rear garage to facilitate an improved parking configuration and Page 81 of 94 HPA-2026-01 – Revised Plans for 15375 Yonge Street April 13, 2026 Page 2 of 3 more inviting and functional rear entryway. The majority of the proposed work to the property still involves interior alterations as part of the change of use, however, the requirement for a demolition permit now necessitates Council approval of the subject heritage permit application. The existing garage is believed to be a non-original feature of the property and is not considered to be a heritage asset. Being a change of use to a medical clinic, the owner no longer requires the garage in its existing capacity/function. Removal of the garage would provide more space for parking and improved client access, with the new exterior area to also be finished with wood board and batten siding. The owner is aware of comments from the Heritage Advisory Committee from the initial review of the proposal and intends for the exterior colour to be more of a neutral/off-white tone. Town staff have also inquired about trees on the property, and the owner has indicated that amongst the smaller shrubbery, one smaller tree will require removal (see attached). The tree is considered a generally smaller tree relative to the more mature trees on the property, which are all intended to remain. The subject proposal is still required to undertake a site plan review process as well, which will be circulated to Parks staff, and continued evaluation of the trees and administration of any required removal/replanting and conditions as part of the development agreement will occur as the more detailed site plan process advances. Per the attached elevations, the Maple Street entryway will also be enhanced by removing the flat roof overhang and installing a new gable entryway above the existing door. This would be similar in style to the existing entryway on Yonge Street. The other alterations as presented through the original proposal are to remain the same, including new roofing and shingle replacement, a new sign for the healthcare office on the Yonge Street side yard, repainting of the façade to a classical cream or neutral/off white colour, and replacement of the non-heritage rear windows. The owner will also be required to seek any necessary required parking relief through the minor variance process and undertake a future site plan application and enter into a site plan agreement for the proposal. Comments from the Heritage Advisory Committee will be included in a future report to Council for ultimate consideration of the subject heritage permit application. Page 82 of 94 HPA-2026-01 – Revised Plans for 15375 Yonge Street April 13, 2026 Page 3 of 3 Attachments 1. Attachment #1 – Location Map 2. Attachment #2 – Revised Site Plan and Elevations 3. Attachment #3 – Tree Imagery Page 83 of 94 15375 Yonge StreetNortheast Old Aurora Heritage Conservation District BoundaryPage 84 of 94 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 #2Page 85 of 94 MECHANICALB04CRAWLSPACE (ASSUMED - INACCESSIBLE)B01STORAGEB02CRAWLSPACEB03ENTRY / WAITING105RECEPTION106TREATMENT ROOM 2109EXAMINATION ROOM 2102ENTRY FOYER101EQUIP RM107TREATMENT ROOM 1108EXAMINATION ROOM 1103BF WC104GENERAL 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 PLAN2A2.0 1/4" = 1'-0"PROPOSED GROUND FLOOR PLANPage 86 of 94 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 87 of 94 #//+..5175'15375 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 ELEVATION2A3.1 1/4" = 1'-0"SOUTH ELEVATION3A3.1 1/2" = 1'-0"PROPOSED NEW SITE SIGNPage 88 of 94 WAITING ROOM105RECEPTION106GENERAL NOTES:15375 YONGE STREETAURORA, ONTARIOJAMES DOUGLAS ARCHITECT6335 17th SideroadSchomberg, ONL0G 1T0647-406-7160jamie.douglas.arch@gmail.comKEY PLANELEVATIONSENTRY SECTIONA 3.21A3.2 1/4" = 1'-0"EAST ELEVATION2A3.2 1/4" = 1'-0"NORTH ELEVATION3A3.2 1/4" = 1'-0"ENTRY SCHEMATIC SECTIONPage 89 of 94 Proposed to RemainProposed to Remove Attachment #3Page 90 of 94 100 John West Way Aurora, Ontario L4G 6J1 (905) 727-3123 aurora.ca Town of Aurora Memorandum Planning and Development Services Re: Summary of the 2026 Heritage Week Event To: Heritage Advisory Committee From: Adam Robb, Manager, Policy Planning and Heritage Date: April 13, 2026 Recommendation 1. That the memorandum regarding Summary of the 2026 Heritage Week Event be received; and 2. That the Heritage Advisory Committee comments regarding Summary of the 2026 Heritage Week Event be received and referred to staff for consideration and further action as appropriate. Background The Town’s 2026 Heritage Week Event was held on Family Day, February 16, 2026, from 10 a.m.to 4 p.m. The event was hosted at Town Square and featured an opening ceremony, curated artistic displays, live music, information booths and multiple speaking engagements. Analysis The 2026 Heritage Week Event offered a variety of programming and had 296 visitors. The program schedule and offerings of the Heritage Week Event included: 1) Opening Ceremonies Opening remarks by the organizing working group Speeches by elected officials Singing of O Canada by a local student volunteer Proclamation of Heritage Week by the Town Crier Page 91 of 94 Summary of the 2026 Heritage Week Event April 13, 2026 Page 2 of 4 2) Presentations and Speaking Engagements “Once Upon a Time: The Postcards of Olde Aurora” by Bob McRoberts, local historian and Heritage Advisory Committee Member “The Great Aurora Built Heritage Quiz” by Jacqueline Stuart, former curator of the Aurora Museum “Discovering the Stories of Horton Place” a recorded interview discussion with John McIntyre, former President of the Aurora Historical Society 3) Information Booths “Echoes of Aurora: Bridging Past and Present” with Museum staff on-site and offering tours of the Aurora Room exhibit The Postcards of Olde Aurora collection by Bob McRoberts Booths by the Olde Aurora Ratepayers Association, the Aurora Historical Society, and Heritage Planning and the Heritage Advisory Committee 4) Live Music and Artistic Curation by David Heard of Dave’s Vinyl Party “Music, Ambience, Love and Heritage”, being a live motivational historic vinyl presentation “A Tribute to the Aurora Horse Show – A ‘Mane’ Attraction”, an over 100 square foot artistic display honouring the historic Aurora Horse Show “Aurora’s Connection to The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper”, featuring a uniquely curated display on the connection of the band and Sgt. Pepper to Aurora Visitor counters recorded 296 attendees to the Heritage Week Event at Town Square. The primary Heritage Week event was featured on February 16, 2026, but additional offerings were also provided throughout the duration of the week itself. A self-guided tour of Aurora’s Northeast Old Aurora Heritage Conservation District was developed, in coordination with the Hillary House National Historic Site and Koffler Museum of Medicine occurred to offer free admission during the week, and discounts to the Flashback Friday: Night at the Museum were also provided. The self-guided tour was intentionally developed to have visitors finish at the Hillary House, where free admission to the museum was being offered. The Aurora Historical Society indicated that there were 26 attendees to Hillary House across ten touring groups, which is the most visitors during this period of February since the inception of digital attendance records over a decade ago. The total cost of the event was approximately $650, which was primarily made up of costs for printing and advertising. These printing and advertising costs were due to this Page 92 of 94 Summary of the 2026 Heritage Week Event April 13, 2026 Page 3 of 4 event being inaugural in nature, and it is anticipated that some of these initial print materials can be re-used in future offerings. Sincere appreciation is extended to the Heritage Advisory Committee and Organizing Committee members Cynthia Bettio, John Green and Rocco Morsillo, volunteers, the performers/speakers listed above, participants including the Aurora Historical Society and Museum, and attendees who made this Heritage Week Event possible. Visitor feedback on the 2026 Heritage Week Event was positive Direct discussions with visitors at the Heritage Week Event indicated high levels of enjoyment and satisfaction. QR codes were also posted and advertised on the day of the event allowing visitors to complete an online survey and provide feedback. Fourteen online survey responses were received, with 93 per cent of survey respondents rating the event as either ‘Excellent’ (65 per cent) or ‘Very Good’ (28 per cent). This survey was supplemental to the on-the-ground feedback received from attendees, which again was largely positive. Additionally, it is acknowledged that the event had economic benefits to the local community, as visitors indicated they frequented local eateries before, during, and after the event. Vendors also indicated positive feedback from attendees and there was positive media coverage and awareness leading up to the event and after. More dedicated resources are required to ensure the ongoing and future success of Heritage Week and other related events Aurora was one of the only municipalities across the province to organize and host a dedicated event for Heritage Week through its Heritage Advisory Committee and planning and development services staff. The majority of events or offerings across the province were organized/led by local libraries, dedicated committees, museums, historical societies or other independent cultural and non-profit groups. This matter is being raised, as despite the initial success of the 2026 Heritage Week Event, its organization was only made possible by the volunteerism and efforts of the organizing Committee members, the presenters, David Heard, and the redeployment of planning and development services staff/resources. Planning and development services staff will be limited in the ability to continue to lead and manage such Special Events, particularly as other priority department projects are forecasted. For example, Planning/Heritage Staff will be managing the Town’s Comprehensive Zoning By-law Review capital project and the Yonge Street South Land Use Study in 2027, which will limit the ability to also be the primary lead in the organizing of a Heritage Week event. Page 93 of 94 Summary of the 2026 Heritage Week Event April 13, 2026 Page 4 of 4 The Heritage Advisory Committee membership is also subject to variability from term to term, and the leading of events is generally beyond the Terms of Reference and statutory function of the Committee being to advise on Ontario Heritage Act matters. Planning and Development Services staff and the Heritage Advisory Committee can still certainly assist with and participate in such events, but remaining in the lead role from an event management and organizing perspective as the event grows is beyond existing capacity and scope. There also continues to be a desire for further additional events, such as celebrating Town milestones or significant anniversaries, which again will require more dedicated and specialized event management attention. This again is being raised as the ongoing long-term success of Heritage Week and related events will specifically depend on the ability to offer fresh and diverse programming, which will require even greater and more dedicated attention to items such as vendor recruitment, venue/space booking, volunteer management, website development, branding, promotion and marketing etc. moving forward. While successful in its inaugural capacity, the Heritage Week Event runs the risk of potentially losing interest over time if not continually offering fresh/diverse programming and being given dedicated event management attention. Therefore, Planning staff will be requesting the assistance of other departments/divisions, community organizations or other groups to lead such special events moving forward. Otherwise, the Heritage Week Event may potentially have to be held biennially or in a limited capacity depending on other planning and development services department priorities from year to year. Attachments None. Page 94 of 94