Tecumseh’s long-debated zoning bylaw returns to council Tuesday, with councillors expected to decide whether to replace three separate bylaws dating back to amalgamation in 1999.
The proposed bylaw would create a single set of zoning rules across the municipality. Public debate has largely focused on housing density, additional dwelling units, short-term rentals, RV regulations and neighbourhood character.
While town planners say the bylaw aligns with provincial policy and the town’s official plan, some residents have raised concerns about proposed changes that would allow duplexes and semi-detached homes in areas traditionally limited to single-detached housing.
Deputy Mayor Joe Bachetti says that’s the main issue he’s hearing from residents heading into Tuesday’s meeting.
“Residents want to protect the established neighbourhoods. They want to protect the R1 zones in terms of minimum lot frontage that they’ve come to learn to love in in the former St. Clair Beach, former Sandwich South, and former Tecumseh,” Bachetti said.
While council made several changes after public feedback, Bachetti says the central issue remains whether more housing types should be permitted in established single-detached neighbourhoods.
He says many residents opposed higher-density housing during the Housing Accelerator Fund debate and believes council should consider that feedback before making a final decision.
“If it’s asking council and you’re asking me to make a decision, I’m going to make it in the best interest of the residents that I represent. We have to be their voice,” Bachetti said.
“The good thing about this one here as a zoning bylaw is that this one has appeal rights. There is a statutory appeal period that based on whatever decision council makes, it can be appealed.”
Bachetti says he believes future higher-density development should be directed toward planned growth areas rather than established subdivisions, while still acknowledging council must consider provincial legislation and planning policies.
“We have a lot of land growth south of E.C. Row Expressway with large proposed developments, hamlet developments. I think that’s where the higher density should go and we should be planning around that, but, we need to again protect the established neighbourhoods,” he said.
Town administration has recommended council adopt the updated zoning bylaw.
If approved, the bylaw would be subject to a 20-day statutory appeal period before taking effect.