Title
PROPOSED MUNICIPAL RESTRUCTURING
Michelle Banfield, Executive Director, Development Services and Kelly Oakley, Director, Boundary Adjust Team provided a presentation concerning the municipal restructuring proposal with the City of Barrie, the Township of Oro-Medonte (Oro-Medonte), the Township of Springwater (Springwater) and the County of Simcoe (the County).
Ms. Banfield and Ms. Oakley discussed slides concerning the following topics:
* The purpose of the public meeting
* The background and timelines of the municipal restructuring proposal;
* The independent joint land needs analysis and study conclusions;
* The elements of the facilitation process and the draft framework agreements;
* The proposed annexed lands into Barrie;
* Maps illustrating the proposed annexed lands for Springwater and Oro-medonte;
* The financial compensation;
* The Springwater cross border servicing;
* The economic development initiatives;
* The County of Simcoe considerations; and
* The next steps for the project.
Public Comments:
1. Walter Vaz, 421 Penetanguishene Road, advised that he is in support of the proposed annexation of his area into the City of Barrie. He commented that the proposal is a product of good faith negotiations that address key regional issues and the urgent need for more housing and nearby employment to strengthen the community. He advised that extending Barrie's services to the developable lands is practical and efficient. Mr. Vaz provided comments on the Oro-Medonte Council for its responsible planning and trust that Barrie has the resources to manage growth better. He commented on the opposition from some groups, whose attitudes stress the necessity of tackling the housing crisis by developing housing and employment lands.
Mr. Vaz urged all involved Barrie, Oro Medonte, and Springwater Councils to proceed with the proposal to benefit the region and improve the quality of life.
2. Craig Wallwin shared his family's deep roots in Springwater and Barr...
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