Minister’s Zoning Order for 65 Ward Street
On June 12, 2023, the Municipality received notice that the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing issued a Minister’s Zoning Order (MZO) on June 9, 2023, for the properties at 20 Hope Street South and 65 Ward Street in Port Hope. The MZO overrides the current zoning restrictions and permits the land to be used to erect a long-term care facility on the site with an increase to the allowable height over what is currently permitted.
An MZO is a tool, permitted under the Planning Act, which allows the Minister to change the use of land, buildings or structures anywhere in Ontario. The Municipality cannot appeal an MZO.
This file is not advancing at the request of the Municipality. The MZO was issued in response to a request from the Minister of Long-Term Care.
Heritage Permit Application for Demolition
As previously reported, a Heritage Permit Application for Demolition for the structures on the property has been received. This application will be managed through the regular public process, which includes consultation with the Heritage Port Hope Advisory Committee who will consider the request at their meeting on June 19.
After the Advisory Committee considers the request, a public Special Council Meeting will be held shortly after for Council to consider the Heritage Permit Application for Demolition. An accompanying staff report will be published closer to that meeting date. The meeting date will be publicized as usual, on the municipal website and on social media.
If the Municipality refuses the permit application, the applicant has the option to appeal that decision to the Ontario Land Tribunal.
Per the timelines noted above, there will not be an item related to 65 Ward Street included on the regular Council or Committee of the Whole agenda for the meetings on June 20.
2023-06-13