GCA Board meeting November 2020 DRAFT

GCA Board Meeting

Tuesday, November 24, 7:00 p.m.
via Zoom

Chair: Laura Smith

Secretary and Timekeeper: Sheryl Lattimore

Board members present: Laura Smith, Bob Brocklebank, Dan Chook Reid, June Creelman, John Crump, Jennifer Humphries, Carol MacLeod, Brenda Perras, Bill Price, Steph Small, Sue Stefko, Sarah Viehbeck, Sheryl Lattimore, Angus McCabe, Angela Keller-Herzog, Vaughn Guy, Christina Honeywell, Carolyn Mackenzie, Colette Downie, Rochelle Handelman, Anthony Carricato, Andrew Marquis, Kirsti Carin, Elizabeth Ballard

Others present: Shawn Menard, Jonathan McLeod, Robert Monaghan, Rina Young, John Farah, Lynn Armstrong

Opening Remarks

Laura Smith opened the meeting with an Indigenous reconciliation acknowledgment and welcomed guests to the meeting.

Approval of the Agenda and Minutes

The approval of the agenda was moved by Jennifer Humphries and seconded by Angus McCabe. The approval of the minutes was moved by John Crump and seconded by Brenda Perras. Both were approved without changes.

Report from the Councillor

Shawn Menard provided an update on the Ottawa police board meeting, the Lansdowne vote (which will be postponed until December 9, 2020), the Aberdeen Square consultation, the Bank Street Bridge and the Mutchmor rink. Shawn also mentioned that the Lansdowne audit came out on November 24, 2020.

Great Glebe Garage Sale (Virtual Edition) Debrief

Colette Downie and John Farah (GiveShop) presented a debrief of the 2020 Great Glebe Garage Sale (GGGS). The 2020 GGGS was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the GCA partnered with GiveShop to ensure that the 2020 GGGS was still able to provide a mechanism to enable donations to the Ottawa Food Bank. The 2020 GGGS raised $1015 for the Ottawa Food Bank. For the 2021 GGGS it was proposed that the GCA continue to work with GiveShop to provide GGGS participants with an easy, technology-enabled method to support the Ottawa Food Bank. Meeting attendees were interested in this approach as well as maintaining the long-standing approach of donating 10% of all proceeds from the GGGS go to the Ottawa Food Bank.

Committee reports, motions, Q&A

Health, Housing and Social Services Committee

Motion 1: Affordable Housing- Chamberlain and Bank

Whereas:

The cost of housing is increasing all over the city and in particular, the Glebe;
The Glebe is a prime location for affordable housing due to its high walkability score, close proximity to social services, schools, transportation and strong community connection;
The lot at Chamberlain and Bank is currently owned by the city and slated for divestment;
Since the beginning of the Glebe Height and Character study, the lot at Bank and Chamberlain has been earmarked for affordable housing.
An organization that offers affordable housing, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation (CCOC), has expressed interest in partnering with the city to create affordable housing at this location; and,
The GCA seeks to advocate for a diverse and livable neighbourhood.

Therefore be it resolved that:

The GCA asks that the city of Ottawa explore financial options and/or partnerships that would make it viable to designate the lot at Chamberlain and Bank to be used for affordable housing (which would include, but not be limited to, CCOC).

Dan Chook Reid presented the motion for approval. The motion was moved by Dan Chook Reid and seconded by Carol MacLeod. Friendly amendments were requested and the motion was amended as below.

Whereas:

The cost of housing is increasing all over the city and in particular, the Glebe;
The Glebe is a prime location for affordable housing due to its high walkability score, close proximity to social services, schools, transportation and strong community connection;
The lot at Chamberlain and Bank is currently owned by the city and slated for divestment;
Since the beginning of the Glebe Height and Character study, the lot at Bank and Chamberlain has been earmarked for affordable housing.
An organization that offers affordable housing, Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation (CCOC), has expressed interest in partnering with the city to create affordable housing at this location; and,
The GCA seeks to advocate for a diverse and livable neighbourhood.

Therefore be it resolved that:

All GCA committee members present voted to approve the amended motion, none opposed.

Planning Committee

Motion 2: Bank Street Height and Character Study

Whereas the GCA has successfully advocated for a study of future height/massing and character of buildings along Bank Street (as well as areas of Chamberlain and Isabella Avenues flanking northern section of Bank Street) that would develop a more comprehensive vision for the street as well as creating greater certainty for all stakeholders in future development;

Whereas the GCA has advocated for responsible/appropriate intensification to provide additional housing, rather than expanding of the urban boundary;

Whereas the City presented draft recommendations for this study Bank Street Height & Character Study – Recommendations, in October 2020.

Whereas implementation of this study’s height recommendations is to be done though area-specific Official Plan policies, which would give greater strength to such “rules” beyond simply changing the zoning.

Whereas a number of recommendations respond directly to GCA requests aimed at enhancing the vibrancy and character of Bank Street in the Glebe, including:

Maximum of 4 storey height (from Holmwood to First Avenue, inclusively, with the exceptions of two buildings currently under construction);
Additional widening of sidewalks of 1-1.25 m where new development occurs;
Enhanced building setbacks and stepbacks to ease transition from Traditional Mainstreet buildings to residential lots in the rear, and to enhance pedestrian scale on the street (with the exception of the request that any buildings above 4 storeys, start at a height of just 3 storeys at the rear, to increase compatibility with residential heights); and,
Requirements for building materiality and architectural expression.

Whereas it is important to recognise two recommendations that diverge from GCA requests in consideration of overall study recommendations that include:

Proposals for 6 storeys on 8 lots between First Avenue and Roseberry Avenue; and,
Proposals for mid-rise (northwest corner of Bank and Chamberlain) and high-rise height along Isabella.

Therefore be it resolved that the GCA Board support the recommendations of the Bank Street Height & Character Study, subject to the following:

Where 6 storey heights have been proposed, the study should include further improvements to height transition, particularly in heritage sensitive locations including lots adjacent to the Heritage Conservation District, as well as the designated lot at 600 Bank Street (Chinese unitarian church). Specifically, we seek reconsideration of request to begin building heights at 3 storeys facing rear lot line (i.e. adjacent to residential properties), with more appropriate transition up to 6 storeys;
Where mid-rise and high-rise heights have been proposed, the study should include recommendations for inclusion of affordable and/or below market housing; and,
Where mid-rise and high-rise heights have been proposed, the study should recommend that the highest level of design standards be required, to enhance the transition to residential, and/or walking/biking experience on the street.

Carolyn Mackenzie presented the motion for approval. The motion was moved by Carolyn Mackenzie and seconded by Dan Chook Reid. Friendly amendments were requested and the motion was amended as below.

Whereas the GCA has advocated for responsible/appropriate intensification to provide additional housing, rather than expanding of the urban boundary;

Whereas the City presented draft recommendations for this study Bank Street Height & Character Study – Recommendations, in October 2020.

Whereas a number of recommendations respond directly to GCA requests aimed at enhancing the vibrancy and character of Bank Street in the Glebe, including:

Maximum of 4 storey height (from Holmwood to First Avenue, inclusively, with the exceptions of two buildings currently under construction);
Additional widening of sidewalks of 1-1.25 m where new development occurs;
Enhanced building setbacks and stepbacks to ease transition from Traditional Mainstreet buildings to residential lots in the rear, and to enhance pedestrian scale on the street (with the exception of the request that any buildings above 4 storeys, start at a height of just 3 storeys at the rear, to increase compatibility with residential heights); and,
Requirements for building materiality, architectural expression and green infrastructure.

Whereas it is important to recognise two recommendations that diverge from GCA requests in consideration of overall study recommendations that include:

Proposals for 6 storeys on 8 lots between First Avenue and Roseberry Avenue; and,
Proposals for mid-rise (northwest corner of Bank and Chamberlain) and high-rise height along Isabella.

The GCA Board supports the recommendations of the Bank Street Height & Character Study, subject to the following:

Where 6 storey heights have been proposed, the study should include further improvements to height transition, particularly in heritage sensitive locations including lots adjacent to the Heritage Conservation District, as well as the designated lot at 600 Bank Street Chinese unitarian church). Specifically, we seek reconsideration of request to begin building heights at 3 storeys facing rear lot line (i.e. adjacent to residential properties), with more appropriate transition up to 6 storeys;
The maximum height in storeys should govern an absolute maximum in metres, given concerns that 6 storeys with significant commercial storey at grade will otherwise become closer to 7 storeys, etc.
That the rationale for the setbacks and stepbacks be retained in policy as well as zoning, to buttress against future challenges to these important measures. For example, the health of street trees are expected to be an ongoing challenge even with further road widening on Bank Street. However, the 3m side yard setback is intended, in part, to allow for sufficient above ground and below ground space for high canopy trees, an important priority for residents and visitors to Bank Street.
Where mid-rise and high-rise heights have been proposed, the study should include recommendations for inclusion of affordable and/or below market housing; and,
Where mid-rise and high-rise heights have been proposed, the study should include recommendations for the highest level of design standards, to enhance the transition to residential, and/or walking/biking experience on the street.

All GCA committee members present, except one, voted to approve the amended motion; one opposed.

Motion 3: Monk Street Proposal

Whereas the proposal for 4 single homes and 6 “joined” triplex buildings, each having 3 units for a total of 18 units will contribute to a more diverse mix of housing in the Glebe

Whereas initial discussions with the developer were very productive in adapting current zoning to permit this form of “gentle density” in a context sensitive manner

Whereas the GCA Planning Committee has been very supportive in discussions with the developer

Whereas recent adjustments to the proposal have raised some concerns that could, if not addressed, be reason to withdraw support for the proposal

Therefore be it resolved that the GCA Board support for this proposal, subject to the following:

Roof top patio setback requirements, where adjacent to residential lots, be substantially respected;
Rear yard setback requirements where adjacent to neighbouring backyards, be substantially respected;
Front yard setback requirements be allowed to be reduced in keeping with adjacent neighbours, but building articulation be such that street trees can be accommodated; and,
Any other measures deemed significant, that might arise as a result of request for clarifications.

Carolyn Mackenzie presented the motion for approval. The motion was moved by Carolyn Mackenzie and seconded June Creelman. Friendly amendments were requested and the motion was amended as below.

Whereas the proposal for 4 single homes and 6 “joined” triplex buildings, each having 3 units for a total of 18 units will contribute to a more diverse mix of housing in the Glebe

Whereas initial discussions with the developer were very productive in adapting current zoning to permit this form of “gentle density” in a context sensitive manner

Whereas the GCA Planning Committee has been very supportive in discussions with the developer

Whereas recent adjustments to the proposal have raised some concerns that could, if not addressed, be reason to withdraw support for the proposal

Therefore be it resolved that the GCA Board support for this proposal, subject to the following:

Roof top patio setback requirements, where adjacent to residential lots, be substantially respected;
Rear yard setback requirements where adjacent to neighbouring backyards, be substantially respected;
Front yard setback requirements be allowed to be reduced in keeping with adjacent neighbours, but building articulation be such that street trees can be accommodated; and,
Any other measures deemed significant, that might arise as a result of request for clarifications.

All GCA committee members present voted to approve the amended motion, none opposed.

Parks Committee

Motion 4: Design and Construction Report

WHEREAS the GCA has engaged with the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) concerning the Highway 417 Bronson Avenue Interchange and Operational Improvements, Detail Design project since 2013, and in recent months has passed related motions reiterating the neighbourhood’s desire to beautify the Chamberlain corridor between Bronson and Bank Streets with well-designed green and walking spaces where construction opportunities avail themselves; and

WHEREAS the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) last month issued its notice of the Design and Construction Report (DCR) submission for the Highway 417 Bronson Avenue Interchange and Operational Improvements, Detail Design project for public review up to November 27, 2020; and

WHEREAS the plan, as currently configured, involves a local, 70 metre (north) realignment of Chamberlain Avenue adjacent to the existing Glebe Memorial Park but does not specify how the existing roadway and sidewalk next to Glebe Memorial Park and a potentially expanded pedestrian pathway will be incorporated; and

WHEREAS an opportunity exists to do so in a way that could increase the amount of park and other green space in that section of the corridor, including a possible expansion of Glebe Memorial Park and a greening of the existing paved space that is the current Chamberlain Avenue; and

WHEREAS the plan goes so far as to acknowledge that one key recommendation of the City of Ottawa Chamberlain Avenue, Catherine Street, and Isabella Street Functional Design Study — the addition of a multi-use pathway (MUP) on the south side of Chamberlain Avenue — has not been incorporated as part of the current plan but that the plan does not preclude the addition of the MUP should the City decide to pursue this in the future; and

WHEREAS the DCR also specifies that a landscaping plan has been prepared for this project that includes “expanded green space north of Glebe Memorial Park” but does not appear to incorporate this into the existing design itself;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the GCA calls upon the MTO and the City of Ottawa for a commitment that they actively and transparently consult each other and the affected communities (Glebe and Glebe Annex) on these aspects of the plan; and

THAT next steps, including clarity, communication and consultation with the community, address the goals of the northern expansion of Memorial Park, removal and grassing/treeing of the existing sidewalk and the redundant portion of Chamberlain Ave, development of a MUP immediately south of the realigned Chamberlain Ave, and development of a parkette in the large triangle created between Bronson and the new Chamberlain; and

THAT these goals take advantage of planned construction to minimize cost and be incorporated into the current design plan while planned construction is underway.

Angus MacLeod presented the motion for approval. The motion was moved by Angus MacLeod and seconded Elizabeth Ballard. Friendly amendments were requested and the motion was amended as below.

THAT next steps, including clarity, communication and consultation with the community, address the goals of the northern expansion of Memorial Park, removal and grassing/treeing of the existing sidewalk and the redundant portion of Chamberlain Ave, development of landscape drawings for all impacted areas, development of a MUP immediately south of the realigned Chamberlain Ave, and development of a parkette in the large triangle created between Bronson and the new Chamberlain; and

THAT these goals take advantage of planned construction to minimize cost and be incorporated into the current design plan while planned construction is underway.

All GCA committee members present voted to approve the amended motion, none opposed.

Lansdowne Committee

Due to rapid developments on this issue, Anthony Carricato undertook to keep the GCA Board updated via email and will report back following more a review of the audit.

Health, Housing and Social Services and Transportation Committees

The discussion on Queen Elizabeth Driveway was postponed until next meeting.

President’s Report

Laura Smith encouraged meeting participants to check-out the re-opened Sunnyside library, new Glebe gateway sign and the pop-up art gallery at Lansdowne. Laura also informed participants that the next GCA Board would take place in January 2021 and that any urgent items that arose in the meantime would be dealt with secretarially.

Issues from the Community

No items were raised.

Other Business

No issues were raised.

Adjournment

The motion to adjourn was moved by Bob Brocklebank and seconded by Jennifer Humphries.

GCA Board meeting November 2020 DRAFT

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