FAQs
Final Draft Q&As
What does the Town have in mind regarding new residential housing?
In terms of growth and growth management, there are two ways for this to occur. In existing areas, there is an opportunity for replacement housing and some infill and intensification and Accessory Apartments in accordance with character area policies. The second way would be through new planned areas which are large vacant areas subject to planning applications. It is anticipated that the predominant form will be single detached dwellings in accordance with policies and guidelines. |
Congratulations on strong policies around urban design and built form – will this be an approach considered by the Town in other areas?
Thank you. We took into consideration unique context – topography, history and natural heritage. When developing Design Guidelines for other areas we will consider the context of the specific area.
What is the timing for approval of the updated Secondary Plan? How will the updated Secondary Plan be applied to pending applications? What is the planning rationale for a hamlet buffer abutting a Provincial Greenbelt Plan?
In terms of process and timing, after June 14th Statutory Public Meeting any further comments / revisions will be provided and updated to the Secondary Plan. Staff will bring forward a report identifying all final reports / change prescribed in September for consideration and adoption.
The Plan will then be submitted to Region of Halton for approval. Applications currently in process, that started under existing Town of Halton Hills Official Plan framework will be considered under that process, and new policy will be informative not determinative.
New applications after the Secondary Plan is in place would be under consideration of the new plan. Hamlet buffer was an area of consideration. The idea is to maintain a 10m buffer for connections with the Active Transportation system where possible.
Noting the difference in timing between the Secondary Plan and current traffic issues, traffic is an issue that needs to be addressed in another forum.
Thank you for your comment. Many of these items are related to implementation and operations. Specific analysis by the Town is ongoing to review traffic issues along three major intersections Confederation Street and Wildwood Road/Main Street, Main Street and Prince Street, and Main Street and Mountain Street). Any recommendations for improvements are to be implemented through future transportation programs.
In addition, as new road improvements are completed, these items are reviewed.
How will the trail systems be connected to existing trails and sidewalks to ensure SAFE active transportation throughout the Glen?
The Secondary Plan has incorporated the result of the Active Transportation Master Plan.
We need better safety for the GW School. Cross walks, speed bumps or anything better than what we have is necessary.
Thank you for the comment. The speed limit in the area is 40 km/h and the operating speeds are low. Currently we have a school crossing guard at the All-Way Stop at the intersection of Main Street and Prince Street to assist students and parents before and after school. Additional education is required requesting people to utilize the controlled crossing at the intersection. The school needs to aid the Town in educating parents to utilize the resources provided by the Town and cross with the Guards at the All-way stops. The latter will resolve any issue in regards to safety. |
There is no reference to the Climate Emergency or climate change concerns in the Official Plan. This is a serious concern.
We are planning to start the Town of Halton Hills Official Plan Review Project late this year. Through that process we will ensure we are in conformity with Town initiatives including any Climate Change initiatives, and Regional and Provincial policy.
For this Secondary Plan, we do have some objectives related to climate change and sustainability i.e.) objective F. Section 4.3.13. In addition, it is part of the plan objectives to consider and conform to the Green Development Standards. Section 4.3.13. includes policies related to Sustainability and Climate Change. This section recognizes the Town’s commitment to sustainable growth and development and goal to be a Net Zero municipality by 2030. It also speaks to the requirement for new development to adhere to the Town’s Green Development Standards.
Add an objective about the natural environment, and mention the growth and character – and discourage sprawl in the Hamlet.
Through the Secondary Plan process, we were able to formulate an updated goal and objective in a draft version. From comments received, there have been some minor updates to reflect these items. Each objective has a series of items including managing change, and protecting and enhancing natural environment.
Sustainable products should be used in the landscape realm such as natural granite materials. For the safety of the sidewalks, granite tactile is better than steel tactile.
Thanks for the comment, we will review the design guidelines to assess if additional details on appropriate materials are needed.
To encourage architectural styles that are consistent with the hamlet character; Toronto Atmospheric Fund posted a request for Halton Hills residents to address the Green Development Standards. How does this relate to the OP?
It is part of the plan objectives to consider and conform to the Green Development Standards. In addition, Section 4.3.13. includes policies related to Sustainability and Climate Change. This section recognizes the Town’s commitment to sustainable growth and development and goal to be a Net Zero municipality by 2030. It also speaks to the requirement for new development to adhere to the Town’s Green Development Standards.
On page 1, j) there is a reference to 'fiscal impacts' but it does not say sustainable impacts, this is another concern.
Sustainability impacts are listed under the Natural Heritage and the Climate change Objectives of the Plan. |
The Official Plan seems very weak on environmental concerns.
Thanks for the comment, this will be considered during the Town’s Official Plan Project which is expected to commence later this year.
Is being included into wastewater infrastructure plans considered as a part of this plan?
Any new development is required to be on full services. The extension of servicing to existing areas will be at the discretion of the Region of Halton. |
Please define what do you mean by "greenlands'.
Existing Secondary Plan includes Greenlands to be protected from development i.e., areas around the Credit River, woodlands, etc. The terminology has changed and now Greenlands are identified as the Natural Heritage System to reflect Region and Provincial policy.
It is of concern that when developments are approved that MEET the 5 units/ha statements in the OP, that existing residents are given the chance to hook up to sewers?
The extension of services is under jurisdiction of the Region and will be considered when it is feasible.
Back to the Wastewater infrastructure…. The Town does not advocate for infrastructure?
Water and wastewater is under the Region of Halton jurisdiction and advocating can occur through Regional councillors.
Is there still a chance to 'improve' the draft?
During the Statutory Public Meeting, there was a presentation to Council and the Public discussing changes and opportunity for feedback at the meeting. The Final Secondary Plan will go to Council in September as a recommendation report.
But some changes based on public feedback are not recorded in this draft?
Additional changes to the final plan and mapping are forthcoming. There is further opportunity to provide further input and make changes before finalizing the Secondary Plan.
Are you defining some of the terms related to the Natural Heritage System?
The Section on the Natural Heritage System identifies defined terms in italics, and refer back to the ROP.
Can you elaborate on the Trail System?
A new schedule with changes has been included which incorporated the Town’s Active Transportation Master Plan. For more information visit https://www.haltonhills.ca/en/residents/active-transportation-master-plan.aspx
There is no real addressing of air pollution issues apart from noxious ones. Is this a miss?
The Secondary Plan policies do not include detailed policies for areas covered by the Region Official Plan, Town of Halton Hills Official Plan or other legislation. Policies related to air pollution can be found in these plans. The Secondary Plan focused primarily on land use. |
I have a question about accessibility for seniors, young people, people with disabilities, etc. Will parks be required to ensure accessibility? Will the plan ensure that mixed use housing for different needs is included?
There is reference to accessible and age friendly design guidelines.
The Town makes an effort to implement accessible design for parks an open space when it is feasible to do so.
Can you speak more about Accessibility for Housing?
Recognizing the limited growth that will occur in Glen Williams, accessory apartments could provide an opportunity for additional accessible units.
If the Region has to approve the Secondary Plan… why haven’t they thought of extending municipal infrastructure?
The Region has a different process for servicing through a Servicing Master Plan. The Region and Credit Valley Conservation have been part of the Technical Advisory Committee throughout the process and provided most updated relevant information.
What is the timing for approval of the updated Secondary Plan? How will the updated Secondary Plan be applied to pending applications? What is the planning rationale for a hamlet buffer abutting a Provincial Greenbelt Plan?
Development applications submitted pursuant to the Planning Act will be reviewed against the Official Plan policies and schedules that were in effect at the time the complete application was received by the Town. However, staff will look to the updated policies of the Glen Williams Secondary Plan for guidance, where applicable, in their review of any active development application. With regards to the Hamlet Buffer, the buffer has been reduced from 20 metres to 10 metres; the suggested 10 metre buffer aims to provide a buffer between the existing boundary and new developed areas. The buffer would also provide opportunities for open space and trails within future development in Glen Williams. |
Could you speak to the trail system that is referred to in the Official Plan please.
The Draft Secondary Plan has incorporated the trail system that was recently prepared as part of the Town’s Active Transportation Master Plan. For more information visit https://www.haltonhills.ca/en/residents/active-transportation-master-plan.aspx
Can you please review the timing of your feedback process and when the Council is to make a decision on the Secondary Plan and proposed developments, which do NOT meet the Secondary Plan. Would appreciate the contact. Thank You.
In terms of process and timing, after tonight’s Statutory Public Meeting any further comments / revisions will be provided and updated to the Secondary Plan. Staff will bring forward a report identifying all final reports / change prescribed in September for consideration and adoption. The Plan will then be submitted to Region of Halton for approval.
For information regarding specific development applications please contact the Town’s Planning Department at planning@haltonhills.ca or by calling 9058732601 ext. 2900
Can I get clarity that developments have to maintain the current landforms, and not regrade?
In the Goal of the Secondary Plan there has been an added reference to guide change that maintains and enhances the natural environment . Additionally, a reference will be included in the Objectives with regards to providing for limited growth in designated and planned areas through development that is sensitive to the natural environment and the topography of Glen Williams. Maintaining Landform will be the focus with a balance of safety and stormwater management for the development.
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Cement/Concrete products are the largest emitters of CO2 on the planet!
Thank you for the comment. These comments have been forwarded to the Town’s Public Works department.
Natural granite costs less than any concrete man made product for example Uniloc, Techbloack etc.
Thank you for the comment. These comments have been forwarded to the Town’s Public Works department. |
Natural granite products at super low cost comparable to most cement/concrete products
Thank you for the comment. These comments have been forwarded to the Town’s Public Works department.
The best difference is that natural granite products such as curbing, security barriers, tactile, sidewalk pavers have a typical life expectancy of 200+ years VS the concrete paver interlock that lasts 5-7 in our climate
Thank you for the comment. These comments have been forwarded to the Town’s Public Works department. |
How can we use more sustainable natural granite products?
Thank you for the comment. These comments have been forwarded to the Town’s Public Works department.
The rusty tactile is being replaced all over the province due the buttons splitting in the winter. This is ongoing cost given that the rusty metals becomes sharp as it is broken.
Thank you for the comment. |
Not to mention it stains everything around it for 5 years until it stops rusting. This is bad standard and larger cities across North America understand this.
Thank you for the comment.
Natural granite can also be engraved to show the hamlets history If we use natural granite for this project we will engrave memorial benches for free!
Thank you for the comment. |
Small hamlets around Boston were paved in granite cobble in the 1600’s and today its still pristine.
Thank you for the comment. |
The amount of maintenance costs are insane and it could be resolved by using a material such as Granite.
Thank you for the comment. |
Speed cameras. Every other country uses them. Why is Canada so slow to get good technology?
Thank you for the comment.
Top developers in Toronto understand the true value of using natural granite, how can we get some of this good stuff?
Thank you for the comment. |
Noise pollution on major arteries and traffic calming solutions are a must!
Thanks for the comment. Many of these items are related to implementation and operations. As new road improvements are completed, these items are reviewed.
How will the goal to increase active transportation be impacted by increased traffic due to growth?
As part of this review, additional transportation analysis has been completed to review intersection capacity. Our consultant has completed additional analysis at three local intersections within Glen Williams (Confederation Street and Wildwood Road/Main Street, Main Street and Prince Street, and Main Street and Mountain Street) to inform the Secondary Plan review process. This analysis has been completed using traffic volumes from 2019. Pedestrian volumes were also analyzed during the peak periods to determine if pedestrian improvements should be considered at these intersections. In addition, a sightline analysis was also conducted at the intersection of Confederation Street and Mountain Street. Although no additional changes are anticipated to the Secondary Plan, the recommendations are being assessed by the Town’s Transportation Department to be implemented through future transportation programs.
Trails are nice but what about sidewalks on major arterials to keep pedestrians safe?
As part of this review, additional transportation analysis has been completed to review intersection capacity. Our consultant has completed additional analysis at three local intersections within Glen Williams (Confederation Street and Wildwood Road/Main Street, Main Street and Prince Street, and Main Street and Mountain Street) to inform the Secondary Plan review process. This analysis has been completed using traffic volumes from 2019. Pedestrian volumes were also analyzed during the peak periods to determine if pedestrian improvements should be considered at these intersections. In addition, a sightline analysis was also conducted at the intersection of Confederation Street and Mountain Street. Although no additional changes are anticipated to the Secondary Plan, the recommendations are being assessed by the Town’s Transportation Department to be implemented through future transportation programs. |
What about Wildwood road? Drivers are so fast, and there is only a sidewalk on one side of the road - crossing the street to access the sidewalk is dangerous.
Specific analysis by the Town is ongoing to review traffic issues along three major intersections Confederation Street and Wildwood Road/Main Street, Main Street and Prince Street, and Main Street and Mountain Street).
Any recommendations for improvements are to be implemented through future transportation programs.
All the main roads now are high risk. A recent World Resources (WRI) report speaks to speed globally. I can forward as it has been reviewed by residents of the Glen as a group, which is EXTREMELY concerned now with a potential fatality NOW.
Specific analysis by the Town is ongoing to review traffic issues along three major intersections Confederation Street and Wildwood Road/Main Street, Main Street and Prince Street, and Main Street and Mountain Street). Any recommendations for improvements are to be implemented through future transportation programs. |
Making street signs on Wildwood visible could help identify speed zone to drivers. Signs are covered with trees and bushes. Enforcement also helps.
Many of these items are related to implementation and operations. Specific analysis by the Town is ongoing to review traffic issues along three major intersections Confederation Street and Wildwood Road/Main Street, Main Street and Prince Street, and Main Street and Mountain Street). Any recommendations for improvements are to be implemented through future transportation programs.
In addition, as new road improvements are completed, these items are reviewed.
Are there considerations for extending servicing to existing residents?
The Region of Halton has confirmed that there are no plans in the Region's Water & Wastewater Master Plans to retrofit older properties away from private septic systems to municipal servicing of wastewater in Glen Williams at the moment. It is the policy of the Region that any extension of the Regional wastewater servicing system to existing development areas within the Hamlet may be approved by the Region of Halton when it is determined to be feasible and prudent due to public health or environmental concerns.
Draft Secondary Plan Q&As
Are there any considerations for expanding the Hamlet boundaries?
No, the Hamlet boundary is well established and will continue in its current form. This can also be seen in all of the Schedules of the Draft Secondary Plan.
Where can we get more information about this project?
The Let’s Talk Halton Hills engagement platform has plenty of information about the Glen Williams Secondary Plan Review project. The page is up to date with previous virtual Open House videos, as well as relevant documents such as the Background Report, Draft Secondary Plan and an Executive Summary of the changes made to the existing Secondary Plan.
If you or someone you know has any issues accessing the consultation material, please contact us directly by calling 905-873-2600 Ext. 2900. We will make arrangements to provide you with hard copies of the public engagement material and options for submitting your comments and questions to us.
When are sidewalks scheduled for confederation street north of Wildwood?
The Town is aware of this issue with pedestrian access along Confederation north of Wildwood Road. Preliminary engineering will be initiated in 2021 as part of the Main Street (Glen Williams) Improvements project and the implementation is scheduled in our current capital budged forecast for 2026. Implementation timing will be refined based on the results of the preliminary engineering investigations.
Please contact Transportation and Public Works at 905-873-2600, ext.2300 or Email Transportation.
Additional policies are added for intensification. What does this entail? Is the density to remain at 5 units per ha? Is it to increase and if so by how much? Why was this changed?
The Provincial Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (2020) includes policies related to encouraging intensification that the Town needs to comply with. Intensification in the context of the Hamlet of Glen Williams would primarily be in the form of Accessory Apartments (e.g. basement apartments) or infill housing in existing vacant lots. The Density target, 5 units per ha, for new development still stands in the updated plan (see page H-27).
Does the 20m buffer next to greenbelt land still exist? In talking to several area residents this is not something anyone wants to see change.
Policies related to the Hamlet Buffer are still included the draft updated plan. The updated language recognizes the existing context of Glen Williams and the need for appropriate setbacks/buffers for new development (see Page H-12). Town staff continue to review this policy based on comments received from the community and revision will be incorporated into the final draft of the Secondary Plan.
If municipal services are only being given to new development, existing residents are being disadvantaged.
Please note that developers are responsible for paying for the extension of services to connect their development site. The Region has confirmed that there are currently no plans in the Region's Water & Wastewater Master Plans to retrofit older properties away from private septic systems to municipal servicing of wastewater in Glen Williams.
However, it is the policy of the Region that any extension of the Regional wastewater servicing system to existing development areas within the Hamlet may be approved by the Region of Halton when it is determined to be feasible and prudent due to public health or environmental concerns.
Why did this draft remove the sentence indicating that the buffer zone width could be reduced if the 'intent' is still achieved? How can property owners with a buffer zone reduce the width but still achieve the perimeter boundary?
The updated policy language recognizes the existing context of Glen Williams and the need for appropriate setbacks/buffers for new development (see Page H-12). In existing areas, the intent is to encourage property owners to maintain this buffer area along the boundary of the Hamlet.
New planned areas which are still to be developed, will need to consider adjacent boundaries to determine an appropriate buffer area, setbacks and uses. Opportunities for parks and trails should be assessed within the boundary areas for future development in accordance with the Active Transportation Master Plan.
Public ownership of the Hamlet Boundary Buffer within New Planned Areas will be required.
Background Study Q&As
- Phase 1- Background and Key Findings
- Phase 2- Community Vision
- Phase 3- Policy Formulation
- Phase 4- Recommended Plan
- Conformity to Provincial and Regional Plans
- Confirmation that the goals and objectives of the Secondary Plan remain relevant
- Updated Hamlet Design policies and guidelines that reflect best practices which are sensitive to the community context
- Updated natural heritage and environmental policies to conform to provincial and regional policy while acknowledging the existing community context of Glen Williams (e.g., Hamlet that provides transition between)
What is a Secondary Plan?
A Secondary Plan allows for more detailed or issue-based planning in newly developed or other areas where specific issues and concerns are identified such as public spaces, parks and urban design. A Secondary Plan is part of the Official Plan, and subject to the full Official Plan Amendment process.
Why is the Glen Williams Secondary Plan being updated?
The existing Secondary Plan came into full force and effect in 2007, once all appeals were settled at the Ontario Municipal Board. The planning horizon for the existing Glen Williams Secondary Plan is 2021. As a result, the Hamlet of Glen Williams Secondary Plan preceded a number of provincial and regional plans, which have revised policy directions for growth and development in Ontario. A scoped review of the Hamlet of Glen Williams Secondary Plan is timely and will enable the Town to appropriately respond to these planning considerations.
What area of the Town will be covered during the review?
The Hamlet of Glen Williams as identified on Schedule H4-1 Glen Williams Land Use Plan is included in the review. Schedule H41 Glen Williams
How can I stay informed and provide my comments?
Updates and information related to the review will be posted on this webpage. Notices of upcoming public engagement events will also be advertised in the Georgetown Independent and Free Press and through the Town of Halton Hills social media accounts.
What is the timing and process of the review?
The review will take approximately 18 months to be completed by spring of 2021. The review will be completed in four phases.
What will the review accomplish?