New Development Charges to be Discussed at Public Meeting on April 23
April 16, 2013
At the April 15 Finance and Administration Committee meeting, Vaughan Council received an update report on the Development Charge Review process in preparation for a public meeting to be held next week.
The City is currently reviewing its by-laws relating to development charges, the fees collected from land developers to fund the cost of municipal services and infrastructure needed to accommodate growth.
“The Development Charge Review is important to all residents because these funds directly impact the delivery of municipal services,” said Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua. “Growth needs to pay for growth. That’s why we consult with the development community to ensure that new changes reflect necessary infrastructure for these growth areas.”
Development charges help pay for infrastructure such as new community centres, libraries, fire stations, and parks in new neighbourhoods, as well as basic infrastructure including new roads, sidewalks, streetlights and water mains.
“It is important to note that any increase in development charges will be invested in key areas and important services such as fire and rescue services, new parks, services delivered by public works, and new infrastructure,” said Mayor Bevilacqua.
The Development Charges Act, 1997 requires municipalities to pass a new by-law every five years. Vaughan’s by-law expires on November 1, 2013.
The review process includes consultations with the development industry and public meetings. A Public Statutory Meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 23 at 7 p.m. at Vaughan City Hall to provide the opportunity for members of the public to make deputations.
For more information, click here. Copies of 2013 Development Charges Background Study are available for public viewing at the Clerk’s Office at Vaughan City Hall. To view the Committee update report, click here.