MINTO - Council is set to decide whether it are opposed to the removal of section 6.4.7 from the county’s official plan, which if removed, would mean small rural settlements would no longer be recognized in the provincial policy and the growth plan.
In a report submitted by CAO Derrick Thomson, he explained that "by removing section 6.4.7, the county would be able to restrict and limit any future minor development proposals allowed by the provincial policy, because small rural settlements would no longer be recognized."
The county official plan provides land use policy, goals and objectives for all of Wellington as well as local municipalities such as Minto.
Town staff supports the focus of growth and development, however, they believe that minor infilling and rounding out should continue to be allowed in the rural system, even if the area is not mapped as a hamlet.
Rural settlements as defined in the provincial growth plan and section 6.4.7 of the county official plan are completely consistent with each other.
By allowing minor infilling and rounding out of smaller settlements, it will help sustain the rural system, so long as private servicing is suitable and rural character is maintained.
Minto staff recommended council to request section 6.4.7 not be removed in official plan amendment 119 as this would be more restrictive than the provincial policy.
Council will decide whether they’re opposed or not at Tuesday’s regular council meeting.
