Since being elected, many residents have asked questions about what a public hearing is and the process. A consistent question I often get is: “Does Council listen to residents who are opposed to a zoning application?”
The answer is Yes!
Let’s start with an overview of what public hearings are and how you can participate in this process!
Public hearing processes are set by the Provincial Government for proposed land use changes (eg. rezoning from residential to commercial).
When applications are received, the City is legally required to accept and go through the process. This includes required notification to residents within a certain distance of the property in question, as well as through other media outlets (e.g., newsprint). The final zoning decision is up to Council with City Administration providing their recommendations based on policy and strategic plans (e.g., The City Plan).
The public hearing process is required to be quasi-judicial. This means City Council must come to public hearing without any real or perceived perceptions of bias and with open minds to all information presented prior to making their decision. This is why I am not able to give a position on a particular zoning before the hearing when asked by constituents or other members of the public.
Anyone can register to speak at a public hearing and there are several ways to register:
In person at City Hall at least 15 minutes in advance of the start of the public hearing
At a public hearing, each community member registered is given 5 minutes to present to Council. Council then has the opportunity to ask questions of speakers, City Administration, and then back to speakers for questions of clarification.
Council is listening, so please send emails or sign up to speak on items of importance to you. Reach out with questions or if you’d like assistance with registering to speak at public hearing.
