Trout Lake Official Plan and Zoning Bylaw Amendments

Changes to North Bay’s Official Plan and Zoning Bylaws for Trout Lake and its watershed have continued to move through the statutory approval process. We presume that East Ferris is also moving their planning policies forward, although their efforts have not been as well publicized. The September 10th Open House at the Portage contained a number of changes to draft policies based on early input from the TLCA. However, we still had issues with Best Management Practices. This was expressed to the city in a follow up letter, discussed below. On October 27th, planning staff presented amended policies to council and heard several public presentations. Policies affecting rural lot creation were adopted that evening, while the broader Official Plan and Zoning Bylaws for Trout Lake were referred back to the Special Committee for further consideration. In November, City staff returned with a Supplemental Report addressing issues raised earlier. This report focused on four key areas:

• Ensuring proactive enforcement of site plan control agreements and supporting educational work related to building and living within the Watershed.

• Site Plan Control requirements for back-lot creation.

• The continued prohibition of pressure-treated lumber along the shoreline and in Trout Lake and it’s tributaries.

• Bylaws related to commercial agricultural use in rural areas of the watershed.

On December 9th North Bay City Council adopted the new policies with amendments that reflect public concerns which is now under a mandatory 20-day appeal period for final objections. This has been a lengthy process, one in which the TLCA has invested significant effort and input. We hope these changes will provide stronger protections for Trout Lake, its water, and its surrounding environment well into the future. We extend our thanks to all members who participated and shared their views — your involvement truly makes a difference.