On March 6, 2023, Senior Heritage Planner Laura Loney, presented a report regarding the Heritage Strategy Bill 23 to the Halton Hills Council. The report recommended the adoption of the Heritage Register Prioritization Criteria contained within Appendix A of Report PD-2023-010.
The Council has directed staff to apply the Heritage Register Prioritization Criteria to existing listed properties on the Town's Heritage Register. This will involve the research and evaluation of properties in order of their prioritization. The report stated that staff would undertake this research and evaluation following consultation with impacted property owners as required under legislation.
Once the research and evaluation is complete, the Council will designate those properties that meet the criteria for designation under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. This will follow consultation with impacted property owners. The report also stated that staff would request the removal of those properties that do not meet the criteria for designation under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act.
The Ontario Heritage Act (OHA) and its regulations have been amended to streamline processes and eliminate obstacles that have been impeding housing construction and other critical projects. This has been done while still preserving the most significant heritage properties that hold importance to local communities. However, the act does does increase barriers and criteria to properties being deemed heritage locations.
The adoption of the Heritage Register Prioritization Criteria by the Halton Hills Council is a step towards preserving the town's heritage.
Comments