Massive Markham development has both sides talking up storm

YorkRegion.com
March 20, 2017
Tim Kelly

With the 2,400-residential-unit development proposed for York Downs Golf Club, the key issue between developer, staff and residents is to keep on talking.

That's what Regional Coun. Jim Jones, development services committee chair, suggested early on in Monday's initial meeting on the development application.

After several citizens complained to the committee they didn't know enough about the 417-acre development proposed for north of 16th Avenue between Warden Avenue and Kennedy Road, Jones said the answer lies in more informal question-and-answer discussions between residents and the developer facilitated by councillors in a subcommitee format.

It appears the Unionville subcommittee of council will be the vehicle under which residents will strive to get the answers they're looking for.

Michael Gannon, a resident of Delhi Crescent just south of York Downs Golf Club, spoke of the numerous concerns for which he's seeking answers.

"A large condo block is proposed across 16th Avenue; the condo block is totally out of character with the surrounding neighbourhood," said Gannon who wondered why the condo block couldn't be located elsewhere within the development.

He also asked if the density target of 19.2 units per developable hectare was necessary, what tree plan was proposed for the development and the compensation value for any trees cut down, that an exit to Warden Avenue be planned (one is not currently part of the developer's plan) so that residents aren't subject to another 5,000 cars exiting onto 16th Avenue, "which is already clogged anyway." He said the development should be put off until 16th Avenue is widened.

Coun. Valerie Burke made it clear the proposal would not get her support.

“Right now this land is providing huge natural benefits; cooling, stormwater benefits, natural irrigation, carbon sequestration and homes for wildlife. What really concerns me is all the wildlife that will be driven out of this property.

“To me, I cannot support this application. My conscience will not let me support this application.”

Residents will have a chance to hear from the developer at a public meeting at council chambers, April 5 at 7 p.m. The application is still in its initial stages and no decisions have yet been made.