4 unresolved issues in Georgina from summer

Residents waiting for council reports on backyard chickens, Airbnb rentals, waterfront strategy and wharf repairs

Yorkregion.com
Sept. 20, 2019
Amanda Persico

During the summer months, Georgina councillors heard, debated and passed on a number of issues.

Here’s a recap of outstanding issues, where residents are eagerly awaiting reports and resolutions.

1.) Waterfront parks master plan: What’s Georgina to do with the waterfront?

Council narrowly voted to move forward with the plan, broken down into three phases, but results and recommendations for each of the 11 locations won’t be known for years to come. In fact, phases 2 and 3 are subject to future budget deliberations.

2.) Backyard chickens: Get the cluck out?

Going back to a 2016 bylaw fight, town residents are still waiting for eggs to hatch. A report is expected sometime in the fall outlining possible options for backyard hens, as well as a possible pilot project.

3.) Short-term rental accommodations: Neighbour versus Party Palace

For the second consecutive summer, the town opted to put in place extended bylaw operations to deal with various issues surrounding summer rentals, from garbage to noise. The town is working toward establishing a short-term rental-accommodation policy with a potential licensing regime starting in 2020.

4.) Mossington Wharf: To demolish or to rebuild?

Instead of moving forward with rehabilitating the wharf, council opted to add new safety fencing, emergency equipment and signage. Mossington Wharf was added to the Waterfront parks mater plan.

Bonus: Interlibrary loans reinstated

Although Georgina residents still have to wait for interlibrary loan items, the library board worked over the summer to resolve the issue. Residents can once again request items from non-local libraries. Restrictions apply.