OMB upholds town's interim control by-law
Decision recognizes environmental and public safety interests of the community
December 7, 2009 - For Immediate Release
The Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) issued a decision on Friday that upheld the town's Interim Control By-law No 2009-065, but struck down the town's official plan amendment 296. Both measures had been enacted by Council in March 2009 to provide the town with sufficient time to undertake planning studies before any power plant over 10 megawatts could be located in the Town of Oakville. The decision ensures that the town's interim control by-law will remain in effect until March 30, 2010 so that the town may continue its studies and develop the appropriate policies.
"This is good news for our residents. The OMB has recognized the significant impact any proposed power plant could have on our community and is providing the town and its residents with the opportunity to fully study and address the potential environmental, land use, air quality and public safety impacts," Mayor Rob Burton said.
The town's Legal department is reviewing the decision with outside legal counsel and will report back to Council with the detailed implications of this decision.
The town is also continuing its efforts to ensure provincial and federal officials address the town's concerns over the proposed power plant. At a special meeting of Council held earlier today, Council directed staff to submit an application to the Environmental Commissioner of Ontario for a review under the Environmental Bill of Rights regarding the need for an air pollution regulation on PM10 and PM2.5 and other air emissions.
A copy of the decision can be found by searching case number PL090414 on the OMB's website, or by visiting the Power Plant updates web page.
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For more information:
Jane Courtemanche
Director, Strategy, Policy and Communications
Town of Oakville
905-845-6601, ext. 3038
jcourtemanche@oakville.ca
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