In developing a Strategy for community improvement in the … · 2014-02-18 · In June 2008, the Town of Caledon retained MMM Group Limited (MMM) and du Toit Allsopp Hillier (DTAH)

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Approved by by-law by Council of the Town of Caledon on 21 April 2009

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Bolton Community Improvement Plan | Town of Caledon Adopted by Caledon Council, April 2009 | Rev. 2, April 2011 | Rev. 3, January 2014

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Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Background ................................................................................................................................................ 1

1.2 Legislative Authority ................................................................................................................................... 1

1.3 Enabling Official Plan Policies ................................................................................................................... 2

1.4 Basis of the CIP ......................................................................................................................................... 3

1.5 Purpose of the CIP ..................................................................................................................................... 3

1.6 Companion Urban Design Guidelines ........................................................................................................ 4

2.0 Bolton Community Improvement Strategy ...................................................................................................... 5

2.1 Bolton’s Critical Needs ............................................................................................................................... 5

2.2 Bolton Community Improvement Project Area ........................................................................................... 6

2.3 Goals and Objectives for Community Improvement .................................................................................. 6

2.4 Community Improvement Programs .......................................................................................................... 8

3.0 Municipal Leadership Strategy ....................................................................................................................... 9

3.1 Purpose ...................................................................................................................................................... 9

3.2 Description ................................................................................................................................................. 9

4.0 Financial Incentive Programs ....................................................................................................................... 15

4.1 Purpose .................................................................................................................................................... 15

4.2 Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant Program ............................................................................................... 15

4.3 Development Charge Grant Program ...................................................................................................... 19

4.4 Application and Permit Fee Grant Program ............................................................................................. 20

4.5 Building and Façade Improvement Grant Program ................................................................................. 22

4.6 Mixed-Use Construction/Conversion Grant Program ............................................................................... 25

4.7 Energy Efficiency Retrofit Grant Program ................................................................................................ 27

4.8 Landscape Improvement Grant Program ................................................................................................. 29

4.9 Environmental Study Grant Program ....................................................................................................... 31

5.0 Monitoring Program ...................................................................................................................................... 34

5.1 Purpose .................................................................................................................................................... 34

5.2 Description ............................................................................................................................................... 34

5.3 Reporting ................................................................................................................................................. 39

5.4 Program Adjustments .............................................................................................................................. 39

6.0 Implementation ............................................................................................................................................. 39

6.1 Glossary of Terms .................................................................................................................................... 39

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6.2 Interpretation ............................................................................................................................................ 40

6.3 Timing ...................................................................................................................................................... 40

6.4 Administration of Municipal Leadership Strategy ..................................................................................... 40

6.5 Administration of the Financial Incentive Programs ................................................................................. 40

6.6 Financial Management of Financial Incentive Programs ......................................................................... 42

6.7 General Eligibility Requirements of the Financial Incentive Programs .................................................... 42

6.8 General Process and Submission Requirements of the Financial Incentive Programs ........................... 45

6.9 Application Process for the Financial Incentive Programs ....................................................................... 46

6.10 Marketing Strategy ................................................................................................................................... 49

7.0 Conclusion .................................................................................................................................................... 51

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1.0 Introduction

This Section does not constitute an operative part of the Community Improvement Plan.

1.1 Background

The Town of Caledon Economic Development Strategy (2008-2012) provides the following mission statement:

“Through community commitment and participation, the Town of Caledon will promote economic

opportunities and secure investment that supports our strategic economic development objectives

and activities in order to enhance community prosperity.”

Community improvement planning is a tool under the Planning Act that can be used by municipalities in order to

advance goals such as these. The Town of Caledon took advantage of this planning tool by organizing the Bolton

Community Improvement Task Force (BCITF), which is comprised of a group of representatives from the Bolton

Improvement Area (BIA), Caledon Chamber of Commerce, the Bolton Merchants Association and the Town of

Caledon. The BCITF completed background work for the redevelopment, revitalization, prosperity, and

beautification Bolton, such as the completion of a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Challenges exercise.

In June 2008, the Town of Caledon retained MMM Group Limited (MMM) and du Toit Allsopp Hillier (DTAH) to build

upon the background work completes and to develop a Community Improvement Plan (CIP) and companion Urban

Design Guidelines (UDG) for the community of Bolton.

While economic decline, vacancy rates, and physical deterioration may only be perceived within Bolton today, there

are present opportunities to enhance the economic vitality and physical appearance of the community and address

a number of key community planning and urban design issues.

The Bolton Community Improvement Plan provides a framework that guides community improvement in Bolton,

through the identification of a Municipal Leadership Strategy and Programs, and Financial Incentive Programs. Its

companion document, the Bolton Urban Design Guidelines, provides additional guidance for community

improvement by identifying design principles and guidelines with respect to built form, facades, streetscape, and

open spaces, for example.

Both the Bolton Community Improvement Plan and the Bolton Urban Design Guidelines are supported by the

Bolton Community Improvement Strategy. Applicants should refer to the Strategy as the basis of and background

to this CIP and its companion UDG.

1.2 Legislative Authority

A thorough discussion of the legislative authority and policy context for community improvement in Bolton is

provided in the supporting and accompanying Bolton Community Improvement Strategy. Sections 1.2 and 1.3 of

this CIP provide a brief summary of the key points of discussion, which will assist applicants in understanding the

basis for community improvement in Bolton.

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Legislative Authority:

Section 106(1) (2), and Section 106(3) of the Municipal Act, 2001, and Section 28 of the Planning Act allows

municipalities to prepare community improvement plans.

Community Improvement defined:

Section 28(1) of the Planning Act defines community improvement as “the planning or replanning, design or

redesign, resubdivision, clearance, development or redevelopment, construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation,

improvement of energy efficiency, or any of them, of a community improvement project area, and the provision of

such residential, commercial, industrial, public, recreational, institutional, religious, charitable or other uses,

buildings, structures, works, improvements or facilities, or spaces therefore, as may be appropriate or necessary”.

Community Improvement Project Area:

Section 28 of the Planning Act establishes and defines the term “community improvement project area” as “a

municipality or an area within a municipality, the community improvement of which in the opinion of the council is

desirable because of age, dilapidation, overcrowding, faulty arrangement, unsuitability of buildings or for any other

environmental, social or community economic development reason” (S. 28(1)). Section 28(2) states that the Town

may, by by-law, designate all or part of the Town as a community improvement project area.

Community Improvement Plans:

Once a community improvement project area has been designated, a community improvement plan can be

prepared for that area (Section 28(4) of the Planning Act) . The Town may use a community improvement plan to:

Acquire, hold, clear, grade or otherwise prepare land (Section 28(3));

Construct, repair, rehabilitate or improve buildings on land acquired or held by the municipality (Section

28(6));

Sell, lease or dispose of any land and buildings acquired or held by the municipality (Section 28(6)); and

Make grants or loans to owners and tenants of land and buildings within the community improvement

project area to help them pay for the cost of rehabilitating their lands or buildings (Section 28(7)).

Eligible costs are those related to environmental site assessment, environmental remediation, development,

redevelopment, construction and reconstruction of lands and buildings for rehabilitation purposes or for the

provision of energy efficient uses, buildings, structures, works, improvements or facilities. (Section 28 (7.1)).

1.3 Enabling Official Plan Policies

Community improvement policies are provided in Section 5.17 of the Town of Caledon Official Plan. As an

objective for community improvement, the Official Plan states that the Town will “identify areas within the Town in

which community improvement is warranted” (5.17.1 b).

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In order to identify areas in which community improvement is warranted, the policies of the Official Plan further set

out criteria for the selection of Community Improvement Project Areas in Section 5.17.2, which includes, but is not

limited to the following:

deficiencies in roads, traffic circulation or parking, sidewalks or curbs, streetlighting, or road signage;

required improvement in the aesthetics of the area through landscaping, business signage, and building

facades; and

indication of economic decline – declining tax base, declining retail sales, high vacancy rates.

The Bolton Community Improvement Strategy and the Bolton Community Improvement Plan have been prepared in

accordance with the policy context outlined above and the legislative authority described in Section 1.2.

1.4 Basis of the CIP

The basis for this Community Improvement Plan, and its companion Urban Design Guidelines, is as follows:

a) The CIP and UDG are based upon the Bolton Community Improvement Strategy (dated March 2009), and

prepared by MMM and DTAH) which supports the framework for community improvement provided by this

Plan, and the guidelines for urban design and built form provided by the UDG;

b) The CIP and UDG incorporate information obtained as a result of a consultation process that included a

design charrette (as part of Phase I of the Study) and workshop (as part of Phase II of the Study) with local

business owners, members of the Bolton Business Improvement Area, Caledon Chamber of Commerce,

Bolton Merchants Association, Town and Regional Councilors, Town and Regional Staff, and the Toronto

and Region Conservation Authority. The consultation process also included at total of two open houses for

members of the public, undertaken at each phase of the Study; and

c) Town staff, in association with the Town’s CIP Steering Committee, has directed the development of this

CIP, as well as the planning process leading to the preparation of this Plan. Town staff has also provided

technical input throughout the process.

1.5 Purpose of the CIP

Specifically, the purpose of the CIP is to:

a) Work with the companion UDG to implement the Bolton Community Improvement Strategy;

b) Establish a set of goals and objectives for community improvement in Bolton;

c) Identify a Municipal Leadership Strategy and Programs that will contribute to, motivate, and assist in

community improvement;

d) Define a set of Financial Incentive Programs available to eligible property owners in order to stimulate and

leverage private sector investment;

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e) Implement design principles and guidelines with respect to built form, streetscape, and open spaces, for

example, as part of the eligibility criteria to access the CIP’s Financial Incentive Programs; and

f) Provide an Implementation and Monitoring Program for the Bolton CIP.

1.6 Companion Urban Design Guidelines

The Bolton Urban Design Guidelines, which have been prepared as a companion document to this CIP, will be

implemented in connection with the CIP program.

The purpose of the UDG is to:

a) Identify design principles and guidelines with respect to built form, facades, streetscape, and open spaces,

for example;

b) Educate property and business owners as to the Town’s principles and guidelines for design;

c) Provide eligibility criteria for CIP’s Financial Incentive Programs, with respect to design; and

d) Provide the Town with a tool for the review and evaluation of applications for Financial Incentive Programs

and supporting materials.

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2.0 Bolton Community Improvement Strategy

2.1 Bolton’s Critical Needs

As part of the preparation of the Bolton Community Improvement Strategy, a critical needs assessment was

undertaken in order to document the conditions and identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats

in Bolton. The assessment built upon on work that had previously been completed by the Bolton Community

Improvement Task Force. It also took into account the results of the Town’s participation in the First Impressions

Community Exchange, which was held in July of 2008.

In accordance with the priority areas identified by the Town and the BCITF, the critical needs assessment focused

on:

a) The Bolton historic core;

b) The Regional Road 50 Commercial Corridor; and

c) The Industrial Areas of Bolton.

Each of these areas was assessed based on:

a) Several site visits (including a Town staff-led tour of the historic core, commercial corridor, and industrial

areas) which inventoried issues related to built form, infrastructure, parking configuration and availability,

the public realm, pedestrian spaces, and development character;

b) A review of background documents from the Town of Caledon, including Economic Development reports,

Town By-laws, existing Urban Design Guidelines, and meeting minutes and results of a SWOT analysis

undertaken by the BCITF;

c) A review of the planning policy context, as provided by the Town of Caledon Official Plan, including criteria

for the identification of a Community Improvement Project Area;

d) A preliminary investigation into the potential for “brownfield” sites in each of the areas of Bolton; and

e) Input and feedback from the project Steering Committee, stakeholders, and the public.

A detailed summary of the results of the critical needs assessment is provided in Section 5.0 of the Bolton

Community Improvement Strategy.

The results led to the identification of Goals and Objectives for Community Improvement in Bolton, and to the

identification of a Community Improvement Project Area, as introduced in the following Sections. As well, the

results were used to develop the Municipal Leadership Strategy and Programs, and Financial Incentive Programs

available to eligible property owners as part of this CIP in order to stimulate and leverage private sector investment.

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2.2 Bolton Community Improvement Project Area

The Council for the Town of Caledon has designated the Community Improvement Project Area (CIPA) for the

Bolton CIP. The Bolton Community Improvement Plan applies to all lands included within the designated CIPA.

The Bolton CIPA was identified as part of the preparation of the Bolton Community Improvement Strategy and is

consistent with all applicable legislative and policy direction/requirements. The CIPA is based upon the results of

the critical needs assessment and consultation with the Town’s CIP Steering Committee, the BCITF, local

stakeholders, and members of the public.

For a detailed discussion of the identification of the Bolton Community Improvement Project Area, applicants may

wish to refer to the accompanying and supporting Strategy, which includes “checklists” for each of the historic core,

commercial corridor, and industrial study areas, and apply the Town’s criteria for selecting CIPAs (provided by

Section 5.17 of the Town’s Official Plan).

The Bolton Community Improvement Project Area, generally includes:

a) Lands designated “Bolton Core” by Schedules C and C-1 of the Town of Caledon Official Plan;

b) Lands located north of the Bolton Core including the Humber River, in recognition of this area’s role as a

gateway to the Bolton core and potential to serve as a park/public gathering space;

c) Lands located south of the Bolton Core including the Albion Bolton Community Centre and Fairgrounds, in

recognition of this area’s role as a gateway to the Bolton Core and as a public gathering space;

d) Lands designated “Bolton South Hill Commercial Area” and “Bolton Highway 50 Commercial Area” by

Schedule C of the Town of Caledon Official Plan; and

e) Lands designated “Industrial” by Schedule C of the Town of Caledon Official Plan (including the existing,

older industrial lands and excluding the newer, developing industrial lands).

Please note that in order to be eligible for any of the incentive programs available in accordance with Section 4.0 of

this CIP, all projects proposed by eligible applicants must be within the designated Community Improvement Project

Area.

2.3 Goals and Objectives for Community Improvement

Goals of the CIP

The goals of the Bolton Community Improvement Plan have been developed based on the critical needs

assessment of the study areas, identified in Section 2.1. They are consistent with legislation for community

improvement planning and applicable Provincial policy. They build upon the Town’s Official Plan policies,

Economic Development Strategy, and the goals for community improvement as identified by the BCITF.

The goals of this CIP are to promote beautification and prosperity in the Bolton Community Improvement Project

Area by:

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a) Improving Bolton’s public infrastructure, and social and recreational facilities/services in a coordinated

manner that reflects local issues, the Town’s priorities, and financial resources;

b) Encouraging, supporting, and aiding in the coordination of private sector investment;

c) Promoting the planning or replanning, design or redesign, resubdivision, clearance, development or

redevelopment, construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation, and/or the improvement of energy efficiency

of buildings or properties;

d) Improving the tax assessment base and revenues for the Town and the Province of Ontario;

e) Endorsing the economic development and competitiveness of Bolton in order to create a diverse and

sustainable economic base;

f) Retaining and increasing live/work, shopping, and tourism opportunities within the Bolton historic core and

commercial corridor, and employment opportunities within the older industrial areas;

g) Improving the physical environment and visual qualities of the Bolton historic core, commercial corridor,

and older industrial areas in a manner that is consistent with the Town’s design principles and guidelines

with respect to built form, built form, streetscape, landscape, and architectural detail; and

h) Protecting and enhancing the environmental features, and unique attributes, nature, and identity of Bolton.

Objectives of the CIP

The objectives of the Bolton Community Improvement Plan are identified below and are intended to accomplish the

goals of this Plan.

The objectives of this CIP are to:

a) Use municipal resources to demonstrate leadership in the planning or replanning, design or redesign,

resubdivision, clearance, development or redevelopment, construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation,

and/or the improvement of energy efficiency of buildings, properties, or infrastructure within the designated

Community Improvement Project Area;

b) Provide grants and refunds to eligible property owners in order to encourage the planning or replanning,

design or redesign, resubdivision, clearance, development or redevelopment, construction, reconstruction

and rehabilitation, and/or the improvement of energy efficiency of privately-owned buildings or properties

within the designated Community Improvement Project Area;

c) Increase the number of property and business owners who improve the physical environment and visual

qualities of buildings or properties within the designated Community Improvement Project Area;

d) Implement the environmental goals for the Town of Caledon, as established by the Region of Peel Official

Plan, and the Town of Caledon Official Plan, Environmental Progress Action Plan, and Green Development

Standards, for example; and

e) Monitor the performance of the Bolton Community Improvement Plan on an on-going basis to ensure that

the goals of the Plan are being met.

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2.4 Community Improvement Programs

In addition to identifying the boundaries of the designated CIPA for Bolton, the Bolton Community Improvement

Strategy also outlined some of the actions required in order to achieve redevelopment, revitalization, prosperity,

and beautification of the historic core, commercial corridor, and industrial areas of Bolton.

Generally, the Strategy for community improvement in Bolton identified a need for:

a) Municipal Leadership Strategy and Programs that will apply municipal resources to contribute to, motivate,

and assist in community improvement activities and undertakings; and

b) Financial Incentive Programs that will be available to eligible property owners in order to stimulate and

leverage private sector investment.

Based on consultation with the Town’s CIP Steering Committee, stakeholders, and members of the public, the

Bolton Community Improvement Plan presents a number of specific programs that respond to the findings and

recommendations of the Bolton Community Improvement Strategy. The following sections of the CIP present the

details of these programs.

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3.0 Municipal Leadership Strategy

3.1 Purpose

The Bolton Community Improvement Strategy identified the need for a Municipal Leadership Strategy and

Programs that will contribute to, motivate, and assist in community improvement in Bolton. In response to that

need, this CIP outlines a number of municipally-led initiatives that enable the Town of Caledon to provide proactive

and visible leadership, coordination, and support for the revitalization, redevelopment, and enhancement of Bolton.

The Municipal Leadership Strategy described in the following section represents a short to long-term strategy on

the part of the Town to focus its efforts and financial resources on public sector investments and actions. The

Municipal Leadership Strategy is designed to act as catalysts to further encourage private sector investment in the

designated Bolton Community Improvement Project Area.

The Town may engage in any of the initiatives outlined below as part of the implementation of the CIP, subject to

the Town’s capital budget and the availability of resources. An indication of the anticipated timing, as identified by

the Town or as recommended by the consulting team, is provided as a target for implementation.

3.2 Description

The following table provides an overview of the details of each of the initiatives included as part of the Municipal

Leadership Strategy.

Table 1: Municipal Leadership Strategy Programs

Program Details Anticipated Timing

a) Bolton

Community

Improvement

Plan Review

Panel

i. The Town may establish a Bolton CIP Review Panel,

which will be responsible for all administrative tasks

related to the implementation of the CIP, as indicated in

Sections 6.4 and 6.5 of this Plan.

ii. One member of the Bolton CIP Review Panel may be

designated as the Panel Chair, and will be responsible for

identifying roles/responsibilities for members of the

Review Panel.

iii. Roles and Responsibilities may include reviewing and

evaluating all CIP incentive program applications and

supporting materials against program requirements,

including guidelines for urban design, and presenting

recommendations to Council for approval or refusal.

iv. The Review Panel may be made up of a multi-disciplinary

team of Town staff to ensure that a variety of interests are

Recommended

as a high priority

initiative with

immediate

implementation

in 2009, upon

the adoption of

the CIP.

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considered when evaluating applications. The team

should include representatives from the Town’s

departments, including Building and By-law Enforcement,

Corporate Services, Economic Development and

Communications, Planning and Development, Public

Works and Engineering, and Recreation and Property

Services.

v. In addition to a Bolton CIP Review Panel, the Town may

also wish to assign a CIP administrator from the

appropriate Town department in order to manage

administrative tasks associated with the implementation of

the CIP. For instance, the administrator may be

responsible for identifying roles/responsibilities for

members of the Review Panel, convening Review Panel

meetings, preparing Recommendation Reports, attending

Council meetings, liaising with applicants, etc. In the

absence of a CIP Administrator, the CIP Review Panel will

be responsible for these tasks.

b) Marketing

Strategy

i. Upon adoption of the Bolton CIP, the Town may promote

the CIP and its incentive programs through a Marketing

Strategy, as described in Section 6.10 of this Plan.

ii. The Strategy may be targeted to local businesses and

organizations within the CIPA in order to educate eligible

property and business owners about the opportunities

available through the Bolton CIP.

Recommended

as a high priority

initiative with

immediate

implementation

in 2009, upon

the adoption of

the CIP.

c) Municipal By-law

Enforcement /

Review

i. The Town may enhance Town By-law enforcement

activities within the CIPA in respect to building

maintenance, signage, and open storage screening in

order to improve the physical and visual qualities of Bolton

ii. In addition, the Town may undertake a review of any

municipal By-law, such as the Town’s Sign By-law, in

order to update requirements so that they are consistent

with the goals and objectives of community improvement,

as identified by this Plan.

Recommended

for on-going

implementation

from 2009 to

2019.

d) Open Space and

Pedestrian and

Cycling Network

i. Section 5.4 of the CIP Strategy identified an open space

and pedestrian and cycling network in Bolton that is

characterized by unlinked open spaces, sidewalks, trails,

Recommended

as a medium

priority, long-

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Linkage Program and public washroom facilities.

ii. As a long-term initiative, the Town may invest in the

establishment of new open spaces and the development

of new sidewalks and trails within the CIPA, in order to:

- develop a more complete network that will

improve the potential for cycling, leisure,

recreational, and cultural activities;

- increase public access to the Humber River; and

- encourage pedestrian movement and cycling,

and offer alternatives to the use of automobiles.

iii. Potential linkages that would contribute to completing the

open space and pedestrian and cycling network are

identified in the CIP Strategy, and may guide the Town’s

linkage program.

term initiative,

with

implementation

in 2009 to 2014.

e) Streetscape

Improvements

i. Section 5.4 of the CIP Strategy identified a number of

streetscape improvement opportunities, specific to the

historic core, commercial corridor, and older industrial

areas, in order to:

- improve the physical and visual qualities of

Bolton;

- protect and enhance the unique attributes,

nature, and identity of Bolton; and

- provide amenities that are conducive to a

pleasant pedestrian environment.

ii. The Town may invest in the following improvements within

the CIPA in order to implement the recommendations of

the CIP Strategy:

- develop of a continuous sidewalk network;

- use consistent sidewalk materials and

dimensions;

- implement principles of barrier-free

design/universal access; and

- implement additional street furniture such as

Recommended

as a high

priority, long-

term initiative,

with on-going

implementation

from 2009 to

2019.

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benches, lighting, street signs, banners, trees

and planters.

iii. With respect to improvement to the Regional Road 50

corridor, this Municipal Leadership Program may be

undertaken in partnership, or with assistance from, the

Regional Municipality of Peel.

f) Roadway,

Crossing, and

Intersection

Improvements

i. Section 5.4 of the CIP Strategy identified a number of

roadway, crossing, and intersections improvement

opportunities in the historic core, commercial corridor, and

older industrial areas in order to create a safe and

comfortable environment for pedestrians.

ii. The Town may invest in the following improvements within

the CIPA in order to implement the recommendations of

the CIP Strategy:

- add bike lanes to the road cross-section;

- reduce lane widths and introduce medians in the

commercial corridor;

- implement marked crossings (painted

walkways/cobblestone); and

- implement crossing signals.

iii. With respect to the Regional Road 50 (RR 50) specifically,

upon completion of the Bolton Arterial Road, the Town

may, in partnership, or with assistance from, the Regional

Municipality of Peel, implement the following

improvements to RR 50:

- coordinate access from RR 50;

- address on-street parking;

- reduce lane widths and introduce medians;

- improve pedestrian amenities; and

- establish a public transit route along RR 50 that

will help to link Bolton to the broader Town and

Region.

Recommended

as a high

priority, long-

term initiative,

with on-going

implementation

from 2009 to

2019.

g) Transit Oriented i. The Town may work with GO Transit and other Inter- Recommended

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Development

Strategy

Regional transit operators to develop a service strategy

for both bus and rail services that will best serve the

community of Bolton’s needs.

ii. The strategy may address issues such as station

locations, stop locations, bus and rail routes, frequency,

access to parking, and design integration with the

surrounding buildings and land uses.

iii. The strategy may also address other transit and public

transportation options.

as a low priority

option, with

implementation

in 2013 or

beyond.

h) Update to the

Town Parking /

Intensification

Study

i. The Town may undertake a review of the existing Bolton

Downtown Core Public Parking Study (April 2004), in

order to update the public parking options and associated

improvements in Bolton core.

ii. The Town may wish to combine this study with an

intensification study that explores the development

potential of the core in ways that are respectful of the

existing historic character.

iii. The study may also investigate the potential and feasibility

to relax parking standards within the Bolton core in order

to promote intensification.

iv. The Town may also expand the study to consider public

parking in the commercial corridor.

Recommended

as a medium

priority initiative,

with

implementation

in 2009 to 2014.

i) Municipal

Acquisition of

Land for Road

Reconfiguration

and Open Spaces

i. Section 5.4 of the CIP Strategy identified several

opportunities for municipal land acquisition. For example:

- in the industrial area where the existing road

network is incomplete, the Town may acquire

land in order to reconfigure the roadways and

improve road connections and

truck/car/pedestrian movement; and

- in addition to the Town’s existing plans for the

development of parks and open spaces along the

Humber River, there are opportunities for the

acquisition of land to develop and link public

open spaces.

ii. The Town may undertake municipal land acquisition in

Recommended

as a low priority

option, with

implementation

in 2010 to 2015.

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accordance with Section 28 of the Planning Act, in order

to reconfigure roadways and increase the number of

public open spaces.

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4.0 Financial Incentive Programs

4.1 Purpose

The Bolton Community Improvement Strategy identifies a need for Financial Incentive Programs that could be

available to eligible property owners in order to stimulate and leverage private sector investment. This CIP outlines

a framework for the Town to offer a variety of incentive programs to eligible applicants that will help achieve the

goals and objectives outlined in Section 2.3 of the Plan. Availability of these programs and incentives will be

evaluated and decided upon by Council on the basis of what will serve the community best at any point in time over

the implementation of the CIP.

This Plan profiles a menu of the following Financial Incentive Programs:

Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant Program;

Development Charge Grant Program;

Application and Permit Fee Grant Program;

Building and Façade Improvement Grant Program;

Mixed-Use Construction/Conversion Grant Program;

Energy Efficiency Retrofit Grant Program;

Landscape Improvement Grant Program; and

Environmental Study Grant Program.

For all of the incentive programs offered, there are General Eligibility Requirements (outlined in Section 6.7) that

must be met in order to be eligible to access the financial incentives for community improvement within the Bolton

Community Improvement Project Area. In addition, for each Financial Incentive Program, there are Program

Specific Eligibility Requirements, which are outlined in the tables provided in the following sections.

As described in Section 6.6 and indicated in the following tables, Council will establish an annual budget for the

implementation of the Bolton Community Improvement Plan, and specifically for the provision of incentives as part

of the Financial Incentive Program based on priority.

In most cases, the Financial Incentive Programs made available through the Bolton Community Improvement Plan

can be used individually or in combination with another CIP Financial Incentive Program (or any other existing

Town incentive program) in accordance with Table 11 in Section 6.7 and as indicated in the following tables.

However, this does not apply to the Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant Program, which cannot be used in combination

with any other incentive program.

4.2 Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant Program

Table 2 provides applicants with the program specific details and requirements of the Tax Increment-Equivalent

Grant Program.

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Table 2: Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant Program Specific Details

Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant Program Specific Details

a) Rationale i. The Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant Program offers grants to eligible applicants

whose Municipal property tax has increased as a result of the development or

redevelopment, construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation, and/or the improvement

of energy efficiency of buildings or properties within the designated Community

Improvement Project Area.

ii. The program will encourage large scale property and building investment by effectively

deferring the full increase in taxation associated with the reassessment through grants

that are equivalent to a portion of the resulting property tax increase.

iii. The program will also encourage the remediation, rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse of

“brownfield” sites, as defined in Section 6.1.

iv. The Town of Caledon will benefit from the property tax increase with each passing

year (as the grant decreases to the expiry of the grant agreement) and for each year

thereafter, in addition to the potential creation of jobs and local economic activity

associated with the community improvement works undertaken.

b) Legislative

Authority

i. (The Municipality may) make grants to registered owners, assessed owners and

tenants of land and buildings within the community improvement project area, to pay

for the whole or any part of the cost of rehabilitating such lands and buildings (Section

28(7) of the Planning Act).

ii. In order encourage the clean up of contaminated lands, municipalities may provide

property tax assistance to eligible properties to offset all or a portion of remediation

costs. Municipalities have the power to cancel or defer the municipal portion of

property taxes on eligible properties (Section 365.1 of the Municipal Act).

c) Details i. The current municipal taxes levied will be determined prior to commencement of the

proposed project. The increase in the municipal portion of real property taxes

(municipal tax increment) will be calculated. The program allows a municipal tax

increment equivalent to the taxes levied on the increased assessment as a result of

undertaking the project as determined by the Municipal Property Assessment

Corporation (MPAC) following project completion. The municipal tax increment will be

used in the calculation of the amount of the grant. The total amount of any tax

increment equivalent shall not exceed 50% of the original total cost of the

improvements or $20,000 annually whichever is lesser.

ii. When an approved project is complete, a grant will be paid annually by the Town to

the eligible applicant following the payment of all property taxes.

iii. Grants are equal to a percentage of the municipal tax increment for a maximum period

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of up to 10 years.

iv. In year one, the grant to the approved applicant may equal 90 percent of the municipal

tax increment.

v. The grant will be phased down by a percentage each year thereafter, for a maximum

of 10 years. Phase down rate as approved by Council.

d) Eligibility

Requirements

i. All of the Town of Caledon Bolton CIP General Eligibility Requirements (outlined in

Section 6.7) apply.

ii. Eligible community improvement projects under this program will include the large

scale development or redevelopment, construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation.

iii. Large scale projects are defined as those which involve 25% or more of the existing

gross floor area. Infrastructure work including the improvement or reconstruction of

existing on-site public infrastructure (water services, sanitary and storm sewers) will

also be considered eligible.

iv. Small scale projects (defined as those that involve less than 25% of the existing gross

floor area) will not be considered eligible under this program, but may be eligible under

(an) alternative Bolton CIP incentive program(s).

v. Eligible community improvement projects will also include the remediation,

rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse of “brownfield” sites.

vi. It is intended that the Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant program be a “stand alone”

incentive program and that the owners of property not accumulate incentives both

under the Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant program and under other incentive

programs or initiatives available in the Town of Caledon. The property owner will be

responsible for the entire cost of the project.

vii. For all eligible projects, the Town may require the applicant to submit a Business Plan,

which will be prepared to the satisfaction of the Town of Caledon.

viii. For all eligible projects, the property shall be improved such that the amount of work

undertaken is sufficient to at minimum result in an increase in the assessed value of

the property.

ix. For “brownfield” projects only, any of the following activities may be undertaken prior to

the increase in taxation and could be considered eligible:

1. the completion of Environmental Studies (such as Phase II and III ESAs, and

Risk Assessment Plans;

2. environmental remediation, including the cost of preparing a Record of Site

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Condition (RSC);

3. placing clean fill and grading;

4. installing environmental and/or engineering controls/works, as specified in the

Phase III ESA and/or Risk Assessment Plan;

5. monitoring, maintaining and operating environmental and engineering

controls/works, as specified in the Phase III ESA and/or Risk Assessment

Plan;

6. demolishing buildings;

7. building rehabilitation and retrofit works;

8. upgrading on-site infrastructure, including water services, sanitary sewers, and

stormwater management facilities; and

9. constructing/upgrading off-site infrastructure, including water services, sanitary

sewers, stormwater management facilities, electrical and gas utilities.

x. For “brownfield” projects only, an application must be accompanied by a Phase II ESA,

Phase III ESA, or Risk Assessment Plan prepared by a “qualified person” (as defined

in Section 6.1 and by Ontario Regulation 153/04 as amended by Ontario Regulation

66/08) that contains:

1. an estimate of the cost of actions that will be required to reduce the

concentration of contaminants on, in, or under the property to permit a RSC to

be filed in the Environmental Site Registry under Section 168.4 of the

Environmental Protection Act; and

2. a work plan and budget for said environmental remediation, and/or risk

management actions;

OR

3. the application must be accompanied by proof that an RSC for the proposed

use of the property has been acknowledged by the Ministry of the

Environment.

xi. In order to determine the suitability of the Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant, prior to

submitting an application for the program, eligible applicants should attempt to

estimate the total potential value of the rebate, based on current assessment values

and anticipated investment. Upon completing the approved community improvement

works, to the satisfaction of the Town, and upon reassessment of the property, should

the total value of the rebate be significantly less than the applicant’s estimated value,

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the applicant may then have the opportunity to withdraw application for the Tax

Increment-Equivalent Grant Program, and submit an application for one or more of the

additional incentive programs offered through the Bolton CIP.

xii. Should an eligible applicant be approved for the Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant

Program, and if the subject property is sold, in whole or in part, before the original

grant period lapses, the original owner is not entitled to receive the remaining grant

payments under the program agreement.

e) Duration i. Grants will be provided upon successful completion of the approved work, and

payment of the full reassessed value of the municipal taxes.

ii. Tax increment grants are provided to property owners for up to a maximum of 10

years.

f) Allocated

Program

Budget

i. Incentives offered as part of the Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant Program (as

described in Section 4.3) are included within Town’s annual tax supported budget.

4.3 Development Charge Grant Program

Table 3 provides applicants with the program specific details and requirements of the Development Charge Grant

Program.

Table 3: Development Charge Grant Program Specific Details

Development Charge Grant Program Specific Details

a) Rationale i. The Development Charge Grant Program offers grants to eligible applicants to cover

the cost of Town development charges related to the development or redevelopment,

construction, or reconstruction of buildings or properties within the designated

Community Improvement Project Area.

ii. The program provides assistance to eligible applicants by reducing property

improvement costs through the granting of Town development charges.

iii. The Town of Caledon will benefit from the tax increase on the property as a result of

the property improvement, in addition to the potential creation of jobs and local

economic activity associated with the community improvement works undertaken.

b) Legislative

Authority

i. According to Section 28(7) of the Planning Act, grants may be provided to owners,

registered owners, assessed owners and tenants of land and buildings within the

community improvement project area, to offset the payment of development charges.

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Development Charge Grant Program Specific Details

c) Details i. Where an eligible applicant is undertaking an approved project in accordance with

the purpose of the Bolton CIP, the Town may provide a grant that is equivalent to a

portion of the cost of development charges required for the project by the Town.

ii. All grants may be equal to up to 50% of the development charges paid by the

applicant, to a maximum of $15,000. The total value of grants will be determined by

the Town at its sole discretion at the time of approval of an application.

iii. Additional incentives may be available through Regional Participation in this

Program. Grants that are the equivalent of a portion of the Regional Development

Charge could also be provided to eligible applicants by the Regional Municipality of

Peel.

d) Eligibility

Requirements


Section 6.7) apply.

ii. Eligible community improvement projects under this program will include the large or

small scale development or redevelopment, construction, reconstruction and

rehabilitation, and/or the improvement of energy efficiency of buildings or properties.

iii. Applicants must pay for all development charges prior to undertaking the approved

work. A grant for a portion of the development charges will be provided to the

applicant once the approved work is complete to the Town’s satisfaction.

iv. As indicated in Table 11 (Figure 6.7), applicants receiving the Development Charge

Grant may also be eligible for additional incentive programs offered through the

Bolton CIP but are not eligible for the exemptions provided through the Town’s

development charges by-laws.

e) Duration i. Grants will be provided upon successful completion of the approved work, to the

satisfaction of the Town.

ii. Town development charges grants are provided on a one-time basis.

f) Allocated

Program

Budget

i. On an annual basis, Council may allocate a portion of the Town’s Bolton CIP tax

supported budget to this program based on need and priority.

4.4 Application and Permit Fee Grant Program

Table 4 provides applicants with the program specific details and requirements of the Application and Permit Fee

Grant Program.

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Table 4: Application and Permit Fee Grant Program Specific Details

Application and Permit Fee Grant Program Specific Details

a) Rationale i. The Application and Permit Fee Grant Program offers grants to eligible applicants for

Town planning application and/or building permit fees related to the development or

redevelopment, construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation, and/or the

improvement of energy efficiency of buildings or properties within the designated


ii. The program provides assistance to eligible applicants by reducing property

improvement costs through the provision of grants equal to the cost of Town planning

application and/or building permit fees.

iii. The Town of Caledon will benefit from the tax increase on the property as a result of

the property improvement, in addition to the potential creation of jobs and local


b) Legislative

Authority

i. According to Section 69(2) of the Planning Act, despite a tariff of fees established

under subsection (1), the council of a municipality, a planning board, a committee of

adjustment or a land division committee in processing an application may reduce the

amount of or waive the requirement for the payment of a fee in respect of the

application where the council, planning board or committee is satisfied that it would be

unreasonable to require payment in accordance with the tariff.

c) Details i. Where an eligible applicant is undertaking an approved project in accordance with the

purpose of the Bolton CIP, the Town may provide a grant that is equivalent to the

applicable cost of normal planning application/building permit fees.

ii. Planning application fee grants may be made available for Minor Variances, and/or

Site Plan Applications to a maximum of $10,000.

iii. Building permit fee grants may be made available for Building Permit fees and/or

Demolition Permit fees to a maximum of $10,000.

iv. All grants may be equal to up to 100% of the application fees paid by the applicant.

The total value of grants will be determined by the Town at its sole discretion at the

time of approval of an application.

v. Additional incentives may be available through Regional Participation in this Program.

Grants equal to the cost of Regional application and permit fees could also be

provided to eligible applicants by the Regional Municipality of Peel.

d) Eligibility

Requirements


Section 6.7) apply.

ii. Eligible community improvement projects under this program will include the large or

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Application and Permit Fee Grant Program Specific Details

small scale development or redevelopment, construction, reconstruction and

rehabilitation, and/or the improvement of energy efficiency of buildings or properties.

iii. Applicants must pay for all application and permit fees prior to undertaking the

approved work. A grant for the amount of the application and permit fees will be

provided to the applicant once the approved work is complete, to the Town’s

satisfaction.

iv. As indicated in Table 11 (Figure 6.7), applicants receiving the Application and Permit

Fee Grant may also be eligible for additional incentive programs offered through the

Bolton CIP or by the Town.



ii. Town planning application and/or building permit fees grants are provided on a one-

time basis.

f) Allocated

Program

Budget



4.5 Building and Façade Improvement Grant Program

Table 5 provides applicants with the program specific details and requirements of the Building and Façade

Improvement Grant Program.

Table 5: Building and Façade Improvement Grant Program

Building and Façade Improvement Grant Program Specific Details

a) Rationale i. The Building and Façade Improvement Grant Program offers grants to eligible

commercial, mixed-use, or industrial property owners for façade improvements, the

improvement or restoration of building signage, and/or other exterior improvements to

buildings that are within the designated Community Improvement Project Area.

ii. The program will promote aesthetic improvements to buildings by property owners that

otherwise may not occur due to cost premiums associated with these improvements.

iii. The Town of Caledon will benefit from aesthetic improvements to buildings in a

manner that is consistent with the purpose of the Bolton CIP, the Bolton UDG, and the

Town’s vision for community of Bolton, in addition to the potential creation of jobs and

local economic activity associated with the community improvement works

undertaken.

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b) Legislative

Authority

i. (The municipality may) make grants to registered owners, assessed owners and

tenants of land and buildings within the Community Improvement Project Area, to pay



c) Details i. Grants for front, rear, or sidewall façade improvements, and other improvements to a

commercial, mixed-use, or industrial building, may be provided to eligible applicants

for a total of 50% of the construction costs to a maximum of $12,500.

ii. Grants for improvements to/restoration of building signage may be provided to eligible

applicants for 50% of the construction costs to a maximum of $5,000.

iii. The maximum amount of the façade or building improvement grant may be increased

to $17,500.00 or 50% of the eligible costs, whichever is lesser, for corner lots, or lots

with more than one façade directly adjacent to the public realm, provided that the

proposed improvements will apply to both façades.

iv. The maximum amount of a grant for professional architectural services shall not

exceed 15% of the grant that is calculated for eligible construction costs.

v. The maximum amount of the grant for accessibility improvements shall not exceed

25% of the total grant amount that is calculated for the building, façade and signage

improvement grant.

vi. Additional incentives may be available through Regional Participation in this Program.

The Regional Municipality of Peel could provide additional grants to eligible applicants

for building and façade improvements, in accordance with the Region’s intent to

promote proper design and effective use of the built environment in Bolton (Section

5.4.3.1.1 of the Regional Municipality of Peel Official Plan).

d) Eligibility

Requirements


Section 6.7) apply.

ii. Eligible improvement projects under this program will include front, rear, or sidewall

façade, signage, or additional building improvements when the building and/or

façade/signage being improved fronts a street or is visible from a street within the


iii. The following types of building and façade improvements are considered eligible:

1. repair/replacement of storefront/rear/side, including repair or replacement of

storefront/ rear/side. doors and windows;

2. repair/replacement of façade masonry and brickwork;

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3. repair/replacement of architectural details;

4. repair/replacement of awnings or canopies;

5. Painting cleaning or other similar treatments to improve facades or enhance

their durability over the long term provided that these activities are:

a) Part of a larger improvement project ie associated with other eligible

projects listed in this program, and/or

b) Considered to be essential to the restoration of a building designated

under the Ontario Heritage Act or listed by the Town of Caledon as being

of historical interest in accordance with the Ontario Heritage Act.

6. Painting or installation of murals or similar wall art.

7. addition of sidewalk cafes;

8. Universal accessibility improvements to the building or property, such as

automatic doors, wheelchair access ramps, entryway widening, leveling or

repairs to pathways/accesses, provided the improvements are made in

association with a broader façade/building improvement, and provided the

improvements are above and beyond any legislated requirements for building

accessibility.

9. architectural/design fees required for eligible works (to a maximum of 15% of

the grant amount).

10. other similar repairs/improvements to a building as may be approved.

iv. Eligible improvements to/restoration of building signage will include the

installation/improvement of signage as permitted by the Town’s existing Sign By-law.

v. As indicated in Table 11 (Figure 6.7), applicants receiving the Building and Façade

Improvement Grant may also be eligible for additional incentive programs offered

through the Bolton CIP or by the Town.

vi. Prior to approval by the Town, properties which are designated under the Ontario

Heritage Act are subject to review by Heritage Caledon. Properties which are listed on

the heritage register or identified on the Built Heritage Resources Inventory are subject

to review by the Town’s Heritage Resource Officer.



ii. Grants are provided on a one-time basis to each eligible applicant for each approved

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project.

f) Allocated

Program

Budget



4.6 Mixed-Use Construction/Conversion Grant Program

Table 6 provides applicants with the program specific details and requirements of the Mixed-Use

Construction/Conversion Grant Program.

Table 6: Mixed-Use Construction/Conversion Grant Program

Mixed-Use Construction/Conversion Grant Program Specific Details

a) Rationale i. The Mixed-Use Construction/Conversion Grant Program offers grants to eligible

applicants for the large or small scale development, redevelopment, construction or

reconstruction of a low to mid-rise mixed-use buildings, which include a commercial

main floor (with retail, personal service, or office frontage) and residential upper

storeys, as permitted by Official Plan policies and zoning standards within the

designated Community Improvement Project Area.

ii. The Mixed-Use Construction/Conversion Grant Program also offers grants to eligible

applicants for the conversion of the upper storey non-residential space above a

commercial main floor to residential units as permitted by Official Plan policies and

zoning standards within the designated Community Improvement Project Area.

iii. The program will provide assistance to eligible applicants in securing financing for

property development and rehabilitation/functional improvements to existing residential

space that otherwise may not occur due to cost premiums associated with these

improvements.

iv. The program will promote re-use of buildings as permitted by Official Plan policies and

zoning standards.

v. The Town of Caledon will benefit from an increase in the number of mixed-use

buildings and affordable housing units within Bolton.

vi. The Town of Caledon will also benefit from the tax increase on the property as a result

of the property improvement, in addition to the potential creation of jobs and local


b) Legislative

Authority



Bolton

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c) Details i. Grants for the development, redevelopment, construction or reconstruction of a low to

mid-rise mixed-use buildings may be made available to eligible applicants. Grants may

be equal to 15% of the construction cost to a maximum of $5,000 per residential unit.

ii. Grants for the conversion of upper storey non-residential space above a commercial

main floor to residential units may be made available to eligible applicants. Grants may

be equal to 15% of the construction cost to a maximum of $5,000 per residential unit.

iii. Additional incentives may be available through Regional Participation in this Program.


for mixed-use construction/conversion, in accordance with the Region’s intent to

provide within Rural Service Centres opportunities for a wide range of goods and

services for those living and working in the Rural System (Section 5.4.3.1.4 of the

Regional Municipality of Peel Official Plan).

d) Eligibility

Requirements


Section 6.7) apply.

ii. Eligible community improvement projects under this program will include the

development, redevelopment, construction or reconstruction of a low to mid-rise mixed-

use buildings (with commercial uses on the ground floor/at grade and residential units

occupying the upper storeys) in permitted areas.

iii. Eligible projects will also include the conversion of non-residential space to residential

space in existing buildings, or for the rehabilitation of existing residential space.

iv. Existing or proposed ground floor/at grade residential space with frontage on a public

road within the designated Community Improvement Project Area will not be eligible for

the Mixed-Use Construction/Conversion Grant Program.

v. Priority eligibility may be given to applicants who propose rehabilitation of/conversion to

rental apartment units.

vi. As indicated in Table 11 (Figure 6.7), applicants receiving the Mixed-Use

Construction/Conversion Grant may also be eligible for additional incentive programs

offered through the Bolton CIP or by the Town.



ii. Grants are provided on a one-time basis to the eligible applicant for an approved

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project.

f) Allocated

Program

Budget



4.7 Energy Efficiency Retrofit Grant Program

Table 7 provides applicants with the program specific details and requirements of the Energy Efficiency Retrofit

Grant Program.

Table 7: Energy Efficiency Retrofit Grant Program

Energy Efficiency Retrofit Grant Program Specific Details

a) Rationale i. The Energy Efficiency Retrofit Grant Program offers grants to eligible commercial,

mixed-use, or industrial property owners for retrofits that improve the overall energy

efficiency of buildings that are within the designated Community Improvement Project

Area.

ii. The program will promote energy efficiency retrofits to buildings by property owners

and annual energy savings that otherwise may not occur due to cost premiums

associated with these improvements.

iii. The Town of Caledon will benefit from a reduction of energy use, water use, and waste

production by buildings in a manner that is consistent with the Town’s overall

sustainability goals, in addition to the potential creation of jobs and local economic

activity associated with the community improvement works undertaken.

b) Legislative

Authority

i. The eligible costs of a community improvement plan may include costs related to the

provision of energy efficient uses, buildings, structures, works, improvements or

facilities (Section 28(7.1) of the Planning Act).

c) Details i. Grants for energy efficiency retrofits to commercial or mixed-use buildings may be

provided to eligible applicants for a total of 25% of the retrofit costs to a maximum of

$7,500.

ii. Grants for energy efficiency retrofits to industrial buildings may be provided to eligible

applicants for 25% of the construction costs to a maximum of $15,000.

iii. Additional incentives may be available through Regional Participation in this Program.


for energy efficiency retrofits, in accordance with the Region’s intent to promote proper

design and effective use of the built environment in Bolton (Section 5.4.3.1.1 of the

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Regional Municipality of Peel Official Plan).

d) Eligibility

Requirements


Section 6.7) apply.

ii. The following types of energy efficiency retrofit projects are considered eligible for

commercial or mixed-use buildings:

1. Interior or exterior renovations that result in a third-party certification or meet a third

party energy efficiency standard which exceeds the requirements of the Ontario

Building Code, and demonstrably increases energy efficiency including:

a. Interior or exterior renovations that result in any level of LEED certification

as determined by the Canada Green Building Council (inclusive of

certification through LEED for Commercial Interiors, LEED for New

Construction as it relates to major renovations, LEED for Core and Shell

renovations, and LEED for Existing Buildings);

b. Interior or exterior renovations that result in compliance with

ASHRAE/ISNAE Standard 90.1-1999 or newer (i.e., energy performance

standards for buildings except low-rise residential buildings), as certified by

a professional engineer or professional architect (refer to ashrae.org);

2. Addition of a green roof to an existing building;

3. Installation of appropriate on-site thermal renewable energy projects, such as solar

hot water, geothermal, air source heat pumps or solar walls;

4. Installation of Energy STAR certified heating/cooling/ventilation products and

features, including:

a. Central air conditioners;

b. Heat pumps;

c. Gas furnaces and gas boilers;

d. Ventilation fans; and

e. Doors and Windows,

but not including home appliances and small appliances such as refrigerators,

clothes washers/dryers, televisions, ceiling fans, etc.

5. Installation of energy-efficient lighting to the exterior of the building, walkways or

parking areas, including replacement of incandescent lighting with high-efficiency

LED lighting, as well as installation of lighting controls such as automatic timers,

photocells or motion sensors;

6. Fees of a professional architect or engineer for the design or services related to the

above-noted eligible projects; and

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7. Any combination of the above.

iii. Prior to approval by the Town, commercial or mixed-use applications for the Energy

Efficiency Retrofit Grant Program will require documentation to verify that any of the

original equipment listed above will be replaced by higher efficiency equipment.

Applications will be subject to review by the Town’s Building Department.

iv. The following types of energy efficiency retrofit projects are considered eligible for

industrial buildings:

1. improvements to a building envelope (such as insulation upgrades,

weatherization, and window and door replacement);

2. replacement of inefficient equipment;

3. installation of energy efficient lighting systems;

4. improvements to HVAC systems;

5. improvements to compressed air systems;

6. improvements to fans, blowers and pumps;

7. improvements to motor and drive systems;

8. improvements to water heating systems;

9. improvements to chillers, cooling, and refrigeration systems;

10. improvements to boiler plant systems;

11. improvements to combustion systems;

12. improvements to process dryers, furnaces, and kilns;

13. implementation of a green roof; and

14. other improvements as may be approved.

v. Prior to approval by the Town, industrial applications for the Energy Efficiency Retrofit

Grant Program will require documentation to verify that the result of the retrofits will

result in a measurable and verifiable reduction in energy use. Applications will be

subject to review by a commissioning consultant (at the expense of the applicant)

and/or review by the Town’s Building Section.

vi. For all commercial, mixed-use, and industrial applications, the Town of Caledon

reserves the right to reject any proposed retrofit activity that cannot be supported by a

credible scientific explanation or whose effectiveness in reducing energy use cannot be

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verified.

vii. As indicated in Table 11 (Figure 6.7), applicants receiving the Energy Efficiency Retrofit

Grant may also be eligible for additional incentive programs offered through the Bolton

CIP or by the Town.

e) Duration i. Grants will be provided upon successful completion of the approved work as measured

and verified at the expense of the applicant, to the satisfaction of the Town.


project.

f) Allocated

Program

Budget

iii. On an annual basis, Council may allocate a portion of the Town’s Bolton CIP tax


4.8 Landscape Improvement Grant Program

Table 8 provides applicants with the program specific details and requirements of the Landscape Improvement

Grant Program.

Table 8: Landscape Improvement Grant Program

Landscape Improvement Grant Program Specific Details

a) Rationale i. The Landscape Improvement Grant Program offers grants to eligible owners for

improvements to the existing landscape of properties that are within the designated


ii. The program will promote aesthetic improvements to properties by owners that

otherwise may not occur due to cost premiums associated with these improvements.

iii. Town of Caledon will benefit from aesthetic improvements to properties in a manner

that is consistent with the purpose of the Bolton CIP, the Bolton UDG, and the Town’s

vision for community of Bolton, in addition to the potential creation of jobs and local


b) Legislative

Authority





c) Details i. Grants for landscape improvements may be provided to eligible applicants for a total of

50% of the landscaping costs to a maximum of $7,500.

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ii. The maximum amount of the grant may be increased to $10,000.00 or 50% of the

eligible costs, whichever is lesser, for corner lots or lots that have frontage on more

than one street, provided that the proposed improvements will apply to both street-

facing yards.

d) Eligibility

Requirements


Section 6.7) apply.

ii. Commercial or industrial properties that are visible from the public realm and that

contribute to the streetscape will be considered eligible for Landscape Improvement

Grant Program.

iii. The following types of landscape improvements are considered eligible:

1. replacement of sod with new sod or alternative ground cover treatments such

as water efficient/native plant species, provided it is a component of a larger

landscaping improvement project (i.e., associated with other eligible projects

in this program);

2. planting of trees, shrubs, plants/beds;

3. naturalization of parking areas;

4. repair or construction of fencing or retaining walls;

5. implementation of benches and permanent planters;

6. addition of bicycle parking;

7. repair or construction of driveways, walkways, and rockwork;

8. water efficiency improvements to irrigation systems;

9. implementation of innovative stormwater management technologies, such as

bioswales, and rainwater harvesting and reuse systems, for example; and

10. other similar repairs/improvements as may be approved.

iv. Prior to approval by the Town, applications for the Landscape Improvement Grant

Program will be subject to review and input from the Town’s Public Works and

Engineering Department.

v. As indicated in Table 11 (Figure 6.7), applicants receiving Landscape Improvement

Grant may also be eligible for additional incentive programs offered through the Bolton

CIP or by the Town.


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project.

f) Allocated

Program

Budget



4.9 Environmental Study Grant Program

Table 9 provides applicants with the program specific details and requirements of the Environmental Study Grant

Program.

Table 9: Environmental Study Grant Program

Environmental Study Grant Program Specific Details

a) Rationale i. The Environmental Study Grant Program offers grants to eligible property owners for

the completion of a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment (ESA), a Phase III ESA,

Remedial Work Plan, and/or a Risk Assessment Plan for properties that are within the

designated Community Improvement Project Area.

ii. The program will promote the completion of studies with respect to environmental

conditions of properties by owners that otherwise may not occur due to cost premiums

associated with these assessments.

iii. Town of Caledon will benefit from the undertaking of environmental studies so that

more and better information is available with respect to the type of contamination and

potential remediation costs on potential “brownfield” properties within the Town.

b) Legislative

Authority





c) Details i. Grants for the completion of a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment (ESA), a Phase

III ESA, Remedial Work Plan, and/or a Risk Assessment Plan may be provided to

eligible applicants for a total of 50% of the cost to complete the study (studies) to a

maximum of $10,000 per property.

ii. Additional incentives may be available through Regional Participation in this Program.


for the completion of ESAs, in accordance with the Region’s intent to promote safe and

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Environmental Study Grant Program Specific Details

secure communities (Section 5.4.3.1.1 of the Regional Municipality of Peel Official

Plan).

d) Eligibility

Requirements


Section 6.7) apply.

ii. To be eligible for the Environmental Study Grant Program, a Phase I ESA must be

completed and submitted to the Town in order to demonstrate that site contamination is

likely.

iii. The following studies may be considered eligible under the Environmental Study Grant

Program:

1. studies to confirm and describe contamination on the site; or

2. studies to develop a plan to remove, treat, or otherwise manage

contamination found on the site (Phase III ESA/Remedial Work Plan/Risk

Assessment Plan).

iv. All environmental studies must be completed by a “qualified person” as defined in

Section 6.1.

v. As indicated in Table 11 (Figure 6.7), applicants receiving Environmental Study Grant

may also be eligible for additional incentive programs offered through the Bolton CIP or

by the Town.

e) Duration i. Grants will be provided to the property owner following the submission of the final

completed study to the Town for review.


project.

f) Allocated

Program

Budget



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34

5.0 Monitoring Program

5.1 Purpose

The Town will conduct periodic reviews of the Community Improvement Plan in order to determine its effectiveness.

Specifically, the purpose of the Monitoring Program is to determine if:

a) the programs are achieving the goals and objectives set out by the CIP; and/or

b) program adjustments are required.

The Bolton Community Improvement Task Force will also contribute to the monitoring of the CIP on an annual basis

by advising the Town on the effectiveness of the Municipal Leadership and Financial Incentive Programs.

5.2 Description

In order to successfully monitor the CIP, the Town of Caledon’s CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator will

undertake the collection of statistical data in order to determine baseline information upon the adoption of the CIP.

The collection of baseline data will allow the Town to compare results and to determine if the program is achieving

the goals and objectives set out by the CIP or if program adjustments are required.

Baseline statistical data could include:

a) commercial vacancy rates;

b) total residential property/unit numbers;

c) total mixed-use building numbers;

d) commercial parking space counts;

e) total number of parks, gathering spaces, and trails, and extent of urban tree canopy, for example.

On a regular and on-going basis, a database or commercial property management software will be used by the CIP

Review Panel and/or Administrator in order to track the details, progress, and results of Financial Incentive Program

applications for statistical and monitoring purposes. Guidelines for the use of property management software,

specifically in regard to required fields and frequency of updating, are provided as a Technical Appendix to this

Plan.

In addition, the Bolton CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator will be responsible for monitoring the performance

and impact of the Financial Incentive Programs. Table 10 presents a list of the variables that will be monitored on

an individual application/project basis for the Financial Incentive Programs.

The CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator may also, at their discretion, obtain feedback received from successful

or unsuccessful applicants of the Financial Incentive Program, and this feedback will be considered as part of the

Monitoring Program.

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Table 10: Variables to be Monitored

Financial Incentive Program

Variables to be Monitored

a) Tax Increment-

Equivalent Grant

Program

i. Number of successful and unsuccessful applications by type;

ii. Project details as proposed by application;

iii. Municipal assessment and taxes prior to commencement of approved project;

iv. Project details as completed;

v. Number of residential units by type and square footage of residential space

converted, rehabilitated or constructed;

vi. Square footage of habitable floor space created;

vii. Square footage of industrial or commercial space rehabilitated or constructed;

viii. Acreage of land remediated and/or redeveloped; and

ix. Total dollar amount value of project;

x. Increase in assessed value of property and municipal property taxes upon

completion of project;

xi. Total dollar amount granted by tax increment per year; and

xii. Number of program defaults.

b) Development

Charge Grant

Program



iii. Other incentives applied for by applicant;





vii. Square footage of commercial space rehabilitated or constructed;

viii. Total dollar amount value of construction;


x. Total dollar amount and percentage of development charges refunded;

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xi. Additional incentives received by applicant;

xii. Increase in assessed value of property and municipal property taxes upon

completion of project; and

xiii. Number of program defaults.

c) Application and

Permit Fee Grant

Program








vii. Square footage of commercial space rehabilitated or constructed;



x. Total dollar amount and percentage of application/permit fees refunded;

xi. Additional incentives received by applicant;

xii. Increase in assessed value of property and municipal property taxes upon


xiii. Number of program defaults.

d) Building and

Façade

Improvement

Grant Program





v. Type and total cost of façade improvements;

vi. Type and total cost of other exterior building improvements;

vii. Total cost of building signage;

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viii. Total dollar amount of grant;

ix. Additional incentives received by applicant;

x. Increase in assessed value of property and municipal property taxes upon


xi. Number of program defaults.

e) Mixed-Use

Construction/Co

nversion Grant

Program





v. Square footage of habitable floor space created;

vi. Number of units created by type (rental, ownership, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, 2+

bedroom);

vii. Square footage of commercial floor space created;


ix. Total dollar amount of grant;

x. Additional incentives received by applicant;

xi. Increase in assessed value of property and municipal property taxes upon


xii. Number of program defaults.

f) Energy

Efficiency

Retrofit Grant

Program




iv. Energy savings anticipated by application;

v. Project details as completed;

vi. Energy savings measured upon completion;

vii. Building type;

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ix. Total dollar amount of grant; and

x. Additional incentives received by applicant;


g) Landscape

Improvement

Grant Program




iv. Project details as completed, such as number/amount of trees/vegetation, and

stormwater management/rainwater harvesting and reuse methods;

v. Building type;

vi. Total dollar amount value of construction;

vii. Total dollar amount of grant;

viii. Additional incentives received by applicant;

ix. Increase in assessed value of property and municipal property taxes upon

completion of project;

x. Measured water savings; and


h) Environmental

Study Grant

Program


ii. Type of study/studies as proposed by application;


iv. Type of study/studies as completed;

v. Summary of study outcome (contaminated/not contaminated/work required for

remediation/etc.);

vi. Total cost of studies;

vii. Total dollar amount of grant;

viii. Additional incentives received by applicant;

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ix. Additional studies/work undertaken upon completion of study; and

x. Number of program defaults.

5.3 Reporting

Based on the information obtained through the regular and on-going tracking of Financial Incentive Program

applications, the monitoring of variables, and from applicant feedback, the CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator

will prepare a brief annual report in order to provide an overview of the feedback from monitoring to Council, the

business community, and other local stakeholders and interested parties.

The overview of the results will be provided annually by the CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator to Council, and

will be used to recommend any adjustments that should be made to the terms and requirements of the Community

Improvement Plan in order to improve the programs offered through this Plan.

5.4 Program Adjustments

The feedback from monitoring of the CIP will allow the CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator to determine if

adjustments may be required to the Community Improvement Plan. The CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator

may periodically review and adjust the terms, requirements, and funding of any of the programs contained in this

Plan, or discontinue any of the programs contained in this Plan.

An amendment to the Bolton Community Improvement Plan will not be required in order to discontinue any of the

programs contained in this Plan. However, the addition of any new programs, or the addition of any new criteria

related to any of the programs offered by this Plan, will require a formal amendment in accordance with Section 28

of the Planning Act.

Should the Town wish to expand any of the Community Improvement Project Area of the Bolton CIP, or make any

other changes to the Bolton CIPA as appropriate, an amendment to the Town’s implementing Community

Improvement By-law will be required.

Any change to the funding levels provided by the Town for the Municipal Leadership Strategy and the Financial

Incentives Programs of this CIP will be made at the sole discretion of Town Council, without an amendment to this

Plan. The Town may adjust the funding on an annual basis to any percentage of the total variable CIP budget.

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6.0 Implementation

6.1 Glossary of Terms

The following defines the terms used in this CIP:

“Applicant”, unless otherwise specified, means a registered owner, assessed owner or tenant of lands and

buildings within the community improvement project area, and any person to whom a registered owner, assessed

owner or tenant of lands and buildings within the community improvement project area has assigned the right to

receive a grant or loan. Applicants may also be referred to as “building owners” or “property owners” throughout

this Plan.

“Bioswale” means a landscape element that, as a result of its design and use of vegetation, removes pollutants

and silt from surface water runoff prior to being released to the sewer system.

“Brownfield” as defined by the 2005 Provincial Policy Statement is an undeveloped or previously developed

property that may be contaminated. Brownfields are usually, but not exclusively, former industrial or commercial

properties that may be underutilized, derelict or vacant.

“Community Improvement”, unless otherwise specified, is as defined in accordance with its definition under

Section 28 of the Planning Act.

“Community Improvement Plan”, unless otherwise specified, is as defined in accordance with its meaning under

Section 28 of the Planning Act.

“Community Improvement Project Area”, unless otherwise specified, is as defined in accordance with its

meaning under Section 28 of the Planning Act.

“Eligible Applicant” means an applicant (as defined above) who meets all of the general and program specific

requirements of the Financial Incentive Programs, and prepares and submits an application for community

improvement works that is in accordance with the definition of the Planning Act and the program specific

requirements, as outlined in this Plan. The CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator reserves the right to determine

whether or not an applicant is eligible for the CIP Financial Incentive Programs. Eligible Applicants may also be

referred to as “eligible building owners” or “eligible property owners” throughout this Plan.

“Green Roof” is a roofing system that is partially or completely covered with vegetation in order to absorb

rainwater and to provide insulation.

“Qualified Person” is a person as defined by Section 168.1 of the Environmental Protection Act Ontario

Regulation 153/04 (as amended by Ontario Regulation 66/08) who meets the qualifications to be a qualified person

for the purposes of:

(a) conducting or supervising a phase one environmental site assessment;

(b) conducting or supervising a phase two environmental site assessment; and

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(c) completing the certifications that must be completed by a qualified person in a record of site condition in respect

of a property.

AND meets the qualifications to be a qualified person for the purposes of subsection (1) if:

(a) the person holds a license, limited license or temporary license under the Professional Engineers Act; or

(b) the person holds a certificate of registration under the Professional Geoscientists Act, 2000 and is a practicing

member, temporary member or limited member of the Association of Professional Geoscientists of Ontario.

“Town” means Town of Caledon.

6.2 Interpretation

The Town of Caledon Bolton Community Improvement Plan must be read and interpreted in totality, and in

conjunction with the Planning Act, and all other municipal planning documents.

In addition, the CIP will be interpreted at the sole discretion of the Town of Caledon Council in consultation with, or

based on advice from, Town of Caledon staff.

6.3 Timing

It is anticipated that the CIP will be implemented over a 10-year period. Council may elect to extend the

implementation period as it deems appropriate or necessary, subject to funding, as approved by Council.

6.4 Administration of Municipal Leadership Strategy

The Municipal Leadership Strategy offered through the Bolton Community Improvement Plan will be administered

by Town of Caledon. Specifically, the Town, with input from the CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator, will identify

a lead department that will be primarily responsible for administering and coordinating the implementation of each

of the Municipal Leadership Strategy outlined in Table 1.

Administration and coordination of each initiative will be undertaken by lead departments in accordance with the

anticipated timing, as outlined in Table 1, where possible.

Implementation of the Municipal Leadership Strategy will be dependent on the commitment of the Town to

contribute to, motivate, and assist in community improvement activities and undertakings, in addition to available

budget, and Council approval. Council will establish an annual budget related the Municipal Leadership Strategy.

6.5 Administration of the Financial Incentive Programs

The Financial Incentive Programs offered through the Bolton Community Improvement Plan will be administered by

Town of Caledon.

Specifically, as part of the Financial Incentive Programs (as discussed in Table 1), the Town will establish a Bolton

Community Improvement Plan Review Panel, which may be responsible for evaluating incentive applications

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against program eligibility requirements. The responsibilities of the Review Panel are further identified in Section

6.7 and 6.8. A CIP Administrator position may also be established by the Town, who will be responsible for any

administrative tasks related to the implementation of the CIP.

Final decisions on complete applications and Financial Incentive Program Agreements will be made by Council.

However, should an application be refused, all applicants will be given an opportunity to request Council to

reconsider its decision, or to reconsider the recommendation of the CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator.

An application tracking system will be used as part of the on-going administration of the Financial Incentive

Programs.

6.6 Financial Management of Financial Incentive Programs

Similar to the Municipal Leadership Strategy, Council may establish an annual budget each year over the 10 year

implementation period related to the following Financial Incentive Programs:

Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant Program;

Development Charge Grant Program;

Application and Permit Fee Grant Program;

Building and Façade Improvement Grant Program;

Mixed-Use Construction/Conversion Grant Program;

Energy Efficiency Retrofit Grant Program;

Landscape Improvement Grant Program; and

Environmental Study Grant Program.

Applications will be received on a first-come, first-served basis. If and when the allocated budget has been

expended on successful applications, and if required based on additional applications, the CIP Review Panel and/or

Administrator will bring the matter forward to Council for consideration on a case by case basis.

In accordance with the Monitoring Strategy in Section 5.0, Council will determine if changes in the funding and

incentive levels are necessary or warranted to ensure that the CIP functions properly in light of the Town’s financial

circumstances.

Any change to the funding levels provided for the Financial Incentives Programs of this CIP will be made at the sole

discretion of Town Council, without an amendment to this Plan.

6.7 General Eligibility Requirements of the Financial Incentive

Programs

The following General Eligibility Requirements are applicable to all incentive programs, and must be met in order for

an application to participate in any of the Financial Incentive Programs to be approved.

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The General Eligibility Requirements must be read by the applicant in association with Program Specific Eligibility

Requirements and program details, as identified within the detailed incentive program tables presented in Section

4.0.

General Eligibility Requirements include:

a) In order to be eligible for any incentive program offered by the Bolton Community Improvement Plan, a

Financial Incentive Program application must be submitted to the Town prior to commencing any

community improvement works. Complete applications must be submitted and approved prior to

application for planning approval and/or building permit and prior to commencing community improvement

works.

b) In order to be eligible, all incentive program applications must include completed application forms and

supporting materials such as detailed work plans, cost estimates and contracts, applicable reports, and any

additional information as required by the Town’s CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator.

c) Eligible applicants must be either the owner of the property, an agent for the owner of the property, or the

tenant of a property to whom the owner has provided written consent for the application.

d) In order to be eligible for any incentive program, all proposed projects must be within the designated

Community Improvement Project Area, as presented in the Town’s By-law No. 2008-XXX.

e) All proposed projects must also be consistent with the goals and objectives for community improvement in

Bolton, as presented in the Bolton CIP.

f) All proposed community improvement works (such as the exterior design of buildings, including signage)

associated with applications for Financial Incentive Programs available through this Plan must be

consistent with the Town’s principles and guidelines for design and built form as presented by the CIP’s

companion Urban Design Guidelines. The Town’s CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator will consider

details of exterior design proposed by each application when determining eligibility for incentive programs

of the CIP.

g) Community improvement works associated with an incentive program application must be undertaken

pursuant to application for planning approval and/or building permit, and any additional required permits,

and in accordance with the Ontario Building Code, Provincial standards for barrier-free design, and all

applicable Provincial and Town planning policies and standards.

h) Existing and proposed land uses must be in conformity with the policies and standards provided by the

Town’s Official Plan, Zoning By-law, and all other planning documents.

i) Community improvement works associated with an incentive program application must be in accordance

with all Town by-laws, policies, procedures, standards, and guidelines in order to be approved, including

but not limited to the Town’s Parking Study and Sign By-law.

j) The property owner must not be in arrears in regard to tax payments and accounts receivable with the

Town of Caledon and must be in good standing with regard to taxation and all other financial matters at the

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time of application and throughout the duration of the incentive benefit period, as identified within

applicable incentive program table in Section 4.0.

k) Community improvement works undertaken and completed that are associated with an approved incentive

program application must be consistent with the project description contained in the application form and

supporting materials, and with the program agreement. Should the undertaken or completed works not be

consistent with the original project description, to the satisfaction of the Town, the Town may delay, reduce,

or cancel the approved incentive program benefits, and may require repayment of any of the incentive

program benefits, at the discretion of the Town.

l) In most cases, the Financial Incentive Programs made available through the Bolton Community

Improvement Plan can be used individually or in combination with another CIP Financial Incentive Program

(or any other existing Town incentive program) in accordance with Table 11 below. However, this does not

apply to the Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant Program, which cannot be used in combination with any other

incentive program.

m) The total of all incentive benefits (including grants and refunds) provided to each applicant for each

community improvement proposal for a building or lands within the CIPA must not exceed the project’s

costs related to the planning or replanning, design or redesign, resubdivision, clearance, development or

redevelopment, and/or reconstruction and rehabilitation associated with an application.

n) The Town may not approve grants that total less than $1,500 even where the application meets all other

eligibility criteria.

o) All projects must represent an improvement to the property or building, and not represent a life cycl

replacement of existing materials, paving or structures.

Table 11: Potential to Combine Financial Incentive Programs

Tax In

cre

men

t -

Eq

uiv

ale

nt

Gra

nt

Pro

gra

m

Develo

pm

en

t C

harg

e

Gra

nt

Pro

gra

m

Ap

plicati

on

an

d P

erm

it

Fee G

ran

t P

rog

ram

Bu

ild

ing

an

d

Façad

e

Imp

rov

em

en

t G

ran

t

Pro

gra

m

Mix

ed

-Use

Co

nstr

ucti

on

/Co

nvers

ion

Gra

nt

Pro

gra

m

En

erg

y E

ffic

ien

t R

etr

ofi

t

Gra

nt

Pro

gra

m

Lan

dsca

pe Im

pro

vem

en

t

Gra

nt

Pro

gra

m

En

vir

on

me

nta

l S

tud

y

Gra

nt

Pro

gra

m

Gre

en

Develo

pm

en

t

Pro

gra

m

Tax Increment-Equivalent Grant Program

x x x x x x x x

Development Charge Grant Program

x x x x

Application and Permit Fee Grant Program

x x x

Building and Façade Improvement Grant Program

x x x x

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45

Tax In

cre

men

t -

Eq

uiv

ale

nt

Gra

nt

Pro

gra

m

Develo

pm

en

t C

harg

e

Gra

nt

Pro

gra

m

Ap

plicati

on

an

d P

erm

it

Fee G

ran

t P

rog

ram

Bu

ild

ing

an

d

Façad

e

Imp

rov

em

en

t G

ran

t

Pro

gra

m

Mix

ed

-Use

Co

nstr

ucti

on

/Co

nvers

ion

Gra

nt

Pro

gra

m

En

erg

y E

ffic

ien

t R

etr

ofi

t

Gra

nt

Pro

gra

m

Lan

dsca

pe Im

pro

vem

en

t

Gra

nt

Pro

gra

m

En

vir

on

me

nta

l S

tud

y

Gra

nt

Pro

gra

m

Gre

en

Develo

pm

en

t

Pro

gra

m

Mixed-Use Construction/Conversion Grant Program

x x

Energy Efficient Retrofit Grant Program

x x x x

Landscape Improvement Grant Program

x x x

Environmental Study Grant Program

x x x x x

– indicates programs may be combined, subject to availability.

X – indicates programs may not be combined.

6.8 General Process and Submission Requirements of the Financial

Incentive Programs

In order to be eligible for any of the incentive programs, applicants must submit a complete application in

accordance with the General Process and Submission Requirements outlined below.

A complete application will include:

a) Completed application forms; and

b) Supporting materials such as plans, cost estimates and contracts, applicable reports, and any additional

information required by the Town.

General Process and Submission Requirements include:

a) The Town is not responsible for the costs associated with a CIP application, costs related to the

anticipation of an incentive program, or any other costs incurred in relation to any of the programs,

including pro-forma financial information, a third party financial review (contracted by the Town), audits,

etc.

b) An application must be submitted to the Town prior to commencing any community improvement works.

Should an application be submitted following the commencement of community improvement works, the

application will be rejected upon receipt.

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c) All sources of additional funding/incentives must be declared at the time of application submission. The

Bolton CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator is entitled to make recommendations for incentive

reductions based upon any declared funding/incentive.

d) The Bolton CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator will evaluate all applications and supporting materials.

Based on the panel’s evaluation, a recommendation will be made to the Town’s Treasurer. The Treasurer

will approve CIP grant applications upon the unanimous recommendation of the Bolton CIP Review Panel.

e) Should the application be approved, a Financial Incentive Program Agreement will be required, which will

outline the terms, duration, default, and any other provisions of the incentive program.

f) Should the CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator, require additional information, plans, studies, or any

additional works related to the proposed project and incentive program application, the requested

information and/or works must be adequately provided and/or undertaken prior to approval of the

application, at the applicant’s expense.

g) Upon approval and/or completion of community improvement works, the Town reserves the right to audit

the costs associated with any of the works described by the approved CIP application. Audits will be

undertaken at the expense of the applicant.

h) Upon approval and/or completion of community improvement works, the Town reserves the right to inspect

any properties/buildings that are associated with an incentive program application offered within this CIP.

i) Should the applicant fall into default of any of the General Eligibility Requirements, or fail to meet the

detailed requirements of each of the incentive programs or any other requirements of the Town, the Town

may delay, reduce, or cancel the approved incentive program benefits, and may require repayment of any

of the incentive program benefits, at the discretion of the Town.

j) All Bolton CIP Incentive programs will be monitored for effectiveness on an annual basis with a detailed

review in year 5 of the program to determine whether the program has effectively met the goals and

objectives of the Bolton CIP. Based upon the results of either the annual review or the 5-year detailed

review, the Town may decide to modify, continue, or discontinue any or all of the incentive programs at its

discretion.

k) The Town may discontinue any of the CIP incentive programs at any time; however, all applicants with

approved incentive program benefits will continue to receive the benefits in accordance with the terms

outlined in the CIP, subject to fulfilling any requirements and agreements and subject to available funding

as approved by Council.

l) Any program commitments may be cancelled if work does not commence within six months of approval of

an application, or in accordance with an agreement with the Town.

6.9 Application Process for the Financial Incentive Programs

Table 12 provides a detailed outline of the steps involved in the application process for the Financial Incentive

Programs. The table must be read in association with the General Process and Submission Requirements of the

Financial Incentive Programs, as presented in Section 6.8.

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Table 12: Application Process for the Financial Incentive Programs

STEP 1: APPLICATION SUBMISSION

a) Applicants are required to arrange and participate in a pre-application consultation meeting with one or more

members of the Bolton CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator, in order to discuss and confirm application

requirements, program eligibility, proposed scope of work, project timing, supporting documentation

requirements, etc.

b) The applicant will be required to submit a complete application, which will include all of the required

application forms, in addition to any supporting documentation, required by the CIP Review Panel and/or

Administrator, which may include but is not limited to:

i. photographs of the existing building condition;

ii. historical photographs and/or drawings;

iii. a site plan and/or professional design study/architectural drawings;

iv. a landscape plan

v. specification of the proposed works, including a work plan for the improvements and

construction drawings;

vi. any additional requirements as outlined in the Program Specific Eligibility Requirement tables

in Section 4.0; and

vii. two cost estimate(s) for eligible work provided by licensed contractors.

c) Once all of the required forms and supporting materials are received, the CIP Review Panel and/or

Administrator will undertake a preliminary screen of the proposal and application.

d) Based on the application and proposal, and the results of the preliminary screening, the CIP Review Panel

and/or Administrator may perform an initial site visit and inspection of the building/property (as necessary).

e) If the application clearly does not meet the program requirements, the application will not be accepted.

f) If the application meets the program requirements, the application will be accepted.

g) By accepting an application for any of the Financial Incentive Programs, the CIP Review Panel and/or

Administrator does not guarantee program approval.

STEP 2: APPLICATION REVIEW & EVALUATION

a) Once an application has been accepted by the CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator, information related

to the applicant, application, and proposal information will be entered into the Town’s database system in

order to track the application details, progress and results. This will be an on-going task throughout the

remainder of the application process.

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b) Applications and supporting documentation will be considered by the CIP Review Panel and/or

Administrator against the incentive program eligibility requirements (including both general and specific

requirements).

c) Based on the proposal, application, and fulfillment of eligibility requirements, the CIP Review Panel and/or

Administrator will determine if the proposal and application will be considered eligible.

d) Based on eligibility, the CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator will recommend approval or not. The

recommendation will be forwarded to the Treasurer.

e) Should the CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator recommend approval of the application, a Financial

Incentive Program Agreement will be prepared by Legal staff.

f) If applicable, the Financial Incentive Program Agreement will be forwarded to the applicant to be dated and

signed.

g) Once the Agreement has been signed and returned to the Town, work may begin on the project.

h) Should an agreement be forwarded by the CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator to the applicant for

signature, the CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator does not guarantee program approval.

STEP 3: APPLICATION APPROVAL

a) If the CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator has recommended that the application be refused, notification

in writing will be sent to the applicant.

b) Approval authority for grant applications is delegated to the Town’s Treasurer (By-Law 2011-038). The

Treasurer will only approve applications that have been unanimously recommended by the Review Panel.

c) Alternatively, if the CIP Review Panel has not unanimously recommended approval a report with the

application details will be forwarded to Council who will determine if approval will be granted.

d) If Council or the Treasurer approves an application, the Agreement will be executed by the signing and

dating of the agreement by Town officials and the applicant.

e) A copy of the signed and dated Financial Incentive Program Agreement will be provided to the applicant.

STEP 4: PAYMENT

a) Once an application has been approved, and the agreement signed and dated, and once all of the required

approvals and permits for the work are secured, the applicant may commence community improvement

works.

b) Payment of the financial incentive, in accordance with the Financial Incentive Program Agreement, will be

provided upon successful completion of the approved work, to the satisfaction of the Town.

c) Prior to issuance of the financial incentive, the applicant may be required to provide the CIP Review Panel

and/or Administrator with final supporting documentation, which may include but is not limited to:

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49

i. photographic evidence of the completed works satisfactory to the Town;

ii. other documentation proving successful completion of the project according to Program

Specific Eligibility Requirements as described in Section 4.0;

iii. original invoices for all eligible work done, indicating the total amount paid for eligible works

(excluding all taxes); and

iv. proof of payment to contractors in full (original cancelled cheques).

d) The CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator may perform final site visit and inspection of the

building/property (as necessary) in order to ensure that the project has been completed in accordance with

the Financial Incentive Program Agreement.

e) Prior to issuance of the financial incentive payment, the CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator will ensure

that all program requirements and details of the agreement have been met.

f) The CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator will take appropriate remedies as specified in the agreement if

the applicant defaults on the agreement.

g) If all program requirements and Financial Incentive Program Agreement requirements have been met to the

CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator’s satisfaction, the CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator will issue

payment of the approved grant in accordance with the general and specific program eligibility requirements,

and the agreement.

6.10 Marketing Strategy

In order to achieve the goals and objectives identified by this CIP, the Town must successfully market the possible

incentive options available under the CIP to property owners and other interested parties.

The following identifies specific activities that will be undertaken by the Town, as appropriate, upon adoption of the

CIP in order to market the opportunities available through this Plan.

Information/Communication:

a) Upon initiation and completion of an initiative that is part of the Municipal Leadership Strategy, the Town of

Caledon may advertise the initiative in association with the Bolton CIP, in order to raise awareness to the

goals, objectives, and opportunities available as part of the CIP.

b) The Town may prepare educational newsletters and/or brochures that will provide an overview of the

Bolton CIP, and the possible incentive options available. Brochures and newsletters may be delivered to

all property owners, tenants, and other interested parties within the designated Community Improvement

Project Area. Brochures and newsletters may also be displayed by the Town at its municipal office, and on

the Town’s website.

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c) The Town may also prepare a promotional display that will provide an overview of the Bolton CIP, and the

possible incentive options available. The Town may use the display at local community or economic

development events that the Town has sponsored and/or in which it is participating.

d) The Town may hold a series of informational workshops upon adoption of the CIP and at the beginning of

every year to educate property owners, tenants, and other interested parties within the designated

Community Improvement Project Area with respect to the Financial Incentive Programs available and the

annual priorities/levels of funding.

e) The CIP Review Panel and/or CIP Administrator will be available on an on-going basis to answer questions

from potential applicants with respect to the CIP programs. As well, the Review Panel and/or CIP

Administrator will participate in pre-application consultation meetings prior and site visits to discuss the

merits of a potential application with property owners, tenants, and other interested parties.

f) Information obtained as a result of the monitoring program, including progress on implementation and the

statistical results of the Financial Incentive Programs may also be made available through newsletters and

information sheets to promote the successes of the CIP.

g) The Bolton Community Improvement Task Force, Bolton Business Improvement Areas, Bolton Merchants

Association, and Chamber of Commerce may also play a role in ensuring that information related to the

Bolton CIP is displayed and shared with property owners, tenants, and other interested parties. These

organizations may circulate newsletters/brochures, hold workshops, and liaise with potential applicants.

h) The Town may organize and participate in other appropriate activities to encourage participation by

property owners, tenants, and other interested parties in the CIP programs.

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7.0 Conclusion

The Town of Caledon Bolton Community Improvement Plan provides a framework that guides community

improvement in the Town, and is based upon the Strategy (March 2009) that was developed as part of the CIP

Study.

In order to implement the strategy, this CIP provides a set of goals and objectives for community improvement of

Bolton, Municipal Leadership Strategy and a set of incentive programs available to eligible property owners in order

to stimulate and leverage private sector investment. Implementation and monitoring of the program will be

undertaken by the Town and its CIP Review Panel and/or Administrator.

It is anticipated that the CIP will be implemented over a 10-year period. Implementation of this Plan will promote

beautification and prosperity in the Bolton Community Improvement Project Area by:

a) Improving Bolton’s public infrastructure and social and recreational facilities/services in a coordinated

manner, reflecting localized issues, the Town’s priorities, and financial resources;

b) Encouraging, supporting, and aiding in the coordination of private sector investment;

c) Promoting the planning or replanning, design or redesign, resubdivision, clearance, development or

redevelopment, construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation, and/or the improvement of energy efficiency

of buildings or properties;

d) Improving the tax assessment base and revenues for the Town and the Province of Ontario;

e) Endorsing the economic development and competitiveness of Bolton in order to create a diverse and

sustainable economic base;

f) Retaining and increasing employment, live/work, shopping, and tourism opportunities within the Bolton

historic core, commercial corridor, and older industrial areas;

g) Improving the physical environment and visual qualities of the Bolton historic core, commercial corridor,

and older industrial areas in a manner that is consistent with the Town’s design principles and guidelines

with respect to built form; and

h) Protecting and enhancing the environmental features, and unique attributes, nature, and identity of Bolton.

Documents

In developing a Strategy for community improvement in the … · 2014-02-18 · In June 2008, the Town of Caledon retained MMM Group Limited (MMM) and du Toit Allsopp Hillier (DTAH)