Upload
others
View
0
Download
0
Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
The Corporation of The Town of Penetanguishene Committee of the Whole COMMITTEE: Planning and Community Development COMMITTEE CHAIR: Councillor Debbie Levy SUBJECT: Official Plan Review - Consultant Selection
RECOMMENDATION THAT the Committee of the Whole recommends to Council acceptance of the proposal dated February 8, 2016, to retain the services of MMM Group Limited, for a maximum upset limit of $99,389.15 (includes HST) to prepare the Town’s Official Plan.
INTRODUCTION A Request for Proposals (RFP) to prepare a new Official Plan was issued on January 19, 2016. The Terms of Reference and Request for proposals was circulated to ten planning consultants, posted on the Town’s website and notice was given in the Midland Mirror. On or before the deadline the following nine (9) submissions were received:
Consultant Cost (including HST) MMM Group $99,389.15 Meridian Planning Consultants $76,791.96 MHBC Planning $93,251.13 Innovative Planning Solutions $99,507.80 GSP Group $98,852.40 The Jones Consulting Group $94,349.35 Skelton Brumwell $99,101.00 The Planning Partnership $99,878.00 Cambium $100,000.000
The Steering Committee met on February 23, 2016 to evaluate and review the proposals and subsequently determined that MMM Group Limited be recommended to Council to prepare the new Official Plan. ANALYSIS The Steering committee conducted a detailed review of each of the proposals and held significant discussion on them. After much discussion, with advice and input from staff, selected the proposal from MMM Group Limited (Attachment #1) as best meeting the terms and conditions of the RFP and the needs and expectations from the Steering Committee. The Steering Committee felt that a multi-disciplinary team, including a team of planners, urban designers, a cultural heritage specialist and economic/demographic specialist would be provide the expertise, guidance and leadership that the municipality was requesting as part of the RFP process. MMM Group Limited, a WSP Company, is one of Canada’s leading professional services firms, offering services in planning, engineering and geomatics with over 50 professional planners The Planning and Environmental Design Department has
The Corporation of The Town of Penetanguishene Committee of the Whole extensive experience in preparing Official Plans and other planning policy documents and have provided examples of their work in the Town of Huntsville, City of Brockville and the District of Manitoulin Island. One key facet of MMM Group is their ability to draw upon the firms continuum of in-house services (e.g. marketing and graphic design, geomatics, and multiple disciplines of engineering). In the Proposal, MMM Group has also employed the Centre for Spatial Economics (C4SE), who specialize in the development of long term economic and demographic growth projections. BUDGETARY IMPLICATIONS The budget set for the Official Plan Review project is $100,000. A carry-forward amount of $35,000 is being requested as a carry forward to 2016 from the 2015 budget. Therefore, there is a $70,000 budget in 2016. The remaining $30,000 for the OPR is included in the 2017 Capital Plan. MMM Group’s work will span both fiscal years and the agreement will stipulate that the 2017 workplan is conditional upon Council approving an additional amount of $30,000 in the 2017 Capital Budget. RISK MANAGEMENT The consulting firm will provide all necessary documentation required by the Town. COMMUNICATION & MARKETING Notice of the Request for Proposals was published in the Midland Mirror and posted to the Town’s website. The Terms of Reference and Request for Proposals was provided directly to ten consulting firms in Ontario. SUSTAINABILITY Selection of a consulting firm to prepare the Town’s new Official Plan will assist in achieving the pillars of the Sustainability Plan. STRATEGIC GOALS & OBJECTIVES The retention of a consulting firm to prepare the Town’s new Official Plan with directly implement the Town to update the Official Plan while also realizing on a number of other objectives of the Strategic Plan. Prepared by: A. Betty, Director of Planning and Community
Development Department Reviewed by: C. Robillard, Treasurer Reviewed by: Ted Walker, CAO Council Meeting Date: March 9, 2016 Attachment #1 Proposal from MMM Group dated February 8, 2016 Electronic File Location: S:\Planning Department\D09 - Official Plans\Official Plan Update 2015-2016\Staff Reports\Staff Report PD-2016-14 RE OPR Consultant Selection.docx\
“Sailing Forward”
OFFICIAL PLAN REVIEWfor the Town of Penetanguishene
Proposal for an
Andres Musta (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
February 19, 2016
February 8, 2016 Andrea Betty, CIP RPP Director of Planning and Community Development 10 Robert Street W, Box 5009 Penetanguishene, Ontario L9M 2G2 Dear Ms. Betty, Re: Town of Penetanguishene Official Plan Review MMM Group Limited, a WSP company, (MMM) is pleased to submit this proposal to undertake the review of the Official Plan for the Town of Penetanguishene. Please consider this letter of submission as authorization for us to submit this proposal. We know that successful projects require a workable approach and a responsive team. MMM is often distinguished by our ability to effectively integrate multiple disciplines to address evolving municipal needs as well as our ability to offer clients experienced practitioners who can successfully complete projects on time and within budget. Staff on our Project Team, especially our Project Manager, have undertaken many Official Plan assignments across the Province and, in some cases within similar contexts. We will use our experience to undertake a Review that will reflect the community’s Vision and provide innovative solutions to local issues. We believe that we are well suited to complete this project for the Town of Penetanguishene and have put together an innovative approach to consultation and undertaking a work plan that will greatly assist the Town in its Official Plan Review. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you and thank you in advance for your consideration. Please contact me at 905-882-4211 ext. 6754 or by e-mail at [email protected] should you have any questions or comments in regards to our submission. Yours very truly, MMM GROUP LIMITED Gregory Bender, MCIP, RPP Senior Planner/Project Manager, Planning + Design
Town of Penetanguishene | Official Plan Review MMM Group Limited | February 2016 | 98.16.IN1.430.005 i
Table of Contents Table of Contents ................................................................................................................... a
1.0 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 1
2.0 Company Profile ........................................................................................................... 1
2.1 MMM Group Limited, a WSP company .................................................................................... 1
2.2 Centre for Spatial Economics (C4SE) ....................................................................................... 3
3.0 Project Understanding and Approach ............................................................................. 3
3.1 Project Understanding ............................................................................................................. 3
3.2 Approach to Community Consultation and Engagement ......................................................... 4
4.0 Team ........................................................................................................................... 7
5.0 Project Experience ........................................................................................................ 9
5.1 Town of Huntsville ......................................................................................................................... 9
5.2 District of Manitoulin ................................................................................................................... 10
5.3 City of Brockville .......................................................................................................................... 10
6.0 Town Involvement ....................................................................................................... 11
7.0 Work Program ............................................................................................................. 12
Phase 1 – Setting the Stage ............................................................................................................... 12
Phase 2 – Background Study ............................................................................................................. 13
Part 2A: Creating a Vision ................................................................................................................. 13
Phase 2B – Background Study ........................................................................................................... 15
Phase 4: Draft Official Plan Amendment ............................................................................................17
Phase 5: Final Official Plan .................................................................................................................17
8.0 Schedule & Budget ..................................................................................................... 18
9.0 Conclusion .................................................................................................................. 21
Appendix A – Corporate Profile
Appendix B - Curricula Vitae
b
Copyright © 2016 by MMM Group Limited
The information contained in this document is the intellectual property of MMM Group Limited (MMM).
It is intended solely for use during the evaluation of this proposal by the Town of Penetanguishene (the
Client). Reproduction of portions of this document for use by the Client during the proposal evaluation
is permitted. Reproduction of any portion of this document or use of the intellectual ideas contained
within it for any other purpose is prohibited unless MMM Group Limited is subsequently retained by the
Client for the work described within this proposal.
Town of Penetanguishene | Official Plan Review MMM Group Limited | February 2016 | 98.16.IN1.430.005 1
1.0 Introduction The Town of Penetanguishene is located in the County of Simcoe on the southeast corner of Georgian
Bay; and is noted for its small town character and a diverse natural landscape. It is located
approximately 165 km north of Toronto, and is considered the “Gateway to Georgian Bay”.
Penetanguishene recognizes its rich cultural history, dating back over 400 years and rich cultural
heritage comprised of English, French, Métis and Huron-Wendat. It is home to approximately 9,100
permanent residents and is projected to grow to 11,000 residents by 2031. Here, residents and visitors
alike enjoy all that Penetanguishene has to offer including many parks and several trail networks, scenic
waterfronts, including the recently revitalized Rotary Champlain Wendat Park. As an all-season
destination, Penetanguishene is an attractive location and tourism hub offering unique shops and
entertainment experiences, which honours the past and continually seeks the enhancement of its
natural environment.
The Town is undertaking an Official Plan Review, which offers an opportunity to evaluate the Plan’s
existing policy framework related to managing growth, improving transportation systems, capitalizing
on economic development opportunities, and protecting and enhancing natural heritage features and
water resources over the next 20 years. A vital component of this process will be to engage with all
members of the community to gain local feedback through a variety of activities designed to increase
awareness and foster community engagement on the Official Plan Review.
MMM Group Limited (MMM), a WSP Company, in association with Centre for Spatial Economics
(C4SE), is pleased to submit this Proposal for Consulting Services to assist the Town of
Penetanguishene (the Town) in reviewing your Official Plan. We are committed to working
collaboratively and effectively alongside Council, the Official Plan Review Steering Committee
(OPRSC), Town Staff and the Community on the Official Plan Review, through a process that is tailored
to local needs and builds upon the existing strengths and character of the Town.
The following sections outline our understanding of the assignment, our methodology and work plan,
our professional qualifications, and our relevant experience.
2.0 Company Profile
2.1 MMM Group Limited, a WSP company
Our Firm
MMM Group (MMM), a WSP company, is one of Canada’s leading professional services firms, offering
comprehensive consulting services in project management, planning, engineering, and geomatics to
2
government and private sector clients across Canada and overseas since its establishment in 1952. With
more than 50 professional planners, MMM is a recognized leader in community planning, urban design,
and the management of similar projects. In mid-October 2015, MMM Group (MMM) was acquired by
WSP Global Inc. (WSP) and is now a wholly owned subsidiary of WSP. As part of WSP, our clients will
continue to receive the same high-level of service and technical expertise they have come to associate
with MMM.
WSP is one of the world's leading professional services firms in its industry, working with governments,
businesses, architects and planners and providing integrated solutions across many disciplines. The
firm provides services to transform the built environment and restore the natural environment, and its
expertise ranges from environmental remediation to urban planning, from engineering iconic buildings
to designing sustainable transport networks, and from developing the energy sources of the future to
enabling new ways of extracting essential resources. It has approximately 34,000 employees, including
engineers, technicians, scientists, architects, planners, surveyors and environmental specialists, as well
as other design, program and construction management professionals, based in approximately 500
offices, across 40 countries, on 5 continents.
Our People and Strengths
MMM’s Planning and Environmental Design Department employs more than 50 planners, designers,
and GIS technicians, and has vast experience in the preparation of Official Plans, Zoning By-laws,
Community Improvement Plans, Secondary Plans, land use strategy documents, economic
development and growth strategies, master plans, and development applications. The Department
ensures that project teams are tailored to project and client needs, maintains excellent client
communications, and its staff is driven to produce exceptional deliverables on time and on budget. The
Department’s ability to draw upon the Firm’s continuum of in-house services (e.g., marketing and
graphic design, geomatics, strategic advisory services, and multiple disciplines of engineering) offers
clients the synergies and efficiencies of a single-source/single point of responsibility and an integrated
multi-disciplinary team.
Our Department is distinguished by our capability to manage complex planning assignments, and the
quality of our work, which leaves a lasting impression on our clients. These distinguishing
characteristics are demonstrated by our recent experience and repeat business from our municipal
planning clients, including the City of Kingston, the City of Brockville, the Sudbury East Planning Board,
the City of Ottawa, the Town of Lakeshore, Norfolk County, Haldimand County, the Town of Innisfill,
the City of St. Catharines, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, the Town of Caledon, and the Township
of Chapleau.
Thorough and Effective Community Consultation
MMM Group projects often include extensive consultation components. Whether the topic is
community visioning and strategic planning, municipal policy, transportation planning, municipal
Town of Penetanguishene | Official Plan Review MMM Group Limited | February 2016 | 98.16.IN1.430.005 3
infrastructure or development of some kind, meaningful input from stakeholders and the public is not
only a process requirement, it also makes good business sense to clients. We have the in-house
expertise to design and deliver consultation programs involving simple yet thorough meetings with
concerned stakeholders to large meetings involving hundreds of people. We have in-house technology
professionals that design custom consultation tools and support online and social media consultation
activities as well as in-house graphics team and a print room that helps to produce hard copy material
used in face to face consultation sessions. A more detailed profile of our firm is included in Appendix A.
2.2 Centre for Spatial Economics (C4SE)
C4SE is an economic consulting firm, based in Milton, Ontario, that specializes in the development of
long-term economic and demographic projections at the national, provincial and sub-provincial level
across Canada. C4SE was formed in 2000 as a partnership between Strategic Projections Inc. (Tom
McCormack, President) and Stokes Economic Consulting Inc. (Ernie Stokes, President). C4SE’s clients
include land use planning and market research consultants, government departments, crown
corporations, utilities, manufacturers, retailers, industry associations and developers.
This proposal demonstrates how we intend to apply this focus to this Official Plan Review assignment,
from preliminary research through to Council adoption.
3.0 Project Understanding and Approach
3.1 Project Understanding
The purpose of this assignment is to undertake a review and update of the Town’s Official Plan in
accordance with Section 26 of the Planning Act. The principal activities for reviewing and updating the
Official Plan will involve ensuring conformity with recent Provincial policy updates as well as conformity
with new policies of the Official Plan for the County of Simcoe. In addition, the review will ensure that
the updated Official Plan reflects the various planning studies and strategies that have been completed
since the current Official Plan was approved. We acknowledge that the successful consultant will work
closely with the Town to prepare the necessary background studies (detailed in the RFP and in this
proposal), peer review the policies developed by the Town, work closely with the Official Plan Review
Steering Committee (OPRSC), and ensure stakeholders are engaged throughout in a meaningful and
innovative manner.
We recognize that population projections for the Town demonstrate moderate population growth, with
a significant shift in demographics resulting in a larger proportion of seniors moving to the area. The
Town has also seen an influx of seasonal residents and visitors to the area and provides services to a
broader population from the adjacent Town of Midland and Townships of Tiny and Tay. We understand
the importance of economic development for small urban waterfront communities, and the need for
balancing growth with an adequate supply of local jobs. To this end, we will ensure that the Growth
Management Strategy, Transportation System Review, and Discussion Papers (essentially the
4
background work) will provide a recommended policy framework that will assist the Town in
developing policies that will balance the need for new growth versus intensification while determining
the need for additional residential, commercial/institutional, and employment lands in accordance with
provincial and regional policies. The proposed policy directions for the Official Plan review will also be
closely developed with the findings of the Natural Heritage System update.
We have relevant and extensive, award-winning policy experience in the preparation and review of
Official Plans, which we will build on to ensure the review of the Town of Penetanguishene Official Plan
is innovative while being undertaken within an open and transparent process that incorporates the
Town as a whole. We have direct experience implementing the same kinds of studies that the
Town/County has undertaken as part of other Official Plan Reviews, including the City of Brockville, and
our recent experience working with PPS 2014 on Official Plan Reviews will further assist in this
assignment. We have also undertaken a study with a similar approach to that which the Town is seeking
in the Town of Huntsville, which is also undertaking an Official Plan review in accordance with the
District of Muskoka’s policies. This Study includes a number of discussion papers and memos that are
being prepared to obtain feedback from the Town and provide them with a blueprint and strategy on
what to include in the preparation of their new Official Plan.
Our team is highly qualified to complete a review of the Official Plan for the Town of Penetanguishene
that respects public, provincial, and local/regional interests. Our team brings knowledge and
experience from similar projects, as well as an understanding of the area’s local needs and provincial
direction. The following highlights our key qualifications for this study:
Comprehensive land use planning, transportation planning, infrastructure, natural heritage,
parklands and trails planning, cultural/archaeological, population/demographics, and urban
design skills to cover all elements of the Official Plan Review;
Proven skills in public consultation, engagement and consensus building, including
community strategic planning, visioning workshops, search conferences, public questionnaires,
open houses and community consultation sessions, and public meetings on Official Plan and
public policy projects;
A firm understanding of the Town and its relationship to the Simcoe County regarding land
use planning issues, economic development, and the natural landscape;
A thorough understanding of current provincial policies and initiatives, based on our current
planning policy work, which is required to be consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement,
2014; and
Given the breadth and depth of resources on our team and our current workload, the ability to
meet the project deadlines within budget.
3.2 Approach to Community Consultation and Engagement
We believe that early engagement is key to the success of community consultation, and integral in
achieving a positive outcome. This will be initiated with Communications and Consultation Strategy,
Town of Penetanguishene | Official Plan Review MMM Group Limited | February 2016 | 98.16.IN1.430.005 5
containing a clear outline of the project scope, and outlining the goals and objectives to ensure the
dialogue stays on track throughout the consultation process. It is our understanding that Town has
consulted the public in phase 1 of the project. MMM will begin consultation in Phases 2 and 4 of the
project, with community dialogue beginning immediately following the initiation meeting with the
Town.
Overall, MMM has a wide variety of experience when it comes to public consultation and as a result, we
have implemented a number of innovative techniques to engage members of the community. In order
to inform the Official Plan Review process and incorporate public participation touch points, MMM
offers a number of community consultation engagement and awareness activities which serve as
opportunities to engage with citizens through ongoing consultation (Figure 1).
MMM has a dedicated marketing and graphics teams that is available to assist with the preparation of
meeting and workshop materials (examples shown in Figure 2). This helps to ensure that a consistent
brand, which will be developed/proposed as part of the Consultation Strategy, is presented to the
community. Our team will have all materials necessary for meetings and workshops prepared to ensure
there is sufficient time for the Town to review and approve the materials. During the Project Initiation
Meeting, the review periods for deliverables of this nature will be finalized.
Figure 1: Community Consultation Activities
6
Figure 2: Graphic, Workshop, and Branding Examples
Town of Penetanguishene | Official Plan Review MMM Group Limited | February 2016 | 98.16.IN1.430.005 7
Following each of the public consultation meetings and community awareness and engagement
activities, MMM will produce a summary outlining the topics discussed and feedback received. This
information will feed into the final summary of the project consultation.
4.0 Team The team members participating in this project have been selected for their specialized knowledge and
experience in working in small urban and rural areas on projects of similar size and scope. They have an
understanding of key issues and the importance of creating a process that is transparent and provides
continuous opportunities for meaningful public participation. The detailed experience of our team
members for this project is outlined below and the resumes for each staff member can be found in
Appendix B. The team members identified herein will also appear and provide expert testimony to the
Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) in defense of the Official Plan, in the event of an appeal.
Gregory Bender, MCIP, RPP PROJECT MANAGER / SENIOR PLANNER
Greg is a Project Manager and Senior Planner with MMM. He has spent over twelve years in the
planning profession working with Ontario municipalities of varying sizes and character on the
preparation of Official Plans, Zoning By-laws, Secondary Plans, Growth Management Strategies, and
development strategies. Greg is currently managing and undertaking work on the District of Manitoulin
and Town of Huntsville Official Plans. Greg recently completed the Official Plans and Zoning By-laws
for the Township of Chapleau and the Sudbury East Planning Board.
Greg will serve as the Project Manager for this assignment and will be responsible for the management of
the project, being the primary contact, and producing deliverables on time and within budget. Greg will
contribute directly to the preparation of deliverables, lead public engagement, and provide advice to the
Town.
John Tassiopoulos, MCIP, RPP SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER/ SENIOR URBAN DESIGNER
John is a Senior Urban Designer and Project Manager at MMM Group Limited. His experience in the
areas of urban design and urban planning include the preparation of Secondary Plan studies, urban
design guidelines, architectural design control, and architectural and urban design peer review. In
addition to more than 16 years of professional experience, he is a mentor within the Royal Architecture
Institute of Canada’s Syllabus Program, providing assistance, review, and instruction in urban design
since 2003. John also serves as a panel member on the City of Vaughan’s Design Review Panel and was
recently on the Committee of Adjustment at the City of Toronto (2009-2015). In the past, he has
participated in the heritage preservation community as a member of the Toronto Midtown Community
Preservation Panel and the Toronto and East York Community Preservation Panel (2000 - 2007) and the
City of London’s Urban Design Review Panel (2013 - 2014).
8
John will provide input on urban design policies, ensuring that design goals associated with the background
work are appropriately reflected in policy updates resulting from the Official Plan Review.
Shannon Baker, BLA, MUDS, OALA, CAHP HERITAGE / URBAN DESIGN
Shannon Baker is the National Manager for Landscape Architecture and Urban Design with MMM
Group. Shannon brings to the team knowledge and experience in urban design guidelines, streetscape
and public realm design, park and open space planning, as well as an innovative approach to public
consultation. Shannon thrives in a multi-disciplinary environment, and brings to her work an approach
that straddles related disciplines and brings together creative and strategic thinking. She has
contributed to a number of urban design assignments that involve the intensification and re-
imagination of sites, and has also authored the cultural landscape and urban design portions of many
heritage conservation districts. Shannon’s experience with historical research and site design have
informed her in her work on restoration plans for national historic sites, as well as historic streetscape
design and rehabilitation guidelines.
Shannon will provide input on cultural heritage policies, ensuring that goals associated with the Town’s
heritage resources are appropriately reflected in policy updates resulting from the Official Plan Review.
Shannon will also provide input on policies associated with supporting the Town’s heritage conservation
objectives as well as its parkland and trails objectives.
Shawn Chow, MCIP, RPP SENIOR PLANNER
Shawn Chow is a Senior Planner with MMM and has 8 years of experience in land development and
policy planning. Shawn has worked on behalf of several public and private sector clients and has been
involved in the preparation of official plans, master plans and redevelopment strategies, as well as
business and economic development strategies. Shawn has significant statistical, spatial analysis and
consultation capabilities, and often provides socio-economic impact /demand estimation, growth
management and infrastructure coordination advice, along with market advice.
Shawn will work with Greg and the team on many of the foundational materials and will provide strategic
input on growth management, community revitalization, and economic development policies.
Arthur Grabowski, H.BA, M.PL PLANNER
Arthur Grabowski is a Planner with both public and private sector planning experience. Arthur has
experience in wide variety of planning assignments, including community improvement plans, official
plans, zoning by-laws, secondary plans, urban design studies and land development projects. Arthur
also has a strong background in development and planning rationale for a wide range of projects, of
which includes support on matters appealed to the Ontario Municipal Board. Arthur also has experience
Town of Penetanguishene | Official Plan Review MMM Group Limited | February 2016 | 98.16.IN1.430.005 9
in coordinating and leading public consultation events, as well as developing design guidelines for the
City of Ottawa. Arthur has an academic background in strategic waterfront development with previous
work analyzing Toronto’s waterfront and developing policy recommendations for public spaces
Ottawa’s Rideau Canal. Arthur is working towards his RPP and MCIP designations.
Arthur will work closely with Greg and Shawn to assist in the preparation of deliverables including
schedules, undertake background research, participate in and develop policies, and organize public
consultation.
Tom McCormack PROJECTION SPECIALIST / PRESIDENT C4SE
Tom McCormack is the President of the Centre for Spatial Economics with over 40 years of economic
modeling experience. C4SE specializes in modeling the economic and demographic future of virtually
any level of geography as a means of assessing development strategies and the economic and fiscal
impacts of proposed industrial, commercial or infrastructure expansions. Tom’s clients include land
planning and market research consultants, government departments, crown corporations, utilities,
manufacturers, retailers, industry associations and developers. Tom will provide sectoral employment
projections and related growth trends analysis.
Tom specializes in the development of long-term economic and demographic projections at the national,
provincial and sub-provincial level right across Canada and will work with the Team to provide locally-
specific growth recommendations for the Town.
5.0 Project Experience Our team has extensive experience in implementing plans and strategies through policy documents, as
demonstrated by our numerous Official Plan assignments as well as our work on Zoning By-laws,
Secondary Plans, and Community Improvement Plans for Ontario municipalities. The following sub-
sections, summarize projects our team members have been involved in to help demonstrate our team’s
full understanding of the policy and legislation frameworks that create the policy context within which
this assignment must be undertaken. Further information on these and additional projects are provided
in Appendix C.
5.1 Town of Huntsville
MMM Group was retained by the Town of Huntsville in the heart of Muskoka to undertake an Official
Plan Review. Huntsville is an attractive location and tourism hub offering unique shops and
entertainment experiences, which honours the past and continually seeks the enhancement of its
natural environment. The principal activities for reviewing and updating the Official Plan involved
ensuring conformity with recent Provincial policy as well as conformity with new policies of the Official
Plan for the District of Muskoka.
10
In addition, the review intends that the updated Official Plan reflects the various planning studies and
strategies that have been completed since the current Official Plan was approved. To date, public
workshops have been held, a Visioning Report has been prepared, and the growth analysis has
commenced.
Reference:
Name: Mike Gooch, Executive Director of Development Services
Address: 37 Main Street East, Huntsville Ontario P1H 1A1
Telephone Number: (705)-789-1751 EXT. 2232
5.2 District of Manitoulin MMM Group was retained by the District of Manitoulin Planning Board to prepare a new Official Plan,
to shape the future of the District over the next 20 years. MMM is working with the Planning Board,
local communities, residents, First Nations, and other stakeholders to prepare a Plan that will replace
the existing Official Plan, and also update three Secondary Plans for the Town of Gore Bay, the Town of
Little Current, and the Town of Manitowaning. The Project addresses unique planning issues facing the
District, and implements the directions of the Provincial Policy Statement and the 2011 Growth Plan for
Northern Ontario.
Public consultation has been a key component of this project. Further, First Nation communities have
also been engaged throughout the project. To date, work has included the preparation of the Draft
Official Plan and submission of the Plan to MMAH for approval.
Reference:
Name: Elva Carter, Secretary-Treasurer
Address: 40 Water Street, PO Box 240, First Floor, Harbour Centre Building,
Gore Bay ON P0P 1H0
Telephone Number: (705)-282-2237
5.3 City of Brockville
MMM Group was retained by the City of Brockville to prepare a new Official Plan to replace the Plan
that was in effect for over 20 years. The new Official Plan implemented directions of the Provincial
Policy Statement, 2005 and enabled the City to utilize the new municipal powers provided in the
Planning Act. Several public meetings, open houses, and visioning workshops were held at every stage
of the project and resulted in important public feedback.
Town of Penetanguishene | Official Plan Review MMM Group Limited | February 2016 | 98.16.IN1.430.005 11
To provide a policy development framework, several supporting studies were prepared and/or
facilitated by MMM. Studies included a Public Engagement Strategy, Economic Development
Strategy, Growth Assessment, Servicing Assessment; Transportation Planning Assessment, a
Community Sustainability Strategy, a Waterfront Master Plan Update, and a Downtown and
Waterfront Master Plan and Urban Design Strategy. Downtown and Waterfront Master Plan and Urban
Design Strategy (DWMPUDS), established a vision as well as development strategies to transform the
downtown and central waterfront to create a more vibrant, healthy, livable and sustainable community
and tourist destination in the City. The DWMPUDS provides detailed land use, urban design, and built
form guidelines and a public realm strategy for the City’s downtown and central waterfront areas.
We also prepared a Sustainability Plan that considered the long-term vision, goals, and targets for
sustainability, all of which were based on community collaboration. The Plan is integrated with the
Official Plan, Economic Development Strategy, and other reports and studies to ensure that the City’s
decision making framework is embedded in a sustainable context. The Sustainability Plan represents an
innovative and noteworthy integrated planning process in Ontario. We presented this work at the
Ontario Professional Planners Institute conference in Ottawa.
Reference:
Name: Maureen Pascoe Merkley, MCIP, RPP, Director of Planning
Address: 1 King Street West, P.O. Box 5000, Brockville, ON K6V 7A5
Phone: (613) 342-8772 ext. 444
6.0 Town Involvement The Town of Penetanguishene regards the Official Plan Review as a blended initiative between
Planning Staff, the Director of Planning and Community Development, the Consultant, and the Official
Plan Steering Committee (OPRSC). MMM recognizes that primary direction of the Official Plan Review
will be administered by Planning Staff, and coordinated by the Director of Planning and Community
Development (the Project Lead). Upon selection of the successful Consultant, it is to our understanding
that the Town’s involvement will include the following items:
Day to day liaison between stakeholder groups;
Providing input / assistance regarding technical issues;
Review of consultant reports and recommendations;
Liaison with outside agencies and stakeholders, as required;
Coordination of public consultation notices and logistics;
Review of background work;
Receiving comments from the public;
Advertising and circulating/reviewing notices for public meetings;
12
Booking and coordinating meeting spaces; and
Attendance at public meetings.
7.0 Work Program The following section provides a detailed breakdown of the program we intend to follow to complete
the review of the Town of Penetanguishene Official Plan in a timely and effective manner. This work
program has been designed to ensure a transparent and open process that incorporates public
consultation throughout the duration of the project. Based off the RFP and our experience in similar
projects, we propose the following work program.
Phase 1 – Setting the Stage
Phase 1 has been completed by the Town in advance of the RFP. In this phase, the following steps have
been undertaken.
A. Special Public meeting to consider the revisions to the OP as per the Planning Act (held on
October 21, 2015);
B. Internal Circulation to identify preliminary issues;
C. Prepare the draft Terms of Reference and Work plan for the OP Review;
D. Set up internal governance of the OP Review; and
E. Prepare RFP for consulting services.
Two items we would propose to add to this Phase include the Project Initiation Meeting with staff and
the preparation of the Communications and Consultation Strategy.
Task 1F: Project Initiation Meeting
Following the award of the contract, this initial meeting will be held in person with Town Staff to
finalize the work plan for the project, determine a schedule of dates for the duration of the project, and
discuss the research methodology and public consultation.
Task 1G: Communications and Consultation Strategy (Deliverable)
Town Staff and the OPRSC will have an opportunity to review the initial draft of the Communications
and Consultation Strategy and provide comments. The project team will then have an opportunity to
discuss the comments and resulting changes to the Strategy. These comments will then be
incorporated into the Strategy and resubmitted for approval.
Consultation Activities to be considered based on input from the Town include: advertisements, web-
based surveys, social media (Facebook/Twitter/Instagram), workshops, kitchen table discussions, video
vignettes, pop-up booths, walking tours, and project branding. As part of this Consultation Strategy, a
video will be created that provides an accessible overview of what an Official Plan Review entails and
how the public can take part. We have used this approach on other projects and it has been very well
received.
Town of Penetanguishene | Official Plan Review MMM Group Limited | February 2016 | 98.16.IN1.430.005 13
Please visit http://www.huntsville.ca/en/townHall/Official-Plan-Review.asp or https://www.
youtube.com/watch?v=IccaNmcCpko for an example of a Video Vignette designed by MMM for the
Town of Huntsville Official Plan Review.
Phase 2 – Background Study
Following the Project Initiation Meeting and the acceptance of the Communications and Consultation
Strategy, Phase 2 will be comprised of creating the Vision, including visioning sessions with
staff/OPRSC/Council and the public (2A), and a background study (2B) which will inform the proposed
policy directions in Phase 3.
Part 2A: Creating a Vision One of the vital first steps in the review of the Official Plan includes understanding, first and foremost, if
the existing Vision, as well as the Goals and Objectives, continue to be valid. The intent, which has been
successful in other projects, is to test this with staff, OPRSC, and Council first to understand where
improvements may be needed. Upon completion of that, and a better understanding by the Project
Team gained, the public will be engaged through a facilitated workshop session.
Task 2.1A: Meet with Staff / OPRSC/Council
One of the first tasks in the Visioning Phase is to meet with Staff/OPRSC/Council to obtain input on the
existing vision, goals, and objectives and to explain the format of the Kick off meeting with the public.
This, in our experience, ensures there are no surprises and
all expectations are met. Meeting internally with these
groups, ideally on the same day, will assist the Project
Team in understanding certain issues, and provide a tone
which can be used in the workshop with the public.
Task 2.2A: Public Open Houses/Workshop
It is our intent that the public open house and workshop
will provide a summary of the process for the review of the
Official Plan but more importantly, solicit input on a new
vision and work with the community on defining new goals
and objectives to obtain that vision. More specifically, we
propose that the meeting consist of an open house, in
which participants may speak with staff and the consulting
team as well complete a survey/questionnaire to assist in
obtaining input on potentially a new vision, goals, and
objectives. The open house will be followed by a
presentation to present and discuss the process that we will
14
be following to review and update the Official Plan as well as preliminary issues identified. This helps to
develop clear direction that can be used moving forward. This public meeting also has an educational
component to ensure the community is clear on the purpose of the Official Plan its role in managing
and directing the Town’s growth in the future. At the conclusion of the presentation, participants will
have the opportunity to work in groups to further refine a vision and identify goals and objectives.
We find it beneficial to use social media to announce public events in order to generate further interest
as well as being used to solicit input and generate interest. An example of this could include having a
page to understand what residents love about their Town by using a “What I love about our Town” cut-
out, which can be fun for users, but also greatly beneficial for developing the vision, goals, and
objectives. We have templates that we can use to assist with this (see image on previous page) which
generates wonderful imagery that people can be excited to participate in.
All materials presented at the meeting will be provided to the Town prior to the meeting to be posted
on their website including an online survey, which can be completed before or after the kick-off
meetings and up until the final vision report is adopted. To this end, once confirmed by the Town, we
will provide all text for municipal websites and suggestions for social media to announce the public
meeting, and provide updates. Feedback received during the initial public meeting will be documented
and will inform the preparation of the vision, goals and objectives for the Town of Penetanguishene
Official Plan.
Task 2.3A: Workshop with Youth Groups
While the workshops with staff/Council/OPRSC and the public are essential, on the same day as the
Public Workshop, we would propose to meet with a group of youths identified by the Town. We’ve
found in the past that this group can make others (Council, staff, etc.) aware of certain issues and
concerns outside of the typical “public meeting forum” as these groups often are not well represented
at these sessions. These groups may include, but not be limited to, a class or group of students, youth
council, or some other group the Town deems appropriate. While this task has been identified merely
as a placeholder, the Project Team will work with staff to identify a potential group to meet with.
Task 2.4A: Draft Visioning Report (Deliverable)
We will compile all input received from the various consultation events and online sources (surveys,
emails, social media, etc.) and produce a report recommending what, we believe, is a community-
confirmed Vision, with associated goals and objectives to achieving that vision. This will be reviewed
by/presented to staff/OPRSC and then presented to Council (if necessary) as part of this task.
Task 2.5A: Open House: Vision, Goals, and Objectives (Present Findings)
Upon confirmation by the OPRSC/staff and Council, we will again meet with the public to present the
findings of the Visioning Report. An Open House component will begin the session where participants
can review the details of the Recommended Vision, Goals, and Objectives on the boards. A
presentation will follow and participants will have another opportunity to provide input through
comment forms, email, and verbal input. Any additional input will be compiled into the Report and
Town of Penetanguishene | Official Plan Review MMM Group Limited | February 2016 | 98.16.IN1.430.005 15
submitted to the Town for review and approval. We would also note that if, at this time, there are other
community events are occurring, we could establish a local “pop-up” booth to solicit additional input
from the public. We will confirm this with staff at the outset of the project.
Task 2.6A: Final Visioning Report (Deliverable)
Once all of the input is compiled into the Visioning Report, we will submit this to the Town and present
the findings to Council for approval. We should also note that based on the successes, or areas in need
of improvement, from our consultation approach, the Consultation Strategy may be updated to reflect
any required changes going forward.
Phase 2B – Background Study
As part of the Phase 2 work, a Draft Foundation Study will be prepared and presented to staff, OPRSC,
Council, and the Public for input.
Task 2.1B: Draft Foundation Study (Deliverable)
This component of the project will satisfy the Planning Act and PPS 2014’s requirements for
undertaking a comprehensive review of the Official Plan. It will detail the employment (industrial,
commercial and institutional) and residential land needs in the Town of Penetanguishene and, more
specifically, will include:
A conformity exercise addressing changes to the Planning Act, Provincial Policy Statement and
Provincial Plans;
Conformity exercise with the County of Simcoe’s Draft Modified Approved Official Plan;
Growth Management Study (GMS) updated based on the 2008 GMS, specifically to address
Residential and Employment Lands policies;
Transportation System Review, providing recommendations for the transportation network in
the Town including policy recommendations;
Determining future land needs to accommodate projected residential (population and
household) and employment (industrial, commercial and institutional) growth forecasts, as per
the Provincial Policy Statement, 2014, and Penetanguishene Growth Management Study
(2008);
Distinguishing between “Employment Lands” and “Employment Lands” located within
“Employment Areas”, as per the PPS, along with clear policy direction;
Providing recommendations of areas within the Town’s current boundary which may be best
suited to accommodate projected employment and residential growth and demand to the year
2036;
16
As a note, we will require, at a minimum, the Town’s parcel and municipal address base as well as
Teranet/MPAC Tax Assessment and available economic development / business inventory and servicing
data in appropriate GIS / spreadsheet and/or database formats.
Furthermore, it is also important how other policy documents and plans interact with the Town’s
Official Plan. To understand this, a detailed review of various policy documents and plans will be
undertaken including, but not limited to, Fire Master Plan (2014), Development Charges Background
Study (2014), Recreation Master Plan (2014), Huronia Economic Alliance Economic Development Plan
(2014), Community Development Manager Package (2015), and Natural Heritage System Update (to be
completed 2016.
Further to this, a best-practices review will be undertaken based on our past work/experiences/research
as well as from other communities throughout Ontario. To complete the background review, internal
protocols and input from other departments and initiatives will be obtained to ensure that the
recommendations are in-line with the policies and procedures in other departments in the Town. A
preliminary set of issues and preliminary policy recommendations will be identified for consideration by
the Town.
Upon completion of this Foundation Study, we will submit this to the Town for review and then meet
with staff/OPRSC/Council to discuss any issues and direction moving forward.
Task 2.2B: Meet with staff/OPRSC/Council (Present Findings)
The intent of this meeting is to review the Foundation Study’s findings and obtain feedback from each
group. The document will be revised based on the input prior to engaging with the Public.
Task 2.3B: Open House: Foundation Study (Present Findings)
An Open House will be held to present the findings of the Foundation Study. Participants will have an
opportunity to review boards, listen to a presentation regarding the highlights of the Study, and speak
to members of the Project Team and Town staff. All input received from this session will be considered
and any revisions will be made prior to finalization.
Task 2.4B: Final Foundation Study (Deliverable)
Based on input received to date, the final document will be prepared and submitted to the Town.
Phase 3: Proposed Policy Directions
Task 3.1: Preparation of Policy Directions Report (Deliverable)
Based on the background work undertaken to date, we will consider all of the recommendations from
each study/report and identify how they should be incorporated into the Official Plan in one succinct
report.
A key piece to this exercise is to produce a detailed matrix outlining the policy recommendations to be
implemented in the new Official Plan. Based on our experience, we’ve found that displaying everything
Town of Penetanguishene | Official Plan Review MMM Group Limited | February 2016 | 98.16.IN1.430.005 17
in a matrix is easier to read and understand. Any need for alterations to land use designation schedules
or boundaries will also be identified at this stage.
Task 3.2: Meeting with Staff / OPRSC
Once the Policy Directions Report has been submitted to the Town, we will meet to review and obtain
feedback from staff and the OPRSC prior to finalizing the document.
Phase 4: Draft Official Plan Amendment
Task 4.1 – Prepare Draft Official Plan (Deliverable)
Based on the work to date, the Draft Official Plan will be prepared. The recommendations from the
Policy Directions Report will be brought forward and translated into policy. Upon completion of the first
draft, we will submit to the Town and meet if necessary. Once all comments have been incorporated
from staff, we will prepare the document for review by Council.
Task 4.2 – Present Draft Official Plan to Council
The Draft Official Plan will be presented to Council with the intent to obtain feedback and authorization
to send the draft document to the County for the purposes of preconsultation. Any comments requiring
revision of the Draft Official Plan will be implemented prior to circulating to the County.
Task 4.3 – Preconsult with the County of Simcoe
Upon acceptance by Council, we will circulate the draft Official Plan to the County of Simcoe for review
and comment. We will also meet with the County and Town staff to go over the draft Official Plan.
Task 4.4: Official Plan Open House
The Public Open House will be held to present the Draft Official Plan to the community. As with
previous public meetings, all materials presented at the meeting will be provided to the Town prior to
the meeting, to be posted on the website. To assist in obtaining feedback regarding the Draft Official
Plan Amendment a worksheet will be provided both online and in hard copy.
Task 4.5 – Summary of Comments (Deliverable)
Comments received from the Official Plan Review Steering Committee, Council, the public, and the
County (if available during this task) will be summarized in a planning report. Responses to the
comments received will also be included in the report along with recommended changes to the Draft
Official Plan.
Phase 5: Final Official Plan
Task 5.1: Prepare Final Official Plan
Based on input and the confirmed changes to be made, we will prepare the final draft of the Official
Plan for Statutory Public Meeting.
18
Task 5.2: Statutory Public Meeting
The final Official Plan will be presented to Council along with any additional public comments to date
(between Open House and Statutory Public Meeting). Any delegations will be recorded and added to
the public record (summary of comments) already prepared.
Task 5.3: Council Adoption
Should it be Council’s preference, another meeting will be held for Council adoption.
Task 5.4: Circulation to County of Simcoe for Approval
Once Council has adopted the Official Plan, we will assist the Town in preparing the package to send to
the County for approval. Should any additional meetings arise between the Town and the County, we
will attend.
8.0 Schedule & Budget Figure 1 – Proposed Project Schedule provides a timetable for the completion of the project and the
individual phases. We are prepared to begin work immediately following the acceptance by Council
and have devised a schedule that can ensure completion of the program by June 2017.
Figure 2 – Proposed Fee Schedule includes a breakdown of the proposal fee to an upset amount
including all related professional fees and disbursements. Figure 2 details the total number of hours for
each team member as well as their corporate billing rates. Our total fee is $99,389.15 inclusive of
disbursements and HST. As instructed by the RFP, we’ve structured our work plan and associated fees
to allow for approximately $70,000 to be charged in 2016 with the balance being charged in 2017.
Phase 1 - Setting the Stage
Task 1F - Project Initiation M
Task 1G - Communications & Consultation Strategy (Deliverable) D
Part 2A: Creating a Vision
Task 2.1A - Meeting with Staff/Official Plan Review Steering Committee/Council M C
Task 2.2A - Public Open House/ Workshop O
Task 2.3A - Workshop with Youth Group O
Task 2.4A - Draft Visioning Report (Deliverable) D
Task 2.5A - Open House: Vision, Goals, Objectives (Present Findings) O
Task 2.6B - Final Visioning Report (Deliverable) D C
Phase 2B - Background Study
Task 2.1B - Draft Foundation Study (Deliverable) D
Task 2.2B - Meet with staff/OPRSC/Council (Present Findings) M C
Task 2.3B: Open House: Foundation Study (Present Findings) O D
Task 2.4B: Final Foundation Study (Deliverable) D
Part 3: Proposed Policy Directions
Task 3.1 - Preparation of Policy Directions Report (Deliverable) D M C
Task 3.2 - Meeting with Staff / Official Plan Review Steering Committee M
Phase 4 - Draft Official Plan Preparation and Review
Task 4.1 - Prepare Draft Official Plan (Deliverable) D M
Task 4.2 - Present Draft Official Plan to Council C
Task 4.3 - Preconsult with the County of Simcoe M
Task 4.4 - Official Plan Open House O
Task 4.5 - Summary of Comments (Deliverable) D
Phase 5 - Final Official Plan
Task 5.1 - Prepare Final Official Plan D
Task 5.2 - Statutory Public Meeting P
Task 5.3 – Council Adoption P P
Task 5.4 - Circualtion to County of Simcoe for Approval D
LEGENDNote: Success of this schedule is dependent upon quick turn around by Town Staff and County
M Meeting with Town / Official Plan Review Steering Committee Approximate Task Duration Meeting Cluster
P Public Meeting D Major Deliverable
O Open House/Workshop C Meeting with Council
DecemberSeptember OctoberAugust
2016
NovemberMarch April May June July June
2017
March April MayJanuary February
Figure 1 - Proposed Project Schedule
The Corporation of the Town of Penetanguishene
Official Plan Review
Greg BenderJohn Tassiopoulos/
Shannon Baker
Shawn Chow,
Arthur GrabowskiTom McCormack
Project Lead Urban Design/
Cultural HeritagePlanning Support
Growth Management
& EconomicsTotal Staff Time (Hours) Disbursements Standard Fee
Phase 1 - Setting the Stage
Task 1F - Project Initiation 6.0 3.0 9.0 100.00$ 1,305.00$
Task 1G - Communications & Consultation Strategy (Deliverable) 10.0 2.0 12.0 1,770.00$
21.0 100.00$ 3,075.00$
Part 2A: Creating a Vision
Task 2.1A - Meeting with Staff/Official Plan Review Steering Committee/Council 12.0 5.0 17.0 100.00$ 2,475.00$
Task 2.2A - Public Open House/ Workshop 6.0 10.0 16.0 100.00$ 2,250.00$
Task 2.3A - Workshop with Youth Group 6.0 10.0 50.0 66.0 200.00$ 7,250.00$
Task 2.4A - Draft Visioning Report (Deliverable) 7.0 4.0 11.0 1,590.00$
Task 2.5A - Open House: Vision, Goals, Objectives (Present Findings) 10.0 15.0 25.0 600.00$ 3,525.00$
Task 2.6A - Final Visioning Report (Deliverable) 10.0 4.0 14.0 2,040.00$
149.0 1,000.00$ 19,130.00$
Phase 2B - Background Study
Task 2.1B - Draft Foundation Study (Deliverable) 37.0 25.0 15.0 34.0 111.0 16,800.00$
Task 2.2B - Meet with staff/OPRSC/Council (Present Findings) 10.0 14.0 24.0 100.00$ 3,390.00$
Task 2.3B: Open House: Foundation Study (Present Findings) 12.0 15.0 27.0 600.00$ 3,825.00$
Task 2.4B: Final Foundation Study (Deliverable) 3.5 7.0 10.5 1,470.00$
172.5 700.00$ 25,485.00$
Part 3: Proposed Policy Directions
Task 3.1 - Preparation of Policy Directions Report (Deliverable) 20.0 15.0 10.0 45.0 6,825.00$
Task 3.2 - Meeting with Staff / Official Plan Review Steering Committee 12.0 15.0 27.0 100.00$ 3,825.00$
417.0 100.00$ 10,650.00$
Phase 4 - Draft Official Plan Preparation and Review
Task 4.1 - Prepare Draft Official Plan (Deliverable) 30.0 7.0 13.0 50.0 100.00$ 7,410.00$
Task 4.2 – Present Draft Official Plan to Council 6.0 3.0 9.0 100.00$ 1,305.00$
Task 4.3 - Preconsult with the County of Simcoe 4.0 6.0 10.0 100.00$ 1,410.00$
Task 4.4 - Official Plan Open House 15.0 19.0 34.0 600.00$ 4,815.00$
Task 4.5 - Summary of Comments (Deliverable) 5.0 15.0 20.0 2,775.00$
123.0 900.00$ 17,715.00$
Phase 5 - Final Official Plan
Task 5.1 - Prepare Final Official Plan 15.0 7.0 22.0 3,195.00$
Task 5.2 - Statutory Public Meeting 12.0 17.0 29.0 4,095.00$
Task 5.3 – Council Adoption 12.0 8.0 20.0 120.00$ 2,880.00$
Task 5.4 - Circualtion to County of Simcoe for Approval 7.5 1.0 8.5 120.00$ 1,260.00$
79.5 240.00$ 11,430.00$
Total Number of Hours 268.0 47.0 218.0 50.0 34.0 962.0 2,240.00$ 85,715.00$
Hourly Billing Rate 150.00$ 165.00$ 135.00$ 100.00$ 150.00$ SUBTOTAL: 87,955.00$
HST: 11,142.95$
Total Fees per Personnel 40,200.00$ 7,755.00$ 29,430.00$ 5,000.00$ 5,100.00$ TOTAL (with HST): 99,389.15$
Note: We reserve the right to reallocate time and budget between tasks.
PERSONNEL AND TIME COMMITMENT (HOURS)
TOTAL PROGRAM COSTS
Graphics/Video
Support
Figure 2 - Proposed Fee Schedule
The Corporation of the Town of Penetanguishene
Official Plan Review
Town of Penetanguishene | Official Plan Review MMM Group Limited | February 2016 | 98.16.IN1.430.005 21
9.0 Conclusion Our firm is highly qualified to undertake this assignment. We are confident that the Town of
Penetanguishene will find our approach to be sensitive to the issues that may emerge through the
Official Plan Review. Our firm’s multi-disciplinary resources enable us to draw on an extensive range of
in-house resources to respond to a variety of issues should the need arise.
We have extensive skills, knowledge, and experience in reviewing, updating, producing and
implementing high quality Official Plans for communities similar to the Town of Penetanguishene. In
addition our in-depth understanding of the Provincial and local policy regime for action-oriented policy
writing that meets the interests of the Province, as well as the needs of the Town enables us to
recommend comprehensive policy directions that are complex in terms of policy integration, but
straightforward and easy-to-use in terms of implementation.
We will strive to ensure that the our deliverables address every policy issue and gap, account for
public/stakeholder input, and also capitalize on existing opportunities in an effort to ensure that the
project positively impacts the economic development, social, environmental, and administrative needs
of the Town.
We are eager and able to commit our Firm’s resources to the successful completion of this project. All
team members are available to commit the necessary time to work with the Town on this project, and
look forward to assisting the Town of Penetanguishene in achieving this important review and update
to its Official Plan.
We note that we have no conflict of interest in the Town of Penetanguishene.
Andres Musta (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
APPENDIX ACO
MPANY PRO
FILE
M M M G R O U P L I M I T E D | M AY 2 0 1 4
Ahead of Trends and LegislationOur strength lies in our ability to provide
innovative and practical solutions to
the increasingly complex challenges
of today’s planning environment. Our
national reach allows us to stay abreast
of evolving trends in planning policy,
resulting in a planning practice that
reflects contemporary thinking and
best practices. Through our industry
expertise, resources, and insights, we
transform municipal planning challenges
into opportunities for innovation and
creativity. Our skilled and experienced
team confidently negotiates the
complex issues facing urban and rural
municipalities, including downtown
and waterfront revitalization, economic
development, sustainable community
development, natural heritage
conservation, and growth management.
And with our extensive expertise in
the preparation of zoning by-laws, we
provide innovative and contemporary
approaches to address these issues
by focusing on enhancing existing
community assets while encouraging
sustainable development.
Purposeful Planning for Healthy, Connected Communities
Northdale Land Use and Community Improvement Plan Study
Hurontario / Main Street Corridor Co m munity Improvement PlanAlton Village Study
MMM Group Limited is passionate about providing innovative and implementable planning solutions and exceptional urban design that improve the quality of people’s lives by fostering the creation of complete and sustainable communities. As an award-winning leader in the planning and design of communities in both urban and rural environments, MMM offers a full spectrum of municipal land use planning services.
T O L E A R N M O R E A B O U T U S , V I S I T O U R W E B S I T E AT W W W. M M M G R O U P L I M I T E D . C O MF O L L O W U S !
Lockport Settlement Centre Sustainable Secondary Plan
Brockville Official Plan and Growth Management Strategy
Advanced and Collaborative ToolsBy concentrating on public and
stakeholder consultation, and by
building mutually productive and
beneficial relationships based
on honesty, dependability, and
responsiveness, we work with
municipalities to achieve their planning
objectives. And with sophisticated
technologies such as enhanced GIS
and web-based mapping, we provide
powerful planning and analytical tools
for developing online and interactive
official plans and zoning by-laws
to increase public involvement and
accessibility. We think it’s important to
leave lasting, healthy legacies, and we
care about working with communities
to develop solutions that are sensitive to
local conditions and sustainable in the
long term.
Pocket Suite Housing
Bayview Station Area Community Design Plan
How we help • municipal policy and land
use planning studies
• zoning by-laws
• growth management strategies
• infrastructure master plans
• sustainability plans
• special policy area and flood management studies
• downtown revitalization and intensification strategies
• community improvement plans
• urban design guidelines
• economic development and employment lands strategies
• public consultation and facilitation
• strategic planning and advice
• preparation and delivery of expert evidence
• peer review services
• project / process management
Andres Musta (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
APPENDIX BCURRICULA VITAE
G. Bender | MMM Group | April 2014 | p. 1
GREGORY R. BENDER, MCIP, RPP Senior Planner/Project Manager, Planning and Environmental Design
Associate
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Gregory Bender’s municipal planning experience includes the preparation of
Official Plans, Sustainability Plans, Zoning By-laws, Growth Management
Strategies, Strategic Plans, Urban and Rural Design Guidelines, and several
other planning studies. He has also been the lead on several community
planning workshops and community consultation sessions.
This work has been undertaken for small and large urban centres, rural
municipalities, single resource municipalities, and those with a broad economic
base in Northern, Southern, and Eastern Ontario. He has provided expert
testimony at several Ontario Municipal Board hearings.
Gregory has also gained a wide range of private sector experience in the
preparation of several Planning Act applications including Official Plan and
Zoning By-law Amendments. Oftentimes this work would include designing,
submitting, and expediting approval of various development proposals on
behalf of private sector clients.
SELECTED PROJECT EXPERIENCE
Municipal Planning Experience
» Lawrence-Allen Energy Implementation Plan and Secondary Plan:
Responsible for the development of an implementation plan, complete
with a ranking of recommended options based on a methodology
including cost, environmental, and energy impacts, a general terms of
reference for a ‘Developer Energy Strategy’ document to accompany
future land development proposals, and a number of policy options for
use by the City of Toronto in the pursuit of their energy goals along with
life-cycle costing options for different energy scenarios.
» Kingston Zoning Issues and Strategy Study: Completed the first Phase of
the City’s Comprehensive Zoning By-law Project to develop a strategy for
the City to undertake a new Zoning By-law in Phase 2. Large-scale Public
Open Houses were held at strategic points throughout the study as well as
an online media page and presentations to Committee and Council.
» Manitoulin District Official Plan (ongoing): Tasks will include the
preparation of the a background document and Official Plan, ensuring
that the documents are in-line with the interests of the residents, the
Council, the staff of the Planning Board and local municipalities, First
Nations, and the Province.
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Project Manager, Planning and
Environmental Design
(2013 - Present), Senior Planner,
Planning and Environmental Design
(2008 - 2012), MMM Group Limited,
Thornhill, Ontario (2008 – Present)
Vice President and Senior Planner,
Windsor, Ontario (2006 – 2008),
Senior Planner - North Bay and
Perth, Ontario (2004 - 2006),
Planner, North Bay, Ontario
(2003 - 2004), Tunnock Consulting
Ltd. (2003 – 2008)
G. Bender | MMM Group | April 2014 | p. 2
» Background, Growth Management Strategy, Official Plan, and Zoning By-law Documents,
Township of Chapleau: Responsible for the preparation of the above-noted documents,
ensuring that the documents were in-line with the interests of the residents, the Council, the
staff of the Township, First Nations, and the Province. The Official Plan preparation involved a
consultative public planning process to involve residents in charting an overall direction for the
future planning and development of their community. Some of the issues faced in policy
preparation for the Township of Chapleau included: providing strong economic development
policies to enable new growth and development; protection of natural resources and significant
natural features from unplanned growth; tourism development and active transportation;
sustainable development and growth policies; development in the rural area; development in
proximity to natural hazards; balancing development and growth on both full municipal and
private services; and ensuring that the public and First Nations had sufficient opportunities to
participate throughout the project.
» Background, Growth Management Strategy, and Official Plan Documents, Sudbury East
Planning Area: Responsible for the preparation of the above-noted documents, ensuring that
the document was in-line with the interests of the residents, the Councils, the staff of the four
municipalities and 13 unincorporated Townships in the Planning Area, and the Province. The
Official Plan preparation involved a consultative public planning process to involve residents in
charting an overall direction for the future planning and development of their communities.
Some of the challenges faced in policy preparation for the Sudbury East Planning Area included:
growth and settlement issues with respect to seasonal residences; protection of natural
resources and significant natural features from unplanned growth; tourism and trail
development; development in the rural area; development in proximity to human-made
hazards.
» Zoning By-law Update, Sudbury East Planning Area: Responsible for the preparation of a zoning
by-law update for the Planning Board, which will implement the new Official Plan MMM Group
Limited prepared. Public consultation will be held throughout the planning area over the
summer of 2013.
» Background and Growth Management Strategy, Sustainability Plan and Official Plan
Documents, City of Brockville: Responsible for the preparation of the Foundation Report, Public
Engagement Strategy, Communications Plan, and Land Use and Growth Management Strategy
for the Official Plan Project, all of which, will inform policy in the City’s new Official Plan, which
was prepared in the Spring of 2010. An innovative approach to consultation was undertaken
which included several topic-specific workshops with members of the public, staff, and Council,
creating a project-specific Facebook page, and holding several Open Houses. Some of the
challenges facing the City include: development on lands in proximity to the waterfront, use of
lands in the downtown and at the waterfront area, and striking a balance between developing
interests in the downtown and waterfront area and the north-end of the City. In tandem with
the Official Plan, a Sustainability Plan was prepared to assist the City in evaluating their current
level of sustainability and identify a path forward on how to achieve sustainable goals and
objectives identified in the Official Plan, among other City documents.
G. Bender | MMM Group | April 2014 | p. 3
» Employment Lands Study, City of Burlington: Responsible for undertaking an inventory of all
employment lands in the City to provide a rationale as to the City’s available opportunities for
employment land development, provided a review and analysis of the existing Provincial,
Regional, and local planning policy regime impacting the growth and expansion of employment
lands, developed a criteria to allow the City to evaluate candidate intensification properties and
participated in a series of workshops as part of the project’s stakeholder consultation exercises.
» Regional Economic Development Strategy, Town of Smiths Falls: Responsible for managing the
project, coordinating with the sub consultant, holding public consultation sessions, and
coordinating with the Client. Some of the challenges facing the Town include several large
factory closures and revitalizing the downtown.
» Toronto Transit Commission (TTC): Responsible for undertaking all of the planning work for the
TTC related to the second exit program. This involves retrofitting several subway stations with
new exits (or entrances / exits) and obtaining permits / planning approvals from the City,
including site plan, minor variances, and encroachment permits and presenting the associated
application to the Committee / Council.
» Eglinton-Scarborough Crosstown LRT: Responsible for undertaking all of the planning approvals
work for Metrolinx related to the LRT program, which is one of the largest transit infrastructure
projects in the country. This involves obtaining permits and planning approvals from the city,
MOE and, TRCA, including site plan, minor variances, and encroachment and building permits.
» Background, Growth Management Strategy, Official Plan, and Zoning By-law Documents, Town
of Thessalon: Responsible for the preparation of the above-noted documents, ensuring that the
document was in line with provincial and local interests, and to ensure that the document
identified areas of growth for the next 20 years. Issues included sensitive shoreline areas along
Lake Huron, servicing capacity and delineating adequate boundaries while facilitating multiple
interests between the Ministries and the Town.
» Development Unit Fees Review, City of Windsor, Ontario: Carried out the Fees Review for the
City of Windsor and was responsible for interviewing all relevant staff, Managers, and
Supervisors in order to accurately determine the actual costs for applications filed with the
Development Unit. A final report was then generated which was well received by the
Department.
» Urban and Rural Design Guidelines, Town of Mississippi Mills: Because the urban and rural areas
are two unique entities within the Town, two sets of high-level guidelines were developed to
ensure that proponents are keeping within the Town’s urban and rural vision.
» Ontario Municipal Board Hearing, City of Hamilton, Ontario: Acted as an expert witness before
the Board on behalf of the City of Hamilton who were appealed because of a non-decision on a
rezoning application at 1540 Upper Gage Avenue. Duties involved assisting in preparing the
document book, preparing the context and policy binder, preparing exhibits, coordinating with
City legal staff, and providing evidence before the Board.
» Ontario Municipal Board Hearing, Kearney, Ontario: Acted as an expert witness before the
Board on behalf of the Southeast Parry Sound District Planning Board in support of the
Planning Report prepared. A local land owner appealed the approval of a consent to create one
new lot. Duties involved preparing the document book, preparing exhibits, coordinating with
the solicitor, and providing evidence before the Board.
G. Bender | MMM Group | April 2014 | p. 4
Other Municipal Sector Experience
» Public Consultation - Town of Spanish Groundwater Study
» Official Plan / Zoning By-law Amendments, Town of Spanish
» Public Consultation, Town of Cochrane Groundwater Study
» Sign By-law Amendment, Town of Lakeshore
» Industrial Land Use Study, City of Timmins
» Planner of Record, Township of Central Frontenac
Private Sector Experience
» Sustainable Communities Toolkit, Canada Green Building Council: Responsible for preparing a
new toolkit for CaGBC with the intent to assist municipalities and the development community
throughout the country by providing tools to make communities more environmentally, fiscally,
and socially sustainable.
» Policy and Development Monitoring, Bell Canada: Responsible for being a Team Leader for one
of the firm’s largest infrastructure clients. Tasks include coordinating with the client, ensuring
staff meet timelines, providing comments to municipalities on policy initiatives on behalf of the
client, and understanding all of the development and policy initiatives being undertaken in the
GTA and Southwestern Ontario.
» Draft Zoning By-law Amendment, Holland Landing Land Owners Group: Responsible for
preparing a draft Zoning By-law Amendment on behalf of the Land Owners for approximately
240 ha of land. Challenges include rationalizing several zones to ensure they accurately reflect
the myriad of lot sizes and types proposed and also ensuring proper setbacks from
environmental features and implementation of the Town’s urban design guidelines.
» Eglinton Golf Enterprises, Markham Golf and Country Club: Responsible for filing three consent
applications with the Town of Markham on behalf of the Client, ensuring the process moved
forward in a timely manner, and presented the application to the Committee of Adjustment.
Other responsibilities included coordinating with Town staff, other sub consultants, and the
Town’s and Client’s solicitor.
» Bettencourt Designs Ltd.: Prepared a Planning Rationale Report for the development of an
approximately 36-storey condominium building. Issues range from traffic to appropriateness of
height and density for the area.
» Ontario Municipal Board Hearing, Town of Essex, Ontario: Acted as an expert witness before
the Board on behalf of a client whose application was turned down by the Town’s Committee
of Adjustment. Duties involved preparing the Book of Documents, designing and mounting the
displays/exhibits, and confirming the role of the legal team.
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATION
» Canadian Institute of Planners (Member)
» Ontario Professional Planners Institute (Member)
» Registered Professional Planner
G. Bender | MMM Group | April 2014 | p. 5
EDUCATION
» Bachelor of Environmental Studies, (Honours, Urban and Regional Planning), University of
Waterloo, Ontario (2002)
» Theory and Practice of Planning in U.K. Exchange, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, United
Kingdom (2001)
Professional Development
» Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) (2010)
» Received training to meet the service requirements under the Act.
» Southern Ontario Development Agency (SODA) (2009)
» Attended a detailed session on the impacts and benefits of SODA, which included obtaining
funding for private and municipal sector clients.
» Green Energy Act (GEA) (2009)
» Attended a detailed session on the new legislation just passed in May of 2009. As a result,
several presentations have been made to the firm to inform staff of the benefits and
potential impacts on our clients.
» Ontario Professional Planners Institute Conference (OPPI) (2008)
» The Grey Tsunami: Attended many sessions on the aging public, the impacts on
municipalities, and the benefits of acting now to prepare for the increase in necessary
services
» Ontario Professional Planners Institute Conference (2007)
» Blue Skies Planning Lifestyle
» French as a Second Language (2005)
» Completed French as a Second Language Beginner Levels I, II, and III courses.
Volunteer Experience
» Speaker at the Northeastern Municipal Conference in Sudbury on the Lake Huron North
Channel Cycling Route Study (2012)
» Speaker on “Planning for a Healthy and Sustainable Community: Best Practices from the City of
Brockville” at the 25th Anniversary Conference for the Ontario Professional Planners Institute
(2011)
» Speaker at the Young Planners Event for the Toronto District OPPI, (2011)
» Speaker at Northeastern Municipal Conference in Sudbury on developing Terms of Reference
for Official Plans (2010)
» Southwest District Editor for the Ontario Planning Journal (2007 - 2008)
» Speaker at Northeastern Municipal Conference in Sudbury on Bill 51 (2007)
» Sat on the Board of Directors of Community Housing Action Group (CHAG) in North Bay (2005)
S. Baker | MMM Group (Urban Design) | February 2014 | p. 1
SHANNON BAKER, BLA, MUDS, OALA, CSLA Senior Project Manager / Team Leader
Associate
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Shannon Baker’s strong imaginative planning and design concepts evolve into
inspiring and stirring landscapes, and her familiarity with the detailed design
and construction process allows her to bring these concepts to reality. Shannon
brings to the MMM Group Limited’s (MMM) team extensive knowledge in
streetscape and urban design guidelines, community design guidelines,
heritage conservation district studies (landscape portion), commercial,
industrial, and institutional site planning, as well as detailed design and
implementation of streetscape design elements. Her design experience is
complimented by knowledge gained while problem solving with clients and
contractors.
Shannon has project and management experience in a variety of work for
public and private clients, pursuant to the Ontario Heritage Act, Planning Act,
and Environmental Assessment Act.
SELECTED PROJECT EXPERIENCE
Urban Design and Streetscape
» Landscape Architect and Urban Designer, Durham College Campus Master
Plan Update, Durham Region, ON
» Landscape Architect / Heritage Consultant, Northdale Land Use and
Community Improvement Plan Study, Landscape and Heritage input into
Urban Design Guidelines, Waterloo, Ontario
» Landscape Architect / Heritage Consultant, Cardinal Community
Improvement Plan, Streetscape and Heritage Design Guidelines,
Edwardsburgh / Cardinal, Ontario
» Landscape Architect / Heritage Consultant, Alton Village Study Village Plan
and Design Guidelines, Town of Caledon, Ontario
» Landscape Architect, Comprehensive Plan Graphic and Urban Design input
into major international planning assignment, Saudi Arabia
» Lead Landscape Architect, Windsor Essex Parkway P3 Pursuit, Windsor,
Ontario
» Landscape Architect, Halton Dundas Street BRT Class EA Study, Oakville,
Ontario
» Lead Landscape Architect, Plains Road Functional Design, City of
Burlington, Ontario
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Senior Project Manager / Team
Leader, Professional Heritage
Consultant, MMM Group Limited,
Thornhill, Ontario (2013 – Present)
Senior Landscape Architect,
Professional Heritage Consultant,
Ecoplans, a member of MMM Group
Limited (2005 – 2012)
Landscape Architect, Intern
Heritage Consultant, ESG
International / Stantec Consulting,
Guelph, Ontario (2002 – 2005)
Senior Landscape Architect, Wendy
Shearer Landscape Architect
Limited. Guelph, Ontario, Intern
Landscape Architect (2000 – 2002)
S. Baker | MMM Group (Urban Design) | February 2014 | p. 2
» Lead Landscape Architect, Howard Avenue Grade Separation Streetscape Design and
Construction Drawings, Windsor, Ontario
» Landscape Architect, Woodroffe Street Restoration, Ottawa, Ontario *
» Landscape Architect, Bank Street Streetscape Plan, City of Ottawa, Ontario *
» Project Landscape Architect, Region of Peel Streetscape Design Guidelines, Region of Peel,
Ontario
» Project Landscape Architect, Main Street Unionville Streetscape Design, Markham, Ontario
» Lead Landscape Architect, Howard Avenue Grade Separation Streetscape Design and
Construction Drawings, Windsor, Ontario
» Landscape Architect, City of Hamilton Emergency Services Commemorative Square, Hamilton,
Ontario *
» Landscape Architect, Woodroffe Street Restoration, Ottawa, Ontario *
» Landscape Architect, Terry Fox Drive Road Improvements, Ottawa, Ontario *
» Landscape Architect, Main Street Village Entry Features and Streetscape Landscape
Development, Town of Milton, Ontario *
» Landscape Architect, Gwillimbury GO Transit Station Landscape Plan, East Gwillimbury,
Ontario *
» Landscape Architect, Terry Fox Drive Streetscape Plan, City of Ottawa, Ontario *
» Landscape Architect, Gordon / Norfolk Street Reconstruction Streetscape Design and
Construction Drawings, City of Guelph, Ontario *
» Landscape Architect, Wyndham Street Reconstruction Streetscape Design and Construction
Drawings, City of Guelph, Ontario *
» Project Manager, Landscape Architecture, Highway 407 East Completion Individual
Environmental Assessment / Preliminary Design
» Lead Landscape Architect, Highway 401, Sydenham Road to Montreal Street, Vegetation
assessment (impacts to existing vegetation) and detailed landscape design for highway road
widening project, Kingston, Ontario
» Lead Landscape Architect, QEW - Burloak Drive to Guelph Line, Vegetation assessment of
potential impacts associated with highway improvements
» Lead Landscape Architect, Land Forces Western Area Site Plan, Edmonton, Alberta
» Lead Landscape Architect, Gateway Landscape, Confederation Bridge Plaza, Borden, Prince
Edward Island *
» Lead Landscape Architect, Blue Water Bridge Canada Canadian Plaza Improvements – Landscape
Master Plan, Sarnia, Ontario *
» Lead Landscape Architect, Blue Water Bridge Canada Phase One Canadian Plaza Improvements -
CBA Complex, Detailed Design and Construction Drawings, Sarnia, Ontario *
» Lead Landscape Architect, Windsor Detroit Tunnel, Canadian Plaza Landscape Master Plan,
Windsor, Ontario *
S. Baker | MMM Group (Urban Design) | February 2014 | p. 3
» Lead Landscape Architect, Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge Crossing, Canadian Plaza
Improvements, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario *
Heritage Restoration and Adaptive Reuse
» Landscape Architect / Heritage Consultant, J.E.H. MacDonald House (Group of 7) Detailed
Landscape Design, Research Component and Heritage Landscape Restoration Master Plan,
Thornhill, Ontario *
» Landscape Architect / Heritage Consultant, Nicholas Waller Triangle Landscape and Heritage
Preservation Plan, Ottawa, Ontario *
» Landscape Architect / Heritage Consultant, Amos Wright Heritage House Master Plan, Richmond
Hill, Ontario *
» Landscape Architect / Heritage Consultant, Arboretum, Historic Recreation of Italianate Garden,
University of Guelph, Ontario *
» Landscape Architect, Bank Street Streetscape Revitalization Plan, Ottawa, Ontario *
» Landscape Architect / Heritage Consultant, Old East Heritage District Study, London, Ontario *
» Landscape Architect, Former Waterloo County Gaol and Governor’s House, Millennium Garden,
Region of Waterloo *
» Landscape Architect, Relocation of Jackson House, Battlefield Park, Stoney Creek, Ontario *
» Landscape Architect, Vista Homes, Adaptive Reuse of the Fergus Mill, Fergus, Ontario *
» Landscape Architect / Heritage Consultant, Civic Centre Heritage Conservation District Study,
Kitchener, Ontario
» Project Manager, Randwood Estates Heritage Impact Assessment, Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake,
Ontario
» Landscape Architect / Heritage Consultant, Alton Village Study, Heritage Character Statement,
Town of Caledon, Ontario
» Landscape Architect / Heritage Consultant, Tett Centre for Learning Adaptive Reuse, Kingston,
Ontario
» Landscape Architect / Heritage Consultant, 2nd Concession EA Ghost Lock Heritage Design
Guidelines, Town of East Gwillimbury, Ontario
» Landscape Architect, Hunter Street Heritage Bridge Gateway Design, Peterborough, Ontario
» Landscape Architect, Valley Inn Road Recreational/Heritage Design Study, City of Burlington,
Ontario
» Project Manager, B Line LRT Corridor Built Heritage and Cultural Heritage Landscape Study
Addendum Report, Hamilton, Ontario
* Denotes project experience gained prior to MMM
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATION
» Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (Member)
» Canadian Society of Landscape Architect (Member)
S. Baker | MMM Group (Urban Design) | February 2014 | p. 4
» Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals (Member)
» Society for Ecological Restoration (Member)
» National Trust for Historic Preservation
RECOGNITION
» Guest Critic: Selected Topics in Landscape Architectural Technology + Ecology, Brownfields:
realms of remediation, John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design,
University of Toronto (2012)
» Guest Critic: School of Environmental Design and Rural Development, University of Guelph
(2007)
Awards
» Award of Merit, Communication, Canadian Association of Professional Heritage Consultants
(CAPHC), Historical Research of the Thoreau MacDonald Property (2005)
» Award Regional Honour, Research, Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA), Historical
Research of the Thoreau MacDonald Property (2005)
» Award of Distinction from the Windsor Construction Association through their 2011 Awards of
Excellence Program for the Howard Avenue CPR Grade Separation Windsor, Ontario (2011)
EDUCATION
» M.U.D.S., School of Planning and Geography, University of Toronto, Ontario (2013)
» BLA, School of Landscape Architecture, University of Guelph, Ontario (2000)
Certification / Courses
» Built Heritage and Cultural Landscape Study Trip to the Cotswolds, UK Heritage Resource
Centre, University of Waterloo (2011)
» Temperate Wetland Training Course, Ministry of Natural Resources and the Trent Institute for
Watershed Science (2008)
» Environmental Conservation Certificate, University of Guelph (2005)
J. Tassiopoulos | MMM Group | September 2015 | p. 1
JOHN TASSIOPOULOS, BA, MCIP, RPP Sr. Project Manager/Urban Designer, Planning & Environmental Design Associate
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
John Tassiopoulos is a senior project manager / urban designer with MMM
Group Limited (MMM). His experience in the areas of urban design and urban
planning include the preparation of Secondary Plan studies, community master
plans, Avenue Segment studies, urban design guidelines and briefs, and
architectural design controls. In addition to more than 16 years of professional
experience, he is a mentor within the Royal Architecture Institute of Canada’s
Syllabus Program, providing assistance, review, and instruction in urban design
since 2003. John also serves as a panel member on the City of Vaughan’s
Design Review Panel. Most recently, he was a panel member for the City of
Toronto's Committee of Adjustment (2009-2015) and for the City of London's
Urban Design Review Panel (2013-2014). In the past, he has participated in the
heritage preservation community as a member of the Toronto Midtown
Community Preservation Panel and the Toronto and East York Community
Preservation Panel (2000 to 2007).
John has assisted in a number of planning projects ranging from site plan and
urban design reviews to community planning and Secondary Plans. Some
noteworthy projects include for the Southwest Brantford West of Conklin
Road Secondary Plan Study and the Aurora 2C Secondary Plan and their
respective urban design guidelines, the City of Brampton’s Transit Supportive
Townhouse Guidelines and conceptual plans for the Canada Lands Rockcliffe
community in Ottawa. In addition, John has extensive peer review experience
providing urban design review and architectural control services to both the
private and public sectors throughout the Greater Toronto Area and
specialized in providing urban design peer review services to the Towns of
Ajax, Aurora, Whitchurch-Stouffville, Georgina, and Pelham.
SELECTED PROJECT EXPERIENCE
Official Plans and Secondary Plans
» Aurora 2C Secondary Plan, Aurora
» Southwest Brantford Secondary Plan, Brantford
» Keswick Business Park Secondary Plan, Georgina
» Fonthill Secondary Plan, Pelham
» Area A9 Secondary Plan, Ajax
» Midhurst Secondary Plan, Springwater Township
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Senior Project Manager / Urban
Designer, Associate, MMM Group
Limited (2013 – Present)
Urban Planner / Urban Designer,
Associate, The Planning Partnership
(2005 – 2013)
Project Manager, Architectural
Design Control and Urban Design,
Watchorn Architect Inc. / The MBTW
Group (2004 – 2005)
Planner and Design Control
Assistant, Williams and Stewart
Associates, (1999 – 2004)
J. Tassiopoulos | MMM Group | September 2015 | p. 2
Community Plans and Urban Design
» Canada Lands Corporation Rockcliffe, Ottawa
» Davis Drive Massing Study & Analysis, Y.R.R.T.C., Newmarket
» Heron Gate Community Redevelopment Plan, Ottawa
» 2115 -2119 Bloor Street West Avenue Segment Study, Main & Main Developments, Toronto
» Orchards of West Hill, Toronto
» Binbrook Community Plan & Urban Design Guidelines, Hamilton
» Hanson Community Design Guidelines, Midland
» Bayview & 19th Avenue Urban Design Brief, Richmond Hill
» Mount Pleasant II Block 201 Urban Design Brief, Brampton
» Traditions Architectural Design Guidelines, Milton
» South Fields Urban Design Guidelines, Caledon
» Summerlyn Village Urban Design Guidelines, Bradford
» Duffin Heights Design Guidelines, Pickering
» Belterra Estates Urban Design Guidelines, New Tecumseth
Architectural Design Guidance
» Town Urban and Architectural Design Review Consultant, Ajax
» Cornell Rouge, Markham
» Greensborough, Markham
» Upper Greensborough, Markham
» Berczy Village, Markham
» Villages of Fairtree, Markham
» Wismer Common, Markham
» South Unionville, Markham
» Traditions, Milton
» Hawthorne Village, Milton
» Miltonbrook, Milton
» Jefferson Forest, Richmond Hill
» Headford Business Park, Richmond Hill
» Aurora 2C Community, Aurora
» Aurora Promenade, Aurora
» Hallgrove Industrial Park, Aurora
» Neighbourhoods of Northeast Bayview, Aurora
» Riverview Heights, Brampton
J. Tassiopoulos | MMM Group | September 2015 | p. 3
» Sandy Shores, Brampton
» Block 18, Vaughan
» Block 33 (West), Vaughan
» Town of Richmond Hill Urban Design Review (various)
» Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville Urban Design Review (various)
» Town of Georgina Urban Design Review (various)
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATION
» Ontario Professional Planners Institute
» Canadian Institute of Planners
EDUCATION
» Bachelor of Arts (Honours), Urban & Economic Geography, University of Toronto, Ontario (1991)
Shawn Chow | MMM Group | February 2015 | p. 1
SHAWN CHOW, MCIP, RPP
Senior Planner, Planning and Environmental Design
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Shawn Chow is a Senior Planner with MMM’s Planning and Environmental Design
group. Shawn works on behalf of public and private sector clients: preparing official
plans, master plans and redevelopment and revitalization strategies; advancing
development approvals; and, undertaking specialized planning, environmental and
socio-economic investigations on a wide range of contemporary and emerging
planning and socio-economic topics. Shawn’s development planning experience
includes a full-range of Ontario development approvals, including Official Plan and
Zoning By-law Amendments, Draft Plans of Subdivision, Site Plan Approvals and
Committee of Adjustment applications. Shawn also contributes to environmental
assessments as well as development site selection, feasibility and impact
investigations.
Shawn often undertakes primary and secondary research and has significant
statistical and spatial analysis and consultation capabilities. In particular, Shawn’s
knowledge of GISs, relational databases and web-based consultation tools make
him invaluable to MMM’s more complex multi-disciplinary and data-driven
assignments. This area of Shawn’s expertise is most frequently leveraged in
collaboration with MMM’s Strategic Advisory Services Group, which is an
international practice experienced in preparing business and economic
development strategies and in providing growth management, real-estate and
market advice.
SELECTED PROJECT EXPERIENCE
Development Feasibility Investigations & Approvals
» Various development feasibility investigations for sites in Ontario (On-going)
» Zoning By-law Amendment and Site Plan Approval Applications for a proposed
commercial / residential mixed-use development involving a Mountain
Equipment Coop Store and stacked townhouse development in Toronto,
Ontario
» Nyon Oil Inc. - Nyon Energy Park Strategic Directions Report, Port Colborne,
Ontario
» Zoning By-law Amendment and Site Plan Approval applications for the
Richmond Hill Christian Community Church, Ontario
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Senior Planner (2015 - present)
Project Planner (2011 - 2014)
Planner (2009 - 2011)
Student / Assistant Planner (2005-
2009, Part time)
MMM Group, Thornhill, ON (2005 –
Present)
CONFERENCES & SPEAKING
ENGAGEMENTS
2014 OPPI Symposium Presenter:
Leveraging Web Tools and GIS to
Deliver Better Planning
S. Chow | MMM Group | January 2014 | p. 2
» Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments for a residential mixed-use development consisting of a
37-storey tower and an eight-storey mid-rise in the City of Mississauga, Ontario
Policy & Infrastructure Planning
» Telecommunications - Policy and Development Monitoring, Policy Analysis and Statistical / GIS-
based Forecasting in Ontario (On-going)
» Demand forecasting, GIS, data mining and consultation support for various Transportation Master
Plans in Ontario, including Plans for the Bolton Area in the Town of Caledon, the County of
Northumberland, the County of Simcoe and the City of Quinte West (On-going)
» Demand forecasting, GIS and data mining support for various functional servicing investigations in
the Greater Toronto Area, Ontario (On-going)
» Ministry of Infrastructure - Geospatial Dataset Creation and Analysis of Urban Growth Centres for the
Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2006, Ontario
» City of Brockville - Web and GIS Options and Strategy for the Zoning By-law Update, Ontario
» Peel Region - Evaluation of Hanlan Feedermain North, Minimizing Construction Impacts Analysis
Questionnaire Results, Ontario
» City of Kingston - Web and GIS Options Strategy for the Zoning Issues and Strategy Study, Ontario
» Parc Downsview Park - Stanley Greene Neighbourhood Integrated Environmental Assessment,
Toronto, Ontario
» Toronto Hydro- Electric System Limited - Class EA for Minor Transmission Facilities for the Bremner
Transformer Station Cable Tunnel, Ontario
» City of St. Catharines - Edgedale Road Stormsewer Extension Class EA, Ontario
» Cities of Mississauga and Brampton - Hurontario / Main Street Higher Order Transit Study (Municipal
Class EA Master Plan), Ontario
» Ministry of Transportation - Land Use and Socio-economic Impact Assessment for the QEW Garden
City Skyway Bridge Assessment, St. Catharines and Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
» Sudbury East Planning Board - Sudbury East Planning Area Official Plan Update, Ontario
» Town of Innisfil - Big Bay Point Resort Development OMB Hearing and Peer Review, Ontario
» Royal Park Homes and Signature Developments Inc. - Green Earth Village - Sustainable Community
Development Strategy, East Gwillimbury, Ontario
» York Region - Markham By-pass Watermain Municipal Class EA, Ontario
Real Estate Strategies, Program Reviews, Land Needs & Economic Analyses
» United Counties of Leeds & Grenville - Official Plan Land Supply Analysis, Ontario
» Dufferin County - Official Plan Land Needs Analysis Update, Ontario
» Township of West Lincoln - Enhanced Commercial Demand Analysis, Ontario
» City of Calgary - Commercial and Office Opportunities in the Trans-Canada Highway Corridor,
Alberta
» Brampton Downtown Development Corporation - Brampton Downtown Development Study, Ontario
S. Chow | MMM Group | January 2014 | p. 3
» Walton Development and Management - City of Ottawa Employment Lands Strategy Land Supply
Review, Ontario
» City of Lethbridge - Integrated Growth Management Plan Market Demand Analysis, Alberta
» Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade - Business Model Review and Transformation,
Ontario
» Castlepoint Development - Redevelopment Strategy and Economic Impact Analysis for 158 Sterling
Road Regeneration Project, Toronto, Ontario
» Siteline Development - Economic Impact Analysis for 440 Dufferin Street, Toronto, Ontario
» Riversdale Economic Revitalization Strategy, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
» City of Trail - Socio-economic Review for Downtown Revitalization Plan, British Columbia
» Holcim Canada - Strategic Development and Portfolio Management Advice, Ontario
» Ontario Ministry of Transportation - Socio-Economic and Business Impact Analysis of Proposed
Improvements to Highway 11 from Washago to Gravenhurst, Ontario
» Niagara Economic Development Corporation - Brownfield Redevelopment Opportunities Study,
Ontario
» Children's Aid Society of Toronto - Real-estate Portfolio and Central Office Redevelopment Projects,
Ontario*
* Projects completed prior to employment at MMM
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATION
» Canadian Institute of Planners (Member)
» Ontario Professional Planners Institute (Member)
EDUCATION
» Masters of Science in Planning, (Urban Planning Development Specialization), University of Toronto,
Toronto, Ontario (2009)
» Bachelor of Environmental Studies, Dean’s Honours List (Honours, Co-operative Education, Urban
and Regional Planning, Land Development Specialization), University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario
(2007)
» Theory and Practice of Planning in U.K. Exchange, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, United
Kingdom (2006)
Professional Development
» The Planner at the OMB OPPI Professional Development Course (2012)
» Plain Language for Planners OPPI Professional Development Course (2011)
» Planner as a Facilitator OPPI Professional Development Course (2010)
A Grabowski | December 2015 | p. 1
Arthur Grabowski, H.BA, M.PL
Planner, Planning and Environmental Design
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Arthur Grabowski is a Planner with both public and private sector planning
experience. Arthur has experience in wide variety of planning assignments,
including community improvement plans, official plans, zoning by-laws, secondary
plans, urban design studies and land development projects. Arthur also has a
strong background in development and planning rationale for a wide range of
projects, of which includes support on matters appealed to the Ontario Municipal
Board. Arthur also has experience in coordinating and leading public consultation
events, as well as developing design guidelines for the City of Ottawa. Arthur has
an academic background in strategic waterfront development with previous work
analyzing Toronto’s waterfront and developing policy recommendations for public
spaces Ottawa’s Rideau Canal. Arthur is working towards his RPP and MCIP
designations.
SELECTED PROJECT EXPERIENCE
Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments
» 955-995 Mulock Drive, Falconcrest Homes, Newmarket (2015): Official Plan, Zoning by-law
Amendment, Draft Plan of Subdivision, Site Plan Approval and Draft Plan of Condominium
applications for a 73 unit townhouse development in an environmentally sensitive area.
» 3445 Sheppard Avenue East, 8188475 Canada Corp, Toronto (2015): Clearing conditions of approval
for Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-law Amendment, Site Plan Approval and Draft Plan of
Condominium for a 10 and 14 storey mixed residential development with retail at grade.
» 507 Mulock Drive, Ganni Kinno Inc., Newmarket (2015): Zoning by-law Amendment and Site Plan
Approval applications for a 3 storey medical office with ancillary retail uses in an employment area.
Site Plan Approval and Minor Variances
» 493-565 Carrville Road, Senator Homes, Richmond Hill (2015): Minor Variance application and
planning rationale in support of a proposed 105 unit townhouse development.
» 10483 Islington Avenue, Kleinburg North Holdings Limited, Kleinburg (2015): Site Plan Approval and
Minor Variance applications to permit an addition to a Part IV designated heritage commercial
building.
» 1300 Bayly Street, 1864832 Ontario Limited, City of Pickering (2015): Site Plan Approval and a use
related Minor Variance application to facilitate the development of a gas station with a retail store and
car wash.
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND
Planner, WSP – MMM Group Limited,
Thornhill, ON, (Dec 2015-Present)
Planner, Weston Consulting,
Vaughan, ON, (Feb 2015 - Dec 2015)
Development Information Officer, City
of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, (May 2014 –
Feb 2015)
Planning Student, City of Ottawa,
Ottawa, ON, (May 2013 – Sept 2013)
Planning Assistant, City of Toronto,
Toronto, ON, (Sept 2011 – May 2012)
A Grabowski | December 2015 | p. 2
Due Diligence and Planning Reports
» 1197 The Queensway Avenue and 8 Zorra Street, Zeinarb Inc., Toronto (2015): Due diligence and
pro forma analysis for the development of a 12 storey residential condominium.
» 50 Bond Avenue, Waterstone Clinic, Toronto (2015): Highest and best use analysis and report.
» 54 The Esplanade, Cushman Wakefield, Toronto (2015): Development options report for the property
known as the ‘Old Spaghetti Factory”.
Ontario Municipal Board Appeals
» 14065 Islington Avenue, Napa Valley Dental Centrel, Kleinburg (2015): Minor variance application
and OMB appeal in support of parking reduction in a heritage district.
Public Sector Planning
» Mature Neighbourhoods Zoning By-law 2012-147, City of Ottawa (2013): Research and analysis of
front yard parking pads, permitted projections and density in Ottawa’s historic downtown
neighbourhoods.
» Rockcliffe CDP Public Consultation, City of Ottawa (2013): Facilitation and support for a public
meeting.
» Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Plans: Train, St. Laurent Cyrville, City of Ottawa (2013):
Research best practice guidelines and draft section on pocket parks near LRT stations in Ottawa.
» By-ward Market – Strengthening the Future of the Byward Market, City of Ottawa (2013): Public
consultation, urban design inventory and GIS mapping and present design concepts to support report
to Ottawa City Council.
» 158 Sterling Road Public Consultation, City of Toronto (2012): Facilitation and support for a public
meeting.
Miscellaneous
» Brampton Municipal Comprehensive Review: Employment Lands, Rice Commercial Group Limited,
Brampton (2015): Monitor and planning justification for the conversion of employment lands to
facilitate the development of a retail warehouse and gas bar.
» CAPs- ACEAU Conference: Animating the Rideau Canal (2014): Presentation of urban design
guidelines and recommendations for improving connectivity and placemaking on the Rideau Canal, a
UNESCO world heritage site.
» OPPI Ignite Session: The Role of the Pan American Games in Toronto (2013): Presentation on
research at the OPPI conference in London.
» The Impacts of the Hallmark Events on Citites: Implications of the 2015 Pan American Games on
Toronto (2012): Case study and site research in Rio de Janiero through a travel grant by Queens
Unviersity.
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATION
» Canadian Institute of Planners (Member)
» Ontario Professional Planners Institute (Member)
A Grabowski | December 2015 | p. 3
EDUCATION
» M.PL (Masters of Planning), Queens University, Ontario (2014)
» Honours Bachelor of Arts & Science, University of Toronto, Ontario (2012)
Professional Career Strategic Projections Inc. (SPI) President, 1989 to Present
Centre for Spatial Economics (C4SE) Corporate Partner, 2000 to Present
Compusearch (now MapInfo)
Vice President, Research, 1987 to 1989
Coopers & Lybrand Management Consultants (now PricewaterhouseCoopers)
Principal, Economics Practice, 1986 to 1987
Data Resources Inc. (now IHS Global Insight)
Chief Canadian Economist, 1982 to 1986
Woods, Gordon Management Consultants (now Ernst & Young)
Senior Consultant, Economics Practice, 1974 to 1976
Government of Canada Various Federal Government Economic Policy Roles Department of Industry, Trade and Commerce, 1979 to 1982 Anti-Inflation Board, 1976 to 1979 Department of Finance, 1970 to 1974
Advisory Panels “Long Term Care Innovation” Expert Panel (OLTCA, Ontario), 2011 Ontario’s Smart Growth Sub-Panel on Strategy (Burlington Mayor Rob MacIsaac, Chair), 2003 Ontario’s Jobs and Investment Board (Ontario Premier Mike Harris, Chair), 1999 Ontario’s Who Does What Panel (David Crombie, Chair), 1996-1997 Ontario Premier’s Task Force on the Future of the GTA (Ann Golden, Chair), 1995-1996
Recent Projects Sub-Region Projections: Edmonton (24 cities), British Columbia(19 regions) Economic Potential Reports: Greater Victoria, Greater Peterborough, Elgin County Workforce Development Strategies: Grand Erie, Sarnia, Hamilton, Chatham-Kent City of Toronto: Future Employment Land Needs by Industry Ontario Ministry of Transportation, Projections for 3,000+ Golden Horseshoe Traffic Zones Urban Development Institute (Ontario), Ensuring Ontario’s Economic Potential Ontario Ministry of Finance, Key Forces Shaping Ontario’s Economic Geography to 2025 Toronto Board of Trade, Toronto’s Net Fiscal Position vs. Canada and Ontario Official Population Projections: GTA, Ottawa, Hamilton, Barrie, Timmins, West Nipissing
Professional Associations / Boards Lambda Alpha International, Simcoe Chapter, Member Since 2010 Pragma Council of the Waterloo School of Planning, Chairman, 2003 to 2007, Member Since 1996 Greater Toronto Airports Authority, Member of the Board of Directors, 2001 to 2005 Canadian Association for Business Economics, President, 2000 to 2002, Member Since 1976 Oakville Economic Development Alliance, Chairman, 1997 to 2000 Halton Industry Education Council, Chairman, 1993 to 1995
Education Master of Arts (Economics), University of Western Ontario, 1970 Bachelor of Arts (Economics), University of Western Ontario, 1968
Resume
Tom McCormack, MA
MMM Group Limited100 Commerce Valley Drive West
Thornhill, ON Canada L3T 0A1t: 905.882.1100 | f: 905.882.0055
www.mmm.ca