Municipality of North Grenville Rideau-Sanders-Prescott Community Improvement Plan (CIP)

Transcription

1 Municipality of North Grenville Rideau-Sanders-Prescott Community Improvement Plan (CIP) 12/14/2016 1

2 Planning & Development Department December 14, 2016 Table of Contents 1.0 Introduction Background Legislative Authority Official Plan Provisions for a CIP Objectives Community Consultation Financial Incentive Programs Façade, Landscape & Signage Improvement Grant Program Purpose Program Specifics Annual Budget Residential Intensification Development Charge Exemption Purpose Program Specifics Tax Increment-Based Incentive Grant Purpose Program Specifics Brownfields Financial Tax Assistance Program Eligibility Program Specifics Implementation CIP Grants Committee Marketing the Programs Amendments to the CIP Public Works & Infrastructure Underground Infrastructure /14/2016 2

3 11.2 One-Ways Pedestrian Amenities Monitoring Appendix Community Improvement Project Area Appendix By-Law Appendix Financial Incentive Programs /14/2016 3

4 1.0 Introduction In accordance with the Ontario Planning Act, the Municipality of North Grenville has prepared a Community Improvement Plan to guide redevelopment efforts in the Rideau-Sanders-Prescott Community Improvement Plan Area (CIPA), see Appendix 1. The Community Improvement Plan (CIP) will, subject to the approval of Council, offer a suite of financial incentive programs to stimulate the revitalization of private properties in the Community Improvement Plan Area (CIPA). The Municipality maintains a municipal-wide Community Improvement Project Area designation of all lands within the corporate limits. The Municipality will identify and establish by By-Law, criteria for delineating community improvement plans, including a schedule of works for the maintenance, rehabilitation, repair and development of public and privately-owned facilities and lands. Council adopted By-Law (Appendix 2) on November 25, 2013 to designate a Community Improvement Project Area and approve the Rideau Sanders Community Improvement Plan (CIP). This draft revised plan includes expanding the current CIP area to include Prescott Street (Appendix 1) and to change the plan name from; Rideau-Sanders Community Improvement Plan To Rideau-Sanders-Prescott Community Improvement Plan The Rideau-Sanders-Prescott Community Improvement Plan (CIP) continues to represent a positive step towards achieving the Municipality s community development goals and lays out a program through which the Municipality can encourage the maintenance and redevelopment of commercial and residential properties in the CIP area (Appendix 1). The Municipality of North Grenville will assume a leadership role in the revitalization process and, in addition to implementing the CIP financial incentive programs, will continue to invest in the public infrastructure in accordance with the North Grenville Official Plan, Public Works Capital Improvement Plan and the Heritage Design Guidelines. 2.0 Background North Grenville, one of Eastern Ontario s fastest growing municipalities, offers great promise for sustained, economic development investment. The Town of Kemptville, the Municipality s only fully serviced (and largest) community, is strategically located at the doorstep of the Nation s Capital, and features an ever-growing downtown. The Rideau-Sanders-Prescott area is designated a Downtown Commercial Area in the Official Plan (OP). 12/14/2016 4

5 The objectives for the redevelopment of the Downtown Commercial Area are outlined in Section 10.3 in the OP. The CIP coordinates all of these objectives and will ensure smooth, wellorchestrated development and redevelopment efforts that are in line with community values and fulfill the diverse range of uses and opportunities presented through the Downtown Commercial Area land use designation. Prior to the opening of Highway 416 in 1999, the Rideau-Sanders-Prescott area was the highway commercial corridor along the original Highway 16 route connecting Kemptville to Ottawa in the north and Prescott to the south. With the advent of the 416 and the subsequent change in traffic patterns, County Road #43 evolved as the new highway commercial corridor, changing the function of the Rideau-Sanders-Prescott area. According to the North Grenville Official Plan (OP) the intensification of land use plays a crucial role in meeting the needs of the ever-growing Municipality and the subsequent increase in demand for housing and employment opportunities 1. The reuse of underutilized land for infill projects and redevelopment is imperative if the Community is to meet the demands of growth. The CIP provides a solid foundation for development and redevelopment projects in the Rideau- Sanders-Prescott area to make it a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood and a key connector from County Road #43 Highway Commercial Corridor down through the Triangle and Old Town Kemptville area to the south. The OP contains clear and concise objectives for implementing a Community Improvement Plan (CIP) as part of the overall revitalization efforts. The 2007 and 2013 Strategic Plans, the Economic Development Strategy, and feedback garnered from the First Impressions Community Exchange program in 2011 all identified a CIP as a priority for economic development efforts moving forward. 2.1 Legislative Authority Section 106(1) through Section 106(3) of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended, and Section 28 of the Planning Act, 1990, as amended, gives the Municipality of North Grenville the legislative authority to define a Community Improvement Project Area and prepare a Community Improvement Plan. The Municipality s OP provides further detail regarding the powers granted under the Planning Act to establish a CIP. The Planning Act contains the following definitions: Community Improvement means the planning or re-planning, design or redesign, resubdivision, clearance, development or redevelopment, construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation, improvement of energy efficiency, or any of them, of a community improvement project area, and the provision of such residential, commercial, industrial, public, recreational, institutional, religious, charitable or other uses, buildings, structures, works, improvements or facilities, or spaces therefore, as may be appropriate or necessary; 1 North Grenville Official Plan, Section 2.4.5: Land Requirements, February /14/2016 5

6 Community Improvement Plan means a plan for the community improvement of a community improvement project area; Community Improvement Project Area means a municipality or an area within a municipality, the community improvement of which in the opinion of the council is desirable because of age, dilapidation, overcrowding, faulty arrangement, unsuitability of buildings or for any other environmental, social or community economic development reason. The Planning Act also identifies provisions with respect to grants, loans, agreements and maximum eligibility. It does require that a municipality have provisions set out in its Official Plan permitting community improvement plans. 2.2 Official Plan Provisions for a CIP The North Grenville OP contains provisions for the establishment of a Community Improvement Plan: Section 12.3 states: The Community Improvement provisions of the Planning Act provide the opportunity to plan for, and co-ordinate, comprehensive physical improvements to older areas of the Municipality. Community Improvement Policies are intended to give municipalities a planning mechanism, and access to, a variety of provincial cost-sharing programs, to address deficiencies within designated areas in a coordinated and comprehensive fashion, and to encourage private investment activity in these areas. Under the Planning Act, municipalities may designate "Community Improvement Project Areas" within which the Municipality may acquire lands, prepare improvement plans, and undertake various community improvement projects and works to implement these plans. The policies of this Section of the Plan provide a framework for the selection and designation of "Community Improvement Project Areas" and for the preparation and implementation of community improvement plans. It is the Municipality's intention to encourage improvements to the quality of existing development, community facilities and public services, particularly within the Town of Kemptville and the Hamlets and to provide those additional community facilities as circumstances and finances permit Community Improvement Objectives It is intended that the application of the Community Improvement Policies shall be directed towards the following objectives: a) Provide for the designation of "Community Improvement Project Areas" in areas of the Municipality that exhibit problems of instability, building deterioration, inadequate municipal services and facilities, or inappropriate arrangement of land uses. 12/14/2016 6

7 b) Promote the long term stability and viability of designated "Community Improvement Project Areas." c) Encourage the co-ordination of municipal expenditures and planning and development activity within designated "Community Improvement Project Areas." d) Encourage residential intensification opportunities such as mixed use and infill developments, accessory apartments, and residential conversion of upper floors of commercial buildings. e) Stimulate private property maintenance and reinvestment activity. f) Facilitate the cleanup and redevelopment of brownfield properties. g) Enhance the visual quality of designated "Community Improvement Project Areas" through the recognition and protection of heritage buildings. h) Reduce the detrimental effects of incompatible land uses in designated "Community Improvement Project Areas." i) Upgrade physical services and social and recreational facilities in designated "Community Improvement Project Areas." j) Promote the improvement of energy efficiency standards for residential, commercial, industrial, public, recreational, institutional, religious, charitable or other uses within the designated Community Improvement Project Areas. k) Support the creation of Affordable Housing by considering any municipallyowned, undeclared surplus land for Affordable Housing before any other use is considered. l) Support the implementation of measures that will assist in achieving sustainable development and sustainable living. m) Support the retention of heritage properties or areas. n) Fostering the improvement of businesses and public spaces to remove barriers which may restrict their accessibility. The Municipality will maintain a municipal-wide Community Improvement Project Area designation of all lands within the corporate limits. The Municipality will identify and establish by By-Law, criteria for delineating community improvement plans, including a schedule of works for the maintenance, rehabilitation, repair and development of public and privately-owned facilities and lands. 12/14/2016 7

8 3.0 Objectives The Rideau-Sanders-Prescott CIP allows for the coordination of targeted physical improvements within the Project Area and the implementation of incentive programs to facilitate revitalization and private sector investment. The objectives of the Rideau-Sanders-Prescott Community Improvement Plan are: 1. Stimulate private property maintenance and reinvestment activity; 2. Support the retention of heritage properties or areas; 3. Attract new commercial investment to the downtown area; 4. Encourage residential intensification opportunities; 5. Improve streetscape (façade, landscaping, signage, wheelchair accessibility); and, 6. Connect the Commercial Corridor of County Road 43 down to the south through the Downtown area. 4.0 CIP Program Impact Now in its third year, the Rideau Sanders CIP has been incredibly successful, surpassing all targets and oversubscribing each year. Below is a performance chart for the Façade, Landscape and Signage Grant Program that includes number of applications and total private and public investment over the period. For every $1 invested through public funds, another $2 is invested by the private sector. Rideau Sanders Triangle - Community Improvement Program 5 year CIP program $20K per year) Façade, Landscape and Signage Grant Program Program performance Year # of applications Total Project Values submitted Total CIP funds requested # of approvals Approved Project Costs CIP Portion leveraged (private sector) $86,047 $33,592 6 $64,662 $20,000 $44, $49,203 $21,013 7 $49,202 $20,000 $29, $67,993 $34,974 7 $67,993 $20,000 $47,993 Total 25 $203,243 $89, $181,857 $60,000 $121,857 Average $60,619 $20,000 $40,619 Percentage of total project costs 100% 33% 67% Please note that this report refers to the Façade, Landscape and Signage Grant Program only. Other programs are available as investment attraction incentive and will be implemented as development opportunities occur. 12/14/2016 8

9 5.0 Community Consultation The required Public Notification and Consultation under the Planning Act was untaken as part of the process to expand the CIP area and change the name of the Plan from the Rideau-Sanders Community Improvement Plan to the Rideau-Sanders-Prescott Community Improvement Plan, including; 1. Public Information session held at the North Grenville Public Library on Tuesday, November 15, 2016, including direct mail to all those in the current and proposed expanded CIP area and required buffer zone and public notice of said meeting. 2. Direct mail notice and public posting of meeting to be held at the Municipality of North Grenville on Monday, January 16, 2017 during Committee of the Whole (COW) to discuss expansion of the Community Improvement Plan (CIP) and any proposed 2017 budget consideration. 3. Direct notice to all regulatory agencies as required, including the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH). ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, including a copy of this draft revised Rideau-Sanders-Prescott Community Improvement Plan (CIP), is available through the following means: In writing; Municipality of North Grenville Attention: Teri Devine 285 County Road 44, Box 130 Kemptville, ON K0G 1J0 By tdevine@northgrenville.on.ca On municipal website: By Phone: Teri Devine, Economic Development Officer x /14/2016 9

10 6.0 Financial Incentive Programs The suite of CIP programs are designed to stimulate private sector investment in the Community Improvement Plan area (CIPA). Below is a summarized overview of the current Financial Incentive Programs available for the Rideau-Sanders-Prescott Community Improvement Plan. For full program guidelines, requirements, general terms and eligibility, please refer to the CIP Financial Incentive Programs Information Guide (Appendix 3). Council has the right to extend, revise or alter or rescind the plan, subject to the priorities of Council and the performance of the Plan: i. Façade, Landscape and Signage Improvement Grant Program; ii. iii. iv. Residential Intensification Development Charge Exemption; Tax Increment-Based Incentive Grant Program; and, Brownfields Financial Tax Assistance Program. 6.1 Façade, Landscape & Signage Improvement Grant Program Under the Façade, Landscape & Signage Improvement Program, matching grants may be offered to eligible property owners for façade improvements, signage development, street front (publicly accessible parts of private properties) landscape improvements, or any combination of these three categories of property enhancement Purpose The purpose of this grant program is to encourage design changes and stimulate redevelopment and revitalization in the CIPA Program Specifics Matching grants will be made available for up to 50% of eligible costs up to a maximum grant of $5,000 per property. Where multiple businesses are located within a commercial building, multiple applications may be considered for a single property Annual Budget Council will establish an annual budget for the Façade, Landscape and Signage Improvement Program. Council will determine if changes to the funding and incentive levels are necessary to ensure that the Community Improvement Plan functions properly in light of the Municipality s financial 12/14/

11 circumstances. Any change to the funding levels provided for the financial incentives programs in this Community Improvement Plan will be made at the sole discretion of Council. Unallocated funds may be carried forward to the following year s budget in reserves (if approved by Council). 6.2 Residential Intensification Development Charge Exemption Residential Intensification Development Charge Exemption is available for the conversion of nonresidential space to residential units and the rehabilitation of residential space to provide more residential units Purpose This program is intended to encourage residential intensification in the CIPA Program Specifics Development Charges will be waived for construction within the Downtown Commercial Area upon the application for applicable building permits. The Development Charges exemption amounts to upwards of $10,000 per residential unit. For an up-to-date breakdown of costs, consult the Development Charges By-Law. 6.3 Tax Increment-Based Incentive Grant A Tax Increment-Based Incentive Grant (TIBIG) is intended to provide financial incentives in the form of grants to property owners who undertake development or redevelopment of properties in the CIPA that increase property taxes. The annual grant is paid to the registered owner of the property (unless directed in writing otherwise) based on the Supplementary Notice received from the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) Purpose This incentive program is meant to stimulate investment by the private sector, which might not otherwise take place, by providing an eligible property owner with a grant equivalent to a portion of the resultant municipal property tax increases which will decrease incrementally over 10 years Program Specifics In order to minimize the cost and financial risk to the Municipality, the TIBIG will be structured as a reimbursing developer grant. The owner will be responsible for the entire cost of the redevelopment project and the Municipality may reimburse the property owner for the eligible cost of improvements in the form of an annual grant. Each year the property owner must first pay all property taxes. The Municipality may then reimburse the owner or assigned recipient by way of an annual grant equivalent to the agreed municipal portion of the incremental property tax increase over an 12/14/

12 established base assessment, which will be determined in partnership with MPAC. The program does not apply retroactively. Applications cannot be accepted for any property upon which construction has already been completed and reassessed. The total amount of an approved grant provided under this program shall not exceed the cost of redevelopment of the property. The owner is required to pay the full allocation of the education and County portions of the taxes. The minimum increase in assessment for which the use of this program of tax-based grants is permitted is a 20% increase, or $50,000 increase, in assessed property value, whichever is lower. Furthermore, it is necessary to ensure property owners achieve approval in principle for TIBIG funding before commencing a project. 6.4 Brownfields Financial Tax Assistance Program The purpose of the Brownfields Financial Tax Assistance Program (BFTAP) is to provide tax relief to brownfield sites in the Community Improvement Project Area during the rehabilitation period and the development period. It is designed to assist with the costs of environmental remediation Eligibility The Municipality of North Grenville defines an eligible brownfield site as a property: i. That is included under Section 28 of the Planning Act in a community improvement project area for which a community improvement plan is in effect containing provisions in respect of tax assistance under this section; ii. iii. iv. That is typically abandoned, vacant, or underutilized industrial or commercial properties; Where soils or water may be contaminated as a result of past practices or uses of the site or neighboring properties; That is subject to redevelopment (e.g., a change in use); v. For which a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment has been conducted; and, vi. That, as of the date the Phase II Environmental Site Assessment was completed, does not meet the standards that must be met under subparagraph 4i of Sub-section (1) of the Environmental Protection Act to permit a record of site condition to be filed under that subsection in the Environmental Site Registry Program Specifics The BFTAP provides for the cancellation of the property taxes for the period immediately following the approval of the Brownfields Tax Assistance Program By-Law (BFTAP By-Law) for the duration of the rehabilitation and redevelopment. Tax assistance will continue for the shortest of the following periods: 12/14/

13 i. Up to three (3) years; or, ii. The period up to when the owner advises the Municipality that rehabilitation has been completed. The BFTAP applies exclusively to eligible brownfield sites and is subject to Ministry of Finance Approval for the education portion. The amount of tax assistance provided will be determined during the application phase to ensure that value of the tax exemption does not exceed rehabilitation costs over the maximum three (3) year period. 7.0 Implementation Implementation of the Rideau-Sanders-Prescott Community Improvement Plan is coordinated by the Municipality of North Grenville. The Plan is executed incrementally as funding is made available. By-laws and application packages are developed for the CIP programs, subject to the approval of Council. Upon approval by Council, the Community Improvement Plan is led by the Planning & Development Department. The CIP is administered by the Community Grants Committee, as designated by Council, with support from Treasury and the Economic Development Department. The CIP offers one spring intake a year through an application process. Economic Development administers and markets the program each year, processes applications and presents to the Community Grants Committee for decision. If funds are not fully subscribed in the spring intake, a second intake may be considered by the Community Grants Committee and or remaining funds may be transferred to reserves for the next year (reserves to be approved by Council). 8.0 CIP Grants Committee Council designated the Community Grants Committee to also review and make recommendations to council on applications for the CIP financial incentive programs. The Grants Committee should be comprised of diverse and enthusiastic business people, property owners, residents, and community members. These individuals should be from outside the CIPA so as to minimize conflicts of interest during the allocation of grant money. 9.0 Marketing the Programs Successful implementation of the CIP depends upon effective communication with property owners, business owners, and community organizations. The marketing strategy for the CIP programs will be threefold: print, online, and public presentations. 12/14/

14 In terms of print promotion, a brochure should be created outlining the objectives of the CIP and the different programs available. Application packages will also have to be prepared for each of the programs. On the project webpage, include pdf copies of all print material, an FAQ sheet, and program details. The 2016 Community Profile and web content on investnorthgrenville.ca should be edited to include an investment attraction feature which makes reference to the CIP. Based on the findings of community consultation, blasts with updates in early spring and early fall would be an effective way of communicating with property owners, residents, and area businesses. Constant Contact or Mail Chimp are great tools to consider. Before and after pictures of successful projects should be included, with an explanation about what kind of grant the property owner received and the value of said grant. It is crucial that successful projects are promoted and celebrated. Presentations should also be made at BR+E Alliance events to let budding entrepreneurs know about the opportunities available as part of the CIP. The North Grenville Home Builders Association should be contacted and made aware of the incentives for downtown development and the preference for local labour embedded within the CIP. Reaching out to lending institutions, real estate agents, consultants, and legal and accounting services providers may also be useful for promoting the financial incentive programs Amendments to the CIP The financial incentive programs within the plan may be amended at any time without an amendment to the Plan. An expansion of the CIPA or an increase to the financial incentive program budget requires amendment of the Plan in accordance with Section 28 of the Planning Act Public Works & Infrastructure 11.1 Underground Infrastructure Aging municipal water, sanitary and storm sewer infrastructure situated underground along Rideau and Sanders Streets are in need of upgrades to accommodate increased residential densities. While the main roads and storm sewers in the Project Area are the responsibility of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, the water and sanitary sewers are the responsibility of the Municipality. GENIVAR has been retained to provide consultant engineering services, as required, for servicing, grading, storm water, and roadway lighting design, including the preparation of applications for approval of these services from regulatory agencies, and related construction administration. This project will be managed by a project team consisting of Municipal staff, the County, and a geotechnical engineer, civil engineer, and surveyor from GENIVAR. 12/14/

15 Public Works staff recognizes the need to ensure that repairs and upgrades to the underground infrastructure are implemented in harmony with traffic flow changes as proposed below so as to minimize inconvenience to businesses and residents of the Project Area One-Ways The 2006 traffic study prepared by McCormick Rankin Corporation for the Municipality of North Grenville looked at the impacts associated with the conversion of Rideau and Sanders Streets from two-way north-south streets to one-way streets. The Triangle would effectively become a oneway couplet, with all southbound traffic moving along Rideau Street and all northbound traffic moving along Sanders Street. The only section to remain two-way would be north of where the two streets converge, a 650 meters stretch leading to County Road #43. This possibility was previously evaluated by the Ministry of Transportation in 1970 and 1991 with conflicting recommendations. The McCormick Rankin Report findings serve as a basis to inform and seek further input and comments from the broader community. Increased commuter traffic resulting from population growth places additional pressure on the Rideau and Sanders Street Corridor because of the role these streets play in providing access to and from Highway 416 via County Road #43. Successful implementation of a Rideau-Sanders one-way couplet system will depend on the degree of support from area residents and the local business community, as well as regular commuters who drive through this corridor. The Municipality of North Grenville must ensure that all affected parties are well-informed of the advantages and disadvantages of a one-way couplet system. A Class Municipal Environmental Assessment (EA) will need to be undertaken to evaluate the impacts of this change, as well as the addition of all-way stops and pedestrian crosswalks at the intersections of Clothier and Prescott, Clothier and Rideau, and Clothier and Sanders. This process will also help gauge public preferences in terms of amenities for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Issues related to on-street parking, delivery vehicles and loading bays will need to be detailed in the EA process. Specifically, loading dock access for relevant commercial buildings located in the subject area will need careful consideration. The EA process would be a joint project between the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and the Municipality of North Grenville. The one-way conversion of Rideau and Sanders Streets would need to coordinate with the repair of underground infrastructure Pedestrian Amenities Throughout the community consultation of the 2013 Rideau-Sanders CIP, common themes that emerged included walkability, green space and visibility. There was a general consensus that the sidewalks needed repairs and should be present on both sides of the street to encourage more pedestrian activity. The fact that there are sidewalks on only one side of Rideau and Sanders Streets and a very small shoulder was noted as hindering the incentive to walk to local 12/14/

16 destinations. Furthermore, large cracks in the existing sidewalk make it difficult for pedestrians using strollers, wheelchairs and mobility scooters. All-way stops and crosswalks at the intersections of Sanders and Clothier, Rideau and Clothier, and where Prescott Street meets Clothier Street were considered a priority to improve pedestrian safety. In terms of investment attraction, efforts must be made to attract additional retailers to the Project Area that will draw shoppers that have disappeared with the out-migration of Giant Tiger, the LCBO and the Beer Store to County Road #43 Highway Commercial Area. Specific mention has been made of food and beverage-related retail and stores that appeal to young shoppers. In terms of green space and public amenities, it was widely recommended that the Municipality ensure more public space with shade trees, benches, garbage receptacles, and bike racks. Rotary Park and the waterfront were cited as favorite locations in the area. Requests were also made to encourage the clean-up of parking lots and alleyways in the Project Area, and to build a pedestrian bridge over the South Branch of the Rideau. Visibility was of great concern for both pedestrians and drivers, especially at access points to the area. Requests were made for clearer, more streamlined signage, pedestrian crosswalks, and traffic calming measures to address vehicle speed. When looking at potential road cross-sections for Rideau and Sanders one-ways, it is important to consider the traffic calming effects of narrower, right-sized lanes in reducing traffic speeds. By incorporating on-street parking and/or a designated bike lane, motorized vehicles travelling on a narrower roadway will travel at lower speeds. If space allows, a designated bike lane with a narrower lane for motorized vehicles would be preferable to a wider lane where motorized vehicles and cyclists share the road. It would be safer for cyclists and result in reduced vehicle speeds. It is recommended that the Planning, Engineering, and Community Design resources available on Walk Friendly Ontario s website ( be consulted through the EA process. One young participant suggested that the Municipality and area businesses showcase and capitalize upon the idea of a central triangle as a unique feature of Kemptville s downtown. This idea was echoed at the public meeting for property and business owners that was facilitated by the Municipality. Area business owners discussed the importance of working together to build the identity of the area and brand it. The Project Area could either be incorporated into Old Town Kemptville or the emerging idea of the Triangle could be capitalized upon. According to the Heritage Design Guidelines, the Municipality will continue to invest in the Project Area by extending and enforcing the Sign By-Law, and providing street furnishings such as benches and garbage receptacles where public space is available Monitoring The CIP is intended to provide a proactive approach to the redevelopment of property within the Project Area. The CIP is an opportunity for job retention and creation, and increased property tax assessment. As part of its Monitoring Program, the Municipality will track: 2 Heritage Design Guidelines, Section 2: Physical Supports for the Built Environment, June /14/

17 i. Approved applications; ii. iii. iv. Unapproved applications and the reasons; Value of construction; Increase in municipal property tax (assessed); v. Participant comments on their experience; and, vi. vii. The visual appearance of the community; Increase in residential units. A database is maintained in order to track the applications, their progress and the results. Based on these findings, Council can determine if changes in the funding and incentive levels are necessary or warranted in order to ensure that the CIP functions properly in light of the Municipality s financial circumstances. 12/14/

18 Appendix 1 Community Improvement Project Area EXPANDED COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT PLAN (CIP) KEY MAP Existing location of the Community Improvement Plan (CIP). Proposed expansion of the Community Improvement Plan (CIP) to selected properties on Prescott Street. 12/14/

19 Appendix 2 By-Law Existing By-Law to be repealed and replaced with new By Law incorporating the new Plan name of Rideau-Sanders-Prescott and the expanded footprint as proposed in Appendix 1. 12/14/

20 Appendix 3 Municipality of North Grenville Rideau-Sanders-Prescott Community Improvement Plan (CIP) Financial Incentive Programs Information Guide In accordance with the Ontario Planning Act, the Municipality of North Grenville has prepared a Community Improvement Plan (CIP) to guide redevelopment efforts in the Rideau-Sanders- Prescott (Appendix A ), CIP area. The Community Improvement Plan (CIP) offers a suite of financial incentive programs to stimulate the revitalization of private properties in the Rideau-Sanders-Prescott area. The development of the Rideau-Sanders-Prescott CIP represents another positive step towards achieving the Municipality s community development goals and working with community partners to create a vibrant and dynamic downtown core which offers all of the services and features it needs to be a major draw for both residential and commercial growth. The Rideau-Sanders-Prescott CIP lays out a program through which the Municipality can encourage the maintenance and redevelopment of commercial and residential properties in the Community Improvement Project Area. The Plan also provides a framework to support the redevelopment of vacant, underutilized, or contaminated properties (brownfields). The Municipality of North Grenville assumes a leadership role in the revitalization process and, in addition to implementing the CIP financial incentive programs, will continue to invest in the public infrastructure in accordance with the North Grenville Official Plan, Public Works Capital Improvement Plan and the Heritage Design Guidelines. Please read the information guide before applying for any of the CIP Financial Incentive Programs to ensure that you understand requirements, eligibility and guidelines. 1. Financial Incentive Programs The following suite of programs are designed to stimulate private sector investment in the CIP area (Appendix A ). These programs are in effect for the remaining two years of the CIP ( ), however, Council has the right to extend, revise or alter or rescind this CIP program subject to the priorities of Council and the performance of the Plan: A) Façade, Landscape and Signage Improvement Program; B) Residential Intensification Development Charge Exemption; 12/14/

21 C) Tax Increment-Based Incentive Grant Program; and, D) Brownfields Financial Tax Assistance Program. A) Façade, Landscape & Signage Improvement Grant Program Under the Façade, Landscape & Signage Improvement Program, matching grants may be offered to eligible commercial and residential property owners for façade improvements, signage development, street front (publicly accessible parts of private properties) landscape improvements, or any combination of these three categories of property enhancement. i. Purpose The purpose of this grant program is to encourage design changes and stimulate redevelopment and revitalization in the CIP Area. ii. Program specifics Matching grants will be made available for up to 50% of eligible costs up to a maximum grant of $5,000 per property. Where multiple businesses are located within a commercial building, multiple applications may be considered for a single property. iii. Implementation specifics Applications for façade, landscape and signage improvements should be in keeping with the Heritage Design Guidelines for the Municipality of North Grenville, copies of which are available online or at the North Grenville Municipal Centre Planning & Development Department. In addition, applications that demonstrate the applicant s intent to source local materials and labor will be given preference over those that do not. iv. Commercial specifications These specifications apply to multi-unit residential properties, commercial properties and mixed use buildings. The grant is meant to be applied for improvements and upgrades to the street fronts of properties but it may also be applied to the rear or side of a property in cases where the rear or side of a property is facing a street, public park, public gathering space, or a parking area that is accessible to the general public. v. Residential specifications These specifications apply to properties designated exclusively for residential use. The grant is meant to be applied to improvements and upgrades to the street fronts of properties but it may also be applied to the rear or sides of a residential dwelling in cases 12/14/

22 where the visual impact or heritage characteristics of the property would be compromised by façade improvements applied exclusively to street-facing sides of the building. vi. List of Eligible Expenses Eligible façade improvements will include repair/restoration/replacement/installation of features including but not limited to the following as determined by the Municipality (permits may be required): a) Masonry, brickwork, siding or exterior woodwork b) Cornices, eaves, parapets and other architectural features c) Repainting, cleaning or re-facing of façades, (including removal, surface preparation, cleaning and/or painting); d) Canopies and awnings; e) Exterior lighting; f) Historic features; g) Windows and doors (cannot be applied for individually if property requires other façade work); h) Entranceway modifications that improve the appearance and/or access to the commercial units and/or accessibility improvements in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act; i) Installation of new signage or improvements to existing signage in accordance with the Heritage Design Guidelines and the Sign By-law (permit required); j) Landscaping materials and labor fees; k) Professional design studies eligible in an amount up to $500 as part of the total grant awarded for completed construction; l) Building Permit; m) Site Plans; n) Zoning By-law and Official Plan Amendments; o) Minor Variance; and, p) Miscellaneous Permit Fees. Note: A maximum reimbursement of up to $500 for building permit fees for work that is approved for the CIP program. The applicable fees must be paid in full for any approved work 12/14/

23 and upon completion of all eligible work in accordance with all applicable laws the Municipality may issue reimbursement based on eligible expenses. B) Residential Intensification Development Charge Exemption Residential Intensification Development Charge Exemption is available for the conversion of non-residential space to residential units and the rehabilitation of residential space to provide more residential units. i. Purpose This program is intended to encourage residential intensification in the CIP Area. ii. What are Development Charges? Development charges are levies on new development. They are imposed to help finance the expansion of infrastructure and services as our community grows. The charges help to protect existing taxpayers by having growth pay for growth. The North Grenville Municipal Council passed By-Law on August 10, 2009 which came into effect that same day under section 2 of the Development Charges Act, This By-Law establishes municipal-wide development charges. All development that requires a building permit is subject to a development charge according to By-Law Exceptions are in place for development under subsection 2(2) and for development in the Downtown Core as laid out in Schedule A of By-Law iii. Implementation specifics Development Charges will be waived for construction within the Downtown Commercial Area (which encompasses the CIP area) upon the application for applicable building permits. The Development Charges exemption amounts to upwards of $10,000 per residential unit. For an up-to-date breakdown of costs, consult the Development Charges By-Law. C) Tax Increment-Based Incentive Grant A Tax Increment-Based Incentive Grant (TIBIG) is intended to provide financial incentives in the form of grants to property owners who undertake development or redevelopment of properties in the CIP Area that increase property taxes. The annual grant is paid to the registered owner of the property (unless directed in writing otherwise) based on the Supplementary Notice received from the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC). i. Purpose This incentive program is meant to stimulate investment by the private sector, which might not otherwise take place, by providing an eligible property owner with a grant equivalent to a 12/14/

24 portion of the resultant municipal property tax increases which will decrease incrementally over 10 years. This grant focuses on net municipal taxation gain which represents unrealized revenue if the development or enhancement of the property had not occurred. At the end of the grant program (a maximum of 10 years or the dollar limit of eligible costs whichever is reached first), the Municipality realizes the full extent of the property taxes increases. ii. Program specifics In order to minimize the cost and financial risk to the Municipality, the TIBIG will be structured as a reimbursing developer grant. The owner will be responsible for the entire cost of the redevelopment project and the Municipality may reimburse the property owner for the eligible cost of improvements in the form of an annual grant. Each year the property owner must first pay all property taxes. The Municipality may then reimburse the owner or assigned recipient by way of an annual grant equivalent to the agreed municipal portion of the incremental property tax increase over an established base assessment, which will be determined in partnership with MPAC. The program does not apply retroactively. Applications cannot be accepted for any property upon which construction has already been completed and reassessed. iii. Implementation specifics The Municipality of North Grenville will determine the existing base assessment for the property this will normally be determined based on the assessed property value and tax class at the time of approval of the application for TIBIG, the day prior to remediation of the site (if contaminated), or the day prior to construction. The Municipality may, at its discretion, establish an alternate date for purposes of establishing the base assessment and property tax liability. Before determining the base rate, the Municipality will contact MPAC to ensure that the property assessment is up to date and the increased assessment will, in fact, be a result of new construction. The TIBIG will commence upon execution of an Agreement between the Municipality and the property owner. Grant applications will not be accepted after the termination of the Rideau- Sanders-Prescott Community Improvement Plan. Participants in the program will continue to receive the approved grants as determined through the TIBIG Agreement with the Municipality. The minimum increase in assessment for which the use of this program of tax-based grants is permitted is a 20% increase, or $50,000, whichever is less, in assessed property value. Furthermore, it is necessary to ensure property owners achieve approval in principle for TIBIG funding before commencing a project. The grant amount for this program shall not exceed 100% of the increase in the municipal portion of the taxes in years one and two, decreasing to 80% in years three and four, 60% in years five and six, 40% in years seven and eight and 20% in years nine and ten (see graph 12/14/

25 below) with the owner paying the full amount of taxes in year eleven. The property owner would first be responsible for the full payment of taxes each year, after which the Municipality would then provide the grant. Year after TIBIG is initiated Percentage of the municipal portion of increase refunded 1 100% 2 100% 3 80% 4 80% 5 60% 6 60% 7 40% 8 40% 9 20% 10 20% The total amount of an approved grant provided under this program shall not exceed the cost of redevelopment of the property. Therefore, the TIBIG will cease upon the earliest of the following: When the total of all grant payments provided under this program equal the total value of the redevelopment work done under the eligible program costs that resulted in the increased assessed value; or, Ten (10) years after written notification has been received from the owner requesting the commencement of payments as provided for in the TIBIG Agreement. D) Brownfields Financial Tax Assistance Program i. Purpose The purpose of the Brownfields Financial Tax Assistance Program (BFTAP) is to provide tax relief to brownfield sites in the Community Improvement Project Area during the rehabilitation period and the development period. It is designed to assist with the costs of environmental remediation. ii. Property specifics The Municipality of North Grenville defines an eligible brownfield site as a property: 12/14/

26 a. That is included under Section 28 of the Planning Act in a community improvement project area for which a community improvement plan is in effect containing provisions in respect of tax assistance under this section; b. Where soils or water may be contaminated as a result of past practices or uses of the site or neighboring properties; c. That is subject to redevelopment (e.g., a change in use); d. For which a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment has been conducted; and, e. That, as of the date the Phase II Environmental Site Assessment was completed, does not meet the standards that must be met under subparagraph 4 i of Sub-section (1) of the Environmental Protection Act to permit a record of site condition to be filed under that subsection in the Environmental Site Registry. iii. Program specifics The BFTAP provides for the cancellation of the property taxes for the period immediately following the approval of the Brownfields Tax Assistance Program By-Law (BFTAP By-Law) for the duration of the rehabilitation and redevelopment. Tax assistance will continue for the shortest of the following periods: Up to three (3) years; or, The period up to when the owner advises the Municipality that rehabilitation has been completed. The BFTAP applies exclusively to eligible brownfield sites and is subject to Ministry of Finance Approval for the education portion. The amount of tax assistance provided will be determined during the application phase to ensure that value of the tax exemption does not exceed rehabilitation costs over the maximum three (3) year period. iv. Eligibility specifics The following is a list of the minimum requirements to be met in order to qualify for the BFTAP. This list is not exhaustive and the Municipality reserves the right to include other criteria or requirements as deemed necessary on a site specific basis. Applications submitted for the BFTAP shall be reviewed by the Municipality s Planning & Development Department. Properties which meet the guidelines will be required to enter into a BFTAP Agreement prior to the adoption of the BFTAP By-Law. An application for matching education property tax assistance will be forwarded by the Municipality to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing in order to obtain the required approval of the Minister of Finance for matching the education portion of the property tax. 12/14/

27 a. None of the requirements outlined below for the BFTAP (or the associated expenditures) will be offered retroactively for rehabilitation activities undertaken prior to approval by Council; b. Council s approval will only apply to the municipal portion of the property taxes; c. Eligible sites must be located in the Community Improvement Project Area; d. Properties eligible for BFTAP must have a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) completed. As a result of this assessment, the property must require environmental rehabilitation in order for a Record of Site Condition (RSC) to be filed with the Environmental Site Registry. The proponent shall submit a completed Phase II ESA, Remedial Work Plan or risk assessment, which shall have been prepared in conformity with the Environmental Protection Act, in support of a Brownfields Financial Tax Assistance Program Application; e. In order to be eligible for any BFTAP tax assistance, eligible properties shall not have any tax arrears; f. Outstanding work orders and/or requests to comply from the Planning & Development Department or any other Municipal department, must be satisfactorily addressed prior to any BFTAP tax assistance; g. Proponents of eligible properties shall include only the property owners or their assignees; h. The proponent shall submit the appropriate completed application(s) with the appropriate supporting documentation to the Municipality; i. The proponent shall submit a development proposal and concept plan for the eligible property to the Municipality; j. The proponent shall release all environmental information about the eligible site to the Municipality; k. All proponents participating in the BFTAP shall enter into a BFTAP Agreement with the Municipality that will specify the terms and conditions of the brownfield, planning and environmental approvals along with the BFTAP tax assistance to be received; l. Tax assistance will only apply during the rehabilitation and development period of the project in accordance with the BFTAP By-Law; m. The education portion of the property tax assistance shall require the approval of the Minister of Finance; n. Costs in excess of the approved eligible costs are the responsibility of the property owner; and, 12/14/