The District of Muskoka has deferred adopting Official Plan Amendment 61 relating to flooding hazard policy and floodplain mapping until the spring.
According to a report presented by Lisa Marden, director of planning, at the Oct. 19 council meeting, the amendment does not meet provincial requirements due to inconsistencies and needs further review.
The amendment included new policies to strengthen floodproofing measures, reduce the risk and severity of flood damage, protect public health and safety, and direct future development away from hazardous areas to safeguard critical infrastructure.
On Sept. 24 council committee voted to remove the section on flooding hazard policy and floodplain mapping from the proposed amendment for further review.
According to the committee report, the section was removed following public concerns about the updated floodplain mapping and its potential impact on vacant properties, existing waterfront development, future development rights and its relationship with the Muskoka River Water Management Plan.
Marden said the decision resulted in a segmented amendment process that is inconsistent with the Provincial Planning Statement and contrary to provincial direction. She said the province wants the District to consolidate all updates into one comprehensive amendment for provincial review and approval.
As a result, council voted to defer the amendment and directed staff to return to the committee after the spring freshet with recommendations on updated flooding hazard policies and floodplain mapping.
Staff said these updates will be considered for inclusion in OPA 61 before the amendment is brought forward for adoption.
