Helena Craymer

The Tribunal held a settlement hearing regarding an appeal by the appellant against the Township's Community Planning Permit By-law.

The parties reached an agreement resolving 19 of the 27 issues, with the remaining 8 addressed through modifications to the By-law.

Based on uncontested expert planning evidence, the Tribunal found the amended By-law consistent with provincial policy, in conformity with applicable official plans, and representative of good planning.

The appeal was allowed in part to implement the agreed-upon amendments.

The applicant appealed the Township's refusal of a site-specific Zoning By-law Amendment to permit a short-term rental within an existing accessory dwelling unit on a commercial property.

The Tribunal found that while the proposal had regard for provincial interests, it was not consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement and did not conform to the District of Muskoka or Township of Lake of Bays Official Plans.

The Tribunal preferred the Township's planning evidence that converting the unit to a short-term rental would remove a long-term housing option, contrary to policies aimed at providing a diverse mix of attainable housing to support complete communities and the local tourism economy.

The appeal was dismissed.