discuss the surplus property. Mr. Seddon disagreed with the term ‘surplus’ property as it refers to open
and green space. Mr. Seddon questioned if due process was followed in 1948 when the area was
rezoned from open space to residential. He asked that Council consider Ms. Metzger’s slideshow and
the importance and emotional attachment that residents feel for the park.
Mr. Seddon spoke to other municipalities that are trying to conserve and buy back open space and
beaches that were privatized, remarking that the Township, on the other hand, is trying to sell the
open space they own. He reported that no studies have been done on the park to determine what
effects removing some of the trees will have on the overall forest. Mr. Seddon asked that the
residential zoning be removed.
Henry Edwards: Henry Edwards, Elmira reported that he prefers the trees. Mr. Edwards spoke to
changes in the town, and houses that were torn down to make way for parking lots. The Larch trees in
the park, though they are not a shade tree or ornamental, if torn down, like the houses would not be
returning any time soon. He asked that Victoria Glen and trees remain.
Ryan Orr: Ryan Orr, Elmira, a teenage resident, commented that he enjoys living in Elmira, and its
small town community feel. In particular he enjoys the parks and woodlots the most. He asked that
Council secure the woodlots and trails and push for more of these features.
Todd Cowan: Todd Cowan addressed Council and asked why no potential developers have not
attended the meeting to speak about developing the area. Mr. Cowan reported that with 900 houses
being built on Church Street why do the trees in Victoria Glen have to be destroyed. He asked that
Council make this a priority, rezone the area, and protect it.
Joan Coutu: Joan Coutu, a Planning Professor at the University of Waterloo asked how destroying
the trees in the area conform to the land use paradigm.
Tanya Berner: Tanya Berner, a property owner near the area reported that her side yard runs into
Parcel 3, and asked where is the extra run-off water is going to go? She does not want her yard
flooded with run-off water.
Shawn Playford: Shawn Playford, owns a farm at the end of Snyder Avenue, he asked what
changes in grade will be expected if the land is developed. Any changes to the grade will affect the
crops on the farm. Mr. Playford also spoke to the unopened road allowance remarking that if the road
is changed at all this may affect if he can get crops off his property, as he uses and stores his tractors
and trucks close to the allowance. Mr. Playford also addressed potential flooding from Larch Creek.