Innisfil development charges could be highest in Simcoe County
Costs will be going up to build a new home in Innisfil, thanks to a revamping of the development charges.
The only question is if the town will become the most expensive spot in the county.
The current development charge bylaw expires on Jan. 31, 2019 and a special public meeting Aug. 8 discussed the proposal.
Hemson Consulting Ltd. has recommended changing the fee boundaries to lump Alcona, Stroud and Big Bay Point into the same category; Gilford, Degrassi Point and Lefroy-Belle Ewart into another; and Innisfil Heights and Churchill together. Friday Harbour and Cookstown would each stand alone.
It is proposing to raise the town’s overall residential charges from $51,460 to $61,187, making it the highest in Simcoe County.
By comparison, Barrie’s development charges in the Salem and Hewitt’s Creek area are $47,389 and Bradford West Gwillimbury’s is at $50,501.
Lawyer Marvin Geist spoke representing the Alcona Downs Developments Inc., a member of the Alcona developers’ group.
“Our concern is the developers in Alcona wonder why we should be contributing to pipes and water in Stroud,” Geist said. “Growth pays for growth and we have paid our share in Alcona. We do not understand why we should be supporting development in Stroud.”
But Ward 1 Coun. Doug Lougheed suggested Stroud has paid for water and wastewater charges, even though most of the town is on a well and septic system.
“If there are no services available, you don’t pay,” town chief financial officer Lockie Davis said. “So if there was an infill lot in Stroud today, there is no sewer charge.”
Ward 2 Richard Simpson was concerned the increase might stall the town’s growth.
“I wasn’t disappointed with the cost, I was hoping it’s higher because new residents want more services,” Simpson said.
However, some taxpayers don’t need more services and would rather see property taxes stay low, he added.
“With increased growth, there’s a lot of burden that happens and we’re all aware of it. In my opinion, growth creates a dystopian society in the town of Innisfil.”
Council received the information from the public meeting and a staff report is expected at council Sept. 5.