The landscape is particularly beautiful these days with early summer blooms. But, I have now been alerted to keep an eye for some man-made constructs which are spread all over: entrances to subdivisions. The specifics vary: bricks or stone, pillars or walls, some include landscaping. State of repair and maintenance vary. As a result of some requests for maintenance it has become clear that there is a total lack of policy in place as to ownership and responsibility.
At 6/13 Council Staff presented a report defining the problem and proposing some possible policies. It was agreed that we need a policy to address gateways yet to be created (i.e. the entrances for the new subdivision) and a policy for dealing with the current. First step for the latter will be to have a complete inventory including size, specification, ownership, current state. For the new ones the policy options are numerous. E.g. Requirement for a developer to remove once the subdivision is completed. A fee of sorts to cover maintenance. Restriction on format and size.
It is premature to state my choice. For sure, I do not want entranceways which are not maintained to standard. It is my hope that there is an cost effective solution which will enable the continuation of the tradition of appropriate gateways to our subdivisions.
Hi Debbie,
I believe that soon we’ll see Laurier begin construction on their “gateway” to this nearly completed subdivision on Doctor Kay Drive in Schomberg (called “Kingsgate”).
I do hope their design is tasteful from the perspective that this structure will occupy an obvious place within what’s arguably the most prominent “gateway” to our historic village.
It seems we have little control over the design and aesthetics of these “branding” commemorative pieces that developers seem to like to adorn their developments with.
And once built, as you acknowledge, the Township (taxpayers) is stuck with the maintenance costs. In addition, as the Township provides no weed removal for the sidewalks on Main as it is, we can hardly expect Staff to keep this structure in pristine condition.
CAN YOU TELL US: Has there been any advancement of the requests in your post above?
Lastly, I’m struck with why Laurier seems to desire this “marker” to its legacy here, compared with the other two subdivisions in Schomberg, completed by separate developers (Mason and Rosalena) whom I think were confident to let their good work speak for itself – I personally think this is a better legacy.
Hi Greg, I don’t think there has been substantive progress on my request to Staff for recommendations as to how to “manage” gateways. I know that it has not been forgotten given a some quick conversations I have had. Your comment triggers me to follow up as indeed it seems that a new asset is being created which we will need to maintain.