Lori Chadwick, Director, Development Services, explained that the new Development Standards Manual (DSM) consolidates the Town of Essex's development requirements into a how-to-manual outlining the planning approval process along with the design criteria for sidewalks and cul-de-sacs, climate adaptation and specifications for infrastructure matters such as sewer sizes and materials. She noted that the creation of the Development Standards Manual involved consultation from Administration and Dillon Consulting Limited.
Mr. Gregory stated that the purpose of the Development Standards Manual is to clarify and enforce Town requirements and processes pertaining to planning, agreements, infrastructure design, approvals and construction. He explained that the Development Standards Manual streamlines development, reduces red tape, consolidates previously disconnected processes and is a developmental road map as any information required will be located in this manual to reference. He further explained that the mission of this project is to strive for better development, consistency of requirements, facilitate fairness, protect and advocate for existing residents and for harmony in the community between existing and new development.
Mr. Gregory stated that Dillon Consulting preformed research of comparable municipalities within the province along with the best practices and proactive measures. He stated that information from the Windsor-Essex Regional guidelines for storm management was referenced in this manual as well as the local and regional environmental guidelines. Mr. Gregory stated that there was department based brainstorming and an in depth review of existing infrastructure requirements and proposed design for better infrastructure with considerations for functionality, cost, maintenance, and safety. He explained that the audience of this manual is for residential subdivision developers, commercial developers, consultants, engineers, architects, contractors/builders, residents, municipal staff and private utilities to understand the requirements and processes for their infrastructure within the municipal right of way.
He explained that this manual is a start to finish guideline to answer questions from developing a new subdivision, launching a new industrial facility or commercial project, building a home or an extension. The Town of Essex 2022 Development Standards Manual will guide all potential development through the appropriate processes from start to finish including conceptual feasibility and planning requirements, detailed design requirements and approval processes, and the requirements during construction and post-constructions to meet Municipal standards.
He stated that the Development Standards Manual considers climate change adaption, lower impact development, environmental protection, flood-proofing, growth capacity by referring to the Windsor-Essex Region Stormwater Management Standards Manual. He stated that while creating this document the team adhered to various existing policies including federal standards, provincial standards, provincial guidelines, regional requirements, municipal standards and environmental standards to strive for connectivity, consistency and clarity. He further noted that the document references the Town of Essex Development Standards Manual 2003, the Town of Essex Strategic Plan, the Town of Essex Official Plan, the Town of Essex Community Improvement Plans, the Town of Essex Zoning By-Law, the Town of Essex Energy and Demand Management Plan, the Windsor-Essex Region Stormwater Management Standards Manual, the Town of Essex Asset Management Plan, and the Downtown Essex Centre Streetscape Plan.
Council directed questions regarding the new Development Standards Manual to Mr. Gregory.
Councillor Bjorkman asked if different departments have different interpretations of standard items or definitions.
Ms. Chadwick stated that this Development Standards Manual is to be cross-functional and advised that the departments work together and in some instances the industry has a standard title that does not have any interpretation.
Councillor Bowman asked if an average citizen could reference the Development Standards Manual.
Ms. Chadwick stated that an average resident can reference the Process Flow Charts in Appendix A during construction or post construction, however, it is likely to be more understood by designers, engineers, architects, builders, contractors, and developers as it is a technical manual.
Councillor Vander Doelen asked if the printed version was available or if it was only online. He noted that he was asking the question as tabs would be beneficial on the hard copy of the Development Standards Manual.
Mr. Chadwick stated that there were only a couple hard copies and if any residents would like to review it, they can do so during the review process. She explained that the aim is for builders and developers to visit the Town’s website and utilize the interactive manual during their design and application processes. She stated that a brochure is to be completed and distributed to developers or Council members.
Kevin Girard, Director, Infrastructure Services, stated that there was a significant review completed by the Infrastructure Department in conjunction with the consultant and other departments within the Town.