Highlights of the Meeting of Council on Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Bulk Water Fees

Aurora Town Council approved amendments to the Fees and Charges By-law to adjust bulk water fees for construction. The current fees bylaw has not kept pace with actual water consumption by developers, leading to a significant discrepancy. The proposed bulk water fee increases will help to ensure the Town maximizes the cost recovery of its water and wastewater costs as they relate to developer water usage.

Heritage Permit Application, Happy Woodland Pet Cemetery

Aurora Town Council approved restorations and improvements to the Happy Woodland Pet Cemetery under Heritage Permit Application HPA-2025-01. Designated under the Ontario Heritage Act in 2023, as Canada’s first pet cemetery, the site will undergo pathway reconstruction, monument relocation, landscaping and restoration. Staff will continue exploring options for addressing monuments with offensive language and report back to Council. These efforts aim to preserve the site’s historical significance and prepare it for future public access.

Heritage Permit Application, Aurora War Memorial and Cenotaph

Aurora Town Council approved site works for the Aurora War Memorial Peace Park and Cenotaph under Heritage Permit Application HPA-2025-02. Designated under the Ontario Heritage Act, this site includes a 73-foot granite Cenotaph built in 1925 and the Altar of Sacrifice added in 1960. The project will correct engravings and make upgrades to enhance this important community landmark.

Application for By-law Amendment, 200 Wellington Holding Corp (7 Lacey Court)

Aurora Town Council approved an Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendment for 29 freehold townhouses at 7 Lacey Court. The Christ Evangelical Luther Church, which owns the land, plans to sell a portion to the neighbouring property at 200 Wellington Street West (the applicant), while retaining its northern section. The southern portion will be developed for townhouses. The proposal meets all planning policies, and no objections were raised by external agencies or Town staff.

Motion to Request Feasibility of Establishing 24-hour Warming/Cooling Centres

A motion put forward by Councillor John Gallo and supported by Council, requested that staff consult with the Region and investigate the feasibility of establishing a warming/cooling centre during extreme weather conditions on a 24-hour basis. The motion requests the report back to Council provides information on the potential implementation of such a facility, including an assessment of costs, operational requirements and potential locations.