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2017-09-06 Growth Committee Agenda Packet - Open SessionCity of Saint John Growth Committee - Open Session AGENDA Wednesday, September 6, 2017 11:15 am 8th Floor Boardroom, City Hall 1. Call to Order Pages 1.1 Approval of Minutes - August 1, 2017 1 - 2 1.2 Discussion on 1671 Sandy Point Road and Tucker Park (Deputy Mayor McAlary) 3 - 3 1.3 Population Growth Progress 1.3.1 Initial Overview: Population Growth 4-12 1.3.2 Update on NB Immigration - Rob Kelly 13-17 1.4 1671 Sandy Point Road Development 18-110 1 Poeta Sy:1 rIN. m MINUTES - OPEN SESSION GROWTH COMMITTEE MEETING AUGUST 1, 2017 AT 3:00 P.M. Stn FLOOR BOARDROOM, CITY HALL Present: Mayor D. Darling Deputy Mayor S. McAlary Councillor G. Lowe Councillor J. MacKenzie Councillor B. Armstrong Absent: Councillor R. Strowbridge Also Present: City Manager J. Trail Commissioner Growth and Community Development J. Hamilton Deputy Commissioner Growth and Community Development P. Ouellette Deputy Commissioner Building and Inspection Services A. Poffenroth Director Strategic Real Estate Services S. Carson Population Growth Manager A. MacKinnon Senior Financial & Economic Analyst B. Zirobwa Development & Research Co-ordinator K. Davis Planner J. Kliffer Administrative Assistant K. Tibbits 1. Meeting Called To Order Mayor Darling called the Growth Committee open session meeting to order. 1.1 Approval of Minutes 1.1.1 Minutes of June 6, 2017 Moved by Councillor Lowe, seconded by Councillor Armstrong: RESOLVED that the minutes of June 6, 2017 be approved. MOTION CARRIED. 1.1.2 Minutes of July 5, 2017 Moved by Councillor Lowe, seconded by Councillor Armstrong: RESOLVED that the minutes of July 5, 2017 be approved. MOTION CARRIED. to be incorporated into the Roadmap for Smart Growth. Mr. Kliffer commented on the Development Award Program, noting that it is modeled after the Heritage Awards. The idea is to highlight citizens within the community that have completed work on their properties. It would broaden the scope of the Heritage Awards program and include properties that have gone through the Beautification and/or other incentive programs. Ms. Davis commented on the Property Matching Program. It would provide an opportunity for the City to promote vacant buildings and lots in the uptown core to the development community to increase density, development and tax base growth. Owners would be required to complete a waiver in order to participate. The City would not be involved in the actual sale between the owner and developer, but it would provide owners an avenue to promote their properties. The City currently cannot release the names of property owners to potential developers, however this program would provide an avenue to legally allow for this. Moved by Deputy Mayor McAlary, seconded by Councillor Lowe: RESOLVED that the Growth Committee adopt the following changes to the Roadmap for Smart Growth for Common Council's consideration: 1. Addition of "ESJ is targeting to create 250 new jobs from external investors, 500 new and retained jobs from high potential businesses and 40 new jobs from start-ups and entrepreneurs by end of 2017"; 2. Addition of "HDC to establish the Saint John Local Immigration Partnership Council by end of 2017"; 3. Replace Action Item #14 "Release of Saint John's Immigration Strategy" with "HDC to establish a Local Immigration Partnership Strategy for Saint John be the end of 2018"; 4. Addition of "The City of Saint John will launch a development award program by the end of 2017"; 5. Addition of "The City of Saint John will launch a vacant property and lot matching program by end of 2017"; 6. Addition of "The City will review and pursue development opportunities for 90-102 Mecklenburg St., 45 Boars Head Road, 50 Carleton Street and the parking structure at the southwest corner of Grannan Lane and Canterbury Street." AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Growth Committee recommend to Common Council that the City Manager be directed to allocate a maximum of $15,000 from the remaining Growth Reserve Fund to support the development of the Development Award Program. MOTION CARRIED. Adjournment Moved by Councillor Armstrong, seconded by Councillor Lowe: RESOLVED that the open session meeting of the Growth Committee be adjourned. MOTION CARRIED. The open session meeting of the Growth Committee held on August 1, 2017 was adjourned at 4:30 p.m. Recording Secretary -----Original Message ----- From: McAlary, Shirley Sent: August 3, 2017 8:27 AM To: Trail, Jeff; Darling, Don; Lowe, Gerry; MacKenzie, John; Armstrong, Blake; Strowbridge, Ray; McAlary, Shirley; Hamilton, Jacqueline; Ouellette, Phil Subject: Re: Item for the Growth Committee Agenda Hi Everyone: I am requesting that we place on the next Growth Committee Meeting an item for in depth discussion on two of the items on our Roadmap for Growth; those being, city owned land at Tucker Park and land on Sandy Point Road near Rockwood Park. It would be better to have this discussion before recommendations are made by staff however if the majority of members would prefer not to have this item placed on the next agenda or have a special meeting arranged to discuss it then whatever happens will be. In all fairness when we created this Roadmap and announced it to the public, I feel that we as a committee didn't have much or very little discussion on some of the items that we placed on the Roadmap. Many thanks, Shirley Shirley McAlary Deputy Mayor / Mairesse suppleante CIty of Saint John, N.B. / N. -B. (506) 977-3852 or (506) 648-0487 K3 u �I C7 <C +-J QJ ,Z:; Q) co +-J I c!7 co CL 4 Co L— u 0 .UO t O L L E L Q m E r= r— r� r— U c fB m N J X N El O ILn V c: E O L m O L Q a - O +- a O N (U c Q .O N 4A U LU 0 D a W El c O N Q E N N cr t1A Q 0. Ln N N C�0 ca tu0 Q) 0 0 Q) 4--j (n (n Q) a 1� 0 4-J _0 0 E W c fu _0 0 0 0 c 4-J u u C14 _0 0 vi- ai 0 u E 0 0 u u 4-J m > 0 (1) 4- > ai u bn'E E = fu 0 u 4-J w E E 4-J E 0 u 0 ® 0 _0 0 c ® W 4-J x fu X E C W 0 0 C14 4-J fu E 0 0 L- ai 4—J U 4-j E C14 4-J ai 4-J E W 0 r Ul ±J 0 4-J Ln W un 0 ai 4-j W r -I 0 4-J 0 V E ai 0 (1) 0 J 0 V V) 0 E -o E E 0 _0 0 m Vj- E4-j -n 4-J 4-J 4-j u bn z 0 u fu CL 4-J CL 4-J (IJ 0 . — u e--% 0 0 CO aj a) > u a) Ll- A A ai Z A A A A A a 1� ko > O O Z O 1 M 0 M u N 0 U 0 U 0 0 N u 0 0 L N N N Q oo N N r -I Q- ri N N ho N a r r 00 Hi V 0 M� L. 1: 11 � l .111► • s CL Hi a 0 RK E E 0 E m 0 GROWTH COMMITTEE REPORT M&C No. # fol"tild cm sharel.roint Report Date August 23, 2017 Meeting Date September 06, 2017 Service Area Growth and Community Development Services His Worship Mayor Don Darling and Members of the Growth Committee SUBJECT: 1671 Sandy Point Road Development OPEN OR CLOSED SESSION This matter is to be discussed in open session of Common Council. AUTHORIZATION Primary Author Commissioner/Dept. HeadCity Manager Jody Kliffer/Phil Ouellette Jacqueline Hamilton Jeff Trail RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Growth Committee make the following recommendation to Common Council: 1. Initiate the Municipal Plan Amendment and Rezoning process for a parcel of land with an area of approximately 5.18 hectares, located at 1671 Sandy Point Road also identified as being PID No. 00418129 on September 18, 2017. The Municipal Plan Amendment and Rezoning would seek to: • Redesignate, the parcel of land on Schedule A of the Municipal Plan from Park and Natural Area to Stable Area; • Redesignate, the parcel of land on Schedule B of the Municipal Plan from Park and Natural Area to Stable Residential Area; and • Amend the Zoning By -Law by rezoning the parcel of land from Park (P) to Mid -Rise Residential (RM). 2. Direct the City Manager to undertake additional public engagement, as defined in this report, with the community and key stakeholders in order to enhance public awareness, clarify the scope of the rezoning and plan amendment and details of the intended and future use. iF:3 -2 - EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The purpose of this report is to present the options for the subject site at 1671 Sandy Point Road. The site is a 15 hectare lot located in the northern part of Sandy Point Road between the golf course and Cherry Brook Zoo. The site is a predominantly cleared site located on the perimeter of Rockwood Park that is capable of supporting future development. Staff have researched various options for the site and based on a sound planning rationale are recommending Council consider the option of developing the site for medium -density residential. This option infills a vacant property on a developed corridor within the Primary Development Area where infrastructure exists, is compatible with adjacent development, provides an opportunity to improve public access into the Park while creating a boundary to conserve the Park and generates revenue and tax -based growth which can support future investment in the park. Staff recommend that several conditions be considered as part of the purchase and sale agreement that would regulate the form of development to ensure a high quality development, and that Rockwood Park benefits from the development. PREVIOUS RESOLUTION Direct the City Manager to report back to the Growth Committee by August 2017 with a detailed plan to initiate necessary approvals, public engagement, timelines and other considerations for potential development of PID No. 00418129 on Sandy Point Road. STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT Common Council has adopted a new set of Council Priorities: 2016-2020 in early November 2016, and under the heading of "Growth and Prosperity," the following is stated: "Saint John is recognized by residents and businesses as a positive and supportive city. We grow in a smart way and attract talent, innovation and opportunities so all people can thrive." In addition, Council adopted key performance indicators to evaluate its ability to Grow SJ, including, among others: "Building permit value," "Change in tax base assessment within the City," "Change in population." Finally, Saint John Common Council adopted the Roadmap for Smart Growth on Monday March 27t", 2017. 2 19 -3 - REPORT Background: History of Events Prior to the installation of water and sewer services along Sandy Point Road in 2004, the water pressure in the northern part of Sandy Point Road and Kennebecasis Drive was poor. The land owners of what is now Fieldstone Estates stated that they would not be able to go forward with the development of the proposed subdivision if the servicing was not enhanced. In addition, several private wells along this section of Sandy Point Road were reportedly in poor condition. Allowing these residents the opportunity to hook into City infrastructure provided a more reliable service delivery of water and sewer. The City consulted with the community during this time to get feedback on rezoning a portion of the road to single-family residential in order to maximize the city's investment made in the installation of piped water services to the area. The community largely supported the concept, and the process to amend the Municipal Plan and rezone the property was advertised and vetted through a public hearing process at Common Council. The properties between Cranberry Hill and the Zoo were rezoned to low-density residential in 2005 as a result. The property at 1671 Sandy Point Road was owned by the City and functioned well for a laydown area for the reconstruction of the road. The rock placed on the site from the street reconstruction was graded in a way to facilitate future development as that was the intention with the rezoning of the area to low- density residential. Water and sewer services were stubbed to the edge of the property to support eventual development. In 2008, a proposal for a high-density development came forward for the property at 1671 Sandy Point Road. The developer began the rezoning process that would place the site in a high-density residential zone to construct two buildings that would have a total of approximately 160 units. The public reacted strongly in opposition to the proposed rezoning, which led to t the withdrawal of the application and the City to undertake a planning study for the corridor to better understand the highest and best use for the entire length of Sandy Point Road. The study was conducted in 2010 by ADI on behalf of the City, which included a public workshop, an open house, one-on-one meetings with interest groups, and a public survey as engagement tools used to solicit public feedback. The consultant's recommendations reflected themes that arose during the public engagement and included a proposed expansion of Rockwood Park, proposed 3 20 -4 - development along Sandy Point Road in areas that were already disturbedto capitalize on previous infrastructure investment, and increased access to the park for the general public. The recommendation was to use the proceeds from the sale of the land to enhance the trail systems of the Park, including trails that would integrate the proposed developments and link to Harrigan Lake. The report also recommended that the boundary of Rockwood Park be formally established, and that no development beyond medium residential density be permitted. The recommendations included a set of design guidelines to ensure environmentally sensitive design would be incorporated into a unique 'Rockwood Park' design style. Staff generally supported the findings of the ADI report, with modest changes proposed to the recommendation. The Rockwood Park Advisory Board also approved of the concept, with minor changes recommended. In April, 2011 Council rejected the staff recommendation and voted in favour of beginning the process to rezone the lands on Sandy Point Road to "P-2" Park, which did not allow for residential development. For more detail on the sequencing of events as it relates to the ADI proposal, please see the attached presentation (Appendix 1) given to Growth Committee in July 2017. Previous reports and presentations to Growth Committee In March 2017, Growth Committee and Common Council adopted the Roadmap for Smart Growth, which included action item number 30: "Review and pursue Sandy Point Road municipal property development opportunities." At the June 2017 meeting of the Growth Committee, Staff prepared a presentation of past research and considerations associated with development of municipal lands along Sandy Point Road. The presentation included: • A Chronology of events since 2004; • Summary of the consultant's recommendation; • Staff 2011 recommendation; • Staff current recommendation. Staff committed to providing the Committee with the following information that outlines next steps to proceed with development 1671 Sandy Point Road (PID No. 00418129): • Analysis on maximum and best use; 4 21 -5- • Proposed municipal approvals; • Key zoning considerations; • Necessary public engagement; • Timelines. During the July Committee meeting of the Growth Committee, the Friends of Rockwood Park were invited to present before Committee Members and share their feedback and concerns associated with the proposed development of the subject site. Among various feedback, representatives from Friends of Rockwood Park stated during that presentation that they had reservations about the development of the site and questioned whether there was adequate market demand for new residential development. Building a Recommendation In order for staff to bring forward an evidence -based and professional recommendation to the Growth Committee and Common Council, staff have investigated various filters (Section A) to inform a recommendation, including: 1. Interpretation of existing development trends; 2. Direct feedback from existing local developers; 3. Legal feedback; 4. Water and sewer capacity feedback. In addition to the above broad -level review, staff have also completed the following more detailed assessment (Section B): 1. Planning analysis of different site development scenarios with corresponding sample renderings as well as assessment of land -use compatibility, which include options for: a. Status Quo; b. Low -Density Residential; c. Medium -Density Residential; d. High -Density Residential; 2. Recommended conditions on future developments; 3. Why proceed with a proactive rezoning and plan amendment. Finally, in order to effectively define the parameters, timelines and engagement associated with the staff recommendation, another section (Section C) will include: 1. Timelines; 2. Necessary public awareness. 5 22 -6 - Site Context: 1671 Sandy Point Road The site at 1671 Sandy Point Road is approximately 5.15 hectares with approximately 184 metres of lot frontage (see Appendix 2: Site Location). Harrigan Lake is located to the rear of the site. The lot contains a predominantly forested area to the lake, and a large area in the middle of the property that was cleared several years ago and graded for potential development (see Appendix 3: Site Photos). The surrounding context of Sandy Point Road has urbanized over the past several decades given its proximity to Tuckey Park University and hospital campus. The property is bookended by existing residential developments to both the north and south. These properties are located in the One -Unit Residential (R1) zone, and are in the Stable Residential future land use designation on Schedule B of the City's Municipal Plan. Residential dwellings also exist across the street from 1671 Sandy Point Road. Although there is visual access into the Park, given the higher elevation of the site, it is physically separated from the Park, and lacks a formal connection to the remainder of the Park. In addition, it should be noted that site -prep work was completed on 1671 Sandy Point Road during the road reconstruction in 2004 was designed, constructed and inspected to be strong enough to build on. Good quality blast rock only was used in the fill. An engineering firm supervised the work. Only the top few inches of the soil have changed in the last decade. Section A — Overview of Market and Development Trends 1. Interpretation of current development trends Through engagement with several developers in the region and current market research, staff have heard that high-end rental options for people predominantly in the baby -boomer generation are in short -supply in the City. This is consistent with national trends that reflect similar housing style choices from Vancouver to Halifax. Baby -boomers or "empty nesters" are downsizing from their large suburban homes and are seeking smaller housing or rental options with less maintenance requirements. As identified in Appendix 4, the national and local trends reflect a demographic shift towards a larger percentage of the Canadian population being comprised of the baby -boomer cohort. In addition, projections also indicate that millennials will comprise 50% of the Canadian workforce by 2020 (see Appendix 5: Canadian Workforce). Both of these cohorts prefer smaller dwelling sizes in comparison to previous generations. 6 23 2. Direct feedback from local developers Staff have reviewed the option to develop 1671 Sandy Point Road with six developers from the Saint John region who have been active in various forms of residential developments around the community, from single detached dwellings to the construction of new neighbourhoods. The majority of the developers consulted have led successful projects in the Millidgeville area in the past. The intention was to better understand if there is existing demand to develop the site, and what challenges, if any, should be considered through a plan amendment and rezoning process. Of the developers engaged, two stated that they would have an active interest in developing the property if Council were to positively consider the rezoning of the site. It was also expressed that a medium -density residential development would be a good form of development that would offer a return on investment reasonable enough to consider the project. The following insights were offered by the developers, which provide valuable perspective that will be useful if Council wishes to contemplate development for 1671 Sandy Point Road. • The proximity of the Park and the recreational opportunities offered is the differentiating feature of the property. Access to the park in terms of a trail system would create a unique selling proposition which competing developments do not have. • The target market for the development mentioned would likely include professionals that work at the university or hospital and have an active outdoor lifestyle. • Concern that low density housing on the site would not be economical for developers given the site infrastructure requirements of installing new streets and services. • The highest return on investment would undeniably be high density residential. Further, it was noted that the Harrigan Lake site is not an ideal high density location as it is removed from amenities and bus routing. • Support for mid -scale development was consistent in most conversations. There is a general lack of mid -scale offerings in the area, which creates immediate opportunity in terms of supply. A medium - density development could be designed in a manner that is respectful to the surrounding context of Sandy Point Road. It would also provide a 7 24 reasonable tax lift for the City, and would likely provide a return on investment to a prospective developer. • Developers consistently noted there is significant risk with a conditional purchase and rezoning requirement. The existing lobby to prevent development in this location would preclude most if not all potential developers from undertaking such a project. By -right development would create a scenario that removes risk and creates value in the land. The consensus was the site would generate considerable interest by at least two of the interviewed developers if the site was zoned for medium - density residential development. 3. Legal Feedback There is no legal impediment to Council's ability to rezone and sell the subject parcel for development. The parcel was never owned by the Saint John Horticultural Association and, consequently, is not fettered by their legislation restricting the use of the Association's lands. It should also be noted that the subject site was included in the area subject to the development moratorium that was placed on publicly -owned lands along Sandy Point Road by Council in 2010. This moratorium was lifted once the new Municipal Plan was adopted in 2012. 4. Water and Sewer Capacity Feedback Staff engaged CBCL to conduct some analysis on the capacity of water and sewer pipes that exist in the area of the subject site. Analysis indicates that existing infrastructure can support the build -out of 1671 Sandy Point Road. Section B — Review of Site Options 1. Building four different scenarios: In order to generate a greater awareness of the appearance of potential development options on the site of 1671 Sandy Point Road, this report includes sample renderings of low, medium and high density residential. These renderings are not being proposed by any developer at this time, as they are simply meant to provide a much needed perspective on the site in the event a plan amendment and rezoning was granted. These renderings should be referenced in conjunction with the written rationale for each of the following four options. g 25 -9- i. Status Quo Option As mentioned in the previous staff report, staff believe that 1671 Sandy Point Road (PID 00418129) is an ideal first step for development focus along Sandy Point Road. It is the only site among the several municipally -owned properties along Sandy Point Road that has a pre-existing water and sewer connection running into the site. As stated above, it is also the only site that has already received significant site preparation for development, which includes clearing the site, grubbing the land and adding fill where necessary. Also, as previously mentioned, there was past geotechnical assessment of the soil, and it was deemed suitable for development. The option to proceed with no residential development on the site would result in no new investment, and no taxed -based growth on the subject property. The Park (P) zone does permit the development of the site as it would relate to land uses permitted in the Park (P) zone, which does not include a residential dwelling among the options. However, considering the existing state of the property, the immediate context of residential development on both sides of the subject site, and the investment the City made in placing services in the ground to support development, this option is not recommended by staff. As the site has been subject to pre-existing site preparations, it is geographically sandwiched between two existing private dwellings, and it has no formal connection to the existing pathways of Rockwood Park, this site will remain ambiguous and underutilized for years to come without a proactive approach. The existing parcel of land at 1671 Sandy Point Road is far from reaching its potential of value for the community, and recognizing that there was and remains some interest in the site from the development community, staff believe a decision to leave the site in its existing condition is a missed opportunity. 9 26 -10 - ii. Low -Density Residential Option Description (see Appendix 6 for reference) The low density development scenario consists of various single family dwelling types. This scenario ensures public access to the park and utilizes the existing topography. A ring road brings vehicles and pedestrians into the site, following the top of the slope which overlooks the parkland below. In keeping a public road to this edge, the new trailhead and access to Rockwood Park is retained as part of the public realm and the public view to the lake is preserved. Semi-detached homes border the site's southwest while detached homes dominate the northern edge, consistent with the scale of neighbouring residences. In this scenario, approximately 86% of the site is retained as green space. The small footprint of the single family dwelling typology creates opportunity to follow the land, building into the topography and thus adding to the visual interest and diversity of the development. The second option is to permit low-density residential development to occur, which is generally defined as single -unit or two -unit dwellings. If development were to occur on the site at this scale, it could accommodate nine single family homes at approximately 2,200 square feet each, and 24 semi-detached units at approximately 1,800 square feet each. Approximate Tax Revenue The "low scenario" projection for the low-density build -out scenario shown above assumes an average quality new construction for the proposed single -unit dwellings, whereas the "high scenario" assumes high-quality new construction. This option, while in keeping with the existing development context, would disturb a greater site area, potentially provide a less marketable product, and generate less revenue as higher density options. The development of the site for low-density residential dwellings would still require the construction of a public right-of-way to access the new units, including the extension of City services. From feedback collected during the developer engagement to formulate this report, the cost associated with form of 10 27 Low Scenario High Scenario Assessment Assessment Value Tax Revenue Value Tax Revenue Low Density $7,920,000 $141,372 $11,850,000 $211,523 The "low scenario" projection for the low-density build -out scenario shown above assumes an average quality new construction for the proposed single -unit dwellings, whereas the "high scenario" assumes high-quality new construction. This option, while in keeping with the existing development context, would disturb a greater site area, potentially provide a less marketable product, and generate less revenue as higher density options. The development of the site for low-density residential dwellings would still require the construction of a public right-of-way to access the new units, including the extension of City services. From feedback collected during the developer engagement to formulate this report, the cost associated with form of 10 27 -11 - development may not provide the return that a developer would need to pursue this option. Further, the tax lift after the development is finished would be minimal, while there would be costs associated with the upkeep of the new infrastructure and the provision of regular City services over time. Appendix 6 provides a rendering of what a low-density build -out would look like. iii. Medium -Density Residential Option Description (see Appendix 7 for reference) The medium density development scenario offers a mix of semi-detached homes and multi -unit buildings. A tree -lined public boulevard brings vehicles and pedestrians into the site and terminates with a cul-de-sac and entrance to the trailhead. Proceeding into the trail, there is a signature public look off to the lake. Similar to the low density scenario, semi-detached homes border the site's edges, and are consistent with the scale of neighboring residences. The small footprint of this form of development also creates opportunity to follow the land, building into the topography and thus adding to the visual interest and carefully placed midrise density of the development. Three to four storey, walk up multi -unit buildings are located at the heart of the site and oriented to the ground. Furthermore, the height of these units is buffered from the street by trees and semi-detached homes. In this scenario, approximately 85% of the site is retained as green space. Community green space and walking paths link the site to new trails and access points to Rockwood Park. The third option is to pursue a medium -density residential development. A development of this nature could result in 60 units with a mix of housing types, including 32 semi-detached dwellings at approximately 1,800 square feet each and 28 apartment units. The "low scenario" projection for the medium -density build -out scenario shown above assumes an average quality new construction for the proposed row and semi-detached dwellings, whereas the "high scenario" assumes high-quality new construction. 11 28 Low Scenario High Scenario Assessment Assessment Value Tax Revenue Value Tax Revenue Medium Density $9,440,000 $168,504 $13,900,000 $248,115 The "low scenario" projection for the medium -density build -out scenario shown above assumes an average quality new construction for the proposed row and semi-detached dwellings, whereas the "high scenario" assumes high-quality new construction. 11 28 -12 - The development of the site at this density threshold would remain at a scale that can accommodate construction that limits the impact on the surrounding environs, while generating significant benefit to the City. This option is most appealing as it would be compatible with the site context, minimize site disturbance, would match current market demands and could generate fairly significant tax revenue for the City, while providing a good return on investment for a prospective developer. The option for a medium -density build -out would include a mixture of housing types. The area abutting Sandy Point Road could be subdivided into three or four new lots for single -unit dwellings to match the existing residential context to the north and south of the subject site. As stated above, the existing infrastructure along Sandy Point Road has capacity to easily support this scale of development. Entering the site from Sandy Point Road, a medium -density development would include a right-of-way leading from the road to the developed area largely sheltered by a bank of trees. The area would be developed with a mixture of garden homes, townhouse units, and a low-rise, multi -unit dwelling. Feedback from the development community indicates that two-bedroom high-end rental units with off-street parking and access to green spaces are in low -supply in the Saint John area. A development satisfying this niche would provide a housing form that is competitive to the baby -boomer age cohort who are actively seeking to down -size their housing needs. As well as providing positive tax -based growth on the existing vacant lot, a medium -density residential development could also be constructed to a scale and massing that minimizes the impact on the surrounding environment and is sensitive to the context of the Park located to the rear of the site. It should be noted that any development along the edges of a significant regional park must be sensitive to the surrounding context of a valued green space for the community and the built environment in the immediate vicinity of the subject site. How a new development interfaces with an existing park area can play a large role in defining the edge of the park and contributing to its function for the broader community. Appendix 7 offers an illustration of what a medium -density build -out would look like. 12 29 -13 - iv. High -Density Residential Option Description (see Appendix 8 for reference) The high density development strategy could yield a variety of unit types including apartments, condominiums and townhomes. Four to five storey buildings along the road edge terrace down to two stories at the park edge breaking up not only the building massing, but softening development as it nears the park edge. A public boulevard flanked by a mixture of midrise buildings brings vehicles and pedestrians to the rear of the site, where there are multiple access points to trailheads. By building up, the footprint of the development is reduced, allowing for the retention of park and communal green space. In this scenario, approximately 88% of the site is retained as green space. This contributes to a maximized forested buffer to Rockwood Park, which is connected to the site by way of new trails and public access points. The final option would be to contemplate a high-density residential development, which would involve the greatest degree of change from the existing developed context. The development of the site in this format would include 100 apartment units, the site would consist of a mix of townhouse units, semi-detached housing options and four -storey apartment buildings situated at a high -point on the site that would offer commanding views of the Park and Harrigan Lake. The "low scenario" projection for the high-density build -out scenario shown above assumes an average quality new construction for the proposed row and semi-detached dwellings and apartment buildings, whereas the "high scenario" assumes high-quality new construction. It is noteworthy that the high density option yields lower tax revenue than the medium density option (see high density option for comparison). This is due to lower property assessment values for rental apartments than owner occupied homes. At the densities proposed for the high density option, the additional number of units is not significant enough to overcome the lower assessment value per unit for rental apartments. 13 30 Low Scenario High Scenario Assessment Assessment Value Tax Revenue Value Tax Revenue High Density $8,000,000 $142,800 $12,500,000 $223,125 The "low scenario" projection for the high-density build -out scenario shown above assumes an average quality new construction for the proposed row and semi-detached dwellings and apartment buildings, whereas the "high scenario" assumes high-quality new construction. It is noteworthy that the high density option yields lower tax revenue than the medium density option (see high density option for comparison). This is due to lower property assessment values for rental apartments than owner occupied homes. At the densities proposed for the high density option, the additional number of units is not significant enough to overcome the lower assessment value per unit for rental apartments. 13 30 -14- A high-density development would most likely appear out of place in the surrounding context. It is much more of a challenge to 'blend' a large number of units into the boundary of a municipal park and preserve the character of the park. An appealing component of a proposed development is to create a definitive edge to the Park that is non -intrusive and provides added value to the general function of the Park. As such, a maximum of four storeys, or approximately 14 metres, is recommended for any development that should occur on the subject site. A height of 14 metres is not an uncommon height for trees in this area of the City, which provides opportunity for some level of screening from the road. Further, a development that provided high-quality design features, and incorporated sustainable material components, would be appropriate for a development at the edge of Rockwood Park. Appendix 8 offers an illustration of what a high-density build -out of the site would look like. 2. Recommended conditions on future developments Parks and green spaces are more functional if they have clearly defined edges that illustrate definitive boundaries. The boundaries often offer a transitional space that is framed by residential buildings and animated with passive recreational opportunities, such as walking paths and trails. More active features are also common along the edges of parks, such as bicycle paths. However, spatial relationships between the public and the park become confused without a proper public zone that separates the public from the private realm. There are several houses that currently exist along the eastern side of Sandy Point Road, including the properties immediately adjacent to the subject site, which creates an ambiguous boundary separating the park from private property. Staff recommend that, if any of the above options for development of the site were to go forward, a trailway that straddles the rear yard of the property and the edge of the park be established that connects to Harrigan Lake. The trailway, as proposed by the report submitted by ADI in 2010, would function as a boundary of the park, granting an edge feature that would be also help animate the northern part of the park, which is currently underutilized. As the ADI report argued, "Within Rockwood Park's 'edges' it is appropriate to encourage park activities such as walking, hiking, bird watching, and other activities that reflect the interests of our aging demographic. Appropriate residential land uses immediately adjacent to, and somewhat integrated with the park landscape helps to ensure that the elderly have safe and secure access to the park." 14 31 -15 - In addition, staff recommend that conditions be established for any development that occurs on the subject site to ensure a high-quality development that is sympathetic to the surrounding environment. Because the site is adjacent to Rockwood Park, sustainable design features that tastefully reflects the surrounding natural context should be required. Staff recommend additional conditions be placed on the rezoning of the site to ensure that an appropriate development is constructed with high quality finishes, mature landscaping and that it incorporates environmental features that consider the ecological sustainability of the site. The mass and scale of the development should not be beyond the typical height of a mature tree to help ensure that the development blends with the surrounding environment, and does not dominate the aesthetics of the site. Should the property be considered for a plan amendment and rezoning, the following features would be considered as conditions of approval: • Any development should be medium density residential; • The height of any structure on the property shall not be greater than four storeys; • All finishes shall be high-quality finishes in keeping with the Rockwood park design guidelines; • That a park buffer / boundary be established and no development shall encroach beyond a distance of 180 metres from the Sandy Point Road; • development of the land shall include the establishment of a public look - off to view Harrigan Lake and a formalized walking trail that connects the site into the Park and forms a part of the Park boundary; • Funds from the sale of the land be directed toward the upkeep of the park, which could include costs associated with the establishment of the walking trail mentioned above; • That high-quality landscaping be established throughout the site, and including the front yard abutting Sandy Point Road; • A traffic study will be required for any development on this site. 3. Why proceed with a proactive rezoning and plan amendment Staff are recommending that the Municipal Plan Amendment and Rezoning process for the site begin prior to a specific proposal coming forward from the private sector. This approach provides Council with the opportunity to engage with the public and consider appropriate parameters for development that are in 15 32 -16 - the public interest up front before marketing the site and will in turn create greater certainty for investors, making the site more marketable. It is proposed that Common Council initiate a Municipal Plan Amendment and rezoning of the site. This would seek to change the Municipal plan designation from Park and Natural Area to Stable Residential and rezone the site from Park (P) to a zone which would allow for residential development such as Mid -rise Residential (RM). There is strong planning rationale supporting the potential rezoning of the site to accommodate medium -density residential development. The site is a previously - disturbed site that has been prepped for development with servicing stubs reaching the front property line. Geotechnical tests of the site have illustrated that it is in good condition to support development. There are several existing dwellings along Sandy Point, including other areas disturbed by development impacts, such as the golf course. The sale of the lands would increase the revenue stream for the Park, which would be directed in part to the construction of a trail system that connects to Harrigan Lake and other existing trails in this area of Rockwood Park. Finally, after the build -out of the site has occurred, the tax benefits to the City would be substantial. Section C —Timeline and Engagement 1. Timelines The following timelines identified the important milestones in the event Common Council chooses to proceed with a proactive rezoning and plan amendment for the site. Staff are recommending that a formal public information session be held within the 30 -day objection period that is required prior to a Plan amendment. This session will help inform the public of the details of the development proposals and how it complements the park. Within this scenario, it is important to acknowledge that Council will be given six (6) decision -points before development occurs at1671 Sandy Point Road, including: 16 33 -17- The public will be offered the following formal opportunities to provide input to the six milestone decision -points from Common Council, including: 1. 30 Day Public Presentation Period which will include public awareness program and the opportunity for written submissions to Council (September 18,2017 to October 18, 2017); 2. Planning Advisory Committee Meeting (December 12, 2017); 3. First and Second Reading (January 8, 2018). 17 34 II I111 I� � ® . ® iu iu Y iu Report to Growth Committee 06 -Sep -17 Report to Common Council (Initiate Public Engagement / Commence Municipal Plan Amendment) 18 -Sep -17 Yes Public Presentation Ad in Newspaper 21 -Sep -17 Proposed Public Presentation 22 -Sep -17 Public Presentation (at Common Council Meeting) 02 -Oct -17 Expiry of 30 -day Objection Period 01 -Nov -17 Council consideration of input received from 14 -Nov -17 Yes Public presentation period Potential Referral of Application to PAC PAC Meeting 12 -Dec -17 Public Hearing 08 -Jan -18 Yes Third Reading 22 -Jan -18 Yes Presentation of draft RFP for 1671 Sandy Point Date: TBD Yes Road for Common Council's consideration Signed agreement from successful proposal Date: TBD Yes through RFP process for Council ratification The public will be offered the following formal opportunities to provide input to the six milestone decision -points from Common Council, including: 1. 30 Day Public Presentation Period which will include public awareness program and the opportunity for written submissions to Council (September 18,2017 to October 18, 2017); 2. Planning Advisory Committee Meeting (December 12, 2017); 3. First and Second Reading (January 8, 2018). 17 34 -18- 2. Public engagement As indicated in the Timelines illustrated below, there are several points in which Council and the public are able to get involved in the process to offer input on the proposed rezoning. Staff recommend that Council direct the City Manager to establish an additional opportunity for the public to learn more about the recommendations and provide input through a public information session and related public awareness campaign during the 30 day Public Presentation period where staff can share with the public: (1) a profile of the existing site and surrounding area, (2) a rendering that illustrates what development on the site would look like, and (3) options for conditions for development. As with any Plan amendment process, Council retains the option to not proceed with the rezoning of the site after the 30 -day objection period has expired. Hosting a public information session prior to this allows the public access to all relevant information regarding the development of the site. There are multiple opportunities for public input and Council decision throughout the Plan amendment process. If the Council were to vote after the 30 -day Public Presentation period to move forward with the Plan amendment and rezoning of the property, Council would still have the opportunity to re- consider the rezoning of the site following the Public Hearing. Beyond this point, Council would still have the opportunity through the RFP process to negotiate, and re -consider, any applications that they did not wish to entertain. The timelines for the process are presented below. Alternative timeline Staff understand that development on 1671 Sandy Point Road is a challenging matter for Council and the community. As such, and alternative to the above recommended sequencing of the process to consider a Plan amendment for the subject site would be to test the recommended development approach with the public prior to initiating the plan amendment. A public information session could be hosted within the next month along with social media public awareness campaign to solicit feedback that could inform Council in its decision to pursue the plan amendment process. If done this way, the process would be lengthened by approximately one month, but it would introduce an opportunity for input that could shape Council's decision to move forward with the process. 18 35 -19 - SERVICE AND FINANCIAL OUTCOMES The objective through the Roadmap for Smart Growth to pursue and review key parcels of municipal property is to investigate the potential of suitable development opportunities in order to generate tax base growth for Saint John. INPUT FROM OTHER SERVICE AREAS AND STAKEHOLDERS This report was assembled with the support of the following departments and divisions within the City of Saint John: Planning, Infrastructure Planning, City Manager's Office and Saint John Development Corporation. ATTACHMENTS Map of municipally owned properties along Sandy Point Road Appendix 1: Previous Power Point Appendix 2: Site Location Appendix 3: Site Photos Appendix 4: National and Local Development Trends Appendix 5: Canadian Workforce Appendix 6: Low Density Build Out Appendix 7: Medium Density Build Out Appendix 8: High Density Build Out 19 36 Map of Municipally Owned Properties along Sandy Point Road Kul Appendix 1: Previous Power Point M-11 . .... . . .. .. .. . .. ... . "IN &Ilpl_ m IP(I s1��LGHSJ=f .. ... . ..... .... . . . ..... .. . . ........ IDN . .. . ...... . . . . . ...... 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K -N pl 4-J U (3) 0. 4-J 4-J Jill 4- 0 -04-J Ln 0- 4-J -0 (3) -0Z3 Z > (1) 2 - - = 0 _0 _0 0 E -j o 113- "I % 0 0 im *dz mal 9P ri 49 llll:s / � 49 llll:s � bo, �4 m c � Q o o to r L- CL Q o 0 o tv c� N .3 0 aCL 0 a L N CL .w Q W Q i1 Q O 0 0 0 rrw is is m m i 0 va ump / 1111 ��{ �� it I ➢ � �I��hiR1`� 9 , rii //, wv ^". �;.. m N ax ell" ✓ 11 va 49 llll:s � bo, �4 4-0 Q N Q _ L i1 N(� '0 O ° a N ao a 0 CL 3 00 •- v O a E 3 ++ O 3 - °C c w 0 o QQr�cc � N N_ CL CL 0 V v G°C Q 44 0 0r 0 4a4-0 a '°E °1 °1 >Z, O m CL OCLE s+� 0.oc >O N �' N N G1 G1 vi ++ U N V N w 4a O 4a 0 0 0 49 3 HSI J s, llll:s � bo, �4 `IJ 'Q1s' \ co co Q O M a N 3 L a Q 0 0 E L Q 6 E - 0o UE o 3 O c- N s o to U CL 0 'Q1s' \ co co Appendix 2: Site Location rAl ti Appendix 4: Development Trends Population living in private d�wellings by agei grouX Saint John: 2016 C�ensus, tib' 141) 0 04p 411 9 4r q — Single -detached houses — Other private dwellings Private dwelling refers to a separate set of living quarters with, a private entrance either from outside the building or from a common hail or lobby. 7 SCUrce- Statlsdcs Canada Source- Statistics Ciriada - 2016 CenSLIS. Catalogue Number 98-400-X2016021 SAINT JOHN 01 Appendix 5: Work Force 111111111111111pilpir 1 1111 Illilillil I F] RITOW, ulul SCLJrce,: ReaB Estate Market Cutlook, Canadla, CBRE Research (20 7) m Appendix 6: Low Density Concept D—.4—+inl Example of Scale and Materiality ; WA Appendix 6: Low Density Concept Law Density, Single Family residential f Appendix 7: Medium Density Concept Example of Massing, Scale and Medium Density, Mixed Residential Materiality of Potential W-11 Appendix 7: Medium Density Concept Medium Density, Mixed Residential — t „ E:ii] Appendix 8: High Density Concept High Density, Mixed Residential Example of Mixed Residential Concept E-11 I Appendix 8: High Density Concept n r, r 4 � rr %r 2 i � Oil i iaa ✓u /io%O� //%//ia, iii/ii � /�O/ ? aiaiaoa iaoia f4!II� p,,,i ��oi /Oi i / , rill i ai i i i i / / ,✓ // / ii a iaa /i/ r air ///ii /r �oi�iiai vi ai ro � i /OaOi oar /i �O////// o i it /oO .a iaoi E.I O V E0 `� M d v C r.r {Q mc 3 Co Co Co N � to 4- t1A 4-J co U 0 O "i C6 QN O > E O O E CL O Q � N U � Co _0 -0 C: N� LL Co >� -0 CL Co CL "C6 > i C6 O Co a -J E C: � a -J Co U � 0 4-+ E Q N 0 4-J E Q N N 0 O _0 N >. _ E � t ca cn O � v N ca U N i 4-J N > N E N _0 i N 4-J N to 00v O N O N a -J ' E i N E � cn cn O U O O M N i � O E `~ O Oa- C: 4- C6 cn >. -+ O r-1 E N 0-0 N N 4-J U> N O Q E O Q Q O .� +, ca -r- O O N- O O O N U "� U to -0 C: C6 N c fa _0 C6 a C6 cn C6 ci cin U o i U 4-J ca iA > N O O � `—,v N N O � O C: -C � � .4-J (j) Ln >J N co ca b.0 Ea) • 4-J (2) a -J Q Cn o 0 4-J �O ate--+ 0 +�.+ N O cn"— Ln O 4-J Q N u 0 (2) i F- O N a)C6 i N E Q O _0i +-, U O 4 - CL O N U CO _� -I—O :3 rl N M Lr) Co Co Co N � to 4- t1A 4-J co U 0 O "i C6 QN O > E O O E CL O Q � N U � Co _0 -0 C: N� LL Co >� -0 CL Co CL "C6 > i C6 O Co a -J E C: � a -J Co U � 0 4-+ E Q N 0 4-J E Q N N 0 i O+-' c o Ln c 0 1_f) Lr) 0 i 'U c O -0.c � N O O U co =;U E X toLo � `~ N 4 N _0 fa i cn Q C: O U -0 — c O U � i ,U co fa Q 0 N N 4O O 4A N �--+ Q - N N 0 Ln _ •� �_ cv N - -0 N a_' •?� .� U — U C)- Co a N t).O -J (2) 4-J .� � N N ca a -J .� '� U i to � 4-5 0 Zn O -0 :3 N Q - Q N 0 a_+ � O i _O = Ocn E N -0 (6 fa O C) i -41 a -J Q U o c% U -0 4 -J ---JO 4- O (2) •:3 O N 4-J fa i U � .E N � N — ro '� •� Q tLo ro U O O to c6 N cn � U � N U U 2t 00 a, 4A _N Co .Co a -J to to i O O O E O U 4- 0 Q a -J O 0 i Co U i O cn i U U cn a -J U Co Q E Co a -J N 0 N F 0 w m 0 w m .Nm ES ria 57 Ir U - t) COP ES ria no 0 no Ec- CIO E (a-cu2 x I I in CLJ) 404, ` 4 Alk" v.9 it OU Milk •— 0 L 4-J` tjo M/-/, Uell, 0 U 4-J Alk" v.9 lmrIl OU U 0 r. 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