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- Navigating the Muskoka Planning and Development Process
Join us ONLINE at 5:00 pm, Tuesday April 30thfor another MLA-hosted webinaR
Do you want to understand the planning approvals process a little better? Are you undertaking a building project and want to know how you can most effectively get the required approvals and have a successful outcome? Do you want to advocate for responsible development in your area? The Muskoka Lakes Association has brought together an expert panel to help you!
There is not just one person or entity that determines the outcome of any given development proposal in Muskoka – instead, landowners like you, your neighbours or development companies are guided by provincial, regional and municipal legislation working in concert with professional planners, architects and builders to execute a vision.
Understanding the process is critical if you wish to successfully develop your property in a way that will maintain natural waterfront
character, while receiving prompt approval. Our webinar will begin with a presentation by Stephen Fahner, a Registered Professional Planner and sole proprietor of Northern Vision Planning, who will provide an overview of the planning process in Ontario, focussing on Muskoka. Following Stephen’s presentation will be a facilitated panel discussion with 3 senior municipal planners and a highly respected local builder. Time will also be allotted for questions from attendees. The session will be moderated by Debbie Korolnek, P.Eng., a Director of MLA with many years of experience in public service.
Join us on Tuesday, April 30that 5:00pm!
Meet the Panel
Stephen Fahner is the sole proprietor of Northen Vision Planning Ltd. Stephen moved to Bracebridge 35 years ago to fill the position of Director of Planning at the Township of Muskoka Lakes. He is a graduate of Brock University’s combined major program of Geography, and Urban and Environmental Studies. During his tenure at TML, he initiated a number of new policy initiatives including Shoreline Buffers, Dark Sky Lighting, and Tree Preservation / Site Alteration Bylaws. Having worked in land use regulation for over 40 years, Stephen sees the importance of carefully managed development in Cottage Country to maintain its character and environmental sustainability. He is also a Director for the Muskoka Conservancy and sees the need for acquisition and education in protecting the natural resources we have today in Muskoka for future generations.
David Pink is the Director of Development Services & Environmental Sustainability for the Township of Muskoka Lakes. He is a Registered Professional Planner. David graduated with a B. Sc. (biology with environmental science) from the University of Western Ontario and obtained a Masters of Environmental Science from Memorial University. David joined the Township of Muskoka Lakes in 2004 as a Planner, then Senior Planner, and then Director of Planning. In his current role as Director of Development Services and Environmental Sustainability he has overall responsibility for Planning, Building, By-law Enforcement and Economic Development.
Bryce Sharpe is the Manager of Planning for the Township of Muskoka Lakes. Bryce holds a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Environmental and Resource Science from Trent University and a M.Sc. (Planning) from the University of Guelph. He is a Member of the Canadian Institute of Planning (CIP) and the Ontario Professional Planners Institute (OPPI) and is a Registered Professional Planner (RPP). Bryce has held land use planning positions with Parks Canada, the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board, and the Niagara Escarpment Commission.
Taylor Elgie is the Director of Planning for Seguin Township. Taylor is a municipal planner with over 15 years of experience in land use planning across various government tiers. Taylor holds the MCIP and RPP designations. In his current role as Director of Planning, Taylor plays a role in land use and strategic planning and team leadership. Prior to this, he held roles in the Development and Protective Services Department at the Town of Parry Sound. With a strong commitment to delivering exceptional public service and fostering positive stakeholder relations, Taylor has a proven track record in municipal planning and community development.
Hugh Smith is the owner of Forest Hill Fine Homes, a custom new home builder located in Port Carling. Over the past 30+ years, Hugh has completed hundreds of projects including custom cottages and boathouses, steel docks, landscaping, demolition and more. Hugh is a strong proponent of responsible development in Muskoka and works closely with approval authorities and municipal staff to ensure project success.
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