Dryden City Council Talk zoning amendments, shifting residential types, and Property Assessments

In a July 10th City Council meeting, the city of Dryden invited residents to share their opinions on a proposed amendment to the comprehensive zoning bylaw. The amendment suggests changing the zoning from residential type 1 to multi-residential, with a minor variance to the rear yard requirement to accommodate the lot shape.

During the meeting, Stephen Daraco from the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) gave a presentation on property assessments and their valuation methods. Due to the impact of COVID-19, the reassessment scheduled for 2020 was postponed, and assessments continue to be based on a valuation date of January 1, 2016.

MPAC's role in assessing properties for tax purposes was explained, and property owners were informed about their options to appeal assessments they disagree with.

There is a site plan control application for 99 Albert Street, submitted by Community Living Dryden. The applicant plans to develop a two-story office building to accommodate employee growth and expand client services.

A cafeteria services agreement is recommended to be awarded to an undisclosed business in Ontario for a two-year period for a monthly rate of $825 plus applicable taxes. The agreement is to operate the cafeteria in the facility from August 15th to May 15th, with minimum operating hours and provisions for healthy food alternatives and variety in prices. The concessionaire is required to provide insurance and safe food handling certificates and follow restrictions on prohibited food items.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the upcoming First Nations Memorial Classic baseball tournament and Days of Summer downtown events were mentioned.