Gravenhurst Council Considers Deferring Campground Application Proposal

In a recent planning meeting held on May 23, the staff of Gravenhurst recommended that the development application proposal for the Finest Kind Enterprises campground on Kilworthy Road be deferred. 

As per a report, the proposal, which sought amendments to the Special Provision to the Commercial Recreation Zone, raised significant concerns among members of the public and triggered a thoughtful discussion among council members.

The application, if approved, would allow for the establishment of up to 80 campsites featuring bunkies, four 4-season cottages, and a swimming pool. Additionally, it requested a reduction in the minimum interior, exterior, and front yard setbacks from the standard 15 meters to 5 meters, as well as a reduction in the minimum rear yard setback from 15 meters to 9 meters.

During the meeting, concerned citizens voiced their apprehensions regarding various aspects of the proposed development. One prevalent concern revolved around campers potentially trespassing on neighboring residential properties and the lack of experience or supervision when it comes to campfires. Moreover, the sheer number of campsites proposed raised concerns over existing traffic congestion on Kilworthy Road, as well as the potential overcrowding of the public beach and the impact of the swimming pool on the lake and fish habitat.

Jennifer Donley, a resident who participated in the meeting, expressed her unease regarding the perceived lack of knowledge among campers when it comes to fire safety. She highlighted the increased risk of injuries due to the large number of people at the campground, emphasizing the potential strain on the town’s emergency services.

Donley also drew attention to the traffic risks posed by the proposed development, particularly the sharp turn on Kilworthy Road, which she believes visitors may be unaware of. She suggested that the Town should commission a traffic impact study that accurately reflects the bustling conditions during peak seasons.

Bob Corbett, the President of the Sparrow Lake Association, shared his concerns about the congestion that the campground could potentially introduce. This included the impact on both people and boats at the public launch, as well as the overcrowding that would result from accommodating significantly more RV trailers than previously permitted.

Corbett criticized the applicants for seeking exceptions to the existing rules, suggesting that they should instead abide by the regulations in place. This sentiment was echoed by several council members, who emphasized the need for adherence to established by-laws and regulations.

Councillor Penny Varney raised questions about the compliance of the proposed cabin layout with fire safety regulations. She also supported the idea of conducting an additional traffic study, acknowledging the potential dangers associated with increased congestion on Sparrow Lake.

Councillor Erin Strength highlighted the sensitivity of the lake as a waterway and emphasized the importance of engaging with the Ministry of Natural Resources to ensure responsible development practices.

Adam Ager, the manager of Planning Services, underlined the significance of the shoreline area as a provincially significant wetland. He stressed the necessity of adhering to the Environmental Impact Study to safeguard this critical ecosystem.

Jo Morphy, another council member, inquired about the protocols that campers would follow regarding daytime burning while preparing meals and using fire pits. In response, Director Melissa Halford assured the council that campers typically rely on barbecues, Coleman stoves, and nearby restaurants for their cooking needs.

Mayor Heidi Lorenz acknowledged the concerns raised during the meeting and confirmed that the decision on the by-law amendment would be postponed to a future meeting. She noted that the Town is awaiting a peer review to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the proposal.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to thoroughly assess the development application and take into account the input and concerns expressed by the public and council members alike. The deferral of the decision allows for a more comprehensive review process, ensuring that all relevant factors are considered before reaching a final determination that upholds the interests of the community and the preservation of the local environment.