City seeks public input on proposed zoning amendment (re: corner stores)

The City of Ottawa is undertaking a zoning review to determine appropriate locations for new, local commercial zones within residential neighbourhoods, and is seeking public input at an upcoming meeting on the proposed zoning regulations and the rezoning sites in six wards. ** Date: ** Wednesday, January 21, 2015 ** Time: ** 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. ** Location: ** Jean Pigott Place, Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West

Many existing stores and services located in predominantly residential areas have residential zoning, which does not permit businesses other than what currently exists.

The goal of the review is to create a zoning By-law amendment that will, where appropriate, permit small-scale local businesses to continue contributing to their community. The proposed amendments also identify new locations and corridors for commercial opportunities in areas that currently only permit residential uses.

Existing legal non-conforming commercial operations such as mom-and-pop stores in residential neighbourhoods will be reviewed as candidates for the proposed zoning changes. Without the By-law amendment, these businesses, and opportunities for other appropriate businesses, could disappear over time without the ability to reopen.

The proposed local commercial zones will be pedestrian and cyclist oriented.

The meeting will consist of a brief presentation, after which residents may review the rezoning sites by Ward and speak with City staff.

Residents are encouraged to visit ottawa.ca/neighbourhoodstores ** ** to view location maps and proposed zoning regulations and to provide any comments by February 6, 2015 to ensure they will be considered in the evaluation of the study.