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REPORT REPORT TO: Mayor Richard Bonnette and Members of Council REPORT FROM: Warren Harris, Manager of Parks and Open Space DATE: November 14, 2007 REPORT NO.: R-2007-0046 RE: Hungry Hollow Accessways File: D03 HU RECOMMENDATION: THAT Report R-2007-0046 dated November 14, 2007 regarding Hungry Hollow Accessways be received; AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to implement the measures for various Town owned accessways to Hungry Hollow ravine as outlined in Report R-2007-0046 dated November 14, 2007; AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to negotiate the sale of Block E, Plan 660 to the abutting owners at 21 and 25 Stockman Crescent subject to the retention of a storm sewer easement in accordance with Town policy; AND FURTHER THAT the revenues for the sale of Block E, Plan 660 to the owners of the abutting lands known as 21 and 25 Stockman Crescent be directed to Capital Project R-2007-0020 Trails System; AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to bring forward a by-law to dedicate those accessways required for Hungry Hollow ravine as identified in Report R-2007-0046 dated November 14, 2007 as public walkways; AND FURTHER THAT staff proceed with the short term initiatives outlined in Appendix 1 of Report R-2007-0046 utilizing the existing Trails System capital approved funding and report back to the 2009 Budget Committee with operating budget implications resulting from Report R-2007-0046 dated November 14, 2007. Page 1 of 27

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REPORT

REPORT TO: Mayor Richard Bonnette and Members of Council

REPORT FROM: Warren Harris, Manager of Parks and Open Space

DATE: November 14, 2007

REPORT NO.: R-2007-0046

RE: Hungry Hollow Accessways File: D03 HU

RECOMMENDATION: THAT Report R-2007-0046 dated November 14, 2007 regarding Hungry Hollow Accessways be received; AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to implement the measures for various Town owned accessways to Hungry Hollow ravine as outlined in Report R-2007-0046 dated November 14, 2007; AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to negotiate the sale of Block E, Plan 660 to the abutting owners at 21 and 25 Stockman Crescent subject to the retention of a storm sewer easement in accordance with Town policy; AND FURTHER THAT the revenues for the sale of Block E, Plan 660 to the owners of the abutting lands known as 21 and 25 Stockman Crescent be directed to Capital Project R-2007-0020 Trails System; AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to bring forward a by-law to dedicate those accessways required for Hungry Hollow ravine as identified in Report R-2007-0046 dated November 14, 2007 as public walkways; AND FURTHER THAT staff proceed with the short term initiatives outlined in Appendix 1 of Report R-2007-0046 utilizing the existing Trails System capital approved funding and report back to the 2009 Budget Committee with operating budget implications resulting from Report R-2007-0046 dated November 14, 2007.

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BACKGROUND: In June 2004, Council approved GC-2004-0200 that read in part:

AND FURTHER THAT the Hungry Hollow Management Plan dated March 2004 be approved as a guiding document for resource management, trail development, permitted uses, monitoring plans and implementation strategies;

The Hungry Hollow Management Plan identifies access points into the natural areas that are to be developed as part of the ultimate formal trail network in the ravine. At the time of the sale of the Town owned Block of land between 138 and 142 Rexway Drive in 2005, Council supported staff’s initiative to review all accessway locations for Hungry Hollow and devise a strategy for implementing the access points. In October 2006 Council approved Recommendation No. GC-2006-0366 regarding options for Hungry Hollow Accessways outlined in Report No. R-2006-0020. In order to assess all of the potential accessways to Hungry Hollow equitably, Public Meetings were held March 29 and April 3, 2007 for the two distinct Hungry Hollow neighbourhoods: Cedarvale Park to Mountainview Road and Mountainview Road to Willow Park. Feedback from the Public Meetings and responses from residents on the issue of accessways into Hungry Hollow were consolidated in Report R-2007-0030 for review by Council before final circulation to the public. In August, 2007 Council approved Recommendation GC-2007-0266 that read in part:

AND FURTHER THAT staff report back to Council in October 2007 on the results of the public consultation material contained within Appendix 1 of Report R-2007-0030 entitled Hungry Hollow Accessways Update dated August 1, 2007 and the associated implementation measures for 2007/8.

COMMENTS: The purpose of this report is to advise Council of the feedback from the public on staff’s recommendations regarding the treatment of Hungry Hollow accessways, and seek final approval of land disposition or accessway treatment. The report on the proposed strategy for Hungry Hollow Accessways (Report-2007-0030) contained the following information for review by the public:

• Overview of Hungry Hollow Accessways; • Major Themes and Issues from the Public; • Principles for Accessways and Scoring Rationale; • Recommended Action Plan for Accessways and Associated Works; and • Summary of Public Meeting Delegations, Resident Submissions and Public

Meeting Presentations.

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The report was circulated to all those who had submitted comments or attended the public meetings, and was also advertised in the newspaper and posted on the Town’s website. Staff received fourteen responses from residents; no new information was received from the submissions, and as such staff, with input from the Trails Advisory Committee, have developed an implementation strategy for accessways to Hungry Hollow as outlined in Appendix 1. Four written submissions are found in Appendices 2 through 5 regarding concerns raised for Noble Court, Lucinda Place and Regan Crescent. RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN:

The development of accessways to Hungry Hollow corresponds to the following objectives of the Strategic Plan:

Growth

3. Continue to phase in community infrastructure and services as development occurs

Protecting Our Natural Environment

2. Continue to implement actions, programs, policies to support the protection and enhancement of the natural environment including acquisition of environmentally significant lands (wetlands, ESAs, valleylands).

Housing

3. Increase livability of communities by building park infrastructure and connecting trails.

FINANCIAL IMPACT: Revenues from the sale of Block E, Plan 660 to the owners of the abutting lands known as 21 and 25 Stockman Crescent should be allocated to Capital Project R-2007-0020 (Trails System) to allow for the removal /addition of fences and screening outlined in this report. Any shortfalls and/or operating budget implications should be brought forward to the 2009 Budget Committee for review. COMMUNICATIONS IMPACT: Copies of Appendix 1 will be issued to all those who attended the public meetings or submitted written comments. In addition, a Public Notice will be placed in the

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newspaper to advise residents of the report and its availability for downloading from the Town’s website. CONSULTATION: Staff consulted with the Trails Advisory Committee, Engineering Public Works and Building Services Department, Finance Department and the Clerk’s Department during the preparation of this report. CONCLUSION: The purpose of this report is to advise Council of the feedback from the initial report on the treatment of accessways to the Hungry Hollow ravine, and to outline measures to be taken to implement the recommended course of action. Respectfully submitted,

Warren Harris, O.A.L.A. Manager of Parks and Open Space

Dennis Y. Perlin Chief Administrative Officer

Terry Alyman Director of Recreation and Parks

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Report R-2007-0046 Appendix 1

Hungry Hollow Ravine: Accessways Strategy 1. Overview of Hungry Hollow Existing Accessway Types

2. Major Themes and Issues From Public Consultation Theme 1 Nature Versus Trails: Potential Disruption to Wildlife Resulting from Trail Plan Implementation Consolidated Response: While Hungry Hollow is an exceptional environmental resource for the Town and there is much merit in maintaining its natural values, it should be recognized that it is still an urban ravine, not a pristine wilderness. The wildlife that remains in Hungry Hollow is mainly adapted to the proximity of urban land uses and activities, and to a large extent is tolerant of human activity. The proposed trail will not inhibit the use of this area by wildlife that is present there now and will not inhibit any species that desire to travel through this area.

• Accessways with turf surfacing, post and rail entry fencing, no

motorized vehicles signage and/or garbage can E.g. Dawson, Terry, Rosefield, Fagan, Irwin, Summit

• Accessways blocked by fencing to restrict access

E.g. Regan, Stockman, Sargent, Noble, Craig, Gollop, Gooderham, Russell

• Accessways that are open to the public but appear to be part of the

adjacent residences E.g. Wilson, Chelvin, Flamingo, Lucinda

• Unimproved accessways leading from a road allowance or

park/open space E.g. Delrex opposite Joseph Gibbons Park, Delrex opposite Delrex Parkette, Delrex at Cedarvale Park, Maple at Cedarvale Park, Heslop, Metcalfe, Miller Drive, Resource Road, Morden Neilson, Hall Road

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Report R-2007-0046 Appendix 1

Hungry Hollow Ravine: Accessways Strategy Theme 1 (continued) Noble Court was examined in a bigger picture perspective during the process of developing the Management Plan, and although the trail in the ESA would be intrusive, the plan focused trails to areas where foot paths existed and there is to be no net loss of vegetation. It is Credit Valley Conservation’s (CVC) understanding that some trails in the ESA will be closed and rehabilitated to facilitate no net loss. Theme 2 Rationale for Trail Development: Why Not Just Leave Things As They Are Consolidated Response: The proposed trail is seen as a mitigation strategy that is in response to the increased use. There is no option to “leave it as it is” since the increased use will occur along with ongoing degradation of the ravine. Although a formal trail plan is needed, there is a desire to minimize the degree to which it intrudes on the ravine and changes the existing character of the “ravine experience”. Thus the trail system seeks to follow existing trails wherever possible, use natural materials (e.g., no asphalt), remain as an earthen “footpath” where appropriate, and provide sufficient options to discourage the development of “unofficial” trails by users of the ravine. CVC has supported the Management Plan provided impacts are minimized and compensation and mitigation is carried through. Theme 3 Concern That Accessways Lessen Property Values and Affect Private Use and Enjoyment All accessways identified in this report are parcels owned by the Town or are within road allowances abutting the open space area, and were created at the time of registration of the various plans of subdivision. Owners of adjacent properties would have been aware of their existence, and the issue is more around the Town’s wish to activate the use of the accessways more than the creation of new entry points. Staff have received a written opinion from an Ontario Land Economist who describes the attempts to define the decrease in property values as “guestimates” with no objective supporting evidence to substantiate claims of loss. There probably is a potential for diminution of market value for dwellings adjacent to an accessway, but the subject lands have always been Town owned lands, and there appears to be no precedent cases supporting claims for compensation from any losses. The proposed methodology outlined in Section 6 allows for a range in adjacent fencing and screening to offset the negative impacts of public use of the accessways, and the low key entry signage and lack of any promotion on trails mapping should increase the likelihood of the accessways being used for only local access as intended.

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Report R-2007-0046 Appendix 1

Hungry Hollow Ravine: Accessways Strategy Theme 4 Concern That Trails Lead to Increased Crime Response from Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) Staff consulted the Planning and Research Bureau of the Police Service to seek input on the notion that the management of a trails system would lead to an increased level of break and enter activity and vandalism. Keith Moore of the HRPS advises that they do not keep detailed statistics on break and enter crimes related to proximity of natural areas. While they appreciate that owners backing onto natural areas may fear criminal activity, Mr. Moore agrees that the creation of a trail system in natural areas does not necessarily equate to increased vandalism and break and enter activity. Mr. Moore references the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles which is based on the premise that the “proper design and effective use of the built environment can lead to a reduction in the incidence and fear of crime, and an improvement in the quality of life”. The three main strategies include:

• Natural surveillance; • Natural access control; and • Territorial reinforcement.

Implementing these strategies in relation to trails in natural areas and the adjacent homes would include consideration of:

• Clear definition of property ownership; • Clear administrative rules and signage;

• Provision for natural surveillance (encourage activities that promote informal

surveillance);

• Clear sightlines;

• Emergency service accessibility. While there is no definitive way to address public perception regarding crime, and natural areas offer particular challenges, the Police Service advise that the appropriate design and operation of these trails will go a long way to mitigate the concerns. Staff have had training in the CPTED principles and will take measures to implement them in current and future trail works.

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Report R-2007-0046 Appendix 1

Hungry Hollow Ravine: Accessways Strategy 3. Principles for Accessways and Scoring Rationale

Objectives

Review of Potential Accessways Identified Through Public Consultation: Lucinda, Noble, Regan, Sargent, Stockman

= desired score

Accessway Development Criteria

Score

Most Desired Moderate Least Desired

Minimal Environmental Impact; removal of habitat, impact soils/slope, loss of vegetation, link to sensitive area

Lucinda Noble Regan Sargent

Stockman

Requires few measures to ensure privacy; fencing or hedging to maintain adjacent resident privacy

Noble Lucinda Regan Sargent

Stockman

Cost Effective Construction Measures; stairs, walls, or regrading

Lucinda Noble Regan

Sargent Stockman

Demonstrated need* from neighbourhood; assists those who do not back onto ravine * as provided in petition or delegation

Noble Regan Sargent Stockman

Lucinda

Closest alternative trail link (distance in metres)

Accessway Nearest Distance Lucinda Heslop 895 ■ Noble Terry 880 ■ Regan Delrex 370 ■ Sargent Heslop 540 ■ Stockman Lucinda 600 ■ Desired link to ravine; connects to existing trail use area

Lucinda Noble Regan Sargent Stockman

1) To provide access points where there is demand and provide equal

access for neighbourhoods 2) To minimize environmental impacts by strategic alignment of trails 3) To provide access points that are walkable (within 500m) and lead to clear trail routes 4) To be mindful of costs of construction, maintenance, and monitoring 5) To monitor impacts and issues associated with use of accessways

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Report R-2007-0046 Appendix 1

Hungry Hollow Ravine: Accessways Strategy 4. Benefits of Trails

Objectives for Trail Development From Trails and Cycling Master Plan 1999

• Provide maximum benefits through: • Recreation (fitness and enjoyment) • Quality of life (community awareness and connectivity) • Environmental protection (awareness, preservation, enhancement) • Transportation (alternative modes and routes) • Educational benefits • Economic development (tourism, eco-tourism).

Develop trails that:

• Respect the rights of private citizens and property owners • Minimize trail construction and operation costs but strive to provide quality

facilities and experiences • Maximize connections to existing trail and cycling networks….and build upon existing resources such as the Bruce Trail • Facilitate year round use by a range of ages and physical abilities • Where possible, maintain barrier-free access and create interconnected loop

alignments Benefits of Trails From Hike Ontario www.hikeontario.com

• Connectivity through community partnerships for building and maintaining trails • Economics: affordable recreation and increased land values • Education through trail signs, guides and use of outdoor classrooms • Environmental awareness leading to protection and enhancement • Health: walking relieves stress and burns calories • Heritage: awareness • Recreation: range of activities from walking, cycling , skiing • Transportation; walking or cycling reduces pollution

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Report R-2007-0046 Appendix 1

Hungry Hollow Ravine: Accessways Strategy 4. Benefits of Trails (continued) Relationship of Trails to Recreation & Parks Department Mandate From Draft Recreation and Parks Strategic Action Plan 2007 We value:

• Healthy, safe and sustainable communities • Active living • Individuals and families • Volunteerism • Environmental preservation

Municipal, Regional and Provincial Strategies

• Ministries of Sport and Health, Ontario’s Healthy Eating, Active Living Strategy • Ministry of Health, Active 2010 and The Ontario Trails Strategy • Region of Halton, Halton Active Living Network (HALNet) • Town of Halton Hills, Active Halton Hills

Public Survey Responses from Draft Recreation and Parks Strategic Action Plan

• 70% of respondents felt that Recreation and Parks should focus on natural areas that conserve natural areas and protect wildlife habitat;

• 55% of respondents felt that Nature Trails (and 48% felt paved trails for walking

and hiking) should be rated high in terms of municipal spending for parks and open space.

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Report R-2007-0046 Appendix 1

Hungry Hollow Ravine: Accessways Strategy 5. Summary of Public Comments Received on Report R-2007-0030 Accessway Name Comment Summary All Baron Supports principle of Report R-2007-0030

Requests specific timelines Becksted No signage at streets for accessways

Fagan Drive omitted Need to educate, protect, manage and monitor Have users co-exist and there will be minimal impacts

Picollas Does not support walkways Impacts wildlife

Heslop Cizmar Does not support garbage cans at street entrances Lucinda Aubin Accessway fence/posts at entries negatively impact

property values See Appendix 2 for full comments

Noble Fangie Animals and habitat will be displaced Street will become more dangerous due to higher traffic Rectify existing issues in ravine first

Getty Opening access does not preserve or enhance ravine How much trail work can the Town afford See Appendix 3 for full comments

Irwin Accessway unnecessary Vandalism, brush fires, littering, break ins will increase Consultative process is flawed See Appendix 4 for full comments

Noble Disruption to wildlife Too expensive Town should rethink priorities

Regan Drewry Does not want accessway re-opened and past problems to reoccur

Thier Accessway plan is unsafe, unnecessary and costly See Appendix 5 for full comments

Stockman Collie Supports R-2007-0030 Belleghem Supports R-2007-0030 Miller Supports R-2007-0030

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Report R-2007-0046 Appendix 1

Hungry Hollow Ravine: Accessways Strategy 6. Recommended Action Plans for Accessways Type of Accessway

Map #

Location Proposed Treatment

Trail Head Primary destination point for parking, washroom and orientation signage

T1 T2

Cedarvale Park Willow (Norval) Park

• Trail head map • Orientation map • Shown on trails mapping

Primary Access points from public open spaces with on-street parking

P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6

Delrex @ Cedarvale Park Eaton Street Miller Drive Delrex @ Delrex Parkette Delrex @ Joseph Gibbons Park Hall Road

• Trail Identifier • Trail Regulation Sign • Garbage Container • Shown on trails mapping

Local Access points for local neighbourhoods from publicly owned blocks of land or street frontage

L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 L6 L7 L8 L9

L10 L11 L12 L13 L14 L15 L16 L17

Maple Avenue Cedarvale Court* Terry Court* Noble Court Sargent Road* Lucinda Place* Heslop Court Dawson Crescent* Summit Place Metcalfe Court Regan Crescent* Flamingo Court* Fagan Drive* Rosefield Drive* Wilson Court* Chelvin Drive* Russell Street @ Highway 7

• Trail bollards at street

entry • Exit signage from within

ravine • Not shown on trails

mapping • Garbage container only

when neighbourhood clean ups cannot address need

• Fencing when access point abuts adjacent residential side/rear yards (black vinyl chain link or approved equivalent)

• Dedicate those marked * as public walkways and note others as access points where ravine abuts existing road allowances

Engineering No public access: Stormwater route

E1 E2 E3

Craig Gooderham Drive Gollop Crescent

• Maintain as fenced entry

closed to the public

Not Recommended Accessway not feasible

NR1

Stockman

• Negotiate sale of Block E, Plan 660 to the abutting neighbours

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Report R-2007-0046 Appendix 1

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Report R-2007-0046 Appendix 2

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Report R-2007-0046 Appendix 3

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Report R-2007-0046 Appendix 5

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Report R-2007-0046 Appendix 5

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