Proposed changes added to rules yet to be passed
Jan 20, 2010 - 12:59 PM
By Jeff Hayward
UXBRIDGE -- The Township said it has listened to the concerns of business owners and is making changes to a proposed bylaw governing residential-based commercial operations.
Uxbridge is looking to introduce rules controlling home industries and home occupations and previously hosted an open house and private consultations on the matter.
Significant proposed changes, according to a report from Township consultant Macaulay Shiomi Howson, include allowing "unrestricted" customer pick-ups from home operations in rural areas and up to five pick-ups per day at urban sites during normal business hours. The limit on size of commercial vehicles would be deleted with conditions. Clarification will also be provided about regulations on businesses using animal enclosures.
According to the report, home industries (such as a woodworking shop), which are currently not allowed under Uxbridge law, that have operated prior to 1981 would be grandfathered. On the subject of possible licensing requirements, the report notes "home occupations are not intended to be licensed" and that "no determination" has been made relating to the need for a home-industry license.
"Decision on licensing is a completely separate process from this bylaw," said Liz Howson, consultant.
Township officials said they are not trying to strong-arm the public with the new rules.
"Our intent is not to go out and hunt people down," said Ingrid Svelnis, chief administrative officer. "If there is a complaint, this framework is designed to help that process."
Another concern from previous meetings is whether home businesses would now be taxed at a commercial rate, which Ms. Howson balked at.
"There's not going to be anything in this (bylaw) to cause MPAC to do an investigation," she said.
Added Clerk Debbie Leroux, "MPAC can come in at any time and reassess a property."
A public meeting will be held to discuss the bylaw with the proposed changes, with a date for that meeting to be set.
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