High-Level Summary:

During the January 2025 Grimsby Heritage Advisory Committee meeting, pivotal discussions centered around heritage preservation initiatives and legislative responses. Key participants included Chair Bianca, who led discussions on heritage designations and legislative summaries, and Councillor DiFlavio, who provided feedback on communication strategies and public engagement efforts.

Important Topics Discussed:

1. Heritage Designations and Legislative Changes: The committee has designated 46 properties under the Ontario Heritage Act since 2023, with 44 unchallenged. Bianca discussed the urgent need for formal designation due to Bill 23, which affects over 500 historic buildings' protection. She emphasized, "This will leave over 500 historic buildings in the town without any kind of demolition protection."

2. Community Engagement and Collaboration: Positive collaboration with property owners and the Grimsby Historical Society was highlighted. Bianca stated, "Their expertise and efforts have been instrumental to the success of this initiative," underscoring ongoing community support for heritage conservation.

3. Heritage Property Grant Program: A new grant program was introduced to support heritage property owners, developed after extensive consultation. It seeks to address changes in regional funding, aiming to enhance preservation through financial support.

4. Future Planning and Designation Themes: Future designation themes include areas like downtown Main Street and Grimsby Beach. The committee plans to focus on securing sites related to notable families and communities, with continued homeowner notification efforts.

5. Public Consultation and Communication Strategies: Councillor DiFlavio emphasized enhancing public awareness through improved dissemination of committee achievements. He highlighted the need for broader communication: "We make everybody aware because not everybody watches these humble Heritage meetings."

Opportunities for Public Input:

The meeting provided ongoing consultation opportunities with property owners in the Heritage Conservation District, allowing residents to engage in the designation process.

Motions and Outcomes:

• Motion to Approve Agenda: Passed

  • Moved by Councillor DiFlavio, seconded by Amy.

• Motion to Receive Minutes from December 10, 2024: Passed

  • Moved by Amy, seconded by Councillor DiFlavio.

Follow-up Actions/Next Steps:

The committee plans to continue work on securing heritage designations and further engage with the community through planned consultations.