By Claude & Parth on 2026-03-12, City: Grimsby, View Transcript
The Heritage Advisory Committee met on March 10, 2026, to approve heritage designations for two historic properties: a 161-year-old church and an Italianate-style home connected to Grimsby's fruit farming history. The committee also discussed upcoming public consultation for a multi-story development near downtown and provided updates on the town's official plan process.
HERITAGE DESIGNATIONS APPROVED: The committee unanimously approved heritage designations for 19 Ontario Street (St. George's Ukrainian Orthodox Church) and 6 Maple Avenue under Part 4, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act. The church, built in 1865 as Grimsby's first purpose-built Methodist church, has been in continuous church use for 161 years. Staff noted the property owner "approached staff about the possibility of designation" and "told us that they love living in a piece of Grimsby history." The designation of 6 Maple Avenue, an 1885 Italianate home built for retired fruit farmer John Aphendi White, will include protection for the property's small front setback, which reflects the unique character of late 19th/early 20th century Main Street East development. Both property owners are supportive of the designations.
RELIGIOUS HERITAGE PROTECTIONS: Committee members discussed how recent changes to the Ontario Heritage Act balance preservation with religious freedom. Staff explained: "Legislative changes recently came through that basically ensured that worship and practice of the faith cannot be impacted by the designation. So if the congregation needs to do something for the purposes of their worship, they are able to do that." The committee considered designating interior features designed by Ukrainian architect Vimir Slipchenko, with staff noting that even if interior features are protected, changes needed for worship practices would be permitted. Grant funding is available to the congregation, which has expressed strong interest.
COOPER HOUSE DEVELOPMENT CONSULTATION: A public meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 12th, 4-6 PM at the Carnegie Building regarding a proposed multi-story development on John Street in Grimsby's historic downtown core. Town staff emphasized no official application has been submitted yet, and additional formal consultation will be required under the Planning Act when an application is filed. The development site is historically significant as an industrial area near the rail station where old homes "likely belonged to workers." A building on the municipal heritage register is located on the street and may be affected, requiring heritage committee review.
HERITAGE PRESERVATION PROGRESS: The committee has successfully designated 52 buildings during the current council term as part of a town-wide heritage review. The committee chair emphasized improved collaboration, noting the Grimsby Historical Society's 2025 annual report cited a "really positive relationship" between the town and heritage advisory committee, representing improved "mutual respect" that "hasn't always been that way." Staff acknowledged collaborative research support from Wayne at the archives and Roberta Thompson, great-granddaughter of a former property owner, who provided crucial oral history.
OFFICIAL PLAN UPDATE: The official plan consultation process remains open for public input, with residents able to email planning@grimsby.ca with questions or feedback. Another draft will be released after feedback is integrated, and the plan is expected to come into effect this year. Officials acknowledged that development intensification is "inevitable" but emphasized finding balance to maintain the town's "distinct character and identity and history." The official plan will shape the community for the next 25 years.
Passed: Designation of 19 Ontario Street and 6 Maple Avenue under Part 4, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act (Report 2604) - Moved by Councilor DeFlabio, seconded by Councilor Cristani, carried unanimously
Passed: Approval of meeting agenda
Passed: Approval of February 10th, 2026 minutes
The transcript does not provide a complete list of councillors present. The following were identified: - Committee Chair (name not specified) - Councilor DeFlabio - Councilor Cristani