The Built Heritage Committee met to consider heritage property designations and demolition permits, with all decisions delayed by one month to go to council on April 8th instead of March 11th. The committee approved heritage designations for two Bank Street properties and discussed material salvage practices for building demolitions, with staff acknowledging the city lacks a formal salvage policy despite environmental benefits.

Topics Discussed

HERITAGE DESIGNATIONS ON BANK STREET: The committee approved heritage designations under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act for two properties: Ellis House at 2400 Bank Street and 679 Bank Street. Minor corrections were made to ward councillor comments and background sections. Heritage Ottawa submitted written correspondence on the Ellis House designation. These designations will protect the historic properties from demolition or inappropriate alterations, though property owners will face additional approval requirements for exterior changes.

BUILDING MATERIAL SALVAGE POLICY GAP: A committee member raised concerns about the full demolition of 180 Lansdown Road South and whether materials could be salvaged. Staff acknowledged the city has no formal salvage policy, stating: "We don't have a system set up to put this stuff somewhere or facilitate the reuse of it. And I think that's one of the big barriers right now." The city can only require salvage as a condition of approval for buildings with clear heritage value, and staff indicated there is no specific statutory authority under the Heritage Act for a salvage bylaw. For the property in question, the architect committed to donating salvageable items including garage doors, cabinetry, and fixtures to Habitat for Humanity ReStore.

ARCHITECTURAL DIVERSITY IN HERITAGE DISTRICTS: The committee discussed whether new construction must match existing architectural styles in Rockcliffe. Staff clarified there is no strict requirement to match exact roof lines of neighboring properties, with a flat roof design approved despite surrounding homes having sloped roofs. Staff explained: "Rockcliffe is very mixed architecturally...the plan focuses more on compatibility rather than kind of like style." The requirement focuses on natural materials and compatible heights rather than specific architectural styles.

MEETING TIMELINE CHANGE: The Chair announced all reports from the March 10th meeting will go to council on April 8th, 2026, instead of the originally scheduled March 11th, delaying heritage designation decisions by approximately one month.

Motions

Carried: Heritage designation for Ellis House at 2400 Bank Street under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act

Carried: Heritage designation recommendation for Rockcliffe area property (specific address not provided in excerpt)

Under Consideration: Heritage designation for 679 Bank Street under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act

Attendees

The transcript does not provide a complete list of councillor names. Member Bournes sent regrets and was not present. Quorum was achieved.