NEWS RELEASE

MPP DOUG DOWNEY

*************************

Barrie-Springwater-Oro-Medonte MPP Doug Downey joined Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Steve Clark and representatives from the Township of Oro-Medonte and Republic Live at an important announcement this morning at Burl’s Creek.

Minister Clark announced that he has issued a Ministerial Zoning Order (MZO) that will extend the Temporary Use By-Law Application (TUBL) approved by the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) as of Jan. 1, 2016 until the conclusion of the OMB’s hearing on Republic Live’s Permanent By-Law Application (PA), which is slated to begin on April 1, 2019 or later and will be a two-week hearing.

The MZO will allow Burl’s Creek to host its 2019 festival program under the same terms as the Temporary Use By-Law that has been in effect since 2016, until the OMB makes a final decision on their Permanent By-Law Application.

Mayor Harry Hughes commented “The Township of Oro-Medonte is appreciative of the Minister’s Zoning Order. The Order bridges the gap for the 2019 special event season, while allowing for the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal’s hearing and decision pertaining to the Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments regarding parking and camping at Burl’s Creek Event Grounds.”

“I was pleased we were able to work with officials from Oro-Medonte and Minister Clark’s office to get this done,” MPP Downey noted. “It ensures that Burl’s Creek can continue with the exciting events they have lined up for their 2019 season as they await a final decision from the OMB” he continued.

“I’m happy festivals and concerts on the Burl’s Creek event grounds will continue once again this summer,” said Minister Clark. “Festivals and concerts at Burl’s Creek boost tourism in the region and help local businesses thrive. They’re also a great opportunity for families and friends to enjoy live music.”

“Today’s news supports the positive contributions of our team and fulfills the “Open for Business” attitude of our provincial government, Simcoe County and the