Photo: Karen Graham
The timeline for the relocation of Shorelines Casino is uncertain.
The Ontario Municipal Board, chaired by Laurie Bruce, held a pre-hearing at the Peterborough Council Chambers on September 13. The purpose of the meeting was to establish status for those who have an interest in the city’s proposal to allow Ontario Gaming East Partnership to build and operate a casino on Crawford Drive. Ontario Gaming East Partnership is part of Great Canadian Gaming Corporation which has interests across Canada in gaming, hospitality and entertainment.
The following were given party status; AON Inc., Shelia Nabigon-Howlett, representing No Casino Peterborough; Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area Association; Ontario Lottery Corporation, an agent of the Crown and Ontario Gaming East Partnership with Great Canadian Gaming Corporation.
Ms. Judith Meade of Peterborough was denied party status for the time being but was given participant status.
Party status allows the parties to present evidence pertaining to planning issues associated with building a casino on Crawford Drive. Party status also allows for cross examination of witnesses.
Approximately 25 people indicated by show of hands, they will seek participatory status.
The remaining people in the audience have observer status, for example, Karen Ellis of the Cavan Monaghan Planning Department and anyone else who wishes to attend the hearing and listen to the proceedings.
A participation status allows those individuals to present arguments for or against the City’s proposal to change the Official Plan and introduce zoning bylaws to accommodate a casino. Participation status does not allow for cross examine others.
The second purpose of the meeting was to establish time lines for future meetings. The most significant dates agreed to is the actual hearing dates into the matter of building a casino in Peterborough. These will begin at 10 am, May 8, 2017 and consume three weeks. The hearings will be conducted in the City of Peterborough council chambers.
By Andy Harjula
