A quick update, neighbour, on the progress of our Friends of Olde Berlin Town campaign in pursuit of a compatible, inclusive development of 22 Weber St W that permits existing neighbours to thrive and the Heritage District to endure.
The Ontario Land Tribunal hearing on the Official Plan and Zoning Bylaw Amendment (OPA/ZBA) applications at 22 Weber St W was conducted from April 22 – May 2, 2025. By comparison, most Tribunal hearings are conducted in a single day. The hearing was followed by a written exchange of closing arguments, which concluded May 13, 2025. FOBT and the City argued that the proposed OPA/ZBA is inappropriate due to its lack of transition to the existing neighbourhood, non-compliance with planning policies and guidelines, and negative impact on the Heritage Conservation District. As anticipated, much of the case came down to the good planning arguments of the City and FOBT versus the well-funded legal maneuvering of the owner. We may be able to share more details after the decision is rendered.
The Tribunal’s decision is not expected for months. In the meantime, you can review the closing arguments from the three parties here:
- 22 Weber St W Owner’s Submission
- FOBT Closing Submission
- City of Kitchener Closing Submission
- 22 Weber St W Owner’s Reply (A Reply permits an Applicant to respond to new information in another party’s Closing Submission.)
Thank you to all those who watched the proceedings and helped fund our Expert Witness’ work. While the case is not over, we are already planning a celebration after the decision is released, at which we can thank everyone – including City Council and the Planning Department – for the efforts to date. We will keep you informed of our plans and any updates.
Further information is available at our campaign website, www.obtfriends.ca. We welcome your questions and comments at obtfriends@gmail.com.
Please share this message widely. We are succeeding together,
Friends of Olde Berlin Town