Highlights of the Meeting of Council on Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Aurora Town Square – Capital Financial Summary & Grand Opening and 2025 Programming Overview

Aurora Town Council received a report on the final cost of Aurora Town Square, the Town’s largest capital project, totalling $59.73 million. Despite challenges from COVID-19, including delays, material shortages, and cost increases, the project was successfully completed through strong oversight from the project team. The facility is now fully operational, with only the warranty period remaining. Strategic funding minimized tax impacts, and the only outstanding decision is the use of remaining capital campaign funds. Aurora Town Square is set to be a premier community hub for generations to come.

Council also received a report on the Aurora Town Square Grand Opening and an overview of 2025 performances, special events, and programs. Spanning 23 days from September 21 to October 13, 2024, the Grand Opening featured 13 performances, 4 special events, and 10 programs drawing positive feedback from the public, businesses and community partners. In 2025, the Town, Aurora Cultural Centre, and Aurora Public Library will continue offering diverse programming, collaborating with local organizations to support economic development and cultural tourism. Staff will update the Town Square Business Plan to reflect lessons learned in its first year.

Motion to Request that York Region Resubmit Application for Men’s Shelter at 14452 Yonge Street.

A motion put forward by Councillor John Gallo and supported by Council, requested that York Region resubmit the zoning by-law amendment application for a men’s emergency and transitional facility located at 14452 Yonge Street in Aurora. The original application was refused by Council on February 13, 2024. In accordance with the Strong Mayor Powers provided to the Town of Aurora in the Municipal Act, 2001, Mayor Tom Mrakas vetoed the resolution. “As Head of Council, it is my opinion that any alternative use of the property at 14452 Yonge St., beyond what was identified in the York Region June 13, 2019 report, could compromise its strategic purpose and may interfere with the delivery of infrastructure to support housing,” said Mayor Tom Mrakas. “This site is critical for current and future infrastructure needs, including essential municipal services that may be expanded to support housing growth and that may be necessary for future development in southwest Aurora and the Yonge Street corridor, both key growth areas in the Town’s updated Official Plan and both which would assist the Town in meeting its provincial housing targets.” In accordance with the legislation, Council may override the Mayor’s veto within 21 days.

Application for Zoning By-law Amendment and Draft Plan of Subdivision Edenbrook (Aurora) Inc. 1001 St. John’s Sideroad

Council approved a Zoning By-law Amendment and Draft Plan of Subdivision for 29 single detached homes at 1001 St. John’s Sideroad. The development includes environmental protection areas, open space, and a filtration block. It will connect to an approved road from a neighbouring development and completes the build out of the 2B Secondary Plan Area. The proposal meets all planning policies, and no objections were raised by external agencies or Town staff.