The Town of Newmarket is planning to take action in regards to U.S. tariffs, including adjusting procurement policies and supporting local businesses.
Council will consider new measures in response to the threat posed by U.S. tariffs on the Canadian and local economy.
Council will also be considering a zoning change for the Glenway residential development, a parking review on Journey’s End Circle and its annual water quality report.
Here is what NewmarketToday will be following:
Tariff response
Newmarket will be prioritizing Canadian goods in procurement as the U.S. pushes tariffs against Canada.
Like other municipalities, the town plans to modify its procurement bylaw to better focus on Canadian offerings. While the town only has 1.8 per cent of its payments issued to U.S. suppliers, the town plans to further adjust its procurement thresholds to allow for more preference and opportunity for Canadian suppliers.
The town also plans to restore a business assistance concierge program to connect impacted businesses with government support available to them.
Glenway development zoning
Marianville Developments Limited is seeking a zoning adjustment for live/work units at one of its residential developments in the Glenway area.
The 12 live/work units feature commercial space on the main levelf, with residential living on two floors above. However, the ground floors have limited allowed uses in zoning, which the developer hopes to expand with an amendment.
Town council will consider the amendment in a public hearing during the meeting.
The units are part of a larger 292-unit stacked townhouse development project from the developer, already built with occupancy underway.
Journey's End Circle parking
Journey’s End Circle could see new parking restrictions come into effect.
After a parking review, staff are recommending prohibiting parking on the street within 50 metres of the inner curve on the street with a hotel and industrial buildings. Staff are also bringing forward an option to prohibit parking entirely on the north side of the street.
The recommendation comes after concerns regarding large trucks and buses parking on the curve in the 270-metre long, two-lane roadway, creating potential sightline issues and safety hazards.
Water report
Newmarket has once again achieved a 100 per cent inspection rating regarding its water quality from provincial inspectors.
The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks conducted its annual inspection of the water system in November and found no notices or incidents associated with non-compliance. The municipality earned a perfect score of 100 per cent for the fourth year in a row.
“Results from the 2024 reporting year help demonstrate the town’s commitment to consistently deliver safe drinking water through compliance with applicable legislative and regulatory requirements,” the staff report said.
The municipality is streaming the council meeting March 17 at 1 p.m.You can view the meetings at newmarket.ca/meetings or attend in person at 395 Mulock Dr. You can also set up a deputation or send correspondence for the council meeting by messaging [email protected].