Public input for a new massage parlour classification in Newmarket, standing up for libraries, and vaccine mandates are all on the town council agenda Aug. 30.
Council plans to go ahead with zoning changes for the new personal wellness establishment classification, after approving the move in June. Vaccination mandates could also be talked about in a closed session.
Here is what NewmarketToday will be following:
Personal wellness establishments
Town council will hold a public hearing about the zoning bylaw change needed for its legal crackdown on body rub parlours.
The town plans to require a permit to operate a personal wellness establishment — places offering alternative massages not provided by a registered massage therapist.
Town staff is presenting about the zoning bylaw amendment to make that possible. It would allow such establishments in several zones, including commercial, urban centre, mixed employment, and all mixed-use.
The town plans to gather public input and amend the zoning bylaw later this year. No decisions about the bylaw will be made at the meeting.
You can make written comments or pre-register for a deputation by contacting [email protected] with your contact information. You can also register by contacting 905-953-5300 extension 2203.
Written comments must be received by the end of the day Aug. 29 to be received by council, but can be sent after the meeting to [email protected].
Library calls for provincial support
Council is examining a resolution from the Newmarket Public Library board about provincial funding.
The resolution from May 19 states that the Town of Newmarket encourages the province to recognize and support the contribution of local libraries, maintain existing funding and make a new ongoing annual investment for digital resources.
The resolution is also being forwarded to local area municipalities and provincial officials.
Vaccination mandates
The town is not putting up any COVID-19 vaccination mandates for public discussion yet.
Council reviewed vaccine mandates during a closed session of its committee of the whole meeting Aug. 23, as it was subject to solicitor-client privilege. They subsequently called off a special meeting in place in case they wanted to make a motion for a mandate after the closed session.
The item is on the closed agenda again Monday, but only for minutes from the Aug. 23 meeting.
Mayor John Taylor has said he personally supports more vaccination mandates.
