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INFO FOR OLT

Northwomen

*This information is subject to change**

The proposed eight-storey development beside Victoria Hall goes before the Ontario Land Tribunal on November 18, 2026. Here’s how you can have your say.

There’s been a lot of discussion about the proposed development at 202 Second Street and what it could mean for Cobourg’s historic downtown.

The developers are Balder Corporation and Dez Capital, operating through 202 Second Street Inc. You can see their plans here.

I’ve spent years writing letters to governments, politicians and public officials about issues I care about. I do it all the time, and I’ve learned that you don’t need to be an expert to speak up. You just need to know how.

So, if you’re concerned about this development, here’s what you need to do.

IMPORTANT DATES

  • November 8: Calculated 10-day deadline for participant requests. This falls on a Sunday, so confirm the actual deadline with the OLT immediately.
  • November 14: Scheduled closure of the public parking lot at 202 Second Street.
  • November 18: Scheduled Ontario Land Tribunal hearing.

STEP 1: WRITE YOUR LETTER

Keep it simple. Explain who you are, why you care about Cobourg and what concerns you about the proposal.

Some things you might want to address:

  • Victoria Hall: How could an eight-storey building affect its historic setting?
  • Height and character: Does the proposed building fit our downtown?
  • Sunlight and shadows: What impact could it have on surrounding properties?
  • Traffic and parking: How might the development affect downtown accessibility?
  • Responsible development: What would a better approach look like?

My advice: Pick two or three concerns, explain them in your own words and be specific. Planning and heritage impacts are particularly important to the Tribunal.

STEP 2: CONTACT THE ONTARIO LAND TRIBUNAL (i will update you on this)

This is important: Simply emailing a letter does not automatically make you a formal participant in the hearing.

You may need to complete a Participant Status Request Form and Participant Statement Form to have your written concerns formally considered.

Find the OLT participant form here.

The standard deadline is generally 10 days before the first hearing event, but you should contact the case coordinator immediately to confirm the requirements and deadline for this particular case.

Send your email to:

cissy.ip@ontario.ca

Suggested subject line:

202 Second Street, Cobourg – Request for Participant Status

Ask how to submit your written concerns formally, whether you need participant status and who must receive copies of your documents.

You can also copy the following contacts to share your concerns with the lawyers, Town staff and Council. Confirm the official service list with the Tribunal before filing.

CC (copy and paste):

apilkington@cassels.com; jevola@cassels.com; dneligan@airdberlis.com; mayor@cobourg.ca; abureau@cobourg.ca; mmutton@cobourg.ca; bdarling@cobourg.ca; randyo.curtis@gmail.com; markhmills5@gmail.com; joeljmscott@gmail.com; blarmer@cobourg.ca

STEP 3: A FEW TIPS FROM SOMEONE WHO DOES THIS ALL THE TIME

I’ve written more letters to government officials than I care to count. Here’s what I’ve learned:

  • Get to the point. Say why you’re writing.
  • Make it personal. Explain why it matters to you.
  • Stick to facts and give examples.
  • Be respectful, but don’t be afraid to be direct.
  • Say what you want the decision-makers to consider.
  • Keep a copy of everything you submit.

Using ChatGPT to help? The OLT requires disclosure when generative AI creates content in documents filed for its proceedings. Check the Tribunal’s AI rules before submitting.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

I’ve gathered a few links so you can read about the development yourself.

The developers and proposal

Planning and local news

I’ve heard it all before. “There’s nothing we can do.” “The developers will win.” “Why bother?” I’ve spent years speaking up, and I can tell you that you don’t win every battle. But you certainly won’t win any by deciding you’ve already lost.

You don’t have to agree with me about this development. But if you care about what happens to Cobourg’s downtown, make your views known. Your voice matters.

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