Commercial Vehicles One Step Closer to Invading Your Neighbourhood!

Collingwood Council last night voted to move forward based on planning department recommendations to allow commercial vehicles to be parked in residential areas.
The recommendation that was approved would permit commercial vehicles 6.2 metres (20') in length and 2.2 metres (7') in height to be parked in residential areas but only in the driveway itself. Further and this is the kicker, larger commercial vehicles up of 7.5 metres (24') in length and 3.2 metres (10.5') will be allowed in residential areas but must be parked in rear yards and can be done so within 1 metre (3') of a property line.
This approval is a great disappointment for many residents who have been following and opposing this matter vigorously. Although not officially adopted as a by-law, passing of this recommendation makes the parking of commercial vehicles in residential areas an integral part of Collingwood's new Official Plan which will no doubt come into effect later this year.
Councillors Foley, McNabb and Mayor Carrier were absent from last night's meeting hence did not cast a vote. Other members of Council in favour of the recommendation allegedly feel that allowing commercial vehicles to park in residential areas is necessary for "economic development."
In terms of planning it would appear we have some inconsistencies with respect to the future look of our Town. We have an increased emphasis being placed on heritage preservation and some urban design standards are being contemplated both of which are aimed at enhancing the overall image and appeal of our Town and it's various neighbourhoods. At the same time, commercial vehicles now seem destined to grace residential neighbourhoods detracting from the aesthetic appeal of both individual properties as well as residential streetscapes in general. Further, Collingwood has some of the most onerous sign bylaws to be found anywhere which have even impacted REALTORS® and our use of Open House signs. What's more offensive, a real estate Open House sign that is temporarily in place for 2 or 3 hours, or a 7.5 metre (24') truck covered in signage parked nightly in your neighbour's back yard?
In addition to spending, increased taxes and other issues, the pending change allowing commercial vehicles to be parked in residential areas is surely going to spark some colourful debate during this year's municipal election campaign.