The Local Planning Appeals Tribunal saw a very productive hearing this Thursday, aiming to go over all appeals that have been filed months ago. September 17 saw the final arguments against Kingsway Entertainment District. All submissions were wrapped up within the first of two days of hearings and this Friday won’t see any more discussions.
Kingsway Entertainment District is among the local projects in the Greater Sudbury area that have managed to stir the pot over the past few years. The local community has been polarized by its construction, especially when it comes to the potential casino complex that will be part of it under the management of Gateway Casinos and Entertainment. This week was important, as appeals against it had to be reviewed.
September 17
May 5 was initially supposed to see this hearing and that date was publicly revealed at the beginning of the year. The unprecedented situation across Ontario and the world mandated its delay and postponement to September 17. A second date, September 18 was also reserved if more conversation is needed on the subject.
This was not the case, as both sides had the chance to express their positions in length on Thursday. However, despite all projections for this discussion, there were no witnesses giving testimony and there was also no cross-examination taking place. None of the parties introduced new evidence in support of their position to be thoroughly reviewed. Local businessman Tom Fortin of Casino Free Sudbury, Laurentian University professor Christopher Duncanson-Hales, activist Steve May, and the downtown Sudbury Business Improvement Association all oppose KED.
Mr. Fortin and his organization against the casino complex were represented by lawyer Gordon Petch. He filed evidence suggesting that the City of Greater Sudbury showed bias when it gave its approval to the special zone project including a casino venue. Earlier this month, the Superior Court ruled that the City of Greater Sudbury did not show bias when giving its approval.
Kingsway Entertainment District
Lawyer Petch stated that they want to appeal the recent ruling against the anti-casino group, as they disagree with the Superior Court’s decision. Mr. Petch also pointed out that Downtown BIA, as well as people involved with the particular area of Greater Sudbury, have long opposed the Kingsway Entertainment District plans, citing the impact it will have on the downtown.
Lawyer Steve Watt represented the City of Greater Sudbury supporting the entertainment zone project. Gateway Casinos also supports this project. Mr. Watt pointed out that he agrees with the Superior Court’s decision, as the bylaws approved by the City had not led to any conflict with its policies.
David Lanthier, Vice-Chair of Local Planning Appeals Tribunal, was expected to share his ultimate decision following an entire day of discussions. He stated that he will announce his decision when Mr. Petch appeals to the Superior Court ruling. This could happen in the upcoming weeks ultimately shedding more light on KED’s future.
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