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www.insideHALTON.com · OAKVILLE BEAVER Wednesday, January 9, 2013 · 10 Final staff recommendations are expected Feb. 4 Continued from page 9 uating circumstances, for example natural disasters," said Schappert. "Demolition of non-heritage structures may be permitted with the approval of plans for the new structure at the same time. That is to prevent gaps in the streetscape for lengthy periods of time." Ray Foley of Lakeshore Dunn Corp., called on the Town to be practical and open to using common sense when needed with regard to the heritage guidelines. "The success of Downtown Oakville today can just as easily be lost by changes that are perceived by property owners or merchants to be unfriendly," he said. "In the economy and when looking at what Downtown Oakville competes against, the big box stores and larger developments elsewhere, that is an important thing to keep in mind." Foley said more detailed information is needed about how people with properties immediately adjacent to the proposed heritage district would be affected. He also called for a Downtown Oakville Heritage Committee made up of commercial representatives to be created, charging Heritage Oakville is made up of residential property owners who do not know what it is like to own a business downtown -- a characterization disputed by Mayor Rob Burton. Ward 2 Town and Regional Councillor Cathy Duddeck said if Foley has issues with Heritage Oakville, he could attend its meetings and provide comments or apply to join. Council also heard from David Faye of David Faye and Associates Land Management Group who voiced concerns the guidelines of the heritage district would hinder area merchants who must frequently make changes to their buildings to respond to market conditions. Faye said if the district is created, an expedited approval process would be needed so business owners could make changes in a timely fashion and that more information is needed on how such a district may affect nearby properties. In a written submission, Carol Vesters of Swiss Interiors Ltd. said there has been no convincing evidence a heritage designation would benefit the area in any way. She said the area's heritage buildings are already marked and protected and voiced concern designation might scare away shoppers. "Shoppers do enjoy a unique shopping experience, but also want to know the latest styles and trends are available. I fail to see how the heritage label would satisfy that expectation in any way," wrote Vesters. "I have also been told by an insurance specialist that it is not only more costly to insure a heritage building, but also more difficult to find an insurance company that is willing to insure the building."