Hearing set for heritage designation of historic church

by Keely Grasser

Feb 28, 2008

KEARNEY — A hearing into whether a Kearney church should be officially designated as a heritage building has been set.

The Conservation Review Board (CRB), a tribunal authorized by the Ontario Heritage Act (OHA), will hold a hearing in Kearney on April 22.

Last year, the town announced their intention, as per the OHA, to pass a bylaw to designate the church as a heritage building. This, according to Ministry of Culture documents, is a move that would publicly acknowledge the century-old church’s value to the community, as well as ensure its conservation for future generations to enjoy.

During the 30-day public input period required before passing the bylaw, the church’s priest, the diocese of Peterborough, as well as former Kearney clerk Elwood Varty objected.

When objections are received, the case goes to the CRB, which holds a public hearing on the matter.

The CRB issues a report after the hearing, outlining their recommendation to the town.

The recommendation is non-binding. In the end, the town will choose whether or not to pass the bylaw designating the church.

The town is obliged to publicly announce the time and location for the hearing at least 10 days before the scheduled date.