Mount Hope Hotel Information

9075 Airport Road West, Mount Hope

Many of you have reached out with questions and concerns about the planned hotel development at 9075 Airport Road West in Mount Hope. As your Ward 11 Councillor - and a long-time resident of this community - I want you to know I hear you. Like many of you, I care deeply about preserving the safety, character, and livability of our neighbourhoods.

History and Status of the Mount Hope Hotel Project

This development has been underway for some time and has moved through several planning stages:

• A minor variance application (File: GL/A-23:200) was tabled and not pursued following the August 2023 Committee of Adjustment hearing

• A formal consultation for site plan (File: FCSP-23-074) was issued on July 10, 2023

• Site Plan Control approval (File: DA-23-075) was finalized on March 27, 2025

• A building permit application is now under review

• Once approved, a permit sign will be posted on the property

Why Residents Were Not Notified

Unlike rezoning or minor variance applications, site plan approvals under the Ontario Planning Act do not require public notification or consultation. I understand this came as a surprise to many of you, and I share your frustration. It’s a gap in the process that I believe needs improvement, and I will continue to push for more transparent and inclusive planning policies that has the municipality have firm say in the developments that happen in our communities.

Community Concerns We’re Hearing

Many residents have shared thoughtful and serious concerns, including:

• Flooding risks in this known flood zone, particularly as green space is paved over

• Safety and security, especially regarding patron access to nearby homes and school

• Environmental impacts, including noise, lighting, air quality, and waste

• Rodent and pest issues related to outdoor garbage facilities

• Potential impacts on property values

Why the City Cannot Block the Development

The property is already zoned for hotel use, and the applicant has met all legal requirements under Ontario law. This means:

• City Council and staff do not have the legal authority to deny the development at this stage

• Attempting to block it could expose the City, and taxpayers, to significant legal liability

While this may be frustrating, it’s our job to work within the law while doing everything possible to protect our neighbourhood’s well-being.

What I’m Doing to Stand Up for Ward 11

While I cannot stop this development, I can and will fight to ensure that your concerns are addressed. I will be pushing for:

• Stormwater and drainage solutions to reduce flood risks

• Solutions and fencing to protect adjacent properties

• Thoughtful lighting design to prevent light pollution

• Proper waste storage and pest control plans

• Ensuring height limits are maintained by any potential build

I am also closely monitoring the permit process to ensure all applicable standards are met, and exceeded where possible.

How You Can Stay Informed

Once the building permit is issued, residents may request to review the approved drawings and site plans. These documents are considered public and can be viewed through the City's Building Division by request.

Staying Involved

I want to thank everyone who has reached out. Your voices matter, and I will continue to advocate for fairness, transparency, and stronger local say in how development unfolds in Mount Hope and across Ward 11.

Let’s keep working together to make sure our community’s voice is always at the table.

For more information, contact my office at ward11@hamilton.ca