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Facility Services

CDAC Terms of Reference

Purpose

The Campus Design Advisory Committee (CDAC) provides guidance and recommendations on the design of buildings and outdoor spaces, and on the overall presentation of all McMaster University campuses. The Committee ensures that all projects align with the overarching vision outlined in the McMaster Campus Plan, supporting the University’s strategic vision and core mission.

Mandate

The Committee serves as an advisory body. Its role is to provide feedback on proposed developments on campus, identify important design issues for the University, and share expertise with staff and colleagues. The Committee clearly articulates the strengths, challenges, and suggests adjustments to the designs and plans proposed for the University. These recommendations will be considered by the Associate Vice-President and Chief Facilities Officer, to guide project decisions before consultation with PVP and the Planning & Resources Committee.

The Committee uses high standards in discharging its duties. The Committee primarily focuses on capital projects sufficiently large enough to require approval by the Board of Governors. However, projects of lesser value that have a significant exterior design component, an impact on public and open spaces, or historically listed or designated buildings shall also be reviewed by the Committee. All projects are assessed within the context of the approved Campus Plan, which will also be reviewed in 2033 by the CDAC.

The Committee’s mandate includes:

  1. Review and make recommendations focused primarily on the overall integrity of the basic design rather than on design details for major construction and landscaping projects.
  2. Assess the feasibility and aesthetic quality of design and development proposals.
  3. Evaluate how proposals contribute to the overall campus development while considering community needs and environmental impacts.
  4. Consider the campus experience and heritage aspects, for example, when evaluating the placement and architectural style of buildings, sightlines, landscape designs, and/or lighting solutions to enhance visibility and accessibility.
  5. Provide recommendations for the strategic use of land for future developments and parking, in alignment with the Campus Plan. Advise on future Campus Plans and on the University’s campus planning principles within those plans.

Membership

The Campus Design Advisory Committee shall be composed of the following or their delegates:

  • Vice-President (Operations and Finance)
  • Associate Vice-President and Chief Facilities Officer
  • Associate Vice-President (Students)
  • MSU President
  • Representatives from the Faculty of Engineering, President’s Office, Provost’s Office, CMPA
  • A member of the Board of Governors
  • Ex-officio members from within Facility Services include the director of Design and Construction and the assistant director, project planning.

Appointments shall become effective on October 1, and members shall hold office for a period of one year, but any member shall be eligible for re-appointment. If a vacancy occurs during the year, a replacement shall be appointed within sixty days in the same manner as the prior appointment. The Associate Vice-President and Chief Facilities Officer will serve as chair.

Appointed Members

Up to five external members who have professional expertise and qualifications in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, urban design and urbanism, engineering, or complementary design fields, normally at least four of whom shall be drawn from outside the University community. These members must hold a professional degree in their respective fields.

Ex-Officio Members

Ex-officio members from within Facility Services include the director of Design and Construction and the assistant director, project planning.

Conflict of Interests

Members of the Committee are expected to act in the best interests of McMaster University. To manage conflicts of interest, members must disclose any personal, professional, or financial interests that may influence their opinions as part of the Committee.

If a conflict of interest arises, the member must recuse themselves from discussions related to the conflict. The Committee will maintain a record of disclosed conflicts and ensure that all members adhere to this Policy to uphold the integrity and objectivity of the Committee’s work.

Method of Operation

The Committee will meet virtually on a bi-monthly basis or as required.

The members of the Committee will need to make themselves available beyond the academic year to accommodate the critical timelines involved in the design of capital projects.

Agendas will be sent in advance of meetings, with feedback from all members. Minutes will be recorded by the scribe and will be distributed prior to the next meeting.

Administrative Support

The Design and Construction Department of Facility Services will provide essential administrative support to facilitate the Committee’s work. The executive assistant to AVP Facility Services will serve as scribe.

Amendments

The Terms of Reference will be reviewed as needed, as determined by the Committee.