Short answer is without the OMB, no the building heights would not be as tall (but there would likely be another mechanism to ensure provincial policy is adhered to in the planning process)... longer answer would involve ward by ward local politics (i.e. Kyle Rae often pushed for taller buildings while Michael Walker would oppose anything and everything if more then a couple residents called to complain). Some buildings might lose a couple floors here and there, but others gain a few floors here and there through CofA applications. You've articulated disappointment that you perceive the planning department to be fighting against height, but I'd encourage you to follow a few ratepayer organization comments on other social media and they would articulate that they think the planning department is totally out of control in terms of what they are recommending for approval (i.e. they think developers are in control) - lots of different perspectives out there.