HomeMy WebLinkAboutMay 26, 2025
Council
Meeting Agenda
Electronic Meeting
May 26, 2025 - 07:00 PM
Chair: Mayor Ashe
Please be advised that in accordance with Section 10.04 of the Procedure By-law, the City of
Pickering is holding Council and Committee Meetings in an electronic format until further
notice.
Members of the public may observe the meeting proceedings by viewing the livestream. A
recording of the meeting will also be available on the City's website following the meeting.
How to Participate
Individuals looking to make a verbal delegation may do so in accordance with the City’s
Procedure By-law. In lieu of a verbal delegation, individuals may also submit written comments
to clerks@pickering.ca. To register as a Delegation, please submit a Delegation Request
Form by visiting pickering.ca/meetings.
For inquiries related to accessibility, please contact Legislative Services
Phone: 905.420.4611 | Email: clerks@pickering.ca
Call to Order/Roll Call
Playing of O Canada
Moment of Reflection
Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement
Disclosure of Interest
Adoption of Minutes
Council Minutes, April 29, 2025 (includes Confdential In
Camera Minutes provided under separate cover)
Page 19
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
6.1
Executive Committee Minutes, May 5, 2025 Page 43
Presentations
Delegations
Glenn Brown, Pickering Resident
Re: Raising Ontario Works (OW) and Ontario Disability Support Program
(ODSP) (Refer to Item 12.1)
Shawna Stanleigh, Member, Waterfront Visionary Advisory
Committee (WVAC)
Re: Corr. 07-25
Arnold Mostert, Manager, Landscape & Parks Development, City of
Pickering
Re: Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee
2024 Year End Report and 2025 Proposed Work Plan (Refer to Item 9.4)
Jade Schofield, Principal Consultant, Climate Compass
Advisors (Available for questions if needed)
Re: Report SUS 02-25
City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 - 2035 (Refer to
Item 10.1)
Correspondence
Corr. 04-25 Page 52
Principles Integrity, Integrity Commissioner for the City of Pickering
Re: Integrity Commissioner’s Annual Report
City of Pickering
Recommendation:
That Corr. 04-25, from Principles Integrity, Integrity Commissioner for the City of
Pickering, dated May 1, 2025, regarding the Integrity Commissioner’s Annual
Report - City of Pickering, be received for information.
6.2
7.
8.
8.1
8.2
8.3
9.
9.1
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 2 -
Corr. 05-25 Page 59
Jesse St. Amant, Coordinator, Cultural Services, City of Pickering
Re: Cultural Advisory Committee
2024 Year End Report & 2025 Work Plan
Recommendation:
That Corr. 05-25, from Jesse St. Amant, Coordinator, Cultural Services, City of
Pickering, dated May 26, 2025, regarding the Cultural Advisory Committee 2024
Year End Report & 2025 Work Plan, be received for information.
Corr. 06-25 Page 63
Timothy Higgins, Accessibility Coordinator, City of Pickering
Re: Accessibility Advisory Committee
2024 Year End Report and 2025 Proposed Work Plan
Recommendation:
That Corr. 06-25, from Timothy Higgins, Accessibility Coordinator, City of Pickering,
dated May 26, 2025, regarding the Accessibility Advisory Committee 2024 Year End
Report & 2025 Work Plan, be received for information.
Corr. 07-25 Page 72
Arnold Mostert, Manager, Landscape & Parks Development, City of
Pickering
Re: Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee
2024 Year End Report and 2025 Proposed Work Plan
Recommendation:
That Corr. 07-25 from Arnold Mostert, Manager, Landscape & Parks Development,
City of Pickering, dated May 26, 2025, regarding the Waterfront Visionary Advisory
Committee 2024 Year End Report and 2024 Proposed Work Plan, be received for
information.
Corr. 08-25 Page 75
Amelia Jaggard, Deputy Clerk, Town of Tillsonburg
Re: Tillsonburg Town Council Decision Letter - April 14, 2025 - Strong Mayor
Powers
Recommendation:
9.2
9.3
9.4
9.5
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 3 -
That Corr. 08-25, from Amelia Jaggard, Deputy Clerk, Town of Tillsonburg, dated
April 15, 2025, regarding Tillsonburg Town Council Decision Letter - April 14, 2025 -
Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed.
Corr. 09-25 Page 77
Luke Charbonneau, Mayor, Town of Saugeen Shores
Re: Opposition to Proposed Amendments to O.Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong
Mayor Powers
Recommendation:
That Corr. 09-25, from Luke Charbonneau, Mayor, Town of Saugeen Shores, dated
April 14, 2025, regarding Opposition to Proposed Amendments to O.Reg. 530/22 to
Expand Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed.
Corr. 10-25 Page 79
Michael Prue, Mayor, Town of Amherstburg
Re: Resolution# 20250414-011 - Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for
the Town of Amherstburg
Recommendation:
That Corr. 10-25, from Michael Prue, Mayor, Town of Amherstburg, dated April 15,
2025, regarding Resolution# 20250414-011 - Opposition to Strong Mayor
Designation for the Town of Amherstburg, be received and endorsed.
Corr. 11-25 Page 81
Angela Toole, Acting Manager of Municipal Governance/Clerk, Town of
Kingsville
Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers – Proposed Amendments to O. Reg.
530/22
Recommendation:
That Corr. 11-25, from Angela Toole, Acting Manager of Municipal
Governance/Clerk, Town of Kingsville, dated April 16, 2025, regarding Opposition to
Strong Mayor Powers – Proposed Amendments to O. Reg. 530/22, be received and
endorsed.
Corr. 12-25 Page 83
Township of Rideau Lakes
Re: MSC (PW) Rec #78-2025 re: Strong Mayor Powers (for Council approval)
9.6
9.7
9.8
9.9
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 4 -
Recommendation:
That Corr. 12-25, from the Township of Rideau Lakes, dated April 16, 2025,
regarding MSC (PW) Rec #78-2025 re: Strong Mayor Powers (for Council
approval), be received and endorsed.
Corr. 13-25 Page 86
Jamie McGarvey, Mayor, Town of Parry Sound
Re: Strong Mayor Powers
Recommendation:
That Corr. 13-25, from Jamie McGarvey, Mayor, Town of Parry Sound, dated April
22, 2025, regarding Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed.
Corr. 14-25 Page 89
Jessica Walters, Clerk, Town of Greater Napanee
Re: Strong Mayor Powers
Recommendation:
That Corr. 14-25, from Jessica Walters, Clerk, Town of Greater Napanee, dated
April 23, 2025, regarding Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed.
Corr. 15-25 Page 91
Karen Martin, Clerk, Township of Zorra
Re: Strong Mayor Powers
Recommendation:
That Corr. 15-25, from Karen Martin, Clerk, Township of Zorra, dated April 24, 2025,
regarding Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed.
Corr. 16-25 Page 92
The Municipality of North Middlesex
Re: Resolution of Council, Expansion of Strong Mayor Powers
Recommendation:
That Corr. 16-25, form The Municipality of North Middlesex, dated April 23, 2025,
regarding Resolution of Council, Expansion of Strong Mayor Powers, be received
and endorsed.
9.10
9.11
9.12
9.13
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 5 -
Corr. 17-25 Page 93
Joseph Malandruccolo, Director, Legal and Legislative Services/Clerk, Town
of Essex
Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers: Proposed Amendments to O. Reg.
530/22
Recommendation:
That Corr. 17-25, from Joseph Malandruccolo, Director, Legal and Legislative
Services/Clerk, Town of Essex, dated April 28, 2025, regarding Opposition to Strong
Mayor Powers: Proposed Amendments to O. Reg. 530/22, be received and
endorsed.
Corr. 18-25 Page 95
Gary Serviss, Mayor, Town of Petawawa
Re: Proposed Amendments to O. Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor Powers
and Duties to Additional Municipalities
Recommendation:
That Corr. 18-25, from Gary Serviss, Mayor, Town of Petawawa, dated April 29,
2025, regarding Proposed Amendments to O. Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor
Powers and Duties to Additional Municipalities, be received and endorsed.
Corr. 19-25 Page 99
Kendra Webster, Legislative & Licensing Coordinator, Municipality of South
Huron
Re: Proposed Amendments to O.Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor Powers
Recommendation:
That Corr. 19-25, from Kendra Webster, Legislative & Licensing Coordinator,
Municipality of South Huron, dated April 30, 2025, regarding Proposed Amendments
to O.Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed.
Corr. 20-25 Page 103
Chandra Alexander, Manager of Corporate Services/Clerk, Municipality of
Bluewater
Re: Strong Mayor Powers
Recommendation:
9.14
9.15
9.16
9.17
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 6 -
That Corr. 20-25, from Chandra Alexander, Manager of Corporate Services/Clerk,
Municipality of Bluewater, date April 28, 2025, regarding Strong Mayor Powers, be
received and endorsed.
Corr. 21-25 Page 104
Jackie Mellon, Clerk, Town of Deep River
Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the Town of Deep River
in Response to the Province's Recent Proposal to Designate Deep River as a
"Strong Mayor" Municipality, Effective May 1, 2025.
Recommendation:
That Corr. 21-25, from Jackie Mellon, Clerk, Town of Deep River, dated April 30,
2025, regarding Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the Town of Deep River
in Response to the Province's Recent Proposal to Designate Deep River as a
"Strong Mayor" Municipality, Effective May 1, 2025, be received and endorsed.
Corr. 22-25 Page 108
Steven Dalley, Town Manager, Clerk/Treasurer, Town of Cobalt
Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the Corporation of the Town
of Cobalt
Recommendation:
That Corr. 22-25, from Steven Dalley, Town Manager, Clerk/Treasurer, Town of
Cobalt, dated May 1, 2025, regarding Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for
the Corporation of the Town of Cobalt, be received and endorsed.
Corr. 23-25 Page 110
Tatiana Dafoe, Clerk, City of Stratford
Re: Resolution R2025-174 - Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the
City of Stratford
Recommendation:
That Corr. 23-25, from Tatiana Dafoe, Clerk, City of Stratford, dated May 1, 2025,
regarding Resolution R2025-174 - Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the
City of Stratford, be received and endorsed.
Corr. 24-25 Page 112
Dianne Gould-Brown, Executive Assistant – Deputy Clerk, Town of Plympton-
9.18
9.19
9.20
9.21
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 7 -
Wyoming
Re: Strong Mayor Powers
Recommendation:
That Corr. 24-25, from Dianne Gould-Brown, Executive Assistant – Deputy Clerk,
Town of Plympton-Wyoming dated April 30, 2025, regarding Strong Mayor Powers,
be received and endorsed.
Corr. 25-25 Page 114
Sarah Carter, Acting Clerk/Legislative Services Supervisor, Municipality of
North Perth
Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers in the Municipality of North Perth
Recommendation:
That Corr. 25-25, from Sarah Carter, Acting Clerk/Legislative Services Supervisor,
Municipality of North Perth, dated May 8, 2025, regarding Opposition to Strong
Mayor Powers in the Municipality of North Perth, be received and endorsed.
Corr. 26-25 Page 115
Cayla Reimer, Deputy Clerk, Township of Springwater
Re: Resolution C195-2025 - Opposing Strong Mayor Powers
Recommendation:
That Corr. 26-25, from Cayla Reimer, Deputy Clerk, Township of Springwater, dated
May 8, 2025, regarding Resolution C195-2025 - Opposing Strong Mayor Powers, be
received and endorsed.
Report EC 05-25 of the Executive Committee held on May 5, 2025
Director, City Development & CBO, Report SUS 02-25
City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 - 2035
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That Report SUS 02-25, regarding the City of Pickering Community Climate
Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035, as set out in Appendix I, be endorsed;
1.
That recommendations from the Community Climate Adaptation Plan be 2.
9.22
9.23
10.
10.1
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 8 -
considered, along with other municipal priorities, through future annual
municipal plans and budget processes;
That staff report back to Council on the progress of the Community Climate
Adaptation Plan’s implementation at the end of year three, of the ten-year
plan; and,
3.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
4.
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report CLK 02-25
Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That Report CLK 02-25 regarding the approval of voting methods for the 2026
Municipal Election be received;
1.
That both internet voting and paper ballots, using vote tabulators, be approved
as the voting methods for the 2026 Municipal Election and any by-elections
that may occur during the 2026-2030 Term of Council;
2.
That the draft By-law included as Attachment 1 to Report CLK 02-25 be
approved and enacted;
3.
That the City Clerk be directed to proceed with a Request for Proposal for the
approved voting methods and associated services, and report back to Council
to award the contract to the most appropriate vendor(s); and,
4.
That appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the actions
necessary to give effect to this report.
5.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 04-25
Civic Awards Program
Policy Update
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That Council approve the updated Civic Awards Program Policy CUL 150, as
set out in Attachment 1 to this report; and,
1.
That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the 2.
10.2
10.3
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 9 -
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 05-25
Waterfront Paddle Sport Rental Service
Frenchman’s Bay
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That Report CS 05-25 regarding an update on waterfront paddle sport rental
service on Frenchman’s Bay be received;
1.
That Council approve the inclusion of facilities to accommodate paddle sport
rental services in the design of Beachfront Park Revitalization - Phase 2; and,
2.
That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary action as indicated in this report.
3.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 07-25
Northern Community Halls
Recommendations for Facility Renewal
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That staff be directed to investigate the option to sell Green River Community
Centre, with Infrastructure Ontario being offered the first right of refusal to
purchase for $2.00 as per the original sales agreement (Attachment 1), and
then to explore options to sell the facility, and report back to Council with
recommendations in Q1, 2026;
1.
That staff be directed to investigate options to sell the former Greenwood
Library back to the Durham District School Board first; and then to explore
options to sell or lease the facility at a market rate and report back to Council
with recommendations in Q1, 2026;
2.
That staff be directed to renew the management agreement for the Mount Zion
Community Centre with the Mount Zion Community Centre Association for a
two year term from July 1 2025 to June 30 2026 returning said agreement to
Council in Q2, 2025 for endorsement; and to investigate options to reduce the
net capital cost of Mount Zion Community Centre by selling the facility, or
leasing the facility at a market rate and report back to Council with
3.
10.4
10.5
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 10 -
recommendations in Q1, 2026;
That staff be directed to renew the management agreement for the Whitevale
Community Centre and the Whitevale Arts and Culture Centre with the
Whitevale and District Residents’ Association for a five-year term from July 1,
2025 to June 30, 2030 returning said agreement to Council in Q2, 2025 for
endorsement;
4.
That City Heritage staff evaluate the Mount Zion Community Centre (School
Section #13 Schoolhouse) and Green River Community Centre (Green River
Baptist Church) under Regulation 9/06 of the Ontario Heritage Act to
determine whether the properties merit designation under Part IV of the Act,
and report back to Council with recommendations in Q4, 2025;
5.
That, as part of any open proposal to sell or lease the above properties, staff
be directed to invite community groups to submit an expression of interest;
and,
6.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in the report.
7.
Fire Chief, Report FIR 04-25
Fire Department Establishing and Regulating By-law
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That Report FIR 04-25 regarding the Fire Department Establishing and
Regulating By-law be received;
1.
That the draft By-law included as Attachment 1 to Report FIR 04-25 be
approved and enacted;
2.
That By-Law 771/78 be repealed; and,3.
That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take such
actions as are necessary to give effect to the recommendations in this report.
4.
New and Unfinished Business
Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects, Report
ECD 04-25
Page 117
Naming Rights Agreement for Pickering’s New Community Centre
10.6
11.
11.1
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 11 -
Recommendation:
That Council approve the acceptance of $1,000,000 from Dorsay
Developments Corporation in exchange for the naming rights of Pickering’s
new community centre, (previously called the Pickering Heritage & Community
Centre) to be called Dorsay Community Centre, in accordance with the
naming rights agreement (Attachment 1);
1.
That Council approve the naming rights agreement between the City of
Pickering and Dorsay Developments Corporation, set out in Attachment 1,
subject to minor revisions acceptable to the Chief Administrative Officer and
City Solicitor;
2.
That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the naming rights
agreement between the City of Pickering and Dorsay Developments
Corporation; and,
3.
That the appropriate City of Pickering Officials be authorized to take
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
4.
Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 10-25 Page 132
2025 Asset Management Plan
Consultant Delegation:
Elio Ibrahim, PSD Citywide (Available for questions if needed)
Recommendation:
That the 2025 Asset Management Plan, set out in Attachment 1 to this report,
be received;
1.
That Council endorse the use of the 2025 Asset Management Plan for
financial planning purposes as it relates to the development of the Ten Year
financial plan; and,
2.
That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
3.
Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 06-25 Page 384
Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project
Scaled Down Schematic Design
Recommendation:
That Report CAO 06-25 regarding the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Project be received;
1.
11.2
11.3
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 12 -
That Council direct staff to complete additional design work for the Seaton
Recreation Complex & Library at a cost not to exceed $250,000.00 funded
from the project contingency that results in an alternative design and reduced
project cost option not exceeding $200 million, and for the alternative design
and reduced project cost option to be returned to Council in September, 2025;
2.
That naming rights for any part of the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
project be deferred until Council has approved the final design and a
construction contract for the project has been awarded; and,
3.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
4.
Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 07-25 Page 390
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program
Project Update
Recommendation:
That Report CAO 07-25 regarding Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program be
received;
1.
That staff be directed to register the City of Pickering in the Hidden Disabilities
Sunflower Program at the Corporate Membership Level;
2.
That the expense for the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, be charged
to account General - Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (502240.9750) and the
expense not to exceed $7,000.00; and,
3.
That appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
4.
Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 08-25 Page 396
Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce
2024 Year End Report and Proposed 2025 Workplan
Recommendation:
That Report CAO 08-25 regarding the Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce
2024 Year End Report and 2025 Workplan be received for information;
1.
That Council approve the 2025 3rd Annual Community event in celebration of
the International Day for People of African Descent, per ADM 040 Committees
and Taskforces of Council Policy, and on terms and conditions satisfactory to
the Director, Community Services and the Chief Administrative Officer;
2.
11.4
11.5
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 13 -
That Council authorize staff to issue a park permit to the Pickering Anti-Black
Racism Taskforce for the use of Esplanade Park, per CUL 070 Community
Festivals and Events Policy, for the Community Event in celebration of the
International Day for People of African Descent; and,
3.
That Council approve the Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce-led 2025
Black Joy Holiday Market event, per ADM 040 Committees and Taskforces of
Council Policy, and on terms and conditions satisfactory to the Director,
Community Services and the Chief Administrative Officer.
4.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 08-25 Page 402
Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Roof and Skylight
Replacement
Second-Stage Request for Quotation No. RFQQ2025-5
Recommendation:
That the quotation submitted by Solar Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. in response
to Second-Stage Request for Quotation No. RFQQ2025-5 for the Chestnut Hill
Developments Recreation Complex Roof (D, D1, I4) and Skylight
Replacement, in the amount of $1,496,177.00 (net HST) or $1,661,439.00
(HST included) be accepted;
1.
That the total gross project cost of $1,966,539.00 (HST included), including
the amount of the tender, construction contingency, and other associated
costs, and the total net project cost of $1,770,929.00 (net HST) be approved;
2.
That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project
cost of $1,770,929.00 to be funded from the Facilities Reserve and CCBF
(FGT) Oblg RF as approved in the 2024 and 2025 Capital Budgets;
3.
That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to approve consulting
costs that may exceed $50,000.00 but not in excess of $65,000.00 to prevent
any related risks of delays in construction;
4.
That the Director, Community Services be authorized to execute the CCDC-2,
2020 Stipulated Price Contract with Solar Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. pursuant
to Second Stage Request for Quotation No. RFQQ2025-5; and,
5.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in the report.
6.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 10-25 Page 406
General Contracting Services for Redman House Restoration
Tender No. T2025-6
11.6
11.7
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 14 -
Recommendation:
That the bid submitted by Icon Builders Inc. in response to Request for Tender
No. T2025-6 for General Contracting Services for Redman House Restoration,
in the amount of $592,070.21 (net HST) or $657,467.90 (HST included) be
accepted;
1.
That the total gross project cost of $843,918.00 (HST included), including the
amount of the tender, construction contingency, and other associated costs,
and the total net project cost of $759,974.00 (net HST) be approved;
2.
That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project
cost of $759,974.00 to be funded as approved in the 2018, 2021, 2022 and
2024 Capital Budget as follows:
The sum of $121,289.00 to be funded by the Rate Stabilization Reserve;a.
The sum of $516,560.00 to be funded by the GICB grant;b.
The sum of $88,000.00 to be funded by the Facilities Reserve;c.
The sum of $34,125.00 to be funded by Property Taxes;d.
3.
That the Director, Community Services be authorized to execute the CCDC-2,
2020 Stipulated Price Contract with Icon Builders Inc. pursuant to Request for
Tender No. T2025-6; and,
4.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in the report.
5.
Director, City Infrastructure, Report INF 03-25 Page 410
Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets
Tender No. T2025-4
Recommendation:
That the bid submitted by 1108575 Ontario LTD O/A Kon-Strutt Construction
in response to Request for Tender No. T2025-4 for Asphalt Resurfacing on
Various City Streets, in the amount of $2,509,862.00 (net HST) or
$2,787,091.00 (HST included) be accepted;
1.
That the total gross project cost of $3,237,785.00 (HST included), including
the tendered amount, geotechnical investigation reports, material testing,
contingency and other associated costs, and the total net project cost of
$2,915,727.00 (net of HST rebate) be approved;
2.
That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project
cost of $2,915,727.00 as approved in the 2025 Capital Budget from the
3.
11.8
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 15 -
Building Faster Fund (BFF) Reserve Fund, on the condition that the City
receives the grant funding related to achieving its 2024 housing targets; and
the default funding strategy would have the projects funded by a transfer from
Roads & Bridges Reserve Fund; and,
That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary action to give effect hereto.
4.
Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 12-25 Page 421
Environmental Registry of Ontario Postings: ERO 025-0461, ERO 025-0462,
ERO 025-0463, Bill 17: Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act,
2025
Regulatory Registry of Ontario Postings: 25-MMAH003
City of Pickering Comments on ERO and Regulatory Postings
Recommendation:
That Council endorse the comments contained in Report PLN 12-25, as the
City of Pickering detailed comments on the ERO Postings ERO 025-0461,
ERO 025-0462, ERO 025-0463, 25-MMAH003; and,
1.
That Council authorize the Chief Administrative Officer to submit the Council
endorsed comments on the identified ERO and Regulatory postings to the
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing website by the June 11 and 26,
2025, deadlines.
2.
Motions and Notice of Motions
Raising Ontario Works (OW) and Ontario Disability Support
Program (ODSP)
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Cook
WHEREAS individuals and families receiving income support through Ontario
Works (OW) and the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) are facing
increasing challenges in meeting basic needs due to rising costs of living;
And Whereas Statistics Canada notes that people with disabilities have a higher
poverty rate and a lower rate of employment than the overall population;
And Whereas the annual income support for Ontario Works is currently $8,796.00
and $16,416.00 for Ontario Disability Support Program. These supports have not
increased sufficiently to keep up with inflation and the cost of living. Such costs are
anticipated to continue increasing;
11.9
12.
12.1
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 16 -
And Whereas the low income measure for a single person in Greater Toronto Area
is estimated to be approximately $27,343 annually, and the deep income poverty
threshold is determined to be $20,508;
And Whereas Food Banks, including our local Food Banks, provide a necessary
service with increasing demands in our communities;
And Whereas the Pickering Food Bank served 1,722 adults, and 1,054 children in
February 2025;
And Whereas food banks are already reducing their distribution capacity; and it is
anticipated that due to developing economic circumstances, such as the current
tariff war, there will be increased unemployment, increased food prices, and a
heightened demand for food distribution, while donations continue to decline;
And Whereas these economic trends will continue to erode the purchasing power
of OW and ODSP recipients, increasing reliance on food banks and placing
additional pressure on municipalities and community organizations;
Now therefore it be resolved that the Council of The Corporation of the City of
Pickering directs through the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer:
That staff send a letter to the Premier of Ontario, Minister of Finance, Minister
of Children, Community and Social Services, and the Minister for Seniors and
Accessibility, to strongly urge that the Ontario Provincial Government
significantly raise the payments of Ontario Works and Ontario Disability
Support Program and the increases be reflected in the upcoming Provincial
Budget and that the increased amount aligns with inflationary costs and
thereby decrease the pressure on food banks and the reliance on
municipalities and taxpayers to supplement the gap in financial need; and,
1.
That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to all Members of Provincial
Parliament (MPPs), the Regional Municipality of Durham, all Municipalities in
the Province of Ontario, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), and
the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) for their endorsement and
advocacy.
2.
By-laws
By-law 8182/25 Page 441
Being a by-law to authorize the use of an alternative voting method for the 2026
Municipal Election. [Refer to Item 10.2 Report CLK 02-25]
By-law 8183/25 Page 442
Being a by-law to establish and regulate the Pickering Fire Services Department.
[Refer to Item 10.6 Report FIR 04-25]
13.
13.1
13.2
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 17 -
By-law 8184/25 Page 451
Being a by-law to exempt Lots 44, 65, and 106, Plan 40M-2671, from the part lot
control provisions of the Planning Act.
Confidential Council - Public Report
Regional Councillor Updates
Other Business
Confirmatory By-law
Adjournment
13.3
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
Council Meeting Agenda
May 26, 2025
- 18 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
1
Present:
Mayor Kevin Ashe
Councillors:
M. Brenner
S. Butt
L. Cook
M. Nagy
D. Pickles
L. Robinson
Also Present:
M. Carpino - Chief Administrative Officer
K. Bentley - Director, City Development & CBO
P. Bigioni - Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor
B. Duffield - Director, City Infrastructure
J. Eddy - Director, Human Resources
L. Gibbs - Director, Community Services
R. Holborn - Director, Engineering Services
F. Jadoon - Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects
S. Karwowski - Director, Finance & Treasurer
S. Cassel - City Clerk
V. Plouffe - Division Head, Facilities & Construction Management
N. Robinson - Deputy Fire Chief
R. Perera - Deputy Clerk
J. Currie - Legislative Coordinator
E. Knox - Community Safety & Well-Being Advisor
1. Call to Order/Roll Call
The City Clerk certified that all Members of Council were present and participating
electronically.
2. Playing of O Canada
Mayor Ashe asked all Members of Council to rise for the playing of O Canada.
3. Moment of Reflection
Mayor Ashe called for a silent moment of reflection.
- 19 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
2
4. Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement
Mayor Ashe read the Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement.
5. Disclosure of Interest
5.1 Councillor Brenner declared a conflict of interest under the Municipal Conflict of
Interest Act with respect to Item 15.2, Canadian Union of Public Employees, Local
129 Collective Bargaining Ratification, as he has a family member who is a
member of CUPE Local 129.
5.2 Councillor Cook declared a conflict of interest under the Municipal Conflict of
Interest Act with respect to Item 15.2, Canadian Union of Public Employees, Local
129 Collective Bargaining Ratification, as she has a family member who is a
member of CUPE Local 129.
6. Adoption of Minutes
Resolution #701/25
Moved by Councillor Cook
Seconded by Councillor Butt
Council Minutes, March 24, 2025
Executive Committee Minutes, April 7, 2025
Planning & Development Committee Minutes, April 7, 2025
Special Council Minutes, April 22, 2025
Carried
7. Presentations
There were no presentations.
8. Delegations
8.1 Andrew Scott, Mattamy Homes
Re: Report PLN 09-25
Draft Plan of Subdivision Application SP-2023-02
Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 05/23
Seaton TFPM Inc.
Part of Lots 21 and 22, Concession 5
Seaton Community
- 20 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
3
Due to technical issues, this agenda item was heard during Item 11.1, Report PLN
09-25.
9. Correspondence
9.1 Corr. 03-25
Elaine Knox, Community Safety & Well-Being Advisor, City of Pickering
Re: Community Safety and Well-Being Advisory Committee
2024 Year End Report & 2025 Work Plan
Resolution #702/25
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Nagy
That Corr. 03-25 from Elaine Knox, Community Safety & Well-Being Advisor, City
of Pickering, dated April 29, 2025, regarding the
Community Safety and Well-Being Advisory Committee 2024 Year End Report &
2025 Work Plan, be received for information.
Carried
10. Report EC 04-25 of the Executive Committee held on April 7, 2025
10.1 Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 04-25
Community Safety and Well-Being Advisory Committee
- Revised Terms of Reference
Council Decision:
1. That Report CAO 04-25 regarding the approval of revised Terms of
Reference for the Community Safety and Well-Being Advisory Committee
be received;
2. That the revised Terms of Reference for the Community Safety and Well-
Being Advisory Committee, as set out in Attachment #1 to this Report, be
approved; and,
3. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
the necessary actions as indicated in this report.
10.3 Director, Engineering Services, Report ENG 05-25
- 21 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
4
Proposed All-way Stop
Sapphire Drive and Azalea Avenue/Kingpeak Crescent
Council Decision:
1. That the attached draft by-law be enacted to amend Schedule “6” and
Schedule “7” to By-law 6604/05 to provide for the regulation of stop signs
on highways or parts of highways under the jurisdiction of The Corporation
of the City of Pickering, specifically to address the proposed installation of
an all-way stop control at the intersection of Sapphire Drive and Azalea
Avenue/Kingpeak Crescent; and,
2. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
the necessary actions as indicated in this report.
10.4 Director, Engineering Services, Report ENG 06-25
Chickadee Stormwater Management Pond Cleanout and Dixie Estates 2
Stormwater Management Pond Cleanout Projects
Consulting and Professional Services for Detailed Design
Council Decision:
1. That Council approve retaining T.Y.Lin International Canada Inc. for
consulting and professional services for the preparation of the detailed
designs of the Chickadee Stormwater Management Pond Cleanout Project
and the Dixie Estates 2 Stormwater Management Pond Cleanout Project, in
accordance with Purchasing Policy Item 10.03 (c), as the assignment is
above $50,000.00;
2. That the proposals submitted by T.Y.Lin International Canada Inc. for
consulting and professional services for the preparation of the detailed
design of the Chickadee Stormwater Management Pond Cleanout and the
Dixie Estates 2 Stormwater Management Pond Cleanout projects, in the
combined amount of $113,141.85 (net HST) or $125,639.05 (HST included)
be accepted;
3. That the total gross project cost of $144,837.00 (HST included), including
the fee amount and other associated costs, and the total net project cost of
$130,430.00 (net HST) be approved;
4. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to finance the
total net project cost of $130,430.00 as follows:
- 22 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
5
a) The sum of $60,000.00 to be funded from the Stormwater
Management Reserve Fund as approved in the 2025 Capital Budget
be increased to $65,375.00;
b) The sum of $60,000.00 to be funded from the Stormwater
Management Reserve Fund as approved in the 2025 Capital Budget
be increased to $65,055.00; and,
5. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
the necessary actions as indicated in this report.
10.6 Director, Engineering Services, Report ENG 08-25
Proposed Parking and Stopping Restrictions, Various Locations
Amendment to the Traffic and Parking By-law 6604/05
Council Decision:
1. That the attached draft by-law be enacted to amend Schedule “1”, No
Stopping, and Schedule “2”, No Parking, to By-law 6604/05 to provide for
the regulation of stopping and parking restrictions on highways or parts of
highways under the jurisdiction of The Corporation of the City of Pickering,
specifically to address the proposed installation of stopping and parking
restrictions on portions of Alpine Lane, Beaton Way, Pebble Court and
Tanzer Court; and,
2. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
the necessary actions as indicated in this report.
10.8 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 08-25
Authorization to Modify the Term of a Memorandum of Understanding
Pre-Review of Design Drawings for Detached Additional Dwelling Units
Council Decision:
1. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to modify the Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) between the City of Pickering and the Town of
Whitby, by retroactively extending the term of the MOU to June 30, 2025,
as set out in Appendix I to this report, for the sharing of resources to enable
the preparation of pre-reviewed design drawings for detached Additional
Dwelling Units, subject to minor revisions as may be required by the
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, the Director, City
Development & CBO, and the Chief Administrative Officer;
- 23 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
6
2. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to further modify the term of
the MOU between the City of Pickering and the Town of Whitby, as may be
required in the future; and,
3. That appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take such
action as is necessary to give effect to the recommendations in this report.
Resolution #703/25
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Butt
That Report EC 04-25 of the Executive Committee Meeting held on April 7, 2025
be adopted, save and except, Item 10.2, Report CS 03-25, Item 10.5, Report ENG
07-25, and Item 10.7, Report FIN 05-25.
Carried
10.2 Director, Community Services, Report CS 03-25
Deaccession of Museum Artifacts
2025 Artifact Deaccession List
A question and answer period ensued with staff regarding:
• why issues cited during the 2023 deaccession process were still
reoccurring;
• whether the City had a pest control contractor and whether the pest control
mechanisms being used were effective;
• the current policy for handling duplicate artifacts;
• who determined that restoration was not a viable option for the artifacts;
• the percentage of artifacts that were included in the deaccession process in
2023;
• how often artifacts were examined to see whether they qualified for
deaccession;
• whether deaccession was more cost effective than restoration;
• the rationale for gathering artifacts with missing information; and,
• protocols which would be in place moving forward to mitigate issues cited
for deaccession.
Resolution #704/25
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Butt
- 24 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
7
1. That the deaccession of museum artifacts, as set out in Attachment 1, be
endorsed; and,
2. That the staff be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in
the report.
Carried
10.5 Director, Engineering Services, Report ENG 07-25
Urban Forest Study Update and Tree Canopy Cover Assessment
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
• when the findings of the study would be presented to Council and the next
steps that would follow the completion of the study;
• the timelines for tree planting and concerns that it was too far into the
future;
• how trees that were damaged during a storm were being tracked by the
City;
• ways to encourage residents to contact the City upon coming across a
damaged tree to assist with tracking;
• whether the staff report included any reference to protecting the rural
characteristic of Cherrywood;
• whether the study would look at Cherrywood;
• whether the environmental findings from the study could justify rezoning or
redevelopment in Cherrywood;
• whether alternate price proposals were considered for the study and
whether the cost was inflated;
• whether any independent verification would be done on the work to be
completed by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA);
• whether the cost of the study would decrease if rural landowners denied
access onto their properties;
• whether the City already had baseline tree canopy information from satellite
images and why that information was not reviewed first;
• whether there was any evidence that climate change had damaged any
trees;
• why the work was not being done by staff or existing City consultants;
• whether there was any guarantee that the rural character of Cherrywood
would be maintained;
• the importance of the study and consequences of not doing this study;
- 25 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
8
• clarification regarding the intent of the study being to review the existing
tree canopy;
• clarification that any potential public consultation process would reiterate
the information already presented in the staff report; and,
• clarification that the study was looking to retain as many trees as possible.
Resolution #705/25
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Butt
1. That Council approve retaining the services of the Toronto and Region
Conservation Authority to update the Urban Forest Study and complete a
Tree Canopy Cover Assessment, in accordance with the City’s Purchasing
Policy, Appendix 1, item 8;
2. That the proposal submitted by Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
to update the Urban Forest Study and complete a Tree Canopy Cover
Assessment, in the amount of $201,140.00 (HST included) be accepted;
3. That Council authorize staff to execute a letter of agreement with the
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority to update the Urban Forest
Study and complete a Canopy Cover Assessment, on such terms as are
satisfactory to the Director, Engineering Services and the Director, Finance
& Treasurer;
4. That the total gross project cost of $221,254.00 (HST included), including
the fee amount and other associated costs, and the total net project cost of
$199,246.00 (net HST) be approved;
5. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to finance the
total net project cost of $199,246.00 from the 2025 Current Budget, to be
funded from Property Taxes; and,
6. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
the necessary actions as indicated in this report.
Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows:
Yes:
Councillor Brenner
Councillor Butt
Councillor Cook
No:
Councillor Robinson
- 26 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
9
Councillor Nagy
Councillor Pickles
Mayor Ashe
10.7 Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 05-25
Asset Management Data Governance Policy & Procedure
A brief question and answer period ensued with staff regarding:
• whether the report was related to Seaton;
• whether the report could be deferred since the Seaton Recreation Complex
and Library project was recently paused; and,
• whether the Seaton Recreation Complex and Library should be built prior to
approving this report.
Resolution #706/25
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Butt
1. That Report FIN 05-25, regarding the Asset Management Data Governance
Policy & Procedure, be received;
2. That the Asset Management Data Governance Policy (FIN 120) &
Procedure (FIN 120-001), set out in Attachments 1 and 2 respectively, be
approved;
3. That the Chief Administrative Officer and the Director, Finance & Treasurer
be authorized to make any interpretations of the Asset Management Data
Governance Policy & Procedure, make rulings that will allow the conduct of
business to proceed, and to take any actions necessary to this effect; and,
4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
the necessary actions as indicated in this report.
Carried
11. Report PD 03-25 of the Planning & Development Committee held on April 7, 2025
11.1 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 09-25
Draft Plan of Subdivision Application SP-2023-02
Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 05/23
Seaton TFPM Inc.
Part of Lots 21 and 22, Concession 5
- 27 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
10
Seaton Community
A. Scott, Mattamy Homes, appeared before Council via electronic connection and
stated that he was available for questions regarding Report PLN 09-25.
There were no questions from Members of Council.
Resolution #707/25
Moved by Councillor Pickles
Seconded by Councillor Nagy
1. That Draft Plan of Subdivision SP-2023-02, submitted by Seaton TFPM
Inc., to permit a residential plan of subdivision on lands being Part of Lots
21 and 22, Concession 5, as shown on the Applicant’s Draft Plan of
Subdivision, Attachment 4 to Report PLN 09-25, be endorsed;
2. That the conditions of draft plan of subdivision approval to implement Draft
Plan of Subdivision SP-2023-02, as set out in Appendix I to Report PLN 09-
25, be endorsed; and,
3. That Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 05/23, submitted by Seaton
TFPM Inc., to implement the Draft Plan of Subdivision SP-2023-02 be
approved, and that the draft Zoning By-law Amendment, as set out in
Appendix II to Report PLN 09-25, be finalized and forwarded to Council for
enactment.
Carried
11.2 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 10-25
Draft Plan of Subdivision SP-2022-03
Zoning By-law Amendment A 08/22
Draft Plan of Condominium CP-2022-04
The Brock Zents Partnership
2660, 2670 & 2680 Brock Road
(Southwest corner of Brock Road and Zents Drive)
Resolution #708/25
Moved by Councillor Pickles
Seconded by Councillor Nagy
- 28 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
11
1. That Draft Plan of Subdivision Application SP-2022-03, submitted by The
Brock Zents Partnership, to establish one block for a residential
condominium development, one environmental block, and one public road,
as shown in Attachment 3 to Report PLN 10-25, and the implementing
conditions of approval, as set out in Appendix I, be endorsed; and,
2. That Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 08/22, submitted by The
Brock Zents Partnership, to permit a residential condominium development
consisting of a mix of townhouse dwellings, on lands located at the
southwest corner of Brock Road and Zents Drive, be approved, and that
the draft Zoning By-law Amendment, as set out in Appendix II to Report
PLN 10-25, be finalized and forwarded to Council for enactment prior to the
Director, City Development & CBO issuing final site plan approval.
Carried
12. Reports – New and Unfinished Business
12.1 Director, Community Services, Report CS 06-25
Consulting Services for Geotechnical and Hydrological Reports and
Environmental Investigation for Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
• whether a soil test would be conducted when the Seaton Recreation
Complex and Library were being constructed;
• why the City was undertaking this work when the Seaton Recreation
Complex and Library project was recently paused;
• rationale for incurring costs to conduct studies for lands that the City did not
currently own;
• potential impact should Council decide not to move forward with the Seaton
Recreation Complex and Library project;
• the design work that was being conducted on the subject lands with Council
not having approved the project;
• whether the City would be liable if the fill added by the builder was not up to
standard;
• how conducting this work did not undermine Council’s decision to pause
the Seaton Recreation Complex and Library project;
• deferring the work to the same time the financial information pertaining to
the Seaton Recreation Complex and Library project was being considered;
- 29 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
12
• whether the land agreements that the City currently had pertaining to
Seaton clarified that the land would be transferred to the City and whether it
would be filled prior to the land transfer;
• clarification that the purpose of the study was to ensure that the fill was
appropriate to protect the City’s interests;
• whether staff were in support of proceeding with the site preparation work;
• next steps should the studies find unfavorable conclusions; and,
• whether the land agreements included any provisions that would prevent
the City from owning the lands.
Resolution #709/25
Moved by Councillor Butt
Seconded by Councillor Brenner
1. That the quotation submitted by DS Consultants Ltd. in response to
Request for Quotation No. Q2025-9 for Geotechnical and Hydrological
Reports and Environmental Investigation for the Seaton Recreation
Complex & Library, in the amount of $130,253.00 (net HST) or
$144,640.00 (HST included) be accepted;
2. That the total gross project cost of $144,640.00 (HST included), including
the amount of the proposal, contingency and other associated costs, and
the total net project cost of $130,253.00 (net of HST rebate), be approved;
3. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net
project cost of $130,253.00 as approved in the 2020, 2021 and 2024
Capital Budget as follows:
a. The sum of $76,884.00 to be funded by a transfer from the DC –
Parks & Recreation Services Reserve Fund;
b. The sum of $13,768.00 to be funded by a transfer from the DC –
Library Reserve Fund;
c. The sum of $39,601.00 to be funded by a transfer from the Seaton
FIA Reserve Fund;
4. That the Director, Community Services be authorized to execute the Form
of Agreement with the above-mentioned consultant pursuant to Request
for Quotation No. Q2025-9; and,
- 30 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
13
5. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary action to give effect hereto.
Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows:
Yes:
Councillor Brenner
Councillor Butt
Councillor Cook
Councillor Nagy
Councillor Pickles
Mayor Ashe
No:
Councillor Robinson
12.2 Director, Community Services, Report CS 09-25
New Vehicle Storage Shed at the Operations Centre
Tender No. T2025-1
Resolution #710/25
Moved by Councillor Cook
Seconded by Councillor Brenner
1. That the bid submitted by Gerr Construction Limited in response to Request
for Tender No. T2025-1 for the construction of the New Vehicle Storage
Shed at the Pickering Operations Centre, in the amount of $3,124,032.00
(net HST) or $3,469,100.00 (HST included) be accepted;
2. That the total gross project cost of $4,011,500.00 (HST included), including
the amount of the tender, construction contingency, and other associated
costs, and the total net project cost of $3,612,480.00 (net HST) be
approved;
3. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net
project cost of $3,612,480.00 to be funded from the Operations Centre
Reserve Fund as approved in the 2023 and 2024 Capital Budgets;
4. That the Director, Operations be authorized to execute the CCDC-2, 2020
Stipulated Price Contract with the above-mentioned contractor pursuant to
Request for Tender No. T2025-1; and,
5. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
the necessary actions as indicated in the report.
- 31 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
14
Carried
12.3 Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects, Report ECD 03-25
Licence Agreement with Open Studio Art Café
Seasonal Patio on City Owned Lands
Resolution #711/25
Moved by Councillor Cook
Seconded by Councillor Nagy
1. That Council approve the Draft Licence Agreement for the temporary use of
City Property, adjacent to 617 Liverpool Road, to operate a seasonal patio
between the City of Pickering and Open Studio Art Café, from May 1, 2025
until November 30, 2025;
2. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Licence
Agreement between the City of Pickering and OSAC, in the form as
attached to this report, subject to revisions as may be acceptable to the
Chief Administrative Officer, the Director, Corporate Services & City
Solicitor and the Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects;
and,
3. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
the necessary actions as indicated in this report.
Carried
12.4 Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 06-25
2025 Tax Rates and Final Tax Due Dates
Resolution #712/25
Moved by Councillor Nagy
Seconded by Councillor Cook
1. That Report FIN 06-25 regarding the 2025 tax rates and final tax due dates
be received;
2. That the 2025 tax rates for the City of Pickering be approved as contained
in Schedule “A” of the By-law attached hereto;
- 32 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
15
3. That the tax levy due dates for the Final Billing for all taxable properties,
excluding Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PIL) properties, be July 29, 2025 and
October 29, 2025, thereby providing property owners one additional month
to pay their taxes for the final two tax due dates without incurring late
penalties or interest charges;
4. That the tax levy due dates for the Final Billing for all PIL properties be
June 25, 2025 and September 25, 2025;
5. That staff be directed to write to Pickering’s MPP, requesting that the
Education Act, as it relates to the timing of municipal levy payments to
school boards, be amended to reflect those instances where municipalities
decide to defer their property tax payment due date(s) as a result of the
current economic uncertain environment, and that the deferral of property
tax payments match the required municipal school board payments;
6. That the attached By-law be approved;
7. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to make any changes
or undertake any actions necessary to comply with Provincial regulations
including altering due dates or final tax rates to ensure that the property tax
billing process is completed; and,
8. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary actions to give effect thereto.
Carried
12.5 Director, City Infrastructure, Report INF 01-25
Wilson Bridge Replacement (Bridge 7002)
Request for Tender No. T2025-2
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
• whether signage would be placed on the site with details regarding
timelines and the work that was being done;
• whether barriers to the site would be installed;
• the need for the signage to include a contact number to report issues
related to construction; and,
• next steps for the Joseph Street Reconstruction and Drainage
Improvements project.
Resolution #713/25
- 33 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
16
Moved by Councillor Pickles
Seconded by Councillor Butt
1. That the bid submitted by Esposito Bros. Construction Ltd. in response to
Request for Tender No. T2025-2 for Wilson Bridge Replacement, in the
amount of $1,990,291.00 (net HST) or $2,210,129.43 (HST included), be
accepted;
2. That Council award the contract administration and construction inspection
for Request for Tender No. T2025-2 Wilson Bridge Replacement to Greer
Galloway Group Inc. in the amount of $102,538.35 (HST included); in
accordance with the Purchasing Policy Section 10.03 (c) as the assignment
is above $50,000.00;
3. That the total gross project cost of $2,661,318.00 (HST included), including
the tendered amount, contract administration and inspection services, a
contingency, and other associated costs, and the total net project cost of
$2,396,600.00 (net HST) be approved;
4. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to finance the
total net project cost of $2,396,600.00 as follows:
a. The sum of $2,000,000.00 as approved in the 2025 Capital Budget
be increased to $2,396,600 and be funded from the Building Faster
Fund Reserve Fund; and,
5. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
the necessary actions as indicated in this report.
Carried
12.6 Director, City Infrastructure, Report INF 02-25
Joseph Street Reconstruction and Drainage Improvements
Request for Tender No. T2025-3
Resolution #714/25
Moved by Councillor Pickles
Seconded by Councillor Butt
1. That the bid submitted by Wyndale Paving Co. Ltd in response to Request
for Tender No. T2025-3 for Joseph Street Reconstruction and Drainage
- 34 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
17
Improvements, in the amount of $344,938.00 (net HST) or $383,039.49
(HST included) be accepted;
2. That the total gross project cost of $555,214.00 (HST included), including
the tendered amount, a construction contingency and other associated
costs, and the total net project cost of $499,987.00 (net HST) be approved;
3. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to finance the
total net project cost of $499,987.00 as approved in the 2023 Roads Capital
Budget, to be funded from the OCIF Reserve Fund; and,
4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
the necessary actions as indicated in this report.
Carried
12.7 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 11-25
5113 Brock Road (Claremont)
Reissue of Notice of Intention to Designate a Property under Part IV,
Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act
Resolution #715/25
Moved by Councillor Nagy
Seconded by Councillor Pickles
1. That Council reaffirm its decision of November 25, 2024, to designate the
property municipally known as 5113 Brock Road (Claremont), known as the
G.M. Forsyth House, as a property of cultural heritage value or interest
under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act;
2. That Council direct staff to reissue and serve a revised Notice of Intention
to Designate the property in accordance with the notification requirements
of the Ontario Heritage Act;
3. That should no Notice of Objection be received by the City Clerk within 30
days of the publication of the revised Notice, the designation by-law be
brought forward to Council for enactment in accordance with Section 29(8)
of the Ontario Heritage Act; and,
4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
such actions as necessary to give effect to this report.
- 35 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
18
Carried
13. Motions and Notice of Motions
13.1 Pickering’s Response to U.S. Tariff Threats
A discussion and a question and answer period ensued between Members of
Council and staff regarding:
• adverse effects of tariffs to the City, local businesses, and the entire
community;
• the need to advocate to exclude key materials from tariffs that
municipalities rely on;
• the need to form a united front with other municipalities and to strengthen
efforts to reduce the reliance on imported goods;
• the Motion being in keeping with views of both the Provincial and Federal
governments;
• the rationale for bypassing Council’s normal oversight when no formal
directive was passed by the Federal or Provincial governments to
municipalities;
• whether there would be any financial impact to the City;
• mechanisms that would be put in place to ensure public reporting and how
over expenditures would be reported to Council;
• concerns that the motion was retaliatory and that the City was embarking
on expenditures without obtaining Council approval; and,
• the importance of the Motion in protecting Canadian businesses.
Resolution #716/25
Moved by Councillor Butt
Seconded by Councillor Brenner
WHEREAS, the trade between Canada and the United States (the “U.S.”) has
driven decades of sustained economic growth, creating jobs and prosperity for
Canadians;
And Whereas, the tariffs previously announced by President Trump against
Canada and the new tariffs announced by the U.S. administration on April 2, 2025,
against 180 countries could have significant adverse effects on the global
economy resulting in either decreased growth or a recession that in turn would
have significant adverse effects on the local Pickering economy including possible
job losses;
- 36 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
19
And Whereas, the application of tariffs by the U.S. government and the reciprocal
tariffs introduced by the Canadian Government will have negative results for the
City of Pickering, particularly in terms of increased costs for goods sourced from
the United States;
And Whereas, local, provincial, and federal leaders are encouraging Canadians
and Canadian municipalities to prioritize Canadian goods and services;
And Whereas, the City of Pickering is committed to supporting local businesses
and recognizing that the City of Pickering has significant purchasing power
through its planned capital projects and planned projects and infrastructure
investments which can be leveraged to support local and national businesses
during the economic period of uncertainty;
And Whereas, the City of Pickering remains committed to supporting local
businesses and protecting jobs for Pickering residents;
And Whereas, the City of Pickering recognizes the importance of adhering to
current trade agreements signed by Canada, including the Canada European
Trade Agreement (CETA) and other relevant international trade agreements;
And Whereas, the Canada-United States-Mexico free trade agreement does not
apply to municipal procurement, making it possible for municipalities to adopt
strategies that prefer Canadian and other non-U.S. goods and services to those of
the U.S.;
Now therefore be it resolved that the Council of The Corporation of the City of
Pickering requests:
1. That the City of Pickering align its procurement strategies with any
legislation or direction to municipalities that may be issued formally by the
federal or provincial government in response to tariffs imposed by the U.S.,
to support a unified, cross-Canada approach that effectively leverages the
considerable buying power of municipalities to support a broader trade and
economic strategy in Canada;
2. That the City of Pickering calls on the Federal and Provincial governments
to take action to remove inter-provincial trade barriers between provinces
as a response to U.S. tariffs and support Canadian businesses;
3. That Council directs staff to adopt procurement strategies that prioritize
Canadian and other non-U.S. goods and services over those of the U.S.,
where feasible;
- 37 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
20
4. That City Departments conduct a thorough review of purchased goods and
services to ensure, where possible, Canadian or Non-American goods,
services or product standards are adopted;
5. That the City of Pickering will engage, through the Economic Development
& Strategic Projects Department, with local businesses and stakeholders to
understand the potential impacts of proposed tariffs and to collaborate on
strategies to strengthen the local economy;
6. That the Director Finance & Treasurer be directed to approve amendments
to the City’s Purchasing Policy thresholds that would allow City staff more
flexibility to support local businesses, particularly for low-dollar purchases
of goods and services, and directly solicit bids from domestic suppliers,
where applicable, while ensuring continued compliance with the Canadian
Trade Agreements;
7. That the Director Finance & Treasurer be delegated authority to approve
contract extensions in situations where negotiating an extension is
favourable to obtaining bids, during this time of uncertainty, or where supply
or pricing is likely to be impacted, and that this delegated authority be in
effect for the duration of the 2025 budget year;
8. That the Director Finance & Treasurer be delegated authority to approve
additional financing, specifically related to tariffs and retaliatory issues
where current contracts or bids come in over budget or require an increase,
that would otherwise require Council approval unless the additional funding
relies on reserves or reserve funds, and that this delegated authority be in
effect for the duration of the 2025 budget year; and,
9. That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to The Right Honourable Mark
Carney, Prime Minister of Canada, The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of
Ontario, all Durham MPs, all Durham MPPs, and Durham Region Council.
Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows:
Yes:
Councillor Brenner
Councillor Butt
Councillor Cook
Councillor Nagy
Councillor Pickles
Mayor Ashe
No:
Councillor Robinson
- 38 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
21
14. By-laws
14.1 By-law 8176/25
Being a by-law to amend By-law 6604/05 providing for the regulating of traffic
and parking, standing and stopping on highways or parts of highways under the
jurisdiction of the City of Pickering and on private and municipal property.
14.2 By-law 8177/25
Being a by-law to amend By-law 6604/05 providing for the regulating of traffic
and parking, standing and stopping on highways or parts of highways under the
jurisdiction of the City of Pickering and on private and municipal property.
14.3 By-law 8178/25
Being a By-law to amend City Consolidated Zoning By-law 8149/24, to
implement the Official Plan of the City of Pickering, Region of Durham, for land at
Part Lots 21 and 22, Concession 5, City of Pickering (A 05/23) (Seaton TFPM
Inc.)
14.4 By-law 8179/25
Being a by-law to adopt the estimates of all sums required to be raised by
taxation for the year 2025 and to establish the Tax Rates necessary to raise such
sums and to establish the final due dates for all realty tax classes.
14.5 By-law 8180/25
Being a by-law to amend the Municipal Accommodation Tax By-law 8161/25
Resolution #717/25
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Councillor Nagy
That By-law Numbers 8176/25 through 8180/25 be approved.
Carried
15. Confidential Council – Public Report
- 39 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
22
Mayor Ashe stated that prior to the Regular Meeting of Council, an In-camera session
was held at 5:45 pm in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Act and
Procedure By-law to receive advice subject to solicitor-client privilege, and to consider
matters relating to a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the
municipality and labour relations or employee negotiations. The matters discussed
pertained to a purchase of land and the collective bargaining ratification for CUPE Local
129.
Carried 15.1 Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Confidential Report LEG 04-25
Re: Purchase of Land required for a Multi-use Pedestrian Path
and Fire Hydrant forming part of the Walnut Lane Extension
Resolution #718/25
Moved by Councillor Nagy
Seconded by Councillor Cook
That the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor be authorized to proceed
with the acquisition of Part 1, Plan 40R-32660, being a parcel of land adjacent to
Walnut Lane, in accordance with the provisions contained in Confidential Report
LEG 04-25.
Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows:
Yes:
Councillor Brenner
Councillor Butt
Councillor Cook
Councillor Nagy
Councillor Pickles
Mayor Ashe
No:
Councillor Robinson
Carried 15.2 Confidential Memorandum from the Director, Human Resources
Re: Canadian Union of Public Employees, Local 129 Collective
Bargaining Ratification
Having previously declared a conflict of interest, Councillor Brenner and
Councillor Cook did not vote on the following item.
Resolution #719/25
Moved by Councillor Robinson
Seconded by Councillor Nagy
- 40 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
23
That the Memorandum of Settlement, April 14, 2025, between The Corporation of
the City of Pickering and the Canadian Union of Public Employees, Local 129 be
ratified, and the Director, Human Resources be authorized to take the necessary
actions.
Carried
16. Regional Councillor Updates
There were no Regional Councillor Updates.
17. Other Business
17.1 Councillor Pickles gave Notice of a Motion regarding increasing Ontario Works
and Ontario disability support program payments.
17.2 Councillor Robinson gave Notice of a Motion regarding providing temporary
parking allowance for St Paul's on the Hill Community Food Bank.
18. Confirmatory By-law
By-law 8181/25
Councillor Nagy, seconded by Councillor Cook moved for leave to introduce a By-law of
the City of Pickering to confirm the proceedings of April 29, 2025.
Carried
19. Adjournment
Moved by Councillor Robinson
Seconded by Councillor Pickles
That the meeting be adjourned.
Carried
The meeting adjourned at 9:01 p.m.
Dated this 29th day of April, 2025.
- 41 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
April 29, 2025
Electronic Meeting – 7:00 pm
Chair: Mayor Ashe
24
Kevin Ashe, Mayor
Susan Cassel, City Clerk
- 42 -
1
Executive Committee
Meeting Minutes
Electronic Meeting
May 05, 2025 - 02:00 PM
Chair: Mayor Ashe
Present:
Mayor K. Ashe
Councillor M. Brenner
Councillor S. Butt
Councillor L. Cook
Councillor M. Nagy
Councillor D. Pickles
Councillor L. Robinson
Regrets:
None
Also Present:
M. Carpino - Chief Administrative Officer
K. Bentley - Director, City Development & CBO
P. Bigioni - Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor
B. Duffield - Director, City Infrastructure
J. Eddy - Director, Human Resources
L. Gibbs - Director, Community Services
F. Jadoon - Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects
S. Karwowski - Director, Finance & Treasurer
S. Cassel - City Clerk
V. Plouffe - Division Head, Facilities & Construction Management
C. Whitaker - Manager, Sustainability & Strategic Environmental Initiatives
N. Robinson - Deputy Fire Chief
M. Edmund - Coordinator, Sustainability
R. Perera - Deputy Clerk
- 43 -
Executive Committee Meeting Minutes
May 05, 2025
2
1. Call to Order/Roll Call
The City Clerk certified that all Members of the Committee were present and participating
electronically.
2. Disclosure of Interest
No disclosures of interest were noted.
3. Delegations
There were no delegations.
4. Matters for Consideration
4.1 Director, City Development & CBO, Report SUS 02-25
City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 - 2035
J. Schofield, Principal Consultant, Climate Compass Advisors, appeared before the
Committee via electronic connection to speak to the City’s Community Climate
Adaptation Plan (CCAP). Through the aid of a PowerPoint presentation, J. Schofield
spoke to the purpose of the Plan highlighting past extreme weather events such as
the 2022 Derecho Storm and severe thunderstorms that occurred in 2024. J.
Schofield provided details of the two approaches to climate action being climate
adaptation and climate mitigation, stating that the purpose of the CCAP was to
focus on adaptation efforts to enhance resilience. J. Schofield further provided
details of the five phases of the CCAP, the five key areas of climate risk, and key
findings from the public engagement process. J. Schofield spoke about climate
equity adding that climate equity was a principle that emphasized fairness in
addressing climate change and listed its co-benefits. J. Schofield also provided
details of the CCAP’s vision statement, guiding principles, focus areas,
implementation and reporting mechanisms.
Discussion and a question and answer period ensued between Members of the
Committee, staff, and J. Schofield regarding:
• whether the City needed to change its storm water management process as it
related to the Seaton project;
- 44 -
Executive Committee Meeting Minutes
May 05, 2025
3
• whether the study analyzed the City’s wetlands;
• concerns and questions as to why the climate change scenario
Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 8.5 was used in the study when
it had been discredited;
• whether any components of the CCAP were rejected in response to feedback
from the community;
• the cost associated with each recommendation;
• how equity and diversity directly related to climate resilience;
• whether the program would help address basement flooding for certain
neighbourhoods;
• why the wildfire smoke event in 2023 was referenced in the Report when that
climate event occurred outside of Pickering;
• whether any components of the CCAP related to the International Council for
Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI);
• whether the CCAP would mitigate costs related to pest control;
• feedback from the community regarding climate equity and the importance of
climate equity;
• home energy retrofits related to the CCAP and whether this was feasible in
Pickering;
• whether staff had conducted research on the RCP 8.5 and concerns that it
was based on unrealistic assumptions;
• when the City signed on to ICLEI and whether the public was informed of the
long-term implications noting concerns that the City had joined ICLEI without
public consultation; and,
• the community feedback demonstrating community support for the CCAP.
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Cook
1. That Report SUS 02-25, regarding the City of Pickering Community Climate
Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035, as set out in Appendix I, be endorsed;
2. That recommendations from the Community Climate Adaptation Plan be
considered, along with other municipal priorities, through future annual
municipal plans and budget processes;
3. That staff report back to Council on the progress of the Community Climate
Adaptation Plan’s implementation at the end of year three, of the ten-year
plan; and,
4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
- 45 -
Executive Committee Meeting Minutes
May 05, 2025
4
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent
Mayor Ashe X
Councillor Brenner X
Councillor Butt X
Councillor Cook X
Councillor Nagy X
Councillor Pickles X
Councillor Robinson X
Results 6 1 0 0 0
Carried on a Recorded Vote (6 to 1)
4.2 Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report CLK 02-25
Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election
A question and answer period ensued between Members of the Committee and
staff regarding:
• whether Voter Information Packages (VIPs) containing the elector Personal
Identification Numbers (PINs) to log into the Internet Voting system would be
mailed out again;
• how new Pickering residents could ensure that they receive their VIPs to cast
their vote;
• why the City was recommending the use of Internet Voting when it was not
used by the Provincial or the Federal government in their recent elections;
• whether there was a mechanism to have a paper trail for each ballot that was
cast using the Internet Voting system and how this could be utilized in the
event of a recount;
• whether staff were able to verify who voted and who did not;
• whether there was a way to guarantee that there would not be any bandwidth
issues with the use of Internet Voting during the 2026 Municipal Election;
• names of Internet Voting providers currently in the market;
• how staff could ensure that the Internet Voting system was administered
properly;
• whether there was any evidence of hacking or international interference of the
- 46 -
Executive Committee Meeting Minutes
May 05, 2025
5
Internet Voting system found during the last two municipal elections;
• clarification that 79% of electors chose Internet Voting during the 2022
Municipal Election and the staff recommendation had been based on that
information; and,
• clarification that electors who receive their VIP still had the choice between
casting their vote using paper ballot or Internet Voting.
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Cook
1. That Report CLK 02-25 regarding the approval of voting methods for the 2026
Municipal Election be received;
2. That both internet voting and paper ballots, using vote tabulators, be approved
as the voting methods for the 2026 Municipal Election and any by-elections
that may occur during the 2026-2030 Term of Council;
3. That the draft By-law included as Attachment 1 to Report CLK 02-25 be
approved and enacted;
4. That the City Clerk be directed to proceed with a Request for Proposal for the
approved voting methods and associated services, and report back to Council
to award the contract to the most appropriate vendor(s); and,
5. That appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the actions
necessary to give effect to this report.
Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent
Mayor Ashe X
Councillor Brenner X
Councillor Butt X
Councillor Cook X
Councillor Nagy X
Councillor Pickles X
Councillor Robinson X
Results 6 1 0 0 0
Carried on a Recorded Vote (6 to 1)
- 47 -
Executive Committee Meeting Minutes
May 05, 2025
6
4.3 Director, Community Services, Report CS 04-25
Civic Awards Program
Policy Update
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Cook
1. That Council approve the updated Civic Awards Program Policy CUL 150, as
set out in Attachment 1 to this report; and,
2. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
Carried
4.4 Director, Community Services, Report CS 05-25
Waterfront Paddle Sport Rental Service
Frenchman’s Bay
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Cook
1. That Report CS 05-25 regarding an update on waterfront paddle sport rental
service on Frenchman’s Bay be received;
2. That Council approve the inclusion of facilities to accommodate paddle sport
rental services in the design of Beachfront Park Revitalization - Phase 2; and,
3. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary action as indicated in this report.
Carried
4.5 Director, Community Services, Report CS 07-25
Northern Community Halls
Recommendations for Facility Renewal
Mayor Ashe stated that a substitute motion for Report CS 07-25 was circulated to all
- 48 -
Executive Committee Meeting Minutes
May 05, 2025
7
Members of the Committee prior to the Meeting.
A discussion ensued between Members of the Committee regarding:
• groups in the community that had an interest in using the facilities for
community events and providing the option to purchase to these groups;
• clarification that the buildings would be reviewed by the City’s Heritage
Advisory Committee for historical significance;
• the community providing a number of suggested uses for the Green River
Community Centre; and,
• consideration of a possible amendment to make the intent of the motion
clearer and the amended wording being presented at the May 26, 2025
Council Meeting.
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Butt
1. That staff be directed to investigate the option to sell Green River Community
Centre, with Infrastructure Ontario being offered the first right of refusal to
purchase for $2.00 as per the original sales agreement (Attachment 1), and
then to explore options to sell the facility, and report back to Council with
recommendations in Q1, 2026;
2. That staff be directed to investigate options to sell the former Greenwood
Library back to the Durham District School Board first; and then to explore
options to sell or lease the facility at a market rate and report back to Council
with recommendations in Q1, 2026;
3. That staff be directed to renew the management agreement for the Mount
Zion Community Centre with the Mount Zion Community Centre Association
for a two year term from July 1 2025 to June 30 2026 returning said
agreement to Council in Q2, 2025 for endorsement; and to investigate options
to reduce the net capital cost of Mount Zion Community Centre by selling the
facility, or leasing the facility at a market rate and report back to Council with
recommendations in Q1, 2026;
4. That staff be directed to renew the management agreement for the Whitevale
Community Centre and the Whitevale Arts and Culture Centre with the
Whitevale and District Residents’ Association for a five-year term from July 1,
2025 to June 30, 2030 returning said agreement to Council in Q2, 2025 for
endorsement;
- 49 -
Executive Committee Meeting Minutes
May 05, 2025
8
5. That City Heritage staff evaluate the Mount Zion Community Centre (School
Section #13 Schoolhouse) and Green River Community Centre (Green River
Baptist Church) under Regulation 9/06 of the Ontario Heritage Act to
determine whether the properties merit designation under Part IV of the Act,
and report back to Council with recommendations in Q4, 2025;
6. That, as part of any open proposal to sell or lease the above properties, staff
be directed to invite community groups to submit an expression of interest;
and,
7. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in the report.
Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote
4.6 Fire Chief, Report FIR 04-25
Fire Department Establishing and Regulating By-law
A question and answer period ensued with staff regarding:
• why Council was being removed from the decision-making process related to
changes to core fire services;
• whether Council would be able to reverse amendments to the By-law made
through the delegated authority process should Council disagree with the
changes;
• whether a report on the financial impact of the By-law would be brought
forward to Council in the future;
• how Council would oversee budget increases related to this Report;
• what recommendations of the Fire Master Plan were being enacted through
the By-law;
• clarification on how the By-law was flexible as noted in the staff report; and,
• whether the By-law allowed any of the fire core services to be downgraded
without Council approval.
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Nagy
1. That Report FIR 04-25 regarding the Fire Department Establishing and
Regulating By-law be received;
- 50 -
Executive Committee Meeting Minutes
May 05, 2025
9
2. That the draft By-law included as Attachment 1 to Report FIR 04-25 be
approved and enacted;
3. That By-Law 771/78 be repealed; and,
4. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take such
actions as are necessary to give effect to the recommendations in this report.
Carried
5. Member Updates on Committees
There were no updates from Members on Committees.
6. Other Business
There was no other business.
7. Adjournment
Moved By Councillor Nagy
Seconded By Councillor Cook
That the meeting be adjourned.
Carried
The meeting adjourned at 4:03 p.m.
- 51 -
Principles Integrity
May 1, 2025
Integrity Commissioner’s Annual Report
City of Pickering
The purpose of an Integrity Commissioner’s annual report is to provide the public with the
opportunity to understand the ethical well-being of the City’s elected and appointed officials
through the lens of our activities. Principles Integrity is pleased to submit this report, covering
the period from April 1, 2024, the date of our last report, through April 30, 2025.
About Us:
Principles Integrity is a partnership focused on accountability and governance matters for
municipalities. Principles Integrity currently serves as Integrity Commissioner (and as
Lobbyist Registrar/Closed Meeting Investigator/Municipal Ombudsman for some clients) in
over 60 Ontario municipalities and other public bodies.
The Role of Integrity Commissioner, Generally:
An Integrity Commissioner’s statutory role is to carry out, in an independent manner, the
following functions:
•Advice on ethical policy development
•Education on matters relating to ethical behaviour
•Providing on request, advice and opinions to Council, members of Council and
members of Local Boards
•Providing a mechanism to receive inquiries (often referred to as ‘complaints’) which
allege a breach of ethical responsibilities
•Resolving complaints informally, where appropriate, and
•Investigating, reporting and making recommendations to Council on those
complaints that cannot be resolved informally, while being guided by Council’s
codes, policies and protocols.
This might contrast with the popular yet incorrect view that the role of the Integrity
Commissioner is primarily to hold elected officials to account; to investigate alleged
transgressions and to recommend ‘punishment’. The better view is that Integrity
Commissioners serve as an independent resource, coach, and guide, focused on enhancing
the municipality’s ethical culture.
The operating philosophy of Principles Integrity recites this perspective. We believe there is
one overarching objective for a municipality in appointing an Integrity Commissioner, and that
is to raise the public’s perception that its elected and appointed officials conduct themselves
with integrity:
The perception that a community’s elected representatives are operating with integrity
Corr. 04-25
- 52 -
Principles Integrity
is the glue which sustains local democracy. We live in a time when citizens are skeptical
of their elected representatives at all levels. The overarching objective in appointing an
Integrity Commissioner is to ensure the existence of robust and effective p olicies,
procedures, and mechanisms that enhance the citizen’s perception that their Council
(and local boards) meet established ethical standards and where they do not, there
exists a review mechanism that serves the public interest.
The practical effect of achieving this objective is an increase in trust, respect and engagement
in local and upper tier affairs.
In carrying out our broad functions, the role falls into two principal areas. ‘Municipal Act’
functions, focused on codes of conduct and other policies relating to ethical behaviour, and
‘MCIA’ or Municipal Conflict of Interest Act functions. From an activity perspective, an
Integrity Commissioner’s role can be depicted this way:
The emphasis of Principles Integrity is to help municipalities enhance their ethical foundations
and reputations through the drafting of effective codes of conduct and other policies
governing ethical behaviour, to provide meaningful education related to such policies, and to
provide pragmatic binding advice to Members seeking clarification on ethical issues. As noted
in the graphic, we believe that the support we give to Members of Council increases the
public’s perception of them, which in turn leads to greater trust, respect and engagement.
Because the development of policy and the provision of education and advice is not in every
case a full solution, the broad role of the Integrity Commissioner includes the function of
seeking and facilitating resolutions when allegations of ethical transgressions are made, and,
Generally not
applicable
Code Complaints
TRUST, RESPECT,
ENGAGEMENT
Orientation, Annual
or Specific Training,
Annual Reports,
Lessons Learned
from Complaints
Educational
Independent triage,
investigation,
disposition and/or
reporting
Code Complaints
Governance Advice
Closed Meeting Investigations
Advocacy
As Assigned
Assistance in the
preparation and adoption
of Codes of Conduct and
Policies governing ethical
behaviour
Consulting
The Key function of an Integrity
Commissioner. Guidance can
‘bulletproof’
Advisory Address most
allegations within the
Code framework;
potential for Court
application
Municipal Conflict of
Interest Act Complaints
Council
Local Board
Council
Local Board
Council
Local Board
Council
Local Board
Council
Local Board
Council
Local Board
Similar, however
usually
administered in
groups
Of similar importance for
Local Board Members
- 53 -
Principles Integrity
where it is appropriate and in the public interest to do so, conducting and reporting on formal
investigations. This in our view is best seen as a residual and not primary role.
Confidentiality:
Much of the work of an Integrity Commissioner is done under a cloak of confidentiality. While
in most cases secrecy is required by statute, the promise of confidentiality also encourages
full disclosure by the people who engage with us. We maintain the discretion to release
confidential information when it is necessary to do so for the purposes of a public report, but
those disclosures would be limited and rare.
City of Pickering Activity:
During the period covered by this report, we have been engaged in a moderate level of activity
as Integrity Commissioner which subdivides roughly into three categories:
1. Policy Development and Education
During the period covered by this report we have not provided training for Members of
Council or local boards.
2. Advice
The advice function of the Integrity Commissioner is available to all Members of Council
and where applicable their staff and Members of local boards on matters relating to the
code of conduct, the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act and any other matter touching upon
the ethical conduct of Members. Advice provided by the Integrity Commissioner is
confidential and independent, and where all the relevant facts are disclosed, is binding
upon the Integrity Commissioner.
Our advice is typically provided in a short Advice Memorandum which confirms all relevant
facts and provides with clarity our analysis and a recommended course of action.
During the period covered by this report, we responded to four (4) such requests for
advice.
3. Complaint Investigation and Resolution
Our approach to reviewing complaints starts with a determination as to whether an
inquiry to us is within our jurisdiction, is beyond a trifling matter, is not either frivolous or
vexatious, and importantly, whether in its totality it is in the public interest to pursue. We
always look to the possibility of informal resolution in favour of formal investigation and
reporting. Once a formal investigation is commenced, the opportunity to seek informal
resolution is not abandoned.
Where we are able to resolve a matter without concluding a formal investigation, our
practice is to provide a written explanation in the form of a Disposition Letter to the
complainant to close the matter. Often the respondent Member is involved in preliminary
fact-finding and will also be provided with a summary of the disposition.
- 54 -
Principles Integrity
Where formal investigations commence, they are conducted under the tenets of
procedural fairness and Members are confidentially provided with the name of the
Complainant when that information is necessary to enable them to respond to the
allegations raised.
During the period covered by this report, we received forty-one (41) complaints. Of these,
twenty-six (26) were able to be concluded without a report to Council, one (1) concluded
in a public report, and fourteen (14) are ongoing.
Observations from across Ontario
With due regard to our obligation to maintain confidentiality, this report enables us to
identify learning opportunities gleaned from our experience in municipalities across Ontario.
Disclosure of confidential information from closed meeting sessions
There have been some examples where elected or appointed officials fail to recognize the
serious implications of disclosing confidential information, particularly information learned of
through attendance in closed session.
A Member’s obligation to maintain confidentiality is clear. They may not unilaterally decide
to share confidential information, even if they believe the information should be publicly
disclosed. This extends to releasing information even to their own leg al counsel to obtain a
‘second opinion’.
We treat this breach of ethical responsibility as breach of a cardinal rule, and if an allegation
in this regard is proved to be true, it tends to attract a recommended sanction at the upper
end of the prescribed range. Left unchecked, a confidentiality breach undermines not only
Council’s interests on the matter subject to the breach, but destroys the trust required of
elected officials, and the staff that support them, to ensure that all relevant, and sensitive,
information required to support the deliberation on a matter is freely supplied.
Non-disparagement
One area of prominence continues to be the failure of some Members of Council to adhere
to rules against disparagement. Members of Council are entitled to, and indeed expected to,
disagree on all manner of issues. However, one of the cornerstones to democracy must be
the recognition that different opinions and perspectives are to be respected, and
disagreement should not devolve into disrespect, disparagement and name -calling.
Disrespectful interactions and/treatment of others can fall along a continuum which may
manifest as occasional incivility and micro-aggressions, but when unchecked can culminate in
bullying and harassment. Members of Council should be mindful to treat ea ch other, staff
and the public with appropriate respect and professionalism at all times.
Some Members of Council hold a view was that they are entitled to their freely express their
opinion, even if that includes disparagement of others, and so long as they share it via
personal email, and not on the municipal server, they are not constrained by any rules around
- 55 -
Principles Integrity
decorum. This is incorrect. Members are bound by the Code provisions of respectful and
non-disparaging communication, whether sharing views on their own email, social media, or
elsewhere.
Participation in social media discussions lends its own opportunity for attracting Code of
Conduct complaints alleging disparagement. Members should be mindful that comments can
be used or amplified in ways that bring municipal integrity into disrepute. It is important that
Members be careful, accurate, and non-disparaging even as they attempt to offer what they
see as a fair critique of municipal policy and actions. Municipal policy is advanced through
the deliberations of Council and so wherever possible the focus should be on facilitating a
discussion ‘in the Chamber’, and not in internet channels, so the general public, staff, and
Council colleagues, can participate in the mechanisms through which a variety of important
interests can be balanced and distilled into Council decisions made through democratic
process.
Regardless of the medium, regardless of the intended audience, and regardless of motive, we
have observed several instances where Members of Council in municipalities around the
province have been found to have breached ethical standards by saying or recording things
they have come to regret.
Recognizing and avoiding conflicts of interest
Recognizing and appropriately avoiding conflicts of interest when they might arise is the topic
of most advice requests we receive. As confirmed by the Collingwood Judicial Inquiry
(November 2020) there can be a complex array of circumstances that can give rise to conflicts
of interest, including those that though not covered by the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act,
are nevertheless covered by the common law
In any event, obtaining clear and reliable advice from the Integrity Commissioner can help
avoid costly and time-consuming investigations if there is any uncertainty about the
application of the Rule.
Staying in your lane
One area of concern that continues to arise relates to members of Council overstepping their
role, attempting to ‘take the reins’ to fix a constituent’s problem, or directing staff how to do
their job. Members of Council serve an important role in putting constituents in touch with
appropriate staff, and leading them to established processes, but it is important to strike the
correct balance between guiding constituents and becoming their advocate.
It continues to be the case that elected officials attempt to inject themselves in quasi-judicial
matters such as by-law enforcement, or with respect to insurance claims. While it is
important for Council to retain an oversight role, and have the ability to monitor how its by-
laws and programs affect the community, file-level interference by individual elected officials
must be avoided.
On April 9, 2025, the Government of Ontario announced plans to expand Strong Mayor
- 56 -
Principles Integrity
Powers to a further 169 municipalities. These changes are effective May 1, 2025. In
municipalities subject to ‘stronger mayor powers 1’ the question arises as to whether a mayor
with those powers can give direction to staff beyond the specific circumstances mentioned in
the Act (essentially to carry out ‘Mayoral Decisions’ authorized by the Act, or to direct that
staff conduct research and provide advice).
For non-‘stronger mayors’ and for stronger mayors exceeding their jurisdiction, inappropriate
interference arises because of a misinterpretation of the Municipal Act provision which
identifies the role of the Head of Council as ‘Chief Executive Officer’. This provision has led
to confusion and, occasionally, overreach by Heads of Council in erroneously perceiving a role
in leading the municipality’s administration. Elected officials – even Heads of Council – have
no role in the day-to-day administration of municipal government unless specifically
authorized by statute.
Failing to recognize this, stepping outside of their proper role as elected officials to ‘take the
reins’ of administration, undermines staff and can be perceived as interfering with
management. This overstepping of the proper role by Members, even Mayors , must be
recognized as inappropriate under the Code of Conduct and the Council-Staff Relations Policy,
both mandated under the Municipal Act.
As always, obtaining clear and reliable advice can help avoid a costly and time -consuming
investigation.
Provincial Review of Code of Conduct/Integrity Commissioner System
In December 2024, proposed amendments to the Municipal Act were introduced by the
province in the form of Bill 241, titled ‘An Act to amend the City of Toronto Act, 2006 and the
Municipal Act, 2001 in relation to codes of conduct ’. With the calling of the recent provincial
election the Bill is no longer capable of adoption, although it signals the approach the
government may take, having been returned to office.
Code of Conduct development for various municipalities has been paused because the Bill
contemplated a universal code of conduct for all municipalities in Ontario. No detail was
provided with respect to the form or content of such a code, nor to the future role of the
Integrity Commissioner of Ontario in developing training or in otherwise influencing the
approach municipal integrity commissioners are to take in serving their client municipalities.2
What the Bill did specify is a mechanism to remove elected officials from office should a
municipal integrity commissioner find after a complaint investigation:
1 The recent amendments to the Municipal Act which provide designated mayors to make unilateral decisions
with respect to municipal organization and prescribed provincial interests is neither indicative of non -designated
mayors being ‘weak’, nor representative of the extensive powers American ‘stron g mayors’ have, particularly in
light of the role partisan politics plays in electing administrators there.
2 It should be noted that the Integrity Commissioner of Ontario does not currently have any role in the
administration of municipal code of conduct/integrity commissioner matters.
- 57 -
Principles Integrity
1. The member has contravened the code of conduct.
2. The contravention is of a serious nature.
3. The member’s conduct that is the subject of the inquiry has resulted in harm to the
health, safety or well-being of any person.
4. The penalties set out in subsection 223.4 (5) [reprimand or suspension of pay] are
insufficient to address the contravention or to ensure that the contravention is not
repeated.
If such is the case, the municipal integrity commissioner will refer the matter to the Integrity
Commissioner of Ontario who will conduct their own inquiry. Upon the completion of that
inquiry the Integrity Commissioner of Ontario, if they agree the abov e criteria have been met,
will report to the respective municipal council with a recommendation that the elected official
be removed from office. Council must vote unanimously (the respondent elected official
cannot vote and is not counted) in order to cause the member’s seat to become vacant.
In our view the mechanism set out in the bill is lengthy, uncertain and expensive, and does not
adequately deal with what might be done to achieve course correction while the process is
underway, nor at the conclusion of a non-unanimous Council vote should the Integrity
Commissioner of Ontario recommend that removal from office is appropriate.
Regrettably the Bill represents a virtually single -minded approach to remedying the
deficiencies of the current system by focusing on mechanisms leading to removal from office.
It is hoped that there will be more fulsome consultations, including with prac ticing municipal
integrity commissioners, prior to any further legislative action.
Conclusion:
We look forward to continuing to work with Members of Council to ensure a strong ethical
framework. We embrace the opportunity to elevate Members’ familiarity with their
obligations under the Code and to respond to emerging issues. As always, we welcome
Members’ questions and look forward to continuing to serve as your Integrity Commissioner.
It has been a privilege to assist you in your work by providing advice about the Code of
Conduct and in resolving complaints. We recognize that public service is not easy and the
ethical issues that arise can be challenging. The public rightly demands th e highest standard
from those who serve them, and we congratulate Council for its aspirational objective to
strive to meet that standard.
Finally, we wish to thank the Clerk and the Chief Administrative Officer for their
professionalism and assistance where required. Although an Integrity Commissioner is not
part of the administrative hierarchy, the work of our office depends on the facilitation of
access to information and policy in order to carry out the mand ate. This was done willingly
and efficiently by the staff of the municipality.
- 58 -
Memo
To: Mayor Ashe and May 26, 2025
Mem bers of Council
From: Jesse St. Amant
Coordinator, Cultural Services
Copy: Chief Administrative Officer
Director, Community Services
City Clerk
Manager, Cultural Services
Manager, Community services Administration & Strategic Initiatives
Supervisor, Cultural Services
Special Advisor, Community Initiatives
Subject: Cultural Advisory Committee
2024 Year End Report & 2025 Work Plan
File: A-1410-008 Cultural Advisory Committee
The Cultural Advisory Committee (CAC) is pleased to submit, for Council’s information, the 2024
Year End Report and 2025 Work Plan.
A.2024 Year End Report
In 2024, the CAC met eight times prior to the end of term on November 14, 2024. Highlighted
achievements include but are not limited to the following:
Reviewed and provided recommendation and endorsement of the following Public Art projects:
•Gordon’s Guitar - Celebration of Gordon Lightfoot Public Art Commission in Ernie L.
Stroud Park in the Steeple Hill Community by artist Geordie Lishman, to be installed
in September/Fall 2025.
•Ayukwenodih - Kingston Road Public Art Commission by artist Javid Jah, Alex Akbari
and Catherine Tàmmaro (Wyandot artist). The artwork was unveiled on Friday,
November 1, 2024.
•Crimson Inflorescence - Remembrance Day Poppy Markers Public Art Commission in
Esplanade Park along southeast walking path leading towards the Cenotaph, installed
on 11 park light posts by artist Linfeng Zhou. The work was unveiled on October 25,
2024.
Reviewed and provided recommendation and endorsement of the following Temporary Public Art
projects:
•Annual Community Banner Series by artists Serene Chan, Zuna Amir, and Sima Naseem
located on Valley Farm Road and Kingston Road installed in December 2024.
Corr. 05-25
- 59 -
May 26, 2025 Page 2 of 4
Cultural Advisory Committee – 2024 Year End Report & 2025 Work Plan
• Digital Artwork Display at Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex of a
collection of works by artist Matthew James Catalano installed in August 2024.
• Art Junction - Utility Box Wrap in Rick Johnson Memorial Park by artist Rainier
Naomi Magtalas. The work was installed on October 22, 2024.
• Seasonal Window Painting Murals at City Hall and Chestnut Hill Developments
Recreation Complex by Pickering local artist Jacob Headley. The work was installed
on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 as part of Winter Nights, City Lights.
• Migizi (Bald Eagle) Saves The World - Winter Nights, City Lights Art Installation by
Nyle Miigizi Johnston at City Hall installed in November 2024.
Reviewed and provided recommendations on monthly Pickering Museum Village reports that
included, but were not limited to:
• Gather and Grow – an outdoor program areas focusing on the ways food preparation
and production has connected people and communities, across cultures and history.
• Log House and Log Barn renovations and new programs.
• Updates on the progress of the Pickering Heritage and Community Centre (PHCC) and
future programming.
Reviewed, consulted and discussed the following corporate projects and priorities:
• Presentations were made to the committee regarding:
o PHCC (construction and program development)
o Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy
o Pickering Community Visitor Plan 2024-2027
o 2024 Events Schedule and CAC outreach opportunities
o Post Manor Building (at 1970 Brock Road) feasibility study to convert the Heritage Building into an Art Gallery
The CAC initiated their first sub-committee, the Pickering Arts Culture & Engagement (P.A.C.E.),
in early 2024. This sub-committee is dedicated to coordinating opportunities for stakeholder and
community engagement. Their objective is to engage each of Pickering's cultural communities by
showcasing elements of their culture through arts, music, dance and food, to the community at
large through new initiatives, activities and partnerships.
Representatives from the CAC delegated twice at Council in 2024. Members of the CAC
presented the CAC 2023 Achievements and 2024 Work Plan Report during the March 25, 2024
Council meeting. The second delegation to Council was in support of the Community Visitor
Plan and Report at the May 6, 2024 Executive Council Meeting.
The CAC was also represented at this year’s Cultural Fusion event that took place on Saturday,
September 14, 2024 in Esplanade Park. The Chair of the CAC volunteered and acted as Master
of Ceremony for the event.
- 60 -
May 26, 2025 Page 3 of 4
Cultural Advisory Committee – 2024 Year End Report & 2025 Work Plan
B. 2025 Work Plan
The Cultural Services Unit has several projects and initiatives planned for 2025 that will be
presented to the CAC for consultation which include, but are not limited to:
• Community Visitors Plan 2024-2027 – Progress Report
• Cultural Strategic Plan - Renewal of the Plan
• Pickering Museum Village Strategic Plan – Renewal of the Plan
• Public Art Plan – Renewal of the Plan
The Cultural Services Unit also has ongoing annual planning which will be presented to the CAC
for consultation:
• Public Art Projects, including but not limited to:
o Commemorative Public Art for Sigrid Squire
o Commemorative Public Art for Paul White
o Celebration of Ernie Coombs (Mr. Dressup)
o Commission for the PHCC
o Commission for the Pickering Civic Complex Council Chambers (Dorsey James Project)
o Commission of Artwork by Indigenous Artists on Metal Pannels at Beachfront Park
• Temporary Public Art, including but not limited to:
o Lest We Forget Remembrance Day Crosswalks
o Community Banner Series
o City Centre Banner Display Program
o Digital Artwork Display at the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex
• Pickering Museum Village Annual Operating Plan, including but not limited to:
o Deaccession Lists review
o Provide feedback on Coach Tour business plan
o Provide an update on the Miller Cole Gather and Grow Exhibit and related consultation
o Review list of new program offerings
o Provide update on Spine-Tingling Tour
o Update on plans for the Redman House renovations
o Update on Harvey House restoration plans
• Pickering Events Plan Review:
o Review 2025 Event list
CAC participation at the 2025 Cultural Fusion Fair.
- 61 -
May 26, 2025 Page 4 of 4
Cultural Advisory Committee – 2024 Year End Report & 2025 Work Plan
The CAC has the following projects and initiatives planned to investigate further in 2025 which
include, but are not limited to:
• Continue the work of the P.A.C.E. sub-committee to engage Pickering’s Cultural
Community and investigate their interest in hosting new events and festivals, and/or
partnering with established events and festivals; that would give additional
opportunities to showcase elements of their culture (arts, music, dance, handmade
markets, food and drink) to the community at large through those new initiatives,
activities and partnerships.
Work of the CAC also includes:
• Consult on public art and participate on the Public Art Jury to review and consult on
public art submission, including the submission of a Terms of Reference.
• Provide feedback to staff on the development of community engagement initiatives
related to culture and provide feedback on existing cultural programs.
• Act as cultural champions and look for opportunities through community engagement
initiatives that focus on celebrating, and highlighting cultural assets, or that bring
heritage recognition, and education to the forefront.
• Connect community partners to the culture team, to deliver on goals listed in the
Cultural Strategic Plan.
• Provide feedback to staff on the development of entrepreneurial and economic
development initiatives related to culture and provide feedback on existing
programs.
• Report to Council annually through the committee’s work plan.
:jsa
- 62 -
Memo
To: Mayor Ashe and May 26, 2025
Members of Council
From: Timothy Higgins
Accessibility Coordinator
Copy: Chief Administrative Officer
Division Head, Public Affairs & Corporate Communications
Subject: Accessibility Advisory Committee
2024 Year End Report and 2025 Proposed Work Plan
File: S-1000
The Pickering Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) is pleased to submit, for Council’s
information, its 2024 Year End Report and 2025 Proposed Work Plan.
2024 Year End Report
In 2024, nine AAC meetings were held. The Committee continued to contribute to the goals of
Pickering’s Five-Year Accessibility Plan for 2021-2025 in the following ways:
A. AAC Membership, Training and Meetings
Committee - Throughout 2024, the AAC was comprised of ten Council-appointed Committee
members, two non-voting elected Councilors, and an Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade (APBOT)
non-voting representative. The AAC approved the Committee’s 2024 schedule of hybrid meetings
allowing attendance both virtually and in-person.
Liaison - The role of Accessibility Coordinator, the AAC’s Staff Liaison, was moved to the Office
of the Chief Administrative Officer and the function of Accessibility reassigned to the purview of
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI).
EDI - The Manager, People & Culture and the Senior Advisor, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
provided an update to the AAC regarding the City’s EDI Strategy and spoke to:
•key learnings and themes uncovered through community consultations;
•the vision, mission, and priority areas of focus for the City’s EDI strategy; and, next steps in the
EDI Strategy process.
Training -The Staff Liaison shared learning materials, and provided orientation and job-specific
accessibility training to AAC Members relating to:
•an accessibility overview of the Ontario Human Rights Code, the Accessibility for Ontarians
with Disabilities Act (AODA), and the Ontario Building Code;
Corr. 06-25
- 63 -
May 26, 2025
Accessibility Advisory Committee
Page 2 of 9
• AccessForward, a provincial Accessibility training platform
• Pickering’s 5 Year Accessibility Plan (2021-2025);
• policies available on the Accessible Pickering Website including:
o Accessibility Policy [ADM 090];
o Accessibility Standards for Customer Service [ADM 090 001]; and,
o Hiring Policy [HUR 040];
• AODA reviews by David Onley and Rich Donovan; and,
• federal government accessibility standards.
Conferences - The Staff Liaison provided the Committee with a brief summary of the Ontario
Network of Accessibility Professionals (ONAP) Conference, hosted by York Region in May, 2024
during National Accessibility Awareness Week. This Conference addressed, among other
important accessibility matters, the topic of municipalities advocating effectively with developers to
encourage building a greater number of accessible homes and increasing accessible residential
accommodation options available to new home buyers.
Awards - Former AAC Member M. Thorpe Ross received a 2024 Regional Accessibility Award
recognizing her long service and valuable contributions to Pickering accessibility such as with
respect to playground renovations and the inclusiveness of the City’s aquatics programs.
B. Awareness Activities
AODA Review - The AAC discussed the Independent 4th Review of the AODA authored by Rich
Donovan dated June 5, 2023, and its findings. Mr. Donovan reported that the Province of Ontario
is failing to achieve its accessibility commitments for 2025 and declared an “accessibility crisis”.
The AAC endorsed the Summary of Recommendations outlined in the Independent 4th AODA
Review and resolved that Pickering City Council:
• endorse the Independent 4th AODA Review recommendations;
• recognize the accessibility crisis in the Province of Ontario; and,
• forward a resolution of Council to the Premier of Ontario and other applicable parties.
Canada Day (evening) - The Manager, Cultural Services provided the AAC with an overview of
the Canada Day event proposed site plan. She outlined a review of the event in prior years and
proposed plans for 2024, highlighting increased efforts to make the event more accessible and
welcoming. The AAC Provided input on the Canada Day evening event, specifically on a new
proposed plan to improve accessibility and inclusion considerations and to make the event more
welcoming.
Canada Day (daytime) - The AAC delivered a “Tranquility Tent” exhibit at Pickering’s 2024
Canada Day celebrations, to offer cool, shaded, relaxing space for guests to unwind given rising
mental health, economic anxiety, and social isolation issues. Pickering’s accessibility partner, the
Pickering Football Club, provided inclusive sport/recreation activities.
Website - The Supervisor, Public Affairs & Corporate Communications provided a presentation to
the AAC to introduce the City of Pickering’s Website Redesign Project, a project that was
supported by the City’s Digital Strategy. Informed by advice from the AAC, the City refreshed
Pickering.ca website to improve the user experience and enhance the accessibility of online
services for people of all abilities.
- 64 -
May 26, 2025
Accessibility Advisory Committee
Page 3 of 9
Website - City Development staff informed the AAC that all documents prepared by City
Development that are being made available to the public through the website are AODA-
compliant.
Best Practices - The AAC has continued to monitor local, provincial, national, and international
emerging accessibility legislation, regulations, policies, best practices, products and services and
has considered adaptations for use in the City of Pickering. For example, the Committee
monitored recent accessibility standards developed by the Canadian federal government and kept
informed about accessibility opportunities related to artificial intelligence (AI) adaptive technology
advances.
Grants & Awards - AAC continued to monitor and support potential submissions for municipal,
regional, and provincial grants and awards to profile Pickering’s accessibility investments and
achievements. For example, The Accessibility Advisory Committee endorsed a letter of support to
accompany the City’s submission for grant funding for playground replacement at seven Pickering
community parks with new, accessible playgrounds.
C. Plans, Policies, Standards, and Implementation
Reports - The 2023 Year End Report and 2024 Proposed Work Plan, having been endorsed by
the AAC, and the Accessibility Core Staff Team (ACST) were approved in May 2024 by City
Council and posted to Pickering.ca.
Playgrounds – The Manager, Landscape & Parks Development provided periodic updates to the
AAC regarding the City’s efforts to refurbish City playgrounds and enhance their accessibility.
Through the Accessible Playground Reconstruction Project which focused on inclusive play,
Pickering updated nine of its parks with universally designed playground features to help
enhanced inclusive spaces and has extensively reconstructed four playgrounds in a way that
profiles accessibility best practices. These upgrades were made to Progress Frenchman’s Bay
East Park, Forestbrook Park, Southcott Park, and St. Mary Park.
Transit - The AAC discussed service changes implemented by Durham Region Transit (DRT) on
January 1, 2024, including the standardization of 800-meter distances between bus stops and the
reduction of buses serving Pickering. Due to a lack of community consultation by DRT, the City
received numerous complaints about this matter suggesting that DRT’s service changes had
resulted in heightened barriers to elderly and disabled transit users.
The AAC resolved that the service changes implemented by Durham Region Transit contravened
the OHRC and the AODA and requested that Pickering Council reach out to the Region to request
a reversal of service changes and further consultation with Pickering residents, especially those
with disabilities. DRT subsequently committed to reviewing its service changes and follow-on
discussions at a Durham Region Transit (DRT) Executive Committee meeting, as well as at a
March 21, 2024 Town Hall on Transit were well attended by community advocates.
Taxis – In light of public concerns regarding inadequate taxi services in Pickering and across
Durham Region, the City of Pickering collaborated in an informative Region-wide survey of
accessible taxi services.
- 65 -
May 26, 2025 Page 4 of 9
Accessibility Advisory Committee
Lighting – The AAC advised Council of accessibility, safety and security concerns regarding
exterior lighting at City Hall and the Pickering Public Library. Council endorsed an exterior lighting
study of the City Centre and budget has been identified to obtain consulting services.
Environment – City staff shared his lived experience with an environmental sensitivity to sound
with the Committee, and discussed how a loud alarm system could be detrimental rather than
helpful for someone who is neurodivergent. The staff member noted that this environmental issue
was unfamiliar to many and pointed out that conventional alarms that meet Building Code
Standards may not always effectively alert people who are neurodivergent.
Other Updates - Updates were also provided to the AAC regarding the Rotary Frenchman’s Bay
West Park project and the use of Pickering’s Let’s Talk platform to consult residents.
In 2024, the AAC continuously monitored:
• walkway reconstructions, sidewalk retrofits, new multi-use paths, installation of tactile plates at
intersections, curb cuts, snow clearing, traffic light timing, parks, playgrounds, special event
accessible parking, etc. For example, an AAC Member presented photos to the Committee
highlighting examples of accessibility barriers in Valley View Park/City Hall area. The photos
profiled a storm drain in disrepair, with cracks in the sidewalk; and, an old gate piece
installation, protruding in the middle of a walkway. Consequently, a walkabout by several key
City staff was arranged to confirm accessibility pathway and lighting deficiencies, and take
timely remedial actions;
• progress with respect to Pickering’s Five-Year Accessibility Plan for 2021-2025;
• progress on implementing recommendations from the LEAD partnership initiative;
• the City’s steps to ensure website accessibility commensurate with WCAG 2.0 Level AA AODA
Information and Communication Standards; and,
• the City’s staff and volunteer training process related to accessibility
D. Consultation & Collaboration
Accessible Housing - In 2024, AAC continued to review accessible housing issues raised by
Pickering residents since new housing is often being designed and built without accessibility
sufficiently in mind, while aging Pickering residents are growing increasingly uncomfortable in their
homes. The AAC considered how best to incent builders to plan developments with accessibility at
the forefront of their designs. The AAC also considered the effectiveness of Pickering’s site plan
review process and concluded that addressing accessibility earlier in the application process
would be a valuable enhancement.
As a result of this, the AAC struck a Sub-Committee on March 20, 2024 and appointed C.
Rudberg-Chin, B. Ferguson, and K. Sullivan as its members. This Sub-Committee, in collaboration
with the Planning Division of the City Development Department is exploring potential partnerships,
policies, procedures and accessibility standards that will incent and guide the inclusion of
accessible design in City residential development projects. AAC representatives also met with the
Manager, Sustainability & Strategic Environmental Initiatives, to learn how the City engaged the
- 66 -
May 26, 2025 Page 5 of 9
Accessibility Advisory Committee
building community in the creation of the Integrated Sustainability Design Standards (ISDS) and
the Sustainability Series Workshop.
The Sub-Committee aims to develop an accessibility-focused site plan checklist, a potential
accessibility orientation symposium for developers, and is exploring collaborations with like-
minded advocacy groups such as the Accelerating Accessibility Coalition. This work is ongoing.
Durham Abilities Centre – A collaboration of the City of Pickering and LEAD (Leading Equitable
and Accessible Delivery) was initiated in 2023 and a series of improvement planning consultation
workshops were held in the spring of 2023, culminating in a comprehensive 2024 report to the
City. The LEAD report identified multiple opportunities to improve inclusion and accessibility at all
organizational levels, and to enhance Pickering’s accessibility programs, policies, processes, and
services. Follow-up actions are included in the AAC’s 2024 and 2025 annual work plans and
longer-term recommendations will be carried forward to the new 2026-2030 Accessibility Five
Year Plan.
The LEAD Canada program is offered through the Durham Abilities Centre and is funded and
endorsed by the Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility (MSAA). LEAD is a methodology to help
governments, public and private sector organizations collaboratively define and embed inclusion
and accessibility into strategic planning, daily operations, program environments, and
organizational culture. The LEAD process helps organizations to identify opportunities to improve
and enhance inclusion and accessibility at all organizational levels.
Workplace Mental Health – The Pickering Mental Wellness Committee hosted a range of
initiatives to promote mental health and well-being in the workplace. Mental Health First Aid
training was made available to City staff. Events included Facial and Fascia Stretch Therapy,
mindfulness and healthy eating workshops, volleyball, pickleball, a Learn to Skate workshop,
Improv in the Park, and visits from Therapeutic Paws of Canada.
Community Mental Health – As previously discussed, the AAC delivered a third annual
“Tranquility Tent” exhibit at Pickering’s 2024 Canada Day celebrations, to offer cool, shaded,
relaxing space for City residents and guests to unwind in response to the pandemic’s tragic impact
on mental health, anxiety, and social isolation.
DRPS Children’s Games – Pickering supported the 40th Annual Durham Regional Police
Children’s Games for approximately 80 disabled youth aged 5 to 18 on November 10, 2024 held
at Durham College. Pickering has partnered annually with DRPS, Grandview Children’s Centre,
and other community organizations since 1985 on this event. DRPS presented a plaque to the
City to honour and celebrate the Pickering’s 40th consecutive year of partnership.
Business - Through its APBOT representative, the AAC regularly exchanged accessibility
information and collaborated with Durham Region businesses.
Through the Committee’s Staff Liaison, the AAC was kept apprised of accessibility partner news,
opportunities and events, including from:
• Pickering’s Accessibility Core Staff Team;
- 67 -
May 26, 2025 Page 6 of 9
Accessibility Advisory Committee
• Pickering’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Team;
• Pickering’s Age Friendly Team;
• Pickering’s Mental Wellness Committee;
• Durham Region’s network of Accessibility Coordinators;
• the Ontario Network of Accessibility Professionals;
• the Ontario Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility; and,
• Accessibility Standards Canada.
E. Site Plan Reviews
Site Plan Review for Municipal Developments - For new City buildings and parks, and
renovations, AAC reviewed plans helping to ensure barrier-free accessibility. For example, the
AAC provided advice to the Pickering Museum Village Log House and Log Barn Restoration
project. The project included the replacement of the barrier-free access ramp to the log barn,
addition of interior glass barrier-free doors, and the leveling of the building floor space.
Other 2024 plans reviewed by the AAC included the Beachfront Park revitalization, Seaton
Recreation Complex & Library, and the renovation of Council Chambers.
Site Plan Review for Private Sector Developments - The AAC continued to work in
collaboration with City planning staff through an ongoing site plan application review process. As
required by the AODA, the AAC reviewed and provided accessibility advice with respect to the
following site plan applications in 2024:
• S14/23, DDSB elementary school & childcare centre at 1100 Azelea Ave., Seaton;
• S15/23, Suncor Energy Inc. Petro Canada gas station at 1800 Brock Rd.;
• S07/88 (R23), manufacturing and warehouse addition at 125 Squires Beach Rd.;
• S13/23, hotel with access to Pickering Town Centre at 1355 Kingston Rd.;
• S09/08(R24-1), NIVLOG Investments Ltd., 1635 Bayly St. – Day Care;
• S09/08(R24-2) – JMPM Holdings Ltd. at 1635 Bayly St., Bldg “E” – Warehouse/Office Building;
• S01/23 #2, Pickering Valley Developments Limited at1515 Pickering Parkway;
• A 08/22, SP-2022-03 & CP-2022-04 at 2660, 2670 and 2680 Brock Rd.;
• S08/98(R24), WO MV Realty Inc. at 1220-1280 Squires Beach Rd.; and,
• Watson’s Glenn Golfclub house at 7th Concession and Lakeridge.
- 68 -
May 26, 2025 Page 7 of 9
Accessibility Advisory Committee
2025 Proposed Work Plan
The AAC is pleased to present its 2025 Proposed Work Plan. The Plan, which outlines concrete
actions the AAC will undertake to improve accessibility, includes, but is not limited to:
F. 2025 Accessibility Priorities
Vision: The City of Pickering’s long-term vision is to ensure that Pickering is a caring and
responsive community known for its commitment to equity, inclusion, and accessibility as well as
its related accessibility achievements. With the support of Members of Council, management,
staff, the AAC, volunteers and community partners, barrier removal will continue to be a priority in
Pickering. Accessibility is everyone’s responsibility and will be incorporated by design into the
work of all City Departments.
Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (MYAP) - Pickering’s 2021-2025 Five-Year Accessibility Plan sets
out initiatives to meet Pickering’s commitment to an inclusive community where all residents and
visitors have access to City services, programs and facilities in an integrated manner that
promotes dignity and independence. The AAC will continue to comply with Ontario's
accessibility standards. Further, the City is committed to going beyond legislated minimum
requirements, where feasible, to ensure that barriers to accessibility are identified and removed.
Based on Pickering’s 2021-2025 Five-Year Accessibility Plan, and informed by best practices,
Pickering’s areas of priority in 2025 will include:
• mental and physical wellness, particularly through recreation and sports
• accessible and affordable housing options
• community employment opportunities for people with disabilities
• accessible parks, playgrounds, pedestrian and cyclist corridors, sidewalks, and trails
• accessibility partnerships and collaboration
• increasing support for service and support animals
• website navigation and content accessibility
• facilities signage and navigation
• leveraging AI advances for accessibility
• accessible transportation
LEAD - The City’s accessibility journey will also be informed by outstanding recommendations
from the Abilities Centre LEAD Project, identifying potential accessibility enhancements in the
following areas:
• Leadership;
• Governance & Structure;
• Strategy;
• Financial Management;
• Supplier-Partnership Management;
• People Resources;
• Program & Service Delivery;
- 69 -
May 26, 2025 Page 8 of 9
Accessibility Advisory Committee
• Communications and Marketing; and,
• Facility & Technology Support.
MYAP Renewal – The AODA Multi-Year Accessibility Plan is a public-facing roadmap for meeting
obligations under the AODA and preventing and removing barriers to accessibility across the
organization. As prescribed by the AODA, the Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (MYAP) must be
updated every five years and posted publicly on the organization’s website. A new Pickering
MYAP will be developed, through public consultation, to take effect from January 1, 2026, to
December 31, 2030.
2025 AODA Compliance Report - As prescribed by the AODA, municipalities must report on
AODA compliance to the Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility every two years. Pickering will
need to submit a compliance report addressing both the City of Pickering and the Pickering Public
Library by December 2025.
G. Awareness Activities
Canada Day - The AAC will host a fourth annual “Tranquility Tent” exhibit at Pickering’s Canada
Day daytime celebrations, to offer a cool, shaded, relaxing space for people to unwind.
In 2025, the AAC will continue to:
• monitor local, provincial, national, and international accessibility legislation, regulations,
policies, best practices, products, services, and networking opportunities.
• foster/promote/support submissions for municipal, regional, and provincial awards and grants
to profile Pickering’s accessibility investments and achievements.
H. Plans, Policies, Standards, and Implementation
In 2025, the AAC will continue to monitor:
• progress on and completion of Pickering’s Five-Year Accessibility Plan for 2021-2025;
• progress on implementing recommendations from the LEAD partnership initiative;
• the City’s steps to ensure website accessibility commensurate with WCAG 2.0 Level AA AODA
Information and Communication Standards;
• walkway reconstructions, sidewalk retrofits, new multi-use paths, installation of tactile plates at
intersections, curb cuts, traffic light timing, parks, playgrounds, special event accessible
parking, etc.; and,
• the City’s staff and volunteer training process related to accessibility.
I. Consultation & Collaboration
Accessible Housing – In 2025, the AAC Sub-Committee will continue its work to complete and
pilot an accessibility-focused site plan checklist, a potential accessibility orientation symposium for
developers in Durham Region, and is reaching out to exploring possible collaborations with like-
- 70 -
May 26, 2025 Page 9 of 9
Accessibility Advisory Committee
minded advocacy groups such as the Accelerating Accessibility Coalition with a view to leveraging
the Coalition’s substantial and established advocacy networks and resources.
Pathways2Employment – Following on from Pickering’s successful partnership with the Durham
Abilities Centre LEAD Program (discussed above), and in light of pervasive employment barriers
encountered by Canadians living with disabilities, Pickering partnered once more in 2025 with the
Abilities Centre for its Pathways2Employment program to offer meaningful,150-hour job
placement opportunities for 2 Durham youth with disabilities.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program – S. Moore, Legislative Specialist, Town of Ajax
provided an overview of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, why it was important, and how
it had been implemented in the Town of Ajax. S. Moore provided a summary of items to consider
when exploring the feasibility of implementation.
J. Site Plan Reviews
The AAC will continue to work in collaboration with City planning staff through an ongoing site plan
application review process. In 2025, to the date of writing, the AAC has reviewed and provided
accessibility advice with respect to the following private sector site plan applications:
• S06/24, Ansar Medical Services Inc., at 2177 & 2185 Brock Rd.;
• S06/88 (R24), 1900 Dixie Road - Garden Centre; and,
• S05/98 (R24), Amendment #1, Pickering Islamic Centre at 2065 & 2071 Brock Rd.
Submitted on behalf of the Pickering AAC Members:
• Maurice Brenner, Regional Councillor
• Dave Currie
• Saima Fatima
• Brian Ferguson
• Katherine Hale
• Ayesha Khan
• Mara Nagy, City Councillor
• Carla Rudberg-Chin
• Dylan Schick
• Michael Shackleton
• Sam Snyders
• Kevin Sullivan
• Aaron Topper, Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade Representative
TH:th
- 71 -
Memo
To: Mayor Ashe and May 26, 2025
Members of Council
From: Arnold Mostert
Manager, Landscape & Parks Development
Copy: Chief Administrative Officer
Directors
Subject: Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee
2024 Year End Report and 2025 Proposed Work Plan
The Pickering Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee (WVAC) is pleased to present its 2024
Year End Report and 2025 Proposed Work Plan.
A.2024 Year End Report
The Pickering Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee’s activities and achievements in 2024 are
described below.
Meetings
•In 2024, the WVAC held two regular meetings on March 18th and November 18th. The regular
meeting scheduled for June 17th was cancelled due to the lack of agenda items and
September 16th meeting was cancelled due to lack of quorum.
•One additional special meeting was held on April 15th to discuss previously unfinished
business from the March 18th meeting agenda.
Awareness Activities
•An update on the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station refurbishment was provided by
Analiese St. Aubin, Senior Manager, Corporate Relations & Projects, Pickering Nuclear.
•Updates on the Beachfront Park Revitalization Plans were provided by Jana Joyce of The
MBTW Group as well as City staff.
•Staff provided the committee with updates on discussions between the City and the Toronto
and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) to explore investment and management
opportunities for the City at Petticoat Creek Conservation Park.
•Staff provided the committee with information regarding plans to engage the TRCA in a
Coastal Assessment Study for the section of shoreline between West Shore Boulevard and
Marksbury Road in order to construct a section of the Waterfront Trail.
Corr. 07-25
- 72 -
May 26, 2025 Page 2 of 3
WVAC 2024 Year End Report and 2025 Proposed Work Plan
• Staff provided updates on the progress of reconstruction of the Waterfront Trail from Bruce
Handscomb Memorial Park to Elvira Court.
• Staff provided updates on the design and approvals for the reconstruction of Sandy Beach
Road.
• Staff provided updates on the Frenchman’s Bay Water Quality Characterization Report that
was being undertaken by TRCA and the City’s weed management plans for Frenchman’s Bay
for 2024.
Consultation & Discussion Topics
• An overview of the considerations given to selecting a viable location for Waterfront
Paddlesport Rentals was provided by K. Coleman, Manager, Fitness, Courts & Aquatics, and
the committee members were asked to provide comments on the various locations being
considered.
• An overview of the Community Visitor Plan 2024-2027 was given to the committee by A. Shah,
Senior Advisor, Creative Industries & Tourism and J. St. Amant, Coordinator, Cultural
Services.
• An overview of the Community Climate Adaptation Project was given to the committee by M.
Edmond, Coordinator, Sustainability.
B. 2025 Proposed Work Plan
The WVAC’s 2025 plans, as well as its accomplishments to April 2025, are noted below:
Meetings & Membership
• Members – the WVAC aims to maintain its full authorized complement of 14 members
throughout 2025.
• Meetings – to date, one regular meeting was held on March 17, 2025. The other meeting dates
scheduled for 2025 are June 16th, September 15th and November 17th.
Awareness Activities
• A brief overview of the Frenchman’s Bay Water Quality Characterization Report was given by
A. Wallace, TRCA.
• A progress update was provided regarding the Shoreline Coastal Assessment Study – West
Shore Boulevard to Marksbury Road, that is being undertaken by the TRCA.
- 73 -
May 26, 2025 Page 3 of 3
WVAC 2024 Year End Report and 2025 Proposed Work Plan
In 2025, the WVAC will continue to:
• promote awareness of, and advise on projects, information, and resources for waterfront
related improvements and activities including:
o Beachfront Park Revitalization
o Shoreline Coastal Assessment Study – West Shore Boulevard to Marksbury Road
Priorities for 2025
Priorities for the WVAC for 2025 include:
• Advocate for the health of Frenchman’s Bay by working with City of Pickering and TRCA to
initiate an Aquatic Habitat Restoration Strategy that looks at the environmental, recreational
and physical aspects of the bay.
• Promote Pickering’s waterfront as a tourist attraction through waterfront events, activities, and
improved facilities.
• Review and provide recommendations to increase the safety of our waterfront through on-site
signage, 911 address/GPS coordinates, and life-saving equipment.
• Review and provide recommendations on ways to improve public access to the waterfront
through trail connections, parking/shuttle service, and public transit.
• Look for opportunities to enhance the waterfront area through the installation of landscape
features and to increase our tree canopy along the waterfront.
Submitted on behalf of the Pickering Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee members:
• Maurice Brenner, Regional Councillor, Ward 1
• Mara Nagy, City Councillor, Ward 2
• Gord MacPherson
• Adam McGean
• Amanda Small
• Kelly Stott
• Lynn Tidd
• Shawna Stanleigh, Fairport Beach Neighbourhood Association
• Xaine Kane, Pickering West Shore Community Association
• Kay Dunlop, Alkame Dragon Boat Services
• Andrea Zeeb, Frenchman’s Bay Yacht Club
• Johanna Kyte, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
• Izsak Dewar, OPG
• Amanda Bathe, Region of Durham
AM:am
- 74 -
From:Clerks
To:premier@ontario.ca; rob.flack@pc.ola.org; Ernie.Hardemanco@pc.ola.org; resolutions@amo.on.ca;
roma@roma.on.ca
Subject:Tillsonburg Town Council Decision Letter - April 14, 2025 - Strong Mayor Powers
Date:Tuesday, April 15, 2025 8:41:03 AM
Attachments:Outlook-cid_image0.png
Hello,
At the April 14, 2025, meeting of Tillsonburg Town Council, the following resolution was
passed:
Resolution # 2025-125
Moved By: Councillor Spencer
Seconded By: Deputy Mayor Beres
THAT Council receive item 12.8 Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Letter Re: Strong
Mayor Powers, as information;
WHEREAS the Ontario government has proposed expanding the "strong mayor" powers to 169
additional municipalities under the proposed legislation on May 1, 2025, which would grant
mayors in these municipalities more authority, particularly concerning the control of municipal
budgets, planning and operational decisions;
AND WHEREAS this proposal has raised significant concerns regarding the centralization of
power, erosion of local democracy, reduced accountability, and the potential for the abuse of
power;
AND WHEREAS the proposed expansion of strong mayor powers undermines the collaborative
nature of municipal governance, and diminish the role of elected municipal councillors in
representing the diverse interests of the community;
AND WHEREAS concerns have been raised about the negative impacts on public trust,
democratic participation, and municipal decision-making processes, if mayors are given the
ability to bypass council decisions without adequate consultation or oversight;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Council of the Town of Tillsonburg;
1. Does not support the proposed strong mayor powers as currently outlined;
2. Supports specific powers to mayors as it pertains to identifiable decisions regarding
housing, development, infrastructure and transit to provide tools that reduce obstacles
that can stand in the way of new housing and infrastructure developments;
3. Strongly suggests that free reign of decision-making regarding hiring, firing, committees
and so forth be removed from the proposed authority;
4. Strongly suggests that members of current Council were duly elected officials by
Corr. 08-25
- 75 -
citizens with the awareness of one vote per council member and majority votes are the
democratic process;
5. Requests that the Provincial Strong Mayor Powers proposed to take effect on May 1,
2025, be deferred to allow for greater clarity and that the Province seek collaborative
input from the Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario
(AMCTO);
6. Directs staff to forward this resolution immediately to Minister Flack, Premier Ford, MPP
Hardeman, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), the Rural Ontario
Municipal Association (ROMA), and all Ontario Municipalities before April 16, 2025.
Regards,
Amelia Jaggard
Deputy Clerk
Town of Tillsonburg
10 Lisgar Ave
Tillsonburg, ON N4G 5A5
Phone: 519-688-3009 Ext. 4041
Ranked one of “Canada’s Top 25 Communities to Live and Work Remotely”(Maclean’s 2021 Best
Communities)
www.Tillsonburg.ca
www.DiscoverTillsonburg.ca
www.Facebook.com/TillsonburgON
DISCLAIMER: This E-mail contains legally privileged information intended only for the individual or entity named in the message. If the
reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby
notified that any review, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is prohibited. If this communication was received
in error, please notify us by reply E-mail and delete the original message.
3 Please consider the environment before printing this email.
- 76 -
Town of Saugeen Shores
600 Tomlinson Drive, P.O. Box 820
Port Elgin, ON N0H 2C0
T 519.832.2008
F 519.832.2140
saugeenshores.ca
@SaugeenShoresON
April 14, 2025
Honourable Rob Flack
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
17th Floor, 777 Bay St.
Toronto, ON M7A 2J3
rob.flack@pc.ola.org
Dear Minister,
RE: Opposition to Proposed Amendments to O.Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor
Powers
I am writing to express my opposition to the government’s proposed expansion of Strong
Mayor powers to include the Town of Saugeen Shores. As the Mayor of Saugeen Shores, I
am concerned about the implications of this policy change on our local governance. Please
consider this letter as the Town of Saugeen Shores submission on O.Reg. 530/22 which is
available for comment until April 16th.
In my experience, the ‘Council Manager’ system of governance has always served our
municipality well. Specifically, when it comes to advancing our shared priority of building
more housing to serve our residents, Saugeen Shores Council has demonstrated flexible
and determined leadership. Our Council has enabled housing by reducing red tape resulting
in the construction of more than 600 multi-family residential units in the last two years alone.
Given the strong and sustained commitment of our Council to these efforts, I do not see
how the introduction of Strong Mayor powers will accelerate the construction of housing (or
the pursuit of other priority areas) in any way. On the contrary, vesting these new powers in
the Mayor threatens to disrupt long-established and effective processes, sidelining elected
members of Council with effects that may be contrary to the interests of our residents.
Saugeen Shores has thrived for decades on the principle of shared leadership. We have an
effective team of elected representatives working in partnership with a professional staff to
achieve goals that are transparently set out in our Strategic Plan and annual Business
Plans. This approach to governance is foundational to building trust between the
municipality and the residents that it serves. I fear that the unilateral decision-making
enabled by Strong Mayor powers would erode this trust and disrupt the collaborative
environment that has long been at the heart of the democratic tradition of our Council and
community.
I urge you to reconsider the expansion of Strong Mayor powers. If the government has a
strong desire to advance these major changes to the governance of our municipality, I
Corr. 09-25
- 77 -
request that you engage in a thorough consultation process with our Council and the
residents of our community before moving forward. It is crucial that any changes to local
governance structures be made in close partnership with the communities they impact.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response and hope that
we can work together in the interest of ensuring strong local governance in Saugeen
Shores.
Sincerely,
Luke Charbonneau, Mayor
Town of Saugeen Shores
cc. Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario
Lisa Thompson, MPP, Minister of Rural Affairs
Council, Town of Saugeen Shores
All Ontario Municipalities
- 78 -
Town of Amherstburg
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR Michael Prue, Mayor
519-736-0012 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario N9A 2A5 mprue@amherstburg.ca
April 15, 2025
SENT VIA EMAIL
Premier of Ontario
Legislative Building
Queens Park
Toronto, ON, M7A 1A4
VIA EMAIL: premier@ontario.ca
Attn: The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario
Re: Resolution# 20250414-011 - Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the Town of Amherstburg
At its regular meeting on April 14, 2025, Amherstburg Town Council passed Resolution
20250414-011 in response to the Province’s recent proposal to designate Amherstburg as a
“Strong Mayor” municipality, effective May 1, 2025.
WHEREAS the Province of Ontario has proposed to designate the Town of Amherstburg as a
"Strong Mayor" community, granting enhanced powers to the Mayor effective May 1, 2025; and,
WHEREAS the Strong Mayor powers significantly alter the balance of governance at the
municipal level, undermining the role of Council in decision-making and weakening the
fundamental democratic principle of majority rule; and,
WHEREAS the Town of Amherstburg has a long history of collaborative, transparent, and
accountable local governance built upon a foundation of Council-debate and shared decision-
making; and,
WHEREAS many municipally elected officials across the province and members of the public
have expressed significant concern regarding the imposition of these powers; and,
WHEREAS the Town of Amherstburg did not formally request or express a desire to be
designated under the Strong Mayor framework; and,
WHEREAS a growing number of municipalities and elected officials across Ontario are
questioning the appropriateness of the Strong Mayor system and are calling for its
reconsideration or repeal;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Amherstburg Town Council formally request that the
Premier of Ontario and the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing immediately remove the
Town of Amherstburg from the list of municipalities designated under the Strong Mayor
legislation;
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be sent to the Premier of
Ontario, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, all regional Members of Provincial
Corr. 10-25
- 79 -
Town of Amherstburg
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR Michael Prue, Mayor
519-736-0012 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario N9A 2A5 mprue@amherstburg.ca
Parliament, all Ontario municipalities, and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) for
their awareness and support.
We thank you for your attention to this matter and urge you to respect the democratic wishes of
our Council and community.
Sincerely,
Michael Prue, Mayor
Town of Amherstburg
Cc: The Honourable Paul Calandra (Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing)
Regional Members of Provincial Parliament
All Ontario Municipalities
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)
- 80 -
2021 Division Road North
Kingsville, Ontario N9Y 2Y9
Phone: (519) 733-2305
www.kingsville.ca
April 16, 2025
Honourable Premier Doug Ford
Via Email: premier@ontario.ca
Honourable Rob Flack, Minitser of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Via Email: rob.flack@ontario.ca
Dear Premier Ford and Minister Flack,
Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers – Proposed Amendments to O. Reg.
530/22
Please be advised that at its Regular Meeting held Monday, April 14, 2025, the Council
of the Town of Kingsville passed the following resolution respecting the matter
referenced in the above subject line:
78-04142025
Moved By: Councillor Gaffan
Seconded By: Deputy Mayor DeYong
Whereas on April 9, 2025, the Government of Ontario (hereafter, the “Province”),
led by Premier Doug Ford, announced a proposal to expand by “Strong Mayor
Powers” as provided for by Part VI.1 of the Municipal Act, 2001, to the heads of
council in 169 additional municipalities, including the Town of Kingsville, effective
May 1, 2025;
And whereas Strong Mayor Powers erode democratic process and have
fundamentally altered the historic model of local governance, which has existed
for almost two centuries, by:
•providing the head of council with the authority to unilaterally give direction
and make certain decisions without a consensus from a majority of the
members of council; and,
•creating a power imbalance by providing the head of council with special
powers that other members do not generally have.
And whereas the Province is undermining the local governance model and
municipal independence by attempting to advance its priorities through
municipalities, and downloading its responsibilities to the same.
Corr. 11-25
- 81 -
Now therefore be it resolved that:
• The Council of the Corporation of the Town of Kingsville (“Council”) opposes
the expansion of Strong Mayor Powers, as announced on April 9, 2025;
• That Council requests that the proposed amendments to O. Reg. 530/22 to
Expand Strong Mayor Powers and Duties to Additional Municipalities not
include the Town of Kingsville; and;
• That Council directs the Acting Manager of Municipal Governance/Clerk to
forward a copy of this resolution to Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario; Rob Flack,
Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; All Four Local MPPs; AMCTO,
AMO and All Ontario Municipalities
Carried.
Sincerely,
Angela Toole, Acting Manager of Municipal Governance/Clerk
Email: atoole@kingsville.ca
Phone: 519-733-2305 ext. 223
cc. Anthony Leardi, MPP, Essex
Trevor Jones, MPP, Chatham-Kent - Leamington
Andrew Dowie, MPP, Windsor-Tecumseh
Lisa Gretzky, MPP, Windsor West
AMCTO
AMO
All Ontario Municipalities
- 82 -
YES: 5
NO: 2
ABSTAIN: 0
TOWNSHIP OF RIDEAU LAKES
Special Council Meeting
RESOLUTION 104-2025
Title:MSC (PW) Rec #78-2025 re: Strong Mayor Powers (for
Council approval)
Date:Wednesday, April 16, 2025
Moved by Councillor Dunfield
Seconded by Deputy Mayor P. Banks
WHEREAS at the Municipal Services Committee meeting held April 14, 2025,
Recommendation #78-2025 was passed related to the recent announcement from the
Government of Ontario on Strong Mayor Powers to an additional 169 municipalities
effective May 1, 2025;
AND WHEREAS said recommendation further requested that the Province remove
Rideau Lakes from the Strong Mayor Powers Legislation;
NOW THEREFORE be it resolved that the Council of The Corporation of the Township of
Rideau Lakes concurs with MSC Recommendation #78-2025.
YES: 5 NO: 2 ABSTAIN: 0 CONFLICT: 0 ABSENT: 1
Carried
Deputy Mayor P. Banks
Councillor J. Banks Councillor Carr Councillor Dunfield Councillor Hutchings
Councillor Maxwell Councillor Pollard
CONFLICT: 0
ABSENT: 1 Mayor Hoogenboom
______________________________________
Paula Banks, Deputy Mayor
Corr. 12-25
- 83 -
TOWNSHIP OF RIDEAU LAKES Municipal Services Committee (PW)
RECOMMENDATION: 78-2025
Title: Ontario Proposing to Expand Strong Mayor Powers to 169
Additional Municipalities
Date: Monday, April 14, 2025
Moved by Councillor Dunfield
Seconded by Deputy Mayor P. Banks
WHEREAS the Government of Ontario has announced an expansion of strong mayor powers to
an additional 169 municipalities, effective May 1, 2025;
AND WHEREAS these powers allow mayors to unilaterally override council decisions, appoint
senior municipal staff, and set budgets without majority council approval, undermining the
principles of democratic governance;
AND WHEREAS municipal governance functions best through a collaborative decision-making
process where elected councils, representing the collective voice of their communities, work
alongside experienced municipal staff;
AND WHEREAS there is no evidence to suggest that strong mayor powers have increased housing
starts, contrary to the provincial government’s stated justification for their implementation;
AND WHEREAS the Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks, and Treasurers of Ontario
(AMCTO) has raised concerns that strong mayor powers blur the lines between political leadership
and administrative expertise, threatening the neutrality of municipal public service;
AND WHEREAS the City of Orillia recently experienced a situation where its mayor unilaterally
overturned a council decision regarding the hiring of a Chief Administrative Officer,
demonstrating the potential for these powers to be misused;
AND WHEREAS the Township of Rideau Lakes has also experienced governance challenges
resulting from mayoral overreach, further highlighting the risks posed by concentrating authority in a
single elected official;
AND WHEREAS democratic principles require that municipal governance remain a system of
"one person, one vote" rather than granting disproportionate power to a single individual;
- 84 -
NOW THEREFORE be it resolved that the Council of the Township of Rideau Lakes:
1. Strongly opposes the expansion of strong mayor powers to additional municipalities,
including Rideau Lakes;
2. Calls on the Government of Ontario to reverse this decision and uphold the traditional
balance of municipal governance; and
3. Directs the Clerk to send a copy of this resolution to:
• The Honourable Rob Flack Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
• MPP Steve Clark
• The Honourable Premier of Ontario Doug Ford
• The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)
• The Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks, and Treasurers of Ontario (AMCTO)
• All Ontario municipalities for their consideration and support.
AND FURTHER that the Province be requested to remove Rideau Lakes from the Strong
Mayor Powers Legislation.
YES: 5 NO: 3 ABSTAIN: 0 ABSENT: 0
Carried
YES: 5
Councillor J. Banks Councillor Carr Councillor Dunfield
Councillor Hutchings Deputy Mayor P. Banks
NO: 3
Mayor Hoogenboom Councillor Maxwell Councillor Pollard
- 85 -
52 Seguin Street, Parry Sound, Ontario P2A 1B4
Tel: (705) 746-2101 Fax: (705) 746-7461 www.parrysound.ca
Office of the Mayor
April 22, 2025
Honourable Rob Flack
Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing
College Park, 17th floor,
777 Bay St.
Toronto ON M7A 2J3
Via email: minister.mah@ontario.ca
Dear Minister Flack,
On behalf of Council of the Town of Parry Sound, please accept my congratulations
on your recent appointment as Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing. It’s an
important Ministry and we look forward to working with you and Ministry staff.
The Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing provided notice on April 9th that the
Ministry was seeking comments regarding its intent to extend strong mayor powers to
an additional 169 municipalities, including the Town of Parry Sound . The comment
period was open until April 16th. These additional powers are not powers that I as
Mayor believe are necessary and do not wish to exercise them. At our April 15th
meeting, Council unanimously voted to reject strong mayor powers, request the
province to repeal the legislation, or alternatively permit municipalities to opt out.
We were disappointed that there was no previous communication before the April 9 th
letter, with a comment period of only one week. Contrary to provincial claims that
strong mayor powers will get homes and infrastructure built faster, reduce red tape
and accelerate the delivery of key priorities, research by the Association of Municipal
Clerks & Treasurers of Ontario (AMCTO) has found no evidence to suggest this
legislation has any impact on the number of housing starts in municipalities that have
been granted the powers; and moreover the strong mayor powers have blurred the
political-administrative authority between the roles of head of council and Chief
Administrative Officers (CAOs) and senior staff, threatening the neutrality of the
public service and politicizing local government leadership. We have seen very
questionable use by mayors with strong mayor powers.
…2
Corr. 13-25
- 86 -
Our public expects a democratic process. Given the overwhelming use of executive
orders by the current US President and multiple respected analysts’ concerns about
the US slipping into authoritarianism, our country and its democratic institutions
should be safeguarding these democratic principles that provide accountability to the
public and not undermining them.
We encourage the provincial government to repeal this legislation.
Sincerely,
Jamie McGarvey
Mayor, Town of Parry Sound
c.c. Premier Doug Ford
MPP Graydon Smith
Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)
All Ontario Municipalities
Members of Town of Parry Sound Council
CAO Clayton Harris
Clerk Rebecca Johnson
- 87 -
%¢%
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF PARRY SOUND
RESOLUTION IN COUNCIL
NO.2025 —04‘?
DIVISION LIST YES NO DATE:April 15,2025
Councillor G.ASHFORD MOVED BY:L/’
Councillor J.BELESKEY
Councillor P.BORNEMAN
Councillor B.KEITH /,7/Councillor D.McCANN
Councillor C.McDONALD 7
Mayor J.McGARVEY
SECONDED BY'
///7
CARRIED:l/DEFEATED:Pos
Whereas the Province has announced the expansion of strong mayor powers to another
169 municipalities as of May 1,2025 in addition to the 47 municipalities which currently
have received strong mayor powers;and
Whereas the Province claims that strong mayor powers will get homes and infra—
structure built faster,reduce red tape,and accelerate the delivery of key priorities;and
Whereas research from the Association of Municipal Clerks &Treasurers of Ontario
(AMCTO)has identified that:a)there is no evidence to suggest this legislation has any
impact on the number of housing starts in municipalities that have been granted the
powers;and b)strong mayor powers have blurred the political-administrative authority
between the roles of head of council and chief administrative officers (CAOs),
threatening the neutrality of the public service and politicizing local government
leadership;and
Whereas strong mayor powers is an erosion to the democratic process of an historically
non—partisan municipal governance structure;
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound hereby
resolves to reject the strong mayor powers granted to it,and requests that the Province
repeal the legislation,or offer the option to municipalities to opt out of strong mayor
powers;and
That this Resolution be fon/varded to the Minister of Municipal Affairs &Housing Rob
Flack,Premier Doug Ford,MPP Graydon Smith,the Association of Municipalities of
Ontario (AMO),and all Ontario municipalities.
yorJa ie cGarvey
/r
/
t
- 88 -
Executive Services
99-A Advance Avenue, Napanee, ON K7R 3Y5 www.greaternapanee.com
April 23, 2025
Township of Rideau Lakes
1439 County Road 8
Delta, ON K0E 1G0
Sent via email: mtruelove@rideaulakes.ca
Re: Strong Mayor Powers
To Whom It May Concern,
Please be advised that the Council of the Town of Greater Napanee passed a resolution at its
regular session meeting of April 22, 2025 in support of your correspondence regarding Strong
Mayor Powers Legislation. A copy of the resolution is enclosed for your reference.
Please do not hesitate to contact me at jwalters@greaternapanee.com if you require any
further information with respect to this resolution.
Sincerely,
Jessica Walters
Clerk
cc: Honourable Premier Doug Ford
Honourable Ric Bresee, MPP Hastings-Lennox and Addington
Honourable Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
AMO
AMCTO
All Ontario municipalities
Corr. 14-25
- 89 -
RESOLUTION #194/25 Pinnell Jr., Norrie
That the Town of Greater Napanee sends a letter of support to the Township of Rideau Lakes
in regard to their opposition of Ontario Expanding Strong Mayor Powers to 169 Additional
Municipalities, and that the Town of Greater Napanee also request to be excluded from the
Strong Mayor Powers;
And that a copy of the letter of support be sent to the Honorable Premier Doug Ford, the
Honorable MPP Ric Bresee; the Honorable Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and
Housing; the Association of Municipalities of Ontario; the Association of Municipa l Managers,
Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario, and all other municipalities in Ontario for their consideration
and support.
For: 5 Opposed: 2 Abstained:0 Absent: 0
CARRIED.
For:
Councillor Schenk, Councillor Hicks, Councillor Pinnell Jr., Councillor Norrie, Councillor Martin
Opposed:
Mayor Richardson, Deputy Mayor Calver
- 90 -
Celebrating 50 years! 1975-2025
April 24, 2025
Hon. Doug Ford
Premier of Ontario
Via email: Premier@ontario.ca
At the April 16, 2025 regular meeting of the Council of the Township of Zorra, the following
resolution was passed:
WHEREAS the Ontario government has proposed expanding the "strong mayor" powers to 169
additional municipalities under the proposed legislation, which would grant mayors in these
municipalities more authority, particularly concerning the control of municipal budgets and planning
decisions;
AND WHEREAS this proposal has raised significant concerns regarding the centralization of
power, erosion of local democracy, reduced accountability, and the potential for the abuse of
power;
AND WHEREAS the proposed expansion of strong mayor powers undermines the collaborative
nature of municipal governance, and diminishes the role of elected municipal councillors in
representing the diverse interests of the community;
AND WHEREAS concerns have been raised about the negative impacts on public trust, democratic
participation, and municipal decision-making processes, if mayors are given the ability to bypass
council decisions without adequate consultation or oversight;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Council of the Township of Zorra opposes the
expansion of Strong Mayor Powers;
AND THAT the Council formally expresses its opposition to the Ontario government's proposal to
expand Strong Mayor Powers to preserve local democracy, transparency, and accountability;
AND THAT the Council encourages advocacy for democratic principles and for municipal
governance systems that prioritize collaboration, inclusivity, and democratic engagement;
FURTHER BE IT RESOLVED THAT a copy of this motion be forwarded to the Ontario Premier,
the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, all Ontario municipalities, as well as the Association
of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) for further action.
Disposition: Carried
Yours truly,
Karen Martin
Clerk
Township of Zorra
25-009
CC: Hon. Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing minister.mah@ontario.ca
All Ontario Municipalities
Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) resolutions@amo.on.ca
Corr. 15-25
- 91 -
North � Middlesex
THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNCIPALITY OF NORTH MIDDLESEX
RESOLUTION OF COUNCIL
Member Present
Councillor A. Cornelissen
Councillor C. Daigle
Councillor 8. Irwin
Councillor S. Nirta
Deputy Mayor P. Hodgins
Mayor 8. Ropp
RESULT: Carried
YES NO DATE: APRIL 23,2025
MOVED BY:
SECONDED BY:
J \) /y,.O�
WHEREAS the Province has announced the expansion of strong mayor powers to
another 169 municipalities as of May 1, 2025 in addition to the 47 municipalities which
currently have received strong mayor powers; and
WHEREAS the Province claims that strong mayor powers will get homes and infra
structure built faster, reduce red tape, and accelerate the delivery of key priorities; and
Whereas research from the Association of Municipal Clerks & Treasurers of Ontario
(AMCTO) has identified that: a) there is no evidence to suggest this legislation has any
impact on the number of housing starts in municipalities that have been granted the
powers; and b) strong mayor powers have blurred the political-administrative authority
between the roles of head of council and chief administrative officers (CAOs),
threatening the neutrality of the public service and politicizing local government
leadership; and
WHEREAS strong mayor powers is an erosion to the democratic process of an
historically non-partisan municipal governance structure;
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the North Middlesex hereby resolves to reject the
strong mayor powers granted to it, and requests that the Province repeal the legislation,
or offer the option to municipalities to opt out of strong mayor powers; and
THAT this Resolution be forwarded to the Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing Rob
Flack, Premier Doug Ford, MPP Steve Pinsonneault, the Association of Municipalities of
Ontario (AMO), and all Ontario municipalities.
Corr. 16-25
- 92 -
BY EMAIL April 28, 2025
Honourable Doug Ford
Premier of Ontario
Legislative Building, Queen’s Park
Toronto, ON M7A 1A1
Email: premier@ontario.ca
Honourable Rob Flack
Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
17th Floor, 777 Bay St.
Toronto, ON M7A 2J3
Email: rob.flack@ontario.ca
Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers: Proposed Amendments to O. Reg. 530/22
At its Regular Council Meeting held on April 22, 2025, Council discussed their opposition to the
expansion of Strong Mayor Powers, as announced on April 9, 2025. Council of the Town of Essex
requests that the proposed amendments to O. Reg. 530/22 to expand Strong Mayor Powers and
duties to additional municipalities not include the Town of Essex.
Council accordingly passed the following resolution:
R25-04-187
Moved By Mayor Bondy
Seconded By Councillor Hammond
Whereas on April 9, 2025, the Government of Ontario (hereafter, the “Province”), led by Premier
Doug Ford, announced a proposal to expand “Strong Mayor Powers” as provided for by Part VI.1
of the Municipal Act, 2001, to the heads of council in 169 additional municipalities including the
Town of Essex, effective May 1, 2025;
And whereas Strong Mayor Powers erode democratic process and have fundamentally altered
the historic model of local governance which has existed for almost two centuries, by:
x Providing the head of council with the authority to give direction and make certain
decisions without the usual consensus from a majority of the members of council; and,
x Creating a power imbalance by providing the head of council with special powers that
other members do not generally have.
Corr. 17-25
- 93 -
And whereas the Province is undermining the local governance model and municipal
independence by attempting to advance its priorities through municipalities, and downloading
its responsibilities to the same.
Now there be it resolved that:
x The Council of the Corporation of the Town of Essex (“Council”) formally opposes the
expansion of Strong Mayor Powers, as announced on April 9, 2025;
x Council requests that the proposed amendments to O. Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong
Mayor Powers and Duties to Additional Municipalities not include the Town of Essex; and
x Council directs the Clerk to forward a copy of this resolution to the Honourable Doug
Ford, Premier of Ontario, Honourable Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing,
Anthony Leardi, MPP, Essex, Lisa Gretzky, MPP Windsor West, Andrew Dowie, MPP
Windsor-Tecumseh, Trevor Jone, MPP Chatham-Kent-Leamington, AMCTO, AMO and all
Ontario Municipalities.
Carried
We trust you will find this satisfactory. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to
contact the undersigned.
Yours truly,
Joseph Malandruccolo
Director, Legal and Legislative Services/Clerk
jmalandruccolo@essex.ca
cc: Anthony Leardi, MPP, Essex
Lisa Gretzky, MPP Windsor West
Andrew Dowie, MPP Windsor-Tecumseh
Trevor Jones, MPP Chatham-Kent-Leamington
Association of Municipal Managers Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario (AMCTO)
Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)
All Ontario Municipalities
- 94 -
DELIVERED ELECTRONICALLY
Honorable Rob Flack
Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
777 Bay Street, 17th floor
Toronto, Ontario
M7A 2J3
April 29, 2025
RE: Proposed Amendments to O. Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor Powers and Duties to
Additional Municipalities
Dear Minister Flack,
Thank you for your letter dated April 9, 2025, regarding the expansion of Strong Mayor Powers
and Duties to the Town of Petawawa. Our Council discussed this issue in an open forum at our
council meeting on April 23rd and are firmly of the belief that this effort undermines the value of
collaboration between the Mayor, Councillors, and Staff. Increasing the powers of the Mayor to
push forward Provincial Priorities would eliminate shared decision making, create divisiveness
at the council table, and blur the lines between administrative and political roles. Our council
believes that this would result in an erosion of the democratic process at the Municipal level,
especially in a small city like Petawawa.
Although we don’t always agree unanimously on all matters, our council works as a cohesive
unit, firmly focused on the goals of advancing and encouraging growth and making our
community a wonderful place in which to live and invest. Each of member of council brings their
own set of skills, knowledge, values and perspectives to achieve these goals, and has worked
extremely well together.
Since it was sworn in, our Council has been collectively focused on advancing provincial
priorities by delivering much needed housing, building infrastructure that supports community
growth and the construction of new homes, including housing-enabling infrastructure such as
water and wastewater. The largest community in Renfrew County, Petawawa has grown
significantly over the last decade (roughly 25%) and added a large amount of new housing to
meet market demands. In 2024, Petawawa increased the size of its planning department to
Corr. 18-25
- 95 -
reduce permit processing times, 120 new dwellings (Single Family Detached/Row
Housing/Multi-family) were constructed, and there are many more dwellings underway:
Structure type
In Pre-Consultation or going
through Planning Approvals
Planning Approvals Complete
(under construction)
Single Family Detached 533 61
Row Housing 24 96
Apartment 348 60
Additional Residential Unit 0 44
Total Units 905 261
Further to this, Garrison Petawawa and Canadian Nuclear laboratories are reporting that they
will need to house 1100 individuals and their families as they expand operations. Based on this
need and other factors, our municipality is working with private sector and nonprofit developers
to meet the demand for both market and affordable housing. To be forthright, where the
municipality needs help the most to support housing development and foster densification is
access to additional funding to extend utilities, such as water and wastewater services, to
developable lands to meet future growth needs. Petawawa has faced a significant reduction in
Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILT) over the past two fiscal years ($2.3 million over 2024 and 2025)
due to the Business Education Tax discount as well as an annual reduction in Ontario Municipal
Partnership Funding over the past decade which has hampered our ability to extend necessary
water and wastewater infrastructure vital to delivering new homes. The community’s Ontario
Community Infrastructure Funding was reduced in 2025 as well.
In closing, our Council requests that the Ontario Government excludes the Town of Petawawa
from its proposed amendments to O. Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor Powers and Duties to
Additional Municipalities, and work with the municipality to identify funding to support
expansion of its storm, water and wastewater treatment systems to support future residential
and commercial growth. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Please feel free to contact
me through our offices if you wish to discuss this further.
Sincerely,
Gary Serviss
Mayor of Petawawa
Copied: Doug Ford, Premier
Billy Denault, MPP, Renfrew—Nipissing—Pembroke
Enc. Resolution – Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the Town of Petawawa
- 96 -
April 28, 2025
Delivered Electronically
Attn: The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario
Re: Resolution - Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the Town of Petawawa
At its Council-In-Committee meeting on April 28, 2025, Petawawa Town Council passed a
Resolution in response to the Province’s recent proposal to designate Petawawa as a “Strong
Mayor” municipality, effective May 1, 2025.
WHEREAS the Province of Ontario has proposed to designate the Town of Petawawa as a "Strong
Mayor" community, granting enhanced powers to the Mayor effective May 1, 2025; and,
WHEREAS the Strong Mayor powers significantly alter the balance of governance at the
municipal level, undermining the role of Council in decision-making and weakening the
fundamental democratic principle of majority rule; and,
WHEREAS the Town of Petawawa has a long history of collaborative, transparent, and accountable
local governance built upon a foundation of Council-debate and shared decision- making; and,
WHEREAS many municipally elected officials across the province and members of the public have
expressed significant concern regarding the imposition of these powers; and,
WHEREAS the Town of Petawawa did not formally request or express a desire to be
designated under the Strong Mayor framework; and,
WHEREAS a growing number of municipalities and elected officials across Ontario are
questioning the appropriateness of the Strong Mayor system and are calling for its
reconsideration or repeal;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Petawawa Town Council formally request that the
Premier of Ontario and the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing immediately remove the
Town of Petawawa from the list of municipalities designated under the Strong Mayor legislation;
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be sent to the Premier of
Ontario, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, all regional Members of Provincial
- 97 -
Parliament, all Ontario municipalities, and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario
(AMO) for their awareness and support.
We thank you for your attention to this matter and urge you to respect the democratic wishes
of our Council and community.
Sincerely,
Gary Serviss
Mayor, Town of Petawawa
(613) 687-5536
gserviss@petawawa.ca
petawawa.ca
CC: The Honourable Rob Flack (Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing)
Regional Members of Provincial Parliament
All Ontario Municipalities
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)
- 98 -
CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF SOUTH HURON
322 Main Street South P.O. Box 759
Exeter Ontario
N0M 1S6
Phone: 519-235-0310 Fax: 519-235-3304
Toll Free: 1-877-204-0747
www.southhuron.ca
April 30, 2025
Via email: rob.flack@pc.ola.org
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
17th Floor
777 Bay Street
Toronto, ON M7A 2J3
Dear Hon. Rob Flack,
Re: Proposed Amendments to O.Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor
Powers
Please be advised that South Huron Council passed the following resolution at
their April 22, 2025 Regular Council Meeting:
176-2025
Moved By: Jim Dietrich
Seconded by: Wendy McLeod-Haggitt
That South Huron Council supports the April 14, 2025 correspondence of
Town of Saugeen Shores regarding opposition to Proposed Amendments
to O.Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor Powers; and
That this supporting resolution and the originating correspondence be
circulated to Premier Doug Ford, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing,
Rob Flack, Lisa Thompson, MPP, Minister of Rural Affairs, AMO, Town of
Saugeen Shores, and all municipalities in Ontario.
Result: Carried
Please find attached the originating correspondence for your reference.
Respectfully,
Kendra Webster, Legislative & Licensing Coordinator
Municipality of South Huron
kwebster@southhuron.ca
519-235-0310 x. 232
Corr. 19-25
- 99 -
Encl.
cc: Minister of Rural Affairs, MPP Lisa Thompson, lisa.thompson@pc.ola.org;
AMO, resolutions@amo.on.ca ; Town of Saugeen Shores,
clerk@saugeenshores.ca; and all municipalities in Ontario.
- 100 -
Town of Saugeen Shores
600 Tomlinson Drive, P.O. Box 820
Port Elgin, ON N0H 2C0
T 519.832.2008
F 519.832.2140
saugeenshores.ca
@SaugeenShoresON
April 14, 2025
Honourable Rob Flack
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
17th Floor, 777 Bay St.
Toronto, ON M7A 2J3
rob.flack@pc.ola.org
Dear Minister,
RE: Opposition to Proposed Amendments to O.Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor
Powers
I am writing to express my opposition to the government’s proposed expansion of Strong
Mayor powers to include the Town of Saugeen Shores. As the Mayor of Saugeen Shores, I
am concerned about the implications of this policy change on our local governance. Please
consider this letter as the Town of Saugeen Shores submission on O.Reg. 530/22 which is
available for comment until April 16th.
In my experience, the ‘Council Manager’ system of governance has always served our
municipality well. Specifically, when it comes to advancing our shared priority of building
more housing to serve our residents, Saugeen Shores Council has demonstrated flexible
and determined leadership. Our Council has enabled housing by reducing red tape resulting
in the construction of more than 600 multi-family residential units in the last two years alone.
Given the strong and sustained commitment of our Council to these efforts, I do not see
how the introduction of Strong Mayor powers will accelerate the construction of housing (or
the pursuit of other priority areas) in any way. On the contrary, vesting these new powers in
the Mayor threatens to disrupt long-established and effective processes, sidelining elected
members of Council with effects that may be contrary to the interests of our residents.
Saugeen Shores has thrived for decades on the principle of shared leadership. We have an
effective team of elected representatives working in partnership with a professional staff to
achieve goals that are transparently set out in our Strategic Plan and annual Business
Plans. This approach to governance is foundational to building trust between the
municipality and the residents that it serves. I fear that the unilateral decision-making
enabled by Strong Mayor powers would erode this trust and disrupt the collaborative
environment that has long been at the heart of the democratic tradition of our Council and
community.
I urge you to reconsider the expansion of Strong Mayor powers. If the government has a
strong desire to advance these major changes to the governance of our municipality, I
- 101 -
request that you engage in a thorough consultation process with our Council and the
residents of our community before moving forward. It is crucial that any changes to local
governance structures be made in close partnership with the communities they impact.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your response and hope that
we can work together in the interest of ensuring strong local governance in Saugeen
Shores.
Sincerely,
Luke Charbonneau, Mayor
Town of Saugeen Shores
cc. Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario
Lisa Thompson, MPP, Minister of Rural Affairs
Council, Town of Saugeen Shores
All Ontario Municipalities
- 102 -
Municipality of Bluewater • 14 Mill Avenue, Zurich, ON N0M 2T0 1 of 1
P: 519.236.4351 • F: 519.236.4329 • W: municipalityofbluewater.ca
April 28, 2025
The Honourable Doug Ford
Legislative Building
Queens Park
TORONTO ON M7A 1A4
premier@ontario.ca
Dear Premier Ford:
At the Municipality of Bluewater’s regular Council meeting held on April 22, 2025, Council
passed the following resolution:
MOVED: Councillor Whetstone SECONDED: Councillor Hessel
WHEREAS the Province of Ontario has proposed to expand Strong Mayor Powers to an
additional 169 municipalities across Ontario, including the Municipality of Bluewater, effective
May 1, 2025;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Corporation of the Municipality of Bluewater is in
opposition to the addition of Strong Mayor Powers in the Municipality of Bluewater, and across
the Province;
AND FURTHER that a copy of this resolution be sent to the Premier of Ontario, the Minister of
Municipal Affairs and Housing, all Ontario Municipalities, and the Association of Municipalities of
Ontario (AMO) for their awareness and support. CARRIED
Sincerely,
Chandra Alexander
Manager of Corporate Services/Clerk
cc: The Honourable Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)
All Ontario Municipalities
Corr. 20-25
- 103 -
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF DEEP RIVER •�*========================* *-=
P.O. BOX400 • 100 DEEP RIVER ROAD • DEEP RIVER, ONTARIO KOJ 1P0
Tel: (613) 584-2000 • www.deepriver.ca • Fax: (613) 584-3237
BY EMAIL
The Honourable Doug Ford
Premier of Ontario
Legislative Building, Queen's Park
Toronto, ON M7 A 1 A 1
Email: premier@ontario.ca
April 30, 2025
The Honourable Rob Flack
Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
1 7th Floor, 777 Bay Street
Toronto, ON M7 A 2J3
Email: rob.flack@ontario .ca
Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the Town of Deep River in
Response to the Province's Recent Proposal to Designate Deep River as a
"Strong Mayor" Municipality, Effective May 1, 2025.
At a Special Meeting of Council held on April 29, 2025, Council of the Town of Deep River
passed the following resolution:
RESOLUTION 2025 128
MOVED BY: Councillor Fitton
SECONDED BY: Councillor Hughes
WHEREAS the Province of Ontario has proposed to designate the Town of Deep River
as a "Strong Mayor" community, granting enhanced powers to the Mayor effective May 1,
2025; and,
WHEREAS the Strong Mayor powers significantly alter the balance of governance at the
municipal level, undermining the role of Council in decision-making and weakening the
fundamental democratic principle of majority rule; and,
WHEREAS the Town of Deep River has a long history of collaborative, accountable local
governance built upon a foundation of Council-debate and shared decision-
making; and,
WHEREAS many municipally elected officials across the province and members of the
public have expressed significant concern regarding the imposition of these powers; and,
WHEREAS the Town of Deep River did not formally request or express a desire to be
designated under the Strong Mayor framework; and,
WHEREAS a growing number of municipalities and elected officials across Ontario are
questioning the appropriateness of the Strong Mayor system and are calling for its
reconsideration or repeal;
Corr. 21-25
- 104 -
-
1
0
5
-
-
1
0
6
-
-
1
0
7
-
May 1, 2025
Honourable Doug Ford
Premier of Ontario
Legislative Building, Queen’s Park
Toronto, ON M7A 1A1
Email: premier@ontario.ca
Honourable Rob Flack
Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
17th Floor, 777 Bay St.
Toronto, ON M7A 2J3
Email: rob.flack@ontario.ca
Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the Corporation of the Town of Cobalt
At its Regular Council Meeting held on April 2 9, 2025, Council discussed their opposition to the
expansion of Strong Mayor Powers, as announced on April 9, 2025. Council of the Town of Cobalt
requests that the proposed amendments to O. Reg. 530/22 to expand Strong Mayor Powers and
duties to additional municipalities not include the Town of Cobalt.
Council accordingly passed the following resolution:
RESOLUTION No. 2025-057
MOVED BY: Councillor Lafleur
SECONDED BY: Councillor Starchuk
WHEREAS the Province of Ontario has proposed to designate the Corporation of the Town of
Cobalt as a "Strong Mayor" community, granting enhanced powers to the Mayor effective May
1, 2025; and,
WHEREAS the Strong Mayor powers significantly alter the balance of governance at the
municipal level, undermining the role of Council in decision-making and weakening the
fundamental democratic principle of majority rule; and,
WHEREAS the Corporation of the Town of Cobalt has a long history of collaborative,
transparent, and accountable local governance built upon a foundation of Council-debate and
shared decision-making; and,
WHEREAS many municipally elected officials across the province and members of the public
have expressed significant concern regarding the imposition of these powers; and,
Corr. 22-25
- 108 -
WHEREAS the Corporation of the Town of Cobalt did not formally request or express a desire
to be designated under the Strong Mayor framework; and,
WHEREAS a growing number of municipalities and elected officials across Ontario are
questioning the appropriateness of the Strong Mayor system and are calling for its
reconsideration or repeal;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Corporation of the Town of Cobalt Council formally
request that the Premier of Ontario and the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
immediately remove the Corporation of the Town of Cobalt from the list of municipalities
designated under the Strong Mayor legislation;
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be sent to the Premier of
Ontario, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, all regional Members of Provincial
Parliament, all Ontario municipalities, and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)
for their awareness and support.
CARRIED
We trust you will find this satisfactory if you have any questions or concerns, please contact the
undersigned.
Kind Regards,
Steven Dalley
Town Manager, Clerk/Treasurer
Tel: (705) 679-8877
Email: sdalley@cobalt.ca
cc:
John Vanthof, MPP Timiskaming-Cochrane
All Ontario Municipalities
Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO)
- 109 -
1
City of Stratford, Corporate Services Department
Clerk’s Office
City Hall, P. O. Box 818, Stratford, Ontario N5A 6W1
Tel: 519-271-0250, extension 5237
Email: clerks@stratford.ca
Website: www.stratford.ca
May 1, 2025
Sent via email: premier@ontario.ca
The Honourable Doug Ford,
Premier of Ontario
Legislative Building
Queens Park
Toronto, ON, M7A 1A4
Dear Premier Ford,
Re: Resolution R2025-174 - Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the
City of Stratford
At the April 28, 2025, Regular meeting, Stratford City Council adopted the following
resolution in response to the Province’s proposal to designate Stratford as a “Strong
Mayor” municipality, effective May 1, 2025.
WHEREAS the Province of Ontario has proposed to designate the City of
Stratford as a "Strong Mayor" community, granting enhanced powers to the
Mayor effective May 1, 2025; and,
WHEREAS the Strong Mayor powers significantly alter the balance of
governance at the municipal level, undermining the role of Council in
decision-making and weakening the fundamental democratic principle of
majority rule; and,
Corr. 23-25
- 110 -
2
WHEREAS the City of Stratford has a long history of collaborative,
transparent, and accountable local governance built upon a foundation of
Council-debate and shared decision making; and,
WHEREAS many municipally elected officials across the province and
members of the public have expressed significant concern regarding the
imposition of these powers; and,
WHEREAS the City of Stratford did not formally request or express a desire
to be designated under the Strong Mayor framework; and,
WHEREAS a growing number of municipalities and elected officials across
Ontario are questioning the appropriateness of the Strong Mayor system
and are calling for its reconsideration or repeal;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Stratford City Council formally
request that the Premier of Ontario and the Minister of Municipal Affairs and
Housing immediately remove the City of Stratford from the list of
municipalities designated under the Strong Mayor legislation;
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be sent
to the Premier of Ontario, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the
Member of Provincial Parliament, all Ontario municipalities, and the
Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) for their awareness and
support.
Sincerely,
T. Dafoe
Tatiana Dafoe, Clerk
City of Stratford
Cc: The Honourable Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Matthew Rae, Member of Provincial Parliament, Perth - Wellington
All Ontario Municipalities
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario
- 111 -
546 Niagara Street, PO Box 250 | Wyoming, ON, N0N 1T0 | 519-845-3939 | www.plympton-wyoming.com
April 30, 2025
Hon. Doug Ford
Premier of Ontario
premier@ontario.ca
Hon. Rob Flack
Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
rob.flack@pc.ola.org
Mr. Bob Bailey, MPP Sarnia-Lambton
bob.bailey@pc.ola.org
Re: Strong Mayor Powers
Please be advised that the Council of the Town of Plympton-Wyoming at its Regular Council meeting
on April 30th, 2025, passed the following motion:
Motion #14
Moved by Kristen Rodrigues
Seconded by Alex Boughen
WHEREAS the Government of Ontario announced on April 9th, 2025, that it will extend “Strong Mayor
Powers” to an additional 169 Municipalities;
AND WHEREAS the Province only accepted comments on the government’s intentions until
April 16, 2025 with the new powers set to begin on May 1, 2025;
AND WHEREAS the timeline for feedback from municipal councils was unreasonably short, especially
when considering many of the impacted councils generally only meet one to two times monthly, with
the added staff time required to prepare reports and provide more detaile d information on the impact
of the provincial legislation;
AND WHEREAS the intent of the legislation is to build more homes faster, The Association of Municipal
Managers, Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario (AMCTO), which has been tracking the use of strong
mayor powers since they were first introduced in Toronto and Ottawa in 2022, said there is no evidence
Corr. 24-25
- 112 -
546 Niagara Street, PO Box 250 | Wyoming, ON, N0N 1T0 | 519-845-3939 | www.plympton-wyoming.com
to suggest this legislation has any impact on the number of housings starts in municipalities that have
been granted the powers;
AND WHEREAS the new powers include the ability to set budgets, veto bylaws, pass bylaws with just
one-third of their council’s support, appoint senior civil servants, and solely delegate and oversee the
CAO position, which further erodes the lines of an elected official’s position and impairs the ability of
council to work as a whole on behalf of the community;
NOW THEREFORE be it resolved that the council for the Town of Plympton -Wyoming fully supports
the existing electoral process under which the residents duly elected all council members and value a
collaborative and council-driven approach to decision making without impairment on any members of
council;
AND FURTHER That Council respects the province’s intent, but the imposition of Strong Mayor
Powers results in an erosion of the democratic process and further deteriorates the promotion of
diversity in municipal representation;
AND FURTHER The Council of the Town of Plympton-Wyoming is formally opposed to the use of
Strong Mayor Powers and requests that the province repeal the Strong Mayor Powers Legislation all
together as a matter of upholding the democratic rights of all elected officials;
AND FURTHER, that in the absence of a repeal, the Town of Plympton-Wyoming Council requests
that the province allows municipalities the option to formally decline as a matter of record with the
province.
Carried.
If you have any questions regarding the above motion, please do not hesitate to contact the
undersigned.
Sincerely,
Dianne Gould-Brown
dgould-brown@plympton-wyoming.ca
Executive Assistant – Deputy Clerk
Town of Plympton-Wyoming
cc: All Ontario Municipalities
Association of Municipalities of Ontario
- 113 -
May 8, 2025
Hon. Rob Flack
Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
17th Floor, 777 Bay St.
Toronto, ON M7A 2J3
Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers in the Municipality of North Perth
Please be advised that the Council of the Municipality of North Perth passed the
following resolution at their meeting on April 29, 2025:
Moved by Doug Kellum Seconded by Dave Johnston
THAT: The Council of the Municipality of North Perth expresses its desires to the
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing to reverse the grant of Strong Mayor
Powers to the Municipality of North Perth;
AND THAT: The letter be circulated to Premier Doug Ford, Minister of Municipal
Affairs and Housing Rob flack, Perth Wellington MPP Matthew Ra e, Association
of Municipality of Ontario (AMO) and all Ontario Municipalities.
On behalf of the Council of the Municipality of North Perth, please accept this letter as
an official request to have strong mayor powers removed from the Municipality of North
Perth.
Regards,
Sarah Carter
Acting Clerk/Legislative Services Supervisor
Enclosure
CC: The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario
Matthew Rae, Perth Wellington MPP
Association of Municipalities of Ontario
All Ontario Municipalities
Corr. 25-25
- 114 -
Phone: 705-728-4784 Office of the Mayor Fax: 705-728-6957
www.springwater.ca
2231 Nursery Road
Minesing, Ontario
L9X 1A8 Canada
Honourable Premier Doug Ford
Doug.Fordco@pc.ola.org
Sent via electronic mail
May 8, 2025
Dear Honourable Premier Doug Ford
At its Regular meeting on May 7, 2025, the Township of Springwater’s Council passed
resolution C195-2025 opposing Strong Mayor Powers.
Resolution C195-2025
Moved by: Cabral
Seconded by: Fisher
Whereas the Ontario government has expanded the "strong mayor" powers to 169 additional
municipalities, which grants mayors in these municipalities more authority, particularly
concerning the control of municipal budgets and planning decisions; and,
Whereas this proposal has raised significant concerns regarding the centralization of power,
erosion of local democracy, reduced accountability, and the potential for the abuse of power;
and,
Whereas the expansion of strong mayor powers undermines the collaborative nature of
municipal governance, and diminishes the role of elected municipal councillors in representing
the diverse interests of the community; and,
Whereas concerns have been raised about the negative impacts on public trust, democratic
participation, and municipal decision-making processes, if mayors are able to bypass council
decisions without adequate consultation or oversight.
Now therefore be it resolved that the Council of the Township of Springwater opposes the
Strong Mayor Powers; and
That the Council formally expresses its opposition to the Ontario government's expansion of
the Strong Mayor Powers to preserve local democracy, transparency, and accountability.
Further Be It Resolved That a copy of this motion be forwarded to the Ontario Premier, the
Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, MPP Doug Downey, all Ontario municipalities, as
well as the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) for further action.
Carried
The Clerk’s Department can be reached via email at clerks@springwater.ca or by phone at 705-
728-4784, Ext. 2304.
Corr. 26-25
- 115 -
Phone: 705-728-4784 Office of the Mayor Fax: 705-728-6957
Regards,
Cayla Reimer
Deputy Clerk,
Township of Springwater
cc: Hon. Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Hon. MPP Doug Downey
All Ontario Municipalities
Association of Municipalities of Ontario
- 116 -
Report to Council
Report Number: ECD 04-25
Date: May 26, 2025
From: Fiaz Jadoon
Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects
Subject: Naming Rights Agreement for Pickering’s New Community Centre
File: A-1440-001
Recommendation:
1. That Council approve the acceptance of $1,000,000 from Dorsay Developments Corporation
in exchange for the naming rights of Pickering’s new community centre, (previously called
the Pickering Heritage & Community Centre) to be called Dorsay Community Centre, in
accordance with the naming rights agreement (Attachment 1);
2. That Council approve the naming rights agreement between the City of Pickering and
Dorsay Developments Corporation, set out in Attachment 1, subject to minor revisions
acceptable to the Chief Administrative Officer and City Solicitor;
3. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the naming rights agreement
between the City of Pickering and Dorsay Developments Corporation; and,
4. That the appropriate City of Pickering Officials be authorized to take necessary actions as
indicated in this report.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s approval for the City of
Pickering to enter into a naming rights agreement with Dorsay Developments Corporation
(Dorsay) for the Pickering Heritage & Community Centre to be called Dorsay Community Centre
at $1,000,000 for a period of 15 years.
The Marketing Partnership and Advertising Policy (ADM 150) was approved by Council in
September 2015 (Resolution #80/15). The Policy Objective states that “The Corporation of the
City of Pickering welcomes and encourages marketing partnerships and advertising to assist in
the provision of City programs, services, events, projects and facilities”.
On January 18, 2024, Council authorized staff to pursue naming right revenues for both the
Pickering Heritage & Community Centre (PHCC) and the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
(SRCL), via Report FIN 01-24 (Resolution #379/24).
On May 14, 2024, the City of Pickering retained Sponsorship Canada Inc. to undertake a facility
assessment and valuation for both the PHCC and SRCL. From a high-level perspective, the scope
of work for Sponsorship Canada was to understand the current industry environment of the City’s
two new facilities (PHCC & SRCL) and assess assets in similar ecosystems.
- 117 -
ECD 04-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Naming Rights Agreement for Pickering’s New Community Centre Page 2
CORP0227-07/01 revised
The Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects has been engaged with Dorsay
regarding the potential sponsorship for PHCC, due to their demonstrated interest in becoming part
of the community and exploring opportunities to invest in facility naming rights. As a result of these
conversations, City staff were able to secure this naming right agreement for $1,000,000 for a 15-
year term. As set out in the attached naming rights agreement, Dorsay will be entitled to certain
signage that consists of Dorsay Community Centre on the exterior front facade of the facility,
Dorsay Meeting Room at the exterior entrance of an interior meeting room located on the second
floor of the community centre, and an interior sponsor information sign to be located in a public
area to be agreed upon by both parties.
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond to
the Pickering Strategic Plan Corporate Key of Good Governance/Customer Service Excellence;
and Corporate Priorities of Champion Economic Leadership & Innovation; and Advance
Innovation & Responsible Planning to Support a Connected, Well-Serviced Community.
Financial Implications: The sponsorship revenues, paid in equal annual instalments will help
cover the City's annual debt costs for this facility, reducing expenses for Pickering taxpayers. This
is the second significant sponsorship agreement with the City with the first agreement resulting in
the rebranding of the City’s recreation complex to its current name of Chestnut Hill Developments
Recreation Complex.
Dorsay is responsible to pay the City a cash contribution in the amount of $1,000,000.00, plus
applicable HST. The contribution shall be paid by the Sponsor to the City in equal installments of
$66,666.66, plus applicable HST. The first payment is due within thirty days of the agreement
being signed. Subsequent payments are due within thirty days of the beginning of each year of the
Term. The first payment shall be in the amount of $133,333.32, representing the first payment
plus an additional $66,666.66 as security to cover the cost of sign replacement. If the City does
not have to replace the exterior facility sign during the first four years of this agreement, the
security deposit will either be returned to the Sponsor or applied as the Sponsor’s year five
payment.
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s approval for the City to enter into a
naming rights agreement with Dorsay at $1,000,000 for a term of 15 years. The City of Pickering
recognizes and supports sponsorship and naming right opportunities as a revenue generating tool
that offsets costs associated with the construction and operation of City facilities. Naming rights
also play a pivotal role in building stronger relationships and partnerships with key stakeholders in
the community who are either operating a business and employing individuals, or building new
communities in Pickering. For any corporation looking to invest in naming rights within a
community, it elevates brand awareness and allows them to reach a broader demographic.
Following the January 18th, 2024 Council meeting, staff retained subject matter expert
Sponsorship Canada Inc. to assess and provide valuation for both the PHCC and SRCL. With the
valuation provided by Sponsorship Canada Inc., City staff engaged with stakeholders who had
- 118 -
ECD 04-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Naming Rights Agreement for Pickering’s New Community Centre Page 3
CORP0227-07/01 revised
expressed an interest in the past for naming right opportunities in Pickering. Due to the
construction schedule of PHCC and the requirement to finalize facility signage in a timely manner,
City staff reached out directly to prospective sponsors including Dorsay Development Corporation,
who had previously expressed a strong interest in sponsoring the community centre. Upon
reviewing the location and the features of the facility, Dorsay agreed to secure the naming rights
of PHCC, to be called the Dorsay Community Centre, for a 15-year term.
As set out in the attached naming rights agreement, Dorsay will be entitled to certain signage that
consists of Dorsay Community Centre on the exterior front facade of the facility, Dorsay
Meeting Room at the exterior entrance of an interior meeting room located on the second floor of
the community centre, and an interior sponsor information sign to be located in a public area to be
agreed upon by both parties.
The City is in discussions with Dorsay Development Corporation regarding a cost sharing
agreement for a prominent road sign which will reflect both the Dorsay Community Centre and the
Pickering Museum Village. Any such agreement will be returned to Council for consideration and
approval.
The PHCC, located at 2365 6th Concession Road, is a 44,000 square-foot facility that brings a
community centre, the Pickering Museum Village, and Pickering Public Library into one dynamic
space. The new facility is Pickering’s first zero-carbon building, supporting Pickering’s journey of
becoming one of the most sustainable cities in Canada, and in accordance with the City’s
Corporate Energy Management Plan. The facility includes spaces for culture and recreation
programs, events, exhibits, library services, and facility rentals. The PHCC replaces the aging
Greenwood Community Centre and will serve Pickering’s growing community. Designed by
award-winning architecture firm Hariri Pontarini, the facility will serve as a vibrant community hub
and will be the City’s first new community centre built since George Ashe Library & Community
Centre was constructed in 2001.
Dorsay is a privately-held real estate development and investment firm based in Toronto, with
over 27 years of experience in creating thoughtful, future-oriented communities across the Greater
Toronto Area. Guided by a long-term approach to value creation, the company blends market
opportunity with a strong commitment to community connection, environmental sustainability, and
responsible growth. Over the past two decades, Dorsay has advanced a wide range of real estate
projects through all phases of the development cycle, working collaboratively with multidisciplinary
partners and municipalities to unlock complex sites and deliver well-integrated, high-performing
communities. One such project is located in Northeast Pickering which sets out a vision to build a
complete community with residential and employment neighborhoods.
Attachment:
1. Naming Rights Agreement for the Dorsay Community Centre
- 119 -
ECD 04-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Naming Rights Agreement for Pickering’s New Community Centre Page 4
CORP0227-07/01 revised
Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By:
Fiaz Jadoon, Ec.D., CEcD, MPM,
B.COMM Director, Economic Development &
Strategic Projects
FJ:fj
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
Stan Karwowski, MBA, CPA, CMA
Director, Finance & Treasurer
Laura Gibbs MBA, MSc. Director,
Community Services
Cameron Murkar, City Solicitor,
Corporate Services
Original Signed By: Original Signed By:
Original Signed By:
Original Signed By:
Original Signed By:
- 120 -
NAMING RIGHTS AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT made as of this 1st day of XX, 2025.
BETWEEN:
Dorsay Development Corporation
(the "Sponsor")
And
The Corporation of the City of Pickering
(the "City")
WHEREAS the City is constructing a community centre currently known as the Pickering
Heritage & Community Centre located at 2365 6th Concession Road, Pickering (the
"Community Centre") and the City desires to secure sponsorships for various components
of the Community Centre;
AND WHEREAS the Sponsor is agreeable to be the naming sponsor of the “Community
Centre”, as identified on the drawing marked as Schedule B and excluding the components
which are part of the Library, archival, or museum components, in accordance with the terms
and conditions of this Agreement;
AND WHEREAS the Sponsor and the City are entering into this Agreement for the
sponsorship of the Community Centre including by way of exterior and interior naming of the
Community Centre;
NOW THEREFORE in consideration of the promises and other mutual covenants hereinafter
set forth, the parties hereto agree as follows:
Recitals
1.1 The foregoing recitals are true in substance and fact and are incorporated
herein. Term
2.1 The term of this Agreement shall be fifteen (15) years commencing on June 1, 2025
(the "Commencement Date") and expiring on May 30, 2040, unless terminated earlier
pursuant to the terms of this Agreement (the 'Term").
2.2 Upon expiry of this Agreement, the parties will have no further obligation under this
Agreement, except to complete any such promotional activities commenced prior to
the expiration of the Term.
1
Attachment 1 to Report ECD 04-25
- 121 -
Sponsorship
3.1 The Sponsor agrees to pay to the City a cash contribution in the amount of
$1,000,000.00, plus applicable H.S.T. (the "Contribution").
3.2 The Contribution shall be paid by the Sponsor to the City in equal annual instalments
of $66,666.66, plus applicable H.S.T. The first payment is due within thirty (30) days of
this agreement being signed. Subsequent payments are due within thirty (30) days of
the beginning of each year of the Term. The first payment shall be in the amount of
$133,333.32, representing the first payment as well as a “security.” In the event the
Sponsor defaults, the security will cover costs incurred by the City requiring the removal
of the Sponsor’s sign. Provided no such removal is required within the first four (4) years
of this agreement, the City will either return the full amount of the security to the Sponsor
or credit the amount toward the Sponsor’s payment obligation for the fifth (5th) year of
the agreement.
3.3 In exchange for the Sponsor agreeing to make the Contribution, the City shall
provide to the Sponsor the benefits set out in Schedule "A" attached hereto,
including, without limitation, the exclusive right to designate and place a name on
the exterior of the Community Centre and the City shall be required to use the
Sponsor's designation exclusively as the name of the Community Centre. The
design, location, and appearance of the signage will be controlled by the City.
Trademark and Logo Use
4.1 Upon the request of the City, the Sponsor will provide its approved name and
logo, and hereby grants to the City a non-exclusive, non-transferable, limited
license to use (without any alterations or modifications thereof) the Sponsor's
name and logo in accordance with the benefits set out in Schedule "A" attached
hereto.
4.2 The City does not obtain any intellectual property rights under this Agreement in
any of the Sponsor’s intellectual property, including, without limitation, any
copyrighted material, link formats, technical specifications or guidelines, and
graphical artwork.
4.3 The City's name and logo are intellectual property owned by the City and may be
used only in strict accordance with this Agreement and applicable City policies. The
use of the City's name or logo in conjunction with any sponsorship activity or
materials provided by the Sponsor requires prior written approval by the City, such
approval not to be unreasonably withheld. Such written approval shall be sought
from the City's Representative set out in Section 12.2. Each of the City and the
Sponsor represents and warrants that it is the sole owner of all legal rights to its
name and logo.
4.4 Neither party shall receive any rights whatsoever from the use of the intellectual
property of the other party, including any rights of trademark, service mark or
- 122 -
copyright. All such rights remain the sole and exclusive property of the registered owner.
Option to Extend
5.1 Provided the Sponsor is not in default of its obligations under this Agreement, the
parties may mutually agree to extend the Term of this Agreement for an additional
fifteen (15) years upon terms and conditions to be agreed upon between the parties
prior to the expiration of the Term. If, prior to the expiration of the Term, the parties
are unable to agree to the terms and conditions of the extension term, then this
Agreement shall terminate upon the expiration of the Term.
5.2 In the event the City and Sponsor do not extend the Term of this Agreement, the City
shall exercise good faith efforts when securing future sponsorships for the Community
Centre when considering the terms of the Agreement and the Contributions.
Compliance with Laws
6.1 This Agreement and the rights and obligations of the parties hereto shall be
subject to, and the parties hereby agree to comply with, all applicable federal and
provincial laws, bylaws, and regulations, in force and as amended from time to
time. The City warrants and represents that the rights granted by the City to the
Sponsor pursuant to this Agreement comply with all applicable federal and
provincial laws, by-laws, and regulations, in force and effect as at the date hereof.
The City will not enact any by-laws which would negate or materially reduce the
benefits or rights provided to the Sponsor in Schedule "A" attached hereto.
Default
7.1 Each of the following events constitutes an event of default enabling the party not in
default (the "Non-Defaulting Party"), subject to Section 7.2 hereof, to terminate this
Agreement pursuant to the terms below:
(a) either party's failure to perform any covenant, condition, or obligation contained
in this Agreement (the "Defaulting Party");
(b) any event or communication arising out of or related to this Agreement,
including, without limitation, disputes covering the performance of the parties'
obligations or the interpretation of the terms and conditions of this Agreement
under the direction or control of the City or the Sponsor (including by their
respective representatives, officers, directors, Council members, employees or
authorized agents), whether or not such event or statement accurately reflects
the views and opinions of said party, that the other party, in its opinion, acting
reasonably, considers immoral or offensive, or which may result in a negative
public perception of such party;
3
- 123 -
(c)any breach of any law, by-law or regulation applicable to this Agreement; and
(d)either party becomes insolvent or goes into liquidation or has a receiver
appointed in respect of its assets or is subject to any proceedings under
the Bankruptcy Act and Insolvency Act (Canada), then such party shall be
in breach of this Agreement.
7.2 Except as set out in Section 10.1, any breach of this Agreement that is not remedied
by the Defaulting Party within thirty (30) days after delivery of written notice from the
Non-Defaulting Party entitles the Non-Defaulting Party to terminate this Agreement.
Termination due to Default
8.1 If any default for which written notice is received but not cured within the time stated
in Section 7.2, this Agreement shall, at the option of the Non-Defaulting Party,
terminate without any further notice, effective immediately upon expiration of the
said notice period, and the Defaulting Party shall be fully liable for all costs, losses
and damages incurred by the Non-Defaulting Party, and for all monies owing by the
Defaulting Party under this Agreement.
Indemnification
9.1 Each of the City and the Sponsor shall indemnify and hold harmless the other,
including their respective directors, officers, employees, Council members and
authorized agents, from and against any and all actions losses, damages, claims
(including intellectual property claims), costs and expenses to which the party
being indemnified shall or may become liable by reason of any breach, violation
or non-performance by the party so indemnifying of any covenant, term or
provision of this Agreement.
Assignment
10.1 The Sponsor shall not transfer or assign this Agreement or any interest in this
Agreement, either voluntarily or by operation of laws or otherwise, without the
prior written consent of the City, which consent shall not be unreasonably
withheld or delayed. Any attempted transfer or assignment by the Sponsor
without the prior written consent of the City shall permit the City, at its option, to
immediately terminate this Agreement and the Sponsor shall be fully liable for
anything it owes under this Agreement, and all costs, losses and damages
incurred by the City.
4
- 124 -
Partnership
11.1 Nothing in this Agreement creates a relationship of agency, partnership, joint venture,
or the like between the parties, and neither party shall be entitled to, or purport to,
bind or represent the other party. Neither party shall do or allow any act which would
imply apparent authority to act for the other party.
Representatives
12.1 The Sponsor agrees to appoint Agnes Koc (Phone: 416.216.1352, Email:
akoc@dorsay.ca as the Sponsor's Agreement manager (the "Sponsor's
Representative") to liaise with the City on all matters relating to the fulfillment of
the obligations set out in this Agreement.
12.2 The City agrees to appoint Fiaz Jadoon (Phone: 905.420.4660 ext. 2292, Email:
fjadoon@pickering.ca as the City's Agreement manager (the "City's Representative")
to liaise with the Sponsor on all matters relating to the fulfillment of the obligations
set out in this Agreement.
Notices
13.1 Any notice required or permitted to be given hereunder shall be in writing and may
be given by serving personally or mailing same by registered mail, postage
prepaid, return receipt requested, or by sending same by email or other similar
form of communication to the following:
Email:
and to the City at:
Name: The Corporation of the City of Pickering
Attention: Fiaz Jadoon
Address: One The Esplanade, Pickering, ON L1V 6K7 Title: Director, Economic
Development & Strategic Projects
Phone: 905.420.4660 ext. 2292
Fax: 905.420.6064
Email: fjadoon@pickering.ca
5
!
To the Sponsor at:
Name:
Attention:
Address:
- 125 -
and such notice shall be sufficiently given if addressed to the party's address as set
out above.
Insurance
14.1 The City, at its sole cost and expense, shall purchase and keep in full force and
effect during the Term, comprehensive general liability insurance pertaining to the
City and the Sponsor’s liability to others in respect of injury, death or damage to
p roperty, occurring at the Dorsay Community Centre with coverage for any one
occurrence or claim of not less than $10,000,000.00. The Sponsor shall be added
to this policy as an additional insured.
Further Acts
15.1 The parties hereto agree for themselves and their successors and assigns to execute
any further documents and do such further acts as may be necessary or desirable to
carry out the intent of this Agreement.
Governing Law
16.1 This Agreement shall be governed by, subject to and interpreted in accordance with
the laws of the Province of Ontario and the Federal laws of Canada applicable
therein and the parties hereto attorn exclusively to the jurisdiction of the courts of the
Province of Ontario.
Entire Agreement and Modifications
17.1 This Agreement contains the entire Agreement between the parties hereto in reference
to the subject matter hereof and no representation, inducement, promise or
agreement, oral or otherwise, not embodied herein, shall be of any force or effect.
This Agreement supersedes any and all prior agreements, negotiations,
correspondence, undertakings, promises, covenants, arrangements, communications,
representations, and warranties, whether oral or written, of any party to this
Agreement. No change, modification or alteration of this Agreement shall be valid
unless it is in writing and signed by all the parties hereto. Schedule "A" attached to
this Agreement forms part of this Agreement.
Binding Effect
18.1 This Agreement shall enure to the benefit of and being binding upon the City and the
Sponsor and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
6
- 126 -
Waiver
19.1 The failure of any party to exercise any right, power or option or to enforce any
remedy or to insist upon the strict compliance with the terms, conditions and
covenants under this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of the terms,
conditions and covenants herein with respect to that or any other or subsequent
breach thereof nor a waiver by that party any time thereafter to require strict
compliance with all terms, conditions and covenants hereof, including the terms,
conditions and covenants with respect to which the party has failed to exercise
such right, power or option. Nothing shall be construed or have the effect of a
waiver except an instrument in writing signed by a duly authorized officer of the
applicable party which expressly waives a right, power or option under this
Agreement.
General
20.1 Should any provision or provisions of this Agreement be illegal or not
enforceable, it or they shall be considered separate and severable from this
Agreement and its remaining provisions shall remain in force and be binding upon
the parties hereto as though the said provision or provisions had never been
included; provided that if the provision of this Agreement requiring the City to
provide to the Sponsor the benefits set out in Schedule "A" attached hereto,
including, without limitation, the exclusive right to designate the name of the
Community Centre is illegal or deemed to be not enforceable, then the provisions of
this Agreement requiring the Sponsor to make the
Contribution shall also be deemed to be unenforceable.
20.2 The headings in this Agreement have, been inserted as a matter of convenience
and for reference only and in no way define, limit or enlarge the scope of
meaning of this Agreement nor any of the provisions hereof.
20.3 This Agreement and any information or documents that are provided hereunder
may be released pursuant to the provisions of the Municipal Freedom of
Information and Protection of Privacy Act, R.S.O. 1990, c.M.56, as amended.
This acknowledgement shall not be construed as a waiver of any right to object to
the release of this Agreement or of any information or documents.
20.4 The Schedules to this Agreement form part of this Agreement.
20.5 Nothing in this Agreement restricts the use of temporary signs to promote or
advertise specific events, or the sponsors of specific events, which may be
taking place at the Community Centre Complex.
(Balance of this page intentionally left blank.)
7
- 127 -
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties have executed this Agreement effective as of the
date noted herein.
DATED this day of xxxxx, 2025
SIGNED, SEALED and DELIVERED:
The Corporation of the City of Pickering
Name:
Title:
I/We have the authority to bind the Corporation.
Dorsay Development Corporation
Name:
Title:
I/We have the authority to bind the Corporation.
8
- 128 -
Schedule "A"
Benefits
1. Naming Rights
(1) During the Term of this Agreement, the City grants the Sponsor the
exclusive licence to name the Community Centre pursuant to the terms
hereunder. As of the Commencement Date, the official name of the
“Community Centre” will be the "DORSAY COMMUNITY CENTRE” (the
"Name"). The Sponsor will be entitled to have certain signage or other forms
of exposure of the Community Centre, provided such signage shall
substantially consist of the Name. The appearance and location of all signage,
including colours, shall be approved by the City. The signage shall consist of
the following:
(a) An exterior sign located on the Community Centre in a prominent
location at the main front entrance naming and identifying the building;
and
(b) An interior sponsor information sign to be located in a public area to be
agreed upon by both parties.
(c) An interior sign located on the exterior of the Boardroom, with the
official name of this room to be the “DORSAY MEETING ROOM”
(d) Due to the City’s own standards regarding advertising, the City must
review and approve all signs and materials that will be displayed by the
Sponsor across the facility.
Nothing herein shall prevent the City from accepting or acknowledging contributions
from other sponsors relating to the Community Centre or activities occurring in the
Community Centre by erecting plaques or signage, provided that such
acknowledgements are of a size and format that do not detract from the prominence of
the Name of the Community Centre.
(2) No signage acknowledging contributions from other sponsors relating to the
Community Centre shall be placed at the entrance to the Community Centre.
The “entrance” is understood to be that area identified and labelled as
"Entrance” on the drawing attached hereto marked as Schedule B and excludes
the lobby area.
(3) The name and logo of the City of Pickering, the Pickering Museum Village and
the Pickering Public Library, which operate services in the Community Centre
9
- 129 -
will be included in some site promotions and signage for the Dorsay
Community Centre.
Furthermore, nothing herein shall prevent the City from entering into any arrangements
or agreements with other parties whereby such parties would financially compensate
the City for the right to advertise or promote their company, business, or products by
signage or other means on the condition that any such signage will not distract from the
prominence of the name of the “Community Centre”.
(4) In the event the Sponsor changes or causes a change of the Name or logo, the
Sponsor agrees to pay all costs and expenses associated therewith, including,
without limitation, the costs and expense of:
(a) removing, destroying and/or discharging signage reflecting the
prior Name and logo;
(b) preparing, producing, replacing, mounting and installing new or altered
signage to reflect the name and logo change with the City’s approval of
the design, production and installation;
(c) preparing, producing, replacing and distributing merchandise, equipment,
print materials, and Branding and Collateral Materials reflecting the Name
and logo change.
2. Branding and Collateral Materials
(1) In connection with the naming rights of the Community Centre granted to
the Sponsor hereunder, the City agrees to support the brand exposure of
the Sponsor during the Term through the following branding channels (the
"Branding and Collateral Materials"):
(a) Website and Digital Media: As of the Commencement Date, the City
will cause the Community Centre web page to contain information
relating to the Sponsor. The City will maintain and have control of
said web pages and content.
(b) Public Service Announcements: The City agrees to make
reasonable efforts to identify the complete Name in all written and oral
references to the Community Centre with respect to any public service
announcements, including, without limitation, all official documents,
press releases and other public announcements.
(2) The City will be responsible for the costs and expenses associated with the
initial design, production and purchase of Branding and Collateral Materials
reflecting the implementation of the Name for regular operations. Any Branding
10
- 130 -
or Collateral materials that are requested by the sponsor will be at the sponsor’s
cost.
(3)This section does not include the Library or Museum’s website or materials.
11
- 131 -
Report to Council
Report Number: FIN 10-25
Date: May 26, 2025
From: Stan Karwowski
Director, Finance & Treasurer
Subject: 2025 Asset Management Plan
- File: F-1200-001
Recommendation:
1. That the 2025 Asset Management Plan, set out in Attachment 1 to this report, be
received;
2. That Council endorse the use of the 2025 Asset Management Plan for financial planning
purposes as it relates to the development of the Ten Year financial plan; and
3. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary
actions as indicated in this report.
Executive Summary: The City is required to have an updated Asset Management Plan
(AMP) as per Ontario Regulation 588/17. Asset management is defined as the coordinated
activity of an organization to realize value from assets. It considers all asset types, and
includes all activities involved in the asset’s life cycle from planning and acquisition/creation; to
operational and maintenance activities, rehabilitation, and renewal; to replacement or disposal
and any remaining liabilities. Asset management is comprehensive and normally involves
balancing costs, risks, opportunities and performance benefits to achieve the total lowest
lifecycle cost for each asset.
After months of preparation, staff have updated the City’s 2025 Asset Management Plan. With
Council endorsing the 2025 AMP, the City has met the obligations for July 1, 2025, under this
Regulation and the document will be posted on the City’s website.
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Plan Corporate Key:Good Governance/Customer Service
Excellence.
Financial Implications: The attached 2025 AMP provides a comprehensive summary of the
City’s key assets, their current condition and investments required to maintain these assets in
working condition. The AMP identifies the need for the City to increase its annual funding for
the AMP categories by an additional levy increase of 2.8% per year.
Discussion: Asset management builds on the Public Sector Account Board standard PS
3150, which required municipal government to account and report on their Tangible Capital
- 132 -
FIN 10-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: 2025 Asset Management Plan Page 2
Assets (TCA), effective with fiscal years starting January 1, 2009. The City, through its annual
financial statements, reports on its TCA through Note 11.
Following the development of FIN 050 Accounting for Tangible Assets Policy, the City
developed FIN 080 Strategic Asset Management Policy, the first requirement of the Ontario
Regulation 588/17. The next requirement of the Regulation was our 2020 AMP which met the
requirements for July 1, 2022, and July 1, 2024. The attached 2025 AMP is the next
requirement of the regulation in the progression of asset management. With Council endorsing
the 2025 AMP, the City has met the obligations for July 1, 2025, under this Regulation and the
document will be posted on the City’s website.
The City of Pickering's 2025 AMP satisfies Ontario Regulation 588/17 requirements by
addressing proposed levels of service, assessing asset conditions, analyzing lifecycle
strategies, and developing a long-term financial plan. It enables Pickering to make informed
decisions, optimize infrastructure investments, and ensure service reliability in the face of
growth and climate change.
AMP Key Points
Pickering owns and manages a diverse asset portfolio valued at $2.1 billion, as shown in the
chart below.
Chart One
Replacement Cost by Major Category
(Millions)
$0.0 $200.0 $400.0 $600.0 $800.0 $1,000.0 $1,200.0
Road Corridor
Stormwater System
Buildings & Facilities
Parks
Bridges & Culverts
Other Infrastructure
Cost
- 133 -
FIN 10-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: 2025 Asset Management Plan Page 3
The above chart shows the replacement cost of each major asset category. As expected, and
based on the City’s geographical area, the road corridor would be the largest asset class.
Chart two summarizes asset condition at the portfolio level. Chart two data is based on
assessed conditions and aged based analysis. Approximately 60% of the City’s assets,
excluding facilities and parks are in a “fair to very good” condition and the infrastructure
backlog is estimated to be $85.9 million, reflecting overdue capital reinvestment needs.
Chart Two
Asset Portfolio Condition
Assets that are in the “poor or very poor” condition, may require replacement or major
rehabilitation in the near future. The above graph excludes Buildings & Facilities and Park
assets, which are assessed using the Facilities Condition Index (FCI) and Parks Condition
Index. The current City Facilities Condition Index is 25.68%. (A lower score is better.) This FCI
indicates that, on average, 25.68% of the total replacement cost of facility assets is required to
address current renewal and rehabilitation needs. This condition level is presented in the
attached report as “Needs Improvement.”
The Parks Condition Index is 12.08%. This reflects the ratio of identified parks repairs and
renewal costs (over five years) to the total replacement cost of park assets. A score of 12.08%
falls within the “Excellent” range suggesting that the majority of the parks portfolio is in good
condition.
The AMP document outlines an average annual capital need of $61.7M across asset classes:
Asset Category Annual Need Available Funding Annual Gap
Road Corridor $33.3M $10.4M $22.9M
Stormwater System $6.6M $0.9M $5.7M
Very Poor,
$442,961,404
(27%)
Poor,
$217,021,815
(13%)
Fair,
$155,728,618
(10%)
Good,
$244,531,648
(15%)
Very Good,
$561,698,672
(35%)
Overall Portfolio Condition
- 134 -
FIN 10-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: 2025 Asset Management Plan Page 4
Asset Category Annual Need Available Funding Annual Gap
Other Assets $21.8M $17.5M $4.3M
Total $61.7M $28.85M $32.8M
There is currently an annual funding shortfall of $32.8 million.
Addressing the $32.8 million annual infrastructure funding shortfall is an issue that needs to be
addressed as part of the AMP. The AMP presents multiple tax levy phase-in strategies,
recognizing the need to balance fiscal sustainability with affordability for residents. A structured
and predictable funding approach is essential to avoid further erosion of critical infrastructure.
The “For consideration scenario” is a 10-year phased tax levy increase of 2.8% annually that
offers to some degree a strategic middle ground. It allows the City to address the funding gap
within a reasonable period. In contrast, the 5-year option, while more aggressive, would be
difficult to implement in these challenging economic times. The 15-year option, though more
gradual, may expose the City to higher risks and escalating long-term costs due to deferred
maintenance and rising asset failure rates.
The scenarios outlined in the AMP document, were developed through rigorous modeling and
reflect the funding required to maintain current levels of service, support sustainable growth,
and respond to climate pressures. Importantly, these figures are exclusive of inflation, which
will further increase future needs if not proactively addressed.
Scenario Period Annual Increase
5-Year 2025–2029 5.7%
10-Year (For
Consideration)
2025–2034 2.8%
15-Year 2027–2042 1.9%
The AMP analysis, indicates that the current annual property tax funded capital investment
falls short of the required sustainable levels, creating risks to infrastructure condition and
service reliability over time. Implementing annual property tax levy increases over ten or
fifteen years results in closing the infrastructure deficit while addressing to some degree, the
affordability issue.
Attachments:
1.2025 Asset Management Plan
2.Infrastructure for Jobs and Prosperity Act, 2015, Ontario Regulation 588/17
- 135 -
FIN 10-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: 2025 Asset Management Plan Page 5
Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By:
Julie S. Robertson, CPA Stan Karwowski
Senior Financial Analyst – Asset Director, Finance & Treasurer
Management Coordinator
SK:jsr
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
Original Signed By:Original Signed By:
Original Signed By:
- 136 -
Asset
Management
Plan 2025
City of Pickering
Asset Inventory Data is current as of January 31st, 2025
Annual Capital Funding includes the 2024 Capital Budget
Attachment 1 to Report FIN 10-25
- 137 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
i
This Asset Management Plan was prepared by:
Empowering your organization through advanced asset
management, budgeting & GIS solutions
- 138 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
ii
Key Statistics
$2.1b 2025 Replacement Cost of Asset
Portfolio
$61k Replacement Cost of Infrastructure Per
Household
60%Percentage of Assets in Fair or Better
Condition
71%Percentage of Assets with Assessed
Condition Data
$32.8m Annual Capital Infrastructure Deficit
10
Years
Recommended Timeframe for
Eliminating Annual Infrastructure Deficit
3.03%Target Reinvestment Rate
1.56%Actual Reinvestment Rate
- 139 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
iii
Table of Contents
1. Executive Summary ............................................................................ 1
2. Introduction & Context ........................................................................ 4
3. Portfolio Overview – State of the Infrastructure ..................................... 30
Core Assets .......................................................................................... 41
4. Road Corridor .................................................................................. 42
5. Bridges and Culverts ......................................................................... 69
6. Stormwater System .......................................................................... 85
Non-Core Assets ................................................................................. 106
7. Buildings & Facilities ........................................................................ 107
8. Parks ............................................................................................. 134
9. Other Infrastructure ......................................................................... 153
Strategies ........................................................................................... 179
10. Growth .......................................................................................... 180
11. Financial Strategy ............................................................................ 194
12. Recommendations & Key Considerations ............................................. 206
Appendices ......................................................................................... 208
Appendix A – 10-Year Capital Requirements ............................................... 209
Appendix B – Level of Service Maps & Photos ............................................. 212
Appendix C – Risk Rating Criteria ............................................................. 225
Appendix D – Additional Asset Portfolio Breakdown by Sub-segments ............. 227
Appendix E – Facility Condition Indices ...................................................... 235
- 140 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
1
1. Executive Summary
Municipal infrastructure delivers critical services that are foundational to the
economic, social, and environmental health and growth of a community. The goal of
asset management is to enable infrastructure to deliver an adequate level of service
in the most cost-effective manner. This involves the ongoing review and update of
infrastructure information and data alongside the development and implementation
of asset management strategies and long-term financial planning.
1.1 Scope
This Asset Management Plan (AMP) identifies the current practices and strategies
that are in place to manage public infrastructure and makes recommendations
where they can be further refined. Through the implementation of sound asset
management strategies, the City can ensure that public infrastructure is managed
to support the sustainable delivery of municipal services.
This AMP includes the following asset categories:
Figure 1 Core and Non-Core Asset Categories
•Road Corridor
•Bridges & Structural Culverts
•Stormwater System
Core Assets
•Buildings & Facilities
•Parks
•Other Infrastructure
Non-Core Assets
- 141 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
2
1.2 O. Reg. 588/17 Compliance
With the development of this AMP the Municipality has achieved compliance with
July 1, 2025, requirements under O. Reg. 588/17. This includes requirements for
proposed levels of service and inventory reporting for all asset categories. More
details on compliance can be found in section 2.5.1 O. Reg. 588/17 Compliance
Review.
1.3 Findings
The overall replacement cost of the asset categories included in this AMP totals $2.1
billion. 60% of the assets analyzed in this AMP, based on replacement cost, are in
fair or better condition. Additionally, condition data was available for 71% of the
assets assessed. For the remaining 29% of assets, assessed condition data was
unavailable, and asset age was used to approximate condition – a data gap that
persists in most municipalities. Condition data is ideal for asset assessment, but
when unavailable, asset age is used. Although asset age is less precise, it still
provides valuable data.
The development of a long-term, sustainable financial plan requires an analysis of
whole lifecycle costs. This AMP uses a combination of proactive lifecycle strategies
(paved roads, bridges and culverts, and stormwater ponds) and replacement
strategies (all other assets) to determine the lowest cost option to maintain the
current level of service.
To meet capital replacement and rehabilitation needs for existing infrastructure,
prevent infrastructure backlogs, and achieve long-term sustainability, the City’s
average annual capital requirement totals $61.7 million. Based on a historical
analysis of sustainable capital funding sources, the City is committing
approximately $31.8 million towards capital projects or reserves per year. As a
result, there is currently an annual funding gap of $32.8 million.
It is important to note that this AMP represents a snapshot in time and is based on
the best available processes, data, and information at the City of Pickering.
Strategic asset management planning is an ongoing and dynamic process that
requires continuous improvement and dedicated resources.
- 142 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
3
1.4 Recommendations
A financial strategy was developed to address the City’s annual capital funding gap.
The following graphics illustrate the annual tax increase required to eliminate the
City’s infrastructure deficit over a 10-year period.
Closing the infrastructure gap within 10 years is essential to avoid the risks
associated with continued asset deterioration and escalating costs. Extending the
timeline beyond a decade would result in greater lifecycle costs due to deferred
maintenance, reduced levels of service, and increased risk of service disruptions or
emergency repairs. A 10-year horizon strikes a balance between fiscal responsibility
and long-term sustainability, enabling the City to proactively manage its assets,
stabilize future funding needs, and maintain safe, reliable services for the
community:
Figure 2 Proposed Tax Changes
Tax-Funded
ASSETS
Average
Annual Tax
Change
2.8%
- 143 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
4
2. Introduction & Context
2.1 Community Profile
Figure 3: A Google Maps snapshot of the City of Pickering
Pickering, located in Southern Ontario just east of Toronto, is a thriving City in
Durham Region with a rich history and diverse community. As the gateway to the
eastern Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Pickering is strategically positioned where
Toronto, York, and Durham Regions converge. Recognized by The Globe and Mail as
one of the most livable cities in Canada for two consecutive years, Pickering
continues to grow both economically and residentially. Its award-winning
municipality offers an exceptional quality of life for those who live, work, and play
here.
- 144 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
5
The dynamic City Centre has been designated by the Province of Ontario as both an
Urban Growth Centre and Mobility Hub, positioning it as a key area for innovation
and connectivity. Pickering is fast becoming a vibrant destination for creative
learning, memorable events, and unique experiences, all set within a connected and
engaged community.
Table 1 provides census data for the City of Pickering and the Province of Ontario,
obtained from the 2021 Statistics Canada (StatsCan).
Census Characteristic City of Pickering Ontario
Population 2021 99,186 14,223,942
Population Change 2016-2021 8.1% 5.8%
Total Private Dwellings 34,327 5,929,250
Population Density 429.2/km2 15.9/km2
Land Area 231.1 km2 892,411.76 km2
Table 1 Census data: City of Pickering & the province of Ontario
Pickering's history spans several distinct phases: it was a Township from 1811 to
1973, a Town from 1974 to 2000, and has been a City since 2000. Over the 19th
century, small communities along key trade routes like Kingston Road contributed
to Pickering’s growth, particularly in industries such as milling and agriculture. In
the 20th century, the city experienced rapid urbanization, with suburban growth
spreading southward. The establishment of the Pickering Nuclear Generating
Station in the 1970s became a major catalyst for economic development, solidifying
Pickering’s role as an industrial and energy hub. Significant milestones in the city’s
evolution include the creation of Durham Region in 1974 and its designation as a
City in 2000.
The population has continued to grow, driven by residential expansion and new
developments such as the Seaton community in the 21st century. Modern projects,
including high-rise condominiums and the Durham Live entertainment complex,
have further shaped the city's identity as both a residential and entertainment
destination. Durham Live is a key tourism hub, bringing in visitors from near and
far with its vibrant mix of entertainment, dining, and leisure activities.
Today, Pickering remains a blend of suburban and rural landscapes. While the
southern part of the City is home to residential neighbourhoods and industrial
sectors, the northern areas preserve their rural charm, with historic hamlets such
as Claremont, Greenwood, and Whitevale. Pickering hosts a variety of businesses
ranging from manufacturing to technology, contributing to its diverse and growing
economy. The Pickering Nuclear Generating Station remains a major employer and
a key player in the local economy.
The City is well-connected through its transit infrastructure, including the Pickering
GO Station and major highways such as 401 and 407, linking it to Toronto and the
surrounding region. These transportation networks are essential to their role as a
significant regional center.
- 145 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
6
As Pickering continues to grow, plans for intensified development in the downtown
core and the creation of new communities like Seaton are expected to fuel further
expansion. Notable projects include new facilities at Durham Live, the development
of residential and commercial spaces around key transit hubs, and improvements in
transit, such as the planned Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. With its rich history,
modern developments, and robust infrastructure, Pickering is well-positioned to
thrive in the years to come.
2.2 Climate Change
Climate change has significant impacts on both human and natural systems
globally, leading to rising temperatures, increased precipitation, droughts, and
extreme weather events. Canada’s Changing Climate Report (CCCR 2019)
highlights that from 1948 to 2016, Canada’s average temperature rose by 1.7°C,
with Northern Canada warming 2.3°C—twice the global average. If emissions are
not reduced, temperatures could rise by up to 6.3°C by 2100. Precipitation in
Canada has increased by 20% since 1948 and could rise another 24% by the late
21st century. Some regions, especially in Southern Canada, may face more
frequent summer droughts. Extreme weather-related events such as poor air
quality from wildfires, extreme precipitation, and extreme temperature shifts are
becoming more common.
These changes present significant risks to Canada's economy, society, environment,
and infrastructure. Climate-related extremes like droughts, floods, freeze-thaw
cycles, wildfires, and heatwaves threaten infrastructure, increasing damage and
wear. Municipalities are tasked with safeguarding local economies, citizens, and
physical assets from these climate challenges.
2.2.1 Pickering Climate Profile
The City of Pickering is located in proximity to Lake Ontario. The area is expected to
experience notable effects of climate change which include higher average annual
temperatures, an increase in total annual precipitation, and an increase in the
frequency and severity of extreme weather-related events.
In 2020, the Ontario Climate Consortium, in partnership with Durham Region, area
municipalities and the five local conservation authorities, published a guidance
document titled, Guide to Conducing a Climate Change Analysis at the Local Scale:
Lessons Learned from Durham Region (2020) to present downscaled climate
projections across Durham Region using an ensemble modelling approach.
According to this document the City of Pickering may experience the following
trends:
Higher Average Annual Temperature:
• Between the years 1971 and 2000 the annual average temperature was
7.0ºC
• Under a high emissions scenario, the annual average temperatures are
projected to increase to 8.5ºC by the year 2040 and about 12.2ºC by
2100.
- 146 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
7
Increase in Total Annual Precipitation:
• Under a high emissions scenario, Pickering is projected to experience a
12% increase in precipitation by the year 2040 and a 27% increase by
2100.
2.2.2 Impacts of Climate Change on Asset Management
The City of Pickering, like many municipalities across Canada, is facing the
increasing impacts of climate change on its infrastructure. Rising temperatures,
shifting precipitation patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events pose
significant risks to roads, stormwater systems, buildings, natural assets, and
municipal services. These changes threaten not only infrastructure longevity but
also the City's ability to provide consistent levels of service to residents.
2.2.2.1. Climate Risks to Pickering’s Infrastructure
Climate change is expected to intensify existing vulnerabilities across various
municipal asset classes. The risks associated with changing climate conditions
include:
Transportation & Road Infrastructure
• Increased freeze-thaw cycles may accelerate pavement deterioration, pothole
formation, and structural degradation of bridges and culverts.
• More frequent and intense rainfall events can cause localized flooding,
erosion, and washouts, particularly in areas with insufficient stormwater
drainage capacity.
• Increased temperature fluctuations can cause road surfaces to break down
faster, increasing the frequency of resurfacing and maintenance
requirements.
Stormwater Management Systems
• Extreme precipitation could overwhelm drainage networks, leading to
increased flood risks, basement flooding, and erosion of public and private
properties.
• A higher frequency of high-intensity storms places additional stress on
culverts, outfalls, and stormwater management systems, necessitating
upgrades in capacity.
• Warmer temperatures can lead to higher evaporation rates, reducing water
availability in natural stormwater management areas.
Municipal Buildings & Facilities
• Increased cooling demands due to higher summer temperatures may strain
HVAC systems, increasing energy costs and the risk of equipment failure.
• Extreme weather events such as storms, heavy snowfall, and ice
accumulation could damage municipal structures, increasing repair and
maintenance costs.
• Older facilities with insufficient insulation and inefficient heating/cooling
systems may require extensive retrofits to meet evolving climate conditions.
- 147 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
8
Parks, Natural Assets, and Green Spaces
• Urban heat islands may become more pronounced, requiring expanded tree
canopy coverage and green infrastructure to mitigate rising temperatures.
• Changes in precipitation patterns can lead to soil degradation, reduced water
retention, and increased maintenance needs for recreational spaces.
• Biodiversity loss and ecosystem imbalances may affect tree health,
pollination, and overall landscape resilience.
Fleet, Equipment, and Municipal Operations
• Rising fuel costs and new regulations on emissions reduction necessitate a
greater shift toward electric and hybrid municipal vehicles, along with the use
of alternate fuels such as renewable diesel, which can further reduce the
carbon footprint and provide a transitional solution for fleets that may not yet
be ready to fully electrify.
• More frequent extreme weather events could disrupt municipal operations,
requiring additional emergency response resources.
• Increased mechanical wear due to extreme temperatures and humidity could
shorten equipment lifespan and increase maintenance costs.
2.2.2.2. Approach: Integrating Climate Adaptation into Asset
Management
To proactively address these climate risks, Pickering is integrating climate resilience
considerations into its asset management framework and decision-making, ensuring
infrastructure investments align with both sustainability goals and regulatory
requirements, including Ontario Regulation 588/17. This approach supports long-
term financial sustainability, risk reduction, and enhanced service reliability. This
integration will be structured around the following activities:
Climate Risk Assessment & Data Integration
• Utilize historical weather data and future climate projections to assess
vulnerabilities in asset classes.
• Conduct climate impact assessments in coordination with provincial and
federal agencies. This includes agencies such as:
o Impact Assessment Agency of Canada – Responsible for federal
environmental impact assessments.
o Environment & Climate Change Canada – Provides climate-related
policies, programs, and data.
o Ontario Provincial Climate Change Impact Assessment – Supports
regional climate risk analysis and adaptation planning.
o The Climate Risk Institute (formerly OCCIA) – Specializes in climate
risk and adaptation research.
• Align with risk-based asset management principles to prioritize high-risk
infrastructure.
- 148 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
9
Lifecycle Costing and Climate-Resilient Design
• Evaluate the long-term cost implications of climate-related deterioration.
• Promote the use of climate-adaptive materials (e.g., permeable pavements,
high-albedo surfaces such as cool roofs, flood-resistant building materials).
• Enhance the resilience of assets through modifications, upgrades, and
alternative design standards. Alternative design standards are emerging to
address climate resilience in infrastructure. While some standards have been
well-documented and integrated into national and provincial guidelines,
others are still undergoing research and validation. Below are key areas
where alternative design standards are being explored:
o High-Albedo Surfaces & Reflective Materials
▪ Proven: The use of cool roofs, reflective pavements, and light-
colored building materials has been widely studied, with
research indicating their effectiveness in reducing the urban
heat island effect. Studies by the National Research Council
Canada and CMHC provide data on the cooling benefits and
energy savings of such materials.
▪ Reference: Government of Canada research on cool roofs and
reflective pavements (e.g., NRCan studies on urban climate
adaptation).
o Flood-Resistant Infrastructure & Permeable Pavements
▪ Proven: Permeable concrete, bio-retention systems, and
stormwater management solutions have been implemented in
multiple Canadian municipalities to enhance flood resilience.
▪ Reference: The Ontario Provincial Climate Change Impact
Assessment highlights best practices for integrating permeable
infrastructure into urban planning.
o Alternative Building Materials & Design Life Adjustments
▪ Proven: Research has been conducted on mass timber
construction, insulated concrete forms (ICFs), and climate-
resilient coatings to improve energy efficiency and withstand
extreme weather events.
▪ Reference: Government of Canada’s National Research Council
study on climate-based design life adjustments.
o Wind and Storm Resilience
▪ Under Research: Enhanced building codes for hurricane-rated
structures, impact-resistant windows, and aerodynamic roof
designs are being tested in response to more frequent extreme
weather patterns.
▪ Reference: The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) S478 on
climate durability of buildings.
- 149 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
10
Service Level Adjustments and Performance Monitoring
• Define climate-adjusted levels of service (LOS) to guide investment and
operational planning.
• Establish performance indicators that reflect climate resilience, including
flood management efficiency, road deterioration rates, and energy
performance in buildings.
• Implement a climate resilience monitoring framework to track adaptation
efforts.
Funding and Partnerships
• Seek funding opportunities through federal and provincial programs, such as
the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Green Municipal Fund.
• Engage in regional collaboration with neighbouring municipalities to share
best practices and cost-effective adaptation strategies.
• Explore public-private partnerships to support innovative climate adaptation
projects.
2.2.2.3. Municipal Climate Resilience Initiatives: Lessons for Pickering
Many Canadian municipalities have successfully integrated climate adaptation into
their infrastructure planning, providing valuable insights for Pickering. Examples
include:
• Toronto’s Green Street Selection Project: Uses GIS mapping to prioritize
streets for climate-resilient infrastructure.
• Vancouver’s Raincity Strategy: Implements permeable pavements and
stormwater retention features to mitigate flooding risks.
• Fredericton’s Flood Risk Management: Converts municipal parking areas into
floodwater detention sites to prevent urban flooding.
• Halton Hills’ Net-Zero Building Initiative: Ensures all new municipal buildings
meet net-zero energy standards to enhance sustainability.
• Aurora's Climate Change Adaptation Plan: Assesses and prioritizes
infrastructure resilience against climate change by identifying risks and
implementing actions like improving flood resilience in stormwater systems,
ensuring sufficient cooling capacity in public buildings, and maintaining
stormwater management ponds during dry summer conditions. An example
for linear engineered assets is evaluating future projected precipitation
impacts on the stormwater system and applying lot-level runoff controls to
manage localized flooding.
• Whitby’s Climate Emergency Response Plan Phase 1: Focuses on adapting to
climate change by addressing key hazards such as flooding and heatwaves.
Actions include shifting new development away from projected floodplains,
using accurate floodplain mapping to guide zoning decisions, and improving
culverts to prevent road flooding. Additionally, building retrofits for at-risk
residents aim to enhance safety during heatwaves and reduce energy
consumption, while developing public cooling strategies to protect vulnerable
groups during extreme heat events.
- 150 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
11
Pickering is currently finalizing the 2025-2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan.
In addition to that, Pickering can adapt these approaches to its own geographic,
economic, and regulatory environment, ensuring local relevance and feasibility.
2.2.2.4. Challenges and Opportunities for Pickering
Challenges
Despite the benefits of climate adaptation, several barriers must be addressed:
• Budget Constraints: Funding major climate adaptation projects requires
upfront capital investment.
• Data Gaps: Integrating climate risk data with existing asset condition
assessments can be complex.
• Limited Technical Capacity: Many adaptation strategies require specialized
expertise, which may necessitate external consultants or new training
programs.
• Regulatory Compliance: Adapting to climate change must align with O. Reg.
588/17 and evolving federal/provincial sustainability policies.
Opportunities
By embedding climate resilience into asset management, Pickering can unlock
significant long-term benefits:
• Cost Savings: Investing in climate-adaptive infrastructure reduces
maintenance costs and minimizes unexpected repairs.
• Improved Service Delivery: Resilient infrastructure enhances reliability and
reduces service disruptions.
• Economic Growth: Climate-conscious planning can attract green technology
investments and job creation.
• Community Resilience: Public engagement and education can foster stronger
community support for sustainability initiatives.
Conclusion
Integrating climate adaptation into Pickering’s Asset Management Plan will ensure
the City is well-prepared for the impacts of climate change while continuing to
provide high-quality municipal services. A structured, data-driven approach will
help balance risk, service delivery, and financial sustainability. By implementing
best practices, leveraging funding opportunities, and fostering regional
collaboration, Pickering can proactively adapt its infrastructure to future climate
conditions while ensuring long-term sustainability, economic resilience, and
community well-being.
- 151 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
12
2.3 Asset Management Overview
Municipalities are responsible for managing and maintaining a broad portfolio of
infrastructure assets to deliver services to the community. The goal of asset
management is to minimize the lifecycle costs of delivering infrastructure services,
manage the associated risks, while maximizing the value ratepayers receive from
the asset portfolio.
The acquisition of capital assets accounts for only 10-20% of their total cost of
ownership. The remaining 80-90% comes from operations and maintenance. This
AMP focuses its analysis on the capital costs to maintain, rehabilitate and replace
existing municipal infrastructure assets.
Figure 4 Total Cost of Asset Ownership
These costs can span decades, requiring planning and foresight to ensure financial
responsibility is spread equitably across generations. An asset management plan is
critical to this planning, and an essential element of a broader asset management
program.
2.3.1 Foundational Asset Management Documentation
The industry-standard approach and sequence to developing a practical asset
management program begins with a Strategic Plan, followed by an Asset
Management Policy and an Asset Management Strategy, concluding with an Asset
Management Plan.
This industry standard, defined by the Institute of Asset Management (IAM),
emphasizes the alignment between the corporate strategic plan and various asset
management documents. The strategic plan has a direct, and cascading impact on
asset management planning and reporting.
- 152 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
13
Figure 5 Foundational Asset Management Documents
Corporate Strategic Plan (2024-2028)
Pickering's Corporate Strategic Plan (CSP) serves as a roadmap for the City’s
growth, development, and governance over the next four years. It is designed to
guide decision-making and resource allocation while ensuring alignment with
community priorities. The plan was developed through extensive stakeholder
engagement, including residents, businesses, and advisory committees.
The CSP is structured around six strategic priorities and a Corporate Key:
• Champion Economic Leadership & Innovation – Supporting business growth,
job creation, and infrastructure development.
• Advocate for an Inclusive, Welcoming, Safe & Healthy Community –
Enhancing safety, accessibility, and quality of life.
• Advance Innovation & Responsible Planning to Support a Connected, Well-
Serviced Community – Investing in sustainable urban planning and
infrastructure.
• Lead & Advocate for Environmental Stewardship, Innovation & Resiliency –
Addressing climate resilience and sustainability.
• Strengthen Existing & Build New Partnerships – Collaborating with
governmental, business, and community stakeholders.
• Foster an Engaged & Informed Community – Improving civic engagement
and transparent governance.
• The Corporate Key that underpins all priorities is a commitment to good
governance, fiscal responsibility, and customer service excellence.
Strategic
Plan
Asset
Management
Policy
Asset
Management
Strategy
Asset
Management
Plan
- 153 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
14
Connection to Pickering’s 2025 Asset Management Plan
The 2025 AMP will play a critical role in advancing several objectives of the CSP by
ensuring infrastructure and municipal assets are effectively managed, renewed, and
expanded to support Pickering’s growth and sustainability goals. Below are key
linkages:
1. Infrastructure Investment & Renewal (Supports CSP Priorities 3 & 4)
• The AMP will align with the CSP’s goal of responsible planning and
sustainable growth, ensuring roads, bridges, sidewalks, and municipal
facilities meet current and future needs.
• The plan emphasizes climate resilience, ensuring infrastructure investments
considering environmental sustainability.
• Investments in cycling, pedestrian, and transportation networks (as outlined
in the Integrated Transportation Master Plan) will be reflected in AMP funding
priorities.
2. Fiscal Responsibility & Sustainable Asset Funding (Supports CSP
Governance Goals)
• The AMP will provide a long-term financial strategy to ensure Pickering
remains fiscally sustainable while meeting infrastructure demands.
• By linking asset renewal to Pickering’s strategic budget process, the AMP
ensures alignment with the CSP’s commitment to transparent decision-
making and responsible financial stewardship.
3. Environmental Resilience & Sustainability (Supports CSP Priority 4)
• The AMP will incorporate sustainability objectives, supporting Pickering’s
climate action and green infrastructure commitments.
• Strategies such as green building standards, sustainable road design, and
low-impact stormwater management will be integrated into asset
management planning.
4. Community Well-Being & Accessibility (Supports CSP Priority 2)
• The AMP will ensure that infrastructure investments support equitable access
to services, including accessible public spaces and inclusive mobility
networks.
• Investments in parks, recreation, and municipal facilities will align with CSP’s
focus on community health and safety.
5. Performance Measurement & Public Engagement (Supports CSP Priority
6)
• The AMP will incorporate progress tracking and reporting mechanisms that
align with CSP’s annual progress updates.
• The Let’s Talk Pickering platform and other engagement tools will ensure the
public remains informed and involved in infrastructure decision-making.
- 154 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
15
Conclusion
The 2025 Asset Management Plan will operationalize the Corporate Strategic Plan’s
vision by ensuring infrastructure investments are data-driven, financially
sustainable, and aligned with Pickering’s economic, environmental, and social
priorities. By integrating asset renewal strategies with the City’s broader strategic
framework, the AMP will help Pickering grow responsibly, optimize service delivery,
and maintain fiscal sustainability.
Asset Management Policy
An asset management policy represents a statement of the principles guiding the
City’s approach to asset management activities. It aligns with the organizational
strategic plan and provides clear direction to municipal staff on their roles and
responsibilities as part of the asset management program.
The City adopted By-law No. 2018-47 “A By-law to Adopt an Asset Management
Strategy Policy” on July 23rd, 2018, in accordance with Ontario Regulation 588/17.
The objectives of the policy include:
• Fiscal Responsibility
• Delivery of Services/Programs
• Public Input/Council Direction
• Risk/Impact Mitigation
Asset Management Strategy
The City of Pickering adopted an Asset Management Action Plan in April 2023,
which serves as its Asset Management Strategy. This plan translates organizational
objectives into asset management objectives and provides a strategic overview of
the activities required to achieve them. It outlines planned initiatives and decision-
making criteria that support asset management objectives, offering greater detail
than the Asset Management Policy. While the policy establishes an overarching
framework, the Action Plan guides the City’s approach to implementing asset
management practices and may be further refined in future updates.
Asset Management Plan
The Asset Management Plan (AMP) presents the outcomes of the City’s asset
management program and identifies the resource requirements needed to achieve a
defined level of service. The AMP typically includes the following content:
• State of Infrastructure
• Asset Management Strategies
• Levels of Service
• Financial Strategies
The AMP is a living document that should be updated regularly as an additional
asset and financial data becomes available. This will allow the City to re-evaluate
the state of infrastructure and identify how the organization’s asset management
and financial strategies are progressing.
- 155 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
16
2.3.2 Key Concepts in Asset Management
Effective asset management integrates several key components, including lifecycle
management, risk & criticality, and levels of service. These concepts are applied
throughout this asset management plan and are described below in greater detail.
Lifecycle Management Strategies
The condition or performance of most assets will deteriorate over time. This process
is affected by a range of factors including asset’s characteristics, location,
utilization, maintenance history and environment. Asset deterioration has a
negative effect on the ability of an asset to fulfill its intended function, and may be
characterized by increased cost, risk and even service disruption.
To ensure that municipal assets are performing as expected and meeting the needs
of customers, it is important to establish a lifecycle management strategy to
proactively manage asset deterioration.
There are several field intervention activities that are available to extend the life of
an asset. These activities can be generally placed into one of three categories:
maintenance, rehabilitation, and replacement. The following table provides a
description of each type of activity and the general difference in cost.
Depending on initial lifecycle management strategies, asset performance can be
sustained through a combination of maintenance and rehabilitation, but at some
point, replacement is required. Understanding what effect these activities will have
on the lifecycle of an asset, and their cost, will enable staff to make better
recommendations.
Lifecycle Activity Cost Typical Associated Risks
Maintenance
Activities that
prevent defects or
deteriorations from
occurring
$
• Balancing limited resources between planned
maintenance and reactive, emergency repairs
and interventions.
• Diminishing returns are associated with
excessive maintenance activities, despite added
costs.
• The intervention selected may not be optimal
and may not extend the useful life as expected,
leading to lower payoff and potential premature
asset failure.
- 156 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
17
Lifecycle Activity Cost Typical Associated Risks
Rehabilitation/
Renewal
Activities that
rectify defects or
deficiencies that
are already present
and may be
affecting asset
performance
$$$
• Useful life may not be extended as expected.
• May be costlier eventually when assessed
against full reconstruction or replacement.
• Loss or disruption of service, particularly for
underground assets.
Replacement/
Reconstruction
Asset end-of-life
activities that often
involve the
complete
replacement of
assets
$$$$
$
• Incorrect or unsafe disposal of existing assets.
• Costs associated with asset retirement
obligations.
• Substantial exposure to high inflation and cost
overruns.
• Replacements may not meet capacity needs for
a larger population.
• Loss or disruption of service, particularly for
underground assets.
Table 2 Lifecycle Management: Typical Lifecycle Interventions
The City’s approach to lifecycle management is described within each asset
category outlined in this AMP. Staff will continue to evolve and innovate current
practices for developing and implementing proactive lifecycle strategies to
determine which activities to perform on an asset and when they should be
performed to maximize useful life at the lowest total cost of ownership.
Risk & Criticality
Asset risk and criticality are essential building blocks of asset management, integral
in prioritizing projects and distributing funds where they are needed most based on
a variety of factors. Assets in disrepair may fail to perform their intended function,
pose substantial risk to the community, lead to unplanned expenditures, and create
liability for the municipality. In addition, some assets are simply more important to
the community than others, based on their financial significance, their role in
delivering essential services, the impact of their failure on public health and safety,
and the extent to which they support a high quality of life for community
stakeholders. Failure to properly assess and manage these risks may also expose
the municipality to legal liability, particularly if negligence in maintaining critical
infrastructure leads to harm or service disruptions.
- 157 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
18
Risk is a product of two variables: the probability that an asset will fail, and the
resulting consequences of that failure event. It can be a qualitative measurement,
(i.e., low, medium, high) or quantitative measurement (i.e., 1-5), that can be used
to rank assets and projects, identify appropriate lifecycle strategies, optimize short-
and long-term budgets, minimize service disruptions, and maintain public health
and safety.
Figure 6 Risk Equations
The approach used in this AMP relies on a quantitative measurement of risk
associated with each asset. The probability and consequence of failure are each
scored from 1 to 5, producing a minimum risk index of 1 for the lowest risk assets,
and a maximum risk index of 25 for the highest risk assets.
Probability of Failure
Several factors can help decision-makers estimate the probability or likelihood of an
asset’s failure, including its condition, age, previous performance history, and
exposure to extreme weather events, such as flooding and ice jams—both a
growing concern for municipalities in Canada.
Consequence of Failure
Estimating criticality also requires identifying the types of consequences that the
organization and community may face from an asset’s failure, and the magnitude of
those consequences. Consequences of asset failure will vary across the
infrastructure portfolio; the failure of some assets may result primarily in high
direct financial cost but may pose limited risk to the community. Other assets may
have a relatively minor financial value, but any downtime may pose significant
health and safety hazards to residents.
Table 3 illustrates the various types of consequences that can be integrated in
developing risk and criticality models for each asset category and segments within.
We note that these consequences are common, but not exhaustive.
- 158 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
19
Type of Consequence Description
Direct Financial
Direct financial consequences are typically measured
as the replacement costs of the asset(s) affected by
the failure event, including interdependent
infrastructure.
Economic
Economic impacts of asset failure may include
disruption to local economic activity and commerce,
business closures, service disruptions, etc. Whereas
direct financial impacts can be seen immediately or
estimated within hours or days, economic impacts can
take weeks, months or years to emerge, and may
persist for even longer.
Socio-political
Socio-political impacts are more difficult to quantify
and may include inconvenience to the public and key
community stakeholders, adverse media coverage, and
reputational damage to the community and the
Municipality.
Environmental Environmental consequences can include pollution,
erosion, sedimentation, habitat damage, etc.
Public Health and Safety
Adverse health and safety impacts may include injury
or death, damage to property, or impeded access to
critical services.
Strategic
These include the effects of an asset’s failure on the
community’s long-term strategic objectives, including
economic development, business attraction, etc.
Legal Liability
These include the financial and reputational impact of
lawsuits, fines, and compensation claims resulting
from asset failure, which could strain municipal
resources and hinder the achievement of broader
community objectives.
Table 3 Risk Analysis: Types of Consequences of Failure
This AMP includes a preliminary evaluation of asset risk and criticality. Each asset
has been assigned a probability of failure score and consequence of failure score
- 159 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
20
based on available asset data. These risk scores can be used to prioritize
maintenance, rehabilitation, and replacement strategies for critical assets.
These models have been built in Citywide for continued review, updates, and
refinements. Appendix C – Risk Rating Criteria provides a detailed breakdown of the
risk rating criteria, organized by category, used in this AMP.
Levels of Service
A level of service (LOS) is a measure of the services that the City provides to the
community and the nature and quality of those services. Within each asset category
in this AMP, technical metrics and qualitative descriptions that measure both
technical and community levels of service have been established and measured as
data is available.
The City measures the level of service provided at two levels: Community Levels of
Service, and Technical Levels of Service. This AMP includes those LOS that are
required under O. Reg. 588/17 as well as any additional metrics the City wishes to
track.
Community Levels of Service
Community levels of service are a simple, plain language description or measure of
the service that the community receives. For core asset categories as applicable
(Roads, Bridges & Structural Culverts, and Stormwater), the province, through O.
Reg. 588/17, has provided qualitative descriptions that are required to be included
in this AMP.
Technical Levels of Service
Technical levels of service are a measure of key technical attributes of the service
being provided to the community. These include mostly quantitative measures and
tend to reflect the impact of the City’s asset management strategies on the physical
condition of assets or the quality/capacity of the services they provide.
For core asset categories as applicable (Roads, Bridges & Structural Culverts, and
Stormwater) the province, through O. Reg. 588/17, has also provided technical
metrics that are required to be included in this AMP.
Current and Proposed Levels of Service
This AMP focuses on evaluating the current level of service provided to the
community. Existing service levels serve as a benchmark for establishing realistic
and achievable service targets over the next 10 years, in compliance with O.Reg.
588/17.
- 160 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
21
The proposed levels of service are designed to balance community expectations,
financial capacity, regulatory requirements, corporate goals, and long-term
sustainability. To support the development of the Levels of Service Framework, a
comprehensive review of strategic documents was conducted. Key documents
provided by the City of Pickering include:
• Recreation & Parks Master Plan (2017)
• Recreation and Parks Ten Year Plan (2024)
• Integrated Transportation Master Plan (2021)
• Asset Management Plan (2021)
• IT Capability Assessment (2024)
• Pickering Public Library Facilities Plan (2023 Update)
• Facilities Renewal Study (2024)
• Corporate Strategic Plan (2024)
Levels of Service Framework
The Levels of Service Framework is a structured approach designed to define,
assess, and prioritize municipal service expectations. It ensures alignment with the
City’s strategic objectives, operational capacity, and community needs.
1. Strategic Alignment
The framework is grounded in key strategic plans that outline infrastructure
priorities, service expectations, and long-term sustainability goals.
2. Defining Levels of Service
A structured methodology identifies service areas requiring improvement and
establishes clear distinctions between:
• Acceptable levels of service (baseline requirements)
• Excellent levels of service (enhanced performance targets)
3. Levels of Service Reporting
To ensure accountability and transparency, a reporting structure is developed that
defines:
• Responsible departments for service tracking
• Reporting methodology for performance measurement
• Reporting frequency to monitor trends over time
- 161 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
22
4. Impact-Based Prioritization
Service areas are prioritized based on the risk of failing to meet acceptable
standards. The framework evaluates five key impact areas:
• Environmental (e.g., erosion control, flood prevention)
• Operational (e.g., service reliability, efficiency)
• Health & Safety (e.g., emergency access, road safety)
• Financial (e.g., maintenance costs, capital planning)
• Community Satisfaction (e.g., accessibility, public expectations)
5. Levels of Service Treatment Options
A structured process is applied to evaluate and implement service improvements:
• Baseline Analysis – Assessing current service levels
• Risk Assessment – Identifying critical service gaps
• Scenario Analysis – Projecting potential service outcomes
• Implementation Planning – Developing cost-effective solutions
6. Public Engagement & Community Feedback
The Community Levels of Service Survey (October–November 2024) collects
feedback on service priorities, satisfaction levels, and willingness to support
improvements. This public engagement initiative ensures that municipal decisions
align with community expectations and regulatory requirements, including a
meeting with the Accessibility Advisory Committee to gather input on accessibility-
related service levels.
7. Integration with Asset Management Planning
The framework supports long-term infrastructure investment by balancing cost,
risk, and performance, ensuring sustainable service delivery in compliance with
O.Reg. 588/17.
This structured approach enables the City of Pickering to evaluate, prioritize, and
enhance service levels effectively, promoting transparency, efficiency, and
alignment with community needs.
- 162 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
23
2.4 Scope & Methodology
2.4.1 Asset Categories for this AMP
This asset management plan for the City of Pickering is produced in compliance
with O. Reg. 588/17. The July 2025 deadline under the regulation—the third of
three AMPs—requires analysis of core and non-core asset categories.
The AMP summarizes the state of the infrastructure for the City’s asset portfolio,
establishes proposed levels of service and the associated technical and customer-
oriented key metrics, outlines lifecycle strategies for optimal asset management
and performance, and provides financial strategies to reach sustainability for the
asset categories listed below.
Figure 7 Tax Funded Asset Categories
2.4.2 Data Effective Date
It is important to note that this plan is based on data as of January 31, 2025;
therefore, it represents a snapshot in time using the best available processes, data,
and information at the Municipality. Strategic asset management planning is an
ongoing and dynamic process that requires continuous data updates and dedicated
data management resources.
2.4.3 Deriving Replacement Costs
There are a range of methods to determine the replacement cost of an asset, and
some are more accurate and reliable than others. This AMP relies on two
methodologies:
User-Defined Cost and Cost Per Unit
Based on costs provided by municipal staff which could include average costs
from recent contracts; data from engineering reports and assessments; staff
estimates based on knowledge and experience.
•Road Corridor
•Bridges & Structural Culverts
•Stormwater System
•Buildings & Facilities
•Parks
•Other Infrastructure
Tax Funded Assets
- 163 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
24
Cost Inflation / CPI Tables
Historical costs of the assets are inflated based on Consumer Price Index or
Non-Residential Building Construction Price Index.
User-defined costs based on reliable sources are a reasonably accurate and reliable
way to determine asset replacement costs. Cost inflation is typically used in the
absence of reliable replacement cost data. It is a reliable method for recently
purchased and/or constructed assets where the total cost is reflective of the actual
costs that the City incurred. As assets age, and new products and technologies
become available, cost inflation becomes a less reliable method.
2.4.4 Estimated Useful Life & Service Life Remaining
The estimated useful life (EUL) of an asset refers to the total period during which
the City expects the asset to be available for use and remain in service before
requiring replacement or disposal. It represents the asset's lifespan based on
industry standards, historical data, and municipal expertise. In contrast, the service
life remaining (SLR) indicates how much of the EUL is left at a given point in time,
calculated primarily based on the asset’s age. However, when additional data is
available, factors such as condition assessments and actual usage patterns can be
incorporated to refine the estimate, providing a more accurate forecast of when the
asset may require replacement. This allows for a proactive approach to asset
management, ensuring timely interventions and optimal resource allocation. The
SLR is calculated as follows:
Figure 8 Service Life Remaining Calculation
2.4.5 Reinvestment Rate
As assets age and deteriorate, they require additional investment to maintain a
state of good repair. The reinvestment of capital funds, through asset renewal or
replacement, is necessary to sustain an adequate level of service. The reinvestment
rate is a measurement of available or required funding relative to the total
replacement cost.
The actual reinvestment rate represents the percentage of the asset portfolio's total
replacement cost that the City is currently investing in renewal or replacement on
an annual basis. The target reinvestment rate reflects the percentage that should
- 164 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
25
be invested each year to ensure assets are maintained at an appropriate condition
level, considering lifecycle needs and long-term sustainability.
By comparing the actual vs. target reinvestment rate, the City can determine the
extent of any existing funding gap and assess whether current investment levels
are sufficient to prevent infrastructure deficits. The reinvestment rate is calculated
as follows:
Figure 9 Target Reinvestment Rate Calculation
Figure 10 Actual Reinvestment Rate Calculation
2.4.6 Deriving Asset Condition
An incomplete or limited understanding of asset conditions can mislead long-term
planning and decision-making. Accurate and reliable condition data prevents costly
rehabilitation or replacement, whether premature or delayed, and ensures that
lifecycle activities occur at the right time to maximize asset value and useful life.
A condition assessment rating system provides a standardized descriptive
framework that allows comparative benchmarking across the City’s asset portfolio.
The table below outlines the condition rating system used in this AMP to determine
asset condition. This rating system is aligned with the Canadian Core Public
Infrastructure Survey which is used to develop the Canadian Infrastructure Report
Card. When assessed condition data is not available, service life remaining is used
to approximate asset condition.
The analysis in this AMP is based on assessed condition data only as available. In
the absence of assessed condition data, asset age is used as a proxy to determine
asset condition.
- 165 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
26
Condition Description Criteria
Service Life
Remaining
(%)
Very Good
Fit for the
future
Well-maintained, good condition,
new or recently rehabilitated 80-100
Good
Adequate for
now
Acceptable, generally approaching
mid-stage of expected service life 60-80
Fair
Requires
attention
Signs of deterioration, some
elements exhibit significant
deficiencies
40-60
Poor
Increasing
potential of
affecting
service
Approaching end of service life,
condition below standard, large
portion of system exhibits significant
deterioration
20-40
Very Poor
Unfit for
sustained
service
Near or beyond expected service
life, widespread signs of advanced
deterioration, some assets may be
unusable
0-20
Table 4 Standard Condition Rating Scale
Condition vs. Suitability
It is important to note that condition is only one aspect of determining an asset’s
suitability to providing the service intended. Other factors, such as capacity, should
be considered on a category level.
For example, the Town Hall Office Facility may be in good condition with sufficient
service life remaining, but it only has office space for 20 employees. If the
municipality requires office space for 30 employees, solutions should be considered
which may include replacement amongst other alternatives such as secondary office
space, remote work options, etc. As these considerations are nuanced for the
specific asset, suitability factors may not be directly addressed as part of this Asset
Management Plan.
2.5 Ontario Regulation 588/17
As part of the Infrastructure for Jobs and Prosperity Act, 2015, the Ontario
government introduced Regulation 588/17 - Asset Management Planning for
- 166 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
27
Municipal Infrastructure (O. Reg 588/17)1. Along with creating better performing
organizations, more livable and sustainable communities, the regulation is a key,
mandated driver of asset management planning and reporting. It places substantial
emphasis on current and proposed levels of service and the lifecycle costs incurred
in delivering them.
Figure 11 below outlines key reporting requirements under O. Reg 588/17 and the
associated timelines.
Figure 11 O. Reg. 588/17 Requirements and Reporting Deadlines
2.5.1 O. Reg. 588/17 Compliance Review
Ontario Regulation 588/17 - Asset Management Planning for Municipal
Infrastructure establishes mandatory requirements for municipalities to develop and
maintain asset management plans that align with regulatory timelines. The
regulation emphasizes the importance of evaluating and documenting both current
1 O. Reg. 588/17: Asset Management Planning for Municipal Infrastructure
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/170588
- 167 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
28
and proposed levels of service while ensuring that municipalities adopt long-term
lifecycle and financial strategies to support infrastructure sustainability.
The City of Pickering’s 2025 Asset Management Plan has been prepared in full
compliance with the July 1, 2025, regulatory deadline, ensuring that all required
components are included. This section provides an overview of compliance against
the key regulatory requirements.
Portfolio Overview – State of the Infrastructure
The state of the infrastructure (SOTI) analysis in this AMP includes:
• A detailed inventory of core and non-core asset categories.
• Condition assessment data and, where unavailable, age-based estimates as a
proxy.
• Replacement cost estimates using the latest available data.
• Asset hierarchy and classification structures to support strategic decision-
making.
This ensures compliance with O. Reg. 588/17’s requirements for asset inventory
documentation.
Current & Proposed Levels of Service
The AMP evaluates current levels of service (LOS) across all asset categories,
measuring both:
• Community Levels of Service (CLOS): Qualitative descriptions of how
infrastructure assets contribute to service delivery.
• Technical Levels of Service (TLOS): Quantitative metrics such as asset
condition, reinvestment rates, and regulatory compliance.
For core assets, including roads, bridges, structural culverts, and stormwater
infrastructure, the AMP provides both regulatory-mandated technical metrics and
additional performance indicators tailored to Pickering’s needs.
The proposed levels of service reflect a balance between:
• Community expectations and feedback from public engagement.
• Financial capacity and sustainable funding strategies.
• Risk assessments and long-term infrastructure planning.
This meets O. Reg. 588/17’s requirement for municipalities to establish target
service levels for the next 10 years and outline a path to achieving them.
- 168 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
29
Lifecycle Management Strategies
The AMP outlines asset lifecycle strategies to extend asset service life and optimize
costs. This includes:
• Preventive maintenance strategies for key assets.
• Rehabilitation and renewal schedules based on asset deterioration models.
• Integration of condition assessment data into decision-making.
By documenting these lifecycle strategies, the City ensures compliance with the
requirement to analyze and optimize asset lifecycle costs.
Financial Strategy & Sustainable Funding
The financial strategy evaluates:
• The total annual capital reinvestment required ($61.7M). Table 38 provides a
detailed breakdown of the annual capital reinvestment required for each asset
category.
• The current reinvestment rate (1.56%), which highlights an existing funding
gap.
• Funding strategies to close the gap and ensure long-term sustainability.
Pickering’s AMP includes a structured approach to financial planning, ensuring that
funding needs align with service expectations. This satisfies the requirement to
establish a financial strategy that supports infrastructure sustainability.
Risk & Climate Change Considerations
The AMP integrates risk-based asset management by:
• Conducting a risk assessment that prioritizes critical assets.
• Identifying climate-related risks (e.g., flood resilience, extreme weather
events).
• Recommending adaptation strategies to mitigate infrastructure vulnerabilities.
This aligns with the requirement under O. Reg. 588/17 to consider risk and climate
change impacts in asset planning.
The City of Pickering’s 2025 AMP has been developed in accordance with O. Reg.
588/17 requirements. It provides a comprehensive evaluation of infrastructure
conditions, proposed levels of service, lifecycle strategies, financial planning, and
risk considerations. Through this plan, Pickering ensures compliance while adopting
best practices for asset management and long-term sustainability.
- 169 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
30
3. Portfolio Overview – State of the Infrastructure
The state of the infrastructure (SOTI) summarizes the inventory, condition, age
profiles, and other key performance indicators for the City’s infrastructure portfolio.
These details are presented for all core and non-core asset categories.
3.1 Asset Hierarchy & Data Classification
Asset hierarchy explains the relationship between individual assets and their
components, and a wider, more expansive network and system. How assets are
grouped in a hierarchy structure can impact how data is interpreted. Assets were
structured to support meaningful, efficient reporting and analysis. Key category
details are summarized at asset segment level.
Figure 12 Asset Hierarchy and Data Classification
•Roads
•Roadside Appurtenances
•Sidewalks
•Streetlights
•Traffic & Pedestrian
Signals
Road Corridor
•Bridges
•Structural Culverts
Bridges &
Structural
Culverts
•Drainage Channels
•Storm Sewer Mains
•Storm Ponds
Storm System
•Civic Complex
•Community & Cultural
Buildings
•Fire Services
•Operations Centre
•Other
•Recreation, Pools &
Arenas
Buildings &
Facilities
•Active Recreation
Facilities
•Amenities, Furniture &
Utilities
•Vehicular & Pedestrian
Networks
Parks
•Furniture & Fixtures
•Information Technology
•Library Collection
Materials
•Machinery & Equipment
•Vehicles
Other
Infrastructure
- 170 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
31
3.2 Portfolio Overview
3.2.1 Total Replacement Cost of Asset Portfolio
The six asset categories analyzed in this Asset Management Plan have a total
current replacement cost of $2.1 billion. This estimate was calculated using user-
defined costing, as well as unit costs derived from the most recent projects. This
estimate reflects replacement of historical assets with like-for-like assets available
for procurement today. Figure 13 illustrates the replacement cost of each asset
category; at 55% of the total portfolio, the road corridor forms the largest share of
the City’s asset portfolio, followed by the stormwater system at 18%.
Figure 13 Current Replacement Cost by Asset Category
3.2.2 Target vs. Actual Reinvestment Rate
The graph below depicts funding gaps by comparing the target to the current
reinvestment rate. To meet the existing long-term capital requirements, the City
requires an annual capital investment of $61.7 million, for a target portfolio
reinvestment rate of 3.03%. Currently, the annual investment from sustainable
revenue sources is $31.8 million, for a current portfolio reinvestment rate of
1.56%. Target and current re-investment rates by asset category are detailed
below.
$65.4m
$79.9m
$95.7m
$316.9m
$357.8m
$1,119.5m
$500m $1,000m $1,500m
Other Infrastructure
Bridges & Culverts
Parks
Buildings & Facilities
Stormwater System
Road Corridor
Replacement Cost by Category
- 171 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
32
Figure 14 Current Vs. Target Reinvestment Rate
3.2.3 Condition of Asset Portfolio
Figure 15 Asset Condition: Portfolio Overview2
2 This graph excludes Buildings & Facilities and Parks assets, which are assessed using the
Facilities Condition Index (FCI) and Parks Condition Index (Parks CI), respectively.
1.62%
3.98%
10.13%
4.20%
2.73%1.84%3.62%2.87%
8.52%
4.79%
0.78%0.25%
0%
2%
4%
6%
8%
10%
12%
Target Reinvestment Rate Actual Reinvestment Rate
Very Poor,
$442,961,404
(27%)
Poor,
$217,021,815
(13%)
Fair,
$155,728,618
(10%)
Good,
$244,531,648
(15%)
Very Good,
$561,698,672
(35%)
Overall Portfolio Condition
- 172 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
33
Figure 16 Asset Condition by Asset Category
Figure 15 and Figure 16 summarize asset condition at the portfolio and category
levels, respectively. Based on both assessed conditions and age-based analysis,
60% of the City’s infrastructure portfolio is in fair or better condition, with the
remaining 40% in poor or very poor condition. Typically, assets in poor or worse
condition may require replacement or major rehabilitation in the immediate or
short-term. Targeted condition assessments may help further refine the list of
assets that may be candidates for immediate intervention, including potential
replacement or reconstruction.
Similarly, assets in fair condition should be monitored for disrepair over the medium
term. Keeping assets in fair or better condition is typically more cost-effective than
addressing assets needs when they enter the latter stages of their lifecycle or
decline to a lower condition rating, e.g., poor, or worse.
Condition data was available for the majority of the asset categories, except other
infrastructure assets. For other infrastructure assets, age was used as an
approximation of condition for most of these assets. Age-based condition
estimations can skew data and lead to potential under- or overstatement of asset
needs.
Source of Condition Data
This AMP relies on assessed condition for 71% of assets, based on and weighted by
replacement cost. For the remaining assets, age is used as an approximation of
condition. Assessed condition data is invaluable in asset management planning as it
$227.8m
$322.4m
$10.0m
$70.8m
$122.5m
$10.8m
$40.4m
$106.3m
$12.8m
$23.7m
$39.6m
$153.4m
$10.7m
$13.6m
$414.9m
$21.1m
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Stormwater
System
Road Corridor
Other
Infrastructure
Bridges &
Culverts
Very Good Good Fair Poor Very Poor
- 173 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
34
reflects the true condition of the asset and its ability to perform its functions. The
table below identifies the source of condition data used throughout this AMP.
Asset
Category
Asset
Segment
Asset Sub-
segment
% of
Assets
with
Assessed
Condition
Source of
Condition Data
Road Corridor Roads Arterial
62%
Assessed,
38% Age-
based
R.J. Burnside &
Associates
Limited - 2016
Road Corridor Roads Collector
80%
Assessed,
20% Age-
based
R.J. Burnside &
Associates
Limited - 2016
Road Corridor Roads Local
89%
Assessed,
11% Age-
based
R.J. Burnside &
Associates
Limited - 2016
Road Corridor Roadside
Appurtenances Broadband 0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Road Corridor Roadside
Appurtenances Guide Rails 0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Road Corridor Roadside
Appurtenances
Retaining
Walls
0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Road Corridor Sidewalks Sidewalks 0%
Assessed3
100% Age-
based
Road Corridor Street Lights Head
Luminaires
83%
Assessed,
17% Age-
based
Staff
Assessments
Road Corridor Street Lights Poles &
Assemblies
93%
Assessed,
7% Age-
based
Staff
Assessments
3 Staff evaluate the structural integrity of sidewalks—including cracking, spalling, and
broken pieces—as well as safety concerns such as elevation differences; however, no
official condition score is currently assigned.
- 174 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
35
Asset
Category
Asset
Segment
Asset Sub-
segment
% of
Assets
with
Assessed
Condition
Source of
Condition Data
Road Corridor
Traffic &
Pedestrian
Signals
Controllers
86%
Assessed,
14% Age-
based
Staff
Assessments
Road Corridor
Traffic &
Pedestrian
Signals
Infrastructure
88%
Assessed,
12% Age-
based
Staff
Assessments
Stormwater
System
Drainage
Channels
Drainage
Channels
0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Stormwater
System Storm Sewers Catch Basin
and Lead
88%
Assessed,
12% Age-
based
Staff
Assessments
Stormwater
System Storm Sewers Clean Water
Collectors4
0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Stormwater
System Storm Sewers Inlet/Outlet
Structures
0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Stormwater
System Storm Sewers Oil Grit
Separators
0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Stormwater
System Storm Sewers Service
Connections
93%
Assessed,
7% Age-
based
Staff
Assessments
Stormwater
System Storm Sewers Storm Sewer
Mains
0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Stormwater
System
Stormwater
Ponds Dry Ponds 0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Stormwater
System
Stormwater
Ponds Wet Ponds
64%
Assessed,
36% Age-
based
Staff
Assessments
4 The 2020 Stormwater Management Facilities Asset Management Plan assesses 12 wet ponds and 6
dry ponds. At the time of the assessment, the City owned 14 wet ponds; however, two ponds were
recently assumed and were not included in the evaluation.
- 175 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
36
Asset
Category
Asset
Segment
Asset Sub-
segment
% of
Assets
with
Assessed
Condition
Source of
Condition Data
Bridges &
Structural
Culverts
Bridges Bridges 100%
Assessed
2024 OSIM
Inspections
Bridges &
Structural
Culverts
Structural
Culverts
Structural
Culverts
99%
Assessed
2024 OSIM
Inspections
Buildings &
Facilities Civic Complex Civic Complex 100%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Facilities
Condition Index
(FCIs)
Buildings &
Facilities
Community &
Cultural
Buildings
Community &
Cultural
Buildings
100%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Facilities
Condition Index
(FCIs)
Buildings &
Facilities Fire Services Fire Services 100%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Facilities
Condition Index
(FCIs)
Buildings &
Facilities
Operations
Centre
Operations
Centre
100%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Facilities
Condition Index
(FCIs)
Buildings &
Facilities
Recreation,
Pools & Arenas
Recreation,
Pools &
Arenas
100%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Facilities
Condition Index
(FCIs)
Parks
Active
Recreation
Facilities
Playground
Equipment
100%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Parks Condition
Index (Parks
CIs)
Parks
Active
Recreation
Facilities
Sport Playing
Surfaces
100%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Parks Condition
Index (Parks
CIs)
Parks
Amenities,
Furniture &
Utilities
Buildings 100%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Parks Condition
Index (Parks
CIs)
- 176 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
37
Asset
Category
Asset
Segment
Asset Sub-
segment
% of
Assets
with
Assessed
Condition
Source of
Condition Data
Parks
Amenities,
Furniture &
Utilities
Electrical
Lighting
100%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Parks Condition
Index (Parks
CIs)
Parks
Amenities,
Furniture &
Utilities
Site Furniture 100%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Parks Condition
Index (Parks
CIs)
Parks
Amenities,
Furniture &
Utilities
Site
Structures
88%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Parks Condition
Index (Parks
CIs)
Parks
Amenities,
Furniture &
Utilities
Subsurface
Infrastructure
100%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Parks Condition
Index (Parks
CIs)
Parks
Amenities,
Furniture &
Utilities
Waterfront
Infrastructure
100%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Parks Condition
Index (Parks
CIs)
Parks
Vehicular &
Pedestrian
Networks
Parking Lots
& Internal
Roads
100%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Parks Condition
Index (Parks
CIs)
Parks
Vehicular &
Pedestrian
Networks
Pedestrian
Corridors
100%
Assessed
VFA Database &
Parks Condition
Index (Parks
CIs)
Other
Infrastructure
Furniture &
Fixtures
Furniture &
Fixtures
0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Other
Infrastructure
Information
Technology
Information
Technology
0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Other
Infrastructure
Library
Collection
Materials
Library
Collection
Materials
0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Other
Infrastructure
Machinery &
Equipment Major 0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
- 177 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
38
Asset
Category
Asset
Segment
Asset Sub-
segment
% of
Assets
with
Assessed
Condition
Source of
Condition Data
Other
Infrastructure
Machinery &
Equipment Minor 0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Other
Infrastructure Vehicles Fire Vehicles 0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Other
Infrastructure Vehicles Vehicles 0%
Assessed
100% Age-
based
Table 5: Source of Condition Data
3.2.4 Risk Matrix
Using the risk equation and preliminary risk models, Figure 17 shows how assets
across the different asset categories are stratified within a risk matrix.
Figure 17 Risk Matrix: All Assets
The analysis shows that based on current risk models, approximately 16% of the
City’s assets, with a current replacement cost of approximately $259 million, carry
a risk rating of 15 or higher (red) out of 25. Assets in this group may have a high
probability of failure based on available condition data and age-based estimates and
were considered to be most essential to the city.
As new asset attribute information and condition assessment data are integrated
with the asset register, asset risk ratings will evolve, resulting in a redistribution of
assets within the risk matrix. Staff should also continue to calibrate risk models.
We caution that since risk ratings rely on many factors beyond an asset’s physical
condition or age, assets in a state of disrepair can sometimes be classified as low
risk, despite their poor condition rating. In such cases, although the probability of
failure for these assets may be high, their consequence of failure ratings was
determined to be low based on the attributes used and the data available.
Similarly, assets with very high condition ratings can receive a moderate to high-
risk rating despite a low probability of failure. These assets may be deemed as
highly critical to the City based on their costs, economic importance, social
1 - 4 5 - 7 8 - 9 10 - 14 15 - 25
Very Low Low Moderate High Very High
$499,352,463 $246,076,681 $138,979,061 $478,141,251 $259,924,669
(31%)(15%)(9%)(29%)(16%)
- 178 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
39
significance, and other factors. Continued calibration of an asset’s criticality and
regular data updates are needed to ensure these models more accurately reflect an
asset’s actual risk profile.
3.2.5 Forecasted Capital Requirements
Aging infrastructure assets require ongoing maintenance, rehabilitation, and
eventual replacement. Figure 18 illustrates the cyclical short-, medium- and long-
term infrastructure replacement requirements across all asset categories analyzed
in this AMP over an 84-year time horizon. On average, approximately $61.7 million
is required annually to remain current with capital replacement needs for the City's
asset portfolio. This benchmark, represented by the red dotted line, serves as a
guide for setting annual capital expenditure targets or allocating funds to reserves
to prevent deferred maintenance and ensure timely asset replacement. While actual
spending may fluctuate significantly due to varying infrastructure renewal cycles,
this figure provides a reference point for sustainable financial planning. The
forecasted capital requirements show periods of heightened investment needs,
particularly in 2025-2029 ($360.5 million), 2055-2059 ($423.6 million), 2060-2064
($417.7 million) and 2095-2099 ($416.9 million). Road corridors and stormwater
systems account for the majority of capital expenditures, with other infrastructure
categories contributing smaller portions. The analysis relies on asset age and
available condition data to project future needs, highlighting the importance of
proactive asset management strategies to smooth funding requirements and
prevent financial strain during peak investment periods.
The chart also highlights a backlog of approximately $85.9 million5, representing
assets that have exceeded their estimated useful life but remain in service. While
not all of these assets necessarily require immediate replacement, their continued
use underscores the importance of targeted and consistent condition assessments.
Expanding these assessments will help differentiate between assets in critical
condition and those that can remain operational with maintenance or rehabilitation.
A proactive approach incorporating risk frameworks, lifecycle strategies, and levels
of service targets will allow for more effective prioritization of projects and
refinement of both backlog and long-term capital needs. Additionally, improved
asset segmentation, particularly in complex asset categories such as buildings and
facilities, will enhance forecasting accuracy and support data-driven investment
decisions.
5 Bridges were not included in the backlog total because many of the structures with limited remaining useful life are
scheduled for future rehabilitation or maintenance under the OSIM program. However, these assets effectively
represent immediate needs and should be closely monitored to ensure planned interventions proceed as scheduled.
- 179 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
40
Figure 18 Capital Replacement Needs: Portfolio Overview 2025-21096.
6 This data is based solely on the current assets and does not account for future growth, upgrades, or the disposal of assets
without replacement.
$61.7m
$85.9m
$360.5m
$221.7m
$290.4m
$243.8m
$291.6m
$316.9m
$423.6m$417.7m
$326.3m
$273.4m
$258.6m
$212.8m
$302.0m
$281.4m
$416.9m
$252.8m
$253.5m
$0
$50m
$100m
$150m
$200m
$250m
$300m
$350m
$400m
$450m
Fo
r
e
c
a
s
t
e
d
C
a
p
i
t
a
l
R
e
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
Bridges & Culverts Buildings & Facilities Other Infrastructure Parks
Road Corridor Stormwater System Annual Requirement Total
- 180 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
41
Core Assets
- 181 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
42
4. Road Corridor
The road corridor assets are critical components of the provision of safe and
efficient transportation services and represent the highest value asset category in
the City’s asset portfolio. It includes all municipally owned and maintained
roadways in addition to supporting roadside infrastructure including sidewalks,
multi-use paths, streetlights, traffic signals, guiderails, and retaining walls.
The Operations Department provides roadway operational maintenance including
patching, grading, sweeping, ditching as well as winter control activities such as
sanding, salting, and plowing.
Engineering Services Department is responsible for the design and construction of
major roadway maintenance and rehabilitation activities such as crack seal, asphalt
resurfacing, curb and sidewalk repair/replacement, and reconstruction. They are
also responsible for the maintenance and repair of streetlights, traffic signals, and
guide rails.
Staff are working towards improving the accuracy and reliability of their road
corridor inventory to assist with long-term asset management planning.
4.1 Inventory & Valuation
Table 6 summarizes the quantity and current replacement cost of the City’s various
road corridor assets as managed in its primary asset management register, citywide.
Segment Sub-Segment Quantity Unit of
Measure
Replacement
Cost
Primary RC
Method
Roads Arterial 12,122 Metres $104,155,837 Cost/ Unit
Roads Collector 37,495 Metres $120,629,199 Cost/ Unit
Roads Gravel 102,645 Metres - Not Planned For
Replacement
Roads Local 267,920 Metres $694,223,564 Cost/ Unit
Roadside
Appurtenances
Broadband 1,028 Metres $200,751 CPI
- 182 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
43
Segment Sub-Segment Quantity Unit of
Measure
Replacement
Cost
Primary RC
Method
Roadside
Appurtenances
Guide Rails 9507 Metres $1,244,964 CPI
Roadside
Appurtenances
Retaining Walls 7 Each $1,218,127 CPI
Sidewalks Sidewalks 442,512 Square
Meters
$100,424,127 Cost/ Unit
Streetlights LED Lights 8,121 Each $10,383,754 CPI
Streetlights Poles &
Assemblies
11,6608 Each $81,247,104 CPI
Traffic &
Pedestrian
Signals
Controllers 30 Each $972,825 CPI
Traffic &
Pedestrian
Signals
Infrastructure 50 Each $4,758,211 CPI
Total $104,155,837
Table 6: Detailed Asset Inventory: Road Corridor
7 950m and two additional assets that are missing their length information.
8 Includes 35 km of wiring
- 183 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
44
Figure 19: Road Corridor: Portfolio valuation by Segments
4.2 Asset Condition
Figure 20 summarizes the replacement cost-weighted condition of the City’s road
corridor. Based on a combination of field inspection data and age, 49% of assets
are in fair or better condition; the remaining 51% of assets are in poor to very poor
condition. Based on the total replacement cost of each asset category, condition
assessments were completed for 88% of roads, 90% of streetlights, and 87% of
traffic and pedestrian signals. This condition data was projected from inspection
date to current year to estimate their condition today. No condition data was
available for the remaining asset types.
Figure 21 reveals a contrast in the condition of road corridor assets. While
sidewalks and roadside appurtenances are mostly in good to very good condition, a
significant portion of roads, streetlights, and signals are rated poor or very poor.
Assets in poor or worse condition may be candidates for replacement in the short
term; similarly, assets in fair condition may require rehabilitation or replacement in
the medium term and should be monitored for further degradation in condition.
$2.7m
$5.7m
$91.6m
$100.4m
$919.0m
$400m $800m
Roadside Appurtenances
Traffic & Pedestrian Signals
Streetlights
Sidewalks
Roads
Replacement Cost by Segment
- 184 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
45
Figure 20 Asset Condition: Road Corridor Overall
Figure 21 Asset Condition: Road Corridor by Segment
Very Poor,
$414,882,824
(37%)
Poor,
$153,420,311
(14%)
Fair,
$106,282,643
(9%)
Good,
$122,521,794
(11%)
Very Good,
$322,350,891
(29%)
$722k
$8.6m
$70.8m
$574k
$241.7m
$34k
$8.8m
$26.1m
$2.1m
$85.4m
$1.3m
$20.1m
$2.4m
$82.4m
$3.1m
$9.5m
$140.8m
$496k
$44.7m
$1.1m
$368.7m
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Traffic &
Pedestrian
Signals
Streetlights
Sidewalks
Roadside
Appurtenances
Roads
Value and Percentage of Asset Segments by Replacement Cost
Very Good Good Fair Poor Very Poor
- 185 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
46
4.3 Age Profile
An asset’s age profile comprises two key values: estimated useful life (EUL), or
design life; and the percentage of EUL consumed. The EUL is the serviceable
lifespan of an asset during which it can continue to fulfil its intended purpose and
provide value to users, safely and efficiently. As assets age, their performance
diminishes, often more rapidly as they approach the end of their design life.
In conjunction with condition data, an asset’s age profile provides a more complete
summary of the state of infrastructure. It can help identify assets that may be
candidates for further review through condition assessment programs; inform the
selection of optimal lifecycle strategies; and improve planning for potential long-
term replacement spikes.
Figure 22 illustrates the average current age of each asset type and its estimated
useful life. Both values are weighted by the replacement cost of individual assets.
Figure 22 Estimated Useful Life vs. Asset Age: Road Corridor
Age analysis provides a general overview of all paved roads exceeding their
expected useful lives. Figure 69 from Appendix D provides an additional breakdown
of age analysis, where arterial and collector roads are within their expected useful
lives. However, local roads have already exceeded their expected useful lives. Most
of the city’s streetlights were replaced 10 years ago and are well within their
expected lives. However, Streetlights poles & assemblies are quickly approaching
their proposed end of life. Remaining assets are currently within their expected
useful lives.
32
11.8
35.6 33.8
20
29.4
39.2
73
35.9
23
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
Roads Roadside
Appurtenances
Sidewalks Streetlights Traffic &
Pedestrian
Signals
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
Y
e
a
r
s
Weighted Average Age Weighted Average EUL
- 186 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
47
With the current and proposed lifecycle management strategies, the useful lives of
paved roads can be extended well beyond their expected useful lives because of
rehabilitation events.
Although asset age is an important measurement for long-term planning, condition
assessments provide a more accurate indication of actual asset needs.
4.4 Current and Proposed Approach to Lifecycle
Management
The condition or performance of most assets will deteriorate over time. This process
is affected by a range of factors including asset’s characteristics, location,
utilization, maintenance history and environment.
4.4.1 Current Lifecycle Management Activities
The following table expands on maintenance and inspection activities for road
corridor assets.
Activity Type Description of Current Strategy
Maintenance
The City employs preventative maintenance programs to
minimize the destructive impact of climate and traffic through
the timely application of remedial treatments to the pavement.
Maintenance
Asphalt Roads – The crack sealing program, which is budgeted
for annually, includes crack sealing/filling and spot base repairs
(small area patching)
Surface Treatment Roads – small area patching and drainage
improvements
Rehabilitation/
Replacement
The most cost-effective expenditures for road rehabilitation can
be achieved through the application of the right rehabilitation at
the right time. This decision-making process relies primarily on
the condition of the road surface.
Rehabilitation/
Replacement
The City’s current road rehabilitation methods include:
• Grind and Overlay
• Full depth surface replacement
• Full reconstruction
- 187 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
48
Activity Type Description of Current Strategy
Rehabilitation/
Replacement
Full road reconstruction may be required when substantial base
repairs are necessary or when sub-surface infrastructure also
requires replacement.
Rehabilitation/
Replacement
The City develops a 10-year capital forecast which includes a
mix of named reconstruction projects and general budget
allocations for road resurfacing projects.
Table 7: Lifecycle Management Strategy: Road Corridor
4.4.2 Proposed Lifecycle Management Strategies
The following lifecycle strategies have been developed as a proactive approach to
managing the lifecycle of hard surfaced (asphalted) rural and urban roads as well as
surface treated rural roads. Instead of allowing the roads to deteriorate until
replacement is required, strategic rehabilitation is expected to extend the service life
of roads at a lower total cost. Lifecycle management strategies were not developed
for other road types9 within the City.
9 The City only owns and operates 500m of concrete roads (old gravel pit). Once this road
reaches its end of service life, it will be replaced with asphalt.
Gravel roads have low AADT and are inspected regularly. Grading is an important part of rural
road maintenance and involves reshaping the roads. Public Works replaces gravel that has
been either pushed off the road during winter operations and/or swept away during the spring
thaw.
- 188 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
49
Asphalt Roads (Urban & High Class)
Event Name Event Class Event Trigger
Crack Seal -1st event Preventative Maintenance 10 Years
New Surface – Single Lift - 2nd event Rehabilitation 20-25 Years
Crack Seal – 3rd event Preventative Maintenance 30 Years
New Surface – Double Lift – 4th event Rehabilitation 38 Years
Partial Base and Surface - Double Lift – 5th event Rehabilitation 50 Years
Asset Replacement Replacement 40-45 PCI
- 189 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
50
Asphalt Roads (Urban & High Class)
Table 8: Lifecycle Management Strategy: Asphalt Roads (Urban & High Class)
- 190 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
51
Asphalt Roads (Rural & Low Class)
Event Name Event Class Event Trigger
Crack Seal -1st event Preventative Maintenance 10 Years
New Surface – Single Lift - 2nd event Rehabilitation 28 Years
Crack Seal – 3rd event Preventative Maintenance 33 Years
New Surface – Double Lift – 4th event Rehabilitation 42 Years
Partial Base and Surface - Double Lift – 5th event Rehabilitation 55 Years
Asset Replacement Replacement 40 PCI
- 191 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
52
Asphalt Roads (Rural & Low Class)
Table 9: Lifecycle Management Strategy: Asphalt Roads (Rural & Low Class)
- 192 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
53
Surface Treated Roads (Rural)
Event Name Event Class Event Trigger
Spot Repair -1st event Maintenance 7.5 Years
Surface Treatment – Double Lift – 1st event Rehabilitation 15 Years
Spot Repair -2nd event Maintenance 22.5 Years
Partial Base Repairs and Double Lift Rehabilitation 30 Years
Spot Repair -3rd event Maintenance 37.5 Years
Surface Treatment – Double Lift – 2nd event Rehabilitation 45 Years
Asset Replacement Replacement 20 Condition
- 193 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
54
Surface Treated Roads (Rural)
Table 10: Lifecycle Management Strategy: Surface Treated Roads (Rural)
- 194 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
55
4.5 Forecasted Long-Term Replacement Needs
Figure 23 illustrates the cyclical short-, medium- and long-term infrastructure
rehabilitation and replacement requirements for the City’s road corridor. This
analysis was run until 2099 to capture at least one iteration of replacement for the
longest-lived asset in Citywide Assets, the City’s primary asset management system
and asset register. The City’s average annual requirements (red dotted line) total
$30.5 million for all assets in the road corridor. Although actual spending may
fluctuate substantially from year to year, this figure is a useful benchmark value for
annual capital expenditure targets (or allocations to reserves) to ensure projects
are not deferred and replacement needs are met as they arise.
The chart illustrates substantial capital needs throughout the forecast period. It also
shows a backlog of $56 million, dominated by roads. These projections are based
on asset replacement costs, age analysis, and condition data when available, as
well as lifecycle modeling (roads only). They are designed to provide a long-term,
portfolio-level overview of capital needs and should be used to support improved
financial planning over several decades.
Figure 23 Forecasted Capital Replacement Needs: Road Corridor 2025-2099
$30.5m
$56.1m
$175.1m
$132.9m
$140.3m
$85.6m
$129.7m
$148.1m
$231.1m
$207.2m
$181.3m
$128.6m
$81.7m
$90.9m
$163.1m
$149.1m
$270.0m
$0
$50m
$100m
$150m
$200m
$250m
$300m
Fo
r
e
c
a
s
t
e
d
C
a
p
i
t
a
l
R
e
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
Roads Roadside Appurtenances Sidewalks
Streetlights Traffic & Pedestrian Signals Annual Requirement
Total
- 195 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
56
Often, the magnitude of replacement needs is substantially higher than most
municipalities can afford to fund. In addition, most assets may not need to be
replaced. However, quantifying and monitoring these spikes is essential for long-
term financial planning, including establishing dedicated reserves. Regular
pavement condition assessments and a robust risk framework will ensure that high-
criticality assets receive proper and timely lifecycle intervention, including
replacements.
A detailed 10-year capital replacement forecast can be found in Appendix A – 10-
Year Capital Requirements.
4.6 Risk Analysis
The risk matrix below is generated using available asset data, including condition,
surface material, design class, traffic data, and roadside environment. The risk
ratings for assets without useful attribute data were calculated using only condition,
service life remaining, and their replacement costs.
The matrix stratifies assets based on their individual probability and consequence of
failure, each scored from 1 to 5. Their product generates a risk index ranging from
1-25. Assets with the highest criticality and likelihood of failure receive a risk rating
of 25; those with lowest probability of failure and lowest criticality carry a risk
rating of 1. As new data and information is gathered, the City may consider
integrating relevant information that improves confidence in the criteria used to
assess asset risk and criticality.
These risk models have been built into the City’s Asset Management Database
(Citywide Assets). See Risk & Criticality section for further details on approach used
to determine asset risk ratings and classifications.
Figure 24 Risk Matrix: Road Corridor
4.6.1 Risk to Current Asset Management Strategies
Asset Data & Information
The maturity level of the available inventory data for the road corridor in this Asset
Management Plan remains at a basic level. However, staff have made progress in
addressing some data gaps since the 2021 plan. Efforts are ongoing to refine and
consolidate asset data to enhance accuracy and reliability. These improvements will
support the development of more data-driven strategies to address infrastructure
1 - 4 5 - 7 8 - 9 10 - 14 15 - 25
Very Low Low Moderate High Very High
$339,736,781 $99,400,799 $88,598,351 $397,757,819 $193,964,714
(30%)(9%)(8%)(36%)(17%)
- 196 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
57
needs. While advancements have been made, further improvements are still
required to strengthen confidence in decision-making and long-term planning.
Climate Change & Extreme Weather Events
Due to climate change, the frequency of extreme weather events is expected to
increase, leading to higher precipitation levels in Pickering. This increased rainfall
can weaken the road base, exposing it over time, especially if the stormwater
system is not designed to handle the greater volume of water. As a result, the focus
is shifting to designing more resilient stormwater systems to prevent damage,
rather than just the roadway design itself.
Lifecycle Management Strategies
The current lifecycle management strategy for roads is largely reactive rather than
proactive. The City aims to defer costly and disruptive road reconstruction by
implementing more strategic interventions. The proposed models in this Asset
Management Plan were based on the 2016 Road Needs Study and staff notes.
However, there is a need to develop updated lifecycle management strategies
informed by the findings of the Road Needs Study, which is currently underway.
This will help refine decision-making and improve the long-term sustainability of the
road network.
4.7 Levels of Service
The City of Pickering is committed to maintaining a high standard of road corridor
service that is accessible, dependable, sustainable, and cost-effective for all
residents. These corridors are designed to support the community’s traffic needs,
ensuring safe and efficient transportation year-round, even under varying weather
conditions. While the City effectively manages its roads, challenges arise with
regional and provincial roads, which are outside the City’s direct control,
complicating efforts to maintain consistent local standards. This highlights the need
for public education to manage expectations regarding road maintenance and
service quality.
To keep roadways in a state of good repair, the City conducts regular inspections
and maintenance, aiming to minimize unplanned disruptions and respond promptly
to issues. Sustainability is also a priority, with initiatives supporting sustainable
transportation options like cycling and walking to reduce the environmental impact
of the road corridor. With an average Pavement Condition Index (PCI) of 51,
Pickering’s roads fall between "Needs Improvement" and "Acceptable." While
maintenance efforts are ongoing, the City faces challenges in improving road
conditions, particularly when compared to neighbouring municipalities. Setting
realistic targets and benchmarks for road conditions and working with the public
and neighbouring municipalities will be essential in achieving infrastructure goals
and securing adequate funding. The following tables summarize the City’s current
levels of service, including KPIs under Ontario Regulation 588/17 and additional
performance measures selected for this AMP.
- 197 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
58
4.7.1 Community Levels of Service
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Accessibility
Description, which may include maps of
the transportation system in the City and
its level of connectivity. Including roads,
sidewalks, as well as all supporting
infrastructure such as bike lanes, bus
stops, pathways etc.10
Acceptable
The transportation system offers an
acceptable level of service with well-
maintained roads, and some
sidewalks, at convenient locations.
While there are some bike lanes,
connections are limited, and not all
modes of transportation are fully
supported. Improvements are made
as resources allow.
Accessibility Traffic Flow and Congestion Management Needs
Improvement
Needs Improvement – The road
corridor experiences congestion and
delays due to limitations in network
capacity and connectivity.11
10 Please refer to Appendix B – Level of Service Maps & Photos for maps of road corridors & sidewalk network classification
maps, and road corridor adequacy maps within the city.
11 Some of the public feedback related to congestion may reflect confusion between City-maintained roads and Regional Roads,
which are under the jurisdiction of the Region. This distinction will be clarified in future engagement efforts to ensure mor e
accurate input regarding the City’s transportation network.
- 198 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
59
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Reliability &
Performance
Description or images that illustrate the
different levels of road class pavement
condition
Excellent
Staff have a strong understanding of
road classifications and pavement
conditions, as well as the factors that
impact road quality, such as traffic
volume, climate, and soil type. This
expertise allows them to make
informed decisions about
maintenance and repairs to ensure
safe road conditions.
Reliability &
Performance
Description of the compliance with the
minimum maintenance standards for
roads
Excellent
The City provides an excellent level
of service, meeting or exceeding the
minimum maintenance standards.
Table 11: O. Reg. 588/17 Community Levels of Service: Road Corridor
- 199 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
60
4.7.2 Technical Levels of Service
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Accessibility Bike lanes and multi-use paths KM per
capita Acceptable
The municipality is meeting best
practices, providing 116 km of bike
lanes and 12.5 km of multi-use
paths per 100,000 population,
similar to the quantity found in
neighbouring communities.
Accessibility
The adequacy of accessible parking
determined by evaluating whether the
available spaces provide convenient
and sufficient access for individuals
with mobility challenges.
Acceptable
Accessible parking spaces are
sufficiently available and
conveniently located near
entrances, meeting basic regulatory
standards. Individuals with mobility
challenges can generally access
facilities with ease, though there
may be room for improvement in
the overall user experience or
efficiency.
Accessibility Lane-km of arterial roads (MMS classes
1 and 2) per land area (km/km2) Acceptable 0.24
Accessibility
Lane-km of collector roads (MMS
classes 3 and 4) per land area
(km/km2)
Acceptable 0.66
- 200 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
61
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Accessibility Lane-km of local roads (MMS classes 5
and 6) per land area (km/km2) Acceptable 3.35
Reliability &
Performance
Average pavement condition index for
paved roads in the Municipality
(Arterial)
Acceptable
The PCI is 71, based on condition
scores provided by R.J. Burnside &
Associates in 2016, staff updates,
and age-based data.
Reliability &
Performance
Average pavement condition index for
paved roads in the Municipality
(Collector)
Needs
Improvement
The PCI is 54, based on condition
scores provided by R.J. Burnside &
Associates in 2016, staff updates,
and age-based data.
Reliability &
Performance
Average pavement condition index for
paved roads in the Municipality (Local)
Needs
Improvement
The PCI is 48, based on condition
scores provided by R.J. Burnside &
Associates in 2016, staff updates,
and age-based data.
Reliability &
Performance
Average surface condition for unpaved
roads in the Municipality (e.g.,
excellent, good, fair, poor)
Acceptable
Based on staff input, the average
surface condition of unpaved roads
ranges from satisfactory to good.
Reliability &
Performance
Percentage of roads in poor or worse
condition (Arterial)
Needs
Improvement
30% of Arterial Roads are in poor or
worse condition.
- 201 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
62
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Reliability &
Performance
Percentage of roads in poor or worse
condition (Collector)
Needs
Improvement
52% of Collector Roads are in poor
or worse condition.
Reliability &
Performance
Percentage of roads in poor or worse
condition (Local)
Needs
Improvement
60% of Local Roads are in poor or
worse condition.
Affordability
Annual sustainable capital
reinvestment/required capital
reinvestment rate
Needs
Improvement
The actual reinvestment rate is just
over 10% of the target rate,
highlighting a potential risk of
infrastructure deterioration if
reinvestment levels remain low.
Sustainability Percentage of streetlights converted to
LED Excellent
Approximately 95%-98% of
streetlights have been converted to
LEDs, significantly improving energy
efficiency and reducing maintenance
costs.
Table 12: O. Reg. 588/17 Technical Levels of Service: Road Corridor
- 202 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
63
4.7.3 Proposed Levels of Service
This section provides recommendations for maintaining and improving the road
corridor based on the current Levels of Service (LOS) assessment, public
engagement results, and risk analysis. The recommendations focus on addressing
service deficiencies, sustaining acceptable performance levels, and evaluating risks
associated with not meeting target service levels.
4.7.3.1. Pavement Condition and Road Rehabilitation
Current LOS
• Arterial Roads: Acceptable (PCI = 71)
• Collector Roads: Needs Improvement (PCI = 54)
• Local Roads: Needs Improvement (PCI = 48)
• Unpaved Roads: Acceptable
• Percentage of Roads in Poor or Worse Condition:
o Arterial: 30%
o Collector: 52%
o Local: 60%
Public Engagement Results
• Road maintenance was the highest-ranked priority (67% of respondents).
• 44.8% of respondents were satisfied with pavement conditions, while 21.7%
expressed dissatisfaction.
• 37% of respondents were willing to pay more for enhanced road
maintenance and rehabilitation.
Recommendations
• Increase capital reinvestment in road rehabilitation, prioritizing collector, and
local roads, where conditions are below acceptable levels.
• Implement a proactive pavement management program to optimize asset
life-cycle performance and minimize long-term costs.
• Develop a communications strategy to improve public awareness of road
rehabilitation efforts and planned investments.
Risk of Not Providing Acceptable LOS
• Heightened safety risks for road users due to poor surface conditions.
• Decreased public trust and satisfaction with municipal service delivery.
• Potential economic impact due to reduced accessibility for businesses and
residents.
- 203 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
64
The graph illustrates the projected condition of the City’s road corridor assets under
three funding scenarios from 2025 to 2040: current, recommended, and optimal
budgets. Under the current budget (green line), asset condition steadily declines
from good to fair and approaches poor by 2040, highlighting the consequences of
underinvestment. The recommended budget (purple line), aligned with a 10-year
financial strategy, stabilizes condition levels around the mid-60% range, avoiding
further deterioration. The optimal budget (blue line) maintains assets in the high
"good" range, offering the best long-term performance. This underscores the
importance of closing the infrastructure gap within 10 years to prevent costly
service disruptions, rising rehabilitation expenses, and declining public satisfaction.
- 204 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
65
Figure 25 A Comparison of Road Corridor Conditions Under Optimal vs. Current vs Recommended Budget Scenarios
in Pickering
- 205 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
66
4.7.3.2. Traffic Flow and Congestion Management
Current LOS
• Needs Improvement – The road corridor experiences congestion and delays
due to limitations in network capacity and connectivity.
Public Engagement Results
• Traffic flow and congestion had the highest dissatisfaction rate (40.3%),
highlighting a key concern.
• Only 27.5% of respondents reported being satisfied, while 32.2% were
neutral, indicating uncertainty or a lack of awareness of current efforts to
reduce congestions.
• 37.1% of respondents expressed willingness to pay for traffic management
improvements.
Recommendations
• Implement congestion mitigation strategies, including traffic signal
optimization and adaptive control systems.
• Enhance network connectivity by addressing critical bottlenecks and
improving intersection efficiency.
• Conduct a corridor capacity study to evaluate long-term needs for roadway
expansion or alternate transportation solutions.
• Engage the public through targeted outreach to align congestion
management strategies with community expectations.
Risk of Not Providing Acceptable LOS
• Longer travel times, increased commuter frustration, and reduced quality of
life.
• Higher emissions and environmental impacts due to increased idling and
congestion.
• Economic consequences, including reduced business activity and logistical
inefficiencies.
- 206 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
67
4.7.3.3. Pedestrian and Cyclist Infrastructure
Current LOS
• Bike lanes and multi-use paths per capita are within best practices but offer
limited connectivity.
• Accessible parking meets minimum standards but could be enhanced.
Public Engagement Results
• 78.1% of respondents rated pedestrian infrastructure as important, though
neutrality (16%) suggests a lack of strong opinions.
• 33.4% of respondents were unwilling to pay for additional pedestrian and
cyclist infrastructure, the highest level of opposition across service
categories.
• Safety concerns were raised regarding pedestrian crossings and cyclist
accessibility in certain areas.
Recommendations
• Focus investments on pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure on high-use areas,
such as transit hubs, schools, and commercial corridors.
• Improve pedestrian safety through enhanced crosswalk visibility and signal
timing adjustments.
• Pursue grant funding for active transportation projects to minimize direct
financial impact on municipal budgets.
Risk of Not Providing Acceptable LOS
• Increased risk of pedestrian and cyclist accidents due to inadequate
infrastructure.
• Reduced accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.
• Potential non-compliance with evolving accessibility and sustainability
regulations.
4.7.3.4. Sustainable Reinvestment in the Road Corridor
Current LOS
• Needs Improvement – Annual reinvestment is only 10% of the required
sustainable funding level.
Public Engagement Results
• Public concern over infrastructure funding gaps is increasing.
- 207 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
68
• Willingness to pay for road maintenance and rehabilitation is higher than for
other transportation investments.
• Neutral responses suggest a need for better communication on funding needs
and long-term benefits.
Recommendations
• Secure sustainable funding through a combination of dedicated infrastructure
levies, grants, and alternative revenue sources.
• Develop a financial strategy that links road rehabilitation funding to long-
term asset preservation benefits.
• Increase transparency in budget allocations to reinforce public confidence in
infrastructure investment planning.
Risk of Not Providing Acceptable LOS
• Accelerated infrastructure deterioration leading to costly emergency repairs.
• Increased budget strain due to deferred maintenance and higher capital
costs.
• Reduced public trust in municipal decision-making regarding infrastructure
investments.
4.7.3.5. Maintaining Strong Performance Areas
Current LOS
• Compliance with minimum maintenance standards: Excellent.
• LED streetlight conversion: Excellent (95-98% of streetlights upgraded).
Public Engagement Results
• No major dissatisfaction was reported regarding road safety and lighting.
• LED conversion is viewed as a positive infrastructure improvement.
Recommendations
• Maintain existing high-performing service areas through proactive monitoring
and maintenance.
• Complete LED lighting upgrades where feasible to further reduce long-term
operational costs.
• Ensure road safety compliance through ongoing performance assessments.
Risk of Not Maintaining Current LOS
• Potential decline in service quality over time due to reduced monitoring.
• Loss of public confidence if previously well-performing services begin to
deteriorate.
- 208 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
69
5. Bridges and Culverts
Bridges and structural culverts represent a critical portion of the transportation
services provided to the community. Engineering Services is responsible (through
the Capital Budget process) for any structure replacements or rehabilitation. The
Operations Department is responsible for the maintenance of all bridges and
culverts located across municipal roads with the goal of keeping structures in an
adequate state of repair and minimizing service disruptions. This AMP is for bridges
and culverts with a span of three meters or more. The City has many culverts with
a span that is less than three meters, including driveway culverts, which are not
included in this section.
5.1 Inventory & Valuation
Table 13 summarizes the quantity and current replacement cost of bridges and
culverts. The City owns and manages 27 bridges and 35 structural culverts.
Segment Quantity Unit of
Measure
Replacement
Cost
Primary RC
Method
Bridges 2712 Quantity $54,921,000 User-Defined
Structural
Culverts
3513 Quantity $24,930,422 User-Defined
Total 62 $79,851,422
Table 13: Detailed Asset Inventory: Bridges & Structural Culverts
12 The bridge quantity represents the total number of bridges with a span of 3 m and more,
including 9 pedestrian bridges.
13 The culvert quantity represents the total number of culverts with a span of 3 m and more,
including 1 pedestrian culvert.
- 209 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
70
Figure 26 Portfolio Valuation: Bridges & Structural Culverts
5.2 Asset Condition
Figure 27 summarizes the replacement cost-weighted condition of the City’s bridges
and structural culverts. Based on the City’s recent Ontario Structures Inspection
Manual (OSIM) assessments, 82% of bridges and structural culverts are in fair or
better condition. Some elements or components of these structures may be
candidates for replacement or rehabilitation in the medium term and should be
monitored for further degradation in condition. At 17% of the total bridges and
culverts portfolio, assets in poor or worse condition may require replacement in the
immediate or short term.
As bridges and structures reach a poor or worse rating (i.e., a bridge condition
index of less than 40), they are not necessarily unsafe for regular use, individual
circumstances must be considered. The OSIM ratings are designed to identify
repairs needed to elevate condition ratings to fair or higher.
$24.9m
$54.9m
$20m $40m $60m
Structural Culverts
Bridges
- 210 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
71
Figure 27 Asset Condition: Bridges & Structural Culverts Overall
Figure 28 Asset Condition: Bridges & Structural Culverts by Segment
Very Poor,
$600,201
(<1%)
Poor,
$13,563,000
(17%)
Fair,
$23,688,526
(30%)
Good,
$40,399,238
(51%)
Very Good,
$1,600,457
(2%)
$7.3m
$33.1m
$12.2m
$11.5m
$4.2m
$9.3m
$600k
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Structural
Culverts
Bridges
Value and Percentage of Asset Segments by Replacement Cost
Very Good Good Fair Poor Very Poor
- 211 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
72
5.3 Age Profile
An asset’s age profile comprises two key values: estimated useful life (EUL), or
design life; and the percentage of EUL consumed. The EUL is the serviceable
lifespan of an asset during which it can continue to fulfil its intended purpose and
provide value to users, safely and efficiently. As assets age, their performance
diminishes, often more rapidly as they approach the end of their design life.
In conjunction with condition data, an asset’s age profile provides a more complete
summary of the state of infrastructure. It can help identify assets that may be
candidates for further review through condition assessment programs; inform the
selection of optimal lifecycle strategies; and improve planning for potential
replacement spikes.
Figure 29 illustrates the average current age of each asset type and its EUL. Both
values are weighted by the replacement cost of individual assets.
Figure 29: Estimated Useful Life vs. Asset Age: Bridges and Structural Culverts
Age analysis reveals that bridges & structural culverts are well under their
respective Estimated Useful Lives. OSIM assessments should continue to be used in
conjunction with age and asset criticality to prioritize capital and maintenance
expenditures.
5.4 Current Approach to Lifecycle Management
The condition or performance of most assets will deteriorate over time. To ensure
that municipal assets are performing as expected and meeting the needs of
52.8 47.4
65.8 65.3
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
Bridges Structural Culverts
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
Y
e
a
r
s
Weighted Average Age Weighted Average EUL
- 212 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
73
customers, it is important to establish a lifecycle management strategy to
proactively manage asset deterioration.
The following table outlines the City’s current lifecycle management strategy.
Activity Type Description of Current Strategy
Rehabilitation /
Replacement
Biennial OSIM inspection reports including a Capital Needs List
identifying recommended rehabilitation and replacement
activities with estimated costs.
Rehabilitation /
Replacement
The report also includes a 2-year priority report to assist the
City with determining the timing and urgency of capital needs
when developing budgets and capital plans.
Maintenance
Biennial OSIM inspections including a list of recommended
maintenance activities that the City considers and completes
according to cost and urgency.
Maintenance
Typical maintenance activities include:
• Obstruction removal
• Cleaning/sweeping
• Erosion control
• Brush/tree removal
• Signage and roadside safety repair
Table 14: Lifecycle Management Strategy: Bridges & Structural Culverts
5.5 Forecasted Long-Term Replacement Needs
Figure 30 illustrates the cyclical short-, medium- and long-term infrastructure
rehabilitation and replacement requirements for the City’s bridges and culverts.
This analysis was run until 2099 to capture at least one iteration of replacement for
the longest-lived asset in Citywide Assets, the City’s primary asset management
system and asset register. The City’s average annual requirements (red dotted line)
for bridges and culverts total $1.3 million. Although actual spending may fluctuate
substantially from year to year, this figure is a useful benchmark value for annual
capital expenditure targets (or allocations to reserves) to ensure projects are not
deferred and replacement needs are met as they arise.
- 213 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
74
Capital needs will rise between 2025-2029 at $18.4 million14, and peak at $25.3
million between 2045 and 2049 as assets reach the end of their useful life. These
projections and estimates are based on asset replacement costs, age analysis, and
condition data. They are designed to provide a long-term, portfolio-level overview
of capital needs and should be used to support improved financial planning over
several decades.
Figure 30: Forecasted Capital Replacement Needs: Bridges & Structural Culverts
2025-2099
Often, the magnitude of replacement needs is substantially higher than most
municipalities can afford to fund. In addition, most assets may not need to be
14 Many of the structures with limited remaining useful life are scheduled for future
rehabilitation or maintenance under the OSIM program. However, these assets
effectively represent immediate needs and should be closely monitored to ensure
planned interventions proceed as scheduled.
$1.3m$0
$18.4m
$0 $1.1m
$6.2m
$25.3m
$1.4m
$3.0m
$10.0m
$2.6m
$2.9m
$22.1m
$882k
$1.3m
$2.1m
$2.9m
$0
$5.0m
$10.0m
$15.0m
$20.0m
$25.0m
$30.0m
Fo
r
e
c
a
s
t
e
d
C
a
p
i
t
a
l
R
e
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
Bridges Structural Culverts Annual Requirement Total
- 214 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
75
replaced. However, quantifying and monitoring these spikes is essential for long-
term financial planning, including establishing dedicated reserves. OSIM condition
assessments and a robust risk framework will ensure that high-criticality assets
receive proper and timely lifecycle intervention, including replacements.
A detailed 10-year capital replacement forecast can be found in Appendix A – 10-
Year Capital Requirements.
5.6 Risk Analysis
The risk matrix below is generated using available asset data, including condition
and replacement costs.
The matrix stratifies assets based on their individual probability and consequence of
failure, each scored from 1 to 5. Their product generates a risk index ranging from
1-25. Assets with the highest criticality and likelihood of failure receive a risk rating
of 25; those with lowest probability of failure and lowest criticality carry a risk
rating of 1. As new data and information is gathered, the City may consider
integrating relevant information that improves confidence in the criteria used to
assess asset risk and criticality.
These risk models have been built into the City’s Asset Management Database
(Citywide Assets). See Risk & Criticality section for further details on approach used
to determine asset risk ratings and classifications.
Figure 30 Risk Matrix: Bridges & Structural Culverts
5.6.1 Risk to Current Asset Management Strategies
Climate Change & Extreme Weather Events
Changes to intensity, duration, and frequency of rainfall may impact the condition
of bridges and culverts, increasing the risk of flooding. Although design standards
have evolved over time to meet changing climate, older structures were designed
to a different standard, and therefore not as resilient as newer structures.
1 - 4 5 - 7 8 - 9 10 - 14 15 - 25
Very Low Low Moderate High Very High
$8,029,737 $10,044,303 $22,860,853 $22,115,076 $16,801,453
(10%)(13%)(29%)(28%)(21%)
- 215 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
76
5.7 Levels of Service
The City of Pickering is committed to maintaining high standards for its bridges and
culverts, ensuring they are accessible and can efficiently accommodate local traffic
needs. These essential infrastructure elements are designed to remain reliable
under all weather conditions, providing a dependable transportation network for
residents and visitors. Maintenance is conducted to minimize unplanned
interruptions or closures, with a focus on safety and public well-being.
The City balances the economic challenges of maintaining and repairing bridges and
culverts with the need to manage costs responsibly, ensuring that expenditures are
sustainable without placing an undue financial burden on the community. Pickering
also adheres to internal traffic bylaws and provincial regulations, meeting both local
and provincial standards. Although the City’s budget aligns with OSIM inspection
recommendations, the current Bridge Condition Index (BCI) of 68.81% indicates
room for improvement. In comparison, neighbouring municipalities such as Ajax,
Oshawa, Whitby, and Durham maintain BCIs between 69% and 77%. Ongoing
monitoring and robust asset management are critical to ensuring the safety and
reliability of these structures. The following tables summarize the City’s current
levels of service, including KPIs under Ontario Regulation 588/17 and additional
performance measures selected for this AMP.
- 216 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
77
5.7.1 Community Levels of Service
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Accessibility
Description of the traffic that is
supported by Municipal bridges
(e.g., heavy transport vehicles,
motor vehicles, emergency
vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists)
Acceptable
Municipal bridges serve various
traffic types, including heavy
vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
The analysis mainly covers rural
bridges, like those in North
Pickering, with ten underload limits
and detour routes of 5 km or more.
Bridges on gravel roads that can't
support pedestrians or cyclists are
excluded from some assessments.
Urban bridges are rated excellent,
while rural ones are generally
ranked lower.
Reliability &
Performance
Description or images of the
condition of bridges & structural
culverts and how this would affect
use of the bridges & structural
culverts
Acceptable15
The City has a strong
understanding of the condition and
lifecycle needs of bridges and
culverts. OSIM inspections are
conducted following established
guidelines, with recommendations
from these inspections actively
applied.
15 Please refer to Appendix B – Level of Service Maps & Photos for examples of Bridge & Culvert conditions.
- 217 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
78
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Reliability &
Performance
Description of the compliance with
the minimum maintenance
standards for roads
Excellent
The City provides an excellent level
of service, meeting and exceeding
the minimum maintenance
standards.
Table 15: O. Reg. 588/17 Community Levels of Service: Bridges & Structural Culverts
5.7.2 Technical Levels of Service
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Reliability &
Performance
Percentage of bridges in the City with
loading or dimensional restrictions Excellent
In the City of Pickering, excluding
rural bridges, 0% of bridges have
loading or dimensional
restrictions. Rural roads, as
outlined in Schedule A of the
Traffic & Parking Bylaw, are not
designed to support heavy traffic
loads.
Reliability &
Performance
Average bridge condition index value
for bridges in the City Acceptable
70% - Adjusted results based on
the scores from the 2024 OSIM
inspections.
- 218 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
79
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Reliability &
Performance
Average bridge condition index value
for structural culverts in the City Acceptable
66% - Adjusted results based on
the scores from the 2024 OSIM
inspections.
Reliability &
Performance
Percentage of bridges in poor or
worse condition Acceptable
17% - Adjusted results based on
the scores from the 2024 OSIM
inspections.
Reliability &
Performance
Percentage of culverts in poor or
worse condition Acceptable
19% - Adjusted results based on
the scores from the 2024 OSIM
inspections.
Affordability
Annual sustainable capital
reinvestment/required capital
reinvestment rate
Acceptable
The funding received in recent
years is intended to address the
backlog of bridges with 0-4 years
of EUL remaining.
Table 16: O. Reg. 588/17 Technical Levels of Service: Bridges & Structural Culverts
- 219 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
80
5.7.3 Proposed Levels of Service
This section provides recommendations for maintaining and optimizing the bridges
and culverts within the road corridor based on the current Levels of Service (LOS)
assessment, public engagement results, and risk analysis. The recommendations
focus on sustaining infrastructure condition, ensuring accessibility, and addressing
service risks, while recognizing that current funding levels are sufficient to meet
ongoing needs.
5.7.3.1. Structural Condition of Bridges and Culverts
Current LOS
• Average Bridge Condition Index (BCI): Acceptable (70%)
• Average Structural Culvert Condition Index: Acceptable (66%)
• Percentage of Bridges in Poor or Worse Condition: 17%
• Percentage of Culverts in Poor or Worse Condition: 19%
Public Engagement Results
• Structural safety of bridges was the highest priority (89.3% of respondents).
• Regular inspections and maintenance were also highly rated (81.7% public
support).
• Flood prevention through culvert maintenance was considered very important
by 81.6% of respondents.
• Satisfaction with bridge structural integrity was relatively high (57.9%).
Recommendations
• Continue utilizing required funding levels to implement planned rehabilitation
and replacement projects, ensuring gradual improvements in condition over
time.
• Focus bridge and culvert investments on structures currently rated as poor,
prioritizing those with the highest traffic volumes or strategic importance. In
parallel, establish a preventative maintenance program to extend the service
life of assets in fair or good condition, minimizing long-term costs and reducing
the likelihood of sudden failures.
• Monitor condition trends through ongoing OSIM inspections to validate the
effectiveness of existing rehabilitation strategies.
• Enhance public awareness of rehabilitation efforts to reinforce confidence in
the municipality’s infrastructure management.
- 220 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
81
Risk of Not Maintaining Current LOS
• Delays in rehabilitation could slow overall condition improvements, leading to
longer timelines for achieving an optimal state of good repair.
• Public perception of deteriorating infrastructure, despite adequate funding, if
improvements are not effectively communicated.
• Increased maintenance costs if issues are not proactively addressed within
planned timelines.
5.7.3.2. Accessibility and Network Availability
Current LOS
• Acceptable – Municipal bridges support various traffic types, including heavy
vehicles, emergency vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
• Urban bridges are in excellent condition, but rural bridges are generally ranked
lower, with ten bridges under load restrictions requiring detours of 5 km or
more.
Public Engagement Results
• 72.7% of respondents considered accessibility important, though 21.3% were
neutral, indicating it is less of a concern compared to structural safety.
• Accessibility had the highest share of lower-priority responses (6.0%),
reflecting mixed public sentiment.
• 50.5% of respondents were satisfied with accessibility, while 9.4% were
dissatisfied.
Recommendations
• Maintain existing bridge and culvert accessibility levels while monitoring rural
bridge usage to assess future needs.
• Continue prioritizing investments in critical structures that impact emergency
response times and essential goods movement routes.
• Communicate the municipality’s strategy for balancing accessibility
improvements with other infrastructure priorities.
Risk of Not Maintaining Current LOS
• Potential disruptions for rural road users if bridge accessibility issues are not
addressed over time.
• Reduced efficiency for emergency services and goods movement on load-
restricted routes.
• Public perception that accessibility issues are being overlooked, despite
funding sufficiency.
- 221 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
82
5.7.3.3. Culvert Functionality and Flood Prevention
Current LOS
• Needs Improvement – around 19% of culverts are in poor or worse
condition.
Public Engagement Results
• Flood prevention effectiveness of culverts was ranked very important by 81.6%
of respondents.
• 43.3% of respondents were neutral regarding flood prevention, suggesting a
need for better public communication.
• Satisfaction with culvert maintenance effectiveness was 48.4%, but 8.2% of
respondents were dissatisfied.
Recommendations
• Continue leveraging existing funding to systematically rehabilitate culverts
with the highest flood risk exposure.
• Monitor high-risk culverts and drainage structures to ensure adequate capacity
for extreme weather events.
• Enhance public awareness of culvert maintenance efforts and how they
mitigate flooding risks.
Risk of Not Maintaining Current LOS
• Increased potential for localized flooding, impacting transportation and
adjacent properties.
• Higher maintenance costs if culvert deterioration is not proactively addressed
within planned rehabilitation cycles.
• Public perception that flood risk is not being adequately managed if
maintenance efforts are not visible.
5.7.3.4. Inspection Frequency and Preventative Maintenance
Current LOS
• Acceptable – The municipality exceeds minimum maintenance standards and
follows OSIM guidelines.
• Regular inspections are conducted, but high neutral public response suggests
a lack of visibility of these efforts.
- 222 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
83
Public Engagement Results
• Regular inspections and maintenance were ranked as important by 81.7% of
respondents.
• Satisfaction with inspection frequency was 55.9%, but 52.2% of respondents
were neutral, suggesting limited public awareness.
• 30.3% of respondents were unwilling to pay for increased inspection
frequency, the highest resistance of any feature.
Recommendations
• Maintain current inspection cycles while exploring opportunities to enhance
efficiency through technology (e.g., remote monitoring, predictive analytics).
• Improve public communication about ongoing inspections to address neutral
responses and reinforce trust in maintenance efforts.
• Continue integrating OSIM inspection findings into long-term capital planning
to ensure funding remains aligned with infrastructure needs.
• Increase efforts and allocate additional funding toward preventative and
routine operational maintenance for bridges and culverts to preserve asset
condition, reduce lifecycle costs, and delay the need for costly rehabilitation or
replacement.
Risk of Not Maintaining Current LOS
• Public misperception that inspections are not being conducted thoroughly,
despite strong existing maintenance practices.
• Reduced public trust in infrastructure management if inspection transparency
is not improved.
• Delayed detection of potential structural issues, increasing long-term
rehabilitation costs.
5.7.3.5. Sustainable Infrastructure Investment
Current LOS
• Excellent – Capital reinvestment has exceeded average annual requirements
in recent years.
Public Engagement Results
• 33.1% of respondents were willing to pay for structural upgrades to improve
bridge safety.
• However, 27.9% remained neutral, indicating an opportunity for public
education on infrastructure investment benefits.
• Willingness to pay for increased inspections was lower (21.3%), with 30.3%
of respondents unwilling.
- 223 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
84
Recommendations
• Continue sustaining current funding levels to ensure long-term infrastructure
resilience.
• Increase transparency in budget allocations and infrastructure spending to
reinforce public trust in the financial strategy.
• Leverage grant funding opportunities where applicable to optimize capital
reinvestment efficiency.
Risk of Not Maintaining Current LOS
• Potential misalignment between funding perceptions and actual infrastructure
needs if spending is not clearly communicated.
• Reduced public willingness to support long-term funding if infrastructure
investments are not visible.
• Risk of funding reductions in future budget cycles due to a lack of
demonstrated need.
- 224 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
85
6. Stormwater System
The City owns and maintains a stormwater system consisting of storm sewer mains
and other supporting infrastructure. Staff are working towards improving the
accuracy and reliability of their Stormwater System inventory to assist with long-
term asset management planning.
6.1 Inventory & Valuation
Table 17 includes the quantity, replacement cost method and total replacement
cost of each asset segment in the City’s Stormwater System inventory.16
Segment Sub-
Segment Quantity Unit of
Measure
Replacement
Cost4
Primary
RC
Method
Drainage
Channels
Drainage
Channels
839 Meters $4,925,552 CPI
Storm Sewers Catch Basin
and Lead
5,519 Each $22,793,470 Cost per
Unit
Storm Sewers Clean Water
Collectors
6,265 Meters $1,532,910 CPI
Storm Sewers Inlet/Outlet
Structures
73 Each $2,351,091 CPI
Storm Sewers Maintenance
Holes
3,344 Each $32,296,930 Cost per
Unit
Storm Sewers Oil Grit
Separators
37 Each $4,786,018 User-
Defined
16 The level of maturity of the asset quantity data is still at a basic level. Staff plan to prioritize
data refinement and consolidation efforts to increase confidence in the accuracy and reliability
of asset data and information.
- 225 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
86
Segment Sub-
Segment Quantity Unit of
Measure
Replacement
Cost4
Primary
RC
Method
Storm Sewers Service
Connection
16,895 Each $10,566,133 Cost per
Unit
Storm Sewers Storm Sewer
Mains
213,470 Meters $250,428,399 Cost per
Unit
Storm Sewers Stormwater
Wall
36 Meters $207,370 CPI
Stormwater
Ponds
Access Roads 249 Square
Meters
$44,552 CPI
Stormwater
Ponds
Dry Ponds 30,838 Cubic
Meters
$1,592,305 CPI
Stormwater
Ponds
Fencing 424 Meters $88,230 CPI
Stormwater
Ponds
Wet Ponds 187,150 Cubic
Meters
$26,194,976 User-
Defined
Total $357,807,936
Table 17: Detailed Asset Inventory: Stormwater System
Figure 31 provides the portfolio valuation of the stormwater system by Segments.
Moreover, these segments have been classified into further sub-segments.
Replacement costs by subsegments are provided in the Appendix D – Additional Asset
Portfolio Breakdown by Sub-segments.
- 226 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
87
Figure 31: Portfolio Valuation: Stormwater System
6.2 Asset Condition
Figure 32 summarizes the replacement cost-weighted condition of the City’s
stormwater system assets. Based on age data only, approximately 13% of assets
are in poor to very poor condition. These assets may be candidates for replacement
in the short term; similarly, assets in fair condition may require rehabilitation or
replacement in the medium term and should be monitored for further degradation
in condition.
Figure 32: Asset Condition: Stormwater System Overall
$4.9m
$27.9m
$325.0m
$100m $200m $300m $400m
Drainage Channels
Stormwater Ponds
Storm Sewers
Replacement Cost by Segment
Very Poor,
$6,375,794
(2%)
Poor,
$39,646,761
(11%)Fair,
$13,219,145
(4%)
Good,
$70,785,086
(20%)
Very Good,
$227,781,150
(64%)
- 227 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
88
Figure 33 summarizes the age-based condition of stormwater assets17. The analysis
illustrates that the majority of stormwater mains are in fair or better condition.
Figure 33: Asset Condition: Stormwater System by Segment
6.3 Age Profile
An asset’s age profile comprises two key values: estimated useful life (EUL), or
design life; and the percentage of EUL consumed. The EUL is the serviceable
lifespan of an asset during which it can continue to fulfil its intended purpose and
provide value to users, safely and efficiently. As assets age, their performance
diminishes, often more rapidly as they approach the end of their design life.
In conjunction with condition data, an asset’s age profile provides a more complete
summary of the state of infrastructure. It can help identify assets that may be
candidates for further review through condition assessment programs; inform the
selection of optimal lifecycle strategies; and improve planning for potential
replacement spikes.
Figure 34 illustrates the average current age of each asset type and its estimated
useful life. Both values are weighted by the replacement cost of individual assets.
17 A desktop assessment was completed by City staff. The results of the assessment were
used along with Age-based ratings to calculate the average condition of assets. Desktop
assessment ratings were given a weight of 50% compared to 50% for the age -based rating
when performing the final condition calculation for Catch Basin and Leads. For Service
Connections, the desktop assessments were given a weight of 55% compared t o 45% for
the age-based rating when performing the final condition calculation. Age-based conditions
were solely used when desktop assessments were not performed.
$9.7m
$213.1m
$4.9m
$69.5m
$10.7m
$28.9m
$5.9m
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Stormwater
Ponds
Storm Sewers
Drainage
Channels
Value and Percentage of Asset Segments by Replacement Cost
Very Good Good Fair Poor Very Poor
- 228 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
89
Figure 34: Estimated Useful Life vs. Asset Age: Stormwater System
Age analysis reveals that drainage channels & stormwater ponds are far from
reaching their end of useful life. Moreover, storm sewers are midway through their
expected useful life.
6.4 Current Approach to Lifecycle Management
The condition or performance of most assets will deteriorate over time. This process
is affected by a range of factors including asset’s characteristics, location, utilization,
maintenance history and environment.
The following lifecycle strategies have been developed as a proactive approach to
managing the lifecycle of wet stormwater ponds. Instead of allowing stormwater
ponds to deteriorate until replacement is required, strategic rehabilitation is expected
to extend the service life of stormwater ponds at a lower total cost.
9.3
37.8
16.5
68.2 72
52.8
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
Drainage Channels Storm Sewers Stormwater Ponds
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
Y
e
a
r
s
Weighted Average Age Weighted Average EUL
- 229 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
90
Stormwater Ponds (Wet)
Event Name Event Class Event Trigger
Pond Cleanout 1st cycle Maintenance Year: 20
Pond Cleanout 2nd Cycle Maintenance Year: 40
Asset Replacement Replacement Condition: 0
Table 18: Lifecycle Management Strategy: Stormwater Ponds
- 230 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
91
The following table outlines the City’s current lifecycle management strategy for
Stormwater Management Facilities.
Activity Type Description of Current Strategy
Maintenance
Regular inspections are completed across all facilities. When
more detailed inspections were completed in 2020 this included:
• Inspection of maintenance hole covers, control structures
and access barriers
• Bathymetric surveys and sediment depth measurements
at wet ponds
• Sediment quality sampling to determine proper disposal
requirements
Maintenance
Staff are in the process of evaluating and implementing a
proactive maintenance program which may include:
• Debris cleanup
• Repairs to outlets, grates, and fences
Rehabilitation/
Replacement
Sediment removal and disposal needs to occur on a regular basis
(~ every 20 years).
Rehabilitation/
Replacement
The excavation and removal of sediment from ponds will require
a sampling and analysis plan outlining frequency and testing
parameters.
Rehabilitation/
Replacement
Due to the relatively young age of the City’s stormwater
management facilities, there has not been a previous urgency or
requirement to plan for reconstruction/retrofit needs.
Table 19: Lifecycle Management Strategy: Stormwater Management Facilities
The following table outlines the City’s current lifecycle management strategy for
Storm Sewers.
- 231 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
92
Activity
Type Description of Current Strategy
Maintenance
The City’s annual maintenance program for storm sewer mains
includes:
• Storm sewer flushing and video inspection
• Calcite blockage removal (reaming)
• Catch basin cleaning
Rehabilitation
The City is in the process of refining its inventory data and
collecting better condition data on linear storm sewer
infrastructure. Once this process is completed staff will consider
the benefits of trenchless sewer re-lining.
Replacement
Storm sewer replacement is aligned with road reconstruction
programs. When a road is planned for reconstruction, CCTV
inspections are completed to determine if the storm sewer
needs repair or replacement. This project coordination
ultimately leads to lower total project costs and reduces the
impact of more frequent road reconstruction.
Replacement The City develops a 9-year capital forecast which includes
specific named projects
Table 20: Lifecycle Management Strategy: Storm Sewers
6.5 Forecasted Long-Term Replacement Needs
Figure 35 illustrates the cyclical short-, medium- and long-term infrastructure
replacement requirements for the City’s stormwater system assets. This analysis
was run until 2109 to capture at least one iteration of replacement for the longest-
lived asset in Citywide Assets, the City’s primary asset management system and
asset register. The City’s average annual requirements (red dotted line) total $6.6
million for all assets in the stormwater system. Although actual spending may
fluctuate substantially from year to year, this figure is a useful benchmark value for
annual capital expenditure targets (or allocations to reserves) to ensure projects
are not deferred and replacement needs are met as they arise.
- 232 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
93
Figure 35: Forecasted Long-Term Replacement Needs: Storm Sewers
The largest replacement spike is forecasted to be $85.3 million in 2060-2064
followed by $68.5 million in 2055 - 2059 as assets reach the end of their expected
design life. These projections and estimates are based on asset replacement costs
and age analysis. They are designed to provide a long-term, portfolio-level
overview of capital needs and should be used to support improved financial
planning over several decades.
Often, the magnitude of replacement needs is substantially higher than most
municipalities can afford to fund. In addition, most assets may not need to be
replaced. However, quantifying and monitoring these spikes is essential for long-
term financial planning, including establishing dedicated reserves. In addition, a
$6.6m
$471k
$29.1m
$21.8m
$35.5m
$36.4m
$15.8m
$57.7m
$68.5m
$85.3m
$27.5m
$21.5m
$39.6m
$10.8m
$15.1m
$13.9m
$34.2m
$4.4m
$5.2m
$0
$10m
$20m
$30m
$40m
$50m
$60m
$70m
$80m
$90m
Fo
r
e
c
a
s
t
e
d
C
a
p
i
t
a
l
R
e
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
Stormwater Ponds
Storm Sewers
Drainage Channels
Annual Requirement
Total
- 233 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
94
robust risk framework will ensure that high-criticality assets receive proper and
timely lifecycle intervention, including replacements.
A detailed 10-year capital replacement forecast can be found in Appendix A – 10-
Year Capital Requirements.
6.6 Risk Analysis
The risk matrix below is generated using available asset data, including condition,
service life remaining, pipe material, and replacement costs. As no additional
attribute data was available for storm assets, the risk ratings for assets were
calculated using only these asset fields.
The matrix stratifies assets based on their individual probability and consequence of
failure, each scored from 1 to 5. Their product generates a risk index ranging from
1-25. Assets with the highest criticality and likelihood of failure receive a risk rating
of 25; those with lowest probability of failure and lowest criticality carry a risk
rating of 1. As new data and information is gathered, the City may consider
integrating relevant information that improves confidence in the criteria used to
assess asset risk and criticality.
These risk models have been built into the City’s Asset Management Database
(Citywide Assets). See Risk & Criticality section for further details on approach used
to determine asset risk ratings and classifications.
Figure 36: Risk Matrix: Stormwater System
6.6.1 Risk to Current Asset Management Strategies
Climate Change & Extreme Weather Events
Changes to intensity, duration, and frequency of rainfall may impact the condition
and performance of the Stormwater System. Design criteria can become outdated
as Intensity, Duration, and Frequency (IDF) curves are updated. The City’s IDF
curves were last updated in 2013 and were further analyzed in the Climate Change
IDF Study, prepared for Durham Region in 2024. The study indicates a slight
increase in intensity for short-duration events, with no significant change observed
for long-duration events. The results suggest that the current design practices
remain as adequate as they ever were, though continued monitoring is
recommended. While this risk is industry-driven, the City’s current IDF curves are
1 - 4 5 - 7 8 - 9 10 - 14 15 - 25
Very Low Low Moderate High Very High
$144,290,633 $126,383,874 $23,398,915 $48,027,393 $15,707,122
(40%)(35%)(7%)(13%)(4%)
- 234 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
95
still considered relevant for design purposes, with future updates and monitoring
suggested for ongoing accuracy.
The forthcoming Community Climate Adaptation Plan—scheduled for Council
consideration in May 2025—may introduce additional recommendations or direction
for addressing long-term climate resilience. As the Plan is currently in draft form,
future asset management updates may be required to align with its finalized
objectives and actions once formally adopted.
Installation
Design guidelines have been updated to reflect new requirements around storm
sewer sizing for new developments. Although newer subdivisions are being
designed to meet overland flow requirements, this is not necessarily the case for all
of the older developments.
Currently, design standards for linear infrastructure are built to capture and convey
the 1 in 5-year storm event.
Infrastructure Re-investment
Plans to maintain and rehabilitate ponds are entirely dependent on budget
approvals. When adequate budgets are not available, these plans may be deferred
or canceled.
Lifecycle Management Strategies
For storm sewers, inspections are not completed on a strategic level. Inspections
are done on a geographic zone basis, not necessarily targeted towards areas of
elevated need.
The storm sewer age is relatively young north of Highway 401 (the majority) and
getting older south of the Highway. It is rare that the City has to plan for full
reconstruction/replacement. However, The City is looking to expand inspection
programs to become more strategic as the average age of storm infrastructure
increases.
Furthermore, ponds within the City are relatively new and not at the end of their
lifecycle. The City will be developing a robust lifecycle management strategy based
on a recently completed asset management plan.
- 235 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
96
6.7 Levels of Service
The City of Pickering is committed to maintaining a high standard of service for its
stormwater management system, ensuring it effectively meets the needs of the
community while safeguarding the environment and public well-being. The system
is designed with redundancies to manage high flow conditions and prevent
overflows, ensuring reliability and minimizing service interruptions. This robust
infrastructure plays a vital role in managing stormwater, reducing flood risks, and
mitigating environmental impacts.
The City strives to balance affordability with the necessary investments in
stormwater infrastructure maintenance, and upgrades. While Pickering's
stormwater system is relatively new, it requires financial reserves for future
upkeep. Currently, 95% of properties are resilient to a 5-year storm, and 60% to a
100-year storm. However, neighbouring municipalities like Ajax, Whitby, and
Durham report higher resiliency rates, highlighting the need for improved data
collection and financial planning in Pickering. The following tables summarize the
City’s current levels of service, including KPIs under Ontario Regulation 588/17 and
additional performance measures selected for this AMP.
- 236 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
97
6.7.1 Community Levels of Service
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Accessibility
Description, which may include
maps, of the user groups or areas of
the City that are protected from
flooding, including the extent of the
protection provided by the Municipal
stormwater management system
Acceptable18
The zoning, dating back to the
1960s, lacks sufficient flood
management infrastructure,
particularly in the face of extreme
weather events. While floodplain
mapping is available online to
highlight vulnerable areas, a detailed
analysis of the storm sewer system is
still missing. As a result,
maintenance has been reactive and
localized rather than proactive and
planned. However, the City benefits
from not having combined sewers,
which can alleviate some stormwater
management challenges. Engineering
Services are working to address
these issues through a more
comprehensive approach, as outlined
in their Level of Service Framework,
effective as of March 14, 2024.
Table 21: O. Reg. 588/17 Community Levels of Service: Stormwater System
18 Please refer to Appendix B – Level of Service Maps & Photos for stormwater system classification maps.
- 237 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
98
6.7.2 Technical Levels of Service
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Reliability &
Performance
Percentage of inspected catch
basins yearly Acceptable 27.8%
Reliability &
Performance
Percentage of properties in
Municipality resilient to a 100-year
storm
Needs
Improvement
60%19 - The City assumes that the
minor system in urban and estate
development areas is designed to
handle a 5-year event, while the
major system is expected to manage
a 100-year event without affecting
buildings. However, further studies
are needed to accurately assess the
system's ability to handle these
events without impacting
infrastructure. Staff have started
measuring asset performance against
these metrics, with ongoing work that
will provide a more accurate
representation of the City’s Level of
Service (LOS) in a future Asset
Management Plan (AMP).
19 High level assumption.
- 238 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
99
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Reliability &
Performance
Percentage of the Municipal
stormwater management system
resilient to a 5-year storm
Acceptable
95% - The City assumes that the
minor system in urban and estate
areas is designed to handle a 5-year
event, and the major system is built
to manage a 100-year event without
affecting buildings. Further studies are
needed to accurately assess how well
both systems perform. Staff are
currently measuring asset
performance against these standards,
with a more precise Level of Service
(LOS) assessment to be included in a
future Asset Management Plan (AMP).
Reliability &
Performance
Yearly Percentage of inspected and
flushed pipes (urban areas) N/A20
The City conducts manual clean and
flush programs annually, but the
current quantity per year is
insufficient to inspect the entire sewer
system within five years. As a result,
only a small percentage of pipes are
inspected each year due to budget
limitations. There is no specific policy
guiding this process; instead,
planning is determined by the
available budget allocation.
20 For the current LOS that are marked as N/A (Not Available), the city will gather additional data to establish accurate values .
- 239 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
100
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Reliability &
Performance
Yearly Percentage of inspected and
flushed pipes (non-urban areas) N/A
The City conducts manual clean and
flush programs annually, but this
quantity per year is insufficient to
inspect the entire sewer system within
five years. As a result, only a small
percentage of pipes are inspected
each year due to budget constraints.
There is no dedicated policy for this
process; instead, planning is based on
the available budget allocation.
Reliability &
Performance
Average condition of stormwater
system assets Acceptable 70% – Based on the calculations from
Citywide
Reliability &
Performance
Percentage of storm network assets
in poor or worse condition Acceptable 29% - Based on the calculations from
Citywide
Affordability
Annual sustainable capital
reinvestment/required capital
reinvestment rate
Needs
Improvement
The actual reinvestment rate is just
over 11% of the target rate,
highlighting a potential risk of
infrastructure deterioration if
reinvestment levels remain low.
Table 22: O. Reg. 588/17 Technical Levels of Service: Stormwater System
- 240 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
101
6.7.3 Proposed Levels of Service
This section provides recommendations for maintaining and improving the
stormwater system within the road corridor based on the current Levels of Service
(LOS) assessment, public engagement results, and risk analysis. The
recommendations focus on addressing deficiencies in storm resiliency and funding
sustainability, ensuring proactive maintenance, and improving public engagement.
6.7.3.1. Storm Resiliency and Flood Prevention
Current LOS
• Percentage of properties resilient to a 100-year storm: Needs Improvement
(60%)
• Percentage of the stormwater system resilient to a 5-year storm: Acceptable
(95%)
• Floodplain mapping is available, but a detailed storm sewer and overland flow
system analysis for older neighbourhoods is lacking.
• Maintenance has been reactive and localized rather than proactive and
planned.
Public Engagement Results
• Flood prevention was rated as the highest priority (81.0% of respondents).
• Satisfaction with flood prevention was the highest among stormwater features
(45.8%).
• Neutral responses about flood prevention were moderate (43.9%), indicating
a lack of strong public awareness.
Recommendations
• Enhance flood resilience by investing in system-wide upgrades in flood-prone
areas to improve capacity for extreme weather events.
• Develop a detailed storm sewer system analysis to accurately assess
vulnerabilities and prioritize upgrades.
• Improve stormwater retention and drainage capacity in flood-prone areas.
• Increase public education on floodplain mapping and household-level flood
mitigation strategies.
Risk of Not Improving Storm Resiliency
• Increased flooding risk, leading to property damage and infrastructure failures.
• Higher long-term costs due to emergency response and reactive repairs.
• Reduced public trust in the municipality’s ability to manage extreme weather
impacts.
- 241 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
102
6.7.3.2. Stormwater System Maintenance and Inspection Frequency
Current LOS
• Yearly percentage of inspected catch basins: Acceptable (27.8%)
• Yearly percentage of inspected and flushed pipes (urban areas): N/A (Budget-
limited program, unable to complete all inspections within five years).
• Yearly percentage of inspected and flushed pipes (non-urban areas): N/A
(Budget-limited program, unable to complete all inspections within five years).
• Average condition of stormwater system assets: Acceptable (70).
• Percentage of storm network assets in poor or worse condition: Acceptable
(29%).
Public Engagement Results
• Regular maintenance of stormwater components was highly rated (80.3% of
respondents).
• Satisfaction with maintenance was moderate (44.2%), but 46.1% of
respondents were neutral, suggesting a lack of public awareness.
• Willingness to pay for more frequent maintenance was lower (24.7%), with
significant opposition (30.5%).
Recommendations
• Optimize maintenance scheduling to ensure system components are cleaned
and inspected within a five-year cycle.
• Implement a risk-based inspection strategy, prioritizing high-risk areas and
aging infrastructure.
• Increase public communication about ongoing maintenance efforts to address
neutral perceptions.
• Leverage technology, such as remote monitoring, to improve maintenance
efficiency and reduce costs.
Risk of Not Improving Maintenance and Inspection Frequency
• Increased risk of blockages, backups, and localized flooding.
• Deterioration of stormwater assets leading to premature replacement costs.
• Public perception of poor infrastructure management, reducing willingness to
support future funding.
6.7.3.3. Sustainable Capital Reinvestment and Funding
Current LOS
• Annual sustainable capital reinvestment rate: Needs Improvement (11% of the
required funding).
- 242 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
103
• Stormwater projects are currently constrained by budget limitations, leading
to deferred maintenance and delayed system upgrades.
Public Engagement Results
• Willingness to pay for enhanced flood prevention was moderate (29.2%), with
29.0% of respondents neutral.
• Willingness to pay for more frequent maintenance was lower (24.7%), with
30.5% unwilling.
• Public prioritization favors flood prevention and maintenance over
transparency and communication.
Recommendations
• Secure long-term, dedicated funding for stormwater infrastructure upgrades
and rehabilitation.
• Leverage available grants and alternative funding sources to supplement
municipal investments.
• Develop a financial strategy linking reinvestment levels to long-term cost
savings and risk reduction.
• Communicate the benefits of proactive reinvestment to increase public support
for funding allocation.
Risk of Not Securing Sustainable Funding
• This graph illustrates the projected condition of the City’s stormwater system
under three funding scenarios from 2025 to 2040: current, recommended,
and optimal budgets. Under the current budget (green line), asset condition
gradually declines, falling below 80% and trending downward, signaling a
slow but steady deterioration. This decline increases the risk of system
failures, local flooding, costly emergency repairs, and reduced resilience to
climate-related events such as intense rainfall. In contrast, the recommended
budget (purple line) helps stabilize condition above 80%, while the optimal
budget (blue line) significantly improves condition, reaching the mid-90%
range by 2040. Without increased investment, the City risks higher future
costs, service disruptions, and greater vulnerability to extreme weather,
making it essential to address the funding gap within the next decade.
- 243 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
104
Figure 37: Projected Stormwater System Conditions in Pickering Under Optimal vs. Current vs Recommended
Budget Scenarios"
- 244 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
105
6.7.3.4. Communication and Transparency in Stormwater Management
Current LOS
• Public awareness of stormwater management practices is limited, with high
neutral responses in engagement surveys.
Public Engagement Results
• Transparency and communication about stormwater management were the
lowest-rated priority (67.7%).
• Satisfaction with stormwater communication was the lowest of all categories
(31.0%).
• Dissatisfaction with communication was relatively high (27.0%), indicating a
need for improvement.
Recommendations
• Develop an outreach strategy to educate residents on stormwater system
functionality and its impact on community safety.
• Improve accessibility of stormwater data, including maps and maintenance
schedules, through an online portal.
• Increase engagement through public meetings and stormwater management
workshops.
Risk of Not Improving Communication
• Public misperceptions about the municipality’s stormwater management
efforts.
• Reduced willingness to support funding increases due to a lack of
understanding of system needs.
• Increased public frustration during storm events due to limited information
availability.
- 245 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
106
Non-Core Assets
- 246 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
107
7. Buildings & Facilities
The City owns and maintains a variety of facilities and recreation centers that
provide essential services to the community. These buildings are categorized as
follows:
• Civic Complex
• Community & Cultural Buildings
• Fire Services
• Operations Centre
• Recreation, Pools & Arenas
To effectively manage the operational data of these facilities, the City utilizes
VFA, ensuring informed decision-making and strategic asset management.
7.1 Inventory & Valuation
Table 23 includes the quantity, replacement cost method and total replacement
cost of each asset segment in the City’s Buildings & Facilities asset inventory.
Segment Quantity Unit of
Measure
Replacement
Cost
Primary RC
Method
Civic Complex 1 Buildings $39,442,725 User-Defined
Community &
Cultural
Buildings
18 Buildings $55,798,059 User-Defined
Fire Services 5 Buildings $27,242,565 User-Defined
Operations
Centre
5 Buildings $36,053,371 User-Defined
Recreation,
Pools & Arenas
11 Buildings $158,293,225 User-Defined
Other 1 Buildings $63,858 CPI
TOTAL $316,893,803
Table 23: Detailed Asset Inventory: Buildings & Facilities
- 247 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
108
Figure 38: Portfolio Valuation: Buildings & Facilities
7.2 Asset Condition
The City maintains a detailed breakdown of all facilities in its VFA/Facilities
database, which compiles and summarizes information for the AMP, offering a more
robust budgeting tool. This database is further refined through staff observations
and supported by third-party consultant reviews. Appendix E – Facility Condition
Indices presents the FCI scores of facilities, as outlined in the Facilities Renewal
Study.
A Facility Condition Index (FCI) score is a ratio of the total cost of identified building
repairs and renewals (i.e., component replacement) over a defined period (the City
uses 5 years) divided by the assets’ total estimated replacement cost. It is
calculated using the formula:
FCI = Requirement and Renewal Costs / Current Replacement Value
An FCI of 0 percent indicates a facility in perfect condition with no outstanding
capital investment backlog or deferred maintenance within the next five years. Low
FCI values, typically below 20 percent, indicate good condition with minimal
maintenance needs. Higher FCI values, above 40 percent, suggest significant
maintenance backlogs and a potential need for major rehabilitation, replacement,
or disposal. These thresholds were identified in the City's 2024 Facilities Renewal
Study.
$64k
$27.2m
$36.1m
$39.4m
$55.8m
$158.3m
$50m $100m $150m $200m
Other
Fire Services
Operations Centre
Civic Complex
Community & Cultural Buildings
Recreation, Pools & Arenas
Replacement Cost by Segment
- 248 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
109
The City maintains separate asset management software for its buildings, VFA
Facilities, which reports an FCI of 25.68 percent for the entire facility portfolio. This
suggests that the facility is at risk of accelerated deterioration, increased
maintenance costs, and potential service disruptions. Immediate attention and
strategic reinvestment are required to prevent further decline and ensure continued
functionality.
To ensure that the City’s Building & Facilities continue to provide an acceptable
level of service, the City monitors the condition of all individual systems and assets
in each of its facilities. As their condition declines, staff re-evaluate their lifecycle
management and funding strategy to determine what combination of maintenance,
rehabilitation and replacement activities is required to improve the overall condition
of Buildings & Facilities.
7.3 Age Profile
An asset’s age profile comprises two key values: estimated useful life (EUL), or
design life; and service life remaining (SLR). EUL is the initial estimated serviceable
lifespan of an asset during which it can continue to fulfil its intended purpose and
provide value to users safely and efficiently. As assets age, their performance
diminishes, often more rapidly as they approach the end of their design life. With
proper care and maintenance, SLR can be extended beyond the initial EUL.
In conjunction with condition data, an asset’s age profile provides a more complete
summary of the state of infrastructure. It can help identify assets that may be
candidates for further review through condition assessment programs; inform the
selection of optimal lifecycle strategies; and improve planning for potential
replacement spikes.
Figure 39: Estimated Useful Life vs. Asset Age: Buildings & Facilities
31.2
35.3
23.6
6 3
30.230.3
29.5
26.2 26.4 25
28.9
0
10
20
30
40
Civic
Complex
Community
& Cultural
Buildings
Fire
Services
Operations
Centre
Other Recreation,
Pools &
Arenas
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
Y
e
a
r
s
Weighted Average Age Weighted Average EUL
- 249 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
110
Figure 39 illustrates the average current age of each asset type and its estimated
useful life. Both values are weighted by the replacement cost of individual assets.
Age analysis reveals that civic complex, community & cultural buildings, and
recreation pools & arenas have exceeded their expected useful lives. On the
contrary, operations centre, and other buildings are in the early stages of their
expected useful lives. Moreover, fire services facilities are quickly approaching their
useful lives.
Age-based analysis would require intensive review of the over 10,000 assets
represented in the VFA database, as each of these will have its own established
EUL. Detailed analysis will be undertaken in regular updates to the City’s Facilities
Renewal Study and as part of ongoing facilities management efforts. Data and
analysis provided in the City’s broader asset management plan is limited to high
level summaries of this information to demonstrate overall trends and conditions.
7.4 Current Approach to Lifecycle Management
The condition or performance of most assets will deteriorate over time. To ensure
that municipal assets are performing as expected and meeting the needs of
stakeholders, it is important to establish a lifecycle management strategy to
proactively manage asset deterioration.
A number of City facilities are approaching the end of their serviceable lives and will
compete with growth-related and other priorities for limited available capital funds.
The City’s Facilities Renewal Study provides guidelines to help develop the required
strategies, and feed into the City’s broader asset management objectives.
Table 24 outlines the City’s current lifecycle management strategy.
Activity Type Description of Current Strategy
Maintenance
City Facilities Maintenance staff develop preventative
maintenance plans that are tailored for each facility. These
plans include a variety of activities that are completed by both
internal staff and external contractors including:
• Routine health & safety inspections and general facility
maintenance
• Elevator & life safety systems testing
• Utilities inspection & maintenance (e.g., generators,
plumbing, HVAC)
- 250 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
111
Activity Type Description of Current Strategy
Rehabilitation
Facility rehabilitation relies on determining the optimal time to
replace systems to control costs and manage risks without
jeopardizing facility safety and operational standards. Staff
prioritize rehabilitation needs into three broad categories:
• Primary: health & safety, roofs, HVAC
• Secondary: Back of house areas, non-critical systems
• Tertiary: cosmetics, lighting, cladding, flooring
Rehabilitation
In general terms, the City’s approach is reviewing facilities in
terms of generational life cycles, with each cycle lasting roughly
25-30 years. A major renovation is typically required at that
point to address the end of life of a broad number of building
systems and consolidated into a single project for order of
magnitude cost savings while minimizing overall down time.
Most facilities have 2-3 generational cycles in them, leaning
towards the lower number if each generation is stretched to
30+ years. Beyond this point, critical infrastructure like
foundations require expensive repairs and operating costs can
become prohibitive, as well as the increasing risks of unplanned
closures.
Replacement
Determining facility replacement requirements involves
analyzing several key sources of information, including:
• Facility condition index & staff inspections
• Maintenance and work order records.
• Master Plans
• Stakeholder input
Replacement
Staff aim to start evaluating and planning for facility
replacements at least 10 years in advance of required capital
works. The City’s Facilities Renewal Study is the current guiding
document for these efforts, aligning objectives with the Parks
and Recreation 10-Year Plan, Corporate Energy Management
Plan, and other related policies and documents, all falling under
the auspices of the City’s overall Strategic Plan.
Table 24: Lifecycle Management Strategy: Buildings & Facilities
- 251 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
112
7.5 Forecasted Long-Term Replacement Needs
Funding needs for facilities assets can vary significantly from year to year. In 2025,
there is a backlog of $13.8 million, which grows to $15.6 million in 2026. The
highest funding requirement is shown in the latest capital budget forecast in 2027
at $33.5 million, likely due to major planned projects or deferred maintenance.
Projected costs within the next five years often include deferred maintenance from
previous years that have not yet been funded or approved.
Beyond these specific expenditures, the City's capital budget estimates an average
annual requirement of $12.6 million after 2034 to maintain facilities in good
condition. These fluctuations underscore the importance of consistent and strategic
funding. Without sufficient investment in high-need years, maintenance could be
delayed, leading to higher long-term costs and a greater risk of asset failures. By
leveraging data-driven planning, the City can allocate resources effectively,
ensuring funding is available when needed, preventing costly emergency repairs,
and keeping facilities safe and functional for the community.
A detailed 10-year capital replacement forecast can be found in Appendix A – 10-
Year Capital Requirements.
7.6 Risk Analysis
This table, sourced from the City’s 2024 Facilities Renewal Study, highlights facility
risk rankings based on both condition (FCI) and service criticality. It identifies
priority buildings requiring attention, including several fire stations and community
centres, and supports a risk-based approach to capital planning and reinvestment.
- 252 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
113
Figure 40: Risk Scores vs FCI: Buildings & Facilities from the 2024 Facilities
Renewal Study21
This table, sourced from the City’s 2024 Facilities Renewal Study, highlights facility
risk rankings based on both condition (FCI) and service criticality. It identifies
priority buildings requiring attention, including several fire stations and community
centres, and supports a risk-based approach to capital planning and reinvestment.
7.6.1 Risk to Current Asset Management Strategies
The following section summarizes key trends, challenges, and risks to service
delivery that the City’s facilities are currently facing:
21 Footnote 1: Animal Shelter is a leased facility with no VFA data; however, the city is
responsible for all capital upgrades and significant investment is required. Therefore, it is
assumed that if there was an assessment the FCI score would be 50% or more and score of
5 would apply.
Footnote 2: Historic pavilion structures are not included in the Museum FCI. This value only
includes Redman House, the Conservation Building and Upper Site Storage Building.
- 253 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
114
Climate Change & Extreme Weather Events
Increasing temperatures place greater stress on HVAC systems. More frequent and
severe windstorms, heavier snowfall and deluge precipitation can overwhelm the
system design capacities of City facilities, especially older buildings designed to less
stringent codes and requirements. Climate resiliency is already a key consideration
in any discussion of new construction/retrofits - e.g., building roof curbs to allow
additional insulation thickness at a later date.
Infrastructure Design/Installation
Futureproofing is already a key strategy for all City facility capital projects. The City
acknowledges the need to build in as much resilience, durability, and flexibility as
possible. The City wants to be able to keep up with technological advancements,
and aging systems often become more difficult to maintain as parts and required
expertise become sparse. Redundancy is key for critical systems, such as HVAC,
electrical and life safety systems.
The City’s 2024-2029 Corporate Energy Management Plan (CEMP) includes
recommendations to develop a corporate building standard for City facilities that
could address long term needs and resiliency to maintain an inventory of robust
assets, which notably include emergency and post-disaster buildings.
Aging Infrastructure
Aging infrastructure poses a significant risk to the City of Pickering’s facilities,
especially as essential structural systems reach the end of their serviceable lives. As
buildings age, key components such as foundations, load-bearing walls, roofs, and
mechanical systems deteriorate, increasing the likelihood of failures that could
compromise safety, functionality, and service delivery. Structural degradation can
lead to issues such as leaks, cracks, corrosion, and weakened load-bearing
capacities, which, if left unaddressed, can escalate into costly emergency repairs or
even facility closures. Once a facility’s key structural systems reach end of life,
rehabilitation is rarely cost-effective, requiring full replacement or disposal of the
building.
7.7 Levels of Service
The City of Pickering is dedicated to providing exceptional services across all
municipal facilities, with a strong focus on accessibility, sustainability, reliability,
performance, and cost-effectiveness. The City strives to ensure that all residents
and visitors to the community can access and benefit from its facilities, with
accessible entrances, washrooms, and assistive technologies in place, exceeding
minimum code requirements whenever possible. In addition, sustainable practices
are integrated into the City’s procurement practices, building operations and capital
- 254 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
115
project planning to minimize environmental impact, reinforced by the objectives of
the City’s Corporate Energy Management Plan 2024-2029, Community Climate
Adaptation Plan 2025-2035 and Corporate Strategic Plan 2024-2028. Regular
inspections and maintenance ensure that these facilities remain safe, secure, and
resilient, while also being reliably responsive to emergencies.
Several City building assets already have Facility Condition Index (FCI ratings
exceeding 40 percent, with low service life remaining. This will require significant
attention over the short term. The renewal study should be further developed and
inform the City's broader strategic objectives to ensure that target levels of service
can be maintained over the long run. The City continuously strives to offer high-
quality service to all visitors and stakeholders by regularly reviewing service
delivery and actively seeking customer feedback to improve its offerings.
Committed to affordability, the City ensures that its facilities remain accessible and
enjoyable for all residents and visitors. The following tables summarize the City’s
current levels of service, including KPIs under Ontario Regulation 588/17 and
additional performance measures selected for this AMP.
- 255 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
116
7.7.1 Community Levels of Service
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Accessibility
Description of the availability of
recreational and cultural
services supported by municipal
facilities to residents
Acceptable
The City’s Recreational and cultural
services are primarily concentrated in
South Pickering, providing good access.
Central and North Pickering have more
limited availability, requiring
improvement. Issues include an
insufficient number of facilities, several
aging facilities set for decommissioning,
and accessibility challenges like a lack of
elevators in some buildings. Two new
facilities (Pickering Heritage & Community
Centre and Seaton Recreation Complex &
Library) are planned but will not be
completed until after 2025.
Accessibility
Description of the state of
modernization of recreational
facilities
Needs
Improvement
As demographics shift and density
increases, especially near existing
facilities, aging buildings need
modernization to meet evolving
community needs. This should go beyond
health and safety updates to include new
features aligned with current trends, such
as fitness classes and improved
amenities, as outlined in the Recreation
and Parks 10-Year Plan. A proactive
approach will help ensure facilities stay
- 256 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
117
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
relevant, accessible, and capable of
serving a growing, diverse population.
Accessibility
Description of the state of
modernization of Library
Facilities
Needs
Improvement
As demographics shift and density
increases, aging buildings need
modernization to meet evolving
community needs. This should include
updates beyond health and safety,
incorporating current trends and upgraded
amenities, as outlined in the Public Library
Facilities Plan (2023). A proactive
approach will ensure facilities stay
relevant, accessible, and serve the
diverse, growing population.
Accessibility
Description of any initiatives
and plans to make buildings
and facilities more accessible
Acceptable
Initiatives to improve building accessibility
include documenting barriers in the work
plan prepared by the City’s Accessibility
Advisory Committee, which also reviews
major capital projects through the lens of
accessibility. City staff also conduct bi-
annual accessibility reviews with
recommendations sent to the province,
and submitting compliance audits. An ad
hoc staff accessibility committee oversees
various audits and walkthroughs.
- 257 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
118
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Accessibility
Description of any initiatives
and plans to make libraries
more accessible
Acceptable
Library services in Pickering are currently
considered accessible based on the
availability of public transportation and
existing facilities. However, the proximity
analysis should be refined using KPIs such
as ensuring 95% of residents are within 5
km of a library, achieving 15-minute
walkability, and locating facilities along
major bus routes. A new bookmobile
outreach service was also launched in
2024, and two new facilities are planned
to offer library services.
Accessibility
Description of the availability of
the library services supported
by municipal facilities to
residents
Acceptable
Library services are concentrated in South
Pickering, offering acceptable access,
while Central and North Pickering have
more limited availability, which needs
improvement. Key issues include an
insufficient number of facilities for the
population. Two new facilities are planned
for North of Finch (Pickering Heritage &
Community Centre) and Central Pickering
(Seaton Recreation Complex & Library),
both featuring library amenities. However,
these projects are not part of the current
plan, as they will be completed after
2025.
- 258 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
119
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Reliability &
Performance
Description of lifecycle
management strategies and
assessment programs applied
to municipal facilities
Acceptable
Lifecycle management for municipal
facilities includes a structured
maintenance program, monthly
inspections of fire alarms and systems,
and energy management through
automation controls. Honeywell Building
Management Systems are implemented in
6 of 24 buildings. The City uses the VFA
database for tracking and planning capital
renewal activities, though there is no
formal lifecycle management policy in
place. The VFA database is regularly
updated by staff inspections and third-
party building condition assessments.
Reliability &
Performance
Description of inspection
programs applied to municipal
facilities
Acceptable
Municipal building assessments include
inspections by third parties and governing
authorities, such as monthly compliance
audits by the Electrical Safety Authority
(ESA) and inspections by the Technical
Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA)
for elevators and valves. Health and
safety inspections are conducted monthly,
and condition reviews are done prior to
budget planning to prioritize replacements
or upgrades, with capital budgets
forecasted for 10 years. Other
assessments include HVAC inspections,
roof and elevator checks, thermographic
- 259 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
120
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
scans, non-destructive testing, and
structural reviews. Inspection reports with
recommendations are provided to relevant
department stakeholders.
Sustainability
Description of any initiatives
and plans to make municipal
facilities more energy efficient
Acceptable
To improve energy efficiency in municipal
buildings, the City targets performance
improvements when replacing old
equipment, leverages automation and
controls to optimize energy use. Strategic
goals are developed through the
Corporate Energy Management Plan
(CEMP), updated every 5 years. Annual
reports track energy usage, efficiency
gains, and regulatory compliance, while
also leveraging incentive programs and
grants to support energy-efficient
upgrades.
Table 25: Community Levels of Service: Buildings & Facilities
- 260 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
121
7.7.2 Technical Levels of Service
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Reliability &
Performance Average Facility Condition Index Needs
Improvement
25.68 - The Facility Condition Index
(FCI) is calculated and updated
annually by the VFA database
ensuring reference information
remains current. Costs are linked to
the RS, which means pricing
database and adjusted to local
Durham Region Costs by this system.
Affordability
Annual sustainable capital
reinvestment/required capital
reinvestment rate
Needs
Improvement
The City’s actual reinvestment rate is
just over 58% of the target rate,
highlighting a potential risk of
infrastructure deterioration if
reinvestment levels remain low.
Table 26: Technical Levels of Service: Buildings & Facilities
- 261 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
122
7.7.3 Proposed Levels of Service
The condition of the City’s facilities plays a critical role in supporting community
wellbeing, safety, and satisfaction. Current data shows that many municipal
buildings, particularly recreational and cultural facilities, are aging and in need of
modernization. With a Facility Condition Index (FCI) of 25.68% and capital
reinvestment levels at just 58% of what is required, the City's ability to maintain
service levels is increasingly challenged. Public engagement indicates strong
support for the modernization and functionality of recreational assets, yet a
relatively low willingness to fund such improvements. To understand the
implications of various investment levels and guide future planning, five capital
investment scenarios were developed and assessed, both with and without new
construction. These scenarios highlight the importance of strategic reinvestment
and reveal how metrics like the FCI can mask critical infrastructure gaps if not
interpreted in context.
7.7.3.1. Facility Condition and Capital Reinvestment
Current LOS
• Facility Condition Index (FCI): Needs Improvement (25.68%)
• Annual capital reinvestment rate: Needs Improvement (58% of required
funding).
• Aging buildings, particularly recreational and cultural facilities, require
modernization to meet evolving community needs.
Public Engagement Results
• Condition and maintenance of municipal buildings was rated important
(65.4%) but had high neutral responses (25.6%).
• Modernity and functionality of recreational facilities were rated highly
(74.3%), showing strong demand for modernization.
• Willingness to pay for modernization was low (18.4%), with 36.0% unwilling
to support funding increases.
- 262 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
123
Scenario Analysis
1. Current Year Capital Budget Without New Construction
• Trends: The capital budget is highest during 2027–2029 due to significant
planned renovations. This spike aligns with the previously mentioned projects
such as renovations at George Ashe Library & Community Centre, O’Brien
Arena, and the Civic Complex.
• FCI Decline: In this scenario, the FCI decreases over time, indicating better
facility conditions overall. However, the decrease in FCI is driven by
significant capital investments, which improve overall asset values. This does
not necessarily mean that all facilities are in good condition—some buildings
may still require major rehabilitation, but the average FCI improves due to
targeted investments in specific assets. FCI, as a metric, also does not
capture service life remaining, which may override any benefit to capital
reinvestment.
Figure 41: Capital Budget Forecast and FCI Trends (Excluding New Construction)
2. Maintain FCI Without New Construction
• Capital Budget: This scenario assumes funding levels that keep the Facility
Condition Index (FCI) steady, at the current level, over time. The budget
fluctuates to ensure facilities do not fall below a certain condition level,
mainly by addressing overdue maintenance and preventing further
deterioration. While this approach may seem cost-effective, it is important to
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
$-
$5,000,000
$10,000,000
$15,000,000
$20,000,000
$25,000,000
$30,000,000
$35,000,000
$40,000,000
2024
and
carry
overs
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Current Year Capital Budget Without New Construction
Capital Budget FCI
- 263 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
124
understand that a stable FCI doesn’t mean every facility is in good shape, it
simply means the overall metric is not getting worse. Some buildings may
still be aging and in poor condition, but their impact is balanced out by
maintenance efforts elsewhere.
• Stability of FCI: Unlike the current budget scenario, where large
investments lower the FCI significantly, this approach maintains the current
condition levels without major improvements. However, it is crucial to
understand what this stability actually means. If FCI is kept steady at a low
level, it implies facilities see regular and timely reinvestment. But if it
stabilizes at a lower level, it could mean that many buildings are aging
without necessary upgrades. Readers should compare the actual FCI values
in each scenario to see the full picture—without this context, the option with
the lowest cost might seem like the best choice when, in reality, it could lead
to bigger problems in the long run, such as higher repair costs, safety
concerns, or even facility closures.
Figure 42: Capital Budget Plan to Maintain FCI (Excluding New Construction)
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
$-
$2,000,000
$4,000,000
$6,000,000
$8,000,000
$10,000,000
$12,000,000
$14,000,000
2024
and
carry
overs
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Maintain FCI Without New Construction
Capital Budget FCI
- 264 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
125
3. Historical Funding Levels Without New Construction
• Rising FCI: The FCI increases over time in this scenario, as the capital
budget is insufficient to address growing deferred maintenance.
• Budget Impact: This trend demonstrates that without adequate capital
investment, the condition of facilities worsens, leading to compounding
maintenance needs or costly emergency repairs.
Figure 43: Historical Capital Funding and FCI Trends (Excluding New Construction)
4. Capital Budget With New Construction
• Capital Budget Spikes: Similar to the first scenario, there are significant
spikes in the budget during 2027–2029. However, additional funds for new
construction, such as the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library, Animal
Shelter, Northern Operations Depot and Fire Stations, are evident.
• Steeper FCI Decline: The inclusion of newly constructed facilities, which are
in excellent condition, significantly lowers the overall FCI by inflating the
overall value of the portfolio. This reflects skewed averages rather than
consistent improvements across all facilities. Some facilities may still be in
poor condition but will reflect a smaller proportion of the whole.
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
35.00%
$-
$1,000,000
$2,000,000
$3,000,000
$4,000,000
$5,000,000
$6,000,000
$7,000,000
$8,000,000
$9,000,000
$10,000,000
2024
and
carry
overs
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Historical funding Levels Without New Construction
Capital Budget FCI
- 265 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
126
Figure 44: Capital Budget and FCI Trends with New Construction
5. Historical Budget With New Construction
• Capital Budget Trends: The budget remains relatively flat, insufficient to
address both deferred maintenance and new construction demands.
• FCI Plateau: While new facilities slightly improve the average FCI, the
insufficient budget fails to curb the growth of deferred maintenance, causing
the FCI to plateau around 15% over time.
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
$-
$50,000,000
$100,000,000
$150,000,000
$200,000,000
$250,000,000
$300,000,000
2024
and
carry
overs
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Proposed Budget with New Construction
Capital Budget New Construction Budget FCI
- 266 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
127
Figure 45: Historical Capital Budget and FCI Trends with New Construction
Impact of Increasing the Total Portfolio
When new construction is added to the portfolio, the Total Replacement Cost (TRC)
increases accordingly, and significantly for large-scale projects. Since new
construction has little to no deferred maintenance, initially, the deferred
maintenance as a proportion of the total TRC temporarily decreases, artificially
lowering the FCI for the portfolio. This gives the impression that the overall portfolio
is in better condition than it actually is. The actual dollar value of required capital
investment across the portfolio actually remains unchanged. The same cost is
simply being compared against a higher TRC.
Key Reasons for Skewed Results
1. Dilution of Deferred Maintenance:
• The new buildings have no backlog of deferred maintenance, or projected
reinvestment needs within five years, so, their inclusion effectively "dilutes"
the overall ratio.
• For example, adding a new $250 million recreation complex with no deferred
maintenance will significantly lower the FCI of an existing portfolio worth $300
million, even if other older buildings still have substantial repair needs.
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
$-
$50,000,000
$100,000,000
$150,000,000
$200,000,000
$250,000,000
2024
and
carry
overs
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Historical Budget with New Construction
Capital Budget New Construction Budget FCI
- 267 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
128
2. Averaging Across Diverse Conditions:
• Facilities challenged with serious or severe deterioration leading to end of
respective component lifecycles may remain underfunded while new buildings
in pristine condition lower the FCI. This distorts the reality of the older facilities'
poor conditions.
3. Neglected Deferred Maintenance Backlogs:
• Older facilities often have deferred maintenance costs that exceed their
available capital budgets, as owners hesitate to see the value in ongoing
investment. The focus on constructing new facilities can push these issues
further down the priority list, exacerbating long-term deterioration. There is a
threshold beyond which reinvestment is no longer cost-effective, and where
divesting the City of severely deteriorated assets should be considered.
• Disposing of assets in poor condition, where reinvestment is not possible or
not deemed an effective use of limited available resources, should be
considered a viable option and will likewise reduce the FCI of the overall
portfolio by eliminating assets with high deferred maintenance costs.
4. Misleading Portfolio Trends:
• Stakeholders might interpret a declining FCI as an indicator of overall portfolio
improvement, even though only specific new assets are driving this decline,
not the repair or maintenance of existing ones.
• FCI, while a valuable metric, is also not the only guiding principle or indicator
for facilities asset management, as demonstrated in the Facilities Renewal
Study.
Example from the Data22
In the "Current Budget With New Construction" scenario:
• The inclusion of major new projects such as the Seaton Recreation Complex &
Library ($253 million) and the Pickering Heritage & Community Centre ($60
million) drastically increases the Total Replacement Value.
• As a result, the overall FCI of the portfolio decreases, but older facilities would
still have unresolved maintenance backlogs.
• Severe deterioration of older facilities could go unnoticed in FCI trends due to
the disproportionately large impact of new construction on the overall index.
Separate tracking of asset life consumption is required, in addition to
monitoring FCI, to fully capture the true state of the portfolio.
22 Applicable to other scenarios with new construction.
- 268 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
129
Implications for Asset Management
1. Focus on Core Condition Metrics:
• Instead of relying solely on FCI, it is important to examine specific metrics
for aging facilities, such as individual building condition scores or
component-level assessments (e.g., roof, HVAC systems). The City
addresses this by maintaining the VFA database with much higher levels
of detail for individual systems and components within its facilities.
• Certain building systems, such as foundations and other major structural
components, are never fully replaced. As they approach the end of their
serviceable life, or deteriorate beyond a point of cost-effective repair, full
replacement may eventually be required. Long-term strategic planning for
eventual building replacement must be considered.
2. Highlighting the Deferred Maintenance Gap:
• The absolute value of deferred maintenance should be tracked separately
from the FCI to avoid overshadowing critical repairs needed for older
assets.
3. Portfolio Segmentation:
• Separating the analysis of newly constructed facilities from legacy
facilities provides a clearer picture of the challenges within older assets.
The City is maintaining the VFA database with much higher levels of detail
for individual systems and components within its facilities.
4. Strategic Resource Allocation:
• A balanced investment strategy is needed to ensure older facilities receive
adequate funding or are decommissioned, while accommodating new
construction.
• In addition to addressing the funding gap, establishing and maintaining a
suitable reserve fund to address peaks and valleys in deferred maintenance
trends will be essential to avoiding occasional demand spikes where
multiple expensive assets come due for repair or replacement
simultaneously.
Conclusion
While FCI is a useful metric, its reliance on aggregate values like deferred
maintenance and TRV expose its limitations such as when large-scale new
construction is added to the portfolio. To address this, asset management practices
should prioritize transparency in reporting, using multiple metrics, and provide a
nuanced analysis of individual facility conditions, ensuring that the true state of
aging infrastructure is not masked by the addition of new assets or other factors.
- 269 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
130
Recommendations
• Optimize Facility Investments with a Rationalization Strategy: Implement a
facility rationalization plan that prioritizes reinvestment in high-use, critical
facilities while identifying aging assets that have surpassed their viable
service life. Establish a "beyond-repair" policy to systematically assess when
reinvestment is no longer cost-effective, allowing strategic disposal,
repurposing, or consolidation of underutilized or deteriorated assets. This
would help to ensure that financial resources are allocated efficiently and that
new investments align with long-term community needs.
• Balance New Construction with Deferred Maintenance: While new projects
improve the overall FCI, and the health of the portfolio, they should not
overshadow urgent capital renewal needs in older buildings. A structured
funding approach should ensure that both existing and new assets receive
timely and adequate resources.
• Leverage Grant Funding and Alternative Financing: Explore external funding
sources, including government grants and public-private partnerships, to
supplement capital reinvestment and reduce reliance on municipal budgets.
• Develop a Long-Term Modernization Strategy: Establish a phased plan for
modernizing recreational and cultural buildings to meet evolving community
expectations and new technologies while maintaining financial sustainability.
• Enhance Public Awareness and Engagement: Improve communication about
the need for lifecycle investments and the long-term impact of deferred
maintenance to build public support for sustainable infrastructure funding.
• Track Deferred Maintenance Separately: Implement reporting mechanisms
that separate deferred maintenance values from overall FCI trends to ensure
transparency in the true condition of aging assets.
• Strategic Asset Disposal and Renewal: Identify severely deteriorated assets
where reinvestment is no longer viable and consider divestment,
replacement, or repurposing to optimize the portfolio.
• Establish a Reserve Fund for Facility Lifecycle Costs: Create a dedicated
reserve to manage fluctuations in deferred maintenance demands,
preventing unexpected spikes in required funding and ensuring long-term
sustainability.
Risks of Not Addressing Facility Condition
• Accelerated Infrastructure Deterioration: Without timely reinvestment,
facilities will continue to degrade, leading to higher repair costs and potential
service disruptions.
• Public Dissatisfaction and Reduced Service Levels: Outdated,
underperforming facilities, especially recreational and cultural spaces, could
result in lower community engagement, declining usage, and increased
pressure to build new assets instead of maintaining existing ones.
• Increased Operational and Energy Costs: Older buildings with inefficient
systems and outdated infrastructure will continue to incur higher
maintenance and utility costs, straining operational budgets.
- 270 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
131
• Hidden Risks in FCI Trends: A declining FCI due to new construction may
give the false impression of improvement while older facilities remain in poor
or critical condition, potentially leading to unexpected failures.
• Strained Financial Resources: Insufficient funding for deferred maintenance
could result in emergency repairs, forced closures, or expensive last-minute
interventions, impacting long-term financial planning.
• Equity and Accessibility Challenges: Facilities in poor condition may become
less accessible, unsafe, or non-compliant with modern standards,
disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations.
7.7.3.2. Accessibility and Availability of Services
Current LOS
• Municipal buildings are generally accessible, with ongoing audits and
improvement initiatives.
• Recreational and cultural services23 are concentrated in South Pickering,
leaving Central and North Pickering underserved.
• Two new facilities - Pickering Heritage & Community Centre is expected to be
operational in 2026, and Seaton Recreation Complex and Library is currently
being considered.
Public Engagement Results
• Accessibility of municipal buildings was rated highly (76.8%).
• Physical availability of library
• and recreational spaces was the most important feature (78.8%).
• Moderate support for improving accessibility (24.1% willing to pay), but
30.3% were unwilling.
Recommendations
• Expand accessibility-focused renovations to improve compliance with
evolving standards and user needs.
• Implement interim service delivery solutions (e.g., mobile libraries or pop-up
recreation programs) in underserved areas until new facilities are
operational.
• Improve transportation links and accessibility for residents in areas with
limited facility availability.
23 Cultural services are currently offered at the Pickering Museum Village in Central
Pickering (Greenwood). With the upcoming opening of the Pickering Heritage &
Community Centre, it will become a major hub for cultural services.
- 271 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
132
• Combine accessibility improvements with other capital renewals for greater
cost effectiveness and to minimize down time with multiple separate
projects.
Risk of Not Addressing Accessibility and Availability
• Barriers to facility use for residents with mobility challenges.
• Reduced engagement in recreational and cultural activities, particularly in
underserved areas.
• Potential non-compliance with accessibility legislation and best practices.
7.7.3.3. Maintenance and Lifecycle Management
Current LOS
• Facility inspections are conducted regularly by third-party and regulatory
bodies.
• Lifecycle management is structured but lacks a formal policy to guide long-
term planning.
• VFA Facilities database is used for tracking and planning capital renewal
activities.
Public Engagement Results
• Maintenance of municipal buildings was rated important (65.4%), but 25.6%
were neutral, suggesting a lack of awareness.
• Satisfaction with facility condition was moderate (48.5%), with 39.7%
neutral responses.
• Willingness to pay for more frequent maintenance was low (24.7%), with
30.5% unwilling.
Recommendations
• Develop a formal lifecycle management policy to guide proactive asset
maintenance and renewal.
• Improve public communication about maintenance efforts to address neutral
perceptions and build support for preventative investment.
• Optimize inspection cycles and asset tracking to enhance efficiency and
reduce reactive maintenance costs.
• Implement technology solutions to improve preventative maintenance
tracking, scheduling, and reporting.
Risk of Not Improving Lifecycle Management
• Deferred maintenance leading to accelerated deterioration of facilities.
• Higher long-term costs due to increased reliance on reactive repairs.
- 272 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
133
• Reduced public confidence in the municipality’s ability to manage
infrastructure assets effectively.
7.7.3.4. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Current LOS
• Energy efficiency upgrades are targeted during equipment replacements, but
there is no dedicated energy management policy.
• The Corporate Energy Management Plan (CEMP) monitors and report annual
energy usage and greenhouse gas emissions and is updated every five years.
• Six out of 24 municipal buildings use Honeywell Building Management
Systems for energy control.
Public Engagement Results
• Energy efficiency was rated important (59.7%) but had the highest neutral
response (29.6%).
• Satisfaction with energy efficiency was the lowest-rated category (38.4%),
with 52.4% neutral responses.
• Willingness to pay for energy efficiency improvements was low (20.7%), with
33.3% unwilling.
Recommendations
• Expand the implementation of energy management systems across all
municipal facilities to optimize energy use.
• Improve public awareness of energy-saving initiatives to address high
neutrality and build support for sustainability measures.
• Seek funding opportunities for green building retrofits to reduce the financial
impact of energy efficiency investments.
• Implement the recommendations of the 2024 CEMP to enhance the City’s
ability analyze and better strategically set and achieve energy management
goals.
Risk of Not Addressing Energy Efficiency
• Higher operational costs due to inefficient energy use.
• Increased environmental impact and failure to meet sustainability targets.
• Missed opportunities to access funding incentives for green infrastructure
upgrades.
- 273 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
134
8. Parks
The City owns and operates several assets that fall under the Parks assets
category. These assets are essential for the Parks’ service delivery. The asset
segments include24:
• Active Recreation Facilities
• Amenities, Furniture & Utilities
• Vehicular and Pedestrian Networks
8.1 Inventory & Valuation
Table 27 includes the quantity, replacement cost method and total replacement cost
of each asset segment in the City’s Parks asset inventory.
Segment Sub-Segment Quantity Unit of
Measure
Replacement
Cost
Primary RC
Method
Active
Recreation
Facilities
Playground
Equipment
86 Each $6,773,085 User-Defined
Active
Recreation
Facilities
Sport Playing
Surfaces
125 Each $22,844,467 User-Defined
Amenities,
Furniture &
Utilities
Buildings 33 Each $6,299,299 User-Defined
Amenities,
Furniture &
Utilities
Electrical/
Lighting
549 Each $11,324,556 User-Defined
Amenities,
Furniture &
Utilities
Site Furniture 433 Each $1,508,671 User-Defined
Amenities,
Furniture &
Utilities
Site Structures 611 Each $11,138,550 User-Defined
Amenities,
Furniture &
Utilities
Subsurface
Infrastructure
171 Each $2,541,826 Cost per Unit
24 The asset inventory includes only traditional tangible capital assets and does not include
natural assets.
- 274 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
135
Segment Sub-Segment Quantity Unit of
Measure
Replacement
Cost
Primary RC
Method
Amenities,
Furniture &
Utilities
Waterfront
Infrastructure
10 Each $13,047,086 User-Defined
Vehicular &
Pedestrian
Networks
Parking Lots &
Internal Roads
51,320 Square
Meters
$4,996,721 User-Defined
Vehicular &
Pedestrian
Networks
Pedestrian
Corridors
94,413 Square
Meters
$15,197,162 User-Defined
TOTAL $95,671,423
Table 27: Detailed Asset Inventory: Parks
Figure 46: Portfolio Valuation: Parks
8.2 Asset Condition
The City maintains a full breakdown of all Parks in its VFA database, which compiles
and feeds summarized information into the AMP, and provides a more robust
budgeting tool. The VFA database is further refined by staff observations, supported
by third party consultant reviews. VFA provides a Parks Condition Index (Parks CI)
value, currently reported at 12.08%
A Parks Condition Index (Parks CI) score is a ratio of the total cost of identified
parks’ repairs and renewals (i.e., component replacement) over a defined period
$20.2m
$29.6m
$45.9m
$20m $40m
Vehicular & Pedestrian Networks
Active Recreation Facilities
Amenities, Furniture & Utilities
Replacement Cost by Segment
- 275 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
136
(the City uses 5 years) divided by the assets’ total estimated replacement cost. It is
calculated using the formula:
Parks CI = Requirement and Renewal Costs / Current Replacement Value
A Parks CI of 0% indicates a park in excellent condition, with no outstanding capital
investment backlog or deferred maintenance within the next five years. Parks with
a CI less than 15% are considered to be in excellent condition, while those below
30% are considered good, requiring only minor maintenance. CI values under 45%
reflect fair condition, indicating moderate needs. Parks with a CI below 60% are
considered to be in poor condition, and those above 60% may require full renewal
or disposal due to significant deterioration or deferred investment.
The City maintains separate asset management software, similar to Facilities using
VFA which reports a Parks CI of 12.08%. This suggests that while most park assets
are in relatively good condition, ongoing maintenance and targeted reinvestment
are necessary to prevent long-term deterioration. Without proper funding, aging
park infrastructure—such as playgrounds, trails, and recreational amenities—may
experience accelerated wear, leading to increased repair costs and potential service
disruptions.
To ensure that the City’s parks and recreational spaces continue to meet acceptable
service levels, condition data of all individual systems and assets are actively
monitored, and lifecycle management strategies are regularly updated. As park
infrastructure ages, staff evaluate whether a combination of maintenance,
rehabilitation, or full replacement is required to sustain asset performance and
community access. This proactive approach ensures that parks remain safe,
functional, and aligned with community needs, while optimizing available funding
for long-term sustainability.
8.3 Age Profile
An asset’s age profile comprises two key values: estimated useful life (EUL), or
design life; and the percentage of EUL consumed. The EUL is the serviceable
lifespan of an asset during which it can continue to fulfil its intended purpose and
provide value to users, safely and efficiently. As assets age, their performance
diminishes, often more rapidly as they approach the end of their design life.
In conjunction with condition data, an asset’s age profile provides a more complete
summary of the state of infrastructure. It can help identify assets that may be
candidates for further review through condition assessment programs; inform the
selection of optimal lifecycle strategies; and improve planning for potential
replacement spikes.
- 276 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
137
Figure 47: Estimated Useful Life vs. Asset Age: Parks
Figure 47 illustrates the average current age of each parks asset type and its
estimated useful life. Both values are weighted by the replacement cost of
individual assets. Age analysis reveals that Active Recreation Facilities have
exceeded their expected useful lives. On the contrary, Amenities, Furniture &
Utilities are in the early stages of their expected useful lives. Moreover, Vehicles &
Pedestrian Networks are quickly approaching the end of their useful life cycles.
Age-based analysis would require intensive review of thousands of parks assets
represented in the VFA database, as each of these will have its own established
estimated useful life (EUL). Detailed analysis will be undertaken in regular updates
to the City’s Parks and Open Space Asset Renewal Plan and as part of ongoing
facilities and parks management efforts. Data and analysis provided in the City’s
broader asset management plan is limited to high-level summaries to demonstrate
overall trends and conditions.
8.4 Current Approach to Lifecycle Management
The condition or performance of most assets will deteriorate over time. To ensure
that municipal assets are performing as expected and meeting the needs of
stakeholders, it is important to establish a lifecycle management strategy to
proactively manage asset deterioration.
The following table further expands on the City’s current approach to lifecycle
management:
19.9 20.5 22.717.7
44.6
25.7
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
Active Recreation
Facilities
Amenities, Furniture &
Utilities
Vehicular & Pedestrian
Networks
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
Y
e
a
r
s
Weighted Average Age Weighted Average EUL
- 277 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
138
Activity Type Description of Current Strategy
Maintenance
The City’s parks maintenance program is tailored to each park
and includes activities such as:
• Garbage disposal
• Grass cutting
• Park and playground inspections & repairs
• Park lighting inspections & repairs
• Irrigation system inspections & repairs
Rehabilitation /
Replacement
Determining Parks Capital and maintenance requirements
involve analyzing several key sources of information, including:
• Parks Condition Index (Park CI)
• staff inspections
• Maintenance and work order records
• Master Plans
• Stakeholder input
Rehabilitation /
Replacement
Parks staff also receive feedback from park users that informs
the development of both maintenance and capital plans.
Table 28: Lifecycle Management Strategy: Parks
8.5 Forecasted Long-Term Replacement Needs
Park Rehabilitation relies on determining the optimal time to replace systems to
control costs and manage risks without jeopardizing Parks and operational
standards. According to VFA, funding requirements for parks fluctuate significantly
from year to year. In 2024, including carryovers, the capital budget for parks is
$4.35 million, followed by a decline to $2.7 million in 2025 and $2.4 million in
2027. The funding levels then fluctuate, with the lowest allocation occurring in 2031
at $1.6 million, before increasing to $5 million in 2034.
Beyond these variations, VFA data projects a stable funding requirement of $4.018
million per year from 2035 onwards (based on a 10-year average from 2025) to
sustain park infrastructure. While this provides predictability in future planning, the
earlier fluctuations highlight the need for strategic reinvestment to avoid
accumulating maintenance backlogs. Without consistent funding in high-need years,
aging playgrounds, trails, and recreational facilities may deteriorate, leading to
higher long-term costs, accessibility challenges, and service disruptions.
By leveraging VFA’s data-driven insights, the City can proactively allocate resources
to ensure parks remain safe, functional, and aligned with community needs. A well-
planned funding strategy will help prevent emergency repairs and ensure that park
facilities continue to support recreational and environmental benefits for residents.
A detailed 10-year capital replacement forecast can be found in Appendix A – 10-
Year Capital Requirements.
- 278 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
139
8.6 Risk Analysis
8.6.1 Risk to Current Asset Management Strategies
Climate Change & Extreme Weather Events
Flooding can impact programs and activities (e.g., soccer fields). Waterfront is a
major flood risk area (two record high flooding levels have been recorded in the
past 4 years). Erosion has been an ongoing issue, causing damages to waterfront
infrastructure such as the break-wall. Furthermore, the waterfront infrastructure is
deteriorating and suffering from premature wear from flooding, and also the
sandblasting effect caused by the City’s natural sandy beach and wind.
Infrastructure Design/Installation
There are concerns with contractors and installation practices (e.g., grading and
their impact on drainage and safety with grass cutting).
8.7 Levels of Service
The City of Pickering is committed to providing high-quality services through its
municipal parks, focusing on accessibility, reliability, performance, and affordability.
The City believes everyone in the community should have access to well-
maintained, accessible public spaces, including those with disabilities. To achieve
this, the City invests in its parks and public spaces, ensuring they are safe and
welcoming for all. Regular inspections and maintenance are carried out to prevent
hazards and minimize the risk of accidents, ensuring that parks remain safe for
public use.
Performance and affordability are central to the City’s park management strategy.
The City monitors park usage to identify areas for improvement, ensuring that
parks meet the evolving needs of residents. In addition, the City remains dedicated
to offering affordable services while maintaining high standards. The following
tables summarize the City’s current service levels. Although Ontario Regulation
588/17 does not prescribe specific KPIs for non-core assets, the City has selected
performance measures for inclusion in its Asset Management Plan (AMP).
- 279 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
140
8.7.1 Community Levels of Service
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Accessibility
Description of the availability of the
recreational services supported by
municipal parks and trails to
residents in urban area
Acceptable
Updates to the recreation & parks
master plan have been approved by
council in 2024. The update includes
per capita metrics for amenities such
as tennis courts, playgrounds, trails,
splash pads, and parkland, and
compares amenities with
neighbouring regions like Ajax,
Whitby, and Oshawa. Public
engagement is ongoing, considering
factors like population density and
urban-rural differences. Playgrounds
are being upgraded to meet
accessibility standards as they reach
the end of their lifecycle, though
heavy use near schools reduces their
lifespan. The plan is updated every
five years, with input from various
City departments and technical
metrics.
Safety &
Regulatory
Description of the inspection process
applied to park equipment and
playgrounds
Acceptable The City’s inspection process meets
Ontario’s minimum safety standards.
Table 29: Community Levels of Service: Parks
- 280 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
141
8.7.2 Technical Levels of Service
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Accessibility Acres of parkland per 1,000 people Acceptable The current score is 1.76, more than
the target level of 1.5
Accessibility Linear meters of trails per capita Acceptable
The City has over 40 Kms of
recreational trails, contributing to the
current score to 0.39, which is above
target.
Reliability &
Performance Average Parks Condition Index Excellent 12.08, which is below 15
Affordability
Annual sustainable capital
reinvestment/required capital
reinvestment rate
Acceptable
The actual reinvestment rate is just
over 91% of the target rate,
highlighting an adequate financial
contribution to parks.
Table 30: Technical Levels of Service: Parks
- 281 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
142
8.7.3 Proposed Levels of Service
The condition of the City’s parks and trails plays a vital role in supporting quality of
life, physical activity, and community enjoyment. Current data shows that while
many assets are in fair condition, portions of the network—particularly active
recreation areas and trail infrastructure—are aging and will require increased
attention over time. With capital reinvestment levels currently at 91% of what is
required, the City is generally able to sustain service levels; however, this leaves
limited capacity to address deferred needs and proactively modernize aging assets.
This section provides recommendations based on the current Levels of Service
(LOS) assessment, public engagement feedback, and risk analysis. Public input
indicates strong support for maintaining safe, accessible, and well-equipped parks,
though funding priorities vary across user groups. The recommendations aim to
balance reinvestment in existing infrastructure with targeted expansion to meet
community growth and evolving recreational needs. This analysis highlights the
importance of long-term planning and strategic investment to prevent service
decline and address condition challenges as they emerge.
8.7.3.1. Park Condition and Capital Reinvestment
Current LOS
• Average Parks Condition Index: Acceptable (12.08)
• Annual capital reinvestment rate: Acceptable (91% of required funding).
Public Engagement Results
• Availability and accessibility of parkland was the highest-rated feature
(83.5%).
• Condition and safety of playgrounds and park equipment was also highly rated
(82.0%).
• Willingness to pay for improved maintenance was moderate (37.5%), but
25.8% were unwilling.
Scenario Analysis
1. Current Budget Without New Park Development
• Trends: The capital budget for parks fluctuates significantly, with the highest
allocations occurring in 2024 and 2034 due to major planned maintenance
and upgrades. Funding remains relatively low between 2030 and 2032, with
the lowest point at $1.6 million in 2031, suggesting a period of limited
investment in park assets.
• Parks CI Impact: The Parks Condition Index (Parks CI) increases over time
in this scenario, indicating a decline in overall park conditions. While the
- 282 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
143
capital budget provides funding for some deferred maintenance, it is not
enough to sustain improvements across all parks. Targeted investments in
specific parks may lower their individual Parks CI, but many others may
continue to deteriorate due to limited resources. Without additional
investment, aging park amenities—including trails, playgrounds, and sports
fields—may require emergency repairs, leading to higher long-term costs and
potential service reductions.
Figure 48: Capital Budget and Parks CI Trends Without New Park Development
2. Maintain FCI Without New Park Development
• Capital Budget: This scenario assumes funding levels that keep the FCI
steady over time, meaning that investment is sufficient to prevent further
deterioration but does not significantly improve overall park conditions. The
budget fluctuates between $2.5 million and $4.9 million but is designed to
address only the most critical maintenance needs while maintaining a
consistent service level.
• Stability of Parks CI: Unlike the current budget scenario, where aging
infrastructure continues to degrade, this approach stabilizes park conditions.
However, stability does not mean that all parks are in good condition, it only
prevents further decline. Some parks may still require major rehabilitation,
but their condition is maintained at a functional level through incremental
maintenance efforts. While this scenario appears cost-effective, it does not
address long-term modernization needs, which may become more expensive
in future years if investment is not increased.
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
$-
$1,000,000.00
$2,000,000.00
$3,000,000.00
$4,000,000.00
$5,000,000.00
$6,000,000.00
2024
and
carry
overs
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Current Budget without New Construction
Capital Budget Parks CI
- 283 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
144
Figure 49: Capital Budget Plan to Maintain Parks CI Without New Park Development
3. Historical Funding Levels Without New Park Development
Figure 50: Historical Capital Funding and Parks CI Trends Without New Park
Development
• Rising FCI: In this scenario, Parks CI increases steadily over time because
historical funding levels are insufficient to keep up with growing deferred
0.00%
2.00%
4.00%
6.00%
8.00%
10.00%
12.00%
14.00%
$-
$1,000,000.00
$2,000,000.00
$3,000,000.00
$4,000,000.00
$5,000,000.00
$6,000,000.00
2024
and
carry
overs
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Maintain FCI without New Construction
Capital Budget Parks CI
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
35.00%
$-
$1,000,000.00
$2,000,000.00
$3,000,000.00
$4,000,000.00
$5,000,000.00
$6,000,000.00
2024
and
carry
overs
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Historical Funding Levels without New Construction
Capital Budget Parks CI
- 284 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
145
maintenance needs. The capital budget remains relatively flat, while parks’
conditions worsen, leading to compounding maintenance backlogs.
• Budget Impact: Without additional investment, this scenario leads to a
continuous decline in parks’ conditions. Playgrounds, trails, and sports fields
may experience damages, safety hazards, and reduced usability, forcing
higher emergency repair costs and, in some cases, closures.
4. Current Budget With New Park Development
Figure 51: Capital Budget and Parks CI Trends With New Park Development
• Capital Funding Volatility: While this scenario follows a similar overall
funding pattern to the "No New Development" scenario, it features major
capital budget spikes in 2026 and 2027 to support the creation of new parks
and recreational amenities. These investments include expansions to green
spaces and the development of new park infrastructure. Outside of these
peak years, capital funding remains relatively flat, limiting the City's ability to
address aging infrastructure in the rest of the network.
• Artificial Improvement in Parks CI: The introduction of newly constructed
parks—initially in excellent condition—temporarily lowers the overall Parks
Condition Index (CI). However, this masks the continued decline of older
parks that face significant deferred maintenance needs. As a result, the
average CI improves on paper, but the condition of existing assets continues
0.00%
2.00%
4.00%
6.00%
8.00%
10.00%
12.00%
14.00%
$-
$5,000,000
$10,000,000
$15,000,000
$20,000,000
$25,000,000
$30,000,000
$35,000,000
2024
and
carry
overs
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Capital Budget with New Park Development
Capital Budget New Construction Budget Parks CI
- 285 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
146
to worsen, presenting an uneven service experience and growing long-term
reinvestment needs.
5. Historical Budget With New Park Development
• Capital Budget Trends: This scenario reflects the addition of new parks to
the City’s portfolio, supported by large spikes in new construction funding in
2026 and 2027. Despite these one-time investments, the ongoing capital
budget for maintenance remains consistently low throughout the period. As a
result, while the network expands, there is no corresponding increase in
reinvestment capacity, leading to a growing backlog of maintenance needs
over time.
• Parks CI Increase: Initially, the development of new parks—typically in
excellent condition—lowers the overall Parks Condition Index (Parks CI).
However, this improvement is temporary and does not reflect upgrades to
older infrastructure. As aging parks continue to deteriorate without sufficient
reinvestment, the Parks CI begins to climb steadily from 2027 onward. This
creates a high financial risk scenario, where the City must simultaneously fund
the maintenance of a larger asset base while struggling to address the
condition decline of existing facilities.
Figure 52: Historical Capital Funding and Parks CI Trends With New Park
Development
0.00%
2.00%
4.00%
6.00%
8.00%
10.00%
12.00%
14.00%
16.00%
$-
$5,000,000
$10,000,000
$15,000,000
$20,000,000
$25,000,000
$30,000,000
$35,000,000
2024
and
carry
overs
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Historical Funding Levels with New Park
Development
Capital Budget New Construction Budget Parks CI
- 286 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
147
Impact of Expanding the Park Portfolio
Effect on Total Replacement Cost (TRC):
When new parks are added, the Total Replacement Cost (TRC) of park assets
increases significantly. Since new parks have little to no deferred maintenance, the
proportion of deferred maintenance relative to the total portfolio temporarily
decreases, artificially lowering the overall Parks CI.
However, this may create the illusion of improved overall parks’ conditions, when in
fact the condition of older parks, some of which may still be in critical condition,
remains unchanged. The actual dollar value of required capital investment across
the portfolio does not change; rather, the same cost is being compared against a
higher TRC.
Key Reasons for Skewed Parks CI Trends in Parks
1. Dilution of Deferred Maintenance
• Newly developed parks have no immediate maintenance backlogs, or
projected reinvestment needs within 5 years effectively diluting the Parks
CI of the entire portfolio.
• For example, adding a $50 million new park with no maintenance needs
will significantly lower the overall Parks CI, even if existing parks still
require major repairs.
2. Averaging Across Diverse Conditions
• Some parks with severe deterioration may remain underfunded, while
newly built parks in pristine condition lower the overall Parks CI.
• This distorts the true state of aging park assets, as some parks may still
be at potential risk for reduced performance or service.
3. Neglected Deferred Maintenance Backlogs
• Older parks may have deferred maintenance costs exceeding available
budgets, making it difficult to justify reinvestment.
• The focus on developing new parks can cause existing parks to fall behind
in funding priorities.
• Park assets that are beyond repair should be assessed for potential
removal or repurposing to optimize resource allocation and community
usage.
- 287 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
148
4. Misleading Portfolio Trends
• Stakeholders might interpret a declining Parks CI as an indicator of overall
portfolio improvement, even though only specific new assets are driving
this decline, not the repair or maintenance of existing ones.
• Separate tracking of older parks is necessary to fully capture their true
condition. To address this, Parks and playgrounds are inspected monthly.
This information is captured in CityReporter and helps provide background
information to VFA in updating overall Park Assets Conditions.
Implications for Park Asset Management
1. Focus on Core Condition Metrics
• Instead of relying solely on Parks CI, the City should examine specific
metrics for older parks, such as playground conditions, trail safety, and
field usability. Currently, Parks have dedicated staff that completes
inspections at parks.
2. Highlighting the Deferred Maintenance Gap
• The total deferred maintenance value should be tracked separately to
avoid overshadowing critical repairs needed for aging parks.
3. Portfolio Segmentation
• Separating the analysis of newly built parks from aging parks will provide
a clearer picture of maintenance challenges. This will help ensure that
newer parks do not skew the total deferred maintenance results for the
overall portfolio.
4. Strategic Resource Allocation
• A balanced investment strategy is necessary to ensure older parks receive
adequate funding while accommodating the growth of new parks.
• Establishing a dedicated reserve fund will help manage fluctuations in
deferred maintenance needs.
Conclusion
While Parks CI is a useful metric, it should not be the only measure used to assess
parks’ conditions. The reliance on aggregate values like deferred maintenance and
TRV expose its limitations, such as when new parks are introduced into the
portfolio.
To address these challenges, the City must prioritize transparency in reporting,
using multiple metrics to provide a comprehensive analysis of parks’ conditions.
Ensuring that aging parks do not fall behind in funding while expanding the park
system strategically will be critical for maintaining long-term service levels.
- 288 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
149
Recommendations
• Prioritize Funding for Aging Parks and Trails: Focus reinvestment on parks,
playgrounds, and trails in the worst condition, prioritizing upgrades based on
community usage, safety concerns, and accessibility needs. Parks that have
deteriorated beyond cost-effective rehabilitation should be assessed for
removal, repurposing, or consolidation to optimize resources.
• Ensure Sustainable Capital Funding: Maintain at least 91% of the required
reinvestment rate to prevent deferred maintenance from accumulating. Avoid
funding gaps that could accelerate asset deterioration and increase future
rehabilitation costs.
• Develop a Strategic Lifecycle Management Plan: Establish a proactive
renewal and rehabilitation framework that outlines predictable funding needs
for parks and trails. This plan should consider asset aging trends, major
component replacements (e.g., playgrounds, pathways, and sports fields),
and service level expectations.
• Improve Transparency in Asset Condition Reporting: Separate the analysis of
newly developed parks from older assets to prevent misleading trends in the
Parks Condition Index (Parks CI). Reporting should highlight deferred
maintenance backlogs independently from total park portfolio growth.
• Enhance Public Communication and Engagement: Strengthen outreach
efforts to increase awareness of park maintenance efforts, ensuring residents
understand the need for ongoing investment and lifecycle planning. This can
help build public support for infrastructure funding.
• Optimize Resource Allocation for Expansion and Maintenance: Ensure that
funding for new park developments includes long-term maintenance
considerations. Establish a dedicated reserve fund to manage fluctuations in
deferred maintenance needs, preventing financial strain during high-
investment years.
Risks of Not Addressing Park Condition
• Accelerated Asset Deterioration: Without sufficient reinvestment,
playgrounds, trails, and recreational spaces will degrade, leading to increased
safety hazards, reduced usability, higher repair costs, and potential service
disruptions.
• Escalating Long-Term Rehabilitation Costs: Delaying necessary maintenance
will result in higher costs for emergency repairs and full-scale replacements,
straining future budgets.
• Public Dissatisfaction and Reduced Community Engagement: Aging park
infrastructure may deter public use, leading to lower participation in
recreational activities and decreased overall satisfaction with City-provided
services.
• Misleading Perception of Park Conditions: Without segmented reporting,
stakeholders may misinterpret improvements in FCI as widespread progress,
even if aging parks remain underfunded and in poor condition.
- 289 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
150
• Inefficient Use of Limited Funding: Failing to strategically phase out or
repurpose deteriorated parks could lead to inefficient spending, where
underutilized or unmaintainable parks consume a disproportionate share of
available resources.
8.7.3.2. Accessibility and Availability of Parkland
Current LOS
• Acres of parkland per 1,000 people: Acceptable (1.76, above the target of
1.5).
• Linear meters of trails per capita: Acceptable (0.39, above target).
• Recreational services are primarily concentrated in urban areas, with some
gaps in accessibility for suburban and rural areas.
Public Engagement Results
• Availability of parkland was the highest-rated feature (83.5%).
• Availability of multi-use paths and trails was also strongly rated (77.7%).
• Willingness to pay for expanded parkland was the highest among all
categories (43.8%).
Recommendations
• Prioritize expansion of parkland in areas with limited access, particularly in
developing neighbourhoods.
• Enhance trail connectivity by linking existing networks to improve access to
recreational spaces.
• Implement accessibility-focused upgrades to ensure compliance with evolving
standards.
• Combine accessibility improvements with other capital renewals for greater
cost effectiveness and to minimize down time with multiple separate
projects.
Risk of Not Addressing Accessibility and Availability
• Unequal access to recreational spaces, particularly for residents in
underserved areas.
• Increased demand pressures on existing parkland, leading to overuse and
accelerated deterioration.
• Missed opportunities to enhance community well-being and support active
lifestyles.
- 290 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
151
8.7.3.3. Park Safety and Playground Equipment Condition
Current LOS
• Park equipment and playgrounds meet Ontario’s minimum safety standards.
• Upgrades to playgrounds occur as they reach the end of their lifecycle, but
high usage near schools accelerates wear.
Public Engagement Results
• Condition and safety of playgrounds was a top priority (82.0%).
• Satisfaction with playground safety was the highest-rated category (58.8%).
• Neutral responses were moderate (28.8%), suggesting room for improved
awareness.
Recommendations
• Increase frequency of inspections and proactive maintenance to address
accelerated wear in high-use areas.
• Enhance public communication on playground safety initiatives to reduce
neutral responses and reinforce confidence.
• Target improvements in parks serving high-density neighbourhoods to
balance wear and tear.
Risk of Not Addressing Park Safety
• Increased risk of injuries due to aging or damaged equipment.
• Higher liability exposure for the municipality if safety concerns are not
addressed.
• Reduced public confidence in the quality of recreational facilities.
8.7.3.4. Environmental Sustainability and Green Space Preservation
Current LOS
• The City’s Recreation and Parks Ten Year Plan adopted in 2024includes
sustainability metrics.
• Green spaces are well-maintained, but public engagement results indicate
mixed perceptions about preservation efforts.
Public Engagement Results
• Quality of green spaces and natural areas was highly rated (82.1%).
• Satisfaction with environmental preservation was moderate (51.0%), but
neutral responses were high (32.4%).
- 291 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
152
• Willingness to pay for environmental preservation was lower (35.8%), with
26.7% unwilling.
Recommendations
• Develop and implement a long-term environmental sustainability strategy for
parks, focusing on native planting and biodiversity.
• Enhance public engagement on conservation efforts to improve awareness
and support for sustainability initiatives.
• Leverage funding opportunities for ecological restoration projects to offset
costs.
Risk of Not Addressing Environmental Sustainability
• Loss of biodiversity and ecological degradation in parks and natural areas.
• Higher maintenance costs for non-native plantings and artificial landscapes.
• Public perception that environmental efforts are insufficient, reducing support
for future investments.
- 292 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
153
9. Other Infrastructure
The City owns and maintains several Other Infrastructure that provide key services
to the community. These Other Infrastructure fall under the following categories:
• Furniture & Fixtures
• Information Technology
• Library Collection Materials25
• Machinery & Equipment
• Vehicles
9.1 Inventory & Valuation
Table 31 includes the quantity, replacement cost method and total replacement
cost of each asset segment in the City’s Other Infrastructure inventory.
Segment Sub-
Segment Quantity Unit of
Measure
Replacement
Cost
Primary
RC Method
Furniture
&Fixtures
Furniture&
Fixtures
833 Assets $2,314,157 CPI
Information
Technology
Information
Technology
903 Assets $2,829,398 CPI
Library
Collection
Materials
Library
Collection
Materials
9 Assets $1,671,930 CPI
Machinery&
Equipment
Major
Machinery&
Equipment
36 Assets $10,129,284 User-
Defined
Machinery&
Equipment
Minor
Machinery&
Equipment
1,534 Assets $9,916,874 CPI
Vehicles Fire
Vehicles
12 Assets $22,000,000 User-
Defined
Vehicles Vehicles 137 Assets $16,494,660 User-
Defined
Total $65,356,303
25 Through the Current Budget, the Library purchases an additional $300,000 per year in short term
Library collection assets such as e-books and magazines that is not reflected in the above Library long
term assets.
- 293 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
154
Table 31: Detailed Asset Inventory: Other Infrastructure
Figure 53: Portfolio Valuation: Other Infrastructure
9.2 Asset Condition
Figure 54: Asset Condition: Other Assets Overall
Figure 54 summarizes the replacement cost-weighted condition of the City’s
portfolio. Based primarily on age-based data, 52% of assets are in fair or better
condition, with the remaining 48% in poor or worse condition. These assets may be
$1.7m
$2.3m
$2.8m
$20.0m
$38.5m
$10m $20m $30m $40m $50m
Library
Collection…
Furniture &
Fixtures
Information
Technology
Machinery &
Equipment
Vehicles
Replacement Cost by Segment
Very Poor,
$21,092,585
(32%)
Poor,
$10,661,743
(16%)
Fair,
$12,808,304
(20%)
Good,
$10,827,497
(17%)
Very Good,
$9,966,174
(15%)
- 294 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
155
candidates for replacement in the short term; similarly, assets in fair condition may
require rehabilitation or replacement in the medium term and should be monitored
for further degradation in condition.
Figure 55 summarizes the condition of vehicles by each department. The majority of
all vehicles across all asset segments are in poor or worse condition.
Figure 55: Asset Condition: Other Assets by Segment
9.3 Age Profile
An asset’s age profile comprises two key values: estimated useful life (EUL), or
design life; and the percentage of EUL consumed. The EUL is the serviceable
lifespan of an asset during which it can continue to fulfil its intended purpose and
provide value to users, safely and efficiently. As assets age, their performance
diminishes, often more rapidly as they approach the end of their design life.
In conjunction with condition data, an asset’s age profile provides a more complete
summary of the state of infrastructure. It can help identify assets that may be
candidates for further review through condition assessment programs; inform the
selection of optimal lifecycle strategies; and improve planning for potential
replacement spikes.
Figure 56 illustrates the average current age of each asset type and its estimated
useful life. Both values are weighted by the replacement cost of individual assets.
$5.3m
$4.7m
$6.5m
$3.0m
$221k
$441k
$662k
$6.5m
$4.2m
$560k
$909k
$630k
$6.4m
$2.9m
$287k
$564k
$577k
$13.9m
$5.3m
$604k
$917k
$446k
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Vehicles
Machinery &
Equipment
Library
Collection…
Information
Technology
Furniture &
Fixtures
Value and Percentage of Asset Segments by Replacement Cost
Very Good Good Fair Poor Very Poor
- 295 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
156
Figure 56: Estimated Useful Life vs. Asset Age: Other Infrastructure Assets
Age analysis reveals that, on average, most assets are in moderate stages of their
expected life.
9.4 Current Approach to Lifecycle Management
The condition or performance of most assets will deteriorate over time. To ensure
that municipal assets are performing as expected and meeting the needs of
customers, it is important to establish a lifecycle management strategy to
proactively manage asset deterioration.
The following section outlines the City’s current lifecycle management strategy.
Fleet: Vehicles, Machinery, and Equipment
• Maintenance:
o Preventative and corrective maintenance is regularly performed to
minimize downtime.
o Vehicles undergo regular inspections, with CVOR vehicles inspected 3-4
times a year and non-CVOR vehicles inspected up to 4 times annually.
o Fire trucks and emergency support vehicles comply with NFPA standards
and undergo rigorous annual testing.
o Equipment is maintained through a lifecycle strategy, with 4-10 pieces
replaced and 3-5 new units added annually.
11.2
4.6 4.4
6.8 9
19.7
5.7 6.6
10.7 11.9
0
5
10
15
20
25
Furniture &
Fixtures
Information
Technology
Library
Collection
Materials
Machinery &
Equipment
Vehicles
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
Y
e
a
r
s
Weighted Average Age Weighted Average EUL
- 296 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
157
• Replacement:
o Vehicles and equipment are replaced based on age, condition, repair
costs, warranties, and total cost of ownership.
o Residual values from disposed assets are reinvested into the reserve
fund for future replacements.
o A data-driven approach ensures optimal fleet performance, though
challenges exist in funding sustainable capital reinvestment.
• Inspection:
o Fleet assets are closely monitored using digital platforms that track fuel
consumption, idle time, mileage, and engine status.
o Unplanned maintenance accounts for 20-25% of all vehicle repairs.
o The City’s 7 pumper trucks undergo annual pump testing by external
specialists.
Information Technology (IT) Assets
• Maintenance:
o Strong cybersecurity measures, including Multi-Factor Authentication
(MFA), ensure data security.
o Regular updates and system monitoring help maintain performance.
• Replacement:
o Best practices recommend a five-year replacement cycle for IT
hardware, but staffing limitations hinder implementation.
o The IT department has requested additional resources to improve asset
management.
• Inspection:
o Ongoing security assessments identify vulnerabilities and assess access
control.
Library Collection
• Maintenance:
o Managed in alignment with the Pickering Public Library Strategic Plan.
o Routine assessments ensure accessibility and relevance of materials.
- 297 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
158
• Replacement:
o Library materials are periodically updated to maintain high service
levels.
o Funding constraints impact the ability to replace materials at the optimal
rate.
• Inspection:
o Regular audits of library collections ensure compliance with public
demand and accessibility standards.
Furniture & Fixtures
• Maintenance:
o Municipal and library furniture is maintained to provide a comfortable
and accessible environment.
o Adjustable-height desks and AODA-compliant pathways enhance
accessibility.
• Replacement:
o Accessibility improvements continue to be a priority, but funding
limitations affect the rate of new acquisitions.
• Inspection:
o Periodic assessments identify areas for improvement, ensuring
compliance with accessibility standards.
9.5 Forecasted Long-Term Replacement Needs
Figure 57 illustrates the cyclical short-, medium- and long-term infrastructure
replacement requirements for the City’s other infrastructure portfolio. This analysis
was run until 2059 to capture at least one iteration of replacement for the longest-
lived asset in Citywide Assets, the City’s primary asset management system and
asset register. The City’s average annual requirements (red dotted line) total $6.6
million for all assets. Although actual spending may fluctuate substantially from
year to year, this figure is a useful benchmark value for annual capital expenditure
targets (or allocations to reserves) to ensure projects are not deferred and
replacement needs are met as they arise.
- 298 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
159
Replacement needs are expected to increase from 2025 with a forecasted peak of
$37.1 million for the 2045-2049 period, as assets reach the end of their useful life.
These projections and estimates are based on asset replacement costs and age
analysis. They are designed to provide a long-term, portfolio-level overview of
capital needs and should be used to support improved financial planning over
several decades.
Figure 57: Forecasted Capital Replacement Needs: Vehicles 2025-2059
Often, the magnitude of replacement needs is substantially higher than most
municipalities can afford to fund. In addition, most assets may not need to be
replaced. However, quantifying and monitoring these spikes is essential for long-
term financial planning, including establishing dedicated reserves. In addition, a
robust risk framework will ensure that high-criticality assets receive proper and
timely lifecycle intervention, including replacements.
A detailed 10-year capital replacement forecast can be found in Appendix A – 10-
Year Capital Requirements.
$6.6m
$10.8m
$27.2m
$34.3m
$30.4m
$32.4m
$37.6m
$26.5m
$37.8m
$0
$5m
$10m
$15m
$20m
$25m
$30m
$35m
$40m
Backlog 2025 -
2029
2030 -
2034
2035 -
2039
2040 -
2044
2045 -
2049
2050 -
2054
2055 -
2059
Fo
r
e
c
a
s
t
e
d
C
a
p
i
t
a
l
R
e
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
Furniture & Fixtures Information Technology
Library Collection Materials Machinery & Equipment
Vehicles Annual Requirement
Total
- 299 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
160
9.6 Risk Analysis
The risk matrix below is generated using available asset data, including condition,
service life remaining, replacement costs, and department or service area. The risk
ratings for assets without useful attribute data were calculated using only condition,
service life remaining, and their replacement costs.
The matrix stratifies assets based on their individual probability and consequence of
failure, each scored from 1 to 5. Their product generates a risk index ranging from
1-25. Assets with the highest criticality and likelihood of failure receive a risk rating
of 25; those with lowest probability of failure and lowest criticality carry a risk
rating of 1. As new data and information is gathered, the Municipality may consider
integrating relevant information that improves confidence in the criteria used to
assess asset risk and criticality.
These risk models have been built into the City’s Asset Management Database
(Citywide Assets). See Risk & Criticality section for further details on approach used
to determine asset risk ratings and classifications.
Figure 58: Risk Matrix: Other Infrastructure Assets
9.7 Levels of Service
The City of Pickering is dedicated to providing high-quality service through its fleet
of municipal vehicles, machinery, equipment, and other assets. These resources are
managed to ensure reliability, safety, and efficiency in delivering the services
residents rely on. While current maintenance practices for vehicles, machinery, and
equipment are effective, a thorough assessment of funding and resources is needed
to meet future demands. This includes evaluating maintenance schedules, asset
lifespans, and future City growth, ensuring that fleet operations remain efficient and
capable of meeting evolving needs.
Additionally, the City is committed to maintaining its IT systems, library collections,
and municipal furniture and fixtures to high standards. Similarly, municipal
furniture and fixtures are well-maintained, but long-term funding and resource
allocation should be evaluated to ensure sustainability. The City’s library collection
materials are managed in line with the Pickering Public Library Facilities Plan. The
following tables summarize the City’s current levels of service, with KPIs reflecting
performance measures for non-core assets as selected by the City.
1 - 4 5 - 7 8 - 9 10 - 14 15 - 25
Very Low Low Moderate High Very High
$7,295,311 $10,247,705 $4,120,942 $10,240,964 $33,451,381
(11%)(16%)(6%)(16%)(51%)
- 300 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
161
9.7.1 Community Levels of Service
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale
Reliability &
Performance
Vehicles
Description of lifecycle
management strategies and
assessment programs applied to
municipal vehicles
Acceptable
The municipal fleet's lifecycle
management strategy ensures
optimal vehicle availability through
advanced practices. With only 2.5% of
the 200-vehicle fleet unserviceable,
well below the 5% target, the
strategy uses a comprehensive
platform to monitor fuel consumption,
idle time, mileage, and engine status
for efficiency. Vehicle maintenance is
closely tracked, with 20-25% being
unplanned, while the fleet
management program ensures timely
regular and unplanned maintenance
for various municipal services,
minimizing downtime and extending
vehicle lifespan.
Table 32: Community Levels of Service: Vehicles
- 301 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
162
9.7.2 Technical Levels of Service
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale26
Reliability &
Performance
(Vehicles)
How many vehicles are
unserviceable at any time
Acceptable 2.5% - based on staff inputs
Reliability &
Performance
(Vehicles)
Average condition for municipal
vehicles
Needs
Improvement
32 – Calculated from Citywide
Reliability &
Performance
(Vehicles)
Percentage of vehicles in poor or
worse condition
Needs
Improvement
70% - Calculated from Citywide
26 The conditions calculated from citywide are strictly age-based and might not be reflective of a vehicle’s actual condition.
- 302 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
163
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale26
Safety &
Regulatory
Compliance
(Vehicles)
Description of the municipal
vehicle management and safety
program
Acceptable
PMA (light service and safety
inspection) and PMB (complete vehicle
service) inspections and repairs are
conducted 3-4 times a year for CVOR
vehicles (GVW > 4,500 kg), typically
with one vehicle inspected per week.
Non-CVOR vehicles, such as
passenger cars and SUVs, are
inspected up to 4 times a year, with
five vehicles inspected weekly. Fire
trucks and support vehicles, including
command and rescue trucks, are
inspected and repaired every 18
months to meet NFPA standards.
Additionally, the City’s 7 pumper
trucks undergo annual pump testing,
performed by Dependable22 in
collaboration with the City’s
mechanics, with the process taking up
to three days.
Affordability
(Vehicles)
Annual sustainable capital
reinvestment/required capital
reinvestment rate
Acceptable The actual reinvestment rate is just
over 81% of the target rate.
- 303 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
164
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale26
Reliability &
Performance
(Machinery &
Equipment)
Description of lifecycle
management strategies and
assessment programs applied to
municipal machinery and
equipment assets
Acceptable
The lifecycle management strategy
replaces 4-10 pieces of equipment
annually and adds 3-5 new units.
Equipment is replaced based on
factors like deterioration, repair costs,
warranties, and total cost of
ownership (TCO). Residual value from
replaced equipment is reinvested into
the reserve fund for future
replacements. Growth-related needs
are also considered in lifecycle
management for expansion projects.
Reliability &
Performance
(Machinery &
Equipment)
Average condition for municipal
machinery and equipment Needs
Improvement 32 – Calculated from Citywide
Reliability &
Performance
(Machinery &
Equipment)
Percentage of machinery and
equipment in poor or worse
condition
Needs
Improvement 41% - Calculated from Citywide
- 304 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
165
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale26
Affordability
(Machinery &
Equipment)
Annual sustainable capital
reinvestment/required capital
reinvestment rate Needs
Improvement
The actual reinvestment rate is just
over 3% of the target rate,
highlighting a potential risk of
infrastructure deterioration if
reinvestment levels remain low.
Reliability &
Performance
(Information
Technology)
Description of the initiatives
employed to maintain the services
provided by information
technology assets
Needs
Improvement
The IT department faces staffing
limitations, prompting a proposal to
the council for additional resources.
While best practices suggest replacing
laptops every five years, the
department struggles to meet this due
to staffing constraints. Additionally,
improvements are needed for security
controls and equipment. On a positive
note, cybersecurity measures are
strong, with Multi-Factor
Authentication (MFA) effectively
implemented. Overall, while there are
strengths, improvements are needed,
particularly in staffing, to meet
operational standards and best
practices.
- 305 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
166
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale26
Affordability
(Information
Technology)
Annual sustainable capital
reinvestment/required capital
reinvestment rate
Needs
Improvement
The actual reinvestment rate is just
over 22% of the target rate,
indicating a potential risk of
infrastructure deterioration if
reinvestment continues at these low
levels.
Reliability &
Performance
(Furniture &
Fixtures)
Description of the initiatives
employed to make library furniture
and fixtures more accessible
Needs
Improvement
The library provides accessible
features like adjustable-height desks,
but more accessible furniture is
needed. Pathways meet AODA
standards with at least three feet of
aisle space for mobility aids, and
shelving is placed at varying heights
with glare-reducing lighting. Ongoing
assessments drive continuous
improvements to enhance accessibility
for all patrons.
Affordability
(Furniture &
Fixtures)
Annual sustainable capital
reinvestment/required capital
reinvestment rate
Acceptable The actual reinvestment rate is just
over 76% of the target rate.
- 306 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
167
Service
Attribute Key Performance Indicator Current LOS
(2024) Rationale26
Affordability
(Library
Collection
Material)
Annual sustainable capital
reinvestment/required capital
reinvestment rate
Needs
Improvement
Material costs are increasing at a
higher rate than funding, resulting in
a need for further investment.
Table 33: Technical Levels of Service: Other Infrastructure Assets
- 307 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
168
9.7.3 Proposed Levels of Service
This section provides recommendations for municipal vehicles, machinery &
equipment, information technology (IT), furniture & fixtures, library collections, and
fire services based on the current Levels of Service (LOS) assessment, public
engagement results, and risk analysis. The recommendations focus on
modernization, reliability, affordability, and accessibility, ensuring that these assets
continue to support service delivery effectively while considering funding constraints
and public priorities.
9.7.3.1. Municipal Vehicles
Current LOS
• Unserviceable Vehicles at Any Time: Acceptable (2.5% of fleet, below the 5%
target).
• Average Vehicle Condition: Needs Improvement (Score: 32).
• Percentage of Vehicles in Poor or Worse Condition: Needs Improvement
(70%).
• Annual Sustainable Capital Reinvestment Rate: Acceptable (81% of the
required funding).
Public Engagement Results
• Availability of services provided by municipal vehicles was the highest-rated
feature (87.7%).
• Environmental impact of municipal vehicle operations was rated important by
55.5%, but neutrality was high (27.1%).
• Willingness to pay for environmentally friendly vehicle initiatives was low
(18.4%), with 41.4% unwilling.
Condition and Budget Scenarios
This graph illustrates the projected condition of vehicle assets over time under two
budget scenarios: the Optimal Budget (blue line) and the Current Budget (green
line), which is 81% of the Optimal Budget. The vertical axis represents asset
condition as a percentage, while the horizontal axis spans the years from 2025 to
2074. The background shading categorizes condition ranges, with green (80-100%)
representing excellent condition, blue (60-80%) indicating good condition, yellow
(40-60%) reflecting fair condition, orange (20-40%) signifying poor condition, and
red (0-20%) marking critical condition. Under the Optimal Budget, vehicle condition
gradually improves and stabilizes in the fair-to-good range, while the Current
Budget scenario results in a lower trajectory, remaining mostly within the fair and
poor condition zones. The fluctuations in both scenarios suggest periodic
reinvestments, but the widening gap between the two highlights the long-term
impact of constrained funding. Without additional investment, the Current Budget
- 308 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
169
scenario leads to a gradual decline in asset condition, potentially increasing future
replacement costs and reducing service reliability. In contrast, maintaining the
Optimal Budget ensures a more stable and sustainable asset condition over the long
term.
- 309 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
170
Figure 59: Projected Vehicle Asset Condition Under Optimal vs. Current Budget Scenarios
- 310 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
171
Recommendations
• Prioritize replacement of vehicles in poor or worse condition while
maintaining fleet availability.
• Develop a dedicated capital reinvestment strategy to ensure long-term fleet
sustainability.
• Enhance public awareness of fleet modernization efforts to improve
perceptions of efficiency and environmental impact.
Risk of Not Addressing Vehicle Condition
• Increased service disruptions and higher maintenance costs.
• Reduced reliability of emergency and service vehicles, impacting municipal
operations.
• Negative public perception regarding environmental sustainability.
9.7.3.2. Municipal Machinery & Equipment
Current LOS
• Average Condition of Equipment: Needs Improvement (Score: 32).
• Percentage of Equipment in Poor or Worse Condition: Needs Improvement
(41%).
• Annual Sustainable Capital Reinvestment Rate: Needs Improvement (3% of
required funding).
Public Engagement Results
• Public awareness of machinery and equipment management was low.
• No specific dissatisfaction was recorded, but neutrality was high, indicating
limited public visibility.
Condition and Budget Scenarios
This graph illustrates the projected condition of Machinery & Equipment assets over
time under two budget scenarios: the Optimal Budget (blue line) and the Actual
Budget (green line), which is only 3% of the Optimal Budget. The vertical axis
represents the asset condition as a percentage, while the horizontal axis spans the
years from 2025 to 2074. The background shading categorizes condition levels:
green (80-100%) represents excellent condition, blue (60-80%) indicates good
condition, yellow (40-60%) reflects fair condition, orange (20-40%) signifies poor
condition, and red (0-20%) marks critical condition.
Under the Optimal Budget, the asset condition remains relatively stable within the
fair-to-good range, ensuring a sustainable level of service. However, with the Actual
- 311 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
172
Budget at only 3% of the Optimal Budget, the condition rapidly deteriorates, falling
into the poor and critical ranges within the first decade. By 2035, the assets are
essentially non-functional, with condition levels approaching 0%, indicating a
complete failure. This dramatic decline highlights the severe consequences of
insufficient funding, leading to accelerated deterioration, increased maintenance
costs, and ultimately the need for premature replacements. Without a significant
increase in investment, the current funding strategy is unsustainable and will likely
result in equipment failures that compromise operational efficiency and service
delivery.
- 312 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
173
Figure 60: Projected Machinery & Equipment Asset Condition Under Optimal vs. Current Budget Scenarios
- 313 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
174
Recommendations
• Increase reinvestment in machinery and equipment to address funding gaps.
• Ensure replacement cycles align with asset performance data to maintain
efficiency.
• Improve transparency in capital reinvestment planning to build public
understanding.
Risk of Not Addressing Equipment Condition
• Higher lifecycle costs due to reactive maintenance.
• Potential operational inefficiencies in municipal service delivery.
• Increased safety risks for staff using outdated equipment.
9.7.3.3. Information Technology (IT)
Current LOS
• IT Performance: Needs Improvement (Staffing limitations impact replacement
cycles).
• Security & Reliability: Strong cybersecurity practices, but improvements
needed in staffing and infrastructure.
• Annual Sustainable Capital Reinvestment Rate: Needs Improvement (22% of
required funding).
Public Engagement Results
• Reliability and security of IT systems were the highest-rated feature (77.7%).
• Accessibility and user-friendliness of online services were also highly prioritized
(76.9%).
• Willingness to pay for improved IT services was low (24.5%), with 33.6%
unwilling.
Condition and Budget Scenarios
This graph illustrates the projected condition of Information Technology (IT) assets
over time under two budget scenarios: the Optimal Budget (blue line) and the
Current Budget (green line), which is 22% of the Optimal Budget. The vertical axis
represents the asset condition as a percentage, while the horizontal axis spans the
years from 2025 to 2074. The background shading categorizes condition levels:
green (80-100%) represents excellent condition, blue (60-80%) indicates good
condition, yellow (40-60%) reflects fair condition, orange (20-40%) signifies poor
condition, and red (0-20%) marks critical condition.
- 314 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
175
Under the Optimal Budget, IT assets maintain a relatively stable condition within
the fair-to-good range, ensuring adequate service levels. However, under the
Current Budget, condition levels decline sharply, dropping into the poor and critical
ranges within the first decade. By 2035, IT assets are operating at minimal
functionality, with condition values remaining in the red zone, signifying an urgent
need for replacement. The long-term impact of underfunding IT assets includes
increased system failures, cybersecurity risks, and operational inefficiencies.
Without increased investment, IT infrastructure will continue to degrade, leading to
higher emergency costs, reduced performance, and potential service disruptions.
- 315 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
176
Figure 61: Projected IT Asset Condition Under Optimal vs. Current Budget Scenarios
- 316 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
177
Recommendations
• Increase IT staffing levels to support service delivery and meet best
practices.
• Prioritize cybersecurity investments while improving system accessibility and
performance.
• Enhance public communication on IT upgrades to justify investment needs.
Risk of Not Addressing IT Performance
• Increased vulnerability to cybersecurity threats.
• Reduced efficiency of municipal operations due to outdated systems.
• Diminished public trust in digital municipal services.
9.7.3.4. Furniture & Fixtures (Library & Public Spaces)
Current LOS
• Accessibility: Needs Improvement (Additional accessible furniture required).
• Annual Sustainable Capital Reinvestment Rate: Acceptable (76% of required
funding).
Public Engagement Results
• Accessibility of library furniture was a moderate concern.
• High neutrality in responses suggested a lack of public awareness of ongoing
improvements.
Recommendations
• Continue replacing and upgrading furniture to enhance accessibility.
• Ensure new acquisitions comply with accessibility legislation.
• Increase public engagement on accessibility improvements.
Risk of Not Addressing Accessibility in Furniture & Fixtures
• Limited access for individuals with disabilities.
• Potential non-compliance with accessibility regulations.
• Public perception of municipal facilities is not inclusive.
- 317 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
178
9.7.3.5. Library Collection Materials
Current LOS
• Annual Sustainable Capital Reinvestment Rate: Needs Improvement.
Public Engagement Results
• Availability and accessibility of library materials were rated highly important
(70.9%).
• Diversity and relevance of collections were moderately important (61.1%) but
had the highest neutral responses (25.0%).
• Willingness to pay for library collection expansion was low (27.4%), with
42.2% unwilling.
Recommendations
• Continue structured reinvestment in library collections to ensure diversity and
relevance.
• Improve outreach efforts to highlight the benefits of digital and physical
collections.
• Ensure ongoing alignment with evolving community needs.
Risk of Not Addressing Library Collection Needs
• Declining engagement with library services due to outdated materials.
• Limited availability of digital and physical collections to support diverse
community needs.
• Public dissatisfaction with library resources.
- 318 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
179
Strategies
- 319 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
180
10. Growth
The demand for infrastructure and services will change over time based on a
combination of internal and external factors. Understanding the key drivers of
growth and demand will allow the City to plan for new infrastructure more
effectively, as well as upgrade or dispose of existing infrastructure. Increases or
decreases in demand can affect what assets are needed and what level of service
meets the needs of the community.
10.1 Pickering Official Plan Review Growth Management &
Urban Structure Discussion Papers (November 2024)
10.1.1 Overview of Growth Trends
The above-noted discussion paper quotes from the Durham Regional Official Plan,
which was approved by the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing on December
13, 2024. The Region allocates the City of Pickering significant growth to 2051.
Pickering’s population expected to increase from approximately 100,000 to 256,370
residents and employment reaching 93,790 jobs. This rapid growth necessitates
careful planning and investment in infrastructure services to ensure sustainable
development while maintaining high-quality services for residents and businesses.
10.1.2 Implications for Infrastructure Services
As Pickering expands, the demand for infrastructure services—including
transportation, regional water & wastewater, stormwater management, and
community facilities—will increase. The City must ensure that its asset
management strategies align with projected growth to support sustainable and
efficient service delivery.
• Transportation and Road Networks: The intensification of urban areas,
particularly in Strategic Growth Areas such as the City Centre, Kingston Road
Corridor, and Brock Road Node, will require enhanced road networks and
transit services to support increased population density. Investment in road
rehabilitation, bridge maintenance, and active transportation infrastructure
will be critical to accommodate both residents and commercial growth.
• Regional Water and Wastewater Services: With growth in Seaton and the
planned Northeast Pickering expansion, the City must ensure the capacity
and timing of Regional water and wastewater infrastructure, and other utility
providers such as Enbridge gas, and hydro, are sufficient to support new
residential and employment areas. Coordination with regional authorities and
other utility providers will be essential to align long-term service strategies
with expected population increases.
- 320 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
181
• Stormwater and Climate Resilience: The intensification of Pickering’s urban
areas will impact stormwater management systems, necessitating
infrastructure upgrades to mitigate flooding risks and support climate
resilience. The City’s asset management plan should incorporate green
infrastructure solutions and enhanced drainage systems.
• Community Facilities and Public Services: The rising population will increase
the demand for recreational facilities, parks, libraries, and emergency
services. Strategic planning will be needed to ensure adequate space,
funding, and operational efficiency for these public services.
10.1.3 Employment Growth and Infrastructure Demand
Employment in Pickering is expected to more than double by 2051, requiring
expanded infrastructure to support economic growth. Employment growth will be
concentrated on:
• Innovation Corridor (Seaton): A major employment hub, requiring
investment in road networks, transit access, and servicing capacity to attract
businesses.
• Northeast Pickering Employment Area: Pending provincial approvals, this
area will need infrastructure investment to support industrial, commercial,
and mixed employment uses.
• Mixed-Use and Transit-Oriented Development Areas: The shift towards
mixed-use developments in Strategic Growth Areas will necessitate
infrastructure upgrades to support live-work environments, integrating
commercial and residential spaces with reliable transit connections.
10.1.4 Asset Management Strategies for Growth
To accommodate growth while maintaining fiscal responsibility, Pickering’s asset
management strategies should include:
• Data-Driven Planning: Utilizing updated growth forecasts on an annual basis
to prioritize infrastructure investments, based on long-term needs.
• Lifecycle Cost Analysis: Ensuring that new infrastructure investments
consider long-term maintenance and renewal costs to optimize service
delivery.
• Integrated Planning with Regional Authorities: Aligning Pickering’s
infrastructure investments with the Region of Durham’s Official Plan and the
Region’s capital and infrastructure investment strategies.
• Sustainable Infrastructure Solutions: Implementing green building practices,
low-impact development (LID) for stormwater management, and energy-
efficient infrastructure upgrades.
- 321 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
182
10.1.5 Conclusion
Pickering’s projected growth presents opportunities for economic development and
enhanced community services, but it also brings challenges in maintaining
infrastructure services. The City’s 2025 Asset Management Plan must proactively
address these challenges by ensuring that infrastructure investments align with
anticipated population and employment growth while maintaining service levels and
financial sustainability.
10.2 Pickering Official Plan – Edition 9 (March 2022)
In 1997, the City of Pickering (Corporation of the Town of Pickering, at the time)
and the Council of the Regional Municipality of Durham approved the Official Plan.
The Official Plan lays the “foundation” for building a good community. As a
foundation, it provides a vision of the City, identifies how the vision can be reached,
and establishes a monitoring program for checking progress and making necessary
adjustments. The last consolidation of the plan was in March 2022.
This vision of the plan can be translated into the following set of guiding principles
for Pickering’s future growth and development:
A. To meet people’s needs while ensuring environmentally appropriate actions.
B. To become more self-sufficient while seeking broader connections.
C. To support individual rights while upholding community goals.
D. To welcome diversity while respecting local context, and
E. To manage change while recognizing uncertainty.
Future growth in the City is centered principally around redevelopment and
intensification in the Pickering City Centre and on lands along the Kingston Road
Corridor and within the Specialty Retailing Node (located east of Brock Road, north
of Highway 401 and south of Kingston Road), new development within the Duffin
Heights Neighbourhood and the Seaton Urban Area.
10.2.1 The City Centre
The Pickering Official Plan supports growth in all portions of the City Centre and
restricts new residential development in City Centre south of Highway 401 to 6,300
people or 3,400 units by 2031 until at least an additional 2,000 people or 1,100
new units have been developed on lands north of Highway 401 in the City Centre.
Furthermore, the South Pickering Urban Area Employment Target Policy adopts an
employment target for the City Centre of 13,500 jobs for the year 2031, which
represents adding 8,800 jobs to the area. Moreover, the total population in the City
Centre is expected to grow from 5,100 (2011) to 13,500 by 2031.
- 322 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
183
10.2.2 The Kingston Road Corridor and Specialty Retailing Node
The Pickering Official Plan has been amended by the approval of Official Plan
Amendment 38, providing a comprehensive policy framework for the
redevelopment and intensification of the lands along the Kingston Road Corridor
and within the Specialty Retailing Node, with the exception of a number of
properties which, at the time of this report, were still the subject of site-specific
appeals. The potential mix of uses and densities along the Corridor and within the
Node is expected to yield a total of 22,000 population and 8,100 jobs by 2041. A
map depicting the Kingston Road Corridor and Specialty Retailing Node
Intensification Plan Area can be found below.
- 323 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
184
Figure 62: Location Map - Kingston Road Corridor
- 324 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
185
10.2.3 The Duffin Hights Neighbourhood
The development of the Duffin Heights Neighbourhood, located north of Third
Concession Road and centered around Brock Road, kicked off in 2011. According to
the City’s 20-year Detailed Population Forecast, the Duffin Heights Neighbourhood
is forecasted to grow to 10,425 people and 2845 units by 2031.
The following map presents the Duffin Heights Neighbourhood (Neighbourhood
#15) as part of the South Pickering Urban Area Neighbourhoods
Figure 63: Map of South Pickering Urban Area Neighbourhoods
- 325 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
186
Table 34: Neighbourhood Number and Name
Neighbourhood # Neighbourhood Name
1 Rosebank
2 West Shore
3 Bay Ridges
4 Brock Industrial
5 Rougemount
6 Woodlands
7 Dunbarton
8 City Centre
9 Village East
10 Highbush
11 Amberlea
12 Liverpool
13 Brock Ridge
14 Rouge Park
15 Duffin Heights
- 326 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
187
10.2.4 The Seaton Urban Area
According to the Seaton Urban Area Population and Employment Policy, City Council
supports the development of an urban community that will accommodate 61,000
people by 2031 and be planned to accommodate up to 70,000 people through long-
term intensification. The plan also includes the provision of high-quality
employment opportunities that reflect the needs of the community with the
identification of sufficient employment lands to generate approximately one job for
every two residents with 30,500 jobs by 2031, and up to 35,000 jobs through long-
term intensification.
The following tables 35 and 36 provide a breakdown of the anticipated 2031
population forecast of the Seaton Urban Area based on Neighbourhood Plans
approved in 2012. Current City population projections are available on the City’s
website. The current projections show development is taking place at a slower rate
than anticipated.
Table 35: Population of Neighbourhoods in the Seaton Urban Area
Neighbourhood Name
and Number 2031 Population
Lamoreaux 17,500
Brock-Taunton 5,000
Mount Pleasant 18,000
Wilson Meadows 15,000
Thompson’s Corners 5,500
Pickering Innovation Corridor 0
The following map exhibits the neighbourhood of the Seaton Urban Area listed above:
- 327 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
188
Figure 64: Map of Seaton Area Neighbourhoods
Table 36: Neighbourhood Number and Name
Neighbourhood# Neighbourhood Name
16 Lamoreaux
17 Brock Taunton
18 Mount Pleasant
19 Wilson Meadows
20 Thompson’s Corners
21 Innovation Corridor
- 328 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
189
10.3 Durham Regional Plan (2024)
10.3.1 Population and Employment Growth
• The Province allocated 1.3 million people and 460,000 jobs to Durham
Region by 2051.
• Pickering’s allocation is:
o 2021: 102,940 people, 33,430 households, 39,310 jobs
o 2026: 125,830 people, 41,310 households, 47,000 jobs
o 2051: 256,370 people, 88,590 households, 93,790 jobs
• The Seaton Community in central Pickering is expected to accommodate
70,000 people and 35,000 jobs.
• The region is planning for a 50% job-to-population ratio, meaning for every
two residents, there should be one job.
10.3.2 Strategic Growth Areas and Urban Expansion
• Seaton and other strategic growth areas will be prioritized for development.
• Pickering’s Urban System will see high-density growth, supported by mixed-
use developments..
10.3.3 Infrastructure and Services to Support Growth
• Durham is ensuring infrastructure aligns with intensification goals (50% of
growth should occur in built-up areas).
• Focus on:
o Regional water and wastewater services to accommodate increased
population.
o Transit-oriented development, particularly around major transit
stations and corridors.
o Expanding the road network and improving goods movement
corridors.
o Green and resilient infrastructure, including climate adaptation
measures.
10.3.4 Economic Development and Employment Growth
• Key objectives include:
o Supporting the Seaton Innovation Corridor as a major employment
hub.
o Leveraging Pickering’s proximity to Toronto and highway network.
o Preparing for high-tech and knowledge-based industries.
o Encouraging innovation hubs and commercial development.
10.3.5 Sustainability and Resilient Infrastructure
• Growth to align with Durham and the City’s sustainability and climate change
related policies and plans.
• Expansion of tree canopy, stormwater management, and renewable energy
projects.
• Sustainable building and infrastructure development are priorities.
- 329 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
190
10.4 Impact of Growth on Lifecycle Activities
As Pickering experiences significant population and employment growth, the
demand for municipal services will rise. The City will need to expand, maintain, and
optimize its infrastructure and facilities to meet community needs while ensuring
financial sustainability. Below is an analysis of the impact of growth on key services
managed by the City, focusing on lifecycle activities such as capital investments,
operational costs, human resource needs, and long-term sustainability.
10.4.1 Roads and Transportation Infrastructure
Lifecycle Considerations:
• Capital Costs: Expansion of road networks, rehabilitation of existing roads,
intersection improvements, and investments in active transportation
(sidewalks, cycling lanes).
• Operational Costs: Increased road maintenance, snow removal, traffic signal
operations, and road resurfacing programs.
• Human Resources: Additional public works staff for road repairs,
maintenance crews for winter operations, and transportation planners.
Growth-Related Impacts:
• Strategic Growth Areas like the City Centre, Kingston Road Corridor, and
Brock Road will require road capacity upgrades and enhanced transit
infrastructure.
• New developments in Seaton and Northeast Pickering will necessitate new
arterial and collector roads to support residential and employment growth.
• Increased traffic volumes will drive the need for traffic signal upgrades,
intersection improvements, and transit priority measures.
10.4.2 Stormwater Management and Climate Resilience
Lifecycle Considerations:
• Capital Costs: Upgrading drainage systems, implementing green stormwater
infrastructure, and increasing stormwater retention capacity.
• Operational Costs: Regular inspections, dredging of stormwater ponds,
maintenance of culverts, and monitoring flood-prone areas.
• Human Resources: More engineering and maintenance staff for stormwater
asset management and climate adaptation planning.
Growth-Related Impacts:
- 330 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
191
• Urban intensification will increase impermeable surfaces, requiring
investments in stormwater mitigation infrastructure such as bioswales,
permeable pavements, and green roofs.
• Increased precipitation events due to climate change will necessitate higher
drainage system capacity and improved flood management strategies.
• Development in Seaton and Northeast Pickering will require coordination with
regional authorities for stormwater servicing.
10.4.3 Community Facilities and Recreational Services
Lifecycle Considerations:
• Capital Costs: Expanding or constructing new community centers, sports
complexes, and public facilities.
• Operational Costs: Increased facility maintenance, security, energy costs,
and staffing for programming.
• Human Resources: More staff for facility management, recreation
programming, and customer service.
Growth-Related Impacts:
• New residential developments will drive demand for additional recreational
spaces, pools, and gymnasiums.
• Aging community centers will require major retrofits and accessibility
improvements.
• Higher population density in mixed-use areas will increase the need for multi-
use recreational facilities.
10.4.4 Parks, Trails, and Open Spaces
Lifecycle Considerations:
• Capital Costs: Land acquisition for new parks, development of trails,
playground installations, and natural habitat restoration.
• Operational Costs: Ongoing maintenance, landscaping, waste collection, and
tree management.
• Human Resources: Additional park maintenance crews, arborists, and
recreational programming staff.
Growth-Related Impacts:
• Increased population density will require more green spaces and parkland
acquisitions.
• Expansion of urban trails and pedestrian pathways will be necessary to
support active transportation.
- 331 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
192
• Higher usage of parks will lead to increased maintenance costs and more
demand for sports fields and recreational amenities.
10.4.5 IT Infrastructure and Digital Services
Lifecycle Considerations:
• Capital Costs: Investments in broadband expansion, network security, smart
city initiatives, and data centers.
• Operational Costs: Software licensing, cybersecurity measures, and IT
support services.
• Human Resources: More IT specialists for system maintenance, data
security, and smart infrastructure deployment.
Growth-Related Impacts:
• Expansion of digital services and smart city applications will be required for
efficient service delivery.
• More residents and businesses will increase demand for online municipal
services, digital permitting, and virtual public engagement tools.
• Cybersecurity risks will grow, requiring stronger IT governance and data
protection measures.
10.4.6 Library Services
Lifecycle Considerations:
• Capital Costs: Expansion or renovation of library branches, technology
upgrades, and digital resource investments.
• Operational Costs: Staffing, book acquisitions, digital subscriptions, and
program development.
• Human Resources: Additional librarians, program coordinators, and IT
support for digital literacy programs.
Growth-Related Impacts:
• Higher population densities will increase demand for new library branches,
study spaces, and digital learning resources.
• Growth in employment areas will require library services tailored to
workforce needs, such as co-working spaces and career development
programs.
• Digital transformation will drive the need for expanded online resources and
e-learning platforms.
- 332 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
193
10.4.7 Fire and Emergency Services
Lifecycle Considerations:
• Capital Costs: Construction of new fire stations, procurement of fire trucks
and emergency response equipment.
• Operational Costs: Training programs, staffing, equipment maintenance, and
emergency response planning.
• Human Resources: Additional administration, firefighters, training, and fire
prevention personnel.
Growth-Related Impacts:
• More residential and commercial developments will require new fire stations,
apparatus, equipment, and updated emergency response plans.
• Intensification areas will require enhanced fire prevention, fire code
enforcement and public education measures.
• Climate change-related risks (e.g., flooding, and extreme weather) will
require expanded emergency preparedness and response efforts
10.4.8 Long-Term Financial and Asset Management Considerations
To maintain financial sustainability, the City must:
• Incorporate Lifecycle Cost Analysis: Ensure that new infrastructure considers
not only capital costs but also long-term maintenance and renewal.
• Develop Sustainable Funding Strategies: Balance capital expenditures with
operating budgets and secure provincial/federal funding where possible.
• Prioritize Infrastructure Investment Based on Growth Projections: Align
infrastructure plans with population and employment forecasts.
• Enhance Asset Management Practices: Utilize data-driven planning to
optimize asset performance and service delivery.
10.4.9 Conclusion
Pickering’s rapid growth presents both opportunities and challenges in managing its
municipal infrastructure and services. By proactively addressing lifecycle activities—
capital costs, operational expenses, and workforce requirements—the City can ensure
that roads, stormwater systems, facilities, parks, IT, libraries, and emergency
services continue to meet the needs of its expanding population while maintaining
financial sustainability.
- 333 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
194
11. Financial Strategy
For an asset management plan to be effective and meaningful, it must be
integrated with financial planning and multi-year capital forecasting. The
development of a comprehensive financial plan will allow the City of Pickering to
identify the financial resources required for sustainable asset management based
on existing asset inventories, desired levels of service, and projected growth
requirements.
This report develops such a financial plan by presenting several scenarios for
consideration and culminating with final recommendations. As outlined below, the
scenarios presented model different combinations of the following components:
1. The financial requirements for:
a. Existing assets
b. Existing service levels
c. Requirements of contemplated changes in service levels (none
identified for this plan)
d. Requirements of anticipated growth (none identified for this plan)
2. Use of traditional sources of municipal funds:
a. Tax levies
b. User fees
c. Debt
d. Development charges
e. Reserve Funds
3. Use of non-traditional sources of municipal funds:
a. Reallocated budgets
b. Partnerships
c. Procurement methods
4. Use of Senior Government Funds:
a. Canada Community-Building Fund (CCBF)
b. Annual grants
Note: Periodic grants are normally not included due to Provincial requirements for
firm commitments. However, if moving a specific project forward is wholly
dependent on receiving a one-time grant, the replacement cost included in the
financial strategy is the net of such grant being received.
If the financial plan component results in a funding shortfall, the Province requires
the inclusion of a specific plan as to how the impact of the shortfall will be
managed. In determining the legitimacy of a funding shortfall, the Province may
evaluate a City’s approach to the following:
- 334 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
195
1. In order to reduce financial requirements, consideration has been given to
revising service levels downward.
2. All asset management and financial strategies have been considered. For
example:
a. If a zero-debt policy is in place, is it warranted? If not the use of debt
should be considered.
b. Do user fees reflect the cost of the applicable service? If not, increased
user fees should be considered.
11.1 Annual Requirements & Capital Funding
11.1.1 Annual Requirements
The annual requirements represent the amount the City should allocate each year
to each asset category to meet replacement needs as they arise, prevent
infrastructure backlogs, and achieve long-term sustainability. In total, the City must
allocate approximately $61.7 million annually to address capital requirements for
the assets included in this AMP.
Figure 65: Annual Capital Funding Requirements by Asset Category
For most asset categories the annual requirement has been calculated based on a
“replacement only” scenario, in which capital costs are only incurred at the
construction and replacement of each asset.
$1.3m
$4.0m
$6.6m
$6.6m
$12.6m
$30.5m
$10m $20m $30m $40m
Bridges & Culverts
Parks
Stormwater System
Other Infrastructure
Buildings & Facilities
Road Corridor
Average Annual Capital Requirements by Category
- 335 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
196
However, for the Road Corridor lifecycle management strategies have been
developed to identify capital costs that are realized through strategic rehabilitation
and renewal of the City’s roads. The development of these strategies allows for a
comparison of potential cost avoidance if the strategies were to be implemented.
The following table compares two scenarios for the Road Corridor:
1. Replacement Only Scenario: Based on the assumption that assets
deteriorate and – without regularly scheduled maintenance and rehabilitation
– are replaced at the end of their service life.
2. Lifecycle Strategy Scenario: Based on the assumption that lifecycle
activities are performed at strategic intervals to extend the service life of
assets until replacement is required.
Asset Category
Annual
Requirements
(Replacement Only)
Annual
Requirements
(Lifecycle Strategy)
Difference
Road Corridor $36,120,000 30,550,000 $5,570,000
Table 37: Lifecycle Strategies Annual Savings
The implementation of a proactive lifecycle strategy for roads leads to potential
annual cost avoidance of $5.6 million for the road corridor. This represents an
overall reduction of 15% in terms of annual requirements for the road corridor. As
the lifecycle strategy scenario represents the lowest cost option available to the
City, we have used these annual requirements in the development of the financial
strategy.
11.1.2 Annual Funding Available
Based on a historical analysis of sustainable capital funding sources, the City is
currently committing approximately $31.8 million annually towards capital projects.
However, this figure includes Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF)
contributions, which are expected to be discontinued in future years. With the
anticipated loss of approximately $3 million in OCIF funding, the City’s sustainable
capital funding will decline to about $28.8 million annually. Given the annual capital
requirement of $61.7 million, this results in an increased funding gap of
approximately $32.8 million per year.
- 336 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
197
Figure 66: Annual Requirements vs. Capital Funding Available
11.2 Funding Objective
We have developed a scenario that would enable Pickering to achieve full funding
within 5-20 years for the following assets:
• Tax Funded Assets: Road Corridor, Stormwater System, Bridges &
Structural Culverts, Buildings & Facilities, Parks, and Other Infrastructure
Note: For the purposes of this AMP, we have excluded gravel roads since they are a
perpetual maintenance asset and end of life replacement calculations do not
normally apply. If gravel roads are maintained properly, they can theoretically have
a limitless service life.
$2.9m
$4.6m
$900k
$5.6m
$9.1m
$8.7m
$1.3m
$4.0m
$6.6m
$6.6m
$12.6m
$30.5m
$10m $20m $30m $40m
Bridges & Culverts
Parks
Stormwater System
Other Infrastructure
Buildings & Facilities
Road Corridor
Average Annual Capital Requirements vs. Actual Capital
Reinvestment by Category
Average Annual Requirements Actual Reinvestment Rate
- 337 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
198
For each scenario developed we have included strategies, where applicable, regarding the use of cost containment
and funding opportunities.
11.3 Financial Profile: Tax Funded Assets
11.3.1 Current Funding Position
The following tables show, by asset category, Pickering’s average annual asset investment requirements, current
funding positions, and funding increases required to achieve full funding on assets funded by taxes.
Asset
Category
Avg. Annual
Requirement
Annual Funding Available
Taxes
Reserves/
Reserve
Funds Gas Tax Casino
Reserve
Total
Available Deficit
Bridges &
Culverts $1,296,000 $555,000 $555,000 $741,000
Buildings &
Facilities $12,615,000 $145,000 $1,620,000 $650,000 $6,693,000 $9,108,000 $3,507,000
Other
Infrastructure $6,621,000 $52,000 $4,175,000 $1,338,000 $5,565,000 $1,056,000
Parks $4,018,000 $721,000 $863,000 $325,000 $2,677,000 $4,586,000 ($568,000)
Road Corridor $30,548,000 $3,185,000 $2,274,000 $2,677,000 $8,136,000 $22,412,000
- 338 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
199
Asset
Category
Avg. Annual
Requirement
Annual Funding Available
Taxes
Reserves/
Reserve
Funds Gas Tax Casino
Reserve
Total
Available Deficit
Stormwater
System $6,589,000 $900,000 $900,000 $5,689,000
Total $61,687,000 $918,000 $11,298,000 $3,249,000 $13,385,000 $28,850,000 $32,837,000
Table 38: Annual Available Funding for Tax Funded Assets
The average annual investment requirement for the above categories is $61.7 million. The annual revenue currently
allocated to these assets for capital purposes is $28.8 million, leaving an annual deficit of $32.8 million. Put
differently, these infrastructure categories are currently funded at 46.8% of their long-term requirements.
- 339 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
200
11.3.2 Full Funding Requirements
In 2025, the City of Pickering budgeted annual tax revenues of approximately
$103.7 million. As illustrated in the following table, without consideration of any
other sources of revenue or cost containment strategies, full funding would require
the following tax change over time:
Asset Category Tax Change Required for
Full Funding
Bridges & Culverts 0.7%
Buildings & Facilities 3.4%
Other Infrastructure 1.0%
Parks -0.5%
Road Corridor 21.6%
Stormwater System 5.5%
Total 31.7%
Table 39: Tax Increase Requirements for Full Funding
Our scenario modeling includes capturing the above changes and allocating them to
the infrastructure deficit outlined above. The table below outlines this concept and
presents several options:
5 Years 10 Years 15 Years 20 Years
Infrastructure Deficit $32,837,000 $32,837,000 $32,837,000 $32,837,000
Change in Debt Costs N/A N/A N/A N/A
- 340 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
201
5 Years 10 Years 15 Years 20 Years
Resulting Infrastructure
Deficit:
$32,837,000 $32,837,000 $32,837,000 $32,837,000
Tax Increase Required 31.7% 31.7% 31.7% 31.7%
Annually: 5.7% 2.8% 1.9% 1.4%
Table 40: Tax Increase Options 5-20 Years
11.3.3 Financial Strategy Recommendations
Considering all the above information, we recommend the 10-year option. This
involves full funding being achieved over 10 years by:
a) increasing tax revenues by 2.8% each year for the next 10 years solely for
the purpose of phasing in full funding to the asset categories covered in this
section of the AMP.
b) allocating the current revenue streams as outlined previously.
c) reallocating appropriate revenue from categories in a surplus position to
those in a deficit position.
d) increasing existing and future infrastructure budgets by the applicable
inflation index on an annual basis in addition to the deficit phase-in.
Notes:
• As in the past, periodic senior government infrastructure funding will most
likely be available during the phase-in period. By Provincial AMP rules, this
periodic funding cannot be incorporated into an AMP unless there are firm
commitments in place.
• We realize that raising tax revenues by the amounts recommended above for
infrastructure purposes will be very difficult to do. However, considering a
longer phase-in window may have even greater consequences in terms of
infrastructure failure.
Although this option achieves full funding on an annual basis in 10 years and
provides financial sustainability over the period modeled, the recommendations do
require prioritizing capital projects to fit the resulting annual funding available. It is
recommended to start by addressing the critical assets that are within the City’s
infrastructure backlog.
- 341 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
202
Prioritizing future projects will require the current data to be replaced by condition-
based data. Although our recommendations include no further use of debt, the
results of the condition-based analysis may be required otherwise.
11.3.4 Other considerations.
Scenario 1: Gradual and Steady Increases Over 15 Years
This scenario proposes a longer phase-in period to reduce the annual burden on
taxpayers. It involves:
• 1% annual tax increases from 2027 to 2030, followed by
• 2% annual increases from 2031 to 2042
This gradual approach allows the City to work toward full funding over 17 years
while easing short-term financial pressures on the community. However, the slower
increase in available funding means that critical infrastructure needs may not be
addressed as quickly, and risks related to asset failure could increase in earlier
years.
• Target Year for Full Funding: 2042
• Annual Tax Impact: Low to Moderate
• Key Trade-off: Affordability now vs. delayed sustainability
Scenario 2: Lower Increases Now, Accelerated Catch-Up (10-Year Plan)
Scenario 2 is designed to reach full funding by 2036, six years earlier than Scenario
1, while still providing near-term relief. It proposes:
• 1% annual increases from 2027 to 2030, followed by
• 4.82% annual increases from 2031 to 2035
This option defers most of the financial pressure to the second half of the funding
window, allowing for a gentler transition in the short term while still meeting the
recommended 10-year timeline for full funding. However, the steeper increases
from 2031 onward could pose future challenges in terms of public and political
support.
• Target Year for Full Funding: 2036
• Annual Tax Impact: Low initially, then High
• Key Trade-off: Short-term relief vs. steeper increases later
- 342 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
203
Scenario 3: Moderate and Predictable Growth (12-Year Plan)
Scenario 3 offers a balanced middle-ground approach between affordability and
timely financial sustainability. It proposes:
• 1.4% annual tax increases from 2027 to 2030, followed by
• 2.8% annual increases from 2031 to 2038
This strategy aligns closely with the City’s original funding model but introduces
a slightly gentler ramp-up in the first four years, easing the initial impact on
ratepayers while still moving decisively toward full funding within a 12-year
period. The plan achieves the funding target six years earlier than Scenario 1
and two years later than Scenario 2.
Scenario 3 supports earlier reinvestment in aging infrastructure compared to
Scenario 1, reducing the risk of unexpected failures while avoiding the sharp
mid-period tax spikes seen in Scenario 2.
• Target Year for Full Funding: 2038
• Annual Tax Impact: Moderate and consistent
• Key Trade-off: Earlier infrastructure investment than Scenario 1, without the
steep increases of Scenario 2
This scenario may be particularly appropriate for municipalities seeking
predictability in budgeting, a moderate pace of infrastructure renewal, and
greater public support through steady, manageable tax adjustments.
These three alternatives offer more flexibility than the flat 2.8% increase model but
come with trade-offs related to timing, risk, and long-term cost implications. These
should be carefully considered alongside infrastructure condition data and public
willingness to pay.
11.4 Use of Reserves
11.4.1 Available Reserves
Reserves play a critical role in long-term financial planning. The benefits of having
reserves available for infrastructure planning include:
- 343 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
204
a) the ability to stabilize tax rates when dealing with variable and sometimes
uncontrollable factors
b) financing one-time or short-term investments
c) accumulating the funding for significant future infrastructure investments
d) managing the use of debt
e) normalizing infrastructure funding requirement
By asset category, the table below outlines the details of the reserves currently
available to Pickering.
Asset Category Balance on December 31, 2023
Bridges & Culverts $11,494,696
Facilities & Buildings $15,758,610
Other Infrastructure $3,209,648
Parks $1,250,320
Roads $13,621,166
Stormwater System $5,052,701
Total Tax Funded: $50,387,140
Table 41: Pickering Reserve Balances
There is considerable debate in the municipal sector as to the appropriate level of
reserves that a City should have on hand. There is no clear guideline that has
gained wide acceptance. Factors that municipalities should consider when
determining their capital reserve requirements include:
a) breadth of services provided
b) age and condition of infrastructure
c) use and level of debt
d) economic conditions and outlook
e) internal reserve and debt policies.
These reserves are available for use by applicable asset categories during the
phase-in period to full funding. This coupled with Pickering’s judicious use of debt in
- 344 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
205
the past, allows the scenarios to assume that, if required, available reserves and
debt capacity can be used for high priority and emergency infrastructure
investments in the short- to medium-term.
11.4.2 Recommendation
To achieve the proposed levels of service goals outlined in this Asset Management
Plan, the City must address the funding gap for tax-funded assets. The analysis
indicates that the current annual tax-funded capital investment falls short of the
required sustainable levels, creating risks to infrastructure condition and service
reliability over time.
To bridge this gap and maintain long-term financial sustainability, the following
strategies should be considered:
• Gradual tax levy increases to phase in additional funding for capital
rehabilitation and replacement. A structured annual increase would help align
funding with lifecycle needs while minimizing short-term financial strain.
• Strategic reallocation of budget surpluses and reserve contributions to
prioritize critical infrastructure needs and reduce reliance on debt financing.
• Increased grant and partnership funding to support major capital investments
while reducing the burden on taxpayers. The City should proactively apply for
available provincial and federal funding programs such as the Canada
Community-Building Fund (CCBF).
• Enhanced asset lifecycle management strategies to extend the useful life of
tax-funded assets and optimize long-term capital planning, reducing the
immediate financial burden.
Without these adjustments, the City will face continued infrastructure deterioration,
increasing maintenance costs, and higher long-term financial risks. Proactive
funding strategies will ensure that the City's tax-funded assets can meet service
level expectations while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
- 345 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
206
12. Recommendations & Key Considerations
This section outlines key financial and asset management recommendations to
ensure the City of Pickering can achieve long-term financial sustainability, service
reliability, and infrastructure resilience. The focus is on aligning capital investment
with service level expectations while accounting for growth impacts and the
increasing complexity of asset management.
12.1 Financial Sustainability & Long-Term Funding Strategy
To achieve the proposed levels of service goals, the City must address the $32.8
million annual funding gap for tax-funded assets. The following strategies should be
considered:
•Structured tax levy increases: Implementing a phased tax increase (e.g., 2.8%
annually over 10 years) to close the infrastructure deficit while balancing
affordability.
•Reallocating existing revenue sources: Redirecting funding from asset
categories with surpluses to those facing deficits.
•Expanding the use of senior government grants: Prioritizing applications for
funding programs such as the Building Faster Fund (BFF) and Canada
Community-Building Fund (CCBF).
•Evaluating debt financing for critical projects: While the City has historically
limited debt use, targeted borrowing may or may not be available for high-
priority infrastructure investments.
•Adjusting future budgets for inflation: Ensuring annual infrastructure funding
accounts for construction cost escalations and inflationary pressures.
Failure to implement these strategies could result in accelerated asset deterioration,
increased maintenance costs, and reduced service reliability, making long-term
infrastructure sustainability difficult to achieve.
12.2 Growth-Related Financial Planning & Asset
Rationalization
As Pickering’s infrastructure portfolio expands, the City must account for the long-
term cost of growth. While new development often brings additional tax revenue, it
also creates new financial liabilities for maintenance, rehabilitation, and eventual
replacement. To ensure sustainable expansion, the City should:
•Develop a long-term growth cost model: Incorporate lifecycle funding
requirements for new infrastructure in financial planning to avoid creating
unfunded liabilities.
- 346 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
207
•Assess the cost-benefit of new asset acquisitions: Before assuming ownership
of new infrastructure, ensure that the long-term maintenance and replacement
costs are accounted for.
•Review opportunities for asset disposal: As the City’s portfolio grows, some
underutilized or redundant assets may be candidates for divestment, reducing
financial strain and allowing reinvestment in critical infrastructure.
•Increase development charge allocations for infrastructure renewal: Ensuring
that new developments contribute fairly to the cost of maintaining the overall
infrastructure network.
Without integrating growth planning into financial forecasting, the City risks
accumulating infrastructure that cannot be adequately maintained without
substantial future tax increases.
12.3 Improving Asset Data for Better Decision-Making
To enhance capital planning and risk management, the City should:
•Expand condition assessments across all asset classes to reduce reliance on
age-based deterioration models.
•Refine risk models to prioritize high-impact assets and optimize capital
investment decisions.
•Improve lifecycle cost modeling to identify cost-effective intervention points
and maximize infrastructure longevity.
•Leverage emerging technologies (e.g., GIS, IoT sensors) for real-time
monitoring and predictive maintenance.
Better data will enable more accurate funding requirements and support strategic
reinvestment in the City’s growing asset base.
12.4 Conclusion
Pickering’s infrastructure portfolio is not only expanding but also aging and
deteriorating, and increasing financial pressures present significant challenges for
effective management and maintenance. To maintain service reliability and
compliance with O. Reg. 588/17, the City must commit to a phased financial
strategy, integrate growth considerations, and optimize asset management
practices.
By implementing these recommendations, the City can balance infrastructure
investment, financial sustainability, and community expectations, ensuring long-
term resilience and responsible asset stewardship.
- 347 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
208
Appendices
Appendix A – 10-Year Capital Requirements
Appendix B – Level of Service Maps & Photos
Appendix C – Risk Rating Criteria
Appendix D – Additional Asset Portfolio Breakdown by
Sub-segments
Appendix E- Facility Condition Indices
- 348 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
209
Appendix A – 10-Year Capital Requirements
The tables The tables below summarize the projected costs of lifecycle activities (rehabilitation and replacement)
expected over the next 10 years to support the proposed levels of service. These projections are based on a 2.8%
annual tax increase over 10 years and cover the road corridor, stormwater system, bridges and culverts, as well as
specific budget figures for facilities and parks. The estimates are generated using Citywide and VFA, drawing from
data in the asset register.
Where available, condition assessments and replacement costs were used to forecast asset replacement needs. For
assets lacking condition data, age-based estimates were applied. Projected needs were then compared to available
funding, and any shortfalls are reflected as backlog—indicating overdue investment at the time of analysis.
These projections may differ from actual capital forecasts. Ongoing updates to condition data, replacement costs,
and lifecycle models will improve alignment between system-generated requirements and the City’s capital
planning.
Road Corridor
Segment Backlog 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Roads $54.3m $8.0m $9.0m $9.7m $11.9m $13.7m $15.7m $17.8m $16.6m $23.4m $26.6m
Roadside
Appurtenances
- - - - - - - - - -
Sidewalks $1.1m $12k $269k - - - $40k $45k - - -
Streetlights $223k - - - - $67k $51k $80k $3.8m $14k $12k
Traffic &
Pedestrian
Signals
$496k $138k $58k $934k $240k - $21k $93k $72k $44k $134k
Total $56.1m $8.1m $9.3m $10.6m $12.1m $13.8m $15.8m $18.0m $20.5m $23.5m $26.8m
- 349 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
210
Table 42: System Generated 10-Year Capital Replacement Forecast: Road Corridor
Bridges & Structural Culverts
Segment Backlog 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Bridges -27 $1.1m $362k - - - - - $168k - -
Culverts - $102k $36k $108k - - - $777k $2.1m $500k $823k
Total - $1.2m $398k $108k - - - $777k $2.3m $500k $823k
Table 43: System Generated 10-Year Capital Replacement Forecast: Bridges & Structural Culverts
Stormwater System
Segment Backlog 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Drainage
Channels
- - - - - - - - - - -
Storm Sewers $471k - - $454k $1.6m $2.0m $2.4m $3.0m $3.6m $4.4m $5.4m
Stormwater
Ponds
- - $1.2m $1.6m - - - - - - -
Total $471k - $1.2m $2.1m $1.6m $2.0m $2.4m $3.0m $3.6m $4.4m $5.4m
Table 44: System Generated 10-Year Capital Replacement Forecast: Stormwater System
27 Many of the structures with limited remaining useful life are scheduled for future rehabilitation or maintenance
under the OSIM program. However, these assets effectively represent immediate needs and should be closely
monitored to ensure planned interventions proceed as scheduled.
- 350 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
211
Buildings & Facilities
Segment Backlog 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Total $13.8m $15.6m $7.9m $33.5m $26.7m $11.9m $2.9m $4.4m $832k $1.6m $8.1m
Table 45: System Generated 10-Year Capital Replacement Forecast: Buildings & Facilities
Parks
Segment Backlog 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Total $4.7m $2.7m $2.9m $2.4m $3.6m $3.5m $2.2m $1.6m $2.5m $3.6m $5.0m
Table 46: System Generated 10-Year Capital Replacement Forecast: Parks
Other Infrastructure
Segment Backlog 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
Furniture &
Fixtures
- $65k $86k - $140k $122k $451k $77k $59k $287k $344k
Information
Technology
- $622k $259k $247k $768k $748k $431k $538k $695k $737k $318k
Library Collection
Materials
- - $354k $333k $277k $260k $314k $304k $74k $266k $338k
Machinery &
Equipment
$2.8m $1.3m $1.4m $1.1m $1.9m $1.6m $2.4m $1.5m $897k $1.6m $2.9m
Vehicles $7.9m $3.6m $3.6m $4.0m $2.7m $3.2m $2.5m $3.8m $4.6m $3.5m $2.6m
Total $10.8m $5.6m $5.7m $5.8m $5.9m $6.0m $6.1m $6.2m $6.3m $6.4m $6.5m
Table 47: System Generated 10-Year Capital Replacement Forecast: Other Infrastructure
- 351 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
212
Appendix B – Level of Service Maps & Photos
Road Corridor Classification Map – Part 1
- 352 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
213
Road Corridor Classification Map – Part 2
- 353 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
214
Sidewalk Network Classification Map – Part 1
- 354 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
215
Sidewalk Network Classification Map – Part 2
- 355 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
216
Bridges & Culverts Locations Map – Part 1
- 356 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
217
Bridges & Culverts Locations Map – Part 2
- 357 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
218
Images of a Bridge in Good Condition
Palmer Bridge
BCI Rating: Good
Image 1: Pavement of the road going over the
Bridge
Image 2: View of the span structure from
underneath the Bridge
Image 3: View of the span structure from
underneath the Bridge
Image 4: Sideview of the bridge structure
- 358 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
219
Images of a Bridge in Fair Condition
Petticoat Bridge
BCI Rating: Fair
Image 1: Pavement of the road going over the
bridge
Image 2: Cracks in the pavement
Image 3: Sideview of the bridge
Image 4: Delamination in the bridge structure
- 359 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
220
Images of a Culvert in Good Condition
Palmer Culvert
BCI Rating: Good
Image 1: A stream flowing through the culvert
Image 2: A stream flowing through the culvert
Image 3: Structure of the culvert from the
sideview
Image 4: Structure of the culvert from underneath
the bridge
- 360 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
221
Images of a Culvert in Fair Condition
Petticoat Culvert
BCI Rating: Fair
Image 1: Image overlooking the structure of the
culvert
Image 2: Image showing structure of the culvert
Image 3: Image of a stream flowing through the
culvert
Image 4: Image of a stream flowing through the
culvert
- 361 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
222
Stormwater System Classification Map – Part 1
- 362 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
223
Stormwater System Classification Map – Part 2
- 363 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
224
Parks Inventory Map
- 364 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
225
Appendix C – Risk Rating Criteria
Probability of Failure
Table 48: Probability of Failure Rating Criteria
Asset Category Risk Criteria Criteria Weighting Value/Range Probability of Failure Score
Road Corridor
Condition 100% 0-40 5
Condition 100% 41-60 4
Condition 100% 61-75 3
Condition 100% 75-90 2
Condition 100% 91-100 1
Stormwater System (Main)
Condition 90% 0-20 5
Condition 90% 21-40 4
Condition 90% 41-60 3
Condition 90% 61-80 2
Condition 90% 80-100 1
Pipe Material 10% Concrete 2
Pipe Material 10% Steel 3
All Other Assets
Condition 100% 0-20 5
Condition 100% 21-40 4
Condition 100% 41-60 3
Condition 100% 61-80 2
- 365 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
226
Asset Category Risk Criteria Criteria Weighting Value/Range Probability of Failure Score
Condition 100% 81-100 1
Consequence of Failure
Table 49: Consequence of Failure Rating Criteria
Asset Category Risk Classification Risk Criteria
Road Corridor
Economic (100%) Surface Material (20%)
Economic (100%) Design Class (25%)
Economic (100%) AADT Range (35%)
Economic (100%) Roadside Environment (20%)
Stormwater System (Main) Economic (100%) Replacement Cost (100%)
All other Assets Economic (100%) Replacement Cost (100%)
- 366 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
227
Appendix D – Additional Asset Portfolio Breakdown
by Sub-segments
Road Corridor – Portfolio Breakdown by Sub-segments
Figure 67: Road Corridor: Portfolio Valuation by Sub-segments
Figure 68: Road Corridor: Conditions by Sub-segments
$201k
$973k
$1.2m
$1.2m
$4.8m
$10.4m
$81.2m
$100.4m
$104.2m
$120.6m
$694.2m
$200m $400m $600m $800m
Broadband
Controllers
Retaining Walls
Guide Rails
Infrastructure
LED Lights
Poles & Assemblies
Sidewalks
Arterial
Collector
Local
Replacement Cost by Sub-Segment
$606k
$116k
$6.9m
$694k
$70.8m
$335k
$201k
$172.5m
$32.1m
$35.9m
$8.8m
$26.1m
$1.2m
$910k
$46.3m
$13.3m
$27.1m
$997k
$339k
$20.1m
$3k
$60.3m
$12.2m
$9.9m
$3.1m
$105.0m
$17.4m
$18.3m
$496k
$53.8m
$310.1m
$45.6m
$12.9m
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Infrastructure
Controllers
Poles & Assemblies
LED Lights
Sidewalks
Retaining Walls
Guide Rails
Broadband
Local
Collector
Arterial
Value and Percentage of Asset Sub-Segments by Replacement Cost
Very Good Good Fair Poor Very Poor
- 367 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
228
Figure 69: Road Corridor: Average Age vs Average Estimated Useful Life (EUL)
Figure 70: Road Corridor: Forecasted Capital Requirements (2025-2099)
22.2 24.9
34.7
6.0 10.2 14.4
8.0
37.1 16.6 20.7
30.0 30.0
29.2
30.0
40.0 40.0
19.7
38.0
13.0
25.0
051015202530354045
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
Y
e
a
r
s
Weighted Average Age Weighted Average EUL
$30.5m
$56.1m
$174.9m
$132.8m
$140.2m
$85.6m
$129.6m
$148.1m
$231.0m
$207.1m
$181.2m
$128.5m
$81.6m
$90.8m
$163.0m
$148.9m
$269.9m
$0
$50m
$100m
$150m
$200m
$250m
$300m
Fo
r
e
c
a
s
t
e
d
C
a
p
i
t
a
l
R
e
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
Arterial Collector Local
Broadband Guide Rails Retaining Walls
Sidewalks LED Lights Poles & Assemblies
- 368 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
229
Stormwater System – Portfolio Breakdown by Sub-
segments
Figure 71: Stormwater System: Portfolio Valuation by Sub-segments
Figure 72: Stormwater System: Conditions by Sub-segments
$45k
$88k
$207k
$1.5m
$1.6m
$2.4m
$4.8m
$4.9m
$10.6m
$22.8m
$26.2m
$32.3m
$250.4m
$100m $200m $300m
Access Roads
Fencing
Stormwater Wall
Clean Water Collectors
Dry Ponds
Inlet/Outlet Structures
Oil Grit Separators
Drainage Channels
Service Connections
Catch Basin and Lead
Wet Ponds
Maintenance Holes
Storm Sewer Mains
Replacement Cost by Sub-Segment
$9.6m
$88k
$45k
$207k
$179.5m
$834k
$3.6m
$22.7m
$1.2m
$1.5m
$3.5m
$4.9m
$1.3m
$60.4m
$590k
$7.7m
$763k
$264k
$590k
$1.8m
$286k
$12.2m
$9.7m
$19.3m
$4.4m
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Wet Ponds
Fencing
Dry Ponds
Access Roads
Stormwater Wall
Storm Sewer Mains
Service Connections
Oil Grit Separators
Maintenance Holes
Inlet/Outlet Structures
Clean Water Collectors
Catch Basin and Lead
Drainage Channels
Value and Percentage of Asset Sub-Segments by Replacement Cost
Very Good Good Fair Poor Very Poor
- 369 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
230
Figure 73: Stormwater System: Average Age vs Average Estimated Useful Life
(EUL)
38.4
6.7 42.4
38.2
21.3 38.1
38.2 4
2
38.3
2.8
50 75 75
75 50
50
75 50
50
100
40
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
Y
e
a
r
s
Weighted Average Age Weighted Average EUL
- 370 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
231
Figure 74: Stormwater System: Forecasted Capital Requirements (2025-2109)
$6.6m
$471k
$29.1m
$21.8m
$35.5m$36.4m
$15.8m
$57.7m
$68.5m
$85.3m
$27.5m
$21.5m
$39.6m
$10.8m
$15.1m
$13.9m
$34.2m
$4.4m
$5.2m
$0
$10m
$20m
$30m
$40m
$50m
$60m
$70m
$80m
$90m
Fo
r
e
c
a
s
t
e
d
C
a
p
i
t
a
l
R
e
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
Drainage Channels Catch Basin and Lead Clean Water Collectors Inlet/Outlet Structures
Maintenance Holes Oil Grit Separators Service Connections Storm Sewer Mains
Stormwater Wall Access Roads Dry Ponds Fencing
Wet Ponds Annual Requirement Total
- 371 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
232
Parks – Portfolio Breakdown by Sub-segments
Figure 75: Parks: Portfolio Valuation by Sub-segments
Figure 76: Parks: Weighted Average Age vs Weighted Average EUL
$1.5m
$2.5m
$5.0m
$6.3m
$6.8m
$11.1m
$11.3m
$13.0m
$15.2m
$22.8m
$10m $20m $30m
Site Furniture
Subsurface Infrastructure
Parking Lots & Internal Roads
Buildings
Playground Equipment
Site Structures
Electrical/Lighting
Waterfront Infrastructure
Pedestrian Corridors
Sport Playing Surfaces
Replacement Cost by Sub-Segment
15.7
21.2
17
29.5
19.7
20.9
30.2
12.3
30.1
20.2
15.4
18.4
34.6
22.6 15.9
36.3 33
81.3
24.1
26.2
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
Y
e
a
r
s
Weighted Average Age Weighted Average EUL
- 372 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
233
Other Infrastructure – Portfolio Breakdown by Sub-
segments
Figure 77: Other Infrastructure: Portfolio Valuation by Sub-segments
Figure 78: Other Infrastructure: Conditions by Sub-segments
$1.7m
$2.3m
$2.8m
$9.9m
$10.1m
$16.5m
$22.0m
$10m $20m
Library Collection Materials
Furniture & Fixtures
Information Technology
Minor Machinery & Equipment
Major Machinery & Equipment
Vehicles
Fire Vehicles
Replacement Cost by Sub-Segment
$3.0m
$2.3m
$1.5m
$3.2m
$3.2m
$3.3m
$1.7m
$1.3m
$221k
$441k
$662k
$1.6m
$4.9m
$2.0m
$2.2m
$560k
$909k
$630k
$4.0m
$2.4m
$1.4m
$1.6m
$287k
$564k
$577k
$4.8m
$9.1m
$3.2m
$1.9m
$604k
$917k
$446k
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Vehicles
Fire Vehicles
Minor Machinery
& Equipment
Major Machinery
& Equipment
Library Collection
Materials
Information
Technology
Furniture &
Fixtures
Value and Percentage of Asset Sub-Segments by Replacement Cost
Very Good Good Fair Poor Very Poor
- 373 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
234
Figure 79: Other Infrastructure: Average Age vs Average EUL
Figure 80: Other Infrastructure: Conditions by Sub-segments
11.2
4.6 4.4 5.3
8.2
11.4
6
19.7
5.7 6.6
10.2 11.2
15
7.8
0
5
10
15
20
25
Furniture &
Fixtures
Information
Technology
Library
Collection
Materials
Major
Machinery
&
Equipment
Minor
Machinery
&
Equipment
Fire
Vehicles
Vehicles
Nu
m
b
e
r
o
f
Y
e
a
r
s
Weighted Average Age Weighted Average EUL
$6.6m
$11.0m
$26.4m
$34.6m
$29.9m $32.4m
$37.1m
$26.8m
$37.0m
$0
$5m
$10m
$15m
$20m
$25m
$30m
$35m
$40m
Backlog 2025 -
2029
2030 -
2034
2035 -
2039
2040 -
2044
2045 -
2049
2050 -
2054
2055 -
2059
Fo
r
e
c
a
s
t
e
d
C
a
p
i
t
a
l
R
e
q
u
i
r
e
m
e
n
t
s
Furniture & Fixtures Information Technology
Library Collection Materials Major Machinery & Equipment
Minor Machinery & Equipment Fire Vehicles
Vehicles Annual Requirement
Total
- 374 -
City of Pickering
Asset Management Plan 2025
235
Appendix E – Facility Condition Indices
Table 50: Facility Condition Indices
Facility Name FCI (%)
City of Pickering Scale
(From Facilities Renewal
Study)
Fire Station #1 0 Excellent
Operation Centre 2 Excellent
Pickering Soccer Centre 2 Excellent
Pickering Museum Village (Does not
include historic pavilion structures) 14 Good
Fire Station #6 20 Good
Dunbarton Pool 22 Fair
George Ashe Library & Community Centre 25 Fair
Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation
Complex 26 Fair
Dr. Nelson F. Thomlinson Community
Centre 28 Fair
Civic Complex 35 Poor
West Shore Community Centre 36 Poor
Fire Station #4 38 Poor
Don Beer Arena 42 Disposal
East Shore Community Centre and East
Shore Senior Citizens Centre 43 Disposal
Fire Station #2 49 Disposal
Animal Services Shelter (FCI is assumed) 50 Disposal
Fire Station #5 51 Disposal
Greenwood Library 58 Disposal
Mount Zion Community Centre 59 Disposal
Whitevale Community Centre 76 Disposal
Greenwood Community Centre 78 Disposal
Brougham Hall 107 Disposal
Whitevale Arts & Culture Centre 115 Disposal
- 375 -
Attachment 2 to Report FIN 10-25
-
3
7
6
-
-
3
7
7
-
-
3
7
8
-
-
3
7
9
-
-
3
8
0
-
-
3
8
1
-
-
3
8
2
-
-
3
8
3
-
Report to Council
Report Number: CAO 06-25
Date: May 26, 2025
From: Marisa Carpino
Chief Administrative Officer
Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project
Scaled Down Schematic Design
File: A-1440-001
Recommendation:
1. That Report CAO 06-25 regarding the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project be
received;
2. That Council direct staff to complete additional design work for the Seaton Recreation
Complex & Library at a cost not to exceed $250,000.00 funded from the project
contingency that results in an alternative design and reduced project cost option not
exceeding $200 million, and for the alternative design and reduced project cost option to
be returned to Council in September, 2025;
3. That naming rights for any part of the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library project be
deferred until Council has approved the final design and a construction contract for the
project has been awarded; and
4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary
actions as indicated in this report.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to obtain Council authorization to
complete additional design work on the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library (SRCL) required
to provide a scaled down reduced cost option for the project by September 2025. Spending on
the project design was paused by Report CAO 05-25 (Resolution #698/25) in late April due to
broad economic uncertainty.
As per Resolution #698/25, staff were directed to provide a project update to Council, including
the consolidated base program schematic design concept, updated financial information and
project recommendations in September 2024. Council made it clear in approving Report CAO
05-25, that the SRCL project remained a high priority. Authorization is therefore requested to
complete additional design work , spending $250,000.00 from the previously approved project
consulting contingency budget to also provide for Council’s consideration in September 2025
with an alternative, scaled down schematic design concept that removes the twin pad arena.
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Priorities to Champion Economic Leadership & Innovation; Advocate
for an Inclusive, Welcoming, Safe & Healthy Community; Advance Innovation & Responsible
- 384 -
CAO 06-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Page 2
Planning to Support a Connected, Well-Serviced Community; Lead & Advocate for
Environmental Stewardship, Innovation & Resiliency; Strengthen Existing & Build New
Partnerships; and Foster an Engaged & Informed Community.
Financial Implications: The Consulting Services for the SRCL w ere awarded to Perkins &
Will Canada Inc. in June, 2024 (Resolution #523/24) in the amount of $7,150,000.00 (HST
excluded), with a total net project cost of $9,021,024.00 (net of HST rebate). The awarded
project includes contingency of $700,000.00. Perkins & Will have confirmed the cost to
develop a scaled down option that removes the twin-pad arena from the design, not to exceed
$250,000.00 (net HST), including the development of an updated cost estimate for the scaled
down option to be completed by August, 2025. This cost is funded from the approved project
contingency.
There are no new financial implications resulting from the recommendations in this report.
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to obtain Council authorization to complete
additional design work for the SRCL required to provide an alternative, reduced cost option for
the project by September 2025, including related work . Spending on the project was paused by
Report to Council CAO 05-25 (Resolution #698/25) in late April 2025 due to broad economic
uncertainty and its potential impacts on the City’s ability to fund the project.
1. Decision History
a. Report FIN 01-24 (Resolution #379/24) was presented to Council in January, 2024
regarding capital project priorities. The SRCL was approved as the first Capital
Budget priority at an estimated total project cost of $242.97 million (design,
construction, and furniture & fixtures).
b. Report OPS 12-24 (Resolution #523/24) was presented to Council in June, 2024 to
award the consulting services for the SRCL to Perkins & Will, with a total net project
cost for design of the SRCL of $9,021,024.00.
c. Report CAO 06-24 (Resolution #632/24) was presented to Council for information in
December, 2024 and provided a semi-annual project update including an update on
site works and land acquisition, completed community engagement activities, and
the operating budget and programming model. By December, 2024, three schematic
design options were developed by Perkins & Will Inc. A community engagement
campaign was launched for a five-week period to collect feedback on the three
schematic design options.
d. Report CAO 05-25 (Resolution #698/25) was presented to Council in April, 2025 and
paused the approval and further development of proposed design of the project due
to a challenging economic climate. In addition, the City’s Treasurer also identified
the high level of debt and corresponding high annual debt charges that the City
would be responsible for when considering this project and other debt financed
- 385 -
CAO 06-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Page 3
projects within the next ten years. The findings of the completed public engagement
process were also provided.
e. Report CS 06-25 (Resolution #709/25) awarded consulting services for geotechnical
and hydrological reports and environmental investigation for the SRCL to DS
Consultants Ltd. Backfill operations of 25-acre site where the SRCL will be located
commenced in 2024. Rough grading, bearing performing targets and soil quality
requirements were provided by Perkins & Will and issued to the contractor
completing the backfill work. The geotechnical and hydrological reports and
environmental investigation services are required to ensure the quality of the site
materials and was timely as site backfilling had begun.
2. While a project pause was approved in April (Resolution #698/25), staff recommend
further design work be completed to present a scaled down option to Council in
September .
At the April 22, 2025 Special Council Meeting, Council approved pausing further design of the
SRCL Project. A project pause was recommended due to the ongoing tariff war between
Canada and the United States which may result in significant economic repercussions. A
short-term pause can help mitigate risks associated with the unknown potential impacts of
tariffs and other economic disruptors. The pause also allows the City to reassess the project
design and construction plans in light of the economic environment and corresponding high
cost and debt charges. Staff indicated in Report CAO 05-25 that limited expenditures related to
time-sensitive site preparations, including geotechnical and hydrological studies would proceed
to ensure that the SRCL site is transferred to the City in a suitable condition for construction
without requiring extensive and expensive re-work.
Perkins & Will were awarded consulting services for SRCL, per Report OPS 12-24, and are
best positioned to help the City develop the alternative design as part of their existing contract.
Much of the design work on SRCL completed to date can be re-used, including stakeholder
consultation results.
It is equally important to note that the existing pool at the Chestnut Hill Developments
Recreation Complex (CHDRC) is also nearing the end of its serviceable life, with major
renovations expected to be required in five years. Should construction of SRCL not be
completed by that time, the City risks a significant potential reduction in aquatic programming,
as Dunbarton Pool is too small and also at capacity, preventing it from accommodating any
displaced demand if the CHDRC pool were to close. If design work for the SRCL project were
to be deferred beyond 2025, it would be unlikely that the new facility could be opened in time.
This request for authorization to proceed with an alternative, reduced scope option, aims to
avoid that scenario.
3. A reduced scope option with a total project budget of $200 million for SRCL is
proposed to be presented as part of the Report to Council for September, 2025.
Report CAO 05-25 recommended a total pause to the project in light of the looming threat of
tariffs, potential impacts to international trade, and the corresponding rising risk of economic
- 386 -
CAO 06-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Page 4
recession. Council agr eed with the pause, but m ade it clear that the SRC L project remains a
high priority, including revising recommendation 4 of that report to advanc e the scheduled
update report from Q 4 , 2025 to September 2024.
As per Resolution #698/25, staff w ere directed to provide a project update to Council, including
the consolidated base program schematic design concept, updated financial information and
project recommendations in September 2024. At this time, authorization is requested to
undertak e further design and ex pend up to $250,000.00 from the previously approv ed project
consulting budget, per Report OPS 12-24 (Resolution #523/24), enabling staff to provide an
alternate, scaled down and less costly design option for the project for Council’s consideration in
September 2024.
4. The scaled down option will remove the twin pad arena from the facility amenities
Removing the twin-pad arenas from the SRCL sc ope of w ork is the most likely means to
reduc e the project’s cost, that in turn, reduces property tax levy funded annual debt charges.
(An estimated levy increase of 5.20% was required to fund the annual debt charges for the ice
pads.). However, employing this strategy will require Don Beer Arena to remain open. Don
Beer Arena was recommended to close w hen SRCL opened, in keeping with the
recommendations of the Parks & Recreation 10-Year Plan. The City has been limiting capital
reinvestment in this aging facility as its older rinks near their anticipated end of life, with Rink 1
having been constructed in 1970, and Rink 2 in 1973.
In April 2025, through Report CAO 05-25, staff pr ovided a summary of the SRC L project based
on a total project cost of $241,396,829. The project cost is comprised of $167,142,223 funded
from Development Charges, or 69.24 percent of the total funding and $74,254,606 funded from
the City, or 30.76 percent of the total funding. The total cost of the two NHL-sized ice pads,
estimated at $68.5 m illion, are 100 percent taxpayer funded sinc e the construction of the arena
is not considered a growth project as it is assum ed to replac e the D on Beer Arena. An
increase to property taxes to fund the SRC L would be largely driv en by the debt charges
associated with the two twin pads.
In 2024, the City completed an Arena Strategy that was approv ed by Council (Resolution
#514/24). The strategy identified that based on current use and demand, that a provision of
four indoor ic e pads is required currently and a total of fiv e ic e pads is required by 2034. As the
City has fiv e ic e pads presently, there is a surplus of ic e available. This strategy con firm ed that
the construction of tw o new ic e pads at the SRC L would not be growth related, rather intended
to replac e the aging D on Beer Arena. The fact that the arenas are not related to new growth
makes them ineligible for D evelopment Char ge funding.
Without the new twin-pad arena at the SRCL, the City will need to operate Don Beer Arena to
continue to provide the existing level of service. The continued operations of D on Beer Arena
includes an annual net operating expense of around $594,000, and an estimated $19,451,248
in deferr ed maintenanc e capital cost required over the next ten years. These costs are based
on like-f or-lik e replacement of the existing assets and exclude any potential upgrades that m ay
be requested or required.
- 387 -
CAO 06-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Page 5
5.It is recommended that facility naming be explored during the construction stage of
the project
In addition to the considerations above, at the Council meeting on September 3, 2024, Report
CS 26-24 was submitted to recommend that staff be directed to explore the naming of the
gymnasium at the future Seaton Community Centre and Library as the Wayne Arthurs
gymnasium.
Resolution #473/24, included direction for staff to:
1)explore the naming of the gymnasium in the Seaton Community Centre and Library as
the Wayne Arthurs gymnasium subject to undertaking the work outlined in the City
Property Naming Procedure (ADM 110-006) and report back with the final
recommendations in Q2, 2025; and
2)that Council grant staff the authority to solicit public comment on the proposed name, as
set out in section 03.02 of City Property Naming Procedure (ADM 110-006).
Due to the pause to the project, staff recommend deferring any community engagement
regarding the City Property Naming for SRCL until such time that the final design has been
approved and construction has started. This will allow the community to give a more informed
response as well as become re-engaged with the project.
Attachment: None.
Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By:
Original Signed By Original Signed By
Vince Plouffe, OAA, MRAIC Stan Karwowski, MBA, CPA, CMA
Division Head, Facilities Management Director, Finance & Treasurer
& Construction
Original Signed By
Laura Gibbs, MBA, MSc.
Director, Community Services
M C:vp
- 388 -
CAO 06-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Page 6
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Original Signed By
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
- 389 -
Report to Council
Report Number: CAO 07-25
Date: May 26, 2025
From: Marisa Carpino
Chief Administrative Officer
Subject: Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program
Project Update
File: A-1440
Recommendation:
1. That Report CAO 07-25 regarding Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program be received;
2. That staff be directed to register the City of Pickering in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
Program at the Corporate Membership Level;
3. That the expense for the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, be charged to account
General - Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (502240.9750) and the expense not to exceed
$7,000.00); and
4. That appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the actions
necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to provide an update on the Hidden
Disabilities Sunflower Program. In accordance with Resolution #672/25, from the February 24,
2025 Council Meeting, staff were directed to research the appropriate level of Hidden
Disabilities Sunflower membership including associated costs and report back to Council no
later than Q2 2025.
After careful consideration, staff determined that the corporate membership level would be the
most appropriate membership level for the City of Pickering. Corporate membership allows
businesses, public spaces, and transportation services to show their commitment to support
people with hidden disabilities.
Steps to join the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program include registration, training and
awareness, lanyards and badges, commitment to accessibility, and ongoing support and
evaluation. To retain active membership, 80 per cent of City staff must be trained on the
program.
The internal program launch date is scheduled for May 27, 2025 which aligns with National
Accessibility Week, which runs from May 25th to May 31st. The external program launch date is
set for July 2025.
- 390 -
CAO 07-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program Page 2
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report align
with the Pickering Strategic Plan Priorities of Advocate for an Inclusive, Welcoming, Safe &
Healthy Community; and Strengthen Existing & Build New Partnerships.
Financial Implications: The cost of corporate membership is $2,940.00 per year. In
addition, wearer and supporter materials will cost approximately $3,500.00 in year one. Wearer
and supporter materials include lanyards, decals, and one corporate starter pack for internal
trainers.
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to provide an update on the Hidden Disabilities
Sunflower Program. In accordance with Resolution #672/25, from the February 24, 2025
Council Meeting, staff were directed to research the appropriate level of Hidden Disabilities
Sunflower membership including associated costs and report back to Council no later than Q2
2025.
Staff initially considered training would be undertaken by a select group of frontline staff
(Customer Care Centre and front counter staff) in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program.
However, further discussions, including consultation with the Town of Ajax who are already
members of the program, highlighted the need to broaden the initiative, ensuring that all
employees, including camp counsellors and firefighters, receive the program training. This
expanded scope serves two key purposes: maintaining a consistent level of service for
residents with hidden disabilities, regardless of which City staff person they may interact with,
and fostering a culture of accessibility and inclusion among all employees. There are no
additional membership costs incurred by this expanded scope.
A. Membership Level:
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program is a global initiative that aims to raise awareness
and improve accessibility for individuals with hidden disabilities. The core value of the Hidden
Disabilities Sunflower is inclusion. The program strives to create inclusive environments where
people with hidden disabilities can access services and participate without facing
discrimination or undue challenges, ensuring they do not feel self-conscious when seeking
assistance.
Corporate membership allows businesses, public spaces, and transportation services to show
their commitment to support people with hidden disabilities. Steps to join the Hidden
Disabilities Sunflower Program include registration, training and awareness, lanyards and
badges, commitment to accessibility, and ongoing support and evaluation.
Registration: Businesses, organizations, and service providers must first complete a
registration process through the official Sunflower Scheme website. This includes providing
details about the organization and its commitment to ensuring accessibility and inclusivity.
Training and Awareness: Once registered, the corporate member is expected to undergo
training related to hidden disabilities, understanding the needs of individuals with these
- 391 -
CAO 07-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program Page 3
conditions, and how to offer appropriate support. This training is provided as part of a
partnership with the Sunflower Program. The intent is to provide training to all City staff where
practicable. The training program commitment is a one-time, thirty minute training session. In
order to remain active members, a minimum 80 percent of City staff must be trained on the
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program at all times.
Lanyards and Badges: Upon completing the registration and training, corporate members
receive sunflower lanyards and/or badges for wearers and supporters, which can be
distributed to employees and/or displayed in prominent locations. The lanyards serve as a
signal for those who may need assistance due to a hidden disability.
Commitment to Accessibility: Corporate members must also commit to making reasonable
adjustments within their organizations or spaces to improve accessibility. This may include
providing clearer signage, adjusting communication methods, or offering additional support
when needed.
Ongoing Support and Evaluation: Corporate members are encouraged to continue
evaluating their practices, ensuring they remain in line with the principles of the Hidden
Disabilities Sunflower Program.
B: Launch Date:
The internal program launch date is scheduled for May 27, 2025, in line with National
Accessibility Week, which is taking place from May 25th to May 31st for the purpose of both
celebrating the contributions of persons with disabilities in Canada and highlighting past and
continuing work towards the identification and removal of barriers to accessibility in Canada.
The external program launch date is set for July 2025. This allows approximately two months
from the internal to external launch date for staff training to meet the corporate membership
requirement of having and maintaining a minimum of 80 percent of City staff trained on the
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program.
Attachment: Resolution #672/25
Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By:
Justine Wallace, Ph.D(c) Mark Guinto
(Acting) Supervisor, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Division Head, Public Affairs & Corporate
Communications
MG:jw
Original Signed By:Original Signed By:
- 392 -
CAO 07-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program Page 4
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
Original Signed By:
- 393 -
Legislative Services Division
Clerk’s Office
Directive Memorandum
February 28, 2025
To: Marisa Carpino
Chief Administrative Officer
From: Susan Cassel
City Clerk
Subject: Direction as per Minutes of the Meeting of City Council held on
February 24, 2025
Supporting Hidden Disabilities - Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program
Council Decision Resolution #672/25
WHEREAS, many Canadians live with hidden disabilities, the Hidden Disabilities
Sunflower program was created to encourage inclusivity, acceptance, and
understanding;
And Whereas, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program provides support to
individuals living with hidden disabilities by providing a simple and discrete tool that
allows individuals to voluntarily identify their needs without disclosing a particular
condition;
And Whereas, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program provides an opportunity to
recognize that someone may need a helping hand, understanding or more time in
public spaces. Some disabilities, conditions, or chronic illnesses are not immediately
obvious to others;
And Whereas, other municipalities and corporations such as the Town of Ajax, Durham
Region Transit, Billy Bishop and Toronto Pearson Airports, and Metrolinx are also
members of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program;
And Whereas, participation in this program provides for staff training, and aligns with
the City of Pickering Multi-Year Accessibility Goal of working toward removing existing
barriers for persons with disabilities;
Now therefore be it resolved that the Council of The Corporation of the City of
Pickering directs through the Office of the CAO:
1. That the City of Pickering will join the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program
and continue to explore new ways to make the City of Pickering’s customer
experience more inclusive for all;
2. That staff research the appropriate level of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
membership including associated costs and report back to Council no later than
the end of Q2 2025; and,
Attachment 1 to Report CAO 07-25
- 394 -
Please take any action deemed necessary.
SC:am
3. That a copy of this resolution be sent to John Henry, Chair of the Regional
Municipality of Durham, the Durham Region Health and Social Services
Committee, Durham Ontario Health Team, Community Care Durham, Durham
Mental Health Services, and the Pickering Accessibility Advisory Committee.
- 395 -
Report to Council
Report Number: CAO 08-25
Date: May 26, 2025
From: Marisa Carpino
Chief Administrative Officer
Subject: Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce
2024 Year End Report and Proposed 2025 Workplan
File: A-1440
Recommendation:
1.That Report CAO 08-25 regarding the Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce 2024 Year
End Report and Proposed 2025 Workplan be received for information;
2.That Council approve the 2025 3rd Annual Community event in celebration of the
International Day for People of African Descent, per ADM 040 Committees and
Taskforces of Council Policy, and on terms and conditions satisfactory to the Director,
Community Services and the Chief Administrative Officer;
3.That Council authorize staff to issue a park permit to the Pickering Anti-Black Racism
Taskforce for the use of Esplanade Park, per CUL 070 Community Festivals and Events
Policy, for the Community Event in celebration of the International Day for People of
African Descent; and
4.That Council approve the Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce-led 2025 Black Joy
Holiday Market event, per ADM 040 Committees and Taskforces of Council Policy, and
on terms and conditions satisfactory to the Director, Community Services and the Chief
Administrative Officer.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to provide the Pickering Anti-Black
Racism Taskforce (PABRT) 2024 Year End Report and 2025 Workplan to Council. The report
also seeks Council’s endorsement of PABRT-led signature events, including the 2025 Black
Joy Holiday Market event and the 2025 3rd Annual Community event in celebration of the
International Day for People of African Descent. Additionally, it requests authorization for staff
to issue a park permit in Esplanade Park for the 3rd Annual Community event.
The Committees and Taskforces of Council Policy (ADM 040) requires that PABRT seek
Council approval to hold public events. Per section 04.03 and 18.01 of ADM 040, this report
includes information about the month in which the event will be held, the purpose of the event,
budget and any other confirmed details.
Additionally, the Community Festivals and Events Policy (CUL 070) outlines the criteria,
guidelines and processes by which requests to host events in City parks are received and
considered for approval. Per section 04.01 of CUL 070, as a “Signature Park”, community
event requests for Esplanade Park must be approved by Council.
- 396 -
CAO 08-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce Page 2
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priority of Advocate for an Inclusive, Welcoming, Safe &
Healthy Community; and Foster an Engaged & Informed Community.
Financial Implications: For 2025, PABRT has an approved operating budget of $85,000.
These funds will be allocated to the action area indicated below.
Action Area Description Budget
Consultation Strategic visioning around the anti-Black
racism initiatives and impacts in the
community
$60,000
Community
engagement, events,
and partnerships
Collaborations with community partners
through events, meetings, and other
initiatives
$12,500
Marketing and
promotions
Supplies and materials to support and
promote community engagements (e.g.,
signage, literature, reports, printing)
$10,000
Contingency For unanticipated expenses $2,500
TOTAL $85,000
Discussion: The following list provides a summary of initiatives and activities that PABRT
members have engaged in 2024.
A. 2024 Year End Report:
Together We Rise Durham: Black History, Intersectionality and Joy (February 1, 2024):
The 2024 Together We Rise Durham: Black History, Intersectionality and Joy Black History
Month celebration was hosted by the Region of Durham, in partnership with Durham Regional
Police Service, Canadian Jamaican Club of Oshawa, City of Oshawa, City of Pickering,
Congress of Black Women Whitby/Oshawa, DurhamONE, Lakeridge Health, Municipality of
Clarington, Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, PABRT, The Township of
Brock, Town of Ajax and Town of Whitby. The celebration took place at the Chestnut Hill
Developments Recreation Complex, bringing communities across Durham Region together for
an uplifting evening of music, dance and a panel discussion featuring Debbie Miles -Senior, Dr.
Andrew Bernard Thomas, Liza Arnason, and Shellene Drakes -Tull.
Cultural Expressions 17th Annual Black History Month Celebration (February 3, 2024):
PABRT partnered with Cultural Expressions Art Gallery to host the 17th Annual Durham Black
History Month celebration at J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate in Ajax, celebrating the beauty of
Black culture and the diversity of the Black experience in Durham Region. PABRT provided an
information table as part of the community networking portion of the event to engage event
attendees and raise awareness about PABRT.
- 397 -
CAO 08-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce Page 3
Pride Durham Annual Pride Parade & Festival (June 2, 2024): PABRT members and the
City of Pickering were proud partners in the 2024 Pride Durham Annual Pride Parade hosted in
the Town of Ajax. With support from more than 15 City staff members from various
departments, volunteer community members, family and friends, the City of Pickering was well
represented while walking alongside the community.
International Day for People of African Descent Community Celebration (August 31,
2024): PABRT hosted the 2nd Annual International Day for People of African Descent
Community Celebration in partnership with Durham Family Cultural Centre (DFCC), Durham
One, and Ifarada Centre for Excellence in Pickering’s Esplanade Park. The day included a
Vendor Market with over 25 Black-Owned local businesses, a community Basketball
tournament, cultural games and activities, and a painting workshop with local artist, Lois on
Canvas.
Durham Region Municipal DEI Symposium (October 26, 2024): Members of PABRT
participated in the Durham Region Municipal DEI Symposium, hosted by the Durham Region
Anti-Racism Taskforce in partnership with the Municipality of Clarington, City of Oshawa, City
of Pickering, and Town of Ajax. Local committees, taskforces and working groups joined for a
day of connecting, collaborating, and strategizing to share goals, plan for longer term
sustainability and success, and work to collaborate more intentionally.
3rd Annual Black Joy Holiday Market and Afro-Caribbean Food Basket Initiative
(November 15, 23, 24, 2024): PABRT partnered with the DFCC to join the City of Pickering’s
first night of Winter Nights, City Lights Festival and Santa Claus Parade weekend, bringing the
Black Joy Holiday Market to the community as a 3-day initiative beginning on November 15
and concluding with an independent wee kend on November 23 and 24 at the Chestnut Hill
Developments Recreation Complex. Open to all community members, the holiday pop -up
market included over 90 Black-owned local businesses, artists, and performers, and had more
than 4,000 people attend over its three days. The event coincided with a holiday food basket
drive that provided Black families with culturally significant, Afro-Caribbean diasporic food
baskets. A total of 340 food baskets were distributed to families experiencing financial hardship
and/or food insecurity in the Durham Region.
Community Presentations and Consultations: The Taskforce welcomed several community
partners throughout the year to deliver presentations about various community initiatives and
engage in consultation. These included: City of Pickering - Community Services Department
(public art installations, museum exhibits, etc.), Ifarada Institute (Programs and Initiatives for
Black Communities), PFLAG Canada, Durham Region (Programs and Events), and Cultural
Expressions Art Gallery (Black History Month). Several of these presentations resulted in
community collaborations, including the work plan.
B. 2025 Workplan
PABRT members have developed a new work plan for 2025 to build on existing successes
and advance their mandate to: enhance the shared experience and opportunities of Black
residents; implement tangible and sustainable actions to support the prevention, reduction, and
response to systemic and institutional anti-Black racism in Pickering; foster transparency and
accountability in identifying and addressing systemic and institutional anti-Black racism within
- 398 -
CAO 08-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce Page 4
Pickering; identify and coordinate opportunities for community engagement; and, celebrate,
conserve, and promote the Black community and Black culture, heritage, and history.
Action Area Description Deliverables
Consultation Strategic visioning
surrounding anti-
black racism
initiatives and
impacts in the
community.
• Initiate and develop a final report with
recommendations to address Anti-Black racism
and anti-oppression in Pickering, for Council’s
consideration.
• Conduct community engagement and
consultation with residents, organizations, and
municipal leaders.
Community
engagements,
events, and
partnerships
Collaborations with
community partners
through events,
meetings, and other
initiatives
• Nurture and develop new partnerships with City
of Pickering, Region of Durham, Cultural
Expressions, Durham Family Cultural Centre,
Ifarada, Durham One and other municipalities
and service organizations.
• Plan and implement signature
events: Annual Community event in celebration
of the International Day for People of African
Descent and Black Joy Holiday Market.
• Continued partnership in community events
such as those in support of Black History Month
(i.e. Together We Rise Annual Black History
Month Celebration and Cultural Expressions
Black History Month Celebration), Emancipation
Day and City of Pickering events (i.e. Artfest,
Cultural Fusion, Winter Nights City Lights).
Marketing and
promotions
Supplies and
materials to support
and promote
community
engagements
• Event signage, educational resources, and
other promotional and printed materials.
• Event supplies for activations and information
tables at community events.
Per section 04.03 and 11.01 of the Committees and Taskforces of Council Policy (ADM 040),
“taskforces must seek Council approval to hold an event and each request to Council must
include the complete details of the event (e.g., budget, approximate number of staff required,
month the event would be held in, and purpose of the event).” The policy also requires that the
proposed event is in accordance with the Terms of Reference and mandate of the group.
- 399 -
CAO 08-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce Page 5
While discussions with PABRT are still ongoing to finalize event participation, and Council
approval is required before these events can officially proceed.
3rd Annual Community Celebration for the International Day for People of African
Descent
Date: August, 2025
Location: Esplanade Park
Budget allocation: $4,000
Description: The International Day for People of African Descent commemorates the adoption
of the first declaration of the rights of people of African descent on August 31,1920, in New
York. In celebration of this historic milestone, PABRT, in partnership with the City of Pickering,
will host a community gathering in Esplanade Park. The event will provide a platform for Anti -
Black racism community groups and Black-led service organizations to network and engage
with community members around programs, service and other initiatives. It will also be used to
advance PABRT’s strategic visioning initiative.
4th Annual Black Joy Holiday Market
Date: November 14 &15, 2025
Location: Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex
Budget allocation: $6,000
Description: In collaboration with the DFCC, PABRT will host its third annual Black Joy Holiday
Market as a holiday pop-up market that showcases local Black-owned businesses. Following
last year’s success, the event will be integrated into the existing “Winter Nights, City Lights”
community festival hosted by the City of Pickering. This event will coincide with a holiday food
basket drive coordinated by the DFCC to address food insecurity, alleviate financial hardship,
and promote Black culture through the provision of culturally relevant items.
City of Pickering staff from applicable departments support the events, in principle, subject to
various event requirements being met by PABRT during the event planning process. The
requirements may include, but are not limited to, the following:
• permit for rental facility (if applicable)
• proof of liability insurance (if applicable)
• rentals of event equipment and supplies
• submission of site plan and emergency response plan
• pre-registration that does not exceed capacity
• adherence to the City’s Emergency Weather Standard Operating Procedure
• hiring of site security and police officers to monitor event operations (if applicable)
City of Pickering Events: PABRT will participate in the City of Pickering’s community events
for Artfest (May 24 & 25, 2025) and Cultural Fusion (September 13, 2025) by providing
information booths with small interactive activities to engage event attendees and raise
community awareness around the PABRT initiatives.
- 400 -
CAO 08-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce Page 6
Attachment: None.
Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By:
Justine Wallace, Ph.D(c) Mark Guinto
(Acting) Supervisor, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Division Head, Public Affairs and
Corporate Communications
MG:jw
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
Original Signed By:Original Signed By:
Original Signed By:
- 401 -
Report to Council
Report Number: CS 08-25
Date: May 26, 2025
From: Laura Gibbs
Director, Community Services
Subject: Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Roof and Skylight Replacement
Second-Stage Request for Quotation No. RFQQ2025-5
File: A-1440-001
Recommendation:
1. That the quotation submitted by Solar Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. in response to Second-
Stage Request for Quotation No. RFQQ2025-5 for the Chestnut Hill Developments
Recreation Complex Roof (D, D1, I4) and Skylight Replacement, in the amount of
$1,496,177.00 (net HST) or $1,661,439.00 (HST included) be accepted;
2. That the total gross project cost of $1,966,539.00 (HST included), including the amount of
the tender, construction contingency, and other associated costs, and the total net project
cost of $1,770,929.00 (net HST) be approved;
3. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project cost of
$1,770,929.00 to be funded from the Facilities Reserve and CCBF (FGT) Oblg RF as
approved in the 2024 and 2025 Capital Budgets;
4. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to approve consulting costs that may
exceed $50,000.00 but not in excess of $65,000.00 to prevent any related risks of delays in
construction;
5. That the Director, Community Services be authorized to execute the CCDC -2, 2020
Stipulated Price Contract with Solar Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. pursuant to Second Stage
Request for Quotation No. RFQQ2025-5; and
6. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary
actions as indicated in the report.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to award a construction contract and
related work for the replacement of roof areas D, D1, I4 and related skylights at the Chestnut
Hill Developments Recreation Complex (CHDRC), located at 1867 Valley Farm Road.
The purpose of this work is to provide all labour, machinery, tools, apparatus, materials,
equipment, and other means of construction for the replacement of the roof s (D, D1 and I4),
roughly corresponding to the area supported by the space frame structure visible over the
lobby , banquet hall, fitness area and adjacent spaces inside the building, and related
- 402 -
CS 08-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Roof
and Skylight Replacement Page 2
components at CHDRC as quoted through RFQQ2025-5. These roof s and skylights have
reached the end of their serviceable life and require replacement.
Second-Stage Quotation Request No. RFQQ2025-5 through the Ontario Education
Collaborative Marketplace (OECM) agreement was published on the City’s bids&tenders portal
to 13 pre-qualified contractors on March 11, 2025, and closed on April 2, 2025. Bids
submissions were received from five contractors.
All pre-conditions of award required in accordance with the bid document have been reviewed
and approved. The lowest compliant quotation submitted by Solar Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd.
in the amount of $1,496,177.00 (net HST) or $1,661,439.00 (HST included), is recommended
for approval. The total gross project cost is estimated to be $1,966,539.00 (HST included) and
the total net project cost is estimated at $1,770,929.00 (net of HST rebate).
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priority of Advocate for an Inclusive, Welcoming, Safe &
Healthy Community .
Financial Implications:
1. Second Stage Quote Amount
RFQQ2025-5 $1,470,300.00
HST (13%) 191,139.00
Total Gross Quotation Cost $1,661,439.00
2. Estimated Project Costing Summary
RFQQ2025-5 $1,470,300.00
Testing and Inspection Costs
Consulting Costs
30,000.00
65,000.00
Contingency (12%) 175,000.00
Total Project Cost $1,740,300.00
HST (13%) 226,239.00
Total Gross Project Costs $1,966,539.00
HST Rebate (11.24%) (195,610.00)
Total Net Project Cost $1,770,929.00
- 403 -
CS 08-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Roof
and Skylight Replacement Page 3
3. Approved Source of Funds – Community Services Capital Budget
Approved Code Source of Funds Funds Available Funds Required
C10225.2406 CCBF (FGT) Oblg RF $2,600,000.00 $1,770,929.00
C10225.2406 Facilities Reserve 40,000.00 0.00
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to award a construction contract and related work
for the replacement of roof areas D, D1, I4 and related skylights at the CHDRC, located at
1867 Valley Farm Road. The existing roof s and skylights within areas D, D1 and I4, generally
located above the existing space frame over the main lobby , banquet hall, fitness area and
adjoining spaces, are at end of life and require replacement. Most were installed in 2002 and
have already seen extensive localized repairs. Full replacement is now required.
Work will proceed gradually over the course of the summer and be coordinated to minimize
disruptions to existing programming. Some short term, isolated shutdowns will be required as
the skylights are replaced, and to ensure the safety of building occupants below. Advance
notice will be provided prior to any temporary service disruptions. As this is exterior work,
weather will also be a factor. Consulting costs included in the project cost estimate include
design and related fees already awarded, as well as an allowance for additional site visits to
ensure a high degree of oversight and quality control. This is a critical roof for the ongoing
operation of the CHDRC, and extra site inspections will help ensure that all work is completed
in accordance with the contract documents.
Second-Stage Request for Quotation No. RFQQ2025-5 through the OECM agreement was
published on the City’s bids&tenders portal to 13 pre-qualified contractors on March 11, 2025,
and closed on April 2, 2025. Bids submissions were received from five contractors.
In accordance with the Purchasing Policy, Item 13.01, the Manager may enter into
arrangements with municipalities, local boards and other public bodies on a cooperative or
joint venture basis where there are economic advantages and where the best interests of the
City would be served.
All pre-conditions of award required in accordance with the bid document have been reviewed
and approved. The top-ranked response submitted by Solar Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. in the
amount of $1,496,177.00 (net HST) or $1,661,439.00 (HST included), is recommended for
approval. The total gross project cost is estimated to be $1,966,539.00 (HST included) and the
total net project cost is estimated at $1,770,929.00 (net of HST rebate).
Attachment: None.
Project Cost under (over) approved funds by
$869,071.00
- 404 -
CS 08-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Roof
and Skylight Replacement Page 4
Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By:
Original Signed By Original Signed By
Vince Plouffe, OAA, MRAIC Laura Gibbs, MBA, MSc.
Division Head, Facilities Management Director, Community Services
& Construction
Original SIgned ByOriginal Signed By
Dennis Yip, P.Eng., PMP®, CEM, LEED® AP Cathy Bazinet, CPPB, NIGP-CPP
Manager, Facilities Capital Projects Manager, Procurement
Original Signed By
Stan Karwowski, MBA, CPA, CMA
Director, Finance & Treasurer
VP:dy
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Original Signed By
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
- 405 -
Report to Council
Report Number: CS 10-25
Date: May 26, 2025
From: Laura Gibbs
Director, Community Services
Subject: General Contr acting Services for Redman House Restoration
Tender No. T2025-6
File: A-1440-001
Recommendation:
1.That the bid submitted by Icon Builders Inc. in response to Request for Tender No.
T2025-6 for General Contracting Services for Redman House Restoration, in the amount
of $592,070.21 (net HST) or $657,467.90 (HST included) be accepted;
2.That the total gross project cost of $843,918.00 (HST included), including the amount of
the tender, construction contingency, and other associated costs, and the total net project
cost of $759,974.00 (net HST) be approved;
3.That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project cost of
$759,974.00 to be funded as approved in the 2018, 2021, 2022 and 2024 Capital Budget
as follows:
a.The sum of $121,289.00 to be funded by the Rate Stabilization Reserve;
b.The sum of $516,560.00 to be funded by the GICB grant;
c.The sum of $88,000.00 to be funded by the Facilities Reserve;
d.The sum of $34,125.00 to be funded by Property Taxes;
4.That the Director, Community Services be authorized to execute the CCDC-2, 2020
Stipulated Price Contract with Icon Builders Inc. pursuant to Request for Tender No.
T2025-6; and
5.That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary
actions as indicated in the report.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to award General Contract Services
for Redman House Restoration, located on the lower site of the Pickering Museum Village at
3550 Greenwood Road. The restoration work includes restoration of architectural elements,
building envelope, reconstruction of the existing barrier-free access ramp, structural repairs,
interior work, demolition, mechanical, electrical, and information technology as tendered
through T2025-6. Renovation is required to maintain the Redman House as a public program
space, with renovated amenities including a program kitchen, program room, public
washrooms, and to provide office and break room space for staff that run programs at the
museum . Renovation work will maintain the aesthetic of the historic character of the building.
- 406 -
CS 10-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: General Contracting Services for Redman House Renovation Page 2
Request for Tender No. T2025-6 was advertised on the City’s Bids & Tenders portal on March
19, 2025, and closed on April 22, 2025. Bid submissions were received from 11 contractors. All
required pre-conditions of the award have been received and approved; therefore, the lowest
compliant bid submitted by Icon Builders Inc. in the amount of $592,070.21 (net HST) or
$657,467.90 (HST included), is recommended for approval. The total gross project cost is
estimated to be $843,918.00 (HST included), and the total net project cost is estimated at
$759,974.00 (net of HST rebate). A significant portion of the total project cost is funded by the
Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) federal grant program.
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priority of Advocate for an Inclusive, Welcoming, Safe &
Healthy Community .
Financial Implications:
1. Tender Amount
Tender T2025-6 $518,830.00
Tender T2025-6 (Optional Prices) 63,000.00
HST (13%) 75,637.90
Total Gross Tender Cost $657,467.90
2. Estimated Project Costing Summary
Tender T2025-6 including Optional Prices $581,830.00
Testing and Inspection Costs
Additional Consulting and Costs
20,000.00
25,000.00
Contingency (20%) 120,000.00
Total Project Cost 746,830.00
HST (13%) 97,088.00
Total Gross Project Costs $843,918.00
HST Rebate (11.24%) (83,944.00)
Total Net Project Cost $759,974.00
3. Approved Source of Funds – Community Services Capital Budget
Approved Code Source of Funds Funds Available Funds Required
C10250.2210 Rate Stabilization $85,519.00 $85,519.00
C10250.2210 GICB Grant 516,560.00 516,560.00
C10250.2210 Facilities Reserve 88,000.00 88,000.00
C10250.2106 Property Taxes 34,125.00 34,125.00
C10250.2104 Rate Stabilization 358,800.00 35,770.00
Total $1,083,004.00 $759,974.00
- 407 -
CS 10-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: General Contracting Services for Redman House Renovation Page 3
Project Cost under (over) approved funds by
$ 323,030.00
All project costs will be allocated and consolidated under C10250.2210 (Redman House
Restoration). The funding from C10250.2104 (PHCC Site Preparation) and C10250.2106
(Museum Site Accessibility) will be consolidated under C10250.2210.
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to award General Contract Services for Redman
House Restoration, located on the lower site of the Pickering Museum Village at 3550
Greenwood Road. The Redman House Program Centre serves as the main facility on the
lower site of the museum property for delivery of programs and amenities, including
washroom s, kitchen, eating and meeting spaces. Half of the building is of heritage construction
(ca. 1840). It was renovated and expanded with an addition in 2004. Having served as the
heart of museum operations since that time, many major components of the building are
heavily worn and require restoration or replacement.
Staff submitted an application to the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB)
program in accordance with Report CS 28-21 (Resolution #629/21) securing $516,560.00 in
funding for the project. Conditions of the GICB grant require general energy efficiency retrofits
to the building. These will be achieved through upgrades to both mechanical and electrical
systems and components, roof replacement and localized improvements to building
assemblies. Accessibility improvements will prioritize replacement of the existing ram p, which
must be relocated to prevent further damage to the building’s foundations. Energy
improvements for this facility also align with targets set by the City’s Corporate Energy
Management Plan.
Work will commence in July and be coordinated to minimize disruptions to the lower museum
site with a target completion date in January 2026. Funding agreements with GICB were
extended due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the original project schedule, but all
funds must be expended by March 2026. As this project includes exterior work, weather will
also be a factor. Additional c onsulting costs have been included in the project cost estimate as
an allowance for additional site visits to ensure a high degree of oversight and quality control
during the work, and in case concealed conditions are discovered.
A higher-than-normal construction contingency has also been included due to the heritage
construction nature of the building. It is common to encounter unforeseen and non-standard
materials and assemblies in historic buildings. The additional funds will avoid any potential
project delays should such conditions be encountered.
Request for Tender No. T2025-6 was advertised on the City’s Bids & Tenders portal on March
19, 2025, and closed on April 22, 2025. Bid submissions were received from 11 contractors.
Icon Builders Inc. is the lowest compliant bid and is recommended for award in the amount of
$592,070.21 (net HST) or $657,467.90 (HST included), subject to the receipt and approval of
all pre-conditions of award required in accordance with the bid document.
The total gross project cost is estimated to be $843,918.00 (HST included), and the total net
project cost is estimated at $759,974.00 (net of HST rebate).
- 408 -
CS 10-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: General Contracting Services for Redman House Renovation Page 4
Attachment: None.
Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By:
Original Signed By Original Signed By
Vince Plouffe, OAA, MRAIC Cathy Bazinet, CPPB, NIGP-CPP
Division Head, Facilities Management Manager, Procurement
& Construction
Original Signed ByOriginal Signed By
Dennis Yip, P.Eng., PMP®, CEM, LEED® AP Laura Gibbs, MBA, MSc.
Manager, Facilities Capital Projects Director, Community Services
Original Signed By
Stan Karwowski, MBA, CPA, CMA
Director, Finance & Treasurer
LG :dy
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Original Signed By
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
- 409 -
Report to Council
Report Number: INF 03-25
Date: May 26, 2025
From: Brian Duffield
Director, City Infrastructure
Subject: Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets
Tender No. T2025-4
File: A-1440
Recommendation:
1. That the bid submitted by 1108575 Ontario LTD O/A Kon-Strutt Construction in response
to Request for Tender No. T2025-4 for Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets, in
the amount of $2,509,862.00 (net HST) or $2,787,091.00 (HST included) be accepted;
2. That the total gross project cost of $3,237,785.00 (HST included), including the tendered
amount, geotechnical investigation reports, material testing, contingency and other
associated costs, and the total net project cost of $2,915,727.00 (net of HST rebate) be
approved;
3. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project cost of
$2,915,727.00 as approved in the 2025 Capital Budget from the Building Faster Fund
(BFF) Reserve Fund, on the condition that the City receives the grant funding related to
achieving its 2024 housing targets; and the default funding strategy would have the
projects funded by a transfer from Roads & Bridges Reserve Fund; and,
4. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary action
to give effect hereto.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to award Request for Tender No.
T2025-4 for Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets.
As part of the 2025 Engineering Roads Capital Budget, the following ten locations were
approved for asphalt resurfacing:
• Creekview Circle – from Downland Drive to Petticoat Lane
• Rosebank Road – from Gillmoss Road to Dahlia Crescent
• Sunrise Avenue – from West Shore Boulevard to Breezy Drive
• Storrington Street – from Walnut Lane to Listowell Crescent
• Echo Point Court – from Glenanna Road to North Terminus
• Greenburn Place – from Fifth Concession Road to North Terminus
• Linwood Street – from Bridle Path (west leg) to Parkdale Street
• Lodge Road – from Fieldlight Boulevard to Poppy Lane
• Fairview Avenue – from Browning Avenue to South Terminus
• Vistula Drive – from Batory Avenue to Elvira Court
- 410 -
INF 03-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets Page 2
• Garvolin Avenue – from Modlin Road to Krosno Boulevard
Fairvew Avenue was reconstructed in 2023 and the surface lift of asphalt from Browning
Avenue to South Terminus was included in the 2025 Engineering Capital Budget. This work
was included in Request for Tender No. T2025-4 due to similarity in scope.
Request for Tender No. T2025-4 was advertised on the City’s Bids&Tenders portal on March
12, 2025, and closed on April 11, 2025 with six bids submitted. The lowest compliant bid
submitted by 1108575 Ontario LTD O/A Kon-Strutt Construction in the amount of
$2,466,451.90 (net HST) or $2,787,090.65 (HST included), is recommended for approval. The
total gross project cost is estimated to be $3,237,785.00 (HST included), and the total net
project cost is estimated at $2,915,727.00 (net of HST rebate).
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priority of Advance Innovation & Responsible Planning to
Support a Connected, Well-Serviced Community
Financial Implications:
1. Tender Amount
Tender T2025-4 $2,466,451.90
HST (13%) 320,638.75
Total Gross Tender Cost $2,787,090.65
2. Estimated Project Costing Summary
Tender No. T2025-4 $2,466,452.00
Geotechnical Investigation Reports 31,400.00
Materials Testing
Provincial Building Faster Fund (BFF) Sponsor Signage
69,297.80
2,173.00
Contingency (12%) 295,974.00
Total Project Cost 2,865,296.80
HST (13%) 372,489.00
Total Gross Project Costs $3,237,785.00
HST Rebate (11.24%) (322,059.00)
Total Net Project Cost $2,915,727.00
- 411 -
INF 03-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets Page 3
3. Approved Source of Funds – Engineering Services Capital Budget
Expenditure
Account
Source of Funds Funds Available Funds Required
C10570.2505
C10570.2506
C10570.2508
C10570.2509
C10570.2511
C10570.2512
C10570.2513
C10570.2514
C10570.2515
C10570.2516
C10570.2517
Total Funds
BFF Reserve Fund
BFF Reserve Fund
BFF Reserve Fund
BFF Reserve Fund
BFF Reserve Fund
BFF Reserve Fund
BFF Reserve Fund
BFF Reserve Fund
BFF Reserve Fund
BFF Reserve Fund
BFF Reserve Fund
498,333.98
450,080.18
477,405.53
341,320.38
202,664.68
586,556.64
425,381.29
557,695.99
73,090.93
421,752.45
466,036.62
$4,500,318.67
361,439.00
356,083.00
184,274.00
257,437.00
117,946.00
326,838.00
310,150.00
380,039.00
31,639.00
227,624.00
362,258.00
$2,915,727.00
Net project cost (over) under approved funds $1,584,591.67
When Finance staff were developing the funding strategy for the 2025 Capital Budget, BFF
dollars were introduced to reduce the funding challenges for 2025 and capital forecast. During
the budget development stage, finance staff analyzed the City’s current housing target activity
in comparison to the Provincial housing target. Based on this analysis, finance staff introduced
the use of BFF dollars for the 2025 Capital Budget. This funding strategy was explained in the
2025 Financial Housekeeping Report (FIN 02-25). The Province has not yet announced the
City's BFF allocation, but it's expected in the coming weeks with the announcement of 2024
BFF grant funding recipients.
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to award Request for Tender No. T2025-4 for
Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets to 1108575 Ontario LTD O/A Kon-Strutt
Construction.
As part of the 2025 Engineering Roads Capital Budget, the following asphalt resurfacing
locations were approved as construction projects:
• Creekview Circle – from Downland Drive to Petticoat Lane
• Rosebank Road – from Gillmoss Road to Dahlia Crescent
• Sunrise Avenue – from West Shore Boulevard to Breezy Drive
• Storrington Street – from Walnut Lane to Listowell Crescen
• Echo Point Court – from Glenanna Road to North Terminus
• Greenburn Place – from Fifth Concession Road to North Terminus
• Linwood Street – from Bridle Path (west leg) to Parkdale Street
• Lodge Road – from Fieldlight Boulevard to Poppy Lane
- 412 -
INF 03-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets Page 4
• Fairview Avenue – from Browning Avenue to South Terminus
• Vistula Drive – from Batory Avenue to Elvira Court
• Garvolin Avenue – from Modlin Road to Krosno Boulevard
As part of the 2016 Road Needs Study endorsed by Council through Resolution #374/17,
these streets have been identified and recommended for resurfacing improvements. The 2016
Road Needs Study is used by staff as a resource document for identifying and planning
maintenance, rehabilitation and reconstruction strategies, programs and projects for all
Pickering roads. The roads selected for asphalt resurfacing in 2025 align with the priorities of
the 2016 Road Needs Study.
Request for Tender No. T2025-4 was advertised on the City’s Bids&tenders portal on
Wednesday, March 12, 2025, and closed on Friday, April 11, 2025 with six bids submitted. The
lowest compliant bid of $2,509,861.00 (net HST) or $2,787,090.00 (HST included) submitted
by 1108575 Ontario LTD O/A Kon-Strutt Construction is recommended for approval. The total
gross project cost which includes the tendered amount, a construction contingency, and other
associated costs is estimated at $3,237,785.00 (HST included) with an estimated total net
project cost of $2,915,727.00 (net HST).
Through RFSQ2023-1 Roster Category of Geotechnical Investigation and Inspection Services
Master Framework Agreement, the geotechnical investigation and inspection services under
associated costs have been awarded to GHD.
Reference for 1108575 Ontario LTD O/A Kon-Strutt Construction have been reviewed and are
deemed acceptable by the Division Head, Capital Projects & Infrastructure. In conjunction with
staff’s review of the Contractor’s previous work experience, the tender is deemed acceptable.
Upon careful examination of all tenders and relevant documents received, the City
Infrastructure Department recommends acceptance of the lowest compliant bid submitted by
1108575 Ontario LTD O/A Kon-Strutt Construction for RFT No. T2025-4 in the amount of
$2,787,090.65 (HST included), and that the total net project cost of $2,915,727.00 (net of HST
rebate) be approved.
Attachment:
1. Location Map
Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By:
Original Signed By: Original Signed By:
Kevin Heathcote, P.Eng. Brian Duffield
Division Head, City Infrastructure Director, City Infrastructure
- 413 -
INF 03-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets Page 5
Original Signed By:
Cathy Bazinet, CPPB, NIGP-CPP
Manager, Procurement
Original Signed By:
Stan Karwowski, MBA, CPA, CMA
Director, Finance & Treasurer
KH:bd
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Original Signed By:
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
- 414 -
T2025-4 – Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets Page 1 of 6
Location Maps
Project Area No. 1 – Creekview Circle
Creekview Circle – from Downland Drive to Petticoat Lane. The proposed work includes asphalt
resurfacing. Existing concrete curbs and gutters and sidewalks that are deficient shall be
removed and replaced as required.
Project Area No. 2 – Rosebank Road
Rosebank Road – from Gillmoss Road to Dahlia Crescent. The proposed work includes asphalt
resurfacing. Existing concrete curbs and gutters and sidewalks that are deficient shall be
removed and replaced as required.
Attachment 1 to Report INF 03-25
- 415 -
T2025-4 – Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets Page 2 of 6
Project Area No. 3 – Sunrise Avenue
Sunrise Avenue – from West Shore Boulevard to Breezy Drive. The proposed work includes
asphalt resurfacing. All existing concrete barrier curbs shall be removed and replaced with new
concrete curbs and gutters.
Project Area No. 4 – Storrington Street
Storrington Street – from Walnut Lane to Listowell Crescent. The proposed work includes
asphalt resurfacing. Existing concrete curbs and gutters and sidewalks that are deficient shall
be removed and replaced as required.
- 416 -
T2025-4 – Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets Page 3 of 6
Project Area No. 5 – Echo Point Court
Echo Point Court – from Glenanna Road to North Terminus. The proposed work includes
asphalt resurfacing. Existing concrete curbs and gutters and sidewalks that are deficient shall
be removed and replaced as required.
Project Area No. 6 – Greenburn Place
Greenburn Place – from Fifth Concession Road to North Terminus. The proposed work includes
asphalt resurfacing. Existing concrete curbs and gutters that are deficient shall be removed and
replaced as required.
- 417 -
T2025-4 – Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets Page 4 of 6
Project Area No. 7 – Linwood Street
Linwood Street – from Bridle Path (west leg) to Parkdale Street. The proposed work includes
asphalt resurfacing. Existing concrete curbs and gutters and sidewalks that are deficient shall
be removed and replaced as required.
Project Area No. 8 – Lodge Road
Lodge Road – from Fieldlight Boulevard to Poppy Lane. The proposed work includes asphalt
resurfacing. All existing concrete barrier curbs shall be removed and replaced with new
concrete curbs and gutters.
- 418 -
T2025-4 – Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets Page 5 of 6
Project Area No. 9 – Fairview Avenue
Fairview Avenue – from Browning Avenue to South Terminus. The proposed work includes
concrete curb, maintenance hole and catch basin frame adjustments, surface asphalt
placement and pavement markings.
Project Area No. 10 – Vistula Drive
Vistula Drive – from Batory Avenue to Elvira Court. The proposed work includes asphalt
resurfacing. All existing concrete barrier curbs shall be removed and replaced with new
concrete curbs and gutters.
- 419 -
T2025-4 – Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets Page 6 of 6
Project Area No. 11 – Garvolin Avenue
Garvolin Avenue – from Modlin Road to Krosno Boulevard. The proposed work includes asphalt
resurfacing. All existing concrete barrier curbs shall be removed and replaced with new
concrete curbs and gutters.
- 420 -
Report to Council
Report Number: PLN 12-25
Date: May 26, 2025
From: Kyle Bentley
Director, City Development & CBO
Subject: Environmental Registry of Ontario Postings: ERO 025-0461, ERO 025-0462,
ERO 025-0463, Bill 17: Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act, 2025
Regulatory Registry of Ontario Postings: 25-MMAH003
City of Pickering Comments on ERO and Regulatory Postings
File: L-1100-068
Recommendation:
1. That Council endorse the comments contained in Report PLN 12-25, as the City of
Pickering detailed comments on the ERO Postings ERO 025-0461, ERO 025-0462,
ERO 025-0463, 25-MMAH003; and
2. That Council authorize the Chief Administrative Officer to submit the Council endorsed
comments on the identified ERO and Regulatory postings to the Ministry of Municipal
Affairs and Housing website by the June 11 and 26, 2025, deadlines.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to inform Council of proposed changes
in legislation from Bill 17, seek Council’s endorsement of staff’s comments on these changes,
and authorize the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to submit formal comments to the
Province on the proposed legislative changes.
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priority of Advance Innovation & Responsible Planning to
Support a Connected, Well-Serviced Community.
Financial Implications: While there are no immediate costs to the City as a result of the
proposed changes, the long-term financial implications are unknown at this time. The potential
need for the City to absorb the cost of undertaking peer reviews of technical studies to assist in
the review of development applications, and the impact from proposed changes to
development charges, will likely result in future costs to the City unless the Province offers
alternatives to make municipalities whole.
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to inform Council of proposed changes in legislation
from Bill 17 (Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act, 2025), seek Council’s
endorsement of staff’s comments on these changes, and authorize the CAO to submit formal
comments to the Province on the proposed legislative changes.
- 421 -
PLN 12-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Environmental Registry of Ontario Postings Page 2
1. Background
On May 12, 2025, the Province released Bill 17: Protect Ontario by Building Faster and
Smarter Act, 2025, for comment on the Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO) and
the Regulatory Registry. This Bill includes proposed changes to various pieces of
legislation, regulations, and policies, with the purpose of making it easier and faster to
build new homes, and infrastructure like transit, roads, and water and wastewater
systems.
The following postings were listed on the ERO for either a 30 or a 45-day commenting
period concluding on June 11 and 26, 2025, respectively. The ERO Postings are
summarized below:
2. ERO Postings
2.1 ERO 025-0461 Proposed Planning Act and City of Toronto Act, 2006 Changes
(Schedules 3 and 7 of Bill 17: Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act,
2025): Minor Variances, Minister’s Zoning Orders, Study Requirements, and
Planning for Schools.
2.1.1 As-of-right setback variations
The Province is proposing that variations to zoning by-law regulations be permitted “as
of right” if a proposal is within a prescribed percentage of the required setback (the
minimum distance a building or structure must be from a property line or other protected
area) on specified lands.
Specified lands would include parcels of urban residential lands outside of the
Greenbelt Area, and exclude areas such as hazardous lands, and lands near shorelines
and railways.
This would mean that appearing before a municipal committee of adjustment would not
be necessary for proposals that otherwise comply with zoning by-laws but need
variations from setback requirements no greater than the prescribed percentage (see
also related ERO 025-0463 below).
2.1.2 Minister’s Zoning Orders with conditions
The Province is proposing to allow the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to
impose conditions (i.e., on municipalities or proponents) that must be met before a use
permitted by a Minister’s Zoning Order comes into effect.
2.1.3 Limit complete application requirements
The Province is proposing to limit complete application requirements to the studies
currently identified in the City’s Official Plans. Any new or revised requirements would
have to be approved by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
- 422 -
PLN 12-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Environmental Registry of Ontario Postings Page 3
The Province is also proposing to specify the certified professionals from whom
municipalities would be required to accept studies without question or peer review.
2.1.4 Permit Schools Broadly
The Province proposes to exempt the placement of all portable classrooms at public
school sites from site plan control. Currently, public schools built prior to January 1, 2007,
are exempt from site plan control when adding a portable classroom. This change would
extend the exemption to all school sites.
The Province is also proposing to amend the Planning Act to explicitly allow the use of
Kindergarten to Grade 12 public schools and ancillary uses (such as associated
childcare) on urban land zoned for residential uses “as-of-right."
2.2 ERO 025-0462 Proposed Regulations – Reducing the number and type of studies
for Complete Applications
The Province is proposing regulation-making authority that would enable the Minister of
Municipal Affairs and Housing to reduce the number and type of studies comprising a
complete application.
As proposed, municipalities would no longer be permitted to require the following
studies as part of a complete planning application:
• Sun/Shadow: Reviews the impact of shadows cast by a proposed development on
the subject land and surrounding lands, including streets and parks.
• Wind: Reviews the potential wind condition at the pedestrian level and on properties
adjacent to tall buildings.
• Urban Design: Reviews how the massing, layout, materials, and design of a building
and site align with municipal urban design guidelines or policies.
• Lighting: Reviews lighting levels, including the location and type of lighting fixtures
proposed on the exterior of the building and on the site.
In cases where an exception is required to enable additional studies, municipalities
would have to seek approval from the ministry.
2.3 ERO 025-0463 Proposed Regulation– As-of-right Variations from Setback
Requirements
Schedule 7 of Bill 17 proposes to amend the Planning Act to provide regulation-making
authority to reduce planning applications for minor variances. If passed, Bill 17 would
enable the Minister, by regulation, to permit variation to a zoning by-law to be “as of
right” if a proposal is within a prescribed percentage of the required setback (the
minimum distance a building or structure must be from a property line) on specified
lands.
- 423 -
PLN 12-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Environmental Registry of Ontario Postings Page 4
The ERO posting also states that the proposed changes would work with Ontario
Regulation 299/19: Additional Residential Units to help create additional residential
units, such as basement suites, by eliminating additional barriers related to setbacks.
While it specifically refers to required setbacks, the ERO posting also requests comments
on the application of “as-of-right” variations to additional performance standards (e.g.,
height, lot coverage).
3. Regulatory Registry Posting 25-MMAH003
The government has proposed amendments to standardize the rules in the Development
Charges Act, 1997 and enhance cost predictability for new developments. The proposed
changes are intended make it easier and faster for new homes and infrastructure to be
built.
A detailed review of the changes proposed to the Development Charges Act were
provided by Watson & Associates and are contained in Attachment 1.
Staff are unable to provide a thorough review of the proposed changes to the
Development Charges Act within the timeframe of this report and will continue to
monitor the proposed changes and inform Council of potential impacts to municipalities
as it moves through the legislative process.
4. Staff comments on the proposed changes to the Planning Act
4.1 As-of-right setback variations
As described earlier, permitting setback variations “as-of-right” would apply to all forms
of development (residential and non-residential). It would apply to both new construction
as well as additions to existing buildings even though the ERO posting suggests that
this permission would work to promote and expedite the construction of additional
dwelling units (ADUs). At this time, staff are not aware that existing setback
requirements are creating a barrier to the construction of safe ADUs.
Setbacks within municipal zoning by-laws are written to achieve a variety of intents such
as:
• accommodate space for building, fence, and property line maintenance
• avoid roof drainage onto neighbouring properties
• permit access to side yards
• preserve private amenity space in rear yards, and
• create consistent streetscapes
- 424 -
PLN 12-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Environmental Registry of Ontario Postings Page 5
The proposed change would be subject to a regulation in the Planning Act that would
identify the amount of variance that would be permitted (i.e., 5%, 10%, etc.). At this
time, it is not known what value may be implemented in a future regulation. As a result,
it is difficult to anticipate all outcomes of permitting setback variations “as-of-right”.
Staff do not support permitting setback variations “as-of-right”. Zoning setbacks are
already designed to be minimum standards necessary to achieve responsible
development in keeping with the Official Plan designation for the neighbourhood. These
setbacks provide a consistent framework to guide developers and property owners on
where development can occur. These setbacks also give confidence to neighbouring
property owners that new development and expansions will not create conditions that
require trespass or encroachment onto their property. Under the current regulations in
the Planning Act, the public can seek variances where it is demonstrated that the site-
specific circumstances warrant a modification.
Based on the manner and type of construction, the Ontario Building Code (OBC) also
requires separation distances for new buildings from property lines. However, zoning
setbacks account for scenarios not addressed by the OBC. For example, if approved,
“as-of-right” variations could reduce the 1.2 metre minimum path of travel required to
access ADUs constructed in rear yards. This could compromise the ability for
emergency services personnel from reaching occupants of ADUs with necessary
equipment (i.e., stretchers).
The proposed as-of-right variations to zoning standards do not appear to provide a
useful tool in Pickering. A review of the 32 City of Pickering applications for side yard
variances over the last 6 months found that only one would have met a 10% as-of-right
variation, as put forward by the Province for consultation. Further, it is noted that
Committee of Adjustment applications are most frequently associated with the
construction of replacement dwellings, as opposed to construction of dwellings adding
to the City’s complement of units. Where a variance may be required for a dwelling
adding to the City’s complement of units, there would not be a significant delay as
Pickering’s Committee of Adjustment meets once a month.
The proposed as-of-right variations for side yards, and building height, lot coverage, or
other zoning provision is not recommended. It would create a second zoning standard
to be checked by staff, and from which, presumably, a variance could still be applied for.
Committees of Adjustment serve the function to consider minor changes to a zoning
by-law, taking into consideration a number of site specific factors about the proposed
development, the site itself, the abutting development and context, and make a
decision, which is then appealable by various parties. The Committee of Adjustment
should be the body that determines variances, not a zoning review officer identifying a
prescribed zoning variation by provincial regulation with no local context.
- 425 -
PLN 12-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Environmental Registry of Ontario Postings Page 6
4.2 Minister’s Zoning Orders with conditions
Currently, Minister's Zoning Orders (MZOs) are approved with no conditions. This
means that properties receiving an MZO have demonstrated, to the Minister’s
satisfaction, that the approved use is appropriate and that the corresponding zoning
regulations are satisfactory to support development.
The Province is proposing to permit MZOs that could be subject to conditions imposed
by the Minister. It is unclear what these conditions would include (i.e., conditions related
to the phasing of development, completion of required studies, or the provision of
infrastructure). As a result of this uncertainty, staff cannot provide comments on this
proposed change. More information is needed on the nature of conditions that may be
imposed in order for municipalities to be able to comment.
4.3 Limit complete application requirements
4.3.1 Listing required studies in the Official Plan
Staff agree that potential studies necessary for a complete application should be listed
in a municipal Official Plan. Appendix I to Report 12-25 contains a list of potential
studies from the Pickering Official Plan that the City has deemed appropriate for a
complete application in the City of Pickering.
4.3.2 Accepting studies from certified professionals
Staff strongly oppose the proposal that the City should accept and implement studies
from certified professionals without review and oversight by appropriate municipal staff,
peer review consultants on behalf of City staff where required, and outside agencies.
Submission of a study by a certified professional does not automatically ensure that the
document is without error. Part of the oversight conducted by the municipal review of an
application is to identify any factual and contextual errors or omissions that may occur in
a study.
The basis of this proposed change is that municipalities would accept the conclusions of
studies, prepared by certified professionals, as infallible and not requiring amendment
or revision. This would place Council in a position of relying on, and making decisions
on, studies even if the information they contain is identified by staff as being inaccurate
or incomplete. It is unclear who would bear liability (the certified professional or Council)
for decisions made by Council in these circumstances. This could lead to Council
denying more applications. The inevitable resubmissions or appeals may be more costly
and longer than the existing application review process.
4.3.3 Prohibit Sun/Shadow, Wind, Urban Design, and Lighting studies as part of a
complete application
Staff strongly oppose the proposal to restrict the studies noted above. Sun/shadow and
wind studies are vital to determining the comfort and enjoyment resulting from a
- 426 -
PLN 12-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Environmental Registry of Ontario Postings Page 7
development on surrounding public and private spaces. No one enjoys sitting in a park
that is cast in shadow all day. No one enjoys walking along a sidewalk or sitting at a
restaurant patio in excessively windy conditions. These conditions impact comfort and
mental well-being when they limit the enjoyment of the amenity spaces within a
development.
Urban design studies are requested from developers to ensure their proposal reflects
relevant design policies and adheres to any Council-approved urban design guidelines.
These studies ensure that a proposed development fits well within its surrounding
context and contributes positively to the public realm. They assess key elements such
as building height, massing, and the relationship to adjacent streets and buildings while
addressing connectivity and walkability. Urban design studies provide visuals to
communicate design intent to Council and the public, and support design excellence.
Municipalities review lighting studies to ensure public safety and avoid nuisance
concerns. For example, a lighting study ensures sufficient illumination is provided at
driveway entrances so that motorists can clearly see pedestrians walking at night.
Lighting studies also ensure that all outdoor common areas are effectively illuminated to
promote safety and discourage illicit behaviour. The results of a lighting study are also
used to identify where light shields are required to avoid unwanted light projecting onto
neighbouring properties.
If municipalities are no longer permitted to request these studies from developers,
Council may find themselves in the position of contracting these studies, at the City’s
expense, to achieve a thorough review of an application. It is unknown how often this
approach would be warranted and what the cost to the City would be from this action.
Requiring these studies from developers will help ensure that new developments
continue supporting livability, safety, and high-quality urban environments.
4.4 Permit schools broadly
Staff have no objection to the proposed removal of Site Plan Control for school
portables. School sites are generally large enough to accommodate portables, and
school boards have the necessary resources to ensure that portables will not impact on-
site drainage, parking and traffic. As temporary structures, portables can also be
relocated as needed.
Staff also support allowing new schools (K-12) “as-of-right" on urban land zoned for
residential uses. As long as the site is of adequate size, land that is suitable for new
home construction is also suitable for new schools.
5. Other Bill 17 proposed changes not included in any ERO postings
Bill 17 also proposes a variety of legislative and regulatory changes not contained in
one of the ERO postings, including restricting the ability of municipalities to request
green building standards that exceed the minimum requirements of the Ontario Building
Code.
- 427 -
PLN 12-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Environmental Registry of Ontario Postings Page 8
5.1 Pickering’s Integrated Sustainable Design Standards
Bill 17 would significantly restrict the City of Pickering’s ability to enforce its Integrated
Sustainable Design Standards (ISDS). The ISDS is a framework that supports the City’s
commitment to sustainable growth, environmental stewardship, and the development of
inclusive and healthy communities. Developed through extensive engagement with
residents, stakeholders, the development community, including a Pickering focused
building advisory panel, the ISDS is based on best practices for integrating sustainability
into new development.
Since January 1, 2023, the ISDS checklist has been applied to all new planning
applications. In late 2023, Council strengthened the standards by approving an Official
Plan Amendment, requiring all new developments to meet ISDS criteria (see
Resolution #332/23, Attachment 2).
Importantly, Pickering’s ISDS have not delayed approvals or hindered provincial
housing targets, countering concerns that sustainability standards slow development.
Although the ISDS supports many existing initiatives, such as the 2024-2028 Corporate
Strategic Plan, Community Climate Adaptation Plan (anticipated for Council approval in
May as of this writing), and the Durham Community Energy Plan, proposed Bill 17
would weaken the authority to enforce aspects of key performance measures.
These measures include:
• Urban Heat Island Reduction
• Building Energy Performance and Emissions
• Renewable Energy
• Building Resilience
• Criteria related to accessibility and community safety
• Light Pollution Reduction
• Common Outdoor Amenity Space
• Bird-Friendly Design
• Electric Vehicle Rough-in/Ready
• Indoor Bicycle Parking and Storage
• Construction Waste Reduction
• Stormwater Management
• Water Efficiency
It is unclear whether the Province will be seeking comments on any of the changes
listed in Section 5 of this Report through future ERO postings.
6. Conclusion
Staff do not support the following changes proposed by Bill 17: the establishment of as-
of-right variations to zoning standards; restrictions to the type and number of supporting
studies municipalities may request in support of development applications; and
- 428 -
PLN 12-25 May 26, 2025
Subject: Environmental Registry of Ontario Postings Page 9
requirements for municipalities to accept supporting studies prepared in support of
development applications without a peer review. Staff do not support restrictions being
imposed on municipalities from requiring developers to adhere to Council-approved
green development standards.
It is recommended Council endorse the comments contained in Report PLN 12-25, as
the City of Pickering’s detailed comments on the ERO Postings ERO 025-0461,
ERO 025-0462, ERO 025-0463, 25-MMAH003, and that Council authorize the Chief
Administrative Officer to submit the Council endorsed comments on the identified
ERO and Regulatory postings to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing website
by the June 11 and 26, 2025, deadlines.
Appendix:
Appendix I Potential studies required as part of a complete application
Attachments:
1.Preliminary Assessment of Bill 17 (Watson & Associates)
2.Resolution 332-23 Official Plan Amendment for ISDS
Prepared By:
Original Signed By
Paul Wirch, RPP
Principal Planner, Policy
Approved/Endorsed By:
Original Signed By
Catherine Rose, MCIP, RPP
Chief Planner
Original Signed By
Kyle Bentley, P. Eng.
Director, City Development & CBO
PW:ld
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Original Signed By
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
- 429 -
Appendix I to
Report No. PLN 12-25
Potential Studies Required as part of a
Complete Application
- 430 -
Potential studies required as part of a complete
Required Study
planning rationale report
transportation study
shadow study
wind study
statement of compliance with heritage conservation designation or conservation district
policies
archaeology assessment
functional servicing study
drainage and stormwater management study
flood plain impact engineering study
agricultural report
site suitability study
environmental report
natural heritage evaluation
hydrological evaluation
hydrogeology and water budget study
watershed/subwatershed study
impact study on potential aggregate extraction
aggregate extraction assessment study
assessment of lands within 500 metres of a known waste disposal site
environmental site assessment (Phase I, Phase II, and Record of Site Condition)
contamination management plan
containment management plan
waste disposal community impact study
noise study
vibration study
dust and/or odour study
lighting study
retail impact study
sustainable development report
rental housing conversion study
urban design brief
financial impact study
architectural design study
railway corridor safety study
groundwater impact study
water balance study
information and communication technologies implementation plan
salt management plan
facility fit plan
office demand study
affordable housing brief
- 431 -
2233 Argentia Rd.
Suite 301
Mississauga, Ontario
L5N 2X7
Office: 905-272-3600
Fax: 905-272-3602
www.watsonecon.ca
Attachment 1 to Report PLN 12-25
May 15, 2025
To our Municipal Clients:
Re: Assessment of Bill 17 (Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act, 2025)
In our continued efforts to keep our clients up to date on legislative changes that may
impact them, we are writing to inform you that Bill 17, Protect Ontario by Building Faster
and Smarter Act, 2025 (herein referred to as Bill 17) was tabled in the Ontario
Legislature on May 12, 2025. This letter provides a summary of the proposed changes
to the Development Charges Act, 1997 (D.C.A.) and commentary on the proposed
changes to the growth management framework. As the Bill progresses through the
legislative process, we will continue to advise of any amendments and associated
impacts.
Note that the Province is seeking comments via the Environmental Registry of Ontario
at the following link: https://ero.ontario.ca/notice/025-0504. We will be submitting our
comments prior to the deadline of June 12, 2025.
1.Overview Commentary
The Province has stated that a goal of this Bill is to simplify and streamline
development, while reducing barriers, including development fees. In this regard, the
Bill proposes to amend various acts with the intent of building more homes faster in
Ontario to address the current housing crisis. In addition to changes to the D.C.A.,
changes are proposed to the following Acts:
•Building Code Act, 1992;
•Building Transit Faster Act, 2020;
•City of Toronto Act, 2006;
•Metrolinx Act, 2006;
•Ministry of Infrastructure Act, 2011;
•Planning Act; and
•Transit-oriented Communities Act, 2020.
In addition to the legislative changes proposed, the Province has announced that they
are exploring the use of a public utility model, which may include establishing municipal
service corporations for water and wastewater systems. These changes could have
significant impacts on the costs and delivery of water and wastewater services in
Ontario. While this may serve to reduce the funding obligations from development
charges (D.C.s), funding these costs from a broader pool of existing rate payers would
likely result in higher water and wastewater rates.
- 432 -
Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. PAGE 2
2. Proposed Changes to the Development Charges Act
The following provides a summary of the proposed changes to the D.C.A., along with
commentary on the potential impacts to municipalities.
1. Exemption for long-term care homes
• Currently, D.C.s imposed on long-term care homes are subject to annual
instalments under section 26.1 of the D.C.A.
• The proposed change would exempt long-term care homes from the
payment of D.C.s.
• This exemption would apply to any future D.C. instalments on long-term
care home developments.
• The D.C.A. does not allow reductions in D.C.s to be funded by other types
of development. As such, the exemption will have to be funded from other
municipal revenue sources.
2. Definition of capital costs, subject to regulation
• The proposed change would add the words “subject to the regulations” to
section 5 (3) of the D.C.A.
o The proposed amendment expands the scope of the Province’s
authority to limit eligible capital costs via regulation.
o The D.C.A. currently provides this ability to limit the inclusion of
land costs.
o The Province intends to engage with municipalities and the
development community to determine potential restrictions on what
costs can be recovered through D.C.s.
• Commentary from organizations in the development community suggests
these discussions may continue to focus on limiting the inclusion of land
costs in the D.C. calculations. The proposed amendment, however,
provides broad authority for limiting eligible capital costs (i.e., the scope of
regulatory authority is not restricted to land).
• Reductions in D.C.-eligible capital costs will have to be funded from other
municipal revenue sources. Changes to the definition of capital costs
through regulation will require municipalities to adjust funding for capital
projects swiftly without the legislative amendment process.
3. Simplified D.C. by-law process to reduce charges
• Proposed change to section 19 (1.1) of the D.C.A. to allow a simplified
process to amend a D.C. by-law for the following reasons:
o Repeal or change a D.C. by-law expiry date (consistent with current
provisions);
o Repeal a D.C. by-law provision for indexing or amend to provide for
a D.C. not to be indexed; and
- 433 -
Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. PAGE 3
o Decrease the amount of a D.C. for one or more types of
development.
• The simplified process includes passing of an amending by-law and
providing notice of passing of the amending by-law. There will be no
requirement to prepare a D.C. background study, undertake public
consultation, and no ability to appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal.
• Limiting the simplified D.C. by-law amendment process to situations
where the amount of a D.C. for a type of development is being reduced
would appear to allow municipalities to adjust the charges for changes in
assumptions (e.g., reductions in capital cost estimates, application of grant
funding to reduce the recoverable amount), adding exemptions for types
of development, and phasing the imposition of a D.C.
• It is unclear if the simplified process would apply where exemptions are
being provided for purposes other than development type, as specified in
the amendment. For example, where a municipality is exempting a
geographic area, such as an industrial park, downtown core, major transit
station area, etc.
• While administratively expedient, eliminating the statutory public process
for reductions in D.C.s will not provide the general public with an
opportunity to delegate Council on the matter and will reduce
transparency.
4. Deferral of D.C. payment to occupancy for residential development
• Proposed changes to section 26.1 of the D.C.A. provide that a D.C.
payable for residential development (other than rental housing
developments, which are subject to payment in instalments) would be
payable upon the earlier of the issuance of an occupancy permit, or the
day the building is first occupied.
• Only under circumstances prescribed in the regulations may the
municipality require a financial security.
o The Province has noted its intent to mitigate risk for municipalities.
As such, the prescribed circumstances may allow for securities
when no occupancy permit is required.
• Municipalities will not be allowed to impose interest on the deferral of D.C.
payment to occupancy.
• It appears those municipalities that have elected to utilize subsection 26
(2) of the Act (i.e., water, wastewater, services related to a highway, and
stormwater charges payable at the time of subdivision agreement) may no
longer be able to utilize this section for residential subdivisions or
consents.
• Deferring the timing of payment for all residential development to
occupancy will have cashflow implications for municipalities. The impacts
may include additional financing costs for capital projects, increased
- 434 -
Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. PAGE 4
administrative costs associated with administering securities and
occupancies, and potential delays in capital project timing.
5. Removal of interest for legislated instalments
• Proposed changes to section 26.1 of the Act would remove the ability to
charge interest on instalments for rental housing and institutional
development.
• This would also apply to future instalments for existing deferrals once Bill
17 receives Royal Assent.
• The repeal of subsection 26.1 (9) of the D.C.A. removes the municipality’s
ability to require immediate payment of all outstanding insta lments when a
development use changes from rental housing or institutional to another
use.
• This proposed amendment has the same cashflow impacts for
municipalities as noted in item 4 above, although it is more limited in
scope.
6. Ability for residential and institutional development to pay a D.C. earlier
than a by-law requires
• Currently, if a person wishes to waive the requirement to pay their D.C. in
instalments as per section 26.1, an agreement under section 27 of the
D.C.A. (early payment agreement) is required.
• The proposed changes state that, “For greater certainty, a person required
to pay a development charge under this section may pay the charge
before the day it is payable even in the absence of an agreement under
section 27.”
• This wording achieves its intent to allow a person to waive the requirement
to pay in instalments. It also appears, however, to allow residential and
institutional D.C.s to be paid earlier than required in a D.C. by-law, absent
municipal agreement.
• This is problematic for municipalities, as the development community may
elect to pay D.C.s before indexing or before municipalities pass a new
D.C. by-law where a publicly available D.C. background study may be
indicating a potential increase in the charges.
7. Lower charge for rate freeze
• Section 26.2 of the D.C.A. requires that, for developments proceeding
through a site plan or zoning by-law amendment application, the D.C. be
determined based on the rates that were in effect when the planning
application was submitted to the municipality.
• In some instances, the D.C. that would be imposed at the time of building
permit issuance may be lower than that in place at the time of planning
application.
- 435 -
Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. PAGE 5
•Where rates have been frozen as per section 26.2 of the D.C.A., the
proposed amendments would require municipalities to apply either the
“frozen” or the current rate, whichever is lower, in such instances.
o Note, interest charges for the D.C. determined at planning
application may still be imposed.
•These proposed changes are positive as developers would not be
charged in excess of current rates (where lower) and developers who
proceed in a timely manner are not penalized with additional interest
costs.
8.Grouping of services for the purposes of using credits
•Section 38 of the D.C.A. allows a person to construct growth-related works
on a municipality’s behalf, subject to an agreement. The person receives
a credit against future D.C.s payable for the service(s) to which the
growth-related works relate.
•A municipality can agree to allow the credits to be applied to other
services in the D.C. by-law.
•The proposed amendments would allow the Province to, through
regulation, deem two or more services to be one service for the purpose of
applying credits.
•This proposed change appears to remove the municipality’s discretion to
combine services by agreement in certain instances.
•Combining services for the purposes of credits would have cashflow
implications for municipalities, where funds held in a reserve fund for a
service not included under the section 38 agreement would be reduced.
This could delay the timing of capital projects for these impacted services
and/or increase financing costs.
9.Defining local services in the regulations
•Section 59 of the D.C.A. delineates between charges for local services
and, by extension, those that would be considered in a D.C. by-law.
•Municipalities typically establish a local service policy when preparing a
D.C. background study to establish which capital works will be funded by
the developer as a condition of approval under section 51 or section 53 of
the Planning Act (i.e., local service) and which will be funded by the D.C.
by-law.
•The proposed amendments would allow the Province to make regulations
to determine what constitutes a local service.
o Although the Province has noted that this will be defined through
consultations, there may be unintended impacts. For example, if
the definition of a local service is too broad, it may lower the D.C.
but increase the direct funding requirements on one particular
developer. If the definition is too narrow, the opposite would result,
- 436 -
Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. PAGE 6
whereby local services would be broadly included in D.C. funding,
thereby increasing D.C. rates.
o Additionally, what is deemed a local service in one municipality may
vary from what is deemed a local service in another, depending on
the size, density, and types of development.
Most of the changes above would come into effect upon Royal Assent of Bill 17. The
changes with respect to deferral of payment to occupancy for residential development
would come into effect upon the date proclaimed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council.
3. Noted Areas for Future Changes to Development Charges
In the Province’s announcement, they indicated additional changes that are anticipated
to follow proposed regulatory changes and/or ongoing consultations.
The Province has indicated the intent to add the Statistics Canada Non -Residential
Building Construction Price Index for London to the prescribed indexes in the
regulations. This would allow municipalities west of London and those that are closer to
London than Toronto, to utilize the London series for indexing purposes.
The Province also indicated the intent to consult on a potential standardization of the
approaches to benefit to existing deductions. Currently there are best practices to
follow, however, there is no standardized approach across all municipalities. Providing
a standardized approach may be problematic, as capital projects in different
municipalities may be unique in scope and capital cost requirements.
Lastly, the announcement included commentary on expanding the Annual Treasurer’s
Statement reporting requirements. Currently for services related to a highway, water,
and wastewater services, municipalities must allocate 60% of monies in their D.C.
reserve funds to projects. The Province may consider expanding this requirement to
more services.
4. Proposed Changes to the Growth Management Framework
The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) has been reviewing the Official
Plans of Ontario’s 50 largest and fastest-growing municipalities against the Ministry of
Finance’s (M.O.F.) updated population forecasts released in October 2024. Where the
Ministry finds that current Official Plan forecasts are lower than updated provincial or
upper-tier projections, the MMAH will undertake targeted outreach to affected
municipalities. In these cases, municipalities will be required to update their Official
Plans to reflect the higher of the M.O.F. projection or the applicable upper-tier forecast.
These updates will be guided by a forthcoming revision to the Projection Methodology
Guideline – the first since 1995 – to ensure consistency in how growth is planned
across the Province. It is the MMAH’s goal that these updated projections and methods
- 437 -
Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. PAGE 7
will help municipalities more accurately align land needs, servicing strategies, and
capital planning with long-term provincial growth priorities. To support this, the Province
is also exploring improvements to planning data systems and digital tools, including
standardizing how municipalities track and report land use planning and permitting
activity. Enhanced access to consistent, digitized data will help inform future
forecasting, monitor implementation, and increase transparency across jurisdictions.
For municipalities directed by the Province to update their Official Plans, this
requirement carries several implications. As a starting point, it is important to note that
the M.O.F. forecasts are only available at the Census Division level, which typically
represents upper-tier municipalities, including separated municipalities and large urban
single-tier municipalities. This poses potential complexities for lower-tier municipalities
to directly apply, allocate, and coordinate the M.O.F. population projections as part of
their respective Official Plan Review. Furthermore, the M.O.F. population projections
are released annually and are subject to considerable fluctuation. On the other hand,
the municipal Official Plan Review process, which includes a comprehensive
assessment of long-term population growth and urban land needs, is required to be
carried out at a minimum every 10 years for new Official Plans and five years regarding
Official Plan updates. Accordingly, it will be important for municipalities to monitor their
respective Official Plans within the context of changing long-term M.O.F. projections. It
is currently unclear to what extent Ontario municipalities will be required to update their
respective Official Plans and associated background studies, such as needs
assessments, servicing plans, and financial strategies, to ensure alignment with the
updated M.O.F. projections. It is clear, however, that Ontario municipalities will require
improved processes and tools to monitor their Official Plans in a manner that allows
decision makers more flexibility to address and respond to anticipated change.
In parallel, the Province is also proposing changes to inclusionary zoning policies, which
could influence housing delivery outcomes within protected major transit station areas.
Specifically, the Act proposes capping the affordable housing set -aside rate at 5% and
limiting the affordability period to 25 years. While these measures may enhance project
feasibility and encourage more market-based residential development near transit, they
may also constrain the long-term supply and stability of affordable units delivered
through inclusionary zoning policies. Municipalities will need to consider how these
changes affect their broader housing strategies, particularly in areas where protected
major transit station areas are a central tool for delivering mixed-income communities.
5.Concluding Remarks
Based on the proposed changes, municipalities may experience a reduction in overall
D.C. revenue. The impacts of some of the potentially more significant changes (i.e.,
changes to the definition of capital cost, grouping of credits, defining local services , and
methodology for benefit to existing will not be known until the release of the draft
regulations for consultation. By moving legislative guidance to the regulations, as
- 438 -
Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. PAGE 8
opposed to the Act itself, the Province will have the ability to change the rules set out
therein without the requirement of passing a Bill through the legislative process. This
reduces transparency and the required consultation should the Province wish to change
these rules in the future.
We will continue to monitor the proposed changes and will inform you of potential
impacts to municipalities. As noted, we will be submitting further comments to the
Province via the Environmental Registry of Ontario. Should you have any questions,
please contact the undersigned or send an email to info@watsonecon.ca.
Yours very truly,
WATSON & ASSOCIATES ECONOMISTS LTD.
Andrew Grunda, MBA, CPA, CMA, CEO
Peter Simcisko, BA (Hons), MBE, Managing Partner
Sean-Michael Stephen, MBA, Managing Partner
Daryl Abbs, BA (Hons), MBE, PLE, Managing Partner
Jamie Cook, MCIP, RPP, PLE, Managing Partner
Jack Ammendolia, BES, PLE, Managing Partner
- 439 -
Legislative Services Division Attachment 2 to Report PLN 12-25
Clerk’s Office
Directive Memorandum
December 4, 2023
To: Kyle Bentley
Director, City Development & CBO
From: Susan Cassel
City Clerk
Subject: Direction as per Minutes of the Meeting of City Council held on
November 27, 2023
Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 34-23
City Initiated Official Plan Amendment 50
Changes to policies to recognize and reinforce the new Pickering Integrated
Sustainable Design Standards
File: OPA 23-005/P
Council Decision Resolution #332/23
Please take any action deemed necessary.
Susan Cassel
Copy: Chief Administrative Officer
1.That Official Plan Amendment Application OPA 23-005/P, initiated by the City of
Pickering, to amend existing policies related to the review of Planning Act
applications to recognize and reinforce the new Pickering Integrated
Sustainable Design Standards, as set out in Exhibit ‘A’ to Appendix I to Report
PLN 34-23 be approved; and,
2.That the Draft By-law to adopt Amendment 50 to the Pickering Official Plan, to
amend existing policies to recognize and reinforce the new Pickering Integrated
Sustainable Design Standards, as set out in Appendix I to Report PLN 34-23,
be enacted.
- 440 -
The Corporation of the City of Pickering
By-law No.8182/25
Being a by-law to authorize the use of an alternative voting
method for the 2026 Municipal Election
Whereas Section 42(1) of the Municipal Elections Act, 1996, S.O. 1996, c. 32 (the “MEA”),
provides that the council of a local municipality may pass by-laws:
(a)authorizing the use of voting and vote-counting equipment such as voting machines,
voting recorders or optical scanning vote tabulators;
(b)authorizing electors to use an alternative voting method, such as voting by mail or by
telephone that does not require electors to attend at a voting place in order to vote.
And Whereas Section 42(5) of the MEA provides when a by-law authorizing the use of an
alternative voting method is in effect, sections 43 (advance votes) and 44 (voting proxies)
apply only if the by-law so specifies;
Now therefore the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering hereby enacts as follows:
1.That the use of internet voting, paper ballots and vote tabulators be authorized for the
2026 Municipal Election and for any by-elections in the 2026-2030 Term of Council;
2.That the Clerk be authorized to use internet voting and/or paper ballots during any
advance voting period and on Voting Day for the 2026 Municipal Election and for any
by-elections in the 2026-2030 Term of Council;
3.That in accordance with the MEA, and due to the authorization of an alternative voting
method, proxy voting provisions shall not be applicable for the 2026 Municipal Election
or for any by-elections in the 2026-2030 Term of Council; and,
4.That By-law 7846/21 is hereby repealed.
By-law passed this 26th day of May, 2025.
________________________________
Kevin Ashe, Mayor
________________________________
Susan Cassel, City Clerk
- 441 -
The Corporation of the City of Pickering
By-law No. 8183/25
Being a by-law to establish and regulate the Pickering Fire
Services Department.
Whereas By-law 771/78 was passed to establish and regulate the Pickering Fire Services
Department was enacted on March 6, 1978;
Whereas the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 25, as amended, provides that a municipality
has the capacity, rights, powers, and privileges of a natural person for the purpose of
exercising its authority under the Municipal Act;
And Whereas the Municipal Act provides that Sections 8 and 11 shall be interpreted broadly so
as to confer broad authority on municipalities to (a) enable municipalities to govern their affairs
as they consider appropriate and, (b) enhance their ability to respond to municipal issues;
Whereas, the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, S.O. 1997, c. 4, as amended, (the
“Act”) requires every municipality to establish a program in the municipality which must include
public education with respect to fire safety and certain components of fire prevention and to
provide such other Fire Protection Services as it determines may be necessary in accordance
with its needs and circumstances;
And Whereas, the Act permits a municipality, in discharging these responsibilities, to establish
a fire department;
And Whereas, the Act permits a Council of a municipality to establish, maintain, and operate a
Fire Department for all or any part of the municipality;
And Whereas, the Act requires a municipality that establishes a Fire Department to provide fire
suppression services and permits the Fire Department to provide other Fire Protection
Services in the municipality;
And Whereas, the Act requires a municipality that establishes a Fire Department to appoint a
Fire Chief;
And Whereas, the Act authorizes a council of a municipality to pass by-laws under the Act to
regulate fire prevention, to regulate the setting of open-air fires and to designate private roads
as fire routes;
And Whereas, The Occupational Health and Safety Act R.S.O., c. O.1, Reg. 714/94, requires
the municipality to provide firefighters with the required protective equipment;
Now therefore the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering hereby enacts as follows:
1.Appendix “A” to By-law No. XXXX/25
Appendix “A” to By-law No. XXXX/25, attached hereto with notations and references
shown thereon are hereby declared to be part of this By-law.- 442 -
By-law No. 8183/25 Page 2
2.Definitions
In this By-law;
2.1. “Approved” means approved by Council.
2.2. “Automatic Aid” means any agreement under which a municipality agrees to
provide an initial response to fires, rescues and emergencies that may occur in a
part of another municipality where a fire department is capable of responding
more quickly than any fire department situated in the other municipality; or a
municipality agrees to provide a supplemental response to fires, rescues and
emergencies that may occur in a part of another municipality where a fire
department in the municipality is capable of providing the quickest supplemental
response to fires, rescues and emergencies occurring in the part of another
municipality;
2.3. “CAO” means the Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Pickering.
2.4. “CEPCP” means the Central East Prehospital Care Program. A division of
Lakeridge Health that provides continuing medical education, training, continuous
quality improvement programs, and delegation and oversight for the performance
of controlled medical acts to Pickering Fire Services.
2.5. “Chief Fire Official” means the Assistant to the Fire Marshal who is the
Municipal Fire Chief or a member or members of the Fire Department appointed
by the Municipal Fire Chief under the FPPA or a person appointed by the Fire
Marshal under the FPPA-Fire Code Div.C1.1.
2.6. “Collective Agreement” means an agreement between the Corporation and the
full-time Pickering Professional Firefighters’ Association made under the
provisions of the FPPA.
2.7. “Community Emergency Management Coordinator (“CEMC”)” –means a
position identified in the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, 1990,
c. E.9, as amended (“EMCPA”) as being responsible for the development,
implementation, review and maintenance of the Community Emergency
Management Plan for the City of Pickering.
2.8. “Corporation” means The Corporation of the City of Pickering.
2.9. “Council” means the Council of the Corporation.
2.10. “Deputy Fire Chief” is second in command and shall act as Fire Chief in the
case of an absence or a vacancy in the office of the Fire Chief. Where the Fire
Chief designates a member to act in the place of an officer, such member when
acting shall have all the powers and shall perform duties of the officer replaced.
2.11. “Division” means a Division of the Fire Services as provided for in this By-law or
determined by the Fire Chief.
- 443 -
By-law No. 8183/25 Page 3
2.12. “Firefighters’ Association” means the labour union representing The Pickering
Professional Firefighters.
2.13. “Fire Chief” means the person appointed by Council to act as Fire Chief for the
Corporation and is ultimately responsible to Council as defined in the FPPA.
2.14. “Fire Coordinator” means the person appointed by the Fire Marshal, under the
authority of the FPPA to co-ordinate the Regional mutual aid plans, or the person
appointed by the Fire Marshal to act in the absence of the Fire Coordinator.
2.15. “Fire Department” means the Corporation’s Fire Department (also referred to
as Pickering Fire Services).
2.16. “Fire Marshal” means a position with specific authorities and responsibilities
under the FPAA, including ensuring that fire departments throughout Ontario
provide adequate levels of service to their communities, providing support to fire
departments, and administering the FPPA. Also identified as the Office of the
Fire Marshal.
2.17. “FPPA” means the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, S.O., c 4, as may
be amended from time to time, or any successor legislation, and any regulation
made there under.
2.18. “Fire Protection Agreement” is a contract between municipalities or other
agencies that clearly defines the responsibilities, terms, conditions, and all other
aspects of the fire services provided and/or required.
2.19. “Fire Protection Services” includes fire suppression, fire prevention, fire safety
education, dispatching, administration services, training of persons involved in
the provision of Fire Protection Services, rescue and emergency services and the
delivery of all those services.
2.20. “Head of Council” means the person elected at large by voters in the City of
Pickering, identified formally as the Mayor.
2.21. “Medical Director” means the person or persons directly responsible under the
CEPCP for medical guidelines, oversight, and direction.
2.22. “Member” means any defined Firefighter or Officer as per the FPPA and/or any
person employed in or appointed to the Fire Services Division and assigned to
undertake Fire Protection Services.
2.23. “Municipal Act” means the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended
from time to time, or any successor legislation, and any regulation made there
under.
2.24. “Mutual Aid” means a program to provide/receive assistance in the case of an
emergency in a municipality, community or area where resources in a
municipality, community or area have been depleted, but does not include
Automatic Aid.
- 444 -
By-law No. 8183/25 Page 4
2.25. “NFPA” means codes, standards, recommended practices, and guides as
developed and amended by the National Fire Protection Association. These
standards are amended from time to time.
2.26. “Officer” means any member with the rank of Captain or higher.
2.27. “Regional” means the Regional Municipality of Durham being the upper tier
level of government in a two-tier system.
2.28. “Specialty Rescue” means rescue response as specified to high angle/low
angle rope rescue, ice/water rescue, auto extrication, and hazardous materials
response, etc. in accordance with available resources, and/or in accordance with
an approved specialty rescue service agreement.
2.29. “Tiered Response Agreement” means a formal written document negotiated
between Durham Regional Police Services, Region of Durham Paramedic
Services, and Pickering Fire Services to establish local protocols for a multi-
agency response to a life threatening or public safety incident. The Agreement
outlines the capabilities, expectations and limitations of each agency and defines
the criteria for participation.
3. Establishment
3.1. A department for the Corporation, to be known as the Pickering Fire Services
Department, is hereby established and continued under this By-law and the head
of this Department shall be known as the Fire Chief.
4.Composition
4.1. The Fire Services Department shall consist of the Fire Chief, Deputy Fire Chiefs,
Divisional Chiefs including Platoon Chiefs, Chief Training Officer, and Chief Fire
Prevention Officer, Captains, Fire Fighters, Fire Prevention Officers, Training
Officers, Fire Prevention Inspectors, administrative personnel, and any other
person(s) as may be authorized or considered necessary from time to time by
Council or by the CAO on recommendation from the Fire Chief for the Fire
Services Department to perform Fire Protection Services.
4.2. There shall be one Fire Chief appointed by Council.
5.Terms and Conditions of Employment
5.1. Subject to the FPPA and the Collective Agreement, the remuneration and other
terms and conditions of employment or appointment of the members that
comprise the Fire Department shall be determined by Council or by the CAO
acting in accordance with policies and programs established or approved by
Council.
- 445 -
By-law No. 8183/25 Page 5
6.Organization
6.1. The Fire Department shall be organized into Divisions such as Administration,
Suppression, Training, Fire Prevention and Public Education.
6.2. The Fire Chief may assign or re-assign such Members to a Division to assist him
in the administration and operation of that Division. Each division of the Fire
Services Department is the responsibility of the Fire Chief, or a member
designated. Designated members shall report to the Fire Chief on divisions and
activities under their supervision and shall carry out all orders of the Fire Chief.
7.Core Services
7.1. The core services of the Fire Department shall be those contained in Appendix “A”.
8.Responsibilities and Authority of Fire Chief
8.1. The Fire Chief shall be the head of the Fire Services Department and is ultimately
responsible to Council, through the CAO, for proper administration and operation
of the Fire Services including the delivery of Fire Protection Services.
8.2. The Fire Chief (or Deputy Fire Chief if designated by the Fire Chief) shall report
to the CAO and will perform the duties of the CEMC under the authority of the
EMCPA.
8.3. The Fire Chief shall be authorized to make such general orders, policies,
procedures, rules and regulations and to take such other measures as the Fire
Chief may consider necessary for the proper administration, efficient operation of
the Fire Services Department, and the effective management of fire protection
services for the Corporation and for the prevention, control and extinguishment of
fires, the protection of life and property and the management of emergencies and
without restricting the generality of the foregoing;
a)for the care and protection of all property belonging to the Fire Services
Department;
b)for arranging for the provision and allotment of strategic staffing and
facilities, apparatus, equipment, materials, services and supplies for the Fire
Services Department;
c) for the development and implementation of automatic aid, mutual aid and
other fire protection and emergency service agreements within the
Corporation’s borders and/or within the municipal borders of adjoining
municipalities upon the approval of Council;
d)for determining and establishing the qualifications and criteria for
employment or appointment, and the duties of, all members of the Fire
Services Department;
e)for the conduct and the discipline of members of the Fire Services
Department;
- 446 -
By-law No. 8183/25 Page 6
f)for keeping an accurate record of all fires, rescues and emergencies
responded to by the Fire Department and reporting of same to the Office of
the Fire Marshal;
g)for keeping such other records as may be required by Council, the
Corporation and the FPPA;
h)for preparing and presenting an annual report of the Fire Services
Department to Council; and
i)for exercising control over the budget approved by Council for the Fire
Services Department.
8.4. The Fire Chief (or Deputy Fire Chief) is authorized to perform the duties of
Regional Fire Coordinator as required.
9.Supervision – General Duties and Responsibilities
9.1. The Deputy Fire Chief(s) shall be the second ranking officer of the Fire Services
Department and shall be subject to and shall perform such duties as are
assigned by the Fire Chief and shall act on behalf of the Fire Chief in case of
absence or vacancy in the office of Fire Chief.
10.Emergency Responses outside Limits of the City of Pickering
10.1. The Fire Services Department shall not respond to a call with respect to a fire or
an emergency incident outside the limits of the City of Pickering except with
respect to a fire or an emergency:
a)that in the opinion of the Fire Chief threatens property in the City of
Pickering or property situated outside the City of Pickering that is owned
or occupied by the Corporation;
b)in a municipality with which an agreement has been entered into to
provide fire protection services;
c)on property with respect to which an agreement has been entered into
with any person or corporation to provide fire protection ;
d)at the discretion of the Fire Chief, to a municipality authorized to
participate in the Durham Region Mutual Aid plan established by the
Regional Fire Coordinator appointed by the Ontario Fire Marshal,
emergency fire service plan and program or any other organized plan or
program on a reciprocal basis;
e)on those highways that are under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of
Transportation or other agency within the City of Pickering for which an
automatic aid agreement has been entered into;
f)on property beyond the City of Pickering border where the Fire Chief or his
or her designate determines that immediate action is necessary to
preserve and protect life and/or property and the correct department is
- 447 -
By-law No. 8183/25 Page 7
notified to respond and/or assumes command or establishes alternative
measures acceptable to the Fire Chief or designate; or
g)response due to a request for special assistance as required through a
declaration of a provincial or federal emergency and such request has
been approved by the Fire Chief, the CAO and the Head of Council.
11.Enforcement and Penalties
11.1. Inspections arising from complaint, request, retrofit, or self-initiated and fire
investigations shall be provided in accordance with the FPPA and the City’s Fire
Prevention Policy, municipal bylaws, or other legislative authority as applicable.
11.2. Any person who violates any provisions of this By-law is, upon conviction, guilty
of an offence and shall be liable to a fine, subject to the provisions of the
Provincial Offences Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P.33, as amended.
12.Limited Services
12.1. The Corporation shall accept no liability for the provision of a limited service by
the Pickering Fire Services Department, as reasonably necessary. Service may
not be available to some structures or locations where accessibility is restricted
or unavailable due to road conditions, weather, obstructions, or other factors
beyond the control of the Fire Services Department. It is the responsibility of the
property owner to ensure access for Fire Services apparatus and personnel.
13.Cost Recovery
13.1. If as the result of a Fire Services response to a fire, rescue, or other emergency,
or other attendance, the Chief Administrative Officer, the Fire Chief, or the
highest ranking Officer in charge determines that it is necessary to retain a
private contractor, rent special equipment, or use consumable materials other
than water in order to suppress or extinguish a fire, preserve property, prevent a
fire from spreading, remove hazardous materials, assist in or otherwise conduct
an investigation to determine the cause of a fire, or otherwise control or eliminate
an emergency situation, the Corporation shall recover the costs incurred by the
fire department for taking such actions from the owner of the property on which
the fire or other emergency occurred.
14.Delegated Authority
14.1. The core services listed in Appendix “A” may be updated from time to time based
upon operational needs and circumstances with the approval of the Fire Chief
and the Chief Administrative Officer. Any changes to the core services will be
communicated to Council in writing from the Fire Chief copying the Chief
Administrative Officer and the City Clerk.
15.Administration
15.1. By-law 771/78 is hereby repealed.
- 448 -
By-law No. 8183/25 Page 8
15.2. The short title of this By-law is the “Fire Department Establishing and Regulating
By-law".
By-law passed this 26th day of May, 2025.
________________________________
Kevin Ashe, Mayor
________________________________
Susan Cassel, City Clerk
- 449 -
Appendix “A” to By-law No. 8183/25
Core Services Fire Suppression and Emergency Response
Suppression
1.Fire suppression response and services shall be delivered and shall include exterior
attack, interior attack, rescue, forcible entry, ventilation, protection of exposures, salvage,
and overhaul as required.
2.Emergency pre-hospital care response and services shall be delivered in accordance with
the CEPCP as determined by the Medical Director. Services shall include first aid,
cardiopulmonary resuscitation, other patient care protocols and medical acts such as
defibrillation, administration of epinephrine, and administration of naloxone. Emergency
pre-hospital care responses shall be determined as per protocol as instituted in
accordance with the Tiered Response Services Agreement.
•Hazardous material emergency response and services shall be delivered as
recommended by the Fire Chief and approved by Council.
•Specialized technical rescue response and services, including, but not limited to vehicle
extrication, elevator rescue, rope rescue, surface water rescue, ice water rescue,
structural collapse, confined space, heavy vehicle rescue, trench rescue, and swift
water rescue shall be delivered as recommended by the Fire Chief and approved by
Council. Specialized equipment required to provide these services shall be approved by
the Fire Chief.
Training
1.Members designated by the Fire Chief shall be trained and certified to meet the applicable
requirements stated in the Ontario Regulation for Provincial Firefighter Certification based
on the level of service delivery as established.
2.Members designated by the Fire Chief shall be trained and certified as an Emergency
Medical Responder under the CEPCP.
3.The NFPA Standards and other related industry standards and resources shall be used as
training reference guides as approved by the Fire Chief.
4.All training will comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, R.S.O. 1190, c. O.1,
as amended and applicable provincial legislation.
Fire Prevention
1.Inspections arising from complaint; request; retrofit; self-initiated; fire investigations; or
examination and review of fire protection elements of building permit plans shall be
provided in accordance with the FPPA, Municipal by-laws, and Departmental policies.
2.The Ontario Fire Service Standards the NFPA 1031, the NFPA 1035, and other applicable
NFPA codes and standards and the City’s Fire Prevention Policy shall be used as a
reference guide for Fire Prevention training and Public Education.
Fire and Life Safety Education
1.Public education programs shall be administered in accordance with the FPPA and
Departmental policies.
- 450 -
Memo
To: Susan Cassel
City Clerk
May 16, 2025
From: Paul Bigioni
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor
Copy: Director, City Development & CBO
Subject: Request for Part Lot Control By-law
-Owner: 1133373 Ontario Inc.
-Lots 44, 65 and 106, Plan 40M-2671
File: PLC.40M-2671.17
Lots 44, 65 and 106, Plan 40M-2671 are being developed in accordance with the appropriate
Subdivision Agreement in such a manner to allow for the construction of 6 semi-detached dwelling
units.
On January 22, 2024, Council passed By-law 8077/24, enactment of which exempted the subject
lands from the part lot control provisions of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990.
We have been advised that, due to a delay in the Owner’s construction schedule, some of the
dwelling units will not be completed and ready for private conveyance by the expiry date set out in
By-law 8077/24 (June 22, 2025). Accordingly, a further by-law should be enacted, extending the
expiry date to May 26, 2026.
Attached is a location map and a draft by-law, enactment of which will exempt these lands from
the part lot control provisions of the Planning Act. This draft by-law is attached for the
consideration of City Council at its meeting scheduled for May 26, 2025.
PB:ca
Attachments Location Map
Draft By-law
- 451 -
-
4
5
2
-
The Corporation of the City of Pickering
By-law No. 8184/25
Being a by-law to exempt Lots 44, 65, and 106, Plan 40M-
2671, from the part lot control provisions of the Planning Act
Whereas pursuant to the provisions of section 50(7) of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, chapter
P.13, as amended, the Council of a municipality may by by-law provide that section 50(5) of
the Act does not apply to certain lands within a plan of subdivision designated in the by-law
Now therefore the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering hereby enacts as follows:
1.Section 50(5) of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, chapter P.13, as amended shall cease
to apply to Lots 44, 65, and 106, Plan 40M-2671.
2.This by-law shall remain in force and effect for a period of one year from the date of the
passing of this by-law and shall expire on May 26, 2026.
By-law passed this 26th day of May, 2025.
________________________________
Kevin Ashe, Mayor
________________________________
Susan Cassel, City Clerk
- 453 -