HomeMy WebLinkAboutMarch 23, 2026
Council
Meeting Minutes
Electronic Meeting
March 23, 2026 - 07:00 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
S. Boyd - Fire Chief
J. Eddy - Director, Human Resources
L. Gibbs - Director, Community Services
K. Heathcote - Director, City Infrastructure
R. Holborn - Director, Engineering Services
F. Jadoon - Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects
S. Karwowski - Director, Finance & Treasurer
S. Oza - Interim CEO/Director of Public Libraries
S. Cassel – City Clerk
V. Plouffe - Division Head, Facilities Management & Construction
C. Rose - Chief Planner
R. Apablaza - Manager, ERP & Financial Systems
R. Perera – Deputy Clerk
1
Call to Order/Roll Call
The City Clerk certified that all Members of Council were present and participating
electronically.
Playing of O Canada
Mayor Ashe asked all Members of Council to rise for the playing of O Canada.
Moment of Reflection
Mayor Ashe called for a silent moment of reflection.
Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement
Mayor Ashe read the Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement.
Disclosure of Interest
No disclosures of interest were noted.
Adoption of Minutes
Council Minutes, February 23, 2026
Executive Committee Minutes, March 2, 2026
Special Council Minutes, March 2, 2026
(includes Confidential In Camera Minutes under separate cover)
Planning and Development Committee Minutes, March 2, 2026
Resolution #957/26
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Cook
That the minutes, Items 6.1 through 6.4, be approved.
Carried
Presentations
There were no presentations.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
7.
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
2
Delegations
Sue Peschke, VP & Secretary, Amberlea Tennis Club
Re: Report CS 06-26
Shadybrook Park Court Update
(Refer to Item 10.5)
S. Peschke, VP & Secretary, Amberlea Tennis Club, appeared before Council via
electronic connection to speak to Report CS 06-26. S. Peschke encouraged Council
to revisit the plan, noting that shared usage of tennis courts was new to Pickering
and that the logistics for this model would need to be determined before
implementation. S. Peschke stated that Amberlea Tennis Club was not well suited
to be the first club to trial shared usage and stated concerns related to the lack of
washrooms, water, storage, and parking. S. Peschke said that with only two and a
half courts, the Club frequently borrowed courts from other clubs for league play and
required more court time. S. Peschke indicated that larger clubs with washrooms,
parking, and clubhouses would be more appropriate for introducing the shared-use
format, and outlined concerns from members and residents, including potential
increases in vandalism, improper use of the courts such as hockey or rollerblading,
and the fragile nature of the surface, which was not ideal for unsupervised public
use. S. Peschke also noted that some had raised insurance-related concerns. S.
Peschke highlighted the Club’s goal of growing the sport of tennis through
grassroots programs and expressed support for building more public courts in
Pickering. S. Peschke suggested that local high schools, particularly Dunbarton and
St. Mary’s, would be suitable locations, given that school teams currently borrowed
courts from the Club, and added that a partnership between the City and the school
boards was encouraged. S. Peschke requested that Council vote against
proceeding with public court usage at Amberlea Tennis Club at this time.
Correspondence
Corr. 04-26
Junaid Rafiq, Project Supervisor, Regional Municipality of Durham
Re: Kingston Road (Regional Highway 2) Bus Rapid Transit Project from
Steeple Hill to Merriton Road in the City of Pickering - Advanced Tree
Removal
Resolution #958/26
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
8.
8.1
9.
9.4
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March 23, 2026
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That Corr. 04-26, from Junaid Rafiq, Project Supervisor, Regional Municipality of
Durham, dated March 9, 2026, regarding Kingston Road (Regional Highway 2) Bus
Rapid Transit project from Steeple Hill to Merriton Road in the City of Pickering -
Advanced Tree Removal, be received for information.
Carried
Corr. 01-26
Megha Trivedi, Clerk-Treasurer, Township of Prince
Re: Call to Action for Justice and Protection of Canada's Children
A brief discussion ensued regarding the gaps in sentencing, bail, parole, and
enforcement systems, and the responsibility of municipalities to advocate for
strengthened laws, enhanced safeguards, and meaningful accountability for violent
offenses involving children.
Resolution #959/26
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
That Corr. 01-26, from Megha Trivedi, Clerk-Treasurer, Township of Prince,
dated February 10, 2026, regarding a Call to Action for Justice and Protection
of Canada's Children, be received and endorsed; and,
1.
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, The Honourable Doug Downey, Attorney General, The Honourable
Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General, The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of
Justice and Attorney General, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities
(FCM), and all municipalities in Ontario.
2.
Carried
Corr. 02-26
Tonia Bennett, Manager of Legislative Services / Clerk
Northumberland County
Re: Correspondence, 'Call for Reform and Publication of the Ontario Sex
Offender Registry'
A brief discussion ensued regarding the need for reform and publication of the
9.1
9.2
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March 23, 2026
4
Ontario Sex Offender Registry, and the need for municipalities to advocate for
improved offender management systems, strengthened sentencing and parole
safeguards, and public access to the Registry.
Resolution #960/26
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
That Corr. 02-26, from Tonia Bennett, Manager of Legislative Services/Clerk,
Northumberland County, dated February 24, 2026, regarding
Correspondence, 'Call for Reform and Publication of the Ontario Sex Offender
Registry', be received and endorsed; and,
1.
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, The Honourable Doug Downey, Attorney General, The Honourable
Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General, The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of
Justice and Attorney General, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities
(FCM), and all municipalities in Ontario.
2.
Carried
Corr. 03-26
Richard Holborn, Director, Engineering Services, City of Pickering
Re: Correspondence from Ministry of Transportation
Road Safety Initiatives Fund (RSIF)
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
whether the recommendation in the memorandum required the matter to
return to Council in September and whether the timing was tied to a Provincial
cutoff date for applications;
•
whether staff could prepare the required information before September to
avoid delays associated with the election period; and,
•
whether a Special Council Meeting during the summer would provide sufficient
time for Council to raise questions and for staff to return with revisions before
the provincial deadline.
•
Resolution #961/26
Moved By Councillor Butt
9.3
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March 23, 2026
5
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
That Corr. 03-26, from Richard Holborn, Director, Engineering Services, City of
Pickering, dated March 11, 2026, regarding Correspondence from Ministry of
Transportation Road Safety Initiatives Fund (RSIF), be received for information.
Carried
Report EC 02-26 of the Executive Committee held on March 2, 2026
Resolution #962/26
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
That Report EC 02-26 of the Executive Committee Meeting held on March 2, 2026 be
adopted, save and except Item 10.2, Report CAO 03-26 and Item 10.5, Report CS 06-26.
Carried
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report BYL 01-26
Amendment to Traffic and Parking By-law 6604/05 to Create a Paid Parking
Lot at 920 Liverpool Road
Note: This item was referred back to staff at the Executive Committee Meeting
held on March 2, 2026.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 02-26
Access to Recreation Policy
Council Decision:
That Report CS 02-26 regarding the Access to Recreation Policy be received;1.
That Council approve the revised draft CUL 120 Access to Recreation Policy,
as set out in Attachment 2 to this report;
2.
That Council approve the draft By-law to amend the Municipal Fees and
Charges By-law, as set out in Attachment 3 to this report, to give effect to the
50% subsidy for all regular adult recreation programs and memberships for
patrons 65 years of age and older where no other discount is in effect;
3.
That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Childcare Camp
Subsidy Program: Service Agreement (January 1, 2026, to December 31,
2031) with the Region of Durham, as set out in Attachment 4 to this report
4.
10.
10.1
10.3
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March 23, 2026
6
subject to minor revisions acceptable to the Director, Community Services and
City Solicitor;
That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute the Recreation Program
Card Subsidy Program: Service Agreement (January 1, 2026, to December
31, 2026) with the Region of Durham, as set out in Attachment 5 to this report
subject to minor revisions acceptable to the Director, Community Services and
City Solicitor;
5.
That Council authorize the Director, Community Services to execute the
annual Recreation Program Card Subsidy Program: Service Agreement
starting in January, 2027, subject to minor revisions acceptable to the Director,
Community Services and City Solicitor; and,
6.
That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
7.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 05-26
Cardiac Safe Community Public Access Defibrillation Program Agreement
Lakeridge Health Semi-Automatic External Defibrillation
Council Decision:
That Report CS 05-26 regarding Lakeridge Health Semi-Automatic External
Defibrillation for the Cardiac Safe Community Public Access Defibrillation
Program Agreement be received;
1.
That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Agreement with
Lakeridge Health, set out in Attachment 1 to this report, for the Cardiac Safe
Community Public Access Defibrillation Program to operate throughout City
facilities, subject to minor revisions as may be required by the Director,
Community Services and the City Solicitor; and,
2.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
3.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 07-26
Northern Community Halls Update
Council Decision:
That Report CS 07-26 regarding the Northern Community Halls Update be received
for information.
10.4
10.6
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March 23, 2026
7
Director, City Infrastructure, Report INF 02-26
Supply and Delivery of 5 Ton Tanker
Request for Quotation Q2025-8A
Council Decision:
That Quotation submitted by FST Canada Inc. o/a Joe Johnson Equipment in
response to Request for Quotation No. Q2025-8A for the Supply and Delivery
of 5 Ton Tanker, in the amount of $420,525.00 (net HST) or $466,974.00
(HST included) be accepted;
1.
That the total gross project cost of $466,974.00 (HST included), and that the
total net project costs of $420,525.00 (net HST) be approved;
2.
That the Director of Finance and Treasurer, be authorized to finance the total
net project cost of $420,525.00 as follows:
That the sum of $390,000.00 as approved in the 2025 Capital Budget be
increased to $420,525.00 funded from the Vehicle Replacement
Reserve; and,
a.
3.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
4.
Director, City Infrastructure, Report INF 03-26
Supply and Delivery of One Backhoe
Request for Quotation Q2025-27
Council Decision:
That Quotation submitted by Brandt Tractor Ltd. in response to Request for
Quotation No. Q2025-27 for the Supply and Delivery of One Backhoe, in the
amount of $210,288.00 (net HST) or $233,515.00 (HST included) be
accepted;
1.
That the total gross project cost of $233,515.00 (HST included), and that the
total net project costs of $210,288.00 (net HST) be approved;
2.
That the Director of Finance and Treasurer, be authorized to finance the total
net project cost of $210,288.00 as follows:
That the sum of $170,000.00 as approved in the 2024 Capital Budget be
increased to $210,288.00 funded from the Equipment Reserve Fund;
and,
a.
3.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
4.
10.7
10.8
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March 23, 2026
8
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report LEG 04-26
Final Assumption of Plan of Subdivision
Altona Land Development Corporation - Plan of Subdivision 40M-2697
Block 2, Plan 40M-2697
Council Decision:
That works and services required by the Subdivision Agreement within Block
2, Plan 40M-2697 and outside of/adjacent to Plan 40M-2697, which are
constructed, installed or located on lands dedicated to or owned by the City,
be accepted and assumed for maintenance;
1.
That Altona Land Development Corporation be released from the provisions of
its Subdivision Agreement with the City and any amendments thereto relating
to the said work; and,
2.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
3.
Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 03-26
Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Project Update
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
clarification on whether the Seaton Recreation Complex design included any
outdoor ice features and whether earlier staff presentations had recommended
a layout that could allow seasonal outdoor ice;
•
whether the preferred schematic design endorsed by Council allowed for
rough-ins that could support an outdoor rink in the future; and,
•
whether adding an outdoor rink at this stage would impact the project
schedule, detailed design work, or the approved budget with staff confirming
that Council had endorsed the base design of the new facility in September
2025 noting it did not include an outdoor ice rink, and any design changes
made at this point in the process would impact both the timelines and budget
for the project.
•
Resolution #963/26
Moved By Councillor Pickles
10.9
10.2
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March 23, 2026
9
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
That Report CAO 03-26 regarding the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project
Update be received for information.
Carried
Director, Community Services, Report CS 06-26
Shadybrook Park Court Update
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
whether the recommendation in the Report maintained the Amberlea Tennis
Club’s dedicated hours under its existing licence agreement and how
remaining hours would be allocated for public use;
•
how staff intended to address concerns raised by the delegation regarding
potential misuse of the courts by the public and the possible costs of damage
to the surface;
•
whether appropriate signage, by-law enforcement, and staff monitoring would
be used to ensure proper public use of the courts;
•
whether the removal of pickleball sound barriers would affect fencing around
the third court, and if the fencing would remain in place;
•
confirmation that the Shadybrook Park court would be the third park in
Pickering with public access to tennis, and that Claremont Memorial Park and
Village East Park were the existing public-use locations; and,
•
whether the Claremont Memorial Park and Village East Park had experienced
increased vandalism, misuse, or surface damage.
•
Resolution #964/26
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
That Report CS 06-26 regarding the Shadybrook Park Court Update be
received;
1.
That staff be directed to remove the pickleball lines at Shadybrook Park
Courts and revert the court back to tennis only; and,
2.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
3.
Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent
10.5
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March 23, 2026
10
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)
Report PD 02-26 of the Planning & Development Committee held on March 2,
2026
Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 03-26
Official Plan Amendment
City Initiated: Northeast Pickering Secondary Plan
Recommended Amendment 54 to the Pickering Official Plan
Implementation Framework for the Northeast Pickering Community
File: OPA 25-003/P
Note: At the March 2, 2026 Planning & Development Committee Meeting,
Report PLN 03-26 was referred to Council for direction, however, in
accordance with Mayoral Decision #06-2026, a new Recommendation Report
regarding the Northeast Pickering Secondary Plan (OPA 25-003/P) will be
considered at a Special Council Meeting on March 30, 2026 at 6:00 pm.
Therefore no decision regarding Report PLN 03-26 was made at the March 23,
2026 Council Meeting.
New and Unfinished Business
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report CLK 02-26
Establishment of the 2026 Municipal Election Joint Compliance Audit
Committee
Resolution #965/26
11.
11.1
12.
12.1
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
11
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That Report CLK 02-26 regarding the establishment of the 2026 Municipal
Election Joint Compliance Audit Committee be received;
1.
That the draft Terms of Reference for the 2026 Municipal Election Joint
Compliance Audit Committee, included as Attachment 1 to this Report, be
approved;
2.
That, in accordance with the Terms of Reference, the City Clerk be authorized to
recruit and bring forward a By-law for the remuneration and appointment of a
roster of individuals to serve on the 2026 Municipal Election Joint Compliance
Audit Committee to a future meeting of Council;
3.
That at such time as the above referenced By-law is enacted by Council, the
2026 Municipal Election Joint Compliance Audit Committee is deemed to be
established in accordance with the Municipal Elections Act; and,
4.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
5.
Carried
Director, Community Services, Report CS 08-26
Construction for Dunbarton Indoor Pool Roof & Structure Replacement
Request for Tender No. T2026-1
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
whether repair work to the change rooms, including showers and lockers,
could be coordinated alongside the roof contract;
•
whether any larger scale renovation of the washrooms or change rooms was
planned as part of this Project or upcoming capital work;
•
whether any unspent portion of the approved project budget would be returned
to the Casino Reserve Fund at project completion; and,
•
the current balance of the Casino Reserve Fund and whether staff could
provide an updated confirmed balance for the Casino Reserve Fund at a
future Council meeting.
•
Resolution #966/26
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Cook
12.2
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March 23, 2026
12
That the bid submitted by Triumph Roofing & Sheet Metal Inc. in response to
Request for Tender No. T2026-1 for the Construction for Dunbarton Indoor Pool
Roof Replacement, in the amount of $2,765,836.80 (net HST) or $3,071,340.00
(HST included) be accepted;
1.
That the total gross project cost of $3,719,508.00 (HST included), including the
amount of the tender, construction contingency, and other associated costs, and
the total net project cost of $3,349,532.00 (net HST) be approved;
2.
That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project
cost of $3,349,532.00 to be funded from Casino Reserve as approved in the
2025 and 2026 Capital Budgets;
3.
That the Director, Community Services be authorized to execute the CCDC-2,
2020 Stipulated Price Contract with the above-mentioned contractor pursuant to
Request for Tender No. T2026-1; and,
4.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
5.
Carried
Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 02-26
Statement of the Treasurer Respecting 2025 Remuneration and Expenses of
Members of Council and Council Appointees to Boards, Agencies and
Committees
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding how Council remuneration withheld due to Integrity Commissioner
sanctions was allocated within the City’s accounts, whether the City maintained any
portion of that remuneration separately, and whether repayment would be drawn
from the contingency account in the event of a court-ordered award.
Resolution #967/26
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Cook
That Report FIN 02-26, regarding the Statement of the Treasurer respecting
Remuneration and Expenses of Members of Council and Council Appointees for the
year 2025, be received for information.
Carried
Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 03-26
12.3
12.4
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March 23, 2026
13
2026 Financial Housekeeping Report
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
the specific Ontario Fire Code deficiencies that were identified with respect to
the Legion’s building, including the nature of the required retrofit repairs and
the associated fire-safety risks and the urgency of the repair work;
•
how the proposed increase to the Disability Tax Grant compared with similar
grants offered by other Durham municipalities;
•
why certain previously approved capital projects were being cancelled or re-
budgeted, and whether financial constraints were the primary cause;
•
what the City’s projected debt level would be as of January 1, 2027, and how
that projection was calculated;
•
what portion of the Seaton Recreation Complex costs would be debt financed,
and whether the total debt estimate remained consistent with prior figures
discussed by Council;
•
whether staff attending conferences at the City’s expense were required to
report back to Council, and whether this differed for domestic versus
international travel;
•
how staff determine when City vehicles should be replaced, including criteria
such as mileage, condition, and asset lifecycle;
•
whether sale proceeds from used vehicles were always returned to the
Vehicle Replacement Reserve;
•
whether the City typically received strong resale value for used vehicles, and
what process was used to dispose of them;
•
how a potential year-end surplus would be allocated across City reserve
funds, particularly for asset management, rate stabilization, and City-shared
Development Charges obligations;
•
whether organizations applying for community grants may still qualify if they
held funds in reserve that were already committed to future or specific
purposes; and,
•
whether staff had discretion to evaluate such circumstances before
recommending a grant award.
•
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
1. That Council approve an increase to the 2026 Low Income Seniors & Persons
with Disabilities Tax Grant amount, from $600 to $620 per household;
2. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized, at his discretion, to draw
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March 23, 2026
14
from the Building Permit Reserve Fund to address any revenue shortfall (Building
Permit Fees) to maintain the 2026 balanced budget plan;
3. That Council approve the cancellation of the following, previously approved
Capital projects:
Project Number:
C10110.2301 - Electric Vehicle – New;a.
C10300.2102 - 1 Ton Truck with Service Body – Replacement;b.
C10305.2104 - 4 Ton Dump Truck Roll Off Body with Sea-Can, Dump Body,
and Chipper Body Attachments – Replacement;
c.
C10315.2202 - Road Asphalt Roller – Replacement; d.
C10315.2413 - 4 Ton Dump Truck Roll-off Body – New;e.
C10315.2511 - Grader Roller (2) – New;f.
C10320.2215 - Enclosed Trailer – Replacement (2);g.
C10220.2503 - ESCC Structural Repairs; h.
C10240.2110 - Print Room Exhaust – Replacement;i.
C10320.2334 - Dunmoore Park - Parking Lot Reconstruction & Lighting –
Design;
j.
C10510.2501 - Various Construction Projects Related to Development (funded
from Third Party Contributions);
k.
C10525.1902 - Dyson Rd. Storm Sewer Outfall Design;l.
C10575.1904 - B-20c Krosno Creek SWM Facility Construction;m.
C10575.2501 - Installation of Oil Grit Separators - Frenchman's Bay
Watershed;
n.
C10700.1809 - FS #2 Renovation - Hopes Cradle; and,o.
C10000.2501 - Seaton Municipal Land Acquisition.p.
4. That Council approve staff attendance at international conferences, in
accordance with Subsection 10.02 of the Financial Control Policy for the following:
International travel by the Director, Economic Development & Strategic
Projects, and the Senior Advisor, Creative Industries & Tourism to attend the
2026 CinemaCon Tradeshow in Las Vegas, United States, and that the travel
costs does not exceed $1,900 per person;
a.
5. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized, at his discretion, to
undertake the following actions:
Any 2026 surplus Current Operating funds at year-end in excess of
approximately $125,000 be allocated in the following manner: the first
$100,000 be allocated to the Elected Officials Life Insurance Reserve (8034)
a.
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March 23, 2026
15
and the remaining surplus be allocated in the following ratio: 30% to the Rate
Stabilization Reserve (8007); 30% to the Facilities Reserve (8026); and 40%
to the City Share DC Projects Reserve (8008);
Any surplus funds from the Emergency Operational Capital Needs Account
(11100.503510) to the Facilities Reserve (8026);
b.
Any revenue from the sale of used vehicles (11100.406600) to the Vehicle
Replacement Reserve (8016);
c.
Any surplus funds from Museum donations (10250.406500) and Artefact
Repairs & Maintenance Account (10250.502385) to the Museum Collection
Reserve (8033);
d.
Any green energy rebates and revenue associated with the Claremont solar
roof rental project account (10325.404500.9480) and other incentives and
rebates account (10325.406551) to the Sustainable Initiatives Reserve (8024);
e.
Transfer 50% of net revenues (after collection expenses) from the Municipal
Accommodation Tax (MAT) to the MAT Reserve (8042) and the remaining
50% to the “Destination Pickering Corporation”;
f.
Where the 2026 year-end balance of the WSIB Reserve is greater than $4.0
million, the excess funds will be transferred to the WSIB Excess Indemnity
Reserve Fund (8702);
g.
Where the 2026 actual investment income (10600.406000) exceeds the
budget amount of $2,160,300, the excess funds will be transferred to the
Balloon Payment Reserve (8039), to minimize future debt costs;
h.
Where the 2026 actual winter control costs exceed the budget and results in
an operating City deficit, the additional costs will be funded by a transfer from
the Winter Control Reserve;
i.
Where the actual 2026 Property Tax Write-offs (account 11100.503000)
exceed the budget provision due to assessment appeals, the deficit will be
funded by a transfer from the Assessment Appeal Reserve (8002), and if this
reserve is depleted, then the shortfall will be funded from the Rate
Stabilization Reserve (8007); and,
j.
Where the actual 2026 Payment-in-Lieu Education Share revenues are less
than the budget estimates, the shortfall will be funded by a transfer from the
Rate Stabilization Reserve (8007);
k.
6. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to:
Undertake transactions in the spot or forward (12 months or less) currency
markets in order to effect United States dollar denominated expenditures in
the Current or Capital Budgets;
a.
Sign leases or rental agreements (including summer rentals) on the City’s b.
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March 23, 2026
16
behalf for the provision of vehicles or equipment required for temporary use
during periods of equipment breakdown or repair, or during periods of
increased need (e.g. inclement weather);
Apply for all grants included in the 2026 Current Budget, 2026 Capital Budget,
and prior year’s capital projects that have not started, and that Council
endorse all future applications that meet senior government grant criteria and
that staff report back to Council at the next possible meeting regarding which
grants staff have applied to;
c.
Make any changes, or take any actions necessary, to ensure that the budget
accommodates any reallocation of 2026 current operating expenditures and
revenues that may be required to accommodate any labour relations
settlements or any other required budget reallocations, while maintaining the
approved levy;
d.
Adjust the 2026 final tax rates to address any revenue shortfall arising as a
result of a provincial tax policy change;
e.
Initiate any additional assessment appeals necessary to protect the
assessment base of the City;
f.
Apply any debt repayment, interest or financing provisions contained in the
annual Current Operating Budget not used in the current year’s payments
towards additional principal repayments, repayment of outstanding loans, debt
charges, to reduce debt or internal loans not issued, or transfer funds to the
balloon payment reserve; and,
g.
Adjust the per kilometre travel expense reimbursement rate (last increased in
2025) with an effective date of March 1, 2026, from 0.72 cents per kilometre to
0.73 cents per kilometre for the first 5,000 kilometres and from 0.66 cents per
kilometre to 0.67 cents per kilometre for travel beyond 5,000 kilometres;
h.
7. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to transfer an additional
amount of $15,265 (Net HST) from the Building Permit Reserve Fund to fund the
completion of the Development Application and Approvals Process (DAAP) review;
8. That Council approve the continuing engagement of Watson & Associates
Economists Ltd., to be used for fiscal impact studies and related works,
Development Charge Background Study updates and/or amendments, Community
Benefit Charge Study updates and/or amendments and any other DC, CBC or
development related matters;
9. That Council approve the continuing engagement of the firm PSD Citywide Inc.,
to be used for asset management consulting and other work in support of the City’s
compliance with Asset Management legislation;
10. That Council approve the continuing engagement of the following firms: Nixon
Poole Lackie LLP and Frise Policy & Finance Inc. for any studies related to
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
17
reassessment or other property tax issues and to protect the property tax base by
defending assessment appeals through proactive assessment base management;
11. That Council approve the following Community grants, which are exceptions to
the Community Grant policy, and that these grants be on a reimbursement basis at
the discretion of the Director, Finance & Treasurer:
A grant to Dedicated Advocacy and Resources Services (DARS), and the
amount does not exceed $50,000 and that the grant expenditure be in
compliance with the City’s Grant policy as determined by the Director Finance
& Treasurer;
a.
A grant to Ontario Shores Foundation for Mental Health, in the amount of
$25,000;
b.
A grant to the Pickering Islamic Centre, in the amount of $5,000; c.
A grant to the Pickering Pentecostal Church, in the amount of $3,000; d.
A grant to the Apostolic Pentecostal Church of Pickering, in the amount of
$5,000;
e.
A grant to the Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Durham and Northumberland,
in the amount of $3,000;
f.
A grant to Global 180 Student Communications, in the amount of $10,000;
and,
g.
A grant to Scientists in School, in the amount of $2,700;h.
12. That FIN 040 Community Grant Policy be amended by adding the following
additional provisions and the change to the policy be effective for the 2027
Community Grants program:
That the grant application deadline date for the 2027 Community Grant
Program be November 30, 2026;
a.
Any community organizations with a cash and/or cash equivalent balance
exceeding $50,000 be ineligible from the Community Grant program
(excluding mental health organizations);
b.
All grant applicants are obligated to provide the required financial information
as per the City’s grant policy and applicants that fail to comply will result in
having their applications being deemed “incomplete”;
c.
Any new community grant applicant must have been in existence for at least
one year and must provide supporting documentation demonstrating
compliance with this timeline requirement;
d.
Any new community grant applicant, located outside of the City’s geographical
boundaries, are limited to a facility or permit rental only for their first-year grant
request;
e.
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
18
Payments to volunteers for in-kind services, such as donated time, equipment
or services are ineligible for Community Grant funding and that volunteers can
be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses consistent with activities in the
community grant application, if supported by third-party receipts or invoices;
and,
f.
That grant expenses must be supported by third-party receipts and invoices
that contain specific, verifiable information in a consistent and professional
format as identified below:
g.
supplier’s name and their address; i.
date of the transaction; ii.
tax/business numbers (if GST.HST is charged); iii.
amount paid; iv.
an itemized description of the goods or services purchased; and, v.
proof of payment;vi.
13. That Council waive the Purchasing Policy where the estimated vehicle repair
cost is below $30,000 (HST excluded) for all fleet vehicles and off-road vehicle
equipment in 2026, however, a purchase order is still required;
14. That Council grant the Director Finance & Treasurer the authority to make the
following changes related to the Building Faster Fund (BFF):
If the City receives BFF funding in 2026 (earned in 2025 and anticipated to be
received in 2026), that the financing source for the 2026 Roads Resurfacing
program be changed from the Roads & Bridges Reserve Fund (408706) to the
BFF Reserve Fund (408506) up to the amount of the BFF funding received;
a.
That the 2026 Capital Budget Roads Resurfacing program be approved as the
Investment Plan submission for the BFF program if funding becomes
available; and,
b.
That any unspent Year Two BFF dollars be allocated to the 2026 Capital
Budget Roads Resurfacing program;
c.
15. That Council approve the draft By-law to amend the Municipal Fees and
Charges By-law, as set out in Attachment 1 to this report;
16. That Council endorse the principle that when City policies are at cross purposes
as it relates to financial planning and budgets, the guiding principle shall be that
investments in municipal infrastructure that provides a safe environment for our
residents and staff shall be given priority;
17. That the remaining funds in the amount of $222,600 (Net HST) be transferred
from capital project C10235.2401 – Recreation Complex – Arenas, Secure
Compound (funded from the Operations Centre Reserve Fund) to capital project
C10225.2411 – Recreation Complex – Central Core, Loading Dock Retrofit, and
that capital project C10235.2401 be subsequently closed;
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
19
18. That Council approve the transfer of funding in the amount of $70,000 (Net
HST) from capital project C10315.2511 – Grader Roller (2) to C10315.2510 –
Grader Plow (2), to cover the overage from Q2025-27 and that subsequently capital
project C10315.2511 be closed;
19. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to approve the
additional expenditure of $20,000 (HST excluded) or $20,352 (Net HST) to fund the
anticipated over expenditure for capital project C10572.2413 (Diana Princess of
Wales Park) from a transfer from the Casino Reserve;
20. That the quote from Destech Consulting Services be accepted based on a
three-year commitment in accordance with the City’s Purchasing Policy Item 10.3
(c) to:
implement the City’s property tax portal in the amount of $65,000 (HST
excluded) as approved in the 2026 Capital Budget (C10405.2609) to be
funded from the IT Reserve; and,
a.
provide ongoing annual licence, support and managed services in the amount
of $60,000 per year (HST excluded), or $180,000 (HST excluded) for a three
year contract and that the first year is funded from the 2026 Capital Budget
(C10405.2609) and the second and third years funded from the current
budget;
b.
21. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to approve the
property tax portal annual hosting costs in the amount of $30,000 (HST excluded),
or $90,000 (HST excluded) for a three year contract with the first year funded from
the 2026 Capital Budget (C10405.2609) and the second and third years funded
from the current budget;
22. That Council approve the transfer of funding in the amount of $44,735 (Net
HST) for the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex (CHDRC) from
capital project C10225.2304 – Family Change Room Renovation (Design) to
C10230.2301– Family Change Room RTU Replacement, to cover the overage from
RFQQ2025-27 and that subsequently capital project C10315.2511 be closed;
23. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to approve the
additional expenditure of $145,000 (Net HST) to fund additional work needed to
integrate the RISE migration for SAP enhancements, and the additional amount to
be funded from the Financial System Reserve;
24. That Council approve the change in financing source for project C10570.2501 -
Third Concession Road Reconstruction in the amount of $597,000 from the DC
Transportation Reserve Fund and DC City Share Reserve to the Roads & Bridges
Reserve Fund for the revised project scope;
25. That Council approve the following recommendations related to the Whitevale
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
20
Road Master Drainage Plan (MDP) Implementation:
That the Whitevale Road MDP Implementation capital budget program
budgeted for construction in 2021 and additional funds budgeted in 2024 and
2026, be allocated into two components; east and west section, with the east
Section (Phase 1) to proceed in 2026 and the West Section (Phase 2) to
proceed in 2027;
a.
That Council delegate the authority to award the East Section (Phase 1)
Whitevale Road MDP Implementation project contract with terms and
conditions satisfactory to the Director, Finance & Treasurer and Director, City
Infrastructure, with the total value of the contract not to exceed $4,400,000
(Net HST) , and that the awarding of the contracts be in compliance with
applicable senior government legislation; and,
b.
That additional funds for professional fees be approved in the amount of
$40,000 (excl. HST) to AECOM ULC to support streetlighting design costs and
minor revisions to ecological investigations due to provincial regulatory
changes for the tender and construction of Phase 1 be funded from the OCIF
Reserve Fund;
c.
26. That the 2026 Committee and Council Meeting Schedule be amended to add a
Special Council Meeting for Monday, December 14, 2026, at 7:00 pm to consider
City business;
27. That Council authorize the Director of Finance & Treasurer to submit to the new
Council the draft 2027 Capital Budget and the corresponding forecast based on the
following two principles:
That the annual debt capacity for 2027 through 2031 will not exceed 15% of
the Annual Repayment Limit, as defined by Ontario Regulation 403/02—Debt
and Financial Obligation Limits; and,
a.
That the draft 2027 Budget Levy increase and its corresponding forecasts
shall be based on a 1.0% annual increase for Asset Management for each
respective year,
b.
28. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
Carried later in the Meeting (See Following Motion)
Resolution #968/26
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
That the main motion be amended by adding the following as a new Item 11.i. and
that the recommendation be renumbered accordingly:
A grant to the Claremont Legion, in the amount of $5,000.00 dollars (account i.
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
21
503050.11100) to be used for building upgrades to satisfy current retrofit and
Ontario Fire Code requirements.
Carried
The Main Motion, as amended, was then before Council for Adoption
Resolution #969/26
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
1. That Council approve an increase to the 2026 Low Income Seniors & Persons
with Disabilities Tax Grant amount, from $600 to $620 per household;
2. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized, at his discretion, to draw
from the Building Permit Reserve Fund to address any revenue shortfall (Building
Permit Fees) to maintain the 2026 balanced budget plan;
3. That Council approve the cancellation of the following, previously approved
Capital projects:
Project Number:
C10110.2301 - Electric Vehicle – New;a.
C10300.2102 - 1 Ton Truck with Service Body – Replacement;b.
C10305.2104 - 4 Ton Dump Truck Roll Off Body with Sea-Can, Dump Body,
and Chipper Body Attachments – Replacement;
c.
C10315.2202 - Road Asphalt Roller – Replacement; d.
C10315.2413 - 4 Ton Dump Truck Roll-off Body – New;e.
C10315.2511 - Grader Roller (2) – New;f.
C10320.2215 - Enclosed Trailer – Replacement (2);g.
C10220.2503 - ESCC Structural Repairs; h.
C10240.2110 - Print Room Exhaust – Replacement;i.
C10320.2334 - Dunmoore Park - Parking Lot Reconstruction & Lighting –
Design;
j.
C10510.2501 - Various Construction Projects Related to Development (funded
from Third Party Contributions);
k.
C10525.1902 - Dyson Rd. Storm Sewer Outfall Design;l.
C10575.1904 - B-20c Krosno Creek SWM Facility Construction;m.
C10575.2501 - Installation of Oil Grit Separators - Frenchman's Bay
Watershed;
n.
C10700.1809 - FS #2 Renovation - Hopes Cradle; and,o.
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
22
C10000.2501 - Seaton Municipal Land Acquisition.p.
4. That Council approve staff attendance at international conferences, in
accordance with Subsection 10.02 of the Financial Control Policy for the following:
International travel by the Director, Economic Development & Strategic
Projects, and the Senior Advisor, Creative Industries & Tourism to attend the
2026 CinemaCon Tradeshow in Las Vegas, United States, and that the travel
costs does not exceed $1,900 per person;
a.
5. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized, at his discretion, to
undertake the following actions:
Any 2026 surplus Current Operating funds at year-end in excess of
approximately $125,000 be allocated in the following manner: the first
$100,000 be allocated to the Elected Officials Life Insurance Reserve (8034)
and the remaining surplus be allocated in the following ratio: 30% to the Rate
Stabilization Reserve (8007); 30% to the Facilities Reserve (8026); and 40%
to the City Share DC Projects Reserve (8008);
a.
Any surplus funds from the Emergency Operational Capital Needs Account
(11100.503510) to the Facilities Reserve (8026);
b.
Any revenue from the sale of used vehicles (11100.406600) to the Vehicle
Replacement Reserve (8016);
c.
Any surplus funds from Museum donations (10250.406500) and Artefact
Repairs & Maintenance Account (10250.502385) to the Museum Collection
Reserve (8033);
d.
Any green energy rebates and revenue associated with the Claremont solar
roof rental project account (10325.404500.9480) and other incentives and
rebates account (10325.406551) to the Sustainable Initiatives Reserve (8024);
e.
Transfer 50% of net revenues (after collection expenses) from the Municipal
Accommodation Tax (MAT) to the MAT Reserve (8042) and the remaining
50% to the “Destination Pickering Corporation”;
f.
Where the 2026 year-end balance of the WSIB Reserve is greater than $4.0
million, the excess funds will be transferred to the WSIB Excess Indemnity
Reserve Fund (8702);
g.
Where the 2026 actual investment income (10600.406000) exceeds the
budget amount of $2,160,300, the excess funds will be transferred to the
Balloon Payment Reserve (8039), to minimize future debt costs;
h.
Where the 2026 actual winter control costs exceed the budget and results in
an operating City deficit, the additional costs will be funded by a transfer from
the Winter Control Reserve;
i.
Where the actual 2026 Property Tax Write-offs (account 11100.503000) j.
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
23
exceed the budget provision due to assessment appeals, the deficit will be
funded by a transfer from the Assessment Appeal Reserve (8002), and if this
reserve is depleted, then the shortfall will be funded from the Rate
Stabilization Reserve (8007); and,
Where the actual 2026 Payment-in-Lieu Education Share revenues are less
than the budget estimates, the shortfall will be funded by a transfer from the
Rate Stabilization Reserve (8007);
k.
6. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to:
Undertake transactions in the spot or forward (12 months or less) currency
markets in order to effect United States dollar denominated expenditures in
the Current or Capital Budgets;
a.
Sign leases or rental agreements (including summer rentals) on the City’s
behalf for the provision of vehicles or equipment required for temporary use
during periods of equipment breakdown or repair, or during periods of
increased need (e.g. inclement weather);
b.
Apply for all grants included in the 2026 Current Budget, 2026 Capital Budget,
and prior year’s capital projects that have not started, and that Council
endorse all future applications that meet senior government grant criteria and
that staff report back to Council at the next possible meeting regarding which
grants staff have applied to;
c.
Make any changes, or take any actions necessary, to ensure that the budget
accommodates any reallocation of 2026 current operating expenditures and
revenues that may be required to accommodate any labour relations
settlements or any other required budget reallocations, while maintaining the
approved levy;
d.
Adjust the 2026 final tax rates to address any revenue shortfall arising as a
result of a provincial tax policy change;
e.
Initiate any additional assessment appeals necessary to protect the
assessment base of the City;
f.
Apply any debt repayment, interest or financing provisions contained in the
annual Current Operating Budget not used in the current year’s payments
towards additional principal repayments, repayment of outstanding loans, debt
charges, to reduce debt or internal loans not issued, or transfer funds to the
balloon payment reserve; and,
g.
Adjust the per kilometre travel expense reimbursement rate (last increased in
2025) with an effective date of March 1, 2026, from 0.72 cents per kilometre to
0.73 cents per kilometre for the first 5,000 kilometres and from 0.66 cents per
kilometre to 0.67 cents per kilometre for travel beyond 5,000 kilometres;
h.
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
24
7. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to transfer an additional
amount of $15,265 (Net HST) from the Building Permit Reserve Fund to fund the
completion of the Development Application and Approvals Process (DAAP) review;
8. That Council approve the continuing engagement of Watson & Associates
Economists Ltd., to be used for fiscal impact studies and related works,
Development Charge Background Study updates and/or amendments, Community
Benefit Charge Study updates and/or amendments and any other DC, CBC or
development related matters;
9. That Council approve the continuing engagement of the firm PSD Citywide Inc.,
to be used for asset management consulting and other work in support of the City’s
compliance with Asset Management legislation;
10. That Council approve the continuing engagement of the following firms: Nixon
Poole Lackie LLP and Frise Policy & Finance Inc. for any studies related to
reassessment or other property tax issues and to protect the property tax base by
defending assessment appeals through proactive assessment base management;
11. That Council approve the following Community grants, which are exceptions to
the Community Grant policy, and that these grants be on a reimbursement basis at
the discretion of the Director, Finance & Treasurer:
A grant to Dedicated Advocacy and Resources Services (DARS), and the
amount does not exceed $50,000 and that the grant expenditure be in
compliance with the City’s Grant policy as determined by the Director Finance
& Treasurer;
a.
A grant to Ontario Shores Foundation for Mental Health, in the amount of
$25,000;
b.
A grant to the Pickering Islamic Centre, in the amount of $5,000; c.
A grant to the Pickering Pentecostal Church, in the amount of $3,000; d.
A grant to the Apostolic Pentecostal Church of Pickering, in the amount of
$5,000;
e.
A grant to the Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Durham and Northumberland,
in the amount of $3,000;
f.
A grant to Global 180 Student Communications, in the amount of $10,000; g.
A grant to Scientists in School, in the amount of $2,700; and, h.
A grant to the Claremont Legion, in the amount of $5,000.00 dollars (account
503050.11100) to be used for building upgrades to satisfy current retrofit and
Ontario Fire Code requirements;
i.
12. That FIN 040 Community Grant Policy be amended by adding the following
additional provisions and the change to the policy be effective for the 2027
Community Grants program:
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
25
That the grant application deadline date for the 2027 Community Grant
Program be November 30, 2026;
a.
Any community organizations with a cash and/or cash equivalent balance
exceeding $50,000 be ineligible from the Community Grant program
(excluding mental health organizations);
b.
All grant applicants are obligated to provide the required financial information
as per the City’s grant policy and applicants that fail to comply will result in
having their applications being deemed “incomplete”;
c.
Any new community grant applicant must have been in existence for at least
one year and must provide supporting documentation demonstrating
compliance with this timeline requirement;
d.
Any new community grant applicant, located outside of the City’s geographical
boundaries, are limited to a facility or permit rental only for their first-year grant
request;
e.
Payments to volunteers for in-kind services, such as donated time, equipment
or services are ineligible for Community Grant funding and that volunteers can
be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses consistent with activities in the
community grant application, if supported by third-party receipts or invoices;
and,
f.
That grant expenses must be supported by third-party receipts and invoices
that contain specific, verifiable information in a consistent and professional
format as identified below:
g.
supplier’s name and their address; i.
date of the transaction; ii.
tax/business numbers (if GST.HST is charged); iii.
amount paid; iv.
an itemized description of the goods or services purchased; and, v.
proof of payment;vi.
13. That Council waive the Purchasing Policy where the estimated vehicle repair
cost is below $30,000 (HST excluded) for all fleet vehicles and off-road vehicle
equipment in 2026, however, a purchase order is still required;
14. That Council grant the Director Finance & Treasurer the authority to make the
following changes related to the Building Faster Fund (BFF):
If the City receives BFF funding in 2026 (earned in 2025 and anticipated to be
received in 2026), that the financing source for the 2026 Roads Resurfacing
program be changed from the Roads & Bridges Reserve Fund (408706) to the
BFF Reserve Fund (408506) up to the amount of the BFF funding received;
a.
That the 2026 Capital Budget Roads Resurfacing program be approved as the
Investment Plan submission for the BFF program if funding becomes
b.
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
26
available; and,
That any unspent Year Two BFF dollars be allocated to the 2026 Capital
Budget Roads Resurfacing program;
c.
15. That Council approve the draft By-law to amend the Municipal Fees and
Charges By-law, as set out in Attachment 1 to this report;
16. That Council endorse the principle that when City policies are at cross purposes
as it relates to financial planning and budgets, the guiding principle shall be that
investments in municipal infrastructure that provides a safe environment for our
residents and staff shall be given priority;
17. That the remaining funds in the amount of $222,600 (Net HST) be transferred
from capital project C10235.2401 – Recreation Complex – Arenas, Secure
Compound (funded from the Operations Centre Reserve Fund) to capital project
C10225.2411 – Recreation Complex – Central Core, Loading Dock Retrofit, and
that capital project C10235.2401 be subsequently closed;
18. That Council approve the transfer of funding in the amount of $70,000 (Net
HST) from capital project C10315.2511 – Grader Roller (2) to C10315.2510 –
Grader Plow (2), to cover the overage from Q2025-27 and that subsequently capital
project C10315.2511 be closed;
19. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to approve the
additional expenditure of $20,000 (HST excluded) or $20,352 (Net HST) to fund the
anticipated over expenditure for capital project C10572.2413 (Diana Princess of
Wales Park) from a transfer from the Casino Reserve;
20. That the quote from Destech Consulting Services be accepted based on a
three-year commitment in accordance with the City’s Purchasing Policy Item 10.3
(c) to:
implement the City’s property tax portal in the amount of $65,000 (HST
excluded) as approved in the 2026 Capital Budget (C10405.2609) to be
funded from the IT Reserve; and,
a.
provide ongoing annual licence, support and managed services in the amount
of $60,000 per year (HST excluded), or $180,000 (HST excluded) for a three
year contract and that the first year is funded from the 2026 Capital Budget
(C10405.2609) and the second and third years funded from the current
budget;
b.
21. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to approve the
property tax portal annual hosting costs in the amount of $30,000 (HST excluded),
or $90,000 (HST excluded) for a three year contract with the first year funded from
the 2026 Capital Budget (C10405.2609) and the second and third years funded
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
27
from the current budget;
22. That Council approve the transfer of funding in the amount of $44,735 (Net
HST) for the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex (CHDRC) from
capital project C10225.2304 – Family Change Room Renovation (Design) to
C10230.2301– Family Change Room RTU Replacement, to cover the overage from
RFQQ2025-27 and that subsequently capital project C10315.2511 be closed;
23. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to approve the
additional expenditure of $145,000 (Net HST) to fund additional work needed to
integrate the RISE migration for SAP enhancements, and the additional amount to
be funded from the Financial System Reserve;
24. That Council approve the change in financing source for project C10570.2501 -
Third Concession Road Reconstruction in the amount of $597,000 from the DC
Transportation Reserve Fund and DC City Share Reserve to the Roads & Bridges
Reserve Fund for the revised project scope;
25. That Council approve the following recommendations related to the Whitevale
Road Master Drainage Plan (MDP) Implementation:
That the Whitevale Road MDP Implementation capital budget program
budgeted for construction in 2021 and additional funds budgeted in 2024 and
2026, be allocated into two components; east and west section, with the east
Section (Phase 1) to proceed in 2026 and the West Section (Phase 2) to
proceed in 2027;
a.
That Council delegate the authority to award the East Section (Phase 1)
Whitevale Road MDP Implementation project contract with terms and
conditions satisfactory to the Director, Finance & Treasurer and Director, City
Infrastructure, with the total value of the contract not to exceed $4,400,000
(Net HST) , and that the awarding of the contracts be in compliance with
applicable senior government legislation; and,
b.
That additional funds for professional fees be approved in the amount of
$40,000 (excl. HST) to AECOM ULC to support streetlighting design costs and
minor revisions to ecological investigations due to provincial regulatory
changes for the tender and construction of Phase 1 be funded from the OCIF
Reserve Fund;
c.
26. That the 2026 Committee and Council Meeting Schedule be amended to add a
Special Council Meeting for Monday, December 14, 2026, at 7:00 pm to consider
City business;
27. That Council authorize the Director of Finance & Treasurer to submit to the new
Council the draft 2027 Capital Budget and the corresponding forecast based on the
following two principles:
That the annual debt capacity for 2027 through 2031 will not exceed 15% of a.
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
28
the Annual Repayment Limit, as defined by Ontario Regulation 403/02—Debt
and Financial Obligation Limits; and,
That the draft 2027 Budget Levy increase and its corresponding forecasts
shall be based on a 1.0% annual increase for Asset Management for each
respective year,
b.
28. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
Carried
Director, City Infrastructure, Report INF 04-26
Hot-In-Place Asphalt Recycling Feasibility Assessment
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
whether this method could reduce overall resurfacing costs and allow the City
to resurface a greater number of roads if the pilot project proved successful;
•
how the cost of Hot-In-Place treatment compared to traditional resurfacing;•
whether the potential cost savings could translate into resurfacing more road
segments in future programs and whether the suitability of the treatment was
location specific;
•
whether the treatment came with a three-year warranty or a standard two-year
warranty;
•
whether contractors could be required to provide an extended warranty,
should Council choose to proceed with this resurfacing method;
•
whether parameters would be established to determine which roads were
appropriate for Hot-In-Place resurfacing;
•
whether roads requiring deeper structural rehabilitation, including those with
heavy truck traffic or significant base deficiencies, would be excluded from
eligibility; and,
•
whether geotechnical investigations would be required to evaluate asphalt
thickness and underlying granular conditions before selecting project
locations.
•
Resolution #970/26
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Cook
That Report INF-04-26 regarding Hot-in-Place Asphalt Resurfacing Feasibility be 1.
12.5
Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 2026
29
received;
That staff report back by Q2 2027 with an update on the performance feedback
from the Region of Durham pilot project, and the suitability of implementing a
Hot-In-Place Asphalt Resurfacing 2028 pilot project in the City of Pickering; and,
2.
That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the actions
necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
3.
Carried
By-laws
Resolution #971/26
Moved By Councillor Cook
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That By-law Numbers 8236/26 through 8237/26 be approved.
Carried
By-law 8236/26
Being a by-law to amend By-law 6191/03 to confirm General Municipal Fees.
By-law 8237/26
Being a by-law to amend By-law 6191/03 to confirm General Municipal Fees.
Confidential Council - Public Report
Mayor Ashe stated that prior to the Regular Meeting of Council, an In-camera session was
held at 6:30 pm in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Act and the Procedure
By-law to consider a matter pertaining to the 2025 Corporate Security Annual Report. The
matter was discussed in closed session to discuss the security of the property of the
municipality. No direction was provided to staff and no decisions were made by Council.
Regional Councillor Updates
There were no updates from Regional Councillors.
Other Business
Cook reminded the public of the annual Easter Parade on April 4, held in partnership
with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 606. Councillor Cook noted that the parade
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was a free community event and that residents were welcome to visit the Legion
afterward for refreshments.
Councillor Cook announced that the annual Spring Fling at Millennium Square would
take place on April 11 and April 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., featuring local
artisans, vendors, and entertainment.
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Councillor Cook advised that a second situational awareness safety meeting,
organized jointly with Councillors Brenner and Nagy, and supported by City of
Pickering 55+ staff and the South Pickering Seniors Club, would occur on April 2 at
6:00 p.m. at the East Shore Community Centre.
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Councillor Nagy gave Notice of a Motion regarding School Board Trustees.•
Councillor Brenner gave Notice of a Motion regarding lands owned by the Pickering
Islamic Centre on Whites Road.
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Councillor Brenner gave Notice of a Motion regarding lands owned by ITrust on
Kingston Road.
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Councillor Robinson gave Notice of the following Motions:
calling on the Province of Ontario to strengthen, modernize, and increase
transparency of the Ontario Sex Offender Registry;
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calling on the federal government to strengthen laws and enforcement related
to child exploitation and trafficking;
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requesting the reversal of policies permitting developers to defer development
charge payments;
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initiating a public awareness campaign on emergency procedures, evacuation
routes, and safety protocols;
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establishing mandatory public reporting on municipal surveillance systems and
limiting surveillance expansion without Council approval;
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ensuring transparency and in camera reporting related to public policy matters;○
amending the procedural by-law to prevent procedural barriers from restricting
debate;
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implementing staff travel accountability and reporting measures; and,○
requiring staff to disclose to Council and the public, prior to or at the time of
Council’s consideration of development applications, whether applicants intend
to make use of provincially permitted development charge payment deferrals.
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Councillor Butt raised ongoing resident concerns regarding potholes in the
Greenwood and Cherrywood areas and requested that staff continue efforts to
expedite repairs.
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Confirmatory By-law
Moved By Councillor Robinson
Seconded By Councillor Cook
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That By-law 8238/26, to confirm the proceedings of the March 23, 2026 Council Meeting
be approved.
Carried
Adjournment
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Nagy
That the meeting be adjourned.
Carried
The meeting adjourned at 9:07 p.m.
Dated this 23rd day of March, 2026.
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Kevin Ashe, Mayor
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Susan Cassel, City Clerk
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