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HomeMy WebLinkAboutNovember 27, 2023 Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 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 S. Boyd - Fire Chief B. Duffield - Director, Operations L. Gibbs - (Acting) Director, Community Services J. Halsall - Division Head, Finance R. Holborn - Director, Engineering Services F. Jadoon - Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects C. Rose - Chief Planner J. Litoborski - Manager, Municipal Law Enforcement Services C. Whitaker - Manager, Manager, Sustainability & Strategic Environmental Initiatives S. Cassel - City Clerk (left the meeting at 10:11 p.m.) P. Furnell - Supervisor, Building Permits C. Redmond - (Acting) Deputy Clerk A. MacGillivray - Committee Coordinator 1. Call to Order/Roll Call The City Clerk certified that all Members of Council were present and participating in- person. 2. Moment of Reflection Mayor Ashe called for a silent moment of reflection. 3. Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 2 Mayor Ashe read the Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement. 4. Disclosure of Interest Councillor Cook declared a conflict of interest under the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act with respect to Item 9.2, Corr. 36-23 from Jon Franke, Senior Vice President, Pickering Nuclear, Ontario Power Generation regarding a Request for the City of Pickering’s Support or Refurbishing Pickering Nuclear Generating Station Units 5 to 8, as her partner is employed at Ontario Power Generation. 5. Adoption of Minutes Resolution #322/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt Council Minutes, October 23, 2023 Executive Committee Minutes, November 6, 2023 Special Council Minutes, November 6, 2023 Planning & Development Committee Minutes, November 6, 2023 Special Council Minutes, November 16, 2023 Carried 6. Presentations There were no presentations. 7. Question Period There were no questions posed by members of the public during Question Period. 8. Delegations Resolution #323/23 Moved by Councillor Butt Seconded by Councillor Robinson That the rules of procedure be suspended to allow one additional delegation, under Section 8 of the Agenda, regarding Report PLN 39-23. Carried Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 3 8.1 Margaret Bowie, President, Rougemount Community & Recreation Association Abdullah Mir, Vice President, Rougemount Community & Recreation Association Joe Pacione, Treasurer, Rougemount Community & Recreation Association Oliver Rohn, Technical Director, Rougemount Community & Recreation Association Joseph Poon, Membership Director, Rougemount Community & Recreation Association Re: Introduction of the Rougemount Community & Recreation Association (RCRA) Margaret Bowie, President, Rougemount Community & Recreation Association, and fellow members, appeared before Council to introduce the newly formed Rougemount Community & Recreation Association. Ms. Bowie stated that the Association was formed by the residents of the Rougemount area to encourage community engagement and to share information regarding community activities, community fundraisers and participation in other charitable activities. Ms. Bowie introduced Mr. Mir, Mr. Pacione, Mr. Rohn, and Mr. Poon and noted their respective roles in the Association and spoke to the upcoming activities that were planned. A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council, Ms. Bowie, Mr. Mir, Mr. Pacione, Mr. Rohn, and Mr. Poon regarding: • where and how often the Association would meet; • the details of the upcoming inaugural and joint town hall meeting at the George Ashe Library & Community Centre on February 12, 2024; and, • whether the Association was aware of the City’s Respectful Conduct Policy. 8.2 Charlene Herbst, Pickering Resident Re: The Impact of Immigration on Low-Income Pickering Residents Charlene Herbst, Pickering Resident, appeared before Council speaking to Canada’s involvement with the United Nation’s (UN’s) Agenda 21 and the alleged impact this had on various levels of government. Ms. Herbst made note of a “municipal primer” issued to various cities in 1994 from the International Council on Local and Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) that allegedly contained direction regarding the restructuring of governments and raised concerns with the City’s status as a corporation. She made the claim that elected Members of Council did not swear an oath of office to represent the people of Pickering and spoke to the importance of engaging Pickering residents in community planning rather than unelected international organizations. Ms. Herbst expressed concerns with international organizations threatening the sovereignty of Canada through international contracts and public-private partnerships and noted that she would be sending information packages to Council in the coming days. Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 4 A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council, and Ms. Herbst regarding: • clarification regarding the purpose and work of ICLEI; • clarification regarding the impacts to Canada and the sub levels of government as a result of a signed international agreement in 1992; • clarification regarding the Oath of Office that was signed by Members of Council under the provisions of the Municipal Act; • concerns regarding whether Members of Council act for public or private interests; and, • clarification that the City of Pickering is a corporation under the Municipal Act and not a for-profit corporation. 8.3 Mike Borie, Pickering Resident Re: Report PLN 39-23 Environmental Registry of Ontario Posting 019-7739 and 019-7735 Proposal to return lands to the Greenbelt – Bill 136, Greenbelt Statute Law Amendment Act, 2023, and New Act regarding the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve Easements and Covenants Mike Borie, Pickering Resident, appeared before Council to speak to Report PLN 39-23. Mr. Borie spoke to his inability to reconcile Report PLN 39-23 and a Backgrounder Document from the Ministry of Natural Resources, dated October 31, 2005, regarding the Proposed Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve Act. Mr. Borie spoke to the environmental easement that purchasers of land in the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve (DRAP) were required to agree to, that protected the land for agricultural uses only in perpetuity. He noted the lower price of the lands due to the easement for agricultural uses and suggested that if the City was committed to the permanence of agricultural use for the lands, then the section in the Report regarding the Growth Management Study in Section 3.4.1 was not necessary. Mr, Borie spoke to the importance of preserving the DRAP, the Rouge National Urban Park, and the Federal Lands for future generations and suggested that Council reconfirm its support for agricultural use of lands within the DRAP in perpetuity. He also encouraged Council to embrace the vision of the Central Pickering Development Plan (CPDP) and inquired as to whether this vision, including the preservation of agricultural land use in the DRAP, could be enshrined in the City’s Official Plan. Mr. Borie concluded his remarks questioning why the City issued a letter requesting to repeal the CPDP, and why the opinion of over 30 delegations at the Special Council Meeting held on December 5, 2022 was not mentioned in the Report. 8.4 Don Harvey, Cherrywood Residents Group June Enright, Cherrywood Residents Group Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 5 Re: Report PLN 39-23 Environmental Registry of Ontario Posting 019-7739 and 019-7735 Proposal to return lands to the Greenbelt – Bill 136, Greenbelt Statute Law Amendment Act, 2023, and New Act regarding the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve Easements and Covenants Don Harvey and June Enright appeared before Council regarding Report PLN 39- 23. Mr. Harvey provided an overview of his concerns with the Report including the history of the protections applied to the DRAP, the parties that the land was sold to, the properties being subject to a Memorandum of Understanding with the City, and the easements signed by purchasers that preserved the land for agriculture purposes only. Mr. Harvey raised concerns regarding the funding of the 2004 Growth Management Study by developers that owned the subject lands and spoke to the timeline of the City lifting the agricultural easements and the Province’s introduction of the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve Act. Mr. Harvey commented that the Report had a history that was incomplete and did not clearly indicate the City’s position on the proposed legislation. 9. Correspondence 9.1 Corr. 35-23 The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Re: Policy Update - Social and Economic Prosperity Review A brief discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding the lack of clarity pertaining to the information provided in the correspondence by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) and whether more information could be requested from AMO. Resolution #324/23 Moved by Councillor Butt Seconded by Councillor Pickles 1. That Corr. 35-23, from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), dated October 18, 2023, regarding Policy Update - Social and Economic Prosperity Review, be received and endorsed; and, 2. That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Honourable Premier Doug Ford, the Honourable Paul Calandra, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, and The Honourable Peter Bethlenfalvy, Member of Provincial Parliament, Pickering-Uxbridge. Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 6 Note: The disposition of this matter was determined through the referral motion below: Resolution #325/23 Moved by Councillor Robinson Seconded by Councillor Cook That Corr. 35-23, from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), dated October 18, 2023, regarding Policy Update - Social and Economic Prosperity Review, be referred back to staff for inclusion on the December 11, 2023 Council agenda with further information provided by AMO. Carried 9.2 Corr. 36-23 Jon Franke, Senior Vice President, Pickering Nuclear, Ontario Power Generation Re: Request for the City of Pickering’s Support or Refurbishing Pickering Nuclear Generating Station Units 5 to 8 Having previously declared a conflict of interest, Councillor Cook did not take part in the discussion or vote on the following item. A brief discussion period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding: • the understanding from Ontario Power Generation (OPG) that safety would be a priority during the refurbishment, should it proceed; • the anticipated benefits of the refurbishment, including low energy prices, improved reliability of the power grid, local economic growth, and increased safety; • clarification regarding the review and approval process including a federal hearing, public consultation, and a licensing renewal process; • whether City staff would attend the re-licensing hearing; • the City’s request to the Canadian Association of Nuclear Host Community (CANHC) to review the information available and prepare comments regarding the refurbishment process; and, • clarification regarding the work of CANHC and the City’s representation with the organization. Resolution #326/23 Moved by Councillor Butt Seconded by Councillor Robinson Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 7 1. That Corr. 36-23, from Jon Franke, Senior Vice President, Pickering Nuclear, Ontario Power Generation, dated November 9, 2023, regarding a Request for the City of Pickering’s Support of Refurbishing Pickering Nuclear Generating Station Units 5 to 8, be received; and, 2. That the Mayor be authorized to send a letter of support on behalf of the City of Pickering for the Refurbishment of Pickering Nuclear Generating Station Units 5 to 8. Carried 10. Report EC 08-23 of the Executive Committee held on November 6, 2023 10.1 Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 18-23 2023 Year End Audit (Interim) Council Decision: That the Audit Service Plan as submitted by Deloitte LLP, set out in Attachment 1 to this report, be received for information. 10.2 Director, Community Services, Report CS 28-23 2024 Community Festivals and Events Approval of Events in Esplanade Park Council Decision: 1. That Council authorize staff to issue a park permit for the use of Esplanade Park by Rotary Club of Pickering Rotary from Wednesday, June 12 to Monday June 17, 2024, for Pickering Ribfest, on terms and conditions satisfactory to Director, Community Services and Chief Administrative Officer; 2. That Council authorize staff to issue a park permit for the use of Esplanade Park by Carea Community Health Centre on Friday, June 21, 2024, for National Indigenous Peoples Day, on terms and conditions satisfactory to Director, Community Services and Chief Administrative Officer; 3. That Council authorize staff to issue a park permit for the use of Esplanade Park by Canadian Food Truck Festivals from Thursday, August 8 to Monday, August 12, 2024, for Pickering Food Truck Festival, on terms and Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 8 conditions satisfactory to Director, Community Services and Chief Administrative Officer; 4. That Council authorize staff to issue a park permit for the use of Esplanade Park by Apostolic Pentecostal Church of Pickering on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, and Tuesday August 20 (rain date) for a Sing-A-Long, on terms and conditions satisfactory to Director, Community Services and Chief Administrative Officer; 5. That Council authorize staff to issue a park permit for the use of Esplanade Park by Affiliation For Inspiring Youth Upliftment Enterprise (A.F.I.Y.U) on Saturday August 17, 2024, and Sunday, August 25, 2024 (rain date) for a Movie Night, on terms and conditions satisfactory to Director, Community Services and Chief Administrative Officer; 6. That Council authorize staff to issue a park permit for the use of Esplanade Park by Indo-Canadian Cultural Association of Durham Inc. on Sunday, August 18, 2024, for A Festival of India’s Independence, on terms and conditions satisfactory to Director, Community Services and Chief Administrative Officer; 7. That Council authorize staff to issue a park permit for the use of Esplanade Park by Ontario Conservative Electoral District Association on Saturday, August 24, 2024, for MPP Bethlenfalvy’s Community BBQ, on terms and conditions satisfactory to Director, Community Services and Chief Administrative Officer; and, 8. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. 10.3 Director, Community Services, Report CS 29-23 Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act - 2023 Compliance Report Council Decision: 1. That Council endorse the City of Pickering 2023 Accessibility Compliance Report prepared by City staff and endorsed by the Accessibility Advisory Committee, as set out in Attachment 1; 2. That staff be authorized to submit the City of Pickering 2023 Accessibility Compliance Report to the Government of Ontario Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility; and, Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 9 3. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. 10.5 Director, Community Services, Report CS 31-23 Community Safety and Well-Being Draft Plan Council Decision: 1. That Report CS 31-23, regarding the City of Pickering Community Safety and Well-Being Draft Plan, be received; 2. That Mayor Ashe be requested to include funding in the amount of $25,000 in the City’s 2024 Current Budget (Culture & Recreation Administration) to enable staff to undertake Community Consultation on the City of Pickering Community Safety and Well-Being Draft Plan in Q1 2024; 3. That staff return the final City of Pickering Community Safety and Well- Being Plan to Council for endorsement no later than Q2 2024; and, 4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. Resolution #327/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Brenner That Report EC 08-23 of the Executive Committee Meeting held on November 6, 2023 be adopted, save and except Items 10.4, Report CS 30-23, 10.6, Report FIR 05-23, 10.7, Report OPS 26-23, and 10.8, Report PLN 35-23, Carried 10.4 Director, Community Services, Report CS 30-23 Public Art Policy Updates - CUL 130 Public Art Policy A discussion period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding; • concerns regarding the allocation of five percent of surplus funds toward public art that could alternatively be allocated to offset property taxes, help the homeless, or help community food banks; • the amount of funds currently in the Public Art Reserve; Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 10 • clarification regarding how the City allocates surplus budget funds; • clarification regarding the Rate Stabilization Fund which assists in stabilizing tax rate impacts to taxpayers; • funding of previous and current public art projects; • clarification regarding the responsibility of social services lying with the Region of Durham; and, • clarification that public art projects recently approved by Council, including the piece provisioned for Council Chambers and the piece commemorating Gordon Lightfoot, would be included in the 2024 Budget; Resolution #328/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Brenner 1. That Council endorse the revisions in CUL 130 Public Art Policy, as set out in Attachment 1 to this report, subject to minor revisions acceptable to the Director, Community Services; 2. That Council endorse in principle the Public Art Plan 2023-2026, as set out in Attachment 3 to this report; and, 3. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows: Yes: No: Councillor Brenner Councillor Robinson Councillor Butt Councillor Cook Councillor Nagy Mayor Pickles Mayor Ashe 10.6 Fire Chief, Report FIR 05-23 Ajax-Pickering Automatic Aid Agreement A brief discussion period ensued between Members of Council regarding: • clarification that the agreement would not negate any other neighbouring communities from assisting each other when needed; and, • the history of the agreement and its ability to facilitate quicker response times. Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 11 Resolution #329/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Brenner 1. That Report FIR 05-23 regarding Ajax-Pickering Automatic Aid Agreement be received; 2. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Ajax-Pickering Automatic Aid Agreement, set out in Attachment 1 to this report, subject to minor revisions as may be required by the Fire Chief and the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor; and, 3. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. Carried 10.7 Director, Operations, Report OPS 26-23 Supply & Delivery of Nine Midsize SUVs Request for Quotation No. Q2023-47 A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding: • why SUVs were the type of vehicles being recommended over trucks or other types of vehicles; • the number and types of vehicle purchased annually by the City; • the City’s process for vehicle replacement; • clarification that the residual value of replaced vehicles contributes to the Vehicle Reserve; • the process of auctioning decommissioned City vehicles; • whether the City always buys new vehicles and the reasons why; • whether there is a correlation between the hiring of new staff and the acquisition of new vehicles; and, • whether hybrid or electric vehicles were considered. Resolution #330/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Brenner Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 12 1. That Request for Quotation No. Q2023-47 submitted by Downtown AutoGroup, in the amount of $328,230.00 (HST excluded) be accepted; 2. That the total gross project cost of $370,900.00 (HST included), and that the total net project cost of $334,007.00 (net of HST rebate) be approved; 3. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to finance the total net project cost of $334,007.00 funded from the Vehicle Replacement Reserve as provided for in the 2023 Capital Budget; and, 4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. Carried 10.8 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 35-23 Proposed Memorandum of Understanding to govern the delivery of municipally requested programs and services offered by the Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority to the City of Pickering under the Conservation Authorities Act A discussion period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding: • the length of the term of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (CLOCA); • whether there would be any costs related to terminating the agreement; • clarification regarding CLOCA’s geographical jurisdiction; • the CLOCA Board membership being made up of primarily Regional Councillors; and, • clarification that the MOU was a requirement of recently changed Provincial legislation. Resolution #331/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt 1. That Council endorse in principle the draft Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Pickering and the Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (CLOCA), as set out in Appendix I to Report PLN 35-23, to secure the continuation of municipally requested programs and services CLOCA offers to the City of Pickering in compliance with the Conservation Authorities Act; Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 13 2. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Memorandum of Understanding, between the City of Pickering and the Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority, as set out in Appendix I to this report, subject to any minor revisions as may be required by the Chief Administrative Officer, the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, and/or the Director, City Development & CBO; and, 3. That the appropriate City officials be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. Carried 10.9 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 37-23 Tree Protection By-law Update Phase 3 Recommendation Report This item was referred back to staff at the Executive Committee Meeting held on November 6, 2023. 11. Report PD 08-23 of the Planning & Development Committee held on November 6, 2023 11.1 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 A discussion period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding: • concerns regarding affordability of electronic vehicles (EVs); • concerns regarding the anticipated added costs for EV charging stations that may be passed on to homebuyers; and, • concerns regarding the public consultation being conducted solely in an electronic format, and whether additional in person consultation could be considered prior to approval with staff confirming that this OPA was a housekeeping matter to formalize what Council had previously approved. Resolution #332/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Cook Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 14 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. Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows: Yes: No: Councillor Brenner Councillor Robinson Councillor Butt Councillor Cook Councillor Nagy Councillor Pickles Mayor Ashe 11.2 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 32-23 Strategic Growth Areas Monitoring Report (2022) A discussion period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding: • the importance of preserving neighbourhood character; • concerns regarding the public consultation being conducted solely in an electronic format; • concerns regarding the limited data collected to date; • the importance of considering a variety of indicators in addition to population trends when the City makes decisions; and, • clarification that the Report pertains to data collection rather than public input and that various data sources had been used to aggregate and provide the information to Council. Resolution #333/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Cook That Council receive the Strategic Growth Areas Monitoring Report (2022), contained in Appendix I to Report PLN 32-23, for information. Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 15 Carried Resolution #334/23 Moved by Councillor Cook Seconded by Councillor Brenner That Council take a brief recess. Carried Council recessed at 8:55 p.m. and reconvened at 9:10 p.m. 12. Reports – New and Unfinished Business 12.1 Director, City Development & CBO, Report BLD 02-23 Information Report on City Online Resident Permit Application Portal ‘MyCity’ Pickering Residential Interface & Service Modernization (PRISM) initiative A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding: • the technologies mentioned in the Report being similar to those adopted by 15 Minute Cities; • whether Pickering was planning on becoming a 15 Minute City; • clarification regarding whether the Mayor or the CAO were aware of what 15 Minute Cities are, and whether they had discussions or received correspondence regarding 15 Minute Cities; and, • clarification regarding the provincial funding being provided and whether the City would meet the funding deadlines. K. Bentley, Director, City Development & CBO, advised Council that Report BLD 02-23 was in response to a request from the Province as it pertains to the ability to get grant funding as a result of modernizing processes. Resolution #335/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt That Report BLD 02-23 of the Director, City Development & CBO regarding the Pickering Residential Interface & Service Modernization (PRISM) initiatives in relation to the Provincial Streamline Development Approval Funding (SDAF) be received for information. Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 16 Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows: Yes: No: Councillor Brenner Councillor Robinson Councillor Butt Councillor Cook Councillor Nagy Councillor Pickles Mayor Ashe 12.2 Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report BYL 08-23 Deferral of Implementation of Accessible Service Supplement Fees Vehicle for Hire By-law Resolution #336/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt 1. That Report BYL 08-23 respecting a deferral of the implementation of the Accessible Service Supplement enacted in the Vehicle for Hire By-law 7739/20 be received; 2. That the implementation and collection of the Vehicle for Hire Accessible Service Supplement be deferred until January 1, 2025; and, 3. That appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report. Carried 12.3 Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects, Report ECD 07-23 Corridor Design for a High Frequency Rail Station in Pickering Award RFP2023-18 to Weston Williamson & Partners A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding: • clarification regarding the status and timing of the High Frequency Rail (HFR) project; • clarification that the corridor design was included in the 2023 budget process; • the station locations being considered in Pickering; Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 17 • whether the provincial government had been supportive of Pickering’s pursuit of an HFR station; • clarification regarding the HFR Executive Team’s awareness of the corridor design efforts; • clarification regarding what criteria the HFR Executive team is looking for in determining station locations; • the difference between high speed and high frequency rail; • clarification as to what would attract passengers to utilize a potential HFR station in Pickering; • whether the City had discussed potential transit connections to the proposed HFR station with Metrolinx and Durham Region Transit; and, • clarification that any environmental studies would take place during the final design phase. Resolution #337/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt 1. That Proposal No. RFP2023-18, for Consulting Services for Corridor Design for a High Frequency Rail Station in Pickering, submitted by Weston Williamson & Partners in the amount of $99,937.20 (HST included) be accepted; 2. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to finance the total net project cost of $89,996.00 as approved in the 2023 Current Budget as follows: a. The sum of $75,000.00 to be funded from Property Taxes; b. The sum of $14,996.00 to be funded by a transfer from the Rate Stabilization Reserve; 3. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary actions to proceed on the proposal; and, 4. That the City Clerk forward a copy of Report ECD 07-23 to the Region of Durham’s Office of the CAO and Planning & Economic Development Department. Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows: Yes: No: Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 18 Councillor Brenner Councillor Robinson Councillor Butt Councillor Cook Councillor Nagy Councilor Pickles Mayor Ashe 12.4 Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects, Report ECD 08-23 Consulting Services for a Highway Access Management Plan for Highway 7, Pickering Innovation Corridor A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding: • clarification as to whether the City was considering a Highway 7 bypass as part of the study; • the ongoing discussion with the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) regarding Highway 7 movement and access issues; • the existing challenges that Highway 7 presents and its impact on attracting business to the Innovation Corridor; • clarification that the study would explore opportunities for the enhancement of Highway 7 access points and signalized intersections; • clarification regarding whether widening would be considered as part of the studied enhancements; • concerns with undertaking the study prior to the final land uses being determined; • concerns regarding truck traffic along Highway 7 and the increased traffic anticipated as Seaton develops; • the locations of existing Highway 407 interchanges and whether the City could request additional interchanges; • clarification that Highway 7 is the jurisdiction of the MTO; • clarification regarding Pickering’s portion of the project funding and participation in the project; • clarification regarding the 5 - 7 kilometre portion of the Highway 7 that would be studied; and, • the need to consider a rail potential HFR station in the hamlet of Green River as part of this study. Resolution #338/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 19 1. That Council approve the hiring of BA Consulting Group Ltd. to complete a Highway Access Management Plan for Highway 7, the Pickering Innovation Corridor in accordance with Purchasing Policy 10.03 (c) as the assignment is above $50,000.00; 2. That the fee proposal submitted by BA Consulting Group Ltd. for the preparation of a Highway Access Management Plan for Highway 7, the Pickering Innovation Corridor in the amount of $429,400.00 (HST Included) be accepted; 3. That the total gross project cost of $429,400.00 (HST Included) and the total net project cost of $386,688.00 (net HST rebate) be approved; 4. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to finance the total net project cost of $386,688.00 as follows: a. The sum of $25,440.00 be funded by a transfer from Rate Stabilization Reserve as approved in the 2023 Current Budget; b. The sum of $127,200.00 be funded from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation; c. The sum of $234,048.00 be funded by the Seaton Landowners Group; 5. That the City Clerk forward a copy of Report ECD 08-23 to the Region of Durham’s Office of the CAO and Planning & Economic Development Department, the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, and the Seaton Landowners group; and, 6. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary actions to as indicated in this report. Carried 12.5 Fire Chief, Report FIR 06-23 FireSafe Pickering and the Community Emergency Preparedness Grant Grant Application Resolution #339/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 20 1. That Report FIR 06-23 regarding FireSafe Pickering and the Community Emergency Preparedness Grant Application be received; 2. That Council authorize City staff to apply for the Community Emergency Preparedness Grant (CEPG) to provide funding for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and program delivery tools, to assist with training programs (such as FireSafe Pickering) or other operational needs; and, 3. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. Carried 12.6 Director, Operations, Report OPS 27-23 Additional Costs for Spraying Liquid Calcium Magnesium Blend for Dust Suppression Resolution #340/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt 1. That Report OPS 27-23 regarding Additional Costs for Spraying Liquid Calcium Magnesium Blend for Dust Suppression be received; 2. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to finance the excess costs of approximately $115,000.00 (net of HST) from Property Taxes; and, 3. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary action to give effect hereto. Carried 12.7 Director, Operations, Report OPS 28-23 Supply & Delivery of Six ½ Ton Pickup Trucks - Request for Quotation No. Q2023-46 Resolution #341/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 21 1. That Request for Quotation No. Q2023-46 submitted by Finch Auto Group, in the amount of $363,914.00 (HST excluded) be accepted; 2. That the total gross project cost of $411,223.00 (HST included), and that the total net project cost of $370,319.00 (net of HST rebate) be approved; 3. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the total net project cost of $370,319.00, as provided for in the 2023 Capital Budget as follows: a. The sum of $307,928.00 to be funded from the Vehicle Replacements Reserve; b. The sum of $62,391.00 to be funded from the Development Charges – Parks & Recreation 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 12.8 Director, Operations, Report OPS 29-23 Regional Roads Boulevard Maintenance Review Resolution # 342/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt That Report OPS 29-23 regarding Regional Roads Boulevard Maintenance Review be received for information. Carried The City Clerk left the Meeting at 10:11 p.m. Carol Redmond, (Acting) Deputy Clerk, assumed the position of City Clerk for the remainder of the Meeting. 12.9 Director, Operations, Report OPS 31-23 Additional Costs for Tillings Yard Remediation A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding: • clarification regarding the current status of the remediation work; Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 22 • the surrounding community’s frustration regarding the lengthy process undertaken in seeking approval from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP); • whether there was an opportunity for the City to pressure the provincial government to expedite the approval process; • clarification regarding the site being significantly remediated with exception of the salt contamination on the site; • clarification regarding the depth and containment of the salt contamination on the site; and, • the complexities involved in the environmental review processes for contaminated sites. Resolution #343/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt 1. That Report OPS 31-23 regarding additional costs for the Tillings Yard Remediation project be received; 2. That the total net project cost increase from $3,448,186.00 (net of HST) to $3,845,050.00 net of HST be approved; 3. That Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the additional costs referenced in Recommendation 2 in the amount of $396,864.00 (net of HST) by a transfer from the Operations Centre Reserve Fund; and, 4. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary action to give effect hereto. Carried 12.10 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 39-23 Environmental Registry of Ontario Posting 019-7739 and 019-7735 Proposal to return lands to the Greenbelt – Bill 136, Greenbelt Statute Law Amendment Act, 2023, and New Act regarding the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve Easements and Covenants A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding: • clarification regarding the meaning of “in perpetuity” and its application in different legal contexts; Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 23 • clarification regarding the ability of higher orders of government to supersede legislation implemented at lower levels of government; • the proposed delegation of the City’s land division decisions to the Committee of Adjustment, and whether this Committee could make decisions pertaining to the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve (DRAP); • clarification as to why there is no reconfirmation of support from the City for returning the DRAP lands to the Greenbelt; • clarification that the Central Pickering Development Plan (CPDP) had been repealed; • clarification that the policies of the CDPD were still being reflected in the City’s Official Plan; • clarification regarding the City’s inability to protect the DRAP lands from future changes in Provincial legislation; • clarification regarding whether the Report recommendation would clearly state the position of the City regarding the DRAP lands; • clarification regarding why the City issued the letter, dated September 2, 2022, to Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, requesting that the CDPD be repealed; • clarification regarding what lands were included in the CPDP; and, • clarification regarding why the Report did not capture the opinion of numerous delegations that were heard at the December 5, 2022 Special Council Meeting. Resolution #344/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt 1. That Council endorse the comments contained in Report PLN 39-23 as the City of Pickering comments on the Greenbelt Statute Amendment Act and New Act regarding the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve easements and covenants; and, 2. That staff be authorized to submit the comments in Report PLN 39-23 and Council’s resolution thereon, to the Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO) postings 019-7739 and 019-7735 as the City of Pickering’s comments on the Greenbelt Statute Amendment Act and the New Act regarding the Duffins Rouge Agricultural Preserve Easements and Covenants. Carried 12.11 Director, City Development & CBO, Report SUS 09-23 Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 24 Community Climate Adaptation Project - RFP 2023-12 Resolution #345/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt 1. That Proposal No. RFP 2023-12, for Consulting Services for the Community Climate Adaptation Project, submitted by Delphi Consulting Group Inc. in the amount of $59,962.50 (excluding HST) be accepted; 2. That the net project cost of $61,018.00 (net of HST rebate), be approved; 3. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to finance the net project cost of $61,018.00 for consulting services to lead Phase 2 and 3 of the Community Climate Adaptation Project in the amount from the Approved 2023 Current Budget from Property Taxes; and 4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. Carried Resolution #346/23 Moved by Councillor Butt Seconded by Councillor Brenner That leave be granted to suspend the rules of procedure in order to introduce a motion due to its urgent nature. Carried on a Two-Thirds Vote 12.12 Call for Peace and Humanitarian Aid in Gaza A brief discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding: • the devastating destruction and loss of civilian life as a result of the continued conflict in Gaza; • the impact of the conflict in Gaza on many residents and families in Pickering; • the recent meetings between the Mayor and Pickering’s Muslim and Jewish communities; Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 25 • the collaborative efforts of Councillor Butt and Councillor Brenner on this motion; • the circumstances around the temporary ceasefire in place; • the need for the responsible terrorist organizations to be sanctioned, while working to ensure innocent civilians are freed from being held hostage; • the demolition of centres of worship taking place on both sides of the conflict; • clarification that Israel is not experiencing blockades of humanitarian aid based on current information; and, • the importance of Members of Council in using their positions and platforms for good. Resolution #347/23 Moved by Councillor Brenner Seconded by Councillor Robinson That due to the remaining items of business on the agenda, the meeting be extended to allow Council to continue to meet beyond 11:00 p.m. Carried Resolution #348/23 Moved by Councillor Butt Seconded by Councillor Brenner WHEREAS, municipal councils have a strong emphasis on local government relations, and the members of our communities are impacted by global events; And Whereas, incidents of antisemitism, anti-Palestinian racism, and Islamophobia are unfortunately increasing as the Israeli-Hamas war continues – affecting residents in our City; And Whereas, the terrible war between Israel and Hamas has taken a devastating toll on civilians and has escalated tensions throughout the Middle East; And Whereas, Israel and Hamas have agreed to a four-day truce set to conclude on November 27, 2023, to allow for the peaceful exchange of Israeli and Palestinian hostages; Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 26 And Whereas, the temporary truce is welcomed, meaningful and concerted efforts are necessary to ensure greater and lasting peace; And Whereas, reputable, humanitarian agencies and United Nations spokespersons are expressing deep concern over the deaths, with the level of casualties being unprecedented and countless lives have been shattered; with each day that passes more lives are lost and the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza is worsening; And Whereas, the entry of goods, including water, food and fuel into Gaza has been blocked, leaving people in Gaza struggling to survive; And Whereas, with the recent observance of Remembrance Day for those who fought in two World Wars eventually resulting in protocols such as the Geneva Convention - opposing collective punishment, the taking of hostages, using non- combatants as human shields, and more; 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 Mayor write a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to request that the Federal Government take the necessary steps to call for an extension of the ceasefire in order to facilitate discussions on ending the war, release of all hostages, augment the flow of humanitarian aid, and bring a permanent lasting peace to the region; 2. That the Mayor and Members of Council condemn all acts of antisemitism, anti-Palestinian racism and Islamophobia in our community, which have risen since the escalation of violence, and commit to working to ensure that our community is just, safe and welcoming for all; and 3. That this Notice of Motion be circulated to Ontario Premier Doug Ford, and all Durham Region MPs and MPPs. Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote 13. Motions and Notice of Motions 13.1 Tribute to Sigrid Squire in Bicentennial Gardens A brief discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding: • Sigrid Squire’s contributions and volunteerism throughout the City working in the community gardens; and, Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 27 • whether there was an opportunity to explore creative options to commemorate Sigrid Squire in Bicentennial Gardens. Resolution #349/23 Moved by Councillor Butt Seconded by Councillor Pickles WHEREAS, Sigrid Squire is a distinguished resident of Pickering who has devoted her time and contributed in many ways to the beautification of the City of Pickering through the Pickering Horticultural Society; And Whereas, Ms. Squire has had a remarkable 20-year tenure as a dedicated member of the Pickering Horticultural Society, during which she held the position of president for 4 years; And Whereas, Ms. Squire generously donates her time as the editor of Peony Post, a publication affiliated with the Pickering Horticultural Society; And Whereas, Ms. Squire was a previous judge and mentor for Pickering Blooms Garden Showcase; And Whereas, Ms. Squire received a 2011 Civic Award from the City of Pickering for her significant Individual Volunteer work; And Whereas, Ms. Squire and the Pickering Horticultural Society planted the Bicentennial Garden (located at 1867 Valley Farm Road in Pickering) in 2011 to commemorate Pickering’s 200th anniversary; Now therefore be it resolved, that the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering: 1. Directs staff, through the Office of the CAO, to undertake an evaluation of installing a commemorative plaque or otherwise, recognizing Sigrid Squire at the Bicentennial Garden; and, 2. That staff report back to Council with their recommendations no later than Q2 2024. Carried 14. By-laws 14.1 By-law 8054/23 Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 28 Being a by-law to adopt Amendment 50 to the Official Plan for the City of Pickering (OPA 23-005/P). 14.2 By-law 8055/23 Being a by-law to exempt Block 1, Plan 40M-2683, Pickering, from the part lot control provisions of the Planning Act. Resolution #350/23 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt That By-law Numbers 8054/23 and 8055/23 be approved. Carried 15. Confidential Council – Public Report Mayor Ashe stated that prior to the Regular Council Meeting, an In-camera session was held at 6:00 p.m. in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Act and the Procedure By-law to consider information explicitly supplied in confidence to the municipality, regarding a trade secret or scientific, technical, commercial, financial or labour relations information, supplied in confidence to the municipality or local board, which, if disclosed, could reasonably be expected to prejudice significantly the competitive position or interfere significantly with the contractual or other negotiations of a person, group of persons, or organization. The matters were discussed in closed session as they pertain to an Economic Development Opportunity. Carried 15.1 Confidential Memorandum from the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor Re: An Economic Development Opportunity Resolution #351/23 Moved by Councillor Cook Seconded by Councillor Nagy That the confidential direction provided to staff during the in-camera portion of the Meeting be approved. Carried Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 29 16. Regional Councillor Updates 16.1 Councillor Brenner provided an update from the Durham Advisory Committee on Homelessness regarding a proposed transitional housing initiative in partnership with Dedicated Advocacy Resource Support (DARS). He explained that the initiative would provide opportunity to house seven individuals and provide learning opportunities to grow food on lands in North Pickering, with excess food being provided to local food banks. 17. Other Business 17.1 Councillor Cook gave Notice that she would be bringing forward a Motion regarding a poppy sidewalk public art project adjacent to Esplanade Park. 17.2 Councillor Brenner gave Notice that he would be bringing forward a Motion regarding affordability of Additional Dwelling Units (ADUs). 17.3 Councillor Brenner spoke to the closure of Brougham Hall due to safety concerns and asked staff what steps have been taken, and what resources would be required to re-open Brougham Hall to the public. Marisa Carpino, Chief Administrative Officer noted that the building was owned by the Federal Government and that the City has a lease agreement to utilize the space. She spoke to the Facilities Renewal Study being undertaken by the City and indicated that a report is expected to come to Council in January that would summarize the condition of the building and the resources required to bring the building up to occupancy standards. Ms. Carpino concluded her comments noting the ongoing discussions between the City and Transport Canada regarding potential uses for the building. Councillor Brenner gave Notice that he would be bringing forward a Motion regarding Brougham Hall. 17.4 Councillor Nagy gave Notice that she would be bringing forward a Motion regarding an art installation to commemorate Indigenous Veterans. 17.5 Councillor Nagy spoke to her attendance at the 2023 Web Summit in Portugal. She spoke to the opportunity to represent the City at the conference, as well as the various learning and networking opportunities with other municipalities, businesses, facilitators, and investors that occurred at the conference. Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2023 Hybrid Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 30 17.6 Councillor Robinson spoke to a community initiative that facilitates the donation and supply of coats to those in need, and whether the City could explore having a similar initiative operate from the City Hall lobby or a warming centre. The Mayor indicated that the Chief Administrative Officer would take this inquiry under advisement. 18.Confirmatory By-law By-law Number 8056/23 Councillor Cook, seconded by Councillor Pickles moved for leave to introduce a By-law of the City of Pickering to confirm the proceedings of November 27, 2023. Carried 19.Adjournment Moved by Councillor Robinson Seconded by Councillor Butt That the meeting be adjourned. Carried The meeting adjourned at 11:24 p.m. Dated this 27th day of November 2023. Original Signed By: Kevin Ashe, Mayor Original Signed By: Susan Cassel, City Clerk