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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFebruary 24, 2025 Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 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 J. Eddy - Director, Human Resources L. Gibbs - Director, Community Services R. Holborn - Director, Engineering Services F. Jadoon - Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects S. Karwowski - Director, Finance & Treasurer S. Cassel - City Clerk D. Quaife - Division Head, Information Technology C. Rose - Chief Planner R. Perera - Deputy Clerk A. Shah - Senior Advisor, Creative Industries and Tourism J. Currie - Legislative Coordinator 1. Call to Order/Roll Call The City Clerk certified that all Members of Council were present and participating electronically. 2. Moment of Reflection Mayor Ashe called for a silent moment of reflection. 3. Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 2 Mayor Ashe read the Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement. 4. Disclosure of Interest 4.1 Councillor Pickles declared a conflict of interest under the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act with respect to Item 14.2 Confidential Memorandum from the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, regarding the Potential Acquisition of Frenchman’s Bay, on the basis of the possible involvement of an organization that he was affiliated with. Councillor Pickles did not take part in the discussion or vote on this matter. 5. Adoption of Minutes Resolution #660/25 Moved by Councillor Nagy Seconded by Councillor Butt Council Minutes, January 27, 2025 Executive Committee Minutes, February 3, 2025 Planning & Development Committee Minutes, February 3, 2025 Carried 6. Presentations There were no presentations. 7. Delegations 7.1 Carion Fenn, President & CEO, Carion Fenn Foundation Eithan Fenn, The Alex Monaghan Youth Program Re: Black Excellence – Black History Month C. Fenn, President & CEO, Carion Fenn Foundation and E. Fenn, The Alex Monaghan Youth Program, joined the meeting via electronic connection to speak to Black Excellence – Black History Month. Through the aid of a PowerPoint presentation, C. Fenn and E. Fenn spoke about the launch of Black Health Day on the 4th Thursday of each year to recognize the importance of Black health and to implement effective change. C. Fenn stated that for 2025, Black Health Day would be on March 6th as proclaimed by the City of Pickering for the first time. C. Fenn and E. Fenn thanked community partners for their support in making this change and informed Council of various upcoming events in recognition of Black Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 3 Excellence. C. Fenn concluded their delegation by encouraging everyone to learn about Black Health Day. A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and C. Fenn regarding: • how residents could access their upcoming events; and, • whether there was any significance for choosing March 6th for Black Health Day. 7.2 Emma Cunningham, Trustee, Durham District School Board Re: Protecting Canadian Values: Ban the Nazi Swastika in Canada E. Cunningham, Trustee, Durham District School Board, appeared before Council via electronic connection to speak to Item 12.2 Protecting Canadian Values: Ban the Nazi Swastika in Canada. E. Cunningham advised that they were delegating as a member of the Jewish community and not on behalf of the Durham District School Board. E. Cunningham spoke to the negative emotional impact of encountering a Nazi swastika or other Nazi imagery adding that such encounters strip away the feeling of safety and sense of belonging, and that the Motion rightly calls on the ban on Nazi swastikas specifically ensuring that symbols of peace and prosperity were not being unfairly targeted. E. Cunningham stated that hate towards the Jewish community was on the rise with a 69% rise in religious hate crimes in Durham Region and 19 incidents being against the Jewish community which did not include incidents of antisemitism that did not fall within the criminal definition of a hate crime. E. Cunningham further stated that the education that would follow this Motion was imperative and concluded their delegation by stating that this Motion sends a strong message to the Jewish community that their safety, dignity, and humanity were priorities and that it would strengthen the community as a whole. A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and E. Cunningham regarding: • clarification regarding differentiating a peaceful swastika from a Nazi swastika; • whether the school boards should adopt a policy to ban all political symbols; • the number of cultures that have used the swastika as a symbol of good fortune, prosperity, and spiritual significance; • how to determine a peaceful swastika from a Nazi swastika through the use of context clues; • clarification that the Hakenkreuz is a hateful symbol which had no utility in Canada; Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 4 • how to educate the public on delineating a peaceful swastika from a Nazi swastika; • information on accessing an upcoming antisemitism workshop hosted by the delegate at the Whitby Public Library; • the difference between a political symbol and a Nazi swastika; and, • the negative impact the Nazi swastika had on youth. 7.3 Richard Robertson, Director, Research and Advocacy, B’nai Brith Canada Re: Protecting Canadian Values: Ban the Nazi Swastika in Canada R. Robertson, Director, Research and Advocacy, B’nai Brith Canada, appeared before Council via electronic connection to speak to Item 12.2 Protecting Canadian Values: Ban the Nazi Swastika in Canada. R. Robertson stated that B’nai Brith Canada was Canada’s most senior human rights organization and the voice of the Canadian Jewish grassroots community. R. Robertson stated that B’nai Brith Canada was in full support of the Motion and congratulated the City in considering such a Motion. R. Robertson noted that this call was important due to the rise of Nazi swastikas and other Nazi imagery in public places and that despite its horrific history, the display of the Nazi swastika remained legal in Canada. R. Robertson stated that the ban on the public display of the Nazi swastika would fall under the guise of a reasonable limitation under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and that B’nai Brith Canada’s call to ban the Nazi swastika had been signed by over 11,000 Canadians. R. Robertson advised that the swastika in its original form was a sacred symbol of Jansenism, Hinduism, and other cultures and was integral to those faiths and that banning the Nazi swastika would further educate the public on the differences between what is sacred and what is a symbol of hate. R. Robertson concluded their delegation by stating that B’nai Brith Canada looked forward to Pickering joining the Town of Whitby and Durham Region in their stance on this matter. A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and R. Robertson regarding: • the limitations of the legal definition of a hate crime and how the Nazi swastika was used to generate hate towards the Jewish community and other communities; • whether B’nai Brith Canada would be willing to work with the City on developing the proposed protocol included in the Motion; • whether the banning of a Nazi swastika would make it fall under a hate crime; • reporting mechanisms regarding Nazi swastikas and what needed to be conveyed to the Federal government; • how the public can access the audit of antisemitism incidents captured by B’nai Brith Canada and whether the incidents had risen since 2022; and, Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 5 • the difference between a political symbol and a hate symbol. 8. Correspondence 8.1 Corr. 01-25 Nicole Martin, CAO/Clerk, Town of Amaranth Re: Letter of Support regarding moving Council meetings online A brief discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding the move to electronic meetings, receiving letters of support from Elected Officials across Canada, and support from residents on the City’s decision to move to electronic meetings. Resolution #661/25 Moved by Councillor Cook Seconded by Councillor Butt That Corr. 01-25, from Nicole Martin, CAO/Clerk, Town of Amaranth, dated January 31, 2025, regarding a Letter of Support regarding moving Council meetings online, be received for information. Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows: Yes: Councillor Brenner Councillor Butt Councillor Cook Councillor Nagy Councillor Pickles Mayor Ashe No: Councillor Robinson 9. Report EC 02-25 of the Executive Committee held on February 3, 2025 9.2 Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report LEG 02-25 Final Assumption of Plan of Subdivision - Kindwin (Brock) Development Corporation – Plan of Subdivision 40M-2571 - Lots 1 to 60 and Blocks 61 to 73 and 77, Plan 40M-2571 Council Decision: Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 6 1. That Usman Road, Saffron Drive, Sunflower Road, Jade Street, Azure Mews and Magenta Road within Plan 40M-2571 be assumed for public use; 2. That works and services required by the Subdivision Agreement, dated March 15, 2016, within Plan 40M-2571, which are constructed, installed or located on lands dedicated to, or owned by the City, or on lands lying immediately adjacent thereto, including lands that are subject to easements transferred to the City, be accepted and assumed for maintenance; 3. That Kindwin (Brock) Development Corporation be released from the provisions of the Subdivision Agreement and any amendments thereto relating to Plan 40M-2571; and, 4. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report. 9.3 Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report LEG 03-25 Final Assumption of Plan of Subdivision - Averton (Brock) Limited – Plan of Subdivision 40M-2568 - Block 5 and Rex Heath Drive, Plan 40M-2568 Council Decision: 1. That Rex Heath Drive within Plan 40M-2568 be assumed for public use; 2. That works and services required by the Subdivision Agreement, dated March 1, 2016, within Plan 40M-2568, which are constructed, installed or located on lands dedicated to, or owned by the City, or on lands lying immediately adjacent thereto, including lands that are subject to easements transferred to the City, be accepted and assumed for maintenance; 3. That Averton (Brock) Limited be released from the provisions of the Subdivision Agreement and any amendments thereto relating to Plan 40M- 2568; and, 4. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report. Resolution #662/25 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 7 That Report EC 02-25 of the Executive Committee Meeting held on February 3, 2025 be adopted, save and except Item 9.1, Report IT 01-25. Carried 9.1 Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report IT 01-25 Approval of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Platform Proceed with a Request for Proposal (RFP) to Select an Implementation Partner Resolution #663/25 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt 1. That Council endorses the selection of the Microsoft Dynamics 365 platform as the City’s primary Customer Relationship Management (CRM) solution to enhance operational efficiency, customer service delivery and resident engagement capabilities; and, 2. That appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the actions necessary to implement the recommendation in this report. Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows: Yes: Councillor Brenner Councillor Butt Councillor Cook Councillor Nagy Councillor Pickles Mayor Ashe No: Councillor Robinson 10. Report PD 01-25 of the Planning & Development Committee held on February 3, 2025 10.2 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 04-25 Zoning By-law Amendment A 03/20 (R1) Pickering Developments (Bayly) Inc. Durham Live Lands (Part of Lots 15 and 16, Concession 1) Council Decision: Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 8 That Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 03/20 (R1), submitted by Pickering Developments (Bayly) Inc., to permit a range of tourism, commercial, and employment uses on a portion of the Durham Live lands, be approved, and that the draft Zoning By-law Amendment, as set out in Appendix I to Report PLN 04- 25, be finalized and forwarded to Council for enactment. Resolution #664/25 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt That Report PD 01-25 of the Planning & Development Committee Meeting held on February 3, 2025 be adopted, save and except Item 10.1, Report PLN 03-25. Carried 10.1 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 03-25 Streamlining the Development Application Review Process (DARP) A brief discussion and question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and K. Bentley, Director, City Development & CBO, regarding concerns that streamlining the development application review process was benefitting developers and the City’s consultant’s affiliation with United Nations. Resolution #665/25 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt 1. That Report PLN 03-25, regarding the City of Pickering Streamlining the Development Applications Review Process, be received; 2. That the City of Pickering Streamlining the Development Applications Review Process Final Report prepared by Dillon Consulting dated December 20, 2024, and provided as Attachment 2, be endorsed; 3. That the Implementation Work Plan prepared by staff, and provided as Appendix I, be endorsed and considered through future budget processes; and, 4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 9 Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows: Yes: Councillor Brenner Councillor Butt Councillor Cook Councillor Nagy Councillor Pickles Mayor Ashe No: Councillor Robinson 11. Reports – New and Unfinished Business 11.1 Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects, Report ECD 02-25 Municipal Accommodation Tax and the Establishment of a Municipal Services Corporation - Implementation and Establishing Municipal Accommodation Tax and Destination Pickering A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and F. Jadoon, Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects, regarding: • whether the staff recommendation had changed since the report was previously presented to Council at the January 27, 2025 Council Meeting; • reaffirmation on how the revenue from the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) would be utilized; • whether the MAT could be waived for Pickering residents; • clarification regarding the meetings that staff had with representatives from the hotels regarding the MAT; • hotels and short-term rentals not being in favour of the implementation of the MAT; and, • most GTA municipalities having a MAT and this being a great opportunity to generate revenue for the City. Resolution #666/25 Moved by Councillor Brenner Seconded by Councillor Nagy 1. That the City of Pickering implement a Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) by-law in the form included in this Report as Attachment 1, establishing a MAT rate of 4%, effective May 1st 2025; 2. That staff be directed to formalize an agreement, and the Director, Finance & Treasurer or designate be authorized to execute an agreement between Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 10 the City of Pickering and the Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA) to collect the MAT (revenue) from City of Pickering accommodation providers in a form satisfactory to the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor and Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects; 3. That staff be authorized to act on the request for consent from the Regional Municipality of Durham to incorporate a Tourism Municipal Services Corporation (MSC), named Destination Pickering, if available and that the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to execute any supporting documents confirming consent; 4. That the following persons be appointed to the interim Board of Directors of Destination Pickering: two Members of Council, appointed by the Mayor; and three City staff members as follows: Director, Economic Development and Strategic Projects, Director Finance & Treasurer, and Director, Community Services; 5. That staff bring forward in the third quarter of 2025, three tourism industry stakeholders from a range of sectors, including, but not limited to: accommodations, meetings and conferences, attractions and retail, festivals and events, sports tourism, food and beverage to be appointed to the Destination Pickering Board of Directors, in addition to one Member of Council, as appointed by the Mayor, and three City staff members; 6. That the Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects, Director, Community Services, and Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to negotiate a service level agreement with the MSC on behalf of the City, in a form satisfactory to the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor; and that the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute same; 7. That staff report back to Council in the third quarter of 2025 on the progress of the MAT, including a review of its budget and any additional strategies; and, 8. That appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report. Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows: Yes: Councillor Brenner Councillor Butt No: Councillor Robinson Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 11 Councillor Cook Councillor Nagy Councillor Pickles Mayor Ashe 11.2 Fire Chief, Report FIR 03-25 Ontario Transfer Payment Agreement with the Province of Ontario Fire Protection Grant Resolution #667/25 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Cook 1. That Report FIR 03-25 regarding the Ontario Transfer Payment Agreement with the Province of Ontario be received; 2. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Ontario Transfer Payment Agreement with the Province of Ontario for the Fire Protection Grant, as set out in Attachment 1; and, 3. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be given authority to take the necessary actions to give effect thereto. Carried 11.3 Director, Operations, Report OPS 02-25 Construction for Artificial Turf and Lighting Replacement at Bay Ridges Kinsmen Park and Artificial Turf Replacement at Beverly Morgan Park Tender No. T2024-10 Resolution #668/25 Moved by Councillor Brenner Seconded by Councillor Nagy 1. That the bid submitted by WorldWide Turf Inc. in response to Request for Tender No. T2024-10 for Construction for Artificial Turf and Lighting Replacement at Bay Ridges Kinsmen Park and Artificial Turf Replacement at Beverly Morgan Park, in the amount of $1,562,016.00 (net HST) or $1,734,550.00 (HST included) be accepted; Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 12 2. That the total gross project cost of $2,014,779.00 (HST included), including the amount of the tender, construction contingency, and other associated costs, and the total net project cost of $1,814,371.00 (net of HST rebate) be approved; 3. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project cost of $1,814,371.00 as follows and approved in the 2023, 2024 and 2025 Capital Budgets: a. The sum of $585,985.00 to be funded from the Casino Reserve as approved in the 2023 Capital Budget; b. The sum of $416,574.00 to be funded from the Canada Community Benefit Fund Reserve Fund as approved in the 2023 Capital Budget; c. The sum of $13,865.00 to be funded from the Rate Stabilization Reserve as approved in the 2024 Capital Budget; d. The sum of $797,947.00 to be funded from the Canada Community Benefit Fund Reserve Fund as approved in the 2025 Capital Budget; 4. That the Director, Operations be authorized to enter into and execute the CCDC-2, 2020Stipulated Price Contract with the above-mentioned contractor pursuant to Tender T2024-10; 5. That the Director Finance & Treasurer, if required, be authorized to provide additional funding to offset tariff related additional costs that cannot be accommodated through the contingency budget and/or other actions and that these additional costs be funded at the discretion of the Director, Finance & Treasurer; and, 6. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in the report. Carried 11.4 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 07-25 Notice of Intent to Demolish 575 Highway 7 – The Vardon House A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and K. Bentley, Director, City Development & CBO, regarding the heritage components of the site and whether certain heritage aspects would be salvaged. Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 13 Resolution #669/25 Moved by Councillor Brenner Seconded by Councillor Butt 1. That the recommendations of the Pickering Heritage Advisory Committee, dated January 22, 2025, to permit the demolition of 575 Highway 7, under Section 27 of the Ontario Heritage Act be endorsed; 2. That staff be directed to remove 575 Highway 7 from the Pickering Heritage Register; and, 3. That staff be directed to continue to collaborate with the applicant to finalize a Commemoration Plan and report back to the Pickering Heritage Advisory Committee. Carried 12. Motions and Notice of Motions 12.1 Sharing of Provincial Land Transfer Tax and GST with Municipalities for Sustainable Infrastructure A brief discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding: • municipalities being the main body to provide the most services to residents and the importance of redirecting a portion of the tax revenues from the Province and Federal Governments to municipalities; • clarification that the Motion did not suggest the introduction of a new tax; • the potential revenues being able to fund public transportation, affordable housing, and stormwater management systems; and, • concerns regarding whether the Motion could lead to the Federal or Provincial government introducing another tax for residents. Resolution #670/25 Moved by Councillor Pickles Seconded by Councillor Butt WHEREAS the Province of Ontario collects substantial revenue from the application of the Provincial Land Transfer Tax from the sale of properties, including those in Pickering and across the province, generating significant revenue; Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 14 And Whereas the Land Transfer Tax (LTT) on property transactions is not directly shared with municipalities, while the majority of infrastructure and services provided to homeowners, is the responsibility of municipalities; And Whereas Municipalities, including the City of Pickering, do not receive a share of the Provincial Land Transfer Tax; And Whereas the Federal Government collects the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on property transactions, a portion of which could be directed to municipalities to address local infrastructure needs; And Whereas redistributing a portion of the existing Provincial Land Transfer Tax and the existing GST to municipalities would provide a predictable and sustainable source of funding for local infrastructure projects without creating a new tax burden on residents or homebuyers; And Whereas a redistribution of a portion of the existing Land Transfer Tax and GST would allow municipalities to better plan and invest in long-term infrastructure, supporting local economic growth and improving the quality of life for the residents; And Whereas Municipalities, including the City of Pickering, do not receive a share of the Provincial Land Transfer Tax; Now therefore be it resolved that the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering directs through the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer: 1. That the Provincial Government be requested to share a portion of the existing collected Provincial Land Transfer Tax with single and lower tier municipalities; 2. That the Federal Government be requested to allocate to municipalities a percentage to the GST Collected on property sales; 3. That this redistribution of the Land Transfer Tax and GST be structured to provide a predictable and sustainable funding to municipalities, allowing for better long-term planning and investment in the infrastructure projects that benefit local communities, thus ensuring that local governments receive a fair share of the revenue to address critical infrastructure needs; 4. That the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering endorse the Town of Aurora’s Council Resolution of November 26, 2024 Member Motion 8.9.1 – Mayor Mrakas, regarding Request the Redistribution of the Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 15 Provincial Land transfer Tax and GST to Municipalities for Sustainable Infrastructure Funding; 5. That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Prime Minister of Canada, the Minister of Finance of Canada, the Premier of Ontario, the Minister of Finance of Ontario, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, local Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs), in the Region of Durham; and, 6. That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Town of Aurora, all Municipalities in the Region of Durham, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), and the Association of Municipalities (AMO) for their endorsement and advocacy. Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows: Yes: Councillor Brenner Councillor Butt Councillor Cook Councillor Nagy Councillor Pickles Mayor Ashe No: Councillor Robinson 12.2 Protecting Canadian Values: Ban the Nazi Swastika in Canada A discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding: • the Motion being very clear in its intention to ban Nazi swastikas; • the Motion calling on the Federal government to make Canada the 19th country to ban Nazi swastikas; • the Motion calling on the Federal government to prescribe exceptionalities and criminal code penalties for Nazi swastikas; • a rise in antisemitism in 2023 and the need for education on antisemitism; • there being other symbols that were similar to the Nazi swastika and the importance of educating the public on the difference between the two types of symbols; and, • not tolerating discrimination against any marginalized group in the community. Resolution #671/25 Moved by Councillor Brenner Seconded by Councillor Cook Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 16 WHEREAS, in recent years, Nazi iconography has resurfaced with alarming frequency in the public sphere, used by an increasing number of groups and individuals to promote hate and instill fear within Canadian society; And Whereas, since the atrocities of WWII, the Nazi swastika, specifically the German Hakenkreuz, has become universally synonymous with systematic violence, terror and hate. These symbols and iconography represent Nazi ideology, a doctrine rooted in racism, antisemitism, and genocide. Its growing presence in our country poses a threat to every single Canadian citizen, undermining the core values of equality, diversity, and inclusion that define our nation; And Whereas, 18 countries have already taken action to ban these symbols. It is imperative that Canada follow suit; And Whereas, the City of Pickering Council agrees that the people of Canada are counting on the federal government to ensure a future free from hate, where every Canadian is protected, valued, and respected; 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 and Members of Council write a letter which supports B’Nai Brith’s call to the Government of Canada to pass legislation banning the public display of Nazi symbols and iconography, including the Nazi swastika - specifically, demanding that the Government of Canada immediately: • ban the Nazi swastika; • ban all variations of all Nazi symbols and iconography; and • condemn acts of hate and explore protocol to report hate motivated acts to human rights organizations; 2. That the Mayor and Members of Council condemn in the strongest terms possible the recent acts of antisemitism and hate felt across the Region of Durham and beyond; 3. That the Mayor and Members of Council reiterate their support for the past National Action Summit on antisemitism which had the participation of the Federal, Provincial and municipal governments; Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 17 4. That the City of Pickering commits to looking for ways to educate residents in combating all forms of hate including antisemitism, and the possible inclusion of antisemitism and antihate campaigns; 5. That the City of Pickering staff report on the possibility of establishing a protocol or policy to notify various human rights organizations when hate motivated criminal acts are identified by City staff, and the intent of the policy is to assist them in the collection of empirical evidence related to hate crimes; and, 6. That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to B’nai Brith Canada, the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), Rabbi Tzali Borenstein, Jennifer O’Connell, MP Pickering-Uxbridge, The Honourable Peter Bethlenfalvy, MPP Pickering-Uxbridge, the Regional Municipality of Durham, Durham District School Board, Durham Catholic District School Board, and all lower- tier Durham municipalities. Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote 12.3 Supporting Hidden Disabilities - Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program A discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding: • the Program providing dignity to those with a hidden disability when accessing services without needing to disclose their disability; • concern that there would be misuse of the Program and the need to have safeguards around the administration of the Program; • clarification that there was no monetary gain for those participating in the Program; and, • the monetary cost of the membership being approximately $2,300 per year. Resolution #672/25 Moved by Councillor Cook Seconded by Councillor Nagy WHEREAS, many Canadians live with hidden disabilities, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program was created to encourage inclusivity, acceptance, and understanding; And Whereas, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program provides support to individuals living with hidden disabilities by providing a simple and discrete tool that allows individuals to voluntarily identify their needs without disclosing a particular condition; Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 18 And Whereas, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program provides an opportunity to recognize that someone may need a helping hand, understanding or more time in public spaces. Some disabilities, conditions, or chronic illnesses are not immediately obvious to others; And Whereas, other municipalities and corporations such as the Town of Ajax, Durham Region Transit, Billy Bishop and Toronto Pearson Airports, and Metrolinx are also members of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program; And Whereas, participation in this program provides for staff training, and aligns with the City of Pickering Multi-Year Accessibility Goal of working toward removing existing barriers for persons with disabilities; Now therefore be it resolved that the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering directs through the Office of the CAO: 1. That the City of Pickering will join the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program and continue to explore new ways to make the City of Pickering’s customer experience more inclusive for all; 2. That staff research the appropriate level of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower membership including associated costs and report back to Council no later than the end of Q2 2025; and, 3. That a copy of this resolution be sent to John Henry, Chair of the Regional Municipality of Durham, the Durham Region Health and Social Services Committee, Durham Ontario Health Team, Community Care Durham, Durham Mental Health Services, and the Pickering Accessibility Advisory Committee. Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows: Yes: Councillor Brenner Councillor Butt Councillor Cook Councillor Nagy Councillor Pickles Mayor Ashe No: Councillor Robinson 13. By-laws 13.1 By-law 8160/25 Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 19 Being a By-law to amend Zoning By-law 8149/24, to implement the Official Plan of the City of Pickering, Region of Durham, being Part of Lots 15 and 16, Concession 1, Now Part of Lots 2 and 3, and Part 4, 40R5623 (A 03/20 (R1)) (Pickering Developments (Bayly) Inc.) 13.3 By-law 8162/25 Being a by-law to exempt Blocks 67 and 68, Plan 40M-2664, from the part lot control provisions of the Planning Act. (Lebovic Enterprises Limited) 13.4 By-law 8163/25 Being a by-law to exempt Blocks 54 to 57, 59, 62, 63 and 65 to 83, Plan 40M- 2743, Pickering from the part lot control provisions of the Planning Act. (Zavala Developments Inc.) 13.5 By-law 8164/25 Being a by-law to repeal By-law 8015/23, a by-law to adopt Amendment 46 to the Official Plan for the City of Pickering (OPA 22-003/P). 13.6 By-law 8165/25 Being a by-law to repeal By-law 8016/23, a by-law to require consultation with the City prior to submission of applications for official plan amendments, zoning by-law amendments, site plans, plans of subdivision and plans of condominium. Resolution #673/25 Moved by Councillor Butt Seconded by Councillor Pickles That By-law Numbers 8160/25 through 8165/25 be approved, save and except Item 13.2, By-law 8161/25. Carried 13.2 By-law 8161/25 Being a by-law to establish a Municipal Accommodation Tax. Resolution #674/25 Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 20 Moved by Councillor Butt Seconded by Councillor Pickles That By-law 8161/25 be approved. Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows: Yes: Councillor Brenner Councillor Butt Councillor Cook Councillor Nagy Councillor Pickles Mayor Ashe No: Councillor Robinson 14. Confidential Council – Public Report Mayor Ashe stated that prior to the Regular Meeting of Council, an In-camera session was held at 6:00 pm in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Act and Procedure By-law to consider matters pertaining to a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality; litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals affecting the municipality; receipt of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose; and a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality. These matters were discussed in closed session as they pertain to an Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) appeal on the Parkland Dedication By-law and the potential acquisition of Frenchman’s Bay. Carried 14.1 Confidential Memorandum from the Director, City Development & CBO Re: Appeal of the Parkland Dedication By-law OLT Case Number: OLT-25-000022 Resolution #675/25 Moved by Councillor Nagy Seconded by Councillor Butt That, in order to provide residents with the maximum amount of parkland, staff be directed to respond to the appeals of the Parkland Dedication By-law, and to retain such external legal and other consulting resources as are required to defend the decision of Council in this matter at the Ontario Land Tribunal. Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 21 Carried Carried 14.2 Confidential Memorandum from the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor Re: Potential Acquisition of Frenchman's Bay Having previously declared a conflict of interest, Councillor Pickles did not vote on the following item. Resolution #676/25 Moved by Councillor Nagy Seconded by Councillor Brenner That the confidential direction provided to staff at the in-camera session be approved. Carried on a Recorded Vote as Follows: Yes: Councillor Brenner Councillor Butt Councillor Cook Councillor Nagy Mayor Ashe No: Councillor Robinson 15. Regional Councillor Updates There were no Regional Councillor Updates. 16. Other Business 16.1 Councillor Pickles followed up on a previous Motion asking the Region for the installation of traffic signals at Palmers Sawmill Road and Brock Road adding that there continued to be a number of driving violations and serious accidents at the intersection. Councillor Pickles requested that staff follow up with the Region on the status of implementing traffic signalization or other deterrents for traffic issues in this location. 16.2 Councillor Robinson gave Notice of a Motion regarding Shadybrook Park pickleball courts. 16.3 Councillor Robinson gave Notice of a Motion regarding private cannabis retailers. Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 22 16.4 Councillor Robinson gave Notice of a Motion regarding alcohol advertising standards. 16.5 Councillor Robinson gave Notice of a Motion regarding terminating the Integrity Commissioner agreement. 16.6 Councillor Robinson gave Notice of a Motion regarding prohibiting Council Members, Committee Members, City employees, and contractors doing business with the City from using fake social media accounts. 16.7 Councillor Robinson gave Notice of a Motion regarding implementing stricter penalties for City Employees, Committee Members, and contractors doing business with the City for deliberately providing false or misleading information to Council or the public. 17. Confirmatory By-law By-law 8166/25 Councillor Butt, seconded by Councillor Nagy moved for leave to introduce a By-law of the City of Pickering to confirm the proceedings of February 24, 2025. Carried 18. Adjournment Moved by Councillor Cook Seconded by Councillor Pickles That the meeting be adjourned. Carried The meeting adjourned at 9:41 p.m. Dated this 24th day of February, 2025. Kevin Ashe, Mayor Draft Council Meeting Minutes February 24, 2025 Electronic Meeting Council Chambers 7:00 pm 23 Susan Cassel, City Clerk