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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMay 5, 2025 Executive Committee Meeting Agenda Electronic Meeting May 05, 2025 - 02:00 PM Chair: Mayor Ashe Please be advised that in accordance with Section 10.04 of the Procedure By-law, the City of Pickering is holding Council and Committee Meetings in an electronic format until further notice. Members of the public may observe the meeting proceedings by viewing the livestream. A recording of the meeting will also be available on the City's website following the meeting. For inquiries related to accessibility, please contact Legislative Services Phone: 905.420.4611 | Email: clerks@pickering.ca. Call to Order/Roll Call Disclosure of Interest Delegations Members of the public looking to provide a verbal delegation to Members of the Executive Committee may do so through a virtual connection into the meeting. For more information, and to register as a delegate, visit www.pickering.ca/delegation, and complete the online delegation form or email clerks@pickering.ca. The list of delegates who have registered to speak will be called upon one by one by the Chair in the order in which they have registered. Delegates are allotted a maximum of 5 minutes to make their delegation. Please be advised that your name will appear in the public record and will be posted on the City’s website as part of the meeting minutes. Matters for Consideration Director, City Development & CBO, Report SUS 02-25 Page 5 City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 - 2035 1. 2. 3. 4. 4.1 Consultant Delegation Jade Schofield, Principal Consultant, Climate Compass Advisors Recommendation: That Report SUS 02-25, regarding the City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035, as set out in Appendix I, be endorsed; 1. That recommendations from the Community Climate Adaptation Plan be considered, along with other municipal priorities, through future annual municipal plans and budget processes; 2. That staff report back to Council on the progress of the Community Climate Adaptation Plan’s implementation at the end of year three, of the ten-year plan; and, 3. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. 4. Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report CLK 02-25 Page 124 Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election Recommendation: That Report CLK 02-25 regarding the approval of voting methods for the 2026 Municipal Election be received; 1. That both internet voting and paper ballots, using vote tabulators, be approved as the voting methods for the 2026 Municipal Election and any by-elections that may occur during the 2026-2030 Term of Council; 2. That the draft By-law included as Attachment 1 to Report CLK 02-25 be approved and enacted; 3. That the City Clerk be directed to proceed with a Request for Proposal for the approved voting methods and associated services, and report back to Council to award the contract to the most appropriate vendor(s); and, 4. That appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the actions necessary to give effect to this report. 5. Director, Community Services, Report CS 04-25 Page 130 Civic Awards Program Policy Update 4.2 4.3 Executive Committee Meeting Agenda May 05, 2025 - 2 - Recommendation: That Council approve the updated Civic Awards Program Policy CUL 150, as set out in Attachment 1 to this report; and, 1. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. 2. Director, Community Services, Report CS 05-25 Page 149 Waterfront Paddle Sport Rental Service Frenchman’s Bay Recommendation: That Report CS 05-25 regarding an update on waterfront paddle sport rental service on Frenchman’s Bay be received; 1. That Council approve the inclusion of facilities to accommodate paddle sport rental services in the design of Beachfront Park Revitalization - Phase 2; and, 2. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary action as indicated in this report. 3. Director, Community Services, Report CS 07-25 Page 155 Northern Community Halls Recommendations for Facility Renewal Recommendation: That staff be directed to investigate the option to sell Green River Community Centre, with Infrastructure Ontario being offered the first right of refusal to purchase for $2.00 as per the original sales agreement (Attachment 1), and report back to Council with recommendations in Q1, 2026; 1. That staff be directed to investigate options to sell the former Greenwood Library back to the Durham District School Board; or lease the facility at a market rate and report back to Council with recommendations in Q1, 2026; 2. That staff be directed to renew the management agreement for the Mount Zion Community Centre with the Mount Zion Community Centre Association for a two year term from July 1 2025 to June 30 2026 returning said agreement to Council in Q2, 2025 for endorsement; and to investigate options to reduce the net capital cost of Mount Zion Community Centre and report back to Council with recommendations in Q1, 2026; 3. 4.4 4.5 Executive Committee Meeting Agenda May 05, 2025 - 3 - That staff be directed to renew the management agreement for the Whitevale Community Centre and the Whitevale Arts and Culture Centre with the Whitevale and District Residents’ Association for a five-year term from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2030 returning said agreement to Council in Q2, 2025 for endorsement; 4. That City Heritage staff evaluate the Mount Zion Community Centre (School Section #13 Schoolhouse) and Green River Community Centre (Green River Baptist Church) under Regulation 9/06 of the Ontario Heritage Act to determine whether the properties merit designation under Part IV of the Act, and report back to Council with recommendations in Q4, 2025; and, 5. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in the report. 6. Fire Chief, Report FIR 04-25 Page 187 Fire Department Establishing and Regulating By-law Recommendation: That Report FIR 04-25 regarding the Fire Department Establishing and Regulating By-law be received; 1. That the draft By-law included as Attachment 1 to Report FIR 04-25 be approved and enacted; 2. That By-Law 771/78 be repealed; and,3. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take such actions as are necessary to give effect to the recommendations in this report. 4. Member Updates on Committees Other Business Adjournment 4.6 5. 6. 7. Executive Committee Meeting Agenda May 05, 2025 - 4 - Report to Executive Committee Report Number: SUS 02-25 Date: May 5, 2025 From: Kyle Bentley Director, City Development & CBO Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 - 2035 File: D-7001-028 Recommendation: 1. That Report SUS 02-25, regarding the City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035, as set out in Appendix I, be endorsed; 2. That recommendations from the Community Climate Adaptation Plan be considered, along with other municipal priorities, through future annual municipal plans and budget processes; 3. That staff report back to Council on the progress of the Community Climate Adaptation Plan’s implementation at the end of year three, of the ten-year plan; and 4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s endorsement of the City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025-2035 (CCAP), a comprehensive, community-informed strategy that outlines how the City can proactively manage and adapt to the growing impacts of a changing climate. A copy of the CCAP can be found in Appendix I. The CCAP was developed through a five-phase approach that included a climate risk assessment, policy and gap analysis, extensive community and stakeholder engagement, and action planning. It identifies 64 adaptation actions across eight focus areas: Agriculture & Local Food, Nature & Biodiversity, Health, Social Well-Being & Emergency Preparedness, Local Economy, Planning & Policy, Transportation, Building & Energy, and Stormwater Infrastructure. The Plan supports and builds upon the City’s existing policies and initiatives, such as the 2024-2028 Corporate Strategic Plan, Integrated Sustainable Design Standards, the Recreation and Parks Ten Year Plan, and the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan. It also aligns with regional, provincial, and federal policies and frameworks including the Durham Community Climate Adaptation Plan, Ontario Climate Change Impact Assessment, Provincial Planning Statement, and the National Adaptation Strategy. In developing the Plan, the City reviewed adaptation plans from several other Durham and GTA municipalities, many of which have already adopted similar strategies. These references provided valuable insights and helped to inform the development of a locally tailored, yet broadly aligned approach, to climate adaptation. - 5 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 2 The implementation of the CCAP will follow a phased approach, with actions categorized as short-, medium-, or long-term. A governance structure has been established to oversee implementation, supported by a funding mechanism that integrates municipal resources with potential external grants and partnerships. Progress will be monitored through a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). A five-year review will assess the implementation status of actions, incorporate updated statistics, and allow for adjustments to ensure continued relevance. A more comprehensive ten-year review will reassess the overall vision, objectives, focus areas, and governance framework, ensuring alignment with evolving climate science, policy, and community priorities. Equity considerations are embedded across all focus areas of the plan and within the KPIs framework to ensure that adaptation actions prioritize vulnerable populations, and deliver inclusive, community-wide benefits. The CCAP is a critical step in ensuring this municipality remains a climate-ready and resilient city, capable of protecting Pickering residents, infrastructure, and ecosystems from current and future climate-related risks. Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priority of Lead & Advocate for Environmental Stewardship, Innovation & Resiliency. Financial Implications: There are no direct financial implications from endorsing the City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan. Any costs from recommended actions would be considered through subsequent budget submissions. Discussion: The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s endorsement of the City of Pickering CCAP. 1. Introduction Phase 1 was led by the City of Pickering in partnership with the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) Canada. Pickering was one of 26 municipalities selected to participate in ICLEI Canada’s Advancing Adaptation Project, which aimed to strengthen climate resilience across Ontario municipalities. This phase included the creation of a Climate Adaptation Working Group and the completion of a Climate Risk Assessment for Pickering. Aside from staff resources, this phase did not require financial support from the City. In 2023, as per Resolution #345/23, the City retained a consultant to complete Phases 2 to 5 of the Community Climate Adaptation Plan, as outlined in Section 7. 1.1 Importance of Climate Adaptation in Pickering The City of Pickering CCAP is a vital strategy developed with the community, for the community, to support proactive and coordinated action in the face of a changing climate. As extreme weather events such as flooding, heatwaves, and storms become - 6 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 3 more frequent and severe, it is essential to take a forward-thinking approach that protects public health, enhances the resilience of natural and built environments, and supports the people and businesses who live, work, and invest in Pickering. To address the impacts of our changing climate, municipalities across Ontario and beyond have been undertaking adaptation planning. Although climate adaptation is already embedded in many of the City’s existing plans and policies, the CCAP serves as a unifying framework to coordinate and strengthen these efforts. Developed through collaboration with City staff, community partners, and residents, the plan outlines a structured, inclusive approach to embedding climate resilience into decision-making across all sectors. This approach helps to ensure Pickering positions itself as a resilient city. 2. Climate Science Background 2.1 Adaptation vs. Mitigation Climate adaptation involves adjusting to the current and expected impacts of climate change by reducing vulnerability and increasing resilience to risks like extreme heat, flooding, and windstorms. Climate mitigation, in contrast, focuses on reducing or preventing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through measures such as energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable transportation. While both are essential, adaptation ensures that Pickering is prepared for the impacts that are already occurring and expected to intensify. CCAP focuses on a localized approach to enhance climate adaptation and protect the City’s assets, services, and residents. 2.2 Global Climate Trends According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Sixth Assessment Report, released in 2023, climate change is already causing widespread and intensifying impacts around the world. More frequent and severe extreme events such as heatwaves, intense rainfall, and storms, are placing increasing pressure on ecosystems and communities. Even with significant reductions in GHG emissions, global warming is likely to reach or exceed a 1.5°C average global temperature increase in the near to mid-term, leading to unavoidable risks. The severity of these risks will depend on local vulnerability, exposure, socioeconomic conditions, and the effectiveness of adaptation measures. 3. Risks and Local Impacts 3.1 Projected Risks Under a High-Emissions Scenario In 2020, the Ontario Climate Consortium, in partnership with Durham Region, its eight local municipalities, and five local conservation authorities, released a guidance document titled Guide to Conducting a Climate Change Analysis at the Local Scale: Lessons Learned from Durham Region (2020). The document provides localized, - 7 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 4 downscaled climate projections to support municipal planning, including for the City of Pickering. These projections compare a historical baseline (1971–2000) with future mid- century conditions (2041–2070) and were used to inform Pickering’s climate risk assessment. The projections are based on a high-emissions scenario, known as Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5, which reflects continued high levels of greenhouse gas emissions, resulting in greater warming than lower-emission scenarios. This scenario represents a plausible upper-bound trajectory and is widely used in climate risk planning to assess worst-case outcomes relative to today’s conditions. Under this scenario, Pickering is projected to experience significantly more days above 30°C, leading to hotter, longer summers and increased risks to public health, infrastructure, and energy systems. Winters are expected to become shorter and milder, with more frequent freeze-thaw cycles, which can damage roads, degrade infrastructure, and stress natural systems. The projections also indicate more variable and intense precipitation, which can result in increased stormwater runoff and strain on the maintenance of existing stormwater systems. Additionally, extreme weather events, including storms and high winds, are expected to stress the urban forest, disrupt ecosystems, accelerate the spread of invasive species, while impacting agricultural systems and community health. While the climate projections themselves are drawn from the 2020 guidance document, the anticipated local impacts described here are based on findings from Pickering’s climate risk assessment. 3.2 Recent Pickering Case Examples and Associated Impacts Year Event Impact 2012 - ongoing Emerald Ash Borer Infestation • Over 3,000 street trees have been lost due to the spread of the Emerald Ash Borer. • Engineering Services estimated the associated costs at approximately $1,000,000 for tree removals and replacements. 2013 Ice Storm • Significant tree damage, widespread power outages, and hazardous road conditions. • 530 Pickering residents sought shelter at evacuation/warming centers. • According to City of Pickering Report CAO 02-14, the estimated costs were as follows: • Emergency Response (2013): $115,580 • Clean-up (2013/14): $414,264 • Tree Canopy Restoration: $1,831,680 • Total Cost: $2,361,524 - 8 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 5 Year Event Impact 2017 & 2019 Increased intensity of storms along Pickering’s Waterfront • With the high lake water levels and wave action of 2017 and 2019, much of Pickering’s waterfront sustained significant damage causing the Pickering boardwalk to be removed in 2020 and reconstructed. Source: Let’s Talk Pickering – Beachfront Park & Millenium Square 2019 Rising Health Impacts from Extreme Heat • According to the Durham Region Health Department, Durham Region recorded 3,814 emergency department visits and hospital admissions related to heat exposure in 2019. 2020 Severe Wind Storms • A major windstorm with gusts up to 140 km/h caused extensive damage in Pickering, affecting local businesses. Source: Global News Report 2020 2022 Derecho Storm (long-lived windstorm that is widespread and associated with a line of thunderstorms) • One of Ontario’s most destructive windstorms, the derecho caused over $720 million in damages across Ontario. • According to City of Pickering Report FIR 04-22, 47,014 residents experienced power outages throughout Pickering. • Engineering Services estimated the associated costs at approximately $100,000 for tree removal services. 2022 & 2023 Spongy Moth Infestation • Significant Spongy Moth (formerly known as Gypsy Moth) infestation lead to widespread tree defoliation. • Engineering Services estimated the associated cost for pest management at approximately $25,000 in both 2022 and 2023. 2023 Wildfire Smoke & Air Quality Concerns • Persistent wildfire smoke significantly impacted air quality in Pickering, prompting high-risk air quality warnings with the Air Quality Health Index reaching 9 out of 10. • The Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex was open to the community while the special air quality alert was in effect. 2024 Severe Thunderstorms • Intense thunderstorms led to power outages and road closures in Pickering. - 9 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 6 4. The Broader Value of Adaptation 4.1 Cost Savings and Risk Mitigation Adaptation planning enables municipalities to manage climate-related risks in a more strategic and cost-effective manner. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), 2024 was the costliest year on record for severe weather-related losses in Canada, with damages totaling $8.5 billion. IBC also notes that construction costs, which have risen by 66% since 2019, are further elevating the financial burden of post-disaster recovery. Investing in adaptation can significantly reduce long-term costs and risks associated with climate change. Measures, such as mandating stormwater infiltration and storage in new subdivisions, expanding the urban tree canopy to reduce heat stress, retrofitting public facilities to serve as community resilience hubs, and applying resilient design standards to new developments, can lessen the severity of climate impacts, lower infrastructure repair costs, and help avoid costly emergency responses. According to the Canadian Climate Institute (CCI), using climate-resilient materials for road construction and resurfacing could reduce future costs by more than 90%, saving up to $4.1 billion annually by the 2050s. CCI also estimates that every $1 invested in adaptation generates between $13 and $15 in long-term savings and benefits. 4.2 Co-benefits of Climate Adaptation In addition to mitigating risk, adaptation measures may also support a range of co-benefits: • Improved health, social well-being, and equity by reducing exposure to extreme heat, protecting vulnerable populations, and increasing access to green spaces and cooling infrastructure. • Infrastructure and operational efficiency by improving durability, reducing long-term maintenance, and supporting efficient resource use. • Enhanced biodiversity and nature services via urban tree planting, habitat restoration, and stormwater infiltration measures that improve environmental quality. • Economic resilience and growth through job creation in adaptation-related sectors and cost avoidance from reduced disaster impacts. While the primary objective of the CCAP is risk reduction and resilience building, these broader co-benefits align with some of the City’s other strategic goals related to fiscal responsibility, public service delivery, environmental stewardship, and an inclusive, connected community. 5. Ongoing Climate Adaptation Efforts in Pickering The City of Pickering has already taken progressive steps toward climate resilience through key policies and planning initiatives, investments in infrastructure and community-focused programs. - 10 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 7 5.1 Policy and Planning Initiative • 2016: Amendment 23 to the Pickering Official Plan introduced climate adaptation policies into the City’s long-term land use strategy. • 2017: Council endorsed the Durham Community Climate Adaptation Plan, aligning local action with regional climate resilience strategies. • 2019: Working with students from St. Mary’s Catholic Secondary School, Council declared a Climate Emergency, formally recognizing the urgency of climate action. • 2019: Developed Stormwater Management Design Guidelines to improve flood resilience and stormwater management practices. • 2022: Adopted Integrated Sustainable Design Standards to help guide climate-resilient and sustainable development. • 2024: Adopted the Recreation and Parks Ten Year Plan, incorporating climate adaptation considerations for public spaces. • 2025 (Draft): Integrated climate change considerations into the Asset Management Plan, supporting infrastructure decision-making under future climate conditions. • 2025 (Underway): Initiated update to Pickering’s 2012 Urban Forest Study and Canopy Cover Assessment, to expand the study area, assess the current states of the urban forest, to monitor changes to its condition and as a guide for long-term urban forest planning. • 2025 (Underway): Initiated Shoreline Coastal Assessment Study (West Shore Boulevard to Marksbury Drive), to determine required shoreline stabilization measures to protect road infrastructure, residential property and waterfront trail from high water levels and storm surges. 5.2 Infrastructure and Environmental Enhancements • Beachfront Park Revitalization: Strengthened shoreline protection and improved park infrastructure resilience to high water levels and storm surges. • Waterfront Trail Construction: Included erosion control and habitat restoration to enhance ecological and structural stability. • Naturalization Projects: Expanded urban forest canopy and improved biodiversity to support ecosystem resilience. • Shade Structures and Splash Pads: Installed in part to reduce heat exposure and increase comfort in public spaces during extreme heat events. 5.3 Community-Focused Programs • Warming and Cooling Centres at City facilities: Provided temperature-regulated spaces for vulnerable residents during extreme heat and cold events. • Community Safety and Well-Being Plan (2023): Addressed climate impacts on vulnerable populations. • Sharing Weather Alerts and Service Disruptions: Improved public safety through real-time updates and emergency preparedness measures. - 11 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 8 Each of these actions positively contribute to climate resilience. As the scale, risks and severity of the changing climate evolves, the Community Climate Adaptation Plan helps to structure a coordinated and proactive approach to long-term climate preparedness. 6. Supporting Policy Frameworks Pickering’s policy landscape for climate adaptation continues to evolve, driven by provincial legislation, regional planning frameworks, and the City’s commitment to sustainable development. Climate adaptation is no longer an isolated initiative but an integral part of municipal planning, asset management, and environmental stewardship. Recent policy developments emphasize the importance of proactive climate resilience measures to mitigate risks, protect natural assets, and ensure long-term sustainability. 6.1 Federal, Provincial and Regional Alignment 6.1.1 National Adaptation Strategy CCAP aligns with the Government of Canada’s National Adaptation Strategy (2023), which emphasizes climate resilience across infrastructure, ecosystems, health, the economy, and emergency preparedness. 6.1.2 Ontario Professional Planners Institute Climate Change Adaptation Practice Guide Most recently, the Ontario Professional Planners Institute Climate Change Adaptation Practice Guide (2025) was developed and serves as a critical resource for municipalities, offering guidance on integrating climate adaptation strategies into local decision-making. This guide emphasizes risk assessments, infrastructure resilience, and nature-based solutions, aligning with best practices in municipal climate adaptation. 6.1.3 Ontario Provincial Climate Change Impact Assessment At the provincial level, the Ontario Provincial Climate Change Impact Assessment (2023) provides municipalities with projections on climate-related risks, highlighting the urgency of integrating adaptation into urban planning and infrastructure management. 6.1.4 Ontario Provincial Planning Statement (2024) The Ontario Provincial Planning Statement requires municipalities to incorporate climate resilience considerations in planning for and the development of infrastructure, including stormwater management systems, and public service facilities, and to take into consideration any additional approaches that build community resilience to the impacts of a changing climate. 6.1.5 Ontario Flooding Strategy (2020) Ontario’s Flooding Strategy underscores the necessity of enhanced stormwater management and emergency preparedness to address increasing flood risks. - 12 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 9 6.1.6 Ontario Regulation 588/17 Ontario Regulation 588/17 mandates that municipalities incorporate climate change considerations into asset management planning, ensuring that infrastructure planning accounts for climate-related risks. This includes assessing infrastructure vulnerabilities, identifying adaptation opportunities, and integrating lifecycle cost management to enhance long-term sustainability. As part of this, climate change considerations have been integrated into the Asset Management Plan (pending Council endorsement), supporting infrastructure decision-making under future climate conditions. 6.1.7 Envision Durham and the Durham Community Climate Adaptation Plan At the regional level, Envision Durham (2023) embeds climate resilience into growth planning, offering a long-term framework for sustainable land use, transportation, and environmental conservation. The Durham Community Climate Adaptation Plan (2016) was endorsed by Pickering Council in 2017. This plan identified priority climate risks and regional vulnerabilities, and served as a foundational resource for Pickering. 6.2 Municipal Climate Policy and Planning Initiatives 6.2.1 Pickering Official Plan Review On January 1, 2025, planning functions were removed from the Region of Durham, and Envision Durham became the responsibility of all lower-tier municipalities in Durham Region, including the City of Pickering. As a result, Envision Durham now exists alongside Pickering’s Official Plan, requiring coordinated implementation to ensure alignment with local and regional climate adaptation goals. Through its Official Plan Review Process (Pickering Forward), Pickering will be further integrating climate adaptation into key planning areas, such as stormwater management, infrastructure resilience, and natural heritage protection. 6.2.2 Alignment with Strategic Priorities Pickering’s policy direction continues to align with provincial and regional mandates while advancing local climate adaptation initiatives. The City of Pickering’s Corporate Strategic Plan 2024-2028 prioritizes environmental stewardship, climate resilience, and sustainable urban development with a specific action related to taking action and working with partners on climate change mitigation and adaptation measures. 6.2.3 Land Use Planning, Stormwater Management, and Sustainable Design Standards Climate considerations are being embedded into policies and sustainable infrastructure development to support a variety of priorities. Strengthened requirements for stormwater management align with plans/guidelines such as the Frenchman’s Bay Stormwater Management Master Plan and the Stormwater Management Design Guidelines. - 13 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 10 In addition, the City’s Integrated Sustainable Design Standards serve as a key tool in supporting climate adaptation by noting mandatory and optional performance measures for new developments to incorporate sustainability features such as low-impact development, urban heat island reduction measures, building resilience, and enhanced stormwater management practices. These standards are integrated into the development application process and help ensure long-term climate resilience is considered in the design of new development. 6.3 Adaptation plans in the Greater Toronto & Hamilton Area The City of Pickering’s adaptation efforts align with municipalities across Durham Region and the broader Greater Toronto & Hamilton Area (GTHA). The Town of Ajax launched a comprehensive Climate Risk & Resiliency Plan, and the Town of Whitby developed a Climate Emergency Response Plan to proactively prepare for future climate-related events. These initiatives, along with Pickering’s, reflect a coordinated local commitment to building climate resilience. More broadly, several municipalities across the GTHA have developed or are in the process of developing climate adaptation plans: • City of Toronto • Durham Region • Town of Ajax • Town of Whitby • City of Brampton (in progress) • City of Mississauga • City of Hamilton • City of Vaughan • City of Richmond Hill • Town of Caledon • Town of Halton Hills • City of Burlington • Town of Milton 7. Process to Develop the Community Climate Adaptation Plan CCAP has been developed through a structured, multi-phase process to ensure a comprehensive, evidence-based, and community-driven approach to climate adaptation. This process integrates climate risk assessments, policy and gap analysis, community engagement, and action prioritization to create a robust adaptation framework for the City of Pickering. 7.1 Phase 1 – Climate Risk Assessment (2022-2023) - Identified current and projected climate risks. The Climate Adaptation Working Group (CAWG) was created to include key City staff and community stakeholders. The CAWG conducted a collaborative risk assessment to determine high-priority climate vulnerabilities, particularly concerning environmental, built, and socio-economic systems. - 14 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 11 7.2 Phase 2 – Policy Review & Gap Analysis (Fall 2023) - Examined existing policies to ensure alignment with federal, provincial, regional, and municipal strategies. This included an extensive review of regulatory requirements, and best practices across Ontario. An internal review of City policies and programs was also conducted to identify adaptation efforts already in place and pinpoint areas needing strengthened alignment with climate resilience objectives. 7.3 Phase 3 – Community Engagement (2023 – 2025) - Actively engaged residents, businesses, and community organizations in the development of the plan. The City implemented a comprehensive communications strategy to raise awareness and encourage meaningful input. Engagement efforts included three targeted community surveys (general public, schools, places of worship, and the development community), which received a total of 1,120 responses. In addition, letters were sent to invite local Rightsholders, Indigenous communities, and equity-serving groups to engage in the process. To gather technical insights, the City hosted three CAWG workshops. Broader community perspectives were further integrated through a public town hall, seven pop-up booths, meetings with Council members, and presentations to advisory committees. These diverse forms of engagement helped collect local knowledge, priorities, and lived experiences. 7.4 Phase 4 – Action Plan Development (Spring – Fall 2024) - Prioritized adaptation actions. A long list of potential actions was compiled based on community and technical input, followed by City staff reviews to assess feasibility, integration with existing policies, timelines, and funding sources. The CAWG further refined the list, and during the prioritization and costing workshop, ranked actions based on effectiveness, cost efficiency, and ease of implementation. 7.5 Phase 5 – Climate Adaptation Plan Finalization (Fall 2024 – Spring 2025) - Refined and finalized the CCAP. The draft plan was subject to consultation with CAWG and the broader community. Over 200 comments were received during the refinement period, which also included one-on-one meetings with key stakeholders and staff. This was followed by public engagement through Let’s Talk Pickering, which included a recording, providing an overview of the draft plan, and a comment section for public feedback. If the CCAP is approved and adopted by Council, staff will proceed to the implementation phase. 8. Elements of the Plan CCAP establishes a structured and forward-thinking approach to climate resilience in Pickering. It includes 64 specific adaptation actions across eight focus areas, designed to address the city’s climate risks and vulnerabilities. 8.1 Vision and Guiding Principles - To guide the development and implementation of these actions, the CCAP is grounded in five guiding principles: science-based decision-making, sustainability, equity and inclusion, collaboration, and transparency and - 15 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 12 accountability. These principles ensure the plan is evidence-based, responsive to community needs, and focused on protecting those most vulnerable, while fostering long-term environmental, social, and economic resilience. 8.2 Focus Areas The adaptation actions within the CCAP are categorized into eight key focus areas, that identify strategic priorities to strengthen community resilience: 1. Agriculture & Local Food addresses food security, sustainable farming, and local food access. 2. Nature & Biodiversity emphasizes enhancing the urban tree canopy, implementing an invasive species management strategy, and restoring ecosystems to improve biodiversity and environmental quality. 3. Health, Social Well-Being & Emergency Preparedness focuses on public health impacts, community safety, and emergency preparedness. 4. Local Economy addresses climate risk assessments into procurement decisions and supports businesses in adopting resilient practices. 5. Planning & Policy prioritizes integration of climate resilience into policies and development planning. 6. Transportation addresses risks to transportation infrastructure from extreme weather. 7. Building & Energy encourages energy resilience and climate-responsive building design. 8. Stormwater Infrastructure focuses on reducing runoff, enhancing maintenance, and requiring water infiltration and storage in new developments. 8.3 Equity and Inclusive Adaptation Recognizing that climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, the CCAP integrates equity considerations for each focus area. Strategies are designed to ensure that seniors, low-income households, racialized communities, and individuals with disabilities, have equitable access to climate-resilient infrastructure and services. Inclusive engagement efforts, and resource allocation, ensure that adaptation investments benefit all community members, particularly those most at risk. 8.4 Phased Implementation Timeline CCAP follows a 3-phased implementation approach that balances short-term priorities with long-term goals. • Short-term actions (1–3 years) • Medium-term actions (4–7 years) • Long-term actions (7+ years) - 16 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 13 9. Implementation Strategy 9.1 Funding Mechanisms As outlined in CCAP, Pickering’s approach to fund implementation is multi-faceted to ensure long-term viability and scalability and to balance departmental funding requests with CCAP initiatives. CCAP notes how climate adaptation priorities can be integrated into the municipal budgeting process, while also proactively seeking external funding sources. The City will aim to leverage a combination of traditional municipal funding, external grants, and explore innovative financing mechanisms. Where feasible, potential funding sources have been identified to support implementation of individual actions. 9.2 Roles, Responsibilities, and Good Governance As part of the broader implementation strategy, the CAWG aimed to identify lead and partner roles for each action. In some cases, the City of Pickering will take the lead on implementation, while in others, it will play a supporting role in collaboration with external stakeholders, community organizations, and regional partners. This shared-responsibility model ensures coordinated action and leverages collective capacity to deliver on the plan’s goals. A structured governance process supports the CCAP, clearly outlining the roles and responsibilities of Council, City staff, and the community in identifying annual priorities, tracking performance, and seeking efficiencies through collaboration. Monitoring and accountability mechanisms, including performance indicators, will ensure consistent progress and transparency throughout the implementation of the plan. 9.3 Monitoring Progress Through KPIs To measure progress, CCAP establishes a comprehensive monitoring and reporting framework supported by KPIs. While the plan organizes actions into eight thematic focus areas, KPIs are grouped into four performance categories: • Health and Natural Environment: Monitors urban agriculture initiatives, ecosystem restoration projects, and tree canopy expansion. • Strong-Built Environment: Evaluates resilient infrastructure, building retrofits, and risk mitigation measures. • Healthy Society: Assesses community participation in adaptation initiatives, heat- related health incidents, support programs for vulnerable populations and household emergency preparedness. • Governance and Government: Tracks cross-departmental and external partnerships throughout implementation. - 17 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 14 9.4 Reporting on Progress and Updating the Plan Maintaining, monitoring, and updating CCAP is essential to ensuring long-term effectiveness, adaptability, and accountability. A structured review process will guide implementation by tracking progress, identifying areas for improvement, and allowing for integration of new data, emerging risks, or evolving best practices. Since short-term actions have a one-to-three-year implementation timeframe, a progress report will be developed after three years, prior to the five-year review to assess short-term achievements and inform next steps. A comprehensive review of actions will then be conducted after five years to evaluate implementation status and integrate updated information. At the ten-year mark, a full plan update will reassess the vision, objectives, focus areas, and governance framework to ensure alignment with evolving climate science and City priorities. 10. Community, Staff and Stakeholder Engagement 10.1 Outreach and Engagement Approach The City of Pickering implemented a comprehensive engagement strategy to ensure that the CCAP reflects the needs, concerns, and priorities of residents, the City, and stakeholders. A key component was the formation of CAWG, consisting of representatives from City departments, community organizations, and institutional partners. This group provided critical insights and technical expertise, ensuring that the CCAP is both practical and impactful. 10.2 Members of the CAWG City Departments: • Office of the CAO • City Development • Community Services • Economic Development & Strategic Projects • Engineering Services • Finance • Fire Services • Operations Community and Institutional Partners: • Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority • Climate Justice Durham • Durham Catholic District School Board • Elexicon Energy • Enbridge - 18 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 15 • Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation, University of Waterloo • Invasive Species Centre • Region of Durham • Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 10.3 Engagement Strategies and Outreach Activities The City employed multiple engagement channels to maximize community participation. Engaging a variety of stakeholders, including residents, community organizations, and institutional partners, was essential to ensuring the plan reflects diverse perspectives and addresses the needs of all who live, work, invest, and play in Pickering. 10.3.1 Public Communications and Digital Engagement A Let’s Talk Pickering project page was created where residents could access information, participate in surveys, and provide feedback. Project information was shared via the City’s, social media, newsletters, digital billboards, and website, with over 2,300 webpage views. 10.3.2 Targeted Stakeholder Engagement Targeted engagement included four initial community surveys, including general public, schools, places of worship, and development community, which received a combined 1,120 responses. Targeted emails were sent to community groups, places of worship, sports clubs, academic institutions, utilities, and the local development community. Letters were also sent to equity-serving groups, Indigenous communities, and Rightsholders. This process captured a wide range of perspectives. 10.3.3 Workshops, Meetings, and Public Events The City hosted seven pop-up booths at key locations to facilitate direct engagement with residents. These locations included: a grocery store, George Ashe Library & Community Centre, Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex, and Pickering Public Library. Three Climate Risk Assessment workshops were conducted with the CAWG during Phase 1, followed by three additional workshops during phases 2 - 4 focused on policy review, gap analysis, and adaptation action prioritization. A town hall meeting, Councillor meetings, and advisory committee presentations further enriched the engagement process. 10.3.4 Public Review and Feedback The draft CCAP was made available online for public review, and a Public Open House recording was posted to Let’s Talk Pickering to provide an overview of the draft plan and using a survey tool gathered the community feedback’s on the strategy and actions before the plan’s finalization. A summary of input received and how it was integrated into the CCAP can be found in Attachment 1. - 19 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 16 10.4 Correspondence Received 10.4.1 Letter of Concern and Comments to Address A letter was received from Terry Peters from Durham KICLEI requesting that Council pause and critically reevaluate Pickering’s participation in the FCM-ICLEI Partners for Climate Protection (PCP) Program and the implementation of associated Climate Action Plans. Letter was submitted through Council Information Index 2025-03-14 (#105-25) & 2025-03-21 (#112-25). The letter expressed concerns regarding the financial, administrative, and legal implications of these programs. The letter also expressed specific concerns as outlined in the KICLEI document "Ontario Municipalities: Re-evaluation of Climate Action Plans and FCM ICLEI Partners for Climate Protection Program Participation." The concerns appear to focus on climate mitigation, specifically, the reduction of community greenhouse gas emissions and municipal participation in external climate programs. In contrast, the City of Pickering CCAP is focused on climate adaptation, which involves preparing for, and managing, the impacts of climate change already being experienced at the local level and projected to occur. As such, the concerns raised do not align with the objectives or intent of the CCAP. Over the years, the City of Pickering has undertaken many actions that support mitigation, energy conservation, and GHG reduction. The City joined the Federation of Canadian Municipalities PCP Program in 2005 and received funding through the Green Municipal Fund to complete PCP Milestones one through three of the five milestone framework. In 2014, Pickering was recognized for completing milestones four and five. Since then, the City has maintained free membership in the PCP program, which provides access to tools and resources, but does not impose any financial or administrative obligations on the municipality. There has been no recent funding or City activity through this program. The City’s corporate objectives are outlined in the recent Council approved Corporate Energy Management Plan. The report (referenced in this letter) questions the long-term effectiveness of externally driven climate mitigation programs and the administrative burden, but it does not seem to specifically raise concerns related to community climate adaptation efforts. Notably, on page 1, the report recommends: “Redirecting municipal resources from externally driven climate programs to locally prioritized issues such as ensuring community growth through housing and energy availability, adaptive infrastructure, economic development, and public safety will better serve residents.” - 20 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 17 This recommendation can be viewed to support the approach taken in the CCAP, which is a locally developed, community-driven strategy. It was created in collaboration with residents, staff, and key stakeholders, and it focuses on adaptive infrastructure, resilient service delivery, and public safety, key local priorities that respond to the City’s unique climate risks. 10.4.2 Letters of Support The City received letters of support from the following organizations (see Letters of Support, Attachments 2 to 7): • Climate Air Partnership • Climate Justice Durham • Region of Durham Health Department • Community Development Council Durham • Invasive Species Centre • Toronto and Region Conservation Authority The City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan represents a significant step forward in preparing the City for the realities of a changing climate. Grounded in science, shaped by community input, and aligned with municipal, regional, provincial, and federal priorities, the CCAP offers a clear, actionable framework to help protect people, infrastructure, and ecosystems from growing climate risks. By endorsing this plan, the City reinforces its commitment to resilience, equity, and sustainability, helping ensure that Pickering remains a safe, thriving, and climate-ready community for all who live, work, and play in the City. Appendix: Appendix I City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025-2035 Attachments: 1. Summary of Input Received and Integration into the CCAP 2. Letter of Support, dated March 14, 2025 – Clean Air Partnership 3. Letter of Support, dated March 17, 2025 – Climate Justice Durham 4. Letter of Support, dated March 26, 2025 – Region of Durham Health Department 5. Letter of Support, dated April 3, 2025 – Community Development Council Durham 6. Letter of Support, dated April 9, 2025 – Invasive Species Centre 7. Letter of Support, dated April 15, 2025 – Toronto and Region Conservation Authority - 21 - SUS 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 – 2035 Page 18 Prepared By: Original Signed By Melanie Edmond, HBSc. Coordinator, Sustainability Original Signed By Chantal Whitaker, BESc (Hons), CSR-P Manager, Sustainability & Strategic Environmental Initiatives Approved/Endorsed By: Original Signed By Kyle Bentley, P. Eng. Director, City Development & CBO ME:ld Recommended for the consideration of Pickering City Council Original Signed By Marisa Carpino, M.A. Chief Administrative Officer - 22 - Appendix I to Report No. SUS 02-25 City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025-2035 - 23 - Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025-2035 City of Pickering - 24 - Table of Contents Land Acknowledgement 3 Executive Summary 4 Acknowledgments 5 Message from the Mayor 6 Message from the CAO 7 Introduction 8 Local Context 9 Recent Extreme Weather-Related Events 10 Alignment with Corporate Strategic Plan 11 Actions to Date 12 Policy Drivers 12 Climate Projections 13 Key Insights 14 Climate Risk Assessment 15 Community Engagement 17 Key Findings from the Engagement Process 19 The Business Case for Adaptation 20 Projected Future Costs of Climate Risks in Canada 20 The Savings of Proactive Action 22 The Co-Benefits of Investingin Climate Adaptation 23 Incorporating a Climate Equity Lens 25 Integrating Climate Equity inPickering’s CCAP Development and Implementation 26 Guiding Principles 28 Vision, Objectives, & Focus Areas 29 Vision Statement 29 Objectives 29 Focus Areas 30 Agriculture & Local Food 31 Nature & Biodiversity 33 Health, Social Well-Being, & Emergency Preparedness 35 Local Economy 37 Planning & Policy 39 Transportation 41 Building & Energy 43 Stormwater Infrastructure 45 Implementation Strategy 47 How to Read the Implementation Strategy 48 Key Performance Indicators 49 Actions 50 Agriculture & Local Food 50 Nature & Biodiversity 53 Health, Social Well-Being, & Emergency Preparedness 58 Local Economy 64 Planning & Policy 66 Transportation 69 Building & Energy 72 Stormwater Infrastructure 76 Governance 78 Governance Process 79 Roles and Responsibilities 80 Annual Planning & Budgetary Process 82 Supporting Funding Mechanisms 82 Grants & Loans that SupportClimate Adaptation 83 Strategic Funding Recommendations 84 Maintaining, Monitoring & Updating 84 Third-Party Reporting 85 Conclusion and Looking Forward 86 - 25 - Land Acknowledgement We acknowledge with respect and gratitude that this report was produced on land within the Treaty and traditional territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and Williams Treaties signatories of the Mississauga and Chippewa Nations who continue to live on, steward, and host the land known as the City of Pickering. The City of Pickering is also home to many Indigenous persons and communities who represent other diverse, distinct, and autonomous Indigenous nations. This acknowledgement reminds us of our responsibilities to our relationships with the First Peoples of Canada, and to the ancestral lands on which we learn, share, work, and live. We are grateful to live and work on these lands and acknowledge the responsibility to ensure they are cared for respectfully, especially in the face of our changing climate. It is important to highlight that acknowledging Indigenous peoples' history of adapting to climate challenges is an important step toward reconciliation, honouring their resilience and knowledge in addressing environmental issues. 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan | 3 - 26 - efforts to protect and improve long-term sustainability and does not replace or undermine mitigation efforts. Pickering has already been impacted by extreme weather events. Future projections indicate a warmer and wetter climate, along with heat extremes and precipitation variability which will pose new challenges. The latest Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change highlights the widespread impact of a changing climate, including more frequent and intense extreme events leading to adverse impacts on nature and people. The AR6 report also emphasizes that even with significant reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, there is a high likelihood that global warming will reach or exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius (1.5°C) in the near term, causing unavoidable increases in climate hazards and risks to ecosystems and humans. The level of risk will depend on trends in vulnerability, exposure, socioeconomic development, and adaptation. Now more than ever, it is crucial for cities to implement comprehensive, effective, and innovative responses to climate change that integrate climate adaptation and mitigation efforts. These strategies are essential for advancing sustainable development and capitalizing on the co-benefits they provide. Executive Summary Our changing climate is one of the greatest challenges faced by cities worldwide. In response, the City of Pickering has made it a priority to plan and implement strategies to address these impacts. The Community Climate Adaptation Plan (CCAP) is a key initiative reflecting Pickering’s commitment to enhancing climate resilience. This plan addresses the increasing impacts of climate change, including extreme weather events and rising temperatures, which can threaten local ecosystems, infrastructure, and community well-being. By integrating scientific insights, comprehensive policy analysis, and extensive community and stakeholder feedback, Pickering aims to develop a forward-thinking strategy that ensures both immediate and long-term climate resilience. This plan serves as a strategic guide to inform ongoing initiatives, ensuring that the CCAP evolves in a manner that is adaptable and aligned with Pickering’s commitment to sustainable community development. The effects of climate change are wide-ranging and require diverse responses. While mitigation efforts aim to contain long-term impacts, adaptation measures are necessary to address current and future climate impacts. Adaptation complements local government 2025 - 2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan | 4 - 27 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Prepared by Climate Compass Advisors Limited Jade Schofield, MSc, EP | Principal City Departments Community Partners •Office of the CAO•City Development•Community Services•Economic Development & Strategic Projects•Engineering Services•Finance•Fire Services•Operations •Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority•Climate Justice Durham•Community Safety & Well- Being Advisory Committee•Durham Catholic District School Board•Elexicon Energy•Enbridge•Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation, University of Waterloo•Invasive Species Centre•Region of Durham•Toronto and Region Conservation Authority•Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee The CCAP has been created in partnership with various City staff, individuals, agencies, committees, and organizations. This plan strives to represent those voices. Pickering’s Community Climate Adaptation Plan acknowledges the following partners for their collaboration and insight: Acknowledgements | 5 - 28 - Message from the Mayor Climate change is no longer a distant concern - it is here, in our communities and impacting our daily lives. The recent floods across Ontario, air quality crises from wildfires, and devastating droughts throughout Canada all underscore this urgent truth. These are not isolated events, but part of an escalating reality that requires immediate action. I am proud to introduce the City’s first-ever Community Climate Adaptation Plan (CCAP). The CCAP is a crucial step forward in protecting the environment and preparing for the future. It identifies key climate risks and outlines a comprehensive framework to safeguard our city and residents, enabling them to effectively prepare for, and adapt to, extreme weather events. The City has proactively integrated climate resiliency strategies through various Council-endorsed programs, plans, and policies, including the Integrated Sustainable Design Standards and the Stormwater Management Design Guidelines. Additional measures to enhance the community’s climate resiliency include designating City facilities as cooling and warming centres, waterfront restoration, and naturalization projects. This plan will build on and advance these existing efforts. Addressing climate change is a shared responsibility, and the City is committed to leading by example. Together, we can adapt to these changes, safeguard our environment, and preserve the city’s vibrancy for future generations. Let’s build a resilient Pickering that thrives in the face of a changing climate. Yours truly, Kevin Ashe Mayor, City of Pickering 2025 - 2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan | 6 - 29 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan As the Chief Administrative Officer of the City of Pickering, I am proud to share with you our Community Climate Adaptation Plan (CCAP). Climate change is a reality impacting communities globally, and Pickering is no exception. From extreme weather events to rising temperatures, we are witnessing the effects firsthand, underscoring the urgent need for us to adapt and strengthen our resilience. The City of Pickering is committed to playing its part in this global effort. Our CCAP is not just a document; it is a testament to our dedication to enhancing climate resilience. This plan outlines strategies and actions to address the increasing impacts of climate change, ensuring the well-being of our community, local ecosystems, and infrastructure. From infrastructure upgrades and green space expansions to adopting climate- resilient plans, the City is proactively integrating climate resilience practices. It is essential that we continue to incorporate these adaptive strategies into our core planning and decision-making processes. By fostering continuous dialogue with our community and local businesses, and prioritizing equity in all our efforts, we can ensure that every resident benefits from these initiatives. The CCAP serves as a vital tool as we navigate our path toward a sustainable, resilient future for Pickering. Our collective efforts today will leave a lasting impact on the environment and quality of life for generations to come. Thank you for your ongoing support as we embark on this crucial journey together. Sincerely, Marisa Carpino Chief Administrative Officer, City of Pickering Message from the CAO | 7 - 30 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Climate change is defined as the long-term shift in temperatures and weather patterns primarily due to human activities that release greenhouse gas emissions. Climate change is already impacting Ontario. Recent events, such as the 2017 floods, the 2022 derecho storm, the 2023 air quality issues from wildfires in Northern Ontario, Quebec and Western Canada,and the 2024 flooding events in the Greater Toronto Area, highlight the urgent need for comprehensive action. Effective climate action encompasses two key strategies: adaptation and mitigation. •Climate adaptation focuses on preparing for and managing the impacts of climate change. •Climate mitigation aims to limit future climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For Pickering, prioritizing climate adaptation will ensure the city can effectively manage the inevitable impacts of a changing climate, fostering a resilient and thriving community. Introduction | 8 - 31 - Local Context Pickering is already experiencing the impacts of climate change, including an increase in high heat days, the spread of invasive species, and extreme weather events, resulting in a loss of tree canopy, property damage, and utility disruptions. Climate modeling projections show these impacts will become more frequent, intense, and severe over time. In 2022, a derecho storm caused over $720 million in damage in Ontario1, leaving thousands in Pickering and Uxbridge without power for more than a week as a result of the extensive damage. More recently, in July 2024, severe thunderstorms caused heavy rainfall and road closures in Pickering. The 2024 storm also significantly impacted the broader Greater Toronto Area, leaving 167,000 people without power and causing widespread basement flooding2. These events highlight the urgent need to build resiliency to floods, windstorms, heat events, and poor air quality caused by wildfires. As climate change progresses, these extreme weather events will become even more intense and frequent, making it crucial to take proactive action now to protect Pickering’s residents, infrastructure, and environment. 1 Insurance Bureau of Canada (2024). “Derecho storm ranks 6th largest insured loss event in Canadian history”. https://www.ibc.ca/news-insights/news/derecho-storm-ranks-6th-largest 2 City of Toronto (2024). “Toronto’s Current and Future Climate” www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/949f- TorontosCurrentandFutureClimate-REPORT-Final.pdf 2025 - 2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan | 9 - 32 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Recent Extreme Weather-Related Events | 10 - 33 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan The City of Pickering launched its first Corporate Strategic Plan, which identifies a vision, goals, and key actions to be achieved over this term of Council and beyond. This climate adaptation plan aligns with the six priorities outlined in Pickering's 2024-2028 strategic plan by: Advancing Innovation & Responsible Planning to Support a Connected, Well-Serviced Community: By incorporating climate resilience into planning, the plan helps ensure that new developments are sustainable and adaptable, fostering a well-connected and well-serviced community. Championing Economic Leadership & Innovation: Integrating climate resilience into urban planning drives sustainable practices, boosts economic growth, and attracts investment. Advocating for an Inclusive, Welcoming, Safe & Healthy Community: Actions in the plan aim to enhance community safety and well-being, protect vulnerable populations, and support resilient infrastructure and green spaces. Leading & Advocating for Environmental Stewardship, Innovation & Resiliency: The plan reinforces Pickering’s environmental leadership through innovative and proactive climate resilience measures. Strengthening Existing & Build New Partnerships: It facilitates collaboration with municipalities, businesses, and organizations, strengthening existing partnerships and forming new alliances. Fostering an Engaged & Informed Community: The plan promotes equitable involvement and awareness among residents, empowering and supporting their resiliency efforts. Alignment with the Corporate Strategic Plan | 11 - 34 - •warming and cooling centres to support residents during extreme weather events •naturalization projects •shade structures•waterfront restoration The plan is designed to align with initiatives such as the Corporate Energy Management Plan, the Community Emergency Management Plan, the Integrated Sustainable Design Standards, the Community Safety and Well-Being Action Plan, and Amendment 23 to the Pickering Official Plan. To enhance its climate resiliency, the City of Pickering in collaboration with ICLEI Canada conducted a technical assessment to identify and prioritize climate risks. This work, done as part of the Community Climate Adaptation Plan, helped to tailor the approach to community needs. Policy Drivers A comprehensive policy review at the federal, provincial, and regional levels informed the CCAP's development, ensuring it complemented existing policies while providing strategic adaptation benefits. 2025 - 2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Examples of plans in which alignment has been sought includes the National Adaptation Strategy; the Durham Community Climate Adaptation Plan, which was endorsed by Pickering Council on May 8, 2017; and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority’s 2023- 2034 Strategic Plan. These plans offer robust frameworks and strategic directions that are highly relevant to enhancing the City of Pickering’s climate adaptation planning. These documents provide actionable insights and collaborative opportunities that Pickering can leverage to bolster its climate adaptation and sustainability efforts. As such, this plan aims to balance economic, environmental, and social priorities, integrating climate action into all these efforts. Phased Approach The development of the climate adaptation plan followed a structured five-step approach:•Phase 1: Climate Risk Assessment •Phase 2: Policy Review & Gap Analysis •Phase 3: Community Engagement•Phase 4: Action Plan Development •Phase 5: Climate Adaptation Plan Finalization Actions to Date In addition to the Corporate Strategic Plan, Pickering has integrated climate resiliency into its corporate and community culture through various programs, policies, and declarations. The City has since implemented measures, such as: | 12 - 35 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan What is RCP 8.5? A Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) is a climate model used by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The IPCC is an international organization that evaluates and synthesizes the latest scientific research on climate change. In its Fifth Assessment Report (2014), IPCC used RCPs to illustrate how different greenhouse gas emission levels impact future climate conditions. In the Sixth Assessment Report (2021), these scenarios are now based on Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs), with the timing of this plan and availability of climate parameters, RCPs were used. The plan presents RCP 8.5 for 2041-2070, aligning with trends in the Region of Durham and neighboring municipalities. For a detailed breakdown of Pickering's climate projections, please visit the Guide to Conducting a Climate Change Analysis at the Local Scale: Lessons Learned from Durham Region (2020)3. Why RCP 8.5? Using the RCP 8.5 scenario for Pickering’s Community Climate Adaptation Plan is crucial because global GHG emissions are still trending upwards, aligning with this high-emissions pathway. Assuming new policies and investments will reverse this trend is not yet prudent, making RCP 8.5 the most reliable basis for planning. Climate Projections Climate Change Analysis for Durham Region In 2020, the Ontario Climate Consortium, in partnership with Durham Region, the eight local municipalities and five local conservation authorities, published a guidance document titled Guide to Conducting a Climate Change Analysis at the Local Scale: Lessons Learned from Durham Region (2020). The document presented downscaled climate projections across Durham Region using an ensemble modelling approach. The insights from this work offer a crucial foundation for understanding and preparing for the city’s future climate scenarios. These findings have provided updated climate projections that paint a detailed picture of the expected meteorological changes, such as increased temperatures and more intense precipitation patterns. These projections were used to help Pickering inform the priorities for developing its adaptation strategies, ensuring that infrastructure, natural resources, and community planning are resilient in the face of evolving climate realities. 3 Ontario Climate Consortium (2020). “Final guide to conducting a climate change analysis”. https://climateconnections.ca/app/uploads/2021/03/Final-Guide-to- Conducting-a-Climate-Change-Analysis-OCC_Nov.pdf | 13 - 36 - These projections paint a picture of a warmer and wetter future for Pickering, with heat extremes and precipitation variability posing new challenges. While reduced cold extremes may alleviate some winter-related issues, the potential benefits such as extended growing seasons and reduced snowfall are accompanied by their own set of management challenges. These include increased risks from pests, droughts, fires, and other climate-related extremes. 3 Ontario Climate Consortium (2020). “Final guide to conducting a climate change analysis”. https://climateconnections.ca/app/uploads/2021/03/Final-Guide-to-Conducting-a-Climate-Change-Analysis-OCC_Nov.pdf 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Ice and Snow: The number of potential ice days per year in Pickering is projected to decrease by 16.1 days, leading to potential challenges for winter activities and ecosystems adapted to historical snow conditions, but also reducing some of the winter heating energy demands. Mean Annual Temperature: A significant rise in mean annual temperature is anticipated, reaching 10.1°C by 2070, compared with the historical average of 7.0°C. Extreme Heat Days: There will be a dramatic increase in the number of extremely hot days, with those over 30°C expected to jump from 7.6 days to 23.1 days per year, and days over 35°C increasing from 0.2 days to 2.8 days annually. Extreme Cold Days: The occurrence of extremely cold days will become less frequent, with days below -20°C decreasing from 8.6 to just 3.0 days per year, and days below 0°C reducing significantly from 146.8 to 111.6 days, indicating much milder winters. Precipitation: Predictions show a 19% increase in overall annual precipitation. Extreme single- day rainfall events are projected to increase in intensity by up to 21 mm above the current maximum. Dry Days: The number of consecutive dry days is expected to increase from 18.2 days to 21.9 days, indicating a shift toward longer dry periods in the future climate conditions of the area. Growing Season: The growing season in Pickering is projected to extend significantly, from 163 days to 193 days by 2070. This increase of close to 30 days allows for a longer duration of plant growth and agricultural productivity. Key Insights Under the RCP 8.5 scenario, the climate trends for the City of Pickering are projected using values from 1971 to 2000 as a baseline compared with future projections for 2041 to 2070. The following climate projections were extracted from the Ontario Climate Consortium Guide to Conducting a Climate Change Analysis at the Local Scale: Lessons Learned from Durham Region (2020)3. This comparison points toward a significant increase in temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns. | 14 - 37 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan The City of Pickering in collaboration with ICLEI Canada conducted a community-wide climate risk assessment. This work involved the Climate Adaptation Working Group, made up of community stakeholders and various regional and City departments, who participated in a co-created climate risk and vulnerability assessment. Through a series of exercises the working group identified the following eight priority climate impacts to move forward into planning, focusing on those with medium or higher risk scores in at least one category. These priority impacts form the basis for Pickering’s strategic efforts to build resilience against a changing climate. Priority Climate Impact Statements •Increase in temperatures or sudden fluctuations in temperature and rain events, causing damage to crops, trees, native plants, and fruit-bearing plants. This could result in reduced vegetation, crop yield for agriculture, and food sources for wildlife. •Increase in average temperatures and hot days over 30°C causing heatwaves leading to health risks (such as cardiovascular disorders, heat stress) especially to vulnerable populations. Climate Risk Assessment | 15 - 38 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan •Increase in the average temperatures and hot days over 30°C causing increased stress on corporate infrastructure and assets such as buildings and roads, resulting in increased maintenance and replacement requirements. •Increase in the average winter temperatures causing shifts in eco-regions for flora and fauna and hardiness zones, resulting in increased survival and spread of invasive species such as the Emerald Ash Borer and Phragmites, damage to urban forests, and reduced ecosystem services, such as water cycle impacts, pollinator impacts, and decreased health of natural heritage features. •Hotter and drier summers causing higher tree mortality and decreased health of non-irrigated grass, resulting in loss of natural cooling areas. •Hotter and drier summers causing decreased health of the urban forest and other natural features such as wetlands, resulting in reduced ecosystem services. •Increase in the frequency and intensity of precipitation events causing increased runoff and erosion, resulting in increased stress on stormwater management. •Increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather, resulting in temporary closure of businesses, schools, markets, and City events and programs. | 16 - 39 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan •Conducted stakeholder mapping, categorizing stakeholders by criteria, and prioritizing inclusivity. Following this an engagement plan targeting technical stakeholders, First Nations and Indigenous Peoples, the public, and Council members was developed for effective and equitable engagement. •Sent out letters to invite local Rightsholders, Indigenous, communities, and equity-serving groups to engage in the process. •Engaged Council members to discuss project scope, deliverables, and future steps. Hosted a follow-up session to discuss community feedback, and the development of the plan. •Created a dedicated Let’s Talk Pickering page to promote the project, solicit feedback, and inform stakeholders on key updates. •The City hosted seven pop-up booths at key locations to facilitate direct engagement with residents. Community Engagement Engaging a diverse range of stakeholders was essential in developing a strong and well-informed Community Climate Adaptation Plan (CCAP) for the City of Pickering. This section outlines the methods employed to try to ensure inclusive, equitable, and effective participation from all community segments and decision- makers. Below are the engagement activities undertaken to support the development of this plan: | 17 - 40 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan •Targeted surveys with 1,120 survey responses to gather insights from the public, school community, places of worship, and development community on climate risks and preparedness, including demographic data to identify vulnerable groups. •Hosted a 2-hour virtual workshop to refine climate resilience and adaptation actions, using collaborative planning techniques to prioritize actions and define roles. •Conducted a 3-hour in-person workshop to facilitate collaborative planning to support the plan’s development by prioritizing actions and identifying barriers to implementation and risks to inaction, thus providing inputs to establish an integrated governance framework. •Presented the CCAP to various advisory committees to get their insight on climate adaptation actions. •Engaged residents at a town hall meeting to discuss climate risks, adaptation, and resilience; and gather their experiences and visions for a resilient Pickering. •Prepared a recording for Let's Talk Pickering to provide an overview of the CCAP and collected feedback on the draft plan through a survey. | 18 - 41 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Support Networks: Strong willingness among residents to assist neighbours during emergencies, highlighting the importance of community engagement and support networks. Development Challenges: Development community incorporates low-impact development and stormwater management but faces high initial costs. Needs financial incentives and clearer guidelines. Fiscal Responsibility: Emphasis on the need for fiscal responsibility in implementing climate adaptation measures. Continuous Feedback and Adaptation Loop: Need for a continuous feedback mechanism to ensure the CCAP remains dynamic and responsive to evolving community needs and insights. Equity Considerations: Crucial to address diverse and vulnerable populations in emergency preparedness and response planning. Community Concerns: Widespread concern amongst the public and school community about weather-related emergencies, particularly power outages and extreme weather events. Mixed views on the City’s preparedness. Strong calls for better communication and climate adaptation in planning. Natural Environment: Key concern about protecting natural habitats, with significant worries about the impact of development and growth on natural areas. Engagement and Education: Importance of public consultation, education, and improved climate literacy to address climate denial and enhance community understanding of climate- related issues. This section presents findings from surveys conducted across various community segments in Pickering, along with insights from interviews with Council members and engagement workshops. These findings have shaped the resulting strategies to enhance climate adaptation, ensuring that the Community Climate Adaptation Plan is responsive and inclusive of the City’s diverse needs. Key Findings from the Engagement Process | 19 - 42 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan 4 Canadian Institute for Climate Choices (2020). “Tip of the iceberg: navigating the known and unknown costs of climate change for Canada.” https://climatechoices.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/FINAL-ExecSumm-Infrastructure-Report.pdf Infrastructure Costs •Flood Damage: Flood damage to homes and buildings to increase fivefold in the coming decades and tenfold by the end of the century, potentially reaching up to $13.6 billion annually4. •Transportation Damage: Damage to roads and railways from temperature and rainfall variations could reach $5.4 billion annually by mid-century, with costs potentially rising to $12.8 billion by the century’s end. Damage to electrical infrastructure could exceed $4.1 billion annually4. Infrastructure Savings from Adaptation •Building Relocation: Relocating buildings from high-risk flood zones could reduce flood costs by up to 90% by the end of the century, potentially saving up to $1 billion annually4. •Road Maintenance: Using climate-resilient materials for road construction and repaving could reduce future costs by over 90%, saving as much as $4.1 billion annually by the 2050s4. Developing a business case for climate adaptation involves evaluating current and future costs, identifying potential savings from avoided damages, and highlighting additional benefits. This approach provides a clear picture of the financial implications and advantages of adaptation measures, demonstrating their value in protecting long-term economic and environmental sustainability. Projected Future Costs of Climate Risks in Canada The financial impact of weather-related disasters in Canada has surged dramatically, with average losses increasing from $8.3 million per event in the 1970s to $112 million per event between 2010 and 2019—an extraordinary 1,250% rise. This trend underscores the escalating costs associated with climate risks4. The Business Case for Adaptation | 20 - 43 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Economic Impacts •Heat-Related Health Costs: The cost of heat-related health issues is projected to range from $3.0 billion to $3.9 billion annually by mid-century5. •Transportation Disruptions: Climate-induced damage to transportation infrastructure could lead to significant delays and disruptions, resulting in substantial costs across supply chains and industries, affecting economic productivity. •Productivity Losses: Climate change could lead to a loss of approximately 128 million work hours annually by the end of the century, translating to $15 billion in lost productivity5. Addressing these risks proactively through adaptation measures can significantly mitigate future costs and provide additional benefits, such as reduced carbon emissions and improved public health. By investing in climate resilience now, municipalities can aim to prevent substantial future expenses, strengthen its economic competitiveness, and ensure long-term environmental and financial stability. 5 Canadian Climate Institute (2021).“The Health Costs of Climate Change” https://climatechoices.ca/wp- content/uploads/2021/06/ClimateChoices_Health-report_Final_June2021.pdf | 21 - 44 - $1 $10 $5 6 Canadian Institute for Climate Choices (n.d.). “Damage Control: How Canada can prepare for climate change impacts”. https://climateinstitute.ca/adaptation/#:~:text=In%20our%20report%20Damage%20Control,and%20indirect%20savings%20and%20benefits. 2025 - 2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Direct benefits Reduction of costs directly associated with the adaptation measure, such as lower repair and replacement costs. Economy-wide benefits Knock-on benefits associated with avoided direct costs, such as reduced disruption of supply chains. For every $1 spent on adaptation, Canadians can expect to gain $13 to $15 in savings and benefits in the future.6 The Savings of Proactive Action The Canadian Climate Institute’s 2023 report shows that investing in climate adaptation today has significant financial benefits. In both low- and high-emissions scenarios, adaptation measures can reduce climate impacts by up to 50% by the end of the century. If these measures are combined with global efforts to reduce emissions, the total economic losses from climate change can be reduced by 75% by the end of the century6. | 22 - 45 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan The following co-benefits highlight how climate adaptation not only addresses immediate climate risks but contributes to overall enhancements of the well-being of the community. Economic Resilience and Growth Proactively adapting to the changing climate helps safeguard Pickering’s infrastructure from extreme weather and minimizes the financial burden of service disruptions. Co-Benefits •Reduce Future Costs: Investing in climate adaptation can save significant money over time. For example, the 2013 Toronto floods had $1 billion in damages, and the 2022 Ontario derecho with $720 million in damages in Ontario7. By upgrading infrastructure now, municipalities can avoid similar expensive repairs and service interruptions. •Minimize Service Disruption Costs: Effective climate adaptation reduces the frequency and severity of service disruptions, such as power outages. The economic impact of service disruptions includes repair costs and lost productivity. Investing in resilient infrastructure helps mitigate these costs and maintain consistent, reliable services. •Generate Local Jobs: Climate adaptation projects, like building resilient infrastructure, create job opportunities and stimulate local economic growth8. •Drive Innovation: Investing in climate solutions fosters innovation and positions the City of Pickering as a leader in sustainability. Enhanced Biodiversity and Nature Services Climate adaptation efforts are crucial for protecting Pickering’s ecosystems, water supplies, and biodiversity. Co-Benefits •Preserve Natural Resources: Adaptation measures protect local ecosystems and improve resource management. For example, some flood prevention projects help maintain clean water sources, prevent erosion, and reduce harm to natural habitats, contributing to a more healthy environment. •Enhance Community Beautification: Sustainable practices and green infrastructure, such as expanding urban green spaces and improving parklands, enhance the visual appeal of the city. This beautification makes Pickering more inviting and enjoyable for residents and visitors alike. 7 Insurance Bureau of Canada (2024). “Derecho storm ranks 6th largest insured loss event in Canadian history”. https://www.ibc.ca/news-insights/news/derecho-storm-ranks-6th-largest The Co-Benefits of Investing in Climate Adaptation 8 Government of Canada (2020). “A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy”. https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/weather/climatechange/climat e-plan/climate-plan-overview/healthy-environment-healthy-economy.html | 23 - 46 - 8 Ottawa Citizen (2024, December 2). “Stormy weather for city budgets. Ottawa Citizen”. https://ottawacitizen.com/news/local- news/stormy-weather-for-city-budgets 2025 - 2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan •Boost Tourism: A greener, more beautiful city attracts tourists and enhances their experience. Projects like urban tree planting and waterfront improvements not only support environmental health but also increase Pickering’s appeal as a destination, encouraging tourism and local economic growth. •Lower Carbon Emissions: Green infrastructure and sustainable practices reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a healthier environment. Infrastructure and Operational Efficiency Investing in resilient infrastructure ensures that City facilities and services are better prepared to withstand extreme weather events, reducing maintenance and repair costs. Effective climate adaptation improves resource efficiency, such as water and energy management, leading to cost savings and enhanced operational performance. Co-benefits •Enhance Infrastructure Durability: Investing in resilient infrastructure reduces repair costs. The 2017 Ottawa flood cost about $80 million in cleanup and repairs; resilient design can help prevent such high costs8. •Save on Resources: Better resource management, such as efficient water systems and energy use, leads to cost savings and improved operational efficiency. Improved Health, Social Well-Being, and Equity Climate adaptation measures are vital for protecting Pickering’s most vulnerable residents, including low-income families and the elderly, from climate-related risks. These efforts not only improve quality of life but also reduce pressures on emergency services and healthcare systems. As well, they play a crucial role in closing equity gaps and supporting reconciliation efforts. Co-Benefits •Protect Vulnerable Populations: Adaptation strategies, such as establishing cooling centres, help shield at-risk groups from extreme heat and other climate-related hazards, ensuring their health and safety. •Reduce Pressure on Emergency Services and Healthcare: By mitigating extreme weather impacts and improving public health through adaptation measures, the city can help can alleviate some of the burden on emergency services and healthcare systems. •Close Equity Gaps and Support Reconciliation: Climate adaptation efforts aim to reduce disparities by prioritizing the needs of marginalized and historically underrepresented communities, fostering social equity and advancing reconciliation. | 24 - 47 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan The concept of climate equity acknowledges that climate change doesn’t affect everyone equitably. For instance, low-income individuals and communities are more likely to face the severe impacts of climate events, while also being the most vulnerable to job insecurity. These facts support the inclusion of an equity lens within the CCAP. Considering climate equity in Pickering's CCAP is especially crucial as it aligns with the City's Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy. This commitment aims to ensure that climate action is sustainable, inclusive, and just for all residents. Specific climate inequity effects include: •Disproportionate Impact Climate change disproportionately affects people experiencing low income, older adults, racialized populations, and persons with disabilities. These groups may face heightened vulnerabilities due to inadequate housing, limited access to food and healthcare, and difficulties during emergencies. Addressing these inequities is essential for developing inclusive climate solutions. •Reconciliation Impact Climate change can undermine reconciliation efforts with Indigenous communities by worsening challenges such as land loss, disruption of cultural practices, and food insecurity. Incorporating Indigenous knowledge into climate action is important for achieving true reconciliation. What is Climate Equity? Climate equity is a principle that emphasizes fairness in addressing climate change. It recognizes that everyone— regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, income, and other characteristics—should benefit from a healthy environment and have access to the resources and opportunities they need to protect themselves from the impacts of a changing climate. Incorporating a Climate Equity Lens | 25 - 48 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Addressing social equity in climate adaptation planning is essential to ensure that vulnerable communities are not disproportionately affected by climate change and that adaptation efforts do not further disadvantage these groups. Pickering’s population is expected to grow to over 150,000 by 2036, and its diverse makeup underscores the need for an equitable approach in its Community Climate Adaptation Plan. Given Pickering’s diverse community, it is crucial to understand how different segments of society are affected by and can respond to climate change. This understanding is key to developing inclusive and effective adaptation strategies that benefit all residents. Essential steps to address this involve: Participatory Planning Process •Community Engagement: Actively involve a diverse array of stakeholders, including community members from marginalized groups and stakeholder groups that support them, in the planning process to ensure their needs and concerns are addressed. •Feedback Mechanisms: Establish regular feedback channels throughout the planning and implementation phases to adapt strategies based on community input. Comprehensive Vulnerability Assessments •Identifying Vulnerabilities: Map out neighbourhoods and sectors based on their vulnerability to climateimpacts, considering factors such as income, ethnicity, age, disability, and geographic location. •Prioritization of Actions: Focus resources andadaptation efforts first on the communities and sectors identified as most vulnerable. Data-Driven Strategies •Data Collection and Analysis: Collect and analyze data on demographics, health, economic status, and resource accessibility to inform targeted adaptation measures. •Equitable Resource Distribution: Ensure resources and funding for climate resiliency are distributed equitably, with prioritization given to the most at-riskcommunities. Localized and Inclusive Adaptation Measures •Place-Based Approaches: Customize adaptation strategies to the specific conditions and challenges of each community, acknowledging varied vulnerabilities and capacities. •Cross-Identity Collaboration: Encourage collaboration across different identity groups to foster a collective approach to community resilience. Integrating Climate Equity in Pickering’s CCAP Development & Implementation | 26 - 49 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Indigenous Engagement and Reconciliation •Culturally Sensitive Partnerships: Actively seek to support and collaborate with Indigenous communities, First Nations, and Indigenous service providers to develop and implement climate adaptation initiatives that are culturally relevant and beneficial. Respect and incorporate traditional knowledge and leadership in the planning process to enrich the CCAP and foster stronger community ties and resilience. •Learning from Indigenous Knowledge: Integrate Indigenous perspectives and their deep knowledge of natural systems and millennia of experience as stewards of the environment. This collaboration will enhance the effectiveness and cultural relevance of adaptation strategies. By embedding these mechanisms into the implementation of the CCAP, the City of Pickering can strive to ensure that its climate adaptation efforts are inclusive and equitable, directly addressing the needs of its most vulnerable populations and effectively using community insights and resources for a resilient future. | 27 - 50 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan This plan is guided by key principles to ensure effective and equitable action. These principles are designed to align with the City’s goals and address the pressing challenges of our changing climate. Science-Based Decisions: The City commits to using the latest climate science and local data to drive effective adaptation strategies. Sustainability: Solutions are chosen for their benefits to Pickering’s environment, economy, and overall community well-being, promoting long-term sustainability. Equity and Inclusion: The City embeds an equity lens and ensures broad community involvement in climate adaptation planning and decision-making processes. Collaboration: The City collaborates with local Rightsholders, services providers, businesses, and residents to implement adaptation measures and enhance community involvement. Transparency and Accountability: The City maintains clear communication regarding its climate goals, progress, and outcomes, with regular updates and accessible reporting. Guiding Principles | 28 - 51 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Objectives The following four objectives have been developed to guide the CCAP. They serve as foundational guidelines for the plan and inform the actions within the various focus areas. •Strong Built Environment: Promote the sustainability and livability of the community. It integrates resilient infrastructure, transportation networks, strategic urban design, flood-resilient measures, sustainable building practices,and land use. •Healthy Natural Environment: Promote the well-being and integrity of the air, water, food, and natural areas. It includes invasive species control, increased biodiversity, and the resilience of natural environments, as well as the promotion of local food systems. •Healthy Society: Promote the physical health and well- being of residents. It includes community relations, education and awareness, diversity and equity, public safety, and the preparedness and well-being of community members. •Good Governance: Encompass the strategic framework and institutional arrangements that guide how the city plans for, responds to, and manages climate change challenges. It is the backbone of our climate resilience and adaptation efforts. Vision Statement Our vision for Pickering is to lead in climate adaptation by integrating innovative science with a deep commitment to equity. We aim to protect and enhance our natural environment, stimulate economic growth, and enhance social well-being, building a resilient city that excels in quality of life, innovation, and inclusivity for all. Vision, Objectives, & Focus Areas | 29 - 52 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan The following eight focus areas have been identified as essential to helping Pickering become a more resilient and adaptive community. They result from Phase 1 of the Community Climate Adaptation Plan, analysis of background research, and extensive public and stakeholder engagement. In the following sections each focus area is discussed, including a general description and key issues. 1.0 Agriculture & Local Food 2.0 Nature & Biodiversity 3.0 Health, Social Well-Being, & Emergency Preparedness 4.0 Local Economy 5.0 Planning & Policy 6.0 Transportation 7.0 Building & Energy 8.0 Stormwater Infrastructure Focus Areas | 30 - 53 - Agriculture & Local Food The Agriculture & Local Food focus area addresses the challenges and opportunities posed by climate change on local food systems. Key actions include promoting sustainable farming practices, partnering with the agricultural sector, and improving access to locally grown food through initiatives such as urban agriculture. Rising temperatures, shifting precipitation, and more frequent extreme weather events pose risks to crop yields, livestock health, and farm operations, while also increasing pest and invasive species pressure. At the same time, climate change may offer opportunities such as longer growing seasons and increased crop variety. Adapting to these changes requires ongoing collaboration with farmers to support sustainable practices and strengthen local food systems. Improving local food access, including urban agriculture, enhances community resilience and supports food security. 2025 - 2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan | 31 - 54 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan •Enhancing Accessibility:Addressing challenges like limited time, financial resources, or physical access by designing workshops, urban agriculture initiatives, and programs to meet diverse needs and schedules. •Fostering Collaboration:Bridging gaps in participation by encouraging involvement in cooperatives, networks, and projects from farms of all scales and from residents with varying knowledge and experience. •Supporting Sustainability:Mitigating resource disparities by promoting sustainable practices and guidelines tailored to the needs of farms of all sizes, including small-scale and community-run operations. •Engaging Communities:Overcoming representation gaps by involving diverse groups in the design and implementation of urban agriculture programs. •Strengthening Food Security:Addressing unequal access to nutritious food by ensuring equitable distribution, particularly during climate disruptions, to build community resilience. Equity Lens Considerations (Agriculture & Local Food) | 32 - 55 - Nature & Biodiversity The Nature & Biodiversity focus area addresses both the impacts of climate change on natural systems and the critical role ecosystems play in enhancing community resilience. Actions include enhancing the urban forest canopy, managing invasive species, restoring wetlands and ravines, supporting species at risk, and integrating nature into stormwater management and asset planning. Pickering’s natural areas, including forests, wetlands, ravines, and urban gardens, provide essential services such as air and water purification, flood protection, and habitat for native species. Healthy, biodiverse ecosystems improve climate resilience by reducing heat, absorbing carbon, and buffering storm impacts. Adaptation efforts will focus on restoring ecological integrity, expanding native plantings, and promoting public education and stewardship. These nature-based solutions not only protect biodiversity but can also improve public health, climate regulation, and quality of life for residents. 2025 - 2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan | 33 - 56 - | 342025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan •Targeting High-Need Areas: Focus tree planting and canopy enhancements in neighbourhoods with greater heat exposure, limited green space or degraded ecosystems. •Engaging Communities: Address barriers like language differences, lack of tools or transportation, limited program awareness, and time constraints to ensure equitable participation in stewardship initiatives. •Improving Accessibility: Design tree planting subsidies, educational programs, and initiatives to accommodate residents of all ages, abilities, and income levels. •Inclusive Planning: Ensure parks, biodiversity areas, and green spaces are equitably located, particularly in neighbourhoods with fewer natural features or higher population density. Equity Lens Considerations (Nature & Biodiversity) - 57 - | 35 Health, Social Well-Being, & Emergency Preparedness The Health, Social Well-Being, and Emergency Preparedness focus area addresses the physical and mental health risks posed by climate change while promoting equity, public safety, and social resilience. Actions include developing accessible public safety communication strategies, climate preparedness toolkits, and neighbour-helping-neighbour programs to support mutual aid during emergencies. Extreme weather events such as heatwaves, storms, and poor air quality increase the risk of injury, illness, mental health impacts, and service disruptions. Strengthening emergency preparedness and expanding awareness of climate risks are essential to reduce these impacts. Building community support systems, including buddy networks, local partnerships, and climate resilience hubs, helps enhance public well-being and ensures vulnerable populations are protected during climate-related events. 2025 - 2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan - 58 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan | 36 •Community Inclusivity: Foster inclusive emergency preparedness initiatives by addressing barriers such as language, accessibility, and cultural norms, ensuring all residents can engage with and benefit from support systems. •Accessible Communication: Use diverse, culturally relevant communication strategies to ensure emergency information reaches all residents, including those with limited digital access, sensory impairments, or language differences. •Equitable Resource Distribution: Prioritize the location and design of resources like cooling centers, shelters, and public health initiatives to ensure they are accessible to all neighbourhoods, especially those with socioeconomic or transportation challenges. •Culturally Responsive Practices: Develop outreach, health campaigns, and mental health supports that respect and align with cultural practices, values, and needs to increase effectiveness and accessibility. •Infrastructure Equity: Ensure infrastructure improvements, such as school retrofits and emergency facilities, are equitably distributed and responsive to the needs of communities with fewer existing resources. Equity Lens Considerations (Health, Social Well-being, & Emergency Preparedness) - 59 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Local Economy The local economy focus area addresses climate risks posed to local businesses. Actions include integrating climate risk assessments into procurement decisions, supporting businesses in adopting resilient practices, and increasing education and awareness to enhance climate resilience. A resilient local economy is essential for Pickering to thrive in the face of a changing climate, with initiatives designed to help withstand the increasing severity of extreme weather events. Encouraging businesses to implement adaptation practices and resilient site features plays an important role in fostering a proactive culture. | 37 - 60 - | 382025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan •Inclusive Collaboration: Foster public-private partnerships and involve diverse community stakeholders to ensure that climate resilience efforts reflect the needs of all sectors and equitably distribute benefits. •Support for Small Businesses: Provide targeted assistance to small and locally owned businesses, helping them develop continuity plans and adopt resilient practices to withstand climate-related disruptions. •Equitable Procurement Practices: Encourage municipal procurement processes that prioritize local and diverse businesses, ensuring economic opportunities are distributed fairly within the community. •Accessible Education and Incentives: Engage community leaders to spread awareness about climate adaptation and promote incentives for adopting resilient site features, particularly in areas with limited green infrastructure or resources. Equity Lens Considerations (Local Economy) - 61 - | 39 Planning & Policy The Planning & Policy focus area addresses climate risks by integrating resilience considerations into municipal strategies and governance, including planning policies for new development and future growth. Actions include incorporating climate resilience into infrastructure decisions and budgets, and reviewing local by-laws to support climate adaptation. Effective planning ensures that infrastructure decisions, budgets, and development projects incorporate climate resilience. This focus area prioritizes the use of local climate data to guide decisions, identify vulnerable neighbourhoods, and direct support where it is most needed. Regular updates to municipal response plans and policies help mitigate urban heat, manage stormwater runoff, and help protect residents from climate-related risks. 2025 - 2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan - 62 - | 402025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan •Equitable Resource Allocation: Focus infrastructure and budget investments in areas with limited financial resources or infrastructure resilience, such as low-income neighbourhoods and rental housing communities, which often face higher risks from inadequate cooling resources and green spaces. •Inclusive Engagement: Include seniors, renters, newcomers, and individuals with disabilities in planning processes to ensure emergency plans and resilience strategies are accessible, culturally relevant, and reflective of diverse community needs. •Accessible Urban Design: Strengthen policies that increase access to green spaces, shade structures, and cooling solutions in dense urban areas and communities with limited access to private air conditioning, such as low-income households and areas with higher populations of elderly residents. •Resilient Community Support: Develop strategies that help address the needs of economically vulnerable, socially isolated, or health-compromised individuals, ensuring emergency preparedness and long-term adaptation policies prioritize their well-being. Equity Lens Considerations (Planning & Policy) - 63 - Transportation The Transportation focus area addresses climate risks that disrupt mobility, safety, and access to essential services. Actions include updating design standards for culverts and flood infrastructure, enhancing snow and ice removal practices, and improving the clearing of transportation routes after extreme weather. As climate-related events like heavy rainfall and extreme temperatures increase, maintaining safe, connected, and resilient transportation networks is critical. This involves upgrading infrastructure, improving road durability, and regularly reviewing design and maintenance standards to reduce weather-related disruptions. 2025 - 2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan | 41 - 64 - | 422025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan •Prioritizing Infrastructure Needs: Direct upgrades, such as road and culvert enhancements, to areas where infrastructure is most vulnerable to climate impacts, ensuring improvements address safety, connectivity, and resilience. •Accessibility and Affordability: Ensure that climate adaptation measures and infrastructure improvements are both accessible to all community members and addressing the needs of low-income, elderly, and other vulnerable populations. •Accessible Communication: Provide winter maintenance guidelines and transportation updates in multiple languages and accessible formats to accommodate varying literacy levels, language abilities, and accessibility needs. Equity Lens Considerations (Transportation) - 65 - | 43 Building & Energy The Building & Energy focus area enhances climate resilience in both municipal and private buildings by addressing risks such as structural damage, energy disruptions, and stress on the energy grid. Actions include supporting resilient building practices, implementing the Corporate Energy Management Plan, developing a corporate building standard with climate adaptation features, and reviewing best practices in climate- resilient asset management. This focus area emphasizes integrating energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and climate-responsive design into both new and existing buildings. Regular updates to Pickering’s Integrated Sustainable Design Standards can further support the long-term resilience of future developments. 2025 - 2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan - 66 - | 442025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan •Prioritizing Vulnerable Areas: Focus on improving resilience in infrastructure and energy systems in areas with higher climate vulnerabilities, including neighbourhoods with socioeconomically disadvantaged populations or older, less resilient structures. •Affordable Resilience: Ensure climate-resilient upgrades and retrofitting programs, such as floodproofing and energy-efficient technologies, are affordable and accessible for residents across all income levels. •Community-Centred Resilience: Design infrastructure improvements that prioritize the needs of vulnerable groups, such as seniors and renters, to strengthen overall community well-being and safety during climate events. Equity Lens Considerations (Building & Energy) - 67 - Stormwater Infrastructure The Stormwater Infrastructure focus area addresses climate risks from increased rainfall and severe storms. Actions include mandating water infiltration and storage in new subdivisions, enhancing maintenance of outfalls and catch basins, and promoting strategies to reduce runoff. With more frequent and intense weather events, it is essential to maintain stormwater and drainage systems that can withstand climate pressures. A comprehensive approach involves regular inspections, maintenance, and upgrades to ensure long-term flood resilience and infrastructure reliability. 2025 - 2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan | 45 - 68 - | 462025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan •Community-Centred Design: Promote naturalized stormwater solutions, such as rain gardens and bioretention cells, in areas that face higher risks of stormwater runoff. These solutions enhance stormwater management while providing additional community benefits. •Accessible Education: Create flood mitigation education materials that are easy to understand and accommodate diverse languages to help residents access and understand critical information. Equity Lens Considerations (Stormwater Infrastructure) - 69 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan This implementation strategy, organized by 8 focus areas, details the specific actions required to achieve the CCAP’s objectives. It includes: 1.Identified Actions: Lists the specific actions required to achieve the strategy’s objectives. 2.Leads and Partners: Suggests possible leads and partners to be included in the implementation of the actions. 3.KPIs: Establishes key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success and impact of the adaptation efforts. 4.Costing: Estimates the order of magnitude costs associated with each action and outlines potential funding sources. 5.Timeframe: Provides a timeline for when the actions will be undertaken. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that Pickering can effectively address climate challenges and enhance community resilience. Implementation Strategy | 47 - 70 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan The below acronyms highlight external grant funding opportunities to support implementation.Please note this list is accurate to the date of the creation of this plan and regular monitoring of external funding opportunities will be required. •FCM-GMF Federation of Canadian Municipalities - Green Municipal Fund​ •GCCC Tree Canada FCM - Growing Canada’sCommunity Canopies​ •GO-GLLAF Government of Ontario - Great Lakes Local Action Fund​ •IC-DMAF Infrastructure Canada - Disaster Mitigation Adaptation Fund​ •IC-GICB Infrastructure Canada - Green and Inclusive Community Building Fund​ •IC-NIF Infrastructure Canada - Natural InfrastructureFund​ •IC-RKI Infrastructure Canada - Research Knowledge Initiative​ •ISAF Invasive Species Action Fund Timeline 1-3 years 4 -7 years 7+ years Cost $0 -100k $$100k -800k $$$800k+ To review the CCAP implementation strategy, begin by examining the outlined adaptation actions with an additional equity lens tailored to each focus area. The implementation strategy also provides estimates of the costing and timeline (reference the legend below for additional clarity) of each action item along with a set of key performance indicators that allow progress to be measured against. The implementation strategy also identifies the designated lead on the action and a preliminary list of City and community partners who hold expertise or could support the success of the action. How to Read the Implementation Strategy | 48 - 71 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Key performance indicators (KPIs) are measurable goals that help track the success of the CCAP. They can help inform the City on how well implementation is progressing. While the following KPIs are quantitative measures, many qualitative factors are equally important, such as how the action made a difference to individuals or in neighbourhoods. Although the impacts can be difficult to measure during the ongoing implementation of this work, we recognize its importance and will monitor as applicable. Healthy Natural Environment (HNE) 1.1 Urban Agriculture Engagement: Number of participants, engaged in the City's urban agriculture initiatives. 1.2 Ecosystem Restoration Projects: Number of successful local ecosystem restoration efforts and size of area restored. 1.3 Tree Canopy Expansion: Percentage increase in urban tree cover. Strong Built Environment (SBE) 2.1 Resilient Infrastructure Projects: Number of infrastructure projects designed to handle extreme weather, including improvements in areas disproportionately affected by climate impacts. 2.2 Key Infrastructure Assessments and Upgrades: Number of inspections and upgrades of critical infrastructure. 2.3 Building Retrofits: Percentage of buildings retrofitted for factors such as temperature regulation, energy efficiency, wind resilience, air quality, and flood prevention. 2.4 Risk Mitigation Measures Implemented: Number of climate risk prevention and maintenance projects completed. Healthy Society (HS) 3.1 Community Participation: Number of residents participating in climate or resilience surveys, events, workshops and other community engagement opportunities, ensuring broad and inclusive community engagement. 3.2 Heat-Related Health Incidents Reduction: Percentage of heat-related hospital visits, particularly in neighbourhoods with higher vulnerability to heat impacts. 3.3 Support Programs for Vulnerable Populations: Number of programs targeting at-risk groups, including low-income, isolated individuals, the elderly, and disabled residents, ensuring equitable access to resources that support resiliency, such as cooling/warming centres and preparedness kits. 3.4 Household Emergency Preparedness: Number of households prepared for a weather-related emergency. Good Governance (GG) 4.1 Organizational Collaborations: Number of cross- departmental and external partnerships formed to enhance the coordination and effectiveness of climate adaptation efforts. Key Performance Indicators | 49 - 72 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan # Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 1.1 Partner with agricultural associations to understand what farmers are already doing to address the impacts of climate change. GG 4.1 $Region of Durham Ontario Federation of Agriculture, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Durham Agricultural Advisory Committee, Durham Region Federation of Agriculture 1.2 Facilitate collaboration and knowledge exchange among farmers via farmer cooperatives, community networks, and participatory research projects. HS, GG 3.1 4.1 $Region of Durham, City Development Ontario Federation of Agriculture, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Durham Agricultural Advisory Committee, Durham Region Federation of Agriculture 1.0 Agriculture & Local Food Actions | 50 - 73 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 1.3 Promote the adoption of agroecological and sustainable farming methods that improve soil health, conserve water, and enhance biodiversity, such as no-till farming, cover cropping, agroforestry, hedgerows, and integrated pest management. HNE, GG 1.2 4.1 $$Region of Durham, City Development Ontario Federation of Agriculture, conservation authorities, Durham Agricultural Advisory Committee, Durham Region Federation of Agriculture, Durham Farm Fresh, Ontario Soil & Crop Improvement Association 1.4 Promote urban agriculture through funding initiatives for schools, community gardens, rooftop gardens, etc. HNE, HS, GG 1.1 3.1 4.1 $$City Development, Operations, Finance Conservation authorities, Region of Durham, Durham Integrated Growers, Durham Food Policy Council, Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture | 51 - 74 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 1.5 Continue to offer urban agriculture-related local food educational programs such as seed swaps and vegetable growing workshops. HS, GG 1.1 3.1 4.1 $City Development, Community Services, Pickering Public Library Conservation authorities, Durham Integrated Growers, Region of Durham, Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture, Durham Farm Connections, AgScape 1.6 Continue to support community-based food security initiatives such as farmers markets and programs that support local farmers to ensure a stable local supply of food, particularly during climate- related disruptions. HS, GG 1.1 3.3 4.1 $$City Development, Community Services, Region of Durham Conservation authorities, local community groups e.g., food banks, Durham Farm Fresh, DARS, Durham Food Policy Council, Feed the Need, Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Agriculture | 52 - 75 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 2.1 Develop an invasive species management strategy. HNE, GG 1.2 4.1 $$Operations, Engineering Services City Development, conservation authorities, Invasive Species Centre, Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Canadian Food Inspection Agency Tree Canada- GCCC ISAF 2.0 Nature & Biodiversity | 53 - 76 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 2.2 Analyze heat-vulnerability data to identify the need for canopy shade in vulnerable communities, highlighting areas where the implementation of green infrastructure can mitigate heat-related risks and improve urban livability. HNE, HS, GG 1.3 3.2 4.1 $$Engineering Services, City Development, Community Services, Region of Durham Operations, conservation authorities Tree Canada- GCCC 2.3 Conduct an urban forest canopy assessment to evaluate canopy cover, tree equity, and current vulnerabilities to climate and tree health, and to identify optimal planting areas. Use this data to update to the 2012 Urban Forest Study. HNE, GG 1.3 4.1 $$$Engineering Services, Operations City Development, conservation authorities, Ontario Urban Forest Council, Region of Durham Tree Canada-GCCC | 54 - 77 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 2.4 Expand community tree planting initiatives on public lands to increase public engagement and canopy cover, focusing on enhancing local biodiversity and resilience. HNE, HS, GG 1.3 3.1 4.1 $City Development Conservation authorities, Ontario Power Generation, Region of Durham Tree Canada-GCCC 2.5 Support the naturalization, upkeep, and improvement of natural areas, especially forests/woodlands, aquatic ecosystems, riparian zones, and wetlands. Continue to broaden initiatives that conserve and enrich these environments. HNE, GG 1.2 4.1 $$$City Development, Engineering Services Conservation authorities, Region of Durham, Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, Ducks Unlimited IC-NIF 2.6 Introduce planting and education strategies to support pollinators, incorporating drought-resistant native plants in urban and natural areas. HNE, GG 1.2 4.1 $$City Development Conservation authorities, ​ garden centres/ nurseries, horticultural associations & naturalist groups, property owners IC-NIF 2.7 Implement a street tree campaign where businesses and residents can adopt and care for newly planted trees. HNE, HS, GG 1.3 3.1 4.1 $Engineering Services, City Development Local community groups, neighbourhood associations, businesses, residents | 55 - 78 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 2.8 Transition to heat-and - drought resistant native plants and tree species on City owned/managed lands, and ensure adequate resources are available for increased watering needs, such as tanker trucks or irrigation systems. HNE 1.2 1.3 $Operations City Development Tree Canada- GCCC 2.9 Develop and implement programs to educate residents in the care and maintenance of privately owned trees. HNE, HS, GG 1.3 3.1 4.1 $City Development Local community groups, neighbourhood associations Tree Canada- GCCC 2.10 Continue providing additional subsidy programs for tree planting on private property. HNE, GG 1.3 4.1 $City Development Conservation authorities, Local Enhancement & Appreciation of Forests (LEAF),Forests Ontario, Region of Durham Tree Canada- GCCC | 56 - 79 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 2.11 Explore opportunities regarding asset management planning in relation to the natural environment. HNE, GG 1.2 4.1 $$Finance, Engineering Services, City Development, Operations Conservation authorities, Region of Durham, Natural Asset Initiative, Greenbelt Foundation, FCM FCM- GMF 2.12 Protect existing high-quality natural features and areas; restore degraded ecosystems. HNE, GG 1.1 1.2 4.1 $Conservation authorities, Engineering Services City Development, Region of Durham, Ducks Unlimited Canada 2.13 Explore partnerships with the Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Program to help neighbourhoods build resilience against climate change. HNE, HS, GG 1.2 3.1 4.1 $$City Development Conservation authorities, Region of Durham, Community Services FCM-GMF IC-NIF | 57 - 80 - #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 3.1 Establish buddy systems and neighbour-helping-neighbour programs that encourage residents, especially seniors and those at risk, to connect with local community networks; share resources, information, and assistance; and enhance mutual aid and support during extreme weather emergencies and other crises. HS, GG 3.1 3.3 4.1 $Community Services, Fire Services, Office of the CAO Region of Durham, community groups, neighbourhood associations, local faith groups, long- term care facilities 3.2 Foster stronger relationships with neighbourhood groups and local organizations.Work with them to set up community hubs during extreme weather events and investigate options to increase temporary shelters during extreme weather events. HS, SBE, GG 2.1 3.3 3.4 4.1 $$Office of the CAO Region of Durham, community groups, neighbourhood associations, local faith groups, school boards 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan 3.0 Health, Social Well-Being, & Emergency Preparedness | 58 - 81 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 3.3 Design or support programs aimed at assisting homeowners and renters in addressing climate risks and improving their preparedness for emergencies. This may involve providing financial support programs, technical assistance for home retrofits, emergency supplies, and mitigation measures. HS, SBE, GG 2.3 2.4 3.3 3.4 4.1 $$$City Development, Region of Durham Fire Services, Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation, University of Waterloo (Intact Centre), industry collaborators, Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction 3.4 Develop and distribute educational toolkits that provide residents with information and resources on climate risks and emergency preparedness. These toolkits should be accessible, user-friendly, and tailored to the specific needs and vulnerabilities of the community. HS, GG 3.1 3.4 4.1 $City Development, Fire Services, Region of Durham, Office of the CAO Conservation, authorities, Intact Centre FCM-GMF IC-DMAF 3.5 Enhance staff capacity to implement community support programs and resources that can manage the needs of vulnerable populations during critical times. HS, GG 3.3 4.1 $Community Services, Office of the CAO Fire Services, Region of Durham | 59 - 82 - #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 3.6 Leverage social media and the City's website to maintain open and transparent communication channels for residents. Ensure regular dissemination of significant weather forecasts, emergency preparedness tips, response plans and resources, and live updates during emergencies, to keep the community informed and prepared. HS, GG 3.1 3.4 4.1 $Office of the CAO Fire Services, Region of Durham, conservation authorities, media outlets 3.7 Conduct a corporate facility needs assessment to identify the resources and infrastructure needed to optimize warming/cooling centres, ensuring they are equipped to support communities during extreme temperature events. HS, SBE, GG 2.1 2.2 3.2 4.1 $$Community Services, Operations Region of Durham IC-GICB 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan | 60 - 83 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 3.8 Identify which facilities have backup power generators and what the facilities can power with the generator. HS, GG 2.1 2.2 2.4 4.1 $Community Services, Operations IC-DMAF IC-GICB 3.9 Launch a transparent public awareness campaign that details the steps the City is taking to improve readiness for weather-related emergencies. This could include showcasing investments in infrastructure, training for emergency personnel, and community preparedness programs. HS, GG 3.1 4.1 $$Office of the CAO, City Development Fire Services, Region of Durham IC-DMAF 3.10 Review and amend City staff safety practices as needed, to ensure safety during extreme weather events such as days over 30°C. HS, GG 2.4 4.1 $Operations Human Resources | 61 - 84 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 3.11 Increase understanding of values, motivations, and behaviour shifts,to influence climate adaptation perception in community. HS, GG 3.1 4.1 $City Development Corporate Services, Community Services, Office of the CAO 3.12 Develop culturally inclusive communication strategies for public safety messaging, ensuring that emergency information respects and uses cultural communication norms. For example, form partnerships with multicultural media outlets to broadcast climate resilience information and education. HS, GG 3.1 4.1 $$Office of the CAO City Development, Community Services, Region of Durham, Durham Welcome Centre, Indigenous service providers, local faith groups | 62 - 85 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 3.13 Support vector-borne disease awareness campaign by, for example, installing educational signs in local parks and open spaces, and enhancing disease management programs. Promote public health strategies to control and prevent outbreaks, including personal protection practices, such as the correct application of repellents and use of protective clothing. HS, HNE, GG 1.2 3.1 4.1 $$Operations, Region of Durham Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change 3.14 Partner and build strong relationships with local organizations to share mental health support initiatives that provide counseling and resources to residents affected by the psychological impacts of extreme weather events. HS, GG 3.1 4.1 $$Office of the CAO, Region of Durham Local faith groups, Indigenous service providers | 63 - 86 - #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 4.1 Expand collaboration and foster partnerships between public entities and the private sector, including local organizations, to leverage resources ‒ for example, engaging with local faith groups to establish cooling shelters. SBE, HS, GG 2.1 3.3 4.1 $Office of the CAO, City Development Community Services, Immigration Centre, Ajax Pickering Board of Trade, Partners in Project Green, STEP Canada, local faith groups IC-RKI 4.2 Integrate climate risk knowledge into municipal procurement decisions to ensure the resilience of goods, services, and infrastructure against climate impacts. SBE, GG 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 4.1 $Finance, Operations, Community Services Region of Durham, City Development, conservation authorities IC-DMAF 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan 4.0 Local Economy | 64 - 87 - #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 4.3 Raise awareness among businesses about establishing plans to address weather- related emergencies. HS, GG 3.1 4.1 $Economic Development Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade, Intact Centre, Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) Canada, Partners in Project Green, conservation authorities IC-DMAF IC-RKI 4.4 Encourage businesses to implement adaptation practices and resilient site features and infrastructure. SBE, GG 2.1 2.4 4.1 $City Development, Economic Development Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade, Region of Durham, Intact Centre IC-RKI IC-NIF GO- GLLAF Tree Canada -GCCC 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan | 65 - 88 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 5.1 Incorporate climate resiliency into infrastructure decisions and associated capital budgets. SBE, GG 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 4.1 $$$All departments Conservation authorities FCM-GMFIC-NIF 5.2 Regularly update and test municipal emergency plans with a focus on climate- induced events, incorporating community input for improved response strategies. SBE, GG 2.4 4.1 $$Office of the CAO, Fire Services Region of Durham, City Development 5.0 Planning & Policy | 66 - 89 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 5.3 Conduct a comprehensive review, as appropriate, to ensure all local by-laws, regulations, and the Official Plan support and enforce climate adaptation measures. GG 4.1 $Corporate Services, Office of the CAO City Development 5.4 Review best municipal practices to enhance landscaping-related policies and definitions as appropriate within the Official Plan and Zoning By-law to mitigate impacts of urban heat and stormwater runoff. SBE, GG 1.2 1.3 4.1 $City Development Engineering Services, Region of Durham, Landscape Ontario Tree Canada -GCCC IC-NIF GO- GLLAF 5.5 Prioritize the installation of splash pads and shade canopy covers in dense communities where access to shade and/or air conditioning may be limited. SBE, HS, GG 2.43.3 4.1 $$Engineering Services Operations, Region of Durham | 67 - 90 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 5.6 Construct additional features such as shade structures and misting stations, in parks and urban spaces to provide relief from the heat, especially in high pedestrian traffic areas. SBE, HS, GG 2.4 3.2 4.1 $$Engineering Services Operations, Community Services FCM- GMF 5.7 Explore municipal best practices regarding by-laws to regulate the maximum temperature in dwelling units to protect vulnerable residents from extreme heat. HS, GG 3.2 4.1 $City Development, Corporate Services Durham Region Health, Ontario Government | 68 - 91 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 6.1 Establish a road infrastructure resilience assessment program. This program should regularly evaluate the vulnerability of road surfaces, foundations, and drainage to climate- related damage. Develop a guideline to enhance resilience through material selection, design standards, and maintenance practices. SBE, GG 2.1 2.2 2.3 4.1 $Operations, Engineering Services Conservation authorities, Region of Durham, Ontario Government FCM-GMF IC-DMAF 6.2 Continue to update and enhance the design standards for culverts and flood infrastructure to improve resilience and manage future climate-related events, prioritizing culvert upgrades or replacements to bolster capacity and resilience against increased precipitation events. SBE, GG 2.1 2.2 2.4 4.1 $$$Engineering Services Conservation authorities, Region of Durham IC-DMAF 6.0 Transportation | 69 - 92 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 6.3 Facilitate discussions with municipalities on best practices, joint efforts, and standards for clearing transportation networks after extreme weather events. GG 4.1 $Operations Region of Durham, conservation authorities, neighbouring local area municipalities 6.4 Improve communications to residents and businesses on their role in the maintenance of sidewalks and parking lots, appropriate salt application rates, and best management practices during freezing rain or snow events. HS, GG 3.1 4.1 $Office of the CAO Operations, conservation authorities, Region of Durham, Smart About Salt Council | 70 - 93 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 6.5 Explore innovative approaches for clearing snow and ice, and the resources required to ensure the continued safety and reliability of travel during winter weather events. SBE, GG 2.1 2.4 4.1 $$Operations Conservation authorities, Region of Durham 6.6 Prioritize active transportation through the development and enhancement of dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian pathways to promote walking and cycling as viable and safe transportation options. SBE, HS, GG 3.1 4.1 $$$Engineering Services, City Development, Operations Conservation authorities, Region of Durham | 71 - 94 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 7.1 Continue implementation of the Corporate Energy Management Plan. Develop a corporate building standard for City facilities that include climate adaptation and resiliency as key design features, to protect City facilities from extreme weather-related events, enable business continuity, and allow certain buildings to act as places of refuge. SBE 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 $$Operations, Community Services FCM-GMF IC-GICB 7.2 During the scheduled review of the Pickering's Integrated Sustainable Design Standards, consider performance measures that will enhance the resilience of new developments to extreme weather-related events. SBE 2.1 $City Development Region of Durham, Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction, development community FCM-GMF 7.0 Building & Energy | 72 - 95 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 7.3 As opportunities arise, provide comments​ to support revisions to building codes to require climate-responsive design features for new construction, ensuring​ longevity and resilience to extreme weather events. SBE, GG 2.1 2.3 2.4 4.1 $City Development Provincial Government 7.4 Organize opportunities to facilitate the exchange of best practices and challenges for climate- resilient design in various industries, such as the development community, landscape industry, and others. SBE, GG 3.1 4.1 $City Development Region of Durham | 73 - 96 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 7.5 Conduct a best practice review regarding climate-resiliency and asset management planning. SBE, GG 2.12.2 2.4 4.1 $$Finance, Operations, Engineering Services, Community Services, City Development Region of Durham, Federation of Canadian Municipalities FCM-GMF 7.6 Assist school facilities in mitigating the impacts of extreme heat. This may involve installing shade structures such as a large tree canopy, improving ventilation systems, and ensuring access to cool drinking water, to create a comfortable learning environment during heatwaves. SBE, HS, GG 2.2 2.3 3.2 4.1 $$School boards, Region of Durham City Development, Durham Health 7.7 Support studies to identify potentially suitable locations for district energy and microgrids. SBE 2.1 2.4 $$Region of Durham, City Development Elexicon Energy, Operations FCM- GMF | 74 - 97 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 7.8 Undertake load forecast monitoring to understand both the current and future electrical capacity based on development projections. SBE, GG 2.1 2.2 2.44.1 $Elexicon Energy Region of Durham, City Development, Independent Electricity System Operator, Hydro One FCM- GMF IC-DMAF 7.9 Explore opportunities to support existing home retrofit programs, prioritizing resiliency measures like floodproofing, backwater prevention valves, windproofing, and heat pump installation. SBE, HS, GG 2.1 2.2 2.4 3.1 3.4 4.1 $$Region of Durham Finance, City Development, Elexicon Energy FCM- GMF | 75 - 98 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 8.1 Explore developing a comprehensive stormwater infrastructure monitoring and maintenance strategy. This strategy would include regular inspections, maintenance, and upgrades to stormwater systems and other critical stormwater infrastructure. SBE, GG 2.1 2.2 2.4 4.1 $$$Engineering Services, Operations Conservation authorities FCM- GMF IC-DMAF 8.2 Maintain outfalls and catch basins by increasing maintenance schedules and employing innovative technologies for early detection of issues and efficient maintenance practices. SBE, GG 2.2 2.4 4.1 $$Operations, Engineering Services Region of Durham, Conservation authorities 8.0 Stormwater Infrastructure | 76 - 99 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan #Action Objective KPIs Cost Timeline Lead Partners Funding 8.3 Where it is suitable, promote options to reduce stormwater runoff and the associated maintenance requirements of low-impact design techniques, such as, rain gardens, to support onsite infiltration. SBE, GG 2.1 3.1 4.1 $$Conservation authorities, City Development Engineering Services, Region of Durham, non-profits such as Ducks Unlimited, Green Infrastructure Ontario IC-NIF 8.4 Mandate water infiltration and storage in the design of new subdivisions. SBE, GG 2.1 2.4 4.1 $$Engineering Services Conservation authorities IC-NIF 8.5 Implement a targeted education program for residents in high flood-risk areas, outlining flood mitigation strategies. HS, GG 3.1 3.3 4.1 $Conservation authorities, City Development Engineering Services FCM- GMF | 77 - 100 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan •Strategic Alignment: Ensuring City priorities and adaptation goals align by incorporating resilience into infrastructure and planning. •Transparency and Accountability: Engaging residents, businesses, stakeholders, and Rightsholders to foster transparent decision-making and responsible resource management. •Continuous Improvement: Updating strategies based on new climate science and community feedback to effectively tackle emerging challenges. •Whole-of-City Approach: Integrating climate resilience actions across all City departments and functions as appropriate. •Ongoing Engagement: Collaborating with diverse stakeholders to drive innovation and implement effective initiatives. •Long-Term Financial Investment: Committing to investments in resilient infrastructure and emergency preparedness to reduce risks. •Staff Resourcing and Training: Equipping City staff with the necessary expertise and ensuring they understand their roles in the successful implementation of the Community Climate Adaptation Plan. Governance Incorporating a climate lens into corporate-wide decision- making processes is vital for the City of Pickering’s success in enhancing climate adaptation. Climate change introduces increasing risk exposure which can disrupt the City’s ability to maintain functionality of critical infrastructure and key services. This underscores the importance of proactive measures to assess and manage these challenges early. By prioritizing and coordinating investments in resilient infrastructure and sustainable practices, the City aims to achieve long-term cost savings, safeguard community members, and ensure compliance with legal requirements related to climate impacts such as Ontario Regulation 588/17 for Asset Management. This regulation requires municipalities to address, through asset management planning, the vulnerabilities to infrastructure that may be caused by climate change. Key approaches to incorporating a climate lens into municipal decision-making include: | 78 - 101 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan •Policy Integration: Embed climate considerations into municipal policies, regulations, and development approvals to promote sustainable growth and enhance resilience. •Asset Management: Explore opportunities to integrate asset management planning and adaptation strategies. Budgeting with a Climate Lens •Prioritizing Resilient Investments: Allocate budget resources for infrastructure projects that enhance resiliency, such as flood management systems and energy-efficient initiatives. •Financial Analysis: Conduct lifecycle cost assessments to ensure cost-effective investments that enhance long-term resilience and sustainability. Monitoring and Accountability •Performance Tracking: Implement Key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor the effectiveness of resilience initiatives and report progress. •Transparency in Budgeting: Maintain transparent budgeting processes to build community trust and accountability in climate-related expenditures. Implementation and Benefits •Financial Efficiency: Optimize budget allocations by prioritizing investments that reduce long-term costs associated with climate impacts. •Enhanced Infrastructure Resilience: Strengthen municipal infrastructure against climate-related risks, ensuring continuity of services and minimizing disruption. •Community Engagement: Involve residents, businesses, stakeholders, and Rightsholders in climate resilience planning to build consensus and support for municipal initiatives. •Leadership and Innovation: Position Pickering as a leader in climate resilience, attracting investment and fostering innovation in sustainable practices. Governance Process The governance process outlines the roles and responsibilities of elected officials, City staff, and the community in identifying annual projects and priorities, tracking performance, and seeking efficiencies through coordinated collaboration. This approach ensures a strategic and effective response to challenges, promoting continuous improvement and resilience. Integrating Climate Considerations into Corporate Planning & Policy | 79 - 102 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Effective climate adaptation relies on a well-defined governance framework where roles and responsibilities are clearly established. This coordinated approach ensures that all stakeholders understand their duties, streamlines decision-making, and allocates resources efficiently. By promoting collaboration and preventing overlaps, a structured governance framework enhances the effectiveness and cohesiveness of adaptation efforts, leading to stronger resilience and better management of climate risks. Mayor & Council •Overall decision-making authority. •Budget approval for climate adaptation initiatives. •Strategic direction and prioritization of climate adaptation efforts. •Setting policy framework for climate initiatives. •Oversight of budget allocation. Chief Administrative Officer •Overseeing corporate priorities and ensuring climate adaptation remains a priority. •Working closely with the City’s Treasurer on financial aspects. Senior Management •Coordinating annual budget (ensuring a climate resiliency lens is applied). •Tracking overall costs and avoided costs (with support from department staff). •Maintaining funds for climate adaptation actions. •Prioritizing departmental activities to ensure alignment with climate adaptation goals. •Identifying budgets and resources required on an annual and 10-year forecast. •Presenting business cases for climate-related projects. Departmental Staff •Identifying specific climate adaptation projects. •Developing project cost estimates and timelines. •Establishing partnerships with relevant Rightsholders and stakeholders. •Implementing and monitoring progress of community climate actions. Sustainability Section •Championing climate adaptation within the municipality. •Conducting education and awareness campaigns as well as engagement sessions on climate-related matters. •Providing project support and monitoring progress. •Tracking and reporting on sustainability metrics. Roles and Responsibilities | 80 - 103 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Climate Adaptation Working Group •Supporting the long-term implementation of the Community Climate Adaptation Plan. •Identifying priorities for implementation of climate adaptation actions and best practices. •Reviewing and implementing actions within the Community Climate Adaptation Plan. •Establishing collaboration mechanisms with external stakeholders, non-government organizations, and academic institutions. •Conducting lifecycle cost assessments to ensure cost- effective investments that enhance long-term resilience and sustainability. •Seeking funding opportunities and efficiencies for adaptation projects. Community •Supporting action implementation by engaging in community-based initiatives, program development, workshops, and surveys. | 81 - 104 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Pickering’s approach to fund implementation is multi- faceted to ensure long-term viability, scalability and to balance departmental funding requests with CCAP initiatives. The CCAP notes how climate adaptation priorities can be integrated into the municipal budgeting process, while also proactively seeking external funding sources. The City will aim to leverage a combination of traditional municipal funding, external grants, and explore innovative financing mechanisms. Where feasible, potential funding sources have been identified to support implementation of individual actions. Supporting Funding Mechanisms This section provides an overview of various funding approaches detailing their definitions and how each could be developed and implemented. Examples include: Revolving Climate Fund: This financial tool supports sustainability and climate adaptation projects by reinvesting its resources. Seed funding from grants, budgets, or even donations is used to finance projects that boost resilience. Cost savings from these projects— such as reduced energy or maintenance expenses—are reinvested into the fund to finance future initiatives. Examples of municipalities using this tool include Edmonton, Whitby, and Durham. Green Bonds: A local municipality can partner with a regional government to use a green bond for funding climate projects like renewable energy or infrastructure upgrades. The regional government issues the bond, and the municipality uses the funds, repaying through cost savings. This collaboration lowers costs and maximizes climate impact. Keys steps include analyzing market feasibility, identifying qualifying projects, collaborating with financial experts to structure bonds, and obtaining certification. Examples of municipalities using this tool include Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver. Municipal Tax Levy: This involves a dedicated property tax increase to fund climate action initiatives. It requires resident consultations, legislative setup, determining tax increase percentages, and communicating the levy’s benefits. Examples of municipalities using this tool include Peterborough and Halifax. Grants and Loans: These funds from government or private entities support climate projects. Key actions involve researching available options, preparing detailed project proposals, and collaborating with partners for successful applications and implementation. As part of the implementation process, City staff will explore different mechanisms to support the long- term funding of the Community Climate Adaptation Plan. Annual Planning & Budgetary Process | 82 - 105 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Grants & Loans that Support Climate Adaptation Exploring various external funding opportunities can help support adaptation actions and lessen the financial burden on taxpayers. Below is a list of funding opportunities currently available that could be leveraged to support the implementation strategy. This list will be reviewed regularly to maximize the potential of aligning funding with priority actions. FCM Green Municipal Program (GMF): Offers significant funding (50% to 80% of project costs) for local sustainability projects. The program is enabling municipalities to implement energy-efficient upgrades, improve public transportation, and promote sustainable land use. FCM Local Leadership Climate Adaptation: Supports municipalities in developing and implementing climate adaptation plans tailored to local needs. FCM General Municipal Fund - Growing Canada’s Community Canopies (GCCC): Aims to plant 1.2 million trees across Canada, supporting tree planting to mitigate urban heat, improve air quality, and enhance biodiversity. Infrastructure Canada - Green and Inclusive Communities Building Fund (IC-GICB): Funds energy- efficient retrofits and new community buildings, allowing municipalities to retrofit facilities and construct new energy- efficient structures to reduce emissions. Infrastructure Bank Canada - Building Retrofits Initiative (BRI): Provides financing for energy retrofits in public buildings such as municipal buildings, schools, and healthcare facilities, enhancing performance and reducing operational costs while supporting adaptation efforts. Infrastructure Canada - Disaster Mitigation Fund (DMAF): Provides long-term funding for projects that improve resilience against natural disasters, including stormwater system upgrades and resilient infrastructure construction. Infrastructure Canada- Natural Infrastructure Fund (IC- NIF): Supports projects enhancing environmental protection and community resilience, such as planting urban forests, restoring stormwater systems, and implementing green infrastructure to address flooding and climate change. Natural Resources Canada - Research Knowledge Initiative: Funds research on innovative housing and community resilience solutions, helping municipalities develop local climate adaptation strategies and sustainable technologies. Government of Ontario - Great Lakes Local Action Fund (GO-GLLAF): Supports projects that enhance climate resilience and water quality in the Great Lakes ecosystem, aiding initiatives like planting native species, implementing erosion control, and managing invasive species. | 83 - 106 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Strategic Funding Recommendations Implementing long-term, sustainable funding mechanisms are essential to effectively resource and support the plan. City staff will explore three financial mechanisms to support the implementation of resilience actions including: 1.Prioritizing Grants and Funding: Place a high priority on securing external grants/funding opportunities, and collaborations with other organizations and agencies, to support climate adaptation initiatives. These resources can significantly supplement the City’s financial capacity for implementing projects. 2.Exploring a Dedicated Climate Reserve: Explore creating a dedicated fund specifically for climate resilience projects. Regular contributions can then be made to sustain and grow the reserve over time and help reduce the upfront capital investment of resiliency initiatives. 3.Considering a Dedicated Stormwater Management Fee: As extreme weather events become more frequent, explore a dedicated fee to help ensure funding for critical infrastructure and for managing the increasing impacts of flooding events. Maintaining, Monitoring & Updating Monitoring and reporting are important for ensuring initiatives stay on track, guide informed decision-making, and build accountability through transparency. They help identify successes and challenges, optimize resource use, and allow for adjustments based on new data or changing conditions. As well, these practices support long-term strategic planning and engage the community by keeping them informed and involved in adaptation efforts. •Five Years: It is recommended that the City perform a comprehensive review of the actions being implemented. The review should reflect new data, emerging risks, and best practices related to adaptation strategies. •Ten Years: To ensure the plan continues to address long-term challenges and aligns with current climate science and City priorities, it is recommended that every ten years a comprehensive update to the overall plan be completed to evaluate the relevance of the vision, objectives and focus areas, governance, and monitoring process. This structured approach ensures continuous improvement and responsiveness to changing conditions. | 84 - 107 - 2025 -2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan Third-Party Reporting Engaging third-party reporting programs can help demonstrate accountability in municipal climate actions. Third-party reporting also enables benchmarking against peers and can provide valuable resources for refining strategies to address climate challenges. Examples to explore: •Climate Disclosure Project (CDP): An agency that integrates various national and international sustainability standards, allowing municipalities to benchmark performance against key sustainability priorities. •Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD): Established by the Financial Stability Board, TCFD provides a framework for disclosing climate- related risks and opportunities in financial filings, to enhance transparency while attracting sustainable investment. City of Pickering will explore best practices in municipal third-party reporting. Notably, TCFD reporting can be integrated within CDP, streamlining the process and enhancing accountability in climate-related disclosures. This approach aligns with emerging regulatory requirements in Europe and the United States, as with publicly traded companies in Canada. | 85 - 108 - In addition, by embedding adaptation measures into municipal planning, decision making, and operations, the City will be able to realize direct economic, social, and environmental improvements and co-benefits. Since the effects from our changing climate and extreme weather events are not felt equally across the community and the needs vary from resident to resident and neighbourhood to neighbourhood, equity is an important focus of this plan. The business case for climate adaptation and building a more resilient community is compelling. By continuing to invest in these measures today, the City aims to not only mitigate future risks and costs but also improve quality of life, reinforcing Pickering’s leadership in sustainability. Conclusion and Looking Forward Like other communities, the City of Pickering has experienced the effects of our changing climate and extreme weather events. Taking a proactive approach, the City has initiated several actions to manage these impacts, including developing its first Community Climate Adaptation Plan (CCAP). By strategically investing in measures to help improve resiliency today, we can prevent future costs, protect infrastructure, and safeguard residents, including our most vulnerable. The City’s current efforts set a solid foundation for progress and momentum for future success. Engagement and collaboration with diverse stakeholders are at the core of the City’s sustainability efforts. This was fundamental in developing the CCAP and, as a result, will help the community materialize the actions outlined in this plan. 2025 - 2035 Community Climate Adaptation Plan | 86 - 109 - City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025-2035 City of Pickering One The Esplanade Pickering, ON L1V 6K7 pickering.ca/sustainable | - 110 - Attachment 1 to Report SUS 02-25 Summary of Input Received and Integration into the CCAP Community Insight / Theme Engagement Phase What We Heard Integration in the CCAP Emergency Preparedness Initial Survey & Draft Comment Period Respondents expressed significant concern about power outages, extreme weather events, and limited emergency preparedness. 64.1% (624 respondents) felt the City was only “somewhat prepared,” while 18.4% (180 respondents) believed it was “not prepared.” Respondents called for improved communication, coordination with utilities, and better access to shelters and information. The CCAP prioritizes this under ‘Health, Social Well-being & Emergency Preparedness.’ Key actions include preparedness toolkits, neighbourhood hubs, and mutual support programs. These will explore expanding shelter access and inclusive communication. KPIs track household readiness and support for vulnerable populations. Natural Environment Initial Survey Respondents expressed concern about development impacts on natural habitats, tree loss, and flooding risk. In a “check all that apply” question, 62.9% supported expanding green spaces for cooling, and 50.3% supported stormwater management and flood resilience. Integrated into the 'Nature & Biodiversity' focus area, the plan includes a forthcoming update to Pickering’s 2012 Urban Forest Study, invasive species management, wetland and ravine restoration, and prioritization of green infrastructure in high-risk areas. Actions include using urban heat data to inform tree canopy expansion efforts. Education & Engagement Initial Survey & Draft Comment Period Respondents called for climate literacy and accessible educational tools. 60.8% (591 respondents) supported a climate preparedness toolkit. Feedback emphasized reaching non-social media users and offering resources in multiple formats. Education and outreach are embedded throughout the plan, including a dedicated Climate Preparedness Toolkit. Public awareness campaigns to use accessible, multilingual formats and involve partnerships with schools, libraries, and community organizations. The equity lens ensures inclusive engagement throughout the implementation process. - 111 - Community Insight / Theme Engagement Phase What We Heard Integration in the CCAP Broad Support for Adaptation Planning Draft Comment Period Respondents expressed strong support for the CCAP’s vision, clarity, and long-term value. Emphasis on benefits for future generations. Public approval reinforced the plan’s direction and encouraged bold, future-focused action. Throughout the implementation, the City will commit to maintain transparency, regular updates, and engagement to ensure the CCAP remains a living, community-driven document. Support Networks Initial Survey In the initial survey, there was a strong reliance on personal networks for emergency support. 85.6% (833 respondents) said they would be willing to assist others in a weather-related emergency. In a separate question, 18.2% (177 respondents) indicated that they do not have a personal support system they could rely on during such events. The CCAP includes mutual aid initiatives such as buddy systems and community resilience hubs. It supports local organizations through training and resource development, encouraging residents to participate in neighborhood-level preparedness. These efforts aim to strengthen social networks and localized response capacity. Development & Infrastructure Challenges Initial Survey Development community highlighted high costs and unclear guidance as barriers to implementing low-impact development. Public raised concerns about lot grading issues and runoff onto adjacent properties, asking for more oversight. The plan addresses these concerns by reviewing best municipal practices to improve clarity on low-impact development and enhance landscaping-related policies and definitions, as appropriate, in the Official Plan and Zoning By-law to mitigate impacts of stormwater runoff. Cost and Fiscal Responsibility Initial Survey & Draft Comment Period Participants raised concerns about the potential cost of adaptation actions. Some supported the plan only if it did not lead to tax increases. Others felt limited resources should prioritize core infrastructure needs, such as road repairs. The CCAP includes a detailed implementation strategy with phased timelines and cost tiers ($–$$$) to guide investment decisions. It also outlines funding opportunities from external sources. A dedicated section, 'The Business Case for Adaptation,' demonstrates how early adaptation investments reduce future costs and protect public assets. - 112 - Community Insight / Theme Engagement Phase What We Heard Integration in the CCAP Desire for Local Tangible Changes Draft Comment Period Requests for practical and visible actions, including water drinking fountains in parks, tree canopy expansion, and removal of invasive species like phragmites. Local and visible improvements are incorporated in the Nature & Biodiversity and Building & Energy focus areas. The plan emphasizes the need to install more shade structures and water fountains, expanding urban canopy, and enhancing invasive species control. Feedback, Monitoring & Accountability Draft Comment Period Community members emphasized the need for transparency, ongoing feedback loops, and measurable outcomes. They requested progress updates and clear KPIs to evaluate plan effectiveness (e.g., reduced flooding, increased biodiversity). The CCAP features a performance measurement framework with defined KPIs across all focus areas. A progress report after three years, and linking actions to annual budget planning, will track implementation. Public transparency and iterative updates are built into the governance structure. Equity and Inclusion Initial Survey & Draft Comment Period Strong emphasis on inclusive emergency preparedness, especially for seniors and vulnerable groups. Requests included non-digital communication, access to shelters, and Indigenous engagement in planning processes. An equity lens has been applied throughout the plan. Actions include accessible emergency services, multilingual and non- digital communications, and collaboration with Indigenous communities. Targeted strategies for seniors and vulnerable residents are embedded in preparedness planning. Climate Skepticism and Misinformation Initial Survey & Draft Comment Period Some respondents denied human-driven climate change or questioned the need for climate adaptation spending. While these views were acknowledged, the CCAP remains grounded in scientific consensus and guided by expert input. The education components of the plan aim to help build public understanding, counter misinformation, and promote science-based climate literacy. Mitigation- Focused Feedback Draft Comment Period Some residents suggested actions more aligned with mitigation than adaptation, such as addressing vehicle idling, electrifying the City fleet, and reducing emissions from travel. While mitigation is outside the primary scope of the CCAP, related feedback was shared with relevant City departments. As appropriate, the City is transitioning its fleet to electric and hybrid vehicles, encouraging virtual meetings, has an anti-idling by-law but staff can explore - 113 - Community Insight / Theme Engagement Phase What We Heard Integration in the CCAP additional education. Some of these comments are being addressed through the Green Fleet Strategy and the Corporate Energy Management Plan. Coordination with Regional and External Plans Draft Comment Period Respondents questioned the need for a City-specific plan given regional efforts (e.g., Regional climate strategy). Some recommended more coordination with municipalities like Ajax, especially on watershed and ecosystem issues. One comment also asked whether academic institutions were being engaged. The CCAP emphasizes alignment with Region of Durham’s climate efforts and seeks to complement not duplicate regional efforts. At the same time, it reinforces the need for a Pickering-focused plan that is developed by the community and for the community, to address local priorities and unique risks. The City is exploring inter-municipal coordination on cross-boundary adaptation issues and will explore academic partnerships to strengthen research and innovation. - 114 - 401 Richmond St W Studio 364. Toronto, Ontario M5V 3A8 www.cleanairpartnership.org Attachment 2 to Report SUS 02-25 March 14, 2025 Dear Mayor Ashe and Council, Subject: Letter of Support for the City of Pickering’s Community Climate Adaptation Plan Clean Air Partnership (CAP) is enthusiastic to offer our strong support for the City of Pickering’s Community Climate Adaptation Plan (CCAP). As an organization with a long history of supporting the development and implementation of municipal climate action plans across Ontario, CAP has witnessed the role of CCAP’s in fostering resilient communities that are better equipped to adapt to the impacts of climate change. The City of Pickering’s CCAP places community at the forefront, demonstrating the City’s commitment to their residents. By involving a diverse range of stakeholders in plan development, Pickering ensures that the CCAP reflects the voices of its community and addresses resident needs. Moreover, employing a climate equity lens in the development process and recommending its continuation into implementation demonstrates Pickering’s understanding of the broad and varying impacts of climate change. This commitment to equity helps to ensure the implementation of effective adaptation strategies that benefit the entire community. CAP commends the CCAPs prioritization of establishing long-term, sustainable financing mechanisms and demonstrating accountability. The emphasis on external grants and funding, exploration of a climate reserve, and engagement with third-party reporting programs demonstrates the City’s financial prudence, commitment to transparency, and a dedication to creating a climate adaptation plan with a lasting impact. Moving forward with the measures outlined in the CCAP would help build a resilient Pickering, and secure the City’s standing as a leader in climate action. We commend the City for this significant step forward and look forward to ongoing collaboration with Pickering on knowledge sharing, capacity building, and promoting best practices for climate resilience across Ontario’s municipalities. Kind Regards, Gaby Kalapos Executive Director - 115 - 401 Richmond St W Studio 364. Toronto, Ontario M5V 3A8 www.cleanairpartnership.org Clean Air Partnership Email: gkalapos@cleanairpartnership.org www.cleanairpartnership.org About Clean Air Partnership: Clean Air Partnership (CAP) is an environmental charity that works in partnership to promote and coordinate actions to reduce greenhouse gases for healthy communities. Our applied research on municipal policies strives to broaden and improve access to public policy debate on climate change issues. CAP’s mission is to transform cities into more sustainable, resilient, and vibrant communities where resources are used efficiently, the air is clean to breathe, and greenhouse gas emissions are minimized. CAP convenes the Clean Air Council, a network of 41 municipalities and health units from across Ontario. Since 2000, Clean Air Council members have been working collaboratively on the development and implementation of clean air, climate change, sustainability and resilience actions. - 116 - Attachment 3 to Report SUS 02-25 March 17, 2025 Dear Mayor Ashe and Members of Pickering Council, Climate Justice Durham (CJD) is pleased to support the City of Pickering’s Community Climate Adaptation Plan. We encourage you to adopt and implement it without delay to protect Pickering residents and infrastructure. CJD was glad to participate in the community engagement process over the past year. The knowledge and energy of the Pickering staff working to achieve resilience in both human and physical infrastructure in Pickering is impressive and reassuring. We appreciate that the plan addresses the needs of the whole community, and that outreach to engage businesses, youth and vulnerable residents has been prioritized. It is also helpful that regional partners are identified, engaged and aligned on goals. The recent tariff crisis has shown that to deal with external shocks beyond our control, our communities must build local strengths, capacity, and collaboration. The issue of food security is one example. Inviting the whole city to develop community gardens this spring would be an excellent and achievable place to start. The gardens could reduce the impact of tariffs and improve climate resilience. They also would build on the realization that we are all in this together, by sharing space, knowledge, tools, and the harvest. This is the kind of teamwork our communities will need to succeed in an uncertain future that includes both an unreliable neighbour and a changing climate. We also see this plan as pragmatic and fiscally sustainable. Staff were not reinventing the wheel. Instead, they were building on work already underway to address changing needs and conditions, melding the new actions proposed into Pickering’s regular business and budget cycle as a best practice. That is what adaptation is about: looking at recent experience, forecasting based on evidence, and choosing the most effective path forward to reduce risks and future costs and protect the municipality. This adaptation plan provides Council with a proactive, detailed roadmap to reach a sustainable, equitable future. We are in a critical time with diminishing opportunities to safeguard future generations from climate-related challenges. The City is growing. Council decisions about infrastructure, facilities and services have a generations-long impact. Be wise and responsible ancestors. Approve the Community Climate Adaptation plan and let a more secure future for Pickering be your legacy. Sincerely, Climate Justice Durham climatejusticedurham@gmail.com - 117 - Attachment 4 to Report SUS 02-25 - 1 1 8 - Attachment 5 to Report SUS 02-25 April 3rd, 2025 Mayor Kevin Ashe and Members of Pickering Council City of Pickering One The Esplanade Pickering, ON L1V 6K7 Subject: Letter of Support for Pickering’s Community Climate Adaptation Plan Dear Mayor Ashe and Members of Pickering Council, On behalf of Community Development Council Durham (CDCD), I am writing to express our strong support for Pickering’s Community Climate Adaptation Plan. This initiative is a critical step toward ensuring that Pickering (and Durham Region) remains safe, inclusive and resilient in the face of ongoing and increasing climate change in southern Ontario. For 55 years, CDCD has been the social planning organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and fostering inclusive and sustainable communities across Durham Region. CDCD commends the Community Climate Adaptation Plan’s emphasis on inclusivity, social equity, community participation and health and well-being—all of which align with CDCD’s mission and vision to serve the most vulnerable segments of our society. In the last decade, Pickering and other jurisdictions in Durham Region have been increasingly affected by climate-change-related events. By integrating evidence-based science, comprehensive policy analysis and extensive multi-sector consultations, the Community Climate Adaptation Plan is a forward-thinking initiative that ensures both immediate and long-term climate resilience, mitigating risks and protecting our most vulnerable residents. CDCD especially appreciates the Plan’s emphasis on: Inclusivity & Community Resilience – The Plan ensures that climate adaptation strategies benefit the entire community, prioritizing public safety and resilience for all residents, including seniors, low-income families, as well as newcomer and marginalized groups. As the main service provider to Durham’s newcomers, the homeless and refugees, CDCD believes the plan not only enhances overall community well-being, but also strengthens community cohesion and ensures that no one is left behind in times of environmental uncertainty. Social Equity & Equitable Access – Climate change does not affect all residents equally. CDCD strongly supports the Plan’s focus on equitable access to services, infrastructure and resources for the entire community, especially during extended and singular extreme weather events. This is of outmost importance for our clients who are among the groups most affected by extreme weather events. By ensuring that all neighborhoods—regardless of socio-economic status—have access to resilient infrastructure, emergency preparedness programs and climate-smart policies, the Plan is setting a precedent for a fair and just approach to climate adaptation. - 119 - Community Participation & Engaging Diverse Voices – CDCD applauds the Plan’s commitment to engaging youth, low-income families and newcomers (who are among CDCD’s main clients) through education, communication and active involvement in decision-making. CDCD believes, by fostering meaningful participation, the Plan provides a climate strategy that reflects the diverse needs and perspectives of Pickering’s residents, empowering individuals to take part in shaping a sustainable future for all. Health & Well-Being of All – The plan also enhances community health by ensuring access to clean air, water and green spaces—fundamental elements for well-being of all residents of Pickering. As climate change intensifies, CDCD believes it is critical to prioritize policies that reduce pollution, promote urban greening and improve overall public health. These efforts will not only mitigate climate impacts but also contribute to a healthier, more vibrant city for generations to come. CDCD recognizes the urgency of climate action and applauds Pickering’s leadership in addressing this critical issue. We are committed to working collaboratively with the City to support and implement initiatives that will build a more resilient, sustainable and inclusive future for all in Durham Region. We encourage Council to adopt and implement the Community Climate Adaptation Plan to ensure that Pickering remains a thriving and environmentally responsible community for generations to come. Thank you for your leadership on this vital issue. We look forward to continued collaboration in advancing climate resilience in our community. Sincerely Hermia Corbette Executive Director hcorbette@cdcd.org 905-686-2661 Ext. 115 - 120 - Attachment 6 to Report SUS 02-25 Wednesday, April 9, 2025 City of Pickering One The Esplanade Pickering, ON L1V 6K7 Re: Letter of Support – City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan (CCAP) Dear Mayor Ashe and members of the City of Pickering Council, On behalf of the Invasive Species Centre (ISC), I am pleased to offer our support for the City of Pickering’s Community Climate Adaptation Plan (CCAP). This forward-looking plan demonstrates the City’s commitment to strengthening local resilience through actions that protect both people and nature. As climate change continues to alter our ecosystems, the threat of invasive species becomes increasingly urgent. Warmer temperatures and ecological disruptions provide new opportunities for invasive species to establish and spread, placing added pressure on native biodiversity and municipal infrastructure. We commend the City for recognizing these risks and including invasive species management as a priority within the CCAP. The Invasive Species Centre was proud to support the development of this plan. As implementation begins, we are committed to continuing our partnership with Pickering to help bring the plan’s invasive species actions to life. In particular, the City can continue to access our support through: •Participation in the Municipal Invasive Species Community of Practice, a collaborative network of municipalities sharing tools, strategies, and lessons learned in invasive species management. •Encouraging participation in ISC’s Community Science Programs, which provide opportunities for community members to learn and support active monitoring for priority pests, increasing likelihood of early detection. •Use of ISC’s evidence-based management protocols and outreach resources, which provide practical guidance for early detection, rapid response, and public education. •Access to ISC’s online training program and other training resources, including in- person training from our experts, which increase municipal organizational capacity in detecting, reporting and responding to key pests. •Access to ISC staff expertise at any time through our information phone line and email. - 121 - We congratulate the City of Pickering on the development of this impactful and timely plan. The actions outlined in the CCAP align closely with ISC’s mandate, and we look forward to continued collaboration to help safeguard the region’s natural systems in the face of a changing climate. Sincerely, ________________________________________________ Emily Posteraro, Program Development Coordinator Invasive Species Centre eposteraro@invasivespeciescentre.ca - 122 - Attachment 7 to Report SUS 02-25 - 1 2 3 - Report to Executive Committee Report Number: CLK 02-25 Date: May 5, 2025 From: Paul Bigioni Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor Subject: Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election File: A-1440 Recommendations: 1. That Report CLK 02-25 regarding the approval of voting methods for the 2026 Municipal Election be received; 2.That both internet voting and paper ballots, using vote tabulators, be approved as thevoting methods for the 2026 Municipal Election and any by-elections that may occurduring the 2026-2030 Term of Council; 3.That the draft By-law included as Attachment 1 to Report CLK 02-25 be approved and enacted; 4.That the City Clerk be directed to proceed with a Request for Proposal for the approvedvoting methods and associated services, and report back to Council to award the contractto the most appropriate vendor(s); and, 5.That appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the actions necessary to give effect to this report. Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s approval for the recommended voting methods for the 2026 Municipal Election and to commence the Request for Proposal (RFP) process to secure the appropriate vendor(s) to give effect to the approved voting methods. Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priority of Foster an Engaged and Informed Community. Financial Implications: In accordance with Section 7(1) of the Municipal Elections Act, the costs incurred by the clerk of a local municipality in conducting an election shall be paid by the local municipality. To ensure that sufficient funds are available for each municipal election, funds in the amount of $110,000 are added to the City’s Election Reserve each year for the four years leading up to a municipal election. Due to some unspent funds from the 2022 Municipal Election, and including the annual contributions to the Election Reserve, a total of $516,340 will be available to cover the costs of the 2026 Municipal Election. - 124 - CLK 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election Page 2 The costs of the election are not yet known, however, the costs for the 2022 Municipal Election were $435,075. Any increased costs over those incurred for the 2022 Municipal Elections should be limited to inflationary costs resulting from the passage of time. The financial implications specifically associated with the election voting method services will be outlined when the recommendation to award the RFP is brought back before Council for approval. Discussion: The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s approval for the recommended voting methods for the 2026 Municipal Election and to commence the RFP process to secure the appropriate vendor(s) to give effect to the approved voting methods. The 2026 Municipal Election will take place on Monday, October 26, 2026. Section 42(1) of the Municipal Elections Act, 1996, S.O. 1996, c. 32, (the “Act”), states “the council of a local municipality may pass by-laws authorizing the use of voting and vote-counting equipment such as voting machines, voting recorders or optical scanning vote tabulators, as well as authorizing electors to use an alternative voting method, such as voting by mail or by telephone, that does not require electors to attend a voting place in order to vote”. A. 2018 and 2022 Municipal Election Statistics For the 2018 Municipal Election, internet and telephone voting were utilized for the first time in the City of Pickering. Overall, the use of these methods was successful, however some electors provided feedback that telephone voting was cumbersome and difficult to use. For this reason, for the 2022 Municipal Election, it was recommended that instead of telephone voting, a paper ballot option, using vote tabulators, would be available in addition to internet voting. These voting methods proved to be successful and provided voters with the option of casting their vote either over the internet, or in person at designated voting locations. The voter turnout for the 2022 Municipal Election was 27.24%. In total, there were 76,305 registered voters with 20,786 voters casting a ballot. Of the total ballots cast, 16,424 were cast using internet voting while 4,362 were cast by paper ballot. In contrast, the voter turnout for the 2018 Municipal Election was 28.8%. In total, there were 68,494 registered voters with 19,777 voters casting a ballot. Of the total ballots cast, 18,801 were cast using internet voting while 976 voters cast their ballot by telephone. As demonstrated in the voting results for the 2018 and 2022 Municipal Elections, internet voting has been widely accepted by the electorate in the City of Pickering. Although the voter turnout for 2022 was slightly lower than 2018, it was apparent that some electors who may have used internet voting in 2018 preferred to cast their ballot by paper when that option was made available in 2022. That said, given that 79% of the ballots cast in the 2022 Municipal Election were done using internet voting, it is apparent that this voting method is preferred by most of the electorate even when a paper ballot option was offered. The inclusion of a paper ballot component proved to be successful for the small number of electors who did not want to use internet voting and therefore, the use of these combined voting methods is once again being recommended for the 2026 Municipal Election. - 125 - CLK 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election Page 3 B. Benefits of Internet Voting and Paper Ballot Internet Voting offers several benefits to electors including: • accessibility and the ability to access the ballot from different devices from anywhere with an internet connection; • the ability for electors with disabilities to vote independently, from the location of their choice, using any accessible devices that they may be accustomed to using; • convenience for those less inclined to travel to a voting location to vote; • removal of the need for voting proxies, which can be a cumbersome process for both the elector and the proxy; • reduction in administrative costs due to the need for fewer voting centers, equipment rentals, and hiring of staff; • elimination of unintentional spoiled ballots; • more streamlined administrative processes; and, • faster tabulation of election results. The benefits of paper ballots include: • familiarity of the voting practice for electors that have been accustomed to that method of voting for many years; • the ability to physically touch and mark a ballot, which may be important to some electors; • the symbolic significance (for some electors) in attending a voting place in person to carry out their civic duty; and, • when combined with the use of vote tabulators, it offers a streamlined, in-person process for electors who prefer this method of voting. C. Internet Voting in Ontario Internet voting has been steadily adopted by municipalities across the province of Ontario since it was first used in the 2003 Municipal Election by 12 municipalities. According to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, 217 municipalities in Ontario used internet voting in the 2022 Municipal Election. This was an increase from the 2018 Municipal Election where 175 municipalities used internet voting. This trend demonstrates that more municipalities are adopting the use of internet voting and those who previously used internet voting continue to use this voting method. D. National Standard of Canada: Internet Voting and Vote Tabulators With any alternative voting method, there is an associated level of risk. Despite these concerns, staff are not aware of a single example of voter fraud or a security breach in any Ontario municipality that has used internet voting or vote tabulators. It should also be noted that as internet voting has evolved over time, so have the security measures that have been put in place, as well as best practices and lessons learned from municipalities that have used this voting method for several elections. - 126 - CLK 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election Page 4 The Act will be 30 years old when the 2026 Election takes place. Since 2023, the Association of Municipal Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario has been advocating for the Province to undertake a review and rewrite of the antiquated legislation, as it does not contemplate modern voting methods. In the absence of prescribed voting standards in the current legislation, municipal clerks and election stakeholders have been advocating for voting standards that can be used province-wide to provide a consistent approach that incorporates best practices. To that end, the Digital Governance Standards Institute (DGSI) has published a “National Standard of Canada” for both internet voting and vote tabulators. DGSI is a Canadian non-profit organization with membership from the public, private and non-profit sectors. DGSI is accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC), the Federal Crown corporation that oversees national standards. The SCC recognizes DGSI’s voting standard as a “National Standard of Canada”. The DGSI standard has been designed to reduce risks for Canadians and Canadian organizations, and covers technical design, security of systems and data, voter identity and vote authentication, verification, testing and auditability, access of voting services and voter information, secrecy of the vote, ballot design and casting options, network capacity, election management, accessibility, and transparency. In preparation for the 2026 Municipal Election, Legislative Services and Information Technology staff have reviewed the DGSI Voting Standards as a framework for ensuring a secure, accessible, and reliable voting process. These standards, developed in consultation with electoral experts and technology providers, set a benchmark for the implementation of online voting and voting technologies in Canada. Incorporating these standards into our procurement and operational processes will help ensure that our election meets the highest industry standards for security, integrity, and public confidence. As part of this initiative, staff will integrate the DGSI Standards into the upcoming RFP for voting systems, ensuring that the selected platform(s) align with these best practices. Conclusion The City Clerk, as the Returning Officer for the City of Pickering under the Act, has several criteria to consider before making a recommendation on vote-counting equipment and alternative voting methods. The first is whether a particular voting method upholds the principles of the Act and its Regulations as well as the guiding principles established by case law, which are as follows: • the secrecy and confidentiality of the voting process is paramount; • the election shall be fair and non-biased; • the election shall be accessible to voters; • the integrity of the voting process shall be maintained throughout the election; • there is to be certainty that the results of the election reflect the votes cast; • voters and candidates shall be treated fairly and consistently; and, • the proper majority vote governs by ensuring that valid votes are counted and invalid votes are rejected so far as reasonably possible. - 127 - CLK 02-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election Page 5 These factors have all been taken into consideration in formulating the recommendations contained in this report. Additionally, any voting methods used for the election will go through robust logic and accuracy testing to ascertain that the systems are operating as intended. Any vendors procured for election voting method services will be required to have solutions that are thoroughly tested and provide ample consideration to the security of the election as well as the ability to provide support services throughout the election planning process and the entire voting period, to address any issues that may arise. Planning for the 2026 Municipal Election has already commenced in the Clerk’s Office, and staff are seeking approval from Council for the voting method to ensure that voting services are procured as early as possible to allow the planning and preparation for the Election to continue. By employing a hybrid approach of internet and paper ballots with vote tabulators, the City will give electors the option to cast their ballot by their preferred voting method. It is therefore requested that Council approve the combined voting methods outlined in this report for the 2026 Municipal Election and for any by-elections that may occur in the 2026-2030 Term of Council. Attachments: 1. Draft By-law to Authorize the Use of Internet Voting, Paper Ballots and Vote Tabulators for the 2026 Municipal Election Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By: Susan Cassel Paul Bigioni City Clerk Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor SC Recommended for the consideration of Pickering City Council Marisa Carpino, M.A. Chief Administrative Officer Original Signed By:Original Signed By: Original Signed By: - 128 - The Corporation of the City of Pickering By-law No. XXXX/25 Being a by-law to authorize the use of an alternative voting method for the 2026 Municipal Election Whereas Section 42(1) of the Municipal Elections Act, 1996, S.O. 1996, c. 32 (the “MEA”), provides that the council of a local municipality may pass by-laws: (a) authorizing the use of voting and vote-counting equipment such as voting machines, voting recorders or optical scanning vote tabulators; (b) authorizing electors to use an alternative voting method, such as voting by mail or by telephone that does not require electors to attend at a voting place in order to vote. And Whereas Section 42(5) of the MEA provides when a by-law authorizing the use of an alternative voting method is in effect, sections 43 (advance votes) and 44 (voting proxies) apply only if the by-law so specifies; Now therefore the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering hereby enacts as follows: 1. That the use of internet voting, paper ballots and vote tabulators be authorized for the 2026 Municipal Election and for any by-elections in the 2026-2030 Term of Council; 2. That the Clerk be authorized to use internet voting and/or paper ballots during any advance voting period and on Voting Day for the 2026 Municipal Election and for any by-elections in the 2026-2030 Term of Council; 3. That in accordance with the MEA, and due to the authorization of an alternative voting method, proxy voting provisions shall not be applicable for the 2026 Municipal Election or for any by-elections in the 2026-2030 Term of Council; and, 4. That By-law 7846/21 is hereby repealed. By-law passed this 26th day of May, 2025. ________________________________ Kevin Ashe, Mayor ________________________________ Susan Cassel, City Clerk - 129 - Report to Executive Committee Report Number: CS 04-25 Date: May 5, 2025 From: Laura Gibbs Director, Community Services Subject: Civic Awards Program Policy Update File: A-1440-001 Recommendation: 1. That Council approve the updated Civic Awards Program Policy CUL 150, as set out in Attachment 1 to this report; and, 2. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s approval of the updated Civic Awards Program Policy CUL 150. Staff revised the policy to include amended wording and new Civic Awards categories endorsed in the 2023 Civic Awards Selection meeting that took place on March 7, 2024. Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priority of Foster an Engaged & Informed Community. Financial Implications: There are no financial implications that result from endorsing the recommendations in this report. Discussion: The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s approval of the updated Civic Awards Program Policy CUL 150. Each year during the Civic Awards Selection meeting, the panel members may delete, change, or introduce a new Civic Awards category (Section 4.03). The policy (Attachment 1) has been updated by staff to include clarification on the Civic Awards Selection Panel procedure, amended wording and new Civic Awards categories. 1. Civic Awards Selection Panel – Quorum Requirement for Meetings The addition of Section 03.05 b. establishes a minimum attendance of at least two panel members as a requirement to ensure that selection panel meetings are conducted with adequate representation. - 130 - CS 04-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Civic Awards Program Policy Update Page 2 2.Civic Awards Selection Panel – Decision-Making and Tie-Breaking The addition of Section 03.05 c. establishes that Civic Award candidates will be selected by majority vote of the Civic Awards Selection Panel. In the event of a tie, the Mayor, as an ex officio member, will cast the deciding vote ensuring a clear and timely outcome. 3.Lifetime Achievement –Amended Wording The amended wording in Policy CUL 150 specifies that the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award has made a significant contribution over their lifetime to the betterment of the Pickering community. Adding the word “Pickering” eliminates any ambiguity regarding the eligible candidates in this awards category. 4.Individual Volunteer –Amended Wording The amended wording in Policy CUL 150 specifies that the Individual Volunteer Award is given to individuals who live in Pickering. Adding the words “who live” eliminates an ambiguity regarding the eligible candidates for this category. 3.Animal Advocate – New Category Staff proposed a new Animal Advocate category to recognize an individual, group or business that actively promotes responsible pet ownership and/or works to improve animal welfare in Pickering. The Civic Awards Selection Panel approved this recommendation on March 7, 2024. 4.Green Builder – New Category Staff proposed a new Green Builder category to recognize one or more builders, showcasing innovative sustainable design, technology, and construction practices in Pickering. The Civic Awards Selection Panel approved this recommendation on March 7, 2024. Attachments: 1. Draft Civic Awards Program Policy CUL 150 – Track Changes 2.Civic Awards Program Policy CUL 150 – Clean Copy3.2023 Civic Awards Selection Panel Meeting Minutes of March 7, 2024 Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By: Original Signed By Original Signed By Krystal Roberts Laura Gibbs, MBA, MSc. Manager, Cultural Services Director, Community Services - 131 - CS 04-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Civic Awards Program Policy Update Page 3 LG:cf Recommended for the consideration of Pickering City Council Original Signed By Marisa Carpino, M.A. Chief Administrative Officer - 132 - Attachment 1 to Report CS 04-25 Policy Policy Title: Civic Awards Program Policy Number CUL 150 Reference "Click and type reference" Date Originated (m/d/y) December 4, 2023 Date Revised (m/d/y) Pages 5 Approval: Chief Administrative Officer Point of Contact Supervisor, Cultural Services Policy Objective The purpose of this policy is to outline the process of the Civic Awards Program, which recognizes individuals, community groups, and businesses who have exemplified outstanding service and achievements to the City of Pickering. Index 01 Definitions 02 Roles and Responsibilities 03 Procedure to Nominate for Civic Awards 04 Civic Awards Approval Criteria 01 Definitions 01.01 Civic Award – An award to a recipient for their positive contributions to the City of Pickering. 01.02 Civic Awards Selection Panel – Comprised of Pickering City Councillors from Wards 1, 2, 3 and, Mayor, as ex-officio. 01.03 Civic Award Ceremony – A formal ceremony, hosted by the Mayor and Members of Council, to present nominees with a Civic Award 01.04 Conflict of Interest – Shall be declared when a nominee is also the spouse, parent, or child of the Selection Panel member. 02 Roles and Responsibilities 02.01 Mayor & Members of Council to: a.Approve and support this Policy. - 133 - b. Direct nomination inquiries to the appropriate City staff. c. Present the Civic Awards to recipients at the annual Civic Awards Ceremony. d. Mayor to host the ceremony. 02.02 Chief Administrative Officer to: a. Support the allocation of staff resources to coordinate the Civic Awards ceremony and nomination process. 02.03 Directors & Division Heads to: a. Support the allocation of staff resources. b. Director, Community Services to review/approve the Civic Awards nomination package, prior to being distributed to the Civic Awards Selection Panel and attend Selection Meeting. 02.04 Managers & Supervisors to: a. Assign staff resources to coordinate the Civic Awards ceremony. 02.05 Employees to: a. Gather and screen nominations for Civic Awards criteria for final endorsement by Director, Community Services and the Civic Awards Selection Panel; b. Plan, coordinate and implement all logistics for the Civic Awards Ceremony (awards, guest list, invites, special performance, notes); and c. Log and track past and present Civic Award winners. 03 Procedure to Nominate and Award Civic Awards 03.01 The City of Pickering hosts an annual Civic Awards Ceremony honouring nominees from the previous year. Nominations are accepted year-round. 03.02 Civic Awards recipients will be selected by the Civic Awards Selection Panel. 03.03 Civic Award Nominations may be submitted online or in paper copy and must be submitted on the prescribed application form by the due date. The prescribed form shall be determined by the Director, Community Services. a. Online applications must be submitted on the prescribed online application (Appendix 1). b. Hard copy nominations must be submitted to the Customer Care Centre on the prescribed paper application forms. Policy Title: Civic Awards Policy Page 2 of 6 Policy Number: CUL 150 - 134 - c. A complete nomination is required, including information about the nominee's achievements, the award category, and contact information for both the nominee and nominator. d. Nominators of incomplete applications will be contacted and given an opportunity to submit all required information. e. Staff may contact nominators to seek clarification or more information if required. f. If an application is not eligible or does not comply with City policies, staff will notify the nominator. 03.04 Nominations for achievements in the previous year will close on the second Thursday in February at 4:30 pm. Nominations will be screened by staff for eligibility. A package of qualified nominations will be prepared and provided by Community Services Department staff to the Civic Awards Selection Panel for review. 03.05 The Civic Awards Selection Panel will attend a selection meeting to determine the award recipients. The selection meeting will take place after the application deadline. The Section Panel will review each category and select award recipient(s) as per their award criteria (Section 4). The Director, Community Services will be in attendance to track selected recipients for each category and answer any questions pertaining to nominations as they are put fourth. a. Members of the Civic Award Selection Panel will declare any conflict of interests at the beginning of the meeting. It is expected that the member(s) of the Selection Panel with a declared conflict, shall recuse themselves from the selection review of the conflicting nomination. b. In order for a selection panel meeting to proceed, a minimum of two of the selection panel members must be present. Should this quorum not be met, the meeting shall be deferred and rescheduled to the earliest practicable date on which the required number of panel members is available to attend. a.c. The selection of a candidate shall be determined by majority vote of the panel members present. In the event of a tie in the Selection Panel’s decision-making process, the Mayor, acting in their capacity as an ex officio member of the panel, shall cast the deciding vote. 03.06 Staff will notify nominees and nominators following the Civic Awards Selection Panel meeting: a. Successful recipients are each notified by an official letter from the Office of the Mayor. The letter will include an invitation to the Civic Awards Ceremony event. Policy Title: Civic Awards Policy Page 3 of 6 Policy Number: CUL 150 - 135 - b. Nominators of successful and unsuccessful nominations are notified by a letter from the Director, Community Services as to the success/status of Civic Awards recipient letters. c. The names of all Civic Awards recipients are confidential until the Civic Awards Ceremony. There are no formal announcements or news releases in advance of the Ceremony. 03.07 Upon the commencement of the Civic Awards Ceremony, staff will update the website (pickering.ca/civicawards) and submit a media release with a full list of winners, their award categories and photos from the ceremony. 04 Civic Awards Approval Criteria 04.01 The Civic Awards nominations are collected year-round for individuals, groups, and businesses who have made a significant contribution to the City of Pickering. Nominees awarded must meet the criteria of the award category:  Special Citation - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesses from Pickering whose outstanding achievements over the last year or more, within or outside of the City, brought Provincial, National, or International recognition to the City.  Bravery/Heroism - Given to one or more individuals for their selfless act of bravery or heroism within or outside of the City during the last year.  Lifetime Achievement - Given to one or more individuals living within or outside of Pickering, for a significant contribution over their lifetime, to the betterment of the Pickering community.  Individual Volunteer - Given to one or more individuals who stand out amongst all other valuable individuals, who live in Pickering for their volunteer service to the City over the last year or more.  Service Group - Given to the service group whose activities stand out amongst all other service groups in Pickering for their contribution and service to the City over the last year.  Community Group - Given to the community group whose activities stand out amongst all other community groups in Pickering for their contributions and service to the community over the last year.  Amateur Sport - Given to one or more individuals from Pickering to recognize excellence in amateur sport over the last year.  Youth Volunteer - Given to one or more youth 13 – 19 years of age for outstanding volunteerism within or outside of the City of Pickering over the last year or more. Policy Title: Civic Awards Policy Page 4 of 6 Policy Number: CUL 150 - 136 -  Youth Leadership - Given to one or more Pickering youth 13 – 19 years of age for outstanding leadership within or outside the City of Pickering over the last year or more.  Sustainability - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesses who have made significant contributions to the Sustainable Pickering Journey.  Arts - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesses who have made significant artistic achievements within or outside the City of the last year or more.  Cultural Diversity - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesses who have made significant and sustained commitment to the promotion of cultural harmony in the City of Pickering.  Heritage - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesses who have demonstrated a significant contribution to the preservation, conservation, education and/or promotion of Pickering’s Heritage.  Urban Design - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesses from Pickering who were outstanding in their support of and participation with community activities over the last year or more.  Economic Development - Given to one or more businesses from Pickering who have made a significant contribution to the City’s economic prosperity over the last year or more.  Local Business - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesses who were outstanding in their support of and participation with community activities over the last year or more.  Environment - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesses from Pickering who have made significant contributions to conserving or enhancing the City’s Natural Environment.  Accessibility - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesses who have made significant or ongoing contributions, beyond legislative requirements, to the well-being and advancement of people with accessibility requirements.  Animal Advocate Award – Given to an individual, group or business that actively promotes Responsible Pet Ownership and/or works to improve animal welfare in Pickering.  Green Builder Award – Given to one or more builders, showcasing innovative sustainable design, technology, and construction practices in Pickering. Policy Title: Civic Awards Policy Page 5 of 6 Policy Number: CUL 150 - 137 - 04.02 An individual shall only be recognized for one Civic Award per year. In the case of multiple nominations for an individual in multiple categories, the Selection Panel will identify the award category that best reflects their achievement. 04.03 Any proposal to delete, change or introduce a new Civic Award shall be approved by the Civic Award Selection Panel during the selection meeting. Award category changes shall be made and carried out by the Director, Community Services for the following year. Please refer to all associated Procedures and Standard Operating Procedures, if applicable, for detailed processes regarding this Policy. Policy Title: Civic Awards Policy Page 6 of 6 Policy Number: CUL 150 - 138 - Policy Title: Civic Awards Program Policy Number CUL 150 Reference"Click and type reference" Date Originated (m/d/y) December 4, 2023 Date Revised (m/d/y) Pages 5 Approval: Chief Administrative Officer Point of Contact Supervisor, Cultural Services Policy Objective The purpose of this policy is to outline the process of the Civic Awards Program, which recognizes individuals, community groups, and businesses who have exemplified outstanding service and achievements to the City of Pickering. Index 01 Definitions 02 Roles and Responsibilities 03 Procedure to Nominate for Civic Awards 04 Civic Awards Approval Criteria 01 Definitions 01.01 Civic Award – An award to a recipient for their positive contributions to the City of Pickering. 01.02 Civic Awards Selection Panel – Comprised of Pickering City Councillors from Wards 1, 2, 3 and, Mayor, as ex-officio. 01.03 Civic Award Ceremony – A formal ceremony, hosted by the Mayor and Members of Council, to present nominees with a Civic Award 01.04 Conflict of Interest – Shall be declared when a nominee is also the spouse, parent, or child of the Selection Panel member. 02 Roles and Responsibilities 02.01 Mayor & Members of Council to: a.Approve and support this Policy. Attachment 2 to Report CS 04-25 Policy - 139 - Policy Title: Civic Awards Policy Page 2 of 6 Policy Number: CUL 150 b.Direct nomination inquiries to the appropriate City staff. c.Present the Civic Awards to recipients at the annual Civic AwardsCeremony. d.Mayor to host the ceremony. 02.02 Chief Administrative Officer to: a.Support the allocation of staff resources to coordinate the Civic Awardsceremony and nomination process. 02.03 Directors & Division Heads to: a.Support the allocation of staff resources. b.Director, Community Services to review/approve the Civic Awardsnomination package, prior to being distributed to the Civic AwardsSelection Panel and attend Selection Meeting. 02.04 Managers & Supervisors to: a.Assign staff resources to coordinate the Civic Awards ceremony. 02.05 Employees to: a.Gather and screen nominations for Civic Awards criteria for finalendorsement by Director, Community Services and the Civic AwardsSelection Panel; b.Plan, coordinate and implement all logistics for the Civic Awards Ceremony (awards, guest list, invites, special performance, notes); and c.Log and track past and present Civic Award winners. 03 Procedure to Nominate and Award Civic Awards 03.01 The City of Pickering hosts an annual Civic Awards Ceremony honouring nominees from the previous year. Nominations are accepted year-round. 03.02 Civic Awards recipients will be selected by the Civic Awards Selection Panel. 03.03 Civic Award Nominations may be submitted online or in paper copy and must be submitted on the prescribed application form by the due date. The prescribed form shall be determined by the Director, Community Services. a.Online applications must be submitted on the prescribed online application(Appendix 1). b.Hard copy nominations must be submitted to the Customer Care Centre onthe prescribed paper application forms. - 140 - Policy Title: Civic Awards Policy Page 3 of 6 Policy Number: CUL 150 c.A complete nomination is required, including information about thenominee's achievements, the award category, and contact information forboth the nominee and nominator. d.Nominators of incomplete applications will be contacted and given an opportunity to submit all required information. e.Staff may contact nominators to seek clarification or more information ifrequired. f.If an application is not eligible or does not comply with City policies, staff will notify the nominator. 03.04 Nominations for achievements in the previous year will close on the second Thursday in February at 4:30 pm. Nominations will be screened by staff for eligibility. A package of qualified nominations will be prepared and provided by Community Services Department staff to the Civic Awards Selection Panel for review. 03.05 The Civic Awards Selection Panel will attend a selection meeting to determine the award recipients. The selection meeting will take place after the application deadline. The Section Panel will review each category and select award recipient(s) as per their award criteria (Section 4). The Director, Community Services will be in attendance to track selected recipients for each category and answer any questions pertaining to nominations as they are put fourth. a.Members of the Civic Award Selection Panel will declare any conflict ofinterests at the beginning of the meeting. It is expected that the member(s)of the Selection Panel with a declared conflict, shall recuse themselves from the selection review of the conflicting nomination. b.In order for a selection panel meeting to proceed, a minimum of two of theselection panel members must be present. Should this quorum not be met,the meeting shall be deferred and rescheduled to the earliest practicabledate on which the required number of panel members is available to attend. c.The selection of a candidate shall be determined by majority vote of thepanel members present. In the event of a tie in the Selection Panel’sdecision-making process, the Mayor, acting in their capacity as an exofficio member of the panel, shall cast the deciding vote. 03.06 Staff will notify nominees and nominators following the Civic Awards Selection Panel meeting: a.Successful recipients are each notified by an official letter from the Officeof the Mayor. The letter will include an invitation to the Civic AwardsCeremony event. - 141 - Policy Title: Civic Awards Policy Page 4 of 6 Policy Number: CUL 150 b.Nominators of successful and unsuccessful nominations are notified by aletter from the Director, Community Services as to the success/status ofCivic Awards recipient letters. c.The names of all Civic Awards recipients are confidential until the Civic Awards Ceremony. There are no formal announcements or news releasesin advance of the Ceremony. 03.07 Upon the commencement of the Civic Awards Ceremony, staff will update the website (pickering.ca/civicawards) and submit a media release with a full list of winners, their award categories and photos from the ceremony. 04 Civic Awards Approval Criteria 04.01 The Civic Awards nominations are collected year-round for individuals, groups, and businesses who have made a significant contribution to the City of Pickering. Nominees awarded must meet the criteria of the award category: •Special Citation - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businessesfrom Pickering whose outstanding achievements over the last year ormore, within or outside of the City, brought Provincial, National, orInternational recognition to the City. •Bravery/Heroism - Given to one or more individuals for their selfless act ofbravery or heroism within or outside of the City during the last year. •Lifetime Achievement - Given to one or more individuals living within or outside of Pickering, for a significant contribution over their lifetime, to the betterment of the Pickering community. •Individual Volunteer - Given to one or more individuals who stand outamongst all other valuable individuals, who live in Pickering for their volunteer service to the City over the last year or more. •Service Group - Given to the service group whose activities stand outamongst all other service groups in Pickering for their contribution andservice to the City over the last year. •Community Group - Given to the community group whose activities standout amongst all other community groups in Pickering for their contributionsand service to the community over the last year. •Amateur Sport - Given to one or more individuals from Pickering to recognize excellence in amateur sport over the last year. •Youth Volunteer - Given to one or more youth 13 – 19 years of age foroutstanding volunteerism within or outside of the City of Pickering over the last year or more. - 142 - Policy Title: Civic Awards Policy Page 5 of 6 Policy Number: CUL 150 •Youth Leadership - Given to one or more Pickering youth 13 – 19 yearsof age for outstanding leadership within or outside the City of Pickering over the last year or more. •Sustainability - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesseswho have made significant contributions to the Sustainable PickeringJourney. •Arts - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesses who havemade significant artistic achievements within or outside the City of the lastyear or more. •Cultural Diversity - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesses who have made significant and sustained commitment to thepromotion of cultural harmony in the City of Pickering. •Heritage - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesses who have demonstrated a significant contribution to the preservation, conservation, education and/or promotion of Pickering’s Heritage. •Urban Design - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businessesfrom Pickering who were outstanding in their support of and participation with community activities over the last year or more. •Economic Development - Given to one or more businesses fromPickering who have made a significant contribution to the City’s economicprosperity over the last year or more. •Local Business - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesseswho were outstanding in their support of and participation with communityactivities over the last year or more. •Environment - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesses from Pickering who have made significant contributions to conserving orenhancing the City’s Natural Environment. •Accessibility - Given to one or more individuals, groups, or businesses who have made significant or ongoing contributions, beyond legislative requirements, to the well-being and advancement of people withaccessibility requirements. •Animal Advocate Award – Given to an individual, group or business that actively promotes Responsible Pet Ownership and/or works to improve animal welfare in Pickering. •Green Builder Award – Given to one or more builders, showcasinginnovative sustainable design, technology, and construction practices in Pickering. - 143 - Policy Title: Civic Awards Policy Page 6 of 6 Policy Number: CUL 150 04.02 An individual shall only be recognized for one Civic Award per year. In the case of multiple nominations for an individual in multiple categories, the Selection Panel will identify the award category that best reflects their achievement. 04.03 Any proposal to delete, change or introduce a new Civic Award shall be approved by the Civic Award Selection Panel during the selection meeting. Award category changes shall be made and carried out by the Director, Community Services for the following year. Please refer to all associated Procedures and Standard Operating Procedures, if applicable, for detailed processes regarding this Policy. - 144 - Page 1 of 4 Attachment 3 to Report CS 04-25 Minutes/Meeting Summary 2023 Civic Awards Selection Panel March 7, 2024 2:00 pm City Civic Centre, Main Committee Room Attendees: Mayor Kevin Ashe Councillor M. Nagy L.Gibbs, Director, Community Services K. Roberts, (Acting) Supervisor, Cultural Services S. England, (Acting) Clerk, Culture and Recreation (Recording Secretary) Absent: Councillor L. Robinson Councillor S. Butt Item/ Ref # Details, Discussion & Conclusion Action Items/Status 1. Welcome L. Gibbs welcomed everyone and spoke to thetimelines of the Civic Award nomination selectionsand the Civic Award Ceremony on May 13, 2024. 2. Review of Civic Awards Program Policy CUL 150 L. Gibbs spoke to the Civic Awards Policy CUL 150. There were no questions. No disclosures of interest noted. 3. Nomination Category Review and Recipient Selection Special Citation Award Cindy Adams Bravery/Heroism Award Mr. Kirk Davis Lifetime Achievement Award Ericka Heather Swaby Gary Goswell Myrna Picotte Individual Volunteer Award Alexis David - 145 - Page 2 of 4 Item/ Ref # Details, Discussion & Conclusion Action Items/Status Larry Noonan Margaret Shedden-Eskins Pam Spence Service Group Award Canadian Progress Club Durham Region Women Community Group Award Dedicated Advocacy Resource Support David Werry, Mike Garvey, and Pickering Pickleball Club Amateur Sports Award Curtis Cook Youth Volunteer Award Aydin Munawar Charlie Wascher Youth Leadership Award Devi Mandir / Youth Group Sustainability Award Daniels FirstHome™ Pickering Arts Awards Katherine Catarino / Creative Kat Designs Richard Rodwell Cultural Diversity Award No nominations awarded. Heritage Award Maxwell Soundy Reille Lantaigne Urban Design Award Chestnut Hill Developments Economic Development Award Nelson Industrial Inc. Local Business Award Defend-it Legal Services Professional Corporation/Building Blocks HR. Mani Shanker / Mr. Lube Open Studio Art Café - 146 - Page 3 of 4 Item/ Ref # Details, Discussion & Conclusion Action Items/Status Environment Award We Grow Food Accessibility Award Omar Ha-Redeye 4. Selection of 2024 Senior of the Year Award Senior of the Year Dan Pilon 5. Review of change requests and new proposed Civic Award categories 5.1 Civic Award wording change requests for consideration. L. Gibbs L. Gibbs spoke to the request amendments pertaining to the current Civic Award description wording. • Lifetime Achievement Award – Given to one or more individuals living within or outside of Pickering, for a significant contribution over their lifetime, to the betterment of the Pickering community. • Individual Volunteer Award– Given to one or more individuals who stand out amongst all other valuable individuals, who live in Pickering, for their volunteer service to the City over the past year or more. The wording amendments to the Lifetime Achievement Award and Individual Volunteer were both endorsed by Mayor Ashe and Councillor Nagy. 5.2 New Civic Award categories for consideration. L. Gibbs spoke to the proposed Animal Advocate Award. • Animal Advocate Civic Award: An individual, group or business that actively promotes Responsible Pet Ownership and/or works to improve animal welfare in Pickering. K. Roberts to make amendments to the wording on all related Civic Award correspondence. K. Roberts to add the new Civic Award categories to all related Civic Award correspondence. - 147 - Page 4 of 4 Item/ Ref # Details, Discussion & Conclusion Action Items/Status There were no questions. The new Animal Advocate Civic Award category was endorsed by Mayor Ashe and Councillor Nagy. L. Gibbs spoke to the proposed Green Builder Civic Award. • Green Builder Civic Award: Given to one or more builders, showcasing innovative sustainable design, technology, and construction practices in Pickering. There were no questions. The new Green Builder Civic Award category was endorsed by Mayor Ashe and Councillor Nagy. Meeting Adjourned at 2:27 pm. Copy: Chief Administrative Officer - 148 - Report to Executive Committee Report Number: CS 05-25 Date: May 5, 2025 From: Laura Gibbs Director, Community Services Subject: Waterfront Paddle Sport Rental Service Frenchman’s Bay File: A-1440-001 Recommendation: 1.That Report CS 05-25 regarding an update on waterfront paddle sport rental service onFrenchman’s Bay be received; 2.That Council approve the inclusion of facilities to accommodate paddle sport rental services in the design of Beachfront Park Revitalization - Phase 2; and, 3.That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary action as indicated in this report. Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to provide a recommendation for the inclusion of a paddle sport rental service on Frenchman’s Bay. The Recreation & Parks Ten Year Plan recommends the City continue to place a high priority on the preservation and restoration of waterfront parks and beaches that support public access for residents and visitors. This involves continued investment in the development and maintenance of key waterfront sites, including recreational amenities and support buildings. In response to the Recreation & Parks Ten Year Plan, inquiries from community organizations, and paddle sport service providers, staff have investigated the possibility of providing space for a paddle sport rental service on Frenchman’s Bay. The purpose of the service is to offer non-motorized paddle sport rentals to the public on a seasonal basis from May to September. Non-motorized boat rentals may include kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards. Safety equipment like life jackets, a whistle, etc. would be required as part of the service and the responsibility of the vendor. The service requires consistent, seasonal access to a dock, and a secured and monitored storage unit to hold non-motorized boats and equipment that would remain at the location during the rental season. The paddle sport rental service on Frenchman’s Bay will be provided through a vendor that would be selected through a competitive process and subject to a licence or lease agreement with the City. Staff conducted discussions with stakeholders, and engaged residents for feedback on this proposal. Staff considered three locations and recommend the paddle sport rental service be integrated into the design of Beachfront Park Revitalization - Phase 2, located west of - 149 - CS 05-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Waterfront Paddle Sport Rental Service Page 2 Millennium Square. Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priorities of Champion Economic Leadership & Innovation; Advocate for an Inclusive, Welcoming, Safe & Healthy Community; and Advance Innovation & Responsible Planning to Support a Connected, Well-Serviced Community. Financial Implications: The provision of a paddle sport rental service in the design of Beachfront Park Revitalization - Phase 2 will include a dock, loading area and pathways. These additional features will increase the scope of the existing project. The design of Beachfront Park Revitalization - Phase 2 was included in the approved 2022 Capital Budget and this change to the scope can be accommodated in the design with no financial impact. The construction of Beachfront Park Phase 2 is included in the 2026 Capital Forecast and is estimated to cost $4,963,200. As the recommended change to the scope of the project is minor, there is no expected increase to total project costs. Discussion: The purpose of this report is to provide an update on the possibility of providing space for a paddle sport rental service on Frenchman’s Bay. Staff considered several locations before narrowing the options to the existing docks at Rotary Frenchman’s Bay West Park, and Progress Frenchman’s Bay East Park. Staff weighed the pros and cons of each location and conducted community engagement on residents’ preference between the two locations. At the outset of this analysis, staff only considered the two locations. Beachfront Park, West of Millennium Square was added as a viable third location after engagement was completed, based on feedback from residents. 1.Community Engagement occurred between March to September, 2024 Staff presented the proposal to offer paddle sport rental services on Frenchman’s Bay to the Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee at the March 18, 2024 meeting. Advisory Committee members were receptive to the proposal, however requested public engagement with the surrounding neighbourhood and further input from Toronto & Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). Staff followed up with TRCA and received conditional approval of the concept. Staff conducted public engagement to provide opportunities for feedback from residents on the location and proposed service. An online survey was posted on Let’s Talk Pickering on August 9, 2024, and was available until September 8, 2024. The survey was promoted on the City’s website and through various social media channels. A promotional postcard was distributed to 3,600 households within the immediate community surrounding east and west Frenchman’s Bay. The postcard provided a link to the Let’s Talk Pickering webpage. In addition, two pop-up consultation sessions were held at Rotary Frenchman’s Bay West Park for residents to provide input and speak directly with staff. - 150 - CS 05-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Waterfront Paddle Sport Rental Service Page 3 Staff received 150 responses to the survey: Q1. Do you or someone in your household currently visit the Rotary Frenchman’s Bay West Park? 92.7% yes Q2. How do you or someone in your household get to the Park? 57.3 % drive, 33.3% walk, 1.3 % cycle, 8.0 % other Q3. Have you or someone in your household used the boat launch at this location? 9% yes Q4. A rental service may require a storage unit at the location, are you in favour? 87% yes Q5. Are you in favour of a paddle sport service operating at the Park? 90% yes Residents raised several concerns that included traffic congestion, accessibility and environmental impacts to the Provincially Significant Wetland. Residents requested that staff continue to investigate the east side of Frenchman’s Bay as a more appropriate location than the west side. Many of these residents responded to the survey in favour of a paddle sport rental service being available, but preferred that the service not be located in Rotary Frenchman’s Bay West Park. Feedback from the Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee on November 18, 2024 echoed the concerns of residents and re-iterated that a preferred location would be at Beachfront Park, west of Millennium Square. The Committee requested that the City reassess all possible sites. Staff considered a third site for paddle sport rentals at Beachfront Park. With the planned revitalization of the park, there is an opportunity to design a location that will better serve a paddle sport rental service. 2.Three locations were considered at Frenchman’s Bay for the paddle sport rental service The City completed extensive renovations to Rotary Frenchman’s Bay West Park in 2023, including construction of a new comfort station, improvements to trails and pathways, picnic areas, shoreline restoration, and a new accessible canoe/kayak launch. The first phase of the revitalization of Beachfront Park, located on the east side of Frenchman’s Bay will be completed by Summer 2025 and includes the construction of an elevated walkway and cycling route, viewing platforms overlooking Hydro Marsh, barrier free access ramps from the elevated structure to the beach, site lighting and furniture. The second phase of the Beachfront Park Revitalization is currently identified in the 2026 Capital Forecast as a construction project. The recent investment and proposed future investment in infrastructure in Beachfront Park make the site a viable location for a paddle sport rental service. The locations of the three proposed sites for the paddle sport rental service are shown on the map included in Attachment 1. - 151 - CS 05-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Waterfront Paddle Sport Rental Service Page 4 A.Rotary Frenchman’s Bay West Park The positives of this site are that it is a fully accessible launch dock with on-site parking and access to public washrooms. It is an appropriately sized location for a storage container with suitable locations for security cameras. The challenges of this site are that the location is beyond a locked gate providing no direct drive-up access for the vendor. There is considerable distance along the gravel path from barrier free parking to the dock, which may create barriers for some users. Some survey respondents felt that the aesthetics of the storage container may detract from the natural environment. There was also concern about weed growth and the possibility of vandalism to the storage container. B.Progress Frenchman’s Bay East Park: The positives of this site are that it is an established launch location that is already used for non-motorized boat entry. It is an appropriately sized location for storage with parking adjacent to site. In addition, the vendor would have unrestricted drive-up access to their equipment. The challenges of the site are that the dock and launch point require modifications to improve accessibility and better support a paddle sport rental service. This location is closer to residential homes, and with traffic congestion during peak times, parking is already at capacity. Community engagement respondents expressed some concerns about water weeds being close to docks, with shallow water making it difficult to clear the weeds in the area. Security cameras are recommended for the site to deter theft and vandalism. C.Beachfront Park, west of Millennium Square The positives of this site are that it is an area with high foot traffic that already attracts a lot of visitors. City events at Millennium Square continue to bring in large crowds and create opportunities for a business to engage with new customers, which would support higher use of the paddle sport rental service. There are existing food establishments and unique businesses in the Nautical Village that would appreciate an increase in patrons. There are existing security cameras monitoring high traffic areas in Beachfront Park. Additionally, the City partners with Durham Transit to provide a free shuttle bus service to the Nautical Village from Pickering’s City Centre that services the area during peak times in the summer. D.Recommendation of Preferred Site Based on feedback from the Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee, open houses, community survey and input from various staff, the recommended location for the paddle sport rental service is west of Millenium Square. As this location on Frenchman’s Bay is part of the Beachfront Park Revitalization - Phase 2 which is currently identified in the 2026 Capital Forecast, there is time to better integrate the necessary components of the paddle sport rental service into the Phase 2 design and tender. - 152 - CS 05-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Waterfront Paddle Sport Rental Service Page 5 E.Beachfront Park – Phase 2 Design and next steps Staff recommend that a paddle sport rental service location be included in the design and construction of Beachfront Park Revitalization - Phase 2. Should the construction of this phase proceed in 2026, this area of the Park would be expected to reopen to the public for the Summer of 2027. Until Beachfront Park Revitalization Phase 2 is constructed, existing services for boat rental or programs are offered by Frenchman’s Bay Yacht Club and Pickering Dragonboat Club/ Alkame Dragonboat Services. Existing programs include public access to learn to sail programs, and water sport craft rentals. Attachment: 1.Proposed Paddle Sport Rental Service Location Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By: Original Signed By Original Signed By Karen Coleman, BA Laura Gibbs, MBA, MSc. Manager, Recreation Services Director, Community Services Original Signed By Original Signed By Arnold Mostert, O.A.L.A. Richard Holborn, P. Eng. Manager, Landscape & Parks Development Director, Engineering Services LG:kc Recommended for the consideration of Pickering City Council Original Signed By Marisa Carpino, M.A. Chief Administrative Officer - 153 - I DATE: Apr. 08, 2025 PARK ALDERWOOD PARK FRENCHMAN'S BAY COASTAL WETLAND COMPLEX FRENCHMAN'S BAY OPEN SPACE 1man's Bay BAL SOON BAY EAST PARK VISTULA RAVINE. BRUCE HANDSCOMB PARK FRENCHMA BAY OP SP ROTARY FRENCHMAN'S BAY WEST PARK Frencl N'S EN ACE CANOE/ KAYAK DOCK 7 .j. Attachment 1 to Report CS 05-25 BEACHFRONT PARK Proposed Paddle Sport Rental Service Location• ,La1'e Ontario Engineering Services Department Location Map Proposed Paddle Sport Rental Service Location Utycf PlCKERlNG SCALE: 1:10,000 - 154 - Report to Executive Committee Report Number: CS 07-25 Date: May 5, 2025 From: Laura Gibbs Director, Community Services Subject: Northern Community Halls Recommendations for Facility Renewal File: A-1440-001 Recommendation: 1. That staff be directed to investigate the option to sell Green River Community Centre, with Infrastructure Ontario being offered the first right of refusal to purchase for $2.00 as per the original sales agreement (Attachment 1), and report back to Council with recommendations in Q1, 2026; 2. That staff be directed to investigate options to sell the former Greenwood Library back to the Durham District School Board; or lease the facility at a market rate and report back to Council with recommendations in Q1, 2026; 3. That staff be directed to renew the management agreement for the Mount Zion Community Centre with the Mount Zion Community Centre Association for a two year term from July 1 2025 to June 30 2026 returning said agreement to Council in Q2, 2025 for endorsement; and to investigate options to reduce the net capital cost of Mount Zion Community Centre and report back to Council with recommendations in Q1, 2026; 4. That staff be directed to renew the management agreement for the Whitevale Community Centre and the Whitevale Arts and Culture Centre with the Whitevale and District Residents’ Association for a five-year term from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2030 returning said agreement to Council in Q2, 2025 for endorsement; 5. That City Heritage staff evaluate the Mount Zion Community Centre (School Section #13 Schoolhouse) and Green River Community Centre (Green River Baptist Church) under Regulation 9/06 of the Ontario Heritage Act to determine whether the properties merit designation under Part IV of the Act, and report back to Council with recommendations in Q4, 2025; and, 6. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in the report. Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to provide recommendations for northern community halls, including Green River Community Centre, Greenwood Library, Mount Zion Community Centre and Whitevale Community Centre, that were reviewed as part of the Facilities Renewal Study and the Recreation & Parks Ten Year Plan. These types of - 155 - CS 07-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Northern Community Halls Page 2 community spaces are commonly referred to as “community halls” because they consist of a large room or building with basic amenities, run by community groups, and used primarily for community rentals and events. While Brougham Hall is also considered a northern community hall, that facility is owned by the Federal Government and leased to the City. The City of Pickering entered into a lease agreement with Transport Canada approximately 30 years ago that has been renewed several times. The current lease agreement has expired, and the City of Pickering now leases the building on a month-to-month basis. The City and Federal Government have been meeting to review the building condition and the terms for renewal of the lease agreement. Staff aim to report to Council with recommendations regarding the lease of Brougham Hall by Q4, 2025. The City of Pickering is facing the acute and combined challenges of funding for new growth while also maintaining aging existing infrastructure. Many of the City’s northern community halls are repurposed buildings that were originally constructed as one room schoolhouses or similar use institutional buildings. Many of these facilities are at the end of their serviceable lives and now require significant capital investment to remain operational, including structural repairs, roof replacements, building envelope repairs, electrical, HVAC, and accessibility upgrades to meet and maintain standards for safe and accessible community spaces. PSD Citywide Inc. prepared the City’s Asset Management Plan in 2020 and were retained in the fall of 2023 to review and analyze key factors affecting facilities assets. Their task and objective was to recommend a fact-based methodology by which future investment in existing facilities should be prioritized. On January 22, 2024, Council endorsed the Facility Renewal Study (Report OPS 02-24, Resolution #389/24), also prepared by PSD Citywide Inc., that identified key factors affecting city assets and how to establish priorities. Facility condition index (FCI) provides a valuable metric when evaluating the state and long-term viability of investment in City facilities including the northern community halls. FCI is an industry standard representing the total deferred maintenance cost of a building, typically over the next five years divided by the building’s estimated replacement cost, assuming only like-for-like replacement. This means enhancements like upgraded electrical, lighting, WIFI or modernization repairs are not included in the costing. The northern community halls scored poorly, overall, indicating that significant repairs are required to meet the minimum standards for safe and accessible community spaces. City facility assets with an FCI above 0.40, or 40%, are considered to be in poor condition and suitable for surplus or disposal. On September 3, 2024, Council endorsed the Recreation & Parks – Ten Year Plan (Report CS 22-24, Resolution #575/24). The plan identified that historic facilities that have been used as community halls are not fully accessible, often located in remote locations, cannot accommodate a wide range of recreational activities, and are not conducive to multi-use community programming. Their potential is primarily serving as venues for occasional rentals, meetings, or small-scale community events. These legacy facilities are located in rural areas, serving smaller local markets. Although these facilities are typically inexpensive to operate as they rely on volunteer groups or third-party operators, capital renewal will be costly due to their age and condition. - 156 - CS 07-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Northern Community Halls Page 3 Increasingly, these facilities present financial challenges and require investment in the order of $2.5 million over the next five years if they are to remain in the City’s asset inventory. The Green River Community Centre has been used exclusively as storage for the past ten years and Greenwood Library has been used as storage for the past nine years, with no public use. The Recreation & Parks Ten Year Plan recommends consideration for the closure of underused community halls, particularly where their functions can be accommodated within other nearby facilities that are in better condition. Construction of the Pickering Heritage & Community Centre (PHCC) began in 2024 and is expected to be complete by the end of 2025. The PHCC will provide a range of culture and recreation programs, library services, and rental spaces for the community in a fully accessible, staffed facility with regular operating hours. The PHCC has been designed as an energy efficient, net-zero-carbon facility. Upon the completion of the PHCC, residents living in central Pickering will have improved access to a nearby location for recreation, culture and library services. Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priorities of Champion Economic Leadership and Innovation; Advocate for an Inclusive, Welcoming, Safe & Healthy Community; Advance Innovation & Responsible Planning to Support a Connected, Well-Serviced Community; and, Strengthen Existing & Build New Partnerships. Financial Implications: FCI is a measure of deferred maintenance required divided by the replacement value of the asset and is tracked to benchmark the general condition of City assets. Based on the FCI ratings of the existing inventory, significant investment will be required for Mount Zion Community Centre, Whitevale Community Centre, Green River, and Greenwood Library. Where FCIs are particularly high and usage is low, consolidating services into new facilities enables the option to dispose of older assets in poor condition, using savings generated by eliminated deferred maintenance to offset capital costs for new construction. Based on FCI alone, which only examines like-for-like replacement of existing assets over a five-year forecast, these six facilities will require an investment of $2,514,845 million to address their projected and deferred capital needs. Any upgrades beyond existing materials and design would incur additional costs. As a comparison, the full replacement cost of these facilities is $4,328,719, which demonstrates that most of these facilities are in poor condition. Facility Replacement Cost FCI Deferred Maintenance City’s Operating Cost Greenwood Library $1,133,071 0.39 $441,897 $5,700 Mount Zion Community Centre $1,049,113 0.65 $681,923 $17,250 Green River Community Centre $987,765 0.63 $622,292 $5,300 - 157 - CS 07-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Northern Community Halls Page 4 Whitevale Arts & Culture Centre $283,890 0.15 $42,583 $12,800 Whitevale Community Centre $874,880 0.83 $726,150 $16,800 Total Costs $4,328,719 $2,514,845 $57,850 Note: Replacement costs and FCI scores noted in the table above are as of January 1, 2025. Discussion: The purpose of this report is to provide a recommendation for the northern community hall facilities, in accordance with the Facilities Renewal Study and the Recreation & Parks Ten Year Plan. A. Greenwood Library Background and Historic Use: Located at 3540 Westney Road the Greenwood Library is historically known as the School Section (S.S.) #10 Greenwood Schoolhouse (c.1860). The building remained in use as a school up until the late 1970s when it was purchased by the City. In 1980, the interior was refurbished to provide space for the Pickering Public Library. At the time, air conditioning was added and some improvements to the septic system were made. The 1980 restorations were sympathetic to the building, allowing for its modernization while preserving its historic appearance. In 1995, the west foundation wall was repaired at approximately $25,000. A new well was drilled in 2001 at a cost of $15,000. In January 2008, a leak was found in the basement wall which led to the basement flooding and a malfunctioning furnace. Repairs were made in 2008 for approximately $50,000. Heritage Significance: The Greenwood Library (S.S. #10 Greenwood Schoolhouse) is designated under the Ontario Heritage Act (By-law No. 6984/09). The By-law identifies the property as containing architectural, associative and contextual heritage value under the Ontario Heritage Act. Architecturally, the structure is a rare, well-preserved example of a 19th-century one-room schoolhouse that features red pressed brick sourced from a local brickyard, fine classical design proportions, and original wood windows with delicate muntin bars. The building is historically associated with the development of the education system in Pickering as well as the school of notable public figures, including former Prime Minister John Diefenbaker who attended the school while his father was the schoolteacher. Lastly, the building contains contextual value as a highly visible landmark within Greenwood, due to its location just south of the four corners of the hamlet. Facility Use: As outlined in Report CAO 05-08, the Pickering Public Library operated a service branch from the Greenwood Library from June 1980 until December 2015. The building is owned by the City of Pickering. - 158 - CS 07-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Northern Community Halls Page 5 From 1997 onwards, the Greenwood library experienced consistently declining usage with 6,997 visitors in 2000, reduced to 3,362 by 2007. In late 2015, the Pickering Public Library Board voted to close the service branch due to further declining use and escalating maintenance and capital costs. The facility has been used for library storage since its closure in 2015 and has had no public use during that time. Library services will be offered in the new Pickering Heritage & Community Centre (slated to open in spring 2026) in a purpose-built space that will house the Library’s Local History Collection, provide users access to library services and provide dedicated storage for library collections. The facility shares a well with the Valley View Public School. Furthermore, the facility has limited parking, and parking constraints during school drop-off and pick-up times due to high volume of bus use and student pick-up. The facility is located within one kilometer of the PHCC which will provide a high level of community programming to residents of the Greenwood community, making the Greenwood Library a redundant space for recreational programming. To offset a portion of the deferred maintenance and ongoing operating costs for this facility, a market-rate lease may be a viable option for a service provider that could potentially serve the school community. Facility Condition: The Greenwood Library had an FCI score of 39 percent, as of January 1, 2025, reduced from the 58 percent shown in the Facilities Renewal Study due to masonry repairs completed in 2024. It still has significant capital costs identified in the next five to ten years. The building has low utilization and low adaptability. It ranks among the ten highest FCI scores among City facilities, higher scores demonstrating worse conditions. Recommendation: The City purchased the facility from the schoolboard in 1980. Due to the close proximity to the Valley View School, the Durham District School Board may be interested in purchasing the building back from the City for its own use. Staff will also investigate options to reduce the capital cost of Greenwood Library by leasing the facility at a market rate. This includes a request for expressions of interest to determine if there is demand for this facility. Staff will report back to Council with recommendations in Q1, 2026. B. Mount Zion Community Centre Background and Historic Use: Located at 4230 Sideline 6, School Section (S.S.) #13 Schoolhouse was built in 1875 as and used as a one-room schoolhouse until its closure in 1965. Bylaw 8835 established Mount Zion as a Community Hall in 1967. The facility was originally managed by a Board that was appointed by Council. Potential Heritage Significance: Currently, the property is neither listed in the City of Pickering Heritage Registry nor designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. The Mount Zion Community Centre (S.S. #13 Schoolhouse) is a late 19th-century rural schoolhouse built in red brick and detailed with buff brick around the window and door, arches and corner quoining. The design shares many stylistic similarities with the Greenwood Schoolhouse and lends to the - 159 - CS 07-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Northern Community Halls Page 6 narrative relating to the development of rural education and a unique educational architecture that was influenced by Egerton Ryerson’s school reforms. At some point in the 20th century a one storey addition was added to the front elevation of the building. While the addition materially matches the original building, it generally detracts from the building’s visual design integrity. The impact of the addition to the original fabric of the building has not been fully established at this point and would require further investigation. The preliminary heritage review suggests that there may be potential architectural, associative and contextual heritage value associated with the property. However, a Cultural Heritage Evaluation would be necessary to determine whether the property meets the criteria as defined under Regulation 9/06 of the Ontario Heritage Act for cultural heritage designation. Facility Use: In 2015, the City of Pickering entered into a five-year written lease agreement with the Mount Zion Community Centre Association (The Association) (Resolution #56/15). The lease was renewed for the term from July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2025 (Resolution #350/20). Under this agreement, the Association is responsible for coordinating facility rentals, maintaining regular operating hours, organizing community programs and events, and performing facility cleaning and maintenance at Mount Zion Community Centre. The Association retains all revenue from their management of the facility. The Association maintains a webpage that is listed under the Mount Zion United Church site with contact information. The Association does not maintain regular operating hours, organize regular community programming or events at the facility as community events in this neighbourhood are typically organized by the Mount Zion United Church. Year Annual Number of Permits/Uses Revenue Earned Annual Expenses Cash balance, end of year 2021 0 $0.00 $9.00 $1,145.66 2022 27 $3,350.00 $514.50 $3,981.16 2023 24 $3,550.00 $691.20 $6,389.96 2024 52 $5,970.00 $3,066.15 $9,743.81 Mt. Zion Community Centre is located approximately 5.4 kilometers from the PHCC. It is located in a rural area that is only accessible by car. Facility Condition: Mount Zion Community Centre had an FCI of 58 percent noted in the Facilities Renewal Study, which has risen to 65 percent as of January 1, 2025. A recently completed structural engineering assessment has also raised concerns about the condition of its floor framing and load-bearing masonry. Significant repairs are required in order to maintain the facility in operable condition beyond 2026. Mount Zion Community Centre currently has the fourth highest FCI among City facilities. - 160 - CS 07-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Northern Community Halls Page 7 Recommendation: Staff recommend renewing the lease agreement with the Mount Zion Community Centre Association for two years; and to investigate options to reduce the net capital cost of Mount Zion Community Centre which may include a market-rate lease and report back to Council with recommendations in Q1, 2026. C. Green River Community Centre Background and Historic Use: Located at 190 Highway 7, the Green River Community Centre, was originally known as the Brunswick Hill Baptist Church (c.1848) as it was named after its founders who came from New Brunswick and Scotland. In 1888 the building was moved one mile west where the congregation grew alongside the busy sawmill-based community of Green River. In 1951 the church again was relocated to its current site as a result of the widening of Highway 7. In 1979, the church was ultimately closed as a result of the government expropriation for the future Pickering airport. In 1980, a brick and stone monument was erected at Green River Baptist Cemetery (600 Highway 7), commemorating the congregation and its legacy. The City purchased the facility in 1982 from the Ontario Infrastructure and Land Corporation (OLC) for $2.00 for use as a community hall, and for rental to various community groups. The original sale of the property (Attachment 1) came with a buy back provision that, “before the Town offers the Land for sale or ceases to use the Land as a Community Centre, it shall first notify OLC in writing of the proposed sale, or the proposed change in use, and OLC share thereupon have the option of giving notice to the Town in writing within 14 days that OLC will purchase the Land, and in the event that OLC gives such notice, within 90 days after the date thereof, the Town shall sell the Land to OLC at the Total Purchase Price of $2.00 free of encumbrances and shall pay all applicable taxes, interest, public utility and other charges on the Land to the Date of Closing of the sale to OLC” (Schedule C, 2). Potential Heritage Significance: Currently, the property is neither listed in the City of Pickering Heritage Registry nor designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. Based on an initial historical review of the building it does appear to have potential cultural heritage value. However, a Cultural Heritage Evaluation would be necessary to determine whether the property meets the criteria as defined under Regulation 9/06 of the Ontario Heritage Act for cultural heritage designation. Facility Use: The facility has been used as storage for museum artifacts for the past ten years and has not had any public use during that time. The PHCC is providing secure, monitored and temperature-controlled storage for artifacts, so this space is no longer required for that use. Green River Community Centre is located in a remote location with limited residential properties nearby. A City park with a playground is located adjacent to the facility. Due to the remote location of this facility, the limited versatility and size of the facility, it is not a suitable facility for the delivery of community services. - 161 - CS 07-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Northern Community Halls Page 8 Facility Condition: Green River Community Centre had an FCI of 63 percent as of January 1, 2025. Having primarily served as a storage location for over ten years, it would require significant investment to be suitable for public use. Recommendation: Staff investigate options to sell the property, with OLC offered first right of refusal to purchase for $2.00 and report back to Council by Q1, 2026. D. Whitevale Community Centre / Whitevale Arts and Culture Centre Background and Historic Use: The Whitevale Community Centre located at 405 Whitevale Road and the Whitevale Arts and Culture Centre located at 475 Whitevale Road are two separate facilities located within the historic village of Whitevale. The facilities are owned by the City of Pickering and managed through a lease with the Whitevale and District Residents’ Association (WDRA). The Whitevale Community Centre (405 Whitevale Road) is located on a 1.59 hectare community park that contains two heritage structures, the Miller House (c.1825-35) and the Christian House (c.1860). The Miller House is one of the oldest remaining structures in Pickering, built between 1825 and 1835. Both buildings were expropriated by the Province of Ontario in 1972 as part of the North Pickering Plan. In the 1970s, the buildings fell into disrepair and became the subject of repeated vandalism. By 1979, the residents of Whitevale advocated for the City of Pickering to assist with the restoration of both the Miller and Christian Houses and integrate them into a larger community park. The outcome of this civic collaboration is that by 1990 both the Miller and Christian houses were restored and in active community use. Today, the Miiller House is regularly utilized for a broad range of community programming, while the Mary Christian House is used primarily for storage purposes. The Whitevale Arts & Culture Centre (475 Whitevale Road) is the former Whitevale Library, which closed in 2012 due to declining circulation and remained vacant until 2014. In 2015, with support from residents, the facility became the Whitevale Arts & Culture Centre. A group of volunteers, under the umbrella of the Whitevale and District Residents Association, made a proposal to the City of Pickering in 2015 and received the mandate to repurpose this heritage building and establish its role as a cultural resource for the community. Identified Heritage Significance: Currently, both 405 and 475 Whitevale Road are designated under Part V of the Ontario Heritage Act. The two properties include three heritage buildings, all of which are identified in the Whitevale Heritage Conservation District as contributing heritage structures. A summary of the heritage value of the individual structures is provided below: - 162 - CS 07-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Northern Community Halls Page 9 i. Whitevale Community Centre The Miller House (c.1825-35) is a unique structure within the City, in part due to its unusual construction which employs vertical plank walls, which are pegged to the upper beam and lower sills. This type of construction is closely associated with the Lower St. Lawrence Valley in Quebec. In the early 1820s, Francophone loggers were active in the area as part of the clearing of the Great Pine Ridge and this house was constructed using wood from the first mill that was constructed in 1820. The Christian House (c.1860) is a uniquely proportioned small plain frame house. The house consists of a one-and-half storey frame building with a side-gable plan and a rear one storey kitchen addition. The unique proportions are enhanced by the off -hall entrance door and single side window. The main structure is clad in vertical board-and-batten while the rear kitchen is completed in a combination of clapboard and board-and-batten siding. The house is a rare example of a humble 19th century rural house. ii. Whitevale Arts & Culture Centre The building located at 475 Whitevale Road is a small, modest arts and crafts style building (c.1900) that was originally used as a local bank branch. The design is a front gable plan which is typical for Whitevale with white shingles used in the upper gables and clapboard siding on the lower elevations. Facility Use: The WDRA maintains an active website and social media pages, with a published monthly newsletter informing the community of community events, programs, workshops, and volunteer opportunities. The Arts and Culture Centre also hosts small art exhibits that are open to the public. The WDRA organizes and hosts several community events annually and publishes opportunities for residents to utilize the community facilities. As an example, last month the WRDA organized French Club, Ukulele beginner club, bird walks, an Easter egg hunt in Whitevale Community Park, Earth Day Clean up. The WDRA provides regular, consistent community programs and events. Many of these events are in addition to the rental of the facilities listed below. Year Total Annual Number of Uses Revenue Earned from use of facility Expenses Cash balance, end of year 2021 11 $750.00 $4,149.21 $23,443.23 2022 21 $3,770.00 $7,299.56 $16,785.85 2023 29 $7,739.00 $9,743.13 $13,909.54 2024 47 $11,316.81 $11,535.95 $13,811.18 Facility Condition: The Whitevale Community Centre buildings are in relatively poor condition with an FCI score of 0.83 and a deferred maintenance cost of $726,150. The Whitevale Arts & Cultural Centre is in good condition with an FCI score of 0.15. The City completed selective cladding repairs in 2024 on this building. Based on the high degree of programming and - 163 - CS 07-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Northern Community Halls Page 10 community use of these facilities, staff recommend extending the management agreement with the WDRA. Recommendation: Due to the regular and consistent community use of the facility, and the WDRA’s continued community services, staff recommend extending the management agreement with the Whitevale and District Residents’ Association for management of the Whitevale Community Centre and the Whitevale Arts and Culture Centre from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2030. Attachment: 1.Green River: Agreement for Dedication of Community Lands Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By: Original Signed By Original Signed By Matthew Somerville, CAHP, MCIP, RPP Laura Gibbs, MBA, MSc. Senior Planner, Heritage Director, Community Services Original Signed By Original Signed By Vince Plouffe, OAA, MRAIC Kyle Bentley, P. Eng. Division Head, Facillities & Construction Director, City Development & CBO Management LG:snc Recommended for the consideration of Pickering City Council Original Signed By Marisa Carpino, M.A. Chief Administrative Officer - 164 - Attachment 1 to Report CS 07-25 - 165 - AGREEMENT FOR DEDICATION OF COMMUNSTY LANDS B E T W E E N ONTARIO LAND CORPORATION hereinafter called OLC y r y ti OF THE FIRST PART and THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF PICKERING hereinafter called the TOwn OF THE SECOND PART WHEREAS OLC is the registered owner in fee simple of the Land described in Schedule A hereto and WHEREAS OLC proposes to dedicate the land to the Town for the purpose of a Community Centre NOW THEREFORE THIS AGREEMENT WITNESSETH THAT 1 DEFINITIONS The iollowing words and expressions wherever used in this Agree ment shall have the ollowing meanings a Acceptance of this Aqreement means execution and delivery by the Town to OLC b Agreement means this document as originally signed and delivered and as amended from time to time c Date of Acceptance means the date that this Agreement is executed by OLC and delivered to the Town as indicated in the signature paqe of this Agreement d Date of Closing means the 30th day of April 1982 unless extended as provided for herein e Land means the land described in Schedule A hereto attached together with all buildings and structures presently located thereon 2 CONSIAERATION In consideration of the premises and of the covenants herein - 166 - 2 z 3 4 5 CONSIDERATION Cont d a OLC shall convey on the Date of Closing the Land in fee simple free of encumbrances to the Town for the sum of 2 00 Two Dollars upon and subject to the terms and con ditions of this Agreement b The Town shall from time to time reduce by a total of 0 5392 hectares its requirements for community park dedi cations relating to the development of future residential subdivisions of the Land of OLC in the area described in Schedule B of this Agreement PAYMENT OF TAXES OTHER CHARGES The Town shall assume allfrom and after the Date of Closing ratesproperty taxes charges and assessments now existing against the Land TITLE 1 The Town may examine the Title at the Town s own expense and the Town may not call for production of any Title Deed or Abstract of Title or to have urnished other copies thereof other than those in OLC s possession or under its control 2 The Town is allowed thirty 30 days from the Date of Accep tance of this Agreement by OLC to examine the title and if within that time the Town furnishes OLC in writing with any valid objection to the title which OLC is unwilling or unable to remove and which the Town will not waive this Agreement will be null and void and neither OLC nor the Town will be liable for any costs or damages but if no valid objection to the title is made within the said time the Town is conclusively deemed to have accepted the title of OLC to the Land CONVEYANCE POSSESSION OF THE LAND 1 On the Date of Closing OLC shall convey the Land to the Town by a good and sufficient Deed or Transfer 2 OLC shall give the Town possession of the Land on the Date of Closing subject to any lease agreements in force on the Date of Closing 3 OLC and the Town acknowledge that certain of the leases on the Land may include additional land to the Land being the subject of this Agreement when a survey is prepared which is being prepared by OLC at OLC s expense and which will be prepared on or before the Date of Closing OLC and the Town will apportion the rental revenue so that the Town will receive only that portion of the rental revenue that applies to the Land conveyed to the Town COMMUNITY CENTRE USE 1 The Town covenants with OLC that the Town will use the Land and Buildings thereon for the purpose of a Community Centre and no other purpose and if the Town uses the Land and Buildings thereon for any other purpose OLC may exercise its Option to Purchase contained in Schedule C of this Agree ment 6 - 167 - 3 6 COMMUNITY CENTRE USE Cont d 2 The Town shall on or before December 31st 1983 renovate the Land and Building for use as a Community Centre and if the Town fails to renovate the Land and Building for use as a Community Centre by December 31st 1983 OLC shall forthwith after such date purchase the Land including all improvements for the sum of 2 00 Two Dollars without interest or comp ensation for improvements or taxes or outgoings of the Town in relation to the Land it is agreed between the Parties hereto that a section to be drafted by OLC enforcing this section may be included in the Deed of Land from OLC to the Town and such Deed shall be signed by the Town as well as OLC 7 OPTION TO PURCHASE 1 The Town shall sign and deliver to OLC on the Date of Closing an Option to Purchase in the form attached to this Agreement as Schedule C which is for all purposes an integral part of this Agreement and if such Option is not signed and delivered to the Town on the Date of Closing this Agreement will at the option of OLC be nu11 and void 2 OLC shall have the privilege of registering the Option to Purchase described in this section on the title of the Land at or after delivery to the Town of any Deed or Trans er 8 GENERAL CONDITIONS 1 All documents necessary to transfer title including surveys shall be prepared by OLC at its expense but each Party shall be responsible for its own legal and registration costs 2 Tender of documents or money may be made upon the solicitor for either Party 3 This Agreement when accepted constitutes a binding Agreement and time is in all respects of the essence hereof 4 This Agreement is op n for acceptance by OLC until one minute 1982 after whichbefore midday on the 3lst day of March time if not executed by OLC and delivered to the Town or its solicitor it shall become null and void 5 The Land remains at the risk of OLC until the Date of Clos inq 6 The Town and OLC shall adjust applicable taxes grants in lieu of taxes and utility charges if any as of the Date of Closing 7 This Agreement enures to the benefit of and is binding upon the Parties hereto and their successors and assigns but no assignment of this Agreement is valid unless it has first been approved in writing by OLC 8 Any of the covenants and conditions of this Agreement not completed on or before closing survive the closing of the conveyance of the Land and do not blend or meld or merge with the delivery of title to the Land by OLC to the Town as provided herein - 168 - 4 8 GENERAL CONDITIONS Cont d 9 Schedules A B C and D attached hereto for all purposes Porm an integral part of this Agreement 10 The captions and headings in this Agreement are for reference only and do not affect the meaning of anything in this Agree ment 11 demand consent approval disapprovalAny notice request acknowledgement or other matter which either Party hereto may desire or be required to give to the other Party hereto with regard to any matter or thing in this Agreement con tained shall be in writing and shall be personally served upon OLC addressed to Ontario Land Corporation 60 Bloor Street West lOth Floor Toronto Ontario M4W 3K7 marked to the attention of the Director Land Operations or upon the Town addressed to The Corporation of the Town of Pickering 1710 Kingston Road Pickering Ontario L1V 1C7 marked to orthe attention of the Town Clerk and every such notice other document referred to above shall be deemed to have been given on the date oahen it was so personally served either Party may from time to time give notice in writing to the other Party of any change of address of the Party giving such notice and from and after the giving of such notice the address therein specified shall be the address of such Party for the giving of notices thereafter IN WITNESS WHEREOF the Partie hereto have signed this Agreement under Seal this day of c LL 1 19 SIGNED iEALED DELIVERED THE CORPORATION OF THE POWN OF PICKERING C o r t C rk Accepted by OLC this jS day of l 19 8 7 SIGNED SEALED DELIVERED ONTARIO LAND CORPORATION - 169 - SCHEDULE A In the Town of Pickering in the Regional Municipality of Durham in the Province of Ontario and being that portion of Lot 34 Concession 6 designated as Part 3 on Ontario Land Corporation Plan 6350 406 as shown for illustrative purposes on Schedule D hereto - 170 - SCHEDULE B In the Town of Pickering in the Regional Municipality of Durham in the Province of Ontario and being those lands designated as Part 1 on Ministry of Housinq Expropriation Plan 6350 036 duly registered in the Land Registry Office for the Registry Division of Durham at Whitby as No 263 EXP - 171 - 1 SCHEDULE C OPTION TO PURCHASE THIS AGREEMENT made this 198day of B E T W E E N THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF PICKERING hereinafter called the Town OF THE FIRST PART and ONTARIO LAND CORPORATION hereinafter called OLC OF THE SECOND PART WITNESS that in consideration of other valuable consideration and the sum of 2 00 Two Dollars of lawful money of Canada now paid by OLC to the Town the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged the Town hereby qrants to OLC an Option and a right of first refusal irrevocable within a period of 3 three years from the date hereo to purchase the Land described in Schedule 1 hereto hereinafter called the Land upon the following terms and conditions OLC may exercise this Option to Purchase a if the Town offers the Land and Building or either of them for sale before substantially completing the renovations to convert the Land and Building thereon for use as a Community Centre or b if the Town ceases to use the Land and Building thereon as a Community Centre 2 Before the Town offers the Land for sale or ceases to use the Land as a Community Centre it shall first notify OLC in writing of the proposed sale or the proposed change in use and OLC shall there upon have the option of giving notice to the Town in writing within 14 fourteen days that OLC will purchase the Land and in the event that OLC gives such notice within 90 days after the date thereof the Town shall sell the Land to OLC at the Total - 172 - SCHEDULE C Cont d Purchase Price of 2 00 Two Dollars free of encumbrances and shall pay all applicable taxes interest public utility and other charges on the Land to the Date of Closinq of the sale to OLC IN WITNESS WHEREOF the Parties hereto have signed this Agreement under seal this 198day of SIGNED SEALED DELIVERED THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF PICKERING Mayor Clerk ONTARIO LAND CORP ORATIO By its Authori g Signiy g Officers - 173 - i i ST CES ShiO JN ON THIS PLAN N cr t D AN BE CONVERTED TO FEET ANtdiP GSCHEDULE D i i I J i i l1i V J r r I I I I I I V 1 I N71 49 55 E 84 095 1 SiB YI I I m m 1 J I I l I J ii i PART 1 a Y i m 8 a v rv it c0 2a a P F c z 30 0 m r s T 03 I 1 3 r a i 4 BRiCk 2G31 BIJG I SlB Y E N N Q s a 3 N71 23 IO E 37 414 Ta N I 2 2C c Aar QOR 2b3i P aR i i r a v 2E 7 510 Y 1 I I I Ii 3 Le L Z iTl AI1 i i 9 IO IV a Efx eae IV i I NP2 OfiE YVII l a1 i 2 P 45 720 sie vl 25 353 i p F 7 r 1 sislvlI i PianB 01 j SECARNE4LII130 IfCONCESSiON ylll y I i m I Du Sli Pu N I a9 IO E G 38 66T ViIC FILE 34 3 Tr IiC I I n J LI I I Ji I I IP l l i 7 i aLL7vVAiV i O v f3ci v c VCE Sli i f Q i i - 174 - SCHEDULE 1 In the Town of Pickering in the Regional Municipality of Durham in the Province of Ontario and being that portion of Lot 34 Concession 6 designated as Part 1 on Ontario Land Corporation Plan 6350 406 duly deposited in the Land Registry Office for the Registry Division of Durham at Whitby as Plan 4 R - 175 - W 2 H0 O2 H NNmrni EaW E a X C7 Oa W O O w rn ro r a Ez c i z ro0OxHi w0U O Ns C Ci ox ro W c x o0HUN C I Uli Qa O U ai Nrnca a a o O E i x s vxM c E O HCa 3 3 Ul txi 7C1 O O t UHFrI W Ei O OFWx i O s i a a i r li J q V a p N V 7S r C v o 0 Q QI - 176 - 2 9 5 6 7 A B C D E U I Ulli lI11R 9CIEF IUp AFFIDAVIT OF RESIDENCE AND OF VALUE OF THE CONSIDERATION 0pt i on IN THE MATTER OF THELQVIQ umaG OF Inasrl DNS dsscrlption of lar That Portion of Lot 34 GA P G CSS VA 6 deslSnatad as Par t l on Rnxaria I and Curpoxaxian k lan No b350 4A6 zeglscered in Land Re83stzY O f cR at 5 ti11CbY as PJ an 40R b9 0 BY print nemea o alI nena erois in lulll T 1C CRIRQF i RA 9 bR KD O P 1F kl T RB TO s s atrucNon t na pnnr n msa oi en rrens erees in ru q Ontarlo Land Corporation ERIC W CHODAKI sss lnatructlon 2 siM pinr neme a In ul MAKE OATH AND SAV THAT I em p ace eber meik wifhin fhe squere opposife fhaf one o fha lollowing paregrap s f af tlescriDes he capeclty o fhe deponent a aea insfruetion e A peraon In truat tor whom the lend conveyed in the abovodescribatl conveyanee is boing conveyeA b A trustee nemed in the above0escrfbed tonveyance to whom the IenC is being conveyed c A transieree named in the aDove described conveyance d T e au horized apent or aolicitw ading in this tranaection for QIItaLio Land CoipOZatip1mn n n mM a oNncw i 1i described in peraprapA s 1 6Di c above sfrike ouf re erences o inapplicab e paregrepAS e TM PrWdent Vice President Maneger SecreUry DireCWr or Treasurer auMOrized p act fw N described in paragreph s a b e above sfrike ouf references to inappliceble peregraphs Q Atransfereedescribedinparagraph in5ertonlyonBOlperegrapA aJ b or c abOVe asapplicaDlejandammakingthia aHidavit on my own beheN anO on behalf of M d M who is my spouse dexribed in paragraph insen only one o paragraph e b oi Ic above as applieeble and es such I have personal knowledge of the fects herein Oeposed to I have read and considered the de inflions of non resident corporation and non resident person set out respectively in ciauses 1 tx and p of the Acl see JnsfrucNon 3 Thefo lowingpersonstowhomorintrusiforwhomthelandconveyediniheabove describedconveyanceisDeingconveyeAerenon resident persons within the meaning of the Att see instruction D1One THE TOTAL CONSIDERATION FOR THIS TRANSACTION IS ALLOCATED AS FOLLOWS Nile Monies paid or to be peid in casA S b MoAgeges i Assumed show principal and inferest fo be credifed againstpuroheseprice s Nil N Given beck to vandor S c Property iransterred in exchange detatl below S d Securitiesiransferredtothevalueoi defailDelor 5 Ni suwKs e Liens Iegacie5 annuities and maintenance charges to which transfer MUBT E IS SUbjBCi S Nir FILLED IN 1 Othervaluableconsideretionsubjecttolendtransfertax detailbelow S Nil INSEIIT 711L WNEqE g VALUE OF LAND BUILDING FIXTURES AND GOODWILL vxiwu SUBJECT TO LAND TRANSFER TAX fofal 0 a fo J S N a S e1i 1 h VALUE OF ALL CHATTELS items ot langible personal property NSbIIS NS7 rlapey Aleonf ev lueN llMenelaunbssaremO fM flet ll Na bf AeP fl SO 1pBp c I51 s men0e0J eerf prov sloniol f 1 i Other consideration for iransaction not included in g or h above s Nil j TOTAL CONSIDERATION j Nil if consideration is nominal describe relationship belween transteror end transle ee end state purpose ol conveyance see instrucfion 5 No t appl icable Iftheconsideralionis nominal Isthelandsubjecttoanyencumbrance7 4 Olher remarks and explanations f necessary This transacti on is exemp t fzom land transf er tax because the Optionee is an Ontario Crown Corporation i SwoaN betore me at tne Town of Pickering ntne Regional Municipality of Durham this i Sf V dax o1 May t982 i r uiui CL 4 fc c Cl1 t C IC W CHO OEA qCor s pne uoN akin g N18dapODDAU tr a a amun a H y i l40PERTY INFORMATION RECORDe rrisuw ne sancnon DeuA7flkN cloOnflb9Bitnent OFt OA 1 Address oT proDerty being conveyeA il available Nat availabl e No ava3lableII Assessment Roll N il availebls Mallinp address es 1or future Notices of Assessment under ihe Assessment Act for property beinp conveyed see insfrucfion 6 7 7 O Ri oBsxon Road Picker 1ng Antario L1Y 1C7 i Repiatration number for last conveyence ol property beiny Gonveyad evsilabls RF ORe ty AOt heing ConVeyed II Layal descripUon ol property conveyed Same as in D i abovs Yee No Not Known Neme s end address es of eech trenslereeY HUXLEY 6 CHODAKi Barristera 6 Solicitors Fw endae istryOnkeuseon Suite 510 solicitw qEGISTRATION NO 1305 Sheridan Ma11 Parkway LANDREGISTRYOFFICENOPICKERINC Ontaiio L1V 3P2 REGISTRATION DATE - 177 - 6 SCHEDULE 1 In the Tawn of Pickering in the Regional Municipality of Durham in the Province of Ontario and being that portion of Lot 39 Concession designated as Part 1 on Ontario Land Corporation Plan 6350 406 duly deposited in the Land Registry Office for the Registry Division of Durham at Whitby as Plan 40R 6910 - 178 - Purchase Price of 2 Q0 Two Pollars free of encumbrances and interestshall pay all applicable taxes public utility and other charges on the Land to the Date of Closing of the sale to OLC IN WITNESS WHEREOF the Parties hereto have signed this Agreement under April 198 zseal this 30th day of SIGNED SEALED DELIVERED THE O E TOWN OF PICKERING tCORPOG7 C i r ONTARIQ LAND WRPORATION fficersBy its Autho i d Sigry g ce - 179 - OPTION TO PURCHASE i I THIS AGREEMENT made this 30th day of April 1982 B E T W E E N THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF PICKERING hereinafter called the Town OF THE FIRST PART and ONTARIO LAND CORPORATION hereinafter called OLC OF THE SECOND PART WITNESS that in consideration of other valuable consideration and the sum of 2 00 Two Dollars of lawful money of Canada now paid by OLC to the Town the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged the Town hereby grants to OLC an Option and a right of irst refusal irrevocable within a period of 3 three years from the date hereof to purchase the Land described in Schedule 1 hereto hereinafter called the Land upon the following terms and conditions 1 OLC may exercise this Option to Purchase a if the Town offers the Land and Building or either of them for sale before substantially completing the renovations to convert the Land and Building thereon for use as a Community Centre or b if the Town ceases to use the Land and Building thereon as a Community Centre 2 Before the Town offers the Land for sale or ceases to use the Land as a Community Centre it shall first notify OLC in writing of the proposed sale or the proposed change in use and OLC shall there upon have the option of giving notice to the Town in writing within 19 fourteen days that OLC will purchase the Land and in the event that OLC gives such notice within 90 days after the date thereof the Town shall sell the Land to OLC at the Total - 180 - t mv d v r J01 n Juctinn l n r nn nr i je egi trp ct IN THE MATTER of the PLANNING ACT as amended AND IN THE MATTER of the TITLE TO Part Lot 34 Concession 6 Pickering Part 1 Plan 40R 6910 Deed Mort4a e Axreement of AND IN THE MATTER OF A Deed Sale Leue ete THEREOF FROM Ontario Land Corporation TO The Corporation of the Town of Pickering DATED April 22nd 1982 I C M Timothy Sheffield of the Town of Pickering in the Regional Municipality of Durham AIAKE OATH AND SAY AS FOLLOR S 1 Iam the 5olicitor for the Grantee named in the above mentioned Instrument and have knowledge of the matters hereinafter sworn 2 The said Instrument and the conveyance or other dealing with land affected thereby do not contravene the provisions of The Planning Act as amended because l T ie 3r e3eRCTe isCeied 6wnZ Ztbe 7 IIr eTd T iltefZ a tlte QBft affe7lerifp aniS arPeleteif not power or n Yiio ianfasshnorerC3 Ese aj6wer 75 aJ3J birtiment u itfi res3ec77o anyrnrf a u n ternc aj e r i7f1 e aPO cable s a e cn r or The land is being acquired by a municipality S11 ORN before me at the Town of Pickering i yin the Regional Municipality of Durha y C M Timothy Shef ii c thi 30th da of Apri1 7 82 i i L O ni iu i i I i f i AIYidacil i lr - 181 - Ea ro a N a a AFFIDAVIT OF SURtiCRIIiING W TVEtiS 1 of the in the make oath and snv am u subscribing witness ro the nttxched inshument and 1 wns present and saw it executed at bysKrM a See Lwrtmle I verily believe that each person whose signature 1 witnessed is the party of the same nume reEerred to in the instrument SWORN before me at the this 19day oF co wuuon n roe i c nio vns vc Whrrt o partY u uw61e M read tM irutr ment or whne o porty sipv by makin h4 mark or in oreiyn chawcfm add n tn the iruhumrnt had 6em read W him and hr appeared ully m unde rtand iY WMe esecuted undo a po uer o ottomry imer name o attomey m attomry Jw namt o party aM jor nert ckwe aubHRute 1 cedly Aelisve eMt t aiqmhoe wiMeptd wa autMrized to ei cule thc inrtmmmt oa attnmry for mme he prnan oMaeNid i UN v N o z0 ro o rouo HEa wxH a ro W a I 0 0 1 U S ro x n N a0U Qaz O H ox a ow O mrn G r x s O UG 1 O W F ti F J F a a a Z W c rn q C O U 3 x V U Vi C a r o N U N td J4 X Q c roa o H d c o C J i f c Na A OHf1 E 0 ao oz U O H E r a w w iTa o o p w N m m a a w c o M ia Q W i I O y s 3 tk E U 11 11 b w N N C J 0 1 N r cn H a w v w r C a n x ys o c f ro am il mm aa r I sh2 a 4L c 1 M f 1 O o G E 4 J C H C 4 1 41 w n 7 x o W x LL KIti Z Nir LL O N JCv F 2 oa a N Qa Z o rc q z a c o g NOILVtlLClp3tl O 31V71IILM37 tlOd O3 tl353tl 3Y Ol 371Id8 91M1 - 182 - 1 red Pa e 3 0 fi l IT AFFIDA 17 F Sl iitiCKIHItiG A l I E5S I of the in the make oath and sav I am a subscribing witness to the attached instrnment nnd t was present and saw it executed at by s tm o Scr footnote I verily believe that each person whose signature I witnessed is the party of the same name referred to in the instrument SWORN before me at the this day of 19 co issiowu ron nxi c wrnownra x Whert a yartY ia ura6le N read tht irufrommf or ehne a pa tV iBN W k ne Fia mork or in gn cMractm add Mtn the imtrumrnt had 6em ead W him aM he o9V ared u lV b undentnrd iY Whne ezeculed under a yourn a aNOmey i uen name of attomey na aHOrney jor rwme o po ly ard or neat clawe ru6ttitut oe i1V beiiece tMt the pe on ohoie a yrat ne I u tn s ed uav auiMnzed W erecute 1he imhumenf ai altnrney m lioame AFFIDAVIT AS TO AGE AND SPOUSAL STATUS 1 WE of the in the u cce er make oath and say When executed the attached instrument ee footnote I WE at least eighteen years old Within the meaning oJ section 1 J oJ The Family LaH ReJorm Act 1978 Strike out a I was a spouse innpD e ble cinuw b We were spouses of one a o her w as m spousec Not n Malrimonid Hame eU ee footno4 Re ident of Can Aa ete SEVERALLY SWORN before me at the this day of i ownwowin roe rwnwo nio vir vc Where nffiJnidt malr ry nttornry u1 titute N l rH rr e po lk a crA rl nitrummt rz o nni nr nn nrl Ar xhr rra q w a lafux und Q aYPlirahtr nao e oJ yuu el ritAie fAe m in0 0l SrAiw p o 7 M m ulu i air Cr unn Art la x onA i hrn hr M err Wed thr romer o affurnry he he Aad af amtd As aUr o uojority I 6 r p unr d i l y 1 I IL or Anr ifl - 183 - d AFFIGAVIi OF RESIDENCE ANUUF VALU G THe COfV51DCFA iU W THE MATlER OF 7HE CONVEYANCE OF insertbrieldescnpr oqcflend1Concession 6 Part l Plan 40R 6910Part Lot 3 4 Pickering B V piin7 names of all Vanslerors in fulll Ontario Land Cnrporation TO Isee instrua on 1 and prinr names o all vans eiees in fullJ TRE C JRPORATION OF THE T041N OF PICKEAING I sre instrutiion 2 and P inf name 51 in 1ulll C M TIMO THY SHEFFSELD MAKE OATH FND SAY TNAT 1 I am place a dear mark within the square opposite that one of the fotlow ng paragraphs that describes the capacity ot he deDOnentlsll see ins7iuction 2 a A person in trust for whom the land conveyed in the above described conveyance is being conveyed b A irustee named in the above described conveyance to whom the land is being conveyed c A transieree named in the above described conveyance d The authorized agent or solicitor acting in this transaction tor G sen namel l ol prmuPatlslTHE CORPORATION OF THE TOS9N OF PICKERING described in paragraphQp d above svike out ieferences to inapplicab e paragiaphs e The Pres dent Vice President Manager Secretary Director or Treasurer authorized to act tor msen namelsl o co oo anon s 1 described in paragraphls al b c above srrike out releiences ro inapplice6le parag aphs f A transteree descrlbed in paragraph insert only one of paragraph a l6J or cJ above as appllcable and am making this afiidavit on my own behalT and on behalf of insen neme o spovse who is my spovse described in paragraph linsert only one o7paragiaph al l6J or lcJ above as applica6 eJ and as such I have personal knowledge of the Tacts herein deposed to 7 I have read and considered the definitions of non resident corporation and non resident person set out respectively m ciauses t t t and g of ihe Act see instruction3 3 The following persons to whom or in trust for whom the land conveyed in the above described conveyance is being conveyed are nom resfdenl persons within the mt aning of lhe Act see in57ruction 4 NQNE 4 THE TOTAL CONSIDERATION FOR THIS TRANSACTION IS ALLOCATED AS FOLLOWS Ial Monies paid or to b pa d in cash 5 0 0 l61 Mortga9 s i Assumed shov principa end interest to be c edired doains purchdse p icel S Nil iilGiaen back to vendor S jQ1 j A eLF K c d1 Property transferred in exchange de ai belowl Secunues transtened to the vafue o1 detail belowJ 5 5 l l N1 A1VST BE e Liens legacres ennuities and maintenance charges to which eo in t ansler is subject g N11 f Other raluable conslderatlon subjett to land t ansfer tax detai below S N 11 g VALUE OF LAND BUILDING FIXTURES AND GOODWILL SUBJECT NSERT Nii TO LAND TRANSFER TAX rota of a to f J S 2 D O S 2 Q0 tvHERE h VALUE OF ALL CHATTELS items of tangible peisonai property aaPUC eu fReiaif SaJes Tax is payabJe on ihe value ot al chaitels unJess exempt undei the provisions of the Retail Sales Tax Act R S O 1 95i7 c 454 asamendedl 5 N11 i Other consideration tor transaction not induded in g or h above 5 N11 Ij 10TALCONSIDERATION S 00 5 H cuns derztion is nominal describe ielationshin bet veen transf no relationshin between trans51 a ro and iranster e and st eror and etrans e urpose oi conveyanceeree see insvucrion b conyeyance of parkland to municipality 6 I tiip COnsl e 2LCn i5 ncriiinel Is h Innd su i 7 ny n umbrsnce NO 7 G hc n KS d er o s nc ss r Pred edication of parkland for future subd vision development OF J o uieniedjthe TOFAI 0 PiCkeYi7l j ine Reai on of Dt rha 1 U is day ot 1 1982 I I tt tj A C missioner io t in 1 daoits etC I ea sll PROPERTY WFORi 9ATION RECORD DeedA D scribe nat irc of st m e t o o c6 61 F PS o e ed if o ab el Green Ri er Ontario Gil AssesSmenl Roll i1 a aiiab e1 h d C lailing addiess esl tor futwe Novices o1 Assessment under The Assessment Act tor property being conveyed lsee insriutrion 6 1710 Kingston J o ad Pickering Ontario I 1V 1C7 D Regis atVon numUer tor lest ronveyance oS pioperty being conveyed lil availab e nf 3 1 Lenal description o p operty conveyed Same as in D i above Q Yes No pC Not Kno vn E Na nels and a Idiessles oi each transteree s sol icitor V C A7 T1mOt j Sh2ffleld Fo LandRe9 stryOfficeuseonly 710 3 nqston Road i i nn n lt i I i n I - 184 - L e HHnw Cti L Mii Clieed H uhoul Spousal Consent FJVM rv0 1r a nendedlu v 97Vi i t Jr d t u madeindupticatethe twenty second dayof April onethousandninehundredand eighty two Jn ursunnce uf tf e hurt arms nf anuegttnces ci ctween ONTARIO LAND CORPORATION hereinafter called the Grantor OF THE FIRST PART and THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF PICKERING hereinafter called the Grantee OF THE SECOND PART 111IPSSPt hat in consideration of TWO 2 00 D011ars and other good and valuable consideration now paid by the said Grantee to the said Grantor the receipt whereof is hereby by him acknowledged he the said Grantor DOTH GRANT unto the said Grantee in fee simple THOSE lands and premises located in the following municipaiity namely in the Town of Pickering in the Regional Municipality of Durham formerly the Township of Pickering in the County of Ontario andbeingcomposedof that portion of Lot 34 Concession 6 designated as Part 1 on Ontario Land Corporation Plan 6350 406 which plan has been duly deposited in the Registry Office for the Land Registry Division at Whitby as Plan 40 R 6910 - 185 - Uccd i nnu Spoutinl omer I e n rnora l n Y 4i TO HAVE 4ND TO HOI D unto the said Grantee his heirs eaccuiors adminisirators successors and assigns to and for their sole and only use fore er SUBJECT NEVERTHELESS to the reservations limitations pro isoes and conditions expressed in the original grant thereof from the Crown The said Grantor COVENANTS with the said Grantee that he has the right to convey the said lands to the said Granree notwithstanding any ac of the said Grantor AND that the said Grantee shall have quiet possession of the said lands free from all encumbrances AND the said Grantor COVENANTS with the said Grantee that he will execure such further assurances of the said lands as may be requisite AND the said Grantor COVENANTS with the said Granree that he has done no act to encumber the said lands AND the said Grantor RELEASES to the said Grantee ALL his claims upon the said lands PROVIDED hat in wnstruing Ihese presents the wofds Granmr and Grantee and he pro iouns he his or him relating here o and used therewith shall be rcad and construed as Grentor or Gramors Gramee or Gren tts and he she his ha i s or their or him her it or themit of hey Rspecti ely as the number and gender of the party or partia rcferred to in each case require and the numbcr o he verb agreeing herewith shall be cons rued as agrecing with the said word or pronoun so substituted IN WITNESS WHEREOF the said parties hereto have hereunro set their nd nnd als SIGNED SEALED AND DELIVERED ONTARIO LAND CORPORATION by its authoriz ieersInthePresenceof 1 s ignincy c nie ecuLigG Co porate Secretary - 186 - Report to Executive Committee Report Number: FIR 04-25 Date: May 5, 2025 From: Steve Boyd Fire Chief Subject: Fire Department Establishing and Regulating By-law File: A-1440-001-25 Recommendation: 1.That Report FIR 04-25 regarding the Fire Department Establishing and Regulating By- law be received; 2.That the draft By-law included as Attachment 1 to Report FIR 04-25 be approved and enacted; 3.That By-Law 771/78 be repealed; and, 4.That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take such actions as are necessary to give effect to the recommendations in this report. Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s approval of a By-Law that establishes and regulates the Pickering Fire Services Department. As identified in the 2024 Fire Master Plan, the current Establishing and Regulating By-law 771/78 is extremely outdated and does not reflect the City’s current demographic, building stock, or applicable legislation governing modern fire services. As a result, it is essential that the By-law be updated to ensure that the City's fire protection services meet current standards and address the needs of the growing and evolving community. Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priority of Advocate for an Inclusive, Welcoming, Safe & Healthy Community. Financial Implications: There are no financial impacts that result from adopting the recommendations in this report. Discussion: The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s approval of a By-Law that establishes and regulates the City’s Fire Services. This By-law will reflect the City's current fire protection needs and ensure compliance with modern safety standards, the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, S.O. 1997, c.4, and related legislation. - 187 - FIR 04-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Fire Department Establishing and Regulating By-law Page 2 A By-law to establish and regulate a municipal fire department is contemplated by the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, S.O. 1997, c. 4, (the “Act”) and outlines the policy for the delivery of fire services within the municipality. It acts as a framework to define the essential fire protection services that a municipality deems necessary based on its unique needs, demographics, and circumstances. The current By-law 771/78 is no longer applicable due to significant changes in the City’s development, demographics, and the evolving landscape of fire service delivery. For example, the City has experienced substantial population growth, urban development, and the emergence of new building types and hazards, which By-law 771/78 does not address. The need to update the By-law is driven by several factors: Changing Demographics: Pickering has grown significantly in terms of population, with diverse community needs and an increased demand for fire protection services. The existing By-law does not accurately reflect the scale of the City’s current and future fire protection requirements. New Legislation and Standards: The Act mandates that municipalities provide fire protection services that are adequate, effective, and sustainable. The new By-law will ensure compliance with modern legislation and industry standards. Updated Training and Equipment Requirements: The new By-law will incorporate provisions for the training of fire personnel in accordance with the latest standards and the acquisition of appropriate fire equipment. This will ensure the department remains well- equipped to handle the demands of a modern city, including emerging fire risks and safety challenges. Education: The updated By-law will also ensure compliance with the Act, which requires municipalities to establish a comprehensive public education program on fire safety. This includes promoting awareness of fire prevention practices and providing relevant fire protection services tailored to the community's needs and circumstances. By integrating these education requirements into the new By-law, the City will enhance its ability to prevent fires and improve public safety. Funding for Fire Services: The extent of funding required to achieve and maintain the necessary levels of fire protection will be more clearly defined in the new By-law. The financial requirements for staffing, equipment, training, and facility maintenance will be aligned with the City’s goals for fire safety and service delivery. Conclusion: The new By-law is also designed to be flexible, allowing for future amendments as Pickering’s needs evolve. For example, as the City continues to grow, there may be new areas that require specialized fire services, or new technologies and approaches to firefighting that may need to be incorporated into the By-law. To support this flexibility, the new By-law provides that the Fire Chief, in coordination with the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), the authority to update the core services listed in Appendix - 188 - FIR 04-25 May 5, 2025 Subject: Fire Department Establishing and Regulating By-law Page 3 “A” in response to operational needs and evolving circumstances. Any such changes will be communicated in writing to Council from the Fire Chief, with a copy to the CAO and the City Clerk, outlining the rationale and nature of the updates. This delegated authority ensures that the City can respond effectively to changing service demands while maintaining transparency and accountability to Council. By adopting the By-law included as Attachment 1 to Report FIR 04-25, the City of Pickering will ensure that its fire services are aligned with the current and future needs of the community while meeting all applicable legislative requirements. This updated framework will provide the Fire Chief and municipal officials with the necessary tools and authority to maintain a high standard of fire protection that supports the safety and wellbeing of the City’s residents. Attachment: 1. Draft By-Law to establish and regulate Pickering Fire Services Department. Prepared/Approved/Endorsed By: Original Signed By Steve Boyd Fire Chief SB:jm Recommended for the consideration of Pickering City Council Original Signed By Marisa Carpino, M.A. Chief Administrative Officer - 189 - The Corporation of the City of Pickering By-law No. XXXX/25 Being a by-law to establish and regulate the Pickering Fire Services Department. Whereas By-law 771/78 was passed to establish and regulate the Pickering Fire Services Department was enacted on March 6, 1978; Whereas the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 25, as amended, provides that a municipality has the capacity, rights, powers, and privileges of a natural person for the purpose of exercising its authority under the Municipal Act; And Whereas the Municipal Act provides that Sections 8 and 11 shall be interpreted broadly so as to confer broad authority on municipalities to (a) enable municipalities to govern their affairs as they consider appropriate and, (b) enhance their ability to respond to municipal issues; Whereas, the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, S.O. 1997, c. 4, as amended, (the “Act”) requires every municipality to establish a program in the municipality which must include public education with respect to fire safety and certain components of fire prevention and to provide such other Fire Protection Services as it determines may be necessary in accordance with its needs and circumstances; And Whereas, the Act permits a municipality, in discharging these responsibilities, to establish a fire department; And Whereas, the Act permits a Council of a municipality to establish, maintain, and operate a Fire Department for all or any part of the municipality; And Whereas, the Act requires a municipality that establishes a Fire Department to provide fire suppression services and permits the Fire Department to provide other Fire Protection Services in the municipality; And Whereas, the Act requires a municipality that establishes a Fire Department to appoint a Fire Chief; And Whereas, the Act authorizes a council of a municipality to pass by-laws under the Act to regulate fire prevention, to regulate the setting of open-air fires and to designate private roads as fire routes; And Whereas, The Occupational Health and Safety Act R.S.O., c. O.1, Reg. 714/94, requires the municipality to provide firefighters with the required protective equipment; Now therefore the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering hereby enacts as follows: 1. Appendix “A” to By-law No. XXXX/25 Appendix “A” to By-law No. XXXX/25, attached hereto with notations and references shown thereon are hereby declared to be part of this By-law.- 190 - By-law No. XXXX/25 Page 2 2. Definitions In this By-law; 2.1. “Approved” means approved by Council. 2.2. “Automatic Aid” means any agreement under which a municipality agrees to provide an initial response to fires, rescues and emergencies that may occur in a part of another municipality where a fire department is capable of responding more quickly than any fire department situated in the other municipality; or a municipality agrees to provide a supplemental response to fires, rescues and emergencies that may occur in a part of another municipality where a fire department in the municipality is capable of providing the quickest supplemental response to fires, rescues and emergencies occurring in the part of another municipality; 2.3. “CAO” means the Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Pickering. 2.4. “CEPCP” means the Central East Prehospital Care Program. A division of Lakeridge Health that provides continuing medical education, training, continuous quality improvement programs, and delegation and oversight for the performance of controlled medical acts to Pickering Fire Services. 2.5. “Chief Fire Official” means the Assistant to the Fire Marshal who is the Municipal Fire Chief or a member or members of the Fire Department appointed by the Municipal Fire Chief under the FPPA or a person appointed by the Fire Marshal under the FPPA-Fire Code Div.C1.1. 2.6. “Collective Agreement” means an agreement between the Corporation and the full-time Pickering Professional Firefighters’ Association made under the provisions of the FPPA. 2.7. “Community Emergency Management Coordinator (“CEMC”)” –means a position identified in the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, 1990, c. E.9, as amended (“EMCPA”) as being responsible for the development, implementation, review and maintenance of the Community Emergency Management Plan for the City of Pickering. 2.8. “Corporation” means The Corporation of the City of Pickering. 2.9. “Council” means the Council of the Corporation. 2.10. “Deputy Fire Chief” is second in command and shall act as Fire Chief in the case of an absence or a vacancy in the office of the Fire Chief. Where the Fire Chief designates a member to act in the place of an officer, such member when acting shall have all the powers and shall perform duties of the officer replaced. 2.11. “Division” means a Division of the Fire Services as provided for in this By-law or determined by the Fire Chief. - 191 - By-law No. XXXX/25 Page 3 2.12. “Firefighters’ Association” means the labour union representing The Pickering Professional Firefighters. 2.13. “Fire Chief” means the person appointed by Council to act as Fire Chief for the Corporation and is ultimately responsible to Council as defined in the FPPA. 2.14. “Fire Coordinator” means the person appointed by the Fire Marshal, under the authority of the FPPA to co-ordinate the Regional mutual aid plans, or the person appointed by the Fire Marshal to act in the absence of the Fire Coordinator. 2.15. “Fire Department” means the Corporation’s Fire Department (also referred to as Pickering Fire Services). 2.16. “Fire Marshal” means a position with specific authorities and responsibilities under the FPAA, including ensuring that fire departments throughout Ontario provide adequate levels of service to their communities, providing support to fire departments, and administering the FPPA. Also identified as the Office of the Fire Marshal. 2.17. “FPPA” means the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, S.O., c 4, as may be amended from time to time, or any successor legislation, and any regulation made there under. 2.18. “Fire Protection Agreement” is a contract between municipalities or other agencies that clearly defines the responsibilities, terms, conditions, and all other aspects of the fire services provided and/or required. 2.19. “Fire Protection Services” includes fire suppression, fire prevention, fire safety education, dispatching, administration services, training of persons involved in the provision of Fire Protection Services, rescue and emergency services and the delivery of all those services. 2.20. “Head of Council” means the person elected at large by voters in the City of Pickering, identified formally as the Mayor. 2.21. “Medical Director” means the person or persons directly responsible under the CEPCP for medical guidelines, oversight, and direction. 2.22. “Member” means any defined Firefighter or Officer as per the FPPA and/or any person employed in or appointed to the Fire Services Division and assigned to undertake Fire Protection Services. 2.23. “Municipal Act” means the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended from time to time, or any successor legislation, and any regulation made there under. 2.24. “Mutual Aid” means a program to provide/receive assistance in the case of an emergency in a municipality, community or area where resources in a municipality, community or area have been depleted, but does not include Automatic Aid. - 192 - By-law No. XXXX/25 Page 4 2.25. “NFPA” means codes, standards, recommended practices, and guides as developed and amended by the National Fire Protection Association. These standards are amended from time to time. 2.26. “Officer” means any member with the rank of Captain or higher. 2.27. “Regional” means the Regional Municipality of Durham being the upper tier level of government in a two-tier system. 2.28. “Specialty Rescue” means rescue response as specified to high angle/low angle rope rescue, ice/water rescue, auto extrication, and hazardous materials response, etc. in accordance with available resources, and/or in accordance with an approved specialty rescue service agreement. 2.29. “Tiered Response Agreement” means a formal written document negotiated between Durham Regional Police Services, Region of Durham Paramedic Services, and Pickering Fire Services to establish local protocols for a multi-agency response to a life threatening or public safety incident. The Agreement outlines the capabilities, expectations and limitations of each agency and defines the criteria for participation. 3. Establishment 3.1. A department for the Corporation, to be known as the Pickering Fire Services Department, is hereby established and continued under this By-law and the head of this Department shall be known as the Fire Chief. 4. Composition 4.1. The Fire Services Department shall consist of the Fire Chief, Deputy Fire Chiefs, Divisional Chiefs including Platoon Chiefs, Chief Training Officer, and Chief Fire Prevention Officer, Captains, Fire Fighters, Fire Prevention Officers, Training Officers, Fire Prevention Inspectors, administrative personnel, and any other person(s) as may be authorized or considered necessary from time to time by Council or by the CAO on recommendation from the Fire Chief for the Fire Services Department to perform Fire Protection Services. 4.2. There shall be one Fire Chief appointed by Council. 5. Terms and Conditions of Employment 5.1. Subject to the FPPA and the Collective Agreement, the remuneration and other terms and conditions of employment or appointment of the members that comprise the Fire Department shall be determined by Council or by the CAO acting in accordance with policies and programs established or approved by Council. - 193 - By-law No. XXXX/25 Page 5 6. Organization 6.1. The Fire Department shall be organized into Divisions such as Administration, Suppression, Training, Fire Prevention and Public Education. 6.2. The Fire Chief may assign or re-assign such Members to a Division to assist him in the administration and operation of that Division. Each division of the Fire Services Department is the responsibility of the Fire Chief, or a member designated. Designated members shall report to the Fire Chief on divisions and activities under their supervision and shall carry out all orders of the Fire Chief. 7. Core Services 7.1. The core services of the Fire Department shall be those contained in Appendix “A”. 8. Responsibilities and Authority of Fire Chief 8.1. The Fire Chief shall be the head of the Fire Services Department and is ultimately responsible to Council, through the CAO, for proper administration and operation of the Fire Services including the delivery of Fire Protection Services. 8.2. The Fire Chief (or Deputy Fire Chief if designated by the Fire Chief) shall report to the CAO and will perform the duties of the CEMC under the authority of the EMCPA. 8.3. The Fire Chief shall be authorized to make such general orders, policies, procedures, rules and regulations and to take such other measures as the Fire Chief may consider necessary for the proper administration, efficient operation of the Fire Services Department, and the effective management of fire protection services for the Corporation and for the prevention, control and extinguishment of fires, the protection of life and property and the management of emergencies and without restricting the generality of the foregoing; a) for the care and protection of all property belonging to the Fire Services Department; b) for arranging for the provision and allotment of strategic staffing and facilities, apparatus, equipment, materials, services and supplies for the Fire Services Department; c) for the development and implementation of automatic aid, mutual aid and other fire protection and emergency service agreements within the Corporation’s borders and/or within the municipal borders of adjoining municipalities upon the approval of Council; d) for determining and establishing the qualifications and criteria for employment or appointment, and the duties of, all members of the Fire Services Department; e) for the conduct and the discipline of members of the Fire Services Department; - 194 - By-law No. XXXX/25 Page 6 f) for keeping an accurate record of all fires, rescues and emergencies responded to by the Fire Department and reporting of same to the Office of the Fire Marshal; g) for keeping such other records as may be required by Council, the Corporation and the FPPA; h) for preparing and presenting an annual report of the Fire Services Department to Council; and i) for exercising control over the budget approved by Council for the Fire Services Department. 8.4. The Fire Chief (or Deputy Fire Chief) is authorized to perform the duties of Regional Fire Coordinator as required. 9. Supervision – General Duties and Responsibilities 9.1. The Deputy Fire Chief(s) shall be the second ranking officer of the Fire Services Department and shall be subject to and shall perform such duties as are assigned by the Fire Chief and shall act on behalf of the Fire Chief in case of absence or vacancy in the office of Fire Chief. 10. Emergency Responses outside Limits of the City of Pickering 10.1. The Fire Services Department shall not respond to a call with respect to a fire or an emergency incident outside the limits of the City of Pickering except with respect to a fire or an emergency: a) that in the opinion of the Fire Chief threatens property in the City of Pickering or property situated outside the City of Pickering that is owned or occupied by the Corporation; b) in a municipality with which an agreement has been entered into to provide fire protection services; c) on property with respect to which an agreement has been entered into with any person or corporation to provide fire protection ; d) at the discretion of the Fire Chief, to a municipality authorized to participate in the Durham Region Mutual Aid plan established by the Regional Fire Coordinator appointed by the Ontario Fire Marshal, emergency fire service plan and program or any other organized plan or program on a reciprocal basis; e) on those highways that are under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Transportation or other agency within the City of Pickering for which an automatic aid agreement has been entered into; f) on property beyond the City of Pickering border where the Fire Chief or his or her designate determines that immediate action is necessary to preserve and protect life and/or property and the correct department is - 195 - By-law No. XXXX/25 Page 7 notified to respond and/or assumes command or establishes alternative measures acceptable to the Fire Chief or designate; or g) response due to a request for special assistance as required through a declaration of a provincial or federal emergency and such request has been approved by the Fire Chief, the CAO and the Head of Council. 11. Enforcement and Penalties 11.1. Inspections arising from complaint, request, retrofit, or self-initiated and fire investigations shall be provided in accordance with the FPPA and the City’s Fire Prevention Policy, municipal bylaws, or other legislative authority as applicable. 11.2. Any person who violates any provisions of this By-law is, upon conviction, guilty of an offence and shall be liable to a fine, subject to the provisions of the Provincial Offences Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P.33, as amended. 12. Limited Services 12.1. The Corporation shall accept no liability for the provision of a limited service by the Pickering Fire Services Department, as reasonably necessary. Service may not be available to some structures or locations where accessibility is restricted or unavailable due to road conditions, weather, obstructions, or other factors beyond the control of the Fire Services Department. It is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure access for Fire Services apparatus and personnel. 13. Cost Recovery 13.1. If as the result of a Fire Services response to a fire, rescue, or other emergency, or other attendance, the Chief Administrative Officer, the Fire Chief, or the highest ranking Officer in charge determines that it is necessary to retain a private contractor, rent special equipment, or use consumable materials other than water in order to suppress or extinguish a fire, preserve property, prevent a fire from spreading, remove hazardous materials, assist in or otherwise conduct an investigation to determine the cause of a fire, or otherwise control or eliminate an emergency situation, the Corporation shall recover the costs incurred by the fire department for taking such actions from the owner of the property on which the fire or other emergency occurred. 14. Delegated Authority 14.1. The core services listed in Appendix “A” may be updated from time to time based upon operational needs and circumstances with the approval of the Fire Chief and the Chief Administrative Officer. Any changes to the core services will be communicated to Council in writing from the Fire Chief copying the Chief Administrative Officer and the City Clerk. 15. Administration 15.1. By-law 771/78 is hereby repealed. - 196 - By-law No. XXXX/25 Page 8 15.2. The short title of this By-law is the “Fire Department Establishing and Regulating By-law". By-law passed this 26th day of May, 2025. ________________________________ Kevin Ashe, Mayor ________________________________ Susan Cassel, City Clerk - 197 - Appendix “A” to By-law No. XXXX/25 Core Services Fire Suppression and Emergency Response Suppression 1. Fire suppression response and services shall be delivered and shall include exterior attack, interior attack, rescue, forcible entry, ventilation, protection of exposures, salvage, and overhaul as required. 2. Emergency pre-hospital care response and services shall be delivered in accordance with the CEPCP as determined by the Medical Director. Services shall include first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, other patient care protocols and medical acts such as defibrillation, administration of epinephrine, and administration of naloxone. Emergency pre-hospital care responses shall be determined as per protocol as instituted in accordance with the Tiered Response Services Agreement. • Hazardous material emergency response and services shall be delivered as recommended by the Fire Chief and approved by Council. • Specialized technical rescue response and services, including, but not limited to vehicle extrication, elevator rescue, rope rescue, surface water rescue, ice water rescue, structural collapse, confined space, heavy vehicle rescue, trench rescue, and swift water rescue shall be delivered as recommended by the Fire Chief and approved by Council. Specialized equipment required to provide these services shall be approved by the Fire Chief. Training 1. Members designated by the Fire Chief shall be trained and certified to meet the applicable requirements stated in the Ontario Regulation for Provincial Firefighter Certification based on the level of service delivery as established. 2. Members designated by the Fire Chief shall be trained and certified as an Emergency Medical Responder under the CEPCP. 3. The NFPA Standards and other related industry standards and resources shall be used as training reference guides as approved by the Fire Chief. 4. All training will comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, R.S.O. 1190, c. O.1, as amended and applicable provincial legislation. Fire Prevention 1. Inspections arising from complaint; request; retrofit; self-initiated; fire investigations; or examination and review of fire protection elements of building permit plans shall be provided in accordance with the FPPA, Municipal by-laws, and Departmental policies. 2. The Ontario Fire Service Standards the NFPA 1031, the NFPA 1035, and other applicable NFPA codes and standards and the City’s Fire Prevention Policy shall be used as a reference guide for Fire Prevention training and Public Education. Fire and Life Safety Education 1. Public education programs shall be administered in accordance with the FPPA and Departmental policies. - 198 -