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Home My WebLink AboutMay 26, 20251 Council Meeting Minutes Electronic Meeting May 26, 2025 - 07:00 PM Chair: Mayor Ashe Present: Mayor K. Ashe Councillor M. Brenner Councillor S. Butt Councillor L. Cook Councillor M. Nagy Councillor D. Pickles Councillor L. Robinson Regrets: None Also Present: M.Carpino - Chief Administrative Officer K.Bentley - Director, City Development & CBO P.Bigioni - Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor S.Boyd - Fire Chief B.Duffield - Director, Operations J.Eddy - Director, Human Resources L.Gibbs - Director, Community Services R.Holborn - Director, Engineering Services F.Jadoon - Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects S.Karwowski - Director, Finance & Treasurer S.Cassel - City Clerk M.Guinto - Division Head, Public Affairs & Corporate Communications V.Plouffe - Division Head, Facilities Management & Construction C. Rose - Chief Planner C.Whitaker - Manager, Sustainability & Strategic Environmental Initiatives J.Wallace - Supervisor, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion J.Robertson - Senior Financial Analyst - Asset Management Coordinator M.Edmund - Coordinator, Sustainability Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 2 R. Perera - Deputy Clerk 1. Call to Order/Roll Call The City Clerk certified that all Members of Council were present and participating electronically. 2. Playing of O Canada Mayor Ashe asked all Members of Council to rise for the playing of O Canada. 3. Moment of Reflection Mayor Ashe called for a silent moment of reflection. 4. Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement Mayor Ashe read the Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement. 5. Disclosure of Interest No disclosures of interest were noted. 6. Adoption of Minutes 6.1 Council Minutes, April 29, 2025 (includes Confidential In Camera Minutes provided under separate cover) 6.2 Executive Committee Minutes, May 5, 2025 Resolution # 722/25 Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Robinson That the minutes, Items 6.1 through 6.2, be approved. Carried 7. Presentations Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 3 There were no presentations. 8. Delegations 8.1 Glenn Brown, Pickering Resident Re: Raising Ontario Works (OW) and Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) (Refer to Item 12.1) G. Brown, Pickering Resident, appeared before Council via electronic connection to speak to Item 12.1, Raising Ontario Works (OW) and Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). G. Brown spoke about the City’s current efforts in supporting those in need through its donations to food banks and providing accommodation to the homeless. G. Brown noted that the demand for food banks had risen due to the increase in living costs and fewer individuals being able to make donations. G. Brown said that while the Provincial government did increase the ODSB by 12% in 2022 and 2024, there had been no increases since 2018. G. Brown requested that the City ask the Government of Ontario to increase the ODSB rates and that funding could be allocated through other revenue sources such as their contingency or reserve funds or through funds from the Federal government. G. Brown added that Council may want to amend the motion to ask the Provincial government to fund through either of these funding methods as opposed to adding the matter to the provincial budget. A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and G. Brown regarding: • clarification that the motion reflected discussions held between the Members of Council and the delegate; and, • how the requested increase to the ODSB would assist individuals on the ODSB program meet their most basic needs. 8.2 Shawna Stanleigh, Member, Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee (WVAC) Re: Corr. 07-25 Arnold Mostert, Manager, Landscape & Parks Development, City of Pickering Re: Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 4 2024 Year End Report and 2025 Proposed Work Plan (Refer to Item 9.4) S. Stanleigh, Member, Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee (WVAC), appeared before Council via electronic connection to speak to the Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee 2024 Year End Report and 2025 Proposed Work Plan. Through the aid of a PDF presentation, S. Stanleigh spoke about the Committee’s 2024 activities and achievements, the number of meetings held in 2024, and projects and initiatives brought to the Committee for their awareness and feedback. S. Stanleigh further listed the Committee’s 2025 priorities adding that the Committee would continue to promote awareness of, and advise on projects, information, and resources for waterfront related improvements. A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and S. Stanleigh regarding: • whether there was an initiative that was considered a priority by the Committee which was also dependent on budget or other partnerships; and, • different tourism initiatives undertaken by the City to invite both Pickering and non-Pickering residents to the waterfront. 8.3 Jade Schofield, Principal Consultant, Climate Compass Advisors (Available for questions if needed) Re: Report SUS 02-25 City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 - 2035 (Refer to Item 10.1) See Agenda Item 10.1. 9. Correspondence 9.1 Corr. 04-25 Principles Integrity, Integrity Commissioner for the City of Pickering Re: Integrity Commissioner’s Annual Report City of Pickering Resolution # 723/25 Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 5 Moved By Councillor Brenner Seconded By Councillor Cook That Corr. 04-25, from Principles Integrity, Integrity Commissioner for the City of Pickering, dated May 1, 2025, regarding the Integrity Commissioner’s Annual Report - City of Pickering, be received for information. Carried 9.2 Corr. 05-25 Jesse St. Amant, Coordinator, Cultural Services, City of Pickering Re: Cultural Advisory Committee 2024 Year End Report & 2025 Work Plan Resolution # 724/25 Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 05-25, from Jesse St. Amant, Coordinator, Cultural Services, City of Pickering, dated May 26, 2025, regarding the Cultural Advisory Committee 2024 Year End Report & 2025 Work Plan, be received for information. Carried 9.3 Corr. 06-25 Timothy Higgins, Accessibility Coordinator, City of Pickering Re: Accessibility Advisory Committee 2024 Year End Report and 2025 Proposed Work Plan Resolution # 725/25 Moved By Councillor Brenner Seconded By Councillor Pickles That Corr. 06-25, from Timothy Higgins, Accessibility Coordinator, City of Pickering, dated May 26, 2025, regarding the Accessibility Advisory Committee 2024 Year End Report & 2025 Work Plan, be received for information. Carried 9.4 Corr. 07-25 Arnold Mostert, Manager, Landscape & Parks Development, City of Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 6 Pickering Re: Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee 2024 Year End Report and 2025 Proposed Work Plan Resolution # 726/25 Moved By Councillor Pickles Seconded By Councillor Cook That Corr. 07-25 from Arnold Mostert, Manager, Landscape & Parks Development, City of Pickering, dated May 26, 2025, regarding the Waterfront Visionary Advisory Committee 2024 Year End Report and 2024 Proposed Work Plan, be received for information. Carried 9.5 Corr. 08-25 Amelia Jaggard, Deputy Clerk, Town of Tillsonburg Re: Tillsonburg Town Council Decision Letter - April 14, 2025 - Strong Mayor Powers Discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding: • concerns regarding strong mayor powers consolidating control and removing Members of Council and the public from the decision-making process; • several municipalities passing resolutions in opposition to strong mayor powers and the need to join these municipalities in support; and, • amending the motion to only receive for information in light of Pickering Council having already taken a position on the matter. The Council Decision regarding Agenda Items 9.5 through 9.23 was recorded later in the meeting. See Agenda Item 9.23, Corr. 26-25. Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 08-25, from Amelia Jaggard, Deputy Clerk, Town of Tillsonburg, dated April 15, 2025, regarding Tillsonburg Town Council Decision Letter - April 14, 2025 - Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 7 9.6 Corr. 09-25 Luke Charbonneau, Mayor, Town of Saugeen Shores Re: Opposition to Proposed Amendments to O.Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor Powers Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 09-25, from Luke Charbonneau, Mayor, Town of Saugeen Shores, dated April 14, 2025, regarding Opposition to Proposed Amendments to O.Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) 9.7 Corr. 10-25 Michael Prue, Mayor, Town of Amherstburg Re: Resolution# 20250414-011 - Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the Town of Amherstburg Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 10-25, from Michael Prue, Mayor, Town of Amherstburg, dated April 15, 2025, regarding Resolution# 20250414-011 - Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the Town of Amherstburg, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) 9.8 Corr. 11-25 Angela Toole, Acting Manager of Municipal Governance/Clerk, Town of Kingsville Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers – Proposed Amendments to O. Reg. 530/22 Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 11-25, from Angela Toole, Acting Manager of Municipal Governance/Clerk, Town of Kingsville, dated April 16, 2025, regarding Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers – Proposed Amendments to O. Reg. 530/22, be received and endorsed. Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 8 Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) 9.9 Corr. 12-25 Township of Rideau Lakes Re: MSC (PW) Rec #78-2025 re: Strong Mayor Powers (for Council approval) Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 12-25, from the Township of Rideau Lakes, dated April 16, 2025, regarding MSC (PW) Rec #78-2025 re: Strong Mayor Powers (for Council approval), be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) 9.10 Corr. 13-25 Jamie McGarvey, Mayor, Town of Parry Sound Re: Strong Mayor Powers Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 13-25, from Jamie McGarvey, Mayor, Town of Parry Sound, dated April 22, 2025, regarding Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) 9.11 Corr. 14-25 Jessica Walters, Clerk, Town of Greater Napanee Re: Strong Mayor Powers Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 14-25, from Jessica Walters, Clerk, Town of Greater Napanee, dated April 23, 2025, regarding Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 9 9.12 Corr. 15-25 Karen Martin, Clerk, Township of Zorra Re: Strong Mayor Powers Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 15-25, from Karen Martin, Clerk, Township of Zorra, dated April 24, 2025, regarding Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) 9.13 Corr. 16-25 The Municipality of North Middlesex Re: Resolution of Council, Expansion of Strong Mayor Powers Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 16-25, form The Municipality of North Middlesex, dated April 23, 2025, regarding Resolution of Council, Expansion of Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) 9.14 Corr. 17-25 Joseph Malandruccolo, Director, Legal and Legislative Services/Clerk, Town of Essex Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers: Proposed Amendments to O. Reg. 530/22 Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 17-25, from Joseph Malandruccolo, Director, Legal and Legislative Services/Clerk, Town of Essex, dated April 28, 2025, regarding Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers: Proposed Amendments to O. Reg. 530/22, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 10 9.15 Corr. 18-25 Gary Serviss, Mayor, Town of Petawawa Re: Proposed Amendments to O. Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor Powers and Duties to Additional Municipalities Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 18-25, from Gary Serviss, Mayor, Town of Petawawa, dated April 29, 2025, regarding Proposed Amendments to O. Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor Powers and Duties to Additional Municipalities, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) 9.16 Corr. 19-25 Kendra Webster, Legislative & Licensing Coordinator, Municipality of South Huron Re: Proposed Amendments to O.Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor Powers Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 19-25, from Kendra Webster, Legislative & Licensing Coordinator, Municipality of South Huron, dated April 30, 2025, regarding Proposed Amendments to O.Reg. 530/22 to Expand Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) 9.17 Corr. 20-25 Chandra Alexander, Manager of Corporate Services/Clerk, Municipality of Bluewater Re: Strong Mayor Powers Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 20-25, from Chandra Alexander, Manager of Corporate Services/Clerk, Municipality of Bluewater, date April 28, 2025, regarding Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 11 9.18 Corr. 21-25 Jackie Mellon, Clerk, Town of Deep River Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the Town of Deep River in Response to the Province's Recent Proposal to Designate Deep River as a "Strong Mayor" Municipality, Effective May 1, 2025. Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 21-25, from Jackie Mellon, Clerk, Town of Deep River, dated April 30, 2025, regarding Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the Town of Deep River in Response to the Province's Recent Proposal to Designate Deep River as a "Strong Mayor" Municipality, Effective May 1, 2025, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) 9.19 Corr. 22-25 Steven Dalley, Town Manager, Clerk/Treasurer, Town of Cobalt Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the Corporation of the Town of Cobalt Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 22-25, from Steven Dalley, Town Manager, Clerk/Treasurer, Town of Cobalt, dated May 1, 2025, regarding Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the Corporation of the Town of Cobalt, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) 9.20 Corr. 23-25 Tatiana Dafoe, Clerk, City of Stratford Re: Resolution R2025-174 - Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the City of Stratford Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 23-25, from Tatiana Dafoe, Clerk, City of Stratford, dated May 1, 2025, regarding Resolution R2025-174 - Opposition to Strong Mayor Designation for the City of Stratford, be received and endorsed. Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 12 Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) 9.21 Corr. 24-25 Dianne Gould-Brown, Executive Assistant – Deputy Clerk, Town of Plympton- Wyoming Re: Strong Mayor Powers Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 24-25, from Dianne Gould-Brown, Executive Assistant – Deputy Clerk, Town of Plympton-Wyoming dated April 30, 2025, regarding Strong Mayor Powers, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) 9.22 Corr. 25-25 Sarah Carter, Acting Clerk/Legislative Services Supervisor, Municipality of North Perth Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers in the Municipality of North Perth Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 25-25, from Sarah Carter, Acting Clerk/Legislative Services Supervisor, Municipality of North Perth, dated May 8, 2025, regarding Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers in the Municipality of North Perth, be received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (Refer to Agenda Item 9.23) 9.23 Corr. 26-25 Cayla Reimer, Deputy Clerk, Township of Springwater Re: Resolution C195-2025 - Opposing Strong Mayor Powers Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 26-25, from Cayla Reimer, Deputy Clerk, Township of Springwater, dated May 8, 2025, regarding Resolution C195-2025 - Opposing Strong Mayor Powers, be Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 13 received and endorsed. Carried later in the Meeting (See Following Motions) Resolution # 727/25 Moved By Councillor Brenner Seconded By Councillor Cook That the main motions of Corr. 08-25 through Corr. 26-25 be amended by deleting the words "and endorsed" in each motion. Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent Mayor Ashe X Councillor Brenner X Councillor Butt X Councillor Cook X Councillor Nagy X Councillor Pickles X Councillor Robinson X Results 6 1 0 0 0 Carried on a Recorded Vote (6 to 1) The Main Motion, as amended, was then before Council for Adoption Resolution # 728/25 Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Corr. 08-25 through Corr. 26-25, regarding Opposing Strong Mayor Powers, be received. Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote 10. Report EC 05-25 of the Executive Committee held on May 5, 2025 10.1 Director, City Development & CBO, Report SUS 02-25 City of Pickering Community Climate Adaptation Plan 2025 - 2035 Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 14 Discussion and a question and answer period ensued between Members of Council, staff, and. J. Schofield, regarding: • claims that the Community Climate Adaptation Plan (CCAP) was scientifically outdated, fiscally reckless, and ideologically driven, and disconnected from Pickering residents; • claims that the CCAP was built on the climate change scenario Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 8.5 and concerns that the RCP 8.5 was based on unrealistic assumptions; • concerns that a cost breakdown was not provided for each of the recommendations within the CCAP; • the City signing on to the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) and concerns regarding a lack of public consultation; • clarification that the CCAP recommended preventative and proactive measures regarding basement flooding; • the City's CCAP being consistent with other municipalities; • clarification regarding the number of community engagement sessions that were conducted regarding the CCAP; • the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within the CCAP and examples of DEI initiatives provided by the City to residents in the spirit of responsible governance; • recommendations included in the CCAP benefiting a variety of residents in different age brackets, stages, and economic and social backgrounds; • Hurricane Katrina being an example of not being prepared for a worst-case scenario; • whether anything was added or removed from the staff report in response to community feedback; and, • whether there were statistics to indicate that there was more rain this year compared to previous years. Resolution # 729/25 Moved By Councillor Pickles Seconded By Councillor Brenner 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 Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 15 plan; and, 4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent Mayor Ashe X Councillor Brenner X Councillor Butt X Councillor Cook X Councillor Nagy X Councillor Pickles X Councillor Robinson X Results 6 1 0 0 0 Carried on a Recorded Vote (6 to 1) 10.2 Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report CLK 02-25 Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election Discussion and a question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding: • claims of issues experienced by other municipalities and other countries who had utilized Internet Voting in their respective elections; • concerns that Internet Voting did not provide a paper trail for each ballot that was cast using the Internet Voting system; • both the Provincial and Federal governments not using Internet Voting in their elections; • Federal and Provincial elections not being a fair comparator to municipal elections; • 79% of Pickering electors having chosen to cast their ballot using Internet Voting during the 2022 Municipal Election; • the recommended hybrid voting method being a good solution to offer both paper ballot and Internet Voting; and, • the issues that were experienced during the recent Federal election which utilized paper ballot as the only voting method. Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 16 Resolution # 730/25 Moved By Councillor Pickles Seconded By Councillor Brenner 1. That Report CLK 02-25 regarding the approval of voting methods for the 2026 Municipal Election be received; 2. That both internet voting and paper ballots, using vote tabulators, be approved as the voting methods for the 2026 Municipal Election and any by-elections that may occur during the 2026-2030 Term of Council; 3. That the draft By-law included as Attachment 1 to Report CLK 02-25 be approved and enacted; 4. That the City Clerk be directed to proceed with a Request for Proposal for the approved voting methods and associated services, and report back to Council to award the contract to the most appropriate vendor(s); and, 5. That appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the actions necessary to give effect to this report. Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent Mayor Ashe X Councillor Brenner X Councillor Butt X Councillor Cook X Councillor Nagy X Councillor Pickles X Councillor Robinson X Results 6 1 0 0 0 Carried on a Recorded Vote (6 to 1) 10.3 Director, Community Services, Report CS 04-25 Civic Awards Program Policy Update A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding: • whether the Civic Awards Committee could be made up of an odd number of members to avoid tie votes; Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 17 • clarification that only Pickering residents could be nominated for the volunteer award category; and, • whether the selection process could be open to the public for their input. Resolution # 731/25 Moved By Councillor Pickles Seconded By Councillor Brenner 1. That Council approve the updated Civic Awards Program Policy CUL 150, as set out in Attachment 1 to this report; and, 2. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. Carried 10.4 Director, Community Services, Report CS 05-25 Waterfront Paddle Sport Rental Service Frenchman’s Bay Resolution # 732/25 Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Robinson 1. That Report CS 05-25 regarding an update on waterfront paddle sport rental service on Frenchman’s Bay be received; 2. That Council approve the inclusion of facilities to accommodate paddle sport rental services in the design of Beachfront Park Revitalization - Phase 2; and, 3. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary action as indicated in this report. Carried 10.5 Director, Community Services, Report CS 07-25 Northern Community Halls Recommendations for Facility Renewal Resolution # 733/25 Moved By Councillor Cook Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 18 Seconded By Councillor Nagy 1. That staff be directed to investigate the option to sell Green River Community Centre, with Infrastructure Ontario being offered the first right of refusal to purchase for $2.00 as per the original sales agreement (Attachment 1), and then to explore options to sell the facility, and report back to Council with recommendations in Q1, 2026; 2. That staff be directed to investigate options to sell the former Greenwood Library back to the Durham District School Board first; and then to explore options to sell or lease the facility at a market rate and report back to Council with recommendations in Q1, 2026; 3. That staff be directed to renew the management agreement for the Mount Zion Community Centre with the Mount Zion Community Centre Association for a two year term from July 1 2025 to June 30 2026 returning said agreement to Council in Q2, 2025 for endorsement; and to investigate options to reduce the net capital cost of Mount Zion Community Centre by selling the facility, or leasing the facility at a market rate and report back to Council with recommendations in Q1, 2026; 4. That staff be directed to renew the management agreement for the Whitevale Community Centre and the Whitevale Arts and Culture Centre with the Whitevale and District Residents’ Association for a five-year term from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2030 returning said agreement to Council in Q2, 2025 for endorsement; 5. That City Heritage staff evaluate the Mount Zion Community Centre (School Section #13 Schoolhouse) and Green River Community Centre (Green River Baptist Church) under Regulation 9/06 of the Ontario Heritage Act to determine whether the properties merit designation under Part IV of the Act, and report back to Council with recommendations in Q4, 2025; 6. That, as part of any open proposal to sell or lease the above properties, staff be directed to invite community groups to submit an expression of interest; and, 7. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in the report. Carried 10.6 Fire Chief, Report FIR 04-25 Fire Department Establishing and Regulating By-law A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 19 regarding: • why Council was being removed from the decision-making process related to changes to core fire services; • what protections were in place to ensure that residents were not unfairly charged if an emergency was out of their control; • clarification regarding access to fire services for residents with homes on unassumed roads; and, • whether residents on unassumed roads were notified of limitations with fire services accessing their properties. Resolution # 734/25 Moved By Councillor Pickles Seconded By Councillor Brenner 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. Resolution # 735/25 Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That Council take a short recess. Carried Carried Council recessed at 8:48 p.m. and reconvened at 9:00 p.m. Upon reconvening, the City Clerk certified that all Members of Council were once again present and participating electronically, save and except for Councillor Butt. Councillor Butt rejoined the electronic Council meeting at 9:01 p.m. 11. New and Unfinished Business Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 20 11.1 Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects, Report ECD 04-25 Naming Rights Agreement for Pickering’s New Community Centre M. Carpino, Chief Administrative Officer, stated that staff were directed to pursue naming opportunities for the Pickering Heritage & Community Centre (PHCC) and that following a property asset evaluation conducted by an external consultant, City staff commenced discussions with interested parties which resulted in the recommendations outlined in Report ECD 04-25. A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding: • whether staff had compared the proposal by Dorsay Developments Corporation for PHCC to naming rights agreements other municipalities had in place to ensure that the proposal was at fair market value and competitive; • a confidential memorandum being circulated to Council prior to the Council meeting regarding Report ECD 04-25; • clarification that the naming rights agreement was for signage at the exterior of the building as well as the naming of a meeting room inside the PHCC; • whether it was standard practice to install an information board on the named party within the facility; • how much influence the City had over the name and concern regarding the loss of the word "heritage" within the name; • whether there were any implications with referring the report to the June 23, 2025 Council Meeting; • clarification that the PHCC would be within the Pickering Museum Village; • the naming rights agreement being an opportunity to generate revenue for the City; • whether the naming of the facility was time sensitive; • whether staff could consider keeping the "heritage" wording within the name for the facility when reporting back to Council on June 23, 2025; • whether the agreement could include wording to provide the option for the parties to decide between Dorsay Community Centre or Dorsay Heritage Community Centre; • the initiative bringing real value to the City and the need for more naming rights opportunities; and, • why signage was already under development prior to Council's approval of the naming rights. Moved By Councillor Pickles Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 21 Seconded By Councillor Nagy 1. That Council approve the acceptance of $1,000,000 from Dorsay Developments Corporation in exchange for the naming rights of Pickering’s new community centre, (previously called the Pickering Heritage & Community Centre) to be called Dorsay Community Centre, in accordance with the naming rights agreement (Attachment 1); 2. That Council approve the naming rights agreement between the City of Pickering and Dorsay Developments Corporation, set out in Attachment 1, subject to minor revisions acceptable to the Chief Administrative Officer and City Solicitor; 3. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the naming rights agreement between the City of Pickering and Dorsay Developments Corporation; and, 4. That the appropriate City of Pickering Officials be authorized to take necessary actions as indicated in this report. Note: The disposition of this matter was determined through the referral motion below: Resolution # 736/25 Moved By Councillor Nagy Seconded By Councillor Brenner That Report ECD 04-25 be referred back to staff to provide Council with time to review a copy of the confidential valuation report and that the valuation report be circulated to all Members of Council for their review prior to the June 23, 2025 Council Meeting. Carried 11.2 Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 10-25 2025 Asset Management Plan A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council, staff, and E. Ibrahim regarding: • the specific projects that would be completed under the proposed 10-year tax increase to address the existing infrastructure gap in Pickering; • what guarantees would be in place to ensure that the tax dollars were allocated towards infrastructure renewal; Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 22 • why there were no requirements for annual reporting; • whether the monies received through the proposed tax increase to address the infrastructure gap would be placed in a separate reserve; • how the gap in infrastructure came to be; • what steps had been taken to eliminate inefficient spending; • whether any public consultation was done regarding the proposed tax increase to address the infrastructure gap; • the number of public survey responses and how many respondents were agreeable to the proposed tax increases to address the infrastructure gap; • why the asset management plan was for a period of 10 years as opposed to a year-to-year basis; • how much of the $32.8 million infrastructure gap was attributed to climate change; • clarification that the Report was identifying the existing infrastructure gap and not increasing taxes as that was only done through the budget process; • clarification that the City was working on the infrastructure gap through ongoing projects; and, • concerns regarding the asset management plan and the proposed tax increase and whether there was a likelihood of reversing the tax increase. Resolution # 737/25 Moved By Councillor Brenner Seconded By Councillor Cook 1. That the 2025 Asset Management Plan, set out in Attachment 1 to this report, be received; 2. That Council endorse the use of the 2025 Asset Management Plan for financial planning purposes as it relates to the development of the Ten Year financial plan; and, 3. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent Mayor Ashe X Councillor Brenner X Councillor Butt X Councillor Cook X Councillor Nagy X Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 23 Councillor Pickles X Councillor Robinson X Results 6 1 0 0 0 Carried on a Recorded Vote (6 to 1) 11.3 Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 06-25 Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Scaled Down Schematic Design M. Carpino, Chief Administrative Officer, stated that at the April 22, 2025 Special Council Meeting, staff were directed to pause the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library (SRCL) Project due to existing financial uncertainties and to provide an update to Council in September 2025. M. Carpino stated that staff were now seeking approval to bring a secondary option that was more schematically scaled down in September as the financial uncertainties may persist. M. Carpino stated that a new aquatic centre would be required within the next five years to accommodate the renovations at Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex. Discussion and a question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff regarding: • clarification that the original design concept would be brought along with the scaled down version to Council in September; • clarification that the scaled down option could potentially eliminate further delays should Council not want to proceed with the original design concept in September; • whether the scaled down version eliminated the outdoor arena that was included in the original design concept; • clarification that the scaled down version did not include a skating trail and that a skating facility would be available in the new urban park in the City Centre; • feedback from residents regarding the need for an ice rink; • whether the refurbishing of the Don Beer Arena would extend its life cycle; • what other components of the original design concept would be eliminated through the scaled down version; • the need for the scaled down version to include adequate office space for City staff; • the need to ensure that the facility would accommodate future needs of the Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 24 City; • cost to date on designs for the Project and why the City was spending additional funds for a scaled down version; • how the proposed spending related to the current infrastructure gap outlined in the Asset Management Plan; • the estimated cost for the Project and the impact of the Project on the property tax and debt load for the City; • whether staff had considered cancelling or pausing the Project further; • whether the public would have input on scaling down the Project; and, • concerns regarding funds being spent on investigating a scaled down version and the need to prioritize repairing public infrastructure and pause all non- essential projects. Resolution # 738/25 Moved By Councillor Pickles Seconded By Councillor Cook 1. That Report CAO 06-25 regarding the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project be received; 2. That Council direct staff to complete additional design work for the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library at a cost not to exceed $250,000.00 funded from the project contingency that results in an alternative design and reduced project cost option not exceeding $200 million, and for the alternative design and reduced project cost option to be returned to Council in September, 2025; 3. That naming rights for any part of the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library project be deferred until Council has approved the final design and a construction contract for the project has been awarded; and, 4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in this report. Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent Mayor Ashe X Councillor Brenner X Councillor Butt X Councillor Cook X Councillor Nagy X Councillor Pickles X Councillor Robinson X Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 25 Results 2 5 0 0 0 Motion Lost on a Recorded Vote (2 to 5) Resolution # 739/25 Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That the Council Decision regarding Report CAO 06-25 be reconsidered. Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent Mayor Ashe X Councillor Brenner X Councillor Butt X Councillor Cook X Councillor Nagy X Councillor Pickles X Councillor Robinson X Results 4 3 0 0 0 Motion Lost on a Recorded Vote (Required Two-Thirds Majority Not Achieved) (4 to 3) 11.4 Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 07-25 Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program Project Update A question and answer period ensued with staff regarding: • whether there was any evidence that City staff failed to treat residents with courtesy, empathy, and respect; • why the City was not offering customer service and empathy training to staff instead of identifying symbols; • concern that the Program would create a two-tier service level for residents; • what would happen with individuals who did not want to wear the identifying symbol; and, • whether the funding could instead be spent on tangible improvements such as Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 26 physical accessibility. Resolution # 740/25 Moved By Councillor Pickles Seconded By Councillor Brenner 1. That Report CAO 07-25 regarding Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program be received; 2. That staff be directed to register the City of Pickering in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program at the Corporate Membership Level; 3. That the expense for the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, be charged to account General - Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (502240.9750) and the expense not to exceed $7,000.00; and, 4. That appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report. Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote 11.5 Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 08-25 Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce 2024 Year End Report and Proposed 2025 Workplan A question and answer period ensued with staff regarding: • the consultants or agencies in receipt of the $60,000 budget and their deliverables; • how the success of the Taskforce was measured; • whether any other cultural or ethnic groups received similar funding and access to City event space; • whether the full cost of operating the Taskforce had been calculated; and, • whether current events conducted by the Taskforce were in accordance with their mandate; Resolution # 741/25 Moved By Councillor Pickles Seconded By Councillor Brenner 1. That Report CAO 08-25 regarding the Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce 2024 Year End Report and 2025 Workplan be received for information; Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 27 2. That Council approve the 2025 3rd Annual Community event in celebration of the International Day for People of African Descent, per ADM 040 Committees and Taskforces of Council Policy, and on terms and conditions satisfactory to the Director, Community Services and the Chief Administrative Officer; 3. That Council authorize staff to issue a park permit to the Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce for the use of Esplanade Park, per CUL 070 Community Festivals and Events Policy, for the Community Event in celebration of the International Day for People of African Descent; and, 4. That Council approve the Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce-led 2025 Black Joy Holiday Market event, per ADM 040 Committees and Taskforces of Council Policy, and on terms and conditions satisfactory to the Director, Community Services and the Chief Administrative Officer. Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote Resolution # 742/25 Moved By Councillor Robinson Seconded By Councillor Cook That due to the remaining items of business on the agenda, the meeting be extended to allow Council to continue to meet beyond 11:00 p.m. Carried 11.6 Director, Community Services, Report CS 08-25 Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Roof and Skylight Replacement Second-Stage Request for Quotation No. RFQQ2025-5 Resolution # 743/25 Moved By Councillor Pickles Seconded By Councillor Brenner 1. That the quotation submitted by Solar Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. in response to Second-Stage Request for Quotation No. RFQQ2025-5 for the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Roof (D, D1, I4) and Skylight Replacement, in the amount of $1,496,177.00 (net HST) or $1,661,439.00 (HST included) be accepted; 2. That the total gross project cost of $1,966,539.00 (HST included), including the amount of the tender, construction contingency, and other associated costs, and the total net project cost of $1,770,929.00 (net HST) be approved; Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 28 3. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project cost of $1,770,929.00 to be funded from the Facilities Reserve and CCBF (FGT) Oblg RF as approved in the 2024 and 2025 Capital Budgets; 4. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to approve consulting costs that may exceed $50,000.00 but not in excess of $65,000.00 to prevent any related risks of delays in construction; 5. That the Director, Community Services be authorized to execute the CCDC-2, 2020 Stipulated Price Contract with Solar Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. pursuant to Second Stage Request for Quotation No. RFQQ2025-5; and, 6. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in the report. Carried 11.7 Director, Community Services, Report CS 10-25 General Contracting Services for Redman House Restoration Tender No. T2025-6 Resolution # 744/25 Moved By Councillor Pickles Seconded By Councillor Brenner 1. That the bid submitted by Icon Builders Inc. in response to Request for Tender No. T2025-6 for General Contracting Services for Redman House Restoration, in the amount of $592,070.21 (net HST) or $657,467.90 (HST included) be accepted; 2. That the total gross project cost of $843,918.00 (HST included), including the amount of the tender, construction contingency, and other associated costs, and the total net project cost of $759,974.00 (net HST) be approved; 3. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project cost of $759,974.00 to be funded as approved in the 2018, 2021, 2022 and 2024 Capital Budget as follows: a. The sum of $121,289.00 to be funded by the Rate Stabilization Reserve; b. The sum of $516,560.00 to be funded by the GICB grant; c. The sum of $88,000.00 to be funded by the Facilities Reserve; d. The sum of $34,125.00 to be funded by Property Taxes; 4. That the Director, Community Services be authorized to execute the CCDC-2, 2020 Stipulated Price Contract with Icon Builders Inc. pursuant to Request for Tender No. T2025-6; and, Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 29 5. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary actions as indicated in the report. Carried 11.8 Director, City Infrastructure, Report INF 03-25 Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets Tender No. T2025-4 Resolution # 745/25 Moved By Councillor Pickles Seconded By Councillor Brenner 1. That the bid submitted by 1108575 Ontario LTD O/A Kon-Strutt Construction in response to Request for Tender No. T2025-4 for Asphalt Resurfacing on Various City Streets, in the amount of $2,509,862.00 (net HST) or $2,787,091.00 (HST included) be accepted; 2. That the total gross project cost of $3,237,785.00 (HST included), including the tendered amount, geotechnical investigation reports, material testing, contingency and other associated costs, and the total net project cost of $2,915,727.00 (net of HST rebate) be approved; 3. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project cost of $2,915,727.00 as approved in the 2025 Capital Budget from the Building Faster Fund (BFF) Reserve Fund, on the condition that the City receives the grant funding related to achieving its 2024 housing targets; and the default funding strategy would have the projects funded by a transfer from Roads & Bridges Reserve Fund; and, 4. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary action to give effect hereto. Carried 11.9 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 12-25 Environmental Registry of Ontario Postings: ERO 025-0461, ERO 025-0462, ERO 025-0463, Bill 17: Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act, 2025 Regulatory Registry of Ontario Postings: 25-MMAH003 City of Pickering Comments on ERO and Regulatory Postings Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 30 Brief discussion ensued regarding the possibility of adding additional comments and concerns regarding recent initiatives by the Provincial government removing the authority of municipalities. Resolution # 746/25 Moved By Councillor Pickles Seconded By Councillor Brenner 1. That Council endorse the comments contained in Report PLN 12-25, as the City of Pickering detailed comments on the ERO Postings ERO 025-0461, ERO 025-0462, ERO 025-0463, 25-MMAH003; and, 2. That Council authorize the Chief Administrative Officer to submit the Council endorsed comments on the identified ERO and Regulatory postings to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing website by the June 11 and 26, 2025, deadlines. Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent Mayor Ashe X Councillor Brenner X Councillor Butt X Councillor Cook X Councillor Nagy X Councillor Pickles X Councillor Robinson X Results 5 2 0 0 0 Carried on a Recorded Vote (5 to 2) 12. Motions and Notice of Motions 12.1 Raising Ontario Works (OW) and Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) Brief discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding: • the need to increase the ODSP rates to allow individuals to meet their basic needs with dignity; • the increase to the rates between 2022 and 2024 being only 12% and prior to Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 31 2022 the rates not increasing since 2018; and, • the need to pressure other tiers of governments for their action prior to entering another uncertain economic state. Resolution # 747/25 Moved By Councillor Pickles Seconded By Councillor Cook WHEREAS individuals and families receiving income support through Ontario Works (OW) and the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) are facing increasing challenges in meeting basic needs due to rising costs of living; And Whereas Statistics Canada notes that people with disabilities have a higher poverty rate and a lower rate of employment than the overall population; And Whereas the annual income support for Ontario Works is currently $8,796.00 and $16,416.00 for Ontario Disability Support Program. These supports have not increased sufficiently to keep up with inflation and the cost of living. Such costs are anticipated to continue increasing; And Whereas the low income measure for a single person in Greater Toronto Area is estimated to be approximately $27,343 annually, and the deep income poverty threshold is determined to be $20,508; And Whereas Food Banks, including our local Food Banks, provide a necessary service with increasing demands in our communities; And Whereas the Pickering Food Bank served 1,722 adults, and 1,054 children in February 2025; And Whereas food banks are already reducing their distribution capacity; and it is anticipated that due to developing economic circumstances, such as the current tariff war, there will be increased unemployment, increased food prices, and a heightened demand for food distribution, while donations continue to decline; And Whereas these economic trends will continue to erode the purchasing power of OW and ODSP recipients, increasing reliance on food banks and placing additional pressure on municipalities and community organizations; Now therefore it be resolved that the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering directs through the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer: 1. That staff send a letter to the Premier of Ontario, Minister of Finance, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, and the Minister for Seniors and Accessibility, to strongly urge that the Ontario Provincial Government significantly raise the payments of Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program and the increases be reflected in the upcoming Provincial Budget and that the increased amount aligns with inflationary costs and thereby decrease the pressure on food banks and the reliance on Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 32 municipalities and taxpayers to supplement the gap in financial need; and, 2. That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to all Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs), the Regional Municipality of Durham, all Municipalities in the Province of Ontario, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) for their endorsement and advocacy. Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote 13. By-laws 13.1 By-law 8182/25 Being a by-law to authorize the use of an alternative voting method for the 2026 Municipal Election. Resolution # 748/25 Moved By Councillor Nagy Seconded By Councillor Cook That By-law 8182/25 be approved. Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent Mayor Ashe X Councillor Brenner X Councillor Butt X Councillor Cook X Councillor Nagy X Councillor Pickles X Councillor Robinson X Results 6 1 0 0 0 Carried on a Recorded Vote (6 to 1) 13.2 By-law 8183/25 Being a by-law to establish and regulate the Pickering Fire Services Department. Resolution # 749/25 Moved By Councillor Nagy Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 33 Seconded By Councillor Cook That By-law 8183/25 be approved. Carried 13.3 By-law 8184/25 Being a by-law to exempt Lots 44, 65, and 106, Plan 40M-2671, from the part lot control provisions of the Planning Act. Resolution # 750/25 Moved By Councillor Nagy Seconded By Councillor Cook That By-law 8184/25 be approved. Carried 14. Confidential Council - Public Report Mayor Ashe stated that prior to the Regular Meeting of Council, an In-camera session was held at 6:30 pm in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Act and Procedure By- law to receive advice subject to solicitor-client privilege, and to consider a matter relating to litigation or potential litigation. This matter was discussed in closed session for Council direction regarding an appeal of a Committee of Adjustment decision. 14.1 Confidential Memorandum from the (Acting) Director, City Development Council Direction Regarding Appeal of Committee of Adjustment Decision City File: MV 12/25 by I. Syed 900 Vistula Drive OLT File: OLT-25-000321 Resolution # 751/25 Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That, regarding Minor Variance Application MV 12/25 by I. Syed, the City takes no further action with respect to the appeal of the decision of the Committee of Adjustment to the Ontario Land Tribunal submitted by I. Syed. Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent Mayor Ashe X Councillor Brenner X Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 34 Councillor Butt X Councillor Cook X Councillor Nagy X Councillor Pickles X Councillor Robinson X Results 4 3 0 0 0 Carried on a Recorded Vote (4 to 3) 15. Regional Councillor Updates There were no updates from Regional Councillors. 16. Other Business • Councillor Nagy gave Notice of a Motion regarding Bill 5. • Councillor Pickles gave Notice of a Motion regarding the need to expedite the widening of Brock Road and signalization at appropriate locations now that the Province had removed tolls from the provincial highway east of Brock Road. • Councilor Robinson gave Notice of a Motion regarding opposing Bill 5. • Councilor Robinson gave Notice of a Motion regarding formally opposing Strong Mayor Powers. • Councilor Robinson gave Notice of a Motion regarding establishing taskforces for other cultural and faith-based groups in accordance with Policy ADM 040. 17. Confirmatory By-law Moved By Councillor Cook Seconded By Councillor Nagy That By-law 8185/25, to confirm the proceedings of the May 26, 2025, Council Meeting be approved. Carried 18. Adjournment Moved By Councillor Nagy Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2025 35 Seconded By Councillor Robinson That the meeting be adjourned. Carried The meeting adjourned at 11:23 p.m. Dated this 26th day of May, 2025. Kevin Ashe, Mayor Susan Cassel, City Clerk