HomeMy WebLinkAboutCS 21-25Report to Council
Report Number: CS 21-25
Date: July 15, 2025
From: Laura Gibbs
Director, Community Services
Subject: Council Chamber s Renovation
Tender No. T2025-5
File: A-1440
Recommendation:
1. That the bid submitted by Century Group Inc. in response to Request for Tender No.
T2025-5 for the Council Chambers Renovation located in the Pickering Civic Complex , in
the amount of $2,874,451.00 (excluding HST) or $3,248,129.63 (HST included) be
accepted;
2. That the bid submitted by AVI-SPL Canada Ltd. in response to Request for Quote No.
RFSQ2025-4 for the Council Chambers Audio Visual System Replacement, in the
amount of $485,041.91 (net HST) or $548,097.35 (HST included) be accepted and
assigned as a subcontract to tender T2025-5, under the cash allowance included in that
bid price;
3. That the total gross project cost of $3,666,230.00 (HST included), including the amount of
the tender, construction contingency, and other associated costs, and the total net project
cost of $3,301,554.00 (net HST) be approved;
4. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project cost of
$3,301,554.00 to be funded as follows:
• Rate Stabilization Reserve $2,991,685.00
• Casino Reserve $109,869.00
• CCBF (formerly Federal Gas Tax) $170,000.00
• Public Art Reserve $30,000.00
5. That the Director, Community Services be authorized to execute the CCDC -2, 2020
Stipulated Price Contract with the above-mentioned contractor pursuant to Request for
Tender No. T2025-5;
6. That the update regarding Public Art be received and the Mayor and City Clerk be
authorized to execute the Letter of Understanding between Dorsay James and the City of
Pickering as set out in Attachment 1, subject to minor revisions acceptable to the
Director, Community Services and the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor; and,
7. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary
actions as indicated in the report.
CS 21-25 July 15, 2025
Page 2
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to award a construction contract and
related work for the Council Chambers Renovation, including HVAC improvements, provision
of public art, upgrades to the Main Committee Room and interconnecting spaces at the
Pickering Civic Complex located at One The Esplanade. Work includes overall improvements
to accessibility, security, acoustic performance, audio-visual systems, controls, electrical and
mechanical systems, millwork, finishes, and related systems and building elements.
Request for Tender No. T2025-5 was advertised on the City’s bids&tenders portal on March
27, 2025 and closed on May 13, 2025. This tender was issued only to pre-qualified proponents
per RFSQ2024-6. Five companies submitted bids for this project. Century Group Inc. is the
lowest compliant bidder at a value of $2,874,451.00 (excluding HST) or $3,248,129.63 (HST
included) and the total net project cost is estimated at $3,301,554.00 (net of HST rebate).
The audio-visual contractor was selected through a separate process that included an
evaluation of the proponents to ensure greater quality control. Request for Quote No.
RFSQ2025-4 for the Council Chambers Audio Visual System Replacement was advertised on
the bids&tenders portal on April 28, 2025, and closed on May 13, 2025. Eight companies
submitted bids for this project. Staff from Community Services (Facilities Management &
Construction) and Corporate Services (Information Technology), as well as audio-visual
consultants from the project design team were the evaluators. The highest ranked proponent is
AVI-SPL Canada Ltd. with a bid of $485,041.91 (excluding HST) or 548,097.35 (HST
included). This bid is within the cash allowance budget provided for in T2025-5 and requires no
additional funding.
Public Art is to be included in the Council Chamber s Renovation Project. The Public Art Project
– Art Sculpture in Pickering Council Chambers is reflected in the approved 2025 Current
Budget (Cultural Services 10207), to be funded from the public art reserve in the amount of
$30,000. As per Resolution #279/23, Council directed staff on September 25, 2023 to consult
with Pickering resident and internationally renowned sculptor Dorsey James to commission or
purchase one of his pieces to be included as part of the Council Chamber s renovation.
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Plan Corporate Key of Deliver on Good Governance – Customer
Service Excellence; and the Priority of Advocate for an Inclusive, Welcoming, Safe & Healthy
Community .
Financial Implications:
1. Tender Amount
Tender T2025-5 $2,874,451.00
HST (13%) 373,678.63
Total Gross Tender Cost $3,248,129.63
CS 21-25 July 15, 2025
Page 3
2. Estimated Project Costing Summary
Tender T2025-5 $2,874,451.00
FF&E 120,000.00
Public Art 30,000.00
Contingency 220,000.00
Total Project Cost 3,244,451.00
HST (13%) 421,779.00
Total Gross Project Costs $3,666,230.00
HST Rebate (11.24%) (364,676.00)
Total Net Project Cost $3,301,554.00
3. Approved Source of Funds – Operations Capital Budget
Approved Code Source of Funds Funds Available Funds Required
C10240.2302 Rate Stabilization Reserve $2,994,092.00 $2,991,685.00
C10240.2302 Casino Reserve $109,869.00 $109,869.00
C10240.2302 CCBF (FGT) Oblg RF $170,000.00 $170,000.00
502520.10207.9710 Public Art Reserve $30,000.00 $30,000.00
Total $3,303,910.00 $3,301,554.00
This project will have some U.S. made components such audio-visual equipment, mechanical
materials/equipment and electrical materials/equipment. At this current time, it is unknown the
percentage of U .S. made goods/products relative to the bid price. The bid price supplied by the
vender includes all known tariffs/duties as of May 13, 2025.
Tender No.T2025-5 included $650,000.00 in cash allowances for the supply of security
equipment budgeted at $50,000.00 to ensure compatibility with existing City systems. The
remaining $600,000.00 is for the supply and installation of the audio-v isual systems included in
RFSQ2025-4. Tender No.T2025-5 closed before the results of RFSQ2025-4 would be known,
requiring a budget estimate to be carried. Unspent funds from the cash allowances will be
credited back to the City upon completion of the project.
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to award a construction contract and related
work for the renovation of the Council Chambers, including the replacement of the audio-visual
system and incorporation of Public Art.
Project Cost under (over) approved funds by
$2,356.00
CS 21-25 July 15, 2025
Page 4
A.Project Background
O riginally opened in 1990, the Pickering Civic Complex was designed prior to the incorporation
of accessibility requirements in the Ontario Building Code and general adoption of digital
technology in the workplace. Ad hoc upgrades have been made to the Council Chambers over
time, but a full renovation has never been undertaken. Over time, various components of the
Council Chamber s have been replaced, such as the installation of LED display screens in
2021 to replace an aging projector and screen system that no longer met the visual technology
needs of the space. Ad hoc replacement to parts of the audio systems, including microphones,
speakers and control equipment, have resulted in an improvised system with parts dating from
different eras, some of which have become obsolete. One of the objectives of the Council
Chamber s Renovation project is to remove and completely replace all of these different
elements, installing a completely new and fully integrated audio-visual suite, including broader
elements such as lighting, privacy, security and digital communications upgrades to better
serve the needs of the City and its residents.
A s the principal formal point of interaction between citizens and their elected officials, the
space is significantly out of sync with modern accessibility standards and requirements. Much
of the infrastructure and technology currently in use is also dated, with major systems
becoming obsolete, incompatible with newer models, and increasingly difficult to repair or
maintain. A new digital system will be provided as part of the renovation, to include: electronic
voting, pan and zoom cameras which focus on the active speaker(s), centralized delegation
control, and digital meeting management tools.
To ensure full accessibility, upgrades include infilling the central seating bowl of the existing
Council Chambers in order to provide a uniform floor level matching that of the main lobby.
Existing millwork and built-in furniture will be removed and replaced with new fixed seating and
improved working surfaces suitable to the formal character and function of the space. This will
include and require complete replacement of all existing electrical and digital systems except
the two large overhead display screens installed in 2022.
D rum and dome interiors are especially difficult spaces to manage acoustically . The project
design included an acoustic study of the chamber s to ensure that the new sound systems are
properly specified and configured to meet its unique needs. Fixed and mobile microphones
supported by an array of different speakers layered throughout the renovated chambers will be
required to achieve the required performance.
A dditional work will include replacement of key HVAC equipment serving the Council
Chambers that is also nearing end of life, as well as general upgrades and improvements to
finishes, wayfinding, camera systems, safety and security, IT infrastructure, assistive listening
technology, c onversion to energy efficient LED lighting, incorporation of public art, introduction
of electronic voting systems, and other related systems and controls required to meet the
demands of a contemporary space fully incorporating hybrid and online meeting capabilities.
S econdary work includes the replacement of the enclosed glass corridor connecting the
administrative area of City Hall to the Council Chambers, which is at end of life. Acoustic
privacy upgrades will also be included in the Council Chambers to provide added flexibility for
CS 21-25 July 15, 2025
Page 5
their use during confidential meetings. All future confidential Council meetings are intended to
take place in the Council Chambers. Upgrades to the Main Committee Room are primarily for
increased acoustic separation in this municipal meeting space.
At the Council meeting on June 24, 2024, the design for the Council Chambers Renovation
was awarded to +VG Architects (Report OPS 15-24, Resolution #548/24). Final schematic
design options were presented to Council on November 4, 2024 (Report OPS 20-24
(Resolution #607/24). Public engagement in the form of digital surveys, social media posts and
a project web page offering project details with opportunities for comment were made available
in January and February of 2025, resulting in 215 page views, 13 completed surveys, 7 email
responses and 21 social media comments.
Staff also toured council chambers in Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Clarington and Durham Region to
obtain lessons learned from their counterparts, including technology solutions and procedural
considerations. Advice and feedback collected was subsequently incorporated into this project.
The Accessibility Advisory Committee reviewed the schematic design and provided feedback
on November 20, 2024, and again on January 15, 2025. A virtual model of the space was also
created to enable committee members and staff to experience the future space digitally with
the assistance of a virtual reality headset.
B. Construction Tender
Request for Tender No. T2025-5 was advertised on the City’s bids&tenders portal on March
27, 2025 and closed on May 13, 2025. This tender was issued only to pre-qualified proponents
per RFSQ2024-6. Five companies submitted bids for this project. Century Group Inc. is the
lowest compliant bidder at a value of $2,874,451.00 (excluding HST) or $3,248,129.63 (HST
included) and the total net project cost is estimated at $3,301,554.00 (net of HST rebate).
C. Audio-Visual Procurement
The audio-v isual contractor was selected through a separate process that included the
evaluation of the proponents to ensure greater quality control. Request for Quote No.
RFSQ 2025-4 for the Council Chamber s Audio Visual System Replacement. RFSQ2025-4 was
advertised on bids&tenders portal on April 28, 2025, and closed on May 13, 2025. Eight
companies submitted bids for this project. Staff from the City’s Community Services (Facilities
Management & Construction) and Corporate Services (Information Technology ) Departments,
as well as audio-visual consultants from the project design team were the evaluators. The
highest ranked proponent is AVI-SPL Canada Ltd. with a bid of $485,041.91 (excluding HST)
or 548,097.35 (HST included). This bid is within the cash allowance budget provided for in
T2025-5 and requires no additional funding.
D. Council Chambers Public Art
The Council Chambers Renovation project includes the commissioning of a permanent public
artwork. As per Resolution #279/23, Council directed staff to consult with Pickering resident
and internationally renowned sculptor Dorsey James, known for his carvings inspired by world
CS 21-25 July 15, 2025
Page 6
mythology, with the intention of commissioning or purchasing one of his pieces for inclusion in
the renovated Chambers. The cost of the artwork is not to exceed $30,000.00 and will be
funded from the Public Art Reserve.
C ity staff met with Dorsey James multiple times throughout 2024 and early 2025, both in
person and over the phone. These meetings focused on discussing the scope of the project,
the approach to community consultation, and the development of three potential designs. Mr.
James provided three art concepts for Council Chambers.
The three concepts were presented to the community for feedback in spring, 2025. Community
Engagement included:
•public vote for a preferred concept, listed on Let’s Talk Pickering, from May 22 to June
5, 2025
•in-person engagement by Mr. James at Artfest on May 24 and May 25, 2025. The
survey was promoted through the City’s social media channels and printed materials
distributed at the City of Pickering’s Artfest event. During the event, printed versions of
the concepts were displayed, and members of the public had the opportunity to speak
directly with the artist and vote for their preferred design.
The combined results from the online and in-person surveys were counted as a single vote
during the Public Art Jury meeting held on June 5, 2025. Prior to the meeting, the Capital
Projects and Clerks teams reviewed the concepts and submitted comments for the Public Art
Jury’s consideration. The Public Art Jury, which included two art professionals and three
members of the Cultural Advisory Committee, reviewed all feedback and selected Je Me
Souviens (Attachment 1) as the final concept. The selected design was endorsed on June 17,
2025 at the Cultural Advisory Committee meeting.
J e Me Souviens is a relief sculpture that will be constructed from laminated kiln-dried cedar
wood in two- and four-inch thicknesses. The title, which translates to “I remember” in French,
pays tribute to the French-speaking community in Pickering. The sculpture features two
interlocking circles. The smaller circle represents the past, symbolizing the memories and
experienc es that have shaped the city. The larger circle represents the present and future,
reflecting Pickering’s evolving identity and aspirations.
To ensure the successful integration of the artwork into the renovated space, Staff will meet
with Dorsey James to review final dimensions and determine appropriate methods for
installation. This collaborative approach will ensure the sculpture aligns with the architectural
vision and technical requirements of the Council Chambers. Fabrication of the sculpture will
begin in Summer, 2025. Completion is anticipated by January 2026, with installation scheduled
for February 2026.
E.T imelines
C onstruction will commence immediately after award with substantial completion targeting Q1,
2026. Testing and training on new systems and technology will require several additional
months, with the Council Chambers expected to be ready for service by the summer of 2026.
CS 21-25 July 15, 2025
Page 7
Attachment:
1.Letter of Understanding between Dorsay James and the City of Pickering
Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By:
Original Signed By Original Signed By
Vince Plouffe, OAA, MRAIC Cathy Bazinet, CPPB, NIGP-CPP
Division Head, Facilities Management Manager, Procurement
& Construction
Original Signed By
Laura Gibbs, MBA, MSc.
Director, Community Services
Original Signed By
Stan Karwowski, MBA, CPA, CMA
Director, Finance & Treasurer
LG :vp
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Original Signed By
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
Letter of Understanding
Public Artwork Agreement
Attachment 1 to Report CS 21-25
This agreement made the Day/Month/Year
BETWEEN: Dorsey James
(hereinafter called “the Artist”)
AND
THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF PICKERING
(hereinafter called “the City)
1.Introduction
This Letter of Understanding pertains to the artwork creation and installation of the artwork for the
Art Sculpture in Pickering Council Chambers for the City of Pickering. This document defines
the relationship and responsibilities between the City and the Artist. The final artwork is to be installed
in February 2026.
This Letter of Understanding conforms to the City of Pickering Public Art Policy (CUL 010) and the City
of Pickering Standard Quotation Terms & Conditions.
2.Background
The Art Sculpture in Pickering Council Chambers public art project is operated and administered by the
City.
Based on the Directive from September 25, 2023, Resolution #279/23, Council directed through the
Office of the CAO, that City staff consult with Pickering resident and internationally renowned sculptor
Dorsey James to commission or purchase one of his pieces to be included as part of the Council
Chamber renovation.
Dorsey James submitted three concept proposals for review and public input.
The three proposed concepts were presented to the community for feedback through several
engagement methods. On the City’s online platform, Let’s Talk Pickering, and in-person consultation at
Artfest.
The combined results from the online and in-person surveys were counted as a single vote during the
Public Art Jury meeting held on June 5, 2025. Prior to the meeting, the Capital Projects and Clerks teams
reviewed the concepts and submitted comments for the Jury’s consideration.
The Public Art Jury, which included two art professionals and three members of the Cultural Advisory
Committee, reviewed all feedback and selected Je Me Souviens as the final concept. The selected
design was endorsed at the June 17, 2025 Cultural Advisory Committee meeting.
The public art concepts were selected by a specially convened independent Public Art Jury, made up of
visual arts professionals, community representatives, and City staff.
The Artist submitted a concept dated May 16, 2025, (“the Proposal”), a copy of which is attached as
Schedule “A” to this Agreement.
The Artist has been selected by the City to create, manufacture and install or deliver to the site, as
required for the different components, the Artwork titled Je Me Souviens in accordance with the
Conceptual Design, the Terms of Reference and the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
Letter of Understanding
Public Artwork Agreement
3. Definitions
Artwork - The “Artwork” means the final piece of artwork developed from the design, model, and
specifications provided by the Artist and approved by the City, which Artwork is more particularly
specified in Schedule “A” attached hereto.
The Work - The “Work” means designing, producing and fabricating the Artwork as well as delivering
and installing it at the Place of Installation.
Place of Installation - The “Place of Installation” is in the Art Niche in the City of Pickering’s Council
Chambers more specifically located as shown on the attached drawing Schedule “B” attached hereto.
4. Artist Fee: Compensation and Payment Schedule
a) The all-inclusive price to be paid by the City for the Artwork, completed and installed shall be
$30,000.00 CAD, inclusive of all applicable federal and provincial taxes including HST.
b) Each stage of the payment shall be accompanied by a detailed summary of work completed by
the Artist, including updated drawings and images that states that the Work has progressed and
is proceeding according to Schedule "C” and will be installed by the Delivery Date (as defined
below).
c) H.S.T. shall be enumerated as a separate item on each staged and scheduled payment
pursuant to this Article.
Payment shall be structured in a payment schedule to the Artist as follows:
I. Phase 2: $10,000.00 including HST – executing the Letter of Understanding, site visit,
fabrication schedule and submission of an invoice from the Artist;
II. Phase 3: $10,000.00 including HST – after completion of Phase 2 which includes the delivery
of final drawings of all art work components and submission of an invoice from the Artist; and
III. Phase 5: $10,000.00 including HST – after completion of Phase 3 which includes installation of
the artwork at the Place of Installation and upon submission of an invoice from the Artist.
The City agrees:
a) to pay the Artist all funds due and as provided for herein.
5. Payments of Sub-Contractors
The Artist agrees:
a) to ensure that payments will be made to all suppliers and subcontractors that may be engaged
by the Artist in regard to the design, fabrication, storage, delivery and installation of the Artwork.
At the City’s request, the Artist shall provide evidence of such payment.
6. Performance
The Artist agrees:
a) to provide all work and materials necessary to create the Artwork and to fulfill all its obligations
as set out in this Agreement;
b) that the materials, methods and processes used to produce the Artwork shall be of first-class
Letter of Understanding
Public Artwork Agreement
quality and expressive of the approved design as detailed in Schedule “A” attached hereto;
c) to use first class skills, diligence and workmanship as are normally found in the artistic
profession, and ensure that all materials incorporated into the Artwork are of the utmost quality
and design in accordance with Schedule “A”.
7. Timelines and Completion of Deliverables
The Artist agrees:
a) to complete the installation of the Artwork to the satisfaction of the City no later than February 9,
2026 “the Delivery Date”) or such later date as may be agreed upon by the Artist and the City in
writing. The installation will include a maintenance/conservation plan submitted by the Artist;
b) during the design and production of the Artwork, to keep the City advised of the status of the
production of the Artwork. If required by the City, the Artist shall allow representatives of the City
to view the Artwork during its various stages of production or provide progress photographs;
c) to submit a progress report and invoice, with supporting receipts and invoices from sub-
contractors, in the form specified by the City, prior to each payment date set out in Schedule “C”.
d) to provide a conservation and maintenance plan which must be approved by the City ;
e) to provide to the City photographs of the Artwork during and after installation in accordance with
Schedule “C”.
The City agrees:
a) to ensure that should the Artist require direction in any regard to the design, fabrication or
installation of the Artwork, the City shall provide such direction in a prompt and timely fashion.
8. Detailed Design
The Artist agrees:
a) To evaluate all material and data relevant to the Artwork as provided by the City and shall
facilitate production of the final design, working with the Cultural Services Unit and other City
departments and design team members, as needed and, in order to finalize the detailed design
and the exact location of the Artwork within the Installation Site, to the satisfaction of the City.
9. Specifications
The Artist agrees:
a) to provide detailed drawings and specifications to the satisfaction of the City and shall advise
the City, in writing, through the Coordinator, Public Art, of all factors relating to the Artwork’s
theme, budget, critical path, location, size, materials, structural, mechanical and technological
requirements, installation methods, and future maintenance requirements, to be determined by
the Artist in consultation with the Coordinator, Public Art;
b) Substantive changes to the Artwork may be undertaken by the Artist only upon receipt of prior
written authorization by the Manager, Cultural Services provided however, that the City’s
objection to any feature of the Artwork which is reasonably attributable to the exercise of the
Artist’s aesthetic judgement during the progress of the development of the Artwork shall not be
considered a substantive change and shall not be a basis for withholding acceptance or payment
Letter of Understanding
Public Artwork Agreement
for the Artwork.
10. Permits and Engineers Stamp
The Artist agrees:
a) to obtain at the Artist's sole cost and expense, all permits necessary for the delivery and
installation of the Artwork and prepare all materials, documents, reports, plans and drawings,
required in order to obtain any Structural Engineers' stamps required in connection with the
manufacture and installation of the Artwork at the Installation Site.
11. Delivery, Installation and Protective Measures
The Artist agrees:
a) to be solely responsible for all costs and supervision of the actual fabrication, production and
installation of the Artwork including the cost of any site preparations or safety precautions that
are required for the installation of the Artwork in its final location unless otherwise specified by
the City. If protection during installation is required, then the Artist is to provide it.
b) to deliver the Artwork to the specific site as set out in Place of Installation, free from all defects
and in compliance with the specifications as outlined in Schedule “A” attached hereto.
c) The Artist shall coordinate the installation of the Artwork with the Coordinator, Public Art and
permit such inspections of the installation as the City may require. If any costs result from the
Artist failing to coordinate the Artist's work with that of [City divisions and contractors], all such
costs shall be borne by the Artist.
d) upon installation of the Artwork, to clean the Artwork to ensure that all dirt, imperfections and
extraneous materials are removed from the Artwork .
e) that installation shall have been deemed to be complete when acceptance by the City or by its
designated agent.
The City agrees:
a) to provide, at its expense, a permanent marker in keeping with the quality and type of the Artwork
which will identify the name of the Artist, the name of the Artwork and the year of the Artwork.
12. Damage to Artwork and Artist’s Property
The Artist agrees:
a) that in the event of physical loss or damage to the Artwork prior to completion of installation and
acceptance of the Artwork by the City, the Artist shall immediately take all necessary steps to
rectify the loss or damage by repair, restoration, replacement or other appropriate means as
soon as is reasonably possible at no additional expense to the City. Where necessary, the Artist
may collect insurance proceeds before rectifying the loss or damage and shall rectify the loss or
damage as soon as is reasonably possible after receipt of said funds.
b) to be responsible for any loss or damage whatsoever to any of the Artist's materials, goods,
equipment or supplies and will maintain all-risk coverage as required by this Agreement and as
any prudent owner of such materials, goods, supplies and equipment would maintain. The Artist
shall have no claim against the City or the City’s insurers for any damage or loss to the Artist's
property and shall require his insurers to waive any right of subrogation against the City.
Letter of Understanding
Public Artwork Agreement
The City agrees:
a) that following acceptance of the Artwork, the City will use its best efforts to maintain and repair
any damage done to the Artwork by vandalism or other means substantially in accordance with
the conservation and maintenance plan to be provided by the Artist. The City will make
reasonable efforts to inform the Artist of such damage and to offer the Artist the opportunity to
consult with the City on the proposed repairs.
13. Warranty, Repair and Maintenance
The Artist agrees:
a) that upon receipt of the Artwork, should the City find any deficiencies in the Artwork, it will
advise the Artist in writing and the Artist must rectify such deficiency within ten (10) days of
receipt of such notice. Should it not be possible to complete rectifying the deficiencies within
ten (10) days, the Artist shall provide a Schedule to the City that is acceptable to the City
indicating when completion will occur.
b) in the event that the Artwork shall require repairs subsequent to the date of completion arising
from normal weathering and “wear and tear”; then in such event the City shall advise the Artist
in writing as to the nature of such repair and offer the Artist first right of refusal to carry out such
repair within times and consideration as mutually agreed upon by the City and the Artist. Should the
Artist fail to advise the City within thirty (30) days of receipt by the Artist of the written offer, or should
the Artist and the City fail to agree on times and consideration, then in any such event the City, or a third party hired by the City, shall be at liberty to carry out any and all repairs. In determining the time and
consideration for such repairs, both parties agree to act reasonably.
c) notwithstanding the foregoing and with the exclusion of the maintenance criteria set out in the
conservation and maintenance plan submitted by the Artist, during the first three (3) years after
installation and acceptance by the City, the Artist agrees to repair any defects or deficiencies
(normal weathering and “wear and tear” excepted) in the Artwork without any charge to the
City.
The City agrees:
a) to keep the Artwork in a clean condition, free of debris or banners or signage which defaces the
Artwork, all to the level which the City considers to be appropriate and in accordance with the
conservation and maintenance plan to be approved by the City and that will be provided by the
Artist.
14. Removal and Relocation of Artwork
The City agrees:
a) to endeavor to exhibit the Artwork in the original location and in its original and complete format
subject to the City’s right to decommission or remove the Artwork or a particular piece thereof
for reasons which may include, but are not limited to, the structural integrity of the Artwork, expiry
of the expected lifespan of the Artwork, extensive or irreparable damage or vandalism or by
reason of the necessity to accommodate the effective operation of the Council Chambers.
b) to consult, where possible, on the restoration or removal of public art, but shall retain the right to
restore, relocate, or archive a work of public art without the artist's and/or donor's consent.
Letter of Understanding
Public Artwork Agreement
15. Insurance
The Artist agrees:
a) that upon request by the City, the Artist shall take out and keep in force a policy of liability
insurance in the amount of $2,000,000 inclusive each occurrence (or such larger amount as
may be required), and not less than two million ($2,000,000.00) automotive liability insurance
coverage for the duration of the Artists work . Certificate(s) of insurance shall be provided
upon request by the City.
i. The policy shall include The Corporation of the City of Pickering, as additional named
insured without subrogation in respect of all work and operations performed by or on
behalf of the Artist, a certificate of insurance shall be completed by the Artists agent,
broker or insurer.
ii. The policy shall not be altered, cancelled or allowed to expire or lapse, without thirty (30)
days prior written notice to the City.
iii. If the City is not provided with a renewal of the policy at least thirty (30) days prior to its
expiration date, then the City may arrange a public liability policy insuring the City in the
amount of $2,000,000.00 and an automotive liability policy insuring the City in the
amount of two million ($2,000,000) at the expense of the Artist, which may be
recovered from amounts owed to the Artist or from any form of security still in the City's
possession.
16. Indemnification
The Artist agrees:
a) to indemnify and hold harmless the City, its Mayor and Councillors, employees and agents for
any and all losses, claims, demands, suits, actions, judgments, or costs which may arise from
any physical deficiencies or deformities or structural failures of the Work which render the
Artwork inconsistent with the approved design. The Artist agrees that this indemnity shall survive
the period of time required to fulfill this contract and extend to the useful life of the Artwork and
shall be binding upon the Artists’ personal representatives, administrators, executors and
assigns.
b) to indemnify the City, its Mayor and Councillors, employees and agents from and against all
liens, all builders liens, claims, actions, costs and damages which may arise during installation
of the Work on the Place of Installation. No finding of negligence, whether joint or several, as
against the City in favour of any third party shall operate to relieve or shall be deemed to relieve
the Artist in any manner from any liability to the City, whether such liability arises under this
Agreement or otherwise.
c) to warrant that the Artwork is original to the Artist and does not violate any copyright of any other
person. The Artist shall indemnify and hold harmless the City, its Mayor and Councillors,
employees and agents for any and all losses, claims, demands, suits, actions, judgements or
costs that may arise from the allegation that the Artwork is not original to the Artist.
17. Occupational Health and Safety Act
The Artist agrees:
a) to conform to and enforce strict compliance with the requirements of the Occupational Health
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Public Artwork Agreement
and Safety Act, R.S.O., 1990 c.0.1 and all regulations thereunder, as amended from time to time
(collectively the "OHSA").
b) that nothing in this Agreement shall be construed as making the City the "employer" (as defined
in the OHSA) of any workers employed or engaged by the Artist either instead of or jointly with
the Artist.
c) that it will ensure that all subcontractors engaged by it are qualified to perform the services and
that the employees of the Artist and of all subcontractors are trained in the health and safety
hazards expected to be encountered in the Services.
18. Workplace Safety & Insurance
The Artist agrees:
a) that all of the Company’s personnel must be covered by the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board
at the Company’s expense. The Company shall provide the City with a Clearance Certificate
from the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board prior to the commencement of work, certifying
that all assessments and liabilities payable to the Board have been paid, and that the bidder is
in good standing with the Board.
b) to provide the City with a Clearance Certificate prior to final payment certifying all payments by
the Company to the Board in conjunction with the subject Contract have been made and that the
City will not be liable to the Board for future payments in connection with the Company’s
completion of the project.
c) That a Company deemed to be an Independent Operator by the Workplace Safety & Insurance
Board will provide a copy of such letter to the City containing the Independent Operator
identification number issued by the Board. An Independent Operator must be covered by WSIB
optional insurance and provide proof of this coverage upon request.
19. Delays
The Artist and the City agree that:
a) neither party shall be responsible for any failure to comply with or for any delay in performance
of the terms of this Agreement including but not limited to delays in delivery, where such failure
or delay is directly or indirectly caused by or results from events of force majeure beyond the
control of the party sought to be charged. These events shall include, but not be limited to fire,
earthquake, accident, civil disturbances, war, rationing, allocation of embargoes, strikes or
labour problems or delays in transportation, inability to secure necessary materials, parts or
components, delay or failure of performance of any supplier or subcontractor, acts of Nature or
acts of Government.
20. Early Termination
The Artist and the City agree that:
a) notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the City may, at any time and without
cause, prior to completion of the Artwork, terminate this Agreement by providing sixty (60)
days' notice in writing to the Artist. In the event of such termination, the City shall not incur any
liability to the Artist other than work completed to the date of termination in accordance with the
payment schedule and reimburse the Artist for the demonstrable, reasonable actual costs to
the Artist incurred in connection with the Artwork, to the date of termination, as well as any
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Public Artwork Agreement
demonstrable, reasonable outstanding liability owed by the Artist to the Artist's contractors,
subcontractors, or employees incurred in connection with such termination;
b) failure of the Artist to perform its obligations under the Agreement shall entitle the City to
terminate the Agreement upon ten (10) calendar days’ written notice to the Artist if a breach
which is remediable is not rectified by the Artist to the City's satisfaction and within the
timeframe set out in the City's notice of breach. In the event of such termination, the City shall
not incur any liability to the Artist other than work completed to the date of termination in
accordance with the payment schedule and reimburse the Artist for the demonstrable,
reasonable actual costs to the Artist incurred in connection with the Artwork, to the date of
termination, as well as any demonstrable, reasonable outstanding liability owed by the Artist to
the Artist's contractors, subcontractors, or employees incurred in connection with such
termination;
c) all rights and remedies of the City for any breach of the Artist's obligations under the
Agreement shall be cumulative and not exclusive or mutually exclusive alternatives and may
be exercised singularly, jointly or in combination and shall not be deemed to be in exclusion of
any other rights or remedies available to the City under the Agreement or otherwise at law;
d) no delay or omission by the City in exercising any right or remedy shall operate as a waiver of
them or of any other right or remedy, and no single or partial exercise of a right or remedy shall
preclude any other or further exercise of them or the exercise of any other right or remedy;
and,
e) upon termination, all work and material of the Artist pertaining to the Artwork shall be delivered
to or retained by the City at no further cost or liability to the City.
21. Ownership
The Artist and the City agree:
a) ownership of the Artwork, the model/maquette and all documentation supplied to the City in
connection with the Artwork, will vest in the City upon final payment for same.
22. Copyright
The Artist and the City agree that:
a) copyright in the Artwork shall remain with the Artist.
The Artist agrees:
a) to hereby grant the sole, perpetual and royalty free license to exhibit the Artwork in public and
to use photographs, drawings, film, video, and other mechanical reproductions of the Artwork
throughout the world to the City for publicity purposes only.
b) to authorize the City to use the Artist’s name in connection with the Artwork and in the promotion
and advertising of the City.
c) not to replicate the Artwork for any other client or purchaser.
d) to use best efforts to give credit to the City as the owner of the Artwork.
The City agrees:
a) to use its best efforts to have the Artist’s name associated with the Artwork in photographs,
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Public Artwork Agreement
drawings or other reproductions of the Artwork except where the Artwork is not the primary
subject of the said reproduction.
23. Death or Incapacity of Artist
The Artist and the City agree that:
a) in the event of a death or incapacity of the Artist before the complete installation of the Artwork,
the City shall be vested with title to the unfinished Artwork upon paying the Artist, their
personal representatives, administrators, executors or executrix a sum in the direct proportion
of the percent of the Artwork completed to that date as determined by the City and shall be
permitted to complete the Artwork in a manner generally consistent with the original design of
the Artist.
24. Mediation
The Artist and the City agree:
a) that all disputes pertaining to the interpretation or implementation of this Agreement shall be
resolved first by good faith negotiation between the parties. In the event that a dispute cannot
be resolved by negotiation between the parties, the parties agr ee to use the services of a
mediator to attempt to resolve their differences and failing agreement on the procedure to be
followed, it shall be conducted in accordance with the “Rules of Procedure for the Conduct of
Mediation” of the ADR Institute of Ontario. In the event that the mediation does not result in a
settlement of the dispute, any unresolved issues may be taken to any other appropriate dispute
resolution process agreed to by the parties, including arbitration or an appropriate court process.
Should arbitration be chosen, it will be conducted in accordance with the “Rules of Procedures
for the Conduct of Arbitration” of the ADR Institute of Ontario pursuant to the Arbitrations Act.
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Public Artwork Agreement
Any claim or action brought pursuant to this Agreement shall only be brought in the courts of the
Province of Ontario.
This Agreement forms the entire agreement between parties and no other representations either oral
or written shall form part of this Agreement.
The rights and remedies of the City under this Agreement are cumulative and in addition to any rights
and remedies provided by law or equity.
To the City at:
The City of Pickering
One the Esplanade
Pickering , Ontario
The City’s Representative for the purpose of this Agreement will be
Laura Gibbs.
To the Artist at:
Dorsey James Sculptor
dusti@rogers.com
Or to such other address or person as the parties may designate to each other in writing.
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Public Artwork Agreement
It is deemed that notice is received five (5) days after the mailing of any notice or upon delivery, if
personally delivered.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties hereto have had this Letter of Understanding executed.
____________________ ____________________
Full Name, Artist Date
____________________ ____________________
Kevin Ashe, Mayor Date
City of Pickering
____________________ ____________________
Susan Cassel, City Clerk Date
City of Pickering
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Public Artwork Agreement
GENERAL
Schedule A: The Artwork (Artist’s Concept proposal document attached)
Schedule B: Place of Installation (Place of Installation document attached)
Schedule C: Detailed Fabrication Schedule
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SCHEDULE A
The Artwork (artist’s concept proposal document attached)
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Public Artwork Agreement
SCHEDULE B
Place of Installation
*N ote: sculpture shown is for reference purposes only and does not reflect the concept provided in
Schedule A.
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Public Artwork Agreement
SCHEDULE C
Detailed Fabrication Schedule
WORK PLAN
The completion dates for each phase of the project as set out below shall be finalized upon final
determination of the construction commencement date and prior to commencement of the Phase 2
services.
Phase 1 – July, 2025
• Agreement signed by all parties
• Proof of insurance and WSIB provided to the satisfaction of the City
Phase 2 - To be completed by August 14, 2025 to the satisfaction the City
(PAYMENT)
• Preliminary Drawings of all components and connections
• Preliminary fabrication schedule and Pricing
Phase 3 - To be completed by November September 12, 2025 to the satisfaction of the City (PAYMENT)
• Final design and pricing
This phase will include the following approvals by the client:
• Design drawings, including all components and connections.
• Completion of detail design.
This phase will include the following approvals by the client:
• Final sign-off of shop drawings for production
• Shipping & installation plan completed, in cooperation with stakeholders and other
relevant contractors, and to the satisfaction of the City.
Phase 4 - To be completed by January 23, 2026 to the satisfaction of the City
• Complete off -site fabrication of Artwork and all its components, to the satisfaction of the City. All
permits and approvals acquired.
Phase 5 – To be completed by February 9, 2026 to the satisfaction of the City (PAYMENT)
• Complete on-site installation of the Artwork and all its components, to the satisfaction of the City.
• Delivery of maintenance manual, including Photographic documentation, Artist statement,
Biography
• Attendance at the unveiling event in February, 2026.
Final acceptance of Artwork to the satisfaction of the City.