HomeMy WebLinkAboutOctober 27, 2025
Council
Meeting Agenda
Electronic Meeting
October 27, 2025 - 07:00 PM
Chair: Mayor Ashe
Please be advised that in accordance with Section 10.04 of the Procedure By-law, the City of
Pickering is holding Council and Committee Meetings in an electronic format until further
notice.
Members of the public may observe the meeting proceedings by viewing the livestream on
the HTML Agenda or the archived video available on the City's website.
How to Participate
Individuals looking to make a verbal delegation may do so in accordance with the City’s
Procedure By-law. In lieu of a verbal delegation, individuals may also submit written comments
to clerks@pickering.ca. To register as a Delegation, please submit a Delegation Request
Form by visiting pickering.ca/meetings.
For inquiries related to accessibility, please contact Legislative Services
Phone: 905.420.4611 | Email: clerks@pickering.ca
Call to Order/Roll Call
Playing of O Canada
Moment of Reflection
Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement
Disclosure of Interest
Adoption of Minutes
Council Minutes, June 23, 2025 (includes Confidential In Camera
Minutes under separate cover)
Page 15
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
6.1
Special Council Minutes, September 29, 2025 Page 51
Council Minutes, September 29, 2025 (Includes Confidential In
Camera Minutes under separate cover)
Page 64
Executive Committee Minutes, October 6, 2025 Page 96
Planning and Development Committee Minutes, October 6, 2025 Page 105
Presentations
Delegations
Lilian Cheung, Partner, Public Sector Audit, Deloitte (Available for
questions if needed)
Re: Report FIN 15-25
2024 Year End Audit and Financial Statements (Final)
Lilian Cheung, Partner, Public Sector Audit, Deloitte (Available for
questions if needed)
Re: Report FIN 16-25
2025 Audit Service Plan
Correspondence
Corr. 45-25 Page 111
Jeff Abrams, Co-Principal and Janice Atwood-Petkovski, Co-
Principal, Principles Integrity, Integrity Commissioner for the City of Pickering
Re: Integrity Commissioner’s Recommendation Report Regarding Complaint
Against Councillor Lisa Robinson
October 20, 2025
Opening Remarks by:
Jeff Abrams, Co-Principal, Principles Integrity, Integrity Commissioner for the
City of Pickering
Recommendation:
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
7.
8.
8.1
8.2
9.
9.1
Council Meeting Agenda
October 27, 2025
- 2 -
Council direction required.
Report EC 08-25 of the Executive Committee held on October 6, 2025
Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 15-25
2024 Year End Audit and Financial Statements (Final)
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That the Report FIN 15-25 regarding the results of the 2024 Year End Audit
and Financial Statements (final), as submitted by Deloitte LLP, be received for
information;
1.
That the 2024 draft Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the City of
Pickering be approved; and,
2.
That Deloitte LLP be reappointed to provide external auditing services to the
City of Pickering for a three year term.
3.
Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 16-25
2025 Audit Service Plan
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That the 2025 Audit Service Plan as submitted by Deloitte LLP, set out in
Attachment 1 to this report, be received;
1.
That the Chief Administrative Officer and the Director, Finance & Treasurer be
authorized to sign the Engagement Letter, set out in Attachment 2 to this
report, on behalf of the City; and,
2.
That Deloitte LLP be appointed in 2025 for the audit of the Municipal Service
Corporation, Destination Pickering.
3.
(Acting) Director, Corporate Services, Report BYL 03-25
Toys for Tickets and Food for Fines Holiday Parking Fine Program
[Link to Report for reference]
10.
10.1
10.2
10.3
Council Meeting Agenda
October 27, 2025
- 3 -
Recommendation:
That Report BYL 03-25 regarding Toys for Tickets and Food for Fines Holiday
Parking Fine Program be received;
1.
That parking tickets issued between Monday, November 24, 2025 through
Tuesday, December 16, 2025 be eligible for the Toys for Tickets/Food for
Fines program;
2.
That the Toys for Tickets/Food for Fines program be implemented from
November 24, 2025 through December 16, 2025; and,
3.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
4.
Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 16-25
Lakeridge Health License Agreement Renewal
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Community Exercise Clinic
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That Report CAO 16-25 regarding Lakeridge Health License Agreement
Renewal be received;
1.
That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the License
Agreement with Lakeridge Health, set out in Attachment 1 to this report, for
use of the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Meeting Rooms 2
& 3, for the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Community Exercise
Clinic, subject to minor revisions as may be required by the Office of the CAO
and the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor; and,
2.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
3.
(Acting) Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 17-25
Shower Program Renewal
DARS Inc. Agreement Renewal
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That Report CAO 17-25 regarding the agreement renewal for the DARS Inc.
Shower Program be received;
1.
10.4
10.5
Council Meeting Agenda
October 27, 2025
- 4 -
That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Memorandum of
Understanding with DARS Inc., set out in Attachment 1 to this report, for use
of the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Arena Dressing Room
shower facilities, subject to minor revisions as may be required by the Office of
the CAO and the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor; and,
2.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
3.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 25-25
Systems Furniture Standardization
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That Council approve a five-year renewal of systems furniture and related
accessories supplied by Tayco Panelink Ltd. as an approved City-wide
standard for furniture installations; and,
1.
That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary actions indicated in this report.
2.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 27-25
Reciprocal Use of Facilities Agreement
Durham District School Board
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That Report CS 27-25 regarding the Reciprocal Use of Facilities Agreement
be received;
1.
That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Reciprocal Use of
Facilities Agreement with the Durham District School Board, set out in
Attachment 1 to this report to which the Durham District School Board will
have use of City owned parks and facilities listed in Schedule A and the City of
Pickering will have use of Durham District School Board owned schools and
fields listed in Schedule B, subject to minor revisions as may be required by
the Director, Community Services and the Director, Corporate Services & City
Solicitor; and,
2.
That the appropriate City officials be authorized to take the necessary actions 3.
10.6
10.7
Council Meeting Agenda
October 27, 2025
- 5 -
as indicated in this report.
Director, Human Resources, Report HUR 01-25
Implementation of SuccessFactors Recruiting and Onboarding (Phase 2)
Request for Quotation No. Q2025-14
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That the quotation submitted by HR Path Canada in response to Request for
Quotation No. Q2025-14 for Implementation of SuccessFactors Recruiting &
Onboarding, in the amount of $96,672.00 (net HST) or $107,350.00 (HST
included) be accepted;
1.
That the Director, Human Resources be authorized to execute the Form of
Agreement with the above-mentioned consultant pursuant to Request for
Quotation No. Q2025-14;
2.
That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project
cost of $96,672.00 from Capital Project C10800.2001 with $52,112.00 funded
from Community Benefit Charges Reserve and $44,560 from Rate
Stabilization Reserve; and,
3.
That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in the report.
4.
(Acting) Director, Corporate Services, Report LEG 07-25
Final Assumption of Plan of Subdivision
Woodview Land Development Corporation – Plan of Subdivision 40M-2643
Lots 1 to 31 and Block 24, Plan 40M-2643
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That Bralorne Trail within Plan 40M-2643 be assumed for public use;1.
That works and services required by the Subdivision Agreement, dated
December 31, 2017, within Plan 40M-2643, which are constructed, installed or
located on lands dedicated to, or owned by the City, or on lands lying
immediately adjacent thereto, including lands that are subject to easements
transferred to the City, be accepted and assumed for maintenance;
2.
That Woodview Land Development Corporation be released from the 3.
10.8
10.9
Council Meeting Agenda
October 27, 2025
- 6 -
provisions of the Subdivision Agreement and any amendments thereto relating
to Plan 40M-2643; and,
That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
4.
(Acting) Director, Corporate Services, Report LEG 08-25
Final Assumption of Plan of Subdivision
711053 Ontario Inc. & 532503 Ontario Ltd. – Plan of Subdivision 40M-2302
Lots 1 to 35, Blocks 37 to 39, Plan 40M-2302
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That Hollywood Court within Plan 40M-2302 be assumed for public use;1.
That works and services required by the Subdivision Agreement, dated March
1, 2005, within Plan 40M-2302, which are constructed, installed or located on
lands dedicated to, or owned by the City, or on lands lying immediately
adjacent thereto, including lands that are subject to easements transferred to
the City, be accepted and assumed for maintenance;
2.
That 711053 Ontario Inc. & 532503 Ontario Ltd. be released from the
provisions of the Subdivision Agreement and any amendments thereto relating
to Plan 40M-2302; and,
3.
That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
4.
Report PD 05-25 of the Planning & Development Committee held on
October 6, 2025
Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 18-25
City of Pickering 2024 Annual Housing Monitoring Report
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That Report PLN 18-25, regarding the City of Pickering 2024 Annual Housing
Monitoring Report, be received for information.
10.10
11.
11.1
Council Meeting Agenda
October 27, 2025
- 7 -
Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 20-25
Draft Plan of Subdivision Application SP-2022-01
Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 03/22
Highglen Homes Limited
Northeast corner of Finch Avenue and Nature Haven Crescent
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That Draft Plan of Subdivision Application SP-2022-01, submitted by Highglen
Homes Limited, to establish a residential plan of subdivision, consisting of
eight lots for detached dwellings, one block for a daylighting triangle, and one
block for a road extension, as shown on Attachment 3 to Report PLN 20-25,
and the implementing conditions of approval, as set out in Appendix I, be
endorsed; and,
1.
That Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 03/22, submitted by Highglen
Homes Limited, to implement Draft Plan of Subdivision SP-2022-01, on lands
located on the northeast corner of Finch Avenue and Nature Haven Crescent,
be approved, and that the draft Zoning By-law Amendment, as set out in
Appendix II to Report PLN 20-25, be finalized and forwarded to Council for
enactment.
2.
Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 21-25
895 Wonder Drive – Notice of Intent to Designate a Property under Part IV,
Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act
[Link to Report for reference]
Recommendation:
That Council endorse the recommendations of the Heritage Pickering
Advisory Committee, dated February 28, 2024, to designate 895 Wonder
Drive (the Percy House) under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act;
1.
That Council direct staff to serve a Notice of Intent to Designate the property
located at 895 Wonder Drive, known as the Percy House, as a property of
cultural heritage value or interest, pursuant to Part IV, Section 29 of the
Ontario Heritage Act, provided as Attachment 4 to Report PLN 21-25;
2.
That, should no Notice of Objection be received by the City Clerk within 30
days of the publication of the Notice of Intent to Designate, the Designation
3.
11.2
11.3
Council Meeting Agenda
October 27, 2025
- 8 -
By-law for 895 Wonder Drive, provided as Attachment 5 to this report, be
finalized and forwarded to Council for enactment, and that staff be directed to
carry out the notice requirements as prescribed under Part IV, Section 29(8) of
the Ontario Heritage Act; and,
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
such actions as necessary to give effect to this report.
4.
New and Unfinished Business
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report CLK 05-25 Page 120
Award of Request for Proposal RFP2025-18 for an Internet & Paper Ballot
Voting Solution for the 2026 Municipal Election
Recommendation:
That Report CLK 05-25 regarding Request for Proposal RFP2025-18 for an
Internet & Paper Ballot Voting Solution for the 2026 Municipal Election be
received;
1.
That the proposal submitted by Neuvote Systems Inc., in the amount of
$311,428.00 (HST included), and a net project cost of $280,451.00 (net HST),
to provide an integrated internet and paper ballot voting solution for a period of
5 years be accepted;
2.
That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer, to finance the total
net project cost of $280,451.00 by a transfer from the Election Reserve; and,
3.
That the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor be authorized to execute
the Form of Agreement with the above mentioned consultant pursuant to
Request for Proposal No. RFP2025-18; and,
4.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
5.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 29-25 Page 132
Emergency Plumbing Repairs at Chestnut Hill Developments
Recreation Complex
Recommendation:
That Report CS 29-25 regarding Emergency Plumbing Repairs at Chestnut Hill
Developments Recreation Complex be received for information.
12.
12.1
12.2
Council Meeting Agenda
October 27, 2025
- 9 -
Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects, Report ECD
08-25
Page 136
Consulting Services for the Corporate Economic Development Strategic Plan
Recommendation:
That the proposal submitted by KPMG LLP, in response to Request for
Proposal No. RFP2025-17 to prepare a Corporate Economic Development
Strategic Plan, in the amount of $97,465.00 (net HST) or $108,230.27 (HST
included) be accepted;
1.
That the total gross project cost of $108,230.27 (HST included) and total net
project cost of $97,465.00 (net HST) be approved, in accordance with Section
10.04 (c), as the assignment is over $50,000.00;
2.
That the Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects be authorized
to execute the Form of Agreement with the above mentioned consultant
pursuant for Proposal No. RFP2025-17;
3.
That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project
cost of $97,465.00 (net HST) from account 10050.502230; and,
4.
That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
5.
Director, City Infrastructure, Report INF 12-25 Page 142
Winter Control on Additional Park Pathways
Resolution #860/25
Recommendation:
That Report INF 12-25 regarding winter control on additional park pathways
be received;
1.
That the Mayor be requested to include funding in the amount of $4,250.00 in
the City’s 2026 Current Budget (City Infrastructure Department) to expand the
City’s winter control program to include five additional park pathways at J.
McPherson Park, Lynn Heights Park, Jackson Green, Rick Johnson Memorial
Park and S.M. Woodsmere Park;
2.
That the expanded winter control program for park pathways at Lynn Heights
Park and S.M. Woodsmere Park be a one-year Pilot Project in 2026 with staff
reporting back to Council by Q2 2026;
3.
That the Mayor be requested to include funding in the amount of $350,000.00
in the City’s 2026 Capital Budget for the installation of solar lighting at Lynn
Heights Park and S.M. Woodsmere Park; and,
4.
12.3
12.4
Council Meeting Agenda
October 27, 2025
- 10 -
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions to implement the recommendations in this report.
5.
Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 22-25 Page 156
Universal City Seven Developments Inc. – Request for Development Charges
Deferral
1475 Celebration Drive
Recommendation:
That Report PLN 22-25 regarding Universal City Seven Developments Inc. –
Request for Development Charges Deferral be received;
1.
That, pursuant to By-law 8190/25, as amended, Council authorize the Mayor
and City Clerk to execute a DC Deferral Agreement, subject to any necessary,
agreed to, minor refinements as determined by the Director, Finance &
Treasurer, the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, and the Chief
Administrative Officer; and,
2.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations of this report.
3.
Motion for Reconsideration of Part of Council Resolution #694/25
At the September 29, 2025 Council Meeting, Councillor Brenner gave Notice of
a Motion for Reconsideration pertaining to Operative 3 of Council Resolution
#694/25 adopted at the March 24, 2025 Council Meeting. The above noted
resolution pertains to Shadybrook Pickleball Courts Noise and Community
Disruption.
[In accordance with the City’s Procedure By-law, no discussion of the original
motion shall be allowed until the motion for reconsideration has carried with a
two-thirds vote of the Members present.]
The following Motion for Reconsideration is before Council:
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By _______________
That Operative 3 of Council Resolution #694/25 regarding the removal of pickleball
lines and reverting back to only tennis courts at Shadybrook Park be reconsidered.
Should the above Motion for Reconsideration be carried by a two-thirds vote
12.5
12.6
Council Meeting Agenda
October 27, 2025
- 11 -
of the Members present, Operative 3 (bolded text) of the following Council
Resolution is before Council for reconsideration:
Resolution #694/25
WHEREAS, the Shadybrook Pickleball Courts are located in close proximity to
abutting residential properties;
And Whereas, due to the frequency and volume of noise arising from pickleball play,
the quality of life of these residents has been negatively impacted;
And Whereas, municipalities across Canada have begun restricting or banning
pickleball courts in residential areas due to excessive noise and the negative impact
on family’s quiet enjoyment of their homes;
And Whereas, the Recreation & Parks Ten Year Plan (2024-2034) recommends
that the potential for noise impacts on adjacent properties be considered when
determining new court locations and recommends that guidelines, as those set out
in the Pickleball BC court guidelines, recommending setback of 50 metres for a two
court complex and up to 115 metres depending on the number of courts and noise
attenuation measures be considered;
And Whereas, it has become evident that the current location of the Shadybrook
Pickleball Courts in relation to abutting residential properties are not suitable for
continued use due to noise levels in excess of 50 dBAI;
And Whereas, in an effort to reduce the noise impact caused by the Shadybrook
Pickleball Courts, City Staff have committed to reducing the play area from four to
two courts along with the installation of noise reduction panels;
And Whereas, the City of Pickering has a licence agreement with the Pickering
Pickleball Club (Resolution #435/24) requiring six months’ notice for the termination
of the agreement for the pickleball courts at Shadybrook Park;
And Whereas, the City of Pickering remains committed to providing an alternate
suitable outdoor location for dedicated pickleball courts that will enable the
relocation of the Pickering Pickleball Club activities;
And Whereas, the City of Pickering has funds approved in the 2025 Budget for the
construction of 6 outdoor Pickleball Courts in Diana, Princess of Wales Park;
Now therefore, be it resolved that the Council of The Corporation of the City of
Pickering directs through the Office of the CAO:
That, in accordance with the licence agreement with the Pickering Pickleball
Club, staff be directed to provide the Pickering Pickleball Club with six months’
notice for the termination of the licence agreement for pickleball courts at
Shadybrook Park no later than April 1, 2025; and,
1.
Council Meeting Agenda
October 27, 2025
- 12 -
That during the notice period, the following steps be taken to mitigate
the ongoing noise and disruption at Shadybrook Park:
The number of pickleball courts will be reduced from four to two by
taking the two eastern pickleball courts out of play, to minimize noise
levels.
a.
The two eastern pickleball courts will be painted over and repurposed for
stretching and non-impact activities only. No pickleball play or practice
will be permitted on these surfaces.
b.
Noise reduction panels will be installed on two to three sides of the
enclosure to reduce noise impact on residents as soon as possible, and
the panels, upon completion of the notice period
may be removed and may be reused at another location.
c.
2.
That following the six months’ notice for the termination of the license
agreement with the Pickering Pickleball Club, the remaining pickleball
lines will be removed and the court will revert back to tennis only courts;
and,
3.
That all stakeholders, including residents adjacent to Shadybrook Park, and
the Pickering Pickleball Club, are notified of these changes.
4.
By-laws
By-law 8209/25 Page 178
Being a by-law to amend Zoning By-law 8149/24, as amended, to implement the
Official Plan of the City of Pickering, Region of Durham, being Part of Lot 33,
Concession 2, Now Part 4, 40R-29767 (SP-2022-01, A 03/22) (Highglen Homes
Limited) [Refer to Item 11.2, Report PLN 20-25]
By-law 8210/25 Page 181
Being a by-law to establish Part Lot 18, Concession 5, being Parts 1 and 4, Plan
40R-32503 and Part Lots 17 and 18, Concession 5, being Part 6, Plan 40R-32503
as public highway. (Dawes Avenue)
Confidential Council - Public Report
Regional Councillor Updates
Other Business
13.
13.1
13.2
14.
15.
16.
Council Meeting Agenda
October 27, 2025
- 13 -
Confirmatory By-law
Adjournment
17.
18.
Council Meeting Agenda
October 27, 2025
- 14 -
Council
Meeting Minutes
Electronic Meeting
June 23, 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
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
J. Litoborski – Division Head, Municipal Law Enforcement Services
V. Plouffe - Division Head, Facilities Management & Construction
A. Mitchell - Manager, Employee Services
E. Knox – Community Safety & Well-Being Advisor
C. Rose - Chief Planner
R. Perera - Deputy Clerk
1- 15 -
Call to Order/Roll Call
The City Clerk certified that all Members of Council were present and participating
electronically.
Playing of O Canada
Mayor Ashe asked all Members of Council to rise for the playing of O Canada.
Moment of Reflection
Mayor Ashe called for a silent moment of reflection.
Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement
Mayor Ashe read the Indigenous Land Acknowledgment Statement.
Disclosure of Interest
Councillor Robinson declared a conflict of interest under the Municipal Conflict of Interest
Act with respect to Item 9.1, Corr. 27-25, Integrity Commissioner’s Recommendation
Report Regarding Complaints against Councillor Robinson, June 16, 2025. Councillor
Robinson stated that in accordance with Section 5 of the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act,
she reserved her right to take part in the discussion of the matter, however, would not take
part in the vote.
Adoption of Minutes
Council Minutes, May 26, 2025 (includes Confidential In Camera Minutes
provided under separate cover)
Executive Committee Minutes, June 9, 2025
Special Council Minutes, June 9, 2025
Planning and Development Committee Minutes, June 9, 2025
Resolution #757/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Cook
That the minutes, Items 6.1 through 6.4, be approved.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
2- 16 -
Carried
Presentations
There were no presentations.
Delegations
Resolution #758/25
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Robinson
That the rules of procedure be suspended to allow an additional delegation who registered
after the deadline.
Carried on a Two-Thirds Vote
Matt Bentley, Pickering Resident
Re: Report PLN 13-25
Northeast Pickering Secondary Plan Update
(Refer to Item 11.1)
M. Bentley, Pickering Resident, appeared before Council via electronic connection
to speak to Item 11.1, Report PLN 13-25. M. Bentley stated that they were a
resident of Claremont and that the Northeast Pickering Secondary Plan was not in
the best interest of Pickering as it had the potential to significantly increase taxes
through infrastructure needs noting that the economic impact would be irreversible.
M. Bentley noted that the Plan would provide the greatest benefit to the developers
and not the residents of Pickering as they would be responsible for the associated
costs. M. Bentley stated that the Plan went against climate resilience and
sustainability related policies and that urban sprawl was unnecessary as Pickering
was well in its way to meeting Provincial growth targets. M. Bentley said that these
types of developments typically create housing types that were profitable rather than
what was needed in the community such as affordable housing. M. Bentley stated
that the City needed to act in the public interest and urged Council to reject this Plan
as growth should be managed wisely.
Matt Bentley, Pickering Resident
Re: Report PLN 16-25
Pickering Official Plan Review
Project Update and Completed Growth Management Strategy
(Refer to Item 11.2)
7.
8.
8.1
8.2
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
3- 17 -
See Agenda Item 8.1.
Abdullah Mir, Pickering Resident
Re: Opposition to Bill 5 and Request to Repeal
(Refer to Item 13.3)
A. Mir, Pickering Resident, appeared before Council via electronic connection to
speak to Item 13.3, Opposition to Bill 5 and Request to Repeal. A. Mir stated that
the legislation was undemocratic and was not in the best interest of Pickering
residents. A. Mir stated that the most concerning aspect of Bill 5 was the provision
that allowed the creation of economic zones where laws would not apply. A. Mir
urged Council to pass the Motion to demonstrate the standpoint of Pickering on Bill
5 and to provide psychological and emotional comfort to those who are fighting
against the legislation.
Helen Brenner, Pickering Resident
Re: Opposition to Bill 5 and Request to Repeal
(Refer to Item 13.3)
H. Brenner, Pickering Resident, appeared before Council to speak to Item 13.3,
Opposition to Bill 5 and Request to Repeal. H. Brenner said that they were a
member of Stop Sprawl Durham and stated that Bill 5 undermined the principle of
responsible government and that decisions about Pickering should be made by
those who were accountable to Pickering. H. Brenner stated that the Bill gave power
to the Province to impose their authority on Pickering. H. Brenner expressed
concerns regarding lack of environmental protections and spoke about Association
of Municipalities of Ontario’s (AMO) disagreement of Bill 5. H. Brenner said that Bill
5 created a future where Council decisions could be bypassed and that this
authority was not limited in scope or time. H. Brenner asked that Council request the
Province to rescind Bill 5.
Mike Garvey, President, Pickering Pickleball Club
Re: Report ENG 14-25
Diana, Princess of Wales Park
Six Dedicated Outdoor Pickleball Courts
Request for Tender No. T2025-8
(Refer to Item 12.6)
8.3
8.4
8.5
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
4- 18 -
M. Garvey, President, Pickering Pickleball Club appeared before Council via
electronic connection to speak to Report ENG 14-25. M. Garvey noted their support
for the Report adding that the City did not have adequate facilities for pickleball and
was in need of courts. M. Garvey provided information regarding the Pickering
Pickleball Club and noted the Club's intention to assist the City with the growth of
facilities for pickleball. M. Garvey advised that the City of Markham allowed their
club to use their courts for interclub tournaments and that the pickleball sessions
held at the Chestnut Hill Development Recreation Complex were run by volunteers
from their Club. M. Garvey concluded the delegation by noting that the Club looked
forward to playing on the new courts.
Resolution #759/25
Moved By Councillor Cook
Seconded By Councillor Nagy
That the order of the agenda be changed to hear Item 12.1, Report, FIN 08-25 as
the next item of business.
Carried
New and Unfinished Business
Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 08-25
Approval of the 2025 Development Charge Background Study and 2025
Community Benefits Charges Strategy
Stan Karwowski, Director, Finance & Treasurer, appeared before Council via
electronic connection and provided introductory remarks regarding the 2025
Development Charge study and the Community Benefit Charge background
strategy.
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council, S.
Karwowski, and S. Stephen, Partner, Watson & Associates Economists Ltd.,
regarding:
whether there was any indications from the Province on the implementation of
a standardized Development Charge (DC) rate for Ontario; and,
•
whether the council decision on the Report could be overturned by a
Provincial decision to implement a standardized rate in the future.
•
12.
12.1
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
5- 19 -
Resolution #760/25
Moved By Councillor Cook
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
That Report FIN 08-25 regarding the approval of the 2025 Development
Charge Background Study and 2025 Community Benefits Charges Strategy
be received;
1.
That the City of Pickering – Development Charges Background Study, dated
April 23, 2025 and its addendum dated June 2, 2025, prepared by Watson &
Associates Economists Ltd. as required under Section 10(1) of
the Development Charges Act, 1997, be approved;
2.
That Council approve the Residential Development Charges for Development
on Seaton Lands with an effective date of July 1, 2025 as shown in Schedule
A;
3.
That Council approve the Residential Development Charges for Development
on Outside of Seaton Lands with an effective date of July 1, 2025 as shown in
Schedule B;
4.
That Council approve the Non Residential (Commercial, Industrial and
Institutional) Development Charges with an effective date of July 1, 2025 as
shown in Schedule C;
5.
That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be directed that residential and non-
residential Development Charges be indexed annually on July 1 of each year
starting in 2026 by applying the annual change in the Statistics Canada Non-
Residential Building Construction Price Index for Toronto, for the period
ending March 31 of each year;
6.
That Council approve the Community Benefits Charges Strategy, dated April
23, 2025;
7.
That Council determine that no further public meeting is required, pursuant to
Section 12 of the Development Charges Act 1997, as amended;
8.
That Council enact the Development Charge By-law as set out in Attachment
3 to this report with an effective date of July 1, 2025;
9.
That Council approve the Development Charge deferral program for high rise
residential developments and non-residential developments, with an effective
date of June 24, 2025 as shown in Schedule D;
10.
That Council approve an amendment to the General Municipal Fees &
Charges By-law 6191/03 as amended, as set out in Attachment 8 to this
report, to implement fees related to the Development Charge deferral program
for high rise residential developments and non-residential developments;
11.
That the City continue the Reserve 8008, established for the City’s share (i.e.,
the non-development charge portion) of the costs of services included in the
12.
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
6- 20 -
Development Charges Study and that the contributions be included in the
Annual Current Budget for consideration by Council;
That the City Clerk be instructed to undertake the By-law passage notification
provisions under the Development Charges Act, 1997 and Ontario Regulation
82/98;
13.
That Council enact the Community Benefits Charges Strategy By-law as set
out in Attachment 10 this report;
14.
That the City Clerk be instructed to undertake the By-law passage notification
provisions under the Planning Act and Ontario Regulation 509/20;
15.
That Council confirm its intention to ensure that the increase in the need for
services attributable to growth will be met, recognizing that specific projects
and project timing as contained in the study may be revised from time to time
at the discretion of Council;
16.
That Council confirms its intention that the future excess capacity identified in
the 2025 Development Charges Background Study shall be paid for by
development charges or similar charge; and,
17.
That the appropriate City officials be authorized to take the actions necessary
to implement these recommendations.
18.
Carried
Correspondence
Corr. 27-25
City of Pickering Integrity Commissioner’s Recommendation Report
Regarding Complaints Against Councillor Robinson, June 16, 2025
J. Abrams, Integrity Commissioner, Principles Integrity, appeared before Council via
electronic connection to provide opening remarks on the Recommendation Report
Regarding Complaints Against Councillor Robinson, June 16, 2025. J. Abrams
stated that this was the fifth report regarding Councillor Robinson and that they were
confident in their findings included in the Report. J. Abrams provided details of email
exchanges between Councillor Robinson and Principles Integrity regarding the
Report and request for submissions. J. Abrams reminded Council that this was a
disciplinary matter and they should base their decision on how the recommendation
fitted against the findings of the Report.
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and J. Abrams
9.
9.1
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
7- 21 -
regarding:
whether a response to the preliminary findings report was provided by
Councillor Robinson;
•
clarification regarding the City's Council Code of Conduct and provisions
related to the receipt of gifts and benefits;
•
whether the sign in sheet used by Councillor Robinson during the November
24, 2024 Town Hall meeting was in accordance with Municipal Freedom of
Information and Privacy Protection Act; and,
•
the City having exhausted alternative mediation avenues such as the use of
an outside therapist to resolve issues related to Councillor Robinson.
•
Having previously declared a conflict of interest, Councillor Robinson did not vote on
the following item.
Resolution #761/25
Moved By Councillor Cook
Seconded By Councillor Nagy
That the Report of the Integrity Commissioner, dated June 16, 2025, as
contained in Corr. 27-25, pertaining to Councillor Robinson be received; and,
1.
That in accordance with the Integrity Commissioner’s Report
recommendations, the salary remuneration paid to Councillor Robinson be
suspended for a period of 90 days starting on June 23, 2025 and ending on
September 21, 2025.
2.
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 0 0 1 0
Carried on a Recorded Vote (6 to 0)
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
8- 22 -
Corr. 28-25
Matt Somerville, Senior Planner, Heritage, City of Pickering
Re: Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee
2024 Year-End Report and 2025 Workplan
Resolution #762/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That Corr. 28-25 from Matt Somerville, Senior Planner, Heritage, City of Pickering,
dated June 23, 2025, regarding the Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee 2024
Year-End Report and 2025 Workplan, be received for information.
Carried
Corr. 29-25
Andrea Fisher, Director of Legislative Services/Clerk, Town of Goderich
Re: Town of Goderich Opposition to Amendments to O. Reg. 530 22 to Strong
Mayor Powers
The Council Decision regarding Agenda Items 9.3 through 9.9 was recorded later in
the meeting. See Agenda Item 9.9, Corr. 35-25.
A brief discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding Agenda Items
Corr. 29-25 through Corr. 35-25:
concerns of not endorsing the position of other municipalities who were taking
a stance against Strong Mayor Powers;
•
successful 15-minute cities existing around the world;•
clarification that the City does not have an explicit 15 minute City plan; and,•
concerns that Corr. 35-25 was based on misinformation. •
Council Decision:
That Corr. 29-25, from Andrea Fisher, Director of Legislative Services/Clerk, Town
of Goderich, dated May 9, 2025, regarding Town of Goderich Opposition to
Amendments to O. Reg. 530 22 to Strong Mayor Powers, be received for
information.
9.2
9.3
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
9- 23 -
Corr. 30-25
Josh Machesney, City Clerk - Director of Corporate Services, City of Quinte
West
Re: Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers in the Municipality of Quinte West
Council Decision:
That Corr. 30-25, from Josh Machesney, City Clerk - Director of Corporate Services,
City of Quinte West, dated May 8, 2025, regarding Opposition to Strong Mayor
Powers in the Municipality of Quinte West, be received for information.
Corr. 31-25
Darrin Canniff, Mayor/CEO, Municipality of Chatham-Kent
Re: Bill 5 - Risks to your Communities and Support Requested
Council Decision:
That Corr. 31-25, from Darrin Canniff, Mayor/CEO, Municipality of Chatham-Kent,
dated May 13, 2025, regarding Bill 5 - Risks to your Communities and Support
Requested, be received for information.
Corr. 32-25
Town of Orangeville
Re: Rescinding Strong Mayor Powers
Council Decision:
That Corr. 32-25, from Town of Orangeville, dated May 12, 2025, regarding
Rescinding Strong Mayor Powers, be received for information.
Corr. 33-25
Jennifer Willoughby, Director of Legislative Services/Clerk, Town of
Shelburne
Re: Town of Shelburne - Opting out of Strong Mayor Powers
Council Decision:
9.4
9.5
9.6
9.7
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
10- 24 -
That Corr. 33-25, from Jennifer Willoughby, Director of Legislative Services/Clerk,
Town of Shelburne, dated May 14, 2025, regarding Town of Shelburne - Opting out
of Strong Mayor Powers, be received for information.
Corr. 34-25
Amy Leclerc, Municipal Clerk, Revenue Services Clerk, Town of Mattawa
Re: Strong Mayor Powers
Council Decision:
That Corr. 34-25, from Amy Leclerc, Municipal Clerk, Revenue Services Clerk,
Town of Mattawa, dated May 15, 2025, regarding Strong Mayor Powers, be
received for information.
Corr. 35-25
Mary Torchia, Pickering Resident
Re: 15 Minute City Plan
Council Decision:
That Corr 35-25, from Mary Torchia, Pickering Resident dated May 13, 2025,
regarding 15 Minute City Plan, be received for information.
Resolution #763/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That Corr. 29-25 through Corr. 35-25 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
9.8
9.9
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
11- 25 -
Carried on a Recorded Vote (6 to 1)
Report EC 06-25 of the Executive Committee held on June 9, 2025
Resolution #764/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
That Report EC 06-25 of the Executive Committee Meeting held on June 9, 2025 be
adopted, save and except Item 10.4, Report CS 13-25, Item 10.6, Report CS 15-25, Item
10.10, Report ENG 12-25, and Item 10.12, Report SUS 04-25.
Carried
Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 10-25
Pickering Heritage & Community Centre Project Update
Tender No. T2023-12 – Milestone Report #3
Council Decision:
That Report CAO 10-25 regarding the Pickering Heritage & Community Centre
Project Update be received;
1.
That staff be directed to issue a formal request to Durham Region Transit for
the provision of a bus stop in proximity to the Pickering Heritage & Community
Centre; and,
2.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in the report.
3.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 11-25
Lest We Forget Remembrance Crosswalks Update
Council Decision:
That Report CS 11-25 regarding Lest We Forget Remembrance Crosswalks Update
be received for information.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 12-25
10.
10.1
10.2
10.3
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
12- 26 -
Consulting Services for Mechanical Improvements at Chestnut Hill
Developments Recreation Complex
Council Decision:
That RFP2025-5 for Consulting Services for Mechanical Improvements at
Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex submitted by Bouthillette
Parizeau Inc. (BPA) in the amount of $188,764.80 (net HST) or $209,615.00
(HST included) be accepted;
1.
That the total gross project cost of $420,640.00 (HST included), including the
amount of the proposal, contingency and other associated costs, and the total
net project cost of $378,799.00 (net of HST rebate), be approved;
2.
That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project
cost of $378,799.00 to be funded from the Facilities Reserve, CCBF (FGT)
and Property Taxes as approved in 2020 and 2022-2025 Capital Budgets;
3.
That the Director, Community Services be authorized to execute the Form of
Agreement with the above-mentioned consultant pursuant to Request for
Proposal No. RFP2025-5; and,
4.
That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary action to give effect hereto.
5.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 14-25
Whitevale & District Residents’ Association Licence Agreement Renewal
Council Decision:
That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Licence
Agreement for a five year term commencing July 1, 2025 and ending June 30,
2030 with Whitevale & District Residents’ Association for the operation of the
Whitevale Arts & Culture Centre and the Whitevale Community Centre
including the Mary Christian House, set out in Attachment 1 to this report,
subject to minor revisions as may be required by the Director, Community
Services and the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor; and,
1.
That the appropriate City officials be authorized to take necessary actions as
indicated in this report.
2.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 16-25
10.5
10.7
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
13- 27 -
Mt. Zion Community Centre Association Licence Agreement Renewal
Council Decision:
That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Licence
Agreement for a two year term commencing July 1, 2025 and ending June 30,
2027 with Mt. Zion Community Centre Association for the operation of the Mt.
Zion Community Centre, set out in Attachment 1 to this report, subject to
minor revisions as may be required by the Director, Community Services and
the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor; and,
1.
That the appropriate City officials be authorized to take the necessary actions
as indicated in this report.
2.
Director, Engineering Services, Report ENG 10-25
Proposed Community Safety Zone
Liverpool Road
Council Decision:
That the attached draft by-law be enacted to amend Schedule “14” to By-law
6604/05 to provide for the regulation of Community Safety Zones on highways
or parts of highways under the jurisdiction of The Corporation of the City of
Pickering to provide for a Community Safety Zone on Liverpool Road, from
Bushmill Street/Linwood Street to Halsey Lane; and,
1.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
2.
Director, Engineering Services, Report ENG 11-25
Proposed Parking and Stopping Restrictions, Various Locations
Amendment to the Traffic and Parking By-law 6604/05
Council Decision:
That the attached draft by-law be enacted to amend Schedule “1”, No
Stopping, and Schedule “2”, No Parking, to By-law 6604/05 to provide for the
regulation of stopping and parking restrictions on highways or parts of
highways under the jurisdiction of The Corporation of the City of Pickering,
1.
10.8
10.9
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
14- 28 -
specifically to address the proposed installation of stopping and parking
restrictions on portions of Eyer Drive, Craighurst Court and Zents Drive; and,
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
2.
Director, City Development & CBO, Report SUS 03-25
Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests Tree Planting
Program Update and Extension
Council Decision:
That Report SUS 03-25 regarding an update on Local Enhancement and
Appreciation of Forests Backyard Tree Planting program results, and the
proposed extension be received;
1.
That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute a two-year extension
to the joint agreement between the Region of Durham, the Local
Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests organization, and participating
municipalities, as set out in Attachment 1 of this report, to deliver the tree
planting program from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027, subject to the terms and
conditions satisfactory to Director, City Development & CBO, and
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor;
2.
That appropriate City staff be directed to take the necessary actions as
indicated in this report; and,
3.
That staff report back on program results and proposed next steps at the
conclusion of the agreement term.
4.
Director, Community Services, Report CS 13-25
Beverage Vending Machine Services Provider
Request for Quotation No. Q2024-34
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and L.
Gibbs, Director, Community Services, regarding the Report seeking approval to
award a contract for beverage vending machine services and not snacks.
Resolution #765/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
10.11
10.4
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
15- 29 -
That the quotation submitted by Break Time Vending Services, in response to
Request for Quotation No. Q2024-34 for Beverage Vending Machine Services
Provider, offering commission of 54% of sales be accepted;
1.
That the Director, Community Services be authorized to execute a Vending
Services Agreement with Break Time Vending Services; and,
2.
That the appropriate City officials be authorized to take the necessary actions
as indicated in this report.
3.
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)
Director, Community Services, Report CS 15-25
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Pilot Project
A question and answer period ensued with staff regarding:
clarification on whether EV chargers would be used for personal vehicles;•
the capacity of the power grid and whether the grid could handle EV chargers;•
whether the proposal was a good business model given that the City had lost
money on 2 out of 3 charging stations; and,
•
the long-term cost impacts to the City and taxpayers.•
Resolution #766/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
That Report CS 15-25 regarding the City’s electric vehicle charging stations pilot
project be received for information.
10.6
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
16- 30 -
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)
Director, Engineering Services, Report ENG 12-25
Road Servicing Agreement with Ontario Power Generation Inc. Sandy Beach
Road and Montgomery Park Road
Resolution #767/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
That the City of Pickering enter into a Road Servicing Agreement with Ontario
Power Generation Inc. to facilitate the design, approvals and construction for
the rehabilitation of Sandy Beach Road from south of Bayly Street to
Montgomery Park Road, and the reconstruction of Montgomery Park Road
from Sandy Beach Road to approximately 400m east and south of McKay
Road;
1.
That the Mayor and City Clerk are hereby authorized to execute the Road
Servicing Agreement between the City of Pickering and Ontario Power
Generation Inc. in substantially the same form as attached to this report,
subject to revisions acceptable to the Director, Engineering Services, the
Director, City Infrastructure and the Director, Corporate Services & City
Solicitor; and,
2.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
3.
Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent
10.10
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
17- 31 -
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)
Pursuant to Section 11.04 of the Procedure By-law, at 8:50 p.m., the Chair, after
previous attempts to call the Member to order, ruled that Councillor Robinson would
not be recognized for the balance of the Meeting and would not be permitted to
speak or vote for the remainder of the Meeting.
Director, City Development & CBO, Report SUS 04-25
2024 Sustainable Year-in-Review
Resolution #768/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
That Report SUS 04-25, regarding the 2024 Sustainable Pickering Year-in-Review,
be received for information.
Carried
Report PD 04-25 of the Planning & Development Committee held on June 9,
2025
Resolution #769/25
Moved By Councillor Cook
Seconded By Councillor Nagy
That Report PD 04-25 of the Planning & Development Committee Meeting held on June 9,
2025 be adopted
Carried
10.12
11.
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
18- 32 -
Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 13-25
Northeast Pickering Secondary Plan Update
Council Decision:
That the Northeast Pickering Secondary Plan Land Use Concepts and
Preferred Land Use Plan report, prepared by SGL Planning & Design Inc.,
(SGL) dated May 2025, provided as Appendix I to Report PLN 13-25, be
received, and forwarded to the public, agencies, landowners, and others
engaged in the process, for comment; and,
1.
That SGL and City Staff review the comments received on the SGL Report,
and prepare a Proposed Plan for consideration at a Statutory Public Meeting
to be held in the fall 2025.
2.
Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 16-25
Pickering Official Plan Review
Project Update and Completed Growth Management Strategy
Council Decision:
That Report PLN 16-25, regarding the Pickering Official Plan Review, be
received;
1.
That the City of Pickering Growth Management Strategy Final Report,
prepared by Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. in association with WSP,
dated May 28, 2025, provided as Attachment 1 to Report PLN 16-25, be
received, and that staff be directed to implement the growth projections
contained therein, through the Pickering Official Plan Review (Pickering
Forward);
2.
That staff consider the comments received from Phase 1 (Background &
Research) of the Official Plan Review, and the key outcomes and
recommendations in the City of Pickering Growth Management Strategy Final
Report, in preparation of Phase 2 (Policy Drafting) of the Pickering Official
Plan Review process; and,
3.
That a copy of the City of Pickering Growth Management Strategy Final
Report be made available to interested parties through the project website.
4.
Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 14-25
11.1
11.2
11.3
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
19- 33 -
Zoning By-law Amendment A 06/24
Draft Plan of Condominium CP-2024-05
9004807 Canada Inc. (Stonepay)
1635 Palmer’s Sawmill Road
Council Decision:
That Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 06/24, submitted by 9004807
Canada Inc. (Stonepay), to permit a condominium development containing 85
townhouse units, be approved, and that the draft Zoning By-law Amendment, as set
out in Appendix I to Report PLN 14-25, be finalized and forwarded to Council for
enactment.
Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 15-25
Official Plan Amendment OPA 23-004/P
Zoning By-law Amendment A 10/23
1334281 Ontario Limited
720 Granite Court
Council Decision:
That Official Plan Amendment OPA 23-004/P and Zoning By-law Amendment
Application A 10/23, submitted by 1334281 Ontario Limited, for lands located
at 720 Granite Court, be refused; and,
1.
That should Official Plan Amendment OPA 23-004/P (OPA 23-004/P) and
Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 10/23 (ZBA A 10/23), submitted by
1334281 Ontario Limited, for land located at 720 Granite Court, be appealed
to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT), that Council authorize City staff, its
outside legal counsel and outside experts in the fields of planning,
transportation, environmental, urban design and other specialties, as may be
required, to present and defend Council’s position on OPA 23-004/P and A
10/23 at the OLT.
2.
New and Unfinished Business
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report BYL 01-25
Short-Term Rental Licensing
11.4
12.
12.2
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
20- 34 -
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
clarification regarding whether by-law staff were available during weekends to
address issues related to short-term rentals;
•
licensing providing more proactive tools to the City to track short-term rentals;•
other municipalities who conducted licencing for short-term rentals;•
deciding next year whether the City should move towards licencing;•
whether the City could track issues related to short-term rentals to assist in the
decision making;
•
clarification that certain complaints arising from short-term rentals were
referred to Durham Regional Police Servies as opposed to By-law;
•
whether there was an alternative solution to licencing;•
whether there was value in referring the Report back to staff;•
how many short-term rentals were in Pickering;•
whether there could be additional costs from the Municipal Accommodate Tax;
and,
•
the impact of deferring a decision on the recommendation.•
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Cook
That Report BYL 01-25 regarding the licensing and regulation of short term rentals
be received for information.
Note: The disposition of this matter was determined through the deferral
motion below:
Resolution #770/25
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Nagy
That Report BYL 01-25 be deferred to the September 29, 2025 Council Meeting.
Carried
Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 09-25
2024 Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Annual Report & 2025 Work Plan
Resolution #771/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
12.3
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
21- 35 -
That Report CAO 09-25 regarding the City of Pickering’s 2024 Equity, Diversity and
Inclusion Annual Report & 2025 Work Plan be received for information.
Carried
Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 11-25
2024 Community Safety & Well-Being Annual Report
Resolution #772/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Cook
That Report CAO 11-25 regarding the 2024 Community Safety & Well-Being Annual
Report be received for information.
Carried
Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects, Report ECD 05-25
Naming Rights Agreement for Pickering’s New Community Centre
Resolution #773/25
Moved By Councillor Cook
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
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 & Heritage Centre;
1.
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 and that the agreement be amended to reflect the facility name of
Dorsay Community & Heritage Centre;
2.
That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the naming rights
agreement as amended, between the City of Pickering and Dorsay
Developments Corporation; and,
3.
That the appropriate City of Pickering Officials be authorized to take
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
4.
Carried
12.4
12.5
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
22- 36 -
Director, Engineering Services, Report ENG 14-25
Diana, Princess of Wales Park
Six Dedicated Outdoor Pickleball Courts
Request for Tender No. T2025-8
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
whether the City would remove the soccer pitches in the Diana, Princess of
Wales Park;
•
clarification regarding the hydro one approvals;•
findings of the consultant’s noise study; and,•
how the City planned to rectify possible future noise complaints related to the
outdoor pickleball courts.
•
Resolution #774/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
That Request for Tender No. T2025-8 for the Diana, Princess of Wales Park
Pickleball Courts as submitted by Zilli Construction Ltd. in the total tendered
amount of $312,963.00 (net HST) or $347,531.50 (HST included) be
accepted;
1.
That the total gross project cost of $419,180.00 (HST included), including the
tendered amount, a contingency and other associated costs, and the total net
project cost of $377,485.00 (net HST) be approved;
2.
That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to finance the total
net project cost of $377,485.00 as approved in the 2025 Capital Budget to be
funded by a transfer from the Casino Reserve;
3.
That the Director, Engineering Services be authorized to execute the Form of
Agreement with Zilli Construction Ltd. pursuant to Request for Tender No.
T2025-8; and,
4.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
5.
Carried
Director, Engineering Services, Report ENG 15-25
Shared E-Scooter Pilot Program
12.6
12.7
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
23- 37 -
Request for Proposal No. RFP2025-6
Resolution #775/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That the proposal submitted by Bird Canada Scooters Inc. in response to
Request for Proposal No. RFP2025-6 for the Shared E-Scooter Pilot Program
be accepted;
1.
That the Director, Engineering Services be authorized to execute an
agreement with Bird Canada Scooters Inc. pursuant to Request for Proposal
No. RFP2025-6; and,
2.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
3.
Carried
Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 11-25
Ontario Transfer Payment Amending Agreement for the Building Faster Fund
Resolution #776/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That Report FIN 11-25 regarding the amendment to Ontario Transfer Payment
Agreement with the Province of Ontario be received;
1.
That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the amended Ontario
Transfer Payment Agreement with the Province of Ontario for the Building
Faster Fund; and,
2.
That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be given authority to take the
necessary actions to give effect thereto.
3.
Carried
Director, City Infrastructure, Report INF 04-25
Supply & Delivery of Three 4-Ton Dump Trucks
Request for Quotation No. RFQQ2025-8
Resolution #777/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
12.8
12.9
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
24- 38 -
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That the quotation submitted by Viking Cives Ltd. in response to Request for
Quotation No. RFQQ2025-8 for the Supply & Delivery of Three 4-Ton Dump
Trucks, in the amount of $1,358,496.00 (net HST) or $1,508,550.00 (HST
included) be accepted;
1.
That the total gross project cost of $1,508,550.00 (HST included), and that the
total net project cost of $1,358,496.00 (net of HST rebate) be approved;
2.
That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance $905,664.00
from Vehicle Replacement Reserve as approved in the 2025 Capital Budget
and the balance $452,832.00 from DC - Other Services Related to a Highway
Reserve; and,
3.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
4.
Carried
Director, City Infrastructure, Report INF 05-25
Autumn Stormwater Management Pond Cleanout
Request for Tender No. T2025-7
Resolution #778/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That the bid submitted by Mianco Group Inc. in response to Request for
Tender No. T2025-7 for Autumn Stormwater Management Pond Cleanout, in
the amount of $301,450.77 (net HST) or $334,747.81 (HST included), be
accepted;
1.
That Council approve the hiring of T.Y.Lin International Canada Inc. as a
consultant, in the amount of $88,600.00 (HST excluded) to undertake contract
administration and construction inspection for the Autumn Stormwater
Management Pond Cleanout in accordance with Purchasing Policy 10.03 (c),
as the assignment is above $50,000.00;
2.
That the total gross project cost of $560,462.00 (HST included), including the
tendered amount, engineering design, a contingency, and other associated
costs, and the total net project cost of $504,713.00 (net of HST rebate) be
approved;
3.
That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project
cost of $504,713.00 as approved in the 2024 Capital Budget to be funded by a
transfer from the SWM Reserve Fund; and,
4.
12.10
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
25- 39 -
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
5.
Carried
Director, City Infrastructure, Report INF 06-25
Begley Stormwater Management Pond Cleanout
Request for Tender No. T2025-10
Resolution #779/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That the bid submitted by Buildscapes Construction Ltd. in response to
Request for Tender No. T2025-10 for Begley Stormwater Management Pond
Cleanout, in the amount of $262,537.67 (net HST) or $291,536.52 (HST
included), be accepted;
1.
That Council approve the hiring of T.Y.Lin International Canada Inc. as a
consultant, in the amount of $78,800.00 (HST excluded) to undertake contract
administration and construction inspection for the Begley Stormwater
Management Pond Cleanout in accordance with Purchasing Policy 10.03 (c),
as the assignment is above $50,000.00;
2.
That the total gross project cost of $498,603.00 (HST included), including the
tendered amount, consulting cost, a contingency, and other associated costs,
and the total net project cost of $449,007.00 (net of HST rebate) be approved;
3.
That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project
cost of $449,007.00 as approved in the 2024 Capital Budget to be funded by a
transfer from the SWM Reserve Fund; and,
4.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
5.
Carried
Director, City Infrastructure, Report INF 07-25
Provincial Grant Funding for Krosno Creek Culvert Replacements
Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program – Housing-Enabling Water Systems
Fund
Resolution #780/25
12.11
12.12
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
26- 40 -
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That Report INF 07-25 regarding Provincial Grant Funding for the Krosno
Creek Culvert Replacements Project be received;
1.
That Council authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the Transfer
Payment Agreement with the Province of Ontario for the Housing-Enabling
Water Systems Fund: Intake 2 on such terms satisfactory to the Director, City
Infrastructure and any other necessary documentation, including the
necessary by-law to permit the City of Pickering to enter into the Housing-
Enabling Water Systems Fund: Intake 2 Transfer Payment Agreement; and,
2.
That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
3.
Carried
Motions and Notice of Motions
Review of Strong Mayor Powers Legislation
Discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding:
the City having taken a position to oppose the Strong Mayor Powers when
they were first introduced to municipalities aside from Ottawa and Toronto;
•
the reasons as to why the legislation needed to be reviewed by the Province
as stated in the motion;
•
concerns being expressed from municipalities across the Province;•
understanding the economic impact of the legislation;•
adding Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) to the circulation parties
as they oversee municipalities across the Country; and,
•
the limited uses of the Strong Mayor Powers in Pickering to date.•
Resolution #781/25
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Cook
WHEREAS, the Province of Ontario passed O. Reg. 530/22 under Part VI.1 of the
Municipal Act, Special Powers and Duties of the Head of Council (the “Strong Mayor
Powers” or “SMP”);
And Whereas, since 2022, Strong Mayor Powers have been imposed on 216
Municipalities with 2 municipalities receiving such Powers on November 23, 2022,
26 municipalities receiving the Powers on July 1, 2023, 18 receiving them on
13.
13.1
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
27- 41 -
October 31, 2023, and most recently, the Powers were extended to an additional
170 municipalities on May 1, 2025;
And Whereas, Associations such as The Association of Municipal Managers,
Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario (AMCTO), and The Association of Municipalities of
Ontario (AMO), have advocated for municipalities and municipal staff as it relates to
Strong Mayor Powers;
And Whereas, such Advocacy includes but is not limited to opposition to the
Powers as they relate to matters that are within the realm of municipal
administration and operation, including matters of employment, and the hiring and
termination of municipal staff including the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), all of
which are having negative impacts on workplace culture.
And Whereas, through a research scan of municipalities in 2024, conducted by
AMCTO, they found mayors retention, use and implementation of Powers can and
have changed the dynamics between staff and decision-making, and that overall the
legislation has had negative impacts to municipal staff and the disruption of
municipal timelines, policies and procedures by:
creating operational and administrative burdens when it comes to supporting
the interpretation and implementation of the legislation;
•
blurring the lines of political and administrative authority, particularly between
the mayor and CAO;
•
creating inconsistencies and a lack of accountability and transparency in
decision making; and,
•
leaving staff employment, well-being and effectiveness at the discretion of the
mayor;
•
And Whereas, AMCTO has advocated specifically to remove the ability for heads of
council to directly hire or dismiss any municipal staff as well as advocating for clarity
in the implementation of the Strong Mayor Powers legislation noting that it has led to
inconsistent implementation and undue administrative burdens on staff;
And Whereas, while the Ministry states that the expansion of Strong Mayor Powers
is to help promote provincial priorities, including to support housing and housing-
related infrastructure, the recent addition of 170 municipalities receiving the Powers
did not include a request to commit to a housing pledge, nor did it provide those
municipalities with a housing target;
And Whereas, despite the Powers having been in place for 3 years, it remains
unclear what checks and balances are in place from the Ministry to ensure that the
Powers are being used in accordance with O. Reg. 580/22: Provincial Priorities;
And Whereas, with the implementation of Bill 5, Protect Ontario by Unleashing our
Economy Act, 2025, a majority of Municipal Planning Powers have been removed
and/or transferred to the Minister which was one of the key justifications for granting
SMPs;
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
28- 42 -
Now therefore be it resolved that the Council for The Corporation of the City of
Pickering requests:
That the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing conduct a comprehensive
review of the Special Powers and Duties of the Head of Council under Part
VI.1 of the Municipal Act and O. Reg 530/22;
1.
That such review include but not be limited to input from stakeholders such as
The Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario
(AMCTO), The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), and Municipal
Chief Administrative Officer’s and Municipal Clerks from the 216 Municipalities
where Strong Mayor Powers have been imposed;
2.
That the review examine the concerns previously raised by AMCTO and AMO
as set out in this motion; and,
3.
That a copy of this Motion be forwarded to The Honourable Doug Ford,
Premier of Ontario, The Honourable Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs
and Housing, the Leaders of the Opposition for the NDP and Liberal Parties,
all Durham MPPs, all Durham Region Lower Tier Municipalities, The
Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario, The
Association of Municipalities Ontario, and The Federation of Canadian
Municipalities.
4.
Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote
Councillor Robinson was not included in the recorded vote due to the Chair’s ruling
earlier in the meeting, in accordance with Section 11.04 of the Procedure By-law,
that she would not be recognized for the balance of the Meeting.
Addressing the Impacts of Removal of Highway 407 Tolls on Regional
Roads in Pickering
Discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding:
the increase of traffic on Brock Road and Whites Road from drivers accessing
the un-tolled portion of Highway 407;
•
the City having requested the installation of signals at Palmers Sawmill Road
and Brock Road and at Usman Road;
•
measures that the City could take to address people using shortcuts to access
the 407; and,
•
looking at how the City could address issues related to Brock Road becoming
a bottle neck.
•
13.2
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
29- 43 -
Resolution #782/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
WHEREAS, the Province’s removal of tolls on Highway 407 east of Brock Road as
of June 1, 2025, is a positive step and will benefit many residents of Durham
Region;
And Whereas, as tolls remain in place on Highway 407 ETR west of Brock Road,
many drivers will be entering or exiting Highway 407 at Brock Road in Pickering.
This significantly adds to traffic on Brock Road and Whites Road as they navigate
through Pickering to reach Highway 407.
And Whereas, ideally these drivers should utilize Highway 412 to connect between
Highway 407 and Highway 401;
And Whereas, Pickering Council requested that the Region of Durham install traffic
signals at Palmers Sawmill Road and Brock Road and at Usman Road (south leg)
and Brock Road through Resolution # 471/24 at the April 22, 2024 Council Meeting;
And Whereas, the Region of Durham has plans to widen Brock Road to four lanes
between Taunton Road and Alexander Knox Road, along with improvements to
street lighting, signage and signal modifications;
And Whereas, the traffic concerns are impacting the flow of traffic and safety in
Pickering;
Now therefore be it resolved, that the Council of The Corporation of the City of
Pickering requests:
That the Region of Durham immediately review the change in traffic conditions
in Pickering, particularly on Brock Road and Whites Road, due to the removal
of tolls on Highway 407 east of Brock Road;
1.
That the Province and the Region of Durham explore methods to encourage
and incentivize drivers to use Highway 412 to connect between Highway 407
and Highway 401;
2.
That the Region of Durham recommend and expedite means to address the
congestion, traffic and safety concerns including widening Brock Road to four
lanes between Alexander Knox Road and Taunton Road, and possibly
widening to six lanes where appropriate. Additionally, that the Region of
Durham recommend and expedite the installation of traffic signals on Brock
Road at Palmers Sawmill Road and at Usman Road, along with other
operational improvements;
3.
That the Region of Durham recommend and expedite improvements to Whites
Road and other roads to address congestion, traffic and safety concerns; and,
4.
That a copy of this resolution be sent to the Region of Durham for immediate
consideration.
5.
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
30- 44 -
Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote
Councillor Robinson was not included in the recorded vote due to the Chair’s ruling
earlier in the meeting, in accordance with Section 11.04 of the Procedure By-law,
that she would not be recognized for the balance of the Meeting.
Opposition to Bill 5 and Request to Repeal
Discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding:
Bill 5 being passed recently but not yet having received Royal Assent;•
negative impacts of the Bill on indigenous communities, authority of local
governments, and endangered species;
•
concerns regarding the designation of special economic zones; and,•
concerns regarding Bill 5 removing powers of the indigenous councils.•
Resolution # 783/25
Moved By Councillor Nagy
Seconded By Councillor Cook
WHEREAS, on April 17, 2025, the Government of Ontario brought forth Bill 5:
Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025, a broad omnibus legislation
that proposes to make various changes to existing planning, consultation, approval,
authority, and protection frameworks found in Provincial statutes in relation to major
infrastructure, mining and resource development projects;
And Whereas, on June 4, 2025, Bill 5 passed its third and final reading in the
Ontario legislature, but has not yet come into force;
And Whereas, Bill 5 granted broad powers by creating provincial “authority to
designate special economic zones”, which allows for the suspension of
constitutionally protected rights of Indigenous peoples and the suspension of
powers of municipal governments and environmental authorities;
And Whereas, Bill 5 provides powers for the Province that First Nations
governments in Ontario have stated would be contrary to Treaty agreements with
the Crown;
And Whereas, amendments to the Ontario Heritage Act, 1990, fail to address
systemic issues in archaeological resource management, such as delayed
consultation with Indigenous communities and unilateral provincial control over
Indigenous artifacts and cultural heritage. Additionally, the amendments exacerbate
already weakened heritage protections brought in Report #2025-CG-7 Page 2 of 10
through Bill 23. Any exemptions under the Ontario Heritage Act could result in
negative impacts, including the destruction of Indigenous artifacts and burial sites;
And Whereas, Bill 5 repeals the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and degrades
13.3
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
31- 45 -
protections for the environment and circumvents policies that have kept Ontarians
safe and healthy for decades, including regulations that prevent the contamination
of Ontario’s water and the means by which water contamination is identified;
And Whereas, the new regime for endangered species and at-risk species is
designed for more flexible permitting and registry-based approvals, rather than
automatic prohibitions on activities that harm listed species or their habitats.
Additionally, narrowing the definition of habitat in the ESA to just the immediate area
surrounding dwelling sites excludes protection of broader ecosystems that
endangered and at-risk species rely on for survival. There are more than 230
species at risk in Ontario, many of which are in Durham, including numerous birds,
fish, insects, reptiles and plant species. These species have experienced population
declines over the past several decades and are at risk of being lost completely.
While these changes could expedite development approvals, they may also reduce
environmental oversight resulting in devastation to populations of endangered
species;
And Whereas, the 'trusted proponent' model under the Special Economic Zones
Act, 2025, may create a two-tier development system, favouring select private
businesses with fewer regulations, thereby undermining labour standards and
enabling potentially exploitative and unsafe working conditions;
And Whereas, Bill 5 enables the Province to override municipal authorities and
planning activities without consultation or warning, including the ability to upend
planning processes already long underway and future planning processes being
considered or yet to be contemplated;
And Whereas, Bill 5 undermines the practice and spirit of democracy and a rights-
based system in the Province of Ontario, and to date has garnered the public
opposition of the Chiefs of Ontario, Nishnawbe Aski Nation, Anishinabek Nation,
Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians, Sandy Lake First Nation, Neskantaga
First Nation, Grassy Narrows First Nation, the Canadian Civil Liberties Association,
Amnesty International Canada, the Canadian Environmental Law Association,
World Wildlife Fund – Canada, David Suzuki Foundation, The Canadian Parks and
Wilderness Society, Ontario Biodiversity Council, Ontario Nature, Legal Advocates
for Nature’s Defence, Environmental Defense, Wildlands League, Wildlife
Preservation Canada, Ecojustice, the Toronto Zoo, Mining Watch Canada,
Democracy Watch, municipalities in Ontario, and numerous other pan-regional and
local organizations across Ontario;
Now therefore be it resolved that the Council of The Corporation for the City of
Pickering:
Opposes the Government of Ontario’s Bill 5 due to its infringement on
Indigenous rights, assignment of powers to arbitrarily override and ignore
long-established areas of municipal government authorities, risks to the long-
1.
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
32- 46 -
term health of important ecosystems and the environment generally, and
circumvention of numerous democratic rights and oversight responsibilities;
Calls upon the Government of Ontario to immediately repeal Bill 5;2.
Urges the Government of Ontario, in accordance with the recommendation of
Grand Chief Joel Abram of the Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians, to
“engage in a comprehensive redrafting process with full First Nations
participation” and to likewise engage with municipalities and other affected
stakeholders in the same comprehensive redrafting process, maintaining a
rights-based foundation, inclusive of an evidence-based approach to
environmental protections;
3.
Supports efforts to streamline the approvals process for mining projects in
Ontario when it does not come at the expense of safeguarding against
environmental and community impacts, nor negate or remove the duty to
consult with our Indigenous stakeholders such as the Mississauga’s of Scugog
Island First nation (MSIFN), and those Indigenous Nations adjacent to the
designated “Ring of Fire” mining zone;
4.
Is supportive of mechanisms that would result in increased local procurement
in the electricity sector; however, we wish it to be noted that limiting
competition could increase costs if local or preferred suppliers are more
expensive than international alternatives, which may result in increased
electricity prices for ratepayers; and,
5.
Directs that a copy of this resolution be sent to the Honourable Doug Ford,
Premier of Ontario; the Honourable Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and
Mines; the Honourable Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment,
Conservation and Parks; the Honourable Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic
Development, Job Creation and Trade; the Honourable Rob Flack, Minister of
Municipal Affairs and Housing; the Honourable George Pirie, Minister of
Northern Economic Development and Growth; the Honourable Greg Rickford,
Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation and
Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships;
Chief Kelly LaRocca of the Mississauga’s of Scugog Island Frist Nations; all
treaty members of the William Treaties signatories; the Association of
Municipalities of Ontario; the Region of Durham; and all municipalities in
Ontario.
6.
Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote
Councillor Robinson was not included in the recorded vote due to the Chair’s ruling
earlier in the meeting, in accordance with Section 11.04 of the Procedure By-law,
that she would not be recognized for the balance of the Meeting.
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
33- 47 -
By-laws
Resolution #784/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That By-law Numbers 8187/25 through 8194/25 be approved.
Carried
By-law 8187/25
Being a by-law to amend By-law 6604/05 providing for the regulating of traffic and
parking, standing and stopping on highways or parts of highways under the
jurisdiction of the City of Pickering and on private and municipal property.
By-law 8188/25
Being a by-law to amend By-law 6604/05 providing for the regulating of traffic and
parking, standing and stopping on highways or parts of highways under the
jurisdiction of the City of Pickering and on private and municipal property.
By-law 8189/25
Being a by-law to amend Zoning By-law 8149/24, as amended, to implement the
Official Plan of the City of Pickering, Region of Durham, Block 2, Plan 40M-2685, in
the City of Pickering (A 06/24).
By-law 8190/25
Being a By-law Regarding Development Charges.
By-law 8191/25
Being a by-law to amend By-law 6191/03 to confirm General Municipal Fees.
By-law 8192/25
Being a by-law to Provide for the Payment of Community Benefits Charges for the
City of Pickering Pursuant to Section 37 of the Planning Act.
By-law 8193/25
Being a by-law that designates the lands legally described as Lot 17, Plan 40M-
14.
14.1
14.2
14.3
14.4
14.5
14.6
14.7
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
34- 48 -
2774, Lot 71 (the “Forsyth House”) and municipally known as 5113 Brock Road
(Claremont), Pickering, as being cultural heritage value or interest.
By-law 8194/25
Being a by-law to appoint Anthony Karabulut as Municipal Law Enforcement Officer
for the purpose of enforcing the by-laws of the Corporation of the City of Pickering.
Confidential Council - Public Report
Mayor Ashe stated that prior to the Regular Meeting of Council, an In-camera session was
held at 5:00 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 matters pertaining
to personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board
employees; a trade secret or scientific, technical, commercial, financial or labour relations
information, supplied in confidence to the municipality, which, if disclosed, could
reasonably be expected to prejudice significantly the competitive position or interfere
significantly with the contractual or other negotiations of a person, group of persons, or
organization; a trade secret or scientific, technical, commercial or financial information that
belongs to the municipality or local board and has monetary value or potential monetary
value; and a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any
negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local
board. These matters were discussed in closed session as they pertain to the potential
divestiture of the City of Pickering’s interest in Elexicon Corporation, various Economic
Development & Strategic Projects related initiatives, and a citizen appointment to the
Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee.
Citizen Appointment to the Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee
(HPAC)
Resolution #785/25
Moved By Councillor Cook
Seconded By Councillor Nagy
That Mark Lowe be appointed to the Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee for a
term ending on November 14, 2026, or until a successor is appointed.
Carried
Regional Councillor Updates
There were no updates from Regional Councillors.
14.8
15.
15.1
16.
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
35- 49 -
Other Business
Councilor Cook gave Notice of a Motion regarding requesting the Federal
Government to include femicide in the Criminal Code.
•
Confirmatory By-law
Moved By Councillor Cook
Seconded By Councillor Butt
That By-law 8195/25, to confirm the proceedings of the June 23, 2025 Council Meeting be
approved.
Carried
Adjournment
Moved By Councillor Nagy
Seconded By Councillor Cook
That the meeting be adjourned.
Carried
The meeting adjourned at 10:08 p.m.
Dated this 23rd day of June 2025.
______________________________
Kevin Ashe, Mayor
______________________________
Susan Cassel, City Clerk
17.
18.
19.
Council Meeting Minutes
June 23, 2025
36- 50 -
1
Special Council
Meeting Minutes
Electronic Meeting
September 29, 2025 - 01:00 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
S. Cassel – (Acting) Director, Corporate Services & City Clerk
J. Flowers - CEO & Director of Public Libraries
L. Gibbs - Director, Community Services
K. Heathcote - Director, City Infrastructure
R. Holborn - Director, Engineering Services
S. Karwowski - Director, Finance & Treasurer
J. Halsall - Division Head, Finance
V. Plouffe - Division Head, Facilities Management & Construction
R. Perera - Deputy Clerk
1. Call to Order/Roll Call
- 51 -
Special Council Meeting Minutes
September 29, 2025
2
The City Clerk certified that all Members of Council were present and participating
electronically.
2. Disclosure of Interest
No disclosures of interest were noted.
3. Delegations
3.1 Akeem Maginley, Chairperson, Pickering Public Library Board
Re: Report CAO 14-25
Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Update, Financial Analysis
& Next Steps
A. Maginley, Chairperson, Pickering Public Library Board, joined the meeting via
electronic connection to speak to Report CAO 14-25. A. Maginley expressed the
Board’s enthusiasm for the new facility, noting that it would become the City’s fifth
library branch. A. Maginley emphasized the Board’s commitment to inclusivity for all
Pickering residents, including those in emerging communities, and highlighted the
success of the mobile book service called “Ovee,” which had welcomed nearly
5,000 visitors in its first year. A. Maginley stated that the proposed library would be
the first in the City to be integrated within a recreation complex, pointing out that
libraries and recreation centres were among the most frequently used public
facilities. A. Maginley spoke about the role libraries play in enabling individuals to
explore, dream, and thrive, sharing personal memories of visiting the local library as
a child. A. Maginley stressed the urgency of the moment, warning that inaction
could leave the City behind. A. Maginley noted the importance of providing modern,
inclusive spaces that foster growth and resilience in communities. A. Maginley
concluded the delegation by describing the new library as a destination for all and
thanked City Council for its continued support.
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and A.
Maginley regarding the number of Seaton residents who had accessed the Ovee.
3.2 Faysal Yahya, Sulakshan Sabaratnam, Zainab Gabol, Andrew Kim,
Mythile Thirukesan, Ashish Chavan, and Fahad Hashmi, Pickering
Residents
Re: Report CAO 14-25
Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Update, Financial Analysis
& Next Steps
- 52 -
Special Council Meeting Minutes
September 29, 2025
3
F. Yahya, S. Sabaratnam, A. Kim, M. Thirukesan, A. Chavan, and F. Hashmi,
Pickering residents, appeared before Council via electronic connection to speak to
Report CAO 14-25. The delegates stated that the Seaton Recreation Complex &
Library, promised some time ago, had experienced ongoing delays resulting in
increased costs. The delegates emphasized that the community needed Council to
act now and spoke about the hardships faced by families living in Seaton, including
limited access to recreation programs and unreasonable program hours at the
Chestnut Hill Development Recreation Complex (CHDRC). The delegates stated
that young families in Seaton deserved the same access to community
programming as those in South Pickering. They noted that deferring the Project to
2027 would further increase costs and risk the loss of Provincial and Federal
funding. They highlighted the benefits of the Project, such as supporting youth
development, promoting healthy living, and fostering community connection. The
delegates added that these facilities were essential to retaining and attracting young
families and fulfilling the promise made to those who moved to Pickering. They
pointed out that it had been 25 years since the CHDRC was built, and despite
population growth, all recreation centres remain concentrated in South Pickering.
They emphasized that a recreation complex and library were standard features of a
complete community and described the proposed facility as a necessity, not a
luxury. The delegates concluded by requesting Council’s support to make Seaton a
complete community for current and future residents.
3.3 James McGrath, Danielle Sheppard, and Anne Ottenbrite-Muylaert,
Pickering Swim Club
Re: Report CAO 14-25
Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Update, Financial Analysis
& Next Steps
J. McGrath, D. Sheppard, and A. Ottenbrite-Muylaert, Pickering Swim Club,
appeared before Council via electronic connection to speak to Report CAO 14-25.
The delegates stated that deferring the Project was not a viable option for Pickering
and spoke about the various benefits offered by the community swim program, such
as saving lives and maintaining a healthy community. The delegates added that the
absence of a pool would undermine the large number of program users currently
registered and result in a loss of revenue for the City. They referenced the success
of a similar facility in Uxbridge and urged Council to reject the deferral of the Project.
The delegates noted that the Pickering Swim Club hosted five swim meets annually,
which were essential for swimmer development, and mentioned that in recent years,
they had to turn away swimmers due to limited accommodation. They cited findings
from the community survey identifying an aquatic facility as the most needed
amenity and discussed the impact of short staffing and the scheduled closure of the
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4
pool at Chestnut Hill Development Recreation Complex. The delegates further
spoke about the economic benefits of a community swimming pool and the
opportunities it would create for population growth and job creation.
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and J.
McGrath, D. Sheppard, and A. Ottenbrite-Muylaert regarding:
A.clarification that staff were not recommending the deferral of the proposed
facility; and,
B.whether the delegates were aware of the proposed sequence of pool openings
and closures.
4. Matters for Consideration
4.1 Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 14-25
Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Update, Financial Analysis &
Next Steps
A. Frontini, Principal Design Director, P. Fenech, Principal, Sport, Recreation and
Entertainment, P. O'Sullivan, Associate Principal, Sport, Recreation and
Entertainment, and M. Blois, Architect, Senior Associate, Will & Perkins, appeared
before Council via electronic connection to present the schematic design option 4
for the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library. Through the aid of a PDF
presentation, they provided details of the context plan, design concept, site plan
base programs, site plan optional programs, entry points into the site, and various
elements included in the different levels of the facility.
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council, A. Frontini, P.
Fenech, P. O'Sullivan, and M. Blois, regarding:
A.whether the health club would be located on the second floor and how access
would be provided to the health club;
B.the entry point into the facility through the subdivision and whether this would
encourage street parking in the nearby neighbourhood;
C.whether a soccer pitch or tennis courts would be included; and,
D.whether the rooms in the basement could provide any other uses.
L. Gibbs, Director, Community Services, and J. Flowers, CEO & Director of Public
Libraries, appeared before Council via electronic connection to speak to the
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5
Community Consultation conducted for the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library.
Through the aid of a PDF presentation, they provided details of the various
engagement tools used for the Project such as public open houses, online
community survey, and community pop-ups. They further provided information on
the findings from the public survey which reflected excitement for the Project, with
many emphasizing the need for quick construction and improved public transit and
active transportation connections.
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council, L. Gibbs, and
J. Flowers regarding:
• the various activities and programs that would be offered by the Seaton
Library;
• community feedback received regarding the outdoor skating and water feature
splash pads;
• whether a cricket pitch would be included;
• consideration of a minor design change to allow the administrative space to be
shared by both Library and City staff;
• the number of Seaton residents who had accessed the Ovee outreach vehicle;
• whether individuals on waitlists for swimming programs at the Chestnut Hill
Development Recreation Complex (CHDRC) who could not secure a spot
were provided alternative options;
• whether the pickleball courts would be located outdoors;
• the large number of library users in Pickering;
• baseball pitches being considered as an alternative to cricket pitches;
• the number of adult residents versus children who participated in the public
input survey;
• the extent of public outreach conducted and whether it was sufficient;
• whether the public survey communicated the potential tax increase;
• whether any negative feedback was received from the public survey; and,
• exploring alternative renovation timelines to reduce downtime at the CHDRC
pool and the possibility of relocating affected aquatic programs to the
Dunbarton pool.
S. Karwowski, Director, Finance & Treasurer, appeared before Members of Council
via electronic connection to provide a financial analysis of the Seaton Recreation
Complex and Library Project. Through the aid of a PowerPoint presentation, S.
Karwowski provided information on the Project decision making process, cost and
financing, projected debt, debt capacity usage and the Annual Repayment Limit
(ARL), as well as the budget levy impact by household. S. Karwowski advised that
the financial analysis projected an approximate 11.16% future increase in the
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6
property tax levy for Option A. S. Karwowski stated that both options relied heavily
on development charges and debt financing and emphasized the importance of
balancing current needs with long-term financial sustainability.
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and S.
Karwowski regarding:
• clarification that the potential tax increases would be for the Pickering portion
of the tax base only;
• the percentage of the total tax for an average homeowner in Pickering;
• when the proposed tax levy would begin and whether there would be
opportunities to seek grant funding;
• whether there would be any opportunity to help finance the arenas through
development charges;
• clarification that the tax increases were only estimates and that approval of the
Project did not constitute adoption of any tax increases;
• clarification regarding the parked capital projects mentioned in the
presentation;
• the potential tax impact if the Project were to commence in 2027;
• the likelihood of the City securing grants; and,
• the estimated cost to build the project in 2026 versus 2027 dollars.
Moved By Councillor Robinson
Seconded By Councillor Cook
That Council take a short recess.
Carried
Council recessed at 3:34 p.m. and reconvened at 3:43 p.m.
Upon reconvening, the City Clerk certified that all Members of Council were once
again present and participating electronically.
Discussion and a question and answer period ensued between Members of Council
and staff regarding:
• the proposed amendment presented at the meeting intending to provide
direction to staff to minimize future tax increases and mitigate Project costs;
• clarification that the Project would proceed even if grants were not secured;
• concerns regarding the potential sale of the Don Beer Arena and the need for
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September 29, 2025
7
public consultation on the matter;
• clarification that the intent is to sell the Don Beer Arena once it had been
decommissioned;
• the need to provide facilities in both Seaton and other areas of the City;
• whether outdoor washrooms would be included in the initial phase of the
Project;
• the current maintenance costs of the Don Beer Arena and cost-saving
opportunities offered by the new facility, which would include a hockey arena;
• the importance of public survey feedback provided by youth in the community;
• the need to proceed with the new facility due to the deteriorating condition of
the Don Beer Arena and the costs associated with its renovation and ongoing
maintenance;
• petitions and delegations submitted to Council expressing the need to move
forward with the Project and construct the full design to streamline
construction;
• the facility providing a hockey arena in North Pickering and offering equal
opportunities to residents in both South and North Pickering;
• the City's population growth leading to the need for a secondary recreation
complex, similar to those in other municipalities referenced by delegates;
• the Project being a vibrant and much-needed addition to the community;
• the importance of developing world-class facilities in a world class City such
as Pickering and the risk of further delays increasing project costs;
• the need for a backup facility for the Chestnut Hill Development Recreation
Complex;
• concerns that the survey sample size was too small given the significant
financial impact of the Project;
• concerns about the financial strain the Project may place on the City and its
ability to undertake future capital projects;
• the unprecedented amount of feedback received from the community; and,
• the Project being a process of community building, with each new facility
contributing to long-term impact and growth.
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
1. That Report CAO 14-25 regarding the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Project Update, Financial Analysis & Next Steps be received;
2. That Council endorse the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library preferred
base program schematic design concept, as set out in Attachment 1, with new
design modifications to include rough-in servicing for future amenities
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8
including: outdoor washrooms, pavilion and event space, full-size lit soccer
pitch with irrigation system (to allow for construction at a later date) at an
estimated total project cost of $266,365,000 (Net HST), at an estimated gross
floor area of 223,980 square feet, resulting in an estimated future increase in
property tax levy due to Seaton Recreation Complex & Library construction
costs of 6.21% due to taxpayer funded debt and additional future increase to
the property tax levy of 4.95% due to operating costs for this building for a
total budget levy increase of 11.71% and that staff be authorized to proceed to
the design development and contract document project phases sufficient to
obtain building permit and issue for procurement;
a. That staff be directed to bring forward a site-specific implementing
zoning by-law amendment for the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
to address any zoning non-compliances, including increasing the
maximum allowable building setback, reducing minimum parking
requirements, permitting parking areas between the front lot line and the
building, and any additional zoning requirements identified during the
detailed design process;
b. That the Director, Community Services and the Director, Finance &
Treasurer be authorized to issue a request for proposal (RFP) to hire a
third-party project management consultant to be funded from the project
funding and contingency approved as part of Report OPS 12-24 to
supplement existing City resources and provide support required to
complete design and tender documents, including construction and post-
construction phases through to completion of the project and the cost be
charged to the project;
c. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to establish in
2027 an Emergency Payment Reserve to be used to cover any DC debt
payment obligation shortfall and this reserve be funded by a $1.5 million
contribution per year from the Casino Reserve with the target reserve
balance to reach 75% of the one year total DC debt payments and that
this funding strategy be included in the financial analysis as part of the
report to award the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library construction
tender; and,
d. That staff be directed to decommission and declare surplus Don Beer
Arena once the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library is operational,
reflecting this approach in the capital budget forecast.
3. That facility naming 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
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
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9
Carried later in the Meeting (See Following Motion)
Resolution # 827/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Cook
That the main motion be amended by adding the following as a new Item 2 e. and
that the recommendation be renumbered accordingly:
2 e. That Council direct staff to:
i. As part of the 2026 and subsequent budget processes to adjust planned
capital budget projects forecasts to reduce new capital projects that would
require debt financing in budget years where significant debt would be utilized
for the new Seaton Recreation Complex & Library (SRCL), and further that
staff utilize these opportunities to advance capital projects that have been
previously budget approved and require additional work to complete;
ii. That staff maximize efforts to seek and apply for grants and other appropriate
financial assistance programs from Federal and Provincial levels of
government and organizations, and other sources to be directed to new SRCL
to reduce debt financing and property taxes as a result of the new SRCL and
the City's overall capital project program and debt financing requirements;
iii. That staff undertake a process to maximize the revenue for naming rights to
the new SRCL to reduce debt financing and property taxes as a result of the
new SRCL;
iv. That staff undertake a property valuation for Don Beer Arena to assess its
potential value for sale which will help offset the cost of the SRCL;
v. That the CAO & Director, Finance & Treasurer be directed to explore other
revenue opportunities for this project;
vi. That the senior government representatives (MP & MPP) be advised that this
project is deemed as job creation and economic stimulus and that the City
requests confirmation of senior government funding by July 1, 2026 by one
third each level; and,
vii. That the external project manager be expressly directed to review and assist
the ongoing proposed design and construction of the new SRCL to identify
and realize efficiencies and cost savings in design and construction.
Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent
Mayor Ashe X
Councillor Brenner X
Councillor Butt X
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10
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 # 828/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
1. That Report CAO 14-25 regarding the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Project Update, Financial Analysis & Next Steps be received;
2. That Council endorse the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library preferred
base program schematic design concept, as set out in Attachment 1, with new
design modifications to include rough-in servicing for future amenities
including: outdoor washrooms, pavilion and event space, full-size lit soccer
pitch with irrigation system (to allow for construction at a later date) at an
estimated total project cost of $266,365,000 (Net HST), at an estimated gross
floor area of 223,980 square feet, resulting in an estimated future increase in
property tax levy due to Seaton Recreation Complex & Library construction
costs of 6.21% due to taxpayer funded debt and additional future increase to
the property tax levy of 4.95% due to operating costs for this building for a
total budget levy increase of 11.71% and that staff be authorized to proceed to
the design development and contract document project phases sufficient to
obtain building permit and issue for procurement;
a. That staff be directed to bring forward a site-specific implementing
zoning by-law amendment for the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
to address any zoning non-compliances, including increasing the
maximum allowable building setback, reducing minimum parking
requirements, permitting parking areas between the front lot line and the
building, and any additional zoning requirements identified during the
detailed design process;
b. That the Director, Community Services and the Director, Finance &
Treasurer be authorized to issue a request for proposal (RFP) to hire a
third-party project management consultant to be funded from the project
funding and contingency approved as part of Report OPS 12-24 to
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September 29, 2025
11
supplement existing City resources and provide support required to
complete design and tender documents, including construction and post-
construction phases through to completion of the project and the cost be
charged to the project;
c. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to establish in
2027 an Emergency Payment Reserve to be used to cover any DC debt
payment obligation shortfall and this reserve be funded by a $1.5 million
contribution per year from the Casino Reserve with the target reserve
balance to reach 75% of the one year total DC debt payments and that
this funding strategy be included in the financial analysis as part of the
report to award the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library construction
tender;
d. That staff be directed to decommission and declare surplus Don Beer
Arena once the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library is operational,
reflecting this approach in the capital budget forecast;
e. That Council direct staff to:
i. As part of the 2026 and subsequent budget processes to adjust
planned capital budget projects forecasts to reduce new capital
projects that would require debt financing in budget years where
significant debt would be utilized for the new Seaton Recreation
Complex & Library (SRCL), and further that staff utilize these
opportunities to advance capital projects that have been previously
budget approved and require additional work to complete;
ii. That staff maximize efforts to seek and apply for grants and other
appropriate financial assistance programs from Federal and
Provincial levels of government and organizations, and other
sources to be directed to new SRCL to reduce debt financing and
property taxes as a result of the new SRCL and the City's overall
capital project program and debt financing requirements;
iii. That staff undertake a process to maximize the revenue for naming
rights to the new SRCL to reduce debt financing and property
taxes as a result of the new SRCL;
iv. That staff undertake a property valuation for Don Beer Arena to
assess its potential value for sale which will help offset the cost of
the SRCL;
v. That the CAO & Director, Finance & Treasurer be directed to
explore other revenue opportunities for this project;
vi. That the senior government representatives (MP & MPP) be
advised that this project is deemed as job creation and economic
stimulus and that the City requests confirmation of senior
government funding by July 1, 2026 by one third each level; and,
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September 29, 2025
12
vii. That the external project manager be expressly directed to review
and assist the ongoing proposed design and construction of the
new SRCL to identify and realize efficiencies and cost savings in
design and construction;
3. That facility naming 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
actions necessary to implement the recommendations 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)
5. Confirmatory By-law
Moved By Councillor Cook
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
That By-law 8204/25, to confirm the proceedings of the September 29, 2025 Special
Council Meeting be approved.
Carried
6. Adjournment
Moved By Councillor Robinson
Seconded By Councillor Cook
That the meeting be adjourned.
Carried
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13
The meeting adjourned at 4:22 p.m.
Kevin Ashe, Mayor
Susan Cassel, City Clerk
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1
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:
Council
Meeting Minutes
Electronic Meeting
September 29, 2025 - 07:00 PM
Chair: Mayor Ashe
M. Carpino - Chief Administrative Officer
K. Bentley - Director, City Development & CBO
S. Boyd - Fire Chief
S. Cassel – (Acting) Director, Corporate Services & City Clerk
J. Eddy - Director, Human Resources
L. Gibbs - Director, Community Services
K. Heathcote Director, City Infrastructure
R. Holborn - Director, Engineering Services
F. Jadoon - Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects
S. Karwowski - Director, Finance & Treasurer
J. Litoborski – Division Head, Municipal Law Enforcement Services
V. Plouffe - Division Head, Facilities Management & Construction
N. Surti - Division Head, Development Review & Urban Design
C. Rose - Chief Planner
S. Marsh - Manager, Accounting Services
C. Whitaker - Manager, Sustainability & Strategic Environmental Initiatives
M. Edmond - Coordinator, Sustainability
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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
5.1 Councillor Pickles – September 9, 2025 Special Council Meeting Agenda
Item 3.1 Confidential Memorandum from Chief Administrative Officer Re:
Potential Acquisition of Frenchman's Bay
A conflict of interest was declared under the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act
with respect to the September 9, 2025 Special Council Meeting Agenda Item
3.1 Confidential Memorandum from Chief Administrative Officer regarding the
potential acquisition of Frenchman's Bay, on the basis of the possible
involvement of an organization that he was affiliated with.
Councillor Pickles did not attend the Special In Camera Council Meeting on
September 9, 2025 and did not take part in the discussion or vote on this matter
5.2 Councillor Robinson - Corr. 37-25
A conflict of interest was declared under the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act
with respect to Item 9.1, Corr. 37-25, Integrity Commissioner’s
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3
Recommendation Report Regarding Complaint Against Councillor Lisa
Robinson dated September 22, 2025.
Councillor Robinson stated that in accordance with Section 5 of the Municipal
Conflict of Interest Act, she reserved her right to take part in the discussion of
the matter, however, would not take part in the vote.
6. Adoption of Minutes
6.1 Council Minutes, June 23, 2025 (includes Confidential In Camera Minutes
under separate cover)
6.2 Special Council Minutes, July 15, 2025 (includes Confidential In Camera
Minutes under separate cover)
6.3 Special Council Minutes, July 30, 2025
6.4 Special Council Minutes, August 12, 2025 (includes Confidential In
Camera Minutes under separate cover)
6.5 Executive Committee Minutes, September 2, 2025
6.6 Special Council Minutes, September 2, 2025 (includes Confidential In
Camera Minutes under separate cover)
6.7 Special Council Minutes, September 9, 2025 (includes Confidential In
Camera Minutes under separate cover)
6.8 Special Council Minutes, September 22, 2025 (includes Confidential In
Camera Minutes under separate cover)
Resolution # 831/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Cook
That the minutes, Items 6.1 through 6.8 be approved, save and except Item 6.1.
Carried
7. Presentations
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4
There were no presentations.
8. Delegations
There were no delegations.
9. Correspondence
9.1 Corr. 37-25
Jeff Abrams, Co-Principal and Janice Atwood-Petkovski, Co-Principal,
Principles Integrity, Integrity Commissioner for the City of Pickering
Re: Integrity Commissioner’s Recommendation Report
Regarding Complaint Against Councillor Lisa Robinson
September 22, 2025
Councillor Robinson declared a conflict on this item. (A conflict of interest was
declared under the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act with respect to Item 9.1, Corr.
37-25, Integrity Commissioner’s Recommendation Report Regarding Complaint
Against Councillor Lisa Robinson dated September 22, 2025. Councillor Robinson
stated that in accordance with Section 5 of the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, she
reserved her right to take part in the discussion of the matter, however, would not
take part in the vote.)
J. Atwood-Petkovski, Co-Principal, Principles Integrity, appeared before Council via
electronic connection to provide opening remarks on the Recommendation Report
Regarding Complaint Against Councillor Lisa Robinson, September 22, 2025. J.
Atwood-Petkovski stated that this was the seventh report regarding Councillor
Robinson and that they were confident in their findings, included in the Report. J.
Atwood-Petkovski provided a high-level overview of the complaint as outlined in the
report. J. Atwood-Petkovski reminded Council that this was a disciplinary matter and
they should base their decision on how the recommendation fit against the findings
of the Report.
Discussion and a question and answer period ensued between Members of Council
and J. Atwood-Petkovski regarding:
• whether Councillor Robinson’s subsequent appearances on the podcast were
taken into consideration when developing the recommendations in the Report;
• whether the Municipal Act prohibited a Member of Council from commenting
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September 29, 2025
5
on the evidence in an Integrity Commissioner recommendation report;
• whether there was an alternative remedy to challenge the evidence presented
in the Report;
• threats received by Members of Council resulting from Councillor Robinson’s
appearance on the podcast;
• the complaint being the most egregious to date; and,
• the complaint being the seventh Integrity Commissioner recommendation
report involving Councillor Robinson.
Resolution # 832/25
Moved By Councillor Nagy
Seconded By Councillor Cook
1. That the Report of the Integrity Commissioner, dated September 22, 2025, as
contained in Corr. 37-25, pertaining to Councillor Robinson be received; and,
2. That in accordance with the Integrity Commissioner’s Report
recommendations, the salary remuneration paid to Councillor Robinson be
suspended for a period of 60 days starting on December 21, 2025 and ending
on February 18, 2026.
Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote
9.2 Corr. 38-25
Thomas Street, Manager of Legislative Services/Deputy Clerk, Town of Ajax
Re: GO Lakeshore East Express Service
Brief discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding the temporary stop
in service still being in effect without a reinstatement date, and the motion calling for
action.
Resolution # 833/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Cook
1. That Corr. 38-25, from Thomas Street, Manager of Legislative
Services/Deputy Clerk, Town of Ajax, dated June 25, 2025, regarding GO
Lakeshore East Express Service, be received and endorsed; and,
2. That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to The Honourable Doug Ford,
Premier of Ontario, The Honourable Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of
Transportation, Rob Cerjanec, MPP Ajax, John Henry, Regional Chair,
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6
Regional Municipality of Durham, all lower tier Durham Region municipalities,
and Michael Lindsay, President & CEO, Metrolinx.
Carried
9.3 Corr. 39-25
Alexander Harras, Regional Clerk/Director of Legislative Services, Regional
Municipality of Durham
Re: Indexing of Regional Development Charges and Amendments to By-law
#39-2022 (Regional Transit Development Charges By-law) and By-law #42-
2023 (Region Wide Development Charges By-law)
Resolution # 834/25
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That Corr. 39-25, from Alexander Harras, Regional Clerk/Director of Legislative
Services, Regional Municipality of Durham, dated July 28, 2025, regarding the
Indexing of Regional Development Charges and Amendments to By-law #39-2022
(Regional Transit Development Charges By-law) and By-law #42-2023 (Region
Wide Development Charges By-law), be received for information.
Carried
9.4 Corr. 40-25
Donna Delvecchio, Acting City Clerk, Legal and Clerks Services, Office of the
City Clerk, City of St. Catharines
Re: Elect Respect Pledge
Resolution # 835/25
Moved By Councillor Cook
Seconded By Councillor Nagy
1. That Corr. 40-25, from Donna Delvecchio, Acting City Clerk, Legal and Clerks
Services, Office of the City Clerk, City of St. Catharines, dated July 30, 2025,
regarding the Elect Respect Pledge, be received and endorsed; and,
2. That a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Association of Municipalities
of Ontario, Ontario’s Big City Mayors, the Federation of Canadian
Municipalities, Mayors and Regional Chair of Durham, Durham MPs and
MPPs, Durham Regional Police, the Ontario Provincial Police and the Royal
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7
Canadian Mounted Police.
Carried
9.5 Corr. 41-25
Amanda Banting, Deputy Clerk, Town of Goderich
Re: Town of Goderich’s Opposition to Bill 17, Protect Ontario by Building
Faster Act, 2025
Resolution # 836/25
Moved By Councillor Cook
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That Corr. 41-25, from Amanda Banting, Deputy Clerk, Town of Goderich, dated
August 1, 2025, regarding the Town of Goderich’s Opposition to Bill 17, Protect
Ontario by Building Faster Act, 2025, be received for information.
Carried
9.6 Corr. 42-25
The Corporation of the Municipality of West Nipissing
Re: Approve Resolution Requesting a Moratorium on Aerial Spraying of
Glyphosate in the Nipissing Forest
Discussion and a question and answer period ensued between Members of Council
and staff regarding:
• whether Glyphosate was being sprayed in Pickering or elsewhere in the
Region; and,
• the environmental and health risks associated with Glyphosate.
Resolution # 837/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Cook
That Corr. 42-25, from the Corporation of the Municipality of West Nipissing, dated
August 12, 2025, regarding Approve Resolution Requesting a Moratorium on Aerial
Spraying of Glyphosate in the Nipissing Forest, be received for information.
Voters Yes No Abstain Conflict Absent
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8
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)
9.7 Corr. 43-25
Susan Cassel, (Acting) Director, Corporate Services, City of Pickering
Re: 2024 Animal Services Annual Report
Resolution # 838/25
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That Corr. 43-25, from Susan Cassel, (Acting) Director, Corporate Services, City of
Pickering, dated September 9, 2025, regarding the 2024 Animal Services Annual
Report, be received for information.
Carried
9.8 Corr. 44-25
Richard Holborn, Director, Engineering Services, City of Pickering
Re: Pickleball Noise Investigation Post-Installation Report
Shadybrook Park
A brief discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding:
• the findings of the Report comparing pickleball noise to tennis noise;
• the Report offering valuable insight for future decision making by the City;
• concerns about the pickleball court being installed before a noise study was
conducted;
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• the need to reconsider agreements with external parties to ensure they
included prompt exit clauses; and,
• why the selected engineering firm was chosen despite lacking prior
experience with pickleball court noise.
Resolution # 839/25
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Cook
1. That Corr. 44-25, from Richard Holborn, Director, Engineering Services, City
of Pickering, dated September 18, 2025, regarding Pickleball Noise
Investigation Post-Installation Report - Shadybrook Park, be received; and,
2. That Council support the key findings contained within the Report.
Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote
10. Report EC 07-25 of the Executive Committee held on September 2, 2025
Resolution # 840/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
That Report EC 07-25 of the Executive Committee Meeting held on September 2, 2025 be
adopted, save and except Item 10.4, Report CS 23-25, Item 10.5, Report CS 24-25, Item
10.6, Report ENG 17-25, and Item 10.10, Report PLN 17-25.
Carried
10.1 Director, City Development & CBO, Report SUS 05-25
2024 Measuring Sustainability Report
Council Decision:
That Report SUS 05-25 regarding the 2024 Measuring Sustainability Report be
received for information.
10.2 Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report CLK 04-25
2026 Committee and Council Meeting Schedule
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10
Council Decision:
1. That Report CLK 04-25 regarding the 2026 Committee and Council Meeting
Schedule be received;
2. That the 2026 Committee and Council Meeting Schedule included as
Attachment 1 to this report be approved; and,
3. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
10.3 Director, Community Services, Report CS 22-25
Dorsay Community & Heritage Centre Public Art
Commission of Public Art
Council Decision:
1. That Council endorse that the commission of public art at the main entrance of
Dorsay Community & Heritage Centre be awarded to Hooman
Mehdizadehjafari;
2. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to finance the net
project cost of $112,566.43 to be funded by a transfer from the Public Art
Reserve as approved in the 2025 Current Budget;
3. That the Mayor and the City Clerk be authorized to execute the Letter of
Understanding between Hooman Mehdizadehjafari and the City of Pickering,
set out in Attachment 1, subject to minor revisions acceptable to the Director,
Community Services and the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor;
and,
4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
10.7 Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 13-25
Investment Portfolio Activity for the Year Ended December 31, 2024
Ontario Regulation 438/97 under the Municipal Act, 2001
Council Decision:
That Report FIN 13-25 regarding Investment Portfolio Activity for the Year Ended
December 31, 2024 be received for information.
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10.8 Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 14-25
2024 Building Permit Stabilization Reserve Fund
Council Decision:
That Report FIN 14-25 regarding the 2024 Building Permit Stabilization Reserve
Fund be received for information.
10.9 Fire Chief, Report FIR 05-25
Supply and Delivery of a Fire Truck - Pumper Rescue Replacement
Quotation No. RFP2025-9
Council Decision:
1. That Quotation No. RFP2025-9 submitted by Dependable Truck & Tank
Limited for the supply and delivery of one Fire Pumper Rescue Apparatus in
the amount of $1,721,775.00 plus HST be accepted;
2. That the total gross project cost of $2,312,856.00 (HST included) and the total
net project cost of $2,082,798.00 (net of HST rebate) be approved;
3. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the total net
project cost in the amount of $2,082,798.00 to be funded from the Rate
Stabilization Reserve; and,
4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
10.4 Director, Community Services, Report CS 23-25
Community Association Licence Agreements
Amberlea Tennis Club
A brief discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding the findings of
the noise study outlined in Corr. 44-25 and the need to conduct public consultation
prior to approving the Agreements.
Resolution # 841/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
1. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the
Licence Agreement with Amberlea Tennis Club submitted as Attachment 1 to
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12
this report, subject to minor revisions as may be required by the
Director, Community Services and the Director, Corporate Services & City
Solicitor; and,
2. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
the necessary actions as indicated in this report.
Motion Lost Unanimously on a Recorded Vote
10.5 Director, Community Services, Report CS 24-25
Community Association Licence Agreement
Pickering Pickleball Club
Resolution # 842/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
1. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Licence
Agreement with Pickering Pickleball Club submitted as Attachment 1 of this
report, subject to minor revisions as may be required by the Director,
Community Services and the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor;
and,
2. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
necessary action as indicated in this report.
Carried
10.6 Director, Engineering Services, Report ENG 17-25
Frenchman’s Bay Watersheds Stormwater Management Master Plan Update
Request for Proposal No. RFP2025-11
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
• the high cost of the study and its expected deliverables;
• the list of completed and outstanding projects identified in the 2009 study,
along with measurable benefits gained from that study;
• whether statistics were available to demonstrate climate change challenges;
• the experience of the selected proponent;
• confirmation that it had been 16 years since the last study was conducted;
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13
• best practices for advancing stormwater management, particularly in relation
to Frenchman’s Bay;
• the recommended frequency for conducting stormwater management plans;
• the need for the study in light of Pickering’s growth;
• whether 16 years was too long to go without conducting a study; and,
• concerns about the high cost of the Study and the lack of supporting statistics
to justify its necessity.
Resolution # 843/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
1. That the proposal submitted by Aquafor Beech Limited, in response to
Request for Proposal No. RFP2025-11 for the Frenchman’s Bay Watersheds
Stormwater Management Master Plan Update, in the amount of $481,782.72
(net HST) or $534,998.50 (HST included) be accepted;
2. That the total gross project cost of $616,748.00 (HST included), including the
fee amount and other associated costs, and the total net project cost of
$555,401.00 (net HST) be approved;
3. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to finance the total
net project cost of $555,401.00 as follows:
a. The sum of $499,861.00 to be funded by a transfer from the
Development Charges – Stormwater Management Reserve Fund as
approved in the 2025 Current Budget;
b. The sum of $55,540.00 to be funded from Property Taxes;
4. That the Director, Engineering Services be authorized to enter into and
execute the Form of Agreement with Aquafor Beech Limited pursuant to
Request for Proposal No. RFP2025-11; and,
5. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations 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
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14
Councillor Robinson X
Results 6 1 0 0 0
Carried on a Recorded Vote (6 to 1)
10.10 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 17-25
Proposed Indigenous Engagement Guide for Durham Region Area
Municipalities
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
• whether Pickering already has an Indigenous Engagement Guide in place,
particularly related to planning and development;
• how the proposed guide would differ from the Region’s existing action plan;
• what the guide would provide that the City does not currently have access to,
beyond the Region’s action plan;
• why the City should invest in a regional plan rather than directing funds toward
Indigenous led initiatives or partnerships within Pickering;
• what the expected deliverables of the guide would be;
• evidence that the consultant will engage with the Indigenous community;
• the extent of influence the City would have over the Guide given the cost
distribution amongst participating municipalities;
• whether the City has previously encountered any issues with the Town of
Whitby; and,
• whether staff had considered alternative options.
Resolution # 844/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
1. That Council authorize City staff to participate in the creation of an Indigenous
Engagement Guide for Durham Region area municipalities;
2. That Council agree to financially support the creation of an Indigenous
Engagement Guide for Durham Region area municipalities:
a. Based on a funding formula of:
i. Whitby: 31%;
ii. Ajax, Clarington, Oshawa, and Pickering: 15% each;
iii. Brock, Scugog, Uxbridge: 3% each;
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15
b. To an upset limit of $25,000 for Pickering’s portion of the costs;
3. That Council authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute a cost sharing
agreement among the City of Pickering, and the other area municipalities, a
draft of which is included in Attachment 1, subject to any necessary, agreed
to, minor refinements; and,
4. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
Carried
11. New and Unfinished Business
11.1 Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report BYL 01-25
Short-Term Rental Licensing
A brief discussion ensued regarding whether the number of survey responses noted
in the report accurately reflects the views of Pickering residents.
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
That Report BYL 01-25 regarding the licensing and regulation of short term rentals
be received for information.
Carried later in the Meeting (See Following Motion)
Resolution # 845/25
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Butt
That the main motion be amended by adding the following as a new Item 2 and the
recommendation renumbered accordingly:
That staff be directed to monitor, on an ongoing basis, nuisance, noise, parking,
zoning, and other complaints received in respect of short-term rental properties, and
report back to Council by Q3 2026 with an update regarding the status of short-term
rentals and any recommendations related to the implementation of a licensing by-
law.
Carried
The Main Motion, as amended, was then before Council for Adoption
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16
Resolution # 846/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
1. That Report BYL 01-25 regarding the licensing and regulation of short term
rentals be received for information; and,
2. That staff be directed to monitor, on an ongoing basis, nuisance, noise,
parking, zoning, and other complaints received in respect of short-term rental
properties, and report back to Council by Q3 2026 with an update regarding
the status of short-term rentals and any recommendations related to the
implementation of a licensing by-law.
Carried
11.2 Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 15-25
Petticoat Creek Conservation Park
Discussions with Toronto Region and Conservation Authority
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
• consultations held to date with the Toronto Region and Conservation Authority
(TRCA) and the outcomes of those discussions;
• clarification that the TRCA was aware of this report being presented to
Council; and,
• clarification on whether a management agreement exists between the City and
the TRCA for the waterfront trail system.
Resolution # 847/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
That Report CAO 15-25 regarding discussions with Toronto Region and
Conservation Authority with respect to Petticoat Creek Conservation Park be
received for information.
Carried
11.3 Director, Community Services, Report CS 26-25
Concession Services in Arenas
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17
Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Arena Q2025-24, and Don
Beer Arena Q2025-23
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
• the rent fee to be received in the first year for the arena, and why the report
highlights four-year totals when Council is only approving a one-year term with
an option to renew;
• clarification that the agreement renewal is not automatic after the first year;
• reasons that may prevent renewal of the agreement;
• whether the City conducted a cost analysis to support concessions such as
utilities and minor maintenance;
• whether the City is receiving market value;
• whether the service will align with scheduled tournaments; and,
• whether healthier food options will be available and if both cash and card
payment methods will be accepted.
Resolution # 848/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
1. That Request for Quotation No. Q2025-23 for Operation of the Don Beer
Arena Concession submitted by Cashew and Clive Catering Inc. in the amount
of $81,036.00 (net HST) or $91,570.68 (HST included) be accepted;
2. That Request for Quotation No. Q2025-24 for Operation of Chestnut Hill
Developments Recreation Complex Arena Concession submitted by Cashew
and Clive Catering Inc. in the amount of $51,728.00 (net HST) or $58,452.64
(HST included) be accepted;
3. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Don Beer Arena
Concession Licence Agreement set out in Attachment 1 to which Cashew and
Clive Catering Inc. be permitted to operate the Don Beer Arena Concession
for a one year term beginning October 3, 2025 and ending April 30, 2026,
subject to minor revisions acceptable to the Director, Community Services,
and the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor;
4. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Chestnut Hill
Developments Recreation Complex Arena Concession Licence Agreement set
out in Attachment 2 to which Cashew and Clive Catering Inc. will be permitted
to operate the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Arena
Concession for a one year term beginning October 3, 2025 and ending April
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18
30, 2026, subject to minor revisions acceptable to the Director, Community
Services, and the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor; and,
5. That the appropriate City officials be authorized to take the necessary actions
as indicated in this report.
Carried
11.4 Director, Community Services, Report CS 28-25
Operations Centre Overhead Doors Emergency Repairs
Resolution # 849/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
That Report CS 28-25 regarding Operations Centre Overhead Doors Emergency
Repairs be received for information.
Carried
11.5 Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects, Report ECD 07-25
Independent Electricity Systems Operator Long Term 2 Energy Supply
Request for Proposals
Municipal Support Resolution – Dream Industrial
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding whether an independent engineer had signed off on the proposal and
confirmation that fire services would be consulted.
Resolution # 850/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
1. That Council approve a Municipal Support Resolution, as required by the
Independent Electricity Systems Operator (IESO), for the rooftop solar panel
project proposed by Dream Industrial at 1725 McPherson Court (Property
Identification Number: 263290027);
2. That the Mayor be authorized to sign the Prescribed Form of Municipal
Support Resolution (Attachment 1) on behalf of the Corporation of the City of
Pickering and that a copy of the signed Prescribed Form of Municipal Support
Resolution be forwarded to Dream Industrial; and,
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3. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in the report.
Carried
11.6 Director, Engineering Services, Report ENG 18-25
Skateboard Park Design & Build
Request for Proposal No. RFP2025-13
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
• whether permission has been granted to build on Hydro One lands;
• whether the City’s total cost would exceed $1.3 million;
• inspection processes for the concrete finish to ensure safe and appropriate
materials are used;
• whether the skatepark would be lit at night and what measures would be taken
to minimize disturbance to nearby homes;
• whether Hydro One had conducted an assessment of the property and if
follow-up was planned regarding health and safety risks;
• the need for assurance that strict oversight would be maintained and that any
costs arising from issues would be covered by the consultant;
• lack of available information regarding potential hazards on Hydro One lands;
• costs related to the demolition of the existing Princess Diana Park skatepark
and construction of the new facility; and,
• clarification that the total gross project cost was $1,064,460.00 and not
$1,064,579.00 as incorrectly noted in Recommendation #2 of the Report.
Resolution # 851/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Cook
1. That Request for Proposal No. RFP2025-13 for the design and construction of
a community sized skateboard park as submitted by Radius Skateparks Inc. in
the amount of $849,696.00 (net HST) or $943,550.00 (HST included) be
accepted;
2. That the total gross project cost of $1,064,460.00 (HST included), including
the proposal amount, a contingency and other associated costs, and the total
net project cost of $958,579.00 (net HST) be approved;
3. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to finance the total
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net project cost $958,579.00 for the Skateboard Park Design & Build as
follows:
a. The sum of $460,000.00 available budget in capital project C10320.2134
as approved in the 2021 and 2022 Parks Capital Budget be increased to
$479,290.00 and be funded by a transfer of funds from the Development
Charges City Share Reserve;
b. The sum of $460,000.00 available budget in capital project C10320.2134
as approved in the 2021 and 2022 Parks Capital Budget be increased to
$479,289.00 and be funded by a transfer of funds from the Development
Charges Parks & Recreation Reserve Fund;
4. That the Director, Engineering Services be authorized to execute the Form of
Agreement with Radius Skateparks Inc. pursuant to Request for Proposal No.
RFP2025-13;
5. That Council authorize the demolition and removal of the existing skateboard
park in Diana, Princess of Wales Park and restoration of the site as required
by Hydro One Networks Inc. (HONI) upon completion of the new skateboard
park;
6. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to enter into an amending licence
agreement for Diana, Princess of Wales Park with HONI, to include the
subject hydro transmission corridor lands north of Kingston Road required for
the proposed skateboard park, parking area, and associated amenities; and,
7. 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)
11.7 Director, Engineering Services, Report ENG 19-25
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21
Playground Reconstruction & Equipment Replacement 2025
Request for Tender No. T2025-12
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
• concerns regarding potential health and safety risks associated with building
on hydro one lands; and,
• clarification that the total net project cost was $1,552,003.00 and not
$1,520,457.00 as incorrectly noted in Recommendation #3 of the Report.
Resolution # 852/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Cook
1. That Request for Tender No. T2025-12 for the Playground Reconstruction and
Equipment Replacement 2025 as submitted by Gray’s Landscaping & Snow
Removal Inc. in the amount of $1,372,982.86 (net HST) or $1,524,637.02
(HST included) be accepted;
2. That the total gross project cost of $1,723,431.00 (HST included), including
the proposal amount, a contingency and other associated costs, and the total
net project cost of $1,552,003.00 (net HST) be approved;
3. That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer to finance the total
net project cost $1,552,003.00 as follows:
a. The sum of $99,058.00 available budget in capital project C10572.2509
(Lynn Heights Park playground) as approved in the 2025 Parks Capital
Budget be funded by a transfer of funds from the Parks Infrastructure
Replacement Reserve and the balance of the costs in the amount of
$95,689.00 be funded from the Community Sport and Recreation
Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF) grant;
b. The sum of $88,144.00 available budget in capital project C10572.2510
(Bonita Park playground) as approved in the 2025 Parks Capital Budget
be funded by a transfer of funds from the Parks Infrastructure
Replacement Reserve and the balance of the costs in the amount of
$85,146.00 be funded from the CSRIF grant;
c. The sum of $71,873.00 available budget in capital project C10572.2508
(Bayshore Tot Lot playground) as approved in the 2025 Parks Capital
Budget be funded by a transfer of funds from the Parks Infrastructure
Replacement Reserve and the balance of the costs in the amount of
$69,429.00 be funded from the CSRIF grant;
d. The sum of $120,000.00 available budget in capital project C10320.2330
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22
(Chickadee Park playground) as approved in the 2023 Parks Capital
Budget be funded by a transfer of funds from the Parkland Obligatory
Reserve Fund and the additional amount of $45,846.00 required be
funded from a transfer of unspent funds from C10320.2315 (Martin’s Tot
Lot Playground) from the Parkland Obligatory Reserve Fund;
e. The sum of $250,000.00 available budget in capital project C10572.2410
(Whitevale Park playground) as approved in the 2024 Parks Capital
Budget be increased to $273,889.00 and funded by a transfer of funds
from the Parkland Obligatory Reserve Fund;
f. The sum of $394,162.00 available budget in capital project C10572.2403
(Claremont Memorial Park playground) as approved in the 2024 Parks
Capital Budget be funded by a transfer of funds from the Casino
Reserve;
g. The sum of $200,000.00 available budget in capital project C10572.2413
(Diana, Princess of Wales Park playground) as approved in the 2024
Parks Capital Budget be increased to $208,764.00 and funded by a
transfer of funds from the Casino Reserve;
4. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to enter into the Transfer
Payment Agreement with the Ontario Ministry of Sport to obtain funds from the
CSRIF;
5. That the Director, Engineering Services be authorized to execute the Form of
Agreement with Gray’s Landscaping & Snow Removal Inc. pursuant to Tender
No. T2025-12; and,
6. 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)
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23
11.8 Director, Engineering Services, Report ENG 20-25
Proposed Traffic Controls – Burkholder Drive
Josiah Henson Public School
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and
staff regarding feedback received from residents highlighting the need for all-way
stops and timeframes for implementing traffic markings for the all-way stops.
Resolution # 853/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
1. That the attached draft by-law be enacted to amend Schedule “1”, Schedule
“6”, Schedule “7”, Schedule “9” and Schedule “14” to By-law 6604/05 to
provide for the regulation of stopping and parking restrictions on highways or
parts of highways under the jurisdiction of The Corporation of the City of
Pickering, specifically to provide for traffic controls on Burkholder Drive in the
vicinity of Josiah Henson Public School; and,
2. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendation in this report.
Carried
11.9 Fire Chief, Report FIR 06-25
Execution of the Durham Region 9-1-1 System Agreement
Resolution # 854/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
1. That Report FIR 06-25, regarding the 9-1-1 System Agreement between The
Corporation of the City of Pickering and the Regional Municipality of Durham,
be received;
2. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the 9-1-1 System
Agreement with the Regional Municipality of Durham and the City of Pickering,
as set out in Attachment 1 of this report, subject to such minor revisions as
may be required by the Fire Chief and the Director, Corporate Services & City
Solicitor; and,
3. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary actions to implement the recommendations in this report.
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24
Carried
11.10 Director, City Infrastructure, Report INF 11-25
Hoover Bridge Replacement – Emergency Work
Request for Tender No. T2025-11
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding whether arrangements were made to accommodate residents living in the
area that needed the bridge to access their homes and whether heavy trucks would
be permitted to use the bridge.
Resolution # 855/25
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
1. That Report INF 11-25 regarding the emergency replacement of the Hoover
Bridge be received for information;
2. That Council approve the additional transfer from the Roads & Bridges
Reserve Fund in the amount of $466,895.00 for this emergency replacement;
and,
3. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendation in this report.
Carried
11.11 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 19-25
PTC Ownership Inc. (CentreCourt) – Request for Development Charges
Deferral and Phased Site Plan Approval
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of Council and staff
regarding:
• the total Development Charge (DC) revenue that the City would forego if the
City froze the 2023 DC rates for phase 2;
• clarification that the shortfall would be absorbed by raised DC rates for future
projects;
• the percentage the DC rates would be raised per unit to absorb the deferred
payment; and,
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25
• concern regarding the phasing of the site plan approval.
Resolution # 856/25
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
1. That Report PLN 19-25 regarding PTC Ownership Inc. (CentreCourt) –
Request for Development Charges Deferral and Phased Site Plan Approval be
received;
2. That, pursuant to By-law 8190/25, as amended, Council authorize the Mayor
and City Clerk to execute a DC Deferral Agreement, subject to any necessary,
agreed to, minor refinements as determined by the Director, Finance &
Treasurer, the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, and the Chief
Administrative Officer;
3. That Council elects to accommodate PTC Ownership Inc.’s request for
Phased Site Plan approval, and directs the Director, City Development &
CBO, as follows:
a. to issue Site Plan Approval for Site Plan Application (S 10/23), with
Phase 1 (Towers 1 & 2) to be issued upon execution of a Site Plan
Agreement, and Phase 2 (Towers 3 & 4) to be issued at a later date,
subject to execution of a Site Plan Agreement;
b. if Phase 2 is not advanced in a timely manner, Council authorize the
Director, City Development & CBO, to issue conditional Site Plan
Approval for the Phase 2 lands; and,
4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations of 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
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26
Carried on a Recorded Vote (6 to 1)
12. Motions and Notice of Motions
12.1 Elect Respect
A discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding:
• the importance of a healthy democracy and maintaining respect during
differences in opinions and views;
• the need to uphold respect toward staff to support talent retention;
• a lack of respect toward elected officials and staff contributing to voter
suppression and reduced candidate diversity;
• the personal culture in Pickering should reflect safety, dignity, and respect;
• the motion being adopted at Regional Council;
• a growing trend of abuse and harassment occurring across all levels of
government;
• the need to restore civil discourse;
• clarification that the motion is the official motion from the H.E.R. campaign;
and,
• concerns raised about the motion being perceived as hypocritical.
Resolution # 857/25
Moved By Councillor Nagy
Seconded By Councillor Cook
WHEREAS, democracy is strengthened when all individuals can participate fully,
safely, and without discrimination, contributing to the well-being of their
communities;
And Whereas, democratic discourse and respectful debate are under pressure
across all levels of government, including municipal councils in Ontario;
And Whereas, elected officials are increasingly facing harassment, threats,
intimidation, and unsafe work environments, which undermine personal safety, deter
civic participation, and erode public confidence in democratic institutions;
And Whereas, social media platforms, while enabling legitimate discourse, have
also amplified abusive, discriminatory, or threatening behaviour, disproportionately
affecting women, racialized persons, Indigenous peoples, LGBTQ+ persons, and
persons with disabilities, discouraging many from seeking or remaining in public
office;
And Whereas, freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democracy and must be
safeguarded, even as we combat unlawful harassment, violence, and hate;
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27
And Whereas, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario’s Healthy Democracy
Project has identified troubling trends in declining voter turnout and a reduction in
candidate participation at the municipal level;
And Whereas, grassroots and national initiatives such as Halton Elected
Representatives (H.E.R.) campaign and the Parliamentary Civility Pledge led by the
Canadian Association of Feminist Parliamentarians, demonstrate a growing
commitment to fostering respectful, safe, and inclusive environments in political life;
Now therefore be it resolved that the Council of The Corporation for the City of
Pickering:
1. Supports the principles of the Elect Respect pledge and commits to:
• Treat all persons with dignity and respect in public, private, and online
spaces;
• Reject and call out harassment, threats, unlawful discrimination, and
personal abuse;
• Focus public debate on policies and ideas, rather than personal attacks
or identity-based commentary;
• Build a culture of safety and inclusion, ensuring that individuals of all
genders, identities, backgrounds, races, sexual orientations, ages, and
abilities feel empowered to run for and serve in public office;
• Call on relevant authorities to investigate and respond to threats or
harassment directed at elected officials, in accordance with applicable
laws;
• Model accountability and integrity by holding ourselves and one another
to clear, transparent, and legally grounded standards of conduct;
• Defend freedom of expression while actively opposing abuse and
intimidation in all forms;
2. Encourages elected officials, political organizations, municipalities, and
members of the public to sign and support the Elect Respect pledge by
visiting: electrespect.ca; and,
3. Directs that a copy of this resolution be sent to the Association of
Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), Ontario’s Big City Mayors, the Federation of
Canadian Municipalities (FCM), Members of Provincial and Federal
Parliament (MPPs and MPs), Durham Regional Police Services (DRPS), the
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP),
all municipalities in Ontario, Halton Elected Representatives (H.E.R.), and
Canadian Association of Feminist Parliamentarians.
Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote
13. By-laws
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28
Resolution # 858/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Nagy
That By-law Numbers 8205/25 through 8207/25 be approved.
Carried
13.1 By-law 8205/25
Being a by-law to amend By-law 6604/05 providing for the regulating of traffic and
parking, standing and stopping on highways or parts of highways under the
jurisdiction of the City of Pickering and on private and municipal property.
13.2 By-law 8206/25
Being a by-law to appoint Tariq Mahmood as Municipal Law Enforcement Officer for
the purpose of enforcing the by-laws of The Corporation of the City of Pickering.
13.3 By-law 8207/25
Being a by-law to exempt Blocks 231 to 233, Plan 40M-2710, Pickering from the
part lot control provisions of the Planning Act.
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 consider a matter pertaining to personal matters about an identifiable individual,
including municipal or local board employees. The matter discussed in closed session
pertains to a citizen appointment to the Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee.
14.1 Citizen Appointment to the Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee
(HPAC)
Resolution # 859/25
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Cook
That Brigitte Sopher be appointed to the Heritage Pickering Advisory Committee for
a term ending on November 14, 2026, or until a successor is appointed.
Carried
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29
15. Regional Councillor Updates
There were no updates from Regional Councillors.
16. Other Business
• Councillor Nagy advised that she would be going on maternity leave but would
continue to monitor her email and be in attendance at some events.
• Park Pathway Winter Maintenance
○Discussion ensued between Members of Council regarding:
○the need for winter maintenance due to safety concerns;
○the current lack of maintenance on some park pathways being due to
insufficient lighting and the pathway not leading to a municipal facility;
○residents in Lynn Heights being informed that the park pathway was
included on the list of pathways to be maintained in winter;
○enhancing accessibility and walkability; and,
○the initiative benefiting all wards and supporting future decision-making.
Resolution # 860/25
Moved By Councillor Nagy
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
That the Director, City Infrastructure, be directed to report back to Council, at its October
27, 2025 Meeting, regarding:
1. Providing winter control on six additional park pathways in the City of Pickering,
ideally 2 per ward including Lynn Heights Park; and,
2. That the report include the current level of service for winter control on pathways
across the City, recommendations for improvements to meet minimum standards for
winter control if not currently met, and any potential budgetary impacts that may need
to be considered to increase the service level to include additional pathways.
Carried Unanimously on a Recorded Vote
• Councillor Robinson stated that she had sent a letter to the CAO and all Members of
Council regarding hot-in-place recycling as a road resurfacing option, noting its cost-
effectiveness, durability, and environmental benefits. Councillor Robinson added that
the program came with a three-year warranty and supported a local company in
Durham Region. Councillor Robinson indicated she would like a report from staff on
the matter and that she would look to provide that direction at a future meeting.
• Councillor Robinson inquired about staff reviewing a fence erected by a homeowner
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30
near 307 Tomlinson Court, backing onto Altona Road, which was causing concern
among neighbouring residents.
• Councillor Robinson requested that Members of Council who attended the
Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) conference, or any other trips relating
to City business, provide a report outlining the discussions and meetings held, in
order to better understand the value being brought back to the City.
• Councillor Robinson gave Notice of the following Motions:
○urgent safety improvements for Highway 401 on-ramp crossings;
○protecting community gardens against theft and Violence;
○creating a department of government efficiency;
○whistleblower protection;
○snow removal of windrows and sidewalks in Pickering;
○requesting the Federal Government to designate Antifa as a criminal terrorist
organization;
○removing the land acknowledgment statement before meetings;
○asking the Federal Government to opt out of the Paris Accord;
○increasing the mail-out boundaries for public open houses;
○requiring all Members of Council and staff to have cameras on during virtual
meetings;
○temporary parking allowance for St. Paul’s on the Hill Food Bank;
○terminating the City’s Integrity Commissioner Agreement;
○prohibiting fake social media accounts by staff, Council or contractors;
○stricter penalties for false/misleading staff reports;
○protecting municipal autonomy from external influence;
○rescinding the 2019 climate emergency declaration;
○ending Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) programming;
○prohibitions on accepting gifts or benefits by Council or staff;
○opposing the continuation of Strong Mayor Powers;
○expanding 50% recreation membership subsidy to Age 55+;
○implementing age restrictions for adult-themed events;
○ending city-endorsed drag events and PRIDE celebrations;
○banning non-governmental flag raisings at City Hall;
○reviewing/rescinding prior Council Decision on public art;
○using casino revenue for direct taxpayer benefits;
○environmental and safety review of Chestnut Hill Development Recreation
Complex;
○changing the Executive Committee Meetings to evening hours for greater public
engagement;
○a moratorium on additional cannabis retail stores;
○improving alcohol display and advertising standards to protect children;
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31
○accountability reports from all publicly funded trips taken by Councill Members
and staff; and,
○supporting Provincial Government on the removal of speed cameras.
• Councillor Pickles inquired about the ongoing closure of Scott’s Bridge and whether
there were any updates from the City of Toronto on when the rebuilding and
reopening would occur and whether any consideration had been given regarding the
designation of the bridge as part of a nuclear safety route with the City’s Fire Chief.
Mayor Ashe noted that staff would issue a memorandum summarizing the
discussions to date with Mayor Chow's Office.
• Councillor Brenner gave Notice of a Motion regarding reconsidering a portion of
Council Resolution #694/25, specifically Operative 3 of that Resolution, regarding
Shadybrook Pickleball Courts Noise and Community Disruption.
• Councillor Brenner inquired about traffic calming measures in response to the
removal of speed cameras by the Province, with R. Holborn, Director, Engineering
Services, noting that it was too early in the process to determine alternatives.
17. Confirmatory By-law
Moved By Councillor Cook
Seconded By Councillor Nagy
That By-law 8208/25, to confirm the proceedings of the Sep 29, 2025 Council Meeting be
approved.
Carried
18. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 10:39 p.m.
Dated this 29th day of September, 2025.
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Robinson
That the meeting be adjourned.
Carried
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32
Kevin Ashe, Mayor
Susan Cassel, City Clerk
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1
Executive Committee
Meeting Minutes
Electronic Meeting
October 06, 2025 - 02:00 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
S. Boyd - Fire Chief
S. Cassel – (Acting) Director, Corporate Services & City Clerk
J. Eddy - Director, Human Resources
L. Gibbs - Director, Community Services
K. Heathcote - Director, City Infrastructure
R. Holborn - Director, Engineering Services
F. Jadoon - Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects
S. Karwowski - Director, Finance & Treasurer
J. Litoborski - Division Head, Municipal Law Enforcement Services
V. Plouffe - Division Head, Facilities Management & Construction
C. Rose - Chief Planner
R. Apablaza - Manager, ERP & Financial Systems
S. Marsh - Manager, Accounting Services
R. Mackay - Supervisor, Parking Enforcement
E. Knox - Community Safety & Well-Being Advisor
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2
R. Perera - Deputy Clerk
1. Call to Order/Roll Call
The City Clerk certified that all Members of the Committee were present and participating
electronically.
2. Disclosure of Interest
No disclosures of interest were noted.
3. Delegations
There were no delegations.
4. Matters for Consideration
4.1 Director, Finance & Treasurer, FIN 15-25
2024 Year End Audit and Financial Statements (Final)
S. Karwowski, Director, Finance & Treasurer, appeared before Members of the
Committee via electronic connection and introduced Lilian Cheung, Partner, Public
Sector Audit, Deloitte.
L. Cheung appeared before Members of the Committee via electronic connection to
speak to the 2024 Year End Audit and Financial Statements. L. Cheung stated that
the audit was conducted in accordance with the audit plan and that the audit was
substantially complete. L. Cheung advised that the audit did not identify any
uncorrected misstatements or any material weaknesses.
A question and answer period ensued between Members of the Committee, staff,
and L. Cheung regarding:
• clarification that there were no material weaknesses in the City’s financial
controls;
• clarification that the audit did not identify any deficiencies;
• clarification that no significant matters came to attention during the audit;
• clarification that the City had a clean audit report and that no corruption was
found;
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3
• steps that were taken to identify the audit risks outlined in the Report; and,
• whether a cursory audit was done on the policies that were adopted by the
City.
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Cook
1. That the Report FIN 15-25 regarding the results of the 2024 Year End Audit
and Financial Statements (final), as submitted by Deloitte LLP, be received for
information;
2. That the 2024 draft Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the City of
Pickering be approved; and,
3. That Deloitte LLP be reappointed to provide external auditing services to the
City of Pickering for a three year term.
Carried
4.2 Director, Finance & Treasurer, Report FIN 16-25
2025 Audit Service Plan
S. Karwowski, Director, Finance & Treasurer, appeared before Members of the
Committee via electronic connection and stated that the audit plan ensured that the
best interests of Pickering residents were represented.
L. Cheung, Partner, Public Sector Audit, Deloitte, appeared before Members of the
Committee via electronic connection to speak to the 2025 Audit Service Plan. L.
Cheung stated that the audit strategy was data driven and technology centered and
that the overall risk assessment remained consistent with previous years.
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Brenner
Seconded By Councillor Nagy
1. That the 2025 Audit Service Plan as submitted by Deloitte LLP, set out in
Attachment 1 to this report, be received;
2. That the Chief Administrative Officer and the Director, Finance & Treasurer be
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4
authorized to sign the Engagement Letter, set out in Attachment 2 to this
report, on behalf of the City; and,
3. That Deloitte LLP be appointed in 2025 for the audit of the Municipal Service
Corporation, Destination Pickering.
Carried
4.3 (Acting) Director, Corporate Services, Report BYL 03-25
Toys for Tickets and Food for Fines Holiday Parking Fine Program
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
1. That Report BYL 03-25 regarding Toys for Tickets and Food for Fines Holiday
Parking Fine Program be received;
2. That parking tickets issued between Monday, November 24, 2025 through
Tuesday, December 16, 2025 be eligible for the Toys for Tickets/Food for
Fines program;
3. That the Toys for Tickets/Food for Fines program be implemented from
November 24, 2025 through December 16, 2025; and,
4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
Carried
4.4 Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 16-25
Lakeridge Health License Agreement Renewal
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Community Exercise Clinic
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Brenner
1. That Report CAO 16-25 regarding Lakeridge Health License Agreement
Renewal be received;
2. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the License
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Executive Committee Meeting Minutes
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5
Agreement with Lakeridge Health, set out in Attachment 1 to this report, for
use of the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Meeting Rooms 2
& 3, for the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Community Exercise
Clinic, subject to minor revisions as may be required by the Office of the CAO
and the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor; and,
3. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
Carried
4.5 (Acting) Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 17-25
Shower Program Renewal
DARS Inc. Agreement Renewal
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of the Committee
and staff regarding the number of people using the Program and whether there
were any issues that had been reported to date. E. Knox, Community Safety & Well-
Being Advisor, responding that no issues related to the Program had been reported
and that the Program had expanded over 220% so far in 2025.
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Nagy
1. That Report CAO 17-25 regarding the agreement renewal for the DARS Inc.
Shower Program be received;
2. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Memorandum of
Understanding with DARS Inc., set out in Attachment 1 to this report, for use
of the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex Arena Dressing Room
shower facilities, subject to minor revisions as may be required by the Office
of the CAO and the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor; and,
3. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
necessary actions as indicated in this report.
Carried
4.6 Director, Community Services, Report CS 25-25
Systems Furniture Standardization
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6
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Nagy
Seconded By Councillor Cook
1. That Council approve a five-year renewal of systems furniture and related
accessories supplied by Tayco Panelink Ltd. as an approved City-wide
standard for furniture installations; and,
2. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary actions indicated in this report.
Carried
4.7 Director, Community Services, Report CS 27-25
Reciprocal Use of Facilities Agreement
Durham District School Board
A question and answer period ensued between Members of the Committee and
staff regarding:
• whether the City currently paid to participate in the Program;
• whether the new School in Seaton would be included in the Program;
• whether facility bookings were made through the City or directly through the
school;
• whether the Program included access to sports fields;
• whether Josiah Henson Public School would still qualify as an adjacent school
park with it being located across the road;
• the Durham District Catholic school that was planned to be built across from
Rick Johnson Memorial Park and the future addition of its sports field to the
Program;
• whether there were any costs incurred by the City for the Program;
• whether all Pickering school buildings and fields were being used for City
programming and/or by other community groups; and,
• the types of programming offered on school fields.
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Butt
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7
Seconded By Councillor Cook
1. That Report CS 27-25 regarding the Reciprocal Use of Facilities Agreement
be received;
2. That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the Reciprocal Use of
Facilities Agreement with the Durham District School Board, set out in
Attachment 1 to this report to which the Durham District School Board will
have use of City owned parks and facilities listed in Schedule A and the City of
Pickering will have use of Durham District School Board owned schools and
fields listed in Schedule B, subject to minor revisions as may be required by
the Director, Community Services and the Director, Corporate Services & City
Solicitor; and,
3. That the appropriate City officials be authorized to take the necessary actions
as indicated in this report.
Carried
4.8 Director, Human Resources, Report HUR 01-25
Implementation of SuccessFactors Recruiting and Onboarding (Phase 2)
Request for Quotation No. Q2025-14
A question and answer period ensued between Member of the Committee and staff
regarding:
• clarification that the Project cost was coming in under budget;
• whether the Program was in alignment with industry standards and best
practices;
• whether the Program would affect other City departments; and,
• how the Program would streamline recruitment processes and provide
efficiencies.
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Cook
Seconded By Councillor Nagy
1. That the quotation submitted by HR Path Canada in response to Request for
Quotation No. Q2025-14 for Implementation of SuccessFactors Recruiting &
Onboarding, in the amount of $96,672.00 (net HST) or $107,350.00 (HST
included) be accepted;
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October 06, 2025
8
2. That the Director, Human Resources be authorized to execute the Form of
Agreement with the above-mentioned consultant pursuant to Request for
Quotation No. Q2025-14;
3. That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project
cost of $96,672.00 from Capital Project C10800.2001 with $52,112.00 funded
from Community Benefit Charges Reserve and $44,560 from Rate
Stabilization Reserve; and,
4. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
necessary actions as indicated in the report.
Carried
4.9 (Acting) Director, Corporate Services, Report LEG 07-25
Final Assumption of Plan of Subdivision
Woodview Land Development Corporation – Plan of Subdivision 40M-2643
Lots 1 to 31 and Block 24, Plan 40M-2643
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
1. That Bralorne Trail within Plan 40M-2643 be assumed for public use;
2. That works and services required by the Subdivision Agreement, dated
December 31, 2017, within Plan 40M-2643, which are constructed, installed or
located on lands dedicated to, or owned by the City, or on lands lying
immediately adjacent thereto, including lands that are subject to easements
transferred to the City, be accepted and assumed for maintenance;
3. That Woodview Land Development Corporation be released from the
provisions of the Subdivision Agreement and any amendments thereto
relating to Plan 40M-2643; and,
4. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
Carried
4.10 (Acting) Director, Corporate Services, Report LEG 08-25
Final Assumption of Plan of Subdivision
711053 Ontario Inc. & 532503 Ontario Ltd. – Plan of Subdivision 40M-2302
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Executive Committee Meeting Minutes
October 06, 2025
9
Lots 1 to 35, Blocks 37 to 39, Plan 40M-2302
Recommendation:
Moved By Councillor Pickles
Seconded By Councillor Butt
1. That Hollywood Court within Plan 40M-2302 be assumed for public use;
2. That works and services required by the Subdivision Agreement, dated March
1, 2005, within Plan 40M-2302, which are constructed, installed or located on
lands dedicated to, or owned by the City, or on lands lying immediately
adjacent thereto, including lands that are subject to easements transferred to
the City, be accepted and assumed for maintenance;
3. That 711053 Ontario Inc. & 532503 Ontario Ltd. be released from the
provisions of the Subdivision Agreement and any amendments thereto
relating to Plan 40M-2302; and,
4. That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the
actions necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
Carried
5. Member Updates on Committees
There were no updates from Members on Committees.
6. Other Business
There was no other business.
7. Adjournment
Moved By Councillor Butt
Seconded By Councillor Pickles
That the meeting be adjourned.
Carried
The meeting adjourned at 2:46 p.m.
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1
Planning and Development Committee
Meeting Minutes
Electronic Meeting
October 06, 2025 - 07:00 PM
Chair: Councillor Pickles
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
S. Cassel – (Acting) Director, Corporate Services & City Clerk
N. Surti – Division Head, Development Review & Urban Design
C. Rose – Chief Planner
I. Lima - Principal Planner, Development Review
R. Perera - Deputy Clerk
1. Call to Order/Roll Call
The City Clerk certified that all Members of the Committee were present and participating
electronically.
2. Disclosure of Interest
No disclosures of interest were noted.
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October 06, 2025
2
3. Delegations
3.1 Addison Milne-Price, Senior Planner, Design Plan Services Inc.
Re: Report PLN 20-25
Draft Plan of Subdivision Application SP-2022-01
Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 03/22
Highglen Homes Limited
Northeast corner of Finch Avenue and Nature Haven Crescent
(Refer to Item 4.2)
A. Milne-Price, Senior Planner, Design Plan Services Inc., appeared before
Members of the Committee via electronic connection on behalf of the property
owner to speak to Draft Plan of Subdivision Application SP-2022-01 and Zoning By-
law Amendment Application A 03/22. A. Milne-Price noted that the application
introduced responsible and gentle intensification into the subject area to propose
eight new family homes and that the proposal had been designed to ensure that the
new homes fit within the neighbourhood seamlessly. A. Milne-Price stated that they
did not have any objections to the conditions of approval posed by the City.
3.2 Denno Chen, Pickering Resident
Re: Report PLN 20-25
Draft Plan of Subdivision Application SP-2022-01
Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 03/22
Highglen Homes Limited
Northeast corner of Finch Avenue and Nature Haven Crescent
(Refer to Item 4.2)
D. Chen, Pickering Resident, appeared before Members of the Committee via
electronic connection to speak to Draft Plan of Subdivision Application SP-2022-01
and Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 03/22. D. Chen questioned whether
the Committee had enough information to make an informed decision, noting that
referenced studies were not publicly available. D. Chen raised concerns about past
infrastructure damage from dewatering in the Nature Haven development in 2017
and urged caution to avoid similar issues. D. Chen stated that the feasibility study
dated October 2021 predates nearby construction and asked whether a new study
was needed. D. Chen requested peer review and public access to the pre-condition
survey and construction management plan and emphasized the need for stronger
language to protect neighbouring homes and clarify responsibility for any damage.
D. Chen questioned why Parks Canada had not reviewed the environmental impact
study, unlike TRCA, and asked for justification regarding tree removal for a
turning elbow and whether alternatives for the suggested tree removal had been
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Planning & Development Committee Meeting Minutes
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3
considered.
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of the Committee
and D. Chen regarding:
• whether the delegate’s comments were provided in writing to the Committee
for their consideration; and,
• the number of trees over 70 years old mentioned in the development proposal.
4. Planning & Development Reports
4.1 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 18-25
City of Pickering 2024 Annual Housing Monitoring Report
A question and answer period ensued between Members of the Committee and
staff regarding:
• the number of requested dwelling units completed to date;
• whether there had been updated definitions for affordable and/or attainable
housing;
• what percentage of residents were seeking rental housing in Pickering;
• whether the rental building on Whites Road had reached full occupancy;
• the current rental cost of a one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and a three-bedroom
unit in Pickering;
• whether the City had any role in resolving rental cost-related disputes between
tenants and landlords;
• whether staff could gather the rental costs related to Pickering from the
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and share the
information with Members of the Committee; and,
• whether there was any explanation to understand the drop in the rental costs
in 2021.
Recommendation:
Moved by Councillor Nagy
Seconded by Councillor Butt
That Report PLN 18-25, regarding the City of Pickering 2024 Annual Housing
Monitoring Report, be received for information.
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Planning & Development Committee Meeting Minutes
October 06, 2025
4
Carried
4.2 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 20-25
Draft Plan of Subdivision Application SP-2022-01
Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 03/22
Highglen Homes Limited
Northeast corner of Finch Avenue and Nature Haven Crescent
A question and answer period ensued between Members of the Committee and
staff regarding:
• tree preservation and the mitigating factors that may have been considered;
• whether the concerns and questions raised by the delegate, Denno Chen,
were addressed;
• clarification regarding the dewatering process and the effects of the
dewatering process on the community and natural habitat;
• staff providing supplementary information regarding the dewatering process,
the impact of the development on the community, and the comments raised by
the delegate, Denno Chen, to Members of Council prior to the October 27,
2025 Council Meeting;
• whether Parks Canada was consulted on the environmental impact study;
• who was responsible for covering the costs of the studies and whether all
required studies were available on the City’s website;
• if a recent soil study had been completed and whether a decision on the
application would be made before the soil study was provided;
• pre-condition surveys for adjacent homeowners and whether there was a lack
of protection for adjacent homeowners;
• whether adjacent homeowners typically allow applicants to go on their
properties to assess any existing conditions;
• how development-related issues would be addressed;
• whether the dewatering process was an unusual process and clarification that
the application was not draining a large wetland or swamp; and,
• what sizes the replacement trees would be.
Recommendation:
Moved by Councillor Brenner
Seconded by Mayor Ashe
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Planning & Development Committee Meeting Minutes
October 06, 2025
5
1. That Draft Plan of Subdivision Application SP-2022-01, submitted by Highglen
Homes Limited, to establish a residential plan of subdivision, consisting of
eight lots for detached dwellings, one block for a daylighting triangle, and one
block for a road extension, as shown on Attachment 3 to Report PLN 20-25,
and the implementing conditions of approval, as set out in Appendix I, be
endorsed; and,
2. That Zoning By-law Amendment Application A 03/22, submitted by Highglen
Homes Limited, to implement Draft Plan of Subdivision SP-2022-01, on lands
located on the northeast corner of Finch Avenue and Nature Haven Crescent,
be approved, and that the draft Zoning By-law Amendment, as set out in
Appendix II to Report PLN 20-25, be finalized and forwarded to Council for
enactment.
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)
4.3 Director, City Development & CBO, Report PLN 21-25
895 Wonder Drive – Notice of Intent to Designate a Property under Part IV,
Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act
A brief question and answer period ensued between Members of the Committee
and staff regarding whether the Percy House was still in the process of being
moved, with N. Surti, Division Head, Development Review & Urban Design,
responding that the house had been moved and the concrete foundation poured
where the house would be situated.
Recommendation:
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Planning & Development Committee Meeting Minutes
October 06, 2025
6
Moved by Councillor Butt
Seconded by Councillor Cook
1. That Council endorse the recommendations of the Heritage Pickering
Advisory Committee, dated February 28, 2024, to designate 895 Wonder
Drive (the Percy House) under Part IV, Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act;
2. That Council direct staff to serve a Notice of Intent to Designate the property
located at 895 Wonder Drive, known as the Percy House, as a property of
cultural heritage value or interest, pursuant to Part IV, Section 29 of the
Ontario Heritage Act, provided as Attachment 4 to Report PLN 21-25;
3. That, should no Notice of Objection be received by the City Clerk within 30
days of the publication of the Notice of Intent to Designate, the Designation
By-law for 895 Wonder Drive, provided as Attachment 5 to this report, be
finalized and forwarded to Council for enactment, and that staff be directed to
carry out the notice requirements as prescribed under Part IV, Section 29(8) of
the Ontario Heritage Act; and,
4. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take
such actions as necessary to give effect to this report.
Carried
5. Member Updates on Committees
There were no updates from Members on Committees.
6. Adjournment
Moved by Councillor Butt
Seconded by Councillor Robinson
That the meeting be adjourned.
Carried
The meeting adjourned at 7:51 p.m.
Dated this 6th day of October, 2025.
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Principles
Integrity
1
Integrity Commissioner’s
Recommendation Report
Regarding Complaint Against Councillor Lisa Robinson
October 20, 2025
Executive Summary:
[1] This report results from a complaint filed against Councillor Lisa Robinson in
relation to her receiving funds through a crowd-sourcing campaign (“Give-Send-
Go”) in breach of the Gifts Policy under the Council Code of Conduct.
[2] We find that the complaint is substantiated and that the Councillor’s conduct
breached the Code of Conduct by accepting funds in breach of the Gifts Policy.
[3] This is the second time that we have found the Councillor to have breached the
Gifts Policy through receiving crowd-sourced funds and the eighth time we have
had to report to Council following complaints against the Councillor.
[4] We are recommending a 90-day suspension of pay.
Process
[5] In conducting this investigation, Principles Integrity applied the principles of
procedural fairness and was guided by the complaint process set out under the
Code.
[6] This fair and balanced process includes the following elements:
a. Reviewing the complaint to determine whether it is within scope and
jurisdiction and in the public interest to pursue, including giving
consideration to whether the complaint should be restated or narrowed,
where this better reflects the public interest;
b. Notifying the Respondent, and providing her with the opportunity to respond
in full to the allegations;
c. Reviewing the Code, all relevant documentation including watching the
videos posted, and interviewing relevant witnesses as necessary; and,
d. Providing the Respondent with the opportunity to review and provide
comments to the Integrity Commissioner’s Preliminary Findings Report,
prior to finalizing and submitting a Recommendation Report.
Code Provisions
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Integrity
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[7] Relevant provisions of the Code are set out below:
01. Gift or Benefit - means anything of value including but not
limited to cash or monetary equivalent, fee, object of value,
service, meal, travel, accommodation, or entertainment.
04.04 Despite anything else in this Code, a Member shall
not accept a Gift or Benefit of value greater than $500.00
and shall not accept from a single source during a 12-
month period Gifts and Benefits of total value greater
than $500.00.
04.05 A Member who receives a Gift or Benefit of value
greater than $200.00, or received from a single source
during a 12-month period Gifts and Benefits of total value
greater than $200.00, shall within 30 days of receipt, file
a Disclosure Statement with the City Clerk.
Complaint:
[8] On July 3, 2025 a complaint was filed by Mayor Ashe alleging that a GiveSendGo
fundraising campaign had been established, for which the funds were destined for
Councillor Robinson.
[9] Councillor Robinson has been the subject of numerous Code of Conduct
complaints, which have resulted in six Recommendation Reports to Council
recommending monetary sanctions pursuant to the Municipal Act.
[10] Following the first Recommendation Report, on September 25, 2023
Council suspended the Councillor’s pay for 30 days.
[11] In an on-line interview in the days that followed, the Councillor participated
as a guest to express her disagreement with the outcome of that Report. The host
of the broadcast, while confirming with the Councillor’s lawyer that he would
undertake a judicial review of the Report ‘pro bono’ (without compensation),
nevertheless asked viewers to contribute financially to the cost of Councillor
Robinson’s legal challenge to that Report.
[12] As well, the Councillor’s web page contains a ‘Donate’ button which links to a
GiveSendGo page.
[13] A screenshot of the GiveSendGo account page which was forwarded with the
complaint on July 3, 2025 indicated that $13,466 had been raised to date.
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3
[14] The GiveSendGo account page notes as follows:
Campaign created by Terry Rekar
Campaign funds will be received by Lisa Robinson
[15] The text on that screenshot, at that time, advises that money donated will be given
to Councillor Lisa Robinson:
“The funds raised will help cover her living expenses, legal fees, and the costs
associated with defending her right to speak truth to power.”
[16] On the date of drafting of this Preliminary Findings Report, the GiveSendGo
account page (which appears refreshed) indicates $1,055 has been raised.
[17] GiveSendGo funds are available to be withdrawn by the creator of the campaign.
[18] There is a statement on GiveSendGo that “funds raised were to help cover
Councillor Robinson’s living expenses, legal fees and costs associated with
defending her right to speak truth to power”.
[19] We note that the amount of $13,466 accumulated in the fund shown on July 3,
2025 then changed to $1,055 on August 25, 2025.
[20] One must understand that the funds of $13,466 were drawn down between July 3
and August 25, 2025.
[21] Based on the statement that all funds raised will be donated, in effect, to Councillor
Robinson, we think it a fair inference that the funds drawn down were provided to
Councillor Robinson.
[22] A monetary donation to Councillor Robinson would constitute a ‘gift or benefit’ to
her.
[23] The Code provision requires that members who receive a gift or benefit of value
greater than $200.00 file a Disclosure Statement with the Clerk within 30 days of
receipt.
[24] We note that, as of the date of this Report, no gift Disclosure Statement has been
filed by the Councillor to account for funds received from the GiveSendGo
campaign.
Analysis and Findings:
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Principles
Integrity
4
[25] This same issue was previously addressed in a Recommendation Report which
we provided to Pickering Council in September 2024.
[26] The complaint at that time – that Councillor Robinson was the beneficiary of a
Give-Send-Go account established to collect money on her behalf – was found to
cause Councillor Robinson to be in breach of the Code of Conduct.
[27] The following extract from that Recommendation Report is germane and we adopt
the same reasoning in this Report:
[61] In the response to this complaint, Councillor Robinson indicates that the funding is
intended to assist her with the legal fees she is incurring on the judicial review.
This is contradicted by an interview she gave to Derek Sloan where it is clearly
stated that this money is intended to replace her salary.
[62] The Give-Send-Go page itself, which continues to be active, states that the funding
will go directly to Councillor Robinson. Despite her assertions that she did not set
this page up to benefit herself, her personal webpage contains an active “donate”
button that links directly to the Give-Send-Go account. She acknowledges that the
purpose of this button is to allow people access to the site if they wish to provide her with
money.
[63] Councillor Robinson advises that she has no role in respect of this account, and
that she is unaware of how much money, if any, has been raised through the
account. Further, she states that any money raised is or will be directed to her
lawyer. Whether or not the money comes to her or is directed to others on her
behalf to satisfy her own financial obligations is irrelevant, as payment of her legal
fees clearly constitutes a financial benefit to her.
[64] Importantly, Councillor Robinson claims that the funding will not have any undue
influence on her decisions as a councillor. We find that to be inaccurate. The
funding is replacing the pay she is not receiving as a direct result of legislatively
approved sanctions for violating the Code. Allowing her to benefit from this,
essentially avoiding the impact of the sanctions, encourages continued disregard
for the Code and renders the concept of sanctions to be meaningless, which clearly
has an ability to impact her behaviour as a councillor. While the Councillor
indicates she will be complying with “fundraising rules”, it is noted that fundraising
rules apply to municipal election campaigns, and not ongoing fundraising for
personal matters.
[65] Finally, as this funding is intended to act as income replacement, whether such
funding would constitute reportable income is not within the purview of this report
but bears consideration in other contexts.
[66] We find that Councillor Robinson has received or is intending to receive a benefit
from a single source – a group of individuals ensuring she will not face the impact
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Principles
Integrity
5
of previous sanctions imposed upon her for contravening the Code. Despite
alleging that she is unaware of the amount raised and making no effort to ascertain
that figure when asked for clarification, we find that there is nonetheless a benefit
that is accruing to the Councillor in contravention of section 4 gift provisions set out in
the Code.
[28] We find that Councillor Robinson has breached the Gifts provisions of the Code of
Conduct in accepting funds which constitute a Gift or Benefit of value greater than
$500.00, or received from a single source during a 12-month period.
[29] The purpose for having a gift provision in a Code of Conduct – which is one of the
four prescribed subjects presently required in a Code of Conduct – is to ensure
that members of municipal Councils are not inappropriately influenced by the
largesse of their supporters, private interests, or special interest groups, and to
daylight sources of legitimate gifts and benefits received, by requiring a public
disclosure above certain value thresholds.
[30] A financial contribution – the receipt of funds, or the paying by a third party of a
councillor’s financial obligations (legal fees, mortgage payments, etc.) falls under
the definition of gift or benefit.
[31] In the course of our investigation, the Councillor defended her conduct by asserting
that, as we have already investigated this type of breach in the past, it would
constitute an abuse of process for us to investigate the same pattern of behaviour.
the Councillor claims that this complaint ‘duplicates’ a matter already adjudicated.
[32] The fact that we have determined previously that accepting donations from crowd-
funding is subject to the Code provisions regarding gifts and benefits should be
understood as a caution against repeating the behaviour, not an inoculation
against subsequent complaints.
[33] The Councillor also, in the same vein as previously, claimed no control over the
creation, existence or disbursal of funds in the account.
[34] Despite her assertions that she did not set this page up to benefit herself, her
personal webpage contains an active “donate” button that links directly to the Give-
Send-Go account. She acknowledges that the purpose of this button is to allow
people access to the site if they wish to provide her with money.
[35] The Councillor claims that there is no evidence of funds being provided to her, and
protests that we should not draw an inference.
[36] We note that the Give-Send-Go page itself, which continues to be active, states
that the funding will go directly to Councillor Robinson.
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Principles
Integrity
6
[37] We further note that the Councillor has not denied receiving – or benefitting from
– such funds.
[38] On the basis of the clear statement of purpose set out on the GiveSendGo account,
the fact that the funds which were $13,466 in July were only $1,055 in August, and
the fact that the Councillor has not denied that the funds were allocated for her
benefit to financial obligations incurred by her, we believe it is a reasonable
inference to draw that she has received the benefit of such funds.
[39] Unlike the standard of proof on a prosecution which is beyond a reasonable doubt,
the standard of proof on an investigation by an Integrity Commissioner is to make
findings of fact based on a balance of probabilities.
[40] On this basis, we find that the Councillor received the benefit of the funds which
were drawn down on the GiveSendGo account.
[41] Finally, the Councillor claims that restricting her ability to fundraise to pay her legal
fees – legal fees which have been largely incurred through unsuccessful attempts
to challenge the Council decisions to impose monetary sanctions for previous
findings of Code violations – infringes her Charter rights of access to justice.
[42] While the Charter protects access to justice, that Charter right does not override
the Councillor’s obligations under the Code, nor are the gift and benefit provisions
dispensed with simply because the funds donated for the Councillor’s benefit are
used to offset legal fees incurred by her.
Recommendations and Concluding Remarks:
[43] An Integrity Commissioner’s investigation report is not simply the
conclusion of a technical exercise to determine whether there has been a breach
of codified standards of behaviour. Our role is more than simply the task of
bringing adjudication to grievances between individuals. As noted below, we see
as our highest objective in concluding an investigation to be the making of
recommendations that serve the public interest.
[44] The Integrity Commissioner’s role is as much about education as it is about
adjudication, so that municipal government can function better, and that members
of the public are able to confidently conclude that members of their municipal
council are acting with integrity.
[45] Under the Municipal Act, upon receipt of a recommendation report from the
integrity commissioner, Council may impose a reprimand or a suspension of pay
for a period of up to 90 days.
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Principles
Integrity
7
[46] We note that this is the eighth time that we have had to report publicly in regard
to conduct of Councillor Robinson that has been found to breach the Code of
Conduct and on each occasion, a suspension of pay has been imposed.
[47] The purpose of sanctioning through a suspension of pay is to impose a
consequence which may result in a change of behaviour, an adjustment to align
with ethical expectations, to adhere to the Code of Conduct.
[48] Unfortunately, it appears that crowd-funding by her supporters is now not only
removing the sting of the penalty imposed by Council, but resulting in a further
breach of the Code by the Councillor.
[49] While it appears futile to continue to impose additional monetary penalties, the
remedial tools available to an Integrity Commissioner and to Council under the
current Municipal Act are deficient.
[50] Therefore, recognizing that a suspension of pay is the only available remedy, we
again recommend Council impose a suspension of pay.
[51] We therefore recommend:
[1] That the remuneration paid to Councillor Robinson be suspended for a
period of 90 days.
[52] We will be available to introduce this report and respond to questions regarding its
contents during the Council meeting at which this report is considered.
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Principles
Integrity
8
About Principles Integrity and the Complaint Process
Principles Integrity was appointed the Integrity Commissioner for the City of Pickering on
November 15, 2022. We are also privileged to serve as Integrity Commissioner for a
number of other Ontario municipalities. The operating philosophy which guides us in our
work with all of our client municipalities is this:
The perception that a community’s elected representatives are operating with integrity is
the glue which sustains local democracy. We live in a time when citizens are skeptical of
their elected representatives at all levels. The overarching objective in appointing an
integrity commissioner is to ensure the existence of robust and effective policies,
procedures, and mechanisms that enhance the citizen’s perception that their Council (and
local boards) meet established ethical standards and where they do not, there exists a
review mechanism that serves the public interest.
The City has as part of its ethical framework a Code of Conduct which is the policy
touchstone underlying the assessments conducted in this report. It represents the standard
of conduct against which all members of Council are to be measured when there is an
allegation of breach of the ethical responsibilities established under the Code of Conduct.
The review mechanism contemplated by the Code, one which is required in all Ontario
municipalities, is an inquiry/complaints process administered by an integrity commissioner.
Integrity commissioners carry out a range of functions for municipalities (and their local
boards). They assist in the development of the ethical framework, for example by
suggesting content or commentary for codes of conduct. They conduct education and
training for members of council and outreach for members of the community. One of the
most important functions is the provision of advice and guidance to members to help sort
out ethical grey areas or to confirm activities that support compliance. And finally, but not
principally, they investigate allegations that a person has fallen short of compliance with the
municipality’s ethical framework and where appropriate they submit public reports on their
findings, and make recommendations, including recommending sanctions, that council for
the municipality may consider imposing in giving consideration to that report.
It is important that this broad range of functions be mentioned in this investigation report.
Our goal, as stated in our operating philosophy, is to help members of the Pickering
community, indeed the broader municipal sector and the public, to appreciate that elected
and appointed representatives generally carry out their functions with integrity. In cases
where they do not, there is a proper process in place to fairly assess the facts and, if
necessary, recommend appropriate sanctions. In every case, including this one, the highest
objective is to make recommendations that serve the public interest, if there are
recommendations to be made.
Our role differs from other ‘adjudicators’ whose responsibilities generally focus, to state it
colloquially, on making findings of fact and fault. While that is a necessary component when
allegations are made, it is not the only component.
Our operating philosophy dictates the format of this report. The tenets of procedural
fairness require us to provide reasons for our conclusions and recommendations, and we
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Principles
Integrity
9
have done that. Procedural fairness also requires us to conduct a process where parties
can participate in the review and resolution of a complaint.
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Report to Council
Report Number: CLK 05-25
Date: October 27, 2025
From: Paul Bigioni
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor
Subject: Award of Request for Proposal RFP2025-18 for an Internet & Paper Ballot Voting
Solution for the 2026 Municipal Election
File: A-1440
Recommendation:
1.That Report CLK 05-25 regarding Request for Proposal RFP2025-18 for an Internet &
Paper Ballot Voting Solution for the 2026 Municipal Election be received;
2.That the proposal submitted by Neuvote Systems Inc., in the amount of $311,428.00
(HST included), and a net project cost of $280,451.00 (net HST), to provide an integrated
internet and paper ballot voting solution for a period of 5 years be accepted;
3.That Council authorize the Director, Finance & Treasurer, to finance the total net project
cost of $280,451.00 by a transfer from the Election Reserve;
4.That the Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor be authorized to execute the Form
of Agreement with the above mentioned consultant pursuant to Request for Proposal No.
RFP2025-18; and,
5.That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the actions
necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to obtain Council authorization to
award Request for Proposal RFP2025-18 for an internet and paper ballot voting solution for
the 2026 Municipal Election.
In accordance with Resolution #730/25 (Attachment 1) on August 26, 2025, the City of
Pickering issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for an integrated internet and paper ballot
voting solution which included the use of vote tabulating equipment. The RFP requested the
delivery of an integrated solution that provides a seamless and full integration between the two
voting methods for calculating final results that include both ballots cast over the internet, and
ballots cast at in-person voting locations.
The RFP closed on September 26, 2025, and despite having received a few inquiries from
potential bidders, the City received one formal proposal. Staff are recommending the award for
the integrated voting solution to Neuvote Systems Inc.
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priority of Foster an Engaged and Informed Community.
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CLK 05-25 October 27, 2025
Page 2
Financial Implications:
1.Project Costing Summary
RFP2025-18 $275,600.00
HST (13%) $35,828.00
Total Gross Project Cost $311,428.00
HST Rebate (11.24%) ($30,977.00)
Total Net Project Cost to City $280,451.00
2.Approved Source of Funds
Account Code Source of Funds Balance available Required
408003
Total Funds
Election Reserve $516,340.00
$516,340.00
$280,451.00
$280,451.00
(Over)/Under available balance in Reserve $235,889.00
Most of the costs for the voting solution will be paid in 2026. These costs will be financed
through a transfer from the Election Reserve. To ensure that sufficient funds are available for
each municipal election, funds in the amount of $110,000 .00 are added to the City’s Election
Reserve each year for the four years leading up to a municipal election. The Election Reserve
also includes some unspent funds from the 2022 Municipal Election. A total of $516,340 is
available to cover the costs of the 2026 Municipal Election. Funds have also been included in
the 2025 Budget in case a deposit is required at the time of signing the service contract with
Neuvote Systems Inc. before the end of 2025.
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to obtain Council authorization to award Request
for Proposal RFP2025-18 for an internet and paper ballot voting solution for the 2026
Municipal Election.
At the Executive Committee Meeting of May 5, 2025, Report CLK 02-25, regarding the
approval of voting methods for the 2026 Municipal Election, was approved by the Committee.
The report was subsequently approved by Council at the May 26, 2025 Council Meeting
through Resolution #730/25 and By-law #8182/25 (Attachment 2) was adopted to give
approval for the use of both internet and paper ballot voting in the 2026 Municipal Election.
RFP2025-18 was advertised on the bids&tenders portal on August 26, 2025 and closed on
September 26, 2025. While there were a few inquiries from potential bidders prior to the close
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CLK 05-25 October 27, 2025
Page 3
of the RFP, only one formal bid was submitted to the City. Very few vendors are capable of
providing internet voting and paper ballots as combined services.
In the 2022 Municipal Election, the City used Dominion Voting Services which at that time
offered internet and telephone voting as well as paper ballots and vote tabulating equipment.
Since the 2022 Municipal Election, Dominion Voting reverted back to providing only paper
ballot voting services and recently, they were acquired by Liberty Vote, a 100% American-
owned company. It is important for election administrators in Ontario municipalities to procure
services from Canadian operated companies to ensure that all information related to the
election services is stored within Canada. With the passing of each four year term, there
appears to be a declining number of Canadian vendors who offer paper ballot voting solutions
and even fewer who can offer an integrated solution that includes both paper ballots and
internet voting.
After the close of RFP2025-18, an Evaluation Committee consisting of staff from Legislative
Services and Information Technology Services reviewed the proposal and independently
scored the proponent based on the rated criteria in the RFP. Through that process, it was the
consensus of the Evaluation Committee that Neuvote Systems Inc. would be a suitable vendor
to provide combined voting services for the 2026 Municipal Election.
Neuvote Systems Inc. is an Ontario based and headquartered election service company
founded in Kitchener, Ontario in 2017. Neuvote has built a unique body of experience helping
commissions in five countries across three continents modernize their elections. Neuvote
offers both internet and paper ballot voting technologies and has the ability to provide this
integrated service to the City for the 2026 Municipal Election.
Since the 2022 Municipal Election, and as outlined in Report CLK 02 -25 (Attachment 3), the
Association of Municipal Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario has been advocating for the
Province to undertake a review and rewrite of the Municipal Elections Act, as it does not
contemplate modern voting technologies and methods. In the absence of prescribed voting
standards in the current legislation, municipal clerks and election stakeholders advocated for
voting standards that can be used province -wide to provide a consistent approach that
incorporates best practices.
To that end, the Digital Governance Standards Institute (DGSI) published a “National Standard
of Canada” for both internet voting and vote tabulators. DGSI is a Canadian non -profit
organization with membership from the public, private and non-profit sectors. DGSI is
accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC), the Federal Crown corporation that
oversees national standards. The SCC recognizes DGSI’s voting standard as a “National
Standard of Canada”. The DGSI standard has been designed to reduce risk s for Canadians
and Canadian organizations, and covers technical design, security of systems and data, voter
identity and vote authentication, verification, testing and auditability, access of voting services
and voter information, secrecy of the vote, ballot design and casting options, network capacity,
election management, accessibility, and transparency.
Through the RFP submission, Neuvote has demonstrated that they were a founding member
of the DGSI Electoral Management Body Working Group and actively contributed to the
development of the Standards. Neuvote’s RFP submission also states that their voting
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CLK 05-25 October 27, 2025
Page 4
systems fully meet or exceed every published DGSI Standard for both internet voting and vote
tabulators.
Upon careful examination of the proposal documents submitted, and through a vendor
demonstration of the voting solutions, it is recommended that Proposal RFP2025 -18,
submitted by Neuvote Systems Inc., in the amount of $311,428.00 (HST included), be
accepted.
Attachments:
1.Resolution #730/25
2.By-law #8182/25
3.Report CLK 02-25
Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By:
Susan Cassel Cathy Bazinet
City Clerk Manager, Procurement
Stan Karwowski, MBA, CPA, CMA Paul Bigioni
Director, Finance & Treasurer Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor
SC
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
Original Signed By:Original Signed For:
Original Signed By:Original Signed By:
Original Signed By:
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Legislative Services Division
Clerk’s Office
Directive Memorandum
June 3, 2025
To: Paul Bigioni
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor
From: Susan Cassel
City Clerk
Subject: Direction as per Minutes of the Meeting of City Council held on
May 26, 2025
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor, Report CLK 02-25
Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election
Council Decision Resolution #730/25
Please take any action deemed necessary.
SC:am
Copy: Chief Administrative Officer
Director, Finance & Treasurer
City Clerk
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.
Attachment 1 to Report CLK 05-25
- 124 -
The Corporation of the City of Pickering
By-law No.8182/25
Being a by-law to authorize the use of an alternative voting
method for the 2026 Municipal Election
Whereas Section 42(1) of the Municipal Elections Act, 1996, S.O. 1996, c. 32 (the “MEA”),
provides that the council of a local municipality may pass by-laws:
(a)authorizing the use of voting and vote-counting equipment such as voting machines,
voting recorders or optical scanning vote tabulators;
(b)authorizing electors to use an alternative voting method, such as voting by mail or by
telephone that does not require electors to attend at a voting place in order to vote.
And Whereas Section 42(5) of the MEA provides when a by-law authorizing the use of an
alternative voting method is in effect, sections 43 (advance votes) and 44 (voting proxies)
apply only if the by-law so specifies;
Now therefore the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering hereby enacts as follows:
1.That the use of internet voting, paper ballots and vote tabulators be authorized for the
2026 Municipal Election and for any by-elections in the 2026-2030 Term of Council;
2.That the Clerk be authorized to use internet voting and/or paper ballots during any
advance voting period and on Voting Day for the 2026 Municipal Election and for any
by-elections in the 2026-2030 Term of Council;
3.That in accordance with the MEA, and due to the authorization of an alternative voting
method, proxy voting provisions shall not be applicable for the 2026 Municipal Election
or for any by-elections in the 2026-2030 Term of Council; and,
4.That By-law 7846/21 is hereby repealed.
By-law passed this 26th day of May, 2025.
Original Signed By
________________________________
Kevin Ashe, Mayor
Original Signed By________________________________
Susan Cassel, City Clerk
Attachment 2 to Report CLK 05-25
- 125 -
Report to
Executive Committee
Report Number: CLK 02-25
Date: May 5, 2025
From: Paul Bigioni
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor
Subject: Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election
File: A-1440
Recommendations:
1. That Report CLK 02-25 regarding the approval of voting methods for the 2026 Municipal
Election be received;
2.That both internet voting and paper ballots, using vote tabulators, be approved as 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.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s approval for the
recommended voting methods for the 2026 Municipal Election and to commence the Request
for Proposal (RFP) process to secure the appropriate vendor(s) to give effect to the approved
voting methods.
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priority of Foster an Engaged and Informed Community.
Financial Implications: In accordance with Section 7(1) of the Municipal Elections Act, the
costs incurred by the clerk of a local municipality in conducting an election shall be paid by the
local municipality. To ensure that sufficient funds are available for each municipal election,
funds in the amount of $110,000 are added to the City’s Election Reserve each year for the
four years leading up to a municipal election. Due to some unspent funds from the 2022
Municipal Election, and including the annual contributions to the Election Reserve, a total of
$516,340 will be available to cover the costs of the 2026 Municipal Election.
Attachment 3 to Report CLK 05-25
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CLK 02-25 May 5, 2025
Subject: Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election Page 2
The costs of the election are not yet known, however, the costs for the 2022 Municipal Election
were $435,075. Any increased costs over those incurred for the 2022 Municipal Elections
should be limited to inflationary costs resulting from the passage of time. The financial
implications specifically associated with the election voting method services will be outlined
when the recommendation to award the RFP is brought back before Council for approval.
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s approval for the recommended
voting methods for the 2026 Municipal Election and to commence the RFP process to secure
the appropriate vendor(s) to give effect to the approved voting methods.
The 2026 Municipal Election will take place on Monday, October 26, 2026. Section 42(1) of the
Municipal Elections Act, 1996, S.O. 1996, c. 32, (the “Act”), states “the council of a local
municipality may pass by-laws authorizing the use of voting and vote-counting equipment such
as voting machines, voting recorders or optical scanning vote tabulators, as well as authorizing
electors to use an alternative voting method, such as voting by mail or by telephone, that does
not require electors to attend a voting place in order to vote”.
A. 2018 and 2022 Municipal Election Statistics
For the 2018 Municipal Election, internet and telephone voting were utilized for the first time in
the City of Pickering. Overall, the use of these methods was successful, however some
electors provided feedback that telephone voting was cumbersome and difficult to use. For this
reason, for the 2022 Municipal Election, it was recommended that instead of telephone voting,
a paper ballot option, using vote tabulators, would be available in addition to internet voting.
These voting methods proved to be successful and provided voters with the option of casting
their vote either over the internet, or in person at designated voting locations.
The voter turnout for the 2022 Municipal Election was 27.24%. In total, there were 76,305
registered voters with 20,786 voters casting a ballot. Of the total ballots cast, 16,424 were cast
using internet voting while 4,362 were cast by paper ballot.
In contrast, the voter turnout for the 2018 Municipal Election was 28.8%. In total, there were
68,494 registered voters with 19,777 voters casting a ballot. Of the total ballots cast, 18,801
were cast using internet voting while 976 voters cast their ballot by telephone.
As demonstrated in the voting results for the 2018 and 2022 Municipal Elections, internet
voting has been widely accepted by the electorate in the City of Pickering. Although the voter
turnout for 2022 was slightly lower than 2018, it was apparent that some electors who may
have used internet voting in 2018 preferred to cast their ballot by paper when that option was
made available in 2022. That said, given that 79% of the ballots cast in the 2022 Municipal
Election were done using internet voting, it is apparent that this voting method is preferred by
most of the electorate even when a paper ballot option was offered. The inclusion of a paper
ballot component proved to be successful for the small number of electors who did not want to
use internet voting and therefore, the use of these combined voting methods is once again
being recommended for the 2026 Municipal Election.
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CLK 02-25 May 5, 2025
Subject: Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election Page 3
B. Benefits of Internet Voting and Paper Ballot
Internet Voting offers several benefits to electors including:
• accessibility and the ability to access the ballot from different devices from anywhere
with an internet connection;
• the ability for electors with disabilities to vote independently, from the location of their
choice, using any accessible devices that they may be accustomed to using;
• convenience for those less inclined to travel to a voting location to vote;
• removal of the need for voting proxies, which can be a cumbersome process for both
the elector and the proxy;
• reduction in administrative costs due to the need for fewer voting centers, equipment
rentals, and hiring of staff;
• elimination of unintentional spoiled ballots;
• more streamlined administrative processes; and,
• faster tabulation of election results.
The benefits of paper ballots include:
• familiarity of the voting practice for electors that have been accustomed to that method
of voting for many years;
• the ability to physically touch and mark a ballot, which may be important to some
electors;
• the symbolic significance (for some electors) in attending a voting place in person to
carry out their civic duty; and,
• when combined with the use of vote tabulators, it offers a streamlined, in-person
process for electors who prefer this method of voting.
C. Internet Voting in Ontario
Internet voting has been steadily adopted by municipalities across the province of Ontario
since it was first used in the 2003 Municipal Election by 12 municipalities. According to the
Association of Municipalities of Ontario, 217 municipalities in Ontario used internet voting in
the 2022 Municipal Election. This was an increase from the 2018 Municipal Election where 175
municipalities used internet voting. This trend demonstrates that more municipalities are
adopting the use of internet voting and those who previously used internet voting continue to
use this voting method.
D. National Standard of Canada: Internet Voting and Vote Tabulators
With any alternative voting method, there is an associated level of risk. Despite these
concerns, staff are not aware of a single example of voter fraud or a security breach in any
Ontario municipality that has used internet voting or vote tabulators. It should also be noted
that as internet voting has evolved over time, so have the security measures that have been
put in place, as well as best practices and lessons learned from municipalities that have used
this voting method for several elections.
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CLK 02-25 May 5, 2025
Subject: Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election Page 4
The Act will be 30 years old when the 2026 Election takes place. Since 2023, the Association
of Municipal Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario has been advocating for the Province to
undertake a review and rewrite of the antiquated legislation, as it does not contemplate
modern voting methods. In the absence of prescribed voting standards in the current
legislation, municipal clerks and election stakeholders have been advocating for voting
standards that can be used province-wide to provide a consistent approach that incorporates
best practices.
To that end, the Digital Governance Standards Institute (DGSI) has published a “National
Standard of Canada” for both internet voting and vote tabulators. DGSI is a Canadian non-
profit organization with membership from the public, private and non-profit sectors. DGSI is
accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC), the Federal Crown corporation that
oversees national standards. The SCC recognizes DGSI’s voting standard as a “National
Standard of Canada”. The DGSI standard has been designed to reduce risks for Canadians
and Canadian organizations, and covers technical design, security of systems and data, voter
identity and vote authentication, verification, testing and auditability, access of voting services
and voter information, secrecy of the vote, ballot design and casting options, network capacity,
election management, accessibility, and transparency.
In preparation for the 2026 Municipal Election, Legislative Services and Information
Technology staff have reviewed the DGSI Voting Standards as a framework for ensuring a
secure, accessible, and reliable voting process. These standards, developed in consultation
with electoral experts and technology providers, set a benchmark for the implementation of
online voting and voting technologies in Canada. Incorporating these standards into our
procurement and operational processes will help ensure that our election meets the highest
industry standards for security, integrity, and public confidence. As part of this initiative, staff
will integrate the DGSI Standards into the upcoming RFP for voting systems, ensuring that the
selected platform(s) align with these best practices.
Conclusion
The City Clerk, as the Returning Officer for the City of Pickering under the Act, has several
criteria to consider before making a recommendation on vote-counting equipment and
alternative voting methods. The first is whether a particular voting method upholds the
principles of the Act and its Regulations as well as the guiding principles established by case
law, which are as follows:
• the secrecy and confidentiality of the voting process is paramount;
• the election shall be fair and non-biased;
• the election shall be accessible to voters;
• the integrity of the voting process shall be maintained throughout the election;
• there is to be certainty that the results of the election reflect the votes cast;
• voters and candidates shall be treated fairly and consistently; and,
• the proper majority vote governs by ensuring that valid votes are counted and invalid
votes are rejected so far as reasonably possible.
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CLK 02-25 May 5, 2025
Subject: Approval of Voting Methods for the 2026 Municipal Election Page 5
These factors have all been taken into consideration in formulating the recommendations
contained in this report. Additionally, any voting methods used for the election will go through
robust logic and accuracy testing to ascertain that the systems are operating as intended. Any
vendors procured for election voting method services will be required to have solutions that are
thoroughly tested and provide ample consideration to the security of the election as well as the
ability to provide support services throughout the election planning process and the entire
voting period, to address any issues that may arise.
Planning for the 2026 Municipal Election has already commenced in the Clerk’s Office, and
staff are seeking approval from Council for the voting method to ensure that voting services
are procured as early as possible to allow the planning and preparation for the Election to
continue. By employing a hybrid approach of internet and paper ballots with vote tabulators,
the City will give electors the option to cast their ballot by their preferred voting method. It is
therefore requested that Council approve the combined voting methods outlined in this report
for the 2026 Municipal Election and for any by-elections that may occur in the 2026-2030 Term
of Council.
Attachments:
1.Draft By-law to Authorize the Use of Internet Voting, Paper Ballots and Vote Tabulators
for the 2026 Municipal Election
Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By:
Susan Cassel Paul Bigioni
City Clerk Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor
SC
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
Original Signed By:Original Signed By:
Original Signed By:
- 130 -
The Corporation of the City of Pickering
By-law No. XXXX/25
Being a by-law to authorize the use of an alternative voting
method for the 2026 Municipal Election
Whereas Section 42(1) of the Municipal Elections Act, 1996, S.O. 1996, c. 32 (the “MEA”),
provides that the council of a local municipality may pass by-laws:
(a) authorizing the use of voting and vote-counting equipment such as voting machines,
voting recorders or optical scanning vote tabulators;
(b) authorizing electors to use an alternative voting method, such as voting by mail or by
telephone that does not require electors to attend at a voting place in order to vote.
And Whereas Section 42(5) of the MEA provides when a by-law authorizing the use of an
alternative voting method is in effect, sections 43 (advance votes) and 44 (voting proxies)
apply only if the by-law so specifies;
Now therefore the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering hereby enacts as follows:
1. That the use of internet voting, paper ballots and vote tabulators be authorized for the
2026 Municipal Election and for any by-elections in the 2026-2030 Term of Council;
2. That the Clerk be authorized to use internet voting and/or paper ballots during any
advance voting period and on Voting Day for the 2026 Municipal Election and for any
by-elections in the 2026-2030 Term of Council;
3. That in accordance with the MEA, and due to the authorization of an alternative voting
method, proxy voting provisions shall not be applicable for the 2026 Municipal Election
or for any by-elections in the 2026-2030 Term of Council; and,
4. That By-law 7846/21 is hereby repealed.
By-law passed this 26th day of May, 2025.
________________________________
Kevin Ashe, Mayor
________________________________
Susan Cassel, City Clerk
Attachment 1 to Report CKL 02-25
- 131 -
Report to Council
Report Number: CS 29-25
Date: October 27, 2025
From: Laura Gibbs
Director, Community Services
Subject: Emergency Plumbing Repairs at Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation
Complex
File: A-1440-001
Recommendation:
1. That Report CS 29-25 regarding Emergency Plumbing Repairs at Chestnut Hill
Developments Recreation Complex be received for information.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to notify Council of the emergency
repairs required at the Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex (CHDRC). A
maintenance project undertaken during the annual pool shutdown revealed that the sanitary
plumbing line from the banquet hall kitchen, passing below the public change room, was not
properly connected to downstream plumbing. What was originally believed to be a broken pipe
requiring repair required much more extensive work, and the scheduled pool shutdown had to
be extended as a result.
A new connection solution was quickly developed and implemented, introducing a new sump
pit between the two sections of pipe to re-establish the required connection. Temporary works
have restored full service to the banquet hall kitchen and universal change room pending
delivery of required parts and equipment for completion of the permanent repair .
Smith & Long Ltd. has submitted a quote totaling $130,843.40 (HST included) for the
emergency repairs. This quote has been accepted in accordance with Section 12.01 of the
City’s Purchasing Policy (PUR 010) and Section 15 of the Purchasing Procedure (PUR 010
001). The total gross cost for the emergency repair is estimated at $146,545.00 (HST
included), with a net project cost of $131,968.00 (net HST).
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priority of Advocate for an Inclusive, Welcoming, Safe &
Healthy Community.
Financial Implications:
1. Quotation Amount
Emergency Plumbing Repairs $115,790.62
HST (13%) 15,052.78
Total Gross Quotation Cost $130,843.40
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CS 29-25 October 27, 2025
Page 2
2. Estimated Project Costing Summary
Emergency Plumbing Repairs $115,791.00
Contingency (12%) 13,895.00
Total Project Cost $129,686.00
HST (13%) 16,859.00
Gross Project Costs $146,545.00
HST Rebate (11.24%) (14,577.00)
Total Net Project Costs $131,968.00
3. Approved Source of Funds
Description
Source of Funds Account Code Funds Required
Emergency
Plumbing Repairs -
CHDRC
Emergency
Operational Needs
- Capital
11100.50351 $131,968.00
Total Funds
$131,968.00
In accordance with Purchasing Policy PUR 010, Section 12.01, in an emergency situation, staff
are permitted to obtain such goods and services as are necessary to respond to the
emergency . If the purchase amount exceeds $50,000.00, the Director must notify the
Treasurer and CAO and the Director shall submit a report of the incident to the appropriate
Committee and Council at the earliest possible time.
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to notify Council of the emergency repairs
required at the CHDRC. Planned maintenance repairs to a broken sanitary sewer line revealed
that the line was disconnected and the required repair work is much more extensive than
originally anticipated.
1. Emergency Repair
Staff scheduled repairs for the sanitary lines from the banquet hall kitchen during the annual
pool shutdown at CHDRC in early September 2025 due to a consistent blockage in the
banquet hall kitchen sinks. A camera survey of the affected drains confirmed the approximate
location of the blockage below the public change room, which appeared to be a break in the
pipe.
Once excavation began, it was revealed that the sanitary pipe in question was not connected
to the downstream line and that a much more extensive repair was required. A solution was
immediately devised, required engineering services engaged, and a building permit obtained.
The impacted sanitary line is approximately 2.4 meters below the floor in the public change
room .
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CS 29-25 October 27, 2025
Page 3
The regularly planned annual pool shutdown at CHDRC was extended by two weeks to
implement a temporary solution and restore service to the banquet hall kitchen and public
change room, as both remained unusable until the pipe was repaired. A new sump pit had to
be provided as the incoming line was lower than the drain line to which it had to connect. An
adjacent washroom has been converted into a mechanical room to contain the sump pit and
eliminate any related risks or hazards to public enjoyment of the space. Four fully enclosed
public washrooms remain available in the public changerooms.
2. Procurement
In the event of an emergency, the Purchasing Policy permits the Manager, Procurement to
develop new supply arrangements. Staff followed the procedures outlined in Section 12 of the
Purchasing Policy , with the Director notifying the Treasurer and CAO of the emergency
purchase at the earliest possible time. Since this purchase exceeds $50,000.00 Council is
being notified.
Restoring service to the banquet hall and public change rooms were of the utmost importance
to minimize impacts to pending rentals, programming and service delivery.
As per Purchasing Policy, Section 12.01, the Community Services Department is notifying
Council of the emergency repair work being completed by Smith & Long Ltd. in the amount of
$130,843.40 (HST included). The total net project cost inclusive of contingency is estimated at
$131,968.00 (net HST).
Attachment: None
Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By:
Original Signed By Original Signed By
Vince Plouffe, OAA, MRAIC Laura Gibbs, MBA, MSc.
Division Head, Facilities Management Director, Community Services
& Construction
Original Signed By
Stan Karwowski, MBA, CPA, CMA
Director, Finance & Treasurer
Original Signed By
Cathy Bazinet, CPPB, NIGP-CPP
Manager, Procurement
- 134 -
CS 29-25 October 27, 2025
Page 4
LG :vp
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Original Signed By
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
- 135 -
Report to Council
Report Number: ECD 08-25
Date: October 27, 2025
From: Fiaz Jadoon
Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects
Subject: Consulting Services for the Corporate Economic Development Strategic Plan
File: A-1440-001
Recommendation:
1.That the proposal submitted by KPMG LLP, in response to Request for Proposal No.
RFP2025-17 to prepare a Corporate Economic Development Strategic Plan, in the
amount of $97,465.00 (net HST) or $108,230.27 (HST included) be accepted;
2.That the total gross project cost of $108, 230.27 (HST included) and total net project cost
of $97,465.00 (net HST) be approved, in accordance with Section 10.04 (c), as the
assignment is over $50,000.00;
3.That the Director, Economic Development & Strategic Projects be authorized to execute
the Form of Agreement with the above mentioned consultant pursuant for Proposal No.
RFP2025-17;
4.That the Director, Finance & Treasurer be authorized to finance the net project cost of
$97,465.00 (net HST) from account 10050.502230; and
5.That the appropriate City of Pickering officials be authorized to take the necessary
actions as indicated in this report.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to award Request for Proposal No.
RFP2025-17 to KPMG LLP (KPMG) for the development of a new Corporate Economic
Development Strategic Plan (2026-2030) for the City of Pickering. In accordance with Section
10.04 (c) of the Purchasing Policy PUR 010, consultant services exceeding $50,000.00 may
be obtained with additional approval from Council.
The purpose of this project is to build on the foundation established by the 2022 Corporate
Economic Development Strategy and to respond to the City's evolving economic landscape,
infrastructure investments, and strategic growth priorities. The City of Pickering, with a current
population of over 118,000, is projected to grow to 155,000 by 2038. Strategically located at
the intersection of Toronto, York Region, and Durham Region, Pickering lies at the heart of
Canada’s largest labour market with over four million people within one-hour commute,
providing businesses access to a large, skilled and diverse talent pool. The City is served by
five universities and six colleges providing access to skills, training, and research assets
across the spectrum. Pickering is also home to nearly 3,600 unique businesses with key
sectors such as EN3 (energy, engineering and environment), advanced manufacturing, and
logistics.
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ECD 08-25 October 27, 2025
Page 2
The updated strategy will guide economic development efforts from 2026 to 2030, with a focus
on emerging sectors, regional and national competitiveness, and inclusive growth. It will
address key themes and developments such as the refurbishment of the Pickering Nuclear
Generating Station, future of the Federal Pickering Lands, development of the community of
Seaton and Northeast Pickering, redevelopment of the City Centre, supply chain resilience, AI
and digital industries, intelligent city planning, and international marketing. The strategy will
also address infrastructure readiness projects, including high-order transit needs for the City,
the widening of arterial roads, and improvements to provincial highways.
A bid advertisement was placed on the City’s bids&tenders’ webpage and promoted on social
media platforms. The RFP closed on September 12, 2025, with five proposals received. An
evaluation committee composed of City Staff reviewed proposal against the criteria outlined in
the RFP. Three proposals moved into the presentation and interview stage as per the RFP
evaluation process.
Following the competitive procurement process, the recommended proponent, KPMG,
demonstrated strong qualifications, a tailored methodology, and a deep understanding of
Pickering’s strategic context. The strategy will be developed through a phased approach,
including background review, stakeholder engagement, strategy development, and
presentation to Council. The final deliverables will include a comprehensive plan with
actionable recommendations, performance metrics, and alignment with municipal, regional,
and national priorities.
Staff seek Council’s acceptance of the highest scoring proposal, submitted by KPMG, for
Request for Proposal No. RFP2025-17 and approval to award consulting services to KPMG in
the amount of $97,465.00 (net HST) or $108,230,27 (HST included) to prepare a new
Corporate Economic Development Strategic Plan (2026-2030) for the City of Pickering.
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priority of Champion Economic Leadership & Innovation.
Financial Implications:
1.Proposal Amount
Proposal $95,779.00
HST (13%) $12,451.27
Total Gross Proposal Cost $108,230.27
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ECD 08-25 October 27, 2025
Page 3
2.Estimated Project Costing Summary
Proposal $95,779.00
HST (13%) $12,451.27
Total Gross Proposal Cost $108,230.27
HST Rebate (11.24%) ($10,765.56)
Total Net Project Cost $97,464.71
3.Approved Source of Funds -Operating Budget
Approved Code
10050.502230
10050.502230
Source of Funds
Rate Stabilization Reserve
Property Tax
Approved Budget
$95,531.00
$1,934.00
Required
$95,531.00
$1,934.00
TOTAL $97,465.00 $97,465.00
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to award of Proposal No. RFP2025-17 to KPMG
for the development of a new Corporate Economic Development Strategic Plan (2026–2030)
for the City of Pickering.
The City of Pickering is developing a new Corporate Economic Development Strategic Plan
(2026-2030) in response to significant changes in market conditions, infrastructure
investments, and regional and national economic dynamics. This updated strategy builds on
the foundation of the 2022 Economic Development Strategy, developed by EBP US Inc., which
has successfully guided the City’s economic development efforts over the past three years.
The 2022 plan advanced key initiatives including the Innovation Corridor, targeted marketing
and investment attraction efforts, the launch of the Small Business Hub, a formal business site
visit program, enhanced stakeholder coordination, and the promotion of tourism through
Destination Pickering. However, the economic landscape has evolved considerably, both
locally and nationally, since its adoption.
The City of Pickering is undergoing a period of transformative growth, driven by its strategic
location at the intersection of Toronto, York Region, and Durham Region. Pickering is
advancing major infrastructure, economic development, and residential initiatives that position
it as one of Ontario’s fastest-growing municipalities. Key projects include the development of
Seaton and Northeast Pickering, and the Pickering City Centre redevelopment. The City is also
benefiting from significant investments in energy, transportation and healthcare, including the
announcement of post-acute care hospital, and the expansion of broadband and transit
networks. Cultural and tourism assets such as Durham Live, featuring the Porsche Experience
Centre, further enhance Pickering’s appeal. These developments, supported by strategic
partnerships and utility servicing expansions, are creating a dynamic environment for business,
innovation, and community life.
Moreover, the refurbishment of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station represents one of
Ontario’s most substantial infrastructure investments over the next decade. This multi-year
project will extend the life of a critical clean energy asset, create thousands of high-skilled jobs,
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ECD 08-25 October 27, 2025
Page 4
and catalyze regional economic growth by attracting new businesses and increasing demand
for housing, services, and infrastructure. Similarly, the recent review of the Federal Pickering
Lands presents a rare opportunity to unlock a key site in the central GTA. These lands offer
immense potential for a variety of uses including employment, innovation, agriculture, tourism,
and investment. Together, these developments are reshaping Pickering’s economic landscape
and reinforcing its role as a hub for innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth.
The City’s previous strategy, developed in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, focused on
recovery and resilience. However, the current economic climate presents new challenges,
particularly related to global trade dynamics and tariff-related risks that impact local supply
chains and investment decisions. To remain competitive and inclusive in a rapidly evolving
global economy, the City must now pivot toward strategies that strengthen supply chain
resilience, support trade diversification, and enable intelligent city planning. Ultimately, the goal
is to build a strong, resilient, and economically viable city for businesses and residents who
choose to live, work, and thrive in Pickering.
On August 22, 2025, the City issued RFP2025-17 for a Corporate Economic Development
Strategy. The purpose of this request for consulting services is to prepare an actionable and
measurable strategy that enables the City to:
• build and sustain collaborative partnerships with stakeholders involved in enhancing the
City’s economy;
• review and enhance economic development initiatives including workforce
development, business expansion and retention and investment attraction;
• further develop and elevate the Invest Pickering brand including identifying high-impact
marketing and digital engagements strategies;
• assess economic risks and implement strategies to enhance resilience;
• undertake sector development and provide targeted support activities;
• develop framework to create and support small business and entrepreneurs in
collaboration with community stakeholders; and
• identify marketing opportunities for Pickering’s shovel ready land inventory.
A bid advertisement was placed on the City’s bids&tenders’ webpage and promoted on social
media platforms. The RFP closed on September 12, 2025, with five proposals received. An
evaluation committee composed of City Staff reviewed proposal against the criteria outlined in
the RFP. Three proposals moved into the presentation and interview stage as per the RFP
evaluation process.
Following a competitive procurement process, KPMG was selected as the successful
proponent for RFP2025-17, having submitted the highest-scoring proposal to lead the
development of the new strategy. KPMG is one of the world’s largest professional services
firms, with a presence in 143 countries and a strong Canadian footprint through 46 offices. Its
Canadian Public Sector Practice, comprising over 300 professionals, brings extensive
expertise in municipal economic development, infrastructure advisory, and stakeholder
engagement.
- 139 -
ECD 08-25 October 27, 2025
Page 5
KPMG’s proposal reflects a strong understanding of Pickering’s strategic priorities and
anticipated growth. Their team brings significant experience in crafting economic development
strategies for rapidly evolving municipalities, with a proven track record that includes work with
the Cities of Mississauga, Hamilton, and the Niagara Region. Their methodology combines
comprehensive economic analysis, detailed sector profiling, and inclusive stakeholder
engagement, all supported by proprietary analytical tools.
The final deliverables will consist of a comprehensive plan outlining strategic goals, actionable
implementation steps, performance metrics, and alignment with municipal, regional, and
federal priorities.
Staff recommend awarding consulting services to prepare the City’s new Corporate Economic
Development Strategic Plan (2026-2030) to KPMG, in the amount of $97,465.00 (net HST) or
$108,230.27 (HST included), to equip the City with a forward-looking, data-driven strategy that
fosters sustainable economic growth, enhances competitiveness, and positions Pickering as a
leading destination for investment and innovation.
Attachments: None.
Prepared By: Approved/Endorsed By:
Original Signed By: Original Signed By:
Hanif Thakor Fiaz Jadoon, Ec.D., CEcD, MPM, B.COMM
Senior Officer, Economic Development & Director, Economic Development &
Strategic Projects Strategic Projects
Original Signed By John Original Signed By:Kavaratzis for:
Cathy Bazinet, CPPB, NIG-CPP Stan Karwowski, MBA, CPACMA
Manager Procurement Director, Finance & Treasurer
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ECD 08-25 October 27, 2025
Page 6
HT:la
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Original Signed By:
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
- 141 -
Report to Council
Report Number: INF 12-25
Date: October 27, 2025
From: Kevin Heathcote
Director, City Infrastructure
Subject: Winter Control on Additional Park Pathways
Resolution #860/25
File: A-1440
Recommendation:
1. That Report INF 12-25 regarding winter control on additional park pathways be received;
2. That the Mayor be requested to include funding in the amount of $4,250.00 in the City’s
2026 Current Budget (City Infrastructure Department) to expand the City’s winter control
program to include five additional park pathways at J. McPherson Park, Lynn Heights
Park, Jackson Green, Rick Johnson Memorial Park and S.M. Woodsmere Park;
3. That the expanded winter control program for park pathways at Lynn Heights Park and
S.M. Woodsmere Park be a one-year Pilot Project in 2026 with staff reporting back to
Council by Q2 2026;
4. That the Mayor be requested to include funding in the amount of $350,000.00 in the
City’s 2026 Capital Budget for the installation of solar lighting at Lynn Heights Park and
S.M. Woodsmere Park; and,
5. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the necessary
actions to implement the recommendations in this report.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to report back to Council regarding
providing winter control on six additional park pathways, ideally two per Ward including Lynn
Heights Park in response to Resolution #860/25 passed on September 29, 2025. This report
outlines the City’s current level of service, identifies additional park pathways that could be
considered for inclusion, and discusses potential operational and budgetary impacts.
Currently the City of Pickering manages and maintains 93 parks. This includes community
parks, neighbourhood parks, village greens, tot lots, parkettes and ravines. Of those,
approximately 40 parks offer interconnecting pathways to adjacent neighbourhoods and City-
owned sidewalks.
The City of Pickering currently provides winter maintenance on pathways in 24 parks. Winter
Maintenance extends from the start of November to the end of April each year. These
pathways play an important role in providing year-round pedestrian access to key destinations,
including schools, retail areas, and recreational spaces. There are an additional 16 parks with
pathways that are not currently maintained during the winter.
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INF 12-25 October 27, 2025
Page 2
After completing a review of all park pathways that are not currently maintained during winter,
staff have identified the following locations for consideration to be included in the winter
maintenance program along with the recommended year.
Table 1: Staff Recommended Park Pathways with Potential for Winter Maintenance (by
Ward)
Ward Park Name Winter
Season
Notes
1 J. McPherson Park 2026/27
Existing pathway is in poor condition.
Accessible pathway to be reconstructed
in 2026.
2 Lynn Heights Park 2025/26
(One-Year
Pilot)
Lighting is recommended in 2026 to bring
to current standard. Winter maintenance
of park pathway can be considered in the
2025/26 winter season as one-year pilot
project. Extending it past 2026 will be
contingent on the funding for lighting in
the 2026 Capital Budget
3 Jackson Green 2025/26 Feasible connection to local pedestrian
routes.
3 Rick Johnson Memorial
Park
2025/26 Feasible connection to local pedestrian
routes.
3 S.M. Woodsmere Park 2025/26
(One-Year
Pilot)
Lighting is recommended in 2026 to bring
to current standard. Winter maintenance
of park pathway can be considered in the
2025/26 winter season as one-year pilot
project. Extending it past 2026 will be
contingent on the funding for lighting in
the 2026 Capital Budget.
The introduction of the additional five park pathways will increase the City’s risk profile from an
insurance perspective. Winter maintenance of park pathways involves promptly removing
snow and ice, using salt or sand for traction, and clearing obstructions, including a duty of
regular and timely inspections. Failure to do so will increase the City’s exposure to slip and fall
claims.
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INF 12-25 October 27, 2025
Page 3
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priorities of Advocate for an Inclusive, Welcoming, Safe &
Healthy Community, and Advance Innovation & Responsible Planning to Support a
Connected, Well-Serviced Community.
Financial Implications: Should Council wish to proceed, operating costs and capital costs
are required in the 2026 Current and 2026 Capital Budget & Forecast.
Table 2: Current Budget Implications
Category Estimated Annual
Costs
Notes
Labour
(additional hours per season)
$2,500.00 Based on current staff rates and
average event frequency.
Salt/Sand Materials 450.00 Approx. 0.5 tonnes per pathway per
season.
Fuel & Equipment Wear 1,300.00 For sidewalk maintenance unit.
Total $4,250.00
Note: The operating costs above are only estimates and are dependent on frequency and
severity of weather events during the winter season.
Table 3: Capital Budget Implications
Project Estimated
Cost
Year Notes
Installation of Pathway
Lighting at Lynn Heights Park
$175,000.00 2026
Lynn Heights Park requires
approximately 16 lights. Solar
lighting is recommended.
Installation of Pathway
Lighting at S.M. Woodsmere
Park
175,000.00 2026 S.M. Woodsmere Park requires
approximately 16 lights. Solar
lighting is recommended.
Total $350,000.00
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INF 12-25 October 27, 2025
Page 4
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to report back to Council regarding providing
winter control on six additional park pathways, ideally two per Ward including Lynn Heights
Park in response to Resolution #860/25 passed on September 29, 2025.
Currently the City of Pickering owns 93 Parks. This includes community parks, neighbourhood
parks, village greens, tot lots, parkettes and ravines. Of those, approximately 40 parks offer
interconnecting pathways to adjacent neighbourhoods and City-owned sidewalks. The City of
Pickering currently provides winter maintenance on pathways in 24 parks. These pathways are
selected based on operator and pedestrian accessibility and safety, pedestrian connectivity,
and their linkage to municipal sidewalks, schools, retail areas, and community destinations.
There are 16 park pathways that are not maintained during the winter months. The primary
reasons for exclusion include:
• proximity to steep or unsafe slopes
• inability to safely maneuver or turn sidewalk maintenance equipment
• pathway surface conditions and width that do not meet accessibility or maintenance
standards
• inadequate pathway lighting
Each non-maintained pathway is clearly marked with signage at all entry points.
When completing any new park construction or existing park redevelopment projects, the City
now designs with a minimum standard including 2.5m wide pathways that provide operator
access and maneuverability as well as pathway lighting when feasible to ensure a safe path of
travel for both pedestrians and City staff during maintenance activities.
A. Current Level of Service
The City’s winter control operations for park pathways are managed by the Parks & Property
Section of the City Infrastructure Department using sidewalk snow removal machines to plow
and salt the pathways as required. Pathways are maintained following priority main routes
after the end of a snowfall event. Service delivery aligns, where applicable, with Ontario
Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for multi-use trails and pedestrian routes.
Below is a list of all parks that currently have winter maintenance performed along pathways:
Table 4: Parks with Winter-Maintained Pathways (by Ward)
Ward Park Name
1 Amberlea Park
Bruce Handscomb Memorial Park
East Woodlands Park
Erin Gate Park
Rotary Frenchman’s Bay West Park
Rouge Valley Park
Shadybrook Park
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INF 12-25 October 27, 2025
Page 5
Ward Park Name
2 Alex Robertson Park
Beachfront Park
Balsdon Park
David Farr Memorial Park
Forestbook Park
Mitchell Park
Mulmer Tot Lot
Progress Frenchman’s Bay East Park
3 Beechlawn Park
Clearside Park
Diana, Princess of Wales Park
Esplanade Park
Foxtail Green
Glengrove Park
Valley View Park
Woodview Tot Lot
Beverly Morgan Park
The following pathways are not currently maintained during winter:
Table 5: Park Pathways Not Currently Winter-Maintained (by Ward)
Ward Park Name Notes
1 Dunmoore Park Pathways in poor condition, limited connectivity.
J. McPherson Park Existing pathway is in poor condition. Accessible
pathway to be reconstructed in 2026. For
consideration in 2026/27.
Ernie L. Stroud Park Existing pathway is in poor condition. Park
pathway to be reconstructed in 2027. Reconsider
winter maintenance once park pathway
reconstruction is complete.
Lookout Point Park Dangerous slope near Cliffview walkway, poor
condition of asphalt and equipment access
challenges.
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INF 12-25 October 27, 2025
Page 6
Ward Park Name Notes
2 Frenchman’s Bay Ratepayers
Memorial Park
Pathway connects to private development.
Limited connectivity.
Lynn Heights Park Lighting is recommended to bring to current
standard in 2026. Winter maintenance of the
park pathway can be considered in the
2025/26 winter season as a one-year pilot
project. Extending it beyond 2026 will be
contingent on the funding for lighting in the 2026
Capital Budget.
Maple Ridge Park Existing pathway is in poor condition. Park
redevelopment in capital forecast for 2027.
Reconsider winter maintenance once park
redevelopment is complete.
3 Canadian Green Gazebo and benches prevent plow equipment
from accessing sidewalk.
Centennial Park Pathway is too close to amenities, equipment
access challenges. Dangerous slope at p-gate.
To be reviewed when future park redevelopment
occurs.
Creekside Park Pathway does not connect to surrounding area.
Denmar Park Pathway dead ends and leads to private
developments.
Jackson Green Feasible connection to local pedestrian routes.
For consideration in 2025/26.
Rick Johnson Memorial Park Feasible connection to local pedestrian routes.
For consideration in 2025/26.
S.M. Woodsmere Park Lighting is recommended to bring to current
standard in 2026. Winter maintenance of the
park pathway can be considered in the
2025/26 winter season as a one-year pilot
project. Extending it beyond 2026 will be
contingent on t the funding for lighting in the 2026
Capital Budget.
Major Oaks Park Currently provide winter maintenance on
walkway between Theoden Ct. and Chapman Ct.
Park pathway in poor condition. Pathway
reconstruction in capital forecast for 2027.
Reconsider winter maintenance once park
redevelopment is complete.
Pine Grove Park Unsafe maneuverability around park amenities.
Equipment access issues.
Each non-maintained pathway is clearly marked with signage at all entry points. - 147 -
INF 12-25 October 27, 2025
Page 7
B. Winter Maintenance Recommendations
After completing a review of all unmaintained park pathways, staff have identified the following
locations for consideration to be included in the winter maintenance program along with the
year.
Table 6: Staff Recommended Park Pathways with Potential for Winter Maintenance (by
Ward)
Ward Park Name Winter
Season
Notes
1 J. McPherson Park 2026/27 Existing pathway is in poor condition.
Accessible pathway to be reconstructed
in 2026. For consideration for 2026/27
winter season.
2 Lynn Heights Park 2025/26
(One-Year
Pilot)
Lighting is recommended in 2026 to bring
to current standard. Winter maintenance
of the park pathway can be considered
in the 2025/26 winter season as a one-
year pilot project. Extending it beyond
2026 will be contingent on the funding for
lighting in the 2026 Capital Budget.
3 Jackson Green 2025/26 For consideration in 2026.
3 Rick Johnson Memorial
Park
2025/26 Feasible connection to local pedestrian
routes. For consideration in 2025/26.
3 S.M. Woodsmere Park 2025/26
(One-Year
Pilot)
Lighting is recommended in 2026 to bring
to current standard. Winter maintenance
of the park pathway can be considered
in the 2025/26 winter season as a one-
year pilot project. Extending it beyond
2026 will be contingent on the funding for
lighting in the 2026 Capital Budget.
Each of these sites has been evaluated based on condition, safety, and accessibility.
Locations identified as pilot projects do not meet our current standards. If staff identify safety
concerns for residents or operators related to lighting, the pilot program will be discontinued
until appropriate infrastructure is installed to bring each location up to our current standard.
As additional locations are brought up to current standards, staff will continue to consider these
park pathways to be added to the winter maintenance program.
- 148 -
INF 12-25 October 27, 2025
Page 8
C.Operational Considerations
Expanding winter pathway maintenance requires adjustments to current staffing, winter control
routing and equipment deployment. Implications include:
•increased labour hours per event
•additional material usage (salt/sand)
•increased fuel and equipment maintenance costs
•potential need for one additional sidewalk maintenance unit to sustain service levels
All new pathway additions will be prioritized using existing safety and accessibility criteria to
ensure compliance with City standards and to minimize liability exposure. Future new park
pathway and pathway reconstruction projects will include the consideration of lighting to
support winter maintenance operations and enhance pedestrian safety.
Attachments:
1.Resolution #860/25
2.Location Maps – Staff Recommended Pathways with Potential of Winter Maintenance
DF:mjh
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
Prepared By:
Original signed by:
Dan Finn
Manager, Parks & Property
Approved/Endorsed By:
Original signed by:
Kevin Heathcote, P.Eng.
Director, City Infrastructure
Original signed by:
Stan Karwowski, MBA, CPA, CMA
Director, Finance & Treasurer
Original signed by:
- 149 -
Legislative Services Division
Clerk’s Office
Directive Memorandum
October 3, 2025
To: Kevin Heathcoate
Director, City Infrastructure
From: Susan Cassel
City Clerk
Subject: Direction as per Minutes of the Regular Meeting of City Council held on
September 29, 2025
Park Pathway Winter Maintenance
Council Decision Resolution #860/25
Please take any action deemed necessary.
SC:am
Copy: Chief Administrative Officer
That the Director, City Infrastructure, be directed to report back to Council, at its
October 27, 2025 Meeting, regarding:
1.Providing winter control on six additional park pathways in the City of
Pickering, ideally 2 per ward including Lynn Heights Park; and,
2.That the report include the current level of service for winter control on
pathways across the City, recommendations for improvements to meet
minimum standards for winter control if not currently met, and any potential
budgetary impacts that may need to be considered to increase the service
level to include additional pathways.
Attachment 1 to Report INF 12-25
- 150 -
Attachment 2 to Report INF 12-25
- 151 -
- 152 -
- 153 -
- 154 -
- 155 -
Report to Council
Report Number: PLN 22-25
Date: October 27, 2025
From: Kyle Bentley
Director, City Development & CBO
Subject: Universal City Seven Developments Inc. – Request for Development Charges
Deferral
1475 Celebration Drive
File: D-5000-002
Recommendation:
1. That Report PLN 22-25 regarding Universal City Seven Developments Inc. – Request for
Development Charges Deferral be received;
2. That, pursuant to By-law 8190/25, as amended, Council authorize the Mayor and City
Clerk to execute a DC Deferral Agreement, subject to any necessary, agreed to, minor
refinements as determined by the Director, Finance & Treasurer , the Director, Corporate
Services & City Solicitor, and the Chief Administrative Officer; and
3. That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the actions
necessary to implement the recommendations of this report.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to obtain Council’s approval for the
City to enter into a Development Charges Deferral Agreement with Universal City Seven
Developments Inc., pursuant to By-law 8190/25, as amended.
City staff recommend approval of the Development Charges (DC) deferral, in accordance with
the Council approved DC Deferral program (Resolution #760/25). The program delays the
collection of DCs for Universal City Tower 7 (UC7) from the issuance of the building permit to
the first occupancy. The rate at which the DCs would be calculated would be in accordance
with the DC Act, which is based on the date the site plan application was deemed complete,
namely April 29, 2022.
This financial incentive will prevent any undue delay in the construction process of this
development. Construction and occupancy of this building will also increase the City’s property
tax revenues.
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Plan Priorities of Champion Economic Leadership & Innovation; and
Advance Innovation & Responsible Planning to Support a Connected, Well-Serviced
Community.
- 156 -
PLN 22-25 October 27, 2025
Page 2
Financial Implications: Deferring DC payments places additional pressure on the City’s
cash flow, as growth-related infrastructure must be financed in advance of DC collection.
Normally, DCs are payable upon issuance of the first building permit; however, under a
deferral agreement, the timing of payment is modified from building permit issuance to a
different date specified in the agreement – in this case, occupancy. For large tower projects,
which can take three to four years to complete, this delay may create DC cash flow issues,
particularly for growth related capital projects funded through DC debt.
For UC7, approximately $5.7 million (see Table 1) in City DCs would be deferred to
occupancy, projected for October 2029, without any associated interest charges. The
estimated interest loss associated with the deferred DC is $1,012,588 calculated using a
notional investment return of 4.19 percent per annum, consistent with the City’s short-term
investment yield. This rate reflects the opportunity cost to the City of funds otherwise held in
the Development Charges Reserve Fund. This shortfall will be recouped through higher
charges (DC rates) on future developments, shifting the cost of today’s discretionary reduction
onto future growth.
To bridge this timing gap, the City may need to rely on interim borrowing from DC reserve
funds or external debt, which increases financial risk and long-term debt servicing costs. While
the Province has encouraged municipalities to use tools that support housing supply, the City
must balance these objectives against fiscal sustainability and the adequacy of its DC reserve
fund balances.
Although the Community Benefits Charge (CBC) does not form part of the DC deferral
framework, it is noted for completeness that the proposed development is exempt from the
CBC fee (Resolution #966/22).
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to obtain Council’s approval to enter into a DC
Deferral Agreement with Universal City Seven Developments Inc. (Universal City), pursuant to
By-law 8190/25, as amended (DC By-law).
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PLN 22-25 October 27, 2025
Page 3
Background
Universal City Seven Developments Inc. has received Site Plan Approval (File S 06/22) to
construct one residential tower (UC7), containing 482 residential units (see Attachment 1,
Approved Site Plan). The City deemed this application complete on April 29, 2022. This date is
important because under Section 26.2 of the Development Charges Act, the DCs for the
development as shown on the submitted site plan are fixed at the rates in effect on the date
the Site Plan Application was deemed completed.
At the Council Meeting of June 23, 2025 Council approved the 2025 Development Charge
Background Study and enacted the corresponding DC By-law, which took effect on July 1, 2025
(Report FIN 08-25, Resolution #760/25).
The DC By-law typically requires DCs to be paid prior to the issuance of a building permit.
However, to support long-term growth and intensification, Council also approved (at this meeting)
the introduction of a DC Deferral Program targeted to high-rise residential, industrial and
commercial developments (Resolution #760/25). Phase 1 of this program commenced
retroactively on April 1, 2025, and will continue until December 31, 2025.
On June 16, 2025, Universal City applied to this DC Deferral Program to defer payment of the
City’s DCs for UC7 until the date of first occupancy (as determined by the City). Over the past
several months, City staff have been working diligently to review their application for
compliance with eligibility criteria and completeness of the required documentation. Staff have
determined that Universal City qualifies for a DC Deferral for UC7 and recommend that the
City enter into a DC Deferral Agreement (see Attachment 2, Draft DC Deferral Agreement).
Attachments:
1. Approved Site Plan
2. Draft DC Deferral Agreement between Universal City Seven Developments Inc. and the
City of Pickering
- 158 -
PLN 22-25 October 27, 2025
Page 4
Prepared By:
Original Signed By
Nilesh Surti, MCIP, RPP
Division Head, Development Review
& Urban Design
Original Signed By
Raghu Kumar
Senior Financial Analyst
Development Charges & Capital Management
Approved/Endorsed By:
Original Signed By
Kyle Bentley, P. Eng.
Director, City Development & CBO
Original Signed By
Stan Karwowski
Director, Finance & Treasurer
NS:KB:ld
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Original Signed By
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
- 159 -
Attachment 1 to Report PLN 22-25
Approved Site Plan
City Development
Department
Oct. 06, 2025FULL SCALE COPIES OF THIS PLAN ARE AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING AT THE CITY OF PICKERING
CITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT.
S 06/22
Universal City Seven Developments Inc. Applicant:
DATE:
File No:
L:\Planning\01-MapFiles\S\2022
N
SA
N
D
Y
B
E
A
C
H
R
D
- 160 -
Attachment 2 to Report PLN 22-25
DEVELOPMENT CHARGES DEFERRAL AGREEMENT
This Agreement is made the ___ day of October, 2025
BETWEEN:
UNIVERSAL CITY SEVEN DEVELOPMENTS INC.
(the “Owner”)
-and -
THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF PICKERING
(the “City”)
RECITALS
WHEREAS:
(a)the City of Pickering passed by-law number 8190/25 (the “City DC By-law”),
which imposes development charges against land to pay for increased capital
costs required because of increased needs for services arising from development
of the area pursuant to the City’s authority under the Development Charges Act,
1997, S.O. 1997, c. 27 (“DC Act”);
(b)the City DC By-law permits the City to enter into agreements in accordance with
section 27 of the DC Act, to provide for all or any part of a development charge to
be paid before or after it would otherwise be payable;
(c)pursuant to Report FIN 08-25 adopted by City Council, the City is offering a
development charge deferral program for eligible developments that will allow an
applicant to pay the applicable development charge s at first occupancy (the
“City’s Development Charge Deferral Program”);
(d)the Owner is the registered owner of the property municipally known as 1475
Celebration Drive and described in Schedule “A” attached to this Agreement
(the “Property”);
(e)the Owner has applied for an approval for which development charges are
payable within the meaning of the City DC By-law in respect of the Property in
order to permit the construction of a 482 Unit condominium development (the
“Development”);
- 161 -
Page 2
(f) the Owner has requested to enter the City’s Development Charge Deferral
Program to defer the payment of development charges relating to the
Development which would otherwise be due and payable at or prior to the
issuance of the building permit pursuant to the City DC By-law to First Occupancy
in accordance with this Agreement.
(g) The Parties agree that this Agreement shall be registered against title to the
Property by the City in accordance with subsection 51(26) of the Planning Act.
NOW THEREFORE in consideration of the mutual covenants hereinafter contained, the
sum of ten dollars ($10.00) and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and
sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:
INTERPRETATION
Definitions
1. In this Agreement and in the recitals above,
(a) “Agreement” means this Development Charges Deferral Agreement;
(b) “Development Charge Amount” means any development charges related
to the Development or the processing of any application relating to the
Development by the City, and without derogating from the generality of the
foregoing development, payable to the City by the Owner pursuant to the
following:
(i) the City of Pickering Development Charges By-law, being By-law No.
8190/25, as amended or replaced from time to time.
(c) “Due Date” means the date that is two (2) business days following first
occupancy of the Development as defined herein;
(d) “Owner” means the Owner identified on page 1 hereof and such Owner’s
heirs, administrators, successors and permitted assigns;
(e) “City” means The Corporation of the City of Pickering acting as a body
corporate and all its successor corporations and entities, their past, present
and future elected and appointed officials, officers, representatives,
employees, servants, agents and their respective successors, assigns,
heirs and administrators;
(f) “Prime” means the annual rate of interest announced by the Royal Bank of
Canada from time to time as being a reference rate then in effect for
- 162 -
Page 3
determining interest rates on commercial loans made in Canadian currency
in Canada;
(g) First Occupancy: means the date an Authority to Occupy certificate is
issued for the building by the City of Pickering, or the first occupancy of the
building, whichever is sooner;
(h) Occupancy: means the definition listed in the Ontario Building Code 2024,
under regulations per section 34 of the Building Code Act, 1992 .
Schedules
2. The following Schedules are attached to and form part of this Agreement:
Schedule A Legal Description of the Property
Schedule B Residential Development Charges Information Form(s)
Schedule C Letter of Credit Template
DEVELOPMENT CHARGE DEFERRAL
Development Charge Amount
3. The Parties agree that the site plan application date for the Development is April
29, 2022 and therefore the applicable DC rate for a 1 Bedroom Condominium
Unit is $9,707.00; for a 2 Bedroom Condominium Unit $13,702.00; and for a 3
Bedroom Condominium Unit $13,702.00 provided the first building permit is
issued within two years of the date the site plan application is approved.
DC Rate
Schedule
Total
Units
Applicable DC Rate Total
One-Bedroom &
Smaller
Condominium
329 $9,707.00
(4/29/2022 Rates)
$3,193,603.00
Two-Bedroom
Condominium
141 $13,702.00
(4/29/2022 Rates)
$1,931,982.00
Three-Bedroom
Condominium
12 $13,702.00
(4/29/2022 Rates)
$ 164,424.00
Interest
Calculation(s)
n/a 2.25% $384,944.35
- 163 -
Page 4
4. The Parties agree that the total number of units in the Development that are
subject to the residential development charges rates under the City DC By-laws is
482 with 329 units at the 1 Bedroom & Smaller Condominium rate and 141 units
at the 2 Bedroom Condominium rate and 12 units at the 3 Bedroom
Condominium rate, for a total of 482 units, as identified above and in Schedule B,
Residential Development Charges Information Form(s). Interest between April 29,
2022 and Conditional Building Permit Issuance (June 26, 2025) is $384,944.35.
The Total amount of the Development Charges is $5,674,953.35 as shown in
Schedule B.
5. The Owner acknowledges and agrees that the deferral of development charges
under this Agreement only applies to the units of the Development that are
subject to the residential development charges rates under the City DC By-law
and does not apply to any other area of the Development that is subject to other
development charges rate(s).
6. The Parties agree that the amount of the Development Charge Amount
applicable to the Development based on the number of units and the residential
DC rate that would otherwise be payable but for the deferral under this
Agreement is $5,674,953.35.
7. Notwithstanding sections 3 and 6, the Owner acknowledges and agrees that if,
prior to the date the first building permit is issued, the number or type of units
subject to residential development charges change, the Development Charge
Amount will be re-assessed and calculated pursuant to the City DC By-law.
8. Notwithstanding sections 3 and 6, the Owner acknowledges and agrees that if the
first building permit is not issued for the Development by the end of business on
January 15, 2027, the applicable residential DC rate and the Development
Charge Amount is subject to change. The applicable residential DC rate and the
Development Charge Amount will be re-assessed and calculated pursuant to the
City DC By-law in accordance with the DC rates in existence at that time.
9. The Parties agree that the Development Charge Amount shall be paid on or
before the Due Date. The Owner agrees to notify the City that the Development is
to be occupied within five (5) business days of the First Occupancy.
10. The Parties agree the interest rate that shall be applied to the Development
Charge Amount shall be Prime percent per annum which shall accrue from the
first day following the Due Date. Interest shall become payable only upon default
of this Agreement by the Owner.
11. The Owner agrees that if the payment is not received, in whole or in part, by the
payment’s applicable Due Date, without limiting or prejudicing and in addition to
any other right or remedy the City has in law, the City may draw upon the Security
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Page 5
to satisfy the unpaid Development Charge Amount and accrued interest and any
outstanding amounts not satisfied by the Security may be added to the tax roll for
the Property and collected as realty taxes by the City.
12. The Owner acknowledges and agrees that it has not and will not file a complaint
pursuant to the Development Charges Act, 1997 with the City or in any other
forum, with respect to the determination and application of the Development
Charge Amount.
OTHER MATTERS
Security
13. The Owner shall file with the City a letter of credit (the “Security”) in the amount of
$5,674,953.35 (100% of the Development Charge Amount) prior to obtaining a
building permit for the Development in order to guarantee the due performance of
all of the Owner’s obligations under this Agreement. The Security shall be in a
form satisfactory to the City’s Treasurer, as per Schedule C, the Letter of Credit
Template.
Termination
14. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement, the Owner agrees that this
Agreement terminates, and the unpaid amount of the Development Charge
Amount plus applicable interest, if any, becomes due and payable immediately in
full in the event of any default or breach of this Agreement that has not been
remedied within five (5) business days following receipt by the Owner of written
notice of such breach or default. For purposes of this Agreement, a default or
breach of this Agreement shall be deemed to include, but not limited to the
following:
(a) the Property, in whole or the portion of the Property upon which the
Development is located, is sold or otherwise transferred by the Owner;
(b) a mortgage, charge, lien, execution or other encumbrance affecting the
Property becomes enforceable against the Property and has not been
vacated or discharged;
(c) the Owner becomes bankrupt, whether voluntary or involuntary, or
becomes insolvent or a receiver/manager is appointed with respect to the
Property; or
(d) payment payable under this Agreement remains unpaid for more than
ninety (90) days after it is due and two (2) notices have been provided to
the Owner.
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Page 6
15. Notwithstanding subsection 14(a) above, the Agreement shall not terminate if the
subsequent owner or transferee, prior to the date of the sale or transfer of the
Property, enters into an agreement with the City in a form and substance
satisfactory to the City, acting reasonably, where the subsequent owner or
transferee agrees to observe and perform all of the Owner’s covenants,
agreements and obligations under this Agreement as if the subsequent owner or
transferee was an original party hereto. The Owner shall not assign or transfer
this Agreement without the written consent of the City.
16. The Parties agree that it shall be a default if the Owner fails to obtain the building
permit, or if the Development requires more than one building permit, the first
building permit, by December 31, 2025.
Indemnity
17. The Owner agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City from any and
all manners of action, causes of action, claims, suits, losses, debts, dues,
accounts, bonds, covenants, contracts, damages, costs, interest, demands,
liabilities, applications, directives, third party claims or actions, and prosecutions,
directives and/or orders by a governmental authority, directly or indirectly
incurred, sustained or suffered by or asserted against the City arising out of,
relating to or resulting from the breach of this Agreement and any other obligation
of the Owner under this Agreement; provided, however, that the foregoing
indemnity shall not apply with respect to a breach by the Owner that arises as a
result of the negligence or wilful misconduct of the City or anyone for whom the
City is responsible in law.
18. Without limiting any of its covenants and obligations set out elsewhere in this
Agreement, the Owner agrees to pay all reasonable costs and expenses in
connection with
(a) the registration and discharge of this Agreement against title to the
Property;
(b) the preparation of consents to this Agreement;
(c) the preparation of assumption agreements for this Agreement;
(d) without limiting the generality of the foregoing, all reasonable legal costs
and expenses incurred by the City in the event that it takes any legal
action in response to any breach or default of this Agreement by the
Owner.
19. The Parties agree that the obligations contained in section s 17 and 18 shall
survive expiration and/or termination of this Agreement.
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Page 7
Registration
20. This Agreement shall be registered against title to the Property by the City and
shall be enforceable against the Owner and all subsequent owners of the
Property.
21. The Owner shall reimburse the City for the cost of registering this Agreement and
all related documents against title to the Property, including, but not limited to:
(a) the registration and discharge of this Agreement against title to the
Property.
22. At the request of the Owner, the City shall forthwith execute a consent to the
discharge of this Agreement from title to the Property provided that the Owner
has paid to the City the full Development Charge Amount, all other amounts
outstanding under this Agreement, and registration expenses for such release.
Recitals
23. The recitals contained in this Agreement are true and correct and are legally
binding and form a true part of this Agreement.
Extended Meanings
24. This Agreement shall be read with all changes in gender or number as the
context may require.
Further Assurances
25. The Parties covenant and agree that at all times and from time to time hereafter
upon every reasonable written request to do so, they shall make, execute, deliver
or cause to be made, done, executed and delivered, all such reasonable further
acts so as to effectively implement and carry out the true intent and meaning of
this Agreement.
Notices
26. Any notice required in writing in this Agreement shall be delivered to the
following address:
To the Owner at:
Attention: Steven Warsh, President (Chestnut Hill Developments)
Phone No.: 416.649.4470
E-mail: stevenwarsh@chestnuthillhomes.ca
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Page 8
And to the City at:
One The Esplanade
Pickering Civic Complex
Pickering ON L1V 6K7
Attn: City Clerk
27. Notice shall be sufficiently given if:
(a) delivered in person;
(b) sent by registered mail; or
(c) sent by electronic transmission during normal business hours on a
business day.
28. Each notice sent shall be deemed to have been received,
(a) on the day it was delivered;
(b) on the fifth business day after it was mailed (excluding each business day
during which there existed any general interruption of postal services due
to strike, lockout or other cause); or
(c) on the same day that it was sent by electronic transmission or on the first
business day thereafter if the day on which it was sent by electronic
transmission was not a business day.
29. The Owner may change its address for notice by giving notice to the City Clerk in
the manner provided in this section.
Time of the Essence
30. Time is of the essence of this Agreement and every part of this Agreement and
no extension or variation of this Agreement shall operate as a waiver of this
provision.
31. When calculating the period of time within which or following which any act is to
be done or step taken pursuant to this Agreement, the date which is the reference
day in calculating such period shall be excluded.
Rights and Remedies
32. All rights and remedies given to the City by this Agreement are distinct, separate
and cumulative and may be jointly or separately exercised by the City and shall
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Page 9
not be deemed to be in exclusion of any other rights or remedies available to the
City under this Agreement or in law. No delay or omission by the City in
exercising any such right or remedy shall operate as a waiver of them or 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.
33. This Agreement is made entirely for the convenience and benefit of the Owner
and is in no way to be construed as a waiver or surrender of any rights or
remedies that the City may have to recover the Development Charge Amount by
any lawful means from present and future owners of the Property or as taxes
upon the Property.
Successors and Assigns
34. The Owner shall not assign this Agreement without first obtaining the City’s
consent which may not be unreasonably denied.
35. This Agreement shall enure to the benefit of and shall be binding upon the Parties
hereto and their respective heirs, executors, administrators, successors and
permitted assigns.
Entire Agreement
36. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties with
respect to the matters set out herein and may not be modified except by
subsequent agreement in writing and executed by the Parties.
Severability of Terms
37. All of the terms of this Agreement are severable from each other and will survive
the invalidity of any other term of this Agreement.
Acknowledgment
38. The parties acknowledge having had an opportunity to review this Agreement
with their legal advisers and acknowledge that they fully understand all of the
terms contained in it and that the only consideration for this Agreement is as
referred to above.
Applicable Law
39. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws
of the Province of Ontario.
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Page 10
Electronic and Counterpart Signatures
40. This Agreement and any Ancillary Agreements may be executed in one or more
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original and all of which,
when taken together, shall be deemed to be one and the same agreement or
document. A signed copy of this Agreement or any Ancillary Agreement
transmitted by facsimile, email or other means of electronic transmission shall be
deemed to have the same legal effect as delivery of an original executed copy of
this Agreement or such Ancillary Agreement for all purposes.
41. This Agreement shall be effective from and after the date of signing by the City,
or by its duly authorized designates.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties have executed this Agreement and if required may
do so with counterpart signatures.
OWNER
2025/ /
Name:
Title:
2025/ /
Name:
Title:
I/We have authority to bind the Corporation
THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF PICKERING
2025/ /
Kevin Ashe, Mayor
2025/ /
Susan Cassel, City Clerk
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Page 11
Schedule A
Legal Description of the Property
CON 1 S PT LOT 21 NOW 40R30834 PART 3 (NOW 40R32304 PARTS 8, 12, 13, 15,
19-20)
[NTD: To be provided by Owner]
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Page 12
Schedule B
Residential Development Charges Information Form
Universal City Seven (UC7)
CITY DEVELOPMENT CHARGES RATES BASED UPON
DEVELOPMENT SITEPLAN APPLICATION
DEEMED COMPLETE DATE OF APRIL 29, 2022.
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Page 13
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Page 14
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Page 15
Schedule C
See Attached Letter of Credit Template.
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Required form for Letter of Credit
[Insert name of]) Agreement
To: The Corporation of the City of Pickering, Civic Complex
One The Esplanade, Pickering, ON L1V 6K7
Re: Description of Lands Affected
(Use exact description from ‘Lands Affected’ clause in Agreement)
City File: (SP#, S# or D#)
We hereby authorize you to draw on [insert name of bank], [insert address of bank], for account of
[insert name of company or companies obtaining security] up to an aggregate amount of [insert
amount of security in figures and in full] available by drafts at sight for 100% on demand as follows:
Pursuant to the request of our customers(s), the said [insert name of company or companies
obtaining security], we [insert name of bank], [insert address of bank], hereby establish and give
to you an irrevocable Letter of Credit in your favour in the total amount of [insert amount of security
in numbers and in words] which may be drawn on by you at any time and from time to time upon
written demand for payment made upon us by you which demand we shall honour without inquiring
whether you have a right as between yourself and our said customer(s) to make such demand, and
without recognizing any claim of our said customer(s) .
Provided, however, that you are to deliver to [insert name of bank], [insert address of bank], at
such time as a written demand for payment is made upon us a certificate signed by you agreeing or
confirming that monies drawn pursuant to this Letter of Credit are payable to you or are to be or have
been expended pursuant to obligations incurred or to be incurred by you with reference to your file
regarding a [insert either Site Plan Control, Subdivision or Development Agreement] dated
[insert date of Agreement], between [insert name of owner referenced on Agreement, other
than City and Encumbrancer(s)] and The Corporation of the City of Pickering; this Letter of Credit
is required pursuant to section of that Agreement.
Partial drawings are permitted.
The amount of this Letter of Credit shall be reduced from time to time as advised by notice in writing
given to us from time to time by you.
This Letter of Credit will continue up to and including [insert date of expiry of Letter of Credit] and
will expire on that date and you may call for payment of the full amount outstanding under this Letter
of Credit at any time up to the close of business on that date. It is a condition of this Letter of Credit
that it shall be deemed to be automatically extended for one year from the present or any future
expiration date hereof, unless thirty days prior to any such date, we shall notify you in writing by
registered mail that we elect not to consider this Letter of Credit renewed for any such additional
period.
We hereby covenant with drawers, endorsers, and bona fide holders of drafts drawn under and in
accordance with the terms of this credit that such drafts will be duly honoured if drawn and negotiated
on or before [insert date of expiry of Letter of Credit] or any automatically extended expiry date.
The drafts drawn under this credit are to be endorsed hereon and shall state on their face that they
are drawn under [insert name of bank], [insert address of bank].
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Dated this day of , 20 .
Instructions for completing Letter of Credit:
1. Letter of Credit must be typed on bank letterhead.
2. Information required in square brackets must be provided where indicated, without brackets.
3. Phrases shown in round brackets must be included without brackets where there are two or
more companies comprising the customer.
4. The date in the sixth paragraph must be at least one year from the date of the Letter of Credit.
5. The date in the seventh paragraph must be the same as the date in the sixth paragraph.
6. Bank signatories must show name, printed or typed, and title, in addition to signature.
Acceptable Banking Institutions:
1. Letters of Credit may be accepted from any of the following six largest banks set out in Schedule
I of the Bank Act (R.S.C.1985, C.B-1.01, and any amendments thereto):
• Bank of Montreal
• Bank of Nova Scotia
• Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce
• National Bank of Canada
• Royal Bank of Canada
• Toronto Dominion Bank
2. Letters of Credit may be accepted from other Schedule I banks and Schedule II banks listed in the
Bank Act (R.S.C. 1985, C.B-1.01 and any amendments thereto), that meet and maintain
minimum credit ratings as described in the City’s Letters of Credit Acceptance policy
3. Letters of Credit from any other institutions, including trust companies, credit unions and
Schedule III banks, will not be accepted.
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The Corporation of the City of Pickering
By-law No. 8209/25
Being a by-law to amend Zoning By-law 8149/24, as amended, to
implement the Official Plan of the City of Pickering, Region of
Durham, being Part of Lot 33, Concession 2, Now Part 4, 40R-29767
(SP-2022-01, A 03/22)
Whereas the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering deems it desirable to permit
the development of eight lots for detached dwellings accessed from Finch Avenue and Nature
Haven Crescent on the lands being Part of Lot 33, Concession 2, Now Part 4, 40R-29767;
And whereas an amendment to By-law 8149/24, as amended, is therefore deemed necessary;
Now therefore the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering hereby enacts as follows:
1. Schedule 1 of By-law 8149/24, as amended, is hereby further amended by rezoning the
lands from “A” to “X443 (R1F)”.
2. The provisions of this By-law shall apply to the lands being Part of Lot 33, Concession 2,
Now Part 4, 40R-29767, in the City of Pickering, designated “X443 (R1F)” on Schedule I
to this By-law.
3. Section 15, Exceptions, of By-law 8149/24, as amended, is hereby further amended by
adding a new Exception Zone X443 as follows:
Exception Zone 443 (By-law 8209/25)
1. Definitions
a) Model Home: means a dwelling unit which is not used for residential purposes,
but which is used exclusively for sales, display, and marketing pursuant to an
agreement with the City of Pickering.
2. Provisions (“X443 (R1F)” Zone)
a) Zone Regulations (“X443 (R1F)” Zone)
Notwithstanding Section 6.2.2, Table 6.5, related to Lot and Building
Requirements for Residential First Density Zones (R1F to R1I), no person shall,
within the lands zoned “X443 (R1F)”, use any lot, or erect, alter, or use any
building or structure except in accordance with the following:
i. Building Height
A. maximum – 9.0 metres
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By-law No. 8209/25 Page 2
b) Special Provisions (“X443 (R1F)” Zone)
i. A porch may encroach into the required exterior side yard to a maximum
of 1.5 metres.
ii. An uncovered platform may encroach into the required rear yard to a
maximum of 2.5 metres.
c) Model Homes (“X443 (R1F)” Zone)
i. A maximum of 2 model homes, together with not fewer than two parking
spaces per home, may be constructed on the lands designated
“X443 (R1F)” on Schedule I to this By-law, prior to registration of a plan
of subdivision.
ii. Model homes shall not be permitted until an agreement has been
entered with the City of Pickering.
iii. A model home shall comply with the applicable requirements of this
By-law for the type of dwelling the model home represents.
4. By-law 8149/24, as amended, is hereby further amended only to the extent necessary
to give effect to the provisions of this By-law. Definitions and subject matters not
specifically dealt with in this By-law shall be governed by the relevant provisions of
By-law 8149/24, as amended.
5. This By-law shall come into force in accordance with the provisions of the Planning Act.
By-law passed this 27th day of October, 2025.
________________________________
Kevin Ashe, Mayor
________________________________
Susan Cassel, City Clerk
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X443
(R1F)
E
0)
0)
C"')
co
C"')
C\I
Finch Avenue
Schedule I to By-Law XXXX/25
Passed This XX rd
Day of XXXX 2025
Mayor
Clerk
t "'
Schedule I to By-law 8209/25
Passed This 27th
Day of October, 2025
- 180 -
PB:ca
Attachments Location Map
Draft By-law
Memo
To:
Susan Cassel
City Clerk
October 21, 2025
From: Paul Bigioni
Director, Corporate Services & City Solicitor
Copy: Director, City Development & CBO
Division Head, Water Resources & Development Services
Subject: Request for Road Establishing By-law
- Part Lot 18, Concession 5 Pickering being Parts 1 and 4, Plan 40R-32503 and
Part Lots 17 and 18, Concession 5 Pickering being Part 6, Plan 40R-32503
- Dawes Avenue
File: Roadded.617
Dawes Avenue was constructed to provide access to the GO Transit commuter lot on Brock Road,
south of Highway 407. The road has been travelled since February 2016 but could not be
established until the City acquired the lands from Infrastructure Ontario.
On May 30, 2025, Parts 1, 4 and 6, Plan 40R-32503 were transferred to the City for road
purposes. As the City is now the registered owner of the parts, it is appropriate to pass a by-law
establishing Parts 1, 4 and 6, Plan 40R-32503 as public highway.
Attached is a location map and a draft by-law for the consideration of City Council at its meeting
scheduled for October 27, 2025.
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The Corporation of the City of Pickering
By-law No. 8210/25
Being a by-law to establish Part Lot 18, Concession 5,
being Parts 1 and 4, Plan 40R-32503 and Part Lots 17
and 18, Concession 5, being Part 6, Plan 40R-32503 as
public highway.
Whereas The Corporation of the City of Pickering is the owner of Part Lot 18,
Concession 5, being Parts 1 and 4, Plan 40R-32503 and Part Lots 17 and 18,
Concession 5, being Part 6, Plan 40R-32503, and wishes to establish it as public
highway.
Now therefore the Council of The Corporation of the City of Pickering hereby enacts as
follows:
1.Part Lot 18, Concession 5, being Parts 1 and 4, Plan 40R-32503 and Part Lots
17 and 18, Concession 5, being Part 6, Plan 40R-32503 is hereby established as
public highway (Dawes Avenue).
By-law passed this 27th day of October, 2025.
________________________________
Kevin Ashe, Mayor
________________________________
Susan Cassel, City Clerk
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