Fort Erie public meetings in 2021

Regular Council

Fort Erie's Regular Council meeting on December 13, 2021, includes consent agenda approvals, reports, and several by-laws. Key items include adopting the 2022 preliminary capital budget, amending short-term rental licensing and fees, and accepting up to $750,000 in federal funding for Jarvis Street improvements. Council will also consider a report on short-term rental land use controls and consent to a Niagara Region transit by-law.

• By-law 149-2021: Adopt 2022 Preliminary Capital Budget
• By-law 156-2021: Contribution agreement with Canada (up to $750,000) for Jarvis Street improvements
• By-laws 154-2021 and 155-2021: Amend business licensing and fees for short-term rentals
• By-law 150-2021: Waive business licensing fees for 2022 (excluding short-term rentals)
• Report PDS-106-2021: Land use controls and legal review of short-term rentals

Council received a report on short-term rental land use controls, continued the moratorium on new licenses until the issue is resolved, and postponed the report to the January 10, 2022 Council-in-Committee meeting. Council also approved the 2022 preliminary capital budget and other by-laws, consented to Niagara Region's consolidated transit commission, and accepted a $750,000 federal contribution for Jarvis Street improvements.

• Continued short-term rental moratorium until land use issue resolved (carried)
• Postponed short-term rental report to Jan 10, 2022 Council-in-Committee (carried)
• Approved 2022 preliminary capital budget (by-law 149-2021, carried)
• Consented to Niagara Region consolidated transit commission (carried)
• Accepted $750,000 Canada Community Revitalization Fund for Jarvis Street (carried)
• Approved by-law package including animal control and short-term rental fee amendments (carried)
• Approved secondary plan prioritization order (carried)
• Appointed Margo Pinder to Community Gaming Development Corporation (carried)

Regular Council-in-Budget Committee

The Council-in-Budget Committee approved the 2022 Water and Wastewater Operating Budget, setting rates effective January 2022, and approved the 2022 Fees and Charges, including a temporary waiver of business licence fees (except short-term rentals) for COVID-19 relief. Both motions were carried. The budget includes a combined cost increase of 4.39% (Town 1.22% + Region 3.17%), resulting in a net average household rate increase of 3.45%.

• Approved 2022 Water and Wastewater Operating Budget (Carried)
• Set 2022 water base rate at $25.25/month and $1.465 per cubic metre (Carried)
• Set 2022 wastewater base rate at $42.30/month and $2.261 per cubic metre (Carried)
• Excluded $1.8 million capital asset amortization from 2022 operating budgets (Carried)
• Directed staff to submit budget and rates by-law for Council approval on January 17, 2022 (Carried)
• Approved 2022 user fees and charges as proposed (Carried)
• Directed staff to submit by-law to waive all business licence fees for 2022, except short-term rentals (Carried)

Regular Council in Committee

Fort Erie's Council-in-Committee will hold public meetings on proposed zoning and official plan amendments for 1107 Garrison Road and 323 Central Avenue, and will consider consent items including road contracts, a mental health clinic funding request, and a heritage tax rebate adjustment. The agenda also includes a report on Niagara Region transit amalgamation and budget meeting notices.

• Public meeting: 1107 Garrison Road — mixed-use and residential building, zoning to C3 and RM2
• Public meeting: 323 Central Avenue — rezoning to R2A for undersized lot
• Award engineering services for Ott Road and West Main Street upgrade to Quartek Group Inc., $152,865.27
• Award guide rail replacement to Peninsula Construction Inc., $68,252.00
• Consider $20,000 grant to Pathstone Mental Health for youth walk-in clinic

Council approved the consent agenda items, including the award of engineering services for the Ott Road and West Main Street upgrade to Quartek Group Inc. for up to $152,865.27, the guide rail replacement contract to Peninsula Construction Inc. for $68,252.00, and the stone shouldering tender to Circle P Paving Inc. for $148,679.75. Council also received the 2021 3rd Quarter Financial Report and directed transfers of $120,000 to the General Levy Rate Stabilization Reserve and $46,200 to the Road Refurbishing Reserve. Additionally, Council consented to the passage of Niagara Region By-law No. 96-2021 for a consolidated transit system, and approved a Heritage Tax Rebate Program amendment to rebate 40% to a maximum assessed value of $500,000, with a further directive to forward the report to the Region of Niagara.

• Approved the consent agenda items, including the award of engineering services for the Ott Road and West Main Street upgrade to Quartek Group Inc. for up to $152,865.27 (including 13% HST).
• Approved the guide rail replacement tender from Peninsula Construction Inc. for $68,252.00 (including 13% HST).
• Approved the stone shouldering tender from Circle P Paving Inc. for $148,679.75 (including 13% HST).
• Received the 2021 3rd Quarter Financial Report and directed transfers of $120,000 to the General Levy Rate Stabilization Reserve and $46,200 to the Road Refurbishing Reserve.
• Consented to the passage of Niagara Region By-law No. 96-2021 for a consolidated passenger transportation system.
• Approved an amendment to the Heritage Tax Rebate Program to rebate 40% to a maximum assessed value of $500,000, and directed the report be forwarded to the Region of Niagara.
• Received reports on proposed Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments for 1107 Garrison Road and 323 Central Avenue for information purposes.
• Received a funding request for $20,000 for Pathstone Mental Health's Walk-In Clinic, to be considered as a supplementary budget request at the February 2, 2022 budget meeting.

Regular Council

Council approved the sale of two parcels of limited marketability land north of Royal York Road to Steven Stenson for $64,697 plus HST and to Gloria Jaros for $41,964.80 plus HST, subject to legal merging with abutting lands. Council also approved a lease agreement with the Crystal Beach Hill Cottagers Organization for a parking lot, and passed several by-laws, including amendments to the Official Plan and Zoning By-law for the Crystal Beach Secondary Plan. A motion to request the federal government to remove COVID-19 testing at land border crossings was postponed to the December 13, 2021 meeting.

• Approved sale of land to Steven Stenson for $64,697 plus HST, subject to legal merging with abutting lands.
• Approved sale of land to Gloria Jaros for $41,964.80 plus HST, subject to legal merging with Town lands.
• Approved a lease and municipal capital facility agreement with the Crystal Beach Hill Cottagers Organization for a parking lot.
• Approved By-law 143-2021, as amended, to enact Official Plan Amendment No. 56 (Crystal Beach Secondary Plan), with density reduced to 25-50 units per hectare.
• Approved By-law 144-2021, as amended, to amend Zoning By-law 129-90 to implement the Crystal Beach Secondary Plan, with density reduced to 25-50 units per hectare.
• Approved By-law 146-2021 to amend Zoning By-law 129-90 for 3399 North Shore Drive.
• Postponed a motion requesting the federal government to remove COVID-19 testing at land border crossings to the December 13, 2021 meeting.
• Approved appointments to various committees, including the Mayor's Youth Advisory Committee, Accessibility Advisory Committee, and Affordable Housing Committee.

Special Council

This is a special council meeting with a single substantive item: a closed session to discuss a proposed or pending land acquisition or disposition on Graeber Avenue, along with solicitor-client privileged advice. The meeting is otherwise procedural, with no public decisions listed on the agenda.

• Closed session under Municipal Act 2001, s. 239(2)(c) re: Graeber Avenue land acquisition/disposition
• Closed session under s. 239(2)(f) for solicitor-client privileged advice
• Resolutions to be presented in closed session

Council met in special session and immediately moved into closed session to discuss a proposed or pending land acquisition or disposition on Graeber Avenue, along with solicitor-client privileged advice. After receiving staff background and legal counsel information, Council gave direction to staff. Council then reconvened in open session and adjourned, with no other decisions made.

• Held closed session at 5:33 p.m. to discuss Graeber Avenue land acquisition/disposition and legal advice
• Gave direction to staff on the Graeber Avenue matter during closed session
• Reconvened from closed session at 6:42 p.m. with report that staff proceed as directed
• Adjourned at 6:43 p.m. to reconvene for a Regular Meeting on December 13, 2021

Regular Council-in-Budget Committee

The Town of Fort Erie's Council-in-Budget Committee is meeting to discuss the 2022 Capital Budget and a 10-year forecast. The committee will consider a recommendation to approve a preliminary capital budget of $7,466,500 and defer approval of the remaining $15,910,697 to February 2022. The meeting also includes a presentation from the Director of Corporate Services and scheduling for future budget meetings.

• 2022 Preliminary Capital Budget of $7,466,500 recommended for approval
• Deferral of $15,910,697 in capital budget to February 28, 2022
• Exclusion of amortization from 2022 Operating Budget per Ontario Regulation 284/09
• Presentation by Jonathan Janzen, Director, Corporate Services
• Next meetings: Dec 8, 2021 (Water/Wastewater) and Feb 2, 2022 (Library, Assessment, General Levy)

Council-in-Budget Committee approved a $7,466,500 preliminary capital budget for 2022 and deferred the remaining $15,910,697 to February 28, 2022, pending the General Levy Budget By-law. They also approved a $200,000 increase for the Sugarbowl Park Splash Pad washroom, funded from development charges and parkland reserves, and approved $300,000 for EJ Freeland Centre building envelope repairs and $365,000 for pool repairs. The committee will submit the preliminary capital budget by-law for council approval on December 13, 2021.

• Approved $7,466,500 preliminary 2022 capital budget (Carried)
• Deferred $15,910,697 of 2022 capital budget to February 28, 2022 (Carried)
• Approved $200,000 increase for Sugarbowl Park Splash Pad washroom (Carried)
• Approved $300,000 for EJ Freeland Centre building envelope repairs (Carried)
• Approved $365,000 for EJ Freeland Centre pool repairs (Carried)
• Approved exclusion of amortization from 2022 operating budget (Carried)

Regular Council in Committee

Fort Erie's Council-in-Committee will hold public meetings on two zoning by-law amendments (57 Idylewylde Street and 321 Garrison Road), receive information reports on those proposals, and consider administrative changes to the short-term rental program. The agenda also includes consent items such as a $255,083.82 roadside ditching contract award and a report on Bay Beach operations. Several items are for information or discussion only, with decisions to be made at a later council meeting.

• Public meeting: Zoning amendment for 57 Idylewylde Street to allow a reduced-lot single detached dwelling (lot frontage 11.43 m, lot area 348.38 sq m, coverage 39.4%)
• Public meeting: Official Plan and zoning amendment for 321 Garrison Road to permit a restaurant with drive-thru, adding Environmental Conservation Overlay for woodlot
• Contract award: ISO-21T-RDITCH roadside ditching to Griffin Landscape Management Solutions Inc., $255,083.82 including HST
• Short-term rental program: proposed changes including 30-minute local contact response, indemnity agreement, and options for rentals with more than 3 bedrooms
• Crystal Beach street name signs: concept approval and public design competition for 100th anniversary

Council approved Option 3 for short-term rentals with more than 3 bedrooms, allowing existing operators of 4 or more bedrooms to continue for 2022 pending zoning and official plan amendments. The definition of 'good standing' was amended to include licensees with 5 or fewer demerit points. Council also approved a $255,083.82 roadside ditching contract and amended a street sign proposal for Crystal Beach.

• Approved Option 3 for short-term rentals with more than 3 bedrooms (carried)
• Amended 'good standing' definition to include 5 or fewer demerit points (carried)
• Approved $255,083.82 roadside ditching contract to Griffin Landscape Management Solutions Inc. (carried)
• Amended Crystal Beach street sign proposal to limit to Erie Road intersections (carried)
• Postponed 321 Garrison Road Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment to December 6, 2021 (carried)
• Received information report on 57 Idylewylde Street zoning by-law amendment (carried)

Special Council

Fort Erie's Special Council meeting on November 8, 2021, will consider a motion requesting the Canadian federal government discontinue pre-arrival molecular testing at land border crossings for fully vaccinated travellers. Council will also receive and support a similar request from the City of Niagara Falls, and consider by-laws including a transfer payment agreement for a municipal modernization program.

• Motion by Councillor Dubanow requesting federal government remove pre-arrival molecular testing at Canada-US land border crossings
• Correspondence from City of Niagara Falls requesting removal of COVID-19 testing at land borders for fully vaccinated travellers
• By-law 138-2021: authorize transfer payment agreement with Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing under Municipal Modernization Intake 2 Program
• By-law 139-2021: confirm actions of Council at this special meeting

Council gave final approval to By-law 138-2021, authorizing a transfer payment agreement with Ontario's Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing under the Municipal Modernization Intake 2 Program for the Town's Permits, Planning and Business Processes Integration Program. Council also received and supported correspondence from the City of Niagara Falls requesting the federal government to remove COVID-19 testing at land border crossings for fully vaccinated travellers, but postponed both that correspondence and a related motion by Councillor Dubanow to the November 22, 2021 Regular Council Meeting. A by-law to confirm the actions of this special meeting was also given final approval.

• Approved By-law 138-2021 (Municipal Modernization Intake 2 agreement) - final reading (carried)
• Approved By-law 139-2021 (confirming actions of this meeting) - final reading (carried)
• Received and supported Niagara Falls correspondence on border testing, but postponed to Nov 22 meeting (carried)
• Postponed Councillor Dubanow's motion on border testing to Nov 22 meeting (carried)

Regular Council in Committee

Council approved a zoning by-law amendment for 3399 North Shore Drive, with a recorded vote of 5-1 (Councillor Zanko abstained due to a pecuniary interest). The amendment was approved as detailed in Appendix 4 of Report PDS-97-2021, and staff were directed to prepare the necessary by-law. Other consent agenda items were approved, including an engineering services contract for Point Abino Road South reconstruction.

• Approved zoning by-law amendment at 3399 North Shore Drive (5-1, Zanko abstained)
• Approved engineering services contract for Point Abino Road South reconstruction to $168,364.35 (Carried)
• Received annual Health and Safety Policy review (Carried)
• Received 2021 Accessibility Status Report (Carried)
• Authorized closure of capital projects and allocation of $1,628,465 net surplus (Carried)

Regular Council

Council approved a package of 13 by-laws covering subdivision agreements, official plan and zoning amendments, and the Fort Erie Fire & Emergency Services 2021-2031 Master Plan. A separate by-law regarding 3285 Thunder Bay Road was also passed after Councillor Butler abstained due to a conflict of interest. Council also received the 2021 Municipal Bridge and Culvert Assessment Report and directed staff to consider its funding recommendations during the 2022 budget. Several delegations were heard, including a funding proposal for the Village Hall (Fire Station 6), which was discussed in closed session with staff directed to proceed as instructed.

• Approved 13 by-laws (124-2021 to 136-2021) including Fire Master Plan and zoning amendments (carried)
• Approved By-law 123-2021 for 3285 Thunder Bay Road (carried, Councillor Butler abstained)
• Received 2021 Municipal Bridge and Culvert Assessment Report (carried)
• Approved consent agenda including proclamations for AIDS Awareness Week and Islamic History Month (carried)
• Changed correspondence item (d) to 'Receive & Support' for OHIP-insured eye care request (carried)
• Held closed session on Fire Station 6 disposal; staff directed to proceed as instructed (carried)

Special Council

This agenda for the Fort Erie Special Council meeting on 2021-10-25 contains only procedural boilerplate and no listed agenda items, decisions, or discussions. The document is essentially empty of substantive content.

Special Council

This is a special council meeting with a closed session to discuss personal matters related to the recruitment of a Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). The only public action is a by-law to confirm the actions of previous council meetings. The agenda is otherwise procedural.

• Closed session under Municipal Act for CAO recruitment
• By-law 122-2021 to confirm actions of October 4 and October 18 meetings

Council held a special meeting and, after a closed session, directed the Manager of Employment Services to issue a Request for Submissions for a search firm to begin the CAO recruitment. A Recruitment Committee was established, consisting of Mayor Redekop and Councillors Butler and McDermott. The meeting also confirmed actions from previous meetings by passing By-law No. 122-2021.

• Directed Manager of Employment Services to issue Request for Submissions for CAO search firm (carried)
• Established Recruitment Committee with Mayor Redekop, Councillors Butler and McDermott (carried)
• Gave By-law No. 122-2021 first and second reading (carried)
• Gave By-law No. 122-2021 third and final reading (carried)

Regular Council in Committee

Council will consider several planning amendments, including zoning changes for properties on Walden Boulevard, Highland Drive, Erie Road, and Niagara River Parkway, plus a draft plan extension for a subdivision. Staff also recommend approving tenders for the Shirley Road culvert replacement ($252,781) and bridge/culvert repairs ($70,061 for engineering), and a $410,000 budget amendment for sewer work funded partly by a grant. Council will also vote on adopting the 2021-2031 Fire Master Plan and receive the Land Committee minutes.

Council approved several planning and infrastructure items, including zoning by-law amendments for properties on Walden Boulevard, Highland Drive, Niagara River Parkway, and Erie Road, as well as a draft plan extension for Black Creek Subdivision. Tenders for the Shirley Road culvert replacement and bridge repairs were awarded, and the Fire & Emergency Services Master Plan was approved. All decisions were carried, with one recorded vote on the Highland Drive amendment.

• Approved Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendment for 544 Walden Boulevard (Carried)
• Approved Zoning By-law amendment for 3719 Highland Drive with short-term rental prohibition (Carried, recorded vote 5-2)
• Approved Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendment for 4197 Niagara River Parkway (Carried)
• Approved Zoning By-law amendment for 4002 Erie Road (Carried)
• Extended draft plan approval for Black Creek Subdivision until September 9, 2023 (Carried)
• Awarded Shirley Road Culvert Replacement tender to CRL Campbell Construction & Drainage Ltd. for $252,781.00 (Carried)
• Awarded BRIG22 & BRIG21 Bridge and Culvert Repair tender to Anthony's Excavating Central Inc. for $434,672.69 (Carried)
• Approved Fire & Emergency Services 2021-2031 Master Plan (Carried)

Special Council in Committee

Council approved increased short-term rental licence fees, a 3-bedroom cap, guest curfew, annual inspections, a 250-licence cap, and higher penalties starting January 4, 2022. They also received a zoning and subdivision report for 3285 Thunder Bay Road, approved district-specific street signs for Crystal Beach, and postponed the street sign policy report to November 15, 2021.

• Approved revised Table 9 for short-term rental penalties (carried)
• Approved increased short-term rental licence fees: $750 for 1-2 bedrooms, $1,250 for 3+ (carried)
• Approved limiting short-term rental bedrooms to 3 and occupant limits per Table 6 (carried)
• Approved 11:00pm guest curfew for short-term rentals (carried)
• Approved annual fire and building inspections for short-term rentals (carried)
• Approved 250 short-term rental licence cap with renewal priority for compliant holders (carried)
• Approved directing staff to obtain legal opinion on land use controls for short-term rentals (carried)
• Approved district-specific street name signs for Crystal Beach and public design competition (carried)

Regular Council in Committee

Fort Erie's Council-in-Committee will hold a public meeting on a proposed zoning change and subdivision for 41 single-detached homes at 3285 Thunder Bay Road. Council will also hear delegations and review a report on the 2021 Short-Term Rental Pilot Program, with proposed changes to licence fees, occupancy limits, and enforcement. Several consent agenda items include budget planning, a watermain tender award, and software consulting contracts.

• Public meeting: Zoning By-law Amendment and Draft Plan of Subdivision for 41 single-detached dwellings at 3285 Thunder Bay Road (Westwind Niagara Developments Inc.)
• Tender award: Nigh Road Watermain (Prospect Point Road North to Ridge Road North) to Alfidome Construction Niagara for $316,211.29
• Consulting services award to GM BluePlan Engineering Limited for software systems design up to $345,486.20
• Short-Term Rental Pilot Program review: proposed licence fee increase to $1,000, 11:00pm guest curfew, annual fire/building inspections
• Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments for 544 Walden Boulevard (Hallex Engineering Ltd.)

Council approved a series of changes to the short-term rental (STR) program, including a two-tier licence fee of $750 for 1-2 bedrooms and $1,250 for 3+ bedrooms, a 3-bedroom maximum, an 11 p.m. guest curfew, annual fire and building inspections, and a cap of 250 licences per year with renewal priority for current holders. Council also directed staff to obtain a legal opinion on land use controls for STRs in specific areas and imposed a moratorium on new licences pending that report. Penalty increases and the by-law amendment were postponed to the October 18, 2021 meeting. A public meeting was held for a proposed 41-lot subdivision at 3285 Thunder Bay Road, but no decision was made.

• Approved two-tier STR licence fee: $750 (1-2 bedrooms), $1,250 (3+ bedrooms)
• Approved 3-bedroom maximum and occupant limits per Table 6
• Approved 11 p.m. guest curfew for STRs
• Approved annual fire and building inspections for STRs
• Approved STR licence cap of 250 per year, with renewal priority for current holders
• Directed staff to obtain legal opinion on STR land use controls in core/commercial/historic areas
• Imposed moratorium on new STR licences pending land use report
• Postponed STR penalty increases and by-law amendment to Oct 18, 2021

Special Council

This is a special council meeting with a short agenda. Council will consider two by-laws: one to appoint James Casselman as a Municipal Law Enforcement Officer, and one to confirm the actions of this meeting. The meeting is held via video teleconference due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• By-law 120-2021: Appoint James Casselman as Municipal Law Enforcement Officer
• By-law 121-2021: Confirm actions of the October 4, 2021 special council meeting

Council gave first, second, and third readings to By-law No. 120-2021, appointing James Casselman as a Municipal Law Enforcement Officer. The by-law was carried and will be signed by the Mayor and Clerk. Council also passed a confirmation by-law for the meeting's actions and adjourned to reconvene on October 18, 2021.

• Appointed James Casselman as Municipal Law Enforcement Officer (By-law 120-2021, carried)
• Confirmed actions of the October 4, 2021 special meeting (By-law 121-2021, carried)
• Adjourned to reconvene on October 18, 2021

Regular Council

Fort Erie Council's regular meeting on September 20, 2021, includes several decisions and discussions. Key items include a motion to seek living wage employer certification, a request to the province for shoreline right-of-passage, and multiple subdivision-related by-laws. The agenda also includes routine approvals of minutes, proclamations, and committee appointments.

• Motion to apply for living wage employer certification (Support Level) with estimated $100,000 annual cost for 2022
• Request to Premier Ford for legislation granting right of passage along Lake Erie shoreline within 5 feet of water's edge
• By-law 106-2021: Subdivision agreement with 828421 Ontario Inc. (Hazelwood Subdivision)
• By-law 113-2021: Zoning amendment for 246 & 248 Henrietta Street
• By-law 116-2021: Amendment to Business Licensing By-law 217-05 regarding short-term rentals

Council directed staff to launch an open, competitive bid for the 2022 Animal Control Services Contract, including provisional requirements for 24/7 on-site staff and a Registered Veterinary Technician. Council also approved a motion to apply for living wage certification at the Support Level, referred to 2022 budget deliberations. A motion to remove street lights on MacDonald Drive was lost. Council passed several by-laws, including subdivision agreements and zoning amendments.

• Approved open competitive bid process for 2022 Animal Control Services Contract with 24/7 on-site staff and Registered Veterinary Technician requirements.
• Referred motion to seek living wage employer certification (Support Level) to 2022 budget deliberations.
• Lost motion to decommission and remove cobra head street lights on private section of MacDonald Drive.
• Approved proclamation of September 30 as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and holiday for Town employees.
• Approved Heritage Permit for demolition of rear-yard shed at 221 Phipps Street.
• Approved consent agenda including proclamations for Child Care Worker Appreciation Day, Rail Safety Week, and World Senior's Day.
• Accepted resignations and made appointments to Crystal Beach BIA Board and other committees.
• Passed by-laws including subdivision agreements, zoning amendments, and short-term rental licensing amendments.

Special Council

Fort Erie's Special Council meeting is largely procedural, with the main substantive item being a closed session to discuss litigation and solicitor-client advice regarding an LPAT appeal by Niacon Limited Construction Company for properties at 625 Garrison Road and 0-10389 Helena Street, involving Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments. Council will also consider a confirmatory by-law to ratify actions taken at this meeting.

• Closed session re: LPAT appeal by Niacon Limited Construction Company for 625 Garrison Road & 0-10389 Helena Street (Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments)
• By-law 105-2021 to confirm actions of Council at this special meeting

Council met in closed session to discuss litigation and solicitor-client privileged advice regarding an LPAT appeal by Niacon Limited Construction Company for properties at 625 Garrison Road and 0-10389 Helena Street. After receiving legal advice, Council directed staff to proceed as instructed. The meeting then confirmed actions with By-law 105-2021 and adjourned.

• Held closed session to discuss LPAT appeal (Carried)
• Directed staff to proceed as instructed from closed session (Carried)
• Gave first and second reading to By-law 105-2021 (Carried)
• Gave third and final reading to By-law 105-2021 (Carried)

Regular Council in Committee

Fort Erie's Council-in-Committee will hold public meetings on three proposed zoning and official plan amendments, and vote on several reports including the Crystal Beach Secondary Plan, the 2020 annual financial report, and a ditching project. The meeting is held virtually due to COVID-19.

• Public meeting: 4197 Niagara River Parkway – proposed Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendment for a new residential lot and Waterfront Residential zone
• Public meeting: 3399 North Shore Drive – proposed Zoning By-law amendment for severance of two lots and legal non-conforming garage
• Public meeting: 544 Walden Boulevard – proposed Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendment for two semi-detached dwellings (four units)
• PDS-86-2021: Approval of Crystal Beach Secondary Plan Official Plan Amendment No. 54 and related zoning amendments
• CS-08-2021: Allocation of $1,734,158 2020 General Levy surplus to reserves, including $700,000 to Road Refurbishing

Council approved the Crystal Beach Secondary Plan Official Plan Amendment No. 54 (OPA 54) and related zoning by-law amendments, directing staff to prepare the necessary by-laws and notify stakeholders. A motion to defer a portion of the Crystal Beach Tennis & Yacht Club lands until April 1, 2022, was lost. Council also approved several consent agenda items, including an amending subdivision agreement for the Beachwalk Subdivision and the allocation of the 2020 General Levy surplus.

• Approved Crystal Beach Secondary Plan Official Plan Amendment No. 54 (OPA 54) and related Zoning By-law amendments.
• Lost a motion to defer a portion of the Crystal Beach Tennis & Yacht Club lands until April 1, 2022.
• Approved an Amending Subdivision Agreement and pre-servicing for the Beachwalk Subdivision (Marz Homes).
• Approved an Amending Subdivision Agreement for River Trail Phase 2 Stage 2 (Royal Niagara Falls Estates).
• Received the 2020 Annual Financial Report and allocated the $1,734,158 surplus to various reserves.
• Approved tax adjustments, rebates, and refunds totaling $17,203.75 under Sections 357 and 358 of the Municipal Act.
• Postponed the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment for 0-13365 Pettit Road until revised application is submitted.
• Tabled the Tenth Street Ditching Assessment report (IS-39-2021).

Special Council

This special council meeting will consider several by-laws, including a zoning amendment for 1485 Garrison Road and a memorandum of understanding with the property owner, Fort Erie Hospitality Inc. Council will also authorize two transfer payment agreements with the Province of Ontario for municipal modernization funding, totaling $125,000, and confirm actions from this meeting. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no other substantive items listed.

• Zoning by-law amendment (100-2021) for 1485 Garrison Road, agent David French, owner Fort Erie Hospitality Inc. (Ray Gupta)
• Memorandum of understanding (101-2021) between Fort Erie Hospitality Inc. and the Town for 1485 Garrison Road (Clarion Hotel)
• Transfer payment agreement (102-2021) with Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing under Municipal Modernization Intake 2 Program ($75,000)
• Transfer payment agreement (103-2021) with Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing under Municipal Modernization Intake 2 Program ($50,000)
• Confirmatory by-law (104-2021) for actions of this special meeting

Council gave first, second, and third reading to a by-law package including a zoning amendment for 1485 Garrison Road, a Memorandum of Understanding with Fort Erie Hospitality Inc., and two transfer payment agreements for Municipal Modernization funding. A proposed amendment to change the MOU amount from $100,000 to $5,000,000 failed due to lack of a seconder. All by-laws were carried and signed.

• Approved zoning by-law amendment for 1485 Garrison Road (100-2021)
• Approved MOU with Fort Erie Hospitality Inc. for 1485 Garrison Road (101-2021)
• Approved transfer payment agreement for $75,000 under Municipal Modernization Intake 2 (102-2021)
• Approved transfer payment agreement for $50,000 under Municipal Modernization Intake 2 (103-2021)
• Approved confirmation by-law 104-2021 for actions of the special meeting

Regular Council

Fort Erie Council is meeting to decide on several zoning amendments, including converting the Clarion Hotel at 1485 Garrison Road into a retirement facility, and to approve contracts and budget amendments. The agenda includes public meetings for proposed developments and routine approvals of minutes and reports.

• Zoning amendment for 1485 Garrison Road to convert Clarion Hotel to retirement facility, with MOU to replace 107 hotel rooms
• Public meetings for zoning amendments at 85 Idylewylde Street (semi-detached dwelling), 4002 Erie Road (microbrewery and 28-room inn), and 246 & 248 Henrietta Street (lot severance)
• Award of $1,435,506.80 contract to Proteck Roofing for EJ Freeland Community Centre roof and HVAC replacement
• Award of $149,982.64 contract to Wood Canada for Gorham Road & Ridgeway Road traffic review and Douglastown Third Access pre-design
• Budget amendment of $78,500 for Hagey Avenue Road Extension land purchase

Council approved a zoning by-law amendment for 1485 Garrison Road, allowing the Clarion Hotel to be converted into a retirement facility, with a revised Memorandum of Understanding requiring the replacement of 107 lost hotel rooms. Council also approved several other items, including a $1.44M roof replacement contract for the EJ Freeland Community Centre, a $149,982.64 engineering services contract for traffic reviews, and a $78,500 capital budget amendment for the Hagey Avenue road extension. The animal control services contract was postponed to September 20, 2021, after directing staff to include provisional requirements for 24/7 on-site staff and a Registered Veterinary Technician in the tender.

• Approved zoning amendment for 1485 Garrison Road (Clarion Hotel to retirement facility) with MOU for 107-room replacement (carried)
• Approved $1,435,506.80 tender for EJ Freeland Community Centre roof replacement (carried)
• Approved $149,982.64 engineering services contract for Gorham/Ridgeway traffic review (carried)
• Approved $78,500 capital budget amendment for Hagey Avenue road extension (carried)
• Approved zoning amendment for 246 & 248 Henrietta Street lot creation (carried)
• Directed staff to initiate animal control services tender with provisional 24/7 staff and vet tech requirements; report postponed to Sept 20 (carried)
• Postponed MacDonald Drive street lighting report to Sept 20 (carried)
• Approved by-laws for land sales, part lot control, MOU with Hospice Niagara, and zoning amendments (carried)

Regular Council in Committee

Fort Erie's Council-in-Committee will consider several planning and infrastructure items, including zoning changes, draft plans of condominium, a site plan agreement for a medical marihuana facility, and a contract award for park renovations. The agenda also includes a public meeting for a zoning by-law amendment at 3719 Highland Drive and notices of upcoming public meetings for other zoning amendments.

• Award contract to CRL Campbell Construction and Drainage Ltd. for Albert Street Park Renovation, upset limit $848,541.01 including HST
• Approve draft plan of standard condominium at 315 & 0-350 Garrison Road (29 units, 13 commercial)
• Approve zoning amendment and MOU with Sunray Group to convert Clarion Hotel at 1485 Garrison Road to retirement facility, replacing 107 hotel rooms
• Approve Peace Bridge Village Phase 3 draft plan of vacant land condominium (24 townhouses) at 397 Garrison Road
• Approve single source purchase of sanitary sewer CCTV inspection from Bob Robinson & Son Construction, upset limit $319,256.08

Council approved the Albert Street Park renovation tender to CRL Campbell Construction and Drainage Ltd. for up to $848,541.01, funded partly by a federal infrastructure grant. Several zoning and subdivision approvals were granted, including a condominium plan at 315 & 0-350 Garrison Road and a zoning amendment at 129 Cook Avenue. A proposed zoning amendment for 3719 Highland Drive was postponed to October 18, 2021, to address resident concerns. A site plan agreement for a medical marihuana production facility at 2043 Garrison Road was approved with conditions, but the report was postponed pending cistern location information.

• Approved Albert Street Park renovation contract to CRL Campbell Construction and Drainage Ltd. (upset limit $848,541.01)
• Approved draft plan of standard condominium at 315 & 0-350 Garrison Road (29 units)
• Approved zoning by-law amendment at 129 Cook Avenue
• Approved site plan agreement for medical marihuana facility at 2043 Garrison Road with conditions (20 greenhouses max, 987 plants)
• Postponed zoning amendment at 3719 Highland Drive to Oct 18, 2021
• Postponed zoning amendment at 1485 Garrison Road (Clarion Hotel conversion) to Sept 13, 2021
• Postponed Tenth Street ditching assessment to Sept 13, 2021
• Approved consent agenda items including sanitary sewer CCTV inspection contract extension ($319,256.08)

Special Council

This is a special council meeting held by video teleconference. The main item is a closed session to discuss proposals for the disposal of Fire Station 6, under the Municipal Act's land disposition provision. Council will also consider a confirmatory by-law (91-2021) to ratify actions taken at this meeting.

• Closed session re: proposals for disposal of Fire Station 6
• By-law 91-2021 to confirm actions of council at this meeting

Council authorized an agreement to amend the Memorandum of Understanding with Westwind Niagara Developments Inc. for 3285 Thunder Bay Road, replacing Appendix 'A' with Appendix '2' from Report PDS-65-2021 and updating lot/block references. Staff were directed to prepare a by-law to formalize the change. Council also held a closed session to discuss Fire Station 6 disposal proposals and gave staff direction, but no public decision was recorded on that matter.

• Authorized amendment to MOU with Westwind Niagara Developments Inc. for 3285 Thunder Bay Road (carried)
• Directed staff to prepare a by-law to authorize the MOU amendment (carried)
• Held closed session to discuss Fire Station 6 disposal proposals; staff directed to proceed as directed (carried)
• Gave first and second reading to By-law 91-2021 confirming council actions (carried)
• Gave third and final reading to By-law 91-2021 (carried)

Regular Council

The Fort Erie Town Council is meeting to decide on several planning and administrative matters, including zoning by-law amendments, land sales, a budget amendment for a sewer study, and appointments. The agenda also includes public meetings for proposed zoning changes and motions on border and animal by-law issues.

• Public meeting for zoning amendment at 2751 Nigh Road to reduce lot frontage and area requirements
• Award contract to Tri-Phase Group Inc. for refuse removal services, estimated $159,126.60 including HST
• Sale of two limited marketability parcels at 0 Caribou Trail for $8,200 each plus HST
• Amend 2021 operating budget to add $235,000 for East Central Fort Erie Trenchless Rehabilitation Pre-Design Study
• Approve draft plan for 24-unit townhouse development at 397 Garrison Road (Peace Bridge Village Phase 3)

Council approved a zoning by-law amendment for 2751 Nigh Road, allowing reduced lot frontage and area for a corner lot. It also approved a contract for property standards enforcement, the sale of limited marketability land, and several other routine items. A motion to request expanded essential traveller categories at the Canada-US border was withdrawn.

• Approved zoning by-law amendment for 2751 Nigh Road (PDS-60-2021).
• Approved contract with Tri-Phase Group Inc. for property standards enforcement (PDS-62-2021).
• Approved sale of two limited marketability parcels at 0 Caribou Trail for $8,200 each plus HST (PDS-63-2021).
• Approved adding $235,000 to 2021 operating budget for East Central Fort Erie Trenchless Rehabilitation Pre-Design Study (IS-38-2021).
• Approved consent agenda items including Environmental Advisory Committee recommendations.
• Approved appointments of committee chairs and vice-chairs for 2021-2022.
• Appointed Dale Baer to Ridgeway BIA Board of Management.
• Approved amendment to Animal By-law reducing minimum acreage for agricultural property from 5 to 3 acres.

Regular Council in Committee

Fort Erie's Council-in-Committee will hold public meetings on a zoning amendment for 129 Cook Avenue and on proposed Official Plan and Community Improvement Plan amendments for affordable housing. The council will also consider consent agenda items including subdivision agreements, contract awards for park and road projects, and a cannabis policy study, along with several other reports and updates.

• Public meeting: Zoning by-law amendment for 129 Cook Avenue to reduce lot frontage and area requirements
• Public meeting: Official Plan and Community Improvement Plan amendments for affordable housing
• Contract award: Crystal Ridge Park Phase 2 construction to Touchstone Site Contractors Inc. for $1,104,459.10
• Contract award: Prospect Point Road North Upgrade engineering services to Kerry T. Howe Engineering Limited for $66,670.00
• Contract award: EJ Freeland Community Centre hot water system replacement to Superior Boiler Works and Welding Ltd. for $81,902.40

Council approved the Cannabis Legislation and Policy Review Study Recommendations Report, directing staff to initiate Official Plan, Zoning By-law, and Site Plan Control By-law amendments to implement the recommendations. An amendment was added requiring a minimum 500-metre setback from school zones. Council also approved several other items, including subdivision agreements, construction contracts, and a temporary zoning amendment for an LCBO sales trailer.

• Approved Cannabis Legislation and Policy Review Study Recommendations Report, with 500m school zone setback (Carried)
• Authorized staff to initiate Official Plan, Zoning By-law, and Site Plan Control By-law amendments for cannabis policy (Carried)
• Approved temporary zoning by-law amendment for LCBO sales trailer at 409 Gorham Road until April 15, 2022 (Carried)
• Approved subdivision agreement and pre-servicing for Royal Ridge Phase 1 (Carried)
• Approved subdivision agreement and pre-servicing for Nigh Road Subdivision (Carried)
• Awarded Crystal Ridge Park Phase 2 construction contract to Touchstone Site Contractors Inc. for $1,104,459.10 (Carried)
• Awarded engineering services for Prospect Point Road North Upgrade to Kerry T. Howe Engineering Limited for $66,670.00 (Carried)
• Approved amendment to Highland Avenue Road Reconstruction contract to $882,994.19 (Carried)

Special Council

This is a special council meeting held by video teleconference. The main item is a closed session to discuss a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land on the west side of Waterfront Park, along with solicitor-client privileged advice. Council will also consider a by-law to confirm actions taken at this meeting.

• Closed session re: Beach Lands West Side of Waterfront Park (land acquisition/disposition)
• By-law 84-2021 to confirm actions of council at July 12, 2021 special meeting

Council met in closed session to discuss the proposed acquisition or disposition of land at Beach Lands West Side of Waterfront Park and received solicitor-client advice. After reconvening, staff were directed to proceed as instructed. Council then gave final reading to By-law No. 84-2021, confirming the actions of the special meeting, and adjourned.

• Held closed session to discuss Beach Lands West Side of Waterfront Park (land acquisition/disposition and legal advice).
• Directed staff to proceed as instructed after closed session.
• Gave first and second reading to By-law No. 84-2021 (confirming actions of the special meeting).
• Gave third and final reading to By-law No. 84-2021, signed by Mayor and Clerk.
• Adjourned at 6:16 p.m. to reconvene on July 19, 2021.

Regular Council

Fort Erie Council meets to hold a public meeting on the Crystal Beach Secondary Plan, which proposes land-use changes and zoning amendments. Council will also consider several reports and motions, including a contract award for Spears Park construction, a motion on cannabis licensing, and a by-law to waive development fees for non-profit affordable housing.

• Public meeting on Crystal Beach Secondary Plan, proposing residential, commercial, parks, and environmental land uses with zoning changes
• Award contract to CRL Campbell Construction & Drainage Ltd. for Spears Park construction, upset limit $294,368.10 including HST
• Motion requesting federal government to restrict cannabis licences for those convicted of illegal operations and require local compliance letters
• By-law 79-2021 to waive development fees for non-profit affordable housing
• By-law 80-2021 to amend traffic by-law regarding Schooley Road parking

Council approved the tender for Spears Park construction to CRL Campbell Construction & Drainage Ltd. for up to $294,368.10, and amended the 2021 Capital Budget to add $7,500 to the project. Council also received the Crystal Beach Secondary Plan information report, extended draft plan approval for Creekside Estates, and passed several by-laws, including appointing a building inspector and a law enforcement officer.

• Approved tender for Spears Park construction to CRL Campbell Construction & Drainage Ltd. for up to $294,368.10 (including HST).
• Amended 2021 Capital Budget to add $7,500 to Spears Park project, funded from Parkland Reserve and Development Charges Reserve.
• Received for information the report on Proposed Official Plan Amendment No. 54 (Crystal Beach Secondary Plan) and zoning implementation.
• Extended draft plan approval for Creekside Estates subdivision until April 11, 2023, with amended conditions.
• Determined not to sell municipal land at 0 Dickens Crescent.
• Approved by-laws including appointments of a building inspector and a law enforcement officer, and traffic amendments.
• Carried motion requesting federal government to restrict cannabis licences for those convicted of illegal operations.
• Postponed to July 19, 2021, motions on living wage certification and animal control by-law amendment.

Regular Council in Committee

Fort Erie's Council-in-Committee will consider a consent agenda with several contract awards, capital project closures, and land-related approvals, plus separate reports on a cannabis facility site plan, a zoning by-law amendment, affordable housing fee relief, and Erie Road parking and traffic changes. The meeting is held via video teleconference due to COVID-19.

• Award $126,534.01 tender to King Contractors of Niagara Ltd. for fire training tower refurbishment
• Award $87,089.10 to ELLIS Engineering Inc. for bridge and culvert repair engineering services
• Award $372,918.05 to Bob Robinson & Son Construction for storm sewer CCTV inspection
• Approve removal of Environmental Conservation Overlay at 264 Ridge Road, 2766 Stevensville Road, 0-14037 Stevensville Road, 2677 Ott Road, 0-6630 Thunder Bay Road, 0-4011 Albany Road, and 0-17199 Niagara Boulevard
• Direct staff to prepare by-law for development fee relief for affordable housing by non-profits

Council approved Option 5A for one-way traffic on Erie Road between Ridgeway Road and Schooley Road, with a $2,000 contribution from the COVID-19 Relief Fund for setup and teardown as a pilot project. They also approved several consent agenda items, including capital project closures, a fire training tower refurbishment tender, and extensions for draft plan approvals. A report on development fee relief for affordable housing was received, and a policy was approved to guide fee relief requests.

• Approved one-way traffic on Erie Road (Option 5A) as a pilot, with $2,000 from COVID-19 Relief Fund for setup/teardown.
• Approved consent agenda items, including capital project closures with a net surplus of $1,259,919.
• Awarded tender for fire training tower refurbishment to King Contractors of Niagara Ltd. for $126,534.01.
• Approved removal of Environmental Conservation Overlay on five properties, with conditions.
• Extended draft plan approval for Schooley Road condominium until May 15, 2022.
• Extended draft plan approval for Nigh Road subdivision until November 12, 2021.
• Approved development fee relief policy (PL-A-10) for non-profit affordable housing, directing staff to prepare a by-law.
• Approved 15-minute parking spaces on Schooley Road near Erie Road for take-out restaurant use.

Special Council

This is a special Council meeting held via video teleconference. The main item is a closed session to discuss an LPAT appeal regarding an Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment for properties at 625 Garrison Road and 0-10389 Helena Street. Council will also consider by-laws to appoint two building inspectors and to confirm the actions of this meeting. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no other substantive decisions listed.

• Closed session on LPAT appeal: Niacon Limited Construction Company, 625 Garrison Road & 0-10389 Helena Street, Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments
• By-law 77-2021: Appoint Gerald Moore and Barbara Mocny as Building Inspectors
• By-law 78-2021: Confirm actions of Council at this special meeting

Council held a special meeting, entering closed session to discuss litigation and solicitor-client privileged advice regarding an LPAT appeal by Niacon Limited Construction Company for 625 Garrison Road and 0-10389 Helena Street. After reconvening, Council approved By-law 77-2021 appointing Gerald Moore and Barbara Mocny as Building Inspectors, and By-law 78-2021 confirming the meeting's actions. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Entered closed session to discuss LPAT appeal re: Niacon Limited (625 Garrison Road & 0-10389 Helena Street) (carried)
• Approved By-law 77-2021 appointing Gerald Moore and Barbara Mocny as Building Inspectors (carried)
• Approved By-law 78-2021 confirming actions of the special meeting (carried)

Regular Council

Fort Erie Council will consider approving two tenders: a $732,240 contract to George Roque Roofing Corp. for Leisureplex roof recovering and a $148,151 contract to Signal 88 Security Canada Inc. for Bay Beach security. The agenda also includes a closed session on a LPAT appeal, several public information open houses, and motions on capital gains tax, affordable housing, and speed bumps on Black Creek Road.

• Tender award: Leisureplex Roof Recovering - $732,240 to George Roque Roofing Corp.
• Tender award: Bay Beach Security 2021-2023 - $148,151 to Signal 88 Security Canada Inc.
• Closed session re: LPAT appeal - Niacon Limited, 625 Garrison Road & 0-10389 Helena Street
• Motions on capital gains tax on primary residences and affordable housing measures
• Motion to install removable speed bumps on Black Creek Road

Council approved the installation of removable speed bumps on Black Creek Road between River Trail and Niagara Boulevard as a traffic calming measure, and passed a new Animal Welfare By-law (73-2021) governing the care, licensing, and regulation of dogs, cats, and other animals. Council also approved several other by-laws, including an Official Plan amendment for a senior residence at 255 High Street, and awarded tenders for Bay Beach security and Leisureplex roof recovering.

• Approved removable speed bumps on Black Creek Road (7-0)
• Passed Animal Welfare By-law 73-2021 (carried)
• Approved Official Plan Amendment No. 53 for 255 High Street senior residence (carried)
• Awarded Bay Beach security contract to Signal 88 Security Canada Inc. for $148,151 (carried)
• Awarded Leisureplex roof recovering contract to George Roque Roofing Corp. for $732,240 (carried)
• Approved Urban Boundary Expansion Study Addendum #2 (carried)
• Proclaimed June as PTSD Awareness Month (carried)
• Approved resolution urging federal government to cease considering capital gains tax on primary residences (carried)

Special Council

This special council meeting includes a closed session about Thunder Bay Beach Lands, a report and resolution endorsing a letter of support for the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority's application to the federal 2 Billion Trees funding initiative, and consideration of several by-laws, including setting the 2021 tax rates and entering into agreements for the Crystal Beach area.

• By-law 60-2021 to set 2021 tax rates and levy taxes
• By-law 62-2021 lease with Crystal Beach Hill Cottagers' Organization for Erie Road parking lot
• By-law 63-2021 licence with Crystal Beach BIA for Farmers' Market at Queen's Circle
• By-law 64-2021 to accept lands as public highway at 3040 Thunder Bay Rd
• Endorsement of NPCA letter for Growing Canada's Forests 2 Billion Trees initiative

Council endorsed a letter supporting the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority's request for information submission to the federal Growing Canada's Forests 2 Billion Trees initiative, and directed staff to collaborate on planting opportunities. Council also passed a by-law package setting 2021 tax rates, appointing temporary law enforcement officers, and authorizing lease and licence agreements. All decisions were carried unanimously.

• Endorsed letter supporting NPCA's Growing Canada's Forests funding application (carried)
• Directed staff to collaborate with NPCA on planting opportunities (carried)
• Gave first and second reading to by-laws 60-2021 to 64-2021 (carried)
• Gave third and final reading to by-laws 60-2021 to 64-2021 (carried)
• Gave first and second reading to by-law 65-2021 confirming actions (carried)
• Gave third and final reading to by-law 65-2021 (carried)

Regular Council in Committee

Fort Erie's Council-in-Committee will consider awarding a $3.15 million contract for on-demand public transit, approve a $238,006 sidewalk repair tender, and decide on a new animal by-law including cat licensing. The agenda also includes a public hearing for a zoning amendment on Dominion Road and several routine consent items.

• Award $3,152,608.47 contract to Regional Limousine for on-demand transit, 3-year term
• Award $238,006.25 sidewalk repair tender to Neptune Security Inc., with $40,000 budget amendment
• Public hearing: Official Plan and zoning amendment for 0-5513 Dominion Road (Rural to site-specific RU)
• Approve draft Animal By-law with Option 3 for cat licensing
• Approve $18,395.44 in tax adjustments and rebates under Municipal Act sections 357/358

Council approved the draft Animal Welfare, Protection and Control By-law, choosing Option No. 3 for licensing cats and making several amendments, including removing the prohibition on invisible fencing and eliminating the annual cat licensing requirement. Council also awarded contracts for the 2021 sidewalk repair program and the on-demand public transit system, and approved changes to on-street parking on Erie Road.

• Approved draft Animal By-law with Option 3 cat licensing and amendments (carried)
• Awarded $238,006.25 sidewalk repair contract to Neptune Security Services Inc. (carried)
• Awarded $3,152,608.47 on-demand transit contract to Regional Limousine (carried)
• Approved Erie Road parking changes, removing south-side parking and adding north-side parking (carried)
• Approved year-round 5-tonne load restrictions on low-class bituminous roads (carried)
• Approved $18,395.44 in tax cancellations/refunds under Municipal Act (carried)
• Directed AMPS fines held since Jan 11, 2021 be instated (carried)
• Postponed business barrier reimbursement decision to June 14, 2021 (carried)

Special Council

This is a special council meeting held via video teleconference due to COVID-19. The only substantive item is a closed session for member education and training on The Working Mind Mental Health Training, with a resolution to be presented. The rest of the agenda is procedural (call to order, roll call, announcements, declarations, adjournment).

• Closed session under Municipal Act 2001 Section 239 (3.1) for The Working Mind Mental Health Training
• Resolution to be presented in closed session

The special council meeting was held via video teleconference due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Council entered a closed session for mental health training, received a presentation on 'The Working Mind Mental Health Training', and reconvened without report. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned to the next regular meeting on May 31, 2021.

• Entered closed session for mental health training (carried)
• Reconvened from closed session without report (carried)
• Adjourned to regular meeting on May 31, 2021 (carried)

Regular Council in Committee

This Council-in-Committee meeting includes several consent items for approval, including subdivision and condominium plans, road and watermain contracts, and a decision on waiving development charges for 33 market rental units at the Lions Douglas Heights Senior Residence. Council will also discuss an animal by-law, parking changes on Erie Road, and receive information reports on zoning and natural heritage.

• Waive development charges for 33 market rental units at 255 High Street (Lions Douglas Heights Senior Residence)
• Award tender for Bertie Place Watermain Replacement to Vic Vatrt Contracting for $548,922.53
• Award tenders for 2021 road resurfacing: Circle P. Paving ($509,939.62 hot mix; $110,457.50 patching) and Norjohn Contracting ($1,203,450.00 surface treatment)
• Approve South Coast Phase 2 Draft Plan of Standard Condominium at 0-15199 Ridgeway Road (20 townhouses, 4 apartments)
• Approve animal by-law with Option No. 3 for cat licensing

Council approved a waiver of development charges for 18 residential units rented at market rates at the proposed Lions Douglas Heights senior residence at 255 High Street, after a friendly amendment reduced the number from 33. The waiver was approved in a recorded vote (5-1). Council also approved several infrastructure contracts, extended draft plan approval for the Hazelwood subdivision with a final deadline, and postponed the Erie Road parking changes report.

• Waived development charges for 18 market-rent units at 255 High Street (5-1)
• Extended Hazelwood draft plan approval to October 5, 2021, with no further extensions
• Approved $548,922.53 watermain replacement contract for Bertie Place to Vic Vatrt Contracting
• Approved road resurfacing contracts: $509,939.62 (Circle P. Paving), $1,203,450.00 (Norjohn), $110,457.50 (Circle P. Paving), plus $75,000 budget supplement
• Approved $62,409.90 crack sealing contract to Griffin Landscape Management Solutions
• Postponed Animal Welfare By-law report to May 17, 2021
• Denied request to amend Fence By-law for privacy screens
• Postponed Erie Road parking changes to May 17, 2021

Special Council

This special council meeting includes a closed session to discuss the potential acquisition or disposition of Thunder Bay Beach Lands, followed by new business on appointing councillors to hear short-term rental licensing appeals. Council will also consider by-laws amending the administrative penalty and business licensing by-laws related to short-term rentals, plus a confirmatory by-law. A motion on vaccination clinics is listed but marked to be withdrawn.

• Closed session re: Thunder Bay Beach Lands (acquisition/disposition)
• Appointment of councillors to hear short-term rental licensing appeals for tickets issued on or before May 10, 2021
• By-law 57-2021: amend Administrative Penalty By-law 111-2019 (short-term rentals)
• By-law 58-2021: amend Business Licensing By-law 217-05 (short-term rentals)
• By-law 59-2021: confirm actions of this meeting

Council held a special meeting and passed amendments to the short-term rental licensing and administrative penalty by-laws, giving them final reading. Council also appointed three councillors to hear short-term rental licensing appeals for tickets issued on or before May 10, 2021. A motion regarding vaccination clinics was withdrawn. The meeting included a closed session on Thunder Bay Beach Lands, with staff directed to proceed as discussed.

• Approved final reading of By-law 57-2021 (amending Administrative Penalty By-law) and By-law 58-2021 (amending Business Licensing By-law) for short-term rentals
• Appointed Councillors Butler, McDermott, and Noyes to hear short-term rental licensing appeals for tickets issued on or before May 10, 2021
• Approved By-law 59-2021 confirming actions of the special council meeting
• Directed staff to proceed as directed regarding Thunder Bay Beach Lands (closed session)

Regular Council

Fort Erie Council is meeting to decide on a proposed Official Plan and zoning amendment for a senior residence at 255 High Street, along with several by-laws including short-term rental licensing and physician recruitment grants. The agenda also includes presentations on human trafficking and community services, and several proclamations and resolutions.

• Proposed Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment for 255 High Street (Lions Douglas Heights Senior Residence) with parkland dedication waiver
• By-law 41-2021 to amend Business Licensing By-law No. 217-05 regarding short-term rentals
• By-laws 44-2021, 45-2021, 46-2021 for physician recruitment grant agreements with Dr. Vincenzo Susini, Dr. Myung Gi Kim, and amending agreement with Dr. Nazia Pirzada
• By-law 40-2021 to authorize Fire Safety Grant Transfer Payment Agreement with Ontario
• Resolution requesting provincial action on source water protection for private wells

Council approved an Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendment for 255 High Street, a Niagara Regional Housing seniors' residence, including a waiver of cash-in-lieu of parkland dedication. A proposed waiver of development charges for 33 market-rent units was deferred to the May 10 Council-in-Committee meeting. Council also passed a resolution requesting the province expand source water protection to private services and aquifers, and approved a motion to move short-term rental violation appeals to the Administrative Penalty System.

• Approved Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendment for 255 High Street (Niagara Regional Housing seniors' residence) with parkland dedication waiver (Carried)
• Deferred decision on waiving development charges for 33 market-rent units at 255 High Street to May 10 Council-in-Committee meeting
• Approved resolution requesting province expand source water protection to aquifers and private services (Carried)
• Approved resolution requesting Canada-US border reopening plan transparency and vaccination of border officers (Carried)
• Approved motion to move short-term rental violation appeals to Administrative Penalty System (Carried)
• Approved consent agenda including proclamations for Community Living Month, Niagara Region Pride Week, and National Day of Mourning (Carried)
• Approved by-law package (40-2021 through 55-2021) including short-term rental licensing, physician recruitment agreements, and land sales (Carried)
• Accepted resignation of Ruth Vold Markle from Communities in Bloom Committee and sent condolences for Roger Ricker (Carried)

Regular Council in Committee

Fort Erie's Council-in-Committee will hold a public meeting on a zoning by-law amendment for 1485 Garrison Road to allow a retirement home, and consider several contract awards and a large tax increment grant. The agenda also includes a motion to amend short-term rental licensing rules and housekeeping changes to the appeals process.

• Public meeting: proposed zoning by-law amendment for 1485 Garrison Road to add retirement home to permitted uses
• Award of tender for Ott Road Bridge replacement to Anthony's Excavating Central Inc. for $1,422,951.26
• Award of contract for pavement marking hand line painting to Stoneline Ltd. for $81,619.90
• Tax increment grant application by Harber Realty Holdings Inc. for 1481 Commerce Parkway in estimated amount of $8,577,349
• Motion to amend short-term rental licensing to require verification of housing need, with $300 penalty

Council approved a Tax Increment Based Grant application for the Niagara Gateway Economic Zone and Centre Community Improvement Plan for the property at 1481 Commerce Parkway, in the estimated amount of $8,577,349, subject to the owner satisfying program requirements. Council also approved a zoning by-law amendment for 1485 Garrison Road to permit a retirement home, and amended short-term rental requirements to add a penalty for renting to individuals not verified as in need of housing. Two infrastructure contracts were awarded: $1,422,951.26 for the Ott Road Bridge replacement and $81,619.90 for pavement marking hand line painting.

• Approved $8,577,349 tax increment grant for 1481 Commerce Parkway (Carried)
• Approved $1,422,951.26 Ott Road Bridge replacement contract to Anthony's Excavating Central Inc. (Carried)
• Approved $81,619.90 pavement marking contract to Stoneline Ltd. (Carried)
• Amended short-term rental by-law to add penalty for renting without verification of housing need (Carried)
• Received zoning by-law amendment report for 1485 Garrison Road for information (Carried)
• Approved housekeeping amendments to short-term rental appeals process (Carried)

Regular Council in Committee

The Fort Erie Council-in-Committee will consider several contract awards and planning items. Key decisions include approving tenders for the Bertie Centennial Park multi-use court conversion, a three-year dust suppressant program, and consulting services for the EJ Freeland Community Centre roof replacement. The agenda also includes a site plan agreement for a medical marihuana production facility and a zoning by-law amendment notice.

• Award contract to Touchstone Site Contractors Inc. for Bertie Centennial Park Multi-Use Court, upset limit $190,202.73
• Award 3-year dust suppressant tender to Da-Lee Dust Control Limited, $317,304.00
• Award roof/HVAC consulting contract to Fishburn Sheridan & Associates Ltd., $94,411.50
• Authorize site plan agreement for medical marihuana production facility at 2043 Garrison Road
• Notice of public meeting for zoning by-law amendment at 1485 Garrison Road on April 19, 2021

Special Council

This is a special council meeting held via video teleconference. Council will enter closed session to discuss three items: the acquisition or disposition of Thunder Bay Beach Lands, litigation regarding the Alliston Woods Draft Plan of Subdivision appeal, and land matters for Beach Lands West Side of Waterfront Park. The only open-session action is a by-law to confirm the meeting's decisions.

• Closed session: Thunder Bay Beach Lands land acquisition/disposition
• Closed session: Alliston Woods Draft Plan of Subdivision appeal of draft conditions
• Closed session: Beach Lands West Side of Waterfront Park land acquisition/disposition
• By-law 39-2021 to confirm actions of the special council meeting

Council met in a special session and went into closed session to discuss three land-related matters: Thunder Bay Beach Lands, the Alliston Woods subdivision appeal, and Beach Lands West of Waterfront Park. Council gave staff direction on the Thunder Bay Beach Lands and Beach Lands West items, and received an update on the Alliston Woods appeal. Councillor Butler declared a pecuniary interest and excused herself from the Thunder Bay Beach Lands discussion. Council also passed a by-law confirming the meeting's actions and adjourned.

• Went into closed session to discuss land acquisition/disposition and litigation matters (Resolution 1, carried).
• Gave staff direction on Thunder Bay Beach Lands and Beach Lands West of Waterfront Park, and received an update on Alliston Woods (Resolution 2, carried).
• Councillor Butler excused herself from the Thunder Bay Beach Lands discussion due to a pecuniary interest.
• Gave first and second reading to By-law 39-2021 confirming the meeting's actions (Resolution 3, carried).
• Gave third and final reading to By-law 39-2021 (Resolution 4, carried).
• Adjourned at 7:11 p.m. to reconvene April 26, 2021 (Resolution 5, carried).

Regular Council

Fort Erie Council is meeting to decide on several items, including a draft animal by-law with options for cat licensing, funding for physician recruitment and retention, and the sale of a limited marketability land parcel. They will also consider a proposed condominium development, housekeeping amendments to the Official Plan, and various proclamations and appointments.

• Sale of 0 Seymour Avenue to Jacqueline Denham for $1,500 plus HST
• Approval of Brydgeview Townhouses Phase 2 draft plan (26 units) at 0 Albany Street
• Funding of $60,000 for Dr. Vince Susini and $50,000 for Dr. Myung Gi Kim from Community Health and Wellness Reserve
• Draft Animal By-law with options for cat licensing (PDS-17-2021)
• Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments for 80-84 and 94 Jarvis Street

Council received the draft Animal Welfare, Protection and Control By-law and chose Option 3 for cat licensing, but postponed final approval to May 10, 2021. Council also approved several other items, including physician recruitment incentives, a draft condominium plan, and various by-laws.

• Approved draft Animal By-law with cat licensing Option 3, postponed to May 10 (carried)
• Approved $60,000 physician recruitment incentive for Dr. Vince Susini (carried)
• Approved $50,000 physician retention incentive for Dr. Myung Gi Kim (carried)
• Approved Brydgeview Townhouses Phase 2 draft condominium plan (26 units) (carried)
• Approved sale of 0 Seymour Avenue for $1,500 plus HST (carried)
• Approved Official Plan and Zoning amendments for 80-84 and 94 Jarvis Street (carried)
• Approved Fire Safety Grant of up to $12,100 (carried)
• Approved 12 by-laws for third reading, including road dedication and subdivision matters (carried)

Regular Council in Committee

Fort Erie Council-in-Committee meets March 8, 2021, via video teleconference. The agenda includes public meetings on a proposed senior residence expansion at 255 High Street and a commercial truck refueling station at 0-13365 Pettit Road, plus decisions on contracts, a fire station construction tender, and a subdivision plan.

• Public meeting: Official Plan and zoning amendment for 255 High Street to allow 10-storey, 108-unit senior residence (62 new units)
• Public meeting: Zoning amendment for 0-13365 Pettit Road for card-locked truck refueling station and two drive-thru restaurants
• Award of tender for Fire Station #4 construction to G.S. Wark Limited for $6,521,795.00
• Award of contract for Albert Street Park consulting to SHIFT Landscape Architecture for $78,569.07
• Approval of Royal Ridge Phase 2 draft plan of subdivision at 613 Ridge Road North

Council approved the heritage designation of 546 Ridge Road North under the Ontario Heritage Act, despite opposition from the property purchaser. The motion to postpone the decision was lost, and the designation was carried. Council also approved several contracts, including the construction of Fire Station #4 and the 2021 asphalt utility cut reinstatement program.

• Approved heritage designation of 546 Ridge Road North (5-2)
• Approved $6,521,795 contract for Fire Station #4 construction
• Approved $164,347.48 tender to Circle P Paving for asphalt utility cut reinstatement
• Approved $78,569.07 consulting contract for Albert Street Park
• Approved $100,344 engineering services for traffic management policy update
• Approved $15,000 physician recruitment incentive for Dr. Safa Qazi
• Approved Royal Ridge Phase 2 draft plan of subdivision
• Postponed zoning amendment for 0-13365 Pettit Road to April 12

Regular Council

Fort Erie Council is meeting to decide on several major items, including awarding a $6.5 million construction contract for Fire Station #4, approving the Royal Ridge Phase 2 subdivision, and endorsing an urban boundary expansion study. The agenda also includes public meeting notices for zoning amendments, a closed session on litigation, and a series of by-laws covering budgets, fees, and property agreements.

• Award tender for Fire Station #4 to G.S. Wark Limited for $6,521,795.00, plus $122,766.03 for contract administration
• Approve Royal Ridge Phase 2 draft plan of subdivision at 613 Ridge Road North, including a 40-unit apartment building
• Endorse Urban Area Boundary Expansion Study Addendum #1 for Niagara Region's review
• Approve Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments for 7 Central Avenue and 100-1 Queen Street, with a Community Benefits Agreement
• Adopt 2021 capital and operating budgets (By-law 12-2021)

Council approved the 2021 capital and operating budgets, along with several development-related by-laws and agreements. It also endorsed an urban boundary expansion study for regional review and supported a consolidated transit governance model. A draft animal by-law and a subdivision proposal were postponed to future meetings.

• Approved 2021 capital and operating budgets (By-law 12-2021)
• Approved Official Plan and Zoning amendments for 7 Central Ave & 100-1 Queen St (PDS-16-2021)
• Endorsed Urban Area Boundary Expansion Study Addendum #1 (PDS-14-2021)
• Supported in principle Full Commission for Niagara transit consolidation
• Postponed Royal Ridge Phase 2 subdivision to March 8, 2021
• Postponed Animal Welfare By-law to March 22, 2021
• Appointed Tyler B. Chevalier and John Arbour to Ridgeway BIA Board
• Approved by-law package including short-term rental fee and licensing amendments

Special Council

This is a special council meeting with one correspondence item and a closed session. Council will consider supporting a City of Welland request urging the province to allocate more Pfizer vaccines to Niagara and restore Moderna allocations. The closed session concerns litigation related to the Alliston Woods Draft Plan of Subdivision appeal and minutes of settlement.

• Correspondence: Receive & Support City of Welland letter urging more Pfizer vaccines for Niagara and restore Moderna allocation
• Closed session under Municipal Act 239(2)(e) re: Alliston Woods Draft Plan of Subdivision appeal and minutes of settlement
• By-law 11-2021 to confirm actions of this special meeting

Council received and supported a letter from the City of Welland urging the province to allocate more Pfizer vaccines to Niagara and restore Moderna allocations. Council also held a closed session to discuss litigation regarding the Alliston Woods Draft Plan of Subdivision and directed staff to proceed as instructed. The meeting concluded with the adoption of a by-law confirming the actions of the special meeting.

• Received and supported Welland's correspondence on vaccine allocation (carried)
• Entered closed session to discuss Alliston Woods litigation (carried)
• Directed staff to proceed as instructed after closed session (carried)
• Gave first and second reading to By-law 11-2021 (carried)
• Gave third and final reading to By-law 11-2021 (carried)
• Adjourned at 6:09 p.m. (carried)

Regular Council in Committee

Fort Erie's Council-in-Committee will consider consent items including subdivision agreements for Peace Bridge Village Phase 2 and Hershey Estates, plus contract awards for firefighter radios, a watermain replacement, and road reconstruction. They will also discuss a site plan for a medical marihuana facility, transit governance, and receive annual water quality and road condition reports.

• Award $4,064,707.18 tender to Peters Excavating Inc. for Lakeside Road Watermain Replacement (Contract ISE-20T-LAKE07)
• Award $1,762,293.65 tender to Anthony's Excavating Central Inc. for 2020 Road Reconstruction on Sunset Drive, Gilmore Road and Bowen Road
• Authorize subdivision agreements with Ashton Homes and Park Lane Home Builders for Peace Bridge Village Phase 2
• Approve $63,992.46 quotation from BearCom Canada Corp. for firefighter two-way portable radios
• Site plan agreement for medical marihuana production facility at 2043 Garrison Road

Regular Council-in-Budget Committee

The Fort Erie Council-in-Budget Committee is meeting to review and potentially approve the 2021 General Levy Operating Budget and Capital Budget, along with the 2021 Library Operating Budget. The agenda includes presentations from the library CEO and the Director of Corporate Services, and a report analyzing the 2020 property assessments for the 2021 taxation year. The main item is a series of recommendations covering supplementary funding, grants, BIA levies, and capital budget amendments.

• 2021 General Levy of $29,202,635 and Capital Budget of $9,367,935 proposed for approval
• Supplementary base funding: $137,000 for rural ditching, $45,000 for bridge/culvert reserves, $41,050 for a seasonal law enforcement officer
• One-time funding: $250,000 for urban boundary expansion studies, $150,000 for archaeological assessment, $90,000 for waterfront design guidelines
• Grants include $1,578,078 for Fort Erie Public Library and $41,900 for community events
• BIA levies: $40,709 Bridgeburg Station, $35,000 Ridgeway, $15,000 Crystal Beach

Regular Council

Fort Erie Council meets to decide on proposed building permit fee increases, options for regulating short-term rentals, and several 2021 budget by-laws. The agenda also includes a public meeting on the permit fee changes, presentations on transit governance and an age-friendly community, and approval of the Spears Park Master Plan.

• Public meeting on proposed building permit fee increases effective Feb 23, 2021
• Award of tender to David Chevrolet for 2 fire pickup trucks, $72,435.26
• Sale of 0 Maple Avenue land to George Burgman for $7,900 plus HST
• By-law to adopt 2021 water and wastewater budget and rates
• Motion to review sign by-law to allow signs without permit for up to 3 months

Council approved the 2021 budget by-laws, including interim taxes, water/wastewater rates, and business licensing fee waivers. It also made decisions on short-term rental accommodations, choosing enforcement Option 2 and a $600 penalty for unlicensed operation, while referring the 'ghost hotel' issue back to staff. The Spears Park Master Plan was approved, and building permit fees were increased.

• Approved 2021 budget by-laws (1-2021 to 9-2021) (carried)
• Approved Spears Park Master Plan (carried)
• Approved sale of 0 Maple Avenue to George Burgman for $7,900 plus HST (carried)
• Referred 'ghost hotels' short-term rental issue back to staff (carried)
• Chose Option 2 for short-term rental enforcement (carried)
• Increased penalty for unlicensed short-term rental to $600 (carried)
• Approved building permit fee increases (carried)
• Directed staff to review fence by-law for privacy screens (carried)

Regular Council in Committee

Fort Erie's Council-in-Committee will hold public meetings on two zoning amendments, including a 5-storey mixed-use building at 80-84 and 94 Jarvis Street and a lot severance at 0-6489 Nigh Road. Council will also consider reports on urban boundary expansion, removing a heritage designation at 477 Ridge Road North, switching public transit to an on-demand model, and waiving 2021 business licence fees. Several items are recommendations for approval, while others are for information or discussion.

• Public meeting: 5-storey mixed-use building with 34 dwelling units and 198 sq m retail at 80-84 and 94 Jarvis Street
• Public meeting: lot severance to create two residential lots at 0-6489 Nigh Road
• Proposed removal of heritage designation at 477 Ridge Road North (birthplace of Dr. Edmund J. Zavitz)
• Approval sought to replace fixed-route transit with on-demand model, RFP to start October 2021
• Single source purchase of sanitary sewer CCTV inspection from Bob Robinson & Son Construction at $158,635.62