Kitchener public meetings in 2021

Council Meeting

Kitchener City Council is meeting to decide on several items, most notably granting final shareholder approval for the merger between Kitchener-Wilmot Hydro and Waterloo North Hydro, which would create a new municipally owned corporation. Council will also consider a motion to study a vacant home tax, approve contracts for brush chippers and excess soils management, and act on committee recommendations including a new all-way stop and a Vision Zero road safety strategy.

• Final approval of Kitchener-Wilmot Hydro and Waterloo North Hydro merger (FIN-2021-68)
• Motion to study feasibility of a vacant home tax (Councillor S. Marsh)
• Award $281,596.79 to Douglas Powertech Enterprises for two brush chippers (FIN-2021-66)
• Award $683,735.88 to Kieswetter Excavating for excess soils management (FIN-2021-67)
• Approve $80,000 grant program for Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts (DSD-2021-167)

Council gave final approval to the merger between Kitchener Power Corp. and Waterloo North Hydro Holding Corp., creating a new municipally owned corporation. The vote was 11-0. Council also approved the 2022 Business Plan Project List, a two-year lease with the Kitchener Waterloo Symphony, and directed staff to study a vacant home tax.

• Approved final merger of Kitchener-Wilmot Hydro and Waterloo North Hydro (11-0)
• Approved 2022 Business Plan Project List
• Authorized two-year lease with Kitchener Waterloo Symphony at Conrad Centre
• Approved $80,000 annual grant program for Conrad Centre access
• Directed staff to implement Vision Zero Strategy for roads
• Approved naming Band Stand at Victoria Park as Rotary Band Stand for $100,000
• Directed staff to study vacant home tax, report by June 2022 (10-1)
• Awarded $683,735.88 contract for excess soils management to Kieswetter Excavating

Special Council Meeting

This special council meeting will consider approval of the 2022 operating and capital budget, make appointments to boards and committees, and authorize a closed-door session to discuss several confidential matters including a partnership agreement, a lease extension, union negotiations, and city-owned land. No public delegations are scheduled.

• 2022 Operating and Capital Budget Approval
• Council Member Appointments to Boards and Committees
• In-camera authorization for partnership agreement and land disposition
• Lease extension at 122 Frederick
• Union negotiations and city-owned land discussions

Council approved the 2022 Capital and Operating Budget, including a general tax levy of $137,151,611, resulting in approximately a 1.99% tax increase. The approval covers capital projects, municipal enterprise budgets, grants, and equipment purchases. Council also made appointments to various boards and committees.

• Approved 2022 Capital and Operating Budget (Carried)
• Approved general tax levy of $137,151,611, ~1.99% increase (Carried)
• Approved municipal enterprise budgets totaling $235,372,631 revenue (Carried)
• Approved $1,511,111 in Tier 1 Community Grants (Carried)
• Approved $1,478,713 in Economic Development Grants (Carried)
• Approved 10-year Capital Budget & Forecast totaling $1,413,479,000 (Carried)
• Approved $5,024,000 in debenture financing for capital projects (Carried)
• Approved council member appointments to boards and committees (Carried)

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee is meeting electronically to discuss the 2022 Final Budget (FIN-2021-62), covering boards, enterprise operating budgets, capital budget, and tax-supported operating budget. Any recommendations will be considered at a Special Council meeting immediately following. The agenda contains only this one substantive discussion item.

• 2022 Final Budget (FIN-2021-62) review
• Kitchener Public Library and Centre in the Square board budgets
• Enterprise operating budgets: Building, Golf, Parking, Gas, Water, Sanitary, Stormwater
• Capital budget and tax-supported operating budget
• Recommendations to be sent to Special Council meeting

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee approved the 2022 operating and capital budgets, including a 1.9% tax rate increase. The committee allocated $2M to affordable housing, $250K to facility infrastructure gaps, and $500K to community trails, and approved an affordable housing reserve. Several other budget items were approved, while some funding requests were denied.

• Approved 2022 Kitchener Public Library budget as presented
• Approved 2022 Centre in the Square budget as presented
• Approved 2022 budgets for Building, Golf, Parking, Gas, Water, Sanitary, and Stormwater enterprises as presented
• Approved $2M to Affordable Housing Reserve & DC Grants, $250K to Facility Infrastructure Gaps, $500K to Community Trails (recorded vote, 10-1)
• Approved creation of Affordable Housing Reserve (unanimous)
• Increased Neighbours Day budget from $30,000 to $50,000
• Approved one-time $50,000 grant to House of Friendship for food distribution
• Denied $63,200 grant to Social Development Centre Waterloo Region (recorded vote, 2-9)

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The Community and Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting electronically to discuss several items, including the City of Kitchener's Vision Zero strategy, a Rotary Club 100th anniversary recognition project, and a quarterly update on significant planning applications. Consent items include an all-way stop control at Forest Creek Drive and Apple Ridge Drive, and an agreement with Mappedin for digitizing city mapping for the fire department. The meeting is open to the public via live stream.

• All-way stop control at Forest Creek Drive and Apple Ridge Drive (DSD-2021-213)
• Agreement with Mappedin for digitization of city mapping for Kitchener Fire Department (CSD-2021-16)
• Vision Zero Strategy presentation and discussion (DSD-2021-210)
• Rotary Club of Kitchener 100th Anniversary Recognition Projects (INS-2021-12)
• Significant Planning Applications Update - Quarterly Report (DSD-2021-228)

The committee directed staff to implement the Vision Zero road-safety strategy for city roads, reallocating funds from the annual Formal Traffic Calming budget for 2022-2025. It also approved an all-way stop at Forest Creek Drive and Apple Ridge Drive, authorized a mapping-data agreement with Mappedin Inc., and approved naming the Victoria Park band stand 'Rotary Band Stand' in exchange for $100,000, plus naming Duke Street Plaza 'Rotary Plaza'.

• Approved all-way stop control at Forest Creek Drive and Apple Ridge Drive.
• Authorized Fire Chief to execute agreement with Mappedin Inc. for mapping data sharing.
• Directed staff to implement Vision Zero Strategy, reallocating funds from traffic calming budget for 2022-2025.
• Directed staff to negotiate agreement with Rotary Club to name band stand 'Rotary Band Stand' for $100,000.
• Approved naming Duke Street Plaza 'Rotary Plaza'.
• Received the Significant Planning Applications Update quarterly report.

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee is meeting electronically to discuss four items: an update on the Digital Kitchener and Innovation Lab (deferred from November), an interim operating model for the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts, a partnership with Textile Magazine for the 2022 Artist in Residence, and an agreement for the My Main Street Accelerator Program. No delegations are scheduled. The agenda includes a September 2021 variance report as an information item.

• Digital Kitchener and Innovation Lab update (COR-2021-28)
• Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts interim operating model (DSD-2021-167)
• Partnership with Textile Magazine for 2022 Artist in Residence (DSD-2021-172)
• My Main Street Accelerator Program agreement with Canadian Urban Institute and Economic Development Council of Ontario (DSD-2021-230)
• September 2021 variance report (FIN-2021-64)

The Committee approved a two-year lease agreement with the Kitchener Waterloo Symphony for the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts, along with an $80,000 grant program for 2022 to support facility access. It also authorized a funding agreement with the Economic Development Council of Ontario for the My Main Street Accelerator Program. Reports on Digital Kitchener and the Textile Magazine Artist in Residence partnership were received for information only.

• Approved two-year lease with Kitchener Waterloo Symphony at Conrad Centre, terms consistent with current lease, subject to City Solicitor
• Approved $80,000 annual budget for 2022 for grant program supporting access to Conrad Centre
• Authorized Deputy CAO and General Managers to execute grant agreements with recipients
• Directed staff to develop scope of work and Terms of Reference for long-term model for Conrad Centre
• Authorized Mayor and Clerk to sign funding agreement with Economic Development Council of Ontario for Local Business Accelerator Program
• Authorized General Manager, Development Services to execute amendments to that funding agreement
• Received Digital Kitchener and Innovation Lab update (COR-2021-28) for information
• Received Textile Magazine 2022 Artist in Residence partnership report (DSD-2021-172) for information

Special Council Meeting

This is a special electronic meeting of Kitchener City Council. Council will consider a staff report on purchasing two fire pumper trucks and three fire aerial units, and will make appointments to boards and committees. The meeting also includes authorization for a closed in-camera session to discuss a KW Hydro merger and a lease extension at 122 Frederick.

• Staff report FIN-2021-65: purchase of two fire pumper trucks and three fire aerial units
• Council member appointments to boards and committees
• In-camera authorization for KW Hydro merger discussion (commercial/contractual, solicitor-client privilege)
• In-camera authorization for lease extension at 122 Frederick (land acquisition/disposition)
• By-law to confirm all actions and proceedings of Council

Council approved the pre-funding for five fire apparatus (2022-2024) and awarded Proposal P21-085 to Metz Fire & Rescue for two fire pumper trucks and three fire aerial units at a total cost of $5,980,746.42 USD, including HST. The motion carried on a recorded vote of 8 to 2. Council also requested that future tender reports include information on vendor selection factors. An in-camera meeting was authorized for later that day, and the appointments item was rescheduled to December 13, 2021.

• Approved pre-funding for five fire apparatus from the Fire-Major Equipment/Fleet Capital Account for budget years 2022-2024.
• Awarded Proposal P21-085 to Metz Fire & Rescue for two fire pumper trucks and three fire aerial units at $5,980,746.42 USD (including HST), carried 8-2.
• Requested future tender reports include an overview of factors used for vendor selection and recommendation.
• Rescheduled Council Member Appointments to Boards and Committees to December 13, 2021.
• Authorized an in-camera meeting to consider one commercial/contractual matter and one land acquisition/disposition matter.
• Passed By-law No. 2021-099 to confirm all actions and proceedings of Council.

Special Council Meeting

This special council meeting is called to consider staff reports on 2022 water and natural gas utility rates. Council will vote on proposed rate schedules, including an increase to the natural gas supply component. The meeting is held electronically due to COVID-19.

• Approve 2022 Water Utilities Rates schedule (FIN-2021-61)
• Increase natural gas supply rate to 16.0 cents per cubic meter from 13.5 cents, effective Jan 1, 2022
• Approve natural gas variable and fixed delivery rates as proposed (INS-2021-13)
• Confirm all actions and proceedings of Council

Council approved the 2022 water utility rates, including water, sanitary, and stormwater rates, with a 2.2% increase split between the City of Kitchener (1%) and the Region of Waterloo (1.2%). Council also approved the 2022 natural gas rates, increasing the supply component to 16.0 cents per cubic meter from 13.5 cents, effective January 1, 2022. A by-law confirming all actions and proceedings of the Council was passed.

• Approved 2022 water utility rates with a 2.2% increase (1% for City of Kitchener, 1.2% for Region of Waterloo)
• Approved 2022 natural gas rates, increasing supply component to 16.0 cents per cubic meter from 13.5 cents, effective January 1, 2022
• Passed by-law 2021-098 to confirm all actions and proceedings of the Council

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee is reviewing the city's upcoming capital budget and long-term financial forecast. This discussion includes topics such as debt, reserve funds, and development charges. Final approval for the budget is scheduled for December 16, 2021.

• 2022 Capital Budget & 10-Year Forecast (FIN-2021-60)

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee received a detailed overview of the 2022 Capital Budget and 10-Year Forecast, including funding sources, debt, reserves, and development charges. No final budget approval was made; instead, the committee passed a motion directing staff to report back on specific items, including options for additional affordable housing funding, energy retrofit reserve uses, and other capital-related topics.

• Directed staff to report on funding options for $1M-$2M additional affordable housing (carried)
• Requested information on allowable uses of Energy Retrofit reserve fund (carried)
• Requested review of staff recognition program and future plans (carried)
• Requested details on Social Development Centre grant funding request (carried)
• Requested cost estimate for three flexi-delineator signs per ward (carried)
• Requested update on Transform WR recommendations (carried)

Special Council Meeting

This is a special electronic meeting of Kitchener City Council. Council is asked to ratify directions given to staff earlier that day regarding the 2022 Capital Budget deliberations. Council will also authorize an in-camera (closed) meeting to discuss a service delivery review under the Municipal Act, citing security of property and labour relations. The agenda is otherwise procedural, including confirming actions and adjournment.

• Ratification of 2022 Capital Budget directions
• Authorization of in-camera meeting (Section 239(2)(a) and (d), Municipal Act)
• In-camera item: Service Delivery Review (30 minutes)
• By-law to confirm all actions and proceedings

Council directed staff to report on several matters from the November 29, 2021 Finance and Corporate Services Committee meeting related to the 2022 capital budget. Topics include funding options for an additional $1M-$2M for affordable housing, energy retrofit reserve uses, and costs for traffic calming signs. Council also authorized an in-camera meeting on property security and labour relations, and passed a by-law to confirm council actions.

• Directed staff to report on 2022 capital budget items, including affordable housing funding options, energy retrofit reserves, and traffic calming sign costs
• Authorized an in-camera meeting to consider matters of security of property and labour relations
• Passed By-law No. 2021-097 to confirm all actions and proceedings of Council

Council Meeting

Kitchener City Council is meeting electronically to consider several committee recommendations, including approval of the 2022 User Fee Schedule (with cricket pitch and patio agreement fees deferred), zoning by-law amendments for properties on Heritage Drive and Vanier Drive, and a $108,898 consultant fee increase for RBJ Schlegel Park Phase 2. Council will also debate new motions on fire safety measures, denouncing conversion therapy, and parking management during construction, plus a sole-source contract for a SolarWall system at Forest Heights Pool.

• 2022 User Fee Schedule approval, with cricket pitch and patio agreement fees deferred
• Zoning amendment for 210 Heritage Drive (Pioneer Tower Homes Inc.)
• Zoning amendment for 117 & 133 Vanier Drive (2385235 Ontario Ltd.)
• Motion urging Ontario to update Fire Code Retrofit 9.5 for self-closing doors
• Sole-source SolarWall installation at Forest Heights Pool for $170,982.79

Council unanimously passed a motion denouncing conversion practices as dangerous and harmful, directing staff to explore support for survivors and monitor legislative developments, and urging federal and provincial governments to take action. Council also approved the 2022 user fees with amendments, including increased tax certificate fees and adjusted cricket fees, and directed staff to use tabulators and paper ballots for the 2022 municipal election.

• Approved motion denouncing conversion therapy (10-0), directing staff to support survivors and monitor legislation.
• Approved 2022 User Fees as amended, including $16 tax certificate fee and new cricket fees.
• Directed staff to use tabulators and paper ballots for the 2022 municipal election.
• Approved deaccessioning and disposition of public art sculpture 'Moments' from McLennan Park.
• Approved Brownfield Financial Incentive Program amendment eliminating 10% indirect cost allowance.
• Approved funding agreement with Kitchener Easy Riders Cycle Club (Dec 2021-May 2023).
• Approved zoning by-law amendments for 210 Heritage Drive and 117 & 133 Vanier Drive.
• Approved collective agreements with CUPE 791 and IATSE 357.

Special Council Meeting

The Special Council meeting includes a request to authorize an in-camera session. This private session will address business licensing legal considerations, collective agreements for CUPE 791, IBEW, and IATSE, and a market compensation review.

• In-camera authorization for solicitor-client privilege regarding Business Licensing
• In-camera discussion of Collective Agreements for CUPE 791, IBEW, and IATSE
• In-camera discussion of a Market Compensation Review

The special council meeting was held electronically and was brief, lasting from 3:32 p.m. to 3:35 p.m. Council approved a motion to hold an in-camera meeting immediately after, to discuss one solicitor-client privilege matter and two labour relations matters, as permitted by the Municipal Act. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved holding an in-camera meeting to discuss a solicitor-client privilege matter and two labour relations matters, authorized under Section 239(d) of the Municipal Act, 2001.

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee is meeting electronically to discuss the draft 2022 budget and public consultation. No delegations are registered at this time. The meeting is open to the public via live stream.

• Discussion of draft 2022 budget and public consultation
• No delegations registered
• Electronic meeting due to COVID-19

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee received an update on the 2022 budget public consultation process, noting 167 survey responses so far. Delegations from the Chamber of Commerce, Social Development Centre, Waterloo Region Economic Development Corporation, and African Women's Alliance presented, with the Social Development Centre requesting $63,200 in additional 2022 funding. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and informational.

• Received 2022 budget public consultation update (167 survey responses)
• Heard delegation from Greater Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber of Commerce
• Heard funding request of $63,200 from Social Development Centre of Waterloo Region
• Heard 2021 update from Waterloo Region Economic Development Corporation
• Heard support statement from African Women's Alliance for Social Development Centre funding

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee is reviewing the 2022 Operating Budget, including presentations from the Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as well as tax-supported and enterprise budgets. Final approval is scheduled for December 16, 2021. Public feedback is directed to budget sessions on November 15, 2021.

• 2022 Operating Budget review (FIN-2021-58)
• Introduction from Chief Administrative Officer
• General overview by Chief Financial Officer
• Tax Supported Operating Budget discussion
• Enterprise Operating Budgets discussion

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee reviewed the proposed 2022 operating budget, which includes a 1.9% net tax levy increase (about $21 per year for the average home). The committee directed staff to prepare additional information on several budget-related items, including stormwater rates for school boards, building fees, a heritage planner position, snow removal near the Kitchener Market, and increasing Neighbours Day funding from $25,000 to $50,000. No final budget decisions were made at this meeting.

• Directed staff to report on stormwater rates not collected from school board properties
• Directed staff to report on possible building fee increases to reduce projected $1.4M deficit
• Directed staff to report on financial impacts of hiring one additional Heritage Planner FTE
• Directed staff to report on snow removal costs near Kitchener Market from King Street to LRT stop
• Directed staff to report on increasing Neighbours Day funding from $25k to $50k permanently

Special Council Meeting

This is a special electronic meeting of Kitchener City Council to ratify directions given to staff during an earlier committee meeting regarding the 2022 Operating Budget deliberations. The agenda also includes a by-law to confirm council actions and proceedings. The meeting is procedural in nature, with no other substantive items listed.

• Ratification of directions for 2022 Operating Budget deliberations
• By-law to confirm all actions and proceedings of Council

Council voted to direct staff to report on several 2022 operating budget matters, including stormwater rates, building fees, a heritage planner position, snow removal near the Kitchener Market, and enhancing Neighbours Day. The direction was carried, with a separate vote on sidewalk winter maintenance also carried. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved staff direction on 2022 operating budget items (carried)
• Approved separate direction on sidewalk winter maintenance (carried)
• Passed by-law 2021-088 to confirm council actions (carried)

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee is meeting electronically to hold public hearings on two proposed zoning by-law amendments under the Planning Act. The committee will receive staff presentations and public input before making recommendations. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA/21/005/H/CD at 210 Heritage Drive (Pioneer Tower Homes Inc.)
• Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA20/010/V/AP at 117 & 133 Vanier Drive (2385235 Ontario Ltd.)
• Public hearing reports DSD-2021-168 and DSD-2021-169
• Delegations by Kristen Barisdale of GSP Group for both items

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee approved two zoning by-law amendments. The first, for 210 Heritage Drive (Pioneer Tower Homes Inc.), was approved as recommended, including permission for minor variances. The second, for 117 & 133 Vanier Drive (2385235 Ontario Ltd.), was also approved, along with minor variances and endorsement of the Urban Design Brief. Both decisions were carried by the committee.

• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA21/005/H/CD for 210 Heritage Drive (Pioneer Tower Homes Inc.)
• Permitted minor variances for 210 Heritage Drive under Planning Act Section 45 (1.3 & 1.4)
• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA20/010/V/AP for 117 & 133 Vanier Drive (2385235 Ontario Ltd.)
• Permitted minor variances for 117 & 133 Vanier Drive under Planning Act Section 45 (1.3 & 1.4)
• Endorsed Urban Design Brief for 117 & 133 Vanier Drive, prepared by GSP Group

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The Community and Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting electronically to discuss three items: a funding agreement with the Kitchener Easy Riders Cycle Club, a proposed transfer of jurisdiction for Duke St W between Victoria Street and the rail corridor, and a consultant fee increase for RBJ Schlegel Park Phase 2. No delegations are scheduled. The meeting is open to the public via live stream.

• Funding agreement with Kitchener Easy Riders Cycle Club (CSD-2021-13)
• Transfer of jurisdiction for Duke St W between Victoria Street and the rail corridor (DSD-2021-174)
• Consultant fee increase for RBJ Schlegel Park Phase 2 (INS-2021-10)

The committee approved a funding agreement with the Kitchener Easy Riders Cycle Club for operations from December 2021 to May 2023, and supported the transfer of Duke Street West to the Region of Waterloo, including an active transportation underpass. It also approved a consultant fee increase for RBJ Schlegel Park Phase 2. All decisions were carried.

• Approved funding agreement with Kitchener Easy Riders Cycle Club (Carried)
• Supported transfer of Duke St W to Region of Waterloo (Carried)
• Supported active transportation underpass at Duke St rail corridor (Carried)
• Approved $108,898 consultant fee increase for RBJ Schlegel Park Phase 2 (Carried)

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

Kitchener's Finance and Corporate Services Committee meets electronically to discuss several staff reports, including proposed 2022 user fees, a review of the Brownfield Financial Incentive Program, a public art sculpture and policy amendment for McLennan Park, alternative voting methods for the 2022 municipal and school board election, and an update on the Digital Kitchener and Innovation Lab. No delegations are scheduled. The meeting is open to the public via live stream.

• 2022 User Fees (FIN-2021-57) — staff presentation on proposed fee changes
• Brownfield Financial Incentive Program Review (DSD-2021-162) — program review with staff presentation
• Public Art Sculpture 'Moments' at McLennan Park and Public Art Policy Amendment (DSD-2021-173)
• 2022 Municipal & School Board Election — Alternative Voting Methods (COR-2021-26) — includes internet voting options
• Digital Kitchener and Innovation Lab Update (COR-2021-28)

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee approved a paper-ballot election with decentralized tabulators for the 2022 Municipal Election, and directed staff to review a mail-in ballot registration program. The committee also approved the 2022 user fees, with cricket pitch and patio agreement fees referred to Council for further review. Additionally, the committee approved the deaccessioning of the public art sculpture 'Moments' and amended the Public Art Policy, and amended the Brownfield Financial Incentive Program by eliminating the 10% indirect cost allowance.

• Approved paper-ballot election with decentralized tabulators for 2022 Municipal Election (9-1)
• Directed staff to review mail-in ballot registration program and report back Nov 22, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 user fees, except cricket pitch and patio agreement fees referred to Council
• Approved deaccessioning and disposition of public art sculpture 'Moments' in McLennan Park
• Amended Public Art Policy GOV-COR-816 to include deaccessioning section 4.19
• Amended Brownfield Financial Incentive Program, eliminating 10% indirect cost allowance
• Directed staff to review repurposing Brownfield reduction for community benefits, possibly affordable housing
• Deferred Digital Kitchener and Innovation Lab update to Dec 6, 2021 meeting

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting called by the mayor to consider a motion from Councillor P. Singh regarding patio liquor regulations, plus two in-camera items and two by-laws. The motion asks the province to permanently continue relaxed rules for licensed patios and to let Kitchener join any pilot program. The in-camera items involve a lease for the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts and a land acquisition/disposition, with staff seeking direction. The by-laws include temporarily removing public right-of-way over parts of Ardelt Place and Ardelt Avenue, and confirming council actions.

• Motion urging Ontario to keep relaxed patio liquor rules permanently, including no AGCO approval for licensed-area extensions and flexible patio demarcation
• In-camera discussion on lease agreement for Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts
• In-camera discussion on a land acquisition/disposition matter
• By-law to temporarily remove public right-of-way over parts of Ardelt Place and Ardelt Avenue
• By-law to confirm council actions

Council waived notice and awarded a $125,026.59 contract to WSP Canada Inc. for a Chicopee Hill Trail feasibility study. It also passed a motion urging the Province of Ontario to permanently relax liquor licence and patio regulations, and authorized an in-camera meeting for land matters. Two by-laws were passed, including one to temporarily close part of Ardelt Place and Ardelt Avenue.

• Waived notice to consider Chicopee Hill Trail feasibility study tender (carried)
• Awarded Q21-101 consulting services to WSP Canada Inc. for $125,026.59 total (carried)
• Passed motion urging Province to continue relaxed AGCO patio regulations (8-0)
• Authorized in-camera meeting for land acquisition/disposition matters (carried)
• Passed by-law 2021-086 to temporarily remove public right of passage on Ardelt Place and Ardelt Avenue (carried)
• Passed by-law 2021-087 to confirm council actions (carried)

Council Meeting

Council will consider a committee recommendation to reduce speed limits on all residential streets from 50 km/h to 40 km/h, with further reductions to 30 km/h in school zones and on neighbourhood bikeways. Council will also vote on adding 20 firefighters over four years and opening a new fire station by 2026, and on a $282,000 contract increase for engineering services at the Old Mill sanitary pumping station. Two motions are on the agenda: one urging the province to address 'renovictions' and another calling for a provincial vaccine passport with business supports.

Council approved reducing speed limits in all residential neighbourhoods from 50 km/h to 40 km/h, with further reductions to 30 km/h in school zones and signed neighbourhood bikeways. The capital costs will be considered in the 2022 budget. Council also approved adding 20 new firefighters over four years and opening a new fire station in 2026, and passed motions urging the province to support businesses with vaccine passport costs and to address 'renovictions'.

• Approved residential speed limit reduction to 40 km/h (10-1)
• Approved 30 km/h in school zones and neighbourhood bikeways (10-1)
• Approved adding 20 firefighters and new fire station by 2026
• Approved $282,700 contract increase for Old Mill Sanitary Pumping Station
• Approved demolition at 60 Trussler Road
• Approved Official Plan and Zoning amendments for 61 & 65 Roy Street
• Approved motion urging province to fund vaccine passport costs for businesses
• Approved motion lobbying province on 'renovictions' (11-0)

Special Council Meeting

This is a special electronic meeting of Kitchener City Council. The public portion is largely procedural, with no delegations scheduled. The main business is authorizing an in-camera (closed) session to discuss two items: follow-up on vaccine strategies for third parties accessing indoor city facilities, and a potential land disposition for affordable housing.

• Authorization of in-camera meeting under Municipal Act sections 239(2)(c) and (f)
• Discussion of vaccine strategies for third parties accessing indoor areas of city facilities
• Potential land disposition related to affordable housing

The special council meeting was brief and procedural. Council authorized an in-camera meeting to discuss solicitor-client privileged matters and land acquisition/disposition under the Municipal Act. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Authorized in-camera meeting for solicitor-client privilege and land acquisition/disposition (carried)

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee is meeting electronically to consider a demolition control application, hold a public hearing on an official plan and zoning by-law amendment for 61 and 65 Roy Street, and discuss the 2021 annual monitoring report of the Kitchener Growth Management Strategy. No delegations are registered. The meeting is open to the public via live stream.

• Demolition control application DC21/028/T/ES for 60 Trussler Road by Elev8 Properties Inc.
• Public hearing on Official Plan Amendment OPA21/006/R/TS and Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA21/009/R/TS for 61 and 65 Roy Street by The Windermere Apartments Inc. and Roy Street Investments Inc.
• Discussion of Kitchener Growth Management Strategy 2021 Annual Monitoring Report (DSD-2021-164)

The committee approved a demolition control application for 60 Trussler Road and an official plan and zoning amendment for 61 & 65 Roy Street to convert vacant office units to residential. It also approved submitting the 2021 Growth Management Strategy Annual Monitoring Report to the Region of Waterloo. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved demolition control application DC21/028/T/ES for 60 Trussler Road (carried)
• Adopted Official Plan Amendment OPA21/006/R/TS for 61 & 65 Roy Street, forwarded to Region of Waterloo (carried)
• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA21/009/R/TS for 61 & 65 Roy Street (carried)
• Approved submission of Kitchener Growth Management Strategy 2021 Annual Monitoring Report to Region of Waterloo (carried)

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The Community and Infrastructure Services Committee is meeting electronically to discuss three staff reports: a neighbourhood speed limit review, adding staff for proactive sidewalk enforcement, and a fire department response time and staffing review. One consent item, a consultant contract increase for the Old Mill Sanitary Pumping Station, will be approved without debate unless a member requests discussion. No delegations are scheduled.

• Old Mill Sanitary Pumping Station consultant contract increase (DSD-2021-166)
• Neighbourhood Speed Limit Review (DSD-2021-177)
• Additional Staff for Proactive Sidewalk Enforcement (CSD-2021-15)
• Fire Department Suppression Response Time & Staffing Review (CSD-2021-17)

The committee approved lowering speed limits in all residential neighbourhoods from 50 km/h to 40 km/h, with further reductions to 30 km/h in school zones and along signed neighbourhood bikeways. It also approved increasing a consultant contract for the Old Mill Sanitary Pumping Station by $282,700, referred sidewalk enforcement expansion to the 2022 budget with a one-time funding directive for winter 2021, and approved adding 20 firefighters and a new fire station by 2026. All decisions were carried, with the fire staffing plan passing unanimously (11-0).

• Approved reducing residential speed limits to 40 km/h, with 30 km/h in school zones and bikeways (carried)
• Approved $282,700 contract increase for MTE Consultants Inc. for Old Mill Sanitary Pumping Station engineering (carried)
• Referred sidewalk enforcement expansion to 2022 budget, directing staff to find one-time funding for winter 2021 (carried)
• Approved plan to add 20 firefighters over four years and open a new fire station in 2026 (11-0)

Special Council Meeting

The City Council is meeting to consider a proposed merger between Kitchener Wilmot Hydro and Waterloo North Hydro. Additionally, council will review a contract for Dell data licenses and an update to the 2022 budget meeting schedule.

• Proposed merger of Kitchener Wilmot Hydro and Waterloo North Hydro
• Awarding of $149,192.77 to CDW Canada Corp. for Dell Data Domain Virtual Edition licenses
• Addition of November 30, 2021, to the 2022 Budget Meeting Schedule

Council unanimously approved a Memorandum of Understanding for a proposed merger between Kitchener Wilmot Hydro and Waterloo North Hydro, as outlined in report FIN-2021-56. Council also awarded a contract for Dell Data Domain Virtual Edition licenses to CDW Canada Corp. for $149,192.77, and added November 30, 2021 to the 2022 Budget Meeting Schedule. An in-camera meeting was authorized to discuss labour relations and solicitor-client privilege matters, and the CAO was authorized to address labour relations matters per in-camera instructions.

• Approved the Memorandum of Understanding for the proposed merger between Kitchener Wilmot Hydro and Waterloo North Hydro (FIN-2021-56), carried unanimously (11-0).
• Awarded Q21-119 Dell Data Domain Virtual Edition (DDVE) Licenses to CDW Canada Corp. at a total cost of $149,192.77 (including H.S.T.).
• Added November 30, 2021 to the 2022 Budget Meeting Schedule (FIN-2021-55).
• Authorized an in-camera meeting to consider labour relations and solicitor-client privilege matters.
• Authorized the CAO to address labour relations matters in accordance with in-camera instructions.
• Passed By-law No. 2021-077 to confirm all actions and proceedings of Council.

Special Council Meeting

Kitchener City Council is holding a special electronic meeting to waive notice and authorize an in-camera session. The closed session will discuss KW Hydro due diligence as a commercial/contractual negotiation matter. The meeting is open to the public via livestream, with written comments accepted.

• Waive notice for special meeting deemed urgent
• Authorize in-camera meeting under Municipal Act Section 239(2)(i)
• KW Hydro due diligence discussion (commercial/contractual)
• Electronic meeting due to COVID-19; public livestream available

The special council meeting was held to address an urgent matter, with notice waived. Council authorized an in-camera session to discuss a commercial or contractual negotiation matter. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Waived notice for special meeting (carried)
• Authorized in-camera meeting for commercial/contractual negotiation (carried)

Council Meeting

Kitchener City Council is meeting electronically to consider a range of items, including awarding a $2.58 million decorative lighting supply contract, approving a new community grant program for Black, Indigenous, and racialized groups, and granting draft approval for two condominium developments. The agenda also includes routine approvals of minutes, by-laws, and tax write-offs, as well as reports from committees and staff.

• Award $2,582,737.04 contract to Gerrie Electric Wholesale Ltd. for decorative outdoor lighting
• Approve $50,000/year community grant program for Black, Indigenous & Racialized groups, funded by $138,000 reallocation
• Draft approval for condominium at 60 Trussler Road (30CDM-21207)
• Draft approval for condominium and demolition at 99-109 North Hill Place & 29 Chicopee Terrace (30CDM-20206)
• Approve tax write-offs/cancellations/refunds totaling $735,224.27

Council approved a business licence for Floaters, Inc. to relocate its payday loan establishment to 78 King Street West, overriding a staff recommendation to refuse the application. Council also directed staff to prepare a by-law to amend the Business Licensing chapter to add this address to the list of permitted locations. The decision was made despite a staff report recommending refusal.

• Approved a payday loan business licence for Floaters, Inc. at 78 King Street West, overriding a staff recommendation to refuse.
• Directed staff to prepare a by-law to amend Chapter 599 (Business Licensing) to add 78 King Street West to the list of permitted payday loan locations.
• Approved the External Audit Planning Report for fiscal year 2021, prepared by KPMG.
• Granted draft approval for a condominium development at 99-109 North Hill Place & 29 Chicopee Terrace, including demolition of four dwellings, with conditions for fencing and stormwater management.
• Approved a new Community Grant Program for Black, Indigenous & Racialized groups with a $50,000 annual budget for the first three years, funded by reallocating $138,000 from the unused Community Grants balance.
• Approved amendments to the Uniform Traffic Bylaw to prohibit U-turns on Seabrook Drive and Amand Drive near Janet Metcalfe Public School.
• Awarded a contract for decorative outdoor lighting to Gerrie Electric Wholesale Ltd. for a total of $2,582,737.04.
• Approved tax write-offs, cancellations, refunds, or reductions totalling $735,224.27.

Special Council Meeting

This is a special electronic meeting of Kitchener City Council. The main business is authorizing an in-camera (closed) session to discuss solicitor-client privilege, commercial information related to KW Hydro due diligence, and a leadership development session. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with delegations and a land acknowledgement.

• Authorization of in-camera meeting under Municipal Act sections 239(2)(f), (i), and (3.1)(1)
• KW Hydro due diligence discussion (120 minutes, in-camera)
• Waiver of privilege discussion (5 minutes, in-camera)
• Leadership development training session (60 minutes, in-camera)
• Delegations must register by 8:30 a.m. on September 20, 2021

The special council meeting was procedural only. Council waived notice to add an in-camera item about municipal property security, then authorized a closed session to discuss three matters: property security, solicitor-client privilege, and commercial/contractual negotiations. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Waived notice requirement to add an in-camera item on municipal property security (carried)
• Authorized in-camera meeting to discuss property security, solicitor-client privilege, and commercial negotiations (carried)

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee is holding a public meeting to consider two draft plans of condominium (vacant land) under the Planning Act, and to discuss an update to the City of Kitchener Development Manual. Public comments are invited electronically due to COVID-19 restrictions.

• Draft Plan of Condominium 30CDM-21207 at 60 Trussler Road by Elev8 Properties Inc.
• Draft Plan of Condominium 30CDM-20206 and Demolition Control DC21/019/N/ES at 99-109 North Hill Place & 29 Chicopee Terrace by 99 North Hill Place Inc.
• Discussion of City of Kitchener Development Manual Update (DSD-2021-161)

The committee granted draft approval for a vacant-land condominium at 60 Trussler Road, subject to conditions. It referred a decision on a condominium and demolition at 99-109 North Hill Place and 29 Chicopee Terrace to the September 20 Council meeting to get cost estimates for road improvements and confirm developer commitments. The committee also adopted an updated City of Kitchener Development Manual, with a review schedule and delegated authority for minor changes.

• Approved draft condominium plan 30CDM-21207 at 60 Trussler Road (carried)
• Referred decision on condominium 30CDM-20206 and demolition at 99-109 North Hill Place & 29 Chicopee Terrace to Council (carried)
• Adopted updated City of Kitchener Development Manual (carried)
• Set Development Manual review every 2 years (minor) and 5 years (major) (carried)
• Authorized General Manager of Development Services to approve minor Development Manual changes (carried)

Special Council Meeting

Kitchener City Council is holding a special electronic meeting to authorize an in-camera session on a land acquisition/disposition matter and a labour relations matter, both under the Municipal Act. The meeting also includes delegations and a by-law to confirm council actions. The agenda is largely procedural, with substantive discussion occurring behind closed doors.

• In-camera authorization for land acquisition/disposition (Section 239(2)(c))
• In-camera authorization for human resources policy/labour relations (Section 239(2)(d))
• Delegations permitted up to 5 minutes, registration by 12:00 p.m. on September 13, 2021
• By-law to confirm all actions and proceedings of Council

The special council meeting was held electronically on September 13, 2021, and included a land acknowledgement. Council passed a motion to hold an in-camera meeting immediately after the public session to discuss a land acquisition/disposition matter and a labour relations matter, as permitted by the Municipal Act. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned shortly after.

• Authorized in-camera meeting for land acquisition/disposition and labour relations (carried)

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee is meeting electronically to consider consent items and discuss two main topics: a proposed Community Grant Program for Black, Indigenous and Racialized groups, and new terms of reference for the Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee. The meeting also includes information on observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

• Consent: DSD-2021-89 Temporary Artwork Agreements
• Consent: DSD-2021-117 Janet Metcalfe Public School Traffic Safety Improvements
• Discussion: COR-2021-22 Community Grant Program for Black, Indigenous & Racialized Groups & Organizations
• Discussion: DSD-2021-126 Active Transportation & Trails Advisory Committee New Terms of Reference
• Information: COR-2021-23 Indigenous Initiatives: Observance of National Day for Truth & Reconciliation

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee approved a new grant program for Black, Indigenous & Racialized Communities in Kitchener, with an annual budget of $50,000 for the first three years, funded by reallocating $138,000 from the unused Community Grants balance. The committee also authorized the Executive Director of Economic Development to execute temporary artwork agreements valued under $10,000, and amended the Uniform Traffic By-law to prohibit U-turns on specific streets near Janet Metcalfe Public School. Additionally, the committee approved changing the Kitchener Cycling and Trails Advisory Committee's name and mandate to the Kitchener Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee, effective January 1, 2022.

• Approved a $50,000/year grant program for Black, Indigenous & Racialized Communities, funded by reallocating $138,000 from unused Community Grants balance
• Authorized the Executive Director of Economic Development to execute temporary artwork agreements valued under $10,000
• Amended the Uniform Traffic By-law to prohibit U-turns on Seabrook Drive and Amand Drive near Janet Metcalfe Public School
• Changed the Kitchener Cycling and Trails Advisory Committee to the Kitchener Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee, effective January 1, 2022
• Directed staff to report back after year one of the grant program on supported projects
• Directed the City to begin collecting and reporting demographic data for organizations receiving grants in all other grant streams starting Fall 2021