Kitchener public meetings in 2025

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City Council is presented with an Electronic Council Communication Information Package containing various inter‑municipal correspondences. The package is for information only and does not constitute a formal agenda. No decisions or votes are scheduled for this meeting. Items may be proposed for future committee agendas by contacting the Municipal Clerk.

• Region of Waterloo correspondence
• City of Hamilton – Drowning Prevention and Swim Safety in Ontario
• Township of Nairn and Hyman – Nation Building Improvements to Highway 11‑17
• Township of Perry – Removal of HST/GST from New Homes
• Town of Smith Falls – Curbside Blue Box Collection

Climate Change and Environment Committee

The Climate Change and Environment Committee announced that the meeting scheduled for Thursday, December 18, 2025 has been cancelled. No agenda items were discussed or decided. The cancellation notice was the sole item on the agenda.

• Meeting cancellation – the Dec 18, 2025 Climate Change and Environment Committee meeting was cancelled.

Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee (GRAAC)

The Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee will hear a presentation on the City of Waterloo’s Multi‑Year Accessibility Plan, followed by the Region of Waterloo’s status update on its own plan, a discussion on TTY usage, and a report from the Built Environment Sub‑Committee. No formal decisions are listed; the items are for information and discussion.

• Multi Year Accessibility Plan – City of Waterloo (presentation by Amy Ross)
• Multi Year Accessibility Plan Status Update – Region of Waterloo (presentation by Haley Gienow‑McConnell)
• TTY Usage – Region of Waterloo (presentation by Haley Gienow‑McConnell)
• The Built Environment Sub Committee Report

Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Economic Development Advisory Committee will meet on December 17, 2025 to discuss updates from staff and public delegations. A key agenda item is the review and amendment of the MIK 2.0 pillars based on committee feedback. The meeting also includes routine items such as the commencement, disclosure of pecuniary interests, and adjournment.

• Review and amend MIK 2.0 pillars (Discussion Item 4.2)
• Delegations and standard updates from staff (Discussion Item 4.1)
• Disclosure of pecuniary interest (Item 2)
• Delegations registration and presentation (Item 3)
• Adjournment (Item 6)

The Economic Development Advisory Committee approved scheduling stakeholder roundtables with industry leaders to be held prior to the January meeting. The committee also encouraged members to share relevant articles and trends for discussion at future meetings. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Stakeholder roundtables with industry leaders scheduled before January meeting
• Committee encouraged sharing relevant articles and trends for future discussion

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee will hold a formal public hearing regarding the Missing Middle and Affordable Housing Community Improvement Plan Update (DSD-2025-494). This meeting serves as the official statutory public planning meeting after a previous session on December 1, 2025, was not conducted as such due to advertising legislation issues.

• Public hearing for Missing Middle and Affordable Housing Community Improvement Plan Update (DSD-2025-494)
• By-law to Designate Community Improvement Plan Area
• By-law to adopt Community Improvement Plan

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee voted to approve the Community Improvement Project Area By-law (Attachment A) and the Missing Middle and Affordable Housing Community Improvement Plan By-law (Attachment B). A separate motion to adopt program requirements for projects within 1500 m of rapid transit was also carried. All motions were carried despite several councillors declaring conflicts of interest.

• Approve Community Improvement Project Area By-law (Attachment A) – Carried
• Approve Missing Middle and Affordable Housing Community Improvement Plan By-law (Attachment B) – Carried
• Adopt program requirements for projects within 1500 m of rapid transit – Carried
• Approve staff recommendation DSD-2025-494 – Carried

Special Council Meeting

City Council will authorize an in-camera meeting to discuss legal advice, land disposition, potential litigation, and land acquisition strategies. The meeting will recess at 4:30 p.m. and reconvene at 5:30 p.m. to consider the remaining items.

• Authorization for in-camera meeting on legal and land matters
• Legal advice regarding a land lease (solicitor-client privilege)
• Recreation facility lease agreement (potential land disposition)
• City facility procurement procedure for negotiations
• Potential litigation regarding Building Code Act and Planning Act

The council moved and seconded a motion to hold an in‑camera meeting immediately after the special council meeting to consider solicitor‑client privilege, potential land disposition, litigation, and negotiation matters. The motion was carried. The council then adjourned the meeting.

• Authorized in‑camera meeting to consider solicitor‑client privilege, land disposition, litigation, and negotiation matters (carried)
• Adjourned the special council meeting (carried)

Council Meeting

Council will consider a notice of motion by Councillor B. Ioannidis to lower the Inclusionary Zoning set‑aside rates in Protected Major Transit Station Areas from 2 % to 0.5 % and from 1 % to 0.25 %, with the rates to remain for 2026‑2027 and staff directed to prepare the required Official Plan and Zoning By‑law amendments. The council will also approve heritage permits for demolition and redevelopment at 1385 Bleams Road, and at 50‑56 Weber Street West and 107 Young Street, subject to conditions outlined in the Development Services reports. Additional financial actions include increasing the Dundee Secondary Plan and Environmental Assessment purchase order by $200,000 plus $26,000 HST, and extending a purchase order for street reconstruction on Ann, Becker and Fife Streets by $496,400.34, funded by the Ministry of Transportation and surplus funds.

• Notice of Motion – reduce Inclusionary Zoning set‑aside rates to 0.5 % and 0.25 % in PMTSAs (item 9.2)
• Heritage Permit HPA‑2025‑IV‑024 – approve demolition at 1385 Bleams Road (item 7.1.a)
• Heritage Permit HPA‑2025‑V‑025 – approve demolition and 8‑storey building at 50‑56 Weber Street West and 107 Young Street (item 7.1.b)
• Increase Purchase Order 213285 for Dundee Secondary Plan and Environmental Assessment by $200,000 plus $26,000 HST (total $226,000) (item 7.2.f)
• Extend Purchase Order for Ann, Becker and Fife Street reconstruction, increasing amount by $496,400.34 (item 7.2.g)

The council approved the minutes from previous meetings. It appointed new and renewed members to the Centre in the Square board and expanded the board to fifteen directors. A heritage permit for 1385 Bleams Road was approved with several conditions. The motion to change inclusionary zoning set‑aside rates for the Downtown Core was defeated.

• Approved minutes of Nov 10, Dec 1 and Dec 11 meetings – carried
• Appointed Tony Giovinazzo as Centre in the Square board director (3‑year term) – carried
• Renewed Alex Kinsella and Kayleigh Platz as board directors (3‑year terms) – carried
• Renewed Dan Carli as chair (2‑year term) – carried
• Adopted by‑law to expand Centre in the Square board to 15 members – carried
• Approved Heritage Permit for 1385 Bleams Road with four conditions – carried
• Inclusionary Zoning set‑aside rates motion lost (3 for, 8 against) – defeated

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee will receive a brief presentation on the 2026 Internal Audit Work Plan (CAO‑2025‑477) and review the 4th Quarter 2025 Audit Status Report (CAO‑2025‑478). The committee will consider the proposed audit activities for 2026 and receive updates on audit findings for 2025. No formal motions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• 2026 Internal Audit Work Plan – presentation (CAO‑2025‑477)
• 4th Quarter 2025 Audit Status Report – presentation (CAO‑2025‑478)
• Delegations – none submitted
• Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest – required statements

The Audit Committee approved the 2026 Internal Audit work plan as outlined in report CAO‑2025‑477. No pecuniary conflicts were disclosed. The committee also reviewed the 4th quarter 2025 audit status report but took no further action. The meeting adjourned at 2:58 p.m.

• Approved 2026 Internal Audit work plan (motion by Councillor P. Singh, carried)

Dog Designation Appeal Committee

The Dog Designation Appeal Committee will hold an in‑camera session for education and training, then reconvene publicly at 10:00 a.m. to consider two appeals concerning dangerous or potentially dangerous dog designations. The appeals involve Choloe Ashley Hillier’s dog “Atheena” and Hannah Miller’s dog “Koda,” both reviewed by Officer Kevin Nguyen.

• Authorize an in‑camera meeting for education and training under Municipal Act §239(3.1)
• Appeal #2025-09 – Dangerous Dog Designation, appellant Choloe Ashley Hillier (“Atheena”), Officer Kevin Nguyen
• Appeal #2025-10 – Potentially Dangerous Dog Designation, appellant Hannah Miller (“Koda”), Officer Kevin Nguyen

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

This is an information package only and is not a meeting agenda for Council or Committee. It contains correspondence received by staff for the information of Council.

• Region of Waterloo WRHN Councillor Letter
• County of Brant correspondence on Automated Speed Enforcement
• Correspondence from South Huron, Ingersoll, and Perth regarding Conservation Authorities
• Township of Minden Hills correspondence on Strong Mayor Powers
• Town of Smiths Falls correspondence on Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF)

Special Council Meeting

The council will hear a mayoral update that includes the proposed 2026 municipal budget. Council members will also consider three readings of By‑law 2025‑138 to confirm the actions and proceedings of the meeting. Standard procedural items such as a land acknowledgement, disclosure of pecuniary interests, and adjournment are also on the agenda.

• Land Acknowledgement by the Mayor
• Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof
• Mayor's Proposed Budget 2026
• Three Readings of By‑law 2025‑138 to confirm council actions
• Adjournment

The council voted to receive the Mayor’s proposed 2026 budget and directed staff to implement it, with the motion carried unanimously. A separate motion exempting budget items involving the Library Board and certain capital projects from conflict‑of‑interest restrictions was also carried unanimously. The council gave third reading and passed By‑law 2025‑138, confirming the actions and proceedings of the December 11 meeting.

• Approved implementation of the Mayor’s 2026 budget (unanimous)
• Approved exemption of Library Board and specified capital project items from conflict‑of‑interest restrictions (unanimous)
• Passed By‑law 2025‑138 confirming council actions (unanimous)

Property Standards Committee

The Property Standards Committee will hold a public hearing on Appeal #2025-09 concerning 130 Peter Street, requesting an extension to comply with a previous order. The meeting also includes standard procedural items such as commencement, disclosure of pecuniary interests, and adjournment. The hearing may be video recorded for internal minutes, but the recording will not be made public.

• Commencement
• Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest
• Appeal #2025-09 – 130 Peter Street, extension to comply with order
• Adjournment

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is meeting to review applications for minor variances and land consents. The body will decide on requests regarding parking requirements, building setbacks, and the severing of land parcels for new residential developments.

• 630 Benninger Drive: Proposal for 231 dwelling units and 6 commercial live-work units
• 50-56 Weber Street West & 107 Young Street: Proposal for 33 dwelling units with a building height of 24m
• 131 Gage Avenue: Proposal for a 3-storey multiple dwelling with 36 dwelling units
• 67 & 71 Blucher Street: Request to sever land for 10 townhouse units and 4 townhouse units
• 776 Rockway Drive and 104 Brentwood Avenue: Requests to sever land for semi-detached dwellings with 3 additional dwelling units each

The Committee of Adjustment approved four minor‑variance applications. The approvals cover a 33‑unit residential building with 68 parking spaces on Weber Street/Young Street, a health‑clinic parking reduction at 2922 King Street East, a multi‑unit residential development at 630 Benninger Drive, and a rear‑yard setback for an addition and deck at 455 Old Chicopee Trail. All motions were moved, seconded and carried.

• Approved A 2025‑125 (Weber St & Young St) – 33 dwelling units, 68 parking spaces (motion carried)
• Approved A 2025‑117 (2922 King St East) – health clinic parking reduced to 17 spaces (motion carried)
• Approved A 2025‑118 (630 Benninger Dr) – 231 units, 330 parking spaces, with conditions (motion carried)
• Approved A 2025‑119 (455 Old Chicopee Trail) – rear‑yard setbacks for addition and deck (motion carried)

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

This is an information package only and not a meeting agenda for Council or Committee. It contains correspondence received by staff for the information of Council.

• GRCA correspondence regarding Bill 68 and proposed consolidation of Conservation Authorities
• Town of East Gwillimbury opposition to the Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act
• Town of Rainy River support for City of Kitchener regarding paper billing
• Township of Puslinch support for other municipalities regarding Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund
• Township of Southwold correspondence on Conservation Authority Consolidation

Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee

The Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee will debrief a recent chair/vice‑chair meeting, receive an engagement update for the 2026 Strategic Plan, and review and finalize the draft evaluation for the District Energy Project. Members will also assess the completed staff evaluation for the Procurement Innovation Project and review the minutes from the November 5 meeting.

• All Advisory Committees Chair & Vice‑Chair meeting debrief (10 min)
• 2026 Strategic Plan engagement update presentation (30 min)
• District Energy Project – finalize draft evaluation (15 min)
• Procurement Innovation Project – review staff evaluation template (30 min)
• Review of previous meeting minutes (5 min)

The committee decided to request staff responses to three specific questions about the Procurement Innovation Project within one week and to distribute those answers before the next meeting. They allocated five minutes on the agenda of the January meeting to determine the final evaluation of the project. Members also agreed to correct two references from “Direct” Energy to “District” Energy in the draft District Energy Project evaluation. No other substantive motions were recorded.

• Requested staff to answer three Procurement Innovation Project questions (one‑week deadline) – agreed
• Allocated five minutes at the January meeting to decide final project evaluation – agreed
• Agreed to change two “Direct” Energy references to “District” Energy in draft evaluation – agreed
• Requested a presentation from the Procurement Innovation Project manager for more context – agreed
• Sent follow‑up questions to staff on participant selection, problem statements, and pilot takeaways – agreed
• Reviewed and accepted the November 5 minutes – completed
• Noted next All Advisory Committee meeting will be public and agenda posted online – noted

Heritage Kitchener Committee

The Heritage Kitchener Committee will discuss three heritage permit applications for 1385 Bleams Road, 50-56 Weber Street West and 107 Young Street, and 115-119 King Street West. It will also review a proposed update to the Delegated Approval Authority By-law. Additionally, the committee will receive status updates on the Bill 23 Municipal Heritage Register Review, including recent updates for 350 Park Street and 44 Rusholme Road.

• Heritage Permit Application HPA-2025-IV-024 – 1385 Bleams Road
• Heritage Permit Application HPA-2025-V-025 – 50-56 Weber Street West and 107 Young Street
• Heritage Permit Application HPA-2025-IV-026 – 115-119 King Street West
• Update to Delegated Approval Authority By-law (DSD-2025-465)
• Status updates on Bill 23 Municipal Heritage Register Review (350 Park Street, 44 Rusholme Rd)

The Heritage Kitchener Committee approved three heritage permit applications for demolition, construction and façade repairs. It adopted an amendment to the Delegated Approval Authority By‑law, changing how Part IV and Part V applications are processed. The committee also designated two properties for heritage recognition under Bill 23. All items were carried by the committee.

• Approved Heritage Permit HPA-2025-IV-024 for demolition of shed, additions and belfry at 1385 Bleams Road (Carried)
• Approved Heritage Permit HPA-2025-V-025 for demolition of rear porch and construction of an 8‑storey building at 50‑56 Weber St West and 107 Young St (Carried)
• Approved Heritage Permit HPA-2025-IV-026 for façade repairs at 115‑119 King St West (Carried unanimously)
• Adopted amendment to Delegated Approval Authority By‑law to delegate Part IV applications to staff (Carried)
• Adopted recommendation to repeal and replace Chapter 642 of the Municipal Code on heritage consent (Carried, as amended)
• Designated 350 Park Street and 44 Rusholme Road for heritage recognition under Bill 23 (Carried unanimously)

Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee

The Kitchener Equity and Anti‑Racism Advisory Committee will consider a resolution to hold an in‑camera meeting about a personal matter involving a city or local‑board employee. Members will also review individual applications and reach consensus on the Fall 2025 RISE Fund grant recipients. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as a land acknowledgement, conflict‑of‑interest disclosure, and adjournment.

• Resolution to authorize an in‑camera meeting on a personal matter involving city or local‑board employees
• Group review and consensus decision on Fall 2025 RISE Fund grant recipients
• Land acknowledgement at commencement
• Disclosure of pecuniary interests by committee members
• Adjournment

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The City of Kitchener Finance and Corporate Services Committee meeting scheduled for December 1, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered or decided. No documents or attachments were provided.

• Meeting cancellation – no items were discussed or decided

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee will approve several consent items without debate, including the elimination of return envelopes and a license agreement for Victus Hockey Academy at Sportsworld Arena. Staff will present a draft 2025 Community Engagement Policy for discussion. A public hearing will be held on the Missing Middle and Affordable Housing Community Improvement Plan. The committee will also receive the Q4 Quarterly Planning Report.

• Elimination of Return Envelopes – FIN-2025-407 (consent item)
• Victus Hockey Academy LP License Agreement at Sportsworld Arena – CSD-2025-472 (consent item)
• Project Funding Increase for Dundee Secondary Plan and Environmental Assessment – DSD-2025-469 (consent item)
• Missing Middle and Affordable Housing Community Improvement Plan – DSD-2025-371 (public hearing)
• Quarterly Planning Report (Q4) – DSD-2025-470 (information item)

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee voted to stop including return envelopes with mailed paper bills, effective Feb. 1 2026. It also approved several funding and policy items, including a $226,000 increase for the Dundee Secondary Plan, a $496,400.34 increase for street‑reconstruction contracts, and amendments to HR and community‑engagement policies.

• Discontinue return envelopes with mailed paper bills effective Feb 1 2026 (8‑2 vote)
• Authorize license agreement with Victus Academy LP for space at 35 Sportsworld Crossing Road (Carried)
• Approve modernized Human Resources policies and repeal redundant ones (Carried)
• Approve draft policy under Municipal Act Section 357(g) (Carried)
• Approve draft by‑law delegating tax‑relief authority to the Assessment Review Board (Carried)
• Increase purchase order 213285 for Dundee Secondary Plan and Environmental Assessment to $226,000 (Carried)
• Increase purchase order for Ann, Becker and Fife Street reconstruction contract by $496,400.34 (Carried)
• Amend Community Engagement Policy per Attachment A (Carried)

Special Council Meeting

The special council meeting will review the Mayor's proposed 2026 budget (FIN-2025-492) and related attachments. Council will vote on a resolution to hold an in‑camera session to discuss solicitor‑client privilege, labour‑relations, and land‑acquisition matters. A three‑reading by‑law (2025-137) will be considered to confirm the council's actions on December 1, 2025. An informational notice about a joint meeting with the Region of Waterloo on December 19, 2025 is also included.

• Mayor's Proposed 2026 Budget – FIN-2025-492 with four attachments
• Resolution to authorize an in‑camera meeting on solicitor‑client privilege, labour‑relations, and land acquisition
• By‑law 2025-137 – three readings to confirm council actions for December 1, 2025
• Notice of joint meeting with the Region of Waterloo and area municipalities on Dec 19, 2025
• Certificates of Achievement presentations

The council approved an in‑camera meeting to consider solicitor‑client privilege, labour‑relations and land‑acquisition matters. It also gave third reading to By‑law 2025‑137, which confirms all council actions and proceedings of December 1, 2025. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Authorized in‑camera meeting to consider solicitor‑client privilege, labour‑relations and land‑acquisition matters (motion carried)
• Passed By‑law 2025‑137 confirming council actions for Dec 1, 2025 (third reading carried)

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The City of Kitchener’s Community and Infrastructure Services Committee meeting scheduled for Monday, December 1, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were presented for discussion or decision. The cancellation notice was issued by Committee Coordinator Marilyn Mills.

• Meeting cancellation notice – no items considered

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City of Kitchener Council will review an Electronic Council Communication Information Package on Friday, November 28, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. The package contains correspondence from regional municipalities, other municipal bodies, and provincial/federal governments for informational purposes only. No decisions or resolutions will be made on these items during this meeting.

• City of Brantford - Professional Activity (P.A) Day on Municipal Election Day (November 28, 2025)
• City of Waterloo - High Performance Aquatics Facility Feasibility (November 27, 2025)
• City of Windsor - Bill 68 - Conservation Authorities Act (November 28, 2025)
• Municipality of Callander - Support Larder Lake Re Moratorium on Glyphosate Spraying (November 18, 2025)
• Municipality of Calvin - Strengthening Self Defence Protections and Addressing Rising Home Invasions (November 26, 2025)

Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee (GRAAC)

The Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting to provide advice on removing barriers. The committee will discuss website updates for the cities of Kitchener and Waterloo and review the City of Kitchener's Official Plan.

• City of Kitchener website refresh discussion
• City of Waterloo website refresh discussion
• City of Kitchener Official Plan review
• Township of Woolwich 2025 Accessibility Status Update
• Region of Waterloo plan and budget engagement feedback

Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Economic Development Advisory Committee will review a presentation on Kitchener's economic trajectory and diversification opportunities. The meeting also includes an overview of the first draft of the Kitchener 2051 Official Plan.

• Presentation by Eric Protzer (Minerva’s Economics) on economic trajectory and diversification
• Review of the Kitchener 2051 First Draft Official Plan presented by Senior Planner John Zunic

The committee instructed members to email their responses to the SWOT discussion questions before the next meeting. It also asked the public to submit comments on the Draft Official Plan via the EngageWR website or email by December 12, 2025. No other decisions or votes were recorded.

• Members to email responses to SWOT discussion questions (deadline before next meeting)
• Public to submit comments on Draft Official Plan via EngageWR page or email by Dec 12 2025

Property Standards Committee

The Property Standards Committee will hear two appeals requesting extensions to comply with existing orders for properties at 128 Weber Street East and 320 Ottawa Street South. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as commencement, disclosure of pecuniary interests, and adjournment. No decisions are recorded; the committee conducts a quasi‑judicial hearing.

• Commencement
• Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest
• Appeal #2024-02 – 128 Weber Street East – extension to comply with order
• Appeal #2025-13 – 320 Ottawa Street South – extension to comply with order
• Adjournment

Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee

The Equity and Anti‑Racism Advisory Committee will consider a resolution to hold an in‑camera meeting to address a personal matter involving a city employee. Members will then conduct a group review of the Fall 2025 RISE Fund applications and aim to reach consensus on the grant recipients. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as a land acknowledgement and conflict‑of‑interest disclosure.

• Resolution to authorize an in‑camera meeting under the Municipal Act, 2001
• Group review and consensus decision on Fall 2025 RISE Fund grant recipients

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee is meeting to receive public feedback regarding the 2026 Budget. The session includes a delegation from the Waterloo Region Immigration Partnership Council.

• Public consultation on the 2026 Budget
• Delegation from Ian McLean, Waterloo Region Immigration Partnership Council

The committee met on November 24, 2025 to receive public feedback on the proposed 2026 budget. Representatives from the Waterloo Region Immigration Partnership Council, Communitech, Waterloo Economic Development Corporation, and the Downtown Kitchener BIA presented comments and suggestions. No motions, approvals, or votes were recorded other than the procedural adjournment.

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee will discuss the City’s 2026 operating budget (FIN‑2025‑468) and the accompanying capital budget and 10‑year capital forecast. Topics include the general overview by the CFO, budget allocations for the Centre in the Square, Kitchener Public Library, various enterprise services, and details on capital funding sources, debt, reserve funds and development charges. The committee will review these items ahead of the final budget day scheduled for December 11, 2025.

• 2026 Operating Budget (FIN‑2025‑468) – general overview by CFO
• Enterprise Operating Budgets – building, golf, parking, water, sanitary, stormwater, and gas utilities
• 2026 Capital Budget – overview, strategic addition, funding sources, debt, reserve funds
• 10‑Year Capital Forecast – issue papers and projections
• Boards – Centre in the Square and Kitchener Public Library budget items

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee presented overviews of the 2026 operating and capital budgets, including tax rate and utility rate proposals. It also heard updates on the Centre in the Square, Kitchener Public Library, and the city’s enterprise budgets. No votes, approvals, denials, or other formal actions were recorded in the minutes.

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City of Kitchener held an electronic information package on November 21, 2025. It contains only correspondence received by staff for council’s information and does not constitute a formal agenda. Items include regional, municipal, provincial/federal and miscellaneous letters and PDFs. No items were selected for discussion or decision at this meeting.

• Region of Waterloo correspondence (no items listed)
• City of Hamilton – Impacts of Provincial Bill 60 on Tenants (PDF, November 19, 2025)
• Town of Bruce Mines – Support for establishing fees for paper billing (PDF, November 10, 2025)
• Association of Ontario Road Supervisors – Advance Fall 2025 Newsletter (PDF)
• Town of Goderich – Letter re proposed amendments to Conservation Authorities Act (PDF, November 21, 2025)

Climate Change and Environment Committee

The Climate Change and Environment Committee will review updates to the Integrated Stormwater Master Plan and the draft Official Plan for Kitchener 2051. The meeting also includes discussions on council report templates and year-end updates from various sub-committees.

• Integrated Stormwater Master Plan Update (INS-2025-447)
• Kitchener 2051 Draft Official Plan (DSD-2025-461)
• Council Report Template Discussion (DSD-2025-457)
• Environmental Rodent Control Impacts sub-committee update
• Sustainable Food Systems and High Performance Development Standards updates

The committee resolved that its comments be considered by staff as input on the draft Official Plan, and the motion was carried. A proposal to add a climate‑and‑GHG lens to the Council Report Template did not pass, and members will continue brainstorming and revisit it later. The meeting was adjourned at 5:59 p.m. after a motion to adjourn was carried.

• Committee comments to be considered by staff on draft Official Plan (carried)
• Motion to add climate/GHG lens to Council Report Template did not proceed; to be revisited
• Mid‑term reflections discussion deferred
• Meeting adjourned at 5:59 p.m. (carried)

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

The Arts and Culture Advisory Committee will meet to review updates and draft policies for Kitchener 2051. The session includes a presentation by Sean Harrigan from Planning and Housing Policy.

• Discussion of Kitchener 2051 Update and Draft Policies

The Arts and Culture Advisory Committee accepted the meeting agenda unanimously. The acceptance of the September minutes was deferred to the January meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 5:40 p.m. on a motion.

• Agenda accepted by all members
• September minutes deferred to January meeting
• Meeting adjourned at 5:40 p.m.

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is meeting to consider several applications for minor variances and consents. These requests involve changes to lot coverage, setbacks, parking requirements, and building additions for residential and commercial properties.

• 29 Edna Street: Request for 21.6% lot coverage (instead of 15%) for a detached Additional Dwelling Unit
• 25 Eby Street South: Request for 10% street line façade opening (instead of 20%) for a restaurant addition
• 21 Sherwood Avenue: Request for 5.3m front yard setback (instead of 6.3m) for a mud room addition
• 475-477 Lancaster Street West: Request for 56 parking spaces (instead of 61) and no private patios for 3 new dwelling units
• 60 Sandsprings Crescent: Request for 0.9m westerly side yard setback (instead of 1.2m) for a roof over a patio

The Committee of Adjustment approved four minor variance requests. Approvals included a detached ADU lot‑coverage increase at 29 Edna Street, a reduced street‑line façade opening at 25 Eby Street South, a front‑yard setback reduction at 21 Sherwood Avenue, and reduced parking requirements plus three new ground‑floor units at 475‑477 Lancaster Street West. All approvals were granted subject to the conditions outlined in the staff reports.

• Approved minor variance for 29 Edna Street to increase lot coverage to 21.6% (ADU)
• Approved minor variance for 25 Eby Street South to allow a 10% street‑line façade opening
• Approved minor variance for 21 Sherwood Avenue to permit a 5.3 m front‑yard setback
• Approved minor variances for 475‑477 Lancaster Street West to reduce parking to 56 spaces and add three new ground‑floor dwelling units

Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee will receive an update on the Rockway Fairway Transportation Connections project and an update on the City of Kitchener's Official Plan (Kitchener 2051). A delegation from the Kitchener Horticultural Society will also speak on the Rockway Fairway Transportation Connections topic. The meeting includes a staff information segment and procedural items such as a land acknowledgement and conflict‑of‑interest disclosure.

• Rockway Fairway Transportation Connections – project update (15 min)
• Kitchener 2051 – Official Plan update (20 min)
• Delegation by J. Tracey (Kitchener Horticultural Society) on Rockway Fairway Transportation Connections (5 min)
• Staff updates (10 min)
• Land acknowledgement and conflict‑of‑interest disclosure

The committee reviewed updates on the Kitchener 2051 Official Plan and reported strong community support for a pathway around Rockway Gardens and unidirectional cycle tracks on Wilson Avenue. Staff indicated the project is paused pending analysis of Ontario Bill 60, which could affect lane removal for bike lanes. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

This is an information-only meeting where Kitchener staff present a package of correspondence for council to review. No decisions are made.

• Municipality of Wawa - Elect Respect Pledge
• Municipality of Wawa - Rent Protection for Tenants
• Township of McGarry - GST-HST Relief for First Time Homebuyers
• Township of McGarry - Mandatory Water Safety and Swim-to-Survive Training
• Township of South-West Oxford - Letter Re Automated Speed Enforcement Cameras (ASE)

Special Council Meeting

The Kitchener City Council will vote on a resolution to hold an in‑camera meeting immediately after the special council meeting to consider a land acquisition authorized by Section 239(2)(c) of the Municipal Act. The meeting also includes a review of the Special Events, Arts and Creative Industries action plan (DSD‑2025‑459) and mayoral updates. Staff will present information on a potential city park land acquisition and a negotiation strategy, though no council direction is required for the latter.

• Authorize in‑camera meeting to consider one land acquisition (Section 239(2)(c))
• Action Plan Review – Special Events, Arts and Creative Industries (DSD‑2025‑459)
• Mayoral Business and Updates by Mayor B. Vrbanovic
• City Park Strategy – potential land acquisition presentation
• Land Acquisition Negotiation Strategy – informational briefing

Council approved a motion to hold an in-camera meeting immediately after the special council meeting to consider a land acquisition matter and related negotiation procedures. The motion was moved by Councillor J. Deneault, seconded by Councillor C. Michaud, and was carried. No other formal decisions were recorded.

• Authorized in-camera meeting on land acquisition (carried)

Council Meeting

Kitchener City Council will consider approving demolition permits for properties on Reinhardt and Windom Roads, a draft plan of subdivision for Strasburg Road, and a heritage permit for a Victoria Park picnic shelter. The meeting also includes a notice of motion regarding provincial legislation on road salt liability.

• Demolition permits for 15 and 16 Reinhardt Street
• Demolition permits for 32 and 42 Windom Road
• Draft plan of subdivision for 1700 Strasburg Road
• Heritage permit for Victoria Park Picnic Shelter
• Notice of motion on road salt liability legislation

The council accepted the minutes from the October meetings. A motion to approve the Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/016/W/BB for 137 Woodhaven Road was carried. Council also approved extending the meeting beyond 11:00 p.m. to finish agenda items.

• Minutes of Oct. 20 and Oct. 27 meetings approved (motion by Councillor B. Ioannidis)
• Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/016/W/BB for 137 Woodhaven Road approved (carried)
• Council proceedings allowed to continue beyond 11:00 p.m. approved (carried)

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City Council will hold an electronic meeting to receive the Electronic Council Communication Information Package (ECCIP). The package contains only informational correspondence from other municipalities and higher levels of government. No decisions or votes are scheduled; the items are for staff to share with Council and for possible future agenda consideration.

• County of Peterborough – reinstating eligibility for curbside blue box collection (effective Jan 1 2026)
• Municipality of South Huron – support Tay Valley Township on sustainable waste management
• Municipality of South Huron – support Town of Bradford on removing HST‑GST from new homes
• Town of The Blue Mountains – amended resolution on Bill 5 special economic zones and T.C. Energy pumped storage proposal
• Township of Otonabee‑South Monaghan – support Town of Whitby on blue box recycling collection

Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee

The Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee will review a completed project presentation and evaluation for the Downtown Energy District. The group will also finalize a draft presentation for an upcoming All Advisory Committee Meeting.

• Review of Downtown Energy District project presentation
• Evaluation of Downtown District Energy project
• Review of previous meeting minutes
• Draft presentation for All Advisory Committee Meeting
• Debrief on Downtown Energy District project

The committee evaluated the Downtown Energy District project and agreed it "Meets Expectations" in all four criteria: Responsible Project Delivery, Impact/Public Value, Transparency & Communication, and Public Engagement. Members agreed a volunteer will draft future project evaluation write‑ups for the next meeting. The presentation slides for the upcoming All‑Advisory Committee meeting were approved with specific edits to slides 6 and 8, and S. Kandala was removed from the committee member list.

• Agreed the Downtown Energy District project meets expectations in all evaluation categories
• Decided a committee member will volunteer to draft future project evaluation write‑ups
• Approved All‑Advisory Committee presentation slides with wording change on slide 6
• Approved addition of project examples on slide 8
• Approved inclusion of strategic‑plan reflection bullet on slide 8
• Approved removal of S. Kandala from the Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee member list
• Reviewed October 1st meeting minutes
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:30 p.m.

Heritage Kitchener Committee

The Heritage Kitchener Committee will review three discussion items: a heritage permit application for a picnic shelter in Victoria Park (HPA-2025-V-020), an update to the Victoria Park Master Plan (INS-2025-401), and a proposed amendment to the Delegated Authority By-law (DSD-2025-313). The committee will also receive a tracking sheet of heritage permit applications. No decisions have been recorded yet; the meeting is for discussion and potential recommendation.

• Heritage Permit Application HPA-2025-V-020 – Victoria Park Picnic Shelter
• Victoria Park Master Plan Update – INS-2025-401
• Update to Delegated Authority By-law – DSD-2025-313
• Heritage Permit Application Tracking Sheet (information item)
• Delegations – none submitted

The committee approved Heritage Permit Application HPA-2025-V-020, allowing demolition of the picnic shelter at 92 David Street/135 Water Street (35 Dill Street). The committee also resolved to refer the Delegated Authority By‑law recommendation to the December 2, 2025 meeting and to enact the draft by‑law that would replace Chapter 642 of the municipal code. No other decisions were made.

• Approved Heritage Permit HPA-2025-V-020 to demolish Victoria Park picnic shelter (Carried)
• Referred Delegated Authority By‑law recommendation to Dec 2, 2025 meeting (Carried)
• Enacted draft Delegated Authority By‑law to replace Chapter 642 (Carried)

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

This is an informational meeting where Kitchener council reviews a package of correspondence from other municipalities and governments. No decisions are made at this session.

• City of Brantford seeks support for Ontario Airport Capital Assistance Program
• Municipality of Calvin supports Town of Plympton-Wyoming conservation fee freeze
• Municipality of St.-Charles supports Township of Re Stop the Spray Canada
• Municipality of Wawa advocates for accessible alcohol container return system
• Norfolk County supports Regional Municipality of Waterloo amending Ontario Regulation 391-21

Property Standards Committee

The Property Standards Committee will consider three appeals requesting extensions to comply with existing orders. The appeals concern 215 Highland Road West, 19 Pondcliffe Drive, and 61 Madison Avenue South. The meeting also includes the standard commencement and disclosure of pecuniary interests.

• Appeal #2025-05 – 215 Highland Road West – request for extension to comply with order
• Appeal #2025-11 – 19 Pondcliffe Drive – request for extension, modification, or quash of order
• Appeal #2025-12 – 61 Madison Avenue South – request for extension to comply with order
• Disclosure of pecuniary interest by committee members

Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee

The Equity and Anti‑Racism Advisory Committee will hold a virtual meeting on Oct. 28, 2025. After a land acknowledgement and conflict‑of‑interest disclosures, members will hear a REDI staff introduction and a 40‑minute discussion of the City of Kitchener Official Plan. The meeting also includes information items such as Decision IO training, a RISE Fund council report update, and a volunteer appreciation gift‑card announcement.

• REDI staff introduction (Rumina Morris)
• Discussion of the City of Kitchener Official Plan
• Decision IO training (information item)
• RISE Fund council report update
• Volunteer appreciation gift‑card

Special Council Meeting

The Kitchener City Council will vote on a resolution to hold an in‑camera session immediately after the special meeting to consider solicitor‑client privilege and a potential litigation issue involving a commercial lease. Staff will present reports on the 2026 budget timelines (FIN‑2025‑408) and the proposed 2026 Council and Committee calendar (COR‑2025‑393). The meeting will also include three readings of By‑law 2025‑124 to confirm the Council's actions for October 27, 2025, and a brief update from Mayor B. Vrbanovic.

• Resolution to authorize an in‑camera meeting on solicitor‑client privilege and potential litigation (Section 239 (2)(e)&(f) of the Municipal Act)
• Staff report: 2026 Budget Timelines – FIN‑2025‑408
• Staff report: 2026 Council and Committee Calendar – COR‑2025‑393
• Three readings of By‑law 2025‑124 to confirm Council actions for Oct 27 2025
• Mayoral business and updates from Mayor B. Vrbanovic

The council approved the 2026 budget timelines (FIN-2025-408) and voted to shorten the 30‑day amendment window to match the December 11, 2025 meeting. It deferred approval of the 2026 Council and Committee Calendar to the November 10, 2025 meeting. An in‑camera meeting was authorized, and the CAO was given authority to settle a commercial‑lease litigation matter. The council gave third reading to By‑law 2025‑123 confirming the day’s actions.

• Approved 2026 budget timelines and shortened amendment period (Carried)
• Deferred 2026 Council and Committee Calendar to Nov 10, 2025 (Carried)
• Authorized immediate in‑camera meeting on solicitor‑client privilege matter (Carried)
• Authorized CAO to execute settlement agreement and approve related payments (Carried)
• Gave third reading to By‑law 2025‑123 confirming council actions (Carried)

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The scheduled Community and Infrastructure Services Committee meeting for October 27, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were presented or decided upon. The cancellation notice was issued by Committee Coordinator Marilyn Mills.

• Meeting cancellation – no agenda items considered

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee meeting scheduled for October 27, 2025 has been cancelled. No agenda items will be considered at this meeting.

• Meeting cancellation notice

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee will vote on several consent items, including demolition control applications for properties on Reinhardt Street and Windom Road. It will hold public hearings on a zoning by-law amendment for 137 Woodhaven Road (application ZBA25/016/W/BB) and a draft subdivision plan for 1700 Strasburg Road and McBrine Drive (application 30T-23201). The committee will also discuss a one‑year follow‑up on the Enabling 4 Units program.

• Demolition Control Applications DC25/025/R/AS and DC25/026/R/AS for 15 and 16 Reinhardt Street
• Demolition Control Application DC25/024/W/AA for 42 and 32 Windom Road
• Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/016/W/BB for 137 Woodhaven Road (2394608 Ontario Inc.)
• Draft Plan of Subdivision Application 30T-23201 for 1700 Strasburg Road & McBrine Drive (2140221 Ontario Inc.)
• Enabling 4 Units – 1 Year Check‑in (DSD-2025-411)

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee approved demolition control applications for properties on Reinhardt Street and Windom Road, directed an update to the Community Engagement Policy, and approved a zoning by‑law amendment for 137 Woodhaven Road. It also granted draft approval for the Plan of Subdivision at 1700 Strasburg Road and McBrine Drive with an 8‑to‑1 vote. A motion to defer that subdivision recommendation was rejected.

• Approved Demolition Control Application DC25/025/R/AS for 15 Reinhardt St (Carried)
• Approved Demolition Control Application DC25/026/R/AS for 16 Reinhardt St (Carried)
• Approved Demolition Control Application DC25/024/W/AA for 32 & 42 Windom Rd (Carried)
• Directed staff to update the Community Engagement Policy (GOV-COU-2010) (Carried)
• Approved Zoning By‑law Amendment ZBA25/016/W/BB for 137 Woodhaven Rd (Carried)
• Approved draft Plan of Subdivision 30T-23201 for 1700 Strasburg Rd & McBrine Dr (8‑1) (Carried)
• Motion to defer the subdivision recommendation lost (Rejected)

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

This is an information package containing correspondence received by staff for Council's information. It is not a meeting agenda for Council or Committee, and no decisions are being made.

• Correspondence from Township of Alberton supporting City of Kitchener regarding postage costs and amending the Municipal Act
• Correspondence from Township of Dubreuilville supporting City of Kitchener regarding paper billing
• Correspondence from City of Brampton regarding provincial decision on Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE)
• Correspondence from Town of Plympton-Wyoming regarding conservation fee freeze
• Correspondence from Town of Whitby regarding Blue Box Collection and impact to small business

Downtown Advisory Committee

The Downtown Advisory Committee will hear an update on the city’s long‑term parking strategy, followed by brief updates from the Business Improvement Area and Downtown Kitchener groups. The meeting also includes standard procedural items such as a land acknowledgement, conflict‑of‑interest disclosure, and delegation registration. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Long‑term parking strategy – update presented by A. Pinto, Project Manager of Parking Operations (30 min)
• BIA Updates – information item (15 min)
• DTK Updates – information item (15 min)
• Delegations – registration required by 11:59 PM Oct 22, 2025, max 5 min each
• Land acknowledgement – opening statement by the Chair

The committee discussed a long‑term parking strategy, including a real‑time dashboard and deferred on‑street paid parking to 2051. Updates were provided on BIA marketing, events, and budget allocations, as well as on the Make It Kitchener strategy refresh and downtown lighting plans. No motions, approvals, denials, or votes were recorded during the meeting.

Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee (GRAAC)

The Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee will review several accessibility implementation plans and reports. The body is discussing barrier removal strategies for the City of Waterloo, the City of Kitchener, and the Region of Waterloo.

• City of Waterloo Get READI Implementation Plan community input and priority areas
• City of Kitchener Elections Accessibility Plan 2026 draft
• Region of Waterloo Housing Revitalization Plan
• Region of Waterloo Schneider’s Creek Multi-Use Path presentation
• Built Environment Sub Committee report update

Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Economic Development Advisory Committee will discuss the relevance of five core focus areas for the Make It Kitchener 2.0 refresh. The meeting also includes an economic update on Canada and the Waterloo Region.

• Economic update on tariffs, interest rates, and recession trends from TD Securities
• Review of Make It Kitchener 2.0 focus areas: Health Innovation, Creative Industries, City-wide Startup Network, Affordable and Attainable Housing, and A vibrant, Active City

The committee received an economic update from TD Securities covering inflation trends, interest‑rate outlook, trade impacts and Waterloo Region growth. It then reviewed the five core areas of the Make It Kitchener 2.0 strategy, confirming health innovation, creative industries, the city‑wide startup network, affordable housing and a vibrant public‑space agenda as ongoing priorities. No motions, votes, or formal approvals were recorded.

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment will hear a series of minor variance and consent applications, including a request for a 12‑storey residential care facility with 144 units at 600 Queen Street South. Other items include conversions to duplexes, land severances for semi‑detached dwellings, and variances for additional dwelling units. The meeting is public and will be livestreamed.

• A2025-110 – 600 Queen Street South: minor variance for a 12‑storey, 37.5 m building for a 144‑unit residential care facility
• A2025-101 – 199 Breithaupt Street: permission to convert a legal non‑conforming single detached dwelling to a duplex with an attached ADU
• B2024-031 – 829 Stirling Avenue South: consent to sever a 7.9 m × 45.7 m parcel (362.3 sq m) for separate semi‑detached dwelling lots
• A2025-105 – 1010 Copper Leaf Crescent: minor variances for lot width reduction to 8 m and rear yard setbacks to enable a detached ADU
• B2025-026 – 96 Third Avenue: consent to sever an 8 m × 38.8 m parcel (≈320 sq m) for independent semi‑detached duplex ownership

The Committee of Adjustment approved a minor variance to reduce the rear yard setback at 221 Sydney Street South. It also approved a consent to sever a parcel at 829 Stirling Avenue South with multiple conditions. A third approval granted a minor variance to convert a single detached dwelling at 199 Breithaupt Street into a duplex with an additional dwelling unit, subject to conditions.

• Approved minor variance for rear yard setback at 221 Sydney St South
• Approved consent to sever parcel at 829 Stirling Ave South
• Approved minor variance to add an ADU (duplex) at 199 Breithaupt St

Council Meeting

The Kitchener City Council will vote on several items, including the commission and creation of a new public artwork titled “The Seams” by Javid Jah for Upper Canada Park. The council will also approve the 2025‑2026 natural gas delivery rates for all customers and endorse revisions to the RISE Grant funding framework. Additional matters include a notice of intention to demolish 11 Irvin Street and a series of heritage by‑law designations for properties on Irvin Street, Agnes Street, Union Boulevard and York Street.

• Approve Upper Canada Park Public Art Commission – “The Seams” by Javid Jah (DSD-2025-358)
• Approve 2025‑2026 natural gas variable and fixed delivery rates (INS-2025-399)
• Endorse revisions to the RISE Grant funding framework (COR-2025-386)
• Receive notice of intention to demolish 11 Irvin Street (DSD-2025-380)
• Adopt multiple heritage by‑law designations for 14 Irvin St, 18 Irvin St, 69 Agnes St, 80‑86 Union Blvd/571 York St (By‑law 2025‑116 to 2025‑119)

The council adopted several committee reports and approved a series of by‑laws. It authorized the creation of the public artwork “The Seams” at Upper Canada Park and endorsed updates to the RISE equity grant framework. The city also approved the 2025‑2026 natural gas variable and fixed delivery rates for all customers, effective January 1 2026. Additional approvals included enhancements to the dog designation process, a five‑year non‑standard procurement agreement, and an amendment to a heritage designation resolution.

• Adopted Audit Committee report (Sept 29 2025) – Carried
• Adopted Heritage Kitchener report (Oct 7 2025) – Carried
• Approved Upper Canada Park public artwork “The Seams” – Carried
• Endorsed revisions to the RISE Grant funding framework – Carried
• Approved 2025‑2026 natural gas variable and fixed delivery rates – Carried
• Approved improvements to the dog designation process – Carried
• Approved five‑year non‑standard procurement agreements with listed suppliers – Carried
• Amended heritage designation resolution for 2219 Ottawa St S – Carried

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The Electronic Council Communication Information Package (ECCIP) provides staff‑collected correspondence for Council’s information only. It includes letters from other municipalities and provincial/federal bodies dated in October 2025. The package is not a meeting agenda and contains no items for immediate decision. Items may be added to future standing‑committee agendas if the Municipal Clerk is notified by the required deadline.

• Support City of North Bay – NORDS Pilot Program (Municipality of Shuniah, Oct 14, 2025)
• Public Safety Requirements to Protect Our Communities (Regional Municipality of Halton, Oct 3, 2025)
• Endorse Development of a Code of Conduct for Human Trafficking (Town of Niagara‑on‑the‑Lake, Oct 16, 2025)
• Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (Township of Edwardsburgh‑Cardinal, Oct 14, 2025)
• Deadline Extension for Fire Certification under O.Reg 343‑22 (Township of Harley, Oct 15, 2025)

Climate Change and Environment Committee

The Climate Change and Environment Committee scheduled for October 16, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items will be considered at this meeting. The cancellation notice was the only item on the agenda.

• Meeting cancellation announced for October 16, 2025

Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee will discuss several infrastructure projects and operational reviews. The meeting includes updates on street reconstructions and public engagement for trail connections.

• Review of the 2025 Bike Check season
• Queen Street Reconstruction update
• Public engagement update for Rockway Fairway transportation connections
• Operations staff summary on addressing littering on trails
• Future plans and policies for Mill Street between Ottawa Street and Courtland Avenue

The Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee decided to add a meeting on November 18, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. This meeting replaces the November 11 meeting that was cancelled because of Remembrance Day. The remainder of the agenda consisted of updates and discussion items with no further decisions recorded.

• Scheduled November 18 meeting (4‑6 pm) to replace cancelled November 11 meeting

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City of Kitchener held an electronic Council Communication Information Package on October 10, 2025. The package contains correspondence received by staff for Council's information only and does not constitute a formal agenda. Items listed include regional regulation updates and municipal requests, and can be submitted for future committee agendas if the Municipal Clerk is advised by the specified deadline.

• Regional Municipality of Waterloo – Amending Ontario Regulation 391_21 (Oct 8, 2025)
• City of Pickering – Elect Respect (Oct 3, 2025)
• Municipality of Killarney – Support City of Kitchener Re Postage Costs – Amend Municipal Act (Oct 10, 2025)
• Town of Englehart – Request for Exemption to Proposed Mandatory Firefighter Certification Requirements (Sept 24, 2025)
• Township of Addington Highlands – Support City of Kitchener Re Increase to Postage (Oct 8, 2025)

Heritage Kitchener Committee

The Heritage Kitchener Committee will review several heritage‑related matters, including a draft heritage impact assessment for the Dundee Secondary Plan, a heritage permit application for 49 Michael Street, a notice of intention to demolish 11 Irvin Street, an update on the Mike and Pat Wagner Heritage Awards, a review of the municipal heritage register under Bill 23, and an update to the Kitchener 2051 Official Plan. An information item will present the heritage permit tracking sheet. The agenda lists discussion items but does not specify any formal decisions.

• Draft Heritage Impact Assessment – Dundee Secondary Plan (DSD-2025-395)
• Heritage Permit Application HPA-2025-V-019 – 49 Michael Street
• Notice of Intention to Demolish – 11 Irvin Street (DSD-2025-380)
• Mike and Pat Wagner Heritage Awards 2025 Update (DSD-2025-392)
• Kitchener 2051 Official Plan Update (DSD-2025-367)

The committee unanimously approved Heritage Permit HPA-2025-V-019 to demolish a rear addition at 49 Michael Street and allow a new two‑storey addition, with a condition that heritage clearance be provided before a building permit is issued. It accepted the Notice of Intention to Demolish for 11 Irvin Street as information and directed that the property be photographed before demolition. The committee also unanimously resolved to pursue heritage designation for 85 Strange Street under Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act.

• Approved Heritage Permit HPA-2025-V-019 for 49 Michael Street demolition and new addition, condition: heritage clearance before building permit (unanimous)
• Received Notice of Intention to Demolish for 11 Irvin Street as information; city to document with photographs before demolition (carried)
• Pursued heritage designation for 85 Strange Street under Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act (unanimous)

Special Council Meeting

The Special Council meeting will hear a Notice of Motion from Councillor D. Chapman addressing the impacts of Ontario’s Bill 17 and urging the province to consult municipalities. Council will also consider a Municipal Support Resolution for rooftop solar projects (DSD‑2025‑403) with attached project documents. An in‑camera session will be authorized to discuss a solicitor‑client‑privilege matter and a potential land acquisition. The agenda includes the three‑reading confirmation of By‑law 2025‑113 and public delegations, including a presentation by Drew Elliott of Dream Industrial Canada Solar Inc. and Moose Power Inc.

• Notice of Motion – Impacts of Bill 17 (proposed by Councillor D. Chapman)
• Municipal Support Resolution for Rooftop Solar – DSD‑2025‑403 (attachments for Project Q and Project S)
• In‑camera meeting authorization to consider solicitor‑client‑privilege matter and potential land acquisition
• By‑law 2025‑113 – three readings to confirm council actions on October 6, 2025
• Delegation by Drew Elliott, Dream Industrial Canada Solar Inc. and Moose Power Inc.

The council adopted a resolution supporting the Association of Municipalities of Ontario’s call for additional provincial consultations on Bill 17 and for financial protections. It also endorsed municipal support resolutions for rooftop solar installations at several city properties. Council authorized an in‑camera meeting and approved a cost‑sharing agreement with Kitchener Housing Inc. for affordable housing. Finally, the council gave third reading to By‑law 2025‑113, confirming the actions taken at the meeting.

• Approved resolution urging Ontario to consult on Bill 17 (Carried)
• Endorsed municipal support resolutions for rooftop solar at multiple properties (Carried)
• Authorized in‑camera meeting to consider solicitor client privilege and land acquisition matters (Carried)
• Authorized CAO to execute cost‑sharing agreement with Kitchener Housing Inc. for affordable housing (Carried)
• Passed third reading of By‑law 2025‑113 confirming council actions (Carried)

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The Community and Infrastructure Services Committee meeting scheduled for October 6, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items, including the disclosure of pecuniary interest, were discussed or decided. No decisions or proposals were made at this meeting.

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee will review natural gas rates for 2025-2026 and a three-year update on the RISE Fund. The body will also consider a public art commission for Upper Canada Park and a strategic plan implementation update.

• 2025-2026 Gas Supply and Delivery Rates (INS-2025-399)
• Upper Canada Park Public Art Commission (DSD-2025-358)
• Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Equity (RISE) Fund 3 Year Update (COR-2025-386)
• Strategic Plan Update - Summer 2024 Implementation (CAO-2025-404)

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee approved the commissioning of the public artwork “The Seams” for Upper Canada Park. It endorsed revisions to the Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Equity (RISE) Grant funding framework. It also approved the proposed natural gas variable and fixed delivery rates for Kitchener Utilities effective Jan. 1, 2026.

• Approved public artwork “The Seams” by Javid Jah/JAH Cube for Upper Canada Park (motion by M. Johnston)
• Endorsed revisions to the RISE Grant funding framework (motion by D. Chapman)
• Approved Kitchener Utilities natural gas variable and fixed delivery rates for 2025‑2026 (motion by S. Stretch)

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning & Strategic Initiatives Committee scheduled for Monday, October 6, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered or decided. No further action was taken by the committee at this meeting.

• Meeting cancellation – the committee meeting scheduled for Oct 6, 2025 was cancelled.

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City Council is reviewing an Electronic Council Communication Information Package that contains correspondence received by staff from other municipalities and provincial/federal bodies. The package is for information only and does not constitute a formal agenda. Council members may advise the Municipal Clerk by the specified deadline to have any of these items placed on a future standing‑committee agenda.

• City of Dryden – Swim to Survive Training (September 22, 2025)
• City of Port Colborne – Support Town of Grimsby Re Niagara GTA Corridor (September 24, 2025)
• City of Waterloo – Ontario Regulation 391-2, Blue Box Motion (October 3, 2025)
• Municipality of Brighton – Electoral Reform (September 15, 2025)
• Regional Municipality of Niagara – State of Emergency on Mental Health, Homelessness and Addictions (September 30, 2025)

Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee

The Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee will review and approve the final meeting agenda, discuss the upcoming Downtown District Energy Project evaluation, and receive an update on the 2025 Strategic Plan implementation for August. The committee will also review minutes from the September 3 meeting. All items are scheduled for discussion during the October 1 meeting.

• Finalize all‑advisory committee meeting agenda (30 min)
• Project Assessment: Downtown District Energy Project (20 min)
• 2025 Strategic Plan Implementation – August Update (30 min)
• Review previous minutes from September 3 meeting (5 min)
• Information items: Strategic Plan implementation appendix and draft agenda for November 12 advisory chairs meeting

Members reviewed and revised the draft agenda for the All‑Advisory Committee meeting and set a new “Reflection Workshop” item. They received updates on the Downtown District Energy Project and the Procurement Innovation project, with staff to circulate materials before the next meeting. The 2025 Strategic Plan progress was reviewed, noting two completed projects and two deferred projects. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee

The Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee will meet electronically to discuss several operational and community items. The session includes discussions on the RISE Fund selection process and the F.A.I.R. Framework.

• RISE Fund Selection Process discussion
• F.A.I.R. Framework discussion
• National Day for Truth & Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day discussion
• RISE Fund Report to Council information item
• REDI Team staffing update

Council Meeting

Kitchener City Council will review zoning amendments for two properties and a motion urging the Province of Ontario to review Bill 17. The meeting also includes decisions on parking prohibitions and utility account write-offs.

• Zoning amendment for 157 Schweitzer Street to Low Rise Residential Four Zone (RES-4)
• Zoning amendment for 434-436 Queen Street South to Existing Use Floodplain Zone (EUF-1) with Site Specific Provision (437)
• Write-off of $121,784 in uncollectable utility accounts and $12,341 in miscellaneous receivable accounts
• Proposed installation of a veteran-themed commemorative crosswalk in coordination with the Royal Canadian Legion
• Parking prohibitions on Otterbein Road, Country Hill Drive, Benesfort Drive, Avalon Place, Karn Street, Mooregate Crescent, Madison Avenue South, Shea Crescent, and Parkland Crescent

Council passed a resolution urging the Ontario government to review Bill 17, which it says weakens municipal planning authority. It also approved private street naming at 995 Amand Drive, multiple traffic and parking by‑law amendments, write‑offs of uncollectable utility and miscellaneous receivable accounts, two zoning by‑law amendments, and a veteran‑themed commemorative crosswalk to be installed by Remembrance Day 2025.

• Resolution urging review of Bill 17 – Carried, as amended
• Private street naming (Amand Lane, Canyon Hill Drive, Sumac Lane, Azores Drive, Fig Lane) at 995 Amand Drive – Carried
• Uniform Traffic and Parking By‑law amendments (various streets) – Carried
• Write‑off of uncollectable utility accounts $121,784 – Carried
• Write‑off of uncollectable miscellaneous receivable accounts $12,341 – Carried
• Zoning By‑law amendment for 157 Schweitzer Street (R‑3 to RES‑4) – Carried
• Zoning By‑law amendment for 434‑436 Queen Street South (EUF‑1 to EUF‑1 with Site‑Specific Provision) – Carried
• Veteran‑themed commemorative crosswalk installation – Carried

Special Council Meeting

City Council will meet to consider a staff report regarding a donation and the naming of the Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex at 1664 Huron Rd. The meeting includes a public media announcement at the construction site and a subsequent session at City Hall.

• Staff report DSD-2025-398 regarding a donation to the City of Kitchener
• Naming of the Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex (KIRC)
• In-camera discussion on Dog Designation By-law legal advice
• In-camera discussion on potential land acquisition for stormwater management
• In-camera discussion on an affordable housing land disposition opportunity

Council authorized the Mayor and Clerk to execute a donation agreement with The Cowan Foundation for a $2.5 million contribution, naming the new indoor recreation complex and turf fieldhouse at 1955 Fischer‑Hallman Road as the Cowan Recreation Centre and Cowan Fieldhouse. The council also approved an in‑camera meeting to consider a solicitor‑client privilege matter, a potential litigation matter, and a possible land disposition matter. Both motions were carried without a recorded vote tally.

• Approved $2.5M donation agreement with The Cowan Foundation (carried)
• Authorized in‑camera meeting on solicitor‑client privilege, litigation, and land disposition matters (carried)

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee is meeting to discuss the External Audit Planning Report for Fiscal Year 2025. Representatives from KPMG will appear as delegations for this item.

• Discussion of External Audit Planning Report for Fiscal Year 2025 (FIN-2025-394)

The committee reviewed KPMG's External Audit Planning Report for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025. On a motion by Councillor S. Davey, the report was approved by the committee. The meeting adjourned at 3:27 p.m.

• Approved KPMG External Audit Planning Report for FY 2025 (motion by Councillor S. Davey, carried)

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

This is an information package only and not a meeting agenda for Council or Committee. It contains correspondence received by staff for the information of Council.

• Town of Aurora - Elect Respect Campaign
• Town of Midland - Opposing the Elimination of Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) Cameras
• Township of Woolwich - Bill C-61 First Nations Clean Water Act

Downtown Advisory Committee

The Downtown Advisory Committee will discuss feedback regarding 2025 seasonal programming and events. The meeting also includes an update on the Canvas in the Sky 2025 DTK Banner Contest.

• Feedback on 2025 seasonal programming and events
• Update on the Canvas in the Sky 2025 DTK Banner Contest
• BIA Update
• DTK Update

The committee reviewed recent downtown programming, a banner‑art contest, and updates from the BIA and downtown strategy team. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee (GRAAC)

The Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting to receive updates on regional transit projects and municipal accessibility plans. The body will discuss transit facility updates and protocols for sacred fires in the City of Waterloo.

• Region of Waterloo Rapid Transit Initial Business Case Results
• GRT Conestoga Mall and Conestoga College Station facility updates
• Township of Wilmot Multi-Year Accessibility Plan update
• City of Waterloo Sacred Fires Protocol presentation
• Built Environment Sub Committee Report

Property Standards Committee

The Property Standards Committee will hear three appeals requesting extensions to comply with existing orders for properties at 37 Ahrens Street West, 130 Peter Street, and 153 Eighth Avenue. The meeting also includes the usual commencement, a disclosure of pecuniary interests, and adjournment. No decisions are recorded in the agenda; the items are for public hearing.

• Appeal #2025-04 – 37 Ahrens Street West – request for extension to comply with order
• Appeal #2025-09 – 130 Peter Street – request for extension to comply with order
• Appeal #2025-10 – 153 Eighth Avenue – request for extension to comply with order
• Disclosure of pecuniary interest – members must file written statements of conflicts
• Standard commencement and adjournment items

Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Economic Development Advisory Committee will review the 'Make It Kitchener 2.0' 10-year strategy. Members will discuss current economic forces shaping the local economy and identify industry experts for future meetings.

• Overview and discussion of Make It Kitchener 2.0 Economic Development Strategy
• Discussion on economic forces and the City's ability to influence change
• Identification and engagement of industry experts for upcoming meetings

The committee received a briefing on the Make It Kitchener 2.0 strategy, including its investment fund and progress in health innovation, affordable housing, and creative industries. Members discussed a range of economic challenges such as potential recession, inflation, construction slowdown, AI impacts, and access to capital. No formal motions, approvals, or votes were recorded; the meeting concluded with plans to reassess focus areas and consider expert input at future sessions.

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

This is an information package only and not a meeting agenda for Council or Committee. It contains correspondence received by staff for the information of Council.

• Municipality of South Huron: Closure of Before and After School Programs
• Municipality of South Huron: Proposed Amendments to the Resource Recovery and Circular Economy Act
• Municipality of St.-Charles: Natural Gas Expansion project cancellation
• Town of Goderich: Endorsement of City of St. Catharines Re Elect Respect Pledge
• Town of Petrolia: Support for City of Brant regarding bail reform

Climate Change and Environment Committee

The Climate Change and Environment Committee will receive a presentation on the 2025 Impact Report from Reep Green Solutions. The body will also discuss an update on the Cold Water Ice Pilot Project and clarify the committee's terms of reference.

• Presentation of 2025 Impact Report by P. Gilbride of Reep Green Solutions
• Update on Cold Water Ice Pilot Project (DSD-2025-368)
• Discussion on Council Report Template changes
• Clarification of CCEC Terms of Reference
• Updates on Sustainable Food Systems and High Performance Development Standards sub-committees

The Climate Change and Environment Committee assigned Anna Marie Cipriani to prepare an overview and business case for the Cold Water Ice Pilot Project. Members P. Nojo, A. Di Battista and A. Hohenadel joined the Sustainable Food Systems sub‑committee. The sub‑committee continued refining the Council report template wording and will bring a motion at a future meeting. No motions were voted on; the meeting adjourned at 5:58 p.m.

• Assigned Anna Marie Cipriani to prepare overview and business case for Cold Water Ice Pilot Project
• P. Nojo, A. Di Battista, and A. Hohenadel joined Sustainable Food Systems sub‑committee
• Sub‑committee opted to refine Council report template wording (motion to be tabled for later)

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

The Arts and Culture Advisory Committee will consider a public art installation at Upper Canada Park. It will also receive updates on the city’s public art program and recent public art competitions, followed by member updates. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of Upper Canada Park public art installation (Item 4.1)
• Public art program updates (Item 5.1)
• Public art competitions updates (Item 5.2)
• Member updates (Item 5.3)

The Arts and Culture Advisory Committee approved the selection of artist Javid Jah and his team at JAH Qube for the Upper Canada Park public art project. The motion was made by A. Mehta, seconded by R. Labrie, and passed unanimously. The committee will forward a report to Council with a target installation date in spring 2026. The agenda and July minutes were also accepted.

• Approved selection of artist Javid Jah and JAH Qube for Upper Canada Park public art (unanimous)
• Accepted agenda (motion by W. Rahimi, seconded by A. Mehta)
• Accepted July minutes (motion by W. Rahimi, seconded by S. Florence)

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment will hear applications for minor variances and consents regarding residential and commercial developments. Decisions will focus on building heights, setbacks, parking requirements, and lot coverage.

• 10 Abram Clemens Street: Proposed 139-unit residential development with height increase to 16m
• 4438 King Street East & 65 Gateway Park Drive: 68 new parking spaces for Costco Retail Use
• 234-240 Frederick Street: Request for 26 parking spaces for a 35-unit dwelling
• 180 Ahrens Street West: Proposed construction of three townhouse dwelling units
• 239 Woodbine Avenue: Request for two detached Additional Dwelling Units (ADUs)

The Committee accepted the minutes from the August 19 meeting. It then approved minor‑variance applications for 112 Admiral Road, 239 Woodbine Avenue, 10 Abram Clemens Street, and 234‑240 Frederick Street. Member A. Brennan recused herself from the vote on the Abram Clemens Street application due to a pecuniary interest. No decision was recorded for the application at 184 Woolwich Street.

• Approved minor variance for ADU at 112 Admiral Road (Carried)
• Approved minor variances for ADU and related changes at 239 Woodbine Avenue (Carried)
• Approved minor variances for high‑rise development at 10 Abram Clemens Street (Carried)
• Approved minor variance for reduced parking at 234‑240 Frederick Street, subject to revised site plan (Carried)
• No decision recorded for application at 184 Woolwich Street

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City of Kitchener Council will review an Electronic Council Communication Information Package containing correspondence received by staff. The package includes items from the Region of Waterloo, other municipalities and provincial/federal bodies and is for information only, not a decision agenda. Council members may submit items for future standing‑committee agendas by the specified deadline.

• Municipality of Bluewater Resolution – Closure of Before and After School Programs (Sept 4, 2025)
• Town of Fort Frances – Strong Mayor Powers Opposition (Aug 11, 2025)
• Township of Larder Lake – Request for Extension of Certification Deadlines under Ontario Regulation 343‑22 (Sept 10, 2025)
• Township of Larder Lake – Request for Moratorium on Aerial Spraying of Glyphosate in the Timiskaming Forest (Sept 10, 2025)
• Ministry of Energy and Mines – Letter Re City of Kitchener AMO Delegation (Aug 29, 2025)

Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee will hear a staff presentation on the Rockway Fairway Transportation Connections project, which proposes connecting the Delta Trail to the TransCanada Trail on Wilson Avenue. A delegation from the Kitchener Horticultural Society will speak on this item. The meeting will also include staff updates and routine procedural items.

• Delegation on Item 4.1 Rockway Fairway Transportation Connections by M. Gallagher (Kitchener Horticultural Society)
• Discussion Item 4.1: Rockway Fairway Transportation Connections – staff to present options to connect Delta Trail to TransCanada Trail on Wilson Avenue
• Information Item 5.1: Staff Updates

The committee discussed the Rockway Fairway Transportation Connections project, noting concerns about trees, safety, and parking, and considered options for the trail route. Members expressed interest in a slip lane on Charles Street and possible changes to Floral Crescent. The committee requested that staff provide a report on the public‑engagement process in November. Staff also updated the group on trail construction projects completed this year and those slated for completion before November 1.

• Requested staff report on public‑engagement results for Rockway project

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee meeting scheduled for September 8, 2025, has been cancelled.

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee will hold public hearings for two zoning by-law amendments. The body will also review traffic by-law changes, a private street naming request, and quarterly planning reports.

• Zoning By-law Amendment for 157 Schweitzer Street (ZBA25/013/S/AP)
• Zoning By-law Amendment for 434-436 Queen Street South (ZBA25/021/Q/AA)
• Private street naming for 995 Amand Drive
• Uniform Traffic and Parking By-law Amendments for multiple streets including Otterbein Rd and Madison Ave S
• Uncollectable utility and miscellaneous receivable write-offs for June 2025

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee approved a series of traffic and parking by‑law amendments that prohibit parking on several street segments and restrict stopping on two others. It also approved private street naming for a new residential development and wrote off uncollectable utility and miscellaneous receivable accounts. Two zoning by‑law amendments were adopted, changing the zoning for properties on Schweitzer Street and Queen Street South.

• Approved private street naming for 995 Amand Drive (Amand Lane, Canyon Hill Drive, Sumac Lane, Azores Drive, Fig Lane) – Carried
• Approved Uniform Traffic and Parking By‑law amendments prohibiting parking on specified sections of Otterbein Rd, Country Hill Dr, Benesfort Dr, Avalon Place, Karn St, Mooregate Crescent, Madison Ave S, and stopping bans on Shea Crescent and Parkland Crescent – Carried
• Approved write‑off of $121,784 uncollectable utility accounts – Carried
• Approved write‑off of $12,341 uncollectable miscellaneous receivable accounts – Carried
• Approved zoning by‑law amendment for 157 Schweitzer St, changing from Residential Three Zone (R‑3) to Low Rise Residential Four Zone (RES‑4) – Carried
• Approved zoning by‑law amendment for 434‑436 Queen St South, changing from Existing Use Floodplain Zone (EUF‑1) to EUF‑1 with Site‑Specific Provision – Carried

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The City of Kitchener's Community and Infrastructure Services Committee meeting scheduled for September 8, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered or decided. No further actions were taken.

• Meeting cancellation – no agenda items discussed

Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on September 8, 2025. The agenda text provided is procedural boilerplate with no specific decisions or topics listed.

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

This is an information package containing correspondence received by staff for Council's information. It is not a meeting agenda for Council or Committee, and no decisions are being made.

• Town of Cobalt opposition to mandatory certification requirements for firefighters
• Township of Perry support for increased income support thresholds for Canadian veterans
• Township of Southgate support for City of St. Catharines regarding Elect Respect Pledge

Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee

The Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee will review a presentation to Council and brainstorm ideas for the upcoming Fall All-Advisory Committee Meeting. The agenda also includes reviewing previous meeting minutes and standard procedural items.

• Review Council presentation on Strategic Plan 2023-2026
• Plan agenda for Fall All-Advisory Committee Meeting
• Review minutes from July 2nd meeting
• Standard procedural items: commencement, disclosures, delegations

The Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee set the date for the upcoming All Advisory Committee meeting to Wednesday, November 12, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Members also discussed agenda planning and staff support limits, but no other formal actions were taken.

• Scheduled All Advisory Committee meeting for Nov 12, 2025 (5‑8 p.m.)

Heritage Kitchener Committee

The Heritage Kitchener Committee scheduled to meet on September 2, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered or decided. The cancellation notice was issued by Committee Coordinator Mariah Blake.

• Cancellation of the Heritage Kitchener Committee meeting for September 2, 2025

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City of Kitchener is presenting an Electronic Council Communication Information Package for staff to share with Council. The package contains only correspondence received from other municipalities and governments for informational purposes. No decisions are being made at this meeting, but items can be submitted to the municipal clerk for inclusion on a future committee agenda.

• City of Brantford – advocacy for provincial scrap metal legislation and bail system reform (August 29, 2025)
• Town of Fort Erie – support for Bill 5 Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act (August 26, 2025)
• Township of Brudenell, Lyndoch and Raglan – exemption to mandatory firefighter certification requirements (August 6, 2025)
• Township of Woolwich – strong mayor legislation (August 27, 2025)

Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Economic Development Advisory Committee scheduled for August 27, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items will be considered at this meeting. The cancellation notice was issued by Committee Administrator Navitha Nandakumar.

• Meeting cancellation – no agenda items will be discussed

Property Standards Committee

The Property Standards Appeal Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday, August 27, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered or decided. The cancellation notice was the only item on the agenda.

• Cancellation of the Property Standards Appeal Committee meeting scheduled for August 27, 2025

Special Council Meeting

The special council meeting will include a land acknowledgement, disclosures of pecuniary interest, public delegations, a Community Grants Review Update (CSD-2025-326), and mayoral business updates. Council will vote on a resolution to hold an in-camera meeting immediately after the session to consider a solicitor‑client privileged matter under Municipal Act Section 239(2)(f). No other decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Community Grants Review Update – CSD-2025-326 report
• Mayoral Business and Updates by Mayor B. Vrbanovic
• Resolution to authorize an in-camera meeting on solicitor‑client privileged matter
• Public delegations – up to five minutes each

Council approved an in-camera meeting to consider a potential land disposition matter and a solicitor‑client privilege matter. The motion was moved by Councillor D. Schnider, seconded by Councillor S. Davey, and was carried. No other substantive decisions were made at this meeting.

• Authorized in-camera meeting on land disposition and solicitor‑client privilege (carried)

Council Meeting

The Council will consider a series of planning and finance items, including approval of Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments for 132 Fairway Road North, 468 Trussler Road, and the Sandra Springs Subdivision. The meeting also includes a funding reallocation of $5.36 million to the Idlewood Greenway project and a property‑tax exemption by‑law for affordable housing units at 475‑477 Lancaster Street West. Additional items include heritage permit refusals for 11 Roy Street and 68 Queen Street North, and the commissioning of public artwork for the new indoor recreation facility.

• Official Plan Amendment OPA25/005/F/AP and Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA25/001/F/AP for 132 Fairway Road North
• Official Plan Amendment OPA24/015/T/AP and Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA24/010/T/AP for 468 Trussler Road
• Official Plan Amendment OPA25/004/L/BB and Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA25/009/L/BB for Sandra Springs Subdivision (Block 1, 58A‑711)
• Reallocation of $5.36 M funding to the Idlewood Greenway project for 2026
• Property Tax Exemption by‑law for affordable housing units at 475‑477 Lancaster Street West

The council accepted the minutes from June and August meetings. It approved an Official Plan amendment and a Zoning By‑law amendment for 132 Fairway Road North. It unanimously approved heritage permits to allow demolition of the buildings at 11 Roy Street and 68 Queen Street North with conditions. A motion to let council continue past 11 p.m. was carried, while the motion opposing elements of Bill 5 was defeated.

• Minutes of June 23 and August 11 meetings accepted (motion by Councillor S. Stretch)
• Official Plan Amendment OPA25/005/F/AP and Zoning By‑law Amendment ZBA25/001/F/AP for 132 Fairway Road North approved (carried)
• Heritage Permit Applications HPA‑2025‑V‑015 and HPA‑2025‑V‑016 approved to permit demolition of 11 Roy St and 68 Queen St, with conditions (carried unanimously)
• Council authorized proceedings to continue beyond 11:00 p.m. (carried)
• Notice of Motion opposing elements of Bill 5 was lost (motion defeated)

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City of Kitchener is presenting an Electronic Council Communication Information Package for Council’s information only. No items are scheduled for discussion or decision at this meeting; the package contains various municipal, regional and provincial/federal correspondences that may be proposed for future committee agendas.

• City of Kingston – Heritage Property Insurance Rate (August 14, 2025)
• Town of Goderich – Standing Senate Committee on Agriculture and Forestry Report (August 22, 2025)
• Town of Grimsby – Endorse City of St. Catharines’ Motion Re Elect Respect Pledge (August 14, 2025)
• Town of Grimsby – Endorse Town of Aurora's Opposition to Bill 5 (August 14, 2025)
• Ministry of Natural Resources – Proposed implementation of the Geologic Carbon Storage Act, 2025 (August 13, 2025)

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment will hear 18 applications for minor variances and consents at its August 19 meeting. The applications request changes to setbacks, lot sizes, and building heights to facilitate residential developments, including multi-unit conversions and additions.

• 99 College Street: Requesting variances for an 8-unit multi-residential dwelling
• 413 Zeller Drive: Requesting variance for a rear yard deck
• 112 Admiral Road: Requesting variance for a detached ADU
• 288 Forest Creek Drive: Requesting variance for a home occupation with an attached ADU
• 120 Keewatin Avenue: Requesting consent to sever a parcel for semi-detached development

The Committee of Adjustment approved minor variance applications for 99 College Street, 413 Zeller Drive, 288 Forest Creek Drive, and 15 Eby Street South, each with conditions. The application for 112 Admiral Road was deferred to the October 21, 2025 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minor variance for 99 College Street (A 2025-071)
• Approved minor variance for 413 Zeller Drive (A 2025-072)
• Deferred minor variance for 112 Admiral Road (A 2025-073) to Oct 21, 2025
• Approved minor variance for 288 Forest Creek Drive (A 2025-074)
• Approved minor variance for 15 Eby Street South (A 2025-075)

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City of Kitchener is reviewing an Electronic Council Communication Information Package, which is for information only and not a decision agenda. The package contains correspondence from the Region of Waterloo, several other municipalities, and provincial/federal ministries. No items are being voted on or resolved at this meeting. Residents may request items for future committee agendas by contacting the Municipal Clerk before the deadline.

• Municipality of West Nipissing – Moratorium on Aerial Spraying (August 12, 2025)
• Town of Goderich – Opposition to Bill 17 (August 1, 2025)
• Township of North Glengarry – Producer Responsibility of Blue Boxes (August 12, 2025)
• Township of Southgate – Increased Income Support Thresholds for Canadian Veterans (August 11, 2025)
• Ministry of Natural Resources – Proposed updates to operational policies under the Aggregates (August 8, 2025)

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee will review the City's strategic plan midway check-in and approve a property tax exemption for affordable housing at Union Co-operative. The meeting also includes a discussion on public art for the Indoor Recreation Facility.

• Strategic Plan Check-in Report
• Kitchener Indoor Recreation Facility Public Artwork Commission
• Property Tax Exemption for Affordable Housing - Union Co-operative
• Idlewood Greenway
• Draft By-law for Affordable Housing Exemption

The committee approved moving $5.36 M from the Middle Strasburg Naturalization project to fund the Idlewood Greenway in 2026 and pre‑approved its tendering in 2025. It also approved a property‑tax exemption for affordable‑housing units at 475‑477 Lancaster Street West. The 2023‑2026 Strategic Plan was amended to refer the Sport and Recreation Master Plan and the City‑led Recreation & Leisure Program Review to the 2027‑2030 Strategic Plan, and to add the Downtown Safety & Security Action Plan. Finally, the commission and installation of the public artwork “Gidinawendimin” at the new indoor recreation complex in RBJ Schlegel Park was approved.

• Reallocated $5.36 M from Middle Strasburg Naturalization to Idlewood Greenway (Carried)
• Approved property‑tax exemption for affordable‑housing units at 475‑477 Lancaster St W (Carried)
• Amended Strategic Plan: refer Sport & Recreation Master Plan and Recreation & Leisure Review to 2027‑2030 plan; add Downtown Safety & Security Action Plan (Carried, as amended)
• Approved commission and installation of “Gidinawendimin” artwork at RBJ Schlegel Park indoor recreation complex (Carried)

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The Community and Infrastructure Services Committee meeting scheduled for Monday, August 11, 2025, has been cancelled.

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee will hold public hearings on three zoning and official plan amendments. The body will also discuss the Kitchener 2051 preferred growth scenario and a parkland acquisition strategy.

• Official Plan and Zoning amendments for 468 Trussler Road
• Official Plan and Zoning amendments for Block 1, 58A-711 Sandra Springs Subdivision
• Official Plan and Zoning amendments for 132 Fairway Road North
• Private street naming for 105 Mooregate Crescent
• Discussion on Parkland Acquisition Strategy (DSD-2025-331)

The committee approved the City’s acknowledgment and by‑law registration of the private street name “Mooregate Way” at 15‑105 Mooregate Crescent. It also approved the modification of draft subdivision conditions and adopted official‑plan and zoning‑by‑law amendments for 468 Trussler Road, the Sandra Springs Subdivision, and 132 Fairway Road North, including endorsement of a revised urban design brief. Finally, the Preferred Approach to Growth was adopted to guide the development of the Kitchener 2051 draft Official Plan.

• Acknowledge and register private street “Mooregate Way” at 15‑105 Mooregate Crescent – Carried
• Modify conditions of draft approval and approve Official Plan Amendment OPA24/015/T/AP and Zoning By‑law Amendment ZBA24/010/T/AP for 468 Trussler Road – Carried
• Approve Official Plan Amendment OPA25/004/L/BB and Zoning By‑law Amendment ZBA25/009/L/BB for Sandra Springs Subdivision (Block 1, 58A‑711) – Carried
• Approve Official Plan Amendment OPA25/005/F/AP and Zoning By‑law Amendment ZBA2/011/F/AP for 132 Fairway Road North; endorse Revised Urban Design Brief – Carried
• Adopt Preferred Approach to Growth to inform draft Official Plan (Kitchener 2051) – Carried

Special Council Meeting

City Council will discuss a Home Renovations Savings Program and a heritage permit application. The meeting includes an authorization for an in-camera session to discuss sponsorship and facility rental programming.

• Heritage Permit Application HPA-2022-V-017 for a rear addition at 57 Jubilee Drive
• Staff report INS-2025-350 regarding the Home Renovations Savings Program
• In-camera discussion on a sponsorship opportunity
• In-camera discussion on City-owned Facilities rental programming
• By-law 2025-085 to confirm proceedings of August 11, 2025

The council directed staff to join the provincial Home Renovations Savings Program, authorizing a service agreement with Enbridge Gas Inc. and requiring program funding in future utility budgets. A heritage permit for a rear addition at 57 Jubilee Drive was approved with the condition that the final building permit be reviewed by the city’s heritage planner. An in‑camera meeting was authorized, and By‑law 2025‑085 was given third reading to confirm the council’s actions on August 11.

• Approved participation in Home Renovations Savings Program and service agreement with Enbridge Gas Inc.
• Approved Heritage Permit Application HPA‑2022‑V‑017 for 57 Jubilee Drive, subject to heritage planner review
• Authorized an in‑camera meeting to discuss confidential contract and solicitor‑client matters
• Gave third reading approval to By‑law 2025‑085 confirming council actions for August 11

Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee

The City of Kitchener announced that the Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee meeting set for August 6, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. in the Schmalz Room was cancelled. No agenda items were considered or decided. No further action or discussion was recorded for this meeting.

• Meeting cancellation

Heritage Kitchener Committee

The Heritage Kitchener Committee is reviewing heritage permit applications for three properties and notices of intention to designate four additional sites under the Ontario Heritage Act. The body will also receive a status update on the Municipal Heritage Register Review related to Bill 23.

• Heritage Permit Application HPA-2025-V-014 for 59 Park Street
• Heritage Permit Applications HPA-2025-015 and HPA-2025-016 for 11 Roy Street and 68 Queen Street North
• Notice of Intention to Designate 14 Irvin Street, 18 Irvin Street, and 35 Roos Street
• Notice of Intention to Designate 2219 Ottawa Street South and 808 Bleams Road
• Municipal Heritage Register Review update including 99 Strange Street and 40 Bridge Street West

The Heritage Kitchener Committee unanimously approved a demolition permit for 59 Park Street and refused demolition permits for 11 Roy Street and 68 Queen Street North. It directed the Clerk to publish Notices of Intention to Designate multiple properties, including 14 Irvin Street, 18 Irvin Street, 2219 Ottawa Street South/808 Bleams Road, and recognized heritage value for 40 Bridge Street West. The committee also waived notice to add an urgent item for 57 Jubilee Drive.

• Approved demolition permit for 59 Park Street (unanimous)
• Refused demolition permit for 11 Roy Street (carried)
• Refused demolition permit for 68 Queen Street North (carried)
• Directed Clerk to publish Notice of Intention to Designate 14 Irvin Street (carried)
• Directed Clerk to publish Notice of Intention to Designate 18 Irvin Street (carried)
• Directed Clerk to publish Notice of Intention to Designate 2219 Ottawa Street South/808 Bleams Road (carried)
• Recognized heritage value and pursued designation for 40 Bridge Street West (unanimous)
• Waived notice to add urgent item for 57 Jubilee Drive (carried)

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

This is an information package only and not a meeting agenda for Council or Committee. It contains correspondence received by staff for the information of Council.

• City of St. Catharines correspondence regarding AMO Elect Respect Pledge
• Norfolk County correspondence supporting Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan regarding Bill C-2
• Township of Nairn and Hyman correspondence opposing transportation and disposal of Niobium Tailings at Agnew Lake Tailings

Property Standards Committee

The Property Standards Appeal Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday, July 30, 2025, has been cancelled.

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

This is an information-only meeting where staff present a package of correspondence received by council. No decisions are made; residents can request items be added to a future committee agenda.

• Municipality of South Huron supports Township of Black River-Matheson firefighter certification requirements
• Town of Aurora opposes Bill 5, Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act
• Town of Aurora opposes Bill 17, Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act

Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Economic Development Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for July 23, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered or decided. The cancellation notice was issued by Committee Administrator Navitha Nandakumar.

• Meeting scheduled for July 23, 2025 was cancelled

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City of Kitchener Council will review an Electronic Council Communication Information Package (ECCP) that contains inter‑municipal correspondence. The package is for information only and does not constitute a formal agenda or items for decision at this meeting. Council members may submit items for future standing‑committee agendas by the deadline noted in the procedural by‑law. No resolutions or votes are scheduled.

• Municipality of South Huron – Formal opposition to expansion of Strong Mayor powers (July 18 2025)
• Municipality of South Huron – Support for Municipality of Tweed on producer responsibility of blue boxes (July 18 2025)
• Township of Puslinch – Procurement and advocacy of trade agreement exemptions (July 17 2025)
• Village of Burk's Falls – Battery Energy Storage Systems (July 15 2025)
• Town of Kingsville – Letter of opposition to Bill 17 (July 17 2025)

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment will hear applications for minor variances and consents. Items include a consent to sever a 362.3 sq m parcel at 829 Stirling Avenue South, several minor variance requests for 124 Tupper Crescent, 55 Shoemaker Street, 82 Brunswick Avenue, and a consent to sever a triangular parcel at 546 Courtland Avenue East. The meeting is public and will be livestreamed.

• B 2024-031 – consent to sever a 7.9 m × 45.7 m (362.3 sq m) parcel at 829 Stirling Ave S
• A 2025-062 – minor variance to waive the 1.8 m visual barrier for 124 Tupper Crescent
• A 2025-063 – minor variance to reduce required parking from 81 to 44 spaces at 55 Shoemaker St
• A 2025-064 & A 2025-065 – minor variances for parking and rear‑yard setbacks at 82 Brunswick Ave
• B 2025-021 – consent to sever an 8.1 m × 9.1 m × 3 m (11.9 sq m) triangular parcel at 546 Courtland Ave E

The Committee deferred KK Holding Inc.'s consent to sever a parcel at 829 Stirling Avenue South until March 2026. It approved minor variances for Pier 4 REIT at 124 Tupper Crescent and for Bellair (Shoemaker) Inc. at 55 Shoemaker Street. It also approved a rear‑yard setback variance for Amy and Nigel Brooke at 82 Brunswick Avenue while refusing their parking‑reduction variance.

• Deferred consent to sever parcel at 829 Stirling Avenue South (KK Holding Inc.) – Carried
• Approved minor variance for Pier 4 REIT at 124 Tupper Crescent – Carried
• Approved minor variance for Bellair (Shoemaker) Inc. at 55 Shoemaker Street – Carried
• Approved rear‑yard setback variance (5.6 m) for Amy & Nigel Brooke at 82 Brunswick Avenue – Carried
• Parking‑reduction variance (1 space vs 2 required) for Amy & Nigel Brooke at 82 Brunswick Avenue – Lost (refused)

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

The Arts and Culture Advisory Committee will review a presentation on the Victoria Park Master Plan. The committee is also scheduled to discuss a proposed public art commission for KIRC.

• Presentation on Victoria Park Master Plan by Karen Leasa
• Discussion of KIRC proposed public art commission

The Arts and Culture Advisory Committee voted unanimously to endorse the jury’s selection of artist Jackie Traverse and the proposed mosaic tile artwork “Gidinawendimin” for the Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex. The motion was made by M. Lam and seconded by N. Stretch. No other substantive decisions were made at this meeting.

• Endorsed tile artwork Gidinawendimin by Jackie Traverse for KIRC (unanimous)

Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee

The Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee will meet to discuss the RISE Fund selection process and review the committee's Terms of Reference. The body will also plan agenda items and land acknowledgement reflections for September.

• RISE Fund Selection Process Debrief
• EARAC Terms of Reference discussion
• Land Acknowledgement Reading & Reflection for September
• Planning of September agenda items

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The council received an Electronic Council Communication Information Package for information only. It includes municipal correspondence where City of Port Colborne supports City of Pickering’s request to raise Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program benefits, dated July 10, 2025. No decisions are being made at this meeting; items can be added to future agendas if submitted by the required deadline.

• City of Port Colborne – support for City of Pickering’s request to raise Ontario Works and ODSP (July 10 2025)

Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee

The City of Kitchener announced that the Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for July 8, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were selected for discussion.

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The council will receive an electronic information package containing correspondence received by staff for their information. The package includes regional, municipal, and provincial/federal letters, notably several municipalities’ positions on Bill 5 and related issues. No decisions or votes are scheduled; items can be proposed for future committee agendas by contacting the municipal clerk.

• City of Pickering – Opposition to Bill 5 and Request to Repeal (June 30 2025)
• City of Port Colborne – Advocacy for Increased Income Support Thresholds (June 27 2025)
• Municipality of West Nipissing – Strong Mayor Opposition (June 17 2025)
• Town of Cobourg – Bill 5 impact on local food system and environment (July 4 2025)
• Town of Prescott – Strong Mayor Powers (June 3 2025)

Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee

The Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee will hear questions for the Corporate Leadership Team, receive feedback on the Project Status Overview Chart, and get an update on the Mid‑Year Strategic Plan Check‑In. Members will also discuss considerations for future report card evaluations and review the minutes from the June 4 meeting.

• Questions for Corporate Leadership Team from Compass Kitchener members
• Corporate Leadership Team feedback on Project Status Overview Chart
• Mid‑Year Strategic Plan Check‑In update by Margaret Love
• Discussion of future report card evaluations
• Review of previous minutes from the June 4 meeting

The committee approved the minutes from the June 4, 2025 meeting. Members selected R. Gill and J. Stephens‑Wells to present the Strategic Plan report to Council on August 25. No vote tallies were recorded for these actions.

• Approved June 4, 2025 meeting minutes (no vote tally recorded)
• Selected R. Gill to present the report to Council on August 25 (no vote tally recorded)
• Selected J. Stephens-Wells to present the report to Council on August 25 (no vote tally recorded)

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City Council will review an Electronic Council Communication Information Package containing correspondence received by staff. The package includes letters from other municipalities supporting or opposing Bill 5 and strong mayor powers. No decisions will be made at this meeting; the items are for information only. Councillors may consider adding items to future committee agendas.

• County of Northumberland – Support Mulmur Township correspondence re procurement and advocacy for trade agreement exemptions (June 25, 2025)
• Municipality of Wawa – Oppose Bill 5 (June 3, 2025)
• Town of Fort Erie – Support County of Prince Edward resolution re Bill 5 Protect Ontario (June 24, 2025)
• Town of Renfrew – Letter of opposition to Strong Mayor Powers (June 3, 2025)
• Township of Southgate – Bill 5 – Protecting Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act (June 23, 2025)

Downtown Advisory Committee

The Downtown Action Advisory Committee will review the proposed vision, landscape features, and engagement process for the Victoria Park Master Plan. The meeting also includes updates from the Business Improvement Area and Downtown Kitchener. Information items outline topics for upcoming meetings, such as the Charles Street Terminal redevelopment and a downtown parking strategy.

• Victoria Park Master Plan – overview of vision and landscape features (30 min)
• BIA Updates (15 min)
• DTK Updates (15 min)
• Upcoming DAC meeting topics – Charles Street Terminal Redevelopment (September)
• Upcoming DAC meeting topics – Downtown Parking Strategy (October)

Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee (GRAAC)

The Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting to review accessibility updates and reports. The body will discuss several infrastructure projects and policy updates across Kitchener and Waterloo.

• GRT Conestoga Station Refresh Project update
• Victoria Park Master Plan presentation
• Region of Waterloo Taxi By-law presentation
• Waterloo Corporate Accessibility Policy 2017 review
• Alternative Snow Clearing Supports in Waterloo

Property Standards Committee

The Property Standards Committee will consider four appeals concerning property standards orders. The appeals involve requests for extensions to comply with orders at 128 Weber Street East and 74 Roberts Crescent, and requests to modify or quash orders at 21 Holborn Drive and 75 Old Chicopee Drive. The committee will review each appeal during the meeting.

• Appeal #2024-02 – 128 Weber Street East – extension to comply with order
• Appeal #2025-06 – 74 Roberts Crescent – extension to comply with order
• Appeal #2025-07 – 21 Holborn Drive – request to modify or quash the order
• Appeal #2025-08 – 75 Old Chicopee Drive – request to modify or quash the order

Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee

The committee will meet electronically to discuss several items, including the Victoria Park Master Plan and the REDI Team Workplan. The session also includes a debrief on the RISE Fund selection process and a review of the committee's Terms of Reference.

• Victoria Park Master Plan discussion
• REDI Team Workplan discussion
• EARAC Terms of Reference review
• RISE Fund Selection Process debrief
• RISE Fund Fall 2025 intake period information

Special Council Meeting

The Special Council will hear mayoral updates and delegate remarks before voting on a resolution to hold an in-camera session to consider five confidential items, including solicitor‑client privilege, land acquisitions, a personal matter, and third‑party information. Staff will brief the council on a City Park Strategy land acquisition, a potential grant funding opportunity, and another potential city land acquisition, seeking direction on each. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Resolution to authorize an in-camera meeting covering five confidential items
• City Park Strategy – potential land acquisition (information and direction sought)
• Potential grant funding opportunity (information and direction sought)
• Potential city land acquisition (information and direction sought)
• Mayoral business and updates by Mayor B. Vrbanovic

Council approved a motion to hold an in-camera meeting immediately after the special council meeting. The motion was moved by Councillor D. Schnider, seconded by Councillor S. Stretch, and was carried. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Authorized in-camera meeting to consider five items (motion carried)

Council Meeting

The June 23 council meeting will decide on several approvals, including heritage designations, the 2025 Artist in Residence appointment, and a short‑term rental by‑law with associated fees and staffing. Major financial items include a tax‑increment grant of up to $346,552 for the brownfield remediation at 120 Victoria Street South and a $369,510 contract with MuniPaaS for a Salesforce case‑management platform. The council will also vote to increase parking violation fines, replace the Public Tree By‑law, and grant noise exemptions for local events.

• Approve tax‑increment grant not to exceed $346,552 for brownfield remediation at 120 Victoria Street South (3‑year payout)
• Approve sole‑source contract with MuniPaaS for Salesforce Case Management at $327,000 plus $42,510 HST (total $369,510) for three years
• Approve Short‑Term Rental By‑law, fee schedule, and one full‑time staff position
• Approve increased penalty fines for parking violations under the Administrative Monetary Penalty System
• Repeal and replace Chapter 690 (Public Tree By‑law) with new by‑law and associated penalty fines

The council approved a zoning by‑law amendment for 924‑944 King Street West. It ratified two dog designation appeal decisions. An amended motion directing staff to pursue affordable‑rental housing actions and report on a draft renovation licensing by‑law was carried 6‑3. The council took no action on the proposed short‑term rental by‑law.

• Approved Zoning By‑law Amendment Application ZBA25/001/K/EW for 924‑944 King Street West (Carried)
• Ratified prohibited dog designation for Nicole Edwards’ dogs “Monster” and “Mulisha” (Carried, as amended)
• Ratified prohibited dog designation for McArthur and Shepherd’s dogs “Rocky”, “Axl”, “Malone”, “Charlie” (Carried)
• Amended motion on evictions due to renovations directing staff to pursue housing initiatives and report on draft rental‑renovation licensing by‑law (Carried 6‑3, 2 conflicts)
• Motion to take no action on short‑term rental by‑law (Carried)
• Approved $10 million Ontario Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund grant for KIRC (announced)
• Accepted minutes of May and June meetings (Carried)
• Declared conflicts of interest by Councillors P. Singh and S. Stretch on relevant items (recorded)

Dog Designation Appeal Committee

The Dog Designation Appeal Committee will hold a quasi‑judicial hearing on June 23, 2025. It will consider Appeal #2025‑07 and Appeal #2025‑08, both involving prohibited dog designations filed by Nicole Edwards. The meeting will be video recorded for internal minutes but not released to the public.

• Appeal #2025‑07 – Prohibited Dog Designation – Appellant: Nicole Edwards ("Monster") – Officer: Sara Schweitzer
• Appeal #2025‑08 – Prohibited Dog Designation – Appellant: Nicole Edwards ("Mulisha") – Officer: Sara Schweitzer

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee will discuss the City’s 2024 audited consolidated financial statements (FIN‑2025‑289) and related attachments, including the annual surplus reconciliation and KPMG audit findings. The meeting also includes a presentation of a Certificate of Achievement for the Canadian Award for Financial Reporting for fiscal year 2023. Standard procedural items such as commencement, conflict‑of‑interest disclosures, delegations, and adjournment are also on the agenda.

• Discussion of 2024 Audited Consolidated Financial Statements – FIN‑2025‑289
• Review of Attachment A – Annual Surplus Reconciliation
• Review of Attachment D – KPMG Audit Findings Report
• Presentation of Certificate of Achievement – Canadian Award for Financial Reporting – FY 2023

The committee reviewed the 2024 audited consolidated financial statements and the KPMG audit findings report (FIN‑2025‑289). On a motion by Councillor S. Davey, the committee approved the statements as outlined in the report. The motion was carried.

• Approved 2024 Audited Consolidated Financial Statements (motion by Councillor S. Davey, carried)

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City Council reviewed an Electronic Council Communication Information Package containing correspondence received by staff. The package includes letters from other municipalities and provincial/federal bodies for informational purposes only. No decisions or votes are taken on these items at this meeting. Council members may submit items for future committee agendas by the specified deadline.

• City of Woodstock – Bill 5 Protecting Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act (June 6, 2025)
• Municipality of Markstay‑Warren – Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers (May 20, 2025)
• Town of Bracebridge – Road Salt Usage (June 16, 2025)
• Township of North Dumfries – Activa Harvest Park Official Plan and Zoning Bylaw Amendments (June 16, 2025)
• Township of Georgian Bay – Floating Accommodations – Position Paper (June 2, 2025)

Climate Change and Environment Committee

The Climate Change and Environment Committee will hear a 5‑minute presentation on TransformWR and a 5‑minute presentation on the Kitchener 2051 Official Plan Climate and Energy Technical Background Study (DSD‑2025‑280). The meeting also includes sub‑committee updates on environmental rodent control impacts, sustainable food systems, committee/council report template changes, and high performance development standards. No formal decisions are listed; the agenda consists of informational and discussion items.

• TransformWR presentation (40 min)
• Kitchener 2051 Official Plan Climate and Energy Technical Study update (20 min)
• Environmental Rodent Control Impacts sub‑committee update (5 min)
• Sustainable Food Systems sub‑committee update (10 min)
• High Performance Development Standards sub‑committee update (5 min)

The Climate Change and Environment Committee disbanded the Environmental Rodent Control Impacts sub‑committee after member changes. The meeting also included presentations on the TransformWR regional climate‑reporting plan and the Kitchener 2051 Official Plan climate study, along with updates on other sub‑committees and standards. No formal motions or votes were recorded.

• Disbanded Environmental Rodent Control Impacts sub‑committee (no vote recorded)

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

The Arts and Culture Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, June 17, 2025, has been cancelled.

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is meeting to hear several applications for minor variances and land severances. These requests include changes to building heights, setbacks, and lot areas to facilitate new dwellings and additions.

• 96 Wood Street: Request for variances to build an 8-unit multiple dwelling
• 175 Hoffman Street: Request for ground-supported balconies for a 14-unit building
• 181 Borden Avenue North: Request to sever land for two 3-storey, 4-unit dwellings
• 73 Second Avenue: Request to sever land for two duplex dwellings
• 89 Matthew Street and 386 Wake Robin Crescent: Requests for Additional Dwelling Unit (ADU) variances

The Committee of Adjustment refused the minor variance application for 96 Wood Street, citing that the requested changes were not minor and did not align with the Zoning By‑Law and Official Plan. It approved the minor variance for 89 Matthew Street, allowing an Additional Dwelling Unit of 93 sq m, finding the request minor and desirable. The Committee also considered a variance request for 386 Wake Robin Crescent, but the minutes do not record a final decision.

• Refused minor variance for 96 Wood Street (Lot 28, Plan 287)
• Approved minor variance for 89 Matthew Street ADU (93 sq m)
• Considered minor variance for 386 Wake Robin Crescent; outcome not recorded

Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Economic Development Advisory Committee will discuss key priorities and required engagement for major initiatives for the remainder of 2025. The meeting also includes a presentation on the Special Events Strategy and Arts & Culture Plan.

• Special Events Strategy and Arts & Culture Plan presentation
• Key Priority Roadmap for the Second Half of 2025 review

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee will discuss proposed levels of service for Asset Management Plans and a fee for paper billing. The body will also consider several consent items regarding brownfield remediation and corporate policy updates.

• Brownfield Remediation Program Application for 120 Victoria Street South
• Brownfield Remediation Program Application for 108 Garment Street
• Proposed levels of service for Asset Management Plans (FIN-2025-255)
• Proposed fee for paper billing (FIN-2025-274)
• Purchase order increase for Carson Drive Sanitary Pumping Station

The committee approved two Brownfield Remediation Program applications, authorizing tax‑increment grants of up to $346,552 for 120 Victoria Street South and up to $404,778 for 108 Garment Street, and authorized the Mayor and Clerk to execute the agreements. It also approved corporate policy amendments and a demolition‑control bylaw, selected MuniPaaS as the sole vendor for the city’s CRM platform at a total cost of $369,510, and increased a purchase order for the Carson Drive Sanitary Pumping Station by $75,000. Asset Management Plans for all city assets were approved, and staff were directed to enhance e‑billing promotion and report progress by 2027.

• Approved Brownfield Remediation Application for 120 Victoria St (grant up to $346,552) – Carried
• Approved Brownfield Remediation Application for 108 Garment St (grant up to $404,778) – Carried
• Amended and repealed corporate policies and enacted demolition‑control bylaw – Carried
• Approved MuniPaaS as sole CRM vendor at $369,510 total cost – Carried
• Increased purchase order for Carson Drive Sanitary Pumping Station by $75,000 – Carried
• Approved Asset Management Plans for all city assets – Carried
• Directed staff to enhance e‑billing promotion and report by end of 2027 – Carried

Special Council Meeting

The Special Council will vote on a resolution to hold an in-camera meeting immediately after this session to consider two potential land disposition matters under Municipal Act Section 239(2)(c). The matters are a potential lease of city‑owned land and an affordable‑housing opportunity. Staff will present information and seek direction on each item. Other agenda items include standard commencement, disclosures, delegations, mayoral updates, and a three‑reading by‑law confirmation.

• Authorize in-camera meeting to consider potential lease of city‑owned land (Section 239(2)(c))
• Authorize in-camera meeting to consider affordable housing opportunity (Section 239(2)(c))
• Three‑reading confirmation of By‑law 2025‑068 for June 16, 2025 actions
• Mayoral business and updates by Mayor B. Vrbanovic
• Delegations – none submitted

Council approved a motion to hold an in-camera meeting immediately after the special council meeting to consider two land disposition matters. Council authorized the Chief Administrative Officer to approve and execute the lease agreement(s) for the building at 57 Jubilee Drive as outlined in report COR‑2025‑287. The council gave third reading and adopted By‑law 2025‑068, confirming all actions and proceedings of the June 16 2025 meeting.

• Authorized in-camera meeting to consider two land disposition matters (carried)
• Authorized CAO to approve and execute lease agreement(s) for 57 Jubilee Drive per report COR‑2025‑287 (carried)
• Adopted By‑law 2025‑068, third reading, confirming council actions of June 16 2025 (carried)

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee will consider a zoning by‑law amendment application (ZBA25/001/K/EW) for the property at 924‑944 King Street West. It will also approve a consent item updating school safety plans for several schools, discuss a report on evictions caused by renovations, and receive a quarterly planning report. Delegations and other procedural items are also on the agenda.

• Zoning By‑law Amendment Application ZBA25/001/K/EW, 924‑944 King Street West (public hearing)
• Consent item: 2025 School Safety Update to Accommodate Growth, DSD‑2025‑222
• Discussion item: Evictions due to Renovations, DSD‑2025‑248
• Information item: Quarterly Planning Report (Q2), DSD‑2025‑260
• Delegation: Item 6.1 – Elliot Wand (5‑minute limit)

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee adopted a school safety plan that sets 30 km/h speed limits within 150 m of five school frontages, 40 km/h on a River Road segment, and adds multiple no‑stopping zones and crossing guards. The committee also approved the Zoning By‑law Amendment Application ZBA25/001/K/EW for 924‑944 King Street West, including the associated Urban Design Brief. Both actions were recorded as carried.

• Adopted school traffic safety measures (speed limits, no‑stopping zones, crossing guards) – carried
• Approved Zoning By‑law Amendment for 924‑944 King Street West – carried

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The Community and Infrastructure Services Committee will discuss the operating model for the Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex and provide an update on the Rockway Centre redevelopment. The body will also consider noise exemptions for local events and updates to plumbing and drainage regulations.

• Noise exemption for KW Oktoberfest at various locations
• Noise exemption for Holy Trinity Serbian Church at 700 Fischer Hallman Road
• Reallocation of capital funding for Festival of Neighbourhoods
• 2025 Chapter 660 (Plumbing and Drainage) update
• Automated Speed Enforcement update

The committee granted two noise exemptions for events in 2025, reallocated $40,000 of capital funding to the LoveMyHood Grant, and repealed Chapter 660 of the municipal code. It also approved the service‑focused operating model for the Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex and directed staff to proceed with Phase 3 of the Rockway Centre redevelopment, including a commercial kitchen, both unanimously on recorded votes.

• Granted noise exemption to K‑W Oktoberfest Inc. (CSD‑2025‑197) – Carried
• Granted noise exemption to Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church (CSD‑2025‑273) – Carried
• Reallocated $40,000 from Festival of Neighbourhoods to LoveMyHood Grant (CSD‑2025‑261) – Carried
• Repealed and replaced Chapter 660 (Plumbing and Drainage) (INS‑2025‑070) – Carried
• Approved service‑focused operating model for Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex and its inclusion in 2026‑2027 budgets – Carried unanimously on a recorded vote
• Approved amendment to Rockway Centre Phase 3 RFP to include a commercial kitchen – Carried unanimously on a recorded vote
• Approved Phase 3 of Rockway Centre Redevelopment with specified deliverables – Carried unanimously on a recorded vote

Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee will review several planning and event items. Discussions include a presentation on the Victoria Park Master Plan and a review of the proposed 2027 Complete Streets list.

• Victoria Park Master Plan presentation
• Safety Subcommittee review of the proposed 2027 Complete Streets list
• Bike Day in DTK event debrief
• Ontario Bike Summit recap

The Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee discussed the Victoria Park Master Plan, a Bike Day debrief, Complete Streets projects, and the Ontario Bike Summit. No formal approvals or rejections were recorded. The committee decided to replace the planned July meeting with a bike ride at City Hall.

• Committee decided to hold a bike ride at City Hall in lieu of a July meeting

Dog Designation Appeal Committee

The Dog Designation Appeal Committee will hold a public hearing to consider six appeals concerning prohibited dog designations. Each appeal lists the appellant(s), the dog's name, and the officer assigned. The committee will review the appeals but does not make decisions during the hearing.

• Appeal #2025-03 – Prohibited Dog Designation – Charlie – appellant: Jason McArthur and Janine Shepherd – Officer: Sarah Canavan
• Appeal #2025-04 – Prohibited Dog Designation – Rocky – appellant: Jason McArthur and Janine Shepherd – Officer: Sarah Canavan
• Appeal #2025-05 – Prohibited Dog Designation – Malone – appellant: Jason McArthur and Janine Shepherd – Officer: Sarah Canavan
• Appeal #2025-06 – Prohibited Dog Designation – Axl – appellant: Jason McArthur and Janine Shepherd – Officer: Sarah Canavan
• Appeal #2025-07 – Prohibited Dog Designation – Monster – appellant: Nicole Edwards – Officer: Sara Schweitzer

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City Council will review an Electronic Council Communication Information Package (ECCIP) containing inter‑municipal, provincial and federal correspondence. The package is for information only and does not constitute a formal agenda or decision‑making session. Council members may request to add any of the items to a future standing‑committee agenda by contacting the Municipal Clerk before the specified deadline.

• City of Peterborough – Bill 6, Safer Municipalities Act, 2025 (May 20, 2025)
• City of Pickering – Raising Ontario Works (OW) and Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) (June 4, 2025)
• City of Waterloo – Bill 17 Motion (June 2, 2025)
• Norfolk County – Strong Mayor Powers Resolution (June 4, 2025)
• Town of Caledon – Letter re Illegal Land Use Letter to Premier Ford (June 4, 2025)

Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee

The Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee meeting on June 4, 2025 will review the draft report card and discuss the previous meeting minutes. Members will examine the 2025 Compass Kitchener Draft Report Card (v3) provided as an attachment. No formal decisions are listed; the agenda focuses on discussion and information sharing.

• Final Review of Draft Report Card – 85 minutes
• Review Previous Minutes – 5 minutes
• 2025 Compass Kitchener Draft Report Card v3.pdf (information item)
• Delegations – up to five minutes per speaker

The Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee reviewed the final draft of the 2025 report card and agreed to prepare a list of questions for the Community Leadership Team. Members unanimously approved a sentence naming housing, social isolation and climate change as city priorities, and another sentence on challenges of identifying and tracking outcome indicators. The meeting adjourned at 5:42 p.m.

• Agreed to prepare a list of questions for CLT (unanimous agreement)
• Motion to add sentence naming housing, social isolation, climate change – carried unanimously
• Motion to add sentence on challenges of identifying and tracking outcome indicators – carried unanimously

Heritage Kitchener Committee

The Heritage Kitchener Committee is reviewing permit applications for repairs to historic sites and notices of intention to designate properties under the Ontario Heritage Act. The committee will also receive a status update regarding the Bill 23 Municipal Heritage Register Review.

• Heritage Permit HPA-2025-IV-011: Repairs to carved limestone parapet and capstones at 122 Frederick Street (The Registry Theatre)
• Heritage Permit HPA-2025-IV-012: Exterior step repairs and building cleaning at 119 Arlington Boulevard (Catholic Mausoleum, Woodland Cemetery)
• Notice of Intention to Designate 1865 Huron Road under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act
• Notice of Intention to Designate 241-247 Duke Street West / 55 Victoria Street North under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act
• Status update on Bill 23 Municipal Heritage Register Review

The Heritage Kitchener Committee unanimously approved Heritage Permit HPA‑2025‑IV‑011 to repair the carved limestone parapet at 122 Frederick Street and Heritage Permit HPA‑2025‑IV‑012 to repair steps and clean the Catholic Mausoleum at 119 Arlington Boulevard, each with specific conditions. The Committee also directed the Clerk to publish Notices of Intention to Designate 1865 Huron Road and 241‑247 Duke Street West / 55 Victoria Street North as heritage properties. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Approved Heritage Permit HPA‑2025‑IV‑011 for 122 Frederick Street (unanimous)
• Approved Heritage Permit HPA‑2025‑IV‑012 for 119 Arlington Boulevard (unanimous)
• Directed Clerk to publish Notice of Intention to Designate 1865 Huron Road (unanimous)
• Directed Clerk to publish Notice of Intention to Designate 241‑247 Duke Street West / 55 Victoria Street North (unanimous)

Special Council Meeting

The council will vote on a resolution to hold an in‑camera meeting immediately after this special meeting. The closed session would consider four items: solicitor‑client privilege advice, a potential land disposition, labour‑relations negotiations, and a possible litigation settlement. Staff will also provide information on each of these matters. Additionally, the council will conduct three readings of By‑law 2025‑066 to confirm the actions taken on June 2, 2025.

• Resolution to authorize an in‑camera meeting covering four confidential items
• Information briefing on legal advice regarding Municipal Act (solicitor‑client privilege)
• Staff briefing and direction request on labour‑relations contract negotiations
• Staff briefing and direction request on potential litigation settlement (solicitor‑client privilege)
• Three readings of By‑law 2025‑066 to confirm June 2 council actions

The council approved the Memorandum of Settlement that establishes the 2025‑2029 collective agreement with IBEW Local 636 and authorized the mayor and clerk to sign related documents. It also authorized the General Manager of Infrastructure Services to approve and execute a settlement for Court File CV‑21‑00001134‑0000. The by‑law confirming the council’s actions on June 2, 2025 (By‑law 2025‑066) received third‑reading approval. An in‑camera meeting was authorized to consider privileged and litigation matters.

• Approved Memorandum of Settlement establishing 2025‑2029 IBEW 636 collective agreement (Carried)
• Authorized mayor and clerk to execute documentation from the IBEW settlement (Carried)
• Authorized General Manager of Infrastructure Services to approve settlement in Court File CV‑21‑00001134‑0000 (Carried)
• Authorized General Manager of Infrastructure Services to execute minutes of settlement for Court File CV‑21‑00001134‑0000 (Carried)
• Authorized an in‑camera meeting to consider privileged and litigation items (Carried)
• Approved third reading of By‑law 2025‑066 to confirm council actions (Carried)
• Noted invitation to joint regional council meeting on June 13, 2025 (information only)
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:30 p.m. (Carried)

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee announced that the meeting scheduled for June 2, 2025 has been cancelled. No agenda items were considered or decided. The cancellation notice was issued by Committee Coordinator Mariah Blake.

• Meeting cancellation for June 2, 2025 (no agenda items considered)

The committee’s meeting scheduled for June 2, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered or decisions made.

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The Community and Infrastructure Services Committee meets on June 2, 2025. It will approve a consent item to increase penalty fines for parking violations under the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (CSD‑2024‑431). It will discuss proposed updates to the Public Tree By‑law (INS‑2025‑190), including tree removals and compensation. An information item will present a year‑one update on the Rental Replacement By‑law (DSD‑2025‑200).

• Consent: Increase penalty fines for parking violations – Administrative Monetary Penalty System (CSD‑2024‑431)
• Discussion: Updates to the Public Tree By‑law – INS‑2025‑190
• Information: Rental Replacement By‑law year‑one update – DSD‑2025‑200

The Committee approved the Administrative Monetary Penalty System to increase parking violation fines, as recommended in report CSD‑2024‑431. It also approved the repeal and replacement of Chapter 690 (Public Tree Bylaw) with a new bylaw, authorized the clerk to update the municipal code, and approved the associated administrative penalty fines, per report INS‑2025‑190. Staff were directed to implement the new tree bylaw, including education, enforcement, and monitoring measures.

• Approved increase to parking violation fines under the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (Carried)
• Approved repeal and replacement of Chapter 690 Public Tree Bylaw with new bylaw (Carried)
• Authorized clerk to update Chapter 690 of the municipal code (Carried)
• Approved administrative penalty fines for the new Public Tree Bylaw (Carried)
• Directed staff to implement the new tree bylaw, including education, enforcement, and monitoring (Carried)

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee will consider two discussion items. First, the appointment of the 2025 Artist in Residence and the selection of public art for the Doon Pioneer Park Community Centre (DSD‑2025‑244). Second, a draft Short‑term Rental By‑law (COR‑2025‑041) together with a draft licensing‑fees schedule. No consent items are on the agenda.

• 2025 Artist in Residence appointment and Doon Pioneer Park Community Centre public art selection (DSD‑2025‑244)
• Draft Short‑term Rental By‑law (COR‑2025‑041) with licensing‑fees appendix
• Delegations – each delegate may speak for up to five minutes

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee appointed Tara Cooper as the 2025 City of Kitchener Artist in Residence and approved the commission of her artwork at Doon Pioneer Park Community Centre, pending staff review. The committee also approved the short‑term rental by‑law, the associated fee schedule, and a request for one full‑time staff position to administer the program, with a 6‑to‑5 vote. An in‑camera City Council meeting on a solicitor‑client privilege matter was authorized.

• Appointed Tara Cooper as 2025 City of Kitchener Artist in Residence (Carried)
• Approved commission and installation of Tara Cooper’s artwork at Doon Pioneer Park Community Centre (Carried)
• Authorized Mayor and Clerk to execute agreement with Tara Cooper (Carried)
• Approved short‑term rental by‑law as shown in Appendix A (Carried 6‑5)
• Approved fees in Appendix B of the short‑term rental by‑law (Carried 6‑5)
• Approved request for one full‑time equivalent staff position to support the by‑law (Carried 6‑5)
• Authorized an in‑camera City Council meeting on a solicitor‑client privilege matter (Carried)

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The May 30, 2025 electronic meeting is an information package only, not a formal agenda. Staff are providing correspondence from other municipalities and the province for council’s information. No items are scheduled for decision or discussion at this meeting.

• City of Kingston – Bill 5, Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025 (May 21, 2025)
• County of Prince Edward – Bill 5, Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025 (May 28, 2025)
• County of Prince Edward – Strong Mayor Powers (May 28, 2025)
• Municipality of Assiginack – Ontario Works Rates (May 20, 2025)
• Township of Woolwich – Enova Shareholder Nominee Extension (May 28, 2025)

Downtown Advisory Committee

The committee will hear a presentation on planned downtown programming and activations for 2025, an overview of the 2025 Special Event plans, updates from the Business Improvement Area, updates from the Downtown Kitchener (DTK) team, and a presentation about the "Visit Bird Friendly Kitchener City" event at Square Peg. Each item includes a brief Q&A session. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Downtown Programming and Events presentation by K. Skelton
• Special Event 2025 preview by S. Roth
• Business Improvement Area (BIA) updates
• Downtown Kitchener (DTK) updates
• Visit Bird Friendly Kitchener City at Square Peg presentation

The Downtown Advisory Committee provided updates on public‑space beautification, upcoming special events, BIA initiatives, and the Downtown Development team’s new ambassadors. No motions, approvals, or votes were recorded; the meeting was informational only.

Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Economic Development Advisory Committee will review the Victoria Park Master Plan. The meeting also includes a presentation on AI and automation and a discussion regarding the rescheduling of the June meeting.

• Victoria Park Master Plan introduction by Parks Design and Development team
• Presentation on AI and automation by Prof. J. Blit from University of Waterloo
• Discussion on rescheduling the June meeting

Property Standards Committee

The Kitchener Property Standards Committee met on May 28, 2025 to hear appeals. Three appeals requesting extensions to comply with orders were listed for 81 Morgan Avenue, 37 Ahrens Street West, and 215 Highland Road West. The meeting also included standard commencement and a disclosure of pecuniary interest.

• Appeal #2024-03 – 81 Morgan Avenue – extension to comply with order
• Appeal #2025-04 – 37 Ahrens Street West – extension to comply with order
• Appeal #2025-05 – 215 Highland Road West – extension to comply with order

Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee

The Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee will first consider a resolution to hold an in‑camera meeting about a personal matter involving a city or board employee. It will then conduct a group review of the Spring 2025 RISE Fund applications, with members expected to reach consensus on the grant recipients. The meeting also includes a land acknowledgement and a brief disclosure of any pecuniary interests.

• Resolution to authorize an in‑camera meeting on a personal matter involving a city or board employee
• Group review and consensus decision on Spring 2025 RISE Fund grant recipients
• Disclosure of pecuniary interests by committee members

Special Council Meeting

The City of Kitchener will hold a special council meeting on May 26, 2025. Council will first vote to authorize an in‑camera session for confidential matters under the Municipal Act. In the strategic session, staff will present a design and operational update for the Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex (CSD‑2025‑237). No formal decisions are noted for the presented items.

• Resolution to authorize an in‑camera meeting for confidential matters (Sections 239(2) of the Municipal Act)
• Legal advice information matter on a planning application (no council direction required)
• Community Infrastructure Investment information matter (no council direction required)
• CAO performance review information matter (no council direction required)
• Strategic session report: Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex – design and operational update (CSD‑2025‑237)

The council approved an in-camera meeting to consider two personal matters, including a solicitor‑client privileged issue and confidential third‑party information. The motion was moved by Councillor S. Stretch, seconded by Councillor D. Schnider, and carried. Later, the council adjourned the meeting at 3:21 p.m. after receiving an update on the Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex, but no decisions were made on that project.

• Authorized in-camera meeting to consider two personal matters (carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 3:21 p.m. (carried)

Council Meeting

Kitchener City Council will discuss several heritage permits, noise exemptions for downtown events and a food festival, and a parks master plan. The meeting includes decisions on zoning and official plan amendments for properties on Arlington Boulevard and the Hidden Valley area.

• Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments for 44-50 Arlington Boulevard
• Official Plan Amendment OPA24/005/K/CM and Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA24/008/K/CM for Hidden Valley Land Use
• Approval of the Places and Spaces Parks Master Plan (INS-2025-142)
• Heritage permits for 60 Victoria Street North, 122 Frederick Street, 279 Queen Street South, and 1404 Doon Village Road
• Noise exemptions for Downtown Special Events and the Greek Food Festival at 527 Bridgeport Road

The council approved the City‑initiated Official Plan Amendment OPA24/005/K/CM and Zoning By‑law Amendment ZBA24/008/K/CM for the Hidden Valley land‑use project, including rezoning of Areas 4/2B and 3/2A to RES‑5 and repealing the 1990 Hidden Valley Residential Community Plan and 1981 Industrial Community Secondary Plan. The Parks Master Plan – Places and Spaces was also approved, directing staff to implement its recommendations. A heritage permit for 60 Victoria Street North was approved with conditions, and the meeting minutes were accepted.

• Approved Official Plan Amendment OPA24/005/K/CM with mapping changes (Carried)
• Approved Zoning By‑law Amendment ZBA24/008/K/CM rezoning Areas 4/2B and 3/2A to RES‑5 (Carried)
• Repealed Hidden Valley Residential Community Plan (1990) and Industrial Community Secondary Plan (1981) (Carried)
• Approved Parks Master Plan – Places and Spaces (Carried)
• Approved heritage permit for 60 Victoria Street North with conditions (Carried)
• Accepted minutes of May 5 and May 12, 2025 meetings (Carried)

My Ideal City

The Kitchener City Council meeting will open with a land acknowledgement and the Mayor’s opening remarks. Two public delegates will present opposing views on whether the City should allocate more funds to community centres. The meeting will conclude with the Mayor’s closing remarks. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Commencement with land acknowledgement and singing of “O Canada”
• Mayor’s opening remarks
• Public delegation – Enkela Morina (pro) argues for increased community‑centre funding
• Public delegation – Antonio Jordao Mendes de Goes (con) argues funds should be spent elsewhere
• Mayor’s closing remarks

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The May 23, 2025 electronic meeting is an information package only and does not contain any items for Council to decide. It includes correspondence from the Region of Waterloo on the 2026 Plan and Budget Process, from the Town of LaSalle about the Northern Health Travel Grant Program, and from the Municipality of Kincardine regarding Bill 5 – Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act. Staff note that any of these items can be placed on a future standing‑committee agenda if the Municipal Clerk is notified by the required deadline.

• Region of Waterloo – 2026 Plan and Budget Process and Principles (May 22, 2025)
• Town of LaSalle – Northern Health Travel Grant Program (February 4, 2025)
• Municipality of Kincardine – Bill 5‑Protect Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act (May 14, 2025)

Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee (GRAAC)

The Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee will hold a discussion on several regional accessibility topics. Items include waste‑management practices, the City of Kitchener’s equity data, a facility accessibility audit for the Township of Wilmot, an update on the Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex, and plans for a parking lot and washroom building at Upper Canada Park. No formal decisions are indicated on the agenda.

• Region of Waterloo – Waste Management discussion (20 min)
• City of Kitchener – Review of data for equity standards and guidelines (20 min)
• Township of Wilmot – Facility Accessibility Audit presentation (20 min)
• City of Kitchener – Update on Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex (25 min)
• City of Kitchener – Upper Canada Park parking lot and washroom building plans (15 min)

The Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee reviewed questions about new green and blue waste bins, regional data‑collection for equity standards, and accessibility features for several municipal facilities. Staff agreed to follow up on bin labeling, survey distribution, and specific accessibility recommendations, but no motions were approved, denied, or voted on.

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment will consider a range of minor variance and consent applications, including a request to sever a parcel at 864 King Street West for a proposed 45‑storey tower and related setbacks. Other items include severances at 508 and 512 Fall Harvest Place, a long‑term lease consent for the McDonald's at 1950 Fischer Hallman Road, and several parking and yard‑setback variances for various properties. The meeting is public and will be livestreamed.

• B2025-017 & A2025-054 – 864 King Street West: consent to sever land for a 45‑storey tower and multiple minor variances (front yard, side yard setbacks, physical separation).
• B2025-014 – 508 Fall Harvest Place: consent to sever a triangular parcel (180.2 sq m) for lot addition.
• B2025-015 – 512 Fall Harvest Place: consent to sever an irregular parcel (342.5 sq m) for lot addition.
• B2025-016 – 1950 Fischer Hallman Road: consent for a long‑term lease (>21 years) for a McDonald's restaurant building and drive‑through.
• A2025-021 – 2880 King Street East: minor variance to reduce required parking from 44 to 27 spaces.

The Committee of Adjustment approved a minor variance allowing 27 parking spaces at 2880 King Street East. It refused three separate minor variance applications for 82 Brunswick Avenue. It also approved a minor variance reducing required parking to 16 spaces at 191 Morgan Avenue.

• Approved minor variance for 2880 King Street East (parking reduced to 27 spaces)
• Refused minor variances for 82 Brunswick Avenue (front yard, driveway, rear yard setbacks)
• Refused minor variances for 82 Brunswick Avenue (alternative front yard, driveway, rear yard setbacks)
• Approved minor variance for 191 Morgan Avenue (parking reduced to 16 spaces)

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

The Arts and Culture Advisory Committee will meet to discuss a proposal for the 2025 Artist in Residence and review the Committee Terms of Reference. The meeting also includes updates on city programs and a public art call for proposals.

• 2025 Artist in Residence proposal
• Committee Terms of Reference review
• Upper Canada Park public art call for proposals

The committee unanimously approved Tara Cooper as the 2025 Artist in Residence. The agenda, March minutes and April minutes were each accepted on motion. N. Stretch volunteered to serve as a jury member for the Upper Canada Park public‑art selection. The meeting adjourned at 5:52 p.m.

• Approved Tara Cooper as 2025 Artist in Residence (unanimous)
• Accepted agenda (motion by I. Stefanescu, seconded by N. Stretch)
• Accepted March minutes (motion by M. Lam, seconded by N. Stretch)
• Accepted April minutes (motion by M. Lam, seconded by A. Mehta)
• N. Stretch volunteered as jury member for Upper Canada Park art selection
• Meeting adjourned at 5:52 p.m.

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City Council received an Electronic Council Communication Information Package for May 16, 2025, which contains correspondence for staff’s information only. The package includes letters from the Region of Waterloo, several Ontario municipalities opposing strong‑mayor powers, and a provincial letter about Bill 17. No items are scheduled for decision at this meeting, but items may be proposed for future committee agendas.

• Region of Waterloo correspondence (no attachments)
• City of Quinte West – Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers (May 8, 2025)
• Town of Goderich – Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers (May 9, 2025)
• Town of Orangeville – Rescinding Strong Mayor Powers (May 12, 2025)
• Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing – Letter on Bill 17 (May 13, 2025)

Climate Change and Environment Committee

The Climate Change and Environment Committee will hear a brief presentation on the Kitchener 2051 Community Conversation Kit. It will also receive sub‑committee updates and a staff briefing on agenda‑setting and motion procedures. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of Kitchener 2051 Community Conversation Kit (item 4.1)
• Sub‑Committee Updates (item 5.1)
• Agenda Setting & Motion Process and Procedures briefing (item 5.2)

The Climate Change and Environment Committee discussed the Kitchener 2051 Official Plan update, emphasizing integrated priorities, Indigenous engagement, and affordable sustainable housing. After extensive discussion, the committee resolved that its comments from the Community Conversation Kit be provided to City staff for consideration in the Official Plan update, and the motion carried. No other formal decisions were recorded.

• Resolved to submit committee comments on the Kitchener 2051 Community Conversation Kit to staff (carried)

Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee will receive an update on school travel planning and crossing guards, an update on Bike Day promotions in downtown Kitchener, and conduct a community conversation as part of engagement for the Kitchener 2051 project. No formal decisions are noted; the items are for discussion and information.

• Delegation from J. Brannan on cycling infrastructure (5 min)
• School travel planning update and crossing guards (10 min)
• Bike Day in DTK promotions update (10 min)
• Community conversation on Kitchener 2051 project (40 min)
• Staff updates (5 min)

The Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee reviewed staff updates, school travel planning proposals for the 2025‑2026 year, and promotion of the Bike Day in downtown Kitchener. Members were asked to share event posters and consider staff‑identified cycling improvements. No formal approvals, rejections, or votes were recorded.

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The Community and Infrastructure Services Committee will consider a Parks Master Plan, a request for Kitchener Memorial Auditorium renovation, and administrative changes to noise and penalty by-laws. Recommendations from this meeting will be ratified at a Special Council meeting.

• Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex renovation request
• Places and Spaces Parks Master Plan
• Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS) By-law Amendment
• Noise exemptions for Downtown Special Events and Greek Food Festival
• Park Tree and Bench Dedication Program

The committee granted noise exemptions for downtown events and the Greek Food Festival. It adopted a by‑law amendment to enable the Administrative Monetary Penalty System. It approved the Kitchener Rangers’ arena renovations, including $2,000,000 for a new restaurant. It also approved the Parks Master Plan and a revised park tree‑and‑bench dedication program.

• Approved noise exemption for all Downtown Special Events (CSD-2025-139) – Carried
• Approved noise exemption for the Greek Food Festival at 527 Bridgeport Road (CSD-2025-196) – Carried
• Enacted amendment to By‑law 2024‑01 and Chapters 553, 599 for the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (COR-2025-199) – Carried
• Approved Kitchener Rangers arena renovation and $2,000,000 restaurant funding at The Aud (CSD-2025-213) – Carried
• Approved Parks Master Plan – Places (INS-2025-142) – Carried
• Approved revised Park Tree and Bench Dedication Program (INS-2025-132) – Carried

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee will hold a formal public hearing to consider planning applications for a property at 44-50 Arlington Boulevard. The committee will review an Official Plan Amendment and a Zoning By-law Amendment submitted by 2597316 Ontario Corp.

• Official Plan Amendment Application OPA24/16/A/BB for 44-50 Arlington Boulevard
• Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA24/031/A/BB for 44-50 Arlington Boulevard

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee approved the Official Plan Amendment (OPA24/016/A/BB) and the Zoning By‑law Amendment (ZBA24/031/A/BB) for 44 and 50 Arlington Boulevard, as outlined in Development Services report DSD‑2025‑203. The motion was moved by Councillor D. Schnider and the resolution was carried. No other matters were decided at this meeting.

• Approved Official Plan Amendment OPA24/016/A/BB for 44 & 50 Arlington Blvd (carried)
• Approved Zoning By‑law Amendment ZBA24/031/A/BB for 44 & 50 Arlington Blvd (carried)

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee meeting scheduled for May 12, 2025, has been cancelled.

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee meeting scheduled for May 12, 2025 was cancelled. No decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Special Council Meeting

The City Council will vote on a resolution to hold an in‑camera meeting to consider a potential disposition of city‑owned land under Section 239(2)(c) of the Municipal Act. The council will also receive a staff report on the 2025 appointments to the Enova Energy and Enova Power boards (COR‑2025‑138). A request from the Kitchener Rangers regarding renovation of the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex will be presented (CSD‑2025‑213). Finally, the council will confirm its actions for May 12, 2025 through By‑law 2025‑055.

• Authorize in‑camera meeting to consider potential land disposition (DSD‑2025‑187)
• Staff report on 2025 Enova Energy and Enova Power board appointments (COR‑2025‑138)
• Kitchener Rangers request for Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex renovation (CSD‑2025‑213)
• Three‑reading confirmation of council actions by‑law 2025‑055
• Mayoral Business and Updates – Mayor B. Vrbanovic

Council approved a $2,000,000 budget for a restaurant renovation at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium as part of the Rangers' facility upgrades. The council also appointed three councillors to Enova board positions and extended two independent directors' terms. An in‑camera meeting was authorized to discuss a potential land disposition, and By‑law 2025‑055 was given third reading to confirm the day's actions.

• Appointed Councillor S. Davey to Enova Power Corp. board (1‑year term) – carried
• Appointed Councillors P. Singh and D. Chapman to Enova Energy Corp. board (1‑year term) – carried
• Extended independent directors Don McKinnon and Jim Philips' terms on Enova Energy board to 2026 – carried
• Approved Kitchener Rangers' auditorium renovation and $2 M restaurant funding – carried
• Authorized immediate in‑camera meeting to consider land disposition – carried
• Passed By‑law 2025‑055 (third reading) confirming council actions – carried

Electronic Council Communication Information Package

The City Council will review an Electronic Council Communication Information Package, which contains only informational correspondence and no decisions. Items include a resolution from Councillor D. McCabe on salt pollution and several letters from neighboring municipalities on topics such as stimulus funding, strong mayor powers, land‑transfer tax redistribution, and Ontario Works rates. The package is not a formal agenda and no motions will be voted on at this meeting.

• Region of Waterloo – Councillor D. McCabe re: Salt Pollution (May 9, 2025)
• City of Waterloo – Federal and Provincial Stimulus Funding to Fast‑Track Investments in Infrastructure (May 9, 2025)
• Municipality of North Perth – Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers (May 8, 2025)
• Township of Springwater – Opposition to Strong Mayor Powers (May 8, 2025)
• Township of Springwater – Redistribution of the Land Transfer Tax and GST to Municipalities for Sustainable Infrastructure Funding (May 8, 2025)

Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee

The Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee will review draft documents on accelerating commercial business approvals, advancing truth and reconciliation, and general comments and recommendations. It will also receive information items including the 2024 Strategic Plan Report Card and the 2019‑2022 Strategic Plan progress update for the remaining eight projects. The meeting is focused on discussion and review of these drafts and reports.

• Review draft of Accelerating Commercial Business Approvals (20 min)
• Review draft of Advancing Truth and Reconciliation (40 min)
• Review draft of General Comments and Recommendations (60 min)
• Presentation of 2024 Strategic Plan Report Card
• Presentation of 2019‑2022 Strategic Plan Progress Update for remaining eight projects

The committee voted unanimously to give the Accelerating Commercial Business Approvals project an overall rating of Exceeds Expectations. They also decided to evaluate the Advancing Truth and Reconciliation project using a discussion‑based approach and rated it Exceeds Expectations unanimously. A motion to adopt suggested amendments to the General Comments and Recommendations section was passed unanimously.

• Approved overall rating of Exceeds Expectations for Accelerating Commercial Business Approvals (unanimous)
• Adopted discussion‑based evaluation and rated Advancing Truth and Reconciliation Exceeds Expectations (unanimous)
• Approved suggested amendments to General Comments and Recommendations section (unanimous)

Heritage Kitchener Committee

The Heritage Kitchener Committee is meeting to discuss several heritage permit applications for building alterations and demolitions. The body will also review a draft heritage impact assessment for the East Side Lands Trunk Sewer and select a representative for the Mike and Pat Wagner Heritage Awards.

• Interim Draft Heritage Impact Assessment for East Side Lands Trunk Sewer (DSD-2025-185)
• Permit for demolition of additions at 60 Victoria Street North while retaining the 1913 building
• Permits for exterior and interior step alterations at 122 Frederick Street (The Registry Theatre)
• Permit for sanctuary window alterations at 54 Benton Street (St. Matthews Lutheran Church)
• Permit for window replacement and repainting at 279 Queen Street South

The Heritage Kitchener Committee approved heritage permits for five properties. Approvals include demolition of three additions at 60 Victoria Street North while retaining the 1913 building, repair of exterior limestone steps and interior marble steps at 122 Frederick Street (The Registry Theatre), alteration of two sanctuary windows at 54 Benton Street, and replacement of windows and repainting of exterior elements at 279 Queen Street South. The committee’s recommendations will be forwarded to Council for final consideration where noted.

• Approved Heritage Permit HPA-2025-IV-010 for 60 Victoria Street North (demolition of three additions, retain 1913 building)
• Approved Heritage Permit HPA-2025-IV-005 for 122 Frederick Street (repair/replacement of exterior limestone steps)
• Approved Heritage Permit HPA-2025-IV-006 for 122 Frederick Street (repair of interior marble steps)
• Approved Heritage Permit HPA-2025-V-004 for 54 Benton Street (alterations to two sanctuary windows)
• Approved Heritage Permit HPA-2025-V-007 for 279 Queen Street South (window replacement and exterior repainting)

Council Meeting

The council will consider several amendments, including a new fireworks by‑law that would prohibit the sale of fireworks city‑wide beginning in January 2026. It will also direct staff to implement Vision Zero safety improvements such as an all‑way stop at Fairfield Avenue and St Leger Street and a Level 2 pedestrian crossover on East Avenue at Borden Street. Additional items include approval of official‑plan and zoning amendments for 288‑292 Lawrence Avenue and the Growing Together East transit‑station area framework.

• Amend Fireworks and Firecrackers By‑law to prohibit sales city‑wide (effective Jan 2026).
• Install an all‑way stop at Fairfield Avenue and St Leger Street (Vision Zero).
• Install a Level 2 pedestrian crossover on East Avenue at Borden Street (Vision Zero).
• Approve Official Plan Amendment OPA24/014/L/BB and Zoning By‑law Amendment ZBA24/030/L/BB for 288‑292 Lawrence Avenue.
• Adopt Official Plan and Zoning amendments for Growing Together East protected major transit station areas.

Council approved the minutes from April 2025 and endorsed the Dark Eyed Junco as Kitchener’s official bird. The council adopted an Official Plan amendment and three related zoning‑bylaw amendments for the city’s Protected Major Transit Station Areas. A motion to amend the Fireworks and Firecrackers By‑law to prohibit sales beginning January 2026, add stricter timing rules, replace Chapter 739, and set new administrative penalties was carried 8‑3. Council also voted to allow the meeting to continue past 11 p.m. and adopted the Community and Infrastructure Services Committee report.

• Approved April 2025 meeting minutes (carried)
• Endorsed Dark Eyed Junco as official bird (carried)
• Adopted Official Plan Amendment OPA24/010/COK/MR and three zoning‑bylaw amendments (carried, as amended)
• Amended Fireworks and Firecrackers By‑law to ban sales starting Jan 2026, add stricter timing rules, replace Chapter 739, and approve penalty by‑law (8‑3)
• Authorized council proceedings to continue beyond 11 p.m. (carried)
• Adopted Community and Infrastructure Services Committee report (carried)

Special Council Meeting

The special council meeting will consider authorizing an in-camera session immediately after the meeting. The in-camera session would address three items: a potential land disposition with solicitor‑client privilege concerns, a potential city land acquisition, and a matter before the Ontario Land Tribunal involving legal advice. Staff will provide information and seek direction on each item.

• Authorization of an in-camera meeting to consider three matters under the Municipal Act
• Potential land disposition matter with solicitor‑client privilege considerations (DSD-2025-220)
• Potential city land acquisition matter (COR-2025-215)
• Ontario Land Tribunal legal advice matter involving solicitor‑client privilege and potential litigation (COR-2025-216)

The council approved a motion to hold an in-camera meeting immediately after the special council meeting. The motion, moved by Councillor C. Michaud and seconded by Councillor S. Stretch, was carried. The meeting was then adjourned at 4:31 p.m.

• Authorized in-camera meeting to consider land disposition and solicitor‑client privilege matters (carried)

Property Standards Committee

The Property Standards Appeal Committee will consider Appeal #2025-03 concerning 60 Elmsdale Dr, Unit 37. The appellant, Officer Tanya Wolf, disputes the order and requests an extension of time to comply. The meeting also includes routine items such as commencement, disclosure of pecuniary interests, and adjournment. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Appeal #2025-03 – 60 Elmsdale Dr, Unit 37 – request for extension of compliance time
• Disclosure of pecuniary interest by committee members
• Commencement of meeting
• Adjournment

Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee

The Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee will review the City of Kitchener Community Engagement Review, receive training for the RISE Fund Selection Committee, and discuss a Land Acknowledgement. These items are scheduled as discussion topics for the meeting.

• City of Kitchener Community Engagement Review (40 min)
• RISE Fund Selection Committee Training (40 min)
• Land Acknowledgement (10 min)

Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee (GRAAC)

The Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee will meet to discuss several agenda items, including the Schneider's Creek Multi-Use Trail, a rollout of residential waste collection, a draft Terms of Reference, a community engagement review, and a long‑term parking strategy. No formal decisions are recorded in the agenda; the items are presented for discussion and feedback. The meeting also includes procedural items such as minutes approval, disclosures, and a built‑environment sub‑committee report.

• Schneider's Creek Multi-Use Trail
• Let's Roll Countdown to Carts, Residential Waste Collection
• Draft Terms of Reference – Committee Feedback Summary (CSD‑2025‑181)
• Community Engagement Review
• Long Term Parking Strategy

The committee approved the minutes from the March 27, 2025 meeting. It endorsed the Schneider Creek Multi‑Use Trail project and directed Region of Waterloo staff to continue consulting on accessibility enhancements. No other items were approved or denied at this meeting.

• Approved March 27, 2025 minutes (Carried)
• Endorsed Schneider Creek Multi‑Use Trail project and directed staff to engage on accessibility (Carried)

Downtown Advisory Committee

The Downtown Advisory Committee will review early proposals for a Retail Attraction Strategy presented by Hertzog. The discussion focuses on filling retail gaps, supporting local entrepreneurs, and planning the 2026 vision for Square Peg.

• Retail Attraction Strategy presentation by Hertzog
• Discussion on retail incubation models for downtown Kitchener
• Planning for the 2026 vision for Square Peg
• DTK and BIA updates

The committee met on April 24, 2025 to discuss the Downtown Retail Attraction Strategy and shared updates on downtown improvements, safety ambassadors, and upcoming events. No motions, approvals, or votes were recorded. The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 p.m.

Special Council Meeting

The special council meeting will hear a staff report from Building Code Services (DSD‑2025‑201) and mayoral updates from Mayor B. Vrbanovic. Council will vote on a resolution to hold an in‑camera meeting immediately after this session to consider a labour‑relations issue under Section 239(d) of the Municipal Act. The meeting will also include the three‑reading confirmation of By‑law 2025‑041, which records the council's actions for April 24, 2025.

• Staff Report – Building Code Services (DSD‑2025‑201)
• Mayoral Business and Updates – Mayor B. Vrbanovic
• Resolution to authorize an in‑camera meeting on a labour‑relations matter (Section 239(d) Municipal Act)
• Three‑reading confirmation of By‑law 2025‑041
• Delegations – none submitted

The council authorized the CAO or the General Manager of Development Services to sign Building Code Act service agreements with other Ontario municipalities. An in‑camera meeting was authorized to address a labour‑relations matter. The terms of the April 10, 2025 Memorandum of Settlement establishing the 2025‑2029 CUPE 791 collective agreement were approved and extended to non‑union part‑time staff, with the Mayor and Clerk authorized to execute related documents. By‑law 2025‑041 was given third reading to confirm all council actions on April 24, 2025.

• Authorized CAO/GM Development Services to execute Building Code Act service agreements (Carried)
• Authorized an in‑camera meeting to consider a labour‑relations matter (Carried)
• Approved CUPE 791 collective agreement terms and extension to non‑union staff (Carried)
• Authorized Mayor and Clerk to execute documentation from the settlement (Carried)
• Passed By‑law 2025‑041, third reading to confirm council actions (Carried)

Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Economic Development Advisory Committee will hear a presentation on the Downtown Retail Strategy 2025 and continue its discussion on how tariffs affect specific industries. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as disclosures and delegations and is held electronically.

• Presentation on Downtown Retail Strategy 2025 (45 min) – C. Bluhm
• Discussion on tariffs impact on specific industries (30 min)

Climate Change and Environment Committee

The Climate Change and Environment Committee will hear a series of presentations, including a fine‑scale heat and air quality measurement update, a WR Community Energy 2024 progress report, and a Pivot Net‑Zero update. Additional updates will cover Kitchener's Great Places Awards and High Performance Development Standards. The meeting consists of discussion and informational items with no formal decisions noted.

• Presentation – Fine‑scale Heat and Air Quality Measurement and Monitoring in the City of Kitchener
• Presentation – WR Community Energy 2024 Progress Report
• Pivot Net‑Zero Update (DSD‑2025‑152)
• Update on Kitchener's Great Places Awards (DSD‑2025‑175)
• High Performance Development Standards Sub‑Committee Update

The Climate Change and Environment Committee approved the appointment of A. Hohenadel and J. Clary‑Lemon (as backup) to the jury panel for the Sustainable Kitchener award category. The committee also confirmed that A. Hohenadel will replace J. Clary‑Lemon on the Environmental Rodent Control Impacts sub‑committee. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Appointed A. Hohenadel and J. Clary‑Lemon (backup) to Sustainable Kitchener award jury (carried)
• A. Hohenadel appointed to replace J. Clary‑Lemon on Environmental Rodent Control Impacts sub‑committee

Committee of Adjustment

The Kitchener Committee of Adjustment will meet to hear applications for minor variances and consents under the Planning Act. Items include setback and parking reductions, accessory structure changes, and land easements or severances at various addresses. Standard agenda items such as commencement, minutes, and disclosure of pecuniary interest will also be addressed.

• 160 Grand River Blvd – minor variance to allow 5.1 m southerly and 2.3 m westerly setbacks (vs 7.5 m minimum) for equipment storage.
• 250 Riverbend Drive – minor variance to reduce required parking from 90 spaces to 52 spaces for a new 2‑storey building on the Humane Society site.
• 315 Wellington Street North – multiple minor variances for accessory structure lot coverage, driveway width, side‑yard setbacks, and rear yard setback to enable an ADU.
• 179 Jansen Avenue – consent to create a 20.1 m × 38 m easement (760 sq m) for driveway access to adjacent rear yards.
• 265 Breithaupt Street – minor variances to permit a Fitness Centre use in EMP‑1 zone and reduce required parking from 82 spaces to 25 spaces.

The Committee of Adjustment approved three minor variance applications. The Romanian Church of God request for reduced setbacks at 160 Grand River Boulevard was approved. The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth request for reduced parking requirements at 250 Riverbend Drive was approved. The Derek Papasergiou request for multiple accessory‑structure variances to enable an ADU at 315 Wellington Street North was approved with conditions.

• Approved minor variance for 160 Grand River Boulevard (accessory building setbacks)
• Approved minor variance for 250 Riverbend Drive (52 parking spaces instead of 90)
• Approved minor variances for 315 Wellington Street North (lot coverage, walkway, driveway width, side‑yard setback) subject to conditions

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

The committee will meet to discuss revisions to its Terms of Reference. The meeting also includes updates on the Artist in Residence and public art programs.

• Revision of committee Terms of Reference
• Artist in Residence program updates
• Public art updates

The Arts and Culture Advisory Committee accepted its agenda after a motion by S. Florence. The March meeting minutes were deferred to the May meeting. Members approved moving forward with a name change by having staff send the revised Terms of Reference to ACAC for finalization at the May meeting.

• Agenda accepted (motion by S. Florence)
• March minutes deferred to May meeting
• Staff to send revised Terms of Reference to ACAC for finalization at May meeting

Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee

The Equity and Anti‑Racism Advisory Committee will spend 30 minutes reviewing the Equity, Anti‑Racism, and Reconciliation Workplan and another 30 minutes considering a revision to its Terms of Reference. An information item will cover in‑person meeting options for the committee. No decisions are noted on the agenda.

• Equity, Anti‑Racism, and Reconciliation Workplan – discussion (30 min)
• Terms of Reference Revision – discussion (30 min)
• In‑person Meetings – information item (20 min)

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee will hold public hearings on zoning and official plan amendments. The body will also discuss the Waterloo Region Economic Development Strategy and a climate change work plan.

• Growing Together East - Land Use and Zoning Framework (DSD-2025-083)
• Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment applications for 288-292 Lawrence Avenue (DSD-2025-034)
• Waterloo Region Economic Development Strategy (WREDS) (DSD-2025-134)
• 2024-2026 Climate Change and Environment Committee Work Plan (DSD-2025-143)

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee approved the 2024‑2026 Climate Change and Environment Committee work plan and endorsed the 2025 Waterloo Region Economic Development Strategy. It also approved an Official Plan Amendment and a Zoning By‑law Amendment that change 288‑292 Lawrence Avenue from industrial to community and low‑rise residential uses. Finally, the committee adopted a City‑initiated Official Plan Amendment and three related Zoning By‑law Amendments to implement the Growing Together East framework for three Protected Major Transit Station Areas.

• Approved 2024‑2026 Climate Change and Environment Committee Work Plan (Carried)
• Endorsed 2025 Waterloo Region Economic Development Strategy (Carried)
• Approved Official Plan Amendment for 288‑292 Lawrence Avenue (Industrial to Community/Low‑Rise Residential) (Carried)
• Approved Zoning By‑law Amendment for 288‑292 Lawrence Avenue (Carried)
• Adopted City‑initiated Official Plan Amendment OPA24/010/COK/MR for Growing Together East (Carried)
• Approved Zoning By‑law Amendment ZBA24/020/COK/MR for three transit station areas (Carried)
• Approved Zoning By‑law Amendment ZBA25/004/COK/MR for lands subject to Zoning By‑law 85‑1 (Carried)
• Stated ZBA24/020/COK/MR will have no effect until By‑law 2024‑065 is in force (Carried)

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee meeting scheduled for Monday, April 14, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered or decided at this meeting.

• Meeting cancellation – no agenda items discussed

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee meeting scheduled for April 14, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered, and no decisions were made.

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The Community and Infrastructure Services Committee will consider three main items. A consent motion will approve the 2025 Procedural By-law Amendments to Chapter 25 of the Municipal Code. The committee will hear a presentation on the Vision Zero annual project update and will review the Fireworks By-law.

• Approval of 2025 Procedural By-law Amendments – Chapter 25 (Procedure) (COR-2025-162)
• Vision Zero Annual Project Update (DSD-2025-040)
• Fireworks By-law Review (CSD-2025-052)

The committee approved a repeal and replacement of Chapter 25 (Procedure) of the Municipal Code. It directed staff to implement Vision Zero safety improvements, including an all‑way stop at Fairfield Ave & St Leger St and a pedestrian crossover on East Ave at Borden St. The Fireworks and Firecrackers By‑law was amended to prohibit fireworks sales beginning January 2026, tighten permitted times, replace Chapter 739, and adopt new penalty fines. The fireworks amendment passed on a recorded vote of 9‑1.

• Repealed and replaced Chapter 25 (Procedure) of the Municipal Code (carried)
• Approved Vision Zero safety improvements: all‑way stop at Fairfield Ave & St Leger St (carried)
• Approved Vision Zero safety improvements: Pedestrian Crossover Level 2, Type B on East Ave at Borden St (carried)
• Approved Vision Zero safety improvements: stopping prohibited 15 m from each PXO and 10 m after (carried)
• Amended Uniform Traffic Bylaw accordingly (carried)
• Fireworks By‑law amendment to prohibit sale of fireworks starting Jan 2026 (carried, 9‑1)
• Fireworks By‑law amendment to tighten permitted times for fireworks (carried, 9‑1)
• Fireworks By‑law amendment to repeal and replace Chapter 739 and approve new penalty fines (carried, 9‑1)

Special Council Meeting

City Council will hear a presentation from Region of Waterloo staff regarding the Grand River Transit 10-year Business Plan. The meeting also includes an authorization for an in-camera session to discuss legal and personnel matters.

• Presentation on Grand River Transit 10-year Business Plan by Kevan Marshall
• In-camera discussion regarding an Ontario Land Tribunal legal matter
• In-camera CAO Performance Review
• By-law No. 2025-040 to confirm proceedings of April 14, 2025

The council voted to hold an in-camera meeting immediately after the special session to consider solicitor‑client privilege, potential litigation, and a personal matter, as authorized by the Municipal Act. A motion was also passed to give third reading to a by‑law that confirms all actions and proceedings of the council on April 14, 2025. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Authorized in‑camera meeting to consider solicitor/client privilege, potential litigation and personal matter (Carried)
• Approved third reading of by‑law confirming all council actions on April 14, 2025 (Carried)

Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee will receive a report on the Pedestrian Charter and an update on the 2027 Complete Streets project list. Members will review 2025 trail paving plans, discuss the upcoming Bike Day celebration for the Downtown Cycling Grid, and choose a committee representative to attend the Ontario Bike Summit. The meeting will conclude with subcommittee breakout discussions on future work.

• Report on the Pedestrian Charter
• 2027 Complete Streets list update
• 2025 trail paving plans presentation
• Discussion of Bike Day celebration for the Downtown Cycling Grid
• Selection of a committee representative for the Ontario Bike Summit

The committee asked that the litter‑tracking issue be placed on the agenda for the next meeting. The Safety subcommittee agreed to review the 2027 Complete Streets list and provide recommendations. Discussion on CycleWR bike parking was postponed, and no member will attend the Ontario Bike Summit. Subcommittees met to outline goals for the term and members were asked to save the date for the June 7 Bike Day event.

• Littering issue added to agenda for next meeting
• Safety subcommittee agreed to review 2027 Complete Streets list and give recommendations
• CycleWR bike parking discussion postponed to a future meeting
• No committee member will attend the Ontario Bike Summit
• Subcommittees met to set term objectives
• Committee asked members to save the date for June 7 Bike Day event

Audit Committee

The Kitchener Audit Committee will open the meeting, collect any required conflict‑of‑interest disclosures, hear brief delegations, and receive the First Quarter 2025 Audit Status Report (CAO‑2025‑095). No decisions are listed; the agenda consists of procedural items and a status update. The meeting will adjourn after these items.

• Commencement
• Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof
• Delegations (up to five minutes per delegate)
• First Quarter 2025 Audit Status Report – CAO‑2025‑095
• Adjournment

The Audit Committee reviewed the First Quarter 2025 Audit Status Report, which covered audits of fire life safety systems, cash deposits, and employee parking tax exemption. No motions or decisions were taken during the meeting.

Special Council Meeting

The Kitchener City Council will vote on a resolution to hold an in‑camera meeting immediately after the special council meeting to consider a labour‑relations matter and a security‑of‑property matter. Staff will brief the council on contract negotiations related to labour relations (20 minutes) and on a review of the natural‑gas distribution system management (30 minutes). The mayor will provide updates, and no delegations have been submitted.

• Resolution to authorize an in‑camera meeting on labour relations and property security matters
• Staff briefing on contract negotiations (labour relations) – 20 minutes
• Staff briefing on Natural Gas Distribution System Management Review – 30 minutes
• Mayoral Business and Updates – Mayor B. Vrbanovic
• Delegations – none submitted

The council approved a motion to hold an in-camera meeting immediately after the special council meeting. The meeting will consider a labour relations issue and a property security issue as authorized by the Municipal Act. The motion was moved by Councillor P. Singh, seconded by Councillor D. Schnider, and was carried.

• Authorized in-camera meeting to consider labour relations and property security matters (carried)

Council Meeting

Kitchener City Council will consider the use of vote tabulators and alternative voting methods for the 2026 municipal election. The meeting includes decisions on heritage designations and a demolition application. Council will also review a new Municipal Newcomer Strategy and public art for the Mill-Courtland Community Centre.

• Notice of Intention to Designate 79-81 St George Street and 1434 Trussler Road as cultural heritage sites
• Approval of demolition for a single detached dwelling at 153 Courtland Avenue East
• Reaffirmation of vote tabulators and authorization of alternative voting methods for 2026 elections
• Commission of public artwork titled “Swoop” for Mill-Courtland Community Centre
• Fireworks exemption for a wedding reception in Tecumseh Park on August 23, 2025

Council approved a conditional three‑year funding agreement of up to $300,000 per year for THEMUSEUM and appointed Councillor S. Stretch to its board, with a 10‑0 recorded vote. The council also granted a noise exemption for the Songscape Music Festival, approved heritage permits and designations for several properties, and authorized the “Swoop” public artwork at Mill‑Courtland Community Centre. Additional actions included a fireworks exemption for Tecumseh Park, reaffirmation of vote tabulators and authorization of alternative voting methods for the 2026 election, and moving the April 28 council meeting to May 5.

• Approved $300K/year THEMUSEUM funding and board appointment (10‑0)
• Granted noise exemption for Songscape Music Festival (Carried)
• Approved heritage permit for porch repairs at 21 St. Leger Street (Carried)
• Directed publication of Notice of Intention to Designate 79‑81 St George Street (Carried)
• Approved “Swoop” public artwork at Mill‑Courtland Community Centre (Carried)
• Granted fireworks exemption for Tecumseh Park wedding reception (Carried)
• Reaffirmed vote tabulators and authorized alternative voting methods for 2026 election (Carried)
• Amended council calendar: moved April 28 meeting to May 5, 2025 (Carried)

Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee

The Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee will receive a staff presentation on Advancing Truth and Reconciliation. Members will also debrief and evaluate project presentations regarding Accelerating Commercial Business Approvals and Advancing Truth and Reconciliation.

• Presentation on Advancing Truth and Reconciliation
• Debrief and evaluation of Accelerating Commercial Business Approvals project
• Review of March 5th meeting minutes

The committee heard a verbal summary of the Advancing Truth and Reconciliation project and a short video on the Wiijindamaan project. Members discussed evaluation metrics and volunteered to take notes for a future report. The meeting reviewed the previous minutes and shared the agenda for the upcoming All Advisory Committee workshop. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Heritage Kitchener Committee

The Heritage Kitchener Committee will discuss a draft heritage impact assessment and an update to the Municipal Heritage Register. The body will also review its 2025 work plan.

• Draft Phase I Heritage Impact Assessment for 63 Courtland Avenue East (DSD-2025-110)
• Municipal Heritage Register Review April 2025 Update (DSD-2025-108)
• Updated SOS for 283 Duke St W
• Updated SOS for 14 Irvin Street
• Updated SOS for 18 Irvin Street

The Heritage Kitchener Committee resolved to recognize cultural heritage value and pursue designation for 283 Duke Street West, 14 Irvin Street, and 18 Irvin Street under Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act. The motion was moved by L. Wilson and carried by unanimous consent. No other formal decisions were recorded at this meeting.

• Approved heritage designation pursuit for 283 Duke Street West, 14 Irvin Street, and 18 Irvin Street (unanimous)

Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee (GRAAC)

The Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee will discuss several items related to accessibility and community development. Topics include mixed‑use urban design guidelines, an update on the Mill Courtland Community Centre addition, a draft set of terms of reference for the committee, improvements to Brown's Community Park, and a presentation on community partner engagement by the Region of Waterloo. The meeting is for discussion and information; no formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Mixed Use Urban Design Guidelines – presentation by Andrea Sinclair (Woolwich)
• Mill Courtland Community Centre addition and expansion update – presentation by Chris Campbell (City of Kitchener)
• Draft Terms of Reference for GRAAC – discussion led by LoriAnn Palubeski (City of Kitchener)
• Improvements to Brown's Community Park – presentation by Karen Winters (North Dumfries)
• GRT Community Partner Engagement – presentation by Neil Malcolm (Region of Waterloo)

Downtown Advisory Committee

The Downtown Advisory Committee will receive updates on the long‑term parking strategy, Business Improvement Areas, downtown tariffs, outdoor patios and safety, and the Kitchener 2051 Parks Master Plan. An open discussion period will allow members to provide feedback. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Long‑term parking strategy update (30 min) – presented by A. Pinto, Project Manager of Parking Operations
• Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) updates (15 min) – presented by L. Jutzi
• Downtown updates on tariffs, outdoor patios and safety (30 min) – presented by the DTK Team
• Updates on the Parks Master Plan under the Kitchener 2051 initiative (5 min)
• Open discussion for committee members (30 min)

The committee reviewed a long‑term parking strategy, noting residential parking utilization reached 146% at peak and questioning demand data and free‑parking feasibility. Updates were provided on downtown BIA programs, a scheduled lighting safety walk, and the return of patio season with streamlined application templates. The Core 8 safety task force’s work and a plan to pilot two additional safety ambassadors in September were reported. No formal approvals, votes, or other decisions were recorded.

Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Economic Development Advisory Committee will meet on March 26, 2025 to discuss the city's response to recent tariffs, the impact on specific industries, and available federal government tools, with presentations from R. Both and M. Wong of TD Securities. The committee will also receive a brief update on the Bramm Yards project from B. Bennett, Manager of Business Development. Standard procedural items such as disclosures and delegations are also on the agenda.

• Discussion of city's response to tariffs, industry impacts, and federal tools (presented by R. Both and M. Wong, TD Securities)
• Update on Bramm Yards (presented by B. Bennett, City of Kitchener Business Development Manager)

The Economic Development Advisory Committee reviewed recent U.S. tariffs on steel, aluminum and other goods, and received an update on the Bramm Yards environmental assessment project. No motions, approvals, or votes were recorded, and the meeting was adjourned without any substantive decisions.

Property Standards Committee

The Property Standards Appeal Committee meeting scheduled for Wednesday, March 26, 2025 was cancelled. No items were discussed or decided. No attachments or further actions were listed.

• Cancellation of the Property Standards Appeal Committee meeting scheduled for March 26, 2025

Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee

The Equity and Anti‑Racism Advisory Committee will hold a land acknowledgement, disclose any pecuniary interests, and accept delegations from the public. Members will discuss the Municipal Newcomer Strategy, receive training on the RISE Fund selection process, and review honorarium matters. The committee will also elect a Co‑Chair and an alternate to lead the group.

• Election of Co‑Chair and Alternate
• Discussion of Municipal Newcomer Strategy
• RISE Fund Selection Process training
• Review of honorarium policy
• Public delegations (registration deadline March 24, 2025)

Climate Change and Environment Committee

The Climate Change and Environment Committee will hear presentations on a draft of High Performance Development Standards (DSD-2025-120). It will also receive updates on the Kitchener Utilities Transition Project (INS-2025-119), the LT2 initiative (CAO-2025-121), and the Pivot Net Zero program (DSD-2025-122). The meeting includes a review of the 2024‑2026 Committee Work Plan (DSD-2025-117). No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• High Performance Development Standards draft (DSD-2025-120) – 5‑minute presentation
• Kitchener Utilities Transition Project update (INS-2025-119) – 5‑minute presentation
• LT2 overview (CAO-2025-121) – 5‑minute presentation
• Pivot Net Zero update (DSD-2025-122) – 5‑minute presentation
• 2024‑2026 Committee Work Plan (DSD-2025-117) – review

The Climate Change and Environment Committee adopted its 2024‑2026 work plan, attaching it as Attachment A. It approved adding sub‑committees as a standing agenda item for each meeting. Members approved the creation of a sub‑committee to review the High‑Performance Development Standards. The committee endorsed Anna Hohenadel and Precious Nojo as representatives on the Youth Climate Action Fund Selection Committee.

• Adopt Work Plan 2024‑2026 (Attachment A) – approved
• Add sub‑committees as standing agenda item – approved
• Establish sub‑committee to review High‑Performance Development Standards – approved
• Support Anna Hohenadel and Precious Nojo to serve on Youth Climate Action Fund Selection Committee – approved

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

The Kitchener Arts and Culture Advisory Committee will accept the agenda and February minutes, and then hear three presentations: a revised Committee Terms of Reference, the 2025 Artist in Residence call for submissions, and an overview of the Rotunda Gallery exhibition program. No discussion items are scheduled for this meeting.

• Revised Committee Terms of Reference presentation (Margaret Lam)
• 2025 Artist in Residence call for submissions (Karoline Varin)
• Rotunda Gallery exhibition program overview (Karoline Varin)
• Acceptance of agenda and February minutes (procedural)
• Information items (15 min block, details not specified)

Committee of Adjustment

The Kitchener Committee of Adjustment will hear applications for minor variances and consents on March 18, 2025. Items include requests to change parking requirements, yard setbacks, floor‑space ratios, and loading distances for a 30‑unit redevelopment at 165 Fairway Road North. Additional proposals seek setbacks, height, and parking adjustments for several other properties across the city.

• 165 Fairway Rd N – reduce parking from 30 to 20 spaces, lower setbacks, increase FSR to 0.72
• 160 Grand River Blvd – allow reduced southerly and westerly setbacks for equipment storage
• 45‑53 Courtland Ave E – increase FSR to 2.8, rear yard setback to 18 m, building height to 28 m for 95 units
• 1157‑1175 Weber St E – lower street‑line setbacks, reduce ground‑floor non‑residential area, adjust façade width and opening percentages for 233 units
• 250 Frederick St – reduce required parking from 140 to 117 spaces and visitor parking from 28 to 8 spaces for 4 new units

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The City of Kitchener Community and Infrastructure Services Committee announced that the meeting scheduled for Monday, March 17, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered or decided. No further actions were taken at this time.

• Meeting cancellation – the committee meeting was cancelled

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee will meet to discuss a Municipal Newcomer Strategy, a request for a fireworks exemption at Tecumseh Park, and alternative voting methods for the 2026 municipal and school board elections.

• Municipal Newcomer Strategy (CSD-2025-054)
• Parks-Fireworks Exemption Tecumseh Park August 23, 2025 (CSD-2025-048)
• 2026 Municipal and School Board Election Alternative Voting Methods (COR-2025-001)
• 2025 Dog Designation Appeal Committee Review (COR-2025-111)
• Public Art Commission for Mill-Courtland Community Centre (DSD-2025-062)

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee will consider two demolition control applications for 153 Courtland Avenue East and 101 Clive Rd, which are consent items approved by a single motion. It will discuss the Kitchener 2051 growth strategy, presenting a five‑minute staff overview. A public hearing on a proposed official plan amendment and zoning by‑law amendment for 288‑292 Lawrence Avenue is postponed to a future meeting. Information updates on housing initiatives and the city’s growth management strategy will also be presented.

• Demolition Control Application DC25/001/C/AA – 153 Courtland Avenue East
• Demolition Control Application DC25/002/C/AS – 101 Clive Rd
• Discussion Item – Evaluating Approaches to Growth (Kitchener 2051)
• Official Plan Amendment OPA24/014/L/BB and Zoning By‑law Amendment ZBA24/030/L/BB – 288‑292 Lawrence Avenue (postponed)
• Housing for All Update

Special Council Meeting

The Special Council will hear a staff presentation on the City’s response to U.S. tariffs (CAO‑2025‑135). It will direct staff to interpret the Development Charges Act discount rules for condos and townhouses (COR‑2025‑086). Council will vote to authorize an in‑camera session to consider a labour‑relations or employee‑negotiation issue under the Municipal Act. Additional items include a demolition‑control application for 101 Clive Rd and the three‑reading adoption of By‑law 2025‑030 to confirm the day’s actions.

• City of Kitchener response to U.S. tariffs and trade – staff presentation (CAO‑2025‑135)
• Development Charges Act solicitor‑client advice – staff direction on discount applicability (COR‑2025‑086)
• Resolution to authorize an in‑camera meeting on labour relations or employee negotiations (Sections 239 (d) Municipal Act)
• Demolition Control Application – DC25/002/C/AS for 101 Clive Rd (DSD‑2025‑107)
• Three‑reading adoption of By‑law 2025‑030 to confirm council actions

Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee

The Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee announced that its meeting scheduled for Wednesday, March 12, 2025 is cancelled. No agenda items will be considered at this time. The cancellation notice serves as the only item on the agenda.

Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee will review a report on the Vision Zero 2025 Hotspot Program and a bike theft reduction initiative called Garage 529. The body will also form subcommittees for the 2025-2026 term and discuss the Downtown Cycling Grid and Mill Street Station.

• Vision Zero 2025 Hotspot Program Report presentation
• Garage 529 bike theft reduction initiative presentation by Cycle Waterloo Region
• Formation of subcommittees for the 2025-2026 term
• Discussion on a celebration event for the Downtown Cycling Grid
• Presentation on Mill Street Station

Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee

The Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee will receive presentations on accelerating business approvals and the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan. Members will then conduct a debrief on these items and review minutes from the February 5 meeting.

• Presentation on Accelerating Business Approvals
• Presentation on 2023-2026 Strategic Plan by Director, Strategy and Corporate Performance
• Review of February 5 meeting minutes

Heritage Kitchener Committee

The Heritage Kitchener Committee is meeting to discuss the designation of two properties and a heritage permit for porch repairs. The committee will also review updates to the Municipal Heritage Register related to Bill 23.

• Heritage Permit Application HPA-2024-V-001 for porch repairs at 21 St. Leger Street
• Notice of Intention to Designate 79-81 St George Street
• Notice of Intention to Designate 1434 Trussler Road
• Bill 23 Municipal Heritage Register Review status updates
• Heritage Kitchener Committee 2025 Work Plan

Council Meeting

The council will decide on the Official Plan Amendment OPA24/012/K/ES and the Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA24/024/K/ES for the Imperial Oil development at 4611 King Street East. Committee reports will be approved, including write‑offs of $28,642 in miscellaneous receivables and $101,518 in utility receivables, and a $233,653 Tier 2 community‑grants program. A motion will be considered to require electronic voting when the system is available, and by‑laws on enforcement, fire routes, parking and procurement will receive first and second readings.

• Official Plan Amendment OPA24/012/K/ES and Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA24/024/K/ES for 4611 King Street East (mixed‑use, 586 residential units, 1,892 m² commercial)
• Write‑off of uncollectable miscellaneous receivable accounts $28,642 (FIN‑2025‑023)
• Write‑off of uncollectable utility receivable accounts $101,518 (FIN‑2025‑022)
• Approval of 2025 Community Grants Tier 2 totaling $233,653 (CSD‑2025‑047)
• By‑law to authorize construction of sanitary sewer and watermain on New Dundee Road, Regional Road 12 (local improvement)

Special Council Meeting

The special council meeting will open with a land acknowledgement, followed by disclosures of pecuniary interest and public delegations. Mayor B. Vrbanovic will provide mayoral business and updates. Council will consider a resolution to hold an in‑camera meeting immediately after this session for an education and training session, including leadership assessments and team‑building, as authorized by Section 239(3.1) of the Municipal Act. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Resolution to authorize an in‑camera meeting for education and training
• Leadership assessments and team‑building session under Section 239(3.1)
• Mayoral business and updates by Mayor B. Vrbanovic
• Public delegations (max five minutes each)
• Disclosure of pecuniary interest by council members

Downtown Advisory Committee

The Downtown Advisory Committee will hear an overview of safety initiatives and Downtown Ambassador roles. It will also receive updates from the Business Improvement Area, the Downtown Kitchener Team, and a review of the 2025 meeting plan. The meeting will conclude with an open discussion on key priorities and emerging concerns.

• Downtown Safety Discussion – overview of safety initiatives and Ambassador roles
• BIA Updates – latest information from the Business Improvement Area
• Current updates from Downtown Kitchener Team – key developments and initiatives
• 2025 Meeting Plan Review – presentation of the proposed agenda for upcoming meetings
• Open Discussion – committee-led conversation on priorities and new ideas

Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee (GRAAC)

The Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee will hold elections for co‑chair and built‑environment positions. Members will discuss Kitchener’s 2022 Post‑Election Accessibility Plan and 2026 considerations, the Region of Waterloo’s taxi by‑law, Wilmot Township’s annual accessibility update, a play‑structure replacement at Victoria Park in North Dumfries, and a 20‑year anniversary update.

• Committee elections for co‑chair and built‑environment positions
• Discussion of City of Kitchener 2022 Post‑Election Accessibility Plan and 2026 considerations
• Review of Region of Waterloo Taxi By‑Law
• Play‑structure replacement at Victoria Park (North Dumfries)
• Annual accessibility update from Wilmot Township

Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Economic Development Advisory Committee will review its vision and expectations. It will discuss current tariff issues and consider creating a sub‑committee to study tariff‑related impacts. The committee will also hear about the Waterloo Region Economic Development Strategy. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Vision and Expectations for the Committee
• Tariffs discussion
• Consideration of a sub‑committee on tariff‑related impact
• Presentation of the Waterloo Region Economic Development Strategy
• Public delegations (up to five minutes each)

Property Standards Committee

The Property Standards Committee will consider four appeals concerning orders issued for properties at 66 Ralgreen Crescent, 120 Brookside Crescent, 57 Moore Avenue, and 55 Mooregate Crescent Unit 11B. The meeting will also include nominations and appointments for the committee chair and vice‑chair, and a disclosure of any pecuniary interests. The committee will adjourn after these items are addressed.

• Appeal #2025-01 – 66 Ralgreen Crescent – Officer Tanya Wolf – Disagree with the Order
• Appeal #2025-02 – 120 Brookside Crescent – Officer Jody Schippanoski – Disagree with the Order
• Appeal #2024-14 – 57 Moore Avenue – Officer Mike Niederer – Disagree with the Order
• Appeal #2024-13 – 55 Mooregate Crescent Unit 11B – Officer Mike Niederer – Disagree with the Order
• Chair and Vice‑Chair nominations and appointments

Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee

The Equity and Anti‑Racism Advisory Committee’s scheduled meeting for February 25, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered or discussed.

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee will discuss a local improvement project for New Dundee Road. The body will also consider several consent items including grant approvals, account write-offs, and program changes.

• New Dundee Road Local Improvement (DSD-2025-080)
• 2025 Community Grants Tier 2 (CSD-2025-047)
• Uncollectable Utility and Miscellaneous Receivable write-offs for December 2024
• Proposed changes to Kitchener's Great Places Awards Program
• Belmont BIA Boundary Expansion Update

Special Council Meeting

City Council will meet to receive mayoral updates and authorize an in-camera session to discuss legal, labor, and land matters. The meeting includes a vote to confirm proceedings via By-law 2025-023.

• In-camera discussion on city owned land solicitor-client advice
• In-camera discussion on Development Charges Act solicitor-client advice
• In-camera discussion on emergency services communications response (labour and personal matters)
• In-camera review of strategic land acquisitions
• By-law 2025-023 to confirm actions and proceedings for February 24, 2025

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The City of Kitchener Planning & Strategic Initiatives Committee meeting scheduled for Monday, February 24, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were presented or decided. No further action was taken.

• Meeting cancellation of the Planning & Strategic Initiatives Committee meeting

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The Community and Infrastructure Services Committee announced that the meeting scheduled for Monday, February 24, 2025 has been cancelled. No agenda items will be considered at this time.

• Meeting cancellation – no items will be discussed

Climate Change and Environment Committee

The Climate Change and Environment Committee will meet on February 20, 2025. It will hear a five‑minute presentation on the environmental impacts of chemical rodent control (Item 4.1). It will also discuss the 2024‑2026 work plan (Item 4.2, DSD‑2025‑069). No decisions are indicated; the items are for discussion.

• Discussion of the environmental impacts of chemical rodent control (Item 4.1)
• Discussion of the 2024‑2026 Climate Change and Environment Committee work plan (Item 4.2, DSD‑2025‑069)
• Delegations limited to five minutes, registration deadline 12:00 p.m. Feb 20 2025 (Item 3)

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

The Arts and Culture Advisory Committee will receive updates on the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts and the Public Art portfolio including the 44 Gaukel Creative Hub. It will then discuss a public art installation for the Mill Courtland Community Centre. The meeting will also include the election of a vice‑chair.

• Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts updates (presentation by Jeremy Dueck)
• Introduction to the Public Art portfolio & 44 Gaukel Creative Hub (presentation by Eric Rumble)
• Discussion of Mill Courtland Community Centre public art installation (Eric Rumble)
• Vice‑chair election
• Delegations (up to five minutes per speaker, registration deadline Feb 14)

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment will hear several applications for minor variances and land consents. Key items include a request for a 45-storey building and a proposal for 71 affordable housing units.

• 864 King Street West: Minor variance for a 45-storey building
• 1035 Ottawa Street North: Minor variances for 71 affordable housing units
• 775 Queen Street South: Request to increase a dwelling to 4 units
• 685 Fischer Hallman Road: Consent for a long-term lease for Wendy's Restaurant
• 86 Florence Avenue: Consent to sever land for two residential dwellings with 4 units each

Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee will meet to discuss active transportation issues and focus areas for their term. The body will also review previous subcommittee activities and establish new subcommittees for 2025-2026.

• Orientation Part 2 presentation on active transportation and trails
• Review of previous term subcommittee activities
• Brainstorming of core active transportation initiatives
• Formation of subcommittees for the 2025-2026 term

Special Council Meeting

Council will consider the mayor's notice of motion on February 10, 2025, which directs staff to examine ways to mitigate the effect of new US tariffs and related counter‑measures on Kitchener's procurement practices. The meeting also includes a presentation of the New Official Plan – Kitchener 2051 strategic session report. Council will vote on a resolution to hold an in‑camera session immediately after the meeting to discuss six confidential matters.

• Mayor's notice of motion on US‑Canada tariffs and procurement preferences
• Strategic Session Report: New Official Plan – Kitchener 2051 (DSD‑2025‑061)
• Resolution to authorize an in‑camera meeting to consider six confidential items
• Delegations – none submitted at this time

Council Meeting

The council will review an Official Plan Amendment (OPA24/012/K/ES) and a Zoning By‑law Amendment (ZBA24/024/K/ES) for Imperial Oil Limited’s site at 4611 King Street East, proposing two towers with 726 residential units and 1,892 m² of commercial space. It will also approve a heritage permit for window and door replacement at 107 Courtland Avenue East and consider several by‑law amendments related to parking and fire routes. The meeting includes reports from committees and other routine business.

• Official Plan Amendment OPA24/012/K/ES for 4611 King Street East – mixed‑use development with 726 residential units, 22‑storey and 33‑storey towers
• Zoning By‑law Amendment ZBA24/024/K/ES for 4611 King Street East – changes to zoning to permit the proposed towers
• Heritage Permit Application HPA‑2025‑IV‑003 at 107 Courtland Avenue East – replacement of 22 windows and front doors
• By‑law amendment No. 2010‑190 – prohibit unauthorized parking of motor vehicles on private property
• By‑law amendment No. 88‑171 – designate private roadways as fire routes and prohibit parking there

Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee

The Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee will meet to finalize its 2025 workplan, review a 2024 report card, and discuss updates to the strategic action plan. The meeting will also include a review of previous minutes and a presentation on the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan for the next meeting.

• Finalize 2025 Workplan
• Review 2024 Report Card
• Review Strategic Action Plan Updates
• Review previous minutes (January 8, 2025)
• Next meeting: March 5 - Project Presentation

Heritage Kitchener Committee

The Heritage Kitchener Committee is meeting to discuss a heritage permit application for exterior renovations. The body will also receive an update on the city's heritage awards program.

• Heritage Permit Application HPA-2025-IV-003: replacement of 22 windows and front doors at 107 Courtland Avenue East
• Update on Kitchener’s Great Places Awards Program (Mike and Pat Wagner Heritage Awards)

Property Standards Committee

The Property Standards Appeal Committee will meet on January 29, 2025. After an in‑camera education session, the committee will consider Appeal #2024‑15 concerning 936 King Street East, requesting an extension of time to comply with a prior order. The agenda also includes procedural items such as authorizing the in‑camera meeting, nominating a chair and vice‑chair, and disclosing any pecuniary interests.

• In‑camera meeting authorization for education and training
• Chair nomination and appointment
• Vice‑chair nomination and appointment
• Disclosure of pecuniary interest
• Appeal #2024‑15 – extension of time for 936 King Street East

Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee

The Equity and Anti‑Racism Advisory Committee will hold an electronic meeting on Jan 28, 2025. Members will review the committee’s terms of reference and decide on co‑chairs. The agenda also includes informational items such as introductions, training, and a division debrief.

• Review Terms of Reference & Role of Co‑Chairs (15 min)
• Selection of Co‑Chairs (20 min)
• Legislated Services, Advisory Committee Training (30 min)
• Equity, Anti‑Racism, & Reconciliation Division debrief (15 min)
• Introductions & icebreakers (30 min)

Special Council Meeting

The Kitchener City Council will vote to authorize an in-camera session immediately after the special meeting to consider a labour relations issue under Section 239(2)(d) of the Municipal Act. Staff will provide information and seek direction on that matter. The council will also conduct three readings of By‑Law 2025‑016 to confirm the actions and proceedings of January 27, 2025. Additional items include mayoral updates and public delegations.

• Authorize an in‑camera meeting to consider a labour relations matter (Section 239(2)(d) Municipal Act)
• Staff presentation and direction request on the labour relations issue
• Three readings of By‑Law 2025‑016 to confirm council actions for Jan 27 2025
• Mayoral business and updates by Mayor B. Vrbanovic
• Public delegations (max 5 minutes each) as permitted by the procedural by‑law

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee will hold public hearings for two Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendment applications. The body will also receive reports on the city's strategic plan and the Integrity Commissioner's annual report.

• Hidden Valley Land Use Implementation Project (OPA24/005/K/CM, ZBA24/008/K/CM)
• 4611 King Street East application by Imperial Oil Limited c/o LJM Developments (OPA24/012/K/ES, ZBA24/024/K/ES)
• Integrity Commissioner Annual Report for July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024
• Strategic Plan Update - Winter 2025 Implementation

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee meeting scheduled for Monday, January 27, 2025, has been cancelled.

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The Community and Infrastructure Services Committee announced that the meeting scheduled for Monday, January 27, 2025 has been cancelled. No agenda items were considered. The cancellation notice was issued by Committee Coordinator Marilyn Mills.

• Meeting scheduled for Jan 27, 2025 cancelled

Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee (GRAAC)

The Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee will hear updates on accessibility status plans for North Dumfries and the City of Waterloo. A report on the Albert McCormick Community Centre (Arena) renovation will be presented by City of Waterloo staff. The meeting also includes new member orientation, delegations, and standard procedural items.

• New Committee Member Orientation – 45‑minute presentation
• Accessibility Status Plan Update – North Dumfries (10‑minute presentation)
• Accessibility Status Plan Update – City of Waterloo (10‑minute presentation)
• Built Environment Sub Committee Report – noted as no updates
• Albert McCormick Arena, City of Waterloo – 30‑minute renovation presentation

Downtown Advisory Committee

The committee is meeting to conduct member introductions and orientation on protocols and procedures. The session includes discussions on the committee's goals, membership recruitment, and the selection of a Chair and Vice-Chair.

• Selection of Chair and Vice-Chair
• Advisory Committee Training & Orientation presentation by Legislated Services Staff
• Discussion on honorarium and reimbursement
• Discussion on potential topics for future agendas

Economic Development Advisory Committee

The committee is meeting to select a Chair and Vice-Chair and to discuss the 2025 Annual Work Plan. The agenda also includes a debrief regarding Bloomberg/Harvard Health Innovation.

• Selection of Chair and Vice-Chair
• Bloomberg/Harvard Health Innovation Debrief
• Annual Work Plan - 2025
• Advisory Committee Training and Orientation

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

The Arts and Culture Advisory Committee will hold its regular meeting on Jan 21, 2025 at the City of Kitchener, 200 King Street W. The agenda includes member and staff introductions, an overview of arts and creative industries, a review of the honorarium and reimbursement policy, and discussion of chair and vice‑chair positions. No discussion items have been scheduled.

• Committee Member & Staff Introductions (15 min)
• Arts & Creative Industries Overview (20 min)
• Honorarium & Reimbursement policy review (5 min)
• Chair & vice chair positions discussion (5 min)

Committee of Adjustment

The Kitchener Committee of Adjustment will hold an in‑camera session for education and training before reconvening the public meeting at 10:00 a.m. The committee will then consider several minor variance and consent applications listed on the agenda. Applications include requests for reduced side‑yard setbacks, reduced parking requirements, an additional dwelling unit, and a parcel severance at five different properties.

• 535 Manitou Drive – reduce exterior side yard to 3.75 m (from 6 m) and provide 82 off‑street parking spaces (instead of 110) for two business‑park employment buildings (Site Plan SP24/067/M/BB).
• 72 Strange Street – reduce westerly side‑yard setback to 0.63 m (from 1.2 m) for an addition to a single‑detached dwelling.
• 126 Highland Road West – enlarge a legal non‑conforming use to add an attached ADU in the Mixed‑Use Zone (MIX‑1).
• 240 Chapel Street – reduce easterly side‑yard setback to 0.46 m (from 1.2 m) and allow a 0.92 m wide walkway (instead of 1.1 m) for an ADU in the rear yard.
• 284 Duke Street East – sever a 12.8 m × 12.1 m (155.2 sq m) parcel containing a garage to be added to 44 Betzner Ave N.

Council Meeting

Council will approve the minutes from December 2024, hear presentations, and consider several by‑laws, including borrowing for 2025 expenditures and multiple heritage designations. The agenda also includes a zoning by‑law amendment application (ZBA21/012/W/ES) for 400 Westwood Drive and a motion on paper‑billing costs related to a 25% Canada Post postage increase.

• Zoning By‑law Amendment Application ZBA21/012/W/ES for 400 Westwood Drive (Zadik Kardumovic and Anel Kardumovic)
• By‑law to authorize borrowing for current expenditures in 2025 (By‑law 2025‑001)
• Heritage designations for properties at 107 Courtland Avenue East, 44‑54 Queen Street South, 51 Breithaupt Street, 53 Church Street, 112 Margaret Avenue, and 148 Margaret Avenue
• Notice of motion on paper‑billing costs due to a 25% Canada Post postage increase
• Annual Zoning By‑law Update (ZBA24/025/K/KA) for Zoning By‑law 85‑1 and Zoning By‑law 2019‑051

Dog Designation Appeal Committee

The Kitchener Dog Designation Appeal Committee will first authorize an in‑camera session for education and training under the Municipal Act. After that, the public portion of the meeting will consider Appeal #2025‑01, a dangerous‑dog designation involving Rebecca Snider and Chase Hillenaar, with Officer Sarah Canavan. The committee will then adjourn.

• Resolution to hold an in‑camera meeting for education/training under Section 239(3.1) of the Municipal Act
• Appeal #2025‑01 – Dangerous Dog Designation, appellant: Rebecca Snider and Chase Hillenaar (dog “Murphy”), officer: Sarah Canavan
• Commencement of the meeting
• Adjournment

Special Council Meeting

The special council meeting will vote on a resolution to hold an in‑camera session immediately after the meeting to consider a labour‑relations issue under Section 239(2)(d) of the Municipal Act, 2001. The agenda also includes a land acknowledgement, disclosure of pecuniary interests, delegations, mayoral updates, and an informational employee compensation matter. No other decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Resolution to authorize an in‑camera meeting for a labour‑relations matter (Section 239(2)(d) Municipal Act)
• Employee Compensation Matter presented for information (no council direction required)
• Delegations – up to five minutes per delegate
• Mayoral Business and Updates by Mayor B. Vrbanovic
• Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof

Climate Change and Environment Committee

The committee is meeting to conduct introductory business and establish its leadership. Members will discuss the 2025-2026 work plan and review policies regarding personal information.

• Selection of Chair and Vice-Chair
• Discussion of 2025-2026 Work Plan
• Advisory Committee Training & Orientation
• Policy on the Use of Personal Information and Contact Details

Active Transportation and Trails Advisory Committee

The committee is meeting to conduct member training and establish organizational foundations for the new term. Discussions will focus on governance, leadership selection, and an overview of active transportation in Kitchener.

• Selection of Chair and Vice-Chair for the new term
• Review of the committee's Terms of Reference
• Advisory Committee Training & Orientation presentation by Legislated Services
• Discussion on committee Rules of Engagement
• Orientation presentation on active transportation and trails in Kitchener

Compass Kitchener Advisory Committee

The meeting will begin with standard commencement and conflict‑of‑interest disclosures. Members will vote to elect a Chair and Vice‑Chair. The committee will receive a 30‑minute training/orientation and review the 2023‑2026 Strategic Plan Report Card. An information item will present the 2025 meeting schedule.

• Election of Chair and Vice‑Chair positions (decision)
• Advisory Committee Training & Orientation – 30‑minute staff presentation
• 2023‑2026 Strategic Plan Report Card – presentation and feedback discussion
• 2025 Compass Kitchener Meeting Schedule – information item
• Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest – required written statements

Heritage Kitchener Committee

The Heritage Kitchener Committee will hold an orientation and elect its Chair and Vice Chair. The body will discuss heritage impact assessments, notices of intention to designate specific properties, and restoration work for the Old Mills Ruins.

• Draft Scoped Heritage Impact Assessment for 1940 Fischer Hallman Road
• Notice of Intention to Designate 69 Agnes Road
• Notice of Intention to Designate 80-86 Union Boulevard
• Old Mills Ruins repair and restoration work
• Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair

Community and Infrastructure Services Committee

The Community and Infrastructure Services Committee meeting scheduled for Monday, January 6, 2025 was cancelled. No agenda items were considered or decided. The cancellation notice was issued by Committee Administrator Mariah Blake.

• Meeting cancelled – no agenda items considered

Finance and Corporate Services Committee

The Finance and Corporate Services Committee announced that the meeting scheduled for Monday, January 6, 2025 has been cancelled. No agenda items were presented for discussion or decision. The cancellation notice was issued by Committee Coordinator Marilyn Mills.

• Meeting cancellation notice for the Finance and Corporate Services Committee (scheduled Jan 6, 2025)

Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee

The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee will hold a public hearing under the Ontario Planning Act. It will consider the Annual Zoning By‑law Update (DSD‑2025‑003) and a Zoning By‑law Amendment Application (ZBA21/012/W/ES) for 400 Westwood Drive submitted by Zakia Kardumovic and Anel Kardumovic. Staff will give a brief presentation on the amendment before the committee discusses the matters.

• Annual Zoning By‑law Update – DSD‑2025‑003
• Zoning By‑law Amendment Application ZBA21/012/W/ES for 400 Westwood Drive
• Public hearing under the Planning Act for the above items