Niagara Region public meetings in 2024
66 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Niagara Region Licensing Appeals Committee
The Licensing Appeals Committee will hear two appeals concerning the refusal of licence renewals for Transportation Network Company drivers. These hearings are conducted under Niagara Region By-law 2021-57 and the Statutory Powers Procedure Act.
- Appeal by Pardeep Singh regarding refusal of Transportation Network Company Driver licence renewal
- Appeal by Jun He regarding refusal of Transportation Network Company Driver licence renewal
Budget Review Committee of the Whole
The Budget Review Committee of the Whole is meeting to consider the 2025 Consolidated General Levy Budget Update. The discussion includes potential program change deferrals and business cases.
- 2025 Consolidated General Levy Budget Update (BRC-C 25-2024)
- Potential Program Change Deferrals
- Business Cases
Council
The Regional Municipality of Niagara Council will consider several by‑laws, including adopting the 2025 Operating Budget and General Levy Tax. Other items include adopting the 2025 Capital Budget, establishing a new schedule of fees and charges, authorising expropriation of land on Regional Road 98 – Montrose Road, and appointing municipal by‑law enforcement officers. Committee reports and presentations will be reviewed before the council votes on these measures.
- Bill 2024-83 – adopt the 2025 Operating Budget and General Levy Tax
- Bill 2024-82 – adopt the 2025 Capital Budget
- Bill 2024-81 – establish fees and charges for regional services
- Bill 2024-80 – authorize expropriation of land on Regional Road 98 – Montrose Road
- Bill 2024-79 – appoint Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Officers
Waste Management Planning Steering Committee
The Waste Management Planning Steering Committee will present and discuss Niagara Region comments on proposed amendments to the tires, batteries, electrical and electronic equipment, and hazardous and special products regulations. It will also consider the 2025 Waste Management Steering Committee meeting dates, a response to an environmental review order for beneficial reuse of excess soil, and notes from the citizen liaison committee on the Niagara Road 12 landfill site. Additional items include a councillor information request.
- Proposed Amendments to Tires, Batteries, Electrical and Electronic Equipment, and Hazardous and Special Products Regulations (item 6.1)
- 2025 Waste Management Steering Committee Meeting Dates (item 5.1)
- Niagara Region Response to ERO 019-9196 – Enabling Beneficial Reuse of Excess Soil (item 6.3)
- Citizen Liaison Committee Niagara Road 12 Landfill Site Meeting Notes, Sep 19 2024 (item 6.4)
- Councillor Information Request (item 6.2)
Audit Committee
The Audit Committee will review internal audit reports on vendor performance, purchasing cards, and controlled medications, as well as the 2024 external audit plan. The committee will also set the meeting schedule for 2025.
- Review Internal Audit Report on Vendor Performance Management
- Review Follow-Up Audit Report on Purchasing Card Program
- Review Follow-up Report on Controlled Medications Inventory Audit
- Review 2024 External Audit Planning Report
- Set 2025 Audit Committee Meeting Schedule
Budget Review Committee of the Whole
The Budget Review Committee of the Whole is meeting to consider the 2025 Consolidated General Levy Budget and the 2025 Schedule of Fees and Charges. The committee will also review the proposed operating budget for the Niagara Regional Police Service.
- 2025 Consolidated General Levy Budget (CSD 64-2024)
- 2025 Proposed Operating Budget for Niagara Regional Police Service (BRC-C 14-2024)
- 2025 Schedule of Fees and Charges (CSD 57-2024)
- Proposed increase in building permit fees for sewage system applications (BRC-C 10-2024)
- Recommendations from the Public Works Committee (BRC-C 15-2024)
Planning and Economic Development Committee
The Planning and Economic Development Committee will consider a strategy for post-secondary student housing and review the 2024-2029 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan. The committee will also receive a presentation from the Hamilton Oshawa Port Authority regarding Great Lakes shipping.
- Post-secondary Student Housing Strategy presentation
- 2024-2029 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan presentation
- Hamilton Oshawa Port Authority presentation
Corporate Services Committee
The Corporate Services Committee will review the 2024 third-quarter financial update and a corporate security policy. The body will also consider requests to write off outstanding amounts and review non-competitive procurement activities.
- Q3 2024 Financial Update (CSD 62-2024)
- Corporate Security Policy (CSD 53-2024)
- Request to write-off outstanding amounts over $25,000 (CSD 60-2024)
- Non-competitive procurement activities exceeding $100,000 (CSD 58-2024)
- Proposed land acquisition on Regional Road 98 in Niagara Falls (Closed Session)
Public Works Committee
The Public Works Committee will consider extending a one-year contract for hauling garbage, recyclables, and organics. The committee will also award a contract for the replacement of the Twenty Mile Creek Arch Bridge on Regional Road 81.
- Extension of curbside collection haulage contract (2019-RFP-156)
- Award of contract for Regional Road 81 Twenty Mile Creek Arch Bridge replacement
- Review of responses to Hauled Sewage Rate Comment Period
- Annual Water Quality Management System Update
- Oswego Creek Bridge Replacement Project
PHSSC
The Public Health & Social Services Committee will hear three presentations: the Niagara Ontario Health Team Strategic Plan, the Sexual Health Program, and an overview of Seniors Community Programs. No items are scheduled for formal consideration. A consent item (COM 34-2024) provides the Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report for July‑September 2024. The meeting will conclude with routine business and scheduling of the next session.
- Presentation of Niagara Ontario Health Team Strategic Plan
- Presentation of Sexual Health Program
- Presentation of Overview of Seniors Community Programs
- Consent item COM 34-2024: Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report (July‑Sep 2024)
- No items for consideration
Agricultural Policy and Action Committee
The Agricultural Policy and Action Committee is meeting to hear presentations on land use and the health of international agricultural workers. The body will also determine its meeting dates for 2025.
- Presentation on the Alternative Land Use Services (ALUS) program in Niagara
- Presentation on the role of health inspectors in protecting international agricultural workers
- Decision on 2025 Agricultural Policy and Action Committee meeting dates
- Review of a letter from Niagara Federation of Agriculture regarding woodland conservation
- Review of a news release on mental health services for international agricultural workers
Joint Board of Management
The Joint Board of Management will consider the proposed 2025 meeting dates, receive an update on the collection agency RFP process, review third‑quarter variance analysis and forecasts, and examine the 2025 board membership list. Minutes from the August 22 and October 24, 2024 meetings will also be reviewed. No formal decisions are indicated; items are presented for information.
- 2025 Joint Board of Management Meeting Dates (Item 5.1)
- Collection Agency RFP Update (Item 6.1)
- 3rd Quarter Variance Analysis and Forecast to Dec 31 2024 (Item 6.2)
- Joint Board of Management 2025 Membership (Item 6.3)
- Review of August 22 and October 24, 2024 meeting minutes (Items 6.4‑6.5)
Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee
The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee will present the Niagara Well-Being Tool and the 2025 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Significant Dates Calendar. It will consider DEIAC-C 5-2024, which contains the proposed 2025 DEI Advisory Committee meeting dates. The meeting also includes a review of the October 29, 2024 DEIAC minutes for information.
- Presentation of the Niagara Well-Being Tool
- Presentation of the 2025 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Significant Dates Calendar
- Item for consideration: DEIAC-C 5-2024 – 2025 DEI Advisory Committee meeting dates
- Item for information: DEIAC 5-2024 minutes from October 29, 2024
- Other business (no specific items listed)
Council
The Regional Municipality of Niagara Council will consider adopting the 2025 operating budgets for the Waste Management, Transit, Wastewater, and Water services, along with several traffic regulation by-laws and committee reports.
- Adoption of 2025 Waste Management Budget
- Adoption of 2025 Transit Commission Budget and Special Levy
- Adoption of 2025 Wastewater Budget and Requisitions
- Adoption of 2025 Water Budget and Requisition
- Traffic regulation by-laws for Grimsby, Fort Erie, and West Lincoln
Budget Review Committee of the Whole
The Budget Review Committee of the Whole will consider the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority's 2025 draft budgets and municipal levies. A motion will be voted on to receive the correspondence and approve the NPCA 2025 municipal levy apportionment. The committee will also review a 2025 budget update comparing planned versus approved increases.
- Approve Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority 2025 municipal levy apportionment
- Presentation of NPCA 2025 draft budgets and municipal levies
- Review of 2025 budget update – planning vs proposed and approved increases
Budget Review Committee of the Whole
The Niagara Region Budget Review Committee will consider and approve in principle the proposed 2025 operating budgets for Court Services, Niagara Regional Housing, the Niagara Regional Police Service and Police Service Board, and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority. Each budget approval is subject to the region's general levy. Presentations will precede each consideration.
- BRC-C 5-2024 – Proposed Court Services 2025 Operating Budget
- BRC-C 6-2024 – Proposed Niagara Regional Housing 2025 Operating Budget
- BRC-C 7-2024 – Proposed Niagara Regional Police Service and Police Service Board 2025 Operating Budget
- BRC-C 8-2024 – Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority 2025 Municipal Levy Apportionment
Women's Advisory Committee
The Niagara Region Women's Advisory Committee will hear two presentations: the "Niagara Region's New Parents" program and the "Niagara Well‑Being Tool". The committee will also consider a document with the 2025 meeting dates for future Women's Advisory Committee sessions. Past meeting minutes from September 17, 2024 will be provided for information.
- Presentation: Niagara Region's New Parents program
- Presentation: Niagara Well‑Being Tool
- Item WAC‑C 2‑2024 – 2025 Women's Advisory Committee meeting dates
- Item WAC 5‑2024 – Minutes from September 17, 2024 meeting
Budget Review Committee of the Whole
The Budget Review Committee of the Whole will consider the 2025 Water and Wastewater Operating Budget, including rate setting and requisition (CSD 48-2024). It will also revisit the Niagara Transit Commission 2025 Operating Budget (BRC-C 2-2024), which was deferred at the October 17 meeting. Several consent items provide information on water and wastewater rate methodology, additional transit budget details, legal obligations under the Safe Drinking Water Act, and a resident correspondence on transit budgeting.
- CSD 48-2024 – 2025 Water and Wastewater Operating Budget, Rate Setting and Requisition
- BRC-C 2-2024 – Niagara Transit Commission 2025 Operating Budget (deferred previously)
- CSD 59-2024 – Water and Wastewater Rate Methodology Review (information)
- BRC-C 3-2024 – Niagara Transit Commission Additional Budget Information (information)
- CWCD 2024-172 – Councillor request on legal obligations under the Safe Drinking Water Act (information)
Corporate Services Committee
The Corporate Services Committee will consider a one-time grant request for a property in Niagara Falls. The meeting also includes a presentation on asset management for Regional Councillors and updates on public right-of-way imagery.
- One-time grant consideration for 5698 Main Street, Niagara Falls
- Update on graphic images in the public right of way
- City of St. Catharines report on Older Homeowner Tax Increase Deferral Program
- Presentation on Asset Management in Niagara for Regional Councillors
- Closed session discussions regarding litigation for Canada Games Park and South Side Low Lift Sewage Pumping Station Upgrades
Planning and Economic Development Committee
The Planning and Economic Development Committee will hear presentations on the Niagara Economic Update and Foreign Direct Investment. The meeting also includes a closed session regarding a land tribunal appeal concerning a proposed quarry.
- Niagara Economic Update presentation
- Foreign Direct Investment update
- Closed session on proposed Uppers Quarry appeal
- Meeting held at Regional Headquarters in Thorold
PHSSC
The Public Health & Social Services Committee is meeting to consider budget adjustments for child care and early years services. The body will also discuss property management services agreements for housing and a funding announcement for social assistance and employment.
- Child Care and Early Years 2024 Budget Adjustment (COM 32-2024)
- Housing Services Property Management Services Agreements (COM 33-2024)
- Social Assistance and Employment Opportunities Funding Announcement (COM 31-2024)
- Board of Health Evaluation results presentation
Public Works Committee
The Public Works Committee is meeting to consider the award of a contract for the Biosolids and Residuals Management Program. The committee will also receive updates on road reconstruction costs and reports on water festivals and traffic enforcement appeals.
- Award of Contract 2024-T-207 for Biosolids and Residuals Management Program
- Update on additional costs for Regional Road 98 (Montrose Road) reconstruction
- Process to appeal red-light camera and automated speed enforcement infractions
- 2024 Niagara Children’s Water Festival Summary Report
Transportation Strategy Steering Committee
The Transportation Strategy Steering Committee met on October 30, 2024 at the Niagara Region Headquarters in Thorold. The agenda included a presentation of the Transportation Master Plan Overview and the full Transportation Master Plan documents by Maged Elmadhoon, Manager of Transportation Planning. The committee considered item TSSC‑C 3‑2024, which proposes the dates for the 2025 Transportation Strategy Steering Committee meetings. No decisions were recorded; the next meeting date is to be determined.
- Transportation Master Plan Overview presentation (pdf attached)
- Transportation Master Plan (TMP) presentation (pdf attached)
- Consideration of TSSC‑C 3‑2024: proposal of 2025 Steering Committee meeting dates
Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee
The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee will present a Student Housing Strategy. It will discuss the Anti‑Discrimination Statement Proposed Approach. The meeting will also provide updates on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan 2023 (PDS 12‑2024) and review minutes from previous DEIAC meetings.
- Student Housing Strategy presentation by Marian Bannerman
- Discussion of Anti‑Discrimination Statement Proposed Approach
- Presentation of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan 2023 Updates (PDS 12‑2024)
- Review of DEIAC 1‑2024 minutes (April 16, 2024)
- Review of DEIAC 2‑2024 minutes (April 30, 2024) and DEIAC 4‑2024 minutes (August 27, 2024)
Joint Board of Management
The Joint Board of Management for Niagara Courts is meeting to discuss and consider the Court Services 2025 Operating Budget. A presentation will be provided before the board considers the item.
- Court Services 2025 Operating Budget (Item JBM-C 7-2024)
Council
The Niagara Region Council will consider several by‑laws, including authorizing loan and grant agreements with the Green Municipal Fund for projects in St. Catharines and Welland, and establishing a system for Trespass to Property Act notices. The council will also conduct the Annual General Meeting of the Niagara Regional Housing Corporation, reviewing audited financial statements, appointing an auditor, and re‑appointing board members. A motion to endorse Ontario Big City Mayors’ “Solve the Crisis” campaign will be presented for a vote.
- Bill 2024-66 – authorizes a loan and grant agreement for the Green Municipal Fund with the City of St. Catharines
- Bill 2024-67 – authorizes a loan and grant agreement for the Green Municipal Fund with the City of Welland
- Bill 2024-68 – creates a system for administering notices under the Trespass to Property Act
- Motion to endorse Ontario Big City Mayors’ “Solve the Crisis” campaign
- Annual General Meeting of the Niagara Regional Housing Corporation: financial statements, auditor appointment, board member re‑appointments
Accessibility Advisory Committee
The Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting to consider a draft of the 2024-2029 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan and set meeting dates for 2025. The session includes a presentation on accessible design for the NRPS 911 Back-Up Facility.
- Draft 2024-2029 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (MYAP)
- NRPS 911 Back-Up Facility accessible design implementation presentation
- 2025 Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting dates
Budget Review Committee of the Whole
The Budget Review Committee of the Whole is meeting to consider the 2025 operating budgets for the Niagara Transit Commission and Waste Management. The session includes presentations on proposed spending and requisitions.
- Niagara Transit Commission 2025 Operating Budget and Special Levy Requisition
- Waste Management 2025 Operating Budget and Requisition
- Proposed 2025 Waste Management Requisition by Municipality
- 2025 Waste Management Requisition for Typical Residential Property by Municipality
Joint Board of Management
The Joint Board of Management will receive a presentation and then consider the Court Services 2025 Operating Budget. The agenda also includes routine items such as call to order, disclosures of pecuniary interest, delegations, and a consent item to approve the August 22, 2024 meeting minutes. Other business will be discussed, and the next meeting is scheduled for November 28, 2024.
- Presentation and consideration of the Court Services 2025 Operating Budget (attachments JBM-C 7-2024 PDFs)
- Consent item: approval of Joint Board of Management minutes from August 22, 2024
- Routine items: call to order, disclosures of pecuniary interest, delegations
- Discussion of other business (no specific items listed)
- Next meeting set for Thursday, November 28, 2024 at 3:30 p.m.
Corporate Services Committee
The Corporate Services Committee will review three items for decision: a new Trespass By‑law and Conduct of Persons Policy, an amendment to the construction agreement for Gilmore Lodge LTC, and the renewal of the UKG Kronos time‑and‑attendance software contract. It will also receive information on a low‑income seniors and disability property tax deferral program and a development charges memo for 7667 Chippawa Creek Road. Closed‑session portions will discuss HR matters related to non‑union compensation and upcoming collective bargaining strategy.
- CSD 41-2024 – Adoption of a Trespass By‑law and Conduct of Persons Policy (including public conduct procedure).
- CSD 49-2024 – Amendment to the construction agreement for Gilmore Lodge LTC (project cost detailed in attached appendix).
- HR 8-2024 – Renewal of the UKG Kronos time‑and‑attendance software contract.
- CSD 32-2024 – Information on the Low‑Income Seniors and Disability Property Tax Deferral Program.
- CSC‑C 10-2024 – Development Charges memo for 7667 Chippawa Creek Road, Niagara Falls.
Planning and Economic Development Committee
The Planning & Economic Development Committee will review and decide on the Planning Service Level Agreement and the 2024 Memorandum of Understanding for engineering services (PDS 27-2024). It will also receive a strategic marketing update presentation (ED 13-2024) and updates on shared services (PDS 29-2024 and PDS 31-2024). Closed‑session items will address litigation matters related to Ontario Land Tribunal appeals for sites on Stanley Avenue and a West Lincoln Official Plan amendment.
- Review and approve Planning Service Agreement and 2024 Engineering MOU (PDS 27-2024)
- Strategic Marketing Update presentation (ED 13-2024)
- Shared Services Update presentation (PDS 29-2024)
- Shared Services Inventory Update presentation (PDS 31-2024)
- Closed‑session discussion of litigation on Stanley Avenue sites and West Lincoln Official Plan Amendment No. 63
PHSSC
The Public Health & Social Services Committee is meeting to decide on the approval of the 2023 Child Care Services Program Audit and the extension of the Primary Public Safety Answering Point Agreement. The body will also receive information regarding winter homelessness plans and veterans funding.
- Approval of 2023 Child Care Services Program Audit (COM 30-2024)
- Extension of the Primary Public Safety Answering Point Agreement (PHD 6-2024)
- Homelessness Plans for Winter 2024-2025 (COM-C 12-2024)
- Veterans Funding (COM-C 13-2024)
- Ontario Public Health Standards: Risk Management Requirement (PHD 5-2024)
Public Works Committee
The Committee will consider the award of a contract for 12 dump trucks with winter control equipment. Members will also hear a delegation regarding hauled sewage rate setting and receive an update on the Biosolids Master Plan.
- Award of Contract 2024-T-148 for the supply and delivery of 12 dump trucks with winter control equipment
- Delegation from Tom Richardson (Sullivan Mahoney LLP) regarding Hauled Sewage Rate Setting
- Biosolids Master Plan Update presentation
Council
Council will review several debenture by-laws to authorize borrowing for regional and municipal capital projects. The meeting also includes delegations regarding the reconstruction of Regional Road 87 and requests for incentive program extensions.
- Bill 2024-62: Borrowing of $55,299,403.00 for Regional Municipality of Niagara capital work
- Bill 2024-60: Borrowing of $7,500,000.00 for City of Niagara Falls capital work
- Bill 2024-63: Borrowing of $5,054,825.00 for Town of Lincoln capital work
- Bill 2024-57 & 2024-58: Speed limit reductions on Regional Road 54 (Welland) and Regional Road 529 (Pelham)
- Bill 2024-64: Approval of the Regional Official Plan Amendment for Law Quarry (Wainfleet)
Niagara Region Licensing Appeals Committee
The Licensing Appeals Committee will hear appeals from five transportation network company drivers whose licence renewals were refused under Niagara Region By-law 2021‑57. The hearings will be conducted in accordance with the By-law and the Statutory Powers Procedure Act. The committee will decide whether to uphold or overturn each refusal.
- Waheed Gul – appeal of licence renewal refusal (Transportation Network Company driver)
- Bunrorn Chan – appeal of licence renewal refusal (Transportation Network Company driver)
- Gurpreet Singh – appeal of licence renewal refusal (Transportation Network Company driver)
- Jaspreet Singh – appeal of licence renewal refusal (Transportation Network Company driver)
- Vijo Mandumpal – appeal of licence renewal refusal (Transportation Network Company driver)
Women's Advisory Committee
The Women's Advisory Committee will receive a presentation on updates to the Children's Services System Plan for 2024-2026. The committee will also review information regarding graphic images in the public right of way.
- Children's Services - Service System Plan (2024-2026) updates
- CSD 35-2024: Graphic Images in the Public Right of Way
Audit Committee
The Audit Committee is meeting to consider the appointment of auditors. The body will also receive information regarding various program audits and financial statements.
- Appointment of Auditors (AC-C 6-2024)
- Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority 2023 Audited Financial Statements
- Public Health and Emergency Services Program Audits
- 2024 Community Services Program Audits
- Status Update on Internal Audit Engagements
Budget Review Committee of the Whole
The Budget Review Committee of the Whole is meeting to consider the 2025 Capital Budget. The session includes a presentation and review of capital project recommendations, debt information, and a 9-year forecast.
- Consideration of the 2025 Capital Budget (CSD 46-2024)
- Review of Capital Budget submissions from Niagara Regional Housing
- Review of Capital Budget submissions from Niagara Regional Police Service
- Review of Capital Budget submissions from Niagara Transit Commission
Corporate Services Committee
The Corporate Services Committee is meeting to consider updates to the regional investment policy and a development charge credit extension in Grimsby. The body will also review the 2025 meeting schedule and a contract extension for lobbyist registrar services.
- Update of C-F-009 Investment Policy
- Development Charge Demolition Credit Extension Request for brownfield redevelopment at 21-23 Main St. East, Grimsby
- Extension of Lobbyist Registrar Services Contract
- Review of non-competitive procurement activities exceeding $100,000
- Q2 2024 Financial Update
Planning and Economic Development Committee
The Planning and Economic Development Committee is reviewing requests for Regional and Local Official Plan amendments regarding the Law Quarry Extension. The body will also consider a Niagara Gateway application and a zero-emission vehicle blueprint.
- Regional and Local Official Plan Amendment for Law Quarry Extension (PDS 23-2024)
- Niagara Gateway CIP Application from City of Port Colborne for E-Materials Canada Corporation (ED 12-2024)
- Zero Emission Vehicle Blueprint for EV Sector Development (ED 11-2024)
Public Works Committee
The Public Works Committee will consider a motion (PWC‑C 11‑2024) establishing a process to appeal red‑light camera and automated speed‑enforcement infractions. It will also review an extension to the 2022‑T‑145 winter and summer grounds‑maintenance contract (PW 27‑2024) and receive a presentation on hauled sewage rate setting (PW 26‑2024). Additional updates include Regional Road 87 reconstruction in Port Dalhousie (PW 28‑2024), the Niagara Escarpment crossing environmental assessment terms of reference (PW 29‑2024), and a capital‑project status report (PWC‑C 10‑2024).
- Motion Respecting the Process to Appeal Red‑light Camera and Automated Speed Enforcement Infractions (PWC‑C 11‑2024)
- Extension to 2022‑T‑145 Winter and Summer Grounds Maintenance – WWW (PW 27‑2024)
- Hauled Sewage Rate Setting presentation (PW 26‑2024)
- Update Regarding Regional Road 87 Reconstruction in Port Dalhousie (PW 28‑2024)
- Niagara Escarpment Crossing Comprehensive Environmental Assessment – Terms of Reference (PW 29‑2024)
PHSSC
The Public Health & Social Services Committee will hear a presentation on the 2023 Early Development Instrument results for the Niagara Region. It will consider three items: a housing provider end‑of‑mortgage strategy and related service agreements, a budget adjustment for seniors services, and an emergency social services contract with the Canadian Red Cross. The committee will also receive informational updates on early learning and child‑care priorities and a seniors services quality‑improvement report.
- COM 28-2024 – Housing Provider End‑of‑Mortgage Strategy and Service Agreements
- COM 25-2024 – Budget Adjustment for Seniors Services
- COM 27-2024 – Emergency Social Services contract with the Canadian Red Cross
- COM 23-2024 – Update on Canada‑Wide Early Learning and Child‑Care Program
- COM 26-2024 – Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report (April‑June 2024)
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is considering a review of the Niagara Region Incentive Policy. The meeting includes a presentation on the state of repair for water and wastewater services and discussions regarding the expiry of the Smarter Niagara Incentive Program and Smart Growth Program.
- Niagara Region Incentive Policy Review (Report PDS 26-2024)
- Water and Wastewater Service State of Repair presentation
- Smarter Niagara Incentive Program and Smart Growth Program Expiry Background (PDS-C 27-2024)
- City of St. Catharines request for extensions to Niagara Region Incentive Programs
- Delegation from Rachel Braithwaite of the St. Catharines Downtown Association
Council
The Regional Municipality of Niagara Council will review the South Niagara Shelter Expansion proposal. It will also address a vacancy on the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority board, a 9‑1‑1 service contract with Bell Canada, and a special equipment budget transfer for the NRPS 911 Backup Centre. Several by‑laws, including a dedication of part of 59R‑17966 as Regional Road 98, will be adopted.
- South Niagara Shelter Expansion (COM 29‑2024)
- Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority Board vacancy (CL‑C 73‑2024)
- Bell Canada NG 9‑1‑1 Authority Service Contract (CSD 45‑2024)
- NRPS Special Equipment Budget Transfer for 911 Backup Centre (CL‑C 75‑2024)
- Dedication by‑law for part of 59R‑17966 as Regional Road 98 (Bill 2024‑50)
Council Special
The Regional Municipality of Niagara Council will hold a special meeting on August 29, 2024. Items include a land acknowledgement, adoption of the agenda, disclosures of pecuniary interest, and a closed‑session discussion of confidential CAO matters. The council will consider Bill 2024‑49, a by‑law to confirm the actions taken at this meeting.
- Closed session to discuss confidential CAO 12‑2024
- Closed session to discuss confidential CAO 13‑2024
- Adoption of Bill 2024‑49 confirming the council’s actions at this meeting
- Land acknowledgement statement
- Disclosures of pecuniary interest
Waste Management Planning Steering Committee
The Waste Management Planning Steering Committee will hear presentations on the 2025 waste‑management tipping fees and on the 2025 capital projects for waste services. It will also consider several consent items that provide information on council requests, a residential drop‑off depot agreement, and the cancellation of the deposit‑return program. No decisions are listed; the items are for discussion and information.
- Presentation of 2025 Waste Management Tipping Fees (Emil Prpic)
- Overview of Waste Management 2025 Capital Projects (Peter Kryger)
- Consent item WMPSC‑C 6‑2024 – Councillor Information Requests
- Consent item WMPSC‑C 8‑2024 – Walker Environmental Residential Drop‑off Depot Agreement
- Consent item WMPSC‑C 10‑2024 – Cancellation of Deposit Return
Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee
The Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee is meeting to receive presentations on regional planning and data. The session focuses on accessibility engagement, child care service plans, and employment inventory data.
- Niagara Region Accessibility Planning engagement overview
- Children's Services - Service System Plan (2024-2026) updates
- Niagara Employment Inventory Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion data
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan 2023 updates (PDS 12-2024)
Joint Board of Management
The Joint Board of Management will consider the 2nd Quarter Variance Analysis and Forecast to December 31, 2024, presented in several attached PDFs. It will also review the minutes from the April 18, 2024 meeting. No other decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.
- Review Q2 2024 variance analysis for Base Operations (Appendix 1)
- Review Q2 2024 forecasted distribution to Local Area Municipalities (Appendix 2)
- Review Q2 2024 variance analysis for Vision Zero Operations (Appendix 3)
- Consider the 2nd Quarter Variance Analysis and Forecast document (main attachment)
- Consider minutes from the April 18, 2024 Joint Board of Management meeting
Planning and Economic Development Committee
The Planning & Economic Development Committee will hear a presentation on the Attainable Housing Strategy (Item 6.1) and discuss related housing initiatives. Delegations will request extensions for the Smart Growth Program at 75 Ormond Street, Thorold, and present seniors housing options for Niagara‑on‑the‑Lake. Information items include updates on Niagara Signature Sites, the 2024 Public Realm Investment Program funding commitments, and the Q1‑Q2 2024 Economic Development report.
- Smart Growth Program Extension Request – 75 Ormond Street, Thorold (Item 5.1)
- Seniors Housing Options – Niagara‑on‑the‑Lake (Item 5.2)
- Attainable Housing Strategy presentation (Item 6.1)
- Niagara Signature Sites presentations (Item 7.1)
- 2024 Public Realm Investment Program Funding Commitments (Item 7.3)
Public Works Committee
The Public Works Committee will review updates to the Sewer Use By-law and revoke the Hauled Sewage Program Policy. The committee will also consider budget increases for a wastewater treatment plant upgrade and a road reconstruction project in Niagara Falls.
- Update to Sewer Use By-law and revocation of Hauled Sewage Program Policy
- Gross budget increase for Seaway Wastewater Treatment Plant Influent Channel Upgrade
- Purchase Order Amendment for Regional Road 98 (Montrose Road) reconstruction
- Contract approval for GO Station Precinct Development Project in St. Catharines
- Receipt of a written warning under the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulation
Council
The Niagara Regional Council will consider several items, including recommended changes to the Council’s procedural by‑law and code of conduct, a contract award for Niagara Road 12 landfill operations, and a branding request from the Niagara Transit Commission. Presentations on the Asahi Kasei lithium‑ion battery separator plant (Project Eagle) will be given. The council will also vote on a borrowing by‑law (Bill 2024‑47) that authorizes $39,800,000 in debentures for capital works across multiple municipalities.
- Recommended changes to Council’s Procedural By‑law and Code of Conduct (CLK 3‑2024)
- Award of Contract 2024‑T‑90 for Niagara Road 12 Landfill Operations (PW 21‑2024)
- Niagara Transit Commission request for operating brand name change (CL‑C 58‑2024)
- 2024 Operating Budget amendment for the Niagara Regional Police Service training unit (CL‑C 60‑2024)
- Bill 2024‑47 authorizing $39,800,000 in debentures for regional capital projects
Budget Review Committee of the Whole
The Niagara Region Budget Review Committee will hear a presentation on the 2025 Budget Strategy. It will also receive updates on the Investing in Ontario Fund, the levy impact of mandated provincial and federal services, health‑equity‑informed planning, and the region’s debt strategy. No formal decisions are listed; the items appear to be for discussion and information.
- 2025 Budget Strategy presentation by Beth Brens, Associate Director, Budget Planning & Strategy
- Investing in Ontario Fund update (CSD 38‑2024)
- Levy impact of mandated services under provincial and federal agreements (CSD 30‑2024)
- Health Equity Informed Planning update (CSD 34‑2024)
- Debt Strategy update (CSD 37‑2024)
Accessibility Advisory Committee
The Accessibility Advisory Committee will hear three presentations: the Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy, the Attainable Housing Strategy, and the Niagara Transit Commission's Transit Master Planning Project. No items are listed for formal consideration, so the meeting is informational. The committee will also receive consent items consisting of the minutes from the January 23 and April 23, 2024 meetings.
- Presentation: Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy (overview PDF)
- Presentation: Attainable Housing Strategy (PDF)
- Presentation: Niagara Transit Commission – Transit Master Planning Project (PDF)
- Consent item: AAC 1-2024 minutes from January 23, 2024
- Consent item: AAC 2-2024 minutes from April 23, 2024
Council Special
The Regional Municipality of Niagara will hold a special council meeting to adopt a by-law ratifying the actions taken during the session. The agenda includes a closed session regarding litigation and employment matters, followed by the adoption of the confirming by-law.
- Adoption of Bill 2024-39 confirming July 18 council actions
- Closed session regarding litigation concerning former senior administration officials
- Closed session regarding personal matters of an identifiable individual
- Adoption of agenda and disclosures of pecuniary interest
- Closed session: confidential verbal update
Women's Advisory Committee
The Women's Advisory Committee will meet electronically to receive presentations on the Niagara Workforce Coalition and the Niagara Employment Inventory, focusing on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion data. The committee will also review the minutes from the May 14, 2024, meeting.
- Presentation: Niagara Workforce Coalition
- Presentation: Niagara Employment Inventory - DEI Data
- Review: WAC 3-2024 Minutes (May 14, 2024)
- Next meeting: September 17, 2024
Corporate Services Committee
The committee will consider development charge exemptions for affordable and attainable housing. The agenda also includes information regarding graphic images in the public right of way. A closed session item addresses a proposed land acquisition for Regional Road 10 in Grimsby.
- Development Charges Act exemption for affordable and attainable residential units
- Information on graphic images in the public right of way
- Proposed land acquisition for Regional Road 10 in Grimsby
PHSSC
The committee will review the 2024 Community Services Program Audits for approval. Members will also discuss the Niagara Prosperity Initiative Grant Process. Information regarding homelessness counts and housing mortgage renewals will be presented.
- Approval of 2024 Community Services Program Audits
- Niagara Prosperity Initiative Grant Process
- 2024 'Niagara Counts' Point-in-Time Homelessness Count report
- Social Non-Profit Housing Mortgage Renewal correspondence
Transportation Strategy Steering Committee
This meeting consists of procedural orientation and committee establishment tasks. Members will nominate and vote for a Chair and Vice Chair and review the 2024 meeting schedule.
- Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair
- Committee orientation on roles, responsibilities, and codes of conduct
- Review of the 2024 meeting schedule
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion orientation
Council
The Niagara Regional Council will review proposed amendments to the flag raising and sign lighting policy. The meeting also includes discussions on provincial housing legislation and a protocol for information sharing with the Niagara Police Service Board. Additionally, the council will consider a municipal funding agreement for the Canada Community-Building Fund.
- Proposed Flag Raising and Sign Lighting Policy Amendments
- Update on Bill 185 (Cutting Red Tape to Build Homes Faster Act, 2024)
- Information sharing protocol between Niagara Police Service Board and the Region
- Canada Community-Building Fund municipal funding agreement
- Correspondence regarding the Fort Erie and Port Colborne Urgent Care Centre
Procedural By-law Review Committee
The committee will consider items regarding the display of signage within the Council Chamber. The agenda also includes information regarding the singing of the national anthem at council meetings.
- Review of signage display in the Council Chamber (PBLRC-C 5-2024)
- Information on singing the national anthem at council meetings (PBLRC-C 6-2024)
Waste Management Planning Steering Committee
The provided agenda for the Waste Management Planning Steering Committee contains only procedural boilerplate and lacks specific discussion or decision items.
Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee
The committee will discuss a proposed approach for an anti-discrimination statement. Presentations are scheduled regarding the Attainable Housing Strategy and DEI data from the Niagara Employment Inventory. The committee will also review the 2023 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan progress report.
- Discussion of Anti-Discrimination Statement Proposed Approach
- Presentation on Attainable Housing Strategy
- Presentation on Niagara Employment Inventory - DEI Data
- Review of 2023 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan Progress Report
Planning and Economic Development Committee
The committee is holding a statutory public meeting regarding an official plan amendment for 502 Winston Road in Grimsby. The agenda also includes consideration of the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee Terms of Reference. Information on proposed amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act will be presented.
- Statutory Public Meeting: Regional Official Plan Amendment at 502 Winston Road
- Consideration of Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee Terms of Reference
- Information on proposed amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act
- Closed session regarding land acquisition or disposition in St. Catharines and Fort Erie
Corporate Services Committee
The committee is reviewing the regional Asset Management Policy and a transit plan addendum for the Niagara Transit Commission. Members will also consider amendments to flag raising and sign lighting policies. Additionally, the committee will review non-competitive procurement activities exceeding $100,000.
- Asset Management Policy (CSD 14-2024)
- Niagara Transit Commission Asset Management Plan Addendum (CSD 22-2024)
- Proposed Flag Raising and Sign Lighting Policy Amendments (CLK 2-2024)
- Non-competitive procurement activities exceeding $100,000 (CSD 25-2024)
- Proposed land acquisition for SW Regional Road 98 in Niagara Falls (CSD 24-2024)
Public Works Committee
The Public Works Committee is considering several infrastructure budget adjustments. These include a contract increase for the Regional Road 10 reconstruction and updates to the St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge replacement and Bridge Street Drop Off Depot budgets.
- Contract increase for Regional Road 10 (Casablanca Boulevard) reconstruction
- Budget adjustment for St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge replacement
- Budget adjustment for Bridge Street Drop Off Depot
PHSSC
The Public Health & Social Services Committee is considering updates to the Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy regarding social assistance rates. The meeting also includes discussions on group purchasing for homelessness services and the approval of several public health program audits. Information regarding new homeless shelter site selection will also be presented.
- Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy - Social Assistance Rates
- Group Purchasing Services for Homelessness Services
- Approval of Public Health and Emergency Services Program Audits
- New Homeless Shelter Site Selection considerations
- Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report