Region of Waterloo public meetings in 2024

Special Council

The Special Council will consider and vote on the 2025 operating and capital budgets for the Region of Waterloo, including the libraries and police service. It will also direct Grand River Transit to update child fare definitions, allocate $25,000 for a pilot EasyGO 2‑Fare card program for not‑for‑profit agencies, and delay the Walker Road project with a $465,000 reduction to the transportation capital reserve. Finally, the Council will enact By‑law 24‑052 to establish new fees and charges and By‑law 24‑053 to confirm the meeting proceedings.

• Approve 2025 Region of Waterloo Libraries Operating Budget – net expenditure $3,599,351 and net property tax levy $3,182,053.
• Approve 2025 Waterloo Regional Police Service Operating Budget – net expenditure $278,467,629 and property tax levy $252,468,301.
• Allocate $25,000 from GRT deferred revenue for a pilot program providing discounted EasyGO 2‑Fare cards to eligible not‑for‑profit agencies.
• Amend the 2025 Capital Budget to delay the Walker Road project and reduce transportation capital reserve contributions by $465,000.
• Enact By‑law 24‑052 to establish new fees and charges (repealing By‑law 24‑028) and By‑law 24‑053 to confirm council proceedings.

Council approved the 2025 Plan and Budget, including a $1.68B operating budget and $831.8M property tax levy, along with the police and library budgets. It also approved a $25,000 pilot to subsidize EasyGO 2-Fare cards for not-for-profit agencies, directed GRT to update child fare definition to '6 & under', and passed the new Fees and Charges by-law. The vote was 13-1, with N. Salonen opposed.

• Approved 2025 Operating Budget with $1,684,964,914 net expenditure and $831,778,942 property tax levy (13-1)
• Approved 2025 Waterloo Regional Police Service Operating Budget with $278,467,629 net expenditure and $252,468,301 levy
• Approved 2025 Region of Waterloo Libraries Operating Budget with $3,599,351 net expenditure and $3,182,053 levy
• Directed GRT to update Fees & Charges bylaw to define child fare as '6 & under' with implementation in July 2025
• Allocated $25,000 in deferred revenue to subsidize EasyGO 2-Fare cards for not-for-profit agencies (pilot program)
• Amended 2025 Capital budget to delay Walker Road project and reduce transportation capital reserve contributions by $465,000
• Capped increase for certain operating expense categories at 5%, reducing 2025 operating budget by $6,938,000
• Passed By-law 24-052 to establish Fees and Charges, repealing By-law 23-062 (13-1)

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee will consider several motions affecting the 2025 operating and capital budgets. Items include caps on operating‑budget growth, a 1 % annual reduction to the 10‑year capital budget, the phase‑out of funding for TheMuseum, and changes to user‑fees by‑law. The committee will also vote on adopting the Municipal Budget Regulation and on the main budget motion that formally approves the 2025 plan, operating budget and capital forecast.

• Councillor B. Vrbanovic motion to cap the 2025 operating‑budget increase at 5%, setting total expenditure at $194,622,000 and reducing the budget by $8,008,000.
• Councillor B. Vrbanovic motion to reduce the 10‑year capital budget by 1 % each year, affecting the proposed $6,773,503,000 2025‑2034 capital budget and the $652,995,000 2025 capital budget.
• Councillor D. McCabe motion to phase out TheMuseum’s regional funding in 2025 and remove it completely in 2026.
• Motion to repeal By‑Law 24‑028 and adopt a new Fees and Charges By‑law incorporating the 2025 fee adjustments (report COR‑CFN‑24‑028).
• Motion to adopt the Municipal Budget Regulation (report COR‑CFN‑24‑027) as required by Ontario Regulation 284/09.

The committee approved the 2025 operating and capital budgets, with a net expenditure of $1,684,964,914 and a property tax levy of $831,778,942, resulting in a 9.48% tax levy increase. A motion to cap certain departmental spending increases at 5% was carried, but a motion to defer the capital budget to 2026 was defeated. The 2025 user fees and charges by-law was also approved unanimously.

• Approved 2025 operating budget with $831,778,942 tax levy (11-4)
• Approved 2025 capital budget and 2026-2034 forecast (11-4)
• Carried motion capping certain departmental increases at 5% (9-6)
• Defeated motion to defer capital budget to 2026 (5-9)
• Adopted 2025 User Fees and Charges By-law (14-0)
• Adopted Municipal Budget Regulation report (13-1)
• Defeated motion to defer entire budget to January 29, 2025 (3-12)
• Approved amendment for staff to report on 4.1 reductions (15-0)

Active Transportation Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee is meeting to receive information updates on local infrastructure projects. The session includes a presentation on Arthur Street improvements and a verbal update on the Laurel Trail crossing.

• Arthur Street Improvements and Potential Elmira Bypass Class Environmental Assessment
• Laurel Trail Crossing of Columbia Street verbal update
• Approval of October 15, 2024 meeting minutes

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee received information updates on the Laurel Trail crossing of Columbia Street and the Arthur Street improvements/Elmira bypass environmental assessment. No formal decisions were made; the only action was approving the October 15, 2024 minutes.

• Approved minutes of October 15, 2024 meeting (carried)
• Received Laurel Trail crossing update for information
• Received Arthur Street/Elmira bypass EA presentation for information
• Received Committee tracking list update for information

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee is meeting to receive information on internal audit updates and data security compliance. The body will also review the 2024 year-end work plan and a planning report from KPMG LLP.

• Internal Audit Update (COR-TRY-24-040)
• Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards Compliance update (COR-TRY-24-041)
• Audit Committee 2024 Year-end Work Plan (COR-TRY-24-042)
• KPMG LLP Audit Planning Report for the year ended December 31, 2024

The Audit Committee received three reports for information: an internal audit update with no issues, Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards compliance with no issues, and the 2024 year-end work plan presented by KPMG. The committee also held a closed session to discuss potential risks that may disclose personal matters, then reconvened and adjourned. No substantive decisions were made.

• Received internal audit update COR-TRY-24-040 for information
• Received PCI compliance report COR-TRY-24-041 for information
• Received 2024 year-end work plan presentation for information
• Held closed session under Municipal Act, 2001, Section 239 (carried)
• Reconvened into open session (carried 3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:59 a.m. (carried 3-0)

Council Meeting

Council will vote on several reports, including the approval of a new priority affordable rental housing project. The main motion authorizes a $17,998,300 contract with Dawson Contract Services for bulk waste transfer from the Cambridge and Waterloo facilities. Additional motions cover lease agreements for child‑care centres, the sale of Region lands at 16 Victoria Street North to Metrolinx for $1,434,000, and a series of by‑law amendments related to traffic, parking and road ownership.

• Accept tender of Dawson Contract Services Inc. for bulk transfer of waste materials ($17,998,300 total, $2,998,050 annual) for a six‑year term
• Approve priority project under P2024‑31 New Affordable Rental Housing as outlined in Appendix A
• Authorize five‑year lease for Tender Loving Daycare at 99 Beechwood Drive, Cambridge
• Approve sale of Region lands at 16 Victoria Street North, Kitchener to Metrolinx for $1,434,000
• Amend Traffic and Parking By‑law 16‑023 to modify Duke Street parking zones and support the municipal speed‑camera program

Regional Council approved a $17,998,300 tender for bulk waste transfer services, a new affordable rental housing project, and several property transactions including a $1,434,000 land sale to Metrolinx. Council also authorized leases for two new child care centres and approved various traffic and parking by-law amendments. All decisions were carried unanimously (13-0).

• Approved $17,998,300 waste transfer tender to Dawson Contract Services Inc. (13-0)
• Approved new affordable rental housing project under P2024-31 (13-0)
• Authorized 5-year lease with Tender Loving Daycare at 99 Beechwood Drive, Cambridge (13-0)
• Authorized 5-year lease with The Healing of the Seven Generations at 30 Christopher Drive, Cambridge (13-0)
• Approved $1,434,000 land sale to Metrolinx for part of 16 Victoria Street North, Kitchener (13-0)
• Approved Victoria Street North preliminary design between Weber and King Streets (13-0)
• Approved transfer of Duke Street West from City of Kitchener to Region (13-0)
• Approved by-laws 24-049, 24-050, and 24-051 (13-0)

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee will vote on the 2025 Plan, Operating Budget and Capital Program for the Region of Waterloo. The budget proposes a net expenditure of $1,693,675,894 and a property tax levy of $834,717,114 for 2025. The committee will also consider a series of amendment motions that adjust funding for housing, transit, children’s services and other programs, as well as a range of service‑expansion motions with associated tax‑levy impacts.

• Approve the 2025 Operating Budget with net spending $1,693,675,894 and property tax levy $834,717,114
• Increase 2025 Housing Services funding by $1,708,636
• Decrease 2025 Transit Services user‑fee revenues by $2,028,550
• Amendments to reduce GRT Route 55 frequency saving $210,000 and to delay Doon Village reopening saving $356,000
• Service expansion to add an Accessibility/REDI Advisor with a $114,000 tax‑levy impact

The committee approved the 2025 operating budget and 2025-2034 capital program, with a final regional tax increase of 10.24% including police. Several service expansions were approved, including $4.685M for the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness, while many proposed cuts were defeated. The meeting was recessed and will reconvene on December 20 to address outstanding items.

• Approved 2025 operating budget and capital program (15-0)
• Approved $4.685M for Plan to End Chronic Homelessness (13-1)
• Approved $1.5M grant to Food Bank of Waterloo Region (10-5)
• Approved WRPS operating budget of $278.5M (11-4)
• Approved library budget with $3.18M levy (14-0)
• Approved GRT monthly pass increase to $104 (9-4)
• Defeated reduction of GRT Route 26 trips (7-8)
• Defeated elimination of downtown waste collection (2-13)

Public Art Advisory Committee

The Public Art Advisory Committee will approve the minutes from its September 11, 2024 meeting and consider the 2025 meeting calendar. It will vote to endorse a temporary public art installation along the ION Rapid Transit corridor and GRT bus route as part of the CAFKA 2025 Festival, allocating up to $20,000 from the Public Art Reserve. The committee will also receive an informational review of the Langs Drive call for submissions.

• Approve minutes of the September 11, 2024 meeting
• Endorse temporary public art project for CAFKA 2025 Festival with funding up to $20,000
• Review Langs Drive call for submissions (information only)
• 2025 meeting calendar (information only)

All Councils

The All Councils meeting will feature presentations on four topics: the Reconciliation Action Partnership strategic directions, an overview of the Bill 23 transition, the region's High‑Performance Development Standards, and an update to the Community Safety and Well‑Being Plan for 2024. No items are listed for formal decision at this session.

• Reconciliation Action Partnership – Strategic Directions presentation
• Bill 23 Transition Overview presentation
• High‑Performance Development Standards for Waterloo Region presentation
• Community Safety and Well‑Being Plan Update 2024 presentation

The meeting was informational only, with no formal decisions made. Presentations covered the Reconciliation Action Partnership, the Bill 23 transition of planning authority, proposed High-Performance Development Standards, and the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan update.

• No formal decisions were made; all items were presentations only

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee is meeting to review property assessment growth and a motion regarding the police budget. A proposed motion seeks to reduce the net levy impact of the Waterloo Regional Police Service 2025 Operating Budget Estimate.

• Proposed motion to reduce Waterloo Regional Police Service 2025 Operating Budget net levy impact by $4 million
• Proposed limit of $248,468,301 for the police net levy impact
• Information item on 2024 Property Assessment Growth (COR-CFN-24-026)

The Administration and Finance Committee defeated a motion requesting the Waterloo Regional Police Services Board reduce the 2025 police budget net levy impact by $4 million to no more than $248,468,301. A second motion without the specific dollar figure was also defeated. The committee approved the consent agenda, which included a report on 2024 property assessment growth, received for information.

• Consent agenda approved (13-0), including 2024 Property Assessment Growth report
• Motion to request police budget cut of $4M to $248,468,301 defeated (5-10)
• Motion to request police budget cut without specific amount defeated (5-10)

Special Council

The Region of Waterloo Special Council is set to approve three by-laws authorizing the borrowing of $74 million in debentures for capital works in Kitchener and the Region, and to authorize attendance at an All Councils meeting.

• By-law 24-045: Authorizes $35.66M in debentures for Kitchener capital works
• By-law 24-046: Authorizes $38.34M in debentures for Region capital works
• By-law 24-047: Authorizes $74M in debentures combining previous two by-laws
• Motion to attend All Councils meeting at Centre in the Square on Dec 6
• Motion to enter closed session to discuss union negotiations and land lease agreements

Council approved three borrowing by-laws totaling $74 million in debentures for capital works, including $35.657 million for the City of Kitchener and $38.343 million for the Region. The meeting also authorized participation in an All Councils meeting on December 6, 2024, and moved into closed session to discuss union negotiations, land leases, and legal matters.

• Approved By-law 24-045 authorizing $35,657,000 in 10-year debentures for City of Kitchener capital works (carried)
• Approved By-law 24-046 authorizing $38,343,000 in debentures for Regional capital works (carried)
• Approved By-law 24-047 authorizing a single $74,000,000 debenture series combining By-laws 24-045 and 24-046 (carried)
• Approved By-law 24-048 to confirm proceedings of the meeting (carried)
• Authorized participation in an All Councils meeting on December 6, 2024 at Centre in the Square (13-0)
• Moved into closed session to discuss union negotiations, land leases, and legal matters (14-0)

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will consider two recommended motions. The first authorizes a five‑year lease, with two renewable five‑year terms, for The Healing of the Seven Generations to operate an Indigenous‑led child care centre at 30 Christopher Drive in Cambridge. The second authorizes staff to explore partnership opportunities for affordable housing development with non‑profit and private sectors. Informational presentations on Canada‑wide early learning, a 2024 point‑in‑time housing count, and the Waterloo Region Housing Revitalization Plan will also be reviewed.

• Motion to authorize a five‑year lease (with two renewable five‑year terms) for The Healing of the Seven Generations to create an Indigenous‑led child care centre at 30 Christopher Drive, Cambridge (CSD‑CHS‑24‑006).
• Motion to authorize staff to explore affordable housing partnership opportunities with non‑profit and private sectors (CSD‑HOU‑24‑021).
• Information presentation on Canada‑Wide Early Learning and Child Care Directed Growth Update (CSD‑CHS‑24‑004).
• Information presentation on 2024 Point in Time Count Preliminary Overview (CSD‑HOU‑24‑020).
• Information presentation on Waterloo Region Housing Revitalization Plan Update (CSD‑HOU‑24‑021).

The committee approved a 30-year lease agreement with the Healing of the Seven Generations to create a licensed Indigenous-led non-profit child care centre at 30 Christopher Drive in Cambridge, providing 65 spaces for children aged 0-4. The committee also authorized staff to explore affordable housing development partnerships with non-profit and private sectors. Other items, including the CWELCC directed growth update and the 2024 Point in Time Count preliminary overview, were received for information only.

• Approved 30-year lease with Healing of the Seven Generations for Indigenous-led child care centre at 30 Christopher Drive (14-0)
• Authorized staff to explore affordable housing development partnerships with non-profit and private sectors (13-0)
• Received CWELCC directed growth update for information
• Received 2024 Point in Time Count preliminary overview for information
• Received Waterloo Region Housing Revitalization Plan update for information

Strategic Planning and Budget Public Input Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Public Input Committee will hear delegations on topics such as the Upstream Fund, a pilot housing project for refugee claimants, Grand River Transit business plans, the 2025 regional budget, and proposed transit service changes. Written submissions on the budget will also be presented. No formal decisions are listed; the meeting is for public input.

• Delegation by Robyn Schwarz supporting the Upstream Fund and Community Capacity Building Fund
• Babur Mawladin's proposal for a pilot housing project for refugee claimants in Waterloo Region
• Autumn Cheon's presentation of the Grand River Transit 2025‑2030 Business Plan
• Cameron Dearlove's presentation on the 2025 Regional Budget
• Tera Dargavel's proposal for public transit service increases for budget 2025

The Strategic Planning and Budget Public Input Committee met on December 3, 2024, to receive public delegations regarding the 2025 regional budget. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted solely of public input and adjournment. Delegations addressed proposed cuts to GRT transit, waste collection, and community funding, as well as support for various programs.

• Adjourned meeting at 7:38 p.m. (12-0)

Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development

The Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development Committee is considering the sale of surplus lands in Kitchener to Metrolinx and updates to the Kitchener Central Transit Hub. The body is also reviewing road modifications, parking by-law changes, and a water system charge by-law for Petersburg.

• Sale of lands at 16, 50, and 60 Victoria Street North and Waterloo Street to Metrolinx for $1,434,000
• Preferred preliminary design for Victoria Street North between Weber Street West and King Street West
• Transfer of Duke Street West between CN Railway tracks and Breithaupt Street from the City of Kitchener to the Region
• By-law amendments to Traffic and Parking By-law 16-023 to support Municipal Speed Cameras
• Assignment of Tax Increment Grant for 49 Queen St E, Cambridge to Skyline Real Estate Holdings Inc.

The committee approved the sale of surplus lands for the Kitchener Central Transit Hub to Metrolinx for $1,434,000, declared the lands surplus, and authorized the Regional Solicitor to execute the agreement. It also approved the preferred design for Victoria Street North modifications, the assumption of Duke Street West from the City of Kitchener, a by-law imposing charges for the Petersburg communal water system, and traffic by-law changes supporting municipal speed cameras. All decisions were carried, with the speed camera by-law passing 11-2.

• Approved sale of surplus lands to Metrolinx for $1,434,000 (13-0)
• Approved preferred design for Victoria Street North modifications (13-0)
• Approved commencement of Duke Street West road assumption from City of Kitchener (13-0)
• Enacted by-law to impose charges for Petersburg communal water system (13-0)
• Approved traffic by-law changes for municipal speed cameras (11-2)
• Approved assignment of Brownfield Tax Increment Grant for 49 Queen St E, Cambridge (13-0)
• Approved loading zone and school bus loading zone changes on Weber and Duke Streets (13-0)

Strategic Planning and Budget Public Input Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Public Input Committee heard a series of public delegations on the upcoming 2025 Regional Budget. Speakers addressed the police services budget, the proposed half‑billion‑dollar tax increase, community housing, the 100 Vic encampment, transit plans, and social‑service funding. The committee will consider this input as it finalizes the budget and strategic plan.

• Delegation on the 2025 Police Services budget (Mark Egers)
• Presentation on the half‑billion‑dollar tax increase (Sarah Shafiq)
• Input on Grand River Transit 2025‑2030 Business Plan (multiple presenters)
• Concerns about living conditions at the 100 Vic encampment (Natasha Page, Ed Edwards, etc.)
• Requests for community housing and mental‑health funding in the 2025 budget (John McVicar, Kathy Eckert, etc.)

The committee held a public input session where 33 delegations spoke regarding the 2025 Regional Budget and the GRT 2025-2030 Business Plan. No substantive decisions, approvals, or denials were recorded during the meeting.

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee will review the 2025 Plan and Budget, including presentations and community‑engagement updates. It will consider motions to remove or defer numerous service expansions from the 2025 budget unless they generate net revenue within five years. A key motion asks the Waterloo Regional Police Services Board to limit the 2025 police budget increase to keep the net levy impact at or below $248,468,301, reducing it by about $4 million.

• Motion to remove multiple service expansions (transit, climate, housing, etc.) from the 2025 budget
• Motion to defer service expansions that will not generate net revenue or offset costs within five years
• Motion to move selected service expansions to final budget day on Dec 11 (e.g., resilient services, homes for all, climate‑aligned growth)
• Motion requesting the police budget be limited to reduce the net levy impact by $4 million, targeting a maximum of $248,468,301
• Motion to hold a closed session at 10:00 a.m. for labour‑relations and personal matters

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee approved various 2025 budget service expansions, including transit improvements, accessibility staffing, and encampment support. Several other proposed expansions were deferred to the final budget day on December 11, 2024. The committee also directed staff to prepare service reduction options to meet budget guidelines for a public input meeting on December 3, 2024.

• Approved 8 FTEs for Transit Core Network Improvements (11-3)
• Approved 5 FTEs for Transit Customer-Driven Operational Adjustments (10-4)
• Approved 13 FTEs for Transit Service Support staff (13-1)
• Approved 1 FTE for Traffic Systems Management Analysts (12-2)
• Approved 2 FTEs for Licensing and Enforcement Services Bylaw Officers (11-2)
• Approved 1 FTE for Legal Assistant (8-4)
• Approved 1 FTE for Business Continuity Plan specialist (7-5)
• Deferred police budget motion to December 3 (14-0)

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation board will consider a motion to approve the minutes from its October 22, 2024 meeting. It will receive an accounts and grants summary report for information. Committee chairs will give verbal updates on allocations and finance, heritage advisory and communications, and strategic planning. The board will also receive the Maryhill Historical Society Autumn 2024 newsletter.

• Approve minutes from October 22, 2024 meeting
• Review accounts and grants summary (as of Oct 31, 2024)
• Verbal update from Allocations and Finance Committee
• Verbal update from Heritage Advisory and Communications Committee
• Receive Maryhill Historical Society Autumn 2024 newsletter

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation approved the October 22, 2024 minutes and discussed grant evaluation criteria, directing staff to schedule additional committee meetings. The Foundation also supported Chair J. Glass in delegating to Regional Council to request reinstated funding. No major funding decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and planning-focused.

• Approved October 22, 2024 minutes (carried)
• Directed staff to poll members before meetings to reduce catering waste
• Directed staff to schedule additional Allocations and Finance Committee meeting before year-end
• Directed staff to schedule Heritage Advisory and Communications Committee in January 2025
• Supported J. Glass to delegate to Regional Council requesting reinstated funding

Library Committee

The Library Committee will consider the 2025 Region of Waterloo Library Budget, including an operating budget with a net expenditure of $3,699,351 and a net property tax levy of $3,282,053. It will also review the capital budget and the 2025‑2033 capital forecast. The committee will refer the budget to the Region’s Strategic Planning and Budget Committee. A presentation on a partnership with the Ayr Library Branch and the North Dumfries Historical Preservation Society will be discussed.

• Approve 2025 operating budget with net expenditure $3,699,351 and net property tax levy $3,282,053
• Approve 2025 library capital budget and 2025‑2033 capital forecast (Appendix B)
• Refer the 2025 library budget to the Region of Waterloo Strategic Planning and Budget Committee
• Presentation on partnership with Ayr Library Branch and North Dumfries Historical Preservation Society
• Review of budget documents: Report COR-CFN-24-025 and Appendices A‑C

The Library Committee approved the 2025 Region of Waterloo Library Operating Budget with a net expenditure of $3,599,351 and a net property tax levy of $3,182,053, along with the capital budget and forecast. The approval includes a $100,000 reduction funded from the Library Services Reserve, passed 3-2. The budget will be referred to the Strategic Planning and Budget Committee. The committee also requested a report on a financial plan for library reserves.

• Approved 2025 RWL Operating Budget with net expenditure of $3,599,351 and net property tax levy of $3,182,053 (3-2)
• Approved 2025 RWL Library Capital Budget and 2025-2033 Capital Forecast (3-2)
• Referred 2025 RWL Budget to Strategic Planning and Budget Committee (3-2)
• Reduced Library Services Reserve by $100,000 (3-2)
• Requested report on financial plan for library reserves and development charges reserve limitations

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The committee will receive a presentation of the Waterloo Regional Police Services 2025 approved operating and capital estimates. It will consider a motion to enter a closed session at 9:05 a.m. to discuss solicitor‑client privileged advice, and a second motion to enter a closed session at 1:00 p.m. to address personal matters related to the Jack Young Civic Award. A motion to reconvene the meeting into an open session will also be considered.

• Waterloo Regional Police Services 2025 approved operating and capital estimates presentation
• Motion to hold a closed session at 9:05 a.m. for solicitor‑client privileged advice
• Motion to hold a closed session at 1:00 p.m. for personal matters about the Jack Young Civic Award
• Motion to reconvene the meeting into an open session

The committee received a presentation on the Waterloo Regional Police Service budget and business plan for 2024-2027, including 2025 operating and capital estimates. No substantive votes were taken on the budget; the session consisted of presentations and committee questions. A memo regarding the Community Safety and Policing Act was received for information.

• Approved motion to enter closed session for solicitor-client privilege (12-0)
• Approved motion to reconvene into open session (12-0)
• Received Community Safety and Policing Act Memo for information
• Approved motion to enter closed session for Jack Young Civic Award personal matters (12-0)

Council Meeting

Council will first vote on motions to enter a closed session, reconvene, and approve minutes from prior meetings. It will then consider several committee reports, including a finance recommendation to take no action on a long‑term‑care grant request. The Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development Committee recommends traffic safety measures, road transfers, and funding for a pedestrian bridge over the Conestogo River. The Administration and Finance Committee proposes a new lobbyist registry by‑law and updates to the capital budget.

• Approve an all‑way stop at Fischer‑Hallman Road (RR 58) and Roseville Road (RR 46)
• Reduce the posted speed limit on Weber Street to 50 km/h between Allen Street and 20 m south of King Street
• Advance funding for the Conestogo River pedestrian bridge: $500,000 in 2025 and $7,500,000 in 2026
• Transfer three road segments from the Township of Wilmot to the Region (Oxford Road 5, Road 101 A, Perth Road 101)
• Adopt a by‑law for the Region’s Lobbyist Registry and amend the 2024 capital budget

Regional Council approved several committee recommendations, including the transfer of three Wilmot Township road segments to the Region, a resolution opposing provincial bike lane legislation, and a review of the veterans transit pass. A request from Tri-County Mennonite Homes for a development charge exemption was referred to the Strategic Plan and Budget Committee for further study. Council also approved by-laws for traffic changes and a lobbyist registry.

• Approved transfer of three Wilmot Township road segments to Region (10-0)
• Approved resolution opposing provincial bike lane legislation (10-0)
• Approved review of veterans GRT pass for equity and scope (10-0)
• Referred Tri-County Mennonite Homes development charge exemption to budget committee (7-4)
• Approved library branch transfer study (11-1)
• Approved call on province to maintain ODSP rates (12-0)
• Approved all-way stop at Fischer-Hallman and Roseville (11-0)
• Approved lobbyist registry by-law (unanimous)

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee is reviewing the 2025 draft budget and the Grand River Conservation Authority 2025 draft budget. The committee will also consider a motion regarding provincial funding requests for the region.

• Grand River Conservation Authority 2025 Draft Budget presentation
• 2025 Plan and Budget presentation
• CAO--24-007 Review of 2025 Draft Budget
• Motion by Councillor D. Craig to request a monetary deal from provincial MPPs similar to agreements reached for Toronto and Ottawa
• Closed session to discuss labour relations or employee negotiations

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee reviewed the 2025 draft budget, which includes a preliminary 12 percent tax impact. Members voted to defer decisions on various tax-supported and user-rate-supported operating expansions until November 27, 2024. Additionally, the committee passed a motion requesting that local MPPs advocate for a fair provincial funding deal for the Region of Waterloo.

• Deferred tax-supported operating expansions to Nov 27 (14-0)
• Approved various tax-supported operating expansions (12-0)
• Deferred user-rate-supported operating expansions to Nov 27 (9-4)
• Approved motion requesting a fair provincial funding deal from MPPs (13-0)

Strategic Planning and Budget Public Input Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Public Input Committee will receive several public delegations on topics such as the House of Friendship whistleblower report, the Erb's Road report, conditions at the 100 Vic encampment, and continued public‑transit investments. A TriTAG presentation on public‑transit funding and a Children and Youth Planning Table data briefing will also be presented. The meeting is primarily for input; no formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Delegation on House of Friendship whistleblower report and 2025 regional budget
• Delegation on the Erb's Road report and 2025 regional budget
• Delegation on living conditions at the 100 Vic encampment and 2025 regional budget
• Delegation on public‑transit investments, including service to Reuter, Doon Transit Terminal, bus‑stop infrastructure, and the LRT
• TriTAG presentation: Public Transit Funding – GRT operations, fares, Phase 2 ION, transit hub, Vision Zero

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee held a public input session regarding the 2025 Regional Budget and transit operations. The committee received several delegations from residents and community organizations but made no substantive policy decisions during the meeting.

• Received 2025 budget feedback from Pred Gutovic for information
• Adjourned meeting at 7:05 p.m. (14-0)

Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development

The Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development Committee will consider approving separated cycling network extensions in Waterloo and Kitchener, a pedestrian bridge project over the Conestogo River, and the assumption of Oxford County Road 5 from the Township of Wilmot.

• Separated cycling network extension in Waterloo and Kitchener
• Kissing Bridge Trailway pedestrian bridge over Conestogo River
• Assumption of Oxford County Road 5 from Township of Wilmot
• All-way stop control at Fischer-Hallman Road and Roseville Road
• Speed limit reduction on Weber Street from Allen Street to King Street

The committee approved the preferred designs for a separated cycling network on six corridors in Waterloo and Kitchener, despite one opposing vote. It also approved an all-way stop control at Roseville and Fischer-Hallman roads, a speed limit reduction on Weber Street, a pedestrian bridge over the Conestogo River, and the process to assume three road segments from the Township of Wilmot. All items were approved as part of the consent agenda or regular agenda with recorded votes.

• Approved separated cycling network designs for six corridors (12-1)
• Approved all-way stop control at Roseville Road and Fischer-Hallman Road (consent)
• Approved speed limit reduction to 50 km/hr on Weber Street (consent)
• Approved advancing Kissing Bridge Trailway pedestrian bridge with $8M budget and new FTE (12-0)
• Approved process to assume three road segments from Township of Wilmot with $200,000 upset limit (12-0)

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will consider a notice of motion from Councillor C. Huinink urging the Province of Ontario to raise or at least maintain ODSP rates for qualified individuals when the Canada Disability Benefit begins in July 2025. The motion cites the expected $200 per month benefit, the Low Income Measure of $2,330 per month in 2022, and the average one‑bedroom rent of $1,359 per month in Waterloo Region in 2023. The meeting also includes an informational item on the Building Safer Communities project under the strategic priority of Equitable Services and Opportunities.

• Notice of Motion – call on Ontario to raise or maintain ODSP rates for the Canada Disability Benefit starting July 2025
• Strategic Priority – Equitable Services and Opportunities: Building Safer Communities (PHP‑SPS‑24‑002) – information only
• Council/Committee Tracking List – information document

The Community and Health Services Committee unanimously passed a motion calling on the Province of Ontario to raise or maintain Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) rates for 2025. The committee also received a presentation on the Building Safer Communities project, which awarded nearly $1 million in grants to youth support organizations in 2024.

• Motion to urge Ontario to maintain ODSP rates carried (13-0)
• Building Safer Communities project update received for information
• Council/Committee Tracking List received for information

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will consider a motion to approve the Region of Waterloo’s Lobbyist Registry By‑Law and Code of Conduct (PDL‑CAS‑24‑006). It will also consider a motion to receive the third‑quarter 2024 financial update and to amend the 2024 Capital Budget and the 2025‑2035 Capital Forecast as set out in Appendix D of report COR‑CFN‑24‑021. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as a call to order, land acknowledgement, and declarations of pecuniary interest.

• Approve Lobbyist Registry By‑Law and Code of Conduct (PDL‑CAS‑24‑006)
• Receive Q3 2024 financial update (COR‑CFN‑24‑021)
• Amend 2024 Capital Budget and 2025‑2035 Capital Forecast per Appendix D
• Motion to reconvene the committee into an open session
• Schedule next meeting for December 3 2024

The Administration and Finance Committee approved a new Lobbyist Registry, including its associated by-law and code of conduct. Additionally, the committee received the 2024 third-quarter financial update and approved amendments to the 2024 capital budget and 2025-2035 capital forecast.

• Approved Lobbyist Registry by-law and code of conduct (11-1)
• Received 2024 Q3 financial and business plan update (12-0)
• Approved 2024 capital budget and 2025-2035 forecast amendments (12-0)
• Reconvened into open session (11-0)

Library Committee

The Library Committee will review the Region of Waterloo’s 2025 library budget, including the preliminary budget, capital forecast, and 10‑year reserve projection. It will also consider a proposal to increase branch open hours for 2025. Both items are presented for information only, with no formal motions to approve or reject.

• Review of 2025 Region of Waterloo Library Budget (COR-CFN-24-018) with budget and capital forecast documents
• Review of Library Open Hours – Budget 2025 (PDL-CUL-24-019) with comparison of current and proposed hours
• Library Committee Budget Review presentation (PDF)
• Library Committee Tracking List (information)
• 2025 Library Committee meeting schedule (information)

The Library Committee directed staff to report on the costs and benefits of transferring Region of Waterloo Library branches to the respective Townships, with Township staff consulted. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). The committee also received information on the 2025 library budget, which includes a proposed net property tax levy increase of approximately $259,000 (8.6%) and an additional 25 branch hours per week.

• Directed staff to report on costs and benefits of transferring library branches to Townships (5-0)
• Received 2025 Library Budget report for information
• Received Library Open Hours report for information
• Held closed session for personal matters and labour relations
• Reconvened into open session with no items to report

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee will present the 2025 Strategic Plan and Budget and review the preliminary 2025 draft budget. It will also consider the 2025 User Fees and Charges proposals. Two motions request the Waterloo Region Police Service to provide current staffing numbers, hiring projections, and cost details for a 2025 staffing request.

• Presentation of the 2025 Strategic Plan and Budget (Slide deck October 30 2024.pdf)
• Review of Preliminary 2025 Draft Budget (CAO-REC-24-002.pdf)
• 2025 User Fees and Charges proposal (COR-CFN-24-020.pdf) with by‑law amendment appendices
• Motion requesting WRPS staffing numbers and hiring projections as of Sep 30 2024
• Motion requesting cost details for the 2025 WRPS staffing request (18 officers, 1.9 FTEs, 10.5 civilians)

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee reviewed the draft 2025 budget and deferred key decisions on the 'Resilient and Future Ready' plan and other items to future meetings. It approved several tax-supported operating expansions for the 2025 budget, including childcare staffing, homemaking and nursing services, immigration support, paramedic services, and automated speed enforcement. Motions requesting detailed police staffing information from WRPS were defeated.

• Deferred 'Resilient and Future Ready' motion to a future SPBC meeting (9-4)
• Approved 2025 operating expansions: CWELCC staffing, homemaking/nursing, immigration support, high-intensity PSWs, health inspectors, PSV master plan, paramedic relief levels (13-0)
• Approved Automated Speed Enforcement expansion for 2025 (10-3)
• Deferred motion 4.1(a) to a future SPBC meeting (9-4)
• Deferred motion 4.1(c) to a future SPBC meeting (10-3)
• Defeated motion requesting WRPS staffing data as of Oct 30, 2024 (6-9)
• Defeated motion requesting WRPS staffing data as of Sept 30, 2024 (5-10)
• Defeated motion requesting WRPS staffing projections for Q4 2024 (3-12)

Council Meeting

The Regional Municipality of Waterloo is deciding on land expropriations for the Scheifele Bridge replacement and approving several business and newcomer support programs. Council is also reviewing community safety zone warrants and homelessness strategies.

• Expropriation of lands at 698 Northfield Drive, 230 Glasgow Street, and 535 Northfield Drive for Scheifele Bridge replacement
• Approximately $80,000 for Healthcare & Physician Recruitment Program
• Approximately $249,000 for Food Bank Volunteer Pilot Program
• Estimated $50,000 for Waterloo Region Newcomer Ecosystem Mapping Project
• Funding for Erb’s Road Hybrid Emergency Shelter operation until at least 2030

Council authorized the purchase of two properties in Cambridge for housing and enacted a new Administrative Penalty Program. Other decisions included approving funding for newcomer and healthcare recruitment programs and extending the Erb’s Road Hybrid Emergency Shelter through 2030.

• Approved purchase of 134 and 136 Eagle Street South, Cambridge for $675,000 each (15-1)
• Enacted Administrative Penalty Program and Hearing Officer Bylaws (13-3)
• Approved funding for Healthcare & Physician Recruitment ($80k), Food Bank Volunteer Pilot ($249k), and Newcomer Ecosystem Mapping ($50k) (15-0)
• Approved continued funding for Erb’s Road Hybrid Emergency Shelter until at least 2030 (14-2)
• Authorized land expropriation for Scheifele Bridge replacement on Northfield Drive East (15-0)
• Adopted Two-Step Community Safety Zone Warrant for speed camera identification (15-0)
• Approved preliminary design for Franklin Boulevard improvements from Bishop Street to Avenue Road (15-0)
• Ratified appointment of Rachel Zhang to the Sunnyside Foundation Board (16-0)

Special Council

The Special Council will hear a presentation on the Region’s Code of Conduct from Aird & Berlis LLP. It will also consider a motion to move to a closed session to discuss solicitor‑client privileged matters, including proposed purchases of property in Wilmot Township and the City of Cambridge, staff directions on land negotiations, a challenge to a Regional by‑law, and ongoing litigation before the Ontario Land Tribunal.

• Presentation from Aird & Berlis LLP on the Code of Conduct
• Motion to enter closed session for solicitor‑client privileged advice on a proposed purchase of property in Wilmot Township
• Closed‑session discussion of solicitor‑client privileged advice on a potential purchase of property in the City of Cambridge
• Review of privileged advice regarding a challenge to a Regional by‑law
• Review of privileged advice on ongoing litigation before the Ontario Land Tribunal

This Special Council meeting was held solely to receive an educational presentation from the Integrity Commissioner's office (Aird & Berlis LLP) on the role of the Integrity Commissioner and the upcoming new Code of Conduct for the Region. No formal decisions or votes were taken on the content of the presentation. Council did vote unanimously (12-0) to move into a closed session to discuss several confidential matters, including property purchases and ongoing litigation.

• Received presentation from Aird & Berlis LLP on Code of Conduct (information only)
• Approved motion to enter closed session for confidential matters (12-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:21 p.m. (12-0)

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation is meeting to discuss workplans for finalizing grant application criteria and updating its website. The board will also review a finance report and a strategic planning update.

• Discussion on workplan for finalizing grant application and criteria
• Discussion on workplan for website updates and announcing the resumption of grant applications
• Review of Accounts and Grants Summary as of September 30, 2024
• Approval of September 24, 2024 meeting minutes
• Review of 2025 meeting schedule

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation approved the September 24, 2024 minutes and directed staff to schedule a meeting to discuss grant application review criteria. The board supported resuming grant applications on November 1, 2024, with criteria refinements to follow without delaying the deadline. Committee memberships were announced for Allocations and Finance, Heritage Advisory and Communications, and Strategic Planning.

• Approved September 24, 2024 minutes (carried)
• Directed staff to schedule meeting to discuss application review criteria
• Supported resuming grant applications on November 1, 2024
• Received 2025 meeting schedule for information

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee will present the Growing with Care Plan and the 2025 budget. It will consider a motion to hold a closed session on personal matters and labour‑relations options for the 2025 budget guideline, followed by a motion to reconvene in open session. A motion by Councillor C. James establishes a November 29, 2024 deadline for written submissions to amend the final budget and outlines how later amendments may be handled.

• Staff presentation of the Growing with Care Plan and 2025 Budget (2025 Budget Oct 16 2024.pdf)
• Motion to hold a closed session to discuss personal matters about identifiable individuals and labour relations related to the 2025 budget guideline
• Motion to reconvene the committee into open session after the closed session
• Councillor C. James' motion setting a Nov 29, 2024 deadline for written budget amendment submissions and procedures for further amendment
• Report CAO--24-006 titled “Setting the Stage for 2025 Plan and Budget”

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee met October 16, 2024 for an information session on the draft 2025 budget; staff said no budget decisions were expected and the preliminary budget will be tabled October 30. The committee carried several directions to staff, including reviewing cost assumptions, exploring further use of the tax stabilization reserve, immediately actioning the POA expansion as a 2024 in-year request, and requiring budget increase requests to include projected tax impacts. A motion to defer the Grants Administration Policy recommendation was defeated, and the committee set a December 2, 2024 deadline for written notice of final budget amendment motions. The committee also went into closed session on labour relations and personal matters related to options to achieve Council's 2025 budget guideline.

• Approved Grants Administration Policy changes (11-1)
• Deferred motion on Grants Administration Policy to March 2025 defeated (3-10)
• Directed staff to review and revise cost assumptions, including fuel and other variable costs (11-0)
• Directed staff to explore further use of tax stabilization reserve to reduce property tax burden (10-2)
• Directed staff to immediately action POA expansion as a 2024 in-year request (12-0)
• Directed staff to present ranked list of service reduction options with low/medium/high risk rankings (11-1)
• Directed staff to ensure Council budget increase requests include projected tax impacts for next two years (11-1)
• Required new net budget increase requests in year be deferred to Strategic Planning and Budget process (10-2)

Active Transportation Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee will consider a motion to have regional staff initiate a multi‑use trail replacing the sidewalk along University Avenue from Lincoln Road to the Hillside Park entrance. The committee will also approve the minutes from the September 17, 2024 meeting and receive an update on winter maintenance of active‑transportation facilities. Additional discussion will cover three priority projects slated for the November 7, 2024 meeting, and the November 19 meeting has been cancelled.

• Approve minutes of the September 17, 2024 ATAC meeting
• Winter maintenance update for active‑transportation facilities (information only)
• Motion to recommend a multi‑use trail on University Ave from Lincoln Rd to Hillside Park entrance
• Discussion of three top‑priority projects for the November 7, 2024 meeting
• Cancellation of the November 19, 2024 meeting

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee received an update on winter maintenance for cycling facilities and voted to support a proposed permanent design that uses part of the cycle track for snow storage, maintaining a 2.5-meter path in winter. A motion to recommend a multi-use trail along University Avenue was not seconded and was added to the tracking list. The committee also discussed provincial bike lane legislation and planned to raise concerns at a joint meeting.

• Approved minutes of September 17, 2024 meeting (carried)
• Supported proposed cycling facility design for winter maintenance, using part of cycle track for snow storage (carried)
• Motion for multi-use trail along University Ave from Lincoln Road to Hillside Park entrance not seconded, added to tracking list
• Meeting adjourned at 6:56 p.m. (carried)

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will consider enacting bylaws to establish an Administrative Penalty Program for camera-based enforcement and approve a warrant process for Community Safety Zones. The meeting also includes presentations on expanding safety zones and a long-term financial sustainability update.

• Enact Administrative Penalty Program Bylaw
• Enact Hearing Officer Bylaw
• Adopt Two-Step Community Safety Zone Warrant
• Expand safety zones to older adult communities
• Review long-term financial sustainability

The Region of Waterloo Administration and Finance Committee approved the Administrative Penalty Program bylaws and Hearing Officer policies for camera-based enforcement. The committee also adopted a Two-Step Community Safety Zone Warrant process and applied Community Safety Zone designations to school zones equipped with municipal speed cameras. In addition, the committee received updates on the long-term financial sustainability plan and the municipal speed camera program.

• Approved Consent Agenda items including the quarterly summary of tenders, quotations, and requests for proposals (15-0)
• Defeated motion to call the question on the Administrative Penalty Program (6-8)
• Enacted Administrative Penalty Program Bylaw, Hearing Officer Bylaw, and approved Appointment and Conduct of Hearing Officers Policy (12-2)
• Approved adoption of the Two-Step Community Safety Zone Warrant and related municipal speed camera strategies (13-2)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (12-0)

Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development

The Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development Committee will consider a motion to authorize expropriation of land for the proposed replacement of the Scheifele Bridge on Northfield Drive East (Regional Road 22). It will also vote on a source‑water protection incentive for septic pump‑out rebates, approve preliminary designs for Franklin Boulevard (Regional Road 36) improvements, and adopt funding for three business‑support programs totaling about $379,000. Finally, staff will be directed to prepare the 2026‑2030 bus procurement plan with multiple propulsion options.

• Expropriation of lands for Scheifele Bridge reconstruction on Northfield Drive East (Regional Road 22)
• Approval of Source Protection Plan Incentive Program – Septic Pump‑out Rebate
• Approval of preliminary design alternative for Franklin Boulevard (Regional Road 36) improvements from Bishop Street to Avenue Road
• Funding of business‑support programs: approx $80,000 for healthcare recruitment, approx $249,000 for Food Bank Volunteer Pilot, and $50,000 plus taxes for newcomer ecosystem mapping
• Directive to prepare 2026‑2030 conventional bus procurement considering clean‑diesel, hybrid, and battery‑electric options

The Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development Committee authorized land expropriation proceedings for the Scheifele Bridge replacement, approved septic and water protection incentives, and backed funding programs to support local businesses and newcomers. The committee also directed staff to include all viable propulsion options in the upcoming 2026-2030 conventional bus procurement strategy.

• Approved land expropriation and temporary easements for the Scheifele Bridge replacement project on Northfield Drive East (carried)
• Approved a Source Water Protection Plan Incentive Program for small septic system owners
• Approved preliminary design alternative for Franklin Boulevard improvements from Bishop Street to Avenue Road
• Approved approximately $80,000 for the Healthcare & Physician Recruitment Program via local Chambers of Commerce
• Approved approximately $249,000 for a Food Bank Volunteer Pilot Program to create temporary jobs for newcomers
• Approved an estimated $50,000 for Ethic Talent to create a Waterloo Region Newcomer Ecosystem Mapping Project
• Directed staff to prepare the 2026-2030 conventional bus procurement considering all viable propulsion options (14-0)

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee is meeting to discuss strategies for ending chronic homelessness and the operation of the Erb's Road Hybrid Emergency Shelter. The body will also receive reports on seasonal illnesses and public health dental programs.

• Proposed funding and coordination of Erb’s Road Hybrid Emergency Shelter until at least 2030
• Proposed six-month extension for waste water disposal at Erb’s Road Hybrid Emergency Shelter from the Township of Wilmot Chief Building Official
• Prioritization and Engagement Strategies for The Plan to End Chronic Homelessness (PECH)
• Waterloo Region Fall and Winter Seasonal Illness Report 2023-2024
• Region of Waterloo Public Health Dental Program Update

The committee approved continuing to fund and coordinate the Erb's Road Hybrid Emergency Shelter until at least 2030, and directed staff to request a six-month wastewater disposal extension from the Township of Wilmot. It also endorsed the prioritization of the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness and referred the 2025 operating budget expansion to the budget process. Two other reports were received for information only.

• Approved continuation of Erb's Road Hybrid Emergency Shelter until at least 2030 (12-2)
• Directed staff to request six-month wastewater disposal extension from Wilmot CBO
• Endorsed Plan to End Chronic Homelessness prioritization and engagement strategies (14-1)
• Referred 2025 operating budget expansion to Strategic Plan and Budget Process
• Received Fall and Winter Seasonal Illness Report 2023-2024 for information
• Received Public Health Dental Program Update for information
• Received Employment Services Pilot Program update for information

Strategic Planning and Budget Sub-committee

The committee will present the 2025 Strategic Plan and Budget slide deck and review the 2025 Budget Update report with its appendices. A closed session is scheduled to consider personal matters about identifiable individuals and labour‑relations issues related to potential budget options. After the closed session, the committee will move to reconvene in an open session before adjourning.

• Presentation of 2025 Plan and Budget slide deck
• Review of 2025 Budget Update report (CAO‑24‑004) and appendices
• Closed session to discuss personal matters about identifiable individuals and labour‑relations budget options
• Motion to reconvene the committee into an open session
• Other business and adjournment

The Strategic Planning and Budget Sub-committee received the 2025 Plan and Budget presentation for information and made several recommendations to the Strategic Plan and Budget Committee. These include deferring service expansions that don't generate net revenue or offset costs within 5 years, reviewing cost assumptions to take on more risk, exploring tax stabilization reserve use, actioning POA expansion as a 2024 in-year request, and presenting a ranked list of service reduction options. All motions carried unanimously.

• Recommended deferring service expansions not generating net revenue or offsetting costs within 5 years unless no levy impact (carried)
• Recommended reviewing and revising cost assumptions to take on more risk, including fuel costs (carried)
• Recommended exploring tax stabilization reserve use to reduce property tax burden of one-time expenditures (carried)
• Recommended directing staff to action POA expansion as a 2024 in-year request (carried)
• Recommended presenting a ranked list of service reduction options with low/medium/high risk ratings (carried)
• Recommended that Council budget increase requests include projected tax impacts for next two years (carried)
• Recommended deferring new net budget increase requests in-year to the budget process (carried)
• Recommended identifying service expansions with cost-sharing from upper levels of government (carried)

Council Meeting

The Regional Municipality of Waterloo Council will consider several committee reports and motions. It will vote on a $150,000 public art purchase for the Langs Drive redevelopment, adopt a 2025 ambulance response time performance plan, and pass a resolution urging continued funding for Consumption and Treatment Sites. The council will also approve the expropriation of lands for road widening at the Fischer Hallman Road–New Dundee Road and Roseville Road–Edworthy Side Road intersections.

• Approve up to $150,000 from the Public Art Reserve for a permanent artwork at 589 Langs Drive, Cambridge
• Adopt the 2025 Response Time Performance Plan for ambulance services with specific target times
• Pass a resolution urging the Ontario government to continue funding all operating Consumption and Treatment Sites
• Approve expropriation of lands for improvements at the intersection of Fischer Hallman Road (RR 50) and New Dundee Road (RR 12)
• Approve expropriation of lands for improvements at the intersection of Roseville Road (RR 46) and Edworthy Side Road (RR 71)

Regional Council voted to support the 'Solve the Crisis' campaign, urging provincial and federal action on homelessness and mental health. Council also approved land expropriations for road improvements at two intersections and deferred a report on land assembly due diligence pending legal advice. Additionally, Council passed a resolution urging the Ontario government to maintain funding for existing Consumption and Treatment Sites.

• Supported 'Solve the Crisis' campaign (13-0)
• Approved 2025 Response Time Performance Plan for ambulance services (13-2)
• Approved expropriation of lands for Fischer Hallman/New Dundee road project (15-0)
• Approved expropriation of lands for Roseville/Edworthy road project (15-0)
• Deferred land assembly report (PDL-ECD-24-007) to October 23 (13-1)
• Approved $150,000 for public art at 589 Langs Drive (15-0)
• Added $250,000 to Franklin Boulevard capital project (15-0)
• Urged Ontario government to continue funding Consumption and Treatment Sites (13-2)

Special Council

The Special Council will hear a presentation on community safety zones and municipal speed cameras. After the presentation, members will consider a motion to move to a closed session to receive information on potential litigation, regional property security, and labour‑relation risks. The meeting runs from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers.

• Education Session – Community Safety Zones and Municipal Speed Cameras (presentation PDF)
• Motion to go into Closed Session – to consider potential litigation, security of regional property, and labour‑relations risks

Regional Council received a presentation regarding the implementation of community safety zones and municipal speed cameras. No formal policy decisions were made during the meeting. Council voted to move into a closed session to discuss potential litigation, property security, and labour relations.

• Approved motion to enter closed session (11-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting (10-0)

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Board will consider a motion to resume the Heritage Foundation’s grant funding process as a pilot project beginning November 1 2024. The pilot would run a submission period from Nov 1 2024 to Jan 15 2025 and an evaluation period from Jan 16 2025 to Mar 31 2025. The Board will also approve the minutes from the June 25 2024 meeting and review a finance accounts and grants summary for September 24 2024. Additional items include a Doors Open 2024 event summary and a request for board members to join sub‑committees.

• Approve June 25, 2024 Board minutes
• Review September 24, 2024 Accounts and Grants Summary
• Discuss Doors Open 2024 event highlights (held Sept 21, 2024)
• Motion to resume grant funding pilot starting Nov 1 2024 (submission Nov 1‑Jan 15 2025; evaluation Jan 16‑Mar 31 2025)
• Request for Board members to serve on sub‑committees

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation approved resuming its grant funding process as a pilot project effective November 1, 2024, with a submission period from November 1, 2024 to January 15, 2025, and an evaluation and granting period from January 16 to March 31, 2025. Staff will revise the pilot grant policy and application for presentation at the October 22, 2024 board meeting. The board also approved the June 25, 2024 minutes and received the finance report for information.

• Approved resuming grant funding as pilot effective Nov 1, 2024 (carried)
• Set submission period Nov 1, 2024 – Jan 15, 2025
• Set evaluation and granting period Jan 16 – Mar 31, 2025
• Directed staff to revise pilot grant policy and application for Oct 22 board meeting
• Approved minutes of June 25, 2024 (carried)
• Received finance report for information

Active Transportation Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee will hear staff introductions and informational presentations on several projects. Items include the Victoria Street modifications between King Street West and Weber Street West, a Phase 1 cycling study on Benton and Frederick Streets in Kitchener, and an expansion of the separated cycling network in Waterloo and Kitchener. No motions or decisions are listed for these items.

• Victoria Street Modifications (King Street West to Weber Street West)
• Benton and Frederick Street Cycling Study – Phase 1, Kitchener
• Separated Cycling Network Expansion in Waterloo and Kitchener
• Staff Introduction – Mike Henderson, Director of Transportation Services
• Committee Tracking List

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee received information on several active transportation projects, including Victoria Street modifications, the Benton-Frederick cycling study, and a separated cycling network expansion. No formal decisions were made; all items were received for information only. The committee also agreed to hold a joint meeting in lieu of the November 19, 2024 regular meeting.

• Approved minutes of June 18, 2024 meeting (carried)
• Received staff introduction from Director of Transportation Services for information
• Received Victoria Street modifications presentation for information
• Received Benton-Frederick cycling study presentation for information
• Received separated cycling network expansion presentation for information
• Agreed joint meeting can replace November 19, 2024 regular meeting

Strategic Planning and Budget Sub-committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Sub‑committee will hear a presentation on the September 11 plan and budget. It will receive reports on administrative costs and efficiency programs and on the base budget allocation to legislatively mandated services. Both reports are provided for information only, with no decisions indicated.

• Presentation: Sept 11 Plan and Budget Sub‑committee (PDF)
• Report: Administrative Costs and Efficiency Programs (PDF)
• Report: Summary of Base Budget Allocation to Legislatively Mandated Services (PDF)

The Strategic Planning and Budget Sub-committee approved a motion to amend the Grants Administration Policy, requiring Council to approve grant streams and eligibility, with staff administering grants. The policy will be reviewed in the second year of the Council term, and all grant applications must declare other municipal funding applied for. The sub-committee also received two reports on administrative costs and mandated services for information, and discussed budget pressures, including the need to reduce a proposed 8% property tax increase.

• Approved amended Grants Administration Policy (moved by S. Foxton, seconded by N. Salonen, carried)
• Received CAO-24-001, Administrative Costs and Efficiency Programs, for information
• Received CAO-24-002, Summary of Base Budget Allocation to Legislatively Mandated Services, for information

Public Art Advisory Committee

The Public Art Advisory Committee will approve the minutes from its June 24, 2024 meeting. It will receive updates on the call for Indigenous artists at YKF and review submissions for the Langs Drive redevelopment. The primary decision is to endorse the Region of Waterloo Public Art Policy update (Report PDL-CUL-24-017). The meeting will conclude with setting the next meeting date.

• Approve June 24, 2024 meeting minutes
• Update on Call for Indigenous Artists at YKF
• Review Call for Submissions for Langs Drive redevelopment
• Endorse Public Art Policy Update (Report PDL-CUL-24-017, Appendix A)
• Schedule next meeting for November 18, 2024

Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development

The Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development Committee will vote on authorizations to expropriate land for roundabout improvements at Fischer Hallman Road & New Dundee Road and at Roseville Road & Edworthy Side Road. A consent agenda covering strategic priority climate‑aligned growth items will also be approved. Information items include a proposed pedestrian bridge on the Kissing Bridge Trailway and a Grand River Transit ridership update for Q2 2024.

• Authorization to expropriate lands for roundabout at Fischer Hallman Road and New Dundee Road (PDL‑LEG‑24‑023)
• Authorization to expropriate lands for roundabout at Roseville Road and Edworthy Side Road (PDL‑LEG‑24‑022)
• Consent agenda items under Strategic Priority – Climate Aligned Growth
• Kissing Bridge Trailway – Proposed Pedestrian Bridge (PDL‑GDS‑24‑017)
• Grand River Transit – Q2 2024 Ridership Update (TSD‑TRS‑24‑009)

The committee approved a motion directing staff to prioritize design and construction analysis for a pedestrian bridge over the Conestogo River on the Kissing Bridge Trailway, with the intent of possible construction in 2025. The motion does not commit funding but allows the Region to apply for provincial funding and pursue fundraising. Staff were also directed to report on cost breakdowns and timelines on November 5, 2024, and on provincial funding on September 25, 2024. The committee also approved two land expropriations for roundabout projects.

• Approved motion to prioritize Conestogo River Bridge design/construction analysis, apply for provincial funding, and report back (15-0)
• Approved expropriation of lands for roundabout at Fischer Hallman Road and New Dundee Road
• Approved expropriation of lands for roundabout at Roseville Road and Edworthy Side Road
• Received and approved consent agenda items (15-0)

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will consider a motion to approve up to $150,000 from the Public Art Reserve for a permanent artwork at the Langs Drive Redevelopment, 589 Langs Drive, Cambridge. The committee will also receive a Moody’s credit rating update (COR-TRY-24-033) and a Development Charge Adequacy Report (COR-CFN-24-017) for information. Items on the consent agenda will be approved in a single motion unless a member requests separate votes. The meeting includes routine items such as delegations, other business, and scheduling the next meeting.

• Approve up to $150,000 for public artwork at 589 Langs Drive, Cambridge
• Review Moody’s Credit Rating Update (COR-TRY-24-033) for information
• Review Development Charge Adequacy Report (COR-CFN-24-017) for information
• Approve consent agenda items in one motion
• Delegations and other business

The committee approved spending up to $150,000 from the Public Art Reserve for a permanent public artwork at the Langs Drive Redevelopment, 589 Langs Drive, Cambridge. The motion carried 14-1. Other items, including a Moody's credit rating update and a development charge adequacy report, were received for information only.

• Approved up to $150,000 from Public Art Reserve for public art at Langs Drive Redevelopment (14-1)
• Received Moody's Credit Rating Update for information
• Received Development Charge Adequacy Report for information

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will consider a consent agenda item on the 2023/24 Immunization of School Pupils Act compliance report. It will vote to approve the 2025 Paramedic Services Response Time Performance Plan. A notice of motion will be considered urging the Ontario government to continue funding all operating consumption and treatment sites and proposed HART hubs. A closed session will follow for solicitor‑client privileged and personal matters.

• Consent agenda: PHP-IDS-24-003 – Immunization of School Pupils Act and School Compliance Report (for information)
• Approval of PHP-PSV-24-004 – Paramedic Services 2025 Response Time Performance Plan
• Information: PHP-PSV-24-005 – Paramedic Services' Key Performance Measurement Indicators Update Jan‑Jun 2024
• Notice of Motion by Councillor R. Deutschmann urging continued funding for consumption and treatment sites and HART hubs
• Closed session to discuss solicitor‑client privileged advice and personal matters

The committee passed a motion urging the Ontario government to continue funding all operating Consumption and Treatment Sites beyond March 2025 and to maintain funding for proposed HART hubs, with a 12-3 vote. It also approved the 2025 Response Time Performance Plan for paramedic services (14-0). The committee received reports on immunization compliance and paramedic key performance indicators for information only.

• Approved motion urging province to fund Consumption and Treatment Sites beyond March 2025 (12-3)
• Approved 2025 Response Time Performance Plan for paramedic services (14-0)
• Received 2023/24 Immunization of School Pupils Act compliance report for information
• Received Paramedic Services Key Performance Measurement Indicators update for information

Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development

The Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development Committee is reviewing proposals for a passenger rail connection from Cambridge to Union. The body is also discussing changes to downtown waste collection and the establishment of Community Safety Zones on regional roads.

• Proposed Cambridge to Union Passenger Rail Connection Initial Business Case and Concept Design
• Proposed conversion to automated cart collection for organics and garbage in designated downtown areas
• Proposed adoption of a Two-Step Community Safety Zone Warrant for regional roads
• Proposed amendment to waste collection contract with Halton Recycling Ltd. dba. Emterra Environmental
• Proposal to request GO bus service between Cambridge and Guelph

The Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development Committee referred a community safety zones report to a working group for further review. The committee approved a new downtown waste services plan utilizing automated cart collection, and endorsed the business case for the Cambridge to Union passenger rail connection while requesting further action from Metrolinx.

• Referred Community Safety Zones motion to a working group (14-2)
• Approved Option 1 for downtown waste collection service, including automated cart collection and contract negotiations with Emterra Environmental (15-0)
• Endorsed Cambridge to Union Passenger Rail Connection business case and concept design (15-0)
• Requested Metrolinx include the rail project in the Regional Transit Plan and provide GO bus service between Cambridge and Guelph (15-0)
• Discontinued blue box recycling for non-eligible sources outside designated downtowns under O. Reg. 391/21 (15-0)
• Received Council/Committee Tracking List for information

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will vote on several items, including funding for tourism incentives, a grant for a major esports event, and new administrative penalty bylaws. It will also consider the pre‑budget 2025 vehicle procurement plan and receive the 2024 Mid‑Year Report with capital budget adjustments. All motions are presented for approval in this regular session.

• Approve $213,550 funding for the Cultural Drivers of Tourism Incentive Program (PDL-CUL-24-012)
• Approve $200,000 grant from the Municipal Accommodation Tax Reserve for a major esports event (PDL-CUL-24-014)
• Enact Administrative Penalty Program Bylaw and Hearing Officer Bylaw (PDL-CAS-24-005)
• Approve pre‑budget 2025 vehicle procurement plan (COR-TRY-24-030)
• Receive 2024 Mid‑Year Report and amend capital budget and forecast (COR-CFN-24-013)

The committee approved $213,550 in Cultural Drivers of Tourism Incentive Program funding, plus additional one-time grants of $10,600 to KW Oktoberfest and $1,800 to the Cambridge Scottish Festival. It also deferred the Administrative Penalty Program for camera-based enforcement to October 2024 for further staff review. Pre-budget vehicle procurement for 2025-2026 was approved, and the 2024 Mid-Year Report was received with capital budget amendments.

• Approved $213,550 in Cultural Drivers of Tourism Incentive Program funding (15-0)
• Approved additional $10,600 grant to KW Oktoberfest and $1,800 to Cambridge Scottish Festival (14-1)
• Deferred Administrative Penalty Program for camera-based enforcement to October 2024 (9-6)
• Approved pre-budget procurement of vehicles and ambulances for 2025-2026 (15-0)
• Received 2024 Mid-Year Report and amended capital budget (15-0)
• Supported KCI Program Review recommendations for stable cultural funding (15-0)
• Supported Explore Waterloo Region's esports bid with $200,000 MAT grant if successful (15-0)

Council Meeting

Council is deciding on several high-cost infrastructure projects and land use policies. The meeting includes discussions on a new residential development, paramedic services funding, and road repurposing for bicycles.

• Tender for 589 Langs 7-storey residential development to Norlon Builders for $52,064,640.17
• Debenture authority of $12,600,000 for a Paramedic Services station at 651 Concession Road, Cambridge
• External Audit Services contract with KPMG LLP for $944,790.00 over five years
• Road repurposing on Benton Street and Frederick Street to reduce travel lanes and add bicycle lanes
• Resolution regarding crop harvesting on farms purchased through the Wilmot Township Land Assembly

Regional Council approved a $52,064,640.17 tender for a 7-storey residential development at 589 Langs, and adopted a resolution committing to assess whether crops on future land-assembly farms can be harvested before any action is taken. Council also approved a $12.6M debenture for a Paramedic Services station in Cambridge, new downtown waste collection services, and a $944,790 external audit contract with KPMG. Several delegations spoke on farmland protection, homelessness, and drug crisis responses, but no decisions were made on those topics.

• Approved $52,064,640.17 tender for 589 Langs 7-storey residential development (14-0)
• Approved resolution committing to assess crop harvest potential on future land-assembly farms before action (14-0)
• Approved $12,600,000 debenture for Paramedic Services station at 651 Concession Road, Cambridge (13-1)
• Approved $944,790 external audit contract with KPMG LLP for 2024-2028 (14-0)
• Approved downtown waste collection changes including automated carts and expanded service areas (14-0)
• Approved $213,550 in Cultural Drivers of Tourism Incentive Program funding plus $12,400 in additional allocations (14-0)
• Approved $200,000 grant for Explore Waterloo Region's esports event bid (14-0)
• Approved airport fee changes effective Oct 1, 2024 including $7.50 passenger facility fee (14-0)

Strategic Planning and Budget Sub-committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Sub‑committee will hear a presentation on the region’s strategic plan and budget (Agenda item 4.1). It will also review a summary of current Region of Waterloo grant programs (Agenda item 5.1). No formal decisions are listed; the meeting is primarily informational. The next meeting is scheduled for September 11, 2024.

• Strategic Plan and Budget Sub‑Committee presentation (Agenda item 4.1)
• Summary of Current Region of Waterloo Grant Programs report (Agenda item 5.1)
• Declarations of Pecuniary Interest under the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act (Agenda item 3)
• Other Business (Agenda item 6)
• Next meeting scheduled for September 11, 2024 (Agenda item 7)

The Strategic Planning and Budget Sub-committee received a presentation on the Region's eight grant programs and discussed their alignment, overlap, and administration. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with staff to provide additional details on grant agreements and expiration dates.

• Meeting adjourned at 10:30 a.m. (carried)

Licensing and Hearings

The Licensing and Hearings Committee will consider three woodland removal permit applications: one from Conestoga Meats, one from Richard Steinmann for 3413 Erbs Road West, and one from Donald Medeiros for 51 Moorefield Street, Cambridge. For the Conestoga Meats application, members will vote on either issuing a conditional permit or declining the request. The other two applications have recommended motions to issue permits. The meeting also includes verbal updates on the taxi by‑law and the 2025 meeting schedule.

• Vote on Conestoga Meats woodland removal permit – issue conditional permit or decline
• Recommend issuing woodland removal permit to Richard Steinmann for ~3.8 ha at 3413 Erbs Road West
• Recommend issuing woodland removal permit to Donald Medeiros for ~1 ha at 51 Moorefield Street, Cambridge
• Verbal update on the taxi by‑law
• Verbal update on the 2025 meeting schedule

The Licensing and Hearings Committee referred the Conestoga Meats woodland removal permit application to the September 25, 2024 Council meeting for further consideration, allowing delegates to speak again. The Committee approved two other woodland removal permits: one for 3.8 hectares of conifer plantation at 3413 Erbs Road West and one for 1 hectare at 51 Moorefield Street, Cambridge. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Referred Conestoga Meats woodland removal permit to Council (5-0)
• Approved woodland removal permit for 3413 Erbs Road West (5-0)
• Approved woodland removal permit for 51 Moorefield Street, Cambridge (4-0)

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee is scheduled to consider a proposal to appoint KPMG LLP as the Region of Waterloo's external auditor for the 2024 through 2028 fiscal years.

• Appointment of KPMG LLP as external auditor for 2024-2028
• Contract amount: $944,790.00 (average annual cost of $188,958.00)

The Audit Committee approved the appointment of KPMG LLP as the Region's external auditor for a five-year term (2024-2028) at a total cost of $944,790.00, plus applicable taxes. The motion was carried unanimously (4-0). No other substantive decisions were made.

• Appointed KPMG LLP as external auditor for 2024-2028 at $944,790.00 (4-0)

Strategic Planning and Budget Sub-committee

The Regional Municipality of Waterloo Strategic Planning and Budget Sub‑committee will receive a presentation titled “2025 Plan and Budget Overview.” The agenda lists this item for information only, with no decisions or votes recorded. All other agenda items are procedural (call to order, land acknowledgement, conflict‑of‑interest declarations, other business, next meeting, adjournment).

• 2025 Plan and Budget Overview presentation (information only)

The sub-committee received a presentation on the 2025 budget process, which aims to reduce a potential 13% tax increase to under 8%. Members requested additional information, including funding from other governments, grant history, and costs added by Council. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was procedural, with the next session scheduled for August 28, 2024.

• Received 2025 Plan and Budget Overview for information
• Scheduled next meeting for August 28, 2024
• Adjourned at 11:09 a.m. (moved by D. Craig, seconded by C. Huinink)

Library Committee

The Library Committee is reviewing the 2025 preliminary budget estimate and accessibility updates for several library branches. The body is also considering approvals for a new microfilm reader and revised committee terms of reference.

• Preliminary 2025 budget estimate and proposed increase in library hours
• Accessibility reviews for Library HQ, North Dumfries, Wellesley Township, Wilmot Township, and Woolwich Township branches
• Proposed purchase of a microfilm reader for the Ayr Branch using North Dumfries Library Capital Reserve (Taylor Bequest) funds
• Proposed revised Terms of Reference for the Library Committee

The Library Committee approved the purchase of a microfilm reader for the Ayr Branch using capital reserve funds, and directed staff to develop service levels and a policy for trust/donation/bequest funds. It also approved revised Terms of Reference with amendments to clarify Township representation. Budget and accessibility reports were received for information, with staff to report back on budget details before the next meeting.

• Approved microfilm reader purchase for Ayr Branch from capital reserve (5-0)
• Directed staff to return with recommended service levels for each branch (5-0)
• Directed staff to develop policy for use of trust, donation, and bequest funds (5-0)
• Approved revised Library Committee Terms of Reference with Township-specific language (5-0)

Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development

The Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development Committee is reviewing proposals for downtown waste collection changes and cycling improvements on Benton and Frederick Streets. The body is also discussing the implementation of Community Safety Zones and a business case for passenger rail expansion.

• Proposed reduction of travel lanes from four to two to add bicycle lanes on Benton Street and Frederick Street
• Proposed conversion to automated cart collection for organics and garbage in designated downtown areas
• Proposed 'No Parking' restriction on both sides of Snyder’s Road East from 1.2 km east of Notre Dame Road to 1.8 km west of Trussler Road
• Adoption of a Two-Step Community Safety Zone Warrant for identifying safety zones along regional roads
• Endorsement of the Cambridge to Union Passenger Rail Connection Initial Business Case and Concept Design

The committee approved the Benton-Frederick Corridor Study Phase 1, reducing travel lanes from four to two and adding painted bike lanes on Benton and Frederick Streets, with by-law amendments. It also carried a motion (14-0) committing to assess crop harvesting on future Land Assembly farm purchases and to report on the recent corn crop loss. Several other items were received on the consent agenda, and remaining agenda items were deferred to August 28, 2024.

• Approved Benton-Frederick Corridor Phase 1: reduce to two lanes, add painted bike lanes (carried)
• Approved by-law amendments for bike lanes and parking changes on Benton and Frederick Streets (carried)
• Carried motion (14-0) to assess crop harvest on future Land Assembly farms and report to Council
• Approved no-parking prohibition on Snyder's Road East near 1974 (carried)
• Received consent agenda items for information and approval (13-0)

Community and Health Services

The committee will consider a recommended motion to approve a debenture authority of $12,600,000 for up to 20 years to fund a Paramedic Services station on the regionally‑owned property at 651 Concession Road in Cambridge (former Kinsmen Children’s Centre). The motion also seeks Regional Council’s support for the proposed use of the property. A closed session is recommended to receive solicitor‑client privileged advice on land acquisitions and service negotiations, and several delegations will discuss women’s shelter issues.

• Approve $12.6 M debenture for Paramedic Services station at 651 Concession Road, Cambridge
• Closed session to receive solicitor‑client privileged advice on land acquisition and service negotiations
• Delegations on the closure of the only women’s shelter and need for a dedicated women’s, trans, and gender‑diverse shelter
• Presentation of 84 Frederick Street emergency shelter operating model (information only)
• Strategic priority reports on homes for all, immigration profile 2024, and other initiatives (information)

The committee approved the operating model for a women's and gender-diverse housing shelter at 84 Frederick Street, with a maximum of 66 residents, and required community consultation before any changes. It also approved $12.6 million in debenture funding for a paramedic services station at 651 Concession Road, Cambridge, after rejecting a motion to reconsider childcare and affordable housing options. The immigration profile report was received for information.

• Approved 84 Frederick St. shelter operating model for up to 66 single women and gender-diverse adults (16-0)
• Approved $12.6M debenture for paramedic station at 651 Concession Road, Cambridge (13-1)
• Defeated motion to refer 651 Concession Road back to staff for childcare and affordable housing options (5-9)
• Received Waterloo Region Immigration Profile 2024 for information

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Board will meet to elect a new Chair and Vice Chair. The agenda includes ratifying recent appointments for three directors and reviewing accounts and grants summaries. Committee updates on finance, heritage advisory, and strategic planning are also scheduled.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Ratification of appointments for David Emberly, Thirstan Falconer, and Naema Baskanderi
• Review of Accounts and Grants Summary
• Approval of May 28, 2024 minutes
• Committee updates on finance, heritage, and strategic planning

The Foundation elected John Glass as Chair and D. Emberly as Vice-Chair for the June 2024 to June 2025 term. The Board reviewed a financial summary showing an account balance of $111,619.69 and discussed the ongoing strategic planning process.

• Elected John Glass as Chair for June 2024 to June 2025 (Carried)
• Elected D. Emberly as Vice-Chair for June 2024 to June 2025 (Carried)
• Approved minutes from May 28, 2024 (Carried)

Special Council

This Special Council meeting is a workshop focused on the New Municipal Fiscal Funding Framework. The session includes staff presentations and a presentation from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario regarding social and economic prosperity.

• Staff presentation on investing in a growing community
• Association of Municipalities of Ontario presentation on social and economic prosperity review
• Discussion exploring a new deal for Waterloo Region

The Region of Waterloo Special Council held a workshop to discuss a new fiscal framework, community service pressures, and projected 2025 budget increases. Presentations were received from regional staff and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario regarding the Social and Economic Prosperity Review. No substantive policy decisions or votes were taken outside of adjourning the meeting.

• Adjourned the meeting at 10:33 a.m. (12-0)

Public Art Advisory Committee

The committee will review staff presentations regarding several public art initiatives. Topics include the Public Art Policy, a call for submissions for Langs Drive, and an update on Indigenous art at YFK.

• Public Art Policy report
• Langs Drive Call for Submissions overview
• READI Principles overview
• Indigenous Art at YFK update and discussion
• Approval of May 13, 2024 minutes

The Public Art Advisory Committee approved its May 13, 2024 minutes and received staff presentations on proposed public art policy changes, the Langs Drive call for submissions, equity principles, and an Indigenous art project at the Region of Waterloo International Airport. No formal decisions were made on the presentations; the committee expressed support for the proposed call-for-submissions approach. The meeting lost quorum when M. Hashemi left at 2:38 p.m., so it could not be adjourned, though there was no unfinished business.

• Approved minutes of the May 13, 2024 meeting (carried)
• Received staff presentation on proposed public art policy updates, including a shift from percentage funding to a site selection model
• Received overview of Langs Drive Call for Submissions; jury selection expected October, review estimated to begin January 2025
• Received overview of Reconciliation, Accessibility, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion principles; committee expressed support
• Discussed Indigenous Art at YKF Airport: three large printed murals proposed for Domestic Arrivals Building, on loan for three years, funded from a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion fund
• Directed staff to determine member availability for next meeting (September 9 or late August) to prepare an October report to Council
• Meeting could not be adjourned due to loss of quorum at 2:38 p.m.; no unfinished business

All Councils

The All Councils meeting features presentations regarding the future of hospital healthcare in Waterloo Region. The agenda also includes updates on Blue Box transition, curbside contracts, and downtown service level reviews for waste management.

• Presentation: The Future of Hospital Healthcare in Waterloo Region
• Updates: Blue Box Transition, Next Curbside Contract, and Downtown Service Level Review

The All Councils meeting on June 21, 2024, consisted entirely of presentations and updates regarding hospital healthcare and waste management. No substantive votes, policy approvals, or official decisions were made during the session.

• Received presentation on the future of hospital healthcare and planned hospital merger
• Received presentation on the Blue Box recycling transition and waste management updates

Council Meeting

The Council is reviewing several large infrastructure contracts and service expansions. This includes decisions on road improvements, bridge reconstruction increases, and traffic management technology acquisitions. The agenda also features presentations from the Regional Police and public delegations regarding community safety.

• $11,575,000.00 tender for Fischer-Hallman/Bearinger Road improvements
• $4,005,223.20 acquisition of Miovision Technologies for traffic management expansion
• $780,600.00 increase to the Scheifele Bridge reconstruction agreement
• $90,000 allocation from the Community Environmental Fund for sustainability projects
• Waterloo Regional Police Services mid-year presentation

Regional Council approved buying 84 Frederick Street in Kitchener for $6.5 million to add shelter space, with $9.464 million in debenture authority (14-1, D. Craig opposed). Council approved Kitchener Official Plan Amendments 48, 50 and 133, and after defeating a staff-recommended version (3-13), approved a modified Amendment 49 (16-0) addressing airport height limits. Council also approved a $4,005,223.20 Miovision traffic system expansion, an $11,575,000 road tender, and directed staff to return with a 2025 budget under an 8% tax increase. A motion to give THEMUSEUM $150,000 in emergency funding was defeated (6-9).

• Approved purchase of 84 Frederick Street, Kitchener for $6.5M plus $9.464M debenture authority (14-1, D. Craig opposed)
• Approved Kitchener Official Plan Amendments 48, 50 and 133 (16-0)
• Staff-recommended modified approval of Kitchener OPA 49 defeated (3-13)
• Approved modified Kitchener OPA 49 as set out in report PDL-CPL-24-013 (16-0)
• Approved $4,005,223.20 Miovision TrafficLink system expansion and advanced $1,064,000 in capital funding
• Approved $11,575,000 tender to Sierra Infrastructure for Fischer-Hallman/Bearinger Road improvements
• Directed staff to return with a 2025 budget under an 8% tax increase and review external funding and administrative expenses (15-0)
• Defeated $150,000 emergency sustainability funding for THEMUSEUM (6-9)

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will receive reports on drug use in the region and 2023 infectious disease highlights for information. The agenda also includes the 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan 2023 Annual Report. A motion is proposed to enter a closed session regarding a potential land purchase.

• 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan 2023 Annual Report
• 2023 Infectious Disease Highlights
• Understanding Drug Use in Waterloo Region report
• Proposed closed session regarding a land purchase

The Committee received several reports for information, including the 2023 Annual Report for the 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan and a presentation on drug use in the region. No substantive policy changes were decided during the regular agenda.

• Approved Consent Agenda items (12-0)
• Received 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan 2023 Annual Report for information
• Received Infectious Disease Highlights 2023 for information
• Received presentation on Understanding Drug Use in Waterloo Region for information
• Approved motion to enter closed session for land purchase advice and personal matters (15-0)

Active Transportation Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee will review a staff presentation regarding the Transportation Equity Assessment Methodology Tool. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from May 21, 2024, and a review of the committee tracking list.

• Staff presentation on Transportation Equity Assessment Methodology Tool
• Approval of May 21, 2024 meeting minutes
• Review of Committee Tracking List

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee reviewed a proposed internal tool for assessing transportation equity but noted it is not yet approved by Council. Members expressed concern that the tool's approach may be too narrow and that the Committee's broader focus on all active transportation modes is being misunderstood. The Committee also requested updates on safety issues regarding gravel in bike lanes, roundabout improvements, and the Ainslie Street project.

• Approved minutes from May 21, 2024 meeting
• Reviewed proposed Transportation Equity Assessment Methodology Tool (staff presentation)
• Requested update on gravel removal in bike lanes on Sawmill through Bloomingdale
• Requested update on roundabout safety improvements
• Requested check on pedestrian crossing audio indicator at Fischer-Hallman and Highland
• Requested update on Ainslie Street bike lane issues in downtown Galt
• Selected July 9, 2024 as date for Committee bike ride
• Adjourned meeting at 6:33 p.m.

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation AGM

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation is holding its Annual General Meeting. The meeting includes the approval of June 7, 2023 minutes and the adoption of the 2023 annual report and financial statements. The agenda also includes an election of directors.

• Approval of June 7, 2023, minutes
• Adoption of the 2023 Annual Report
• Adoption of the 2023 Financial Statements
• Election of Directors

The Foundation adopted its 2023 annual report and financial statements. Three individuals were elected as Directors, pending ratification by the Council of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo.

• Approved minutes from June 7, 2023
• Adopted Annual Report for year ending December 31, 2023
• Adopted 2023 Auditor's Statements
• Elected David Emberly as Director (term ends June 2025)
• Elected Thirstan Falconer as Director (term ends June 2027)
• Elected Naema Baskanderi as Director (term ends June 2027)
• Directed Staff to review the election process for future efficiency

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee is reviewing design refinements and a contract extension for Victoria Street improvements in Kitchener. The agenda also includes approving guiding principles for the Long-Term Waste Management Strategy update. Additionally, the committee will consider land transfers to Woolwich Township and updates on regional climate action plans.

• Design refinements and $245,320 contract extension for Victoria Street improvements in Kitchener
• Transfer of daylight triangles at Menno Street and Fountain Street North to Woolwich Township
• Approval of guiding principles for the Long-Term Waste Management Strategy review
• Proposed $5,000 developer fee for infrastructure agreements on Regional Roads
• Petition for safety lights at the Beverley and Dundas roundabout

The Planning and Works Committee approved several infrastructure projects, including refined design alternatives for Victoria Street improvements in Kitchener and an associated $245,320 engineering contract extension. The committee also approved guiding principles for a long-term waste management strategy and a municipal responsibility agreement for the Floradale wastewater system. Additionally, staff were directed to investigate the feasibility of conducting a live noise study on Highland Road and report back by June 19.

• Approved Victoria Street design refinements and $245,320 engineering extension (Carried)
• Approved Long-Term Waste Management Strategy guiding principles (14-0)
• Approved Floradale Wastewater System Municipal Responsibility Agreement (Carried)
• Approved transfer of daylight triangles at Menno Street and Fountain Street North to Woolwich Township (Carried)
• Approved Scoped Master Drainage Report for Randall and Breslau Drains (Carried)
• Directed staff to investigate feasibility of live Highland Road noise study (Report back June 19)
• Approved delegation of authority for third-party road works agreements (Carried)
• Received Cambridge Truck Diversion Project Evaluation for information

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee is reviewing proposed funding for arts, environment, and entrepreneurship programs. The committee will also consider options regarding Regional Council remuneration and support. Presentations from the Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation and THEMUSEUM are also scheduled.

• $306,000 in grant recommendations for Major Arts and Culture Organizations
• Up to $90,000 for 16 Community Environmental Fund projects
• $68,400 in allocations for Entrepreneurial Grants 2024
• Potential $50,000 budget allocation for a Council remuneration review

The Administration and Finance Committee approved $68,400 in entrepreneurial grants and up to $90,000 in environmental grants. It directed staff to prepare a 2025 budget with a tax rate increase of less than 8%, rejecting a stricter 6% cap. The committee also voted to hire an external consultant to review council remuneration and deferred a decision on major arts grants to the next meeting.

• Approved $68,400 in Entrepreneurial Grants (14-0)
• Approved up to $90,000 in Community Environmental Fund Grants (15-0)
• Deferred Major Arts and Culture Grants to June 19 meeting (15-0)
• Directed staff to return with 2025 budget under 8% tax increase (14-0)
• Rejected amendment for 2025 budget under 6% increase (6-8)
• Approved $50,000 for external council remuneration review (10-3)
• Defeated motion to waive notice of motion for THEMUSEUM funding (9-6)

Library Committee

The Region of Waterloo Library Committee will review updates to the library capital program and reserve projections through 2033. Members will also consider a revision to the committee's terms of reference. The primary decision involves endorsing a memorandum of understanding for maintaining library facilities, which was deferred from an April meeting.

• Endorsement of a maintenance memorandum of understanding for library facilities (PDL-CUL-24-002)
• Review of the 2024–2033 Library Capital Program and reserve projections (COR-CFN-24-010)
• Revision of the Library Committee's terms of reference (PDL-CUL-24-009)
• Receipt of the June 4, 2024 committee tracking list

The Region of Waterloo Library Committee endorsed a Memorandum of Understanding on Maintenance of Library Facilities (report PDL-CUL-24-002), as amended, with the term language to be reviewed by legal. The Committee also directed Staff to update the proposed Library Committee Terms of Reference to state that community representatives nominated by each Regional Township Council will be non-voting members. Separately, the Committee directed Staff to report on the status of Accessibility Ontario Disability Act (AODA) construction projects for Regional libraries. The capital program and reserve update (COR-CFN-24-010) and the tracking list were received for information.

• Endorsed Memorandum of Understanding - Maintenance of Library Facilities (Appendix A), as amended (carried)
• Directed Staff to update proposed Terms of Reference so community representatives nominated by each Regional Township Council are non-voting (carried)
• Directed Staff to report on status of AODA construction projects for Regional libraries (received for information)
• Received report COR-CFN-24-010, Library Capital Program and Reserve Update, for information
• Received report PDL-CUL-24-009, Library Committee Terms of Reference Revision, for information
• Received Council/Committee Tracking List for information
• Adjourned at 8:47 a.m. (carried)

Special Council

Council will meet in a closed session to discuss advice regarding a potential land acquisition. The agenda also includes proposals for by-laws to authorize $40,000,000 in debentures for capital works.

• Potential acquisition of lands (closed session)
• By-law 24-022: $40,000,000 in instalment debentures for capital works
• $20,684,000 five-year instalment debenture
• $9,316,000 ten-year instalment debenture
• $10,000,000 fifteen-year instalment debenture

The Regional Council of Waterloo held a special meeting to consider land acquisition and debt financing. Council received a report on a regional debenture issue and approved a borrowing by-law for a $40,000,000 aggregate principal amount for capital works. There were no items to report from the closed session.

• Approved moving into closed session for solicitor-client privilege advice regarding land acquisition (14-0)
• Received report COR-TRY-24-022 regarding Regional Debenture Issue for information
• Approved By-law 24-022 to authorize borrowing $40,000,000 in instalment debentures for capital works (14-0)
• Approved adjournment at 10:13 a.m. (14-0)

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation board will consider approving the draft audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023, and review an accounts and grants summary. The board will also receive final documents from the strategic planning review, including updates on the heritage definition, equity funding stream, and grant window.

• Recommended motion to approve the Auditor Draft Financial Statements as dated May 28, 2024
• Accounts and Grants Summary for 2024 presented for information
• Strategic Planning Review final documents on Heritage Definition, Equity Funding Stream, and Grant Window
• Proposed delegation presentation for the Administration and Finance Committee on June 4, 2024
• Approval of minutes from the April 23, 2024 meeting

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation approved the draft audited financial statements dated May 28, 2024, and approved the minutes from the April 23, 2024 meeting. The board also discussed strategic planning, requested that staff include a request for $100,000 for the budgetary process, and reviewed plans for an upcoming presentation to the Administration and Finance Committee.

• Approved Auditor Draft Financial Statements dated May 28, 2024
• Approved minutes from the April 23, 2024 meeting
• Requested staff include a request for $100,000 in anticipation of the budgetary process

Council Meeting

Council will consider approving a $10.1 million tender for Ottawa Street improvements from Fischer-Hallman Road to Mowat Boulevard, along with several other financial items and committee recommendations. The agenda also includes delegations on housing insecurity and land assembly in Wilmot Township, and a closed session for land disposition and acquisition matters.

• Accept $10,117,000 tender from Capital Paving Inc. for Ottawa Street Improvements (Regional Road No.4) from Fischer-Hallman Road to Mowat Boulevard
• Approve $2,228,400 replacement of three Volvo L150 Loaders from Strongco Corporation
• Declare 555 Conestoga Boulevard in Cambridge surplus and sell to Skyline Commercial Real Estate Holdings Inc. for $50,000
• Approve $284,691,880 eight-year waste collection contract with Halton Recycling Ltd. (Emterra Environmental)
• Approve taxi meter drop rate increase from $3.50 to $4.50

Regional Council approved a $284,691,880 eight-year waste collection contract with Halton Recycling Ltd. (Emterra Environmental) and accepted a $10,117,000 tender from Capital Paving Inc. for Ottawa Street improvements. Council also approved selling surplus land at 1388 Highland Road West in Kitchener to Savic Homes Ltd. for affordable housing, and agreed to buy 333-339 Hidden Valley Road in Kitchener for $4,300,000. Delegations opposed the Wilmot Township land assembly, and Council voted to rename the Planning and Works Committee to the Sustainability, Infrastructure and Development Standing Committee.

• Approved $284,691,880 eight-year waste collection contract with Halton Recycling Ltd. dba Emterra Environmental (15-0)
• Accepted $10,117,000 tender from Capital Paving Inc. for Ottawa Street improvements, Fischer-Hallman Road to Mowat Boulevard (carried)
• Approved sale of surplus land at 1388 Highland Road West, Kitchener to Savic Homes Ltd. for affordable housing (carried)
• Approved purchase of 333-339 Hidden Valley Road, Kitchener for $4,300,000 (15-0)
• Approved $2,228,400 replacement of three Volvo L150 Loaders from Strongco Corporation (carried)
• Increased taxi meter drop rate from $3.50 to $4.50 (14-1, K. Williams opposed)
• Renamed Planning and Works Committee to Sustainability, Infrastructure and Development Standing Committee (15-0)
• Approved 2023 Consolidated, Sinking Fund and Trust Fund Financial Statements (14-1, R. Deutschmann opposed)

Active Transportation Advisory Committee

The committee will receive two staff presentations for information: one on GRT active transportation success stories and another on the GRT business plan. No decisions or public hearings are scheduled; the agenda is largely informational and procedural.

• GRT Active Transportation Success Stories presentation (for information)
• GRT Business Plan Information Update presentation (for information)
• Approval of minutes from April 16, 2024 meeting
• Committee tracking list update (for information)

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee received two staff presentations for information: one on Grand River Transit active transportation success stories and one on the GRT Transit Business Plan for 2025-2030. The committee approved the April 16, 2024 minutes as amended and requested a future update on capital projects such as Bleams Road. No substantive decisions beyond receiving information and procedural motions were made.

• Approved April 16, 2024 minutes as amended (carried)
• Received GRT active transportation success stories presentation for information
• Received GRT 2025-2030 Business Plan information update for information
• Received Committee Tracking List for information; requested staff update on capital projects such as Bleams Road
• Adjourned meeting at 6:18 p.m. (carried)

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee will consider approving the Region of Waterloo's consolidated, sinking fund, and trust fund financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2023. Members will also review the audit findings report and a request for proposals for external audit services covering fiscal years 2024-2028.

• Approval of Consolidated Financial Statements for fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2023
• Approval of Sinking Fund Financial Statements for fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2023
• Approval of Trust Fund Financial Statements for fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2023
• Review of Audit Findings Report for the year ended Dec. 31, 2023
• Request for Proposal for External Audit Services (2024-2028 fiscal years)

The Committee approved the Consolidated, Sinking Fund, and Trust Fund Financial Statements for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023. Members also received reports on 2023 audit findings and the upcoming procurement process for external audit services.

• Approved Consolidated, Sinking Fund, and Trust Fund Financial Statements for fiscal year ending Dec 31, 2023 (3-0)

Public Art Advisory Committee

The committee is meeting to approve minutes from March 11, 2024, and discuss several items including a presentation, an update to the terms of reference, a public art policy discussion, Langs Drive art selection criteria, a REDI methodology session, and an update on a University of Waterloo partnership. The agenda is largely discussion-oriented with no binding decisions listed.

• Terms of Reference Update
• Public Art Policy Discussion
• Langs Drive Art Selection Criteria Discussion
• REDI Methodology with Steph Bryenton and Neb Zachariah (3pm)
• Update on UW Partnership

The committee approved the minutes from the March 11, 2024 meeting. Members discussed public art policy funding options, selection criteria for the Langs Drive project, and the integration of REDI methodology into committee processes.

• Approved March 11, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will receive the Q1 2024 Plan and Financial Update for information. A motion deferred from April 24, 2024, seeks approval of preliminary 2023 financial results and application of the Surplus Allocation Policy. The agenda also includes several information items related to Waterloo Regional Police Service financial variance reports.

• Q1 2024 Plan and Financial Update (COR-CFN-24-008) presented for information
• Motion to approve preliminary 2023 financial results and apply Surplus Allocation Policy
• Questions regarding Q4 2023 WRPS Financial Variance Report
• Waterloo Regional Police Service Board response to inquiries from Council (May 6, 2024)
• Review of 2022 WRPS Financial Variance Reports

The Administration and Finance Committee approved the preliminary 2023 financial results to prepare the Region's audited financial statements. The committee also agreed to apply the Surplus Allocation Policy to the 2023 results.

• Approved preliminary 2023 financial results for Audited Financial Statements (15-0)
• Approved application of Surplus Allocation Policy to 2023 financial results (15-0)
• Reconvened into open session (16-0)

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee is deciding on a proposed $284.7 million, eight-year waste collection contract with Emterra Environmental, and approving designs for roundabouts at Strasburg/New Dundee and Fischer Hallman/New Dundee roads. They will also consider expropriating land for the Fischer Hallman/New Dundee roundabout, selling surplus land at 555 Conestoga Boulevard in Cambridge for $50,000, and hear delegations on tree planting and transit changes.

• Proposed $284,691,880 contract with Emterra Environmental for automated cart-based waste collection (8 years, starting 2026)
• Approval of multi-lane roundabout design at Strasburg Road and New Dundee Road, Kitchener
• Authorization to expropriate lands for roundabout at Fischer Hallman Road and New Dundee Road
• Surplus declaration and sale of 555 Conestoga Boulevard, Cambridge to Skyline Commercial Real Estate Holdings Inc. for $50,000
• Approval of 2024 Grand River Source Protection Plan Amendment

The Committee awarded an eight-year waste collection contract to Halton Recycling Ltd. (dba Emterra Environmental). Other key actions included approving a new roundabout in Kitchener and authorizing land expropriations for another roundabout project.

• Approved $284,691,880 waste collection contract with Emterra Environmental (16-0)
• Approved multi-lane roundabout design at New Dundee Road and Strasburg Road
• Authorized expropriation of lands for roundabout at Fischer Hallman Road and New Dundee Road
• Approved sale of surplus lands at 555 Conestoga Boulevard to Skyline Commercial Real Estate Holdings Inc. for $50,000
• Approved infrastructure relocation agreement with Habitat for Humanity at 100 St George St (16-0)
• Approved various traffic control installations and speed limit changes across Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and Woolwich (16-0)
• Deferred Trees for Woolwich funding request to August 2024 (13-2)
• Supported updated Grand River Source Protection Plan technical assessment

Special Council

This special council meeting will consider a report recommending a $666,719 increase to the contract with Capital Paving Inc. for the Herrgott Road (Regional Road 10) rehabilitation project, bringing the total to $4,187,732.67. The meeting also includes a recommendation to approve a by-law confirming the proceedings.

• Increase to T2023-144 – Regional Road 10 (Herrgott Road) Rehabilitation: $666,719.47 contract increase with Capital Paving Inc.
• Budget increase of $678,700 for Project #05758 – Herrgott Rd, N Limits of St Clements to Ament Line
• By-law 24-014 to confirm proceedings of the meeting

Region of Waterloo council approved a $666,719.47 increase to Capital Paving Inc.'s contract for Regional Road 10 (Herrgott Road) rehabilitation, bringing the total to $4,187,732.67 plus taxes, and raised the project budget by $678,700. Council also approved preliminary 2023 financial results and applied the Surplus Allocation Policy, and agreed to enter an agreement with Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region Inc. for relocating critical Regional water infrastructure at 100 St George St, Kitchener. All votes recorded were 14 to 0, with members M. Harris and C. James absent.

• Approved $666,719.47 increase to Capital Paving Inc. contract for Herrgott Road rehabilitation, total $4,187,732.67 plus taxes (14-0)
• Approved $678,700 increase to Project #05758 Herrgott Rd budget (14-0)
• Approved preliminary 2023 financial results for preparing the Region's 2023 Audited Financial Statements (14-0)
• Applied the Surplus Allocation Policy to 2023 financial results (14-0)
• Suspended rules of procedure to consider a matter not in the special meeting notice (14-0)
• Approved agreement with Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region Inc. for water infrastructure relocation at 100 St George St, Kitchener (14-0)
• Approved By-law 24-014 confirming the proceedings of the May 7, 2024 meeting (14-0)

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will consider approving a Rent Framework for Waterloo Region Housing Community Spaces, which would set terms for lease agreements. The committee will also receive updates on the 2023 Rabies Program, the Youth IMPACT Project, and proposed changes to the Public Art Advisory Committee's terms of reference.

• Approve Rent Framework for Waterloo Region Housing Community Spaces (report CSD-HOU-24-009)
• Authorize commissioners to execute community space lease agreements
• Receive 2023 Rabies Program Report (PHP-HPI-24-003)
• Receive Youth IMPACT Project update (PDL-ECD-24-002)
• Approve revised Public Art Advisory Committee Terms of Reference (PDL-CUL-24-006)

The Community and Health Services Committee approved a new rent framework for Waterloo Region Housing community spaces, authorizing staff to execute lease agreements. The committee also approved updated Terms of Reference for the Public Art Advisory Committee, expanding its membership and adding language on equity and inclusion. A youth impact project was received for information, and staff were asked to provide details on vacant properties for refugee housing.

• Approved Rent Framework for Waterloo Region Housing Community Spaces (15-0)
• Authorized execution of community space lease agreements (15-0)
• Approved revised Terms of Reference for Public Art Advisory Committee (14-0)
• Received 2023 Rabies Program Report for information
• Received Youth IMPACT Project presentation for information
• Requested staff gather info on vacant properties for refugee housing

Licensing and Hearings

The Licensing and Hearings Committee will consider a proposed amendment to the Taxi By-law (By-law 16-044) that would increase the initial meter drop rate from $3.50 to $4.50. The committee will also hear a delegation from Waterloo Taxi Ltd. regarding a taxi meter increase and has received correspondence from United Taxi Ltd. concerning maximum and minimum taxi fare rates.

• Recommended motion to increase meter drop rate from $3.50 to $4.50
• Delegation by Robert Heinbecker, Vice President, Waterloo Taxi Ltd. re: taxi meter increase
• Correspondence from United Taxi Ltd. re: maximum and minimum taxi fare rates
• Amendment to By-law 16-044 (Taxi By-law) referred by Regional Council

The Licensing and Hearings Committee approved an amendment to Bylaw 16-044 to increase the taxi meter drop rate. The decision followed a delegation from Waterloo Taxi Ltd. expressing opposition to the increase.

• Approved increase of taxi meter drop rate from $3.50 to $4.50 (5-0)

Library Committee

The Region of Waterloo Library Committee approved the 2023 financial results, which showed a surplus due to lower staff costs and delayed branch openings. The committee allocated the $145,277 operating surplus to the Library Capital Reserve. They also endorsed a Memorandum of Understanding for library facility maintenance while deferring a broader governance motion to June.

• Approved 2023 financial results and allocated $145,277 surplus to Capital Reserve (4-0)
• Endorsed Memorandum of Understanding for library facility maintenance (4-0)
• Deferred governance motion to June meeting
• Received 2023 library statistics for information
• Received governance report for information

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will consider setting 2024 property class tax ratios, review 2023 year-end financial results, and approve the 2025 budget timetable. It will also receive reports on development charges, investments, and tenders. The meeting includes a closed session for land acquisition advice.

• Proposed 2024 tax ratios: residential 1.0000, commercial/industrial 1.9500, farmland 0.2500
• 2023 Plan Update and Year End Financial Results (COR-CFN-24-006)
• 2025 Plan and Budget Timetable approval (COR-CFN-24-005)
• 2023 Development Charge Transaction Report (COR-CFN-24-004)
• Closed session for proposed land acquisition

The Administration and Finance Committee approved 2024 property class tax ratios and the 2025 Plan and Budget timetable. A motion to approve preliminary 2023 financial results and apply the Surplus Allocation Policy was defeated 6-8, then reconsidered and deferred to the May 7, 2024 meeting. The committee also received several reports for information and directed staff to provide further information on voter engagement.

• Approved 2024 property class tax ratios (13-0)
• Received 2023 Plan Update (14-0)
• Defeated motion to approve preliminary 2023 financial results and apply Surplus Allocation Policy (6-8)
• Carried motion to waive notice of motion (12-3)
• Carried motion to reconsider the defeated motion (15-0)
• Carried motion to defer the motion to May 7, 2024 (9-7)
• Approved 2025 Plan and Budget review timetable as amended (14-0)
• Approved amendment to set budget committee meeting start times to 9:00 a.m. (14-0)

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee will consider a notice of motion directing staff to study a truck ban on Northumberland St. in downtown Ayr, following safety and infrastructure complaints. The committee will also discuss a proposed transfer of ownership of Oxford Road 5 from the Township of Wilmot to the Region, and a recommendation to assign a new project manager to accelerate MobilityPLUS scheduling software updates for Grand River Transit.

• Notice of motion to study a truck ban on Northumberland St. (Cedar Creek to Stanley St.) in Ayr, including interim signage and speed reductions
• Proposed transfer of ownership of Oxford Road 5 from Township of Wilmot to Region of Waterloo (for information)
• Recommendation to assign a new project manager to accelerate MobilityPLUS scheduling software updates for Grand River Transit
• Correspondence from Ayr resident Stephanie Filsinger regarding Ayr truck traffic

The Committee approved a study to address safety and infrastructure issues in downtown Ayr, including the possibility of a truck ban. It also decided to assign a new project manager to accelerate updates for Grand River Transit's scheduling software.

• Approved study for downtown Ayr truck ban and interim safety measures (14-0)
• Approved assigning a new Project Manager for MobilityPLUS software updates (11-0)

Council Meeting

This is a regular Council meeting with a heavy focus on night transit, including 15 delegations and a notice of motion to reinstate GRT Routes 91 and 92. Council will also consider reports on road construction, homelessness, childcare, tax increment grants, and expropriation, along with several by-laws.

• 15 delegations and a notice of motion to reinstate GRT night transit Routes 91 and 92
• Tender acceptance of $20,071,877 for Regional Road 56 (Bleams Road) improvements, Fischer-Hallman Road to Trussler Road, Kitchener
• Plan to End Chronic Homelessness accepted in principle; staff directed to develop detailed plan for 2025 budget
• Tax Increment Grant of up to $4,285,430 for 99, 103, and 107 Roger St, Waterloo
• Expropriation of lands for Roseville Road and Edworthy Side Road intersection improvements, North Dumfries

Council approved a $20.1M contract for Bleams Road improvements and voted to temporarily reinstate the route 91 Late Night Loop. Other decisions included establishing 2024 property tax ratios and adopting a plan to end chronic homelessness.

• Approved $20,071,877 tender for Bleams Road improvements (15-0)
• Approved temporary reinstatement of route 91 Late Night Loop Thursday-Saturday by Sept 2, 2024 (15-0)
• Accepted Plan to End Chronic Homelessness Final Report in principle (14-1)
• Established 2024 property class tax ratios (15-0)
• Approved phasing of Tax Increment Grant up to $4,285,430 for 99, 103, and 107 Roger St (15-0)
• Authorized land expropriation for Roseville Road and Edworthy Side Road intersection (15-0)
• Extended 50km/h speed limit on Swan Street to Brant-Waterloo Road (15-0)
• Directed staff to study a truck ban in downtown Ayr (15-0)

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation board is meeting to discuss and potentially approve a formal definition of heritage, a new equity funding stream for grants, and next steps for strategic planning. The board will also review accounts and grants summary, approve previous minutes, and discuss Doors Open 2024.

• Proposed approval of a formal definition of heritage
• Proposed approval of a new Equity Funding Stream for grants
• Discussion on next steps including regaining Regional funding and resuming grant funding
• Accounts and Grants Summary for information
• Congratulatory letter for WRHF 50th Anniversary

The Foundation adopted a formal definition of heritage and approved a new Equity Funding Stream Policy. The board also agreed to delegate next steps for its strategic planning to the Administration and Finance Committee on June 4, 2024.

• Approved minutes from March 26, 2024 (Carried)
• Approved new definition of heritage dated April 23, 2024 (Carried)
• Approved proposed Equity Funding Stream as amended (Carried)
• Agreed to delegate strategic planning next steps to Administration and Finance Committee on June 4, 2024

Active Transportation Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee is meeting to approve minutes from March 19, 2024, and discuss several new business items, including a GRAAC information session, Victoria Street improvements (Fischer-Hallman Rd to Lawrence Ave), a Lancaster St W / Highway 85 ramp closure study, a region-wide committee discussion, a bicycle ride discussion, and a summary from the Ontario Bike Summit. The agenda is largely informational and discussion-focused, with no decisions or votes listed.

• Victoria Street Improvements (Fischer-Hallman Rd to Lawrence Ave) presentation
• Lancaster St W / Highway 85 Ramp Closure Study discussion
• GRAAC Information Session overview
• Ontario Bike Summit representative summary
• Approval of March 19, 2024 meeting minutes

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee endorsed the preliminary design for Victoria Street improvements from Fischer-Hallman Road to Lawrence Avenue. The committee also discussed the establishment of a region-wide transportation advisory committee and an upcoming ATAC bicycle ride.

• Approved minutes from March 19, 2024 (Carried)
• Endorsed Victoria Street Improvements design in principle, requesting improvements to the trail crossing near Hazelglen Drive (Carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:41 p.m. (Carried)

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee will consider several items, including a notice of motion to study a potential truck ban in downtown Ayr, authorization to expropriate lands for a roundabout, and approval of a brownfield tax increment grant. They will also receive information on the Region's 2022 greenhouse gas emissions inventory and a proposed road ownership transfer.

• Approve phasing of $4,285,430 Tax Increment Grant for 99-107 Roger St., Waterloo
• Authorize expropriation for roundabout at Roseville Rd and Edworthy Side Rd, North Dumfries
• Extend 50 km/h speed limit on Swan St. to Brant-Waterloo Rd
• Adopt revised Storm Sewer Cost Sharing Policy
• Notice of motion to study truck ban in downtown Ayr

The Committee authorized the expropriation of lands for a roundabout at Roseville Road and Edworthy Side Road. Other actions included approving a brownfield tax grant for Waterloo properties and updating the Regional Storm Sewer Cost Sharing Policy.

• Authorized land expropriation for a roundabout at Roseville Road and Edworthy Side Road (Carried)
• Approved phasing payments for a Tax Increment Grant up to $4,285,430 for 99, 103, and 107 Roger St., Waterloo (Carried)
• Adopted the revised Regional Storm Sewer Cost Sharing Policy dated February 29, 2024 (10-0)
• Extended 50km/h speed limit on Swan Street (Regional Road 58) to Brant-Waterloo Road (Carried)
• Deferred remaining Planning and Works and Administration and Finance agenda items to April 24 (10-0)

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will consider adopting the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness Final Report as the official regional plan. The agenda includes 18 delegations, most speaking in support of the plan. Staff are also recommended to develop a funding and advocacy strategy for the 2025 budget.

• Adoption of the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness Final Report (CSD-HOU-24-006)
• 18 delegations registered, most regarding the homelessness plan
• Staff directed to explore leasing 30 Christopher Drive, Cambridge and 104 Stirling Avenue South, Kitchener for culturally responsive Indigenous childcare
• Consent item: Paramedic Services 2023 Community Paramedicine Program report (PHP-PSV-24-003)
• Written correspondence from Barbara Hill, Adam Cressler, Cathy Baer

The Committee accepted a framework to end chronic homelessness by 2030 and directed staff to include area municipalities in developing a detailed funding and advocacy plan for the 2025 budget. The Committee also approved exploring the lease of two properties for Indigenous-led childcare spaces.

• Accepted in principle the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness Final Report (15-1)
• Directed staff to add area municipalities to the co-creators group for detailed funding and advocacy recommendations due by 2025 budget process (15-1)
• Approved directing staff to identify non-profit organizations to lease 30 Christopher Drive, Cambridge and 104 Stirling Avenue South, Kitchener for culturally responsive childcare (16-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items, including acknowledgment of Paramedic Services 2023 Community Paramedicine Program (16-0)
• Approved motion to enter closed session to discuss land acquisitions and personal matters (16-0)

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The board will consider a report on accounts and grants, approve minutes from February 27, 2024, and receive a verbal update from the Strategic Planning Committee. The meeting is largely procedural.

• Accounts and Grants Summary for information
• Approval of minutes from February 27, 2024
• Verbal update from Strategic Planning Committee (meeting held March 20, 2024)

The Foundation approved the minutes from February 27, 2024, and noted a remaining operating account balance of $110,058.85. The Board directed staff to create a document package for the Strategic Planning Committee prior to its next meeting.

• Approved February 27, 2024 meeting minutes
• Directed staff to create a document package for the Strategic Planning Committee

Council Meeting

Council will consider creating a Property Tax Exemption Program for Affordable Housing and a Multi-Unit Rental Acquisition Program to preserve existing affordable housing. A motion also directs staff to report on the scope of the drug overdose crisis in the region.

• Property Tax Exemption Program for Affordable Housing (report CSD-HOU-24-004)
• Multi-Unit Rental Acquisition Program to preserve existing affordable housing
• Increase of $1,542,836 to 2024 Homelessness and Supportive Housing Operating Budget
• Motion to report on drug overdose and addictions data by Q2 2024
• By-law to amend taxi meter fare maximum (By-Law 24-007)

Regional Council approved a $1.54M increase for the 2024 Homelessness and Supportive Housing budget and established a Property Tax Exemption Program for Affordable Housing. Council also directed staff to report on drug overdose and addiction issues by the end of Q2 2024. Several motions regarding provincial advocacy for consumption sites and water supply reports were defeated.

• Approved $1,542,836 increase to 2024 Homelessness and Supportive Housing Operating Budget (16-0)
• Approved Property Tax Exemption Program for Affordable Housing and By-Law 24-007 (16-0)
• Directed Public Health to report on drug overdose and addiction scope by end of 2024 Q2 (15-1)
• Approved creation of a Regulatory and Program Assistant position in Water Operations (15-0)
• Endorsed 2023 Drinking Water Summary Report and infrastructure maintenance plan (15-0)
• Defeated motion to block submission of Bill 162 water supply report to province (8-8)
• Defeated motion calling on Ontario to reopen Consumption and Treatment Site process (8-8)
• Deferred taxi by-law amendment to May 2, 2024 (15-1)

Active Transportation Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee will meet to discuss the Ainslie Street Reconstruction Project and receive a staff update on the Duke Street project in downtown Kitchener. The agenda also includes approval of previous minutes and a verbal overview of the Grand River Transit Severe Weather Plan.

• Ainslie Street Reconstruction Project (staff presentation)
• Duke Street Project from Frederick Street to Francis Street (staff update)
• Grand River Transit Severe Weather Plan (staff verbal overview)

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee endorsed a Regional Council resolution approving physically separated two-way cycle tracks along the west side of Duke Street (Regional Road 63) between Francis Street and Water Street, built by the City of Kitchener, with the Frederick to Water Street section to be revisited under the integrated mobility plan. The Committee also received a staff presentation on the Ainslie Street Reconstruction Project in Cambridge, estimated for completion by 2028, and a verbal overview of the Grand River Transit Severe Weather Plan. The February 20, 2024 minutes were approved, and the meeting adjourned at 5:51 p.m.

• Endorsed Regional Council resolution approving two-way cycle tracks on west side of Duke Street between Francis Street and Water Street (Carried)
• Directed that the Frederick to Water Street section be revisited as part of the integrated mobility plan with staff reporting back (Carried)
• Approved minutes of the February 20, 2024 meeting (Carried)
• Directed Staff to add an update on the Fischer-Hallman Road and Bearinger Road construction project to the Committee Tracking List
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:51 p.m. (Carried)

Public Art Advisory Committee

The committee will hear a staff presentation covering updates to the Terms of Reference, Public Art Policy, Langs Drive public art timeline, UW Fine Arts Exhibition, and the 'From Old Bones, New Life Begins' project. They will also approve minutes from January 22, 2024, and set the next meeting for May 13, 2024.

• Staff presentation on Terms of Reference update
• Public Art Policy update
• Langs Drive public art timeline
• UW Fine Arts Exhibition update
• Introduction to YKF Initiative

The Public Art Advisory Committee approved its January 22, 2024 minutes and received staff updates on several public art files. No formal decisions were made on the public art policy, the Langs Drive project timeline, or a proposed Indigenous exhibit at the airport; these were discussed and left for future meetings. A sub-committee of S. Smith, R. Gorbet and L. Angold volunteered to develop reconciliation, equity, diversity and inclusion (REDI) methodology for the policy. The meeting adjourned at 3:48 p.m., with the next meeting set for May 13, 2024.

• Approved minutes of the January 22, 2024 meeting (carried)
• Adjourned the meeting at 3:48 p.m. (carried)
• No reports and no other business were recorded
• Public art policy update received; no approval, targeted for August 2024
• Langs Drive public art timeline discussed; no decision, installation anticipated Summer 2026
• YKF Indigenous exhibit initiative introduced; concept plan to be reviewed with Indigenous community partners later in March 2024
• UW Fine Arts Exhibition artwork to be located in the Ayr library for one year beginning April 2024
• Sub-committee volunteers named to consult with the REDI team on policy methodology

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will consider two major affordable housing reports: one proposing a new Property Tax Exemption Program for affordable housing (repealing an old by-law), and another directing staff to explore a Multi-Unit Rental Acquisition Program and tenant displacement protections. The committee will also vote on an additional $1,542,836 in federal homelessness funding with no property tax impact, and receive updates on food safety, seniors' dental care, and paramedic response times.

• Property Tax Exemption Program for Affordable Housing (CSD-HOU-24-004) — repeals By-law 02-035, creates new program for 2025 taxation year
• Affordable Housing Policy and Program Incentives (CSD-HOU-24-003) — directs staff to explore rental acquisition program and right of first refusal policy
• Additional Reaching Home Funding of $1,542,836 for winter 2023-2024 unsheltered homelessness response (COR-CFN-24-001)
• Paramedic Services 2023 Response Time Performance Plan Results (PHP-PSV-24-001) — for information
• Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program Expansion Update (PHP-CFH-24-001) — for information

The Committee approved a new program to exempt regional and education property taxes for eligible affordable housing units. It also directed staff to explore a rental acquisition program and tenant protection policies to prevent displacement.

• Approved Property Tax Exemption for Affordable Housing Program and updated By-law (16-0)
• Approved $1,542,836 increase to 2024 Homelessness and Supportive Housing Operating Budget
• Directed staff to explore a Multi-Unit Rental Acquisition Program (16-0)
• Directed staff to explore renovation, conversion, and demolition rental housing protection policies (16-0)
• Requested federal and provincial governments establish acquisition programs for permanent affordable homes (16-0)
• Directed staff to assemble a Waterloo Region Housing Needs Assessment with area municipalities (16-0)

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee will consider endorsing the 2023 Drinking Water Summary Report, which includes a management review of the Drinking Water Quality Management System and an infrastructure maintenance plan update. The committee will also vote on creating a new full-time Regulatory and Program Assistant position in the Water Operations team to support the Petersburg (Knipfel) drinking water system. For information only, members will receive updates on the Blue Box transition and 2023 year-end ridership for Grand River Transit.

• Endorsement of 2023 Drinking Water Summary Report, DWQMS review, and infrastructure maintenance plan
• Creation of a new full-time Regulatory and Program Assistant position for the Petersburg (Knipfel) water system
• Blue Box Transition Details Update (for information)
• Grand River Transit 2023 year-end ridership update (for information)

The Committee endorsed the 2023 Drinking Water Summary Report, Quality Management System Review, and infrastructure maintenance plan. It also approved the creation of a new full-time Regulatory and Program Assistant position to support the Petersburg drinking water system.

• Endorsed 2023 Drinking Water Summary Report, Quality Management System Review, and infrastructure maintenance plan (14-0)
• Approved creation of one full-time equivalent Regulatory and Program Assistant position for Water Operations (14-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items (14-0)

Administration and Finance

The agenda is largely procedural, including a delegation on arts funding and a motion to enter closed session for legal and labour matters. No substantive decisions or proposals are listed.

• Delegation by Sam Nabi on Region of Waterloo Arts Fund and general municipal support for the arts
• Council/Correspondence Tracking List for information
• Motion to hold closed session for solicitor-client advice on land acquisition and labour relations

The Administration and Finance Committee met on March 5, 2024, with no substantive decisions on its open agenda. Members voted 15-0 to go into closed session to discuss solicitor-client privileged advice on a proposed land acquisition, labour relations, and regulatory issues, then voted 15-0 to reconvene in open session. The only open-session item was a delegation from Sam Nabi about the Region of Waterloo Arts Fund and its equity data; the committee received its tracking list for information. The meeting adjourned at 10:30 a.m.

• Approved closed session on land acquisition, labour relations, and regulatory advice (15-0)
• Approved reconvening into open session (15-0)
• Received Council/Committee Tracking List for information
• Approved second closed session for Planning and Works Committee on regulatory issues and land negotiations (15-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:30 a.m. (15-0)

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The board will receive a finance report on accounts and grants, approve minutes from January 23, 2024, and discuss the future of the Chair and Vice-Chair positions after a deferral at the previous meeting.

• Accounts and Grants Summary for information
• Approval of January 23, 2024 minutes
• Discussion on future Chair/Vice-Chair positions

The Board approved the minutes from January 23, 2024, and scheduled the Annual General Meeting for June 5, 2024. Staff were directed to seek legal advice regarding a proposed 'Heritage Definition' to ensure it aligns with the Foundation's Charter.

• Approved January 23, 2024 minutes (Carried)
• Confirmed Annual General Meeting for June 5, 2024
• Directed staff to contact legal regarding proposed 'Heritage Definition'
• Deferred Vice-Chair appointment to June 5, 2024

Council Meeting

Waterloo Regional Council will consider awarding an $11,771,530.55 tender to J-AAR Excavating Limited for the River Road/Bleams Road (Regional Road 56) Extension. The council will also vote on $840,603 in 2024 Key Cultural Institution grants, a taxi meter drop increase from $3.50 to $4.50, and a motion to collect outcome data from A Better Tent City. A delegation from A Better Tent City is scheduled to speak on outcomes and accountabilities.

• Tender award of $11,771,530.55 to J-AAR Excavating Limited for River Road/Bleams Road (Regional Road 56) Extension
• Approval of $840,603 in Key Cultural Institution grants: Kitchener Waterloo Art Gallery ($100,000), Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery ($93,587), Drayton Entertainment ($261,291), THEMUSEUM ($385,725)
• Taxi meter drop rate increase from $3.50 to $4.50, plus new 5-year accessible taxi fund disbursement program
• Motion to direct staff to collect outcomes, data, and metrics from A Better Tent City aligning with existing homelessness outreach agreements
• Extension of Every Child Matters bus mural through September 29, 2024

Council voted 16-0 to temporarily pause funding and administrative support to the Region of Waterloo Arts Fund, citing incidents of bullying and harassment of Regional staff and governance concerns, pending a third-party expert review. In a separate 14-1 vote (C. James declared a conflict), Council agreed to a temporary agreement with the Waterloo Region Community Foundation to collect, review and administer 2024 arts grant applications. Council also accepted an $11,771,530.55 tender from J-AAR Excavating Limited for the River Road/Bleams Road (Regional Road 56) Extension, approved $840,603 in 2024 Key Cultural Institutions grants, and raised the taxi meter drop rate from $3.50 to $4.50.

• Paused funding and administrative support to the Region of Waterloo Arts Fund pending a third-party expert review (16-0)
• Approved temporary agreement with Waterloo Region Community Foundation to administer 2024 arts grants (14-1, C. James declared conflict)
• Accepted J-AAR Excavating Limited tender for River Road/Bleams Road (Regional Road 56) Extension at $11,771,530.55 plus taxes
• Approved $840,603 in 2024 Key Cultural Institutions grants; $493,450 added cost funded from Tax Stabilization Reserve
• Increased taxi meter drop rate from $3.50 to $4.50 and approved new 5-year accessible taxi funding program (16-0)
• Approved rehabilitation design concept for West Montrose Covered Bridge in Township of Woolwich
• Reappointed Carrie Speers, Paula Saunders and Heather Clark-Harris to GRAAC for four-year terms ending December 31, 2028
• Extended Every Child Matters bus mural through September 29, 2024 (16-0)

Active Transportation Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee will receive a staff presentation on the Integrated Mobility Plan and discuss road reallocation projects. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and updates on committee tracking and organizational structure.

• Integrated Mobility Plan (IMP) introduction via staff presentation
• Road reallocation projects staff strategy discussion
• Approval of minutes from January 18, 2024 meeting
• Committee tracking list update
• Organizational structure update for 2023-2024

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee received a staff presentation on the Integrated Mobility Plan and discussed road reallocation to active transportation, but made no decisions on those items. The Committee approved a motion to support its Chair in seeking Regional funding to attend the 2024 Ontario Bike Summit, where the per-person cost is $626.00 and no Regional budget currently exists. It also approved a motion requesting Regional Transportation Staff to form a steering committee with area municipalities for a 2024 Region-wide Active Transportation Summit, to be hosted by the Region by the end of Q3. Both motions carried; the January 18, 2024 minutes were approved as amended (190,00 corrected to 190,000).

• Approved January 18, 2024 minutes as amended (190,00 corrected to 190,000) — Carried
• Approved supporting the Committee Chair in seeking Regional funding to attend the 2024 Ontario Bike Summit — Carried
• Approved requesting Regional Transportation Staff collaborate with area municipalities to form a steering committee for a 2024 Region-wide Active Transportation Summit, hosted by the Region by end of Q3 — Carried
• Adjourned at 6:40 p.m. — Carried

Licensing and Hearings

The Licensing and Hearings Committee is considering a report to amend taxi fares and update how accessibility funds are distributed. The proposal includes increasing the meter drop rate and adjusting funding for several accessibility programs over five years.

• Increase taxi meter drop rate from $3.50 to $4.50
• Increase Taxi Scrip program funds from $40,000/year to $55,000/year
• Increase Vehicle Conversion Project funding to $40,000 over 5 years
• Increase Fare Subsidy program support from $2.00/trip to $5.00/trip

The Committee approved an increase to the taxi meter drop rate and established a new five-year program to increase funding for accessible taxi services. Staff were also directed to review and recommend updates to the taxi cab by-law.

• Increased taxi meter drop rate from $3.50 to $4.50 (5-0)
• Increased Taxi Scrip program funds from $40,000/year to $55,000/year (5-0)
• Increased Vehicle Conversion Project funds from $10,000 per vehicle to $40,000 over 5 years (5-0)
• Increased Fare Subsidy program support from $2.00/trip to $5.00/trip (5-0)
• Directed staff to review taxi cab by-law and return with recommended updates

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will consider approving the Terms of Reference for the annual Community Capacity Building Fund and allocating $347,153 in 2024 funding under the Key Cultural Institutions grant program. Delegations from KW Oktoberfest, THEMUSEUM, and the Region of Waterloo Arts Fund are also scheduled.

• Approve Terms of Reference for the 2024 Community Capacity Building Fund
• Approve $347,153 in 2024 Key Cultural Institutions grant allocations
• Delegation from KW Oktoberfest providing an update
• Delegation from THEMUSEUM regarding Key Cultural Institution grants
• Delegation from Region of Waterloo Arts Fund on defunding of arts and culture

The Committee approved the Terms of Reference for the annual Community Capacity Building Fund. It also approved 2024 funding allocations for four key cultural institutions, including additional funding from the Tax Stabilization Reserve.

• Approved Terms of Reference for the annual Community Capacity Building Fund (16-0)
• Approved 2024 Key Cultural Institutions grant allocations totaling $840,603 (13-3)
• Allocated $100,000 to Kitchener Waterloo Art Gallery
• Allocated $93,587 to Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery
• Allocated $261,291 to Drayton Entertainment
• Allocated $385,725 to THEMUSEUM
• Approved funding additional costs of $493,450 from the Tax Stabilization Reserve (13-3)
• Directed staff to include an incremental $493,450 in the Preliminary 2025 Base Budget

Special Council

The Council is reviewing a deferred motion regarding the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness 2024 Budget Update. Members will decide how to allocate $10.2 million between priority activities and fee for service requests. The meeting also includes a summary from a previous Closed Council session.

• $10.2 million allocation for the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness
• Proposed $3.1 million for Fee for Service Requests
• By-Law 24-002 regarding meeting proceedings

The Region of Waterloo Council unanimously approved the purchase of 70-84 Victoria Street North in Kitchener for $19,750,000, authorizing $20,684,000 in debenture authority and capital program amendments. Council also defeated a previous motion regarding the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness and instead approved a new allocation plan that reduces fee-for-service requests by 10% to fund other homelessness initiatives.

• Approved purchase of 70-84 Victoria Street North, Kitchener for $19,750,000 (15-0)
• Authorized $20,684,000 debenture authority for property acquisition (15-0)
• Amended 2024-2033 Facilities Management Capital Program to add $20,684,000 (15-0)
• Defeated motion to allocate $10.2M equally across homelessness plan activities (0-15)
• Approved motion to reduce fee-for-service requests to $2.79M and allocate $7.42M to other homelessness items (15-0)
• Approved By-Law 24-002 confirming meeting proceedings (15-0)

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee will consider approving the recommended rehabilitation design for the West Montrose Covered Bridge in Woolwich Township, which would also trigger a 30-day public review of the Environmental Study Report. The committee will also receive updates on the shared micromobility program and new bus stop design guidelines, and hear a delegation from Neuron Mobility supporting the micromobility report.

• Project approval for West Montrose Covered Bridge rehabilitation (EES-DCS-24-002)
• Update on Shared Micromobility Program 2023 riding season (TSD-TRS-24-001)
• Grand River Transit Bus Stop Design Guidelines (TSD-TRS-24-003)
• Delegation from Neuron Mobility re: micromobility program
• Correspondence from Tony Dowling re: West Montrose Covered Bridge

The Planning and Works Committee approved the recommended rehabilitation design concept for the West Montrose Covered Bridge in the Township of Woolwich. The committee also directed staff to file the Notice of Completion for the Class Environmental Assessment Study and coordinate heritage by-law amendments.

• Approved West Montrose Covered Bridge rehabilitation design concept (15-0)
• Directed staff to file Notice of Completion for the Class Environmental Assessment Study (15-0)
• Directed staff to work with Township of Woolwich on Heritage Designation By-law 60-2007 amendments (15-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items (14-0)

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will discuss a report directing staff to explore developing community-based non-profit child care spaces on Regionally owned land, surplus lands, and in Waterloo Region Housing redevelopments. A notice of motion from Councillor M. Harris seeks to require A Better Tent City to report outcomes and metrics aligned with existing homelessness outreach agreements before receiving a $236,390 grant. The committee will also receive a report on the 2023 Infection Prevention and Control Inspection Program.

• Direct staff to explore non-profit child care spaces on Regionally owned land and surplus lands
• Direct consultation with area municipalities, school boards, and hospitals for affordable child care spaces
• Notice of motion to require A Better Tent City to provide outcome data before receiving $236,390 grant
• 2023 Infection Prevention and Control Inspection Program report for information

The Committee approved a plan to expand community-based non-profit child care by exploring the use of regionally owned lands, buildings, and housing redevelopments. A motion to require data and metrics from A Better Tent City was deferred to a later date.

• Approved directing staff to explore non-profit child care spaces on Regionally owned land, buildings, and surplus lands (15-0)
• Approved directing staff to consult partners to create affordable non-profit child care in under-utilized buildings and lands (15-0)
• Deferred motion to collect outcomes and metrics from A Better Tent City to February 21, 2024 (9-7)
• Approved Consent Agenda items (14-0)
• Approved motion to enter closed session for legal advice and appointment discussions (16-0)

Library Committee

The Library Committee will receive a report titled PDL-CUL-24-001, Library Service Review, for information. The agenda also includes a Council/Committee Tracking List for review. No decisions are scheduled; the meeting is primarily informational.

• PDL-CUL-24-001, Library Service Review (for information)
• Council/Committee Tracking List - Library Committee - Feb. 1, 2024

The Committee reviewed a report on the Library Service Review regarding governance, budgets, and collaboration between the Region and Townships. No formal votes were taken on the report. The Committee directed staff to schedule the next meeting for April 2024.

• Directed staff to schedule the next meeting for April 2024

Council Meeting

Council will consider approving the pre-budget procurement of 36 hybrid transit buses for $43.2 million and allocating $10.2 million to the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness. Other items include a new universal transit pass for Conestoga College students, a tender for utility work in Doon Village, and two notices of motion on affordable housing and regional governance.

• Procurement of 36 hybrid transit buses from Nova Bus Inc. for $43,181,964
• Allocation of $10.2 million for the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness 2024 budget
• New universal transit pass (U-Pass) program with Conestoga College and renewal of existing U-Pass agreements through August 2027
• Tender acceptance for Doon Village Utility Replacement to AVERTEX Utility Solutions Inc. for $1,233,656
• Notice of motion to include region-owned parking lots and vacant properties in affordable housing plans

Council approved the procurement of 36 hybrid buses and expanded transit agreements for students. A motion to include regionally owned parking lots and vacant properties in affordable housing plans was passed, while a budget update for the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness was deferred.

• Approved $43,181,964.00 procurement of 36 Hybrid transit Buses from Nova Bus Inc. (12-0)
• Approved design and $357,000 consulting increase for Conestoga College Transit Hub (12-0)
• Approved U-Pass program agreements and fee schedules through August 31, 2027 (12-0)
• Set 2024 target rate for Mobility Plus undelivered trips at 2.5% (12-0)
• Approved 90% total encumbrances for certain affordable housing projects (12-0)
• Approved addendum to 2023-2027 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (12-0)
• Wrote off $31,181.52 in accounts receivable for year ended Dec 31, 2023 (12-0)
• Deferred Plan to End Chronic Homelessness budget update to Feb 6, 2024 (7-5)

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation will consider adopting two grant funding application windows per year, with an allocated percentage of funding per window. The board will also vote on renewing its 2024 insurance policy at an annual premium of $2,707.56, a 19% increase from 2023. Other business includes electing a vice chair and discussing the annual general meeting.

• Proposal to switch to two grant application windows per year with allocated funding per window
• 2024 insurance policy renewal at $2,707.56 from Intact Insurance, up 19% from 2023
• Election of Vice Chair
• Accounts and grants summary for 2023 and 2024 presented for information
• Discussion of annual general meeting

The Board adopted a recommendation to allow two grant funding application windows per year, though the funding percentage for each window is not yet determined. The Board also approved the 2024 insurance portfolio renewal.

• Approved 2024 insurance portfolio from Intact Insurance for $2,707.56
• Adopted recommendation for two grant funding application windows per year
• Deferred election of Vice-Chair until February 27, 2024
• Approved November 28, 2023 meeting minutes

Public Art Advisory Committee

The Public Art Advisory Committee is meeting to approve minutes from December 18, 2023, and to discuss new business including an overview of the Public Art Reserve, a review of the Region's Public Art Policy, volunteer recruitment for a University of Waterloo art selection jury, and the Langs Drive Redevelopment Project's public art component. No decisions are listed on the agenda; items are for discussion or information.

• Approval of minutes from December 18, 2023
• Public Art Reserve overview
• Review of Region of Waterloo Public Art Policy
• Volunteers for University of Waterloo Art Selection Jury
• Langs Drive Redevelopment Project public art overview

The committee approved the December 18, 2023 meeting minutes. Members received information on the Public Art Reserve Fund and the Langs Drive Redevelopment Project, and discussed proposed revisions to the Public Art Policy.

• Approved minutes of December 18, 2023 (Carried)
• Formed a working group to discuss art disposition consisting of S. Luke, H. Franklin, S. Smith and R. Gorbet
• Selected S. Smith, C. Huinink and M. Purchase for the University of Waterloo Art selection jury

Active Transportation Advisory Committee

The Committee endorsed a preferred design for the Elgin St-Saginaw Pkwy/Franklin Blvd intersection featuring a roundabout and pedestrian grade separation. Staff provided updates on the shared micromobility program and a new mobile fare payment system RFP for Grand River Transit.

• Approved minutes from November 21, 2023 (Carried)
• Endorsed preliminary design Alternative 3 A for Elgin St-Saginaw Pkwy/Franklin Blvd intersection (Carried)

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will discuss a notice of motion directing staff to create a wind-down plan for the 1001 Erb's Rd. shelter, with relocation by April 2025. The agenda also includes a refinancing policy review for affordable housing and an update on infectious disease mobile outreach services.

• Notice of motion to direct staff to wind down and relocate the 1001 Erb's Rd. shelter by April 2025, with a report due May 2024
• Proposed housekeeping amendments to the Affordable Housing Refinancing Policy Framework, setting total encumbrances at 90% for affordable housing projects
• Delegation from Zayra Giulianna Sanguino on settlement and social development (withdrawn)
• Information item: 2023 Infectious Diseases Mobile Outreach Clinical Services report

The Committee approved a policy setting total encumbrances at 90% for affordable housing projects funded by the Region. Two motions regarding the relocation and wind-down plan for the 1001 Erb's Rd. shelter were defeated.

• Approved 90% total encumbrances for affordable housing projects (13-0)
• Authorized Commissioner of Community Services and CFO to execute refinancing agreements (13-0)
• Defeated motion to defer shelter motion pending wastewater report (3-11)
• Defeated motion to direct staff to create a relocation and wind-down plan for 1001 Erb's Rd. shelter by April 2025 (5-10)

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will consider approving an addendum to the 2023-2027 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan and writing off $31,181.52 in uncollectible accounts for 2023. No public presentations or delegations are scheduled. The meeting also includes a quarterly summary of tenders and consultant selections for information only.

• Approval of addendum to the 2023-2027 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan
• Write-off of uncollectible accounts totaling $31,181.52 for the year ended December 31, 2023
• Quarterly summary of tenders, quotations, and consultant selections approved by the Chief Administrative Officer (for information)

The Committee approved an addendum to the 2023-2027 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan. It also authorized the write-off of uncollectible accounts totaling $31,181.52 for the 2023 calendar year.

• Approved addendum to the 2023-2027 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (13-0)
• Approved write-off of $31,181.52 in uncollectible accounts for the year ended December 31, 2023
• Approved Consent Agenda items (13-0)

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee will consider approving the design concept for a new Grand River Transit hub at Conestoga College's Doon Campus and increasing a consulting contract by $357,000 for detailed design. The committee will also discuss renewing universal transit pass (U-Pass) agreements with local universities and Conestoga College through August 2027, with interim fee increases.

• Approve design concept for Conestoga College Transit Hub and increase Arcadis contract by $357,000 to $590,100
• Enter into U-Pass agreement with Conestoga College and renew agreements with UW, WLU, and Renison through 2027 with fee increases
• Notice of motion to set 2.5% target for undelivered Mobility Plus trips in 2024
• Notice of motion to accelerate Mobility Plus scheduling software upgrade
• Notice of motion to upload Oxford Road 5 from Wilmot Township to Region of Waterloo

The Planning and Works Committee approved the recommended design concept for the Conestoga College Transit Hub and increased a consulting contract with Arcadis Professional Services (Canada) Inc. by $357,000, to a revised upset limit of $590,100 plus taxes. The committee also approved a universal transit pass (U-Pass) agreement with Conestoga Students Incorporated and Conestoga College, and extended existing U-Pass agreements with several local universities and student associations through August 31, 2027. A motion to direct staff to report on re-implementing a waste management rebate for townhome complexes was defeated in a 7-7 tie. A motion on Oxford Road 5 was deferred to the March 5, 2024 meeting.

• Approved Conestoga College Transit Hub design concept (13-0)
• Increased Arcadis consulting contract by $357,000 to $590,100 upset limit (13-0)
• Approved U-Pass agreement with Conestoga Students Incorporated and Conestoga College through Aug 31, 2027 (carried)
• Extended existing U-Pass agreements with WLUSU, WLU GSA, WUSA, UW GSA, and Renison ELI through Aug 31, 2027 (carried)
• Approved interim U-Pass fee schedule and annual increases for 2025/26 and 2026/27 (carried)
• Set Mobility Plus undelivered trip target at 2.5% for 2024 (13-0)
• Directed staff to report back on accelerating Mobility Plus scheduling software upgrade (14-0)
• Deferred Oxford Road 5 motion to March 5, 2024 (14-0, 1 conflict)