Stratford public meetings in 2024

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee

The Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee is meeting to review reports and recommendations regarding the development of the Grand Trunk Building. The session includes presentations on business planning, environmental remediation, and findings from various working groups.

• Presentation by Mark Conway of NBLC on moving from a Master Plan to a Business Plan
• Q&A on environmental remediation options with the Director of Infrastructure Services and WSP
• Review of GTR Staff Report Key Recommendations
• Status report and recommendations from the Partnership Working Group
• Reports from Vision, Planning & Architecture and Infrastructure & Environment working groups

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee is meeting to receive several staff reports. These include updates on emergency purchases for infrastructure failures and corporate emissions data.

• Dunn Road Well Failure Emergency Purchase Update Report (ITS24-020)
• Stratford Water Pollution Control Plant Primary Digester Roof Failure Update Report (ITS24-023)
• Annual Corporate Greenhouse Gas Emissions – 2023 (COU24-021)
• Stratford Landfill Public Input Invite November 2024 (ITS24-022)

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee met for four minutes and received four reports for information, with no substantive decisions made. Reports covered 2023 corporate greenhouse gas emissions, the Dunn Road well failure emergency purchase, the Water Pollution Control Plant primary digester roof failure, and public input on the landfill. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Received 2023 corporate greenhouse gas emissions report for information (carried)
• Received Dunn Road well failure emergency purchase update report (carried)
• Received WPCP primary digester roof failure update report (carried)
• Received Stratford Landfill public input report for information (carried)

Regular Council

Council will consider a rezoning of 3980 Road 111 to a Residential Fourth Density Zone, an Official Plan amendment to Medium Density Residential, and a draft subdivision plan for the same site. The meeting also includes amendments to the Industrial Land Prices Policy that raise acre prices in Crane West and Wright Business Parks. A public hearing will be scheduled to discuss fee increases under Building By‑law 112‑2005 effective Feb 1 2025. Several resolutions will be voted on, including animal services agreement renewal, a bedding‑plant tender, and a heritage designation for 15 Huron Street.

• Industrial Land Prices Policy: acre price increases from $250,000 to $350,000 for Lots 2‑4 in Crane West Business Park and for 105 Wright Blvd. and a 4.7‑acre parcel in Wright Business Park; non‑developable land price increase from $40,000 to $60,000 per acre.
• Rezoning and Official Plan amendment for 3980 Road 111: Zoning By‑law amendment to Residential Fourth Density Zone (R4) and Official Plan amendment to Medium Density Residential, plus Draft Plan of Subdivision 31T22‑001.
• Public hearing on Building By‑law 112‑2005 fee schedule: proposed increase in all building permit fees effective February 1 2025.
• Animal Control and Pound Services Agreement renewal with The Humane Society of Kitchener‑Waterloo & Stratford‑Perth for Jan 1 2025 – Dec 31 2028.
• Bedding Plant Tender award to Ontario Oasis for $113,001.60 per year (including HST).

Council deferred approval of the draft plan of subdivision, zoning by-law amendment, and official plan amendment for 3980 Road 111 to obtain more information on affordable housing units and green initiatives. Other decisions included approving a 2025 interim tax levy, temporary borrowing, and several service contracts. Council also approved a notice of intent to designate 15 Huron Street under the Ontario Heritage Act.

• Deferred zoning, official plan, and draft plan for 3980 Road 111 (68 townhouses) for affordable housing and green initiatives info
• Approved 2025 interim tax levy by-law
• Approved 2025 temporary borrowing by-law
• Approved animal control agreement with Humane Society of Kitchener-Waterloo & Stratford-Perth (2025-2028)
• Awarded bedding plant tender to Ontario Oasis ($113,001.60/year, 2025-2028)
• Awarded tree removal and stump tenders to Tree Tech ($66,735.54 and $11,342.94) and pruning to Lange Bros. (up to $257,075)
• Approved notice of intent to designate 15 Huron Street (Shakespearean Gardens) under Ontario Heritage Act
• Approved 5-year lease extension for 100 St. Patrick Street (Justice Building) with Ontario

Finance and Labour Relations Committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee will receive for information the financial results of Festival Hydro Inc. and Festival Hydro Services Inc. for the periods ended June 30, 2024 and September 30, 2024. It will also receive the Third Quarter (Q3) 2024 Operating Variance Report as of September 30, 2024. No other decisions or actions are listed on the agenda.

• Festival Hydro Inc. financial results for period ended June 30, 2024 – received for information
• Festival Hydro Inc. financial results for period ended September 30, 2024 – received for information
• Festival Hydro Services Inc. financial results for period ended June 30, 2024 – received for information
• Festival Hydro Services Inc. financial results for period ended September 30, 2024 – received for information
• Third Quarter (Q3) 2024 Operating Variance Report as at September 30, 2024 – received for information

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee received for information the Festival Hydro Inc. and Festival Hydro Services Inc. financial results for Q2 and Q3 2024, and the Third Quarter 2024 Operating Variance Report. No substantive decisions were made; all items were received as information only.

• Received Festival Hydro Inc. financial results for periods ended June 30 and September 30, 2024 (carried)
• Received Festival Hydro Services Inc. financial results for periods ended June 30 and September 30, 2024 (carried)
• Received Third Quarter 2024 Operating Variance Report as at September 30, 2024 (carried)

Committee of the Whole In-camera

The Committee of the Whole will meet in‑camera to review two confidential reports. One report (CM‑24‑13) provides an update on the affordable housing purchase proposal. The other report (CM‑24‑14) concerns a shared services agreement. No decisions are recorded on the agenda; the items are for discussion only.

• Confidential Report CM‑24‑13 – Affordable Housing Purchase Proposal Update
• Confidential Report CM‑24‑14 – Shared Services Agreement

The Committee of the Whole held an in-camera session on December 16, 2024, to discuss two confidential reports: an affordable housing purchase proposal update and a shared services agreement. No substantive decisions were made in open session; the only action was a motion to adjourn into the closed session, which was carried.

• Adjourned to in-camera session to discuss affordable housing purchase proposal update (carried)
• Adjourned to in-camera session to discuss shared services agreement (carried)

Finance and Labour Relations Committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee will receive a Treasurer update on the draft 2025 budget, hear public comments on that budget, consider a sponsorship request from Here For Now Theatre, and deliberate the draft 2025 budget items including expansion initiatives. The Committee will also set a date for the next budget meeting.

• Treasurer update on the draft 2025 budget
• Public comments on the draft 2025 budget (open forum)
• Sponsorship request from Here For Now Theatre for a Super Star sponsor ($10‑15,000)
• Draft 2025 budget deliberations – expansion initiatives and continued budget items
• Decision on date for the upcoming budget meeting

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee reviewed the draft 2025 budget, adding several expansion requests including a Supervisor of By-Law and two vehicles for by-law enforcement. A motion to use $750,000 from the Tax Stabilization Fund to offset the levy was defeated, as was a motion to reduce community grants by $325,000. The committee also deferred a sponsorship request for Here For Now Theatre to the Community Grants Evaluation Committee.

• Added Supervisor of By-Law expansion request to 2025 Budget (carried)
• Added two vehicles for By-Law to 2025 Budget (carried)
• Referred split Communication Coordinator/Community Energy Liaison position to staff for grant review (carried)
• Referred Backflow Prevention Officer expansion request to staff for program overview (carried)
• Added Supervisor, Financial Services expansion request to 2025 Budget (carried)
• Defeated motion to use $750,000 from Tax Stabilization Fund to offset levy (defeated)
• Defeated motion to reduce Community Grants by $325,000 (5-5 tie, defeated)
• Deferred Here For Now Theatre sponsorship request to Community Grants Evaluation Committee (carried)

Finance and Labour Relations Committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee is meeting to review the draft 2025 budget, including the operating budget and capital program. The session includes a report on public engagement outcomes and an open forum for public comments on the budget.

• Summary of Public Engagement Initiatives and Outcomes for Budget 2025 (FIN24-036)
• Draft Capital Program discussion
• Draft Operating Budget discussion
• Expansion Initiatives discussion
• Open forum for public comments on the draft 2025 budget

Stratford's Finance and Labour Relations Committee spent December 3, 2024 reviewing the draft 2025 capital and operating budgets and voted on a series of expansion requests. The committee approved adding several items to the 2025 budget, including $150,000 for the Community Improvement Plan - Attainable Housing Funding Expansion and $150,000 for Destination Stratford - Lights On, both funded from the Municipal Accommodation Tax Reserve, plus an additional mobility bus, two electronic message board trailers, a water meter technician, a by-law enforcement officer, a policy and placemaking supervisor, six permanent part-time recreation/facility operators, an Ontario Works caseworker, facilities plumber and electrician positions with vehicles, and a community emergency management training exercise. It defeated motions to add a Community Energy Liaison pilot and a Project Manager, and referred several items to staff, including a review of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Division's organizational structure, the Community Grants Program, transit cost-per-ride and evening service expansion, and the HRIS. The minutes record no final tax rate decision; discussion noted the draft budget was a 5.8% municipal tax increase with a goal to keep it under 5%.

• Approved adding Community Improvement Plan - Attainable Housing Funding Expansion to 2025 Budget, funded with $150,000 from Municipal Accommodation Tax Reserve (Carried)
• Approved Destination Stratford - Lights On Expansion using $150,000 from Municipal Accommodation Tax Reserve (Carried)
• Approved investStratford - Grand Trunk Project Specialists/Support Expansion, funded from GTCH Reserve (Carried)
• Approved Additional Mobility Bus Expansion for 2025 Budget (Carried)
• Approved two Electronic Message Board Trailers for 2025 Budget (Carried)
• Approved Water Meter Technician Expansion for 2025 Budget (Carried)
• Approved By-Law Enforcement Officer Expansion for 2025 Budget (Carried)
• Referred DEI Division organizational structure review to staff (Carried)

Finance and Labour Relations Committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee is meeting to discuss the draft 2025 Budget. The session includes a treasurer's overview, department presentations, and reports from outside boards. Members will consider the draft capital program, operating budget, and expansion initiatives.

• Review of draft 2025 Operating Budget
• Review of draft 2025 Capital Program
• Discussion of budget expansion initiatives
• Presentations from Stratford Police Services, Public Library, Destination Stratford, and investStratford
• Presentation of the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority 2025 Draft Budget

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee reviewed the draft 2025 budget, which proposes a 5.8% residential tax rate increase (about $338 annually for an average home) and 119 capital projects totaling about $37 million. No final decisions were made; the committee defeated a motion to remove a public announcement and sound system from the recreation capital budget, and a motion to remove parking projects lacked a seconder. Operating budget and expansion initiatives were deferred to the December 3, 2024 meeting.

• Defeated motion to remove Item C.3.13 (Public Announcement and Sound System) from 2025 Facilities - Recreation Capital Budget
• Motion to remove Smart Parking Project and Comprehensive Parking Management System from 2025 Parking Services Capital Budget failed (no seconder)
• Deferred discussion of Draft Operating Budget to December 3, 2024 meeting
• Deferred discussion of Expansion Initiatives to December 3, 2024 meeting

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub‑committee will receive four reports for information: the 2023 corporate greenhouse gas emissions, an emergency purchase update on the Dunn Road well failure, an update on the primary digester roof failure at the Stratford Water Pollution Control Plant, and a public‑input invitation for the Stratford Landfill. The meeting also includes a department update on engineering activities and sets the next sub‑committee meeting for January 29, 2025.

• Annual Corporate Greenhouse Gas Emissions – 2023 (ITS24‑021) – received for information
• Dunn Road Well Failure – Emergency Purchase Update (ITS24‑020) – received per purchasing policy
• Stratford Water Pollution Control Plant primary digester roof failure update (ITS24‑023) – received per purchasing policy
• Stratford Landfill Public Input Invite November 2024 (ITS24‑022) – received for information
• Department update on engineering division activities (posted on city website)

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee received four reports for information, including updates on 2023 corporate greenhouse gas emissions, the Dunn Road well failure emergency purchase, the Water Pollution Control Plant primary digester roof failure, and a landfill public input invite. No substantive decisions were made; all items were received as information or as per purchasing policy.

• Received annual corporate greenhouse gas emissions report for information (carried)
• Received Dunn Road well failure emergency purchase update as per Purchasing Policy P.5.1 (carried)
• Received WPCP primary digester roof failure update as per Purchasing Policy P.5.1 (carried)
• Received landfill public input invite for information (carried)

Committee of the Whole In-camera

The provided agenda contains only procedural software placeholders and no specific business items, decisions, or discussion topics.

The Committee of the Whole adjourned to an in-camera session to discuss two confidential land matters: the 2024 annual review of the City Industrial Land Pricing Policy (CM-24-11) and a proposed acquisition, disposition, and development of the Grand Trunk Site (CM-24-12). Councillor Sebben requested that Item 4.1 be deferred to the December 16th Regular Council meeting, and the motion to split was carried. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Adjourned to in-camera session to discuss land pricing policy review (CM-24-11) and Grand Trunk Site acquisition/disposition (CM-24-12)
• Deferred Item 4.1 (Industrial Land Pricing Policy) to December 16th Regular Council meeting (motion carried)

Regular Council

Stratford City Council will review the 2025 Water and Wastewater Rate Study and Financial Plans, appoint a new Integrity Commissioner, and discuss the Erie Street Parking Lot development options.

• Council to consider 2025 water and wastewater rate changes
• Appointment of Integrity Commissioner to Boghosian + Allen LLP
• Erie Street Parking Lot Development Options report
• Council Remuneration Review authorized
• Exemption to Noise Control By-law for Winter Wander-land event

Stratford City Council appointed Boghosian + Allen LLP as the City's Integrity Commissioner through 2026 and authorized a 10-year dark fibre lease agreement with Rhyzome Networks. Council also directed staff to develop a Request for Expression of Interest for the Erie Street Parking Lot and supported applying for climate adaptation funding. Additionally, an appointment motion for the Stratfords of the World Advisory Committee failed in a 5-6 recorded vote.

• Received 2024 Water and Wastewater Rate Study and Financial Plan for information
• Directed staff to develop a Request for Expression of Interest for Erie Street Parking Lot development
• Authorized staff to apply for Federation of Canadian Municipalities Climate-Ready Plans and Processes funding
• Awarded RFP-2024-22 for Integrity Commissioner Services to Boghosian + Allen LLP through December 31, 2026
• Approved Draft 2022 Audited Financial Statements
• Approved reserve and reserve fund policy amendments, including HR Contingency Reserve targets and Cemetery Reserve Fund closure
• Approved revised Travel and Conference Expense Policy (T.2.1 and T.2.2 replaced)
• Authorized 10-Year Dark Fibre Lease Agreement with Rhyzome Networks

Social Services Committee

The Stratford Social Services Committee will receive two management reports – an update on the Provincial Centralized Intake Initiative (SOC24-013) and an EarlyON Service Provider Transition Update (SOC24-014) – for information. It will also review September 2024 monthly infographics on Children’s Services, Homelessness, Housing, and Ontario Works. No decisions or approvals are being made beyond accepting the reports for information.

• Receive the “Update on the Provincial Centralized Intake Initiative” (SOC24-013) report for information
• Receive the “EarlyON Service Provider Transition Update” (SOC24-014) report for information
• Review the September 2024 Monthly Children’s Services Report (AODA)
• Review the September 2024 Monthly Homelessness Report (AODA)
• Review the September 2024 Monthly Housing Report (AODA)

The Stratford Social Services Committee received updates on the Provincial Centralized Intake Initiative and EarlyON service provider transition. The committee also directed staff to develop an advocacy letter regarding reserved low-income spaces on child care waitlists, and adjourned the meeting.

• Received update on the Provincial Centralized Intake Initiative (SOC24-013)
• Received EarlyON Service Provider Transition Update (SOC24-014)
• Referred the development of a letter advocating for reserved spaces for low income families to staff
• Adjourned the meeting

Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee is meeting to receive several financial updates. The session focuses on reviewing quarterly performance reports for the city and its utility services.

• Festival Hydro Inc. and Festival Hydro Services Inc. Q2 and Q3 updates (FIN24-033)
• Third Quarter (Q3) 2024 Operating Variance Report as at September 30, 2024 (FIN24-034)

The Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee received for information the Q2 and Q3 2024 financial results for Festival Hydro Inc. and Festival Hydro Services Inc., and the Q3 2024 Operating Variance Report. No substantive decisions were made; all items were received as information only.

• Received Festival Hydro Inc. financial results for periods ended June 30 and September 30, 2024 (carried)
• Received Festival Hydro Services Inc. financial results for periods ended June 30 and September 30, 2024 (carried)
• Received Q3 2024 Operating Variance Report as at September 30, 2024 (carried)

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee

The Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee is reviewing environmental remediation, parking considerations, and brownfield status for the Grand Trunk Renewal project. The meeting includes reports from several working groups and a staff update on the Q3 and Q4 work plan.

• Brownfield considerations presentation by David Kusturin of Waterfront Toronto
• Environmental remediation and parking considerations report from CAO Joan Thompson and Director Taylor Crinklaw
• Letter from the Stratford Arts and Culture Collective
• Reports from Partnership, Vision Planning & Architecture, Communications, and Infrastructure & Environment working groups
• Staff update on the GTR Q3_Q4 Work Plan

The Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee heard presentations on brownfield remediation (from Waterfront Toronto's David Kusturin) and a proposed arts/culture space (from the Stratford Arts and Culture Collective), and received updates from working groups. No substantive decisions were made; the committee adopted previous minutes, approved a delegation, and adjourned. A staff report on the Grand Trunk project is scheduled for the November 25 Council meeting.

• Adopted October 21, 2024 minutes (carried)
• Approved delegation by Robert Ritz (carried)
• Adjourned meeting (carried)

Social Services Sub-committee

The Social Services Sub‑committee will consider a staff‑recommended motion to receive the "Update on the Provincial Centralized Intake Initiative" report for information. It will also review September 2024 monthly reports on Children’s Services, Homelessness, Housing, and Ontario Works. The meeting concludes with scheduling the next sub‑committee session for January 2025.

• Motion to receive the "Update on the Provincial Centralized Intake Initiative" report (SOC24‑013) for information
• Presentation of the September 2024 Monthly Children’s Services Report
• Presentation of the September 2024 Monthly Homelessness Report
• Presentation of the September 2024 Monthly Housing Report
• Presentation of the September 2024 Monthly Ontario Works Report

The Social Services Sub-committee received an information report on the Provincial Centralized Intake Initiative, which shifts Ontario Works application processing to the provincial IBAU. The report was received for information, with no formal decisions made. The sub-committee also received department updates on housing, homelessness, and childcare.

• Received report SOC24-013 on Provincial Centralized Intake Initiative (carried)
• Adjourned meeting (carried)

Regular Council

Stratford City Council will vote on a resolution to initiate the intent to declare 270 Water Street surplus while maintaining its heritage designations. The meeting also includes approvals for the Destination Stratford Board nomination, the 2025 council and committee schedule, a five‑year renewal of the Stratford Hockey Club agreement, and a one‑day free transit waiver on November 26, 2024. Additional items are appointments to several advisory committees and the reading of two by‑laws.

• Resolution to consider intent to declare 270 Water Street surplus (COU24-133)
• Resolution appointing a council member to the Destination Stratford Board of Directors (COU24-138)
• Resolution approving the 2025 Council, Committee and Sub‑committee meeting schedule (COU24-127)
• Resolution renewing the Stratford Hockey Club agreement for five years to August 30, 2029 (COU24-131)
• Resolution authorizing a free transit day on November 26, 2024 (COM24-007)

Council authorized starting the process to declare 270 Water Street surplus, with intent to maintain heritage designations, and approved a five-year renewal of the Stratford Hockey Club's arena agreement. Several advisory committee appointments were made, and a free transit day was authorized for November 26, 2024. A resolution urging provincial action on rural road safety was also passed.

• Authorized surplus process for 270 Water Street (Carried)
• Approved 5-year Stratford Hockey Club arena agreement renewal (Carried)
• Approved 2025 Council meeting schedule (Carried)
• Authorized 3-year Poet Laureate pilot program (Carried)
• Appointed members to multiple advisory committees (Carried)
• Authorized free transit day on Nov 26, 2024 (Carried)
• Passed resolution urging provincial rural road safety program (Carried)
• Adopted minutes of Oct 28, 2024 (Carried)

Finance and Labour Relations Committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee is meeting to discuss the process for reviewing Council pay and a report on property subclasses. The committee will consider authorizing the Director of Corporate Services to proceed with a remuneration review.

• Council Remuneration Review (FIN24-032) and potential repeal of By-law 20-98
• Report on New Multi-Residential Property Subclass (FIN24-031)

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee authorized the Director of Corporate Services to proceed with a Council Remuneration Review, as outlined in Option 1 of report FIN24-032. Upon receipt and approval of the final report by Council, the Clerk will prepare a new Council Remuneration By-law and repeal By-law 20-98. The committee also received a report on a new multi-residential property subclass for information. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Authorized Council Remuneration Review (FIN24-032) (carried)
• Directed Clerk to prepare new Council Remuneration By-law and repeal By-law 20-98 (carried)
• Received report on New Multi-Residential Property Subclass (FIN24-031) for information (carried)

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee will review a request from the Downtown Stratford BIA for an exemption to Noise Control By-law 113-79 for the Winter Wander‑land event scheduled for December 1, 2024 in Market Square. The exemption would permit louder sound, use of loudspeakers, and loading/unloading during the event from 11:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The committee will also receive the October 30 sub‑committee minutes and a departmental update. No other items are on the agenda.

• Noise By-law 113-79 exemption request for Winter Wander‑land event, Market Square, Dec 1 2024, 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m., covering Unreasonable Noise, loudspeakers, and loading/unloading
• Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub‑committee minutes from October 30 2024 attached for background
• Department update posted on the City’s Engineering Division webpage

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee approved a request from the Downtown Stratford BIA for an exemption to Noise Control By-law 113-79 for the Winter Wander-land event on December 1, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Market Square. The exemption covers unreasonable noise, loudspeaker operation, and loading/unloading provisions. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was brief and procedural.

• Approved noise by-law exemption for Winter Wander-land event (carried)

Committee of the Whole In-camera

The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and software interface elements. There are no specific decisions, proposals, or discussion items listed.

The Committee of the Whole held an in-camera session on November 12, 2024, to discuss confidential items, including a litigation update and advisory committee applications. No substantive decisions were made in open session; the only action was the motion to adjourn into the closed session, which was carried.

• Adjourned to in-camera session to discuss litigation update and advisory committee applications (carried)

Committee of the Whole In-camera

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss a confidential report from the Chief Administrative Officer. The session is closed to the public to address solicitor-client privilege and negotiation strategies.

• Confidential Report of the Chief Administrative Officer regarding a Shared Services Agreement (CM-24-03)

The Committee of the Whole met in-camera on November 6, 2024, and unanimously voted to adjourn into a closed session to discuss a confidential report on a Shared Services Agreement (CM-24-03). The discussion was held under solicitor-client privilege and negotiation strategy exemptions. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Adjourned to in-camera session to discuss Shared Services Agreement (CM-24-03) (carried)

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub‑committee will consider a request from the Downtown Stratford BIA for an exemption to Noise Control By‑law 113‑79 for the Winter Wander‑land event scheduled for Sunday, December 1, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The exemption seeks relief from provisions on unreasonable noise, loudspeaker operation, and loading/unloading. The meeting will also include a departmental update and routine items such as call to order and the next meeting date.

• Noise By‑law exemption request for Winter Wander‑land event (Dec 1, 2024, 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m.) – relief from provisions on unreasonable noise, loudspeakers, and loading/unloading
• Department update on ongoing projects (to be posted on the Engineering Division page)
• No delegations scheduled for this meeting
• No advisory committee or outside board minutes to review
• Next sub‑committee meeting set for November 27, 2024, at 4:30 p.m.

The sub-committee approved a noise by-law exemption for the Downtown Stratford BIA's Winter Wander-land event on December 1, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in Market Square. The exemption covers unreasonable noise, loudspeaker operation, and loading/unloading provisions. No other decisions were made; the meeting included only a staff update and adjournment.

• Approved noise by-law exemption for Winter Wander-land event (carried)

Community Services Committee

The Community Services Committee will discuss a recommendation to waive transit fares for one day on November 26, 2024. If approved, the financial transaction will be recorded as an interfunctional transfer. The meeting will also include department updates for August and September 2024 and will receive minutes from the Community Services Sub‑committee and the Communities in Bloom Advisory Committee for information.

• Proposed Free Transit Day – waive fares on Nov 26 2024, record transaction interfunctionally
• Community Services Sub‑committee minutes (Oct 17 2024)
• Community Services department updates – August 2024 and September 2024
• Communities in Bloom Advisory Committee minutes – June 5 2024 and July 4 2024

The committee recommended waiving transit fares for one day on November 26, 2024, with the financial transaction recorded as interfunctional. The motion was carried. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was brief and procedural.

• Approved free transit day on Nov. 26, 2024, waiving fares (carried)

Regular Council

The council adopted the October 15 minutes and approved three separate tenders for the Boathouse roof membrane, railing, and interlocking paver system, with total costs of $105,997.39, $129,743.21, and $27,484.99 respectively. It also directed the implementation of Respectful Workplace Policy Option 1 and adopted the Public Conduct Policy. Council members appointed a Deputy Mayor for the 2024‑2026 term and passed by‑laws authorizing the Boathouse contracts.

• Tender award to Grand Valley Roofing & Coatings Inc. for Boathouse roof membrane ($105,997.39, including HST)
• Tender award to Kee Safety Ltd. for Boathouse railing ($129,743.21, including HST)
• Tender award to A Touch of Dutch Landscaping and Garden Services Ltd. for Boathouse interlocking paver system ($27,484.99, including HST)
• Resolution to implement Respectful Workplace Policy Option 1 and adopt the Public Conduct Policy
• Appointment of a Deputy Mayor for the term November 14 2024 to November 14 2026

Council awarded three tenders for the Boathouse: roofing to Grand Valley Roofing & Coatings Inc. ($105,997.39), railing to Kee Safety Ltd. ($129,743.21), and interlocking pavers to A Touch of Dutch Landscaping and Garden Services Ltd. ($27,484.99), funded from the Recreation Capital Reserve Fund. Council also approved Option 1 of the Respectful Workplace Policy review, splitting the current policy into three separate policies and adopting a Public Conduct Policy (7-2). Councillor Nijjar was appointed Deputy Mayor for the remainder of the term (November 14, 2024 to November 14, 2026). The Avon Trail's request to blaze the Stratford Side Trail was approved.

• Awarded roofing tender to Grand Valley Roofing & Coatings Inc. ($105,997.39)
• Awarded railing tender to Kee Safety Ltd. ($129,743.21)
• Awarded paver tender to A Touch of Dutch Landscaping and Garden Services Ltd. ($27,484.99)
• Approved Respectful Workplace Policy Option 1 (split into three policies, adopt Public Conduct Policy) (7-2)
• Appointed Councillor Nijjar as Deputy Mayor for 2024-2026
• Approved Avon Trail blazing request for Stratford Side Trail
• Endorsed resolution from Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury on Ontario Deposit Return Program
• Passed By-laws 125-2024 to 127-2024 (boathouse contracts) and 128-2024 (confirmatory)

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee will hear a delegation regarding the development of a men's homeless shelter. The body will also receive a report on the 2025 provincial allocation for Ontario Works and review August 2024 department updates.

• Delegation from Kyle Alexander Dewdney regarding a men's homeless shelter
• Report SOC24-012: Ontario Works 2025 Provincial Allocation
• August 2024 Monthly Homelessness Report
• August 2024 Monthly Housing Report
• August 2024 Monthly Children's Services and Ontario Works Reports

The committee received the Ontario Works 2025 Provincial Allocation report for information, with no substantive decisions made. A scheduled delegation was deferred because the delegate was absent. The meeting adjourned after procedural items.

• Received Ontario Works 2025 Provincial Allocation report for information (carried)
• Deferred delegation request by Kyle Alexander Dewdney to a future meeting
• Adjourned meeting (carried)

Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee

The sub‑committee will consider a staff recommendation to authorize the Director of Corporate Services to continue the Council Remuneration Review and, after the final report is approved, direct the Clerk to draft a new Council Remuneration By‑law and repeal By‑law 20‑98. It will also receive the report on a new multi‑residential property subclass for information only. The meeting includes standard items such as a call to order, disclosure of pecuniary interests, and setting the next meeting for November 19 2024.

• Authorize continuation of Council Remuneration Review (Option 1)
• Direct preparation of new Council Remuneration By‑law and repeal By‑law 20‑98
• Receive New Multi‑Residential Property subclass report (information)
• Schedule next Finance and Labour Relations Sub‑committee meeting for 19 Nov 2024
• Adjourn the sub‑committee meeting

The Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee recommended that the Director of Corporate Services proceed with a Council Remuneration Review (FIN24-032), and that upon approval of the final report, the Clerk prepare a new remuneration by-law to repeal By-law 20-98. The sub-committee also received for information a report on the new multi-residential property subclass (FIN24-031), discussing its potential impacts on tax classes and housing funding. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended proceeding with Council Remuneration Review (FIN24-032) (carried)
• Recommended preparing new Council Remuneration By-law and repealing By-law 20-98 (carried)
• Received report on New Multi-Residential Property Subclass (FIN24-031) for information (carried)

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee

The Ad‑Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee will adopt the September 16, 2024 minutes and receive reports from its working groups on partnership, vision and planning, real estate, communications, and infrastructure. It will hear a United Housing presentation titled “Uniting our Community to Address the Housing Crisis.” The agenda also includes review of a draft Indigenous Engagement Strategy, an update on Grand Trunk environmental remediation, and a proposal for tours of the Grand Trunk site.

• Adopt September 16, 2024 meeting minutes
• United Housing presentation on the housing crisis (Ryan Erb and Kathy Vassilakos)
• Draft Grand Trunk Indigenous Engagement Strategy (working draft V1)
• Grand Trunk Environmental Remediation status update
• Proposal for tours of the Grand Trunk site

Community Services Sub-committee

The Community Services Sub-committee is meeting to discuss transit services and community requests. The body will consider a staff recommendation to waive transit fares for one day and hear a request regarding a memorial bench.

• Proposed Free Transit Day on November 26, 2024 (Report COM24-007)
• Delegation request from Andrew Blake for a memorial bench for Mervyn "Butch" Blake
• Review of Communities in Bloom Advisory Committee minutes from June 5 and July 4, 2024

The Community Services Sub-committee recommended authorizing a free transit day on November 26, 2024, to observe World Transit Day. The committee also agreed to refer a resident's request for a memorial bench honoring a former Stratford Festival actor to city staff for further investigation. No vote tallies were recorded for these decisions.

• Andrew Blake permitted to speak (Carried)
• Request for memorial bench referred to staff for investigation (Carried)
• Free Transit Day on Nov 26, 2024 recommended for authorization (Carried)
• Meeting adjourned (Carried)

Regular Council

Stratford City Council will adopt the September 23, 2024 minutes and hear a presentation from the Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario. The council will then consider several resolutions, including a zone‑change for 93 Trinity Street, a $3 million Connecting Links grant application for Huron Street Phase 2, and other land‑use, housing and by‑law matters.

• Resolution – Zone Change Application Z01-24 for 93 Trinity Street (factory district to residential R5(3) zone)
• Resolution – Connecting Link Program 2025‑2026 application for $3,000,000 grant for Huron Street Phase 2 reconstruction ($6,300,000 total project cost)
• Resolution – Proposed development of surplus municipal properties for affordable housing (REOI for 38 Coriano Street and 161 East Gore Street)
• Resolution – Amend By‑law 37‑2021 to change permitted liquor consumption hours and conditions in designated public places
• Resolution – Part Lot Control Exemption for 53‑55 Worsley Street (Lot 3, Registered Plan 44M‑91)

Council approved a zoning change for 93 Trinity Street, allowing a large residential development with up to 361 dwelling units, including townhouses and apartments, with site-specific parking and height provisions. The motion passed 8-1, with Councillor Sebben opposed. Council also directed staff to develop a Request for Expression of Interest for affordable housing on surplus municipal lands and approved several other items including encroachment agreements and a road reconstruction application.

• Approved zoning change for 93 Trinity Street to R5(3)-2 zone (8-1)
• Directed staff to develop REOI for affordable housing at 38 Coriano St and 161 East Gore St
• Authorized RFP for two affordable housing units at 246 Railway
• Amended liquor consumption by-law for Winter Al Fresco program
• Approved part lot control exemption for 53-55 Worsley Street
• Authorized extension of benefits consultant agreement with Mosey & Mosey
• Supported $3M Connecting Link application for Huron Street Phase 2
• Approved encroachment agreements for 370, 639, 649, 663 Ontario Street

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee will review the Avon Trail's request to blaze the Stratford Side Trail from the Devon Street playground to the TJ Dolan natural area. Staff recommend that the request be considered. The committee will also receive sub‑committee minutes, a department update, and Energy and Environment advisory committee minutes for information.

• Avon Trail Blazing Request (consideration of trail blaze from Devon Street playground to TJ Dolan natural area)
• Review of Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub‑committee minutes (Sept 25, 2024)
• Department update posted to the Engineering Division page
• Energy and Environment Advisory Committee minutes (June 6, 2024)

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee carried a recommendation that the request from the Avon Trail to blaze the Stratford Side Trail from the Devon Street playground through the City to the TJ Dolan natural area be considered. The item was moved by Mayor Ritsma and seconded by Councillor McCabe. Advisory committee minutes and a department update were provided for information only. The meeting then adjourned.

• Carried: recommendation that the Avon Trail request to blaze the Stratford Side Trail from the Devon Street playground through the City to the TJ Dolan natural area be considered (moved by Mayor Ritsma, seconded by Councillor McCabe)
• Carried: motion to adjourn the meeting (moved by Councillor Sebben, seconded by Councillor Nijjar)

Committee of the Whole In-camera

The Committee of the Whole will adjourn to an in-camera session to discuss the disposition of land at 270 Water Street and a shared services agreement. No other items are on the agenda.

• In-camera discussion of land disposition at 270 Water Street
• In-camera discussion of a shared services agreement

The Committee of the Whole voted 7-2 to adjourn into an in-camera session to discuss the proposed disposition of land at 270 Water Street and a shared services agreement. Councillor Sebben opposed going in-camera for the land item, requesting a recorded vote, but the motion carried. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Adjourned to in-camera session to discuss land disposition at 270 Water Street and shared services agreement (7-2, recorded vote)

Social Services Sub-committee

The Stratford Social Services Sub‑committee will receive the Ontario Works 2025 Provincial Allocation report (SOC24‑012) for information. It will also review August 2024 monthly reports on Children Services, Homelessness, Housing, and Ontario Works. No delegations are scheduled, and the next meeting is set for November 13, 2024.

• Receive Ontario Works 2025 Provincial Allocation report (SOC24‑012) for information
• Review Monthly Children Services Report – August 2024
• Review Monthly Homelessness Report – August 2024
• Review Monthly Housing Report – August 2024
• Review Monthly Ontario Works Report – August 2024

The Social Services Sub-committee received a report regarding the 2025 Ontario Works provincial funding allocation, which includes a $290,000 increase to address rising caseloads. The committee also heard a delegation regarding a proposed men's homeless shelter and reviewed department updates for August 2024. No formal policy changes were enacted during the meeting.

• Received report on 2025 Ontario Works provincial allocation (Carried)
• Heard delegation from Kyle Alexander Dewdney regarding homeless shelter (Carried)
• Adjourned meeting (Carried)

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Working Group

The Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Working Group is meeting to receive reports from various sub-groups. These groups cover partnership, vision, communications, infrastructure, and finance.

• Report from Partnership group
• Report from Vision, Planning & Architecture group
• Report from Communications, Advocacy & Civic Engagement group
• Report from Infrastructure & Environment group
• Report from Real Estate, Legal & Finance group

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub‑committee will hear a delegation request to consider prohibiting left turns from southbound Veterans Way to eastbound Ontario Street at the Erie‑Ontario‑Veterans intersection. It will also consider the Avon Trail Blazing Request (ITS24‑018) to extend the Stratford Side Trail from the Devon Street playground to the TJ Dolan natural area. The meeting includes a department update, a review of Energy and Environment Advisory Committee minutes, and sets the date for the next sub‑committee meeting.

• Delegation request by Steven Elliot to consider prohibiting left turns from southbound Veterans Way to eastbound Ontario Street at the Erie‑Ontario‑Veterans intersection.
• Avon Trail Blazing Request (ITS24‑018) to blaze the Stratford Side Trail from the Devon Street playground through the city to the TJ Dolan natural area.
• Department update on infrastructure activities (posted on the Engineering Division page).
• Review of Energy and Environment Advisory Committee minutes from June 6, 2024.
• Next sub‑committee meeting scheduled for October 30, 2024 at 4:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber.

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee heard a delegation from Steven Elliot requesting a prohibition on left turns from southbound Veterans Way to eastbound Ontario Street, but staff advised the intersection is safe and no recent studies support the change. The sub-committee did not vote on the request, instead recommending that a request from the Avon Trail to blaze a trail be considered. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely informational.

• Heard delegation from Steven Elliot regarding left-turn prohibition at Veterans Way/Ontario Street (carried)
• Recommended consideration of Avon Trail blazing request (carried)
• Adjourned meeting (carried)

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee will consider and approve agreements for the North Perth Fixed Site Supported Housing program with the Canadian Mental Health Association Huron‑Perth Addictions and Mental Health Services, and for the St. Marys Fixed Site Supported Housing program with Little Lake Residential. The committee will also receive reports on the annual community income tax clinic, quarterly infographics, and the supported transitional housing pilot project. All items are presented for information or decision as noted in the agenda.

• Agreement with Canadian Mental Health Association Huron‑Perth Addictions and Mental Health Services for North Perth Fixed Site Supported Housing
• Agreement with Little Lake Residential for St. Marys Fixed Site Supported Housing
• Report on Annual Community Income Tax Clinic – staff recommendation to thank supporting businesses
• Receipt of report titled “Introduction to Quarterly Infographics” for information
• Receipt of report titled “Supported Transitional Housing Pilot Project” for information

The Social Services Committee recommended entering into updated Fixed Site Supported Housing agreements with the Canadian Mental Health Association Huron-Perth and Little Lake Residential, and authorized the Mayor and Clerk to sign them. The committee also received reports on the annual income tax clinic, quarterly infographics, and a transitional housing pilot project, and issued a thank you to businesses supporting the tax clinic. All motions were carried.

• Approved agreements with CMHA Huron-Perth and Little Lake Residential for supported housing programs (carried)
• Authorized Mayor and Clerk to sign the supported housing agreements (carried)
• Issued thank you to businesses supporting the Annual Community Income Tax Clinic (carried)
• Received report on Quarterly Infographics for information (carried)
• Received report on Supported Transitional Housing Pilot Project for information (carried)

Regular Council

Stratford City Council will adopt the September 9 minutes and addendum, then consider several resolutions including the sale of Block 37 land, an Indigenous Medicine Wheel report, and multiple contract awards. The council will award a new transit bus wash system to Westmatic Corporation for $413,874.93 (incl. HST), a multi‑use trail on Oakdale Avenue to Ekum‑Sekum Inc. for $301,602.65 (incl. HST), and consulting services for the O'Loane Trunk sanitary sewer extension to MTE Consultants Inc. for $272,992.63 (incl. HST). Additional items include extending the parking enforcement services contract and proclaiming awareness days, followed by readings of by‑laws and a consent agenda.

• Bus Wash System Replacement – award to Westmatic Corporation for $413,874.93 (incl. HST)
• Oakdale Avenue Multi‑Use Trail Construction – award to Ekum‑Sekum Inc. (o/a Brantco Construction) for $301,602.65 (incl. HST)
• Consulting Services for O'Loane Trunk Sanitary Sewer Extension – award to MTE Consultants Inc. for $272,992.63 (incl. HST)
• Parking Enforcement Services Contract Extension with Commissionaires Great Lakes for a one‑year term ending Aug 31 2025
• Proposed disposition and sale of City‑owned Block 37 (RP 519) to adjoining owners after declaring it surplus

Council approved several contracts, including a $413,874.93 bus wash system, a $301,602.65 trail construction, and $272,992.63 for sewer consulting. It also declared a city-owned walkway surplus for sale to abutting owners and adopted the Grand Trunk Renewal vision. Two proclamations were issued for awareness days.

• Awarded bus wash system contract to Westmatic Corporation for $413,874.93
• Awarded Oakdale Avenue Multi-Use Trail construction to Brantco Construction for $301,602.65
• Accepted MTE Consultants Inc. proposal for O'Loane sewer extension consulting at $272,992.63
• Declared Block 37, RP 519 surplus and authorized sale to abutting property owners
• Adopted Grand Trunk Renewal vision and guiding principles
• Authorized one-year parking enforcement contract extension with Commissionaires Great Lakes
• Proclaimed November 26, 2024 as Economic Abuse Awareness Day
• Proclaimed October 15, 2024 as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day

Finance and Labour Relations Committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee will receive updates on natural gas and electricity procurement, the 2023 development charges and parkland reserve fund statements, and the second‑quarter 2024 operating variance report for information. It will also consider a funding request from the Stratfords of the World Advisory Committee to assist members with registration and travel costs for the January 2025 New Zealand Reunion. The director will be asked to identify possible funding sources at a future meeting.

• Update of Natural Gas and Electricity Procurement (FIN24-028) – received for information
• 2023 Treasurer’s Statement for Development Charges and Parkland Reserve Funds (FIN24-029) – received for information
• Second Quarter 2024 Operating Variance Report (FIN24-027) – received for information
• Funding request for 2025 New Zealand Reunion (FIN24-030) – considered for assistance and future funding options
• Stratfords of the World Advisory Committee minutes (April, May, June 2024) – provided for information

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee approved a request from the Stratfords of the World Advisory Committee to assist members with registration costs for the January 2025 New Zealand Reunion, and directed the Director of Corporate Services to identify funding source options at a future meeting. The committee also received several reports for information, including updates on natural gas and electricity procurement, 2023 Treasurer's Statements for Development Charges and Parkland Reserve Funds, and the Second Quarter 2024 Operating Variance Report. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved funding request for Stratfords of the World NZ reunion registration costs
• Directed Director of Corporate Services to identify funding source options
• Received natural gas and electricity procurement update (FIN24-028)
• Received 2023 Treasurer's Statement for Development Charges Reserve Funds
• Received 2023 Treasurer's Statement for Parkland Dedication Reserve Fund
• Received Second Quarter 2024 Operating Variance Report (FIN24-027)

Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Sub‑committee will receive for information an update on natural gas and electricity procurement (FIN24-028) and the Second Quarter 2024 Operating Variance Report (FIN24-027). It will also be provided with Stratfords of the World (Ontario) Advisory Committee minutes from April 25, May 30, and June 27, 2024. No decisions or approvals are scheduled beyond the receipt of these reports and the meeting adjournment.

• Update of Natural Gas and Electricity Procurement (FIN24-028) – report received for information
• Second Quarter 2024 Operating Variance Report (FIN24-027) – report received for information
• Stratfords of the World (Ontario) Advisory Committee minutes – April 25, May 30, June 27 2024 – provided for information

The Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee received two staff reports for information: an update on natural gas and electricity procurement (FIN24-028) and the Second Quarter 2024 Operating Variance Report (FIN24-027). Both were carried as recommendations. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and informational.

• Received natural gas and electricity procurement update (FIN24-028) for information (carried)
• Received Second Quarter 2024 Operating Variance Report (FIN24-027) for information (carried)
• Adjourned meeting (carried)

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee

The Ad‑Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee will receive updates on the Indigenous Engagement & Consultation Strategy, the draft 2025 budget for the Grand Trunk Renewal Project, and site activation and animation plans. The meeting will also include reports from the partnership, vision‑planning‑architecture, real‑estate‑legal‑finance, communications, and infrastructure working groups, as well as a staff update. After adopting the previous minutes, the committee will set the date for its next meeting.

• Draft 2025 Budget for the Grand Trunk Renewal Project – budget update
• Indigenous Engagement & Consultation Strategy Update
• Grand Trunk Site Activation & Animation Updates
• Vision, Planning & Architecture Working Group Report
• Partnership Working Group Report

Committee of the Whole In-camera

The Committee of the Whole will meet in-camera to consider a proposed repurchase of land in the Crane West Business Park. It will also receive an update on an affordable housing purchase proposal. Additionally, the council will review applications for advisory committees and boards.

• Proposed repurchase of land in the Crane West Business Park (section 239.(2)(c))
• Update on affordable housing purchase proposal (sections 239.(2)(c) and 239.(2)(k))
• Review of applications for advisory committees and boards (section 239.(2)(b))

The Committee of the Whole held an in-camera (closed) session on September 9, 2024, after a motion to adjourn was carried. The closed session covered three items: a proposed land repurchase in Crane West Business Park, an affordable housing purchase proposal update, and applications for advisory committees and boards. No substantive decisions were made in open session; all discussions were held behind closed doors.

• Adjourned to in-camera session to discuss land repurchase, affordable housing, and committee applications (carried)

Regular Council

Stratford City Council is reviewing a zoning and official plan amendment for a long-term care facility at 3188 Vivian Line 37. The body is also discussing a strategy for public land encampments and an application for the CMHC Housing Accelerator Fund.

• Proposed long-term care facility at 3188 Vivian Line 37 (OPA01-24 and Z02-24)
• Tender award to Uniqueco Building Restoration Inc. for $162,607 for an accessible ramp at the Administration of Justice Building
• Application for Natural Resources Canada funding to install four Level 3 EV Charging Stations
• Encroachment application for 96 Huron Street with a proposed annual fee of $50.00
• Request from Downtown Stratford BIA for pedestrian wayfinding signs

Council approved an Official Plan amendment and zoning by-law amendment for a 288-bed long-term care facility and 164-bed retirement home at 3188 Vivian Line 37, with a site-specific holding provision on the south parcel. The vote was 7-2. Council also approved several other items, including a tender for an accessible ramp, an encroachment agreement, and various appointments.

• Approved OPA01-24 and Z02-24 for long-term care facility at 3188 Vivian Line 37 (7-2)
• Awarded tender for accessible entrance ramp at Administration of Justice Building to Uniqueco Building Restoration Inc. for $162,607
• Approved encroachment at 96 Huron Street, exempting applicant from annual fee
• Authorized application for four Level 3 EV charging stations under ZEVIP
• Adopted Closed Meeting Protocol and amended Delegation of Authority By-law (8-1)
• Approved pedestrian wayfinding signs in downtown core by Downtown Stratford BIA
• Approved appointments to multiple advisory committees and boards
• Endorsed Conservation Authority fee freeze letter

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Working Group

The Ad‑Hoc Grand Trunk Working Group will hear reports from its sub‑committees on partnerships, planning, communications, and infrastructure. Members will review key dates and work‑plan timelines, and the next meeting is scheduled for October 7, 2024. No formal decisions or approvals are listed on the agenda.

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee

The Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee is reviewing the draft 2025 project budget and site activation concepts. The body is also discussing an Indigenous engagement strategy and the alignment of the City's Official Plan with the project site.

• Draft 2025 Budget for the Grand Trunk Renewal Project
• Grand Trunk Site Activation & Animation temporary concepts
• Indigenous Engagement Strategy Considerations
• City of Stratford Official Plan Review alignment with GTR site
• Reports from working groups on Partnerships, Vision, Real Estate, and Infrastructure

Special Council

Council is reviewing a proposal by GSP Group on behalf of Stratford LTC LP to establish a long-term care facility. The meeting includes a decision on an Official Plan Amendment and a Zoning By-law Amendment for the subject lands.

• Official Plan Amendment OPA01-24 and Zone Change Application Z02-24 for 3188 Vivian Line 37
• Proposed zoning change to Institutional Community Special with an (H12) Holding Provision for 3188 and 3184 Vivian Line 37
• Adoption of Official Plan Amendment No. 34 to add special policies to the Residential Area designation

Finance and Labour Relations Committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee is reviewing several funding requests and financial updates. The body is considering grant increases for local organizations and receiving reports on economic development and tax arrears.

• Proposed increase of 2024 community grant for Playmakers! Theatre School to $5,000.00
• Request for $500.00 for Stratfords of the World Advisory Committee for New Zealand Reunion sessions
• Request for up to $5,000.00 for Communities in Bloom members to attend a symposium in Charlottetown
• Proposed $3,281.42 in-kind grant for Climate Conversations Steering Committee for auditorium rental and technical support
• Updates on SEEDCo/investStratford, Destination Stratford, and Property Tax Arrears

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee approved several funding requests and received informational updates. It approved increasing the 2024 community grant for Playmakers! Theatre School to $5,000, approved $500 for the Stratfords of the World Advisory Committee, up to $5,000 for Communities in Bloom travel, and a $3,281.42 in-kind grant for Climate Conversations. All items were recommendations for the August 12 Regular Council reconvene agenda.

• Approved increasing Playmakers! Theatre School 2024 community grant to $5,000
• Approved $500 additional funding for Stratfords of the World Advisory Committee
• Approved up to $5,000 for Communities in Bloom symposium travel
• Approved $3,281.42 in-kind grant for Climate Conversations Steering Committee
• Received SEEDCo/investStratford update for information
• Received Destination Stratford update for information
• Received Property Tax Arrears and Tax Sales update for information

Regular Council

Stratford City Council approved the 2025 Fees and Charges by-law, extended a Part Lot Control exemption for a residential development, and authorized the sale of two lots in the Crane West Business Park. The meeting also included proclamations and a public hearing on a zoning change.

• Approval of 2025 Fees and Charges by-law
• Extension of Part Lot Control exemption for Daly Avenue and Worsley Street
• Sale of Lot 2 and Lot 3 in Crane West Business Park
• Public hearing for Zone Change Z02-24 and OPA01-24 at 3188 Vivian Line
• Proclamation of Overdose Awareness Day

Council approved the sale of Lots 2 and 3 in the Crane West Business Park to Crane Avenue Holdings, and passed the associated by-laws. Council also approved the 2025 Fees and Charges By-law, extended the crossing guard contract, and adopted the Community Climate Action Plan. Several proclamations and a flag-lowering were authorized.

• Approved sale of Lot 2, Crane West Business Park to Crane Avenue Holdings (Stratford Lot 2) Inc.
• Approved sale of Lot 3, Crane West Business Park to Crane Avenue Holdings (Stratford Lot 3) Inc.
• Approved 2025 Fees and Charges By-law, effective Jan 1, 2025
• Authorized one-year contract extension with Commissionaires Great Lakes for crossing guard services
• Adopted Community Climate Action Plan (9-1, Biehn opposed)
• Approved $28,025 repair of fire utility vehicle
• Authorized procurement of new fire apparatus via Canoe Procurement Group
• Approved $5,000 grant increase to Playmakers! Theatre School

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee will consider adopting the Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP) and direct staff to advance its actions within current staffing and budget. It will also decide on authorizing $28,025 for repair of a fire utility vehicle and approve the use of the Canoe procurement group to purchase a Pierce Quintuple Combination Pumper fire apparatus. Additional items include a noise‑control bylaw exemption for the Stratford Lantern Parade on October 19, 2024, and moving forward with design and tendering for resurfacing the Erie Street Parking Lot.

• Adopt Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP) and direct staff actions
• Authorize $28,025 repair of fire utility vehicle
• Approve procurement process for Pierce Quintuple Combination Pumper fire apparatus via Canoe group
• Grant noise‑control bylaw exemption for Stratford Lantern Parade (Oct 19, 2024)
• Authorize design and tender for resurfacing Erie Street Parking Lot

The committee recommended adopting the Community Climate Action Plan, directing staff to implement actions within existing capacity and budget, include programs in the 2025 budget, and explore funding. It also recommended authorizing $28,025 for fire utility vehicle repair, using Canoe procurement for a new fire apparatus, granting a noise exemption for the Lantern Parade, and proceeding with Erie Street Parking Lot resurfacing while investigating alternatives.

• Recommended adopting Community Climate Action Plan (carried)
• Recommended $28,025 repair of fire utility vehicle (carried)
• Recommended using Canoe procurement group for new fire apparatus (carried)
• Recommended noise exemption for Stratford Lantern Parade Oct 19, 2024 (carried)
• Recommended Erie Street Parking Lot resurfacing design/tender and staff investigation of alternatives (carried)

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Working Group

The Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Working Group will meet to review the project work plan, discuss reporting items, and receive updates from various working group chairs. The next meeting date has not been set.

• Review of work plan timeline and reporting items
• Updates from Partnership Working Group
• Updates from Infrastructure & Environment Working Group
• Updates from Working Group Coordinators
• Next meeting date to be determined

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee is meeting to discuss the adoption of the Community Climate Action Plan and fire department equipment needs. The body is also reviewing a noise by-law exemption request for a local parade.

• Adoption of the Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP)
• Authorization of $28,025 for fire utility vehicle repair
• Procurement of a Pierce Quintuple Combination Pumper fire apparatus via Canoe procurement group
• Noise Control By-law 113-79 exemption request for the Stratford Lantern Parade on October 19, 2024

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee recommended that Council adopt the Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP), directing staff to identify and advance implementable actions within existing resources and include CCAP programs in the 2025 budget process. The sub-committee also recommended authorizing the repair of a fire utility vehicle for $28,025, authorizing the procurement of a new fire apparatus through the Canoe Procurement Group, granting a noise exemption for the Stratford Lantern Parade, and authorizing the design and tender for resurfacing the Erie Street Parking Lot. Additionally, the sub-committee referred the Erie Street Parking Lot project to staff to investigate alternative options for the site.

• Recommended adoption of Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP) (carried)
• Authorized $28,025 repair of fire utility vehicle (carried)
• Authorized procurement of Pierce Quintuple Combination Pumper via Canoe Procurement Group (carried)
• Granted noise by-law exemption for Stratford Lantern Parade on Oct 19, 2024 (carried)
• Authorized design and tender for Erie Street Parking Lot resurfacing (carried)
• Referred Erie Street Parking Lot project to staff to investigate alternative options (carried)

Special Council

City Council is meeting to discuss and decide on the disposition of surplus lands to Stratford Long Term Care LP. The proposed sale is intended to facilitate the development of a continuum of care facility and a long term care home with at least 160 beds.

• Proposed Agreement of Purchase and Sale for 3188 Vivian Line 37
• Proposed conveyance of 3188 Vivian Line 37 to Stratford Long Term Care LP
• Development of a minimum 160 bed long term care home

Council authorized the sale of city-owned land at 3188 Vivian Line 37 to Stratford Long Term Care LP for a minimum 160-bed long-term care and continuum of care facility. The decision followed public delegations both opposing and supporting the sale. Council also passed the related by-laws for the purchase agreement and land conveyance.

• Authorized Agreement of Purchase and Sale with Stratford Long Term Care LP for 3188 Vivian Line 37 (carried)
• By-law 91-2024 (Agreement of Purchase and Sale) given first, second, third and final reading (carried)
• By-law 92-2024 (Conveyance of land) given first, second, third and final reading (carried)
• By-law 93-2024 (Confirmatory by-law) given first, second, third and final reading (carried)
• Motion to take by-laws 91-2024 to 93-2024 collectively was defeated

Committee of the Whole In-camera

The Committee of the Whole is meeting in an in-camera session to discuss land disposition and legal matters. These items are closed to the public in accordance with the Municipal Act, 2001.

• Proposed Disposition of Land in the Crane West Business Park
• Judicial Review: Stratford (City) v. Stratford Professional Fire Fighters Association Local 534

The Committee of the Whole held an in-camera session on July 22, 2024, to discuss two items: the proposed disposition of land in the Crane West Business Park and a judicial review involving the city and the firefighter union. No substantive decisions were made in open session; the only action was a motion to adjourn into closed session, which was carried.

• Adjourned to in-camera session to discuss land disposition in Crane West Business Park (carried)
• Adjourned to in-camera session to discuss judicial review: Stratford (City) v. Stratford Professional Fire Fighters Association Local 534 (carried)

Regular Council

Stratford City Council will adopt the minutes and agenda addenda, consider land disposition matters, and vote on several resolutions. Key decisions include authorizing a $786,199.47 contract for the Perth Line 36 culvert replacement and a $118,761.87 award for outdoor fitness equipment at Shakespeare Park. The Council will also amend the maintenance cost apportionment for the Line 29 railway crossing and adopt by‑laws delegating signing authority to the CAO. A motion to suspend the Respectful Workplace Policy will be heard.

• Award of Perth Line 36 Culvert Replacement contract to Lavis Contracting Co. Limited for $786,199.47 (incl. HST)
• Award of Shakespeare Park outdoor fitness equipment contract to PlayPower LT Canada Inc. for $118,761.87 (incl. HST)
• Amendment to Maintenance Cost Apportionment Agreement for Line 29 railway crossing with CN Railway
• Adoption of by‑laws 11.1‑11.4 delegating authority to the Chief Administrative Officer for railway agreements
• Motion to suspend the Respectful Workplace Policy (policy H.1.36) and seek review options

Council approved adding three full-time Human Resources positions (Human Resources Assistant, Wellness Health & Safety Coordinator, Organizational Development Coordinator) with funding to be offset through the Service Review Study implementation. A motion to suspend the Respectful Workplace Policy was defeated, but a motion to have staff provide review options was carried. Council also awarded contracts for outdoor fitness equipment at Shakespeare Park and the Perth Line 36 culvert replacement.

• Approved 3 new HR positions with funding from Service Review Study (7-4)
• Defeated motion to suspend Respectful Workplace Policy (2-9)
• Carried motion for staff to provide policy review options (11-0)
• Awarded $118,761.87 contract to PlayPower LT Canada Inc. for Shakespeare Park fitness equipment
• Awarded $786,199.47 tender to Lavis Contracting Co. Limited for Perth Line 36 culvert replacement
• Approved abandonment of portions of Mullin Municipal Drain
• Authorized CAO to execute Maintenance Cost Apportionment Agreement for Line 29
• Endorsed resolution on safe use of lithium-ion batteries

Community Services Committee

The Community Services Committee will consider a motion to adopt the Stratford Invasive Plant Plan 2024. Staff recommends adoption and directing implementation with sufficient resources and funding in the annual budget. The committee will also hear a delegation from the Friends of the Shakespearean Gardens and receive advisory committee minutes for information.

• Motion to adopt the Stratford Invasive Plant Plan 2024
• Delegation request by Friends of the Shakespearean Gardens
• Review of Community Services Sub‑committee minutes (meeting adjourned due to lack of quorum)
• Presentation of Communities in Bloom Advisory Committee minutes (March, April, May 2024)
• Report of Council Committee Coordinator recommending adoption of the invasive plant plan

The Community Services Committee adopted the Stratford Invasive Plant Plan and directed staff to implement its recommendations, including budgeting for resources in the annual budget process. The committee also heard a delegation from the Friends of the Shakespearean Gardens about their activities and projects. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted Stratford Invasive Plant Plan 2024 (carried)
• Directed staff to implement plan recommendations and include funding in budget (carried)
• Heard delegation from Friends of the Shakespearean Gardens (carried)

Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee is reviewing several requests for additional funding and grant appeals. The body will also receive updates on economic development and property tax arrears.

• Grant increase request from Playmakers! Theatre School for the Stratford Lantern Parade 2024
• Request for $500 for Stratfords of the World Advisory Committee information sessions
• Request for up to $5,000 for Communities in Bloom members to attend a symposium in Charlottetown
• Financial assistance request for eight Climate Conversations Steering Committee events
• Property Tax Arrears and Tax Sales Update (FIN24-025)

The Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee approved an increased community grant for Playmakers! Theatre School and provided additional funding for the Stratfords of the World and Communities in Bloom committees. It also granted in-kind support for Climate Conversations events.

• Increased 2024 community grant for Playmakers! Theatre School to $5,000.00
• Approved $500.00 for Stratfords of the World Advisory Committee from reserves
• Approved up to $5,000.00 for Communities in Bloom Symposium travel from reserves
• Approved $3,281.42 in-kind grant for Climate Conversations (auditorium rental and technical support)
• Received SEEDCo./investStratford update to March 31, 2024 for information
• Received Destination Stratford update for information
• Received Property Tax Arrears and Tax Sales Update for information

Committee of the Whole In-camera

The Committee of the Whole will adjourn to an In‑camera session to consider a proposed disposition of municipal land intended for a long‑term care home. The item is listed under section 239.(2)(c) and related sections, but no supporting documents are attached. The discussion will be confidential under solicitor‑client privilege.

• Proposed disposition of land for a long‑term care home (no attachments)

Stratford's Committee of the Whole met in closed session on July 15, 2024, after voting in open session to adjourn into an in-camera meeting. The closed session was to discuss a proposed disposition of land related to a long-term care home, citing provincial rules on land transactions, solicitor-client privilege, and negotiation positions. The minutes record no decisions made in open session beyond the vote to go in-camera; the public attendee left the chamber before the closed discussion began.

• Voted to adjourn into in-camera session to discuss proposed disposition of land (Long-Term Care Home) — carried
• Closed session held under sections 239.(2)(c), (f), and (k) of the Municipal Act
• No substantive decisions recorded in the open portion of the minutes

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee

The Ad‑Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee will adopt the minutes from its June 17 meeting, review the draft Q3‑Q4 work plan and the draft vision and guiding principles for the Grand Trunk Renewal project, and discuss lessons from the Trinity Centres Foundation on converting underutilised churches into community hubs and affordable housing. No formal decisions are recorded; the items are presented for discussion and further planning.

• Adopt minutes from the June 17, 2024 Ad‑Hoc GTR Committee meeting
• Review Draft GTR Q3‑Q4 Work Plan (July 9, 2024)
• Review Working Draft of GTR Vision and Guiding Principles V8 (July 7, 2024)
• Discuss lessons from the Trinity Centres Foundation on repurposing churches into community hubs and affordable housing
• Reports from the working groups

Community Services Sub-committee

The Community Services Sub-committee will hear a presentation from the Friends of the Shakespearean Gardens regarding their group's activities. The committee will also receive department updates for April through June 2024 and review recent minutes from the Communities in Bloom Advisory Committee.

• Presentation by Reg White, Chair of the Friends of the Shakespearean Gardens
• Community Services department updates for April, May, and June 2024
• Review of Communities in Bloom Advisory Committee minutes from March, April, and May 2024

The Community Services Sub-committee meeting on July 11, 2024 was adjourned at 4:45 p.m. because quorum was not present. Only two of five members attended, with three councillors sending regrets. No substantive decisions were made; agenda items including a delegation request and department update were not acted on.

• Meeting adjourned at 4:45 p.m. due to lack of quorum
• No motions or decisions recorded on agenda items

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee

The committee will review comments received during the June 2024 public input period for the Stratford Landfill. The agenda also includes a request for a noise by-law exemption for an event at Memorial Baptist Church on August 10, 2024.

• Noise by-law exemption request for Memorial Baptist Church
• Review of Stratford Landfill public input
• Engineering Division department update
• Review of Active Transportation, Energy and Environment, and Accessibility committee minutes

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee recommended that Council receive the Stratford Landfill Public Input report for information and consider any comments received. The Committee also approved an exemption to Noise Control By-law 113-79 for a private event at Memorial Baptist Church on August 10, 2024. Both recommendations were carried without recorded vote tallies.

• Recommended Council receive Stratford Landfill Public Input report (ITS24-012) for information
• Approved noise by-law exemption for Memorial Baptist Church event on Aug 10, 2024
• Adjourned meeting

Regular Council

The Council is reviewing the proposed 2025 budget process, schedule, and a new multi-year budgeting policy. The agenda also includes decisions on road widening at 207 St. Patrick Street and several equipment procurement contracts.

• Awarded $230,842.05 contract to Delta Power Equipment for a loader backhoe
• Awarded $144,364.28 contract to Winegard Motors Ltd. for a forestry truck chassis
• Authorized land conveyance from Waterloo Development Inc. for St. Patrick Street widening
• Approved entering into the Canada Community-Building Fund agreement
• Proclaimed September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Council approved a new multi-year budgeting policy and the 2025 budget process schedule. The city also authorized several equipment purchases and land conveyance for road widening on St. Patrick Street.

• Approved Multi-Year Budgeting Policy and 2025 budget process (8-2)
• Authorized land conveyance from Waterloo Development Inc. for St. Patrick Street widening
• Awarded $230,842.05 contract to Delta Power Equipment for an industrial loader backhoe
• Awarded $144,364.28 contract to Winegard Motors Ltd. for a forestry 4x4 chassis
• Authorized Municipal Funding Agreement for the Canada Community-Building Fund
• Appointed Ryan O’Donnell and Carl Gross to the Downtown Stratford BIA Board of Management
• Proclaimed September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
• Received Closed Meeting Investigation Final Reports 36684-6 and 36684-7

Committee of the Whole In-camera

The Committee of the Whole is scheduled to discuss applications for the Downtown Stratford Business Improvement Area Board of Management during this in-camera session. The agenda also includes a call to order and adjournment to the closed session.

• Downtown Stratford Business Improvement Area Board of Management Applications

The Committee of the Whole adjourned to an In-camera session to discuss the proposed disposition of land for a long-term care home. No substantive decisions were recorded in the provided minutes.

• Approved adjournment to In-camera session to discuss land disposition for Long-Term Care Home

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Working Group

The working group is meeting to review work plan implementation and staff updates on key partner discussions. The agenda also includes an assessment of demolition options and reports from five sub-working groups.

• Assessment of demolition options
• Work plan and implementation discussion
• Staff updates on key partners discussions
• Reports from five sub-working groups

Special Council

Stratford Council will consider several contract awards, including asphalt resurfacing and hybrid vehicle deliveries. The agenda also includes renewing cost-sharing agreements for public health and Spruce Lodge, and amending the fireworks by-law.

• Asphalt Resurfacing contract award to GIP Paving Inc. for $1,716,649.69
• Purchase of six hybrid pickup trucks for $467,432.05
• Purchase of one hybrid SUV for $66,267.72
• $233,750 dividend declaration for Festival Hydro Inc.
• Amendment to Fireworks By-law 73-2006 regarding Diwali Festival

Council approved several infrastructure and vehicle tenders, including a major asphalt resurfacing contract. The city also renewed health and long-term care cost-sharing agreements and amended the fireworks by-law to include the Diwali Festival.

• Awarded $1,716,649.69 asphalt resurfacing contract to GIP Paving Inc. (Carried)
• Awarded $467,432.05 for six hybrid Ford 150 XL trucks to East Court Metro Lincoln (Carried)
• Awarded $66,267.72 for one hybrid Ford Escape SUV to Lunar Contracting (Carried)
• Renewed Huron Perth Public Health cost agreement through Dec 31, 2028 (Carried)
• Approved Spruce Lodge cost agreement for Jan 1, 2026 to Dec 31, 2028 (Carried)
• Declared $233,750 top-up dividend from Festival Hydro Inc. for 2023 (Carried)
• Amended Fireworks By-law to add Diwali Festival and remove sparklers from 'family fireworks' (Carried)
• Accepted resignation of Jack West from Heritage Stratford Advisory Committee (Carried)

Special and Public Meeting

Stratford City Council will hold a public meeting to hear comments regarding Zone Change Application Z01-24. This application concerns properties located at 93 Trinity Street and 266 King Street.

• Zone Change Application Z01-24 for 93 Trinity Street and 266 King Street
• Confirmatory By-law 4.1

Stratford City Council held a special meeting on June 27, 2024, then adjourned into a public meeting under the Planning Act to hear public input on Zone Change Application Z01-24 for 93 Trinity Street and 266 King Street. The public meeting ran from 7:05 p.m. to 10:10 p.m., after which council reconvened and passed By-law 69-2024, the confirmatory by-law for the meeting, through first, second, and third readings. No decisions on the zone change application itself are recorded in these minutes. The meeting adjourned at 10:11 p.m.

• Adjourned to a public meeting under the Planning Act on Zone Change Application Z01-24 for 93 Trinity Street and 266 King Street (carried)
• By-law 69-2024 (confirmatory by-law) read a First and Second Time (carried two-thirds support)
• By-law 69-2024 read a Third Time and Finally Passed (carried)
• Special Council meeting adjourned (carried)

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee

The sub-committee will consider a noise control by-law exemption for an event at 113 Bruce Street on August 10, 2024. The meeting also includes receiving a report regarding public input for the Stratford Landfill.

• Noise Control By-law 113-79 exemption request for Memorial Baptist Church
• Stratford Landfill Public Input report (ITS24-012)
• Review of Active Transportation Advisory Committee minutes
• Review of Energy and Environment Advisory Committee minutes
• Review of Accessibility Advisory Committee minutes

The sub-committee approved a noise by-law exemption for a private event at Memorial Baptist Church on August 10, 2024. Members also received an informational report regarding public feedback on the Stratford Landfill and reviewed various infrastructure department updates, including water system redundancy and facility repairs.

• Approved noise by-law exemption for Memorial Baptist Church (Aug 10)
• Received Stratford Landfill public input report for information

Committee of the Whole In-camera

The Committee of the Whole held an in-camera session on June 24, 2024. The agenda included a discussion regarding a proposed land acquisition for an affordable housing project.

• Proposed acquisition of land for an affordable housing project

Stratford's Committee of the Whole voted to adjourn into an in-camera (closed) session on June 24, 2024, to discuss a proposed acquisition of land for an affordable housing project. The closed session was justified under Ontario's Municipal Act rules covering proposed or pending land deals and negotiation positions. The minutes record the procedural motion and the move into closed session; no decision on the land acquisition itself is recorded in this document.

• Carried: motion to adjourn into in-camera session to discuss proposed acquisition of land for an affordable housing project (sections 239.(2)(c) and 239.(2)(k))
• Meeting adjourned to in-camera session at 6:02 p.m.

Finance and Labour Relations Committee

The committee is reviewing audited financial statements for Festival Hydro Inc. and Festival Hydro Services Inc. A staff recommendation includes declaring a $233,750 top-up common share dividend for 2023. The agenda also covers the proposed 2025 budget process and multi-year budgeting policy.

• $233,750 top-up common share dividend for Festival Hydro Inc.
• Review of 2023 audited financial statements for Festival Hydro entities
• Proposed 2025 budget process and multi-year budgeting policy
• Scheduled 2024 budget meeting dates in November and December

Regular Council

The City Council is deciding on several infrastructure contracts, including asphalt resurfacing and sewer liner installations. The agenda also includes a proposed amendment to the fireworks by-law and presentations from local community groups.

• $1,716,649.69 asphalt resurfacing contract awarded to GIP Paving Inc.
• $676,080.47 sewer liner installation contract awarded to Clearwater Structures Inc.
• Award of hybrid vehicle contracts to East Court Metro Lincoln and Lunar Contracting
• Proposed amendment to Fireworks By-law 73-2006 regarding the Diwali Festival
• Proposed land acquisition for an affordable housing project

Stratford City Council voted 9-2 to adjourn the June 24 meeting early after a member of the public with a facility suspension refused to leave the chambers. Prior to the adjournment, Council approved several infrastructure contracts and received presentations from the Stratford Public Library and United Way Perth Huron. Remaining agenda items were deferred to a subsequent special meeting.

• Awarded $676,080.47 sewer liner contract to Clearwater Structures Inc.
• Awarded $1,716,649.69 asphalt resurfacing contract to GIP Paving Inc.
• Approved $467,432.05 contract for six hybrid pickup trucks
• Approved $66,267.72 contract for one hybrid SUV
• Approved 2025-2028 health unit cost apportionment agreement
• Approved 2026-2028 Spruce Lodge cost apportionment agreement
• Declared $233,750 dividend from Festival Hydro Inc.
• Voted to adjourn meeting early (9-2)

Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee

The June 18, 2024 Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee meeting was adjourned after only seven minutes when a person with a temporary suspension from attending City facilities did not leave Council Chambers during a delegation. No substantive decisions were made. The remaining agenda items were deferred to later meetings: items 4.1 and 5.1 to July 16, 2024, item 4.2 to a July 2, 2024 Special Council meeting, and item 4.3 to the July 8, 2024 Regular Council meeting.

• Approved hearing delegation from Robert Roth on Respectful Workplace Policy H.1.36 (carried)
• Adjourned the June 18, 2024 meeting at 4:37 P.M. (carried)
• Deferred item 4.1 (SEEDCo/investStratford update) to July 16, 2024
• Deferred item 5.1 (Stratfords of the World funding request) to July 16, 2024
• Deferred item 4.2 (Festival Hydro financial statements) to July 2, 2024 Special Council
• Deferred item 4.3 (2025 budget process and multi-year budgeting policy) to July 8, 2024 Regular Council

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee

The committee will review feedback from community engagement activities and draft guiding principles. The agenda also includes a presentation on partnership models for urban revitalization and working group updates.

• Review of draft guiding principles and community engagement pop-up results
• Presentation on partnership models for urban revitalization
• Communications proposal for the project narrative
• Vision, planning, and architecture working group update
• Proposed change to meeting time

Finance and Labour Relations Committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee will receive several reports for information. These include an update on Destination Stratford 2024, a review of municipal debt limits, and preliminary 2023 year-end results.

• Destination Stratford 2024 Update 2 (FIN24-017)
• Financial Indicator Review, Financial Profile and Municipal Debt Limits (FIN24-014)
• Preliminary 2023 Year-end Results (FIN24-016)

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee received three reports for information: the Destination Stratford 2024 Update 2 (FIN24-017), the Financial Indicator Review, Financial Profile and Municipal Debt Limits (FIN24-014), and the Preliminary 2023 Year-end Results (FIN24-016). All motions carried without recorded opposition. No delegations were scheduled and no pecuniary interests were disclosed. The meeting adjourned at 7:41 P.M.

• Received Destination Stratford 2024 Update 2 (FIN24-017) for information (carried)
• Received Financial Indicator Review, Financial Profile and Municipal Debt Limits (FIN24-014) for information (carried)
• Received Preliminary 2023 Year-end Results (FIN24-016) for information (carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (carried)

Committee of the Whole In-camera

This is a Committee of the Whole in-camera (closed session) meeting. The agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and no listed agenda items, decisions, or discussion topics.

The Committee of the Whole adjourned to an in-camera session to discuss land disposition for a long-term care home and respect in the workplace. No substantive decisions were recorded in the provided minutes.

• Approved motion to adjourn to in-camera session

Regular Council

Stratford City Council is reviewing several infrastructure contracts and land use proposals. The agenda includes awarding tenders for watermain replacement and a new playground, as well as designating the Dragon Boat Festival as a significant event. Additionally, council will consider declaring city-owned land at 3188 Vivian Line 37 surplus for sale to a long-term care provider.

• $277,942.15 tender award for Neal Avenue and Glendon Road watermain replacement
• $153,854.18 contract for Milton Street Park playground installation
• Designation of the 27th Dragon Boat Festival as a municipally significant event
• Declaration of surplus land at 3188 Vivian Line 37 for sale to a long-term care provider
• Lease renewal for Stratford Municipal Golf Course with scheduled rent increases

Stratford City Council declared the vacant city-owned land at 3188 Vivian Line 37 surplus and directed that it be sold by direct negotiation to a long-term care home provider, with staff to report back on the sale. Council also awarded a $277,942.15 watermain replacement tender to Birnam Excavating Ltd. and approved a $153,854.18 accessible playground at Milton Street Park from Henderson Recreation Equipment Limited. A request to join AVIAMA, the International Association of Puppet Friendly Cities, was referred to staff for review and consultation with Destination Stratford. All recorded motions carried; no vote tallies other than 'carried' were recorded.

• Declared 3188 Vivian Line 37 surplus; disposal by direct negotiation and sale to a long-term care home provider (Carried)
• Awarded Neal Avenue and Glendon Road Walkway Watermain Replacement tender (T-2024-16) to Birnam Excavating Ltd. at $277,942.15 including HST (Carried)
• Approved Milton Street Park accessible playground RFP-2024-03 from Henderson Recreation Equipment Limited at $153,854.18 including HST, funded from Recreation Capital Reserve (Carried)
• Designated the 27th Dragon Boat Festival on September 14, 2024 at Lower Queen's Park and Tom Patterson Island as municipally significant for liquor licensing (Carried)
• Referred the request to become a member of AVIAMA to staff for review and consultation with Destination Stratford (Carried)
• Authorized a three-year municipal golf course lease with the Stratford Municipal Golf Course Association, 2024-2026, with rents of $20,000, $22,500 and $23,850 (Carried)
• Approved renewal of the Homemakers and Nurses Services agreement with One Care Home and Community Support Services for June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2026 (Carried)
• Passed By-laws 64-2024 to 67-2024 and confirmatory By-law 68-2024 (Carried)

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee is meeting to discuss a staff recommendation to amend Fireworks By-law 73-2006. The proposed changes would remove sparklers from the definition of 'family fireworks' and add the first day of the Diwali Festival as a designated day for setting off family fireworks. The committee will also receive sub-committee minutes and advisory committee minutes for information.

• Amend Fireworks By-law 73-2006 to add Diwali Festival as a designated day for family fireworks
• Remove sparklers from the definition of 'family fireworks' in By-law 73-2006
• Direct City Clerk to prepare amendment for future Regular Council meeting
• Receive Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee minutes from May 29, 2024
• Receive Accessibility Advisory Committee and Energy and Environment Committee minutes

The committee approved a recommendation to amend the city's Fireworks By-law. The changes include removing sparklers from the definition of "family fireworks" and adding the first day of the Diwali Festival as a designated day for setting off family fireworks. The City Clerk was directed to prepare the amendment for consideration at a future Regular Council meeting.

• Recommended amending Fireworks By-law 73-2006 (Carried)
• Directed City Clerk to prepare by-law amendment for Council (Carried)
• Adjourned meeting (Carried)

Committee of the Whole In-camera

The agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and no substantive items for public discussion. The meeting is held in-camera (closed to the public).

The Committee of the Whole met in an in-camera session on June 3, 2024, to discuss the proposed disposition of land for a long-term care home, an Ontario Land Tribunal appeal regarding 173 William Street, and a legal opinion on workplace respect. No substantive decisions or directions were recorded in the provided minutes for these items.

• Adjourned to in-camera session (Carried)

Community Services Committee

The committee is reviewing a recommendation to renew the lease for the municipal golf course on Norfolk Street through 2026. The proposal outlines specific rent amounts for each year of the three-year term. Staff will also provide an update on community services department activities.

• Lease renewal for Stratford Municipal Golf Course (2024-2026)
• Rent of $20,000 for 2024
• Rent of $22,500 for 2025
• Rent of $23,850 for 2026
• Community Services department update

The Community Services Committee recommended authorizing a lease agreement with the Stratford Municipal Golf Course Association for the Norfolk Street course from 2024 to 2026. The agreement includes scheduled rent increases over the three-year term, with funds directed to the Recreation Reserve.

• Recommended lease agreement for municipal golf course on Norfolk Street (Carried)

Special Council

Stratford City Council is holding a special open session to consider a series of staff recommendations, including awarding several construction and equipment contracts, approving special occasion permits, and hearing delegations on a Committee of Adjustment appeal, a noise by-law exemption, and a community grant request. The agenda also includes adoption of minutes, by-laws, and reports from standing committees.

• Award Erie Street Road Widening tender to Steve Smith Construction Corp. for $2,773,307.45
• Award Moderwell Street Reconstruction tender to Birnam Excavating Ltd. for $944,290.79
• Award Administration of Justice Building roof replacement to Proteck Roofing & Sheet Metal Inc. for $531,350.86
• Approve special occasion permits for Brian Sippel Memorial Co-ed Tournament and Stratford Ladies and Men's Slo Pitch League at Packham Road Sports Complex
• Consider appeal of Committee of Adjustment decision for 161 Nelson Street (A15-24 and B05-24)

Stratford Council approved major infrastructure contracts, including a $2.77 million tender for Erie Street road widening and a $944,290 contract for Moderwell Street reconstruction. Council denied a motion to appeal a Committee of Adjustment decision regarding a six-unit rental development at 161 Nelson Street, instead receiving the residents' petition. The council also approved 2024 community grants, increasing the Stratford Summer Music grant to $25,000, and authorized a one-year lease for farmland at the Stratford Municipal Airport.

• Approved $2,773,307.45 tender for Erie Street Road Widening to Steve Smith Construction Corporation
• Approved $944,290.79 tender for Moderwell Street Reconstruction to Birnam Excavating Ltd.
• Denied motion to appeal Committee of Adjustment decision for 161 Nelson Street development
• Received petition from Jean-Michel Chadillon regarding 161 Nelson Street appeal request
• Approved 2024 Community Grants, increasing Stratford Summer Music grant to $25,000
• Approved $531,350.86 tender for Administration of Justice Building roof replacement
• Authorized one-year lease of 160 acres at Stratford Municipal Airport to Vanmeurs Farms Ltd.
• Approved $400,381.60 tender for two sidewalk tractors to Work Equipment Ltd.

Social Services Committee

The Stratford Social Services Committee will consider a two-year contract renewal with One Care Home and Community Support Services for homemakers and nurses services, and receive a report on the partnership with Spruce Lodge. No delegations are scheduled.

• Contract renewal with One Care Home and Community Support Services for Homemakers and Nurses Services, June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2026
• Staff recommendation to authorize the Director of Social Services to execute the renewal agreement
• Management report on Social Services Partnership with Spruce Lodge (received for information)

The Social Services Committee approved a renewal agreement with One Care Home and Community Support Services for Homemakers and Nurses Services from June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2026, and authorized the Director of Social Services to execute it. The committee also received a report on a Social Services partnership with Spruce Lodge for information. No delegations were scheduled and no pecuniary interests were disclosed. The meeting adjourned at 7:40 P.M.

• Approved renewal agreement with One Care Home and Community Support Services for Homemakers and Nurses Services, June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2026 (carried)
• Authorized Director of Social Services to execute the renewal agreement (carried)
• Received report SOC24-007 on Social Services Partnership with Spruce Lodge for information (carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (carried)

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee will hear a delegation requesting a speed limit change on Mornington Street from 40kph to 50kph, and consider amending the Fireworks By-law to add Diwali as a designated day and remove sparklers from the definition of family fireworks. The sub-committee will also receive updates from the Fire Chief and department managers.

• Delegation by Thomas Crozier requesting speed limit increase on Mornington Street from 40kph to 50kph
• Proposed amendment to Fireworks By-law 73-2006 adding Diwali Festival as a designated day for family fireworks
• Proposed removal of sparklers from the definition of family fireworks in the bylaw
• Department update from Director of Infrastructure Services and Fire Chief

The sub-committee recommended amending the Fireworks By-law to include the first day of Diwali as a designated day for family fireworks and to remove sparklers from the 'family fireworks' definition. A proposal to review increasing the speed limit on Mornington Street was defeated.

• Recommended amending Fireworks By-law 73-2006 to add the first day of Diwali as a designated family fireworks day (Carried)
• Recommended removing sparklers from the definition of 'family fireworks' in By-law 73-2006 (Carried)
• Recommendation to refer Mornington Street speed limit increase (40km/h to 50km/h) to staff for review (Defeated)

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee will consider a staff recommendation to renew a two-year agreement with One Care Home and Community Support Services for Homemakers and Nurses Services from June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2026. The committee will also receive a management report on a partnership with Spruce Lodge for information only. No delegations are scheduled.

• Renewal of Homemakers and Nurses Services contract with One Care Home and Community Support Services for June 1, 2024 – May 31, 2026
• Staff recommendation to authorize the Director of Social Services to execute the renewal agreement
• Management report on Social Services Partnership with Spruce Lodge (SOC24-007) received for information

Regular Council

Stratford City Council is deciding on several infrastructure contracts, including a $2.77 million Erie Street road widening project and a $944,290 Moderwell Street reconstruction. Council will also hold a public hearing on a zoning change for 93 Trinity Street and 266 King Street, and consider approving community grants and fee waivers for 2024.

• Tender award of $2,773,307.45 to Steve Smith Construction Corp. for Erie Street road widening
• Tender award of $944,290.79 to Birnam Excavating Ltd. for Moderwell Street reconstruction
• Public hearing on Zone Change Application Z01-24 for 93 Trinity Street and 266 King Street
• Approval of 2024 community grants and fee waivers as recommended by the Community Grant Evaluation Committee
• Lease agreement with Vanmeurs Farms Ltd. for 160 acres of farmland at Stratford Municipal Airport

Community Services Committee

The Community Services Committee is meeting to consider a single substantive item: authorizing a three-year lease agreement (2024-2026) with the Stratford Municipal Golf Course Association for the municipal golf course on Norfolk Street. The proposed rents are $20,000 in 2024, $22,500 in 2025 (12.5% increase), and $23,850 in 2026 (6% increase), with proceeds going to the Recreation Reserve. The agenda also includes informational items: a Community Services department update and minutes from the Communities in Bloom Advisory Committee.

• Lease agreement with Stratford Municipal Golf Course Association for municipal golf course on Norfolk Street, 2024-2026
• Rent: $20,000 (2024), $22,500 (2025), $23,850 (2026)
• Proceeds net of HST to be transferred to Recreation Reserve R-R11-RECR
• Community Services Update April 2024 provided for information
• Communities in Bloom Advisory Committee minutes from March 7 and April 4, 2024 provided for information

Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee is meeting to receive updates on Destination Stratford, financial indicators and debt limits, and preliminary 2023 year-end results. They will also decide on a request from the Stratford-Perth Pride Festival to waive $376.95 in facility and road closure fees for a June 2, 2024 event. No delegations are scheduled.

• Destination Stratford 2024 Update 2 (FIN24-017) received for information
• Financial Indicator Review, Financial Profile and Municipal Debt Limits (FIN24-014) received for information
• Stratford-Perth Pride Festival fee waiver request for $376.95 for Upper Queens Park Bandshell and Pavilion and road closures on June 2, 2024
• Preliminary 2023 Year-end Results (FIN24-016) received for information

The Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee received updates on Destination Stratford, municipal debt limits, and preliminary 2023 year-end results showing an expected $1.4 million surplus. A motion to waive facility rental fees for the Stratford-Perth Pride Festival was defeated.

• Received Destination Stratford 2024 Update 2 (FIN24-017) for information
• Received Financial Indicator Review, Financial Profile and Municipal Debt Limits report (FIN24-014) for information
• Defeated motion to waive facility rental fee of $276.95 for Stratford Perth Pride Festival
• Received Preliminary 2023 Year-end Results report (FIN24-016) for information

Committee of the Whole In-camera

This is a Committee of the Whole in-camera meeting for Stratford, ON. The agenda text contains only system-generated interface labels and no actual agenda items, so no decisions or discussions are listed.

The Committee of the Whole met on May 16, 2024, to discuss the proposed disposition of land for a long-term care home. The session was held in-camera to address matters involving land acquisition, solicitor-client privilege, and negotiation strategy.

• Adjourned to in-camera session regarding long-term care land (Carried)

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee will consider three items: a five-year lease of 160 acres of airport land to Vanmeurs Farms Ltd., the 2023 Water Pollution Control Plant annual report, and a noise by-law exemption for the Stratford Live Music and Food event June 21-23. The sub-committee has already recommended approval of all three items. No delegations are scheduled.

• Five-year lease of 160 acres at Stratford Municipal Airport to Vanmeurs Farms Ltd., from Jan 1, 2024 to Dec 31, 2028
• Noise by-law exemption for Stratford Live Music and Food: amplified sound until 11 p.m. June 21-22, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. June 23, plus setup/takedown hours
• 2023 Water Pollution Control Plant Annual Report received for information
• Active Transportation Advisory Committee minutes from Jan 24 and Feb 28, 2024 provided for information

The committee recommended a five-year lease of approximately 160 acres of airport land to Vanmeurs Farms Ltd. It also recommended a noise by-law exemption for the Stratford Live Music and Food event in June 2024.

• Recommended 5-year lease of ~160 acres at Stratford Municipal Airport to Vanmeurs Farms Ltd. (Carried)
• Recommended noise by-law exemption for Stratford Live Music and Food event from June 21-23, 2024 (Carried)
• Received 2023 Stratford Water Pollution Control Plant Annual Report for information (Carried)
• Received correspondence from Robert Lemon regarding noise by-law exemption (Carried)

Regular Council

Council will vote on adopting the City of Stratford's Strategic Priorities for 2024-2027, which will guide key activities over the council term. Two major contracts are up for award: $397,041 for flat roofing and $1,251,371 for barrel roofing at the William Allman Memorial Arena, plus a $145,391 sidewalk construction contract on Forman Avenue and St. Vincent Street South. Council will also consider a revised Downtown Stratford BIA levy by-law, a road widening for Cobourg Lane, and several committee reports including transit bus electrification study results.

• Adoption of City of Stratford Strategic Priorities 2024-2027 (COU24-043)
• William Allman Memorial Arena roof replacement: $397,041 flat roof (Grand Valley Roofing) and $1,251,371 barrel roof (John Kenyon Limited), plus $91,228 contingency
• Forman Avenue and St. Vincent Street South sidewalk construction awarded to Chad Hartman Construction Inc. for $145,391.45
• Revised Downtown Stratford BIA Levy By-law (amending Schedule A to By-law 28-2024)
• Road widening for consent application B08-22 at 26 Cobourg Lane — conveyance of land to dedicate as public highway

Council approved the city's Strategic Priorities, Mission, Vision, and Values for 2024-2027. Several infrastructure contracts were awarded, including roof replacements for the William Allman Memorial Arena and new sidewalk construction. Council also authorized a request for proposal for integrity commissioner services.

• Adopted Strategic Priorities, Mission, Vision, and Values for 2024-2027
• Awarded $397,041.32 flat roofing contract for William Allman Memorial Arena to Grand Valley Roofing & Coatings Inc.
• Awarded $1,251,371.04 barrel roofing contract for William Allman Memorial Arena to John Kenyon Limited
• Awarded $145,391.45 sidewalk construction contract for Forman Avenue and St. Vincent Street South to Chad Hartman Construction Inc.
• Authorized conveyance and dedication of land at 26 Cobourg Lane as public highway
• Approved issuing a request for proposal for integrity commissioner services for a term ending December 31, 2026
• Adopted by-law to amend Schedule A to By-law 28-2024 regarding BIA Levy
• Denied motions to refer Respectful Workplace Policy options to staff

Planning and Heritage Committee

The Planning and Heritage Committee will hear a delegation from Janice Lindsay requesting a $4,835 fee waiver for a zone change application at 187 Wellington Street and consideration of removing the principal residence requirement for short-term rental accommodations. The committee will also consider a sub-committee recommendation to defer the short-term rental matter and a recommendation to file the fee waiver request. Department updates and Heritage Stratford advisory committee minutes are provided for information.

• Delegation by Janice Lindsay requesting $4,835 fee waiver for zone change at 187 Wellington Street
• Request to remove principal residence requirement for short-term rental accommodations
• Sub-committee recommendation to defer short-term rental accommodation amendments
• Sub-committee recommendation to file the fee waiver request
• Heritage Stratford Advisory Committee minutes from Sept 2023 to March 2024

The committee defeated a recommendation to have staff review principal residence requirements for short-term rentals. A request to waive a $4,835.00 zoning change application fee for 187 Wellington Street was not granted via motion.

• Denied recommendation to refer principal residence requirements for short-term rentals to staff
• Approved request to hear delegation from Janice Lindsay

Committee of the Whole In-camera

This is a procedural meeting of the Stratford Committee of the Whole held in closed session (in-camera). The agenda contains only boilerplate metadata fields (title, number, stage, department) and no actual items for discussion or decision. No public business was conducted.

The Committee of the Whole voted to adjourn into a closed (in-camera) session. The closed session was scheduled to cover staff training on workplace policies and confidential discussions regarding the potential disposal of land for a long-term care home. No substantive decisions on these topics were recorded in the open session minutes.

• Approved motion to adjourn into In-camera Session

Committee of the Whole In-camera

This is a Committee of the Whole in-camera meeting for Stratford, ON. The agenda contains no substantive items, only procedural boilerplate and embedded content placeholders. No decisions or discussions are listed.

Committee of the Whole In-camera

This is a Committee of the Whole in-camera meeting for Stratford, ON. The agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and no substantive items for decision or discussion.

Planning and Heritage Sub-committee

The Planning and Heritage Sub-committee deferred a request to remove the principal residence requirement for short-term rentals until the May 13, 2024, Committee meeting. The committee also filed a request for a $4,835.00 fee waiver for a zoning application at 187 Wellington Street. No substantive zoning changes were approved during this session.

• Janice Lindsay delegation request carried
• Request to remove principal residence requirement for short-term rentals deferred to May 13 meeting
• Request for $4,835.00 fee waiver for zoning application at 187 Wellington Street filed
• Meeting adjourned

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee will consider a five-year lease of about 160 acres of airport farmland to Vanmeurs Farms Ltd., and a noise by-law exemption for the Stratford Live Music and Food event June 21-23. They will also receive the 2023 Water Pollution Control Plant annual report and updates from advisory committees.

• Lease of ~160 acres at Stratford Municipal Airport to Vanmeurs Farms Ltd. for 5 years (2024-2028)
• Noise by-law exemption for Stratford Live Music and Food, June 21-23, allowing amplified sound until 11 p.m. Friday/Saturday and 6 p.m. Sunday
• 2023 Water Pollution Control Plant annual report received for information
• Active Transportation Advisory Committee minutes from January and February 2024 noted

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee recommended accepting Vanmeurs Farms Ltd.'s expression of interest for a five-year lease of about 160 acres at the Stratford Municipal Airport, with the bid rising 133% from $12,000 to $28,000 per year excluding HST. It also recommended receiving the 2023 Stratford Water Pollution Control Plant Annual Report for information and recommended a noise by-law exemption for the Stratford Live Music and Food event from June 21 to June 23, 2024. All three recommendations carried; the sub-committee's recommendations go to Council for final approval. The meeting also included a department update with no decisions.

• Recommended accepting Vanmeurs Farms Ltd. EOI for a 5-year lease of ~160 acres at Stratford Municipal Airport, Jan 1, 2024–Dec 31, 2028 (Carried)
• Recommended authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to sign the Vanmeurs Farms Ltd. lease agreement (Carried)
• Recommended receiving the 2023 Stratford Water Pollution Control Plant Annual Report (ITS24-007) for information (Carried)
• Recommended a noise by-law 113-79 exemption for Stratford Live Music and Food, June 21–23, 2024, with setup June 20–21 and takedown June 23 (Carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (Carried)

Community Services Committee

The Community Services Committee considered and endorsed a two-year agreement with the Stratford Memorial Boys Softball Association for use of the Packham Road Ball Complex through December 31, 2025. Members also received the Transit Bus Electrification Feasibility Study results and authorized the Mayor and Clerk to execute an amending agreement for the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) transit funding. Sub-committee minutes and department updates were presented for information.

• Authorized agreement with Stratford Memorial Boys Softball Association for Packham Road Ball Complex use through Dec 31, 2025
• Received Transit Bus Electrification Feasibility Study results (COM24-002)
• Authorized Mayor and Clerk to execute Amending Agreement No. 1 for ICIP transit funding with Ontario Ministry of Transportation
• Received Community Services Department update for March 2024
• Received Board of Park Management minutes (Dec 2023, Jan 2024) and Communities in Bloom Advisory Committee minutes (Jan 2024)

The Community Services Committee received the Transit Bus Electrification Feasibility Study results, which found electrification feasible, and directed staff to provide updates to Council when available. The committee also authorized the Mayor and Clerk to execute Amending Agreement No. 1 to the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) transit funding agreement. A proposed two-year agreement with the Stratford Memorial Boys Softball Association for use of the Packham Road Ball Complex was received for information only, because the league will not operate in 2024 due to insufficient teams. All motions carried; no vote tallies were recorded.

• Received Transit Bus Electrification Feasibility Study results (COM24-002); staff to update Council when available — Carried
• Authorized Mayor and Clerk to execute Amending Agreement No. 1 to the ICIP transit funding agreement (COM24-003) — Carried
• Received Stratford Memorial Boys Softball Association agreement report (COM24-004) for information; no agreement authorized because league not operating in 2024 — Carried
• Adjourned the meeting — Carried

Regular Council

Council adopted the 2024 tax ratios and rates and authorized the sale of 105 Wright Blvd to 2809185 Ontario Inc. (Feltz Design Build Ltd.). The city also approved guiding principles for the Grand Trunk Renewal project to begin community consultation.

• Approved 2024 tax ratios and rates (R2024-138)
• Authorized sale of 105 Wright Blvd to 2809185 Ontario Inc. (R2024-137)
• Approved Grand Trunk Renewal draft guiding principles for community consultation (R2024-142)
• Authorized road widening and dedication of land on Ontario Street (R2024-140)
• Approved special occasion permit for 2024 Ontario Pork Congress (R2024-141)
• Appointed Michael Adams, Ekin Alfieri, and Bill Boon to the SEEDC Board (R2024-143)
• Authorized ICIP Transit Funding Amending Agreement No. 1 (R2024-155)
• Denied motion to refer police presence at Council meetings to staff for review

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee

The Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee will consider a request from the Stratford Public Library to be an anchor tenant in the Grand Trunk Community Hub, referred by Council on March 25, 2024. The committee will also review community engagement results, draft guiding principles, and a 120-day work plan. A presentation on city-building strategies from The Joy Experiments is scheduled.

• Stratford Public Library request to be anchor tenant in Grand Trunk Community Hub
• Presentation on draft guiding principles from Vision, Planning & Architecture Working Group
• Review of 120-day work plan and Q3/Q4 deliverables
• Presentation on city-building strategies by Paul Kalbfleisch, The Joy Experiments
• Update on Grand Trunk Dialogues and community engagement

Community Services Sub-committee

The Community Services Sub-committee is meeting to consider several items, including a staff recommendation to authorize a two-year agreement with the Stratford Memorial Boys Softball Association for use of ball diamonds at the Packham Road Ball Complex. The committee will also receive the results of a Transit Bus Electrification Feasibility Study and consider authorizing the Mayor and Clerk to execute an amending agreement for the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) transit funding. Department updates and advisory committee minutes are also on the agenda.

• Authorize agreement with Stratford Memorial Boys Softball Association for Packham Road Ball Complex diamonds, two-year term to Dec. 31, 2025
• Receive Transit Bus Electrification Feasibility Study results (COM24-002)
• Authorize execution of Amending Agreement No. 1 to ICIP Transit Funding Agreement with Ontario Ministry of Transportation
• Receive Community Services Update for March 2024
• Receive minutes from Board of Park Management and Communities in Bloom Advisory Committee

The sub-committee recommended authorizing a two-year agreement for the use of Packham Road Ball Complex. It also recommended executing an amending agreement to extend the timeframe for ICIP transit projects to 2033 and received a report on bus electrification feasibility.

• Recommended authorizing a two-year agreement with Stratford Memorial Boys Softball Association for Packham Road Ball Complex use through December 31, 2025 (Carried)
• Recommended receiving the Transit Bus Electrification Study Results for information (Carried)
• Recommended authorizing the execution of Amending Agreement No. 1 for the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) transit funding (Carried)

Committee of the Whole In-camera

This is a closed-session (in-camera) meeting of the Committee of the Whole. The agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and no substantive public items for discussion or decision.

The Committee of the Whole adjourned to an In-camera session to discuss personnel matters and land disposition. No substantive decisions were recorded in the provided text.

• Approved adjournment to In-camera session to discuss SEEDCo./investStratford Director applications and Wright Business Park land disposition

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee is meeting to discuss two main items: the Moderwell Street reconstruction project and the 2023 annual water summary report. The committee will consider recommendations on the Moderwell Street local improvement process, including repayment options for property owners, and will receive the water report for information. No delegations are scheduled.

• Moderwell Street Reconstruction project design and local improvement process
• Local Improvement Charges repayment option at Bank of Canada Prime Rate plus 1.5% for up to 10 years
• 2023 Annual Water Summary Report received for compliance with Ontario Regulation 170/03
• Minutes from Energy and Environment Committee (Jan 18) and Accessibility Advisory Committee (Feb 6) for information
• Department update posted on City website

The committee recommended that Council receive the proposed Moderwell Street reconstruction design and authorize staff to start the local improvement process under the Municipal Act, 2001, O. Reg. 586/06. Property owners facing Local Improvement Charges would be offered repayment over up to a 10-year period at Bank of Canada Prime Rate plus 1.5%, due when construction costs are finalized. The committee also received the 2023 Water Summary Report (COU24-030) for information to meet Ontario Regulation 170/03 compliance. Both items carried; no vote tallies were recorded.

• Recommended Council receive Moderwell Street reconstruction design for information (carried)
• Recommended staff proceed under Section 6 of the Municipal Act, 2001, O. Reg. 586/06 to initiate the local improvement process for curb, gutter and road work (carried)
• Recommended Local Improvement Charges repayment option at Bank of Canada Prime Rate plus 1.5% over up to 10 years, due at finalized construction costs (carried)
• Recommended staff be authorized to apply to the Ontario Land Tribunal under Section 8 if sufficient petitions against the local improvement are received (carried)
• Recommended a by-law for Moderwell Street reconstruction be prepared for Council consideration, subject to Ontario Land Tribunal approval (carried)
• Received 2023 Water Summary Report (COU24-030) for information to meet Ontario Regulation 170/03 compliance (carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (carried)

Regular Council

Stratford City Council is meeting to decide on several contracts and policy items. Key decisions include awarding a watermain relining tender and a cooling tower replacement, as well as adopting reports on local improvement financing and a facility-sharing agreement. The agenda also includes public hearings on accommodation licensing fees and proclamations for Human Values Day and ALS Awareness.

• Award Kenner Crescent Watermain Relining tender to Fer-Pal Construction Ltd. for $659,750.50 including HST
• Accept Cimco Refrigeration Inc. bid for Dufferin Lions Arena cooling tower replacement at $124,422.25 including HST
• Public meeting on fees for Accommodation Licensing By-law 130-2022
• Renew reciprocal community facilities agreement with YMCA, Avon Maitland, and Huron-Perth Catholic school boards for 2024-2025
• Approve local improvement financing terms for projects like Moderwell Street reconstruction

Council denied a request for legal street access onto Joffre Street for the owner of 386 William Street. The city also awarded a watermain relining contract and approved a cooling tower replacement for the Dufferin Lions Arena.

• Denied street access request for 386 William Street (6-4)
• Awarded Kenner Crescent Watermain Relining tender to Fer-Pal Construction Ltd. for $659,750.50
• Approved $124,422.25 for Dufferin Lions Arena cooling tower replacement from Cimco Refrigeration Inc.
• Renewed reciprocal facility usage agreement with YMCA of Three Rivers and school boards for 2024-2025
• Authorized local improvement process for Moderwell Street Reconstruction
• Approved $1,008.35 facility fee waiver for Truth Behind The Smile Event
• Proclaimed April 24, 2024, as Human Values Day and June 2024 as ALS Awareness Month

Finance and Labour Relations Committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee will decide whether to waive a $1,008.35 facility rental fee for the Truth Behind The Smile event at the Rotary Complex on May 23, 2024. The sub-committee has recommended approval, with funding from the Fee Waivers line item. The committee will also receive updates on Destination Stratford and Festival Hydro, and discuss issuing a request for proposals for integrity commissioner services.

• Request to waive $1,008.35 facility rental fee for Truth Behind The Smile event at Rotary Complex on May 23, 2024
• Destination Stratford 2024 Update 1 received for information
• Festival Hydro Q3 2023 financial statements received for information
• Direction sought on issuing a request for proposal for integrity commissioner services in 2024
• Sub-committee recommends mandatory requirements for integrity commissioner RFP: 10 years experience, 3 references, contract to Dec 31, 2026

The committee recommended issuing a request for proposal for integrity commissioner services with specific experience requirements. It also recommended waiving facility fees for a specific event and received several financial updates for information.

• Recommended approval of $1008.35 facility rental fee waiver for Truth Behind The Smile Event (Carried)
• Recommended issuing a 2024 RFP for integrity commissioner services with mandatory experience and reference requirements (Carried)
• Received Destination Stratford 2024 Update 1 for information (Carried)
• Received Festival Hydro Inc. and Festival Hydro Services Inc. Q3 financial statements for information (Carried)

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee

The sub-committee is recommending that Council authorize staff to proceed with a local improvement process for the Moderwell Street Reconstruction Project, including curb and gutter installation. Property owners would be offered a repayment option at Bank of Canada Prime Rate plus 1.5% for up to five years. The sub-committee is also receiving the 2023 Annual Water Summary Report for information.

• Moderwell Street Local Improvement Project – staff authorized to initiate local improvement process under Municipal Act
• Property owners offered repayment at Bank of Canada Prime Rate plus 1.5% for up to 5 years
• 2023 Annual Water Summary Report received for compliance with Ontario Regulation 170/03
• Energy and Environment Committee minutes of January 18, 2024 provided for information
• Accessibility Advisory Committee minutes of February 6, 2024 provided for information

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee recommended that Council authorize the local improvement process for the Moderwell Street Reconstruction Project, which has a budget of $1.2 million. The committee also recommended that Council receive the 2023 Annual Water Summary Report for information to meet compliance standards. Both recommendations were carried by the sub-committee.

• Recommended initiating local improvement process for Moderwell Street Reconstruction ($1.2M budget)
• Recommended offering property owners a repayment option at Bank of Canada Prime Rate plus 1.5% for up to 10 years
• Recommended receiving 2023 Annual Water Summary Report for information
• Meeting adjourned

Committee of the Whole In-camera

This is a Committee of the Whole meeting held in-camera (closed to the public) for the City of Stratford on March 25, 2024. The agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and no listed agenda items, decisions, or discussion topics. No public business is detailed in the provided agenda text.

The Committee of the Whole adjourned to an In-camera session to discuss legal advice, employee matters, a shared services agreement, and collective bargaining updates. No substantive decisions were recorded in the provided text.

• Approved adjournment to In-camera session to discuss legal, personnel, and bargaining matters

Community Services Committee

The Community Services Committee will consider renewing a reciprocal agreement with the YMCA of Three Rivers, Avon Maitland District School Board, and Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board for shared use of community facilities for 2024 and 2025. The sub-committee has already recommended approval. The meeting also includes updates from the Community Services department and minutes from the Board of Park Management and Communities in Bloom Advisory Committee.

• Renewal of reciprocal agreement for use of community facilities with YMCA and two school boards for 2024-2025
• Community Services department updates for November 2023, December 2023, and January 2024
• Board of Park Management minutes from September 11 and November 6, 2023
• Communities in Bloom Advisory Committee minutes from November 2, 2023

The Community Services Committee approved the renewal of a reciprocal agreement for the shared use of community facilities. The agreement involves the City of Stratford, the YMCA of Three Rivers, the Avon Maitland District School Board, and the Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board for the years 2024 and 2025.

• Approved two-year renewal of facility-sharing agreement (Carried)

Finance and Labour Relations Committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee will hear a delegation requesting phased property tax increases and consider several financial reports. Key items include a $9,230,915 borrowing by-law for the Queen Street Storm project, the 2023 Council remuneration statement, and a SEEDCo update. The committee will also discuss local improvement financing charges.

• Delegation by Judah Bootsma requesting property tax phase-in over 4 years and a different tax rate
• Borrowing by-law for $9,230,915 for Queen Street Storm project
• 2023 Statement of Council Remuneration and Expenses
• SEEDCo/investStratford update to December 31, 2023
• Local Improvement Financing Charges report (FIN24-013)

Stratford's Finance and Labour Relations Committee voted 3-8 to defeat a request to phase in property taxes for 4253 Perth Line 36 over four years in 25% increments, and also defeated a motion directing staff to review the property's tax rate. The committee carried recommendations to receive the SEEDCo/investStratford update to December 31, 2023, receive the 2023 Statement of Council Remuneration and Expenses, authorize borrowing of $9,230,915 for the Queen Street Storm project, and direct staff to use terms in Report FIN24-013 for Local Improvement projects. All carried items are committee recommendations that would proceed to Council.

• Defeated motion to phase in property taxes for 4253 Perth Line 36 over four years in 25% increments (3-8)
• Defeated motion directing staff to review the tax rate for 4253 Perth Line 36
• Carried recommendation to receive SEEDCo/investStratford Update to December 31, 2023 (FIN24-006)
• Carried recommendation to receive 2023 Statement of Council Remuneration and Expenses (FIN24-011)
• Carried recommendation to authorize borrowing of $9,230,915 for the Queen Street Storm project (FIN24-012)
• Carried recommendation to direct staff to use terms in Report FIN24-013 for Local Improvement projects pending a future policy
• Carried motion to adjourn

Regular Council

Council will hear a delegation from the Stratford Public Library CEO requesting the library be considered as an anchor tenant in the Grand Trunk Community Hub. Staff recommend referring the request to the Ad Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee for a recommendation. Council will also vote on several other items including a one-year organic waste processing agreement with StormFisher Environmental Ltd. at $100.39/tonne, a heritage permit for a 10-unit townhouse at 203 Waterloo Street South, and a $48,770.80 protective floor covering for the Agriplex Fieldhouse.

• Delegation from Stratford Public Library regarding anchor tenant in Grand Trunk Community Hub
• One-year organic waste processing agreement with StormFisher Environmental Ltd. at $100.39/tonne
• Heritage permit for 10-unit stacked townhouse at 203 Waterloo Street South
• $48,770.80 purchase of protective floor covering for Agriplex Fieldhouse
• Subdivision agreement for 236 Britannia Street development by Werner Bromberg Limited

Stratford City Council ratified memoranda of settlement with CUPE Local 197 (Outside Workers) and CUPE Local 1385 (Inside Workers), each covering January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2025. Council also approved a by-law authorizing a bank loan of $9,230,915 for the Queen Street Storm project, and approved a one-year source separated organics processing agreement with StormFisher Environmental Ltd. at $100.39/tonne. Several other items were approved, including a heritage permit for a 10-unit townhouse at 203 Waterloo Street South, a subdivision servicing agreement for 236 Britannia Street, and the Downtown Stratford BIA 2024 budget.

• Ratified CUPE Local 197 (Outside Workers) settlement, effective Jan 1, 2023 to Dec 31, 2025 (Carried)
• Ratified CUPE Local 1385 (Inside Workers) settlement, effective Jan 1, 2023 to Dec 31, 2025 (Carried)
• Approved $9,230,915 bank loan for Queen Street Storm project (Carried)
• Authorized StormFisher organics processing addendum at $100.39/tonne, Apr 1, 2024 to Mar 31, 2025 (Carried)
• Issued Heritage Permit PRM-2024-0010 for 10-unit stacked townhouse at 203 Waterloo Street South (Carried)
• Authorized subdivision servicing agreement with Werner Bromberg Limited for 236 Britannia Street (Carried)
• Approved Downtown Stratford BIA 2024 budget of $325,472.50, with $299,472.50 levied on BIA properties (Carried)
• Approved purchase of Agriplex Fieldhouse protective floor covering from Athletica Sport Systems for $48,770.80 including HST (Carried)

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee will hear a delegation from Robert Ritz on behalf of Tom Drake, owner of 386 William Street, requesting an easement for street access onto Joffre Street. Staff and sub-committee both recommend denying the request because the city needs the parcel for municipal purposes. The committee will also receive two reports on the Drinking Water Quality Management Standard for 2023, fulfilling Ontario regulatory requirements.

• Delegation by Robert Ritz re: 386 William Street access onto Joffre Street
• Staff recommendation to deny street access request for 386 William Street
• Drinking Water Quality Management Standard 2023 Infrastructure Review (ITS24-002)
• Drinking Water Quality Management Standard 2023 Management Review (ITS24-003)
• Active Transportation Advisory Committee minutes of Nov 22, 2023 and Accessibility Advisory Committee minutes of Jan 23, 2024

The committee recommended denying a request for an easement over City lands to allow street access from 386 William Street onto Joffre Street. Additionally, the committee recommended that Council receive two reports regarding the 2023 Drinking Water Quality Management Standard.

• Recommended denial of street access request onto Joffre Street for 386 William Street (Carried)
• Recommended Council receive the Drinking Water Quality Management Standard 2023 Infrastructure Review (Carried)
• Recommended Council receive the Drinking Water Quality Management Standard 2023 Management Review (Carried)

Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee will discuss and provide direction on a request to waive a $1,008.35 facility rental fee for a mental health event. They will also receive updates on Destination Stratford and Festival Hydro, and decide whether to issue a request for proposals for integrity commissioner services.

• Request to waive $1,008.35 facility fee for Truth Behind The Smile event at Rotary Complex on May 23, 2024
• Destination Stratford 2024 Update 1 (FIN24-008) received for information
• Festival Hydro Q3 2023 financial statements received for information
• Direction to be given on issuing a request for proposal for integrity commissioner services in 2024

The Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee approved a facility rental fee waiver of $1008.35 for the Truth Behind The Smile Event to use one hall at the Rotary Complex on May 23, 2024, funded from the Fee Waivers and Other Facility Related Costs line item in the 2024 Budget. It received the Destination Stratford 2024 Update 1 and Festival Hydro Q3 financial statements for information. The sub-committee also directed that a request for proposal be issued in 2024 for integrity commissioner services with mandatory requirements, and then adjourned.

• Approved facility rental fee waiver of $1008.35 for Truth Behind The Smile Event at Rotary Complex on May 23, 2024, funded from 2024 Budget line item (Carried)
• Received Destination Stratford 2024 Update 1 (FIN24-008) for information (Carried)
• Received Festival Hydro Inc. and Festival Hydro Services Inc. financial statements for period ended September 30, 2023, for information (Carried)
• Directed that a request for proposal be issued in 2024 for integrity commissioner services with mandatory requirements: 10 years legal/quasi-judicial or senior municipal management experience, 3 references in past 5 years, contract term to December 31, 2026 (Carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (Carried)

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee

The Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee will hear a delegation from Paul Brown about a community Home Care Hub and a presentation from the YMCA of Three Rivers on a new facility. The committee will also discuss draft vision and guiding principles for the Grand Trunk Renewal project. No decisions are scheduled; the items are for discussion and information.

• Delegation by Paul Brown on a community Home Care Hub as part of the Grand Trunk Renewal project
• Presentation by YMCA of Three Rivers on aspirations for a new facility in Stratford
• Generative conversation on draft vision and guiding principles for the project
• Reports from six working groups: Partnerships, Vision Planning & Architecture, Real Estate Legal & Finance, Infrastructure & Environment, Communication Advocacy & Civic Engagement, and Working Group Coordinators

Community Services Sub-committee

The Community Services Sub-committee will consider renewing a reciprocal agreement for shared use of community facilities with the YMCA of Three Rivers, Avon Maitland District School Board, and Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board for 2024-2025. The meeting also includes department updates and review of advisory committee minutes.

• Renewal of Reciprocal Agreement for Use of Community Facilities with YMCA and two school boards for 2024-2025
• Community Services Department updates for November 2023, December 2023, and January 2024
• Board of Park Management Advisory Committee minutes from September and November 2023
• Communities in Bloom Advisory Committee minutes from November 2, 2023

The Community Services Sub-committee recommended renewing the Reciprocal Agreement for sharing community facilities with the YMCA of Three Rivers (Midwestern Ontario) and the Avon Maitland and Huron-Perth Catholic district school boards for 2024 and 2025, and authorizing the Mayor and Clerk to sign it. The recommendation now goes to Council for approval. The rest of the meeting was a departmental update on parks, transit, recreation and facilities, with no other decisions. The meeting adjourned at 4:46 p.m.

• Recommended renewing the Reciprocal Agreement for community facility use with the YMCA of Three Rivers (Midwestern Ontario) and the Avon Maitland and Huron-Perth Catholic district school boards for 2024 and 2025 (Carried)
• Recommended authorizing the Mayor and Clerk, or their delegates, to sign the agreement (Carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (Carried)

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Working Group

The Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Working Group will meet to discuss an approach to unsolicited proposals and receive updates from its subcommittees on partnerships, vision/planning, real estate/finance, infrastructure, and communications. The group will also adopt minutes from the February 5 meeting and review an interest holder inventory and promotion of upcoming community events.

• Discussion on approach to unsolicited proposals
• Update on terms of reference and working group chairs
• Reports from five subcommittees: Partnerships, Vision/Planning/Architecture, Real Estate/Legal/Finance, Infrastructure/Environmental, Communication/Advocacy/Civic Engagement
• Promotion of upcoming community events and interest holder inventory update

Committee of the Whole Open Session

This is a workshop session, not a decision-making meeting. The sole substantive item is a facilitated review of draft strategic priorities led by a consultant from Overlap Associates. No votes, bylaws, contracts, or public hearings are on the agenda.

• Strategic Priorities Workshop #3: Draft Strategic Priorities Review led by Ben Belfour, Overlap Associates
• No rezonings, contracts with dollar amounts, ordinances, fee changes, or public hearings listed
• Meeting is procedural only — call to order, declarations, workshop, and adjournment

Committee of the Whole In-camera

The agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and no substantive items for public discussion or decision.

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee will hear a delegation and consider a staff recommendation to deny a request for legal street access onto Joffre Street for the property at 386 William Street. The committee will also receive two reports on the Drinking Water Quality Management Standard for 2023. Department updates and minutes from the Active Transportation and Accessibility Advisory Committees are also on the agenda.

• 386 William Street – Street Access Request onto Joffre Street (ITS24-004): staff recommend denial because the city needs the parcel for municipal purposes.
• Drinking Water Quality Management Standard 2023 Infrastructure Review (ITS24-002) to be received by Council.
• Drinking Water Quality Management Standard 2023 Management Review (ITS24-003) to be received by Council.
• Active Transportation Advisory Committee minutes from November 22, 2023, and Accessibility Advisory Committee minutes from January 23, 2024, provided for information.

The sub-committee recommended denying a request for legal street access onto Joffre Street to preserve land for municipal purposes. It also recommended that Council receive two annual drinking water quality and management reports.

• Recommended denial of street access request for 386 William Street (Carried)
• Recommended Council receive 2023 Drinking Water Quality Management Standard Infrastructure Review (Carried)
• Recommended Council receive 2023 Management Review Minutes and Summary Table of Action Items (Carried)

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee will receive reports on the 2023 Rent Supplement and Housing Allowance Review, findings from the Building Safer Communities in Stratford study, and a 2024 agreement with the Salvation Army for a tax program. The committee is also set to receive a semi-annual report from Social Services. All items are for discussion and recommendation, with no final decisions scheduled.

• 2023 Rent Supplement and Housing Allowance Review (SOC24-003) received for information
• Building Safer Communities in Stratford report by Taneja Consulting Inc. received; staff directed to develop a youth-focused task force and co-create safe spaces
• 2024 Salvation Army Tax Program agreement authorized for execution by Mayor and Clerk
• November 2023 SSM Semi-Annual Report to Council (SOC24-005) received for information

Stratford's Social Services Committee received the Building Safer Communities report and directed staff to develop a Safer Communities Targeted Task Force focused on youth, and to look into co-creating safe spaces for youth after school hours. The committee also authorized an agreement with The Governing Council of the Salvation Army in Canada to deliver the 2024 income tax program in Stratford. Two reports — the 2023 Rent Supplement and Housing Allowance Review and the November 2023 Semi-Annual Report to Council — were received for information. All motions carried; no vote tallies were recorded.

• Received 2023 Rent Supplement and Housing Allowance Review (SOC24-003) for information (carried)
• Received Building Safer Communities in Stratford report by Taneja Consulting Inc. (carried)
• Directed staff to develop a Safer Communities Targeted Task Force with community partners, focused on youth (carried)
• Directed staff to look into co-creating safe spaces for youth with after-school programming (carried)
• Authorized agreement with The Governing Council of the Salvation Army in Canada for the 2024 income tax program (carried)
• Authorized Mayor and Clerk, or delegates, to execute the Salvation Army agreement (carried)
• Received November 2023 SSM Semi-Annual Report to Council (SOC24-005) for information (carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (carried)

Regular Council

Council will vote on the 2024 municipal budget, which includes a $7,065,862 levy increase and a total tax levy of $80,090,376. They will also decide on two zoning changes on Downie Street, a parking plan and sign exemptions for the Canadian Dairy XPO, and a contract extension for the pay-by-phone parking system.

• 2024 budget adoption with $7,065,862 levy increase and $80,090,376 total tax levy
• Zone change for 245 Downie Street to allow inn definition in C3-9 zone
• Zone change for 607 and 609 Downie Street to C1-5 zone allowing motor vehicle repair and sales
• Canadian Dairy XPO parking plan and sign by-law exemption for 2024-2025
• Five-year contract extension with HotSpot Parking Inc. for pay-by-phone parking system

Stratford City Council adopted the 2024 budget, resulting in a $7,065,862 levy increase to a total tax levy of $80,090,376. The council also approved two zoning amendments: one allowing an 'inn' definition for 56 units at 245 Downie Street, and another permitting specific commercial uses at 607 and 609 Downie Street. Additionally, the council authorized a five-year extension for the mobile parking payment system contract and referred closed meeting investigation reports to staff for review.

• Approved 2024 Budget with $7,065,862 levy increase (7-2 vote)
• Approved Zone Change Z05-23 for 245 Downie Street to allow 'inn' definition (7-2 vote)
• Approved Zone Change Z06-23 for 607/609 Downie Street for commercial uses (Carried)
• Authorized 5-year extension of HotSpot Parking mobile payment contract
• Approved temporary parking and road closure for Canadian Dairy XPO 2024-2025
• Approved sign variance for Canadian Dairy Expo including cow statue
• Referred Closed Meeting Investigation Reports to staff and legal counsel
• Adopted agreement with Township of Perth East for hazardous waste disposal

Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Sub-committee will hear a delegation from Judah Bootsma, who is requesting a reduction to his 2024 property taxes to the 2023 rate or a discount. The sub-committee will also receive an update from SEEDCo/investStratford for the period ending December 31, 2023, and receive 2023 annual reports from six committees of council, including the Active Transportation Advisory Committee and Heritage Stratford Committee. No votes or decisions are recorded in the agenda; all items are listed as received for information or as a motion to be heard.

• Delegation by Judah Bootsma requesting a reduction to his 2024 property taxes to the 2023 rate or a discount
• SEEDCo/investStratford update to December 31, 2023 (FIN24-006) — received for information
• 2023 Annual Reports from six Committees of Council (FIN24-005) — received for information
• Next meeting scheduled for March 19, 2024 at 4:30 p.m. in Council Chamber, City Hall

The sub-committee received an update on SEEDCo/investStratford activities through December 31, 2023, and annual reports from six city committees. A delegation requested a property tax reduction, but no decision was recorded on the request.

• Approved hearing delegation from Judah Bootsma
• Received SEEDCo/investStratford Update to December 31, 2023 (FIN24-006) for information
• Received 2023 Annual Reports from six committees of council (FIN24-005) for information

Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee

The Ad-Hoc Grand Trunk Renewal Committee is meeting to review draft FAQs and key messages, and to hold a generative conversation on vision and guiding principles for the project. The committee will also receive reports from its working groups on partnerships, vision and planning, real estate, infrastructure, and communications. No decisions are scheduled; the meeting is focused on discussion and updates.

• Review of draft GTR Frequently Asked Questions document
• Generative conversation on vision and guiding principles for the Grand Trunk Renewal project
• Reports from six working groups: Partnerships, Vision Planning & Architecture, Real Estate Legal & Finance, Infrastructure & Environmental, Communication Advocacy & Civic Engagement, and Working Group Coordinators
• Adoption of minutes from January 15, 2024 meeting

Social Services Sub-committee

The Social Services Sub-committee will receive a report on building safer communities in Stratford, with recommendations to create a youth-focused task force and safe spaces. They will also review the 2023 Rent Supplement and Housing Allowance program, authorize a 2024 tax program agreement with the Salvation Army, and receive a semi-annual report on social services.

• Building Safer Communities in Stratford report with recommendations for a youth task force and safe spaces
• 2023 Rent Supplement and Housing Allowance Review received for information
• Authorization of 2024 Salvation Army Tax Program agreement in Stratford
• November 2023 Semi-Annual Report to Council received for information

The sub-committee recommended creating a youth-focused Safer Communities Targeted Task Force and co-creating safe spaces for youth. It also authorized an agreement with the Salvation Army to deliver the 2024 income tax program. Two reports on rent supplements and employment services were received for information.

• Recommended creating a Safer Communities Targeted Task Force focused on youth (Carried)
• Recommended staff look into co-creating safe spaces and after-school programming for youth (Carried)
• Authorized agreement with The Governing Council of the Salvation Army in Canada for 2024 income tax program (Carried)
• Received 2023 Rent Supplement and Housing Allowance Review report for information (Carried)
• Received November 2023 SSM Semi-Annual Report to Council for information (Carried)

Committee of the Whole In-camera

This is a Committee of the Whole In-camera meeting for Stratford, ON. The agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and no substantive items for public discussion or decision.

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Committee will consider public comments received about the Stratford Landfill from December 2023. The committee also receives sub-committee minutes and advisory committee minutes for information.

• Stratford Landfill Public Input Invited December 2023 (ITS24-001) — staff and sub-committee recommend receiving report for information
• Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee Minutes - January 24, 2024
• Energy and Environment Advisory Committee Minutes - November 2, 2023
• Accessibility Advisory Committee Minutes - November 7, 2023

Regular Council

Council will consider granting draft approval for a 193-unit vacant land condominium at 520 and 525 Orr Street, with conditions for staged development. The meeting also includes a delegation from Communities in Bloom seeking a $40,000 loan and in-kind support for a 2025 national symposium.

• Draft approval for 193-unit condominium at 520 and 525 Orr Street with 23 conditions
• Communities in Bloom delegation requesting $40,000 loan and in-kind support for 2025 National Symposium
• Adoption of January 22, 2024 regular council minutes
• Report from Committee of the Whole in-camera session on proposed land disposition for long-term care home

Stratford City Council granted draft approval to a 193-unit vacant land condominium at 520 and 525 Orr Street, subject to 25 conditions. Council awarded a two-year, $435,000 contract (excluding HST) to the YMCA of Three Rivers for youth programming, with Councillor Briscoe declaring a pecuniary interest and not participating. Council also supported hosting the 2025 Communities in Bloom National Symposium and directed staff to prepare a report on a $40,000 loan, in-kind support, sponsorships, and an ad-hoc committee. Several proclamations and routine land conveyances were approved.

• Granted draft approval to Plan of Condominium 31CDM21-003 at 520 and 525 Orr Street (193 units), subject to 25 conditions
• Awarded RFP-2023-65 for youth programming to YMCA of Three Rivers at $435,000 excluding HST for two years
• Supported hosting the 2025 Communities in Bloom National Symposium; directed staff to report on a $40,000 loan, in-kind support, sponsorships, and an ad-hoc committee
• Supported a letter of concurrence for a wireless telecommunication tower at 3984 Road 111, subject to four conditions
• Approved the Draft 2021 Audited Financial Statements
• Authorized the last phase of the Housing Connectivity and Security Systems contract with Synnapex Inc.
• Endorsed CA-2024-016 (AMO Social and Economic Prosperity Review) and CA-2024-008 (Town of Mono road safety emergency)
• Approved proclamations: Fibromyalgia Awareness Day (May 12), World Autism Day (April 2), Dairy Week (April 1-5), World Parkinson's Day (April 11)

Committee of the Whole In-camera

This is a procedural in-camera meeting of the Stratford Committee of the Whole. The agenda contains no substantive items for public discussion or decision.

Finance and Labour Relations Committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee will receive a treasurer's update on the draft 2024 budget and continue committee discussion on it. They will also consider a staff recommendation to take no further action on creating a Municipal Small Business Loan Program. No delegations are scheduled.

• Draft 2024 budget update and discussion
• Municipal Small Business Loan Program report (FIN24-004) with staff recommendation to take no action

Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee

The sub-committee will consider public comments received on the Stratford Landfill from December 2023 and vote on a staff recommendation to receive the report for information. No delegations are scheduled. The meeting also includes department updates and advisory committee minutes.

• Stratford Landfill Public Input Invited December 2023 report (ITS24-001) with staff recommendation to receive for information
• Public input email correspondence attached to the landfill report
• Energy and Environment Advisory Committee minutes of November 2, 2023
• Accessibility Advisory Committee minutes of November 7, 2023
• Next meeting scheduled for February 28, 2024

The Infrastructure, Transportation and Safety Sub-committee received a report on public input about the Stratford Landfill, part of the Environmental Compliance Approval process. Four public comments were summarized, covering praise for landfill staff, requests to adjust household hazardous waste events and hours, a recommendation on garbage and recycling that staff did not support due to added costs, and a request for better signage on metal waste bins. The sub-committee recommended that Council consider any comments received and receive the report for information; the motion carried. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was otherwise procedural and adjourned at 4:42 p.m.

• Recommended Council consider any comments received on the Stratford Landfill public input (carried)
• Recommended the Stratford Landfill Public Input December 2023 report be received for information (carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (carried)

Regular Council

Stratford City Council will consider a zoning amendment to allow theatre and performing arts studio uses in the existing building at 24 St. Andrew Street, with a maximum seating capacity of 80 and no required parking. The council will also hold public meetings for two other zone change applications on Downie Street and consider agreements with Shelterlink Youth Services for emergency shelter and after-hours telephone support.

• Zone change Z04-23 for 24 St. Andrew Street and 1 & 5 Huron Street to add theatre and performing arts studio uses
• Public meetings for zone change applications Z05-23 (245 Downie Street) and Z06-23 (607 & 609 Downie Street)
• Funding agreements with Shelterlink Youth Services for emergency shelter programming and after-hours telephone support
• By-law 11.1 to amend zoning by-law for 24 St. Andrew Street and 1 & 5 Huron Street

Council approved a zoning amendment to allow a theatre and performing arts studio in a vacant heritage building. The city also authorized funding agreements with Shelterlink Youth Services for youth shelter and telephone support.

• Approved zoning change for 24 St. Andrew Street and 1 & 5 Huron Street to permit a theatre and performing arts studio (max 80 seats, 0 parking spaces required)
• Denied request to list theatre classroom, studio, retail store, restaurant, and event space as permitted uses
• Endorsed Councillor Burbach for election to the Good Roads Association Board of Directors
• Endorsed Mayor Ritsma for election to the Good Roads Association Board of Directors
• Authorized funding agreement with Shelterlink Youth Services for emergency youth shelter programming
• Authorized funding agreement with Shelterlink Youth Services for after-hours telephone support
• Adopted minutes from the January 8, 2024 meeting

Social Services Committee

The Social Services Committee will consider a staff recommendation to authorize purchase of service agreements with Shelterlink Youth Services for emergency shelter programming and after-hours telephone support. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Staff recommendation to authorize a purchase of service agreement with Shelterlink Youth Services for emergency shelter programming
• Staff recommendation to authorize a purchase of service agreement with Shelterlink Youth Services for after-hours telephone support

The Social Services Committee recommended authorizing the Mayor and Clerk to execute two purchase of service agreements with Shelterlink Youth Services. These agreements cover emergency shelter programming for youth and after-hours telephone support.

• Recommended authorization of purchase of service agreement with Shelterlink Youth Services for youth emergency shelter programming (Carried)
• Recommended authorization of purchase of service agreement with Shelterlink Youth Services for after-hours telephone support (Carried)

Committee of the Whole In-camera

This agenda contains only technical placeholders and embedded content references with no actual items for decision or discussion. The meeting appears to be a closed-session (in-camera) Committee of the Whole with no public business listed.

Finance and Labour Relations Committee

The Finance and Labour Relations Committee will receive an update on the draft 2024 budget and hear delegations from the Chamber of Commerce and a resident opposing the proposed property tax increase. The committee will also consider approving the Downtown Stratford BIA's 2024 budget of $325,472.50 and receive reports on weekend transit options and public works services.

• Delegation by Chamber of Commerce opposing proposed municipal property tax increase
• Delegation by Rebecca Finch Gracey presenting a petition to cut the proposed tax increase by half and release a line-by-line budget
• Downtown Stratford BIA 2024 draft budget of $325,472.50, with $299,472.50 to be levied on BIA properties
• Report on Saturday and Sunday transit service options received for information
• Budget 2024 – Public Works Services backgrounder received for information

Regular Council

Council will adopt by-laws for the 2024 interim tax levy and temporary borrowing to cover city expenditures until taxes are collected. It will also award tree-removal and pruning contracts totaling about $339,452 and authorize a cost-sharing agreement with the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority. A resolution to apply for provincial funding for four Level 3 EV charging stations is on the agenda.

• Adopt 2024 Interim Tax Levy By-law and Temporary Borrowing By-law
• Award tree-removal contract to Tree Tech ($60,511.50) and stump/pruning contracts to Lange Bros. ($23,447.50 and up to $255,493)
• Authorize Cost Apportioning Agreement with Upper Thames River Conservation Authority for non-mandatory programs
• Apply for EV ChargeON Program funding for four Level 3 EV charging stations
• Public meetings set for Jan. 22 on zone changes at 245 Downie St. and 607/609 Downie St.

Council raised the price per acre for industrial lands in Crane West and Wright Business Parks. The city also authorized funding applications for EV charging stations and awarded multiple contracts for tree pruning and removal.

• Increased Crane West and Wright Business Park land prices to $250,000 per acre (Carried)
• Increased non-developable land prices from $20,000 to $40,000 per acre (Carried)
• Approved application for funding for four Level 3 EV Charging Stations (Carried)
• Adopted 2024 interim tax due dates by-law (Carried)
• Adopted 2024 temporary borrowing by-law (Carried)
• Awarded tree removal to Tree Tech ($60,511.50) and Lange Bros. ($23,447.50) and pruning to Lange Bros. (up to $255,493) (Carried)
• Approved $25,000 tree project contingency funded via Tax Stabilization Reserve Fund (Carried)
• Authorized Cost Apportioning Agreement with Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (Carried)

Committee of the Whole In-camera

This is a procedural agenda for a closed (in-camera) meeting of the Committee of the Whole. No substantive items for public discussion are listed.

The Committee of the Whole voted to adjourn into an in-camera (closed) session. The purpose of the closed meeting was to discuss an appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal regarding 173 William Street. The minutes record only the procedural vote to enter the closed session; no decisions made during the closed session are recorded.

• Approved motion to adjourn into In-camera Session to discuss litigation regarding 173 William Street