HomeMy WebLinkAboutComm Svcs - 2010-06-21COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE
The Community Services Committee met this date, commencing at 2:10 p. m.
Present: Councillor G. Lorentz -Chair
Mayor C. Zehr and Councillors C. Weylie, K. Galloway, J. Gazzola, J. Smola and
B. Vrbanovic.
Staff: C. Ladd, Chief Administrative Officer
P. Houston, General Manager of Community Services
T. Speck, General Manager of Corporate Services
J. Willmer, Interim General Manager of Development & Technical Services
D. Chapman, General Manager of Financial Services and City Treasurer
R. Gosse, Director of Legislated Services & City Clerk
M. Hildebrand, Director of Community Programs
J. Witmer, Director of Operations
M. May, Director of Corporate Communications & Marketing
S. Turner, Director of Enforcement
P. Harris, Manager of Licensing
D. Chapman, Manager of Special Events
D. Campbell, Manager of Community Resource Centres
R. Willms, Supervisor of Administration
B. Pearce, Senior Day Care Supervisor
L. Jones, Utilities Engineer (Gas)
S. Longstaff, Student Planner
CSD-10-042 - CO-OPERATIVE AGREEMENT WITH COMMUNITY SUPPORT
CONNECTIONS
- MEALS ON WHEELS AND MORE FOR THE SENIOR DAY PROGRAM
The Committee considered Community Services Department report CSD-10-042, dated June
4, 2010 concerning an agreement to deliver transportation services to the Senior Day
Program.
On motion by Councillor K. Galloway -
itwas resolved:
"That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute a Co-operative Agreement between
"Community Support Connections-Meals on Wheels and More" and the Corporation of
the City of Kitchener, subject to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor."
CSD-10-048 -DOWNTOWN KITCHENER RIBFEST AND CRAFT BEER SHOW
AGREEMENT
The Committee considered Community Services Department report CSD-10-048, dated June
11, 2010 concerning an agreement for services for the Downtown Kitchener Ribfest and Craft
Beer Show.
On motion by Councillor K. Galloway -
itwas resolved:
"That the Corporation of the City of Kitchener enter into an Agreement with the Impact
Events Group Inc., host of the Downtown Kitchener Ribfest and Craft Beer Show, for
services provided for the 2010 event; and further,
That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute aone-year Agreement with the
Impact Events Group Inc., subject to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor."
CRPS-10-102 -EXEMPTION TO CHAPTER 450 (NOISE) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE
- KYAC UNITY JAM -AUGUST 21, 2010
The Committee considered Corporate Services Department report CRPS-10-102, dated June
10, 2010 concerning a noise exemption request for a special event.
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE
CRPS-10-102 -EXEMPTION TO CHAPTER 450 (NOISE) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE
- KYAC UNITY JAM -AUGUST 21, 2010 (CONT'D)
On motion by Councillor K. Galloway -
itwas resolved:
"That an exemption to Chapter 450 (Noise) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code be
granted to the Kitchener Youth Action Council (KYAC) on Saturday, August 21, 2010,
between the hours of 5:00 p. m. and 11:30 p. m. for the 8th Annual Unity Jam concert to
be held in the Civic Square."
CRPS-10-106 -REQUEST BY HOLY TRINITY SERBIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH TO
HOLD A SPECIAL EVENT
- AUGUST 28 & 29, 2010
The Committee considered Corporate Services Department report CRPS-10-106, dated June
14, 2010 concerning a request to hold a special event at 700 Fischer-Hallman Road.
On motion by Councillor K. Galloway -
itwas resolved:
"That the Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church be approved to operate a special event
at Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church, 700 Fischer-Hallman Road, Kitchener on
August 28 & 29, 2010 from 1:00 p. m. to 10:00 p. m. provided the necessary licence,
including Health and Fire approvals is obtained; and,
That the Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church be granted an exemption from Chapter
450 (Noise) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code in conjunction with an event at 700
Fischer-Hallman Road, Kitchener on August 28 & 29, 2010 from 2:00 pm. to 10:00 p.m.;
and further,
That the City of Kitchener has no objection to a liquor licence being issued to the Holy
Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church for an event on August 28 & 29, 2010."
CRPS-10-107 -ADJOURNMENT OF LICENSING HEARING - 1776458 ONTARIO INC.
- O/A FUSION BAR & GRILL - 15 SCOTT STREET
The Committee considered Corporate Services Department report CRPS-10-107, dated June
14, 2010 requesting adjournment of a licensing hearing.
On motion by Councillor K. Galloway -
itwas resolved:
"That the licensing hearing as approved by Council resolution on February 1, 2010 for
1776458 Ontario Inc., operating as Fusion Bar & Grill, 15 Scott Street, Kitchener be
adjourned."
CRPS-10-108 -LOTTERY BREAK OPEN TICKET REGULATIONS -COUNCIL POLICY
I-880
The Committee considered Corporate Services Department report CRPS-10-108, dated June
14, 2010 requesting an amendment to Council Policy I-880.
On motion by Councillor K. Galloway -
itwas resolved:
"That Council Policy I-880 (Lottery Break Open Tickets -Additional Terms and
Conditions) be amended in the form attached to Corporate Services Department report
CRPS-10-108, to reflect the changes to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission's Terms
and Conditions to Break Open Ticket Lotteries that will come into effect July 1, 2010."
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE
CRPS-10-109 -EXEMPTION TO CHAPTER 450 (NOISE) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE
- ALEXANDER COLVIN - GRAYWOOD COURT
The Committee considered Corporate Services Department report CRPS-10-109, dated June
16, 2010 concerning a noise exemption request for a special occasion.
On motion by Councillor K. Galloway -
itwas resolved:
"That an exemption to Chapter 450 (Noise) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code be
granted to Alexander Colvin for a wedding anniversary party at his residence at 27
Graywood Court, on July 24, 2010, between the hours of 4:00 p. m. and 11:00 p. m."
CRPS-10-110 -EXEMPTION TO CHAPTER 450 (NOISE) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE
- JOHN HELLENS -ROYAL ORCHARD DRIVE
The Committee considered Corporate Services Department report CRPS-10-110, dated June
16, 2010 concerning a noise exemption request for a special occasion.
On motion by Councillor K. Galloway -
itwas resolved:
"That an exemption to Chapter 450 (Noise) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code be
granted to John Hellens for a wedding party at his residence at 177 Royal Orchard
Drive, on July 10, 2010, between the hours of 3:00 p.m. and 9:00 p. m."
CRPS-10-101 -EXEMPTION TO CHAPTER 450 (NOISE) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE
- BINGEMAN'S -OUTDOOR CONCERT -JULY 17, 2010
The Committee considered Corporate Services Department report CRPS-10-101, dated June
14, 2010 concerning a noise exemption request for an outdoor concert at 425 Bingeman's
Centre Drive.
Mr. S. Turner advised that this event was held in 2009 at which time a complaint from an
adjacent neighbourhood was received. At a meeting held with Bingeman's, they shared a long
term vision during discussion of matters concerning this event and as a result, staff is
proposing certain conditions to apply to the outdoor event. The conditions provide that the
music will cease at 11:00 p. m.; the event organizers will cover costs associated with an on-
duty By-law Enforcement Officer during the event; and the amplified sound is not to exceed a
noise measurement of 55 dBA, or 5dBA over apre-determined ambient noise level, whichever
is less restrictive, as measured from the adjacent residential area over a 5 minute period. Mr.
Turner advised that following the event a review will be undertaken to determine the
appropriateness of applying these conditions to this and other future events.
Councillor J. Gazzola questioned if it is reasonable to expect the event organizers to pay the
costs of having a By-law Enforcement Officer on site during the event. Mr. Turner advised that
an on-site Officer will provide immediate response to complaints as they may arise. He added
that during the summer season the number of noise complaint calls increase substantially and
it would be difficult to judge response times if there is no on-site Officer at the event.
Councillor J. Gazzola requested clarification as to how the noise measurement is to be taken.
Mr. Turner advised that noise measuring equipment will be used to test sound to establish an
average ambient noise level from within the adjacent neighbourhood prior to the event taking
place.
Councillor B. Vrbanovic expressed the opinion that the proposed conditions are reasonable
given the concerns raised during last years event and the long-term future plans of
Bingeman's. He noted that the owner of Bingeman's had proposed the idea of an on-site
Officer and Councillor Vrbanovic suggested it makes sense to be part of the business model in
the same vein as hiring off-duty Police Officers to conduct on-site security. He added that area
residents also think the proposal is a reasonable approach and he reiterated that the outcome
of the event is to be evaluated.
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE
JUNE 21.2010 - 26 - CITY OF KITCHENER
9. CRPS-10-101 -EXEMPTION TO CHAPTER 450 (NOISE) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE
- BINGEMAN'S -OUTDOOR CONCERT -JULY 17, 2010 (CONT'D)
At the request of Councillor J. Gazzola, Mr. Turner agreed to report to the Committee as to the
results of the evaluation undertaken following this event.
On motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic -
itwas resolved:
"That an exemption to Chapter 450 (Noise) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code be
granted to Bingeman's at 425 Bingeman's Centre Drive, for an outdoor concert on
Saturday, July 17, 2010, between the hours of 2:00 p. m. to 11:00 p. m., subject to the
following conditions:
That all music must cease no later than 11:00 p. m.; and,
That the event organizers cover the costs associated with having a By-law Enforcement
Officer on duty during the event; and further,
That the amplified sound shall not exceed a noise measurement of 55 dBA, or 5 dBA
over a pre-determined ambient noise level, whichever is less restrictive, when
measured from the adjacent residential area, measured over a 5 minute period."
10. CRPS-10-111 - 2010 MUNICIPAL ELECTION -COMPLIANCE AUDIT COMMITTEE
The Committee considered Corporate Services Department report CRPS-10-111, dated June
16, 2010 concerning a request to create a joint Municipal Election Compliance Audit
Committee.
Mr. R. Gosse advised that recent amendments to the Municipal Elections Act now mandate
that a Compliance Audit Committee be appointed by no later than October 1 prior to a
municipal election, for a term of 4 years. The Committee's mandate is to investigate
allegations by an elector regarding non-compliance of the Act in regard to a candidate's
financial statement to determine if an audit by a certified auditor is warranted. In discussion
with area Clerks, a joint Committee was considered to be a more efficient and effective
approach. Mr. Gosse advised that all area municipalities, save and except the City of
Cambridge, have agreed to pursue appointment of a joint Committee. He added that authority
to make appointments to the Committee is proposed to be delegated to the area Clerks
collectively to eliminate any potential or perceived conflict of a sitting member of Council and a
$150. per diem is proposed for members of the Committee, to be paid only as they are
required to sit.
Mayor C. Zehr agreed with the approach to be taken, commenting that eliminating Council
involvement ensures a greater level of autonomy and fairness.
Councillor J. Gazzola requested clarification as to the need fora 4-year term of the Committee.
Mr. Gosse explained that the term is proposed to accommodate any by-election that may
become necessary during the 4-year term; adding that the Act also provides that the period to
submit candidate financial statements can be extended up to 18 months after an election.
On motion by Mayor C. Zehr -
itwas resolved:
"That the creation of a Joint Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee and the
Terms of Reference attached as Appendix "A" to Corporate Services Department report
CRPS-10-111, be approved; and,
That the City Clerk be delegated the authority to appoint members of the Joint Municipal
Election Compliance Audit Committee, in consultation with the Clerks of the other
participating municipalities; and further,
That remuneration of $150. per diem be approved for members of the Joint Municipal
Election Compliance Audit Committee."
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE
11. CSD-10-041 -AMENDMENTS TO COUNCIL POLICY I-525 (COMMUNITY INVESTMENT)
The Committee considered Community Services Department report CSD-10-041, dated June
9, 2010 concerning amendments to Council Policy I-525 (Community Investment Policy).
Ms. R. Willms advised that the proposed amendments relate to a review of the Framework of
Funding Sources and the following grants are recommended to be added as additional funding
sources: Community Development Infrastructure Grants; Inclusion Grants; Youth Recreation
Grants; and Environment Grants. In addition, an amendment to In-kind Facility Grants is
recommended to provide a maximum of $500. per grant. Ms. Willms advised that the
maximum amount is proposed due to limited funds, which also must cover Travel Assistance
Grants, with the total budget in 2010 at $7,150.
Councillor J. Gazzola requested clarification of the community complexity factor of
approximately 1% as referenced in clause 2.3 of the Policy. Ms. P. Houston advised that it is
anticipated that requirements for community support will grow and become more complex as
the City grows and accordingly, a 1% factor has been built into the funding formula. She
added that the figure represents 1 % of the base grant.
Councillor B. Vrbanovic questioned if the addition of the Community Development
Infrastructure Grants has been vetted through the Environmental Committee. Ms. Willms
advised that the grants to be added are simply being identified as an additional funding source
and the terms of reference for each remains the same.
Councillor K. Galloway commented that under clause 4.1 of the Policy, concerning In-Kind
Facility Grants, the grants are referenced as one time only for special events; while clause
4.2.10 provides that a group may request funding for only one event per year. Ms. R. Willms
explained that many requests for ongoing meeting room rentals are received which is not the
intent of the grant. The grant is intended for special events held infrequently and the clause
provides that an organization could be eligible once a year. Councillor K. Galloway questioned
how many groups may be impacted by the maximum grant amount. Ms. Willms suggested
there would be minimal impact as there are no requests being made on a regular basis at this
time and in the event of a larger funding request, there is potential same could be referred to
the Tier 2 level.
On motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic -
itwas resolved:
"That Council Policy I-525 (Community Investment) be repealed and replaced with the
revised policy attached as Appendix "B" to Community Services Department report
CSD-10-041, dated June 9, 2010."
12. CSD-10-039 - SKATEPARK PLANNING PROCESS
The Committee considered Community Services Department report CSD-10-039, dated June
11, 2010 which provides an update on the status of a skateboard planning study, site selection
process and selection criteria.
Ms. S. Longstaff advised that a budget has been approved for construction of 2 additional
skateboard parks; the first to be constructed in 2014-2015 and the second in 2016-2017.
Planning will involve identifying optimal locations, the assessment of which will be evaluated
under a site selection criteria matrix and a shortlist will be formulated for consultation with the
public at Open House sessions to be held in the fall 2010. A report will follow in late 2010 for
the Committee's consideration of the final two preferred site selections. Ms. Longstaff advised
that the purpose of the report this date is to seek input from the Committee on the site
selection criteria.
Councillor J. Gazzola questioned the numbers involved in this sport given the dollars to be
spent over the next few years to provide facilities. Mr. D. Ritz advised that specific numbers
are unknown as current facilities are free of charge and therefore, no attendance records are
available. He added that many engaged in the sport do not necessarily attend a facility
preferring to engage in the sport on City streets. Mr. Ritz suggested that staff could undertake
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE
12. CSD-10-039 - SKATEPARK PLANNING PROCESS (CONT'D)
a random counting of attendance at The AUD facility to obtain some indication of numbers
involved there. Mr. M. Hildebrand added that the portable skateboard unit is well used and
very popular among youth, suggesting involvement in the sport is high. Councillor J. Gazzola
questioned the weighting to be applied to the site selection criteria. Ms. Longstaff advised that
a weighting has not yet been considered as staff intend to consult with the public to determine
what value they may apply to the criteria. Mr. Ritz added that the Committee's views in regard
to the criteria is also requested.
Mayor C. Zehr raised concerns that the site selection process is taking place well ahead of the
proposed design and construction, the first of which is not to take place until 2014-2015. He
suggested that undertaking public consultation now may raise a level of expectation for an
earlier construction timeframe. He added that changes may take place over the time lag
between this process and actual construction that may result in the need for differing criteria to
be used. Mr. Ritz advised that the primary focus of this process will be on site selection
notwithstanding some aspects of design are included. He added that staff intend to use this
opportunity to educate interested parties on other available options, such as the facility at The
AUD and the facility to be included in McLennan Park. Mayor Zehr cautioned that a clear
understanding of the timeframe for construction must be conveyed during the public
consultation process.
13. CSD-10-046 - 2010 COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTRE HIGHLIGHTS
The Committee considered Community Services Department report CSD-10-046, dated June
10, 2010 which provides an update on Community Resource Centre activities.
Ms. D. Campbell provided an update on the development of Community Centres from 1970 to
present, noting substantial growth in population over that time period resulting in need for
expanded community facilities, having amulti-purpose focus, to meet recreational and socials
needs of Kitchener residents. Future plans over 2010-2011 include: completion of the
Kingsdale and Bridgeport Community Centre construction projects by end of March 2011;
development of the Doon Pioneer Park Centre business plan to commence in fall 2010; and
partnership development with the Multi-Culture Centre for settlement workers in select
Community Centres. Ms. Campbell added that currently 29 active Neighbourhood
Associations contribute substantial volunteer time to enhance the quality of their
neighbourhoods through planning and organizing recreational programming in Community
Centres and other facilities.
14. CSD-10-045 -TURF OPERATIONS -COMMUNITY SERVICES OPERATIONS DIVISION
The Committee considered Community Services Department report CSD-10-045, dated June
16, 2010 which provides an update on the resources and status of Operations turf /grass
cutting to date, save and except sports fields.
Mr. J. Witmer advised that staff began cutting operations on April 27, two weeks earlier than in
2009 due to favourable weather conditions. Unseasonal temperatures and bans on use of
pesticides /herbicides has created challenges in regard to weed control; in particular, with the
proliferation of dandelions. Operations staff worked with the Corporate Contact Centre to
address complaints and ensure consistent messaging to the public. Staff is experimenting with
corn gluten to reduce weed growth; however, this application is cost prohibitive and staff is
continuing to seek out more cost effective solutions. Mr. Witmer advised that turf is being
maintained at approximately 96% of the standard range of cut height; however, Operations'
self-imposed objective is only at a compliance level of approximately 52%. Mr. Witmer advised
that approximately 13% of the annual turf maintenance budget has been spent, noting that in
the past two budget deliberations, additional resources at an approximate cost of $170,000.
have been identified and requested. Due to budget constraints the requests were not
approved and a conscious decision has been made not to utilize overtime in 2010 also due to
budget constraints.
Mayor C. Zehr referred to the chart demonstrating compliance levels in respect to Operations'
objective which suggests a 50-50 compliance rate. Mayor Zehr commented that this level is
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE
14. CSD-10-045 -TURF OPERATIONS -COMMUNITY SERVICES OPERATIONS DIVISION
(CONT'D)
difficult to accept, recognizing that it is not a staff performance issue but rather a resource
issue. He stated that this is an area subject to a high level of public complaint and serious
thought should be given as to how to address an increased level of compliance. Mayor Zehr
referred to a previous suggestion to involve citizens in taking over and maintaining cul-de-sacs,
questioning if this suggestion is still being pursued. He also suggested that consideration be
given to a program to work with citizens in the control of weeds. Mr. Witmer suggested that a
review of previous discussions could be undertaken and a report brought back with options
and associated implications.
Councillor K. Galloway questioned the cost of increasing resources to meet a 2 or 3 week
cutting cycle. Mr. Witmer advised that staff have only looked at costs in respect to meeting a 3
week cycle which would require an additional $170,000. In respect to a 2 week cycle, he
suggested that the number of staff to meet this cycle would be substantial and he would want
to ensure the program is appropriately staffed for the season so as not to incur over-staffing.
He added that a 3 week cycle is preferred although it would not necessarily mean cut height
objectives would be met, especially in the early part of the season when grass grows more
quickly. Councillor K. Galloway inquired if the public has been asked if they would financially
support an increased service level. Mr. Witmer advised that public consultation has not been
undertaken since a review in 2005 but suggested if directed, staff could undertake a public
survey. Councillor K. Galloway questioned the feasibility of bringing in temporary staff in the
early part of the season when the work is more labour intensive. Mr. Witmer suggested that
given the training required in use of heavy equipment it may be more efficient to have existing
staff work overtime to meet the objectives and he would want to review all implications
associated with hiring temporary staff; particularly, in respect to safety issues.
Councillor J. Gazzola questioned what the percentage might be in respect to meeting
objectives if an additional $170,000. was approved. Mr. Witmer advised that a review of
variations by standards would be required to determine how much difference the additional
dollars would make in compliance levels.
Councillor B. Vrbanovic questioned if use of additional part time staff in evenings only, rather
than overtime, has been investigated. Mr. Witmer advised that staffing has not been looked at
in this context, adding that Operations has purposely avoided using overtime in 2010 to stay
within budget. He pointed out that weather also plays a major role in dictating growth and how
staff is able to respond. Mr. Witmer added that the additional $170,000. is also needed to
address an increase in new turf areas to be maintained. He stated that even at the increased
service level resources will need to be managed carefully to ensure the program is handled
effectively and within an appropriate level of safety. Councillor B. Vrbanovic questioned if best
practices in other municipalities have been investigated. Mr. Witmer advised that discussions
are held regularly with area municipalities and cities outside the Region in respect to all
aspects of Operations activities to determine the best resources and skill sets. Councillor
Vrbanovic inquired if existing Operations staff has been provided opportunity to bring forward
ideas and suggestions for cost effective savings. Mr. Witmer stated that he is open to and
always available to have discussions with frontline staff and welcomes their ideas and
suggestions.
Councillor G. Lorentz referred to the fee for service paid by the Region of Waterloo to the City
to undertake turf maintenance on Regional roads, asking what standard is applied in this
instance and if the additional $170,000. would include resources and equipment needed for
Regional roads. Mr. Witmer advised the latter would not be used for Regional roads and the
Region requires a standard of a 2 week cutting cycle. Mr. Witmer pointed out that this service
is under contract with the Region and the Region pays the City a lump sum for the seasonal
work. Councillor Lorentz questioned if the resources would be used for City turf maintenance if
there was no contract with the Region. Mr. Witmer stated that theoretically these resources
could be used to meet the City's commitments; however, he pointed out that the equipment is
specifically used for Regional roads and is separate from City equipment. Councillor Lorentz
questioned why the City undertakes the work for the Region and Mr. Witmer advised that it
was determined to be a more cost effective approach. He added that the contract is being
monitored to determine how close the City is to meeting the standard and if the lump sum is
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE
JUNE 21.2010 - 30 - CITY OF KITCHENER
14. CSD-10-045 -TURF OPERATIONS -COMMUNITY SERVICES OPERATIONS DIVISION
(CONT'D)
sufficient. Councillor Lorentz inquired if priority is given to areas within a Heritage
Conservation District (HCD). Mr. Witmer advised that no direction has been given to elevate
HCD's to a higher priority and are currently at the same standard of a 3 week cycle. Councillor
Lorentz questioned the feasibility of having citizens naturalize cul-de-sacs or small crescents to
other than grass. Mr. Witmer advised that this is not without challenges in that citizens must
firstly be inclined to do so and subsequently, to be responsible for maintenance. He added
that staff is investigating potential to include this type of program within the subdivision process
so it is addressed at the outset.
Councillor J. Gazzola questioned if staff is certain the City is recouping all expenditures for the
work done under the Regional contract. Mr. Witmer advised that the contract is split between
summer and winter works, with summer work being paid in a lump sum and winter work
geared toward actual costs. He added that the summer work can be prioritized to maintain
costs within the lump sum provided. Councillor Gazzola questioned if resources are applied
firstly to the Region and Mr. Witmer advised that the City currently has dedicated staff for the
Regional work, who may be shifted as needed to manage the City's activities.
Mayor C. Zehr commented that the Regional contract is already in place and accordingly, is
immaterial; adding that it is being monitored and if overages are experienced there is a means
to adjust same. He suggested that staff be directed to report prior to the 2011 budget
deliberations on a plan of action to address the deficiency in the City's turf maintenance
program.
On motion by Mayor C. Zehr -
itwas resolved:
"That Community Services Department report CSD-10-045 (Turf Operations -
Community Services Operations Division), dated June 16, 2010, be received for
information; and further,
That staff prepare a report for consideration prior to the 2011 budget deliberations, to
establish a plan as to how Community Services Operations Division can meet turf
maintenance objectives commencing in 2011."
15. CAO-10-026 -ONLINE COMMUNICATIONS STRATEGY & CORPORATE SOCIAL
MEDIA POLICY
The Committee considered Chief Administrator's Office report CAO-10-026, dated June 16,
2010 outlining an Online Communications Strategy and Corporate Social Media Policy.
Mr. M. May advised that the proposed strategy and Corporate policy was presented in detail at
Council's June 14 Strategy Session, as outlined in report CAO-10-024. The report this date
provides an update on matters resulting from the Strategy Session and a more detailed
summary of the Corporate Social Media Policy.
Councillor J. Gazzola referred to the numerous recommendations contained in the original
report and questioned if by approving the recommendations in CAO-10-026 if all
recommendations in CAO-10-024 are by association approved. Mr. May advised that the
current report provides 2 recommendations, the first to approve the Online Communications
Strategy and the second to approve the Corporate Social Media Policy; and in approving these
two recommendations all recommendations arising from the strategy are approved overall.
Councillor J. Gazzola questioned the financial impact to the Communications Division and
throughout the Corporation; and in particular, the costs associated with staff training. Mr. May
advised that it is intended to implement the strategy within existing staff resources and training
would likely be a half day session in-house. He added that initial implementation is to be done
through shifting of priorities and only in the longer term did he envision the need to add
additional staff that would be dedicated to online communications. Councillor J. Gazzola
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE
15. CAO-10-026 -ONLINE COMMUNICATIONS STRATEGY & CORPORATE SOCIAL MEDIA
POLICY (CONT'D)
asked that Mr. May provide an indication of the initial costs of implementation, as well as, the
long term vision for the program prior to final consideration at the June 28 Council meeting.
The following motion was Carried Unanimously.
On motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic -
itwas resolved:
"That the City of Kitchener Online Communications Strategy, as attached to Chief
Administrator's Office report CAO-10-024, dated June 9, 2010, be approved; and
further,
That the Corporate Social Media Policy, as attached to Chief Administrator's Office
report CAO-10-024, and as summarized in addendum report CAO-10-026, dated June
16, 2010, be approved."
16. FIN-10-115 -SINGLE SOURCE -NATURAL GAS REGULATOR RUNS
The Committee considered Financial Services Department report FIN-10-115, dated June 11,
2010 concerning sole sourcing provisions for the Huron Road and Traynor Avenue District
Regulator Stations.
Mr. L. Jones advised that Lakeside Process Controls is the only known supplier that can
provide all required components, with other industry competitors having to team together using
multi-service providers to supply comparable products and services. The company uses
proven industry standard products and because there are only 3 district stations, it is important
to use standardized mechanical components to ensure a predictable operation; maintenance
competency; and consistent training to all first responders to emergency calls. Mr. Jones
advised that the Huron Road station requires noise attenuation measures and the company is
the only known distributor of a noise attenuating regulator.
Councillor J. Gazzola raised concerns in regard to sole sourcing. Mr. Jones advised that there
are only 2 significant suppliers in the industry and suggested there is not a large enough
market to support more. Councillor Gazzola questioned the impact if a team approach was
taken. Mr. Jones advised that some companies are capable of undertaking assembly but
cannot provide service for the remaining components, all of which would be out-sourced to
sub-contracts.
Councillor K. Galloway questioned if consultation has been undertaken with area residents in
regard to construction of the Huron Road station. Mr. Jones advised that initial consultation
has taken place and it is intended to go back for further consultation on the proposed lay-out of
the station, including the noise attenuation measures.
Mayor C. Zehr agreed with the approach of using a select source, commenting that safety is
paramount and in a consortium the likelihood is greater in a problem situation of blame being
deflected from one to the other. He pointed out that sole sourcing has been used previously,
commenting that quality and accountability is critical, and that safety should be the number one
priority.
On motion by Mayor C. Zehr -
itwas resolved:
"That Lakeside Process Controls be approved as the single source for the design,
supply, assembly, pressure testing, commissioning, training, and development of
maintenance procedures for five sets of regulators and associated components
("regulator runs") at two of the City's district regulator stations; one located on Huron
Road and the other on Traynor Avenue."
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE
17. FIN-10-081 - 2009 DEVELOPMENT CHARGES RESERVE FUND
Financial Services Department report FIN-10-081, dated May 31, 2010, concerning the
Treasurer's annual statement of the Development Charge Reserve Fund, was received as
information.
18. ADJOURNMENT
On motion, the meeting adjourned at 3:47 p. m.
Janet Billett
Committee Administrator