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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-04-08 COMMUNITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES COMMITTEE APRIL 8, 2013 CITY OF KITCHENER The Community and Infrastructure Services Committee met this date, commencing at 1:03 p.m. Present: Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock - Chair Mayor C. Zehr and Councillors J. Gazzola, D. Glenn-Graham, B. Ioannidis, Z. Janecki, Y. Fernandes, S. Davey, B. Vrbanovic, F. Etherington and P. Singh. Staff: J. Willmer, Chief Administrative Officer D. Chapman, Deputy CAO, Finance and Corporate Services M. May, Deputy CAO, Community Services P. Houston, Deputy CAO, Infrastructure Services S. Turner, Director of By-law Enforcement K. Carmichael, Interim Director of Transportation Services K. Woodcock, Manager, Service Coordination and Improvement P. Harris, Manager of Licensing R. Schirm, Supervisor of Crossing Guards R. Willms, Supervisor of Administration, Community Services J. Joseph, Transportation Demand Management Coordinator C. Goodeve, Committee Administrator D. Livingstone, Committee Administrator INS-13-004 - VANIER DRIVE TRAFFIC CALMING FOLLOW-UP REVIEW 1. The Committee considered Infrastructure Services Department report INS-13-004, dated March 22, 2013, recommending that existing traffic calming measures on Vanier Drive and Traynor Avenue remain in place. On motion by Councillor D. Glenn-Graham - it was resolved: “That the existing traffic calming measures (five (5) speed humps) on Vanier Drive between Walter Avenue and Traynor Avenue remain in place; and further, That the existing traffic calming measures (five (5) speed humps) on Traynor Avenue between Vanier Drive and Wilson Avenue remain in place.” INS-13-030 - ON-STREET PARKING REGULATIONS - GREEN VALLEY DRIVE 2. The Committee considered Infrastructure Services Department report INS-13-030, dated March 14, 2013, recommending an amendment to the parking regulations for Green Valley Drive to provide additional on-street parking. On motion by Councillor D. Glenn-Graham - it was resolved: “That parking be prohibited at any time on the north side (odd number side) of Green Valley Drive from a point 260 meters west of Mill Park Drive to a point 30 meters west thereof; and, That parking be prohibited at any time on the north side (odd number side) of Green Valley Drive from a point 330 meters west of Mill Park Drive to a point 30 meters west thereof; and, That parking be prohibited at any time on the north side (odd number side) of Green Valley Drive from a point 390 meters west of Mill Park Drive to a point 20 metres west of Pioneer Drive; and, That parking be prohibited at any time on the north side (odd number side) of Green Valley Drive from a point 140 meters west of Pioneer Drive to a point 55 meters west thereof; and further, That the Uniform Traffic Bylaw be amended accordingly.” COMMUNITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES COMMITTEE APRIL 8, 2013 - 29 - CITY OF KITCHENER INS-13-029 - HURON ROAD BRIDGE - SPEED LIMIT AND TRAFFIC CONTROL 3. The Committee considered Infrastructure Services Department report INS-13-029, dated March 14, 2013, recommending speed limit reduction and signage be installed on the section of Huron Road approaching the Huron Road Bridge. In response to questions, Mr. K. Carmichael advised that the recommendations are being brought forward to address safety concerns related to the Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code in 2012. Accordingly, it is proposed that the speed limit be reduced to 40 km/hr to allow adequate time for a driver to react to an oncoming vehicle. In addition, a yield sign will be installed to control traffic on the eastbound approach to the Bridge to accommodate the limited ability of the driver to see oncoming traffic on the single lane bridge on Huron Road. He further advised that there is signage prohibiting truck traffic at the entrance to the Bridge from Homer Watson Boulevard; and, that the Region of Waterloo has installed signage warning traffic on Homer Watson Boulevard that the other sections of Huron Road do not permit truck traffic. On motion by Councillor D. Glenn-Graham - it was resolved: “That a 40 km/hr. speed limit be implemented on Huron Road from Homer Watson Boulevard to Mill Park Drive; and, That a ‘yield to oncoming traffic’ sign be implemented on Huron Road at the eastbound approach to the bridge; and further, That the Uniform Traffic Bylaw be amended accordingly.” FCS-13-047 - REQUEST FOR MIDWAY - 1400 OTTAWA STREET SOUTH 4. - MAY 1 TO MAY 5, 2013 The Committee considered Finance and Corporate Services Department report FCS-13-047, dated March 27, 2013, recommending approval to Homeniuk Rides Inc. to operate a Midway at 1400 Ottawa Street South, the Sunrise Centre, on May 1 to May 5, 2013. Ms. P. Harris responded to questions advising that there were no concerns reported related to the 2012 Midway at the Sunrise Centre. On motion by Councillor D. Glenn-Graham - it was resolved: “That Homeniuk Rides Inc. be granted permission to operate a Midway at Sunrise Centre, 1400 Ottawa Street South, from May 1 to May 5, 2013, subject to the following: Date of Operation Hours of Operation Wednesday & Thursday, May 1 & 2 3:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Friday, May 3 3:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Saturday, May 4 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. Sunday, May 5 Noon - 10:00 p.m.; and, That the music at the Midway be turned down at 8:00 p.m. excepting those evenings preceding a school day when it shall be turned off at 8:00 p.m.; and, That the music must be turned off one hour before closing time on the evenings preceding a non-school day; and further, That the required licence be obtained prior to operating the Midway.” FCS-13-048 - REQUEST FOR MIDWAY - 1400 OTTAWA STREET SOUTH 5. - OCTOBER 2 TO OCTOBER 6, 2013 The Committee considered Finance and Corporate Services Department report FCS-13-048, dated March 27, 2013, recommending approval to Homeniuk Rides Inc. to operate a Midway at 1400 Ottawa Street South, the Sunrise Centre, on October 2 to October 6, 2013. COMMUNITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES COMMITTEE APRIL 8, 2013 - 30 - CITY OF KITCHENER FCS-13-048 - REQUEST FOR MIDWAY - 1400 OTTAWA STREET SOUTH 5. - OCTOBER 2 TO OCTOBER 6, 2013 (CONT’D) On motion by Councillor D. Glenn-Graham - it was resolved: “That Homeniuk Rides Inc. be granted permission to operate a Midway at Sunrise Centre, 1400 Ottawa Street South, from October 2 to 6, 2013, subject to the following: Date of Operation Hours of Operation Wednesday & Thursday, October 2 & 3 3:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Friday, October 4 3:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Saturday, October 5 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. Sunday, October 6 Noon - 10:00 p.m.; and, That the music at the Midway be turned down at 8:00 p.m. excepting those evenings preceding a school day when it shall be turned off at 8:00 p.m.; and, That the music must be turned off one hour before closing time on the evenings preceding a non-school day; and further, That the required licence be obtained prior to operating the Midway.” CSD-13-034 - COMMUNITY GRANT TIER 2 - LINK PICNIC FESTIVAL 6. The Committee considered Community Services Department report CSD-13-034, dated March 26, 2013, recommending approval of a 2013 Community Grant Tier 2 in the amount of $10,500. (in-kind) for the LINK Picnic Festival. Ms. Sylma Fletcher, LINK Picnic Festival, gave a presentation detailing the activities included in the Festival which takes place in Victoria Park. She stated that the Festival offers Caribbean and African music, a carnival parade and many activities and workshops for both adults and children. She noted that it is a two day festival which hosts a marketplace and workshops to engage participants and increase awareness of the arts. Councillor J. Gazzola articulated appreciation for the uniqueness of the event, but expressed concern with the elevating expenses detailed in the grant application. He pointed out that the original grant from the City of Kitchener was $6,000. in 2009 and has increased 65% in the last five years with expenses for the Festival increasing by 30%. He inquired about revenue sources through admittance and vendor fees to offset the expenses. Ms. Fletcher responded that due to staffing constraints and logistics required to fence the Park, an admittance fee has not been charged; however, vendors are charged a fee to operate during the Festival. She further indicated that the City of Kitchener has the highest proportion of attendees, and is the only municipality within the Region of Waterloo that contributes financially to the Festival. She added that a portion of the requested funding would be allocated to hiring a staff person to assist in securing sponsorship and coordinating the Festival. Councillor D. Glenn-Graham inquired as to the number of participants expected to attend the Festival. Ms. Fletcher estimated that approximately 3,000 people would attend the Festival in 2013, adding that the dates have been changed to accommodate another event in the Park. Councillor Glenn-Graham encouraged hosting a small ticketed event to raise money before the Festival to reduce the reliance on grant funding, as well as, seeking assistance from the volunteer action centre for staffing. Ms. Fletcher affirmed that volunteers are central to organizing events and festivals of this magnitude and expressed appreciation for all assistance provided. Mayor C. Zehr referred to the grant application and pointed out that it states that 69% of the participants are Kitchener residents, and that the total municipal contribution from the City of Kitchener is $11,000. He noted that this is disproportionate to the amount provided by other municipalities in the Region. COMMUNITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES COMMITTEE APRIL 8, 2013 - 31 - CITY OF KITCHENER CSD-13-034 - COMMUNITY GRANT TIER 2 - LINK PICNIC FESTIVAL (CONT’D) 6. Councillor F. Etherington indicated that he has received numerous complaints from residents related to the noise from the stage, which backs on to Jubilee Drive, and requested that the noise be reduced. Ms. Fletcher stated that she would be open to suggestions to reduce the noise and specifically requested an acceptable decibel level. Councillor Etherington responded that lowering the decibel level to comply with the requirements of the Noise By-law should be acceptable. Councillor Y. Fernandes inquired if a person were to be hired, would it be exclusively to source sponsorship opportunities. Ms. Fletcher responded that she would allocate the resources as effectively as possible to coordinate the event. She clarified that with the allocation of the funding indicated in the staff report, she would not be able to hire the proposed staff person. Councillor B. Vrbanovic commented that the existing staff recommendation would not enable the Festival to hire someone dedicated to pursuing sponsorship opportunities, as the proposed grant is solely for in-kind services. He suggested that the recommendation be revised to provide that $2.500. of the recommended grant of $10,500. be provided in cash; thereby ensuring that funding is available should they choose to hire staff to garner sponsorship to grow the Festival. On motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic - it was resolved: “That a 2013 Community Grant Tier 2 in the amount of $10,500. ($2,500. cash and $8,000. in-kind) be approved for the LINK Picnic Festival to be held in Victoria Park in August 2013.” INS-13-025 - WILLIAMSBURG ROAD TRAFFIC CALMING 7. The Committee considered Infrastructure Services Department report INS-13-025, dated March 8, 2013, recommending the installation of four speed humps on Williamsburg Road. Mr. K. Carmichael reviewed the report, advising that staff executed a Traffic Calming Review with public consultation from the residents/property owners in the subject area. He stated that a survey was conducted presenting alternatives based on the analysis of existing traffic, public input, and the Traffic Calming Policy. He advised that the survey responses fell marginally short of the Policy requirement of 50% response rate, with 60% support; however, the position of staff is that those residents who have direct frontage on Williamsburg Road provided a 55% response rate, with 64% in support of the measures being proposed. Ms. Allison Smith attended in support of the installation of the proposed speed humps, advising that her residence fronts onto Williamsburg Road, where speeding vehicles pose a safety concern. She stated that she initiated the request for traffic calming measures in May 2008, to ensure the safety of children, residents, trail users, and those pedestrians crossing at the four-way stop at Pinedale Court. She spoke in opposition to the installation of raised crosswalks and urged the Committee to implement the four speed humps as recommended in the staff report. In response to questions, Mr. Carmichael advised that discussions with Councillor Singh and residents have identified that the trail crossing at the hydro corridor should be upgraded to a raised crosswalk to help mitigate speeds and narrow the length of the crossing. He expressed concern that any reduction or change to the number of speed control measures should warrant consultation with residents, as the current recommendation is representative of their wishes. Councillor P. Singh advised that through discussions with area residents, it became evident that support varies for the four proposed speed humps. He suggested that it might be preferable to pursue the installation of alternative traffic calming measures. A motion was brought forward by Councillor P. Singh to install a series of two raised crosswalks and two speed bumps on Williamsburg Road. COMMUNITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES COMMITTEE APRIL 8, 2013 - 32 - CITY OF KITCHENER INS-13-025 - WILLIAMSBURG ROAD TRAFFIC CALMING (CONT’D) 7. Councillor Janecki referred to the comments from the Fire Department contained within the staff report, which identifies Williamsburg Road as a secondary response route. He inquired about the impact the speed humps would have on response time. Mr. Carmichael indicated that studies have shown an impact of 10-20 seconds additional time for emergency services to respond based on each measure. He reiterated that Williamsburg Road is a secondary response route rather than a primary response route for emergency services vehicles, noting that emergency vehicles have alternatives to using Williamsburg Road. Councillor S. Davey inquired as to the budgetary impact of implementing two raised crosswalks and two speed humps on Williamsburg Road. Mr. Carmichael responded that the cost estimate for this project is $20,000. and if the two raised crosswalks are installed, it would add an estimated $20,000. to the project’s budget. Councillor Davey agreed that based on the report, the responses seem to be conflicted and suggested the installation of three speed humps and one raised crosswalk, as it would be closer to the project estimate. Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock advised that it is important to emphasize that the residents have responded affirmatively to the installation of four speed humps, as noted in staff’s recommendation. She indicated that the foot traffic from Hillsborough area does not warrant an additional $10,000. for a raised crosswalk; however, she is in agreement that the raised crosswalk would be beneficial at the hydro corridor due to the number of students and pedestrians. She noted that she would support the installation of three speed humps and one raised crosswalk. Councillor Singh indicated he was not aware of the additional costs associated with the raised crosswalk and pointed out that the crossing at the trail would be made easier and safer with the installation of such a measure. He reiterated that the policy states that the measures could be revisited in one year. He then modified his original motion to provide for three speed humps and one raised crosswalk at the hydro corridor. Carried The following motion was then voted on and on a recorded vote with Mayor C. Zehr and Councillors K. Galloway-Sealock, S. Davey, F. Etherington, P. Singh, B. Vrbanovic and Y. Fernandes voting in favour; and Councillors D. Glenn-Graham, J. Gazzola, Z. Janecki and B. Ioannidis voting in opposition. On motion by Councillor P. Singh - it was resolved: “That a series of three (3) speed humps be installed on Williamsburg Road between Wilkins Drive and Pinedale Drive; and further, That one raised crosswalk be installed on Williamsburg Road at the hydro corridor.” INS-13-032 - KITCHENER CYCLING BRANDING & DOWNTOWN CYCLING FACILITIES 8. The Committee considered Infrastructure Services Department report INS-13-032, dated March 23, 2013, recommending implementation of initiatives contained within the Cycling Master Plan, including installation of bike sharrows on King Street in the Downtown core. Mr. J. Joseph reviewed the report, advising that the City of Kitchener has a demonstrated commitment to be part of the global cycling movement through a dedicated budget and approved Cycling Master Plan. He described the current initiatives, including installation of super-sharrows in Downtown Kitchener, which will allow cyclists to utilize the full width of the lane where the roadway is narrow; thereby supporting motorists and cyclists in the same lane. He clarified that the Highway Traffic Act indicates that to avoid conflict between cyclists and motorists, the cyclist may take the entire width of the lane. He indicated that sharrows help those riding a bicycle position themselves on the roadway; and, assists in reducing sidewalk and wrong-way cycling. In addition, sharrows provide a clear visual queue where motorists can expect to see cyclists. Mr. Joseph continued outlining the proposed initiatives, including the installation of artistic bike racks in the Downtown core. He emphasized the importance of changing the perception of COMMUNITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES COMMITTEE APRIL 8, 2013 - 33 - CITY OF KITCHENER INS-13-032 - KITCHENER CYCLING BRANDING & DOWNTOWN CYCLING FACILITIES 8. (CONT’D) cycling, stating that the artistic design will increase the profile of cycling in Downtown Kitchener. He described the bike engagement strategy, which will provide a forum for the City to communicate information and resources to residents who are interested in cycling. He noted that one key area within the Cycling Master Plan is attracting new cyclists and indicated that the proposal of BikeFest, production of a Bike Map, and the Bike2Work Challenge are all tools to engage and promote cycling in the City and make it a more sustainable community. Mr. Chris Klein, Tri-Cities Transportation Action Group (Tri-TAG), appeared in support of the initiatives presented in the Cycling Master Plan. He indicated that he is a cycling-to-work enthusiast and would support the installation of sharrows. He advised that in 2010, Tri-TAG conducted a study which indicated that more cyclists used the road when this type infrastructure was in place. He encouraged compiling hard data to measure the effectiveness of the sharrows, so that the project could be expanded throughout the City. Mayor C. Zehr requested clarification on the studies conducted by Tri-TAG in 2010. Mr. Klein stated that data was collected before and after the implementation in order to measure the rate of progress. Mayor Zehr encouraged staff to examine a tool for measuring the effectiveness of the initiatives, including the sharrows. Councillor B. Vrbanovic inquired if the sharrows are luminescent at night. Mr. K. Carmichael responded that road paint has reflectorized beads and that the sharrows will be augmented with signs indicating that the roads should be shared between motorists and cyclists. In response to questions, Mr. Joseph advised that the cost for the artistic bike racks is similar to regular bike racks, and that the Cycling Committee is taking a proactive and positive approach to cycling in the community. He stated that the Committee is developing a survey which will engage the public and identify barriers to cycling within the community. Councillor J. Gazzola requested clarification on the cost of regular sharrows and super- sharrows, stating that it could be more cost-effective to only install painted sharrows initially. Mr. Joseph stated that although the cost of installing the super-sharrows is higher, because they are plastic augmented with green paint, they offer longevity and improved visualization. Mr. Joseph agreed to provide further information as to the cost of installing regular sharrows. Mr. Joseph responded to further questions, indicating that staff and the Cycling Committee will perform monitoring studies as the progress of the Cycling Master Plan is implemented. Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock requested that legal advice be sought on the potential liability of the sharrows being located on King Street where motorists and cyclists share the width of the roadway and travel in a singular manner. CarriedUnanimously The following motion was then voted on and on a recorded vote On motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic - it was resolved: “That the initiatives identified in Infrastructure Services Department report INS-13-032, from the Council-approved Cycling Master Plan, be implemented in 2013 through the BikeKitchener cycling engagement strategy, including the following cycling proposals: • City of Kitchener BikeFest; • City of Kitchener Bike Map; • City of Kitchener Cyclist Survey; • Bicycle Friendly Downtown Initiatives, including the first phase of the sharrows installation; • Bike2Work Challenge 2013; and further, That an annual report on the Cycling Master Plan implementation, including future initiatives which may require roadway changes, be brought forward for consideration in conjunction with the annual budget process or at another appropriate time.” COMMUNITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES COMMITTEE APRIL 8, 2013 - 34 - CITY OF KITCHENER CSD-13-029 - AGREEMENT FOR USE OF FACILITY - KINGSDALE COMMUNITY CENTRE 9. The Committee considered Community Services Department report CSD-13-029, dated March 19, 2013, recommending execution of an agreement for use of a store facility at the Kingsdale Community Centre and the delegation of authority to the Director of Community Programs and Services to enter into future agreements of this nature. On motion by Councillor J. Gazzola - it was resolved: “That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute an agreement, to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor, with Kitchener Waterloo Minor Boys Softball Association to permit the exclusive use of a storage room at the Kingsdale Community Centre; and further, That the Director of Community Programs and Services be delegated authority to execute storage room agreements including any amendments thereto, to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor, for the purpose of permitting community groups exclusive use of storage rooms in City facilities.” INS-13-027 - SCHOOL ZONE 40 KM/HR SPEED LIMIT PILOT PROJECT 10. The Committee considered Infrastructure Services Department report INS-13-027, dated March 15, 2013, recommending a pilot project to implement 40 km/hr. speed limit in school zones. Mr. K. Carmichael reviewed the report, advising that nine locations are being proposed for the pilot project, which will involve speed-control measures in the areas of schools. He stated that although reducing speed limits using signage is not highly effective in attaining reduced speeds, he recognizes school areas require special consideration because of safety concerns. With regard to process, he indicated that data will be compiled before the end of the 2013 school year to determine a base-line, with more being collected after the implementation of the speed-control measures in both Fall 2013 and Spring 2014. He noted that staff would report back with the results in the Spring of 2014. In response to questions, Mr. Carmichael advised that reducing the speed limit to 40 km/hr would not be restricted to school hours, but would be in place 24 hours per day. He indicated that implementing a reduced speed will create the expectation to motorists that reduced speeds are required in all school zones. Mr. R. Schirm responded to further questions, advising that the selection of roadways was determined in order to provide a measurable range of traffic situations. He acknowledged that there are 70 schools within the City and the test locations were chosen to provide a broad cross-section on roadways within City jurisdiction. He stated that there is no duplication between the proposed locations and those on the current list for traffic calming measures. He indicated that traffic and speed data will be collected before signs are installed and enforcement takes place; and, additional data collection will continue once the measures have been implemented. Councillor B. Vrbanovic questioned why only one type of signage was proposed for this pilot project and suggested that staff should investigate the installation of flashing 40 km/hr signs to measure the effectiveness of the project. Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock noted that there are no proposed locations within Ward 5. She pointed out that there is a new school located in the area of Parkvale Drive and Woodbine Avenue. She requested that staff consider incorporating both streets in the Pilot Project. On motion by Councillor B. Ioannidis - it was resolved: “That a Pilot Project be established for the 2013-2014 School Year that implements 40 km/hr. speed limits at the following locations: COMMUNITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES COMMITTEE APRIL 8, 2013 - 35 - CITY OF KITCHENER INS-13-027 - SCHOOL ZONE 40 KM/HR SPEED LIMIT PILOT PROJECT (CONT’D) 10. • Pioneer Drive from Black Walnut Drive to Perin Place; • Apple Ridge Drive from Ridgemere Street to a point 70 metres south of Pine Valley Drive; • Pebblecreek Drive from Zeller Drive to a point 50 metres east of Country Clair Street; • Natchez Road from Rothsay Avenue to a point 90 metres east of Matthew Street; • Strange Street from Cherry Street to a point 50 metres east of Dominion Street; • Stirling Avenue North from East Avenue to Simeon Street; • Birchcliff Avenue from Greenbrook Drive to Forest Hill Drive; • Rolling Meadows Drive from Tradewinds Place to Windermere Court; • Lancaster Street from Frederick Street to Krug Street; and, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly; and, April 15, 2013 Council meeting That staff be directed to report back to the regarding the implications of implementing 40 km/hr. speed limits on Parkvale Drive and Woodbine Avenue; and, April 15, 2013 Council meeting That staff be directed to report back to the with information regarding the costs associated with implementing a flashing 40 km/hr. speed control sign in place of a standard sign; and further, That the findings of the School Zone 40 km/hr. Speed Limit Pilot Project be presented in the fall of 2014, along with any proposed recommendations for moving forward.” INS-13-028 - GENERAL PARKING REGULATIONS REVIEW 11. Councillor B. Ioannidis assumed the Chair. The Committee considered Infrastructure Services Department report INS-13-028, dated March 20, 2013 recommending the implementation of a one year pilot project to permit parking on boulevards as well as a change in on-street parking enforcement practices. Mr. K. Carmichael reviewed the report, advising that in a number of areas across the City it has been identified that residents are having difficulty in finding sufficient parking. He stated that Transportation Services and Enforcement staff have reviewed this matter and are proposing a one year pilot project that would allow parking on the boulevard portion of the driveway apron; being the ramp at the end of a driveway between the sidewalk and curb/road edge. In addition, a cessation is proposed with respect to enforcing the three hour parking limit stth from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. from April 1 to November 30. He noted that in recognition of the significant demand for parking, staff will also be investigating the feasibility of a formalized parking exemption process. In response to questions, Mr. Carmichael confirmed that it was staffs’ intention that all of the proposed measures would be pursued as part of the one year pilot project. He advised that a comprehensive communications plan was being developed to inform the public of the proposed changes to the on-street parking regulations. He indicated that the one year pilot project would provide an opportunity to monitor the conditions that result from boulevard parking, and determine if it is a suitable, long-term solution to these issues. He stated that it is believed that most boulevard parking would occur during the winter months, which is when parking is not permitted on the streets. He added that people would only be permitted to park on the paved portion of the boulevard and no part of the vehicle would be allowed to overhang the sidewalk or the curb/road edge. Mayor C. Zehr suggested that the wording of Clause 2 should be revised to clarify that the stth changes to the on-street parking enforcement practices proposed for April 1 to November 30 were being implemented as part of the one year pilot project. Mr. S. Turner responded to further questions, confirming that it has been identified that the proposed measures could result in a loss of approximately $75,000. in fine related revenues. COMMUNITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES COMMITTEE APRIL 8, 2013 - 36 - CITY OF KITCHENER INS-13-028 - GENERAL PARKING REGULATIONS REVIEW (CONT’D) 11. He advised that those staff who would typically be responsible for issuing fines for overnight parking would be reallocated to respond to other issues; such as, open air burning and noise complaints. He stated that while people are permitted to park on the street during the summer months, there has been a noticeable decrease in the number of overnight on-street parking tickets that have been issued over the past three years during the winter months. He noted that staff would be proactive in issuing tickets for vehicles that are found to be overhang the sidewalk and/or parking on the grass portion of the boulevard. He clarified that staff are not proposing amendments to the City’s by-laws that govern parking; rather, it is recommended that staff take a different approach with respect to how those by-laws are enforced. He acknowledged that under the proposed enforcement changes, someone could park on a roadway blocking their own driveway and as long as no one complains, no ticket would be issued. Clarification was requested regarding the planning concerns raised in the staff report with respect to the impact that allowing parking on boulevards might have on residential streetscapes. Mr. J. Willmer advised that in 1994 the City adopted a more compact subdivision development policy which allowed for single-detached dwellings to have narrower lot frontages. He identified that as of 2004 new neighbourhood design initiatives were implemented to address on-street parking issues and guide decision making for new subdivisions. He added that over the past eight years, on-street parking plans are required as part of a draft plan of subdivision to outline how the demand for parking would be sufficiently accommodated. He noted that a majority of the parking demand issues relate to those subdivisions that were developed from 1994 to 2004 when narrow lots were permitted prior to the requirement of an on-street parking plan. Councillor Y. Fernandes expressed concerns with the potential impact that the proposed measures may have on the Lower Doon area, particularly those residential neighbourhoods in close proximity to Conestoga College. She questioned whether it would be possible to only implement the proposed measure in specific areas of the City. Mr. Turner advised that in terms of monitoring, Enforcement staff has a large presence in the Conestoga College area. He stated that parking related complaints are received from across the City, adding that a relatively low number of complaints are received from the Lower Doon area. He indicated that only applying the regulations to certain area might leave the City vulnerable to a potential legal challenge; accordingly, he agreed to discuss this matter with Legal Services staff and report back prior to the April 15, 2013 Council meeting. st Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock suggested that the April 1 start date should be changed to st May 1; thereby providing sufficient time to notify the public of the proposed changes. Mr. Carmichael indicated that the start date proposed in Clause 2 was intended to define the timeframe for those measures as taking place during the non-winter months. He noted that st staff should be able to have the communication plan in place by May 1. Councillor S. Davey suggested that additional legal advice should be sought regarding the potential liability if vehicles are damaged by the City’s snowplows while parked on the boulevard portion of the driveway apron. Councillor B. Ioannidis questioned if consideration had been given to the provision of seasonal parking passes as a means of accommodating the identified parking demand. Mr. Carmichael advised that seasonal parking passes were investigated and it was found that due to the logistical issues associated with administering such a program, it has only been pursued by municipalities that have no other alternatives to address on-street parking issues. On motion, Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock brought the recommendation contained in Report INS-13-028 forward for consideration, with amendments to Clause 2 to indicate that the st changes are to be effective as of May 1 and clarifying that they are being implemented as part of the one year pilot program. Councillor D. Glenn-Graham expressed concerns with the proposed measures, noting that the City has implemented a number of initiatives to encourage people to move away from using their cars as their primary mode of transportation. He advised that during the non-winter COMMUNITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES COMMITTEE APRIL 8, 2013 - 37 - CITY OF KITCHENER INS-13-028 - GENERAL PARKING REGULATIONS REVIEW (CONT’D) 11. months there are alternatives available, such as on-street parking, that reduces the need for boulevard parking. Councillor Glenn-Graham brought forward an amendment to Clause 1 of Councillor Galloway Sealock’s motion, which was accepted as friendly, to indicate that parking on the boulevard stst would only be permissible during the winter months from December 1 to March 31. On motion by Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock - it was resolved: “That parking on the boulevard (paved area of a driveway between the sidewalk and the stst curb/road edge) be permitted from December 1 to March 31 as part of a one year pilot project, subject to the conditions outlined in Infrastructure Services Department report INS-13-028; and, That a change in on-street parking enforcement practices (no enforcement of the three stth (3) hour parking limit from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., May 1 to November 30), be endorsed as part of the one year pilot project; and further, That staff be directed to report back on the feasibility of a formalized parking exemption process that may include on-line reporting.” Voted on clause by clause, on recorded votes: Carried. Clause 1 - In Favour: Mayor C. Zehr and Councillors P. Singh, S. Davey, B. Ioannidis, K. Galloway-Sealock, B. Vrbanovic and D. Glenn-Graham. Contra: Councillors Z. Janecki, J. Gazzola, Y. Fernandes and F. Etherington. Carried. Clause 2 - In Favour: Mayor C. Zehr and Councillors P. Singh, B. Ioannidis, K. Galloway-Sealock, D. Glenn-Graham, B. Vrbanovic, J. Gazzola, Z. Janecki, S. Davey and F. Etherington. Contra: Councillor Y. Fernandes Carried Unanimously. Clause 3 - ADJOURNMENT 12. On motion, the meeting adjourned at 5:35 p.m. D. Livingstone C. Goodeve Committee Administrator Committee Administrator