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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-05-22 PLANNING & STRATEGIC INITIATIVES COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 22, 2013 CITY OF KITCHENER The Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee met this date, commencing at 6:07 p.m. Present: Councillor B. Vrbanovic - Chair Mayor C. Zehr and Councillors K. Galloway-Sealock, S. Davey, P. Singh, D. Glenn- Graham, F. Etherington, Y. Fernandes, Z. Janecki, J. Gazzola and B. Ioannidis. Staff: J. Willmer, Chief Administrative Officer M. May, Deputy CAO, Community Services P. Houston, Deputy CAO, Infrastructure Services L. Johnson, Director, Communications B. Robinson, Director, Engineering H. Gross, Director, Assessment Management S. Ross, Assistant City Solicitor B. Korah, Manager, Development Engineer B. Cronkite, Transportation Planning Project Manager D. Livingstone, Committee Administrator At the commencement of the meeting, Councillor B. Vrbanovic read aloud the following statement: “This meeting is being held in relation to the Class Environmental Assessment (EA) on the extension of Strasburg Road from north of Stauffer Drive to New Dundee Road otherwise known as the Southern Section. The northern portion of the Strasburg Road extension, from Rush Meadow Drive to north of Stauffer Drive, is not being considered as part of this process; and, ask that questions / comments should be limited to the southern section of the Strasburg Road extension.” INS-13-023 - STRASBURG ROAD CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 1. PRESENTATION OF TECHNICAL PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE The Committee considered Infrastructure Services Department report INS-13-023, dated May 10, 2013, recommending approval of the New Technically Preferred Alignment (W1) for the Strasburg Road Extension from north of Stauffer Drive to New Dundee; and, to proceed with completion of the final Environmental Study Report (ESR). In addition, the Committee was in receipt this date of correspondence from Mr. H. Drewitz dated May 20, 2013 related to the technical and financial implications of the proposed Strasburg Road Extension. The Committee was in further receipt this date of an Overview Plan for Southwest Kitchener, Robert Ferrie Drive Alternatives, prepared by MHBC Planning dated May 21, 2013, distributed by Mr. P. Britton. Mr. B. Korah presented the report, advising that Mr. Ian Upjohn, SNC-Lavalin Inc., and Mr. Darren Dixon were in attendance to respond to any questions the Committee may have on the Environmental Assessment (EA). Mr. Korah provided background on the project, stating in May 2012 staff presented a draft ESR to Council and released it to the public for review and comments. Subsequently, Council determined that additional work was warranted to identify the new Technically Preferred Alignment. He advised that a number of changes have occurred since the additional scope of work was approved, including: the designation of 500 Stauffer Drive under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act; the introduction of an additional alignment alternative (referred to as Alignment W2 Modified) by land owners in the study area; and, the Ministry of Natural Resources clarification of its position on challenges in mitigating impacts and providing overall benefit when crossing the Jefferson Salamander regulated area. He further advised that the development and assessment of the alignment alternatives for the Strasburg Road Extension have been formulated on the following objectives: to provide for approved development and future growth (Doon South and other areas in southwest Kitchener); relieve traffic capacity on Homer Watson Boulevard, Huron Road and Fischer- Hallman Road; achieve compatibility with City and Regional policies for future growth and development, the location of any related road intersections, and to minimize impacts to natural heritage features and other important environmental resources. He summated that the W1 Alignment Alternative represents an acceptable balance of advantages and disadvantages across the spectrum of evaluation criteria. The preferred alignment is being carried forward for presentation to stakeholders as the new Technically Preferred Alignment with the following rationale: W1 avoids natural heritage features, including wetlands, forests, streams and fish PLANNING & STRATEGIC INITIATIVES COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 22, 2013 -29- CITY OF KITCHENER INS-13-023 - STRASBURG ROAD CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 1. PRESENTATION OF TECHNICAL PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE CONT’D habitat, wildlife passage areas, regulated floodplain, and avoids Species At Risk habitats and significant challenges associated with obtaining an Endangered Species Act permit. He noted, notwithstanding the advantages of the W1 Alternative, the Project Team has expressed concerns over the potential cumulative effects of this alignment on natural heritage features and agricultural resources associated with the anticipated pressure to relocate the west limit of the City’s urban boundary to match the new Strasburg Road alignment. In conclusion, Mr. Korah reviewed the next steps for the project, including: preliminary design of the New Technically Preferred Alignment (May – July 2013); ongoing dialogue with government agencies; preparation of the ESR for consideration at the October 21, 2013 Planning & Strategic Initiatives Committee meeting; and, ultimately filing the ESR for the public review period. Mr. Mark Dorfman appeared on behalf of Ms. Ruttowski, owner of 500 Stauffer Drive. He advised that Ms. Ruttowski is in support of the W1 Alignment Alternative as it has the least impact to her living environment, cultural heritage resources and natural environmental features; however, approval of the W1 Alignment could create difficulty in vehicular access to the main entrance of her property. He requested consideration by the Committee to maintain access to 500 Stauffer Drive via Reidel Drive as an interim measure. He further advised that Ms. Ruttowksi would like to be included in discussions with area landowners related to the connection of Robert Ferrie Drive to the W1 Alignment of Strasburg Road. In response to questions, Mr. Dorfman advised that he had provided a written submission at the April 24, 2013 Public Information Centre requesting maintaining access to 500 Stauffer Drive through Reidel Drive while the Strasburg Road North extension is being is established. He stated that the traditional driveway access is through an unopened road allowance on Reidel Drive West. Councillor Galloway-Sealock indicated that she would like to include a clause in the recommendation ensuring that access to 500 Stauffer Drive is maintained. Mr. Paul Britton, MHBC Planning, was in attendance on behalf of Hallman Construction Ltd. and Activa Holdings Inc., in support of staff’s recommendation. He confirmed his clients’ support of the staff recommendation, W1 Alignment Alternative and referred to the Overview Map of Southwest Kitchener Robert Ferrie Drive Alternatives as the collaborative representation of reasonable alternatives for the westerly extension to Strasburg Road. He encouraged the Committee to support W1 Alignment Alternative, and proactively work with staff with respect to Robert Ferrie Drive alignment alternatives. He confirmed that his clients agree that the Robert Ferrie Drive extension should be subject to an EA or Official Plan Amendment and Plan of Subdivision process. Councillors Y. Fernandes and Z. Janecki referred to the Overview Plan, and inquired if it would be the intent of Mr. Britton’s clients to pressure the Region of Waterloo to extend development into the protected countryside, if the proposed W1 alignment and westerly extension of Robert Ferrie Drive were approved. Mr. Britton responded that development pressure is not related to the W1 Alignment of Strasburg Road, and although he believes the urban limit should be Fischer-Hallman Road, the extension of Strasburg Road and Robert Ferrie Drive is to facilitate growth in the City of Kitchener. Mr. Peter Pickfield appeared on behalf of Primeland Developments Limited and Freure Developments in support of staff’s recommendation. In response to questions, Mr. Pickfield stated that it is not the intention of his clients to develop into the Provincially Significant Wetland. He explained that development is intended to continue as approved, adding that the plans are based on the current approved alignment of the northern section of Strasburg Road. He further stated that homeowners who purchased new homes from Primeland Developments and Freure Developments were made aware of the proposed extension of Strasburg Road by land use designation plans which were published by the City of Kitchener. Mr. Owen Skeen, area resident, appeared in opposition of the recommendation of staff to PLANNING & STRATEGIC INITIATIVES COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 22, 2013 -30- CITY OF KITCHENER INS-13-023 - STRASBURG ROAD CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 1. PRESENTATION OF TECHNICAL PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE CONT’D approve the W1 Alignment Alternative of the Strasburg Road extension. He stated that he does not support the extension of the road as it would destroy natural environmental features and the habitat of the Jefferson Salamander. Mr. Harald Drewitz, area resident, addressed the Committee with concerns related to the technical and financial implications of the extension of Strasburg Road. He referred to Page 1- 6 of staff’s report which states the total cost estimate for the extension of Strasburg Road is $22M including related infrastructure, and indicated that page C-173 of the 2013 Capital Forecast indicates construction costs of $6.6M and $7.6M for 2016 and 2017 respectively. He expressed concern that the funding for the total project was not anticipated in the 2013 Capital Forecast. Further, Mr. Drewitz indicated that he had requested information from staff at the Public Information Centre on April 24, 2013, relative to the source of population growth rate numbers used for this project, and did not receive a response in a reasonable timeframe or with a specific answer. He asked the Committee to consider that the actual growth rates may be lower than the rates used in this EA and associated traffic studies. He explained that housing starts have reportedly decreased 73% in the first four months of 2013, in the City of Kitchener, from the same period in 2012, which is evidence that the economic effects of the 2008/2009 financial meltdown are continuing. Accordingly, he requested the Committee consider postponing the extension of Strasburg Road until the actual growth rate warrants the extension. In response to questions, Mr. Drewitz stated that if a road is warranted, W1 would be the preferred option. He encouraged the Committee to utilize live data in the growth analyses to determine whether the Strasburg Road extension is necessitated. Ms. Karen von Knobloch, area resident, appeared in opposition of the Strasburg Road extension. She expressed concern for the impact the road extension would have on the natural environment and the preservation of the natural habitat in the watershed. She indicated that upon review of the advantages and disadvantages of each alignment alternative, she would agree that W1 has the least impact; however, she would have preferred the northern section of Strasburg Road to have been included in the EA as part of a comprehensive project. Mr. Duncan Class and Ms. Bonnie Bender-Vargas, area residents, gave a presentation in opposition of the preferred alignment, stating that it would have been preferable to have the northern and southern sections of Strasburg Road considered concurrently and in a comprehensive manner. In addition, Mr. Class expressed support of an alignment created by Mr. Karl Cober, which was originally presented to the Committee on November 27, 2012, and encompassed the entire length of Strasburg Road including the northern section. In response to questions, Mr. Class indicated that the W1 Alignment Alternative is similar to the alternative presented by Mr. Cober in the southern section, as it avoids wetlands and natural heritage features. Ms. Bender-Vargas explained that the cost savings of implementing Mr. Cober’s alternative would be in the northern section by negating the proposed bridge and lane kilometres. Ms. Alicia Pokluda, area resident, addressed the Committee in opposition to the proposed extension of Strasburg Road. She expressed concern that the Committee is considering allowing the destruction of acres of mature forest in favour of a four-lane road, that may not be needed, to accommodate growth in the City. She expressed further concern that the road would be located through wetlands and water regenerating areas which will be impacted by runoff and pollution. She encouraged the Committee to promote the forested area as a natural environment easily accessed by pedestrians, noting that residents will have to cross four lanes of traffic and will be further endangered by the increase of traffic at the Strasburg Road and Huron Road roundabout where high school students regularly cross. She summated that the noise and pollution and negative impacts of the extension would not be tolerable to the area residential neighbourhoods and urged the Committee to oppose the extension of Strasburg Road. Ms. Irina Trunov, area resident, addressed the Committee in opposition to the extension of PLANNING & STRATEGIC INITIATIVES COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 22, 2013 -31- CITY OF KITCHENER INS-13-023 - STRASBURG ROAD CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 1. PRESENTATION OF TECHNICAL PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE CONT’D Strasburg Road, stating that the process for providing information to the public has not been straight forward. She expressed concern for environmental features and the impact the extension would have on environmentally sensitive areas. She questioned why a ‘do nothing’ option was not considered, urging the Committee to demonstrate transformational leadership by not constructing the road in order to satisfy the development community. Mr. Karl Cober, area resident, appeared in support of the W1 Alignment Alternative stating that there are significant advantages to avoiding Blair Creek and 500 Stauffer Drive. He emphasized the importance of a holistic approach in the construction of Strasburg Road, stating that if the comprehensive alignment he proposed in November is implemented, there would be a savings of $4M to $8M to the City. He explained that his proposal avoids bridge construction in the northern section and has less impact to the environment as no excavating in sensitive areas is required. Mr. Cober responded to questions, stating although his alignment was presented to the Committee on November 27, 2012, it did not receive consideration as there was opposition to opening up the northern section of the project in the EA process. He advised his proposed alignment is for the overall alignment of Strasburg Road which is similar to W1 in the section from north of Stauffer Drive to New Dundee Road. He stated Councillor P. Singh assured Mr. Cober that his suggestions were considered, as demonstrated in the new Technically Preferred Alignment Alternative which mirrors Mr. Cober’s alignment in the southern section. Mr. Valentin Domilescu, area resident, appeared in opposition of the extension of Strasburg Road, stating that when he purchased his home he was not made aware of the future road extension. He expressed concern that his son attends Huron Heights Secondary School and will have to cross a four-lane road and roundabout while walking to school. He indicated that he is concerned development will eventually require the extension of Huron Road to Highway 401. In response to questions, Mr. Domilescu stated that he has been a resident of the area since 2002 and has owned two homes, one purchased directly from the builder. He stated that he was not informed of the future extension of Strasburg Road by the builder when he originally purchased his home in the area. Ms. Clair Griffioen, area resident, appeared in opposition of the extension of Strasburg Road, stating that the impact on the environment will be great if the alignment is approved. She expressed concern that a consultant retained by the City informed her at a Public Information Centre that a bridge constructed in the northern section will ‘wreck’ wetlands but stated that the wetlands will be restored. She stated that the five-stage EA process should have encompassed the northern section of Strasburg Road, and requested the Committee to consider extending the process to the northern section. The Committee then recessed at 8:15 p.m. and re-convened at 8:22 p.m., chaired by Councillor B. Vrbanovic and with all members present. Councillor Z. Janecki requested clarification on why a ‘do nothing’ option was not presented. Mr. H. Gross stated that a ‘do nothing’ approach is retained for projects that do not have a demonstrated need. Mr. B. Cronkite explained that Homer Watson Boulevard and Fisher- Hallman Road are currently at capacity, indicating a need for the extension of Strasburg Road. In response to questions, Mr. Korah reviewed the funding sources for the project, stating that the Development Charges Background Study in 2009 estimated $6.1M for the Strasburg Road extension. He explained the breakdown for the complete project includes the following estimates: $8.1M for the Strasburg Road extension; $3.59M from the Region of Waterloo for the watermain; $3.77M for the extension of Robert Ferrie Drive; and, $2.97M for the extension of New Dundee Road; totalling an estimated cost of $22.1M. Councillor Y. Fernandes expressed concerns for drinking water, stating that any development PLANNING & STRATEGIC INITIATIVES COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 22, 2013 -32- CITY OF KITCHENER INS-13-023 - STRASBURG ROAD CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 1. PRESENTATION OF TECHNICAL PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE CONT’D over the recharge area would have a negative impact. Mr. Darren Dixon, Hydrogeologist, SNC- Lavalin, responded that all alternatives have been considered to mitigate any impact on the drinking water recharge area. He further clarified a mitigation strategy will be developed during the design phase, which will incorporate collection measures, such as lined ditches to reduce the impact of the roadway on the environmental features. Councillor Fernandes referred to comments provided by Mr. P. Britton, stating that two assumptions have been presented which are based on development, including the Robert Ferrie Drive extension and the Blair Creek Drive crossing at Reidel Road. She inquired why assumptions are being utilized in deliberation of this project, given that an Environmental Assessment has not been undertaken for either assumption. Mr. Cronkite stated that both Robert Ferrie Drive and Blair Creek Drive have been identified as community roads, which are required to move traffic to Strasburg Road to prevent infiltration of traffic through neighbourhoods. He added that Robert Ferrie Drive is anticipated to carry 8,000 vehicles per day to alleviate through-traffic to Caryndale Drive. In response to questions regarding the process to ensure an EA is completed for the Robert Ferrie Drive extension, Mr. Gross stated that both the EA process and Plan of Subdivison process have similar depths and outcomes to establish alignment alternatives. He explained each process has a varied timeline; a developer can begin the process through an application for a Plan of Subdivision. He confirmed that future development from Robert Ferrie Drive from Caryndale Drive to Strasburg Road could move forward if a Plan of Subdivision is approved and would include alternative alignments of Robert Ferrie Drive. Councillor B. Ioannidis inquired about the process for providing information to the public for this project. Mr. Korah stated that under a Class ‘C’ Environmental Assessment, two Public Information Centres are required; the City held four, has a designated webpage, and has presented all documentation from the 1980’s to present related to the northern portion of Strasburg Road. In addition, the additional scope of work for this project has been $500,000., with the length of time for this EA being three years, rather than a one-year completion period. Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock inquired if the need for the Strasburg Road extension was determined through an Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) decision. Mr. Korah confirmed that the extension of Strasburg Road was included in Transportation Master Plans and policy documents for the Region of Waterloo and City of Kitchener. Mr. S. Ross commented that the OMB affirmed the construction of the road. Mayor C. Zehr requested clarification on a comment made by Ms. Griffioen, related to a consultant who stated that a bridge will destroy habitat in the wetland if constructed. Mr. Upjohn responded that he cannot understand the use of the term ‘wreck’ with respect to the wetlands; however, ecological restoration which utilizes techniques to mitigate any damages to the wetland is incorporated into the design phase of the EA. In response to questions, Mr. Gross advised that Robert Ferrie Drive and Blair Creek Drive have been included in the assessment of the project due to the impact of their connections to Strasburg Road on the total cost of the project. He reiterated that further studies, such as an EA or Plan of Subdivision process, are required to determine their connections. On motion by Councillor Galloway-Sealock the recommendation contained within the staff report was brought forward with an additional clause to ensure access to 500 Stauffer Drive is maintained throughout the process of establishing the Strasburg Road extension, in a manner negotiated with the property owner. She explained that throughout the EA process, Ms. Ruttowski’s concerns have been acknowledged and responded to with assurance that the construction of the road would not largely impact her property. Councillor Fernandes commented in opposition to the extension of Strasburg Road and indicated that any future alignment alternatives brought forward for the extension of Robert Ferrie Drive and Blair Creek Drive, from Riedel Drive to Strasburg Road, should be subject to a full environmental assessment. PLANNING & STRATEGIC INITIATIVES COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 22, 2013 -33- CITY OF KITCHENER INS-13-023 - STRASBURG ROAD CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 1. PRESENTATION OF TECHNICAL PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE CONT’D At this time, Mr. Gross suggested that Mr. Britton may have additional information related to the extension of Robert Ferrie Drive; and, it was agreed to allow him the opportunity to address the Committee again. Mr. Britton advised that MHBC Planning has submitted a Pre-submission Application to consider the alignment of Robert Ferrie Drive through an Official Plan Amendment, with the details to be considered through the Plan of Subdivision. He indicated that although it may be desirable by the Committee to pass a resolution requiring an EA, the Planning Act states that alignment details can be determined through the Official Plan Amendment and Plan of Subdivision process. Mayor Zehr advised that issues such as the access to 500 Stauffer Drive are germane to the recommendation and matter-at-hand; however, he stated that issues such as the EA process should be brought forward under a separate motion. Councillor B. Ioannidis requested that this meeting be resolved into an in-camera meeting for the purpose of receiving clarification on matters subject to solicitor-client privilege. On motion by Councillor B. Ioannidis - It was resolved: "That an in-camera meeting of the Planning & Strategic Initiatives Committee be held immediately to consider matters which are subject to solicitor-client privilege." This meeting then temporarily recessed at 9:40 p.m. and reconvened at 9:54 p.m. with all members. Mayor C. Zehr indicated that at the appropriate time he would be prepared to put forward a motion regarding the City’s preference for completion of environmental studies for proposed alignments of Robert Ferrie Drive to connect with Strasburg Road. Councillor Y. Fernandes concurred with Mayor Zehr, advising that she would like to bring forward a similar motion requiring environmental studies for proposed connections to Strasburg Road from Blair Creek Drive west of Reidel Drive. Mayor Zehr questioned the need for environmental studies, as the section of Blair Creek Drive Councillor Fernandes is referring to is outside of the urban boundary of Countryside Line, and cannot be developed. Councillor Galloway-Sealock stated that although the recommendation may not be required as the area is outside of Countryside Line, she would agree that the intent is that if development is considered, an EA or ESR would be desirable. Mr. Korah clarified that it is his understanding that Blair Creek Drive is included in the EA for the Strasburg Road extension north of Stauffer Drive and New Dundee Road. Mr. Upjohn agreed that the Project Team had deemed Blair Creek Drive would be included in the scope of the subject EA. Mr. J. Willmer explained that the subject EA will be completing the studies required for Blair Creek Drive as the purpose of Strasburg Road is to serve the development east of Reidel Drive. Councillor Fernandes indicated that as the studies for Blair Creek Drive westerly from Reidel Drive to Strasburg Road would be included in the subject EA, she would no longer bring forward a motion at this time to require the studies. Councillor Z. Janecki requested a detailed map of the lands located at the Countryside Line and Reidel Drive to examine areas of development potential. Mr. Gross agreed to provide this information prior to the Council meeting on June 10, 2013. PLANNING & STRATEGIC INITIATIVES COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 22, 2013 -34- CITY OF KITCHENER INS-13-023 - STRASBURG ROAD CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 1. PRESENTATION OF TECHNICAL PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE CONT’D On motion by Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock- it was resolved: “That the New Technically Preferred Alignment (W1) for the Strasburg Road Extension from north of Stauffer Drive to New Dundee Road be approved; and, That staff be directed to prepare Preliminary Design for the New Technically Preferred Alignment, complete the Environmental Study Report (ESR) and present the final ESR at the October 21, 2013 Planning & Strategic Initiatives Committee meeting to endorse the document for filing in the Public Record for the mandatory 30-day public review period and further, That vehicular access to 500 Stauffer Drive be maintained in a manner negotiated with the owner of 500 Stauffer Drive, throughout the development process of the Strasburg Road extension.” Carried Unanimously The following motion was then on a recorded vote. On motion by Mayor C. Zehr- it was resolved: “That if a new alignment for Robert Ferrie Drive is to be determined through an Official Plan Amendment and Plan of Subdivision process, it is the preference of the City of Kitchener to require documentation similar to an Environmental Study Report to justify the new alignment.” ADJOURNMENT 2. On motion, this meeting adjourned at 10:40 p.m. D. Livingstone Committee Administrator