HomeMy WebLinkAboutFCS Minutes - 2017-01-23 - Final Budget
FINANCE & CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES
JANUARY 23, 2017 CITY OF KITCHENER
The Finance and Corporate Services Committee met this date commencing at 9:33 a.m.
Present: Councillor S. Davey - Chair
Mayor B. Vrbanovic and Councillors F. Etherington, Y. Fernandes, K. Galloway-
Sealock, J. Gazzola, B. Ioannidis, Z. Janecki, S. Marsh, D. Schnider and P. Singh.
Staff: J. Willmer, Chief Administrative Officer
D. Chapman, Deputy CAO, Finance & Corporate Services
M. May, Deputy CAO, Community Services
C. Fletcher, Interim Executive Director, Infrastructure Service Department
J. Readman, Interim Executive Director, Infrastructure Service Department
J. Miller, Executive Director, CAO’s Office
C. Bluhm, Interim Executive Director, CAO’s Office
C. Tarling, Director, Legislated Services & City Clerk
R. Hagey, Director, Financial Planning
M. Seiling, Director, Building
M. Hildebrand, Director, Community Programs
H. Gross, Director, Engineering Services
M. Goldrup, Director, Human Resources
D. McGoldrick, Director Operations, Environmental Services
J. Edmondson, Interim Director, Utilities
C. Goodeve, Manager, Council/Committee Services & Deputy City Clerk
P. McCormick, Manager, Parking Enterprise
B. Bennett, Manager, Business Development
D. Fagerdahl, Manager, Financial Planning
S. White, Senior Financial Analyst
D. Saunderson, Committee Administrator
The purpose of this special meeting was to give final consideration to the 2017 Operating and Capital
Budgets. It was noted that any recommendations from the Committee this date would be considered
at the special Council meeting to be held immediately following this meeting.
1. FCS-17-003 - 2017 BUDGET PACKAGE (FINAL BUDGET DAY)
The Committee was in receipt this date of a Council Report containing draft resolutions related
to the 2017 Budget put forward for consideration this date.
Mr. D. Chapman presented a budget overview, advising the competing themes of affordability
and sustainability would be a focus of consideration for the 2017 Budget. He indicated there
were five key notes to the 2017 Operating Budget, as follows: the majority of any increased
costs to the homeowner is controlled by other levels of government; the proposed tax-
supported budget holds most City services status quo; the budget includes growth funding for
the expanded Doon Pioneer Park Community Centre, which is no longer required and can be
repurposed; the increasing costs related to the Workplace Safety Insurance Board (WSIB);
and, increased investments in utility infrastructure. He further advised Kitchener is the only
municipality in the area which is poised to adopt a property tax increase below the rate of
inflation, in many cases, by a considerable margin. Mr. Chapman stated for the 2017 Capital
Budget there were three key achievements: the Capital Budget is balanced; it provides new
investment in priority areas; and, reduces the City’s debt.
BOARDS
Kitchener Public Library
Ms. Mary Chevreau and Ms. Sabina Franzen, Kitchener Public Library (KPL), were in
attendance to respond to questions from the Committee.
A motion was brought forward by Councillor J. Gazzola to reduce the City’s operating grant to
the KPL by $10,000.
FINANCE & CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES
JANUARY 23, 2017 - 7 - CITY OF KITCHENER
1. FCS-17-003 - 2017 BUDGET PACKAGE (FINAL BUDGET DAY) (CONT’D)
Councillor Gazzola’s motion was voted on and was LOST on a recorded vote, with Councillors
J. Gazzola and Z. Janecki voting in favour; and, Mayor B. Vrbanovic and Councillors B.
Ioannidis, D. Schnider, P. Singh, S. Davey, S. Marsh, K. Galloway-Sealock, Y. Fernandes, and
F. Etherington voting in opposition.
The following motion was voted on and was Carried on a recorded vote, with Mayor B.
Vrbanovic and Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, P. Singh, S. Davey, S. Marsh, K.
Galloway-Sealock, Y. Fernandes and F. Etherington voting in favour; and, Councillors J.
Gazzola and Z. Janecki voting in opposition.
On motion by Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock -
it was resolved:
“That the 2017 Kitchener Public Library appropriation be approved, as presented.”
Centre in the Square
ReferencingIssue Paper BD01 (Sharing Centre in the Square Year-end Surplus and
Transitional Funding), Councillor S. Davey advised a motion to reconsider would need to be
approved prior to any consideration being given to the proposal put forward by Centre in the
Square (CITS) to split any surplus on a 50/50 basis for fiscal year 2016.
Ms. Deb Daub, CITS, was in attendance and responded to questions.
On motion by Councillor J. Gazzola -
it was resolved:
“That the January 18, 2016 decision regarding the allocation of any surplus
accumulated by Centre in the Square (CITS) up to and above the transitional funding of
$250,000., be reconsidered.”
The motion was Carried with the required 2/3 of members present.
On motion by Councillor J. Gazzola -
it was resolved:
“That additional transitional funding of $218,500. from the Tax Stabilization Reserve
Fund for the Centre in the Square (CITS) be disbursed at the request of the CITS
Board, with Council being notified by email of the request, and that the funding
arrangement of splitting any surplus accumulated by CITS 50/50 between CITS and the
City be applied to FY2016 and FY2017.”
Councillor J. Gazzola brought forward a motion to reduce the City’s operating grant to the
CITS by $10,000.
Councillor Gazzola’s motion was voted on and was LOST on a recorded vote, with Councillors
J. Gazzola, Y. Fernandes and Z. Janecki voting in favour; and, Mayor B. Vrbanovic and
Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, P. Singh, S. Davey, S. Marsh, K. Galloway-Sealock and
F. Etherington voting in opposition.
The following motion was voted on and was Carried on a recorded vote, with Mayor B.
Vrbanovic and Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, P. Singh, S. Davey, S. Marsh, K.
Galloway-Sealock and F. Etherington voting in favour; and, Councillors J. Gazzola, Y.
Fernandes and Z. Janecki voting in opposition.
On motion by Mayor B. Vrbanovic -
it was resolved:
“That the 2017 operating budget appropriation of $1,781,500., be approved to Centre in
the Square (CITS).”
FINANCE & CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES
JANUARY 23, 2017 - 8 - CITY OF KITCHENER
1. FCS-17-003 - 2017 BUDGET PACKAGE (FINAL BUDGET DAY) (CONT’D)
ENTERPRISE OPERATING BUDGETS
Golf
Councillor B. Ioannidis brought forward a motion to approve the 2017 Golf Enterprise budget.
A motion was brought forward by Councillor J. Gazzola to amend the 2017 Golf Enterprise
budget by increasing the dividend by $5,000., which would be applied to the Tax Stabilization
Reserve Fund (TSRF).
Councillor Gazzola’s motion was voted on and was LOST on a recorded vote with Councillors,
K. Galloway-Sealock, J. Gazzola, Y. Fernandes and Z. Janecki voting in favour; and, Mayor B.
Vrbanovic and Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, P. Singh, S. Davey, S. Marsh and F.
Etherington voting in opposition.
The following motion was voted on and was Carried on a recorded vote, with Mayor B.
Vrbanovic and Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, P. Singh, S. Davey, S. Marsh, K.
Galloway-Sealock and F. Etherington voting in favour; and, Councillors J. Gazzola, Y.
Fernandes and Z. Janecki voting in opposition.
On motion by Councillor B. Ioannidis -
it was resolved:
“That the 2017 budget for the Golf Enterprise, be approved, as presented.”
Building
A motion was brought forward by Councillor B. Ioannidis to approve the 2017 Operating
Budget for the Building Enterprise.
Councillor Y. Fernandes left the meeting at this time.
The following motion was then voted on and was Carried Unanimously on a recorded vote
with all members present.
On motion by Councillor B. Ioannidis -
it was resolved:
“That the 2017 budget for the Building Enterprise be approved as presented.”
Parking
Councillor Y. Fernandes re-entered the meeting at this time.
Councillor J. Gazzola brought forward a motion to increase the Parking Enterprise dividend
from $1,750,000. to $1,775,000.
The following motion was voted on and was Carried on a recorded vote, with Mayor B.
Vrbanovic and Councillors J. Gazzola, Y. Fernandes, Z. Janecki, D. Schnider, P. Singh, S.
Davey, S. Marsh and K. Galloway-Sealock voting in favour; and, Councillors B. Ioannidis and
F. Etherington voting in opposition.
On motion by Councillor J. Gazzola -
it was resolved:
“That the 2017 Parking Enterprise dividend be increased from $1,750,000. to
$1,775,000.”
The Committee recessed at 11:14 a.m. and reconvened at 11:20 a.m., Chaired by Councillor S.
Davey with all members present.
FINANCE & CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES
JANUARY 23, 2017 - 9 - CITY OF KITCHENER
1. FCS-17-003 - 2017 BUDGET PACKAGE (FINAL BUDGET DAY) (CONT’D)
Gas
A motion was brought forward by Councillor B. Ioannidis to approve the 2017 Gas Utility
budget, as presented.
In response to questions, Ms. C. Fletcher confirmed that staff is committed to bringing forward
a follow-up report on the Provincial Cap and Trade program in the Spring of 2017.
The following motion was voted on and was Carried on a recorded vote, with Mayor B.
Vrbanovic and Councillors B. Ioannidis, P. Singh, D. Schnider, Z. Janecki, Y. Fernandes, S.
Davey, K. Galloway-Sealock, S. Marsh and F. Etherington voting in favour; and, Councillor J.
Gazzola voting in opposition.
On motion by Councillor B. Ioannidis -
it was resolved:
“That the 2017 budget for the Gas Works Utility, be approved, as presented.”
Water, Sanitary Utility and Stormwater Utility
The Committee considered Issue Paper BD02 \[Accelerated Infrastructure Replacement
Program (AIRP) Follow-Up\], which provided additional information on the utility rates and
how they fund the City’s infrastructure program.
Questions were raised as to how possible rate reductions could be accommodated within the
three utilities. Ms. C. Fletcher reviewed a list of seven ongoing utility maintenance items for
2017 related to Water, Sanitary Utility and Stormwater Utility. She stated all of the items assist
the City in meeting legislated compliance obligations, addressing a backlog and/or extending
the life of an asset. She identified four of those items, which if reduced, could provide a rate
reduction of 0.54%.
Responding to questions regarding federal infrastructure funding, Mr. Chapman advised
incrementality is one of the eligibility criterion for the funding program. He stated the intent is to
ensure this funding leads to new, additional infrastructure projects or investments in projects
that would not have been completed in 2017 in the absence of federal funding. He cautioned
against rate reductions related to the capital program as it could put the City in jeopardy of not
complying with the eligibility criteria.
A motion was brought forward by Councillor P. Singh to decrease the combined utility rate by
1.3% which would change the overall proposed rate from 9.3% to 8%, with staff being directed
to report back on possible options to address the gap in funding.
A motion was brought forward by Councillor J. Gazzola to defer consideration of the Water,
Sanitary and Stormwater budgets to February 13, 2017 Finance and Corporate Services
Committee meeting.
Councillor Gazzola’s deferral motion was voted on and LOSTon a recorded vote with
Councillors J. Gazzola, Y. Fernandes, S. Marsh, D. Schnider and Z. Janecki voting in favour;
and, Mayor B. Vrbanovic and Councillors B. Ioannidis, K. Galloway-Sealock, P. Singh, S.
Davey and F. Etherington voting in opposition.
In response to questions regarding possible funding options, Mr. Chapman indicated staff had
examined possible measures for 2017 and did not identify any other potential funding sources.
He stated the only area where there is flexibility to make a rate reduction is within the
maintenance program.
Councillor Singh’s motion was then voted on and LOSTon a recorded vote with Councillors B.
Ioannidis, P. Singh, S. Marsh voting in favour; and, Mayor B. Vrbanovic and Councillors K.
Galloway-Sealock, J. Gazzola, Y. Fernandes, Z. Janecki, D. Schnider, S. Davey, and F.
Etherington voting in opposition.
FINANCE & CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES
JANUARY 23, 2017 - 10 - CITY OF KITCHENER
1. FCS-17-003 - 2017 BUDGET PACKAGE (FINAL BUDGET DAY) (CONT’D)
Mayor B. Vrbanovic brought forward a motion to decrease the combined proposed utility rate
by 0.54%, reducing it from 9.3% down to 8.76%.
The following motion was then voted on and was Carried on a recorded vote with Mayor B.
Vrbanovic and Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, S. Davey, K. Galloway-Sealock and S.
Marsh voting in favour; and, Councillors Z. Janecki, F. Etherington, P. Singh, Y. Fernandes, J.
Gazzola voting in opposition.
On motion by Mayor B. Vrbanovic -
it was resolved:
“That the proposed 2017 utility rate increases for Water (7.4%), Sanitary (9.8%) and
Stormwater (9.2%), be approved, resulting in a combined increase of 8.76%.”
The Committee recessed at 12:52 p.m. and reconvened at 2:06 p.m., Chaired by Councillor S. Davey
with all members present.
CAPITAL BUDGET
Follow-up Issue Papers
The Committee considered Issue Paper BD04 (Kiwanis Park Pool (KPP) Renovation)
regarding the scheduled 2017 pool renovation and the request for additional funding to
complete the renovation and install a splash pad feature as part of the renovation project. Mr.
R. Hagey noted the tender for renovations is over the approved capital budget.
Mr. M. Hildebrand answered questions regarding the construction of the splash pad and the
advisability of constructing it at the same time as renovating the pool; the rationale for locating
the splash pad at Kiwanis Park; its funding source including the possibility of obtaining
sponsorship funding; and, the reasons for the tender being over the approved capital budget.
Mr. Hagey confirmed the contingency for general repairs would come from the Capital
Contingency for the entire City, not just for Kiwanis Park.
A motion was brought forward by Mayor B. Vrbanovic to approve staff’s recommendation to
transfer $190,000 from the Capital Contingency account to the 2017 Kiwanis Park Pool capital
account; and, to increase the 2017 Kiwanis Park Pool capital budget by $200,000 of
sponsorship funding for a splash pad at Kiwanis Park.
Councillor Z. Janecki requested the matters relating to the Capital Contingency account and
the sponsorship funding be voted on separately.
The following motion was voted on and was Carried Unanimously on a recorded vote.
On motion by Mayor B. Vrbanovic –
it was resolved:
“That $190,000 be transferred from the Capital Contingency account to the 2017
Kiwanis Park Pool capital account.”
The following motion was then voted on and was Carried on a recorded votewith Mayor B.
Vrbanovic and Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, F. Etherington, K. Galloway-Sealock, P.
Singh, S. Marsh, S. Davey, and Y. Fernandes voting in favour; and, Councillors Z. Janecki and
J. Gazzola voting in opposition.
On motion by Mayor B. Vrbanovic –
it was resolved:
“That the 2017 Kiwanis Park Pool capital budget be increased by $200,000 of
sponsorship funding related to the Kiwanis Park splash pad.”
FINANCE & CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES
JANUARY 23, 2017 - 11 - CITY OF KITCHENER
1. FCS-17-003 - 2017 BUDGET PACKAGE (FINAL BUDGET DAY) (CONT’D)
The Committee considered Issue Paper BD05 (Funding Shortfall for Doon Pioneer Park
Community Centre Expansion and Splash Pad) regarding the funding shortfall related to the
Doon Pioneer Park Community Centre expansion and splash pad facility. Ms. D. McGoldrick
provided clarification regarding the funding needed for the skateboard park as well as the
timing for funding. She indicated staff will initiate the detailed design in 2017 but the majority
of the money will be spent in 2018/2019. She confirmed staff will come back to Council
through a future budget process if additional funding is needed. Mr. M. Hildebrand stated
construction of the splash pad will be done in 2018 and the intent is to locate it close to the
community centre.
A motion was brought forward by Councillor Y. Fernandes to approve Option #2 as outlined in
Issue Paper BD05 to transfer $200,000 from the Upper Canada Park skate park to the project
expansion budget to fund the shortfall associated with the replacement of the splash pad.
The following motion was voted on and was Carried Unanimously on a recorded vote.
On motion by Councillor Y. Fernandes –
it was resolved:
“That $200,000 from the capital funding for the skateboard park planned for the Upper
Canada Park be reallocated to upgrading the Doon Pioneer Park Community Centre
splash pad.”
The Committee considered Issue Paper BD06 (Brownfield Remediation), including
additional information on the Brownfield Program and associated funding. Mr. Hagey
confirmed there is no budget increase in 2017; the increase starts in 2019 and will be
considered as part of future budget deliberations. Mr. D. Chapman added this Issue Paper is
intended to be for information only and has been brought forward for further clarification as
previously Council had questions regarding the brownfield capital account.
Councillor J. Gazzola left the meeting at this time.
The Committee considered Issue Paper BD07 (Impact of Economic Development Reserve
Outside of Downtown), providing additional information on the various Make It Kitchener
programs.
A motion was brought forward by Councillor P. Singh to allocate $10,000 from the Economic
Development Reserve fund for Placemaking Initiatives Outside Downtown and to keep Line 29
of the Economic Development Reserve Fund (MIK – Communications, Events, Studies) at
$100,000.
Mr. M. May clarified that $10,000 for Placemaking Initiatives will be funded from different
accounts as part of the Neighbourhood Strategy. He confirmed Economic Development staff
will be included as part of the evaluation committee for Neighbourhood Strategy projects.
The following motion was then voted on and was Carriedon recorded vote with Mayor B.
Vrbanovic and Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, F. Etherington, K. Galloway-Sealock, P.
Singh, S. Marsh, S. Davey, and Y. Fernandes voting in favour; and Councillor Z. Janecki
voting in opposition. Councillor J. Gazzola was absent and did not vote.
On motion by Councillor P. Singh –
it was resolved:
“That a Line Item be added to the Economic Development Reserve Fund called ‘MIK –
Placemaking Initiatives’ with an allocation of $10,000; and further,
That Line 29 of the Economic Development Reserve Fund (MIK – Communications,
Events, Studies) be retained at $100,000.”
Councillor J. Gazzola re-entered the meeting at this time.
FINANCE & CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES
JANUARY 23, 2017 - 12 - CITY OF KITCHENER
1. FCS-17-003 - 2017 BUDGET PACKAGE (FINAL BUDGET DAY) (CONT’D)
Councillor B. Ioannidis brought forward a motion to approve staff’s recommendation to finance
the following Line Items and their corresponding amounts from the Economic Development
Reserve Fund for the total amount of $1.792 million:
“Line Item Amount
5 Land Pad Grants $310,000
7 Parking Subsidy due to ION Construction $ 77,000
27 MIK – 44 Gaukel – Accelerator $ 60,000
14 Small Business Centre $ 30,000
21 MIK – Communitech $300,000
23 MIK – Two Way GO/High Speed Rail $ 50,000
24 MIK – Maker Expo $ 15,000
13 Physician and Specialist Recruitment $ 10,000
28 MIK – 44 Gaukel – Arts Build Ontario $ 10,000
22 MIK – Incubator Capacity $500,000
25 MIK – Digital Kitchener $200,000
20 MIK – Music, Film and Interactive Media Industry Office $130,000
29 MIK – Communications, Events and Studies $100,000”
A motion was brought forward by Mayor B. Vrbanovic to amend Councillor Ioannidis’ motion to
increase the amount for Line Item 13 (Physician and Specialist Recruitment) to $10,000 for
Physician Recruitment and $10,000 for Specialist Recruitment for a total increase to $20,000
from the Economic Development Reserve Fund.
Mayor Vrbanovic’s motion was voted on and was Carriedon recorded vote with Mayor B.
Vrbanovic and Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, F. Etherington, K. Galloway-Sealock, P.
Singh, S. Marsh, S. Davey and J. Gazzola voting in favour; and, Councillors Y. Fernandes and
Z. Janecki voting in opposition.
Councillor Y. Fernandes then brought forward a motion to amend Councillor Ioannidis’ motion
to reduce Line Item 21 (Communitech Grant) in the Economic Development Reserve Fund to
$200,000; and not to approve budget allocations for Line Item 22 (MIK – Incubator Capacity)
as well as Line Item 25 (MIK – Digital Kitchener) from the Economic Development Reserve
Fund.
Mr. R. Hagey indicated Line Items 22 and 25 along with Line Item 20 (MIK – Music, Film and
Interactive Media Industry Office) will require a report to come back to Council for approval in
the future so there is no blanket approval today for those items.
Councillor Y. Fernandes’ motion was then voted on and was LOSTon recorded vote with
Councillors Y. Fernandes and Z. Janecki voting in favour; and, Mayor B. Vrbanovic and
Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, F. Etherington, K. Galloway-Sealock, P. Singh, S.
Marsh, S. Davey and J. Gazzola voting in opposition.
The following motion was voted on and was Carriedon recorded vote with Mayor B. Vrbanovic
and Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, F. Etherington, K. Galloway-Sealock, P. Singh, S.
Marsh and S. Davey voting in favour; and, Councillors Y. Fernandes, Z. Janecki and J.
Gazzola voting in opposition.
On motion by Councillor B. Ioannidis –
it was resolved:
“That the following Line Items be financed from the Economic Development Reserve
Fund:
FINANCE & CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES
JANUARY 23, 2017 - 13 - CITY OF KITCHENER
1. FCS-17-003 - 2017 BUDGET PACKAGE (FINAL BUDGET DAY) (CONT’D)
Line Item Amount
5 Land Pad Grants $310,000
7 Parking Subsidy due to ION Construction $ 77,000
27 MIK – 44 Gaukel – Accelerator $ 60,000
14 Small Business Centre $ 30,000
21 MIK – Communitech $300,000
23 MIK – Two Way GO/High Speed Rail $ 50,000
24 MIK – Maker Expo $ 15,000
13 Physician and Specialist Recruitment $ 20,000
28 MIK – 44 Gaukel – Arts Build Ontario $ 10,000
22 MIK – Incubator Capacity $500,000
25 MIK – Digital Kitchener $200,000
20 MIK – Music, Film and Interactive Media Industry Office $130,000
29 MIK – Communications, Events and Studies $100,000”
The Committee considered Issue Paper BD08 (Proceeds of Sale from 48 Ontario Street
North) regarding the proceeds from the sale of 48 Ontario Street North and how the funds
should be allocated following the sale.
A motion was brought forward by Councillor P. Singh to approve staff’s recommendation to
add three Line Items to the Economic Development Reserve Fund projection in relation to the
anticipated sale of 48 Ontario Street North with the actual dollar values being added to the
Economic Development Reserve Fund projection once the sale is finalized and the funds
received.
The following motion was voted on and was Carriedon recorded vote with Mayor B. Vrbanovic
and Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, F. Etherington, K. Galloway-Sealock, P. Singh, S.
Marsh, S. Davey and J. Gazzola voting in favour; and, Councillors Y. Fernandes and Z.
Janecki voting in opposition.
On motion by Councillor P. Singh –
it was resolved:
“That the following three lines be added to the Economic Development Reserve
projection in relation to the anticipated sale of 48 Ontario Street North:
Revenue line – Sale of 48 Ontario Street North;
Expense line – Creative Hub; and,
Expense line – MIK-New Investments; and further,
That once the sale is finalized and funds are received, the actual dollar values be added
to the Economic Development Reserve projection and Council make decisions with
respect to the actual expenses.”
Mayor B. Vrbanovic left the meeting at this time.
Councillor P. Singh declared a pecuniary interest with respect to the following Engineering
Capital Projects: 5163 - Ottawa Street - Charles Street to Expressway; Stirling/Mill to Russel;
Fourth Avenue - Kingsway Drive to Connaught Street; Second Avenue - Kingsway Drive to
Connaught Street; Connaught Street - Ninth Avenue to Traynor Avenue; and, Connaught
Street - Third Avenue to Fourth Avenue as members of his family own property in the vicinity of
the subject projects. Accordingly, he did not participate in any discussion or voting regarding
those matters.
Those items in the Capital Budget and Forecast related to Councillor Singh’s identified
pecuniary interests were considered separately and were Carried on a recorded vote with
Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, S. Davey, Y. Fernandes, Z. Janecki, F. Etherington, K.
Galloway-Sealock and S. Marsh voting in favour; and, Councillors J. Gazzola voting in
opposition. Councillor P. Singh did not participate in voting due to his declaration. Mayor B.
Vrbanovic was absent and accordingly did not vote.
FINANCE & CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES
JANUARY 23, 2017 - 14 - CITY OF KITCHENER
1. FCS-17-003 - 2017 BUDGET PACKAGE (FINAL BUDGET DAY) (CONT’D)
The following motion was voted on and was Carriedon a recorded vote with Councillors B.
Ioannidis, D. Schnider, S. Davey, P. Singh, Y. Fernandes, Z. Janecki, F. Etherington, K.
Galloway-Sealock and S. Marsh voting in favour; and, Councillors J. Gazzola voting in
opposition. Mayor B. Vrbanovic was absent and accordingly did not vote.
On motion by Councillor B. Ioannidis -
it was resolved:
“That the balance of the Capital Budget & Forecast (2017-2026) be approved, with
expenditures for the overall Forecast in all the years totaling $1,240,637,000.”
The Committee recessed at 4:26 p.m. and reconvened at 4:30 p.m., Chaired by Councillor S. Davey
with all members present, except Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock.
TAX SUPPORTED OPERATING BUDGET
Follow-up Issue Papers
The Committee considered Issue Paper BD09 (Arts Sustainability Funding) regarding the
historical funding information for THEMUSEUM, The Kitchener Waterloo Art Gallery (KWAG),
and the Kitchener Waterloo Symphony (KWS).
A motion was brought forward by Councillor S. Marsh to increase the Tier 1 Community Grant
funding to the following organizations through an allocation from the former Creative Enterprise
Initiative (CEI) grant:
THEMUSEUM by $12,000.;
Kitchener Waterloo Art Gallery by $4,000.; and,
Pat the Dog Theatre Creation by $4,000.
In response to questions, Mr. Hagey advised in 2016 CEI was provided a grant allocation of
$46,000. Staff have made a recommendation to transfer those funds to the Tier 2 Community
Grant program.
Councillor J. Gazzola brought forward an amendment to Councillor Marsh’s motion to
decrease the allocation to THEMUSEUM from $12,000. to $5,000.
Councillor Gazzola’s amendment was voted on and LOST on a recorded vote with Councillors
J. Gazzola and Y. Fernandes voting in favour; and, Mayor B. Vrbanovic and Councillors B.
Ioannidis, P. Singh, S. Marsh, Z. Janecki, D. Schnider, S. Davey, and F. Etherington voting in
opposition. Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock was absent and accordingly did not vote.
Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock re-entered the meeting at this time.
Councillor Marsh’s motion regarding the increase Tier 1 Community Grant funding to Pat the
Dog Theatre Creation was then voted on and was Carried on a recorded vote with Mayor B.
Vrbanovic and Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, S. Davey, P. Singh, Y. Fernandes, F.
Etherington and S. Marsh voting in favour; and, Councillors K. Galloway-Sealock, Z. Janecki
and J. Gazzola voting in opposition.
Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock left the meeting at this time.
Councillor Marsh’s motion regarding the increase Tier 1 Community Grant funding to the
Kitchener Waterloo Art Gallery was then voted on and was Carriedon a recorded vote with
Mayor B. Vrbanovic and Councillors D. Schnider, S. Davey, P. Singh, Y. Fernandes, F.
Etherington and S. Marsh voting in favour; and, Councillors B. Ioannidis, Z. Janecki and J.
Gazzola voting in opposition. Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock was absent and accordingly did
not vote.
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1. FCS-17-003 - 2017 BUDGET PACKAGE (FINAL BUDGET DAY) (CONT’D)
Councillor Marsh’s motion regarding the increase Tier 1 Community Grant funding to
THEMUSEUM was then voted on and was Carriedon a recorded vote with Mayor B.
Vrbanovic and Councillors D. Schnider, S. Davey, B. Ioannidis, P. Singh, F. Etherington and S.
Marsh voting in favour; and, Councillors Y. Fernandes, Z. Janecki and J. Gazzola voting in
opposition. Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock was absent and accordingly did not vote.
The following motion was voted on and was Carried Unanimously on a recorded vote by all
members present.
On motion by Councillor S. Marsh -
it was resolved:
“That $26,000. of the former ‘CEI Operating Grant’ be reallocated to the Tier 2
Community Grant budget and distributed through the Tier 2 Grant process.”
Referencing the motion passed at the December 12, 2016 Council meeting related to the
Community Grants budget, Mr. Hagey clarified there was a clerical error in the
recommendation that will need to be corrected when the minutes are considered at the
January 30, 2017 Council meeting. He indicated the total Grant Budget allocation was
accurate; however, there should have been an additional clause included in the
recommendation outlining a transfer of $19,000. to the Festival of Neighbourhoods.
A motion was brought forward by Mayor B. Vrbanovic to approve the 2017 Economic
Development grants as outlined in Clause 8 of the draft resolutions circulated to the Committee
this date.
It was requested that the 2017 Economic Development grant for Communitech Technology
Association be voted on separately.
Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock re-entered the meeting at this time.
The Communitech Technology Association was voted on and was Carriedon a recorded vote
with Mayor B. Vrbanovic and Councillors B. Ioannidis, D. Schnider, S. Davey, P. Singh, K.
Galloway-Sealock, F. Etherington and S. Marsh voting in favour; and, Councillors Z. Janecki,
Y. Fernandes and J. Gazzola voting in opposition.
The following motion was then voted on and was Carried Unanimously on a recorded vote.
On motion by Mayor B. Vrbanovic -
it was resolved:
“That Economic Development Grants be approved for 2017 as follows:
Waterloo Region Economic Development Corporation $320,000.
Waterloo Region Tourism Marketing Corporation $90,000.
Waterloo Region Small Business Centre $89,031.
Business and Education Partnership $5,850.
Skills Canada $5,850.
Junior Achievement $5,850.”
The Committee considered Issue Paper BD10 (Enhanced Integrity Commissioner Services
Follow Up) regarding the number of conflicts of interest that have been declared by members
of Council in the past 5-10 years, and how integrity commissioner services may be funded.
The following motion was voted on and was Carriedon a recorded vote with Mayor B.
Vrbanovic and Councillors D. Schnider, S. Davey, Y. Fernandes, Z. Janecki, J. Gazzola, B.
Ioannidis, P. Singh, F. Etherington and K. Galloway-Sealock voting in favour; and, Councillor
S. Marsh voting in opposition.
On motion by Mayor B. Vrbanovic -
it was resolved:
FINANCE & CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES
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1. FCS-17-003 - 2017 BUDGET PACKAGE (FINAL BUDGET DAY) (CONT’D)
“That no action be taken at this time to obtain additional integrity commissioner services
as outlined in Issue Paper BD10 (Enhanced Integrity Commissioner Services Follow
Up).”
The Committee considered Issue Paper BD11 (Increasing Exposure to Workplace Safety
Insurance Board \[WSIB\] Costs Follow Up) related to additional information regarding the
recommendation to increase funding to the WSIB reserve fund.
Councillor J. Gazzola brought forward a motion to take no action at this time on Issue Paper
BD11.
Councillor Gazzola’s motion was voted on and LOST on a recorded vote with Councillors J.
Gazzola, Y. Fernandes and Z. Janecki voting in favour; and, Mayor B. Vrbanovic and
Councillors B. Ioannidis, K. Galloway-Sealock, D. Schnider, P. Singh, S. Davey, S. Marsh and
F. Etherington voting in opposition.
A motion was brought forward by Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock to approve the
recommendation as outlined in Issue Paper BD11, with an amendment to strike out the phrase
“on an on- going basis.”
The following motion was then voted on and was Carried Unanimously on a recorded vote.
On motion by Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock -
it was resolved:
“That the growth funding of $109,000., meant for the Doon Pioneer Park Community
Centre expansion but not required for 2017, be allocated to the Workplace Safety
Insurance Board (WSIB) reserve for 2017, as outlined in Issue Paper BD11 (Increasing
Exposure to Workplace Safety Insurance Board \[WSIB\] Costs Follow Up); and further,
That any final assessment growth revenue, in excess of the 1.25% budget estimate, be
allocated to the WSIB reserve.
Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock left the meeting at this time.
The Committee considered Issue Paper BD12 (Mileage and Per Diem Rates) regarding a
comparison of current mileage and per diem rates used by local municipalities.
The following motion was voted on and was Carried Unanimously on a recorded vote by all
members present.
On motion by Councillor S. Marsh -
it was resolved:
“That the mileage rate per kilometre remain at $0.50 for the first 5,000 kilometres and
$0.45 for each additional kilometre; and further,
That the City of Kitchener’s per diem rates remain at $68/day ($12 for breakfast, $16 for
lunch, $30 for dinner, and $10 for incidentals).”
RESOLUTIONS
Councillor J. Gazzola brought forward a motion to increase the 2017 Investment Income
budget by $450,000 instead of $200,000 as outlined in the proposed 2017 budget.
Councillor K. Galloway-Sealock re-entered the meeting at this time.
Mr. Hagey circulated information regarding the historical rate trends from the Bank of Canada
for Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs), Bank of Canada rate forecasts for 2016 and
2017, and an analysis of Kitchener’s expected 2017 investment income based on the projected
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1. FCS-17-003 - 2017 BUDGET PACKAGE (FINAL BUDGET DAY) (CONT’D)
2017 rates. He provided an overview on the City’s investment strategies, advising that while
the 2016 projected actual for investment income is expected to be $585,000 better than
budget, the 2017 projected actual is expected to be lower based on projected rates. He further
advised the interest income budget has already increased since 2016 by $200,000.
Councillor Gazzola’s motion was then voted on and LOSTon a recorded vote with Councillors
J. Gazzola, Z. Janecki and Y. Fernandes voting in favour; and, Mayor B. Vrbanovic and
Councillors B. Ioannidis, K. Galloway-Sealock, P. Singh, S. Marsh, D. Schnider, S. Davey, and
F. Etherington voting in opposition.
Councillor J. Gazzola brought forward a motion to transfer $200,000. from the 2016 Tax
Stabilization Reserve Fund to be added to the tax levy.
Councillor Gazzola’s motion was then voted on and Carriedon a recorded vote with
Councillors J. Gazzola, S. Marsh, B. Ioannidis, K. Galloway-Sealock, Z. Janecki and Y.
Fernandes voting in favour; and, Mayor B. Vrbanovic and Councillors P. Singh, D. Schnider, S.
Davey and F. Etherington voting in opposition.
FINAL RECOMMENDATIONS - 2017 BUDGET
The Committee agreed to advance its recommendations pertaining to the 2017 Budget, based
on decisions made this date, for Council’s consideration at its special Council meeting to be
held immediately following this meeting.
2.ADJOURNMENT
On motion, this meeting adjourned at 6:01 p.m.
C. Goodeve D. Saunderson C. Tarling
Deputy City Clerk Committee Administrator City Clerk