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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Works - 1999-02-22PWTC\1999-02-22 PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 22, 1999 CITY OF KITCHENER The Public Works and Transportation Committee met this date under the Chairmanship of Councillor John Smola, with all members present. Councillor B. Vrbanovic was in attendance for part of the meeting. Others Present: Councillor T. Galloway, Ms. P. Houston, Ms. S. Robertson, Ms. J. Billett, Messrs. E. Kovacs, D. Snow, J. McBride, J. Cicuttin, B. Musselman, D. Mansell, J. Shivas, T. Clancy, and L. Neil. This meeting of the Public Works and Transportation Committee commenced at 8:40 a.m. 1. GREEN CIRCLE SHUTTLE SERVICE - PROPOSAL BY LAVERN GOODING Mr. Lavern Gooding appeared before the Committee to outline his proposal to provide a shuttle service along the Conestoga Expressway, from the south end of Kitchener to the north end of Waterloo. His proposal as outlined in submissions dated January 15 and February 16, 1999, was distributed with the agenda. Mr. Gooding noted that Kitchener Transit opposes his licence application which is tentatively scheduled to be heard by the Ontario Highway Transport Board on March 16, 1999, and he asked the Committee to direct staff to withdraw the objection and notify the Management of the two Malls that there will be no repercussions if they choose to do business with him. Mr. Gooding noted that initially his business would provide 2 distinct services, the first of which would be a direct route along the expressway with two pick-up points preferably at Conestoga Mall and Fairview Mall. This service will use cargo vans holding up to 9 passengers at a base rate of $5.00 per passenger and, in addition, passengers with Kitchener Transit passes or transfers would receive a $2.00 discount. Further, he advised that his service will reduce travel time between the two cities, in comparison to bus travel time, by 25 to 30 minutes. Mr. Gooding noted that statistics indicate only 10 percent of residents use public transit and according to the Canadian Urban Transit Association, Kitchener Transit has a 31.9 percent lower ratio than other comparable municipalities. In this regard, he suggested that alternative measures to enhance the current Transit system should be investigated and, in his opinion, use of the private sector would be the most viable option as the cost to Kitchener Transit to provide a similar service as that being proposed would be too prohibitive. In closing, Mr. Gooding suggested that to deny his proposal would deny the public a convenient and affordable service and urged the Committee to ask Transit staff to withdraw their objection. In response to Councillor C. Weylie, Mr. Gooding advised that he is also considering the Eastwood Plaza on Ottawa Street in Kitchener as a pick-up site which would then continue on to Fairview Mall, but is unsure at this time where it would end in Waterloo. In addition, he noted that the start up costs to accommodate the disabled would be too high and he has no plans to include this type of service at this time. In response to further questioning Mr. Gooding indicated that his service would compliment Kitchener Transit by drawing out user groups who currently do not use the Transit system and who cannot afford taxis. As an example he cited the elderly, who for health reasons or fear of safety, do not use the public transit system and, as well, an interest on the part of the unemployed, seeking jobs in Waterloo, looking for a mode of transportation that is affordable yet timely. In response to Mayor C. Zehr, Mr. Gooding advised that he anticipates patrons of his service will first take the transit system in order to get to his pick-up points. Mayor Zehr also asked for clarification respecting his comments pertaining to intimidation of Mall Managers by Transit staff and Mr. Gooding responded that they have indicated fear of loosing existing transit services and are not willing to meet with him. Mayor Zehr stated that by its very nature public transit must be subsidized and asked Mr. Gooding if he would agree that his proposed service would encourage further public subsidy of the Transit system. Mr. Gooding stated that lengthy time travel of buses currently discourages ridership and it is his belief that the proposed express service would enhance the existing transit system if his proposed transfer system was honoured. If that were the case, he would anticipate new ridership which would increase Transit revenues. In response to questions by Councillor Jake Smola, Mr. Gooding responded that his proposal is similar to that currently being used by the City through Trentway-Wagar; however, his service 1. GREEN CIRCLE SHUTTLE SERVICE - PROPOSAL BY LAVERN GOODING (CONT'D) PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 22, 1999 -13- CITY OF KITCHENER would be intra-city as opposed to inter-city and, he maintained there would be no financial cost to Kitchener Transit. Councillor J. Ziegler indicated that he would be prepared to support Mr. Gooding's proposal on a one year trial basis and asked if Mr. Gooding would agree to such a trial. Mr. Gooding indicated that he would agree to a trial and was, in fact, considering running his service within the next week on a no charge basis in order to gather sufficient data for the upcoming Hearing. Councillor G. Lorentz expressed his concern that supporting this proposal would encourage additional private sector applications that would further erode transit revenues which are already subsidized at around $7 million annually. He asked Mr. Gooding if he foresaw any future proposals and, in particular, with respect to new subdivisions. Mr. Gooding responded that he did not foresee such a proposal being brought forward with respect to new subdivisions as the demand is not there. Further, Mr. Gooding noted that there is no existing express route using the Conestoga Expressway and, therefore, no established customer base on which to base future proposals. He further noted that, if his service is supported, it does not mean the Committee is obligated to support future proposals. In response to questioning, Mr. Kovacs indicated that staff were not in contact with the two Malls and it was his view that if the Malls have concerns with Mr. Gooding's proposal it would more likely stem from the transport of patrons to a competitor. Mr. Kovacs further stated that Transit staff do not believe that Mr. Gooding's proposal is complimentary to the existing transit system and would be in conflict with the 'Timed Transfer System' being proposed under the Division's Strategic Plan. In response to Councillor J. Ziegler, Mr. Kovacs noted that the Timed Transfer System is intended to restructure routes to improve timing so that transit users will arrive at the same time as the bus they will transfer onto. Mayor C. Zehr noted that he was in agreement with staff's comments and while this proposal has merit, he felt it was premature and would add additional costs by increasing subsidies through decreased ridership of the Transit system. Moved by Mayor C. Zehr: "That no action be taken respecting a request of Mr. Lavern Gooding that Council direct Kitchener Transit to withdraw the City's objection lodged with the Ontario Highway Transport Board relative to the application for a public vehicle operating licence by Green Circle Shuttle Service Inc." In response to questioning, Mr. Kovacs commented on the service improvements that the 'Timed Transfer System', as outlined in the Strategic Plan, related firstly to Conestoga and Fairview Mall, secondly, to Stanley Park and Highland Hills Mall, and thirdly to the University of Waterloo. He also noted that there are no plans at this time for Transit to provide an express route, but staff are looking to reduce time travel through the Timed Transfer System. In addition, he noted that there are plans to link the Transit system from Kitchener into Cambridge through a terminal currently being constructed on the Sportsworld property. It was also pointed out that the existing terminals at the two Malls were constructed at the owner's expense and cost sharing of any future terminals on other mall properties would have to be negotiated. Councillor C. Weylie referred to the second service proposed in Mr. Gooding's report respecting an inter-city charter service on Friday and Saturday evenings. She questioned how this would relate to the Malls, as she believed they would be closed on both evenings. In this regard, it was noted that this service would be similar to that currently provided by taxis to encourage bar patrons not to drink and drive. Councillor Jake Smola indicated his support for a one year trial on the basis that there was no risk or cost involved to the City. Councillor J. Ziegler concurred as there is an obligation to improve service efficiency and noted that he would expect the licence application to be withdrawn so that staff could enter into a pilot project with Mr. Gooding. 1. GREEN CIRCLE SHUTTLE SERVICE - PROPOSAL BY LAVERN GOODING (CONT'D) PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 22, 1999 - 14 - CITY OF KITCHENER Following further discussion, the motion by Mayor C. Zehr to take no action was voted on and LOST. Moved by Councillor J. Ziegler: "That Kitchener Transit staff be directed to enter into negotiations with Mr. Lavern Gooding relative to a partnership arrangement that would allow a one year pilot project for an express route service along the Conestoga Expressway between the Cities of Kitchener and Waterloo, subject to Mr. Gooding's fixed route operating licence application to the Ontario Highway Transport Board being withdrawn prior to its March 16, 1999 Hearing." Following further discussion, Councillor C. Weylie asked for a recorded vote on Councillor Ziegler's motion. In Favour: Councillors J. Haalboom, K. Taylor-Harrison, J. Ziegler and Jake Smola. Contra: Mayor C. Zehr and Councillors C. Weylie, G. Lorentz and John Smola. Motion lost on a tie vote. Councillor John Smola advised Mr. Gooding that the Committee would not be forwarding a recommendation to Council at its meeting to be held on March 1st, and suggested Mr. Gooding may wish to register as a delegation at that meeting. 1999 REGIONAL ROADS PROGRAM Messrs. Rob Gallivan and Graham Vincent, Regional Municipality of Waterloo, appeared to present the 1999 Regional Roads and Traffic Capital Program. Mr. Gallivan outlined the priority setting factors relating to maintenance, safety, capacity deficiencies, and new development. He noted that input from area municipalities was gathered to assist with priority setting, coordination and cost for the projects. He advised that this year two new initiatives were being introduced, the first of which was the Cycling Master Plan as part of its 5 year review to determine cycling strategies and new routes. In addition, the Infrastructure Management Program is being introduced for the purpose of collecting data that will be integrated into software that can be shared. The final aspect of the Roads Program is the budget process and through a series of meetings and public input sessions the Region will determine tax policy issues with a tax rate by-law to be approved by March. During review of the proposed 1999 projects, Mayor C. Zehr requested that the King Street project, from Sydney Street to Ottawa Street, not proceed at the same time as the Weber Street project, from Fergus Avenue to Shantz Lane. This would ensure that a suitable detour is available during construction of each of these projects. Mr. Vincent assured the Committee that it is intended to keep the north bound lane on Weber Street open with detour onto King Street, however, the Mayor's concerns would be passed along to the project coordinator. During discussion of the Regional Road 50 project involving Westmount Road, from John Street to Glasgow Street, and Westmount Road at Glasgow Street, Councillor J. Haalboom inquired whether the widening proposed for Westmount Road would affect both sides of the road. Mr. Gallivan advised that in order to widen the lanes which are now too narrow, it would be necessary to move back the curb on both sides of Westmount Road. Mr. Gallivan noted that, in addition to the proposed projects outlined in the report, a signal is now operational on Highland Road at Lawrence Avenue under a cost sharing agreement; discussions are underway respecting the Downtown Study; the Region is reviewing the proposal for a pedestrian crossing on Ottawa Street in the vicinity of the Senioren Haus; and, 2. 1999 REGIONAL ROADS PROGRAM (CONT'D) PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 22, 1999 - 15 - CITY OF KITCHENER community safety zones are being implemented this year at certain locations which will see doubling of traffic violation fines and the erection of appropriate warning signs. Councillor C. Weylie referred to the traffic signal modernization at Belmont Avenue and Union Street and inquired how it was intended to be developed. Mr. Vincent advised that the signal would face the left turning lane on Belmont Avenue and would be developed so that features could be added at a future time. Councillor C. Weylie also questioned how the Fischer- Hallman Road Extension would affect traffic volumes on Westmount Road. Mr. Gallivan responded that the traffic volumes on Westmount Road were currently decreasing. He further advised that the actual percentage rates relative to the decrease were not presently available but he would undertake to provide them. In response to Councillor Jake Smola, Mr. Gallivan advised that the Fairway and Ottawa Street bridge reconstructions are within a 10 to 20 year time frame within the Regional Transportation Master Plan and while there is urgency to complete the Highway 8 bridge reconstruction, it is only planned this year to widen the expressway ramp. In response to Councillor J. Haalboom, Mr. Gallivan agreed to provide the amount of the City's share of costs to maintain Regional Roads. Councillor Haalboom also inquired when in the process heritage concerns could be put forward and considered with respect to the Westmount Road project at Glasgow Street. Mr. Graham advised that alternatives for this project have now been identified and the evaluation process would begin in the next week, during which time all factors including heritage issues would be reviewed. Mayor C. Zehr noted that the lines on King Street, under the expressway, are not correct which has resulted in collisions and many near misses. He inquired who should be approached in order to correct this situation and Mr. Graham Vincent advised that he would undertake to contact the Ministry of Transportation. Councillor John Smola thanked Mr. Gallivan and Mr. Vincent for their presentation. WASTE COLLECTION TENDER - UPDATE The Committee was in receipt of a report dated February 17, 1999, from the Department of Public Works, outlining objectives for a collaborative approach towards waste collection. Councillors B. Vrbanovic and T. Galloway entered the meeting at this point. Mr. E. Kovacs advised the Committee that, as part of the collaborative approach, area municipalities were consulted and asked to participate. In this regard, Cambridge, Wilmot and Kitchener will enter into negotiations while the City of Waterloo will be an observer. During these negotiations the main issue for Kitchener will be whether or not to seek extension to the existing contract first and then go to collaborative tender or to develop a comprehensive RFP now and develop terms and conditions that would permit Cambridge to benefit upon expiration of their existing contract. Mr. Kovacs indicated that the second alternative would hinge on whether or not Kitchener's existing contractor would negotiate an extension to the existing garbage contract. Mr. Kovacs advised that a collaborative approach involves many complexities that requires substantial lead time and staff are asking for direction to proceed with the negotiations. In response to Councillor Jake Smola, Mr. Kovacs agreed that investigating waste companies who use compressed natural gas has merit and could possibly be developed as part of an RFP. Councillor T. Galloway noted that the existing contract had already been significantly extended and inquired whether alternative options respecting cost saving measures were being considered. As an example, he cited collection every two weeks as opposed to every week. Mr. Kovacs responded that alternative options would have to be structured so that the pricing of such options would be clearly defined and not hidden, and that this could take place as part of any RFP proposal. Councillor Galloway indicated that due to the complex process of a 3. WASTE COLLECTION TENDER- UPDATE (CONT'D) PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 22, 1999 - 16 - CITY OF KITCHENER collaborative approach to waste collection he would prefer that an RFP be undertaken in order to test the variables. By general consent, the Committee agreed to direct staff to continue to pursue joint contracting of waste collection. DOPWR 99-5 - TRAFFIC CONTROL - MILL PARK DRIVE AT MORNINGVIEW PLACE The Committee considered a report which recommends that an all-way stop be installed at the intersection of Mill Park Drive and Morningview Place. The Traffic and Parking Division reviewed traffic conditions at this intersection resulting from concerns raised by a resident relating to visibility issues and found that prior upgrades to signing have not improved conditions. In view of operational and visibility problems staff are now recommending an all-way stop be installed. In response to Councillor J. Haalboom, Mr. J. McBride advised that he had been contacted by some of the residents in the area and most are aware of the difficulties involved in this intersection. In addition, he noted that the advance warning signs to be posted would be well back from the intersection so as not to interfere with sightlines. Councillor T. Galloway noted that an all-way stop had been previously inquired about but the geometrics at that time had precluded installation and questioned if the standards had now changed. Mr. D. Snow responded that the standards had not changed; however, following review of this intersection and the uniqueness of the situation it was necessary to take further measures to improve road safety. He noted that a flashing light had been considered, but appropriate sightlines could not be achieved and, accordingly, the all-way stop is felt to be the best alternative. Councillor T. Galloway suggested that the recommendation in the report be revised to include a one year review following installation of the all-way stop to determine its impact and Mr. D. Snow agreed. On motion by Councillor J. Haalboom - it was resolved: "That an all-way stop be installed at the intersection of Mill Park Drive and Morningview Place; and further, That Staff of the Traffic and Parking Division review this installation in 1 years time to determine its impact; and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." 5. DOPWR 99-7 - DUKE AND ONTARIO GARAGE - STRUCTURAL REPAIR AND MONITORING PROGRAM The Committee considered a report that recommends the consultant selection process be waived and the 1999 Duke and Ontario Garage Structural Repair Program and Monitoring Program be awarded to Morrison Hershfield Limited. This company has been involved in the repair and monitoring program since the early 1980's and it is felt to be beneficial to retain the same company to ensure continuity. Councillor J. Haalboom noted concern respecting the condition of the stairwell on the Queen Street side of the garage and inquired if any repairs to the stairwells were to be undertaken this year. Mr. J. McBride responded that the stairwells were structurally sound and no repairs were planned; however, he would review this concern and take appropriate action where required. In response to Councillor Jake Smola, Mr. J. McBride advised that Morrison Hershfield Limited is located in Toronto and staff believe their consulting fees are fair in comparison to standard rates. 5. DOPWR 99-7 - DUKE AND ONTARIO GARAGE - STRUCTURAL REPAIR AND MONITORING PROGRAM (CONT'D) PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 22, 1999 - 17 - CITY OF KITCHENER On motion by Councillor G. Lorentz- it was resolved: "That City Council waive the consultant selection process and award the 1999 Duke and Ontario Garage Structural Repair Program and Monitoring Program to Morrison Hershfield Limited." DOPWR 99-6 - PARKING UPDATES The Committee considered a report which outlines a number of changes to parking rates at various locations throughout the Downtown and it was noted that the parking rates being recommended are concurrent with existing rates. Councillor Jake Smola noted that the Strategic Plans for the Transit and Parking Divisions appear to be in conflict with one another and inquired how they could be integrated to promote higher parking rates to encourage new transit ridership. Mr. E. Kovacs advised that the plans were not developed in isolation but they do conflict with one another. In order to make changes it would require Council to amend its policy and, in this regard, he advised that the Department would be undertaking a workshop in the near future, at which time this issue could be discussed. Mr. D. Snow also advised that, for the past 3 to 4 years, Council has been focusing on redeveloping the Downtown to encourage visitors and, accordingly, the parking rates have been set to encourage such visitation. He also noted that the Transit Division is currently working on a corporate bus pass to encourage increased ridership. On motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic- it was resolved: "That monthly parking be permitted in the following locations at a monthly rate of $50.00, namely: Goudies Lane Lower Market, Market Square Lot No. 2 - Queen Street Lot No. 6 - King Street West Lot No. 7 - Charles Street West Lot No. 9 - Ontario Street South; and further, That monthly parking be permitted in Lot No. 17, Halls Lane West, at a monthly rate of $45.00; and further, That monthly parking be permitted in the following locations at a monthly rate of $40.00, namely: Lot No. 3 - Water Street South Lot No. 19 - Ahrens Street (Centre In The Square); and further, That Lot No. 18 be re-assigned from Joseph Street to Madison Avenue and that monthly parking be permitted at a rate of $40.00; and further, That monthly parking be permitted in Lot No. 24, Victoria Street, at a monthly rate of $25.00; and further, That Lot No. 12, Ontario Street, be removed from the Off-Street Parking By-law; and further, That Saturday parking at the Duke and Ontario Parking Garage be only $1.00; and further, That Off-Street Parking By-law No. 88-169 be amended accordingly." BUS ADVERTISING - SEAGRAM COMPANY LIMITED Mr. D. Snow advised the Committee that Seagrams has proposed an advertisement to be included PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 22, 1999 - 18 - CITY OF KITCHENER on 28 buses for an 8 week period beginning in May through to the end of June. A copy of the proposed advertisement was distributed to Committee Members. Mr. Snow noted that the proposed advertisement is in keeping with Transit advertising guidelines respecting alcohol and the contract is for approximately $13,000.00. Councillor J. Ziegler inquired if any wording to the effect of "if you drink don't drive" has been included in the advertisement and Mr. Snow responded that the advertisement includes the wording "enjoy our quality responsibly". Several members of the Committee indicated concern with supporting alcohol advertising on City buses on the basis that alcohol is considered an addictive substance and buses are within the view of young adults. Councillor Jake Smola noted that he was of the impression that alcohol advertising was not acceptable and cited a recent event held at Block Line Sports Field where this type of advertising was not permitted. Mr. Clancy advised that present policy does allow alcohol advertising, however, the situation at Block Line Sports Field involved a very large event requiring very aggressive steps to maintain control of all the buildings, bars, and operation of the park in general. Councillor Jake Smola suggested that, in keeping with Council's policy to ban tobacco advertising, a review of current policy respecting alcohol should be undertaken. In this regard, Councillor B. Vrbanovic pointed out that Council had already undertaken such a review and had found tobacco to be a much stronger issue with clearly defined health ramifications. He noted that the same could not necessarily be said of alcohol as in some instances, alcohol is recommended by doctors for medicinal purposes. Councillor B. Vrbanovic further noted that the advertisement proposed by Seagrams clearly addresses the issue of drinking responsibly and in view that it does meet current policy should be supported. By general consent, the Committee directed staff to proceed with the advertisement proposed by Seagrams. ADJOURNMENT On motion, the meeting adjourned at 10:40 a.m. Janet Billett, AMCT Committee Administrator