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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFinance & Admin - 1993-02-15FAC\1993-02-15 FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES FEBRUARY 15, 1993 The Finance and Administration Committee met this date, commencing at 11:10 a.m., under the Chairmanship of Alderman C. Zehr with the following members present: Mayor D.V. Cardillo, Aldermen B. Stortz, T. Galloway, G. Lorentz, J. Smola, M. Wagner, C. Weylie and J. Ziegler. Others present: Alderman G. Leadston, Messrs. T. McKay, J. Gazzola, F.S. Graham, R. Freeborn, J. Wallace, J. Webster, B. Gulliver, R. Miller, D. Paterson, C. Ford, P. Summers, G. Sosnoski, Mrs. J. Koppeser and Ms. L. MacDonald. 1. DELEGATIONS - BREAK OPEN TICKET SALES AT THIRD PARTY LOCATIONS The following individuals were in attendance on behalf of their respective organizations: Mr. J. Dekort and Mr. C. Kemp (Ontario March of Dimes); Mr. J. Jones (Canadian Mental Health Association); Ms. B. Copperthwaite (Kidney Foundation of Canada); Ms. M. Womald and Mr. H. Clutterbuck (Ontario Head Injury Association). Mr. B. Hurst, Health Promotions, appeared in support of the applications of the above organizations, and in his capacity as a fundraising organizer. The Committee was in receipt of various items of correspondence relative to the applications of the Canadian Mental Health Association and the Ontario March of Dimes. The Committee was also in receipt of a report from Mrs. J. Koppeser dated February 4, 1993 concerning the licence applications and their relationship to the new Gaming Services Act and Interim Terms and Conditions. It was noted that Mrs. Koppeser is requesting a two month deferral in order to allow staff an opportunity to review the new legislation and develop procedures and policies in conjunction with the Cities of Cambridge and Waterloo. Mr. Hurst spoke on behalf of the organization representatives in attendance this date indicating that all were based in the Waterloo-Wellington Area. He stated that pursuant to the new legislation his clients are applying for permission to sell Break Open Tickets in third party locations in the municipality which they do not own. He noted that similar applications have been filed in the Cities of Waterloo and Cambridge. When questioned concerning the impact on their applications of a two month deferral, Mr. Hurst replied that the organizations have functioned without this source of revenue in the past, but would like Council to deal with the applications as soon as possible. He also noted that every organization in attendance this date has the necessary Provincial licence and GIN number. When questioned individually Mr. Jones and Mr. Kemp indicated that 100% of the funds raised by the Canadian Mental Health Association and the Ontario March of Dimes would be reinvested locally. Representatives of both the Kidney Foundation and the Head Injury Association indicated revenues would be split between local reinvestment and their respective research programs. Alderman Stortz questioned whether local charities have been given an opportunity to apply and Mrs. Koppeser advised that she had been approached by several local organizations who had expressed a similar interest. She noted that the deferral requested would allow other local charities to obtain the necessary conditional registration and extend to them an equal opportunity to apply for these ticket sale locations. She also pointed out that the Interim Terms and Conditions indicate that local charities should be given preference over Provincially licensed organizations, and that the municipality is only at liberty to issue a licence or otherwise grant permission until April 1, 1993. If the conditional registration has not been issued by then, the location cannot sell tickets. Alderman Ziegler suggested that approving the applications under consideration this date would not prevent local charities from applying in future. Alderman Wagner offered the opinion that additional information is required and questioned the need to hastily approve these applications, on the assumption that a deferral would not impede local charities. 1. DELEGATIONS - BREAK OPEN TICKET SALES AT THIRD PARTY LOCATIONS (cont.) FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES- 6 -FEBRUARY 15, 1993 Mr. Hurst noted that each of the applications submitted were accompanied by a letter from a local retailer agreeing to sell tickets on their premises. He added that tickets would not be delivered until the location had been formally registered and pointed out that local businesses would benefit in the form of a commission on sales which could total as much as $10,000.000 annually. Ms. Copperthwaite advised that she had spoken with Regional Police concerning the site location and a Police representative had indicated that he would support the location requested by the Kidney Foundation. Alderman Stortz expressed the opinion that the Committee should take the time necessary to properly understand, develop and co-ordinate regulatory measures on a Region-wide basis. Alderman Ziegler argued that the Province has already set the necessary guidelines and the charitable organizations could work with Licensing staff to select an appropriate location. A motion by Alderman M. Wagner to defer consideration of the licensing of Break Open Tickets in third party locations for two months in order to allow staff to review the new legislation and its local implications was voted on and . LOST On a motion by Alderman J. Ziegler - It was resolved: "That subject to the Regulations as well as the Interim Terms and Conditions of the Gaming Services Act, the Ontario March of Dimes, Canadian Mental Health Association, Kidney Foundation of Canada and the Ontario Head Injury Association be permitted to sell Break Open Tickets at third party locations not owned by them, with approval of these premises to be obtained through the Licensing Division, and, That the above organizations provide input to staff on the development of local terms and conditions in this regard, and further, That based on this input, combined with a review of the new legislation and consultation with other area municipalities, the Manager of Licensing submit a further report to the Finance and Administration Committee for consideration on or before April 19, 1993." Alderman Zehr advised those present that Council would consider the recommendation of the Finance and Administration Committee at its meeting of February 22, 1993. 2. COIN ROOM PROCESSING OPTIONS The Committee was in receipt of a report and recommendation from Mr. B. Gulliver dated February 10, 1993 relative to the contracting of the City's coin sorting operation. Alderman Zehr advised that CUPE Local 791 had previously expressed concerns over this issue, however, these have been resolved subject to relocating the existing staff members. Mr. Gazzola asked that the Committee consider a counter proposal to the staff recommendation that the collection and handling service be contracted to the private sector over the next two years. He expressed concern over this course of action due to the volume of coins involved, which total approximately $8,000,000.00 per year. He noted that the contracting option would limit control by the municipality and suggested that the Revenue Division take over responsibility for this service in a manner similar to that outlined as Option #2 in Mr. Gulliver's report. He suggested that over the next few months a part-time person could be used and the option of using an existing staff member examined. He added that the difference between the recommended Option and Option #2 would result in a cost of $25,000.00 over a two year period. 2. COIN ROOM PROCESSING OPTIONS (cont.) Alderman Lorentz inquired as to the accuracy of counting under the Automated Fare System. Mr. Gulliver replied that the difference between a manual and automated count amounts to approximately 1/10 of 1%. Mr. McKay asked that further consideration of this item be deferred, noting that he was of the FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES- 7 -FEBRUARY 15, 1993 understanding the issue had been resolved at the staff level. On a motion by Alderman J. Ziegler - It was resolved: "That further consideration of the options for coin room processing be deferred and referred to the March 1, 1993 meeting of the Finance and Administration Committee." Alderman Lorentz asked that any subsequent staff report address his question concerning the relative accuracy of a manual versus an automated count. 3. SUPER JACKPOT BINGOS The Committee was in receipt of a report from Mrs. J. Koppeser dated February 9, 1993 concerning requests from local organizations for the City's permission to operate Super Jackpot Bingos in addition to their regular programs. Mrs. Koppeser explained the concept of Super Jackpots as it relates to the new Gaming legislation. In response to a question from Alderman Zehr, Mrs. Koppeser advised that she does not foresee a problem in the event these are approved since the necessary regulations are already in place. On a motion by Mayor D.V. Cardillo - It was resolved: "That the City of Kitchener has no objection to the Provincial Lotteries Office issuing licences for Super Jackpot Bingos to the Kitchener Charities Bingo Palace Committee, Downtown Bingo Association Committee and the Concourse Bingo Committee." A brief discussion took place concerning the general impact of the new Gaming legislation. Both Alderman Wagner and Alderman Stortz expressed concern that the Committee may have acted prematurely in putting forward its previous recommendation relative to Break Open Tickets. Mayor Cardillo concurred indicating that staff should have been given the opportunity to examine the legislation more thoroughly and co-ordinate the necessary regulatory measures. Alderman Ziegler pointed out that the purpose of his recommendation was to allow the delegations in attendance this date to assist staff in developing appropriate guidelines, and as a result these will in effect have been pre-tested before they are applied to other applications. 4. AMENDMENTS TO CHAPTER 530 (DOGS) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE The Committee was in receipt of a report and draft by-law from Ms. L. MacDonald dated February 5, 1993 concerning proposed amendments arising from the Ad Hoc Committee appointed on December 7, 1992. Alderman Ziegler explained that the amendments would result in a 10 animal restriction being placed on the number of dogs, a number which could be adjusted downward if necessary. He pointed out that the amendments also address the regulation of kennels and in conjunction with a strengthening of the municipal Noise By-law should address ratepayer concerns. He added that the changes proposed have been endorsed by those in attendance at the Ad Hoc Committee meeting held on January 26, 1993. Alderman Zehr commented that a limit of 10 dogs is too high and advised that he was sceptical as to the effectiveness of the proposed amendments since these would not address noise and other problems where individuals are keeping fewer than 10 dogs. Alderman 4. AMENDMENTS TO CHAPTER 530 (DOGS) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE (cont.) Stortz added that Mr. Martin Fischer of the K-W Humane Society had confirmed that the most frequent offenders in terms of noise are single dogs. Alderman Ziegler defended the 10 dog limit indicating that more stringent regulations are also being imposed relative to sound buffering. On a motion by Alderman J. Ziegler - FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES- 8 -FEBRUARY 15, 1993 It was resolved: "That Council amend Chapter 530 (Dogs) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code as outlined in the draft by-law appended to the report of Ms. L. MacDonald dated February 5, 1993, and further, That enforcement of Sections 530.3.3 (e) and 530.3.6 of the Code dealing with the construction of kennel facilities not commence until July 16, 1993 and that all applications for 1993 kennel licences will be processed provided the applicant has complied with all of the other applicable requirements of Chapter 530, and with any kennel licence issued prior to July 15, 1993 being issued conditional upon the operator complying with the construction requirements in Section 530.3.6 by no later than July 15, 1993." 5. AMENDMENTS TO CHAPTER 575 (PET SHOPS) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE The Committee was in receipt of a report and draft by-law from Ms. L. MacDonald dated February 10, 1993 concerning proposed amendments which she deems to be minor in nature. Her report also addressed various revisions suggested at the Ad Hoc Committee meeting which were not incorporated in the draft by-law since many are outside the municipality's authority as they deal with consumer protection, and some were already incorporated in the original draft by-law. On a motion by Alderman J. Ziegler - It was resolved: "That Council amend Chapter 575 (Pet Shops) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code as outlined in the draft by-law appended to the report of Ms. L. MacDonald dated February 10, 1993." 6. SAME SEX SPOUSAL COVERAGE The Committee was in receipt of a report and recommendation from Mr. D. Paterson dated February 9, 1993 concerning an amendment to the definition of spouse in the City's benefit plans which would extend selective coverage to same sex spousal arrangements. In response to a question from Alderman Galloway, Mr. Paterson clarified that survivorship benefits under the OMERS Pension Plan would not be involved. On a motion by Mayor D.V. Cardillo - It was resolved: "That effective March 1, 1993 the definition of "spouse" in the City's benefit plans (extended health care, dental and bereavement) be amended to extend coverage to same sex spousal arrangements." 7. LEASE OF 122 FREDERICK STREET (FORMER REGISTRY BUILDING) The Committee was in receipt this date of a report from Mr. P. Summers dated February 15, 1993 concerning a proposal to lease 360 square feet of office space in the above building to the YWCA. Mr. Summers pointed out that the report is before the Committee this date because the YWCA is prepared to occupy the space as soon as possible. Mr. McKay pointed out that a six month occupancy term is intended along with a 90 day termination clause. 7. LEASE OF 122 FREDERICK STREET (FORMER REGISTRY BUILDING) (cont.) Alderman Zehr inquired as to the proposed $600.00 annual rent. Mr. Summers replied that this figure had been discussed with the YWCA and would cover all of the City's costs. Mr. Gazzola clarified that in addition to the rent proposed the organization would likely have to pay some form of property tax. Alderman Ziegler suggested that the lease should cover the cost of the premises, and any other expenses should be considered through an application for a charitable grant. Mr. McKay reported the City is now occupying part of the building during the preparation of the new payroll system, however, when this project is completed in September the long term use of the building will have to be addressed. He advised that staff have no plans for the building at this FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES- 9 -FEBRUARY 15, 1993 time, but proposed uses by the Kitchener Public Library, the Region of Waterloo and the K-W Symphony have been discussed. On a motion by Alderman M. Wagner - It was resolved: "That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to sign the appropriate documents relative to leasing of space at 122 Frederick Street (former Registry Office) to the YWCA as outlined in the memorandum of Mr. P. Summers dated February 15, 1993, and further, That the term of the lease be six months and include a 90 termination clause, with all documents to be drafted to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor." 8. PROPERTY TAX WORKING GROUP REPORT This item was deferred at the February 1, 1993 meeting in order to allow further input by Committee members prior to the sub-committee compiling a draft City submission. No input for the sub-committee deliberations was forthcoming. 9. OTHER BUSINESS Alderman Wagner advised that he has been approached by an individual who requested that penalty charges be waived in conjunction with his decision to withhold taxes pending resolution of a disagreement with City staff. He asked whether the City has a policy on such requests. Mr. Gazzola replied that there is no formal policy at present, however, any agreement to waive the penalty charge should take the form of a grant and the individual should attend and outline his request. Alderman Wagner advised that the individual in question would appear at the March 1, 1993 meeting. 10. NEXT MEETING The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Finance and Administration Committee will be held on . Monday, March 1, 1993 11. ADJOURNMENT On motion, the meeting adjourned at 12:20 p.m. and the Committee resolved itself into caucus to consider the balance of its agenda. _________________________________ G. Sosnoski Manager of Corporate Records/Assistant City Clerk