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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFinance & Admin - 1997-05-05FAC\1997-05-05 MAY 5, 1997 FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES CITY OF KITCHENER The Finance and Administration Committee met this date commencing at 10:10 a.m. under the Chairmanship of Councillor J. Ziegler with the following members present: Councillors T. Galloway, G. Lorentz, K. Redman, John Smola, M. Wagner, C. Weylie and M. Yantzi. Mayor R. Christy, Councillors Jake Smola and B. Vrbanovic were in attendance for part of the meeting. Others present: Mrs. J. Koppeser, Ms. L. Pasternak, Ms. D. Arnold, Ms. L. Bansen, Ms. P. Houston, Messrs. J. Gazzola, J. Shivas, T. McCabe, S. Gyorffy, L. Lynch, L. F. Parkhouse, R. W. Pritchard, D. Paterson, T. Clancy, J. Witmer, R. Arnot, L. W. Neil and G. Sosnoski. 1. BRIDGEPORT ROAD RECONSTRUCTION - LANCASTER STREET TO LANG CRESCENT Consideration of the report and recommendation of L. Lynch dated April 30, 1997 was referred to the Committee in view of the cancellation of the Public Works and Transportation Committee this date due to lack of a quorum. On a motion by Councillor John Smola, it was resolved: "That funding be provided out of the Capital Reserve to construct a 1.8 meter wide, curb- faced concrete sidewalk on the north side of Bridgeport Road, from Lancaster Street to Lang Crescent, including curb cuts and sidewalk through the island at the Conestoga Expressway, at a cost of $30,000.00." Moved by Councillor John Smola, "That $30,000.00 be allocated for the City share of a new storm drain system to be constructed on the south side of Bridgeport Road." Councillor John Smola advised that construction of the sidewalk is necessary to address safety concerns relating to the volume of automobile traffic and current pedestrian access. He also advised that the project is not feasible as a local improvement paid for by abutting property owners. He pointed out that it was proposed to install sidewalks along this section of Bridgeport Road as early as 1980. Councillor Weylie advised that she agrees with the motion and drew a parallel to the situation which presently exists in her Ward on Glasgow Street. Councillor Weylie asked Mr. Lynch to identify and report on similar, existing circumstances throughout the City, and he agreed to undertake a prioritization, adding that a sidewalk management review is planned for this summer. Councillor Wagner referred to two similar circumstances in his Ward where safety concerns are involved, and suggested that these should also be addressed at the City's expense. Mr. Gazzola pointed out that at present there is no money in the Capital Reserve Fund to deal with the projects as suggested in the staff recommendation. He advised that he would discuss the matter with the Public Works Department and would attempt to identify a funding source by the time the Committee recommendation is considered by Council on May 12. The motion by Councillor John Smola relative to construction of a new storm drain system on the south side of Bridgeport and Carried. MASSAGISTS AND BODY RUB PARLOURS The Committee was in receipt of a report from J. Shivas dated April 14, 1997 recommending that Chapter 560 (Massagists and Body-Rub Parlours) of the Municipal Code be repealed in favour of two, separate draft by-laws one relating to erotic/sexual massage and the other two non- erotic/non-sexual massage. They were also in receipt of a report circulated under separate cover in response to information requested by the Committee at the special meeting held on April 22, 1997. A further summary sheet dated May 5, 1997 was circulated this date to Council and members of the public. Mr. Paul Hoffman, Siesta Massage Studio, appeared in regard to his earlier request that Council issue a body rub parlour licence on the basis that he could have submitted his licence application prior to Council limiting the number of body rub parlours were it not for assurances FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 5, 1997 - 77 - CITY OF KITCHENER MASSAGISTS AND BODY RUB PARLOURS - CONT'D he received from staff concerning the last date for filing the application. Mr. Hoffman suggested that the initial action of Council to freeze the number of body rub parlours in the City was in response to a scare over the number of applications. He referred to earlier conversations with staff and the Ward Councillor in which he claims to have been variously informed of 14, 11 then 9 other applicants, none of whom have come forward with requests similar to his own. Mr. Hoffman stated that he has attempted to conform to all City by-laws and regulations in establishing his business and has the support of the neighbouring businesses adjacent to the proposed location at 32 Ontario Street North. Mr. Hoffman explained that should Council wish otherwise, he is prepared to relocate to either 170 or 174 Victoria Street South or to any other location selected by Council. He also pointed out that the nature of his business is private and that no signage is required to generate business. Mayor R. Christy entered the meeting at this time. Mr. Randy Zivkovic, Anabella Massage Studio, appeared and requested permission to relocate the Studio from the current premises at 91 Queen Street South to 127 Weber Street West, a property he would be willing to purchase in the event Council approves the relocation. It was noted that the proposed location is between Breithaupt and Wellington Streets in the building currently occupied by Guy's Interiors. Councillor Wagner enquired of Mr. Shivas as to the City's legal position in the event one of the five erotic/sexual body rub parlours wishes to relocate. Mr. Shivas replied that the by-law is drafted to allow consideration of relocation, and in the event a licensee wished to relocate to a more suitable location, a report is required of the Manager of Licencing advising of various criteria including separation distances. Mr. Shivas also pointed out that the Weber Street site being considered by Mr. Zivkovic is not zoned for this type of use. He clarified that Council is not obliged to approve any change in location, and reminded that the intent of the by-law is to reduce the number of such establishments through attrition. Mr. Shivas added that the impact of Mr. Hoffman's request would be to add a sixth sexual/erotic body rub parlour location. Councillor B. Vrbanovic entered the meeting at this time. Mr. Robert Braun appeared as the co-owner of a Downtown business and spoke on behalf of Downtown renewal. He pointed out that previous Council debates regarding the location of arcades and adult entertainment parlours in the Downtown resulted in strict control on the numbers of such establishments, and suggested that these decisions reflected the position that certain types of businesses are not conducive to Downtown renewal. He suggested that the situation and concerns with respect to body rub parlours are similar, and pointed out that the Downtown has turned a difficult corner in regard to revitalization efforts and that allowing a proliferation of body rub parlours in the Downtown will damage this initiative. Mr. Braun questioned why body rub parlours must be located in the Downtown, if they must be allowed at all. He suggested that the local media may perhaps unfairly report that Council is turning the Downtown into an adult entertainment area and this would not improve its image. Ms. Carol Kraft appeared as a delegation and asked various questions of clarification concerning definitions in the proposed legislation and objected to the use of the term "massagists" in regard to alternate health practitioners such as Reflexologists. Councillor Galloway enquired whether other terminology could be used and Mr. Shivas replied that the use of the term "practitioner" has specific meaning in reference to physicians and that "massage" is meant to be a generic term, which in his view should be retained. In response to a question from Councillor Weylie, Ms. Kraft advised that Reflexologists are registered with the Reflexology Association of Canada. Mr. Shivas advised that if certified or registered or otherwise governed by the Province then the City's by-law would not apply, and in this regard there is an exemption under the definition section. He also added that the use and definition of "massagist" relates to a section of the enabling legislation and for this reason has been used in the City by-law. MASSAGISTS AND BODY RUB PARLOURS - CONT'D On a motion by Councillor K. Redman, it was resolved: FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 5, 1997 - 78 - CITY OF KITCHENER "That the draft by-law appended to the report of J. Shivas dated April 14, 1997 governing non-erotic/non-sexual body-rub parlours, defined as massage establishments, be approved." Moved by Mayor R. Christy, "That no action be taken on the application of Mr. Paul Hoffman, Siesta Massage Studio, for a body-rub parlour licence." Councillor Wagner enquired as the City's Legal position with respect to Mr. Hoffman's application, and Mr. Shivas suggested that he was prepared to give legal advice in-camera. On a motion by Mayor R. Christy, it was resolved: "That legal advice to be provided by the City Solicitor with respect to the body-rub parlour licence application of Mr. Paul Hoffman, Siesta Massage Studio, be heard in-camera." The Finance and Administration Committee then recessed at 10:50 a.m. to allow Council to receive legal advice with respect to the body-rub parlour licence application of Mr. Paul Hoffman, and re-convened at 11:25 a.m. with all members present. The Committee then voted on the previous motion of Mayor Christy to deny the application of Mr. Hoffman, and it was Carried. Moved by Councillor M. Wagner, "That no action be taken on the request of Mr. Randy Zivkovic, Anabella Massage Studio, for permission to relocate the Studio from 91 Queen Street South to the proposed location at 127 Weber Street West or to any other location in the City." Councillor Wagner explained that his motion aims at reducing the number of sexual/erotic body rub parlour locations to two (2) in number, and clarified that his motion is also intended to indicate that Council will not consider any subsequent requests to relocate this body rub parlour. Councillor Galloway added that the present zoning at the Weber Street location would not permit the proposed use and that the applicant would not be able to obtain an occupancy permit in any case. The motion by Councillor M. Wagner to take no action on the request to relocate the Anabella Massage Studio was voted on and Carried. Moved by Councillor Jake Smola, "That only the currently licensed erotic/sexual body rub parlours located at 10 Duke Street East, 1127 King Street East, 6 Moyer Place, 280 Victoria Street North, and 91 Queen Street South, be permitted to operated until December 31, 1997, being the date on which the current licence expires, and that no 1998 body rub parlour licences be issued pending further direction from Council as it is Council's intention to reduce the number of locations and body rub parlour licences to two (2) in number; and further, MASSAGISTS AND BODY RUB PARLOURS - CONT'D That staff prepare a report for consideration at the May 26, 1997 Finance and Administration Committee meeting recommending how a lottery could be conducted for the two (2) locations which will be eligible for body rub parlour licences in 1998, and outlining related criteria." Councillor Lorentz pointed out that based on legal advice, limiting sexual/erotic body rub parlour FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 5, 1997 - 79 - CITY OF KITCHENER locations to two in number is acceptable to the community, and Councillor Galloway noted that the intent is to reduce the number of locations over a reasonable period of time. Councillor Vrbanovic indicated that in his view it makes sense to reduce the number of locations from five to two, though his personal preference would be that no such businesses be permitted in the City. He suggested that the compromise proposed recognizes that the businesses are legal, would allow for competition and prevent a proliferation. Councillor Yantzi suggested that the approach being taken is even handed; however, he expressed concern over references to a lottery to select the businesses which will receive body rub parlour licences. Councillor Jake Smola offered the opinion that proposals from any interested business should be considered and that in his view the fairest way to do this is by lottery. Mayor Christy indicated his support for the reduction in the number of locations, though he himself would prefer the outright elimination of adult entertainment businesses. Mayor R. Christy left the meeting at this time. Councillor Redman advised that she supports the motion with some qualifications regarding fees, the level of business accountability and what she referred to as substantial amendments to Sections 24 and 26. Councillor Redman expressed her grave concern over the current Moyer Place location which she characterized as inappropriate. She also indicated support for considering non-erotic/non-sexual massage as a separate class of business. In response to further comments from Councillor Wagner, Councillor Jake Smola advised that it was his understanding that any operator could apply for one of the two body rub parlour locations, and that the lottery would not be limited to the five current businesses. Councillor Wagner suggested that it would be unfair to open up the lottery to any other businesses than those presently licensed. Councillor Ziegler advised that he would not support the motion as he favours a reduction in locations over a longer period of time. He suggested that it is heavy handed to not renew licences for those establishments which are properly and legally run and suggested that the draft by-law proposed by the Legal department is the wiser course of action. The previous motion by Councillor Jake Smola to reduce the number of sexual/erotic body rub parlour locations in 1998 pending a staff report on the appropriate method was voted on and Carried. Councillor Ziegler advised those members of the public in attendance that the Committee recommendation would be considered by City Council at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 1997. REQUEST TO OPERATE A CHIP WAGON Mr. Sandy Reddy, Rosie's Fries, appeared and requested permission to temporarily operate a Chip Wagon for a one year period on vacant lands at the intersection of Hayward Avenue and Courtland Avenue. The Committee was previously in receipt of a written submission from Mr. Reddy in this regard. Mr. Reddy advised that the subject property is not zoned for the proposed use and is adjacent to a recently constructed City sportsfield with no existing restaurants within approximately 1-1/2 miles. Mr. Reddy also advised that access is available to the site off of Hayward Avenue and is presently used for car and truck parking. Mr. McCabe confirmed that the present M2 zoning does not permit a restaurant, and that the owner does not plan to submit a zone change application at this time. He noted that the delegation is requesting the City waive enforcement of the zoning by-law for a period of one year. Mr. Reddy added that the land owner is contemplating a zone change application and has submitted a letter of intent in this regard. He stressed that he is only asking for a one season accommodation in order to experiment and see if the location works out. Mr. Reddy REQUEST TO OPERATE A CHIP WAGON - CONT'D also pointed out that there is presently another chip wagon operating at a Highland Road location on lands that are improperly zoned, to which Mr. McCabe advised that the licence was issued without his department signing off. Councillor Lorentz requested comment from Mr. Clancy concerning the issue of concession stands at the new sports park, and Mr. Clancy replied that he has been contacted on two occasions with this type of proposal, noting that it is an important source of tournament revenue for the event sponsor. Mr. Clancy suggested that the proposed site is not within walking distance of the ballpark, but would likely be accessed by cars and would be off-site lure. Councillor Yantzi suggested that re-zoning the property for this use alone is inappropriate, and Councillor Ziegler FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 5, 1997 - 80 - CITY OF KITCHENER advised that as the Ward Councillor, he supports the request on the basis that the accommodation is temporary. On a motion by Councillor Jake Smola, it was resolved: "That subject to payment of the 1997 licence fee and obtaining the necessary Health and Fire approvals, Mr. Sandy Reddy be granted a temporary, one year licence to operate a chip wagon on the vacant property at the corner of Hayward Avenue and Courtland Avenue, and in this regard enforcement of the Zoning By-law be waived for the period of the licence; and further, That the applicant be advised that should he receive permission to continue to operate at the above location beyond the one year term referred to above, the owner of the subject lands will be required to submit an application to have said lands appropriately zoned." Councillor Ziegler advised the delegation that the Committee recommendation would be dealt with by City Council at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 1997. REQUEST TO PURCHASE CITY OWNED LAND The Committee was in receipt this date of a report from D. Corks dated May 2, 1997 recommending that no action be taken on an informal offer to purchase and that discussion be initiated to allow use of the subject lands as a patio for an existing restaurant. Mr. Tom Kefalis, one of the owners of the subject restaurant, was in attendance in support of the staff recommendation. On a motion by Councillor K. Redman, it was resolved: "That Council take no action on an informal offer to purchase a four foot wide strip of City- owned land adjacent to 48 King Street West, and hereby direct staff to enter into discussions with Tom Kefalas, Joy Kefalas, and Jim Tsiloyannis to allow the use of a portion of the City-owned land adjacent to 48 King Street West as a patio for the Mr. Sub Restaurant; and further, That a detailed proposal in this regard be brought back to the Finance and Administration Committee for consideration." MIDWAY APPROVAL- WESTHEIGHTS PARK The Committee was in receipt of a report from J. Koppeser dated April 30, 1997 recommending the granting of a licence to operate a Midway on May 19, 1997. MIDWAY APPROVAL- WESTHEIGHTS PARK - CONT'D On a motion by Councillor G. Lorentz, it was resolved: "That a licence be granted to the Forest Heights Community Association, 429 Westheights Drive, Kitchener, to operate a Midway on May 19, 1997 at Westheights Park, 429 Westheights Drive, Kitchener, conditional upon obtaining the necessary licence as well as Police, Health, Public Works and Planning approvals, and that a nominal fee of $1.00 be applicable." PROGRAM BUDGETING PROPOSAL The Committee was in receipt of a report and recommendation from P. Houston dated April 29, 1997 requesting approval of the Program Budgeting Proposal and related costs. Councillor Ziegler noted that the cost to implement this initiative is approximately $100,000.00, and Ms. FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 5, 1997 -81 - CITY OF KITCHENER Houston advised that activity based costing would allow Council and the City to make better pricing decisions, implement cost reduction and improve areas of service. Due to a shortage of time it was suggested that the full staff presentation in this regard be deferred. On a motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic, it was resolved: "That the staff presentation and consideration of the recommendation to adopt the Program Budgeting Proposal be deferred and referred to an unspecified time following the Planning and Economic Development Committee meeting of this date. POLICIES - CODE OF CONDUCT/DRESS CODE The Committee was in receipt of a report from D. Paterson dated April 29, 1997 with respect to two draft policies, submitted on behalf of the working committee. A discussion took place concerning the proposed Code of Conduct policy governing City staff. Councillor Ziegler enquired as to whether a separate section could be included to address an exception with regard to institutional investing where an employee invests indirectly. Mr. Paterson suggested that the concerns expressed would not likely relate to the "Insider Information" section of the policy, though such an amendment would more appropriately be included in the "Purchasing" section. Mr. Paterson suggested that he would investigate appropriate wording in this regard. Councillor Jake Smola suggested that the "Insider Information" section be expanded to include reference to using such information to assist others in making personal investments. He also questioned how a spouse would factor into the policy as it relates to purchases to and from the City, and suggested that they be included in the "Purchasing" section and a definition included as to where a spouse would be affected by the policy. Councillor Vrbanovic commented that the suggested amendment as it relates to a spouse could be limiting in respect to City purchasing decisions, and Councillor Jake Smola suggested that staff advise Council as to the wording of the suggested amendments. Councillor Galloway noted that some reference should be made to anticipate involvement with not-for-profit organizations by City employees on a volunteer basis. Mr. Paterson replied that any potential conflict would have to be brought to the attention of the department head and that it is hard to anticipate all potential situations in a policy such as this. Councillor Galloway responded that his only concern was that the policy would not limit staff volunteer activities in the community. He also noted it does not provide clear direction to the department head in the event a conflict is brought to his attention. Mr. Paterson responded that the Committee considered this, noting that it is difficult to give strong direction in some areas without reference to specific circumstances, and that in some regards the policy is vague by design. POLICIES - CODE OF CONDUCT/DRESS CODE - CONT'D On a motion by Councillor T. Galloway, it was resolved: "That the Finance and Administration Committee meeting be recessed at this time and re- convened following the conclusion of the Planning and Economic Development Committee meeting at which time further consideration will be given to the program budgeting proposal, the draft policies with respect to Code of Conduct and Dress Code and a report from the Legal Department concerning suggested amendments to the City's Pit Bull by- law." The Committee then recessed at 12:30 p.m. and re-convened at 4:08 p.m. with all members present except Mayor R. Christy who entered during consideration of the Code of Conduct Policy. POLICY - DRESS CODE The Committee considered a proposed policy resolution dated April 29, 1997 on the matter of Dress Code. Councillor M. Wagner was opposed to the policy for various reasons some of which FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 5, 1997 - 82 - CITY OF KITCHENER are as follows: the months of May and September are not summer months, the policy was directed only to males, enforceability, lower image and loss of professionalism. Councillor G. Lorentz favoured the policy noting that the issue was whether staff were neat and presentable. He suggested there was a problem in respect to uniform staff and that their situation needed to be investigated. Councillor Jake Smola stated that he partially agreed with Councillor Wagner's remarks and that he favoured Friday as a dress down day on a year round basis. He commented that uniform staff should be required to wear them with the issue of comfort being a purchasing criteria. Councillor B. Vrbanovic questioned how other organizations were dealing with this issue. Ms. L. Bansen responded in this regard detailing relaxation of policy by several municipalities. She noted that the clothing industry has developed a line of casual attire for office purposes and also questioned if the Corporation should be acquiring clothing with the City logo that employees could purchase. Mr. D. Paterson noted that there has been discussion on this issue. Councillor B. Vrbanovic suggested City logo identifying departmental divisions on clothing would enhance Corporate image. Councillor K. Redman supported proposed policy and made a motion to adopt it with incorporation of a friendly amendment from Councillor T. Gallowy to delete reference to Standing Committees from the policy statement. On a motion by Councillor K. Redman, it was resolved: "That we approve the proposed Council Policy Resolution dated April 29, 1997 respecting employee "Dress Code", subject to deletion of reference to Standing Committees from the Policy statement." Councillor M. Wagner was opposed to the resolution. PROGRAM BUDGETING PROPOSAL Discussion of the Program Budgeting Proposal which was initiated under item #6 of these minutes continued. Ms. P. Houston, utilizing the overhead projection system, presented a Program Budgeting Proposal for the Corporation. She noted that the core services report was being utilized for this purpose. Ms. Houston then took the Committee through the presentation detailing: - what program budgeting was - various benefits: · reduce cycle time PROGRAM BUDGETING PROPOSAL -CONT'D · identify opportunities to eliminate waste · monitor results · improve outsourcing decisions · measure improvements · prioritize opportunities · improve pricing · improve strategy implementation · objective organizational decisions - management information issues, response and need for change -implementation planning - internal and external costs and project cost summary - recommendations A discussion of the proposal took place with Councillors posing a number of questions. In response to Councillor J. Ziegler, Ms. Houston advised that new and old budgeting systems would be utilized for the first two years as an implementation step. She also advised it was proposed to include the Centre in the Square in the project. In response to Councillor Jake Smola, she pointed out that the proposal allows management to have information all year round and for operating departments to understand what their costs are. There was general support of the proposal as an information tool that will assist in better decision making. FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 5, 1997 - 83 - CITY OF KITCHENER 10. 10. Councillor T. Galloway stated that he supported the recommendations but questioned why a consultant was needed and why the consultant selection process was being waived. Ms. Houston replied that the consultant could provide expertise in activity based costing which is unfamiliar to City staff. In addition, Ernst and Young, who are the City's Auditors have already performed some of the related work with respect to activity based budgeting and are in the position of having detailed knowledge of the municipality's operations. Councillor J. Ziegler suggested in future there should be a competition for the supply of the audit function but accepted that at this time it was easier for the existing auditor to participate. On motion by Councillor K. Redman, it was resolved: "That the recommendations with respect to the Program Budgeting Proposal presented to the Finance and Administration Committee be approved as follows: 1) That Ernst & Young be retained as consultants to lead the implementation of Activity Based Costing (ABC) for the City of Kitchener, at a cost not to exceed $35,000.00. 2) That a contract employee be hired in the Finance Department for a term of six months to complete the ABC model calculations for the pilot project. 3) That funding, to a maximum of $65,000.00, be provided for software required for the implementation of the ABC project. Further that, all of the above costs be funded from the provision for Continuous Improvement Projects." POLICY - CODE OF CONDUCT Discussion continued of a proposed Code of Conduct policy which was initiated under item #7 of these minutes. Mr. D. Paterson clarified to whom the policy would apply. Councillor G. Lorentz raised the matter of receipt of gifts, favours and services and as an example he referred to boxes of chocolates which were sent to the Department of Planning and Development last Christmas. POLICY - CODE OF CONDUCT - CONT'D Mr. Paterson stated that such action as an expression of thanks to all staff is acceptable provided it was done openly and was not a one on one gift. Councillor Lorentz maintained the policy should be absolutely clear with no grey areas. Councillor K. Redman suggested perception was a huge consideration respecting this matter and questioned how staff would convey the policy message to employees and encourage they exercise discretion. Mr. D. Paterson noted that other municipalities have prepared a brochure on this subject and he was certain many questions would arise in everyone's mind. Councillor K. Redman suggested training sessions might be a method to convey the message. Mayor R. Christy entered the meeting at this point. Mr. J. Gazzola pointed out that the proposed policy had been circulated to staff for input. Councillor J. Ziegler recommended Mr. Paterson address the concerns raised in regards to the proposed policy and bring back suggestions for appropriate revisions based on the points raised. Mr. J. Gazzola noted that a number of changes had been discussed and suggested further consideration at the Committee's May 26 meeting. He stressed that it was important for staff to take an appropriate amount of time in addressing this policy. On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler, it was resolved: "That the proposed Council Policy Resolution dated April 29, 1997 on the subject of "Code of Conduct" be referred back to Mr. D. Paterson with direction to revise the policy to reflect concerns expressed by the Finance and Administration Committee prior to further consideration by the Committee at a future meeting." FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 5, 1997 - 84 - CITY OF KITCHENER 11. FEDERAL FINANCING OF INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS Councillor M. Wagner noted that the Federal Government had announced a financial assistance program for infrastructure projects and questioned what detail on the program was available. Mayor R. Christy advised that the program was designed for hard core services and very little information was available at this time but it would appear there was a necessity to act quickly. Mr. J. Gazzola advised that staff were in contact with Ministry officials but details on eligibility were unavailable except that projects must not be in the current 1997 budget. However, staff were asked to develop a list of projects that may be eligible. Councillor M. Wagner asked that members of Council make suggestions for possible projects. Councillor G. Lorentz requested road repair receive top consideration along with elimination of road bottle necks. Councillor John Smola supported Councillor Lorentz's comments but recommended a cautious approach to program involvement given that the last infrastructure program cost the City a lot of money due to lengthy delay in receiving funding promised by senior government. Councillor B. Vrbanovic pointed out that a lot of deteriorated roads were Regional roads and requested Kitchener ensure it receives its fair share of infrastructure funding for Regional road work. Councillor M. Wagner suggested Council not fixate only on road work and requested other needs be listed and prioritized. 12. AMENDMENTS TO CHAPTER 530 (DOGS) CITY OF KITCHENER MUNICIPAL CODE The Committee was in receipt of a report dated May 2, 1997 from Ms. L. Pasternak in regard to Chapter 530 (Dogs) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code. The report was prepared in response to Councillor J. Zeigler's two proposed amendments to Chapter 530 concerning Restricted Dogs. At the April 14, 1997 Council meeting the proposed amendments were referred to the Legal department for review and preparation of a report. The proposed amendments deal with the licencing deadline date and the display of a warning sign advising of a Restricted Dog. 12. AMENDMENTS TO CHAPTER 530 (DOGS) CITY OF KITCHENER MUNICIPAL CODE CONT'D Councillor J. Ziegler commented on the two recommendations and a brief discussion followed. Councillor B. Vrbanovic made a motion to adopt the two recommendations in the staff report. It was requested that motion be dealt with in two parts. The first recommendation was voted on and accepted. In regard to the second recommendation, Councillor M. Yantzi moved an amendment to provide for a sticker in a corner of the sign; however, Councillor J. Ziegler ruled the amendment contrary to the motion and did not accept it. The second recommendation was then voted on and accepted. The motion of Councillor B. Vrbanovic was then dealt with and, it was resolved: "That Sections 530.2.3 and 530.5.13(b)(iii) of Chapter 530 (Dogs) of the Municipal Code be amended to extend the licence renewal and Canine Good Citizen testing deadline date for restricted dogs from 15 February to 10 April in each year, and further, That Section 530.5.13(k) of Chapter 530 (Dogs) requiring the owner of a restricted dog to purchase and display a warning sign not be amended." 13. MUNICIPAL RESPONSE - CHARITABLE GAMING CLUBS Mayor R. Christy advised that as a result of the Public Forum held in Kitchener on April 29, 1997 respecting Charitable Gaming Clubs, a letter had been drafted by the Mayors of Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph and Brantford with the purpose of conveying a message of community opposition to the Premier of Ontario. Mayor Christy read the proposed letter to the Committee and indicated a newspaper advertisement would be placed to advise the public of the action by the five cities in regard to this matter. Councillor B. Vrbanovic maintained City Council had already decided not to have a referendum on FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES MAY 5, 1997 - 85 - CITY OF KITCHENER 14. the issue and stated that the Province should be responsible for any referendum. Councillor T. Galloway also stated that the onus should be on the Province to fund and conduct a referendum. He also expressed a concern that the entire matter could become a local election issue. Following further discussion, it was agreed the draft letter be revised to stipulate that any referendum in concert with the Municipal Election be held at Provincial cost. On a motion by Councillor J. Ziegler, it was resolved: "That subject to inclusion of reference to the Province assuming the cost of a referendum, we endorse the content of a letter to the Honourable Michael D. Harris, Premier of Ontario from the Mayors of the Cities of Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph and Brantford dealing with overwhelming opposition to "Charitable Gaming Clubs." NEXT MEETING The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Finance and Administration Committee will be held on May 26, 1997. 15. ADJOURNMENT On motion, the meeting adjourned at 5:40 p.m. G. Sosnoski Manager of Corporate Records/Assistant City Clerk L. W. Neil Assistant City Clerk