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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFinance & Admin - 1997-11-17FAC\1997-11-17 NOVEMBER 17, 1997 FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES CITY OF KITCHENER The Finance and Administration Committee met this date commencing at 10:05 a.m. under the Chairmanship of Councillor J. Ziegler with the following members present: Mayor R. Christy, Councillors T. Galloway, John Smola, Jake Smola, B. Vrbanovic, G. Lorentz, C. Weylie and K. Taylor-Harrison. Others present: Ms. P. Houston, Ms. V. Gibaut, Ms. L. MacDonald, Mrs. J. Koppeser, Messrs. J. Gazzola, J. Hancock, T. McCabe, J. Witmer, R. W. Pritchard, D. Paterson, L. Proulx, T. Clancy and G. Sosnoski. 1. FOOD VENDOR RELOCATION - WABANAKI DRIVE The Committee was in receipt of a report from J. Koppeser dated November 13, 1997 in response to a request from Mr. Brad Schedewitz for permission to locate his hot dog cart on private property at 268 Trillium Drive (Finest Sausage). This request would also involve discontinuing operation at the present Wabanaki Drive location near Homer Watson Park. Mr. Brad Schedewitz appeared in support of his request and advised that the owner of the Trillium Drive location indicated he is prepared to apply for re-zoning in this regard. Mr. Schedewitz referred to precedents set by Council in approving similar requests for Jumbo Fries and Rosie's Fries, all of which were subject to re-zoning He asked that permission be granted to operate at the new location for a period of one year following which an application would be submitted to re- zone the property if he continues to operate at the same location. Mrs. Koppeser clarified that the present situation differs slightly from the earlier precedents referred to and suggested that in this instance Council should declare the Wabanaki Drive location vacant and not fill it until the 1998 Street Vendor's By-law is dealt with in February. Councillor Galloway expressed concern over how and when Council determines the maximum number of hot dog carts in the Huron Industrial Park, noting that at present there are three locations. Councillor Lorentz noted that the hot dog carts become problematic with the addition of portable signs and the use of tents. Mr. McCabe pointed out that Council has set a precedent through its past approvals with respect to its temporary occupancy policy, in that it has allowed occupancy without requesting the property owner to make application and with no attempt to legalize the situation. He expressed the opposition of the Planning and Development Department to any temporary occupancy without application. On a motion by Councillor Jake Smola, it was resolved: "That subject to meeting all licencing requirements, and obtaining the owner's permission, Brad Schedewitz be granted permission to locate his hot dog cart at Finest Sausage, 268 Trillium Drive, and in this regard a temporary, one year licence be granted and enforcement of the Zoning By-law waived for the one year period; and, That the applicant is advised that should he receive permission to continue to operate at the above location beyond the one year term, the owner of the subject lands will be required to submit an application to have said lands appropriately zoned; and further, That the Wabanaki Drive location be declared vacant and be reviewed in February when the 1998 Street Vendor's By-law is considered." 2. SEXUAL/EROTIC BODY RUB PARLOUR RELOCATION - ANABELLA'S Mr. Randy Zivkovic appeared and requested Council's endorsement of a relocation of Anabella's to 29-22 King Street East. Mr. Zivkovic pointed out that the subject property is zoned C6, a category which does not allow residential properties; however, the adjacent property at 29-10 King Street East is a legal non-conforming dwelling. In this regard he pointed out that he received a letter from the owner of that property indicating that he has no objection to Anabella's relocating to 29-22 King Street East, which he subsequently gave to Councillor Vrbanovic. FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES NOVEMBER 17, 1997 - 143 - CITY OF KITCHENER 2. SEXUAL/EROTIC BODY RUB PARLOUR RELOCATION - ANABELLA'S - CONT'D Councillor Vrbanovic cautioned that the present owner may not object to the relocation; however, this may be problematic if the residential property is sold at a future date. He also raised concerns as to the impact on adjacent hotel properties. Councillor B. Vrbanovic put forward a motion of no action with respect to the request of Richard Zivkovic to relocate Annabella's to 29-22 King Street East, and Mayor R. Christy subsequently put forward the following deferral motion. Moved by Mayor Richard D. Christy, "That consideration of the request of Mr. Randy Zivkovic to relocate the Annabella body rub parlour to 29-22 King Street East be referred to the November 24, 1997 Council meeting pending a review of the proposed location by staff of the Licencing Division and the Legal Department." Councillor Jake Smola indicated his interest in hearing comments from the neighbouring businesses as to the proposed location, and suggested that these should be considered before making a final decision. Councillor Ziegler replied that there has been no such requirement in regard to other body rub parlour relocations and suggested that Mr. Shivas be asked to comment on Councillor Jake Smola's suggestion. Councillor Galloway reminded the Committee it was Council's intention to reduce the number of body rub parlours through attrition and questioned why the Committee would be considering any exemptions from the location criteria. Mrs. Koppeser advised that she would prefer an opportunity to have her staff investigate the proposed location and the nature of neighbouring businesses, noting that she was of the impression there is a daycare facility nearby. Mayor Christy pointed out that substantial investment has occurred in high quality businesses in this area and that relocating a body rub parlour may challenge these initiatives. He also suggested that the adjacent community has had problems in the past and in this regard relocation to this area may be detrimental. The deferral motion by Mayor R. Christy was then voted on and Carried. Councillor Ziegler advised those in attendance that the issue would be dealt with by Council at 7:00 p.m. on November 24, 1997. REMARKS - MAYOR RICHARD D. CHRISTY Mayor Christy noted that the new Council will take office on December 1, 1997 with a new Mayor. He thanked members of Council for their work over the past three years and their willingness to work together as a team. He acknowledge the varied demands placed on a municipal Councillor and congratulated those members of Council who will be returning. Mayor Christy thanked staff for their professionalism in balancing Council policy direction with their own recommendations, indicating that he has nothing but respect for the job they have done. He referred specifically to the staff of the Mayor and Council noting that their fine job has been taken for granted. He singled out Ms. Linda Fryfogel and the many positive comments he has received concerning her work performance. Mayor Christy thanked the Mayor/Council staff for what he characterized as an excellent job, and suggested that some changes should be made in the office as regards reporting relationships and renumeration. Mayor Christy stated that in regard to the outcome of the election, he has disappointed, but desirous that the returning members of Council continue with initiatives begun over the past three years, including Downtown revitalization, strengthening of Canada's Technology Triangle, and local economic development initiatives. He expressed a sense of anticipation as he returns as a full-time facility member at Wilfred Laurier University this December, and an interest in ensuring that there is a smooth transition between the present Council and the Council-Elect. In closing, Mayor Christy characterized Kitchener as a wonderful municipality which he is pleased to have served. WORKMENS' COMPENSATION SELF INSURANCE (SCHEDULE 2) - CLAIMS OFFICER The Committee was in receipt of a report from R. W. Pritchard dated November 13, 1997 recommending the hiring of a full-time Workmens' Compensation Claims Officer in conjunction FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES NOVEMBER 17, 1997 - 144 - CITY OF KITCHENER with the City's transfer from Schedule 1 to Schedule 2 coverage. Councillor Ziegler noted that the wage level had not been established for the new position and expressed an interest in seeing the successful applicant start at Step 1 of the job grade, and in having Council advised of the wage range prior to any hiring taking place. Mr. R. W. Pritchard advised that this is currently being investigated by the Human Resources Division, and though he cannot give an exact figure at this time, agreed to advise Council before any advertisement for the position is circulated. On a motion by Councillor T. Galloway, it was resolved: "That staff be authorized to hire a full-time Workers' Compensation Claims Officer, to be financed from the Workers' Compensation Reserve Fund, to carry out the responsibilities outlined in correspondence from Mr. R. W. Pritchard, General Manager of Corporate Services and City Clerk, dated November 10, 1997." INVENTORY OF OLD CITY HALL WOODWORK The Committee was in receipt of a report from L. Proulx dated November 10, 1997 requesting direction concerning millwork and furnishings from previous City Halls which are presently being stored at the Bramms Street facility. It was noted that the proposed closing of the Maple Street Yards will place storage space at a premium and that some decision as regards these artifacts should be made at this time. Councillor Ziegler advised that Councillor-elect Jean Haalboom has asked that someone knowledgeable in historical artifacts evaluate this material, and has suggested that one option would be to turn it over to the Regional Curatorial Centre. Councillor Galloway agreed and indicated that in his view the material should wherever possible be either preserved or re-used. Mayor Christy suggested that any recommendation should include direction to staff to investigate whether any of the millwork and furnishings can be used in City facilities, either existing or planned. He also referred to the possibility of use in the Grace Schmidt Local History Room of the Kitchener Public Library. Councillor Vrbanovic suggested possible use in the new Stanley Park Branch Library/Firehall. On a motion by Councillor T. Galloway, it was resolved: "That City staff consult with staff of the Region of Waterloo who have expertise in the area of curatorial and preservation services in order to obtain an evaluation and advice on the possible re-use and/or preservation of the artifacts and furnishings used in previous City Hall buildings which are presently in storage and are itemized in the report of L. Proulx dated November 10, 1997; and further, That City staff also investigate the possible use of these materials within a City owned facility, either existing or planned." RALGREEN CRESCENT SUBDIVISION - FINAL REPORT Council was in receipt this date of a report from Heath Consultants Limited dated October, 1997 and entitled "Summary of Technical Issues of the Ralgreen Subdivision". Mr. Witmer spoke to the report noting that it deals with various technical issues but does not touch on the issues of liability, compensation and health. He noted that the health issue is part of the next study phase, and that terms of reference in this regard will be released by the RALGREEN CRESCENT SUBDIVISION - FINAL REPORT - CONT'D Region this week. He noted that the subsequent consultant report will provide Council will remedial options and related costs. Councillor Lorentz questioned as to how the report would be distributed to affected residents, and Mr. Witmer advised that he planned to mail it out; however, given the current situation it may be FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES NOVEMBER 17, 1997 - 145 - CITY OF KITCHENER necessary to hand deliver to all property owners and residents along with a covering letter. Councillor Lorentz asked that a copy of the report be hand delivered to anyone who was tested for methane, and questioned the status of the Expression of Interest. Mr. Witmer responded that the Expression has been prepared and was awaiting a copy of the summary report provided to Council this morning prior to release. He also noted that December 3, 1997 is the proposed Expression submission date. Councillor Lorentz stressed that it is important to allow access to the report to all residents and not to the Ralgreen Homeowners' Association alone which does not represent all affected residents. He also enquired as to how soon people could expect an open house and public meeting as regards the content of the summary report. Mr. Witmer advised that his personal preference would be to have the consultants overseeing the next phase of the project deal with dissemination of this information. Mr. Gazzola added that in his view it is important to have hired the next consultant who will require time to review the summary of technical issues before any public meeting. He suggested that Council could appoint the consultant on December 15, 1997. Moved by Mayor R. Christy, "That Council accept, as information, the report of Heath Consultants Limited entitled "Summary of Technical Issues of the Ralgreen Subdivision" and dated October, 1997; and, That a copy of the summary report be hand delivered to each affected resident of Ralgreen Crescent and adjacent areas, with said residents being required to sign an acknowledgement of receipt; and further, That in regard to the selection of a consultant to complete the final stage of the process, provision be made to include input from affected residents." Mayor Christy spoke to the motion and stressed the importance of the next Council moving as quickly as possible on this issue. He expressed concern that the health related results are not available at this time, especially since the Region was asked for input in September. He also suggested that it is important that the final summary be hand delivered and that those who receive copies sign to acknowledge receipt. The previous motion by Mayor R. Christy concerning disposition of the summary of technical issues was voted on and Carried. NEON SIGN CONTRACTS- KITCHENER MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM The Committee was in receipt of a report from L. MacDonald dated November 14, 1997 recommending that Council delegate its authority to selected staff in regard to the signing of standard advertising agreements for the outdoor electronic message centre located at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium. Councillor Galloway referred to Item 3 (d) of the agreement and questioned whether the City has the exclusive right to reject advertising it feels is inappropriate, and Ms. McDonald replied in the affirmative. 7. NEON SIGN CONTRACTS- KITCHENER MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM - CONT'D On a motion by Councillor T. Galloway, it was resolved: "That Council delegate to the Manager of the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium, and in his absence the Assistant Manager of the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium, the authority the sign the standard advertising agreement prepared by the Legal Department, dated October, 1997 pertaining to the rental of space for the placement of advertising on the outdoor electronic message centre located at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium; and FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES NOVEMBER 17, 1997 - 146 - CITY OF KITCHENER further, That in the event the advertiser requests changes to any condition of the standard advertising agreement, the agreement must be reviewed by the Legal Department, and if appropriate brought before Council." INFORMATION ITEMS The Committee accepted, as information, a summary report dated November 12, 1997 listing the Monte Carlo events recently approved by Licencing staff. OTHER BUSINESS - HEALTH SERVICES RESTRUCTURING SUBMISSION Councillor Vrbanovic referred to a draft submission to the Health Services Restructuring Commission which he and Councillor Galloway prepared for consideration by the Committee this date. He noted that the submission should include a request that the City receive standing in any upcoming hearings, and that any input as to content from Council or staff should be received by noon on November 20. Councillor Vrbanovic further suggested that a special Council meeting may be required early on Monday following the pre-inaugural meeting in order to ensure that the fifteen required copies of the submission are in Toronto by 5:00 p.m. that date. Councillor Galloway referred to the three areas of concern dealt with in the submission; namely, governance; planning issues; and, issues relating to health services and their impact on economic development in the community. Councillor Galloway asked that the Legal Department comment on the relationship between any municipal involvement in governance and the current local hospital legislation. He stressed the need to ensure that local hospitals have a role in governance and to ensure co-operation between separate hospitals in the community. In respect to the issues raised over health services and economic development, Councillor Galloway clarified that he would not want to see the municipality disadvantaged in terms of business attraction by underfunding in the health care area. Mayor Christy suggested that if appropriate, and in view of the severe time constraints, this matter could be added to the special Council agenda of this date on the basis that it is an item requiring urgent consideration by Council. As regards the content of the submission, Councillor Weylie suggested that statistics should be added reflecting expectations that pressure on health care will increase in the coming years based on demographic circumstances. She also suggested that mention should be made of services that the City either currently does not have, or are presently underfunded. Councillor Galloway suggested that such comments may not be appropriate given that the Region has responsibility for health and has medical expertise in this area which would suggest that such references should be included in the Region's submission. Mayor Christy stressed the importance of the City making the proposed submission and any related statements in regard to health care funding in the community. 9. OTHER BUSINESS - HEALTH SERVICES RESTRUCTURING SUBMISSION - CONT'D On a motion by Mayor R. Christy, it was resolved: "That Council adopt, in principle, the draft of a City submission to the Health Services Restructuring Commission prepared by Councillors T. Galloway and B. Vrbanovic, dated November 24, 1997, and that same be forwarded to the Commission following circulation of the final draft to members of Council for comment and incorporation of suggested changes; and further, That the submission be accompanied by a covering letter from Mayor Richard D. Christy requesting that the City be granted participant status in any upcoming hearings conducted FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE MINUTES NOVEMBER 17, 1997 - 147 - CITY OF KITCHENER 10. 11. 12. by the Commission in regard to health services reorganization in the community." OTHER BUSINESS - TEAM CANADA VISIT TO LATIN AMERICA Mayor Christy tabled correspondence received from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (F.C.M.) and dated November 7, 1997 concerning an upcoming Team Canada Trade Mission which will travel to Mexico, Brazil, Argentina and Chile from January 10 to 23, 1998. The invitation is extended at the request of the Prime Minister's Office, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (F.C.M.) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, with the general purpose of the mission being to advance bi-lateral trade and investment interests in these markets. He advised that he had spoken with Mayor-Elect C. Zehr, and noted that an intent to participate form and a cash payment must be delivered to F.C.M. before November 28, 1997 in order to be eligible. Mayor Christy further advised that in the event the Mayor and Council-Elect choose not to participate, a refund is possible, though a decision in this regard is required before December 10, 1997. He stressed the importance of Kitchener participating in view of anticipated contacts and opportunities similar to those of the previous Team Canada Mission to the Far East. Councillor Ziegler suggested that the matter be referred to the pre-inaugural meeting for discussion, and in this regard copies of the correspondence should be forwarded to the Mayor and Council-Elect. Councillor Jake Smola suggested that the invitation should be reviewed by the Business and Industry Advisory Committee and their comments sought at their upcoming meeting on November 19. On a motion by Mayor R. Christy, it was resolved: "That consideration of the invitation to participate in the Team Canada Mission to Latin America be referred to the Business and Industry Advisory Committee for consideration and comment at their November 19 meeting, with any responses in this regard to be considered at the pre-inaugural meeting of November 24, 1997." NEXT MEETING The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Finance and Administration Committee will be held on Monday, December 8, 1997. ADJOURNMENT On motion, the meeting adjourned at 11:20 a.m. G. Sosnoski Manager of Corporate Records/Assistant City Clerk