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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Works - 1995-08-14PWTC\1995-08-14 PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 14, 1995 CITY OF KITCHENER The Public Works and Transportation Committee met this date under the Chairmanship of Councillor John Smola, with all members present, excepting Councillor G. Lorentz. Councillor J. Ziegler was in attendance for part of the meeting. Others Present: Ms. S. McDonald and Messrs. R. Freeborn, W. Beck, E. Kovacs, S. Gyorffy, B. Arnot, D. Mansell, D. Snow, K. Bowman, T. McCabe, T. McKay, J. Gazzola, L. Proulx and L.F. Parkhouse. This meeting of the Public Works and Transportation Committee commenced at 8:35 a.m. 1 .Transit - 1995 Operating Subsidy Reductions Mr. W. Beck, Director of Transit, advised that information has been received from the Provincial Ministry of Transportation indicating a reduction in 1995 operating subsidies. Mr. Beck pointed out that the Province has reduced the subsidy ceilings and, as a result, the City of Kitchener will experience a 1995 budget shortfall of approximately $76,176.00. The City of Waterloo will experience a shortfall of approximately $20,206.00. Mr. Beck advised the Committee that it is staff's recommendation that the 1995 shortfalls be absorbed within the municipal budgets. The Committee was also reminded that a new fare structure will be considered for implementation in January of 1996. When questioned by the Committee, Mr. Beck suggested that a fare increase is not being recommended at this time. His Worship Mayor R. Christy indicated support for the position advanced by staff. It was noted that a fare increase may be required because of local operating strategies and it was the view of Mayor Christy that one should not be implemented to take into account a Provincial subsidy cutback. In reply to Councillor C. Weylie, Mr. Beck advised that Project Lift was hit particularly hard by this Provincial cutback and will be faced with a shortfall of approximately $62,000.00. 2. Elevators - Market Garage The Committee considered a report from Mr. L. Proulx, Director of Facilities Management, in which it is recommended that the Capital Budget be increased by $112,000.00 to undertake elevator upgrades in the Market Garage. For the Committee's information, Mr. Proulx provided the following information: 199O Elevator maintenance contractor recommends improvements at estimated cost of $135,000. 199O Retained consultant to evaluate proposal. extend life by 5 years. Recommended some alterations to 1991 Carried out remedial work at a cost of $27,500. 1991 Budgeted $214,000. in capital for elevator upgrade. 1992 $177,000. pulled from budget. Balance in account $9,500. 1995 $178,500. replaced in capital budget. Account now at $188,000. 1995 KJA Consultants recommendation to modernize at a budget cost of $300,000., including soft costs. When questioned by the Committee, Mr. Proulx pointed out that the improvements required at this time provide an opportunity to meet the barrier free requirements of the Code. It was noted that with the renovations taking place, this will be a relatively minor undertaking at this time. His Worship Mayor R. Christy indicated his support for the staff report and pointed out that the painting of the walls within the parking garage has made a significant improvement. PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 14, 1995 - 86 - CITY OF KITCHENER 2. Elevators - Market Garage (Cont'd) On motion by Councillor K. Redman - it was resolved: "That staff be authorized to proceed with the upgrading of the elevators in the Market Garage in conjunction with the reconstruction scheduled for 1996, and further, That the Capital Budget be increased by $112,000.00 to cover the costs of this portion of the work." 3. Business Indicators Report - Enterprises The Committee was advised that during the 1995 budget review process staff were asked to prepare a manpower report regarding the Utilities Division. Mr. E. Kovacs presented a Business Indicators Report and noted that during the preparation of this report it became obvious that a manpower report by itself would not have significant meaning. Accordingly, it was decided to develop a report which would provide more comprehensive information and better reflect Divisional performances and accomplishments relative to labour resources. Councillor B. Vrbanovic questioned how the numbers developed for the City of Kitchener Utilities Division compare with those from private industry. In this regard, Mr. Kovacs noted that the City of Kitchener figures are for both gas and water, while the private sector would be dealing only with gas. Mr. Kovacs also suggested to the Committee that it would be important to ensure that the indicators which are being compared are, in fact, meaningful. Councillor Vrbanovic suggested that, if possible, any future reports of this nature should compare our enterprise with the private sector. When questioned by the Committee, Mr. Kovacs advised that the reason for a substantial increase in labour rates within the water utility would be the negotiation of a contract which resulted in double time payments for certain overtime. Councillor M. Wagner referred to the following statement, which is contained in the report: "there may be 'hidden' performance degradation in standards related to levels of service and the capacity of service deliverability"; and questioned what this means. In this regard, Mr. Kovacs suggested that in the past some routine programs may have been allowed to slip with more attention being paid to financial or budget considerations. Following further discussion and on motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic - it was resolved: "That 'key business indicators' be developed and used as a management reference for each of the major sections/divisions of the Public Works Department, and further, That, once established, the summary of such business indicators be incorporated into the Public Works Department Annual Report." 4. High Temperature Plastic Venting The Committee considered a report from Mr. K. Bowman outlining the possible failure of plastic venting systems utilized on some mid-efficiency furnaces installed after 1988. These venting systems going under the names of Plexvent, Selvent and Ultravent may separate at the joints or crack with the end result being the possible release of carbon monoxide into a home. The Committee was advised that the use of these 3 venting systems is no longer permitted in the Province of Ontario. It was noted, however, that these venting systems are still permitted in other Provinces and throughout the United States. The Committee was advised that the private sector in conjunction with the vent manufacturers have developed a program to address possible problems. In some cases, manufacturers are providing carbon monoxide detectors and venting systems are being inspected on a annual basis. The Ontario Fuel Safety Branch, however, is recommending that all mid-efficiency furnaces be 4. High Temperature Plastic Venting (Cont'd) upgraded to the high efficiency variety. If a homeowner decides to install a new furnace they will be faced PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 14, 1995 - 87 - CITY OF KITCHENER with new expenditures in excess of $1,000.00. Mr. Bowman suggested to the Committee there could be up to 500 residences in the City of Kitchener who could be faced with this potential problem. In this regard, it was suggested that to remain consistent with private enterprise, Kitchener Utilities offer a $100.00 rebate to residents that have one of the inadequate venting systems and wish to upgrade to a high efficiency furnace. Councillor J. Ziegler entered the meeting at this time. When questioned by the Committee, it was noted that the venting system in question was tested and approved. When the existing problems became evident, however, this product was outlawed in Ontario. The Committee was also advised that if a homeowner chooses not to upgrade their furnace then it will become their responsibility to ensure that their venting system is inspected on an annual basis. Councillor M. Wagner pointed out that it would appear to be the venting system which is causing the problem and, accordingly, questioned why a furnace replacement is being recommended rather than the installation of an approved venting system. In this regard, Mr. Bowman pointed out that there is a new venting system on the market which has been tested and approved. This new system, however, does not have a proven track record and it is possible that the same problems could develop with this system as developed with the older venting systems. The Committee was advised that the preferred solution is the installation of a high efficiency furnace. Councillor Jake Smola suggested that this would seem to be a problem for the manufacturer and questioned why the City is getting involved. In this regard, Mr. E. Kovacs pointed out that the private sector gas suppliers are offering their customers $100.00 if they decide to replace their furnace and it is staff's opinion that the City of Kitchener should implement a similar program. Mr. Bowman suggested to the Committee that there may be few people who will actually take advantage of this program and replace what may be a relatively new furnace. Several members of the Committee expressed concern that the City may be acknowledging some form of liability if they participate in a program which is intended to resolve a known problem. Councillor Jake Smola introduced a motion that no action be taken regarding the provision of a $100.00 rebate for anyone who decides to upgrade their existing mid-efficiency furnace to a high efficiency model. This motion was put to a vote and was defeated. Following further discussion and on motion by Councillor K. Redman - it was resolved: "That Kitchener Utilities offer a $100.00 rebate to residents of the City of Kitchener that have Plexvent, Selvent or Ultravent Venting Systems, which have been installed on a mid-efficiency furnace and decide to upgrade their furnace to a high efficiency model, and further, That Kitchener Utilities not offer preferred financing for this furnace upgrade program, and further, That, if expenditures for this program exceed $10,000.00 in either 1995 or 1996 budget years, then a status report will be tabled with the Public Works and Transportation Committee." 5. DOPWR 95-35 - Angled Parking - Heritage Drive The Committee was advised that 52 angled parking spaces are to be provided on Heritage Drive in the area of the Grand River Recreation Complex. 5. DOPWR 95-35 - Angled Parking - Heritage Drive (Cont'd) In reply to questioning, Mr. D. Snow advised that no objections have been received from area residents regarding these parking spaces. On motion by His Worship Mayor R. Christy - PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 14, 1995 - 88 - CITY OF KITCHENER it was resolved: "That angled parking be permitted on the north side of Heritage Drive from a point 103 metres west of Ottawa Street North, to a point 85 metres east of the east leg of Oakhurst Crescent, and further, That By-law No.94-101 be amended accordingly." 6. DOPWR 95-36 - On-Street Parkinq - Eby Street South The Committee considered a report which recommends that 2 hour parking be permitted on the west side of Eby Street between King Street and Halls Lane. It was noted that this recommendation further implements the direction of the Mayor's Task Force on the Downtown which recommended that more on-street parking be provided. 5 parking spaces can be accommodated within this area. On motion by His Worship Mayor R. Christy - it was resolved: "That two (2) hour parking be permitted on the west side of Eby Street South from King Street East to Halls Lane, and further, That By-law No.94-101 be amended accordingly." 7.DOPWR 95-37 -On-Street Parkinq Meters - Kinq Street East The Committee considered a report which recommended that the time limit at the existing parking meters on King Street between Pandora Avenue and Betzner Avenue be increased to 2 hours. The Committee was advised that a questionnaire was circulated within the affected area and 100% of the responding residents and businesses support the proposed change. On motion by His Worship Mayor R. Christy - it was resolved: "That the one (1) hour time limit be changed to a two (2) hour time limit at the parking meters on King Street East between Pandora Avenue to Betzner Avenue, both sides, and further, That By-law No. 94-101 be amended accordingly." 8. DOPWR 95-38 - School Traffic Safety - Modifications for 1995-96 School Year The Committee considered a report dealing with various school traffic safety issues. Generally stated, the issues addressed are as follows: · an Adult Crossing Guard on Driftwood Drive at Royal Orchard Drive; · relocation of the student safety patrol from the west leg to the east leg of the Erinbrook Drive intersection with The Country Way; · elimination of the student patrol crossing at the intersection of Suffolk Avenue and Chelsea Road; · the multi-media presentation entitled "Heroes" to be presented at Waterloo Collegiate Institute; · following the commencement of the school year, review the need for a Crossing Guard at Ottawa Street North at Weber Street; Pioneer Drive at Blessed Kateri School; and on Pioneer Drive at Doon Village Road; 8. DOPWR 95-38 - School Traffic Safety - Modifications for 1995-96 School Year (Cont'd) · the distribution of school route maps to all elementary students. Following further discussion and on motion by His Worship Mayor R. Christy - it was resolved: "That an Adult Crossing Guard facility be established on Driftwood Drive at Royal Orchard Drive, effective September 5, 1995, and further, That the 1995 Operating Budget be adjusted to reflect an over-expenditure of $25,000.00, and further, PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 14, 1995 - 89 - CITY OF KITCHENER That the following Action Plan for the 1995-96 elementary school year be accepted: 1.The student safety patrol assisted school crossing at the intersection of Erinbrook Drive and The Country Way will be relocated from the west leg of the intersection to the east leg. 2.The student patrol assisted school crossing at the intersection of Suffolk Avenue and Chelsea Road will be eliminated. 3.The multi-media presentation entitled 'Heroes' will, again, be produced by the Trauma Reduction Injury Prevention and Safety Coalition and will be presented in early April 1996 at Waterloo Collegiate Institute. 4.The following locations will be reviewed following school commencement: a. Crossing Guard facility at Ottawa Street North and Weber Street. b. Pioneer Drive at Blessed Kateri School. c. Pioneer Drive at Doon Village Road. 5.The distribution of school route maps to all elementary students will include an insert that addresses the stopping/parking problems that have been encountered." 9.Watermain Extension - Battler Road The Committee was advised that there is a single family residence at 1550 Battler Road which has used a shallow well to provide for their residential water needs. Development has taken place in the immediate area and, coincident with this development, there have been water supply problems. At the present time, the residents at 1550 Battler Road are completely dependent upon having water trucked to their home. The Committee considered a report from Mr. E. Kovacs which recommends that the existing watermain on Battler Road be extended by approximately 70 metres so that municipal water can be provided to this location. The total cost of this project is estimated at $23,500.00, of which $4,200.00 would be the responsibility of the property owner with the Water Utility paying the balance. The Committee was further advised that an agreement has been reached with the property owners so that they would receive a loan from the City equal to the total amount owing and this would be repaid by way of their water bill over a term and at a rate acceptable to the City's Finance Department. Councillor J. Ziegler indicated his support for the solution to the existing problem and advised that the solution is also acceptable to the affected property owners. On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler - it was resolved: "That the existing watermain on Battler Road be extended approximately 70 metres to provide municipal water to 1550 Battler Road, and further, 9.Watermain Extension - Battler Road (Cont'd) That funding for city costs be provided from existing capital accounts in the Utilities Division, and further, That financial assistance in the form of a loan over a term and rate acceptable to the City's Finance Department be made available to the property owner(s) of 1550 Battler Road, the repayment of which may be made on regular water billings." 10.Strasburq Road Extension -Additional Funding The Committee was advised that the Hallman Brigadoon North Plan is slated for development in 1995 and, as a part of the subdivision requirements, Strasburg Road is to be extended from where it presently ends to Huron Road. Without a proper detailed analysis, a preliminary budget of PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 14, 1995 - 90 - CITY OF KITCHENER $675,000.00 for this work was established and placed in the 1995 Capital Forecast. The detailed design for this work has now been completed by a Consulting Engineer and, due to the topo-graphy and soil conditions, it has been determined that extensive grading and removal of excess fill will be required. A thicker coat of asphalt will also be required for this road. The Committee was advised that they are asked to consider an over-expenditure of $545,392.78 to cover the cost of constructing the extension of Strasburg Road to Huron Road. As part of the work to be undertaken, extensive intersection improvements will be completed at Huron Road which will avoid further disruptions in the future. An agreement has been worked out with Maple Leaf Foods Inc. which will allow entry onto their lands to carry out necessary grading. It has also been determined that sanitary and water connections will be required to this site in the future, however, it is deemed advisable to undertake this work at the present time. When questioned by the Committee, Mr. J. Gazzola, Commissioner of Finance, confirmed that there are sufficient funds available in the Lot Levy Fund to cover the additional expenditure being requested. Following further discussion and on motion by Councillor C. Weylie - it was resolved: "That the City of Kitchener authorize the over-expenditure of $545,392.78 in additional monies from the Development Charge Fund in order to cover the cost of constructing Strasburg Road from its present terminus to Huron Road, and further, That Council authorize the expenditure from the Development Charge Fund of $20,640.30, which is included in the above estimate, for future service connections for Maple Leaf Foods Inc. that have to be placed under Strasburg Road now, with the understanding that these costs will be recouped from Maple Leaf Foods Inc. prior to any development taking place on their lands, and further, That Council authorize the City of Kitchener to enter into an Indemnity Agreement with Maple Leaf Foods Inc. in a form satisfactory to the City Solicitor so that grading work can be done adjacent to Strasburg Road on their property." 11.Information Reports The following informational reports were attached to the agenda: · Structure Clearance - Krug & Eckert Streets · Adopt-A-Road Program · Engineering Division - Projects in Progress. 12.Summer Speed Bumps Councillor B. Vrbanovic advised that all members of Council have received information about summer speed bumps. Apparently, these are a rubber product which can be installed across a road during the summer months and removed for the winter. Mr. D. Snow advised that the entire question of speed bumps has been addressed in the past and he will make these reports available to the members of the Committee for their information. If appropriate, the matter can be discussed further at a future meeting. Mr. Snow also advised the Committee that concerns regarding speeding are being addressed on a continual basis with the Waterloo Regional Police. 13.Adjournment On motion, the meeting adjourned at 9:55 a.m. PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES AUGUST 14, 1995 -91 - CITY OF KITCHENER L.F. Parkhouse, AMCT Deputy City Clerk