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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Works - 1994-09-19PWTC\1994-09-19 PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES SEPTEMBER 19, 1994 CITY OF KITCHENER The Public Works and Transportation Committee met this date under the Chairmanship of Councillor J. Smola with all members present. His Worship Mayor D. Cardillo and Councillors M. Yantzi, G. Lorentz, J. Ziegler and T. Galloway entered the meeting following its commencement. Others Present: Councillor G. Leadson, Councillor B. Stortz and Messrs. D. Snow, J. McBride, D. Suzuki, B. Liddle, S. Gyorffy, D. Mansell, T. McKay, T. McCabe, L. Proulx, R. Pritchard, D. Anderson, T. Clancy, J. Shivas and L.F. Parkhouse. This meeting of the Public Works and Transportation Committee commenced at 8:30 a.m. without a quorum in attendance. 1 .Mr. Frank Morqan- Permit Parking Mr. Frank Morgan appeared before the Committee as the owner of 15 Homewood Avenue. Homewood Avenue runs between Queen Street South and West Avenue and was developed, for the most part, in the mid-twenties. In most cases, each existing dwelling has a driveway, however, there are 7 locations where there is a shared driveway serving 14 residential dwellings. Mr. Morgan pointed out he and the owner of 13 Homewood Avenue have a mutual driveway which, at its narrowest point, is only 8 feet wide. There are 5 vehicles at these 2 properties, however, only 4 can be accommodated. Several alternatives have been attempted to overcome this problem, however, in all cases the solutions have not been satisfactory and in some instances parking tickets have been received. Mr. Morgan indicated to the Committee that the development of an on-street permit parking program would alleviate his particular problem. His Worship Mayor D. Cardillo and Councillors M. Yantzi, G. Lorentz and G. Ziegler entered the meeting during Mr. Morgan's presentation and quorum was now in attendance. When questioned by Councillor M. Yantzi, Mr. Morgan advised that it is his understanding that his neighbour considered the development of front yard parking some time ago, however, this was not allowed to proceed. Mr. Morgan replied to a question from Councillor M. Wagner by suggesting that the implementation of a permit parking system on Homewood Avenue would be a convenience for some residents and a necessity for others like himself. Mr. Morgan suggested that a permit parking system or the elimination of parking enforcement on a 24 hour basis would resolve his particular concern. Mr. D. Snow suggested to the Committee that before an on-street permit parking system can be implemented there are several areas which must be considered. Would such a system accommodate more than one car per household and would owners be required to make use of existing garages which may be used for storage purposes at the present time? Mr. Snow also pointed out to the Committee that it will be important to determine the number of residents who do not support an on-street parking program in comparison to those who may think that it is a good idea. In regard to the problems raised by Mr. Morgan, Mr. Snow suggested that Mr. Morgan could approach the Parks and Recreation Department to determine whether or not arrangements could be made for him to park overnight within Woodside Park. Councillor M. Wagner pointed out that various problems including snow removal may be created if an on- street permit parking program is developed. It was noted, however, that the existing situation on Homewood Avenue is not unique and, accordingly, any resolution must be carefully thought out. It was agreed that the existing problems being experienced by Mr. Morgan would be referred to and reviewed by staff to determine if there are any alternatives which will allow all necessary parking to be accommodated on site. 2.Routing of Buses - Belleview Avenue PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES SEPTEMBER 19, 1994 - 62 - CITY OF KITCHENER Councillor G. Leadston advised the Committee that Mr. Carl Zintel is unable to attend today's meeting because he has been sent on a 3 week training course by his employer. As a result, Mr. Zintel has requested that further consideration of the possible re-routing of buses off of Belleview Avenue be deferred to the Public Works and Transportation Committee meeting to be held on October 17, 1994. The members of the Committee indicated that they would concur with this request. 3. Doon South Creek - Subwatershed Study Mr. Tim Mereu appeared before the Committee regarding the Doon South Creek Watershed. The watershed is located in a predominately rural area, however, urban development is expected in the future. As a result, detailed technical studies were undertaken to develop an understanding of how this watershed would function as an ecosystem. Based on the findings of the detailed studies, a Management Plan was developed. The primary components of this plan are the greenspace system and stormwater management control requirements for future development. The Committee was advised that Implementation Guidelines were also developed which indicate that the Greenspace Management Plan should be prepared in conjunction with the Community Plan and outline the documentation which will have to be submitted in support of draft plans of subdivision. Councillor T. Galloway entered the meeting at this time. The report, as presented, to the Committee contains a series of conclusions and recommendations. The recommendations are attached hereto and form part of these minutes. Councillor T. Galloway expressed concern that the report, as presented, may lead to crossings of the watershed area that are not presently contained in the Official Plan. In this regard, Mr. Mereu suggested that this Management Plan does nothing more than identify the best possible locations for such crossings should they be proven necessary at some time in the future. When questioned by His Worship Mayor D. Cardillo, Mr. Mereu pointed out that very few of the recommendations contained in the report will create additional costs for the City of Kitchener. It was noted that, in most cases, the recommendations suggest that the watershed should be left as it is. Mr. D. Mansell advised the Committee that all possible steps will be taken to ensure that crossings of this wetland area will only be developed if absolutely necessary. A representative of Monarch Construction appeared before the Committee and was assured by Mr. Mansell that all interested parties will have an opportunity to provide input in the development of a road network in this area. This input will be provided as part of the Community Plan development. On motion by Councillor T. Galloway - it was resolved: "That the Doon South Creek Subwatershed Management Plan, dated August 9, 1994, be adopted as a governing document in matters pertaining to stormwater management and protection of the natural environment within the Doon South Creek Subwatershed." 4. New Capital Projects in 1995 Mr. D. Anderson appeared before the Committee and advised that a regulatory bulletin from the Ministry of Consumer and Commercial Relations requires all existing underground gasoline tanks to be upgraded with internal overfill protection and spill containment devices. The City 4. New Capital Projects in 1995 (Cont'd) has 10 locations affected by this legislation with the total cost of improvements being approximately $90,000.00. It is proposed that half of this expenditure take place in 1995 with the balance taking place in 1996. PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES SEPTEMBER 19, 1994 - 63 - CITY OF KITCHENER The Committee was also advised that $45,000.00 per year should be spent in each of the next 3 years to install a posi-lock system which will eliminate gas spillages during the re-fueling of transit vehicles. On motion by Councillor M. Wagner - it was resolved: "That the Committee approve new capital projects #504104 Fuel Tank Overfill and #504212 Posi-Lock Fill for submission in the 1995 Capital Budget." 5. Bus Terminal Aqreement The Committee considered a report from Mr. W. Beck which indicates that a bus terminal agreement has been reached with Greyhound Bus Lines, who are the current operator of the inter-City service to Toronto. The 5 year agreement guarantees the City $50,000.00 in the first year with this amount increasing to a maximum guarantee of $60,000.00 in the 4th and 5th years. The report indicates that the City will receive a 10% commission on all ticket sales plus a 15% commission on all parcel express services. On motion by Councillor G. Lorentz - it was resolved: "That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute an agreement between Greyhound Lines of Canada Ltd. and the Corporation of the City of Kitchener, effective October 1, 1994." 6.Coroner's Inquest - Recommendations A Coroner's Inquest was conducted following a fatality in Country Hills involving a Kitchener Transit bus. As the result of this inquest, several recommendations have been received. These recommendations are as follows: 1.Heated, hooded, convex, exterior mirrors of the type presently on the newest buses as viewed by the jury; 2."West Coast" type exterior mirrors on both sides of the buses; 3.Sensor strips on the closing edge of both rear doors, as viewed on the newest buses. Mr. Beck advised the Committee that he is comfortable with 2 of the 3 recommendations but is of the opinion that the suggested "West Coast" mirrors would be a duplication. Councillor G. Lorentz expressed concern regarding the number of students that are crammed onto a transit bus. He noted that with a regular school bus all students must enter and leave by only one door. This is not the case when a transit coach is used and, accordingly, problems are likely to occur. In this regard, Mr. Beck pointed out that when students become used to using a regular school bus they are inclined to get off the bus and proceed directly across the street. This type of protection for the student is not offered when regular transit vehicles are used. For this reason it is felt to be more appropriate to have students exit by way of the rear door. Mr. Beck further pointed out that the bus operator is responsible for the number of passengers on board, however, the standards followed in the City of Kitchener are the same as those followed across the rest of the Country. Mr. Beck pointed out that the change in starting times by the School Boards has contributed significantly to over-crowding problems. 6.Coroner's Inquest - Recommendations (Cont'd) Councillor G. Ziegler advised the Committee that staff have arranged a meeting in the Country Hills area, at which input will be received from the public regarding existing transit services. This meeting will be held on either October 4th or October 6th. Councillor J. Ziegler pointed out that he has previously expressed the opinion that a camera over the rear PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES SEPTEMBER 19, 1994 - 64 - CITY OF KITCHENER door would allow the bus driver to clearly view any potential problems. Mr. Beck advised Councillor Ziegler that this possibility will be reviewed in complete detail with a report being filed at a later date. Councillor B. Stortz questioned whether or not any discussions have taken place with the School Boards regarding the appointment of monitors who would assist the bus driver in keeping on-bus situations under control. Mr. Beck advised that this possibility has been discussed, however, there has not been a willingness to implement this course of action. The members of the Committee agreed that the Trustees from both the Public and Separate School Boards should be invited to the Country Hills meeting in October. Councillor G. Lorentz continued to express concerns over the over-crowding situation and suggested that just because we are doing the same as is being done in other municipalities does not make it right. In this regard, Councillor Lerentz indicated that he would like to receive a staff report which would outline all possible alternatives which could be followed to overcome the existing over-crowding situations and the costs involved to implement each of them. Staff were directed to prepare such a report and to bring same forward to the next meeting of the Public Works and Transportation Committee. On motion by Councillor M. Yantzi - it was resolved: "That the City approve a 1994 capital budget overrun estimated at $108,864.00 to retrofit 73 buses with heated convex mirrors and 46 buses with rear door exit sensors, and further, That Transit staff include $33,580.00 in its 1995 capital budget to retrofit the Transit Fleet with 4 interior video cameras plus camera encasements for all buses." 7.Posterinq The Committee considered a report from Mr. Laurier Proulx regarding the proliferation of notices and advertising placed on light standards and other City furnishings and the fact that this activity cannot be totally prohibited because of a recent Supreme Court ruling. The alternatives would appear to be to implement a cleaning and removal program or to attempt to control and regulate pestering by providing fixtures which would accommodate these forms of advertising. It was noted that regardless of which alternative is selected there will be cost implications to the City. Councillor T. Galloway indicated that he would like the City to be pro-active and, if possible, implement a program which would prevent this problem from occurring. In this regard, Councillor Galloway questioned whether or not it may be possible to require those putting up the posters to pay a licence fee or to be charged by the City for the cost of removal. Mr. J. Shivas suggested that this possibility could be investigated, however, he noted that many parties putting up posters do not need any licence from the City. Mr. T. McKay advised the Committee that the City of Peterborough has adopted a by-law which allows pestering in certain locations but implements a prohibition for all other parts of the City. Councillor B. Stortz noted that there is a Bar Owners Committee that meets periodically and this group could be called to a meeting so that the existing problem can be outlined and, possibly, a solution would be forthcoming. 7. Posterinq (Cont'd) Councillor J. Ziegler suggested imposing a time limit on each poster and require those that put it up to come around and take it down. If they do not take down the posters as required then they would be charged a penalty. Councillor T. Galloway suggested that this is rapidly becoming a City-wide problem and questioned whether or not regulations similar to those imposed by the Ministry of Transportation could be used PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES SEPTEMBER 19, 1994 - 65 - CITY OF KITCHENER by the City of Kitchener. Following further discussion, it was agreed that a staff committee would be formed to investigate the entire matter of postering on public property. It is hoped that a report from this Committee will be available for the next meeting of the Public Works and Transportation Committee. Mr. T. McKay advised that, pending a final resolution to this problem, it is proposed to continue to power- wash utility poles in the Downtown area to remove unwanted posters, particularly during the month of October. 8. DOPWR 94-53 - Lot No.26 - Scott Street - Monthly Rate Reduction The Committee was advised that Lot No.26 is located to the rear of the old Revenue Building at 59 Frederick Street with access off of Duke Street. This lot contains 21 surface spaces and has a present monthly rate of $50.00. The Committee was advised that usage of this lot has decreased partially because of cheaper monthly rates in the area. In this regard, it is being recommended that the monthly rate on this lot be reduced to $40.00 plus taxes. On motion by Councillor C. Weylie - it was resolved: "That the monthly parking fee in Lot No.26 - Scott Street be decreased from $50.00 to $40.00 per month plus taxes, effective October 1, 1994, and further, That By-law No.88-169 be amended accordingly." 9. DOPWR 94-54 -On-Street Parkinq - Eaqen Drive The Committee considered a report which recommends that parking be prohibited on the south side of Eagen Drive from Highland Road to a point 85 metres to the east. This prohibition is being recommended because transit vehicles turning left onto Eagen Drive from Highland Road are forced into the left-hand lane because of parked vehicles. On motion by Councillor G. Lorentz - it was resolved: "That parking be prohibited at any time on the south side of Eagen Drive from Highland Road to a point 85 metres east thereof, and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly." 10. DOPWR 94-55 - Ministry Requirements - City of Kitchener Lands - K-W Expressway The Committee was advised that a letter has been received from the Ministry of Transportation suggesting that the acquisition of City property required for the reconstruction of the expressway between Courtland Avenue and Frederick Street be delayed until this construction has been completed. This request has been reviewed by Management Committee and there will only be minor affects on Montgomery Park, the Auditorium site and the Shantz Lane Community Trail. Management Committee indicated that they could support the request received from the Province. 10. DOPWR 94-55 - Ministry Requirements - City of Kitchener Lands - K-W Expressway (Cont'd) On motion by Councillor M. Wagner - it was resolved: "That the City of Kitchener accede to the request of the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario to delay property acquisition of City-owned lands until the proposed reconstruction of the K-W Expressway is completed." PUBLIC WORKS & TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MINUTES SEPTEMBER 19, 1994 - 66 - CITY OF KITCHENER 11. DOPWR 94-56 - Noise By-law Exemption - K-W Expressway - Frederick to Lancaster The Committee was advised that Boehmers have been contracted to supply the concrete for the construction of the median barriers on the K-W Expressway between Frederick and Lancaster Streets. This work must take place during the evening hours and, accordingly, Boehmers have requested an exemption from the City's Noise By-law so that they can operate their Johnston Street plant between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. for a period of approximately 6 weeks beginning September 26, 1994. On motion by Councillor M. Wagner - it was resolved: "That the Boehmers Readymix Plant on Johnston Street be exempt from the provisions of Chapter 450 (Noise), Article 6 (Construction Work) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code while supplying concrete for the construction of median barriers on the K-W Expressway between Frederick Street and Lancaster Street for a period of approximately 6 weeks beginning September 26, 1994." 12. DOPWR 94-51 - 24 Hour By-law Enforcement The members of the Committee agreed that the staff report regarding 24 Hour By-law Enforcement of parking violations and a report dealing with the possibility of implementing an on-street parking permit system would be deferred and considered as the first item of business at the Public Works and Transportation Committee meeting to be held on October 3, 1994. 13.Informational Reports The following informational reports were provided to the members of the Committee: · Waterloo Transit Forum · Projects in Progress - Engineering Division · Traffic & Parking - 1994 Special Events Log ·Photo-Radar · Farmers' Market Coupon Program - Update. 14.Adjournment On motion, the meeting adjourned at 10:10 a.m. L.F. Parkhouse, AMCT Deputy City Clerk