HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Minutes - 1996-07-02 SCOUNCIL\1996-07-02-SPE
MINUTES OF A SPECIAL JOINT MEETING OF
KITCHENER AND WATERLOO CITY COUNCILS
J U LY 2, 1996
CITY OF KITCHENER
A special joint meeting of Kitchener and Waterloo City Councils was held this date in Kitchener Council
Chambers and chaired by Mayor R. Christy, with the following members present:
Kitchener Council: Councillors K. Redman, M. Wagner, M. Yantzi, John Smola, B. Vrbanovic, J. Zielger
and C. Weylie. Councillor T. Galloway was in attendance for part of the meeting.
Waterloo Council: Mayor B. Turnbull, Councillors M. Connolly, B. Anderson, S. Jones, B. Alexander, J.
McKinnon, B. McKenty, M. Taylor and T. Siemens.
Notice of this special meeting had been previously given to all members of Council by the City Clerk
pursuant to Chapter 25 (Council Procedure) of the Municipal Code.
The purpose of the meeting was to consider the possibility of a joint bid to host the 2001 Canada Summer
Games in the Cities of Kitchener and Waterloo.
Mr. Carl Zehr, Chair of the 2001 Canada Summer Games Bid Committee, appeared along with other
Committee members and gave a presentation outlining why the community should and can host the
Summer Games. He noted that community support is a significant factor in the bid proposal and that the
Councils of Kitchener and Waterloo are being approached this date for an indication of their support of
the initiative.
Mr. Zehr informed the joint Councils of the Bid Committee membership; namely, Bob Arnot, Keith Baulk,
John Cooper, Brian Detzler, Kathy Durst, Jane Falconer, David Graham, Whitey Kurschinski, Sharon
MacKinnon, Caroline Oliver, David Reynolds, Bud Stanley and Michelle Tetrault.
Mr. Zehr outlined several reasons for hosting the Games, noting that they have been traditionally held in
mid-size communities rather than the country's largest urban centres. He explained that the Games
generate substantial economic activity and that an impact study in this regard is now required both before
and after the Games are held. Mr. Zehr noted that there would be a legacy to the community in terms of
the required expansion and upgrading of facilities. Benefits would also derive from exposing younger,
local athletes to national sporting standards and judging. He also pointed out that the Games have the
potential to generate a surplus, and that none of the previous 15 Games have shown a deficit. Mr. Zehr
suggested that Kitchener, Waterloo and surrounding areas would enjoy a national profile as a result of
hosting the Games. He noted that there would also be an opportunity to showcase Canada's Technology
Triangle, and further benefits in terms of citizen participation and pride in the community hosting of such a
prestigious event. Mr. Zehr added that in his estimation the volunteer base in the area is one of its
strengths and that a large number of volunteers will be needed in the bid stage and for the event itself, if
the City is selected.
Mr. Zehr reviewed the critical dates involved in making a bid and determining the final site selection. It
was noted that a letter of interest must be submitted by August 1, 1996, followed by a bid package no
later than September 11, 1996. The various sites outlined in the bids are then visited by representatives
of the Province and the Canada Games Council with a formal announcement of the final site for the 2001
Games in June of 1997.
Mr. Whitey Kurschinski reviewed the athletic facilities in Kitchener and Waterloo which would be needed
for the Games, pointing out where different activities would be hosted. Mr. Kurschinski felt that existing
facilities can be used with few upgrades.
Councillor T. Galloway entered the meeting at this time.
Mr. David Graham reviewed the facility improvements required to host the Games, noting total estimated
expenditures of $4,200,000.00. He pointed out that $6,000,000.00 is allowed for facility improvements
with a third of the funding to come from each of the Federal, Provincial, and Municipal levels. In this
regard, it was noted that capital contributions at each level are limited to $2,000,000.00. Mr. Graham
pointed out that the most significant upgrades are required at the Wilfrid Laurier University pool, involving
the construction of additional lanes at a cost of between $2,000,000.00 and $2,500,000.00. The next
largest expenditure would involve Centennial Stadium and field upgrades totalling approximately
$375,000.00.
Mr. Graham then reviewed revenue and expenditure estimates and the proposed capital budget, the latter
MINUTES OF A SPECIAL 3OINT MEETING OF
KITCHENER AND WATERLOO CITY COUNCILS
JULY2, 1996 - 275 -
CITY OF KITCI:IENER
involving a contribution of $1,400,000.00 from each of the Federal, Provincial and Municipal levels. Mr.
Graham explained that the Bid Committee is presently showing a balanced budget of approximately
$9,500,000.00, but is hoping for a surplus. He pointed out that 52% of the essential operating costs are
paid for by the Federal Government at the rate of $1,600.00/participant, with the Provincial Government
paying 16% of this amount, and the balance contributed through local fundraising and the sale of
souvenirs. Mr. Graham suggested that the arrangement for capital expenditures would allow the
municipality to take advantage of 2/3 funding for capital improvements which might otherwise have
received no subsidy.
Mr. Zehr requested that the respective Councils pass resolutions endorsing hosting of the 2001 Canada
Summer Games and pointed out that if the Twin Cities were selected, the Games would be operated by a
separate incorporated Host Society. He also referred to various improvements that would be required to
Guelph Lake, and of the possibility that Guelph City Council would cover the cost of same. Mr. Zehr
noted that in addition to the advantage of additional capital funding for local projects, all of the needed
improvements would ultimately be for use by the communities at large. He suggested that Kitchener's
chances of hosting the Games are very good, noting that 15 municipalities initially attended an orientation
meeting, and that including Kitchener, 9 communities subsequently picked up resource kits. In closing,
Mr. Zehr asked that each municipality indicate their intention to bid as well as their commitment to jointly
contribute up to $2,000,000.00 in capital improvements.
Councillor J. Ziegler inquired as to why improvements are contemplated to the Wilfrid Laurier University
swimming pool as opposed to building a new outdoor facility. Mr. Zehr replied that an eight lane pool plus
related facilities and amenities are required and that the cost of constructing a new facility would be
prohibitive, and would also involve ongoing operating expenses. He noted that at the University pool the
infrastructure required is largely in place already. Councillor B. McKenty inquired as to whether Moses
Springer Pool could be adapted for use in the Games as it already has six lanes. He also inquired as to
the proposed length of the Games. Mr. Zehr replied that traditionally the Summer Games are two weeks
long, but the Bid Committee is looking at the possibility of shortening them to one week, in part to allow all
teams to participate in both the opening and closing ceremonies. He acknowledged that this poses some
logistical challenges which will have to be addressed. In regard to the question concerning Moses
Springer Pool, Mr. Zehr noted that the facility is being considered as an alternate, in that Swimplex in
Waterloo is also being considered for some competitions. Mr. Zehr offered the opinion that using an
indoor pool would aid the City in its bid.
Councillor K. Redman inquired as to who would decide on the use of any surplus funds generated by the
Games, and Mr. Zehr replied that he could not answer the question at this time. Councillor T. Galloway
questioned whether the Committee had considered building a second competitive swim facility, as has
been suggested in the past by the Region of Waterloo Swim Club, and also whether other sponsors could
be used to offset the cost of the pool. Mr. Zehr replied that outside sponsors would be considered, as any
such sponsorship would reduce the municipal portion. He also indicated that following conversations with
the Region of Waterloo Swim Club, it was his understanding that they would be willing to help
substantially with costs and fundraising, though this is not a official position. Councillor Galloway inquired
whether any joint use agreement had been considered with respect to an expanded Wilfrid Laurier
University pool. Mr. Zehr replied that this has been contemplated, but noted that a full eight lane pool
would also be usable for other competitions beyond those presently staged by the local swim club.
Councillor M. Wagner questioned the $2,000,000.00 budget for fundraising revenue, noting that in his
estimation it seemed high. Mr. Zehr replied that the estimate is conservative and is based on former
Games budgets. Mr. Graham added that the City of Kamloops raised significantly more than this amount.
Councillor B. Anderson inquired as to whether all of the seating requirements are up to the standards of
the Games Council and Mr. Zehr replied that they are generally in compliance, but there will likely be the
need for additional temporary seating. In response to a further question concerning funds to accompany
the letter of intent, Mr. Zehr pointed out that at present the only cost is the cost of putting the bid together,
but if successful in the first round, additional funds would be required. Councillor M. Taylor inquired as to
the amount of the operating contribution required of each Council, and Mr. Zehr replied that the amount is
not clear at this time, but constitutes 32% of the operating budget. He also pointed out that in the unlikely
event of a deficit, there is a safety net in the form of an additional contribution from the Federal and
Provincial Governments amounting to a further 16% of the 32%. Mr. Zehr also noted that financial
support is implicit in the proposed motion before the Councils this date.
Mayor B. Turnbull thanked the City of Kitchener for hosting the joint meeting this date. He stated that he
MINUTES OF A SPECIAL 3OINT MEETING OF
KITCHENER AND WATERLOO CITY COUNCILS
JULY2, 1996 - 276 -
CITY OF KITCHENER
has discussed the financial obligations associated with hosting the event with Waterloo staff and
suggested a 50/50 split of any deficits accruing to the municipality, of the municipal funding share and the
cost of preparing and presenting a bid.
Mayor R. Christy read the draft resolution prepared by Kitchener staff for consideration by its Council.
Councillor J. Ziegler inquired whether Waterloo is in agreement with the proposed 50~50 split of the
capital expenditure and Mayor B. Turnbull replied in the affirmative. Mr. T. McKay, Chief Administrative
Officer - Kitchener, clarified that the maximum capital contribution is $6,000,000.00, with $2,000,000.00 of
this accruing to the municipalities. He pointed out that there will be a cost to the City on the capital side
without sponsorship or fundraising activities. Mr. T. Stockie, Chief Administrative Officer - Waterloo,
pointed out that the proposed Waterloo resolution is consistent with Kitchener's, adding that the Bid
Committee requires similar motions in this regard. He further suggested that the clarification provided by
Mayor Turnbull need not be incorporated in the motion, as the wording before Waterloo City Council this
date is adequate, with the understanding that the 50~50 funding split is important.
Councillor B. Vrbanovic inquired as to the cost of the bid process, and Mr. Zehr replied that the initial
stage in 1996 currently has a $10,000.00 budget. Cost of the final bid has been variously estimated by
other municipalities at between $30,000.00 and $100,000.00. Mayor R. Christy inquired whether any of
these costs could be recovered at a later date, and Mr. Zehr replied that in terms of the bid itself, the
Committee would be seeking outside sponsorship.
The joint meeting of Kitchener and Waterloo City Councils was then adjourned. Kitchener Council then
resolved itself into special session, chaired by Mayor R. Christy, and with all members of Council present
except Councillors G. Lorentz and Jake Smola, to deal with matters arising from the joint meeting.
Moved by Councillor T. Galloway
Seconded by Councillor B. Vrbanovic
"That the Council of the City of Kitchener hereby declares its intent to jointly bid with the City of
Waterloo to host the 2001 Canada Summer Games, and further,
That the City of Kitchener commits jointly with the City of Waterloo to contribute up to
$2,000,000.00 towards the Capital Budget of the Games."
Carried.
On motion, the meeting adjourned.
MAYOR CLERK
SPECIAL COUNCIL MINUTES
J U LY 2, 1996
CITY OF KITCHENER
A special meeting of City Council was held at 6:45 p.m. this date, Chaired by Councillor J. Ziegler, with all
members present except Mayor R. Christy and Councillors T. Galloway and G. Lorentz.
Notice of this special meeting had previously been given to all members of Council by the City Clerk
pursuant to Chapter 25 of the Municipal Code.
Mr. T. McKay further advised that he wished to add a labour relations matter and a matter relating to
security of a City property for discussion this date.
Moved by Councillor John Smola
Seconded by Councillor C. Weylie
"That an in-camera meeting of City Council be held immediately following this special meeting to
consider 2 labour relations matters and a matter relating to security of a City property."
Carried.
On motion, the meeting adjourned.
MAYOR CLERK