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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCommunity Svcs - 1998-04-06CSC\1998-04-06 APRIL 6, 1998 COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES CITY OF KITCHENER The Community Services Committee met this date, under the chairmanship of Councillor G. Lorentz, commencing at 1:45 p.m., with all members present. Others Present: Ms. J. Clark, Ms. P. Houston, Ms. J. Koppeser, Messrs. J. Gazzola, T. Clancy, R. Arnot, N. Kuntz, M. Price, K. Baulk, J. Shivas, R. Wyatt, L. Proulx and Ms. D. Gilchrist. 1. TOWNSHIP OF WILMOT AERIAL LADDER AGREEMENT The Committee was provided with copies of a report from Mr. N. Kuntz, Deputy Fire Chief, dated April 2, 1998, outlining the request of the Township of Wilmot for the City of Kitchener to waive the 3 month requirement for the termination of the agreement for specialized fire protection. Mr. Kuntz was in attendance to represent the report and answer any questions the Committee might have in this regard. Councillor J. Ziegler questioned what the reverse would be if the City of Kitchener wanted out of the agreement. He stated that the City of Kitchener would have to give 3 months notice and felt that the Township should stick to the agreement. Councillor T. Galloway questioned why they want out of the agreement; are they going to do without this service or get it from someone else? Mr. N. Kuntz replied that they are proposing an agreement with the City of Waterloo to provide this service at a cheaper rate. Councillor B. Vrbanovic then questioned how Waterloo could offer the service for so much less and Mr. Kuntz responded that Waterloo is going on the assumption that they will never have to respond and they will get this revenue for nothing. He advised that over the life of the agreement the City of Kitchener has only had to provide this service once. Councillor B. Vrbanovic stated that he would not support the request and suggested that staff see if they can do anything to keep this business. Councillor J. Ziegler put forward a motion for no action which was supported by Councillor Jake Smola. Councillor B. Vrbanovic requested a friendly amendment that the City expresses disappointment that the Township has decided to terminate the agreement and obtain this service elsewhere. Councillor Jake Smola questioned whether the agreement could be re-negotiated and Mr. N. Kuntz advised that the Township started out negotiations with the City of Waterloo requesting a fee for service basis; however, they had ended up paying a fee for standby with the City of Waterloo. On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler - it was resolved: "That no action be taken on the request of the Township of Wilmot to waive the 3 month requirement for termination of its agreement with the City of Kitchener for specialized fire protection, and further, That Council express its disappointment that the Township of Wilmot has chosen to terminate this agreement and obtain this service elsewhere." 2. CITY OF KITCHENER PUBLIC ART COLLECTION MANAGEMENT PLAN The Committee was in receipt of a report from Mr. M. Price, Manager, Arts, Culture and Events Division, dated March 1998, recommending a Public Art Collection Management Plan. Mr. Price was in attendance to represent the report and answer any questions the Committee might have in this regard. Councillor J. Ziegler questioned whether there would be any additional costs involved in the way that this recommendation is worded. Mr. Price advised that there would not be, based on the wording of the recommendation; however, there could be additional costs in the future. COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES APRIL 6, 1998 - 30 - CITY OF KITCHENER 2. CITY OF KITCHENER PUBLIC ART COLLECTION MANAGEMENT PLAN (CONT'D) On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler - it was resolved: "That we endorse the Public Art Collection Management Plan, as presented to the Community Services Committee on April 6, 1998 and authorize the Manager of Arts, Culture and Events Division, or designate, as co-ordinator for its implementation, in conjunction with the Public Art Committee." 3. CONTRIBUTION TO KITCHENER MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM COMPLEX CAPITAL PROJECT Councillor T. Galloway declared a pecuniary interest in this matter as he is employed by the Kitchener Rangers and did not participate in any discussion or voting with respect to this matter. The Committee was in receipt of a report from Mr. K. Baulk, Manager, Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex, dated April 1, 1998, recommending that the City of Kitchener accept and acknowledge a contribution from the Kitchener Rangers for the 1998 budgeted rink board and glass replacement at the KMA Complex, subject to the project receiving final approval through the capital budget. Councillor B. Vrbanovic supported the recommendation contained in the staff report including an offer of thanks from the City of Kitchener. Mr. J. Gazzola noted that this acknowledgement and acceptance should be subject to the project receiving final approval through the capital forecast. He noted that the City has over a million dollars to be removed from this capital forecast and they can either nickel and dime different projects or remove one big project, like this one, from the capital forecast. On motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic - it was resolved: "That the City of Kitchener accept and acknowledge with thanks a contribution from the Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club of $32,000.00 for the 1998 budgeted rink board and glass replacement at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex, subject to this project receiving final approval through the capital budget process." 4. DELEGATION - DESIGN OF NEW FIRE HEADQUARTERS Mr. M. Lobban, Rieder Hymmen Lobban Architects, was in attendance to present the design for the new Fire Department headquarters. In this regard, Mr. Lobban displayed a 3-dimensional plan of the building, floor plans, site plans and a perspective of the front of the building. He advised that the new Fire Department headquarters is to be built on Strasburg Road close to Ottawa Street. He stated that the building will be fairly simple in design, being 2 rectangular boxes connected by a lobby area. He advised that one of the rectangles will house the apparatus space while the other one will house administration space. He stated that they are into the working drawings now and they hope to tender the project in May for Council's approval in June and in July they will start construction which will take about a year. Councillor Jake Smola questioned why the Fire Department administration has to be at this site. He suggested that there were other possibilities such as moving the administration to City Hall. Mr. N. Kuntz responded that, according to Mr. L. Proulx, there is not enough room at City Hall to locate the fire administration there. Councillor Jake Smola stated that for working purposes he was not totally convinced that the Fire Department administration needs to be located at Fire Station #1. He felt that the project should be looked at in 2 phases, the first being space for apparatus and living quarters and that the administration component should be the second phase. Councillor T. Galloway questioned the exterior finish for the building stating that he found it a little bit plain and questioned what other options could be considered for the rooflines and footprint. Mr. Lobban explained how the design came about and Mr. N. Kuntz advised that he had stressed from the very beginning that the building's functionality must be put ahead of its architectural features. Councillor T. Galloway responded that the City has some responsibility 4. DELEGATION - DESIGN OF NEW FIRE HEADQUARTERS (CONT'D) APRIL 6, 1998 COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES -31 - CITY OF KITCHENER in its public buildings to have over consideration of the architectural design. Mr. Lobban explained that one of the constraints was that, close to 50% of the work will be done by a masonry builder. Councillor J. Haalboom questioned whether the building materials for the inside of the building had been decided. Mr. Lobban explained that they had and that there will be brick in the lobby with wood in the railings and the details but the flooring had not yet been decided. Councillor Haalboom then noted that there are a few artifacts from the 1924 City Hall which could be considered for this building and questioned whether he had seen these artifacts. Mr. N. Kuntz responded that staff had located the council chamber table from the 1924 City Hall, which will be used in the boardroom and they have also looked at some other materials stored which will be used in the meeting room. Mr. Kuntz also advised that a bell has been located which has historic value and comes out of the old post office which was located at King and Benton Streets. He advised that the bell has been donated to the City of Kitchener in return for a receipt for its value. Councillor J. Haalboom questioned whether Mr. Lobban would entertain discussions on some of the other artifacts from the 1924 City Hall to which he responded that he would. Councillor K. Taylor-Harrison questioned whether this move would affect the response time to the downtown and Mr. N. Kuntz explained the various options for fire response to the downtown, from various stations, depending on which area of the downtown was affected. Councillor K. Taylor- Harrison also questioned what will happen to the present Fire Department headquarters and was advised that it would be sold. Councillor Jake Smola returned to his suggestion that the Fire Department administration be taken away from this building and put in City Hall. Mr. N. Kuntz then explained the benefits of keeping the inspectors close to the suppression staff as a pro-active measure for fire prevention. Councillor Jake Smola stated that he felt there was a duplication in certain things and he had concerns about the cost of the project. Mayor C. Zehr questioned what additional space was available in City Hall and Mr. L. Proulx responded that he is working with a committee on this matter. He stated that he hesitated to offer additional space because it will soon be gone, probably within the next 12 months. Mayor C. Zehr then questioned Mr. Lobban as to what savings there would be if the administration space was not needed. Mr. Lobban stated that this Council must remember that if they removed fire prevention from this building then the whole of the second floor would have to be re-designed. Councillor J. Ziegler stated that he felt that when the building actually was constructed the building would be functional but there would be beauty in the functionality. He stated that he liked the proposal. Councillor T. Galloway questioned whether there was any opportunity to alter the cladding or accenting and Mr. Lobban pointed out certain features on the building such as the stone sills, coping and coursing above the windows which features were not terribly well pronounced in the drawings he had with him today but which are attractive features on the face of the building. DELEGATION - 2000 CANADIAN OLYMPIC TRACK AND FIELD TRIALS - GRANT REQUEST Mr. T. Mussar was in attendance on behalf of the host committee for the 2000 Canadian Olympic Track and Field Trials to request a grant in the amount of $5,000.00 to help offset event expenses and to request the Committee's support for the bid to host this event. Mr. Mussar advised that this is the biggest track and field event that Canada can hold outside of the Olympics. The Committee was in receipt of a report from Mr. K. Baulk, Manager, Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex, dated April 1, 1998, recommending that the City support the bid to host this event and recommending the grant, contingent on the championship being awarded to the City of Kitchener. DELEGATION - 2000 CANADIAN OLYMPIC TRACK AND FIELD TRIALS - GRANT REQUEST (CONT'D) On motion by Councillor T. Galloway - it was resolved: COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES APRIL 6, 1998 - 32 - CITY OF KITCHENER "That the City of Kitchener supports the bid to host the 2000 Canadian Olympic Trials for track and field, and further, That a $5,000.00 grant be allocated to the host committee in 2000 to help offset event expenses, contingent on the championship being awarded to the City of Kitchener." 6. DELEGATION - VICTORIA HILLS COMMUNITY GARDEN Ms. M. Clarke was in attendance to make a presentation concerning the Victoria Hills community garden and the benefits the community derives from the garden. The members of the Committee had been provided with information in this regard and some letters of support from various organizations were distributed at the meeting. Ms. Clarke referred to this garden as a patchwork quilt. She advised that the population density of the 3 apartment buildings across the street from the gardens is 1,000 people. In addition, Ms. Clarke highlighted the number of townhouse units in the immediate area. Ms. Clarke then cited the benefits of the community garden, particularly the reduction in crime since the gardens were started. She noted that the gardens are supported by the multi-cultural organization. Ms. Clarke stated that the community supports the garden on its own. It is run totally on volunteer time. She noted that other community gardens in this example are popping up around Kitchener and in Toronto. Ms. Clarke advised that young offenders come to the community garden to do their community time and the Food Bank advises that it actually lowers demand on their food. Ms. Clarke also stated that additional housing on this site will not only spoil the garden but would put additional pressure on services in this area and with the garden gone, crime would again increase. Councillor K. Taylor-Harrison advised that she was a huge proponent of anything that keeps people together and reduces crime. Councillor C. Weylie questioned how many plots are in the garden and how many nationalities are represented there. Ms. Clarke responded that 20 different nationalities are involved in gardens. Last year there were 61 garden plots and this year there are 10 new families that want to be involved. Councillor J. Haalboom advised that she had recently attended the Livable Cities Conference and they recommend community gardens. She questioned how this garden got started and whether there is a cost involved. Ms. Clarke advised that they make arrangements every year with the property owner and the participants pay $10 per year per plot. Councillor T. Galloway questioned whether the success of the garden had a lot to do with its location and Ms. Clarke responded that this was so. Ms. Clarke felt that an alternate location would have an impact. Ms. Clarke then showed a brief video about the community garden. Councillor C. Weylie stated that this is the best example of community development to be found anywhere in this city. She advised that it took a year and a half in planning and is supported by the John Howard Society. Councillor Weylie advised that, in 1997, the owner submitted a proposal for townhouses and multiple dwellings, which did not proceed. This year a new development proposal has been received by the Department of Planning and Development. 6. DELEGATION - VICTORIA HILLS COMMUNITY GARDEN (CONT'D) She stated that Mr. J. Gazzola has been asked to look into the possibility of a land swap. Councillor Weylie stated that this is a high density area now, which does not need more housing. She felt that it would not be good planning. Mr. J. Gazzola stated that he has had dealings with the owner from the start and he is not sure COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES APRIL 6, 1998 - 33 - CITY OF KITCHENER how far the owner is prepared to go. He advised that he would talk with staff to see what could be done to find them some space in that area. Mr. Gazzola stated that the neighbourhood has made a tremendous use of the land and he would have to see what could be done. Councillor Weylie suggested that direction be given to Mr. Gazzola to investigate the options and report back to this Committee in 2 or 3 weeks. Councillor J. Haalboom questioned whether down-zoning was possible. Councillor J. Ziegler felt that down-zoning would reduce the value of the property and the City could be looking at a lawsuit. Although, Councillor Ziegler did suggest that Council needs to consider how planning policies have an affect on life in the city. It was generally agreed that Mr. Gazzola investigate all options to keep the Victoria Hills community garden and report back to this Committee in one month. Mr. Gazzola advised that he would try and report back by the April 27th meeting. 7. DELEGATION - ROBERTSON AMUSEMENTS The Committee was in receipt of a report from Mr. J. Maslanka, Supervisor of Athletics, dated March 30, 1998, recommending that Robertson Amusements Ltd. be permitted to operate a outdoor amusement enterprise at Queensmount Park from May 28 - 31, 1998. Mr. Maslanka provided some background information on the Robertson Amusements Ltd. and the financial benefits to the Kitchener Minor Hockey in hosting this event. The Committee was also in receipt of a letter from Ms. J. Koppeser, Manager of Licensing, dated April 2, 1998, recommending an additional resolution to save the operator the time of coming before the Finance and Administration Committee for approval to licence this event. Mr. Patrick, Manager, advised the Committee that Robertson Amusements is a family show. They have clean-cut staff in uniforms, they carry current equipment which is trailer mounted. Theirs is a theme park and not just a midway. Mr. Patrick advised that all their equipment is certified by the Ontario government. With respect to liability, Mr. Patrick advised that they have a $2M liability insurance policy and they have been accident free since 1932. Further, he advised that their sound systems are minimal and intrical to each ride. Councillor T. Galloway questioned whether Minor Hockey had chosen the site and Mr. Maslanka advised that Robertson Amusements had chosen the site. Mr. Patrick advised that, because of the population, it was a good site. Councillor B. Vrbanovic questioned whether they had talked to the neighbours. Mr. Maslanka stated that upon approval, they will advise the neighbours, as per Council's policy. Councillor Jake Smola left the meeting at this time. Councillor B. Vrbanovic stated that he wanted a reasonable degree of certainty that the neighbours have been advised. He suggested approving the request in principle so that the neighbours could comment before final approval. Councillor J. Ziegler stated that he was surprised how vigourous the Committee wants to be. This sounds like the best run midway to come to Kitchener, he stated. He also stated that Best Pipe had a noise problem but this man says that the noise is under control. He suggested letting them run this year and if the neighbours have concerns they can be addressed the next time. 7. DELEGATION - ROBERTSON AMUSEMENTS (CONT'D) Councillor G. Lorentz felt the proposal was a good one and he stressed that this is a fundraiser for Minor Hockey. On motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic - it was resolved: APRIL 6, 1998 COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES - 34 - CITY OF KITCHENER "That Robertson Amusements be granted permission to operate a midway at Queensmount Park from May 28 - 31, 1998, provided the necessary licence, including signatures of approval, is received, and further, That Robertson Amusements shall comply with the requirements of the Public Works Department and the Regional Health Unit, and further, That Robertson Amusements shall submit proof of insurance for the midway, naming the City of Kitchener as an additional insurer, and further, That Robertson Amusements shall notify area residents about the midway, in accordance with Council's policy, prior to the next Council meeting, and further, That all agreements and conditions required for the operation of this midway by Robertson Amusements shall be subject to the approval of the City's Legal Department, and further, That zoning by-law enforcement be waived for the operation of a midway at Queensmount Park from May 28 - 31, 1998." Mr. Patrick stated that it is very important to his company that the neighbours are happy. He stated that they will take every possible approach to keep the noise down. INFORMATION ITEMS The Committee acknowledged receipt of the information items attached to the agenda. Councillor B. Vrbanovic pointed out the tree planting on regional roads and suggested that the planting be held off until the regional road widenings have been decided. Mr. T. Clancy responded that this is an overview and that staff will be going to the Region in this regard and will come back to the Community Services Committee with a report. Councillor J. Haalboom commented on the recommended landscape areas on regional roads in the City of Kitchener noting that it should be listed as priority one. With respect to the report on the 1998 City of Kitchener General Provision Grants, one of the members of Council noted that the Waterloo Education Foundation History Fair had a notation that the grant was approved; however, Council denied this request. ADJOURNMENT On motion the meeting adjourned at 3:20 p.m.. Dianne H. Gilchrist Committee Secretary