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PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MINUTES
NOVEMBER 8, 1999CITY OF KITCHENER
The Planning and Economic Development Committee met this date commencing at 2:46 p.m. under
Councillor C. Weylie, Chair with the following members present: Councillors Jake Smola, J. Ziegler, K.
Taylor-Harrison, B. Vrbanovic, T. Galloway, J. Haalboom and John Smola.
Mayor C. Zehr and Councillors M. Yantzi and G. Lorentz entered the meeting after its commencement.
Officials present: Ms. C. Ladd, J. Jantzi, J. Dean and Messrs. J. Gazzola, J. Shivas, B. Stanley, G.
Borovilos, J. Willmer, Z. Janecki, D. Snow, T. Boutilier, J. Witmer, L. Masseo, P. Wetherup, R. Morgan, D.
Mansell, P. Sinnott and L. W. Neil.
1.BPS 99/158-DOWNTOWN LIGHTING DESIGN STUDY
-EVALUATION & RECOMMENDATIONS
The Committee was in receipt of Business and Planning Services staff report BPS 99/158 dated
November 2, 1999. The report deals with evaluation and recommendations being advanced in
respect to the Downtown Lighting Design Study.
It was noted in the report that the Downtown Lighting Design Study commenced in December
1996 and was completed in June 1998. From the beginning, it was seen as a study whose
outcome would be evaluated on a number of pilot projects to be undertaken in conjunction with the
study and whose evaluation would demonstrate that the development and application of a new
lighting standard can measurably enhance the nighttime environment so as to make a difference in
both the perception and reality of safety and the revitalization of the Downtown.
Mr. B. Stanley reviewed the history of the study and noted that the study was undertaken from a
Safe City perspective. Demonstration projects were undertaken and issues of significance were to
achieve measurable improvement, development of lighting fixtures and refining project
implementation. Evaluation of qualitative and quantitative elements of the Lighting Design was
undertaken, one aspect of related to the Planning and Economic Development Committee holding
a special meeting on September 21, 1999 and taking a walk around the demonstration projects on
that evening. Mr. Stanley advised that the evaluation has been reviewed by the Safe City
Committee and the Downtown Advisory Committee both of whom endorsed the recommendations
of the Lighting Design Consultant team. As well, the Safe City Committee has identified the need
to continue to monitor ongoing street lighting projects with respect to ensuring improvements in
both the perception and reality of urban safety. It is suggested this could include the undertaking
of ongoing safety audits designed specifically for such evaluation. Mr. Stanley advised that Mr.
John MacDonald would review the qualitative and quantitative components of the study.
Mr. John MacDonald appeared as a delegation representing the work that he and John Gabriel
had completed in respect to the Downtown Lighting Study. He provided a presentation detailing
the achievements in the lighting project and the development of a series of standards that had
taken place. He stressed that the study and report had raised the consciousness of the following:
the relationship of lighting and nighttime activities, the importance of links between public and
private lighting improvements and the need to undertake lighting projects working within a team
approach.
Councillor G. Lorentz entered the meeting at this point.
Mr. MacDonald noted that in terms of specific evaluation, a chart had been produced relative to
pilot projects at the locations listed in the chart that dealt with both qualitative and quantitative
issues as follows: human scale spacing, glare / luminance, colour rendition, ratios of contrast,
illumination, pedestrian / motorist balance, operational considerations, costs, supply and
installation.
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Councillor C. Weylie commented that the September 21 walk about had been an excellent way of
observing the measurable improvements that have taken place.
Councillor M. Yantzi entered the meeting at this point.
1.BPS 99/158-DOWNTOWN LIGHTING DESIGN STUDY
PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MINUTES
NOVEMBER 8, 1999- 165 -CITY OF KITCHENER
-EVALUATION & RECOMMENDATIONS (CONT’D)
Councillor J. Haalboom also remarked on the marked improvement in the nighttime environment
as a result of the pilot projects that had been installed in the East end of the Downtown Core.
Councillor J. Haalboom requested Mr. MacDonald to summarize the purpose of the pilot project
evaluation matrix chart dated October 1, 1999. Mr. MacDonald advised that the purpose of the
chart was to evaluate the lighting situation and cost effective ways of making improvements and
pointed out that the recommendations in the report refer to undertaking the improvement work at
the time of other reconstruction projects.
Councillor C. Weylie questioned if the new style light heads could be applied in suburban areas.
Mr. Macdonald advised that developers of a number of new residential subdivisions have been
requesting permission to install pedestrian friendly lighting. Mr. D. Snow commented on this issue
and pointed out that there was a necessity to look at the City’s needs overall. Further, he stated
that a Citywide standard had not been developed with respect to this issue and that there was a
need to get the inventory and maintenance issues of this matter under control. Mr. Snow advised
that staff would be preparing a report and recommendation on development standards for
consideration by the Committee.
Councillor K. Taylor-Harrison expressed her appreciation to Mr. John MacDonald for his work on
the study and for the improvements brought about in particular at the intersection of King and
Cedar Streets.
On motion by Councillor Karen Taylor-Harrison -
It was resolved:
“That we approve the following in regard to the Downtown Lighting Design Study:
i) That City Council concur that the evaluation of the Lighting Study demonstration
projects confirms that the objective of the Lighting Design Study and the new street
lighting standards to measurably improve the pedestrian night time environment in
Downtown Kitchener has been met.
ii) That accordingly, Council confirms its resolution of June 1, 1998, that the new street
lighting standards are to be implemented exclusively in the Downtown in
conjunction with road reconstruction projects, sidewalk replacements, or when
existing equipment deteriorates to the extent that replacement is required (normal
maintenance).
iii) That fine-tuning of aspects of the fixturing design and the implementation process be
undertaken in conjunction with City staff, suppliers and installers.
iv) That further use of Zed fixtures be contingent upon the resolution of design issues
by this manufacturer, failing which other supply options be investigated.
v) That street reconstruction and remediation projects be designed and implemented to
include lighting at intersections, rather than stopping prior to intersections.
vi) That the Kitchener Safe City Committee monitor ongoing downtown street lighting
projects, with respect to ensuring improvements in both the perception and reality of
safety; including the undertaking of ongoing safety audits designed for such
evaluation.”
2.BPS 99/177-TABLING OF GRAND RIVER SOUTH DRAFT COMMUNITY PLAN REVISION
-GRAND RIVER WARD AND CHICOPEE WARD
The Committee was in receipt of Business and Planning Services staff report BPS 99/177 dated
November 4, 1999 dealing with draft Grand River South Areas 2 and 3 Community Plan Revisions.
It was noted in the report that staff began a community plan review for Grand River South in
1995 and that a Technical Review Committee was formed to review planning issues
2.BPS 99/177-TABLING OF GRAND RIVER SOUTH DRAFT COMMUNITY PLAN REVISION
-GRAND RIVER WARD AND CHICOPEE WARD (CONT’D)
PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MINUTES
NOVEMBER 8, 1999- 166 -CITY OF KITCHENER
associated with the additional population to be generated by fully serviced development. During
the technical review process, Transport Canada Guidelines and the Provincial Policy Statement
were revised for the purpose of protecting airports by prohibiting residential development above
the 30NEF/NEP contour. The Draft Land Use Plan was revised accordingly to provide for non-
sensitive land use within the area most affected by airport noise. As well, an Environmental
Assessment relative to the provision of santary sewage servicing has been completed and a
second Environmental Assessment is near to completion with respect to the alignment of the
extension of Fairway Road into the community.
Ms. C. Ladd advised the Committee that this matter was now caught up in a scheduled process
imposed by the Ontario Municipal Board which has set March 27, 2000 as the start date for a
hearing on 4 subdivision applications that were appealed to the Board.
Mr. J. Willmer briefly reviewed the history of the Community Plan Review commencing in 1995 and
noted that after the first draft of the new community plan was tabled in November 1998, staff had
begun processing 4 applications for subdivision approval. The applications were identified in the
staging report as potential draft approval 2000 but in June 1999 the subdividers appealed the
applications to the Ontario Municipal Board as no decision had been made within the prescribed
th
time period. He noted that the Board had scheduled the March 27 date on the basis that this
would allow staff to complete the Community Plan and develop recommendations regarding the
Community Plan, Municipal Plan Amendment and Applications for Subdivision and Zone Change.
Accordingly, staff were recommending the document be tabled and staff instructed to undertake a
full public consultation process. Mr. Willmer advised that there were a number of environmental
issues including: 2 ESPA’s, Floodplain, Idlewood Creek, Chicopee Creek and Noise Contours as
well as the Fairway Road extension alignment.
Mayor C. Zehr entered the meeting at this point.
A lengthy discussion took place with Councillor J. Haalboom raising a few issues of concern and
Councillor Jake Smola raising a number of concerns relative to the Draft Community Plan Revision
document. Staff were requested to give consideration to revising the draft document with respect
to the following concerns that were raised:
a)Heritage Section – include a statement that the grand River be recognized as a
Canadian Heritage River.
b)Heritage – Section 9.2 – with respect to a residential property, consider whether
there was a viable opportunity for a commercial establishment.
c)Include recognition of the Walter Bean Trail.
d)Environment, Parks and Recreation – Section 5.16 – delete reference to the Grand
River Recreation Complex as a community centre.
e)Environment, Parks and Recreation – Section 5.10 – delete ‘in conjunction with
elementary school sites’ and insert ‘independently’.
f)Environment Parks and Recreation – Section 5.11- same revision as Section 5.10.
g)Institutional – Section 3.5 – after the words restricted to add the words ‘combinations
of open space’.
h)Institutional – Section 3.6 – revise to reflect the intent of Section 3.5.
i)Idenfiy subdivision signage issue within the Community Plan.
During discussion of the foregoing issues, staff emphasised that the key approach within the
Community Plan revision process was to keep the plan as brief as possible as most major issues
were covered elsewhere and were left out of the plan. Mayor C. Zehr agreed that there were a
whole range of issues that are already included in the Municipal Plan and do not need to be
referenced in the Community Plan.
In responding to Councillor B. Vrbanovic, Mr. J. Willmer advised that on the community centre
issue, staff wish to forewarn future residents that there was no intention to establish a community
centre. As to the redundant school site issue, Councillor T. Galloway commented that the
2.BPS 99/177-TABLING OF GRAND RIVER SOUTH DRAFT COMMUNITY PLAN REVISION
-GRAND RIVER WARD AND CHICOPEE WARD (CONT’D)
challenge was to determine how to ensure that the City could acquire lands at a fair price and if
PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MINUTES
NOVEMBER 8, 1999- 167 -CITY OF KITCHENER
there was any possibility of joint ownership or a first right of refusal at a predetermined price or at
the original value of the conveyed lands. Mr. J. Willmer explained the approach that staff had
taken with regard to developing parks on the assumption that the recreational facilities of school
sites may never be available.
Following further discussion, Mayor C. Zehr suggested that Councillor Jake Smola put his
concerns in writing and bring them to the attention of Council and staff at the regular November
15,1999 Council meeting.
On motion by Councillor J. Haalboom -
It was resolved:
“That the draft Grand River South Area 2 & 3 Community Plan Revision dated November 4
1999 be tabled for information; and,
That Planning staff be directed to make appropriate revisions in the draft Community Plan
document, that reflect issues of concern raised and recorded in the November 8, 1999
meeting minutes of the Planning and Economic Development Committee; as well as any
additional concerns if brought up at the November 15, 1999 Council meeting; and further,
That Planning staff be directed to undertake a full public consultation process to review the
updated draft Community Plan Revision.”
3.BPS 99/123-FORWELL ROAD
-ZONE CHANGE APPLICATION ZC 99/11/F/ZJ
-LYDIA ANTON – GRAND RIVER WARD
The Committee was advised that the Department was in receipt of a zone change application from
Lydia Anton with respect to a 0.5 hectare vacant lot located on the west side of Forwell Road just
south of where the road crosses Kolb Creek. In this regard the Committee considered Business
and Planning Services staff report BPS 99/123 dated October 15, 1999 and a proposed by-law
dated October 15, 1999 attached to the staff report. The history of both the zoning and the
municipal plan relating to this property was dealt with in the staff report and it was noted that as a
result of updated mapping the property is deemed developable and can be interpreted as being
designated as Low Rise Residential in the City’s Municipal Plan.
It was pointed out that notice that the Committee would hold a public meeting this date to consider
this matter had previously been given.
Mr. Z. Janecki reviewed the re-zoning application of the subject lands which abut the Regional
flood line. He circulated a revised proposed by-law dated November 4, 1999 which had been
changed to satisfy concerns raised by the Grand River Conservation Authority. At this time, he
requested that a minor change be made to the latest revised by-law. In this regard, he asked that
clause 2 be reworded to delete the words ‘shown on’ and replaced with the words ‘identified by’.
In response to Councillor Jake Smola, Mr. Janecki explained the status of the cul-de-sac on
Forwell Road and described how the walkway functions as an emergency access.
Mr. Sam Head, Dryden Smith Head, Planning Consultants Limited appeared as a delegation on
behalf of the applicant to advise that he was in support of the recommendation in the staff report
and the proposed by-law changes presented this date.
No other delegations were registered.
The staff recommendation, including the requested revisions to the proposed by-law were
considered.
3.BPS 99/123-FORWELL ROAD
-ZONE CHANGE APPLICATION ZC 99/11/F/ZJ
-LYDIA ANTON – GRAND RIVER WARD (CONT’D)
On motion by Mayor C. Zehr:
PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MINUTES
NOVEMBER 8, 1999- 168 -CITY OF KITCHENER
It was resolved:
“That Zone Change Application ZC 99/11/F/ZJ (Forwell Road - Lydia Anton) requesting a
change in zoning from Hazard Land Zone (P-3) to Residential Three Zone (R-3) with
special regulation provision 1R on lands legally described as Part of Lot 121, German
Company Tract, more particularly described as WDR 64, in the City of Kitchener, be
approved, in the form shown in the attached “Proposed By-law”, dated November 4, 1999
as revised November 8, 1999 in regard to Clause #2, without conditions.
It is the opinion of this Committee that approval of this application is proper planning for the
City and is in conformity with the City’s Municipal Plan.”
4.PRESENTATION-MARIE MORRISON
-COMPASS KITCHENER: COMMUNITY VISION AND STRATEGIC PLAN
FOR A HEALTHY COMMUNITY
Ms. Marie Morrison, Project Co-ordinator for Compass Kitchener: Community Vision and Strategic
Plan appeared as a delegation to make a presentation on the project and utilized the visual
overhead system in this regard. She stated that her purpose was to provide an overview of the
project and at this time unveil the official logo for Compass Kitchener which was developed by
students from Conestoga College. In her presentation, she addressed why Compass Kitchener
had been established, its objectives and end goal. Ms. Morrison also covered how the vision plan
would be used and described the process to develop the plan through extensive consultation,
various community round table functions, draft plan review and finalization of the plan. She
stressed the need for Council input as well as the need for budget and time commitments of all
participants.
Mayor C. Zehr commented on the strategic planning process and emphasized that involvement of
Council was absolutely vital at as many stages as possible in development of the plan. Further, he
noted that the plan should be able to stand the test of time, regardless of the community’s form of
governance.
Councillor C. Weylie questioned who designed the questionnaire and Ms. Morrison advised that a
steering committee modelled questions after those contained in a City of Windsor document.
Councillor B. Vrbanovic stressed that the plan development was based on an aggressive schedule
that would see completion by June 5, 2000.
5.BPS 99/162-STRASBURG ROAD, HURON BUSINESS PARK, PHASE l
-OFFER TO PURCHASE - SITE 74
-TORBRAM ELECTIC SUPPLY CORPORATION - FAIRVIEW WARD
The Committee was in receipt of Business and Planning Services staff report BPS 99/162 dealing
with an offer to purchase Site 74 in the Huron Business Park.
Ms. J. Jantzi advised that Site 74 was one of the last lots to be develop on Strasburg Road and Mr.
R. Morgan described the proposal to build.
On motion by Councillor T. Galloway -
It was resolved:
“That the City accept the Offer to Purchase from Torbram Electric Supply Corp. for Part 4
Reference Plan 58R-5310. The parcel of land has an approximate area of 1.97 acres (.79
ha). The majority of the land is being sold at a price of $75,000 per acre, however, the rear
sloped portion of the property will be discounted to $5,000 per acre. In this regard the total
purchase price will be determined upon completion of a grading report; and further,
5.BPS 99/162-STRASBURG ROAD, HURON BUSINESS PARK, PHASE l
-OFFER TO PURCHASE - SITE 74
-TORBRAM ELECTIC SUPPLY CORPORATION- FAIRVIEW WARD (CONT’D)
That the Mayor and Clerk be hereby authorized to execute any other necessary
documentation required by the City Solicitor.”
PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MINUTES
NOVEMBER 8, 1999- 169 -CITY OF KITCHENER
6.BPS 99/143-MCINTYRE DRIVE, HURON BUSINESS PARK PHASE 2
-OFFER TO PURCHASE - SITE 95 - SOUTH WARD
Councillor C. Weylie advised that staff had included a notice with the agenda advising that report
BPS 99/143 was being withdrawn from consideration this date.
Mr. G. Borovilos advised that it was staff’s intent to bring the matter directly to Council at its
November 15, 1999 meeting.
7.BPS 99/176-REPORT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE RE:
-SHORT AND LONG TERM INDUSTRIAL LAND NEEDS
The Committee was in receipt of Business and Planning Services staff report BPS 99/176 dated
November 2, 1999. It was pointed out in the staff report that the Economic Development Advisory
Committee had created a sub-committee charged with the task of developing a long- term vision /
strategy for economic development in the City. These were now being advanced in
recommendation form.
Mr. B. Stanley explained the process that had taken place and that Mr. H. Pottkamper would be
making a presentation in this regard.
Mr. Hans Pottkamper appeared as a delegation and advised that EDAC had compiled a list of
development issues but that the 2 most pressing ones were an industrial land bank and the airport.
He referred to the City’s strategies to retain local businesses and facilitate their growth and
suggested that a strong municipal role was inevitable to attract industrial development. In
reference to the airport he commented that it was a major asset strongly supported by local
business and suggested that airport operations be buffered as much as possible by alternative
land uses other than residential. He commented that besides the City of Kitchener running out of
industrial land that the City of Cambridge would also be in a similar position in the near future. In
summary he asked that Council strongly support an adequate supply of industrial land and
maintaining necessary assets such as the airport that would facilitate economic growth and
development.
In response to a question from Councillor M. Yantzi, Mr. Pottkamper advised that if there was a
demand for private sector involvement in the supply of industrial land, it would have happened
already.
Mayor C. Zehr referred to a report considered by the Public Works and Transportation Committee
with respect to long term servicing and stressed the need for this matter to be fully understood.
Councillor J. Haalboom questioned if she heard Mr. Pottkamper acknowledge that there was a
conflict between residential uses and the airport operation and Mr. Potkamper replied that
buffering the airport with industrial land uses would minimize airport noise conflicts with the closest
residential areas. Councillor Haalboom commented that a few months ago land developers had
expressed confidence that residential development could take place as currently planned. Mr.
Pottkamper responded that the value of land for development was much higher for residential uses
than for industrial uses. Councillor J. Ziegler commented on the residential / airport conflicts and
expansion of both the airport and subdivisions.
The recommendations in the staff report were then considered and it was agreed to revise
recommendation # 2) to include reference to all municipal councils within the Region of Waterloo.
7.BPS 99/176-REPORT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE RE:
-SHORT AND LONG TERM INDUSTRIAL LAND NEEDS (CONT’D)
On motion by Mayor C. Zehr -
It was resolved:
“That Council adopt the recommendations of the Economic Development Advisory
Committee concerning short and long-term industrial land needs as follows:
PLANNING & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MINUTES
NOVEMBER 8, 1999- 170 -CITY OF KITCHENER
1)That, in terms of meeting Kitchener’s short-term industrial land needs, staff of the
Business and Planning Services, Public Works and Finance Departments be
directed to identify the available industrial land, infrastructure needs and required
expenditures in order to bring lands on stream for development, realizing the
difficulty of the private sector to finance some of the infrastructure, the Municipality
also explore taking the lead on front-end financing and/or public/private sector
partnerships. In particular, the Shirley Avenue extension, Huron Road realignment
and any other related infrastructure requirements; and,
2)That, in terms of meeting longer term industrial land needs both for the City and the
Region, Kitchener City Council request Regional Council, all Municipal Councils in
the Region of Waterloo and Canada’s Technology Triangle (CTT) to commence
immediate consideration of a long-term regional Industrial Development Strategy for
implementation as part of the Regional Official Policies Plan review in 2000. With
such Industrial Development Strategy to include consideration of those lands at the
north end of Cambridge extending to Provincial Highway 7.”
8.ADJOURNMENT
On motion, the meeting adjourned at 4:45 p.m.
L.W. Neil, AMCT
Assistant City Clerk