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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1992-12-02ENVY1992-12-02 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES DECEMBER 2, 1992 The Environmental Committee held its inaugural meeting this date commencing at 4:00 p.m. with the following members present: Alderman C. Weylie, Alderman M. Wagner, Alderman T. Galloway, Mr. D. Hilker, Mr. J. Maine, Mr. M. Barker and Mr. S. Cook. Mayor D.V. Cardillo and Aldermen G. Leadston and C. Zehr entered the meeting shortly after its commencement. Officials Present: Mr. S. Klapman, Mr. B. Stanley, Mr. L. Masseo, Mr. S. Gyorffy, Mr. D. Suzuki, Mr. T. Clancy, Mr. C. Ford, Mr. D. Daly and Mr. L.W. Neil. The Committee considered appointment of the Chairman and Vice-Chairman for 1993. 1. APPOINTMENT OF CHAIRMAN On motion by Alderman T. Galloway it was resolved: "That Alderman C. Weylie be appointed Chairman of the Environmental Committee for a term to expire November 30, 1993." Aldermen C. Zehr and G. Leadston entered the meeting at this point. 2. APPOINTMENT OF VICE-CHAIRMAN On motion by Alderman C. Zehr it was resolved: "That Alderman T. Galloway be appointed Vice-Chairman of the Environmental Committee for a term to expire November 30, 1993." 3. MINUTES On motion by Alderman T. Galloway it was resolved: "That the minutes of the regular meeting of the Environmental Committee held on November 4, 1992, as mailed to the members, be accepted." 4. TECHNOLOGY OF MULCHING EQUIPMENT Mr. D. Hilker advised that following discussion at the Committee's last meeting, he invited Mr. H.D. Robinson, Vice-President of Sales of MTD Products Ltd., to make a presentation on mulching equipment. He pointed out that MTD Products was the largest producer of lawnmowers in North America. Mr. Robinson distributed a number of articles that explained mulching lawnmowers, wood chipper/shredders, and related processes and benefits especially those from mulching. Mr. Robinson listed the following mulching benefits: eliminates the need for raking and bagging, saves water, returns nutrients to the soil, and lessens materials going into landfill sites. He noted that with a mulching mower, lawns must be cut slightly more often but in fact save a substantial amount of time since it is not necessary to stop and empty the bag catcher of grass clippings. Mr. Robinson explained the difference in the blade and the housing shell of a mulching mower and how the actual cut works. He advised that there are some convertible lawnmowers on the market but noted that existing mowers could not be retrofitted. In response to Alderman M. Wagner, he pointed out that mulching mowers do not work well if the lawn is wet and could cut the lawn as well as leaves provided there were not to many leaves. Mr. T. Clancy commented that the City has been mulching on its property for 25 years. He stated that one of his concerns was that there seemed to be very little mulching promotion by manufacturers to homeowners and ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES - 39 - DECEMBER 2, 1992 4. TECHNOLOGY OF MULCHING EQUIPMENT (CONT'D) questioned what the manufacturers were doing in this regard. Mr. Robinson advised that the only effective way of promotion was through the advertising that retailers do of their product. Mr. Hilker pointed out that there was a need for mulching products but at this time the public does not perceive the need and questioned how this potential market could be addressed. Mr. Robinson replied that the matter was essentially left to retailers who in effect drive the market; however, he indicated that he would be prepared to work with the City to assist in promoting mulching. Mayor D.V. Cardillo entered the meeting at this point. 5. PRESENTATION ON SCENIC ROADS PRESERVATION Mrs. Pat Nippel and Mrs. Jean Haalboom appeared as a delegation to provide a presentation with slides that proposes a blueprint for the creation of a multi-purpose recreation corridor utilizing Kitchener's last remaining county roadways located in the yet to be developed southwest area of the city. Copies of their submission dated December 2, 1992 were distributed to the Committee. It was noted that the City was currently updating the Official Plan and that it was opportune to consider innovative approaches to planning that could be expressed in guidelines and principles for development. The submission listed their objectives, several advantages that would result from such a planning approach and implementation proposals. Mr. J. Maine questioned what authority the City has to preserve such corridors. Mr. B. Stanley advised that through the Official Plan, the City has already dealt with a couple of roads and that he hoped the new Heritage Act would be much more comprehensive. He pointed out that most vacant land has been purchased by companies that wish to undertake residential development and that the City was required to work with them. Further, he indicated that two related studies would be coming forward for review in January 1993, following which a process of determining routes and reaching an accommodation with developers must be concluded. For the information of the Committee, Alderman M. Wagner advised that the City's LACAC has been dealing with this matter and was in full support. Alderman T. Galloway pointed out that he would be discussing the proposals with Monarch Construction and that as a member of the project team for the Transportation Study he could advise that the consultant was very supportive of the position being advanced by the delegation. He stressed that every effort should be made to bring all developers into the process at a point in time where it was beneficial to them from a business point of view. Alderman C. Zehr questioned what the intent of the delegation was with respect to their presentation this date. Alderman M. Wagner advised that LACAC would be proposing a meeting with developers early in 1993. Mrs. J. Haalboom stated that she was willing to make a presentation to all developers. Further, she stated that she supports the comprehensive way in which development issues are being addressed in the southwest area and asked that the City support the statements outlined in Kitchener's Strategic Plan for the Environment. Alderman G. Leadston questioned what type of authority was needed to guarantee preservation of these scenic roads. Mr. Stanley noted that it relates to studies and processing of the Community Plan in conjunction with the Official Plan, Zoning By-law, Heritage Act, and relevant negotiation. Alderman Leadston questioned what the City's position would be if someone wanted to construct a home tomorrow. Mr. Stanley advised that the City could not stop them but that resolutions of Council state that there will not be any development until studies have been completed and an Official Plan Amendment approved. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES - 40 - DECEMBER 2, 1992 5. PRESENTATION ON SCENIC ROADS PRESERVATION (CONT'D) Alderman T. Galloway suggested that the roads listed by the delegation should be incorporated into an Official Plan Amendment and was advised that the next revised draft will include these roads and policies addressing the natural environment and watershed area. On motion by Mr. J. Maine it was resolved: "That we express concern over the potential impact of development on various scenic roads in Kitchener and support preservation of the natural and heritage characteristics of these scenic roads. Further, that staff be directed to address this concern within the 'Doon South Transportation Network and Alignment Study' and the 'Doon South Creek Sub Watershed Study'. And further, that upon completion of the above noted studies, staff be directed to consider incorporating these scenic roads within the City's Official Plan." Alderman M. Wagner commented that if we could obtain the developers understanding and cooperation, all of what is now proposed will come together and will work. 6. CORRESPONDENCE The Committee was in receipt of correspondence/information relative to the following matters: (a) ICLEI Update The Committee was in receipt of a memo from Mr. C. Ford outlining the process for the ICLEI. Alderman C. Zehr questioned what commitments and responsibilities would flow from an executive position in terms of time and travel. Mr. C. Ford indicated that the office was for a three year term which would involve meetings once in North America and once in Europe to assist in fulfilling the purpose of the organization to act as a network for cities. He indicated that he had additional information on the executive positions and that he would provide a summary for the Committee at its next meeting. (b) Environmental Bill Of Ri,qhts The Committee was provided with a copy of a magazine article from the October/November 1992 edition of Municipal Monitor on the Ministry of the Environment draft "Environmental Bill of Rights." (c) Federation of Municipalities The Committee was provided with a copy of an appreciation letter sent to Alderman C. Weylie in recognition of her presentation at the June 1992 annual conference of the Federation. 7. I.U.L.A. WORLD CONGRESS, TORONTO - JUNE 14-17, 1993 Mr. C. Ford commented that he had been involved with one of the sub-committees working on the conference and that he understood registration was $750.00 before February 1993 and $800.00 after that date per delegate. He indicated that he did not know if he might receive free registration but that the issue could be considered at the Committees January meeting. = CRITERIA RE-NEW INDUSTRIES LOCATING TO THE CITY (RESOURCE CONSUMPTION & INDUSTRIAL POLLUTANTS) Due to Dr. J. Kay's absence the Committee could not consider: (i) Report on review of regional sewer use by-law 1-90 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES - 41 - DECEMBER 2, 1992 = CRITERIA RE-NEW INDUSTRIES LOCATION TO THE CITY (RESOURCE CONSUMPTION & INDUSTRIAL POLLUTANTS) (CONT'D) (ii) The possibility of legally imposing more stringent local regulations for water conserver toilets However, Mr. B. Stanley advised that he could report on his inquiries as to residential collection and disposal of discarded toilets as to recycling of porcelain from the toilet. He informed the Committee that under a water saving program taking place in Stanley Park, Conestoga Mechanical collects discarded toilets and that the Region of Waterloo has a specific program for recycling. Mayor D.V. Cardillo commented that B.F.I. picks up old stoves, etc., and questioned if they could be directed to pick-up discarded toilets for recycling. It was requested that staff inquire with the region as to how toilets are being disposed of. 9. LEAF COLLECTION/DISPOSAL Alderman C. Weylie advised that she had not been able to meet the final date for special collection of leaves and that rather than set them out for collection with her regular garbage pick- up, she took the leaves to the landfill site but was charged for disposal. Alderman C. Zehr volunteered to raise this issue with the Regional Engineering Committee. 10. CAPITAL BUDGET Mr. C. Ford provided a summary of Environmental Projects involving capital funds which was prepared to assist City Council to be aware of budget projects that are environmental related. Accordingly, should Council decide upon certain budget cuts, they would be able to keep these environmental projects in mind. It was noted that Land Resource (6.1) should be changed from $100K to $50K and from 1993 to 1994 and 1995. Alderman C. Weylie requested that Mr. Ford ask Mr. L. Ryan to review the numbers in the summary. Mr. J. Main stated that it was important for the Environmental Committee to comment on the issue of an Urban Design Program (Category 6.1). Alderman T. Galloway advised that he would be trying to convince City Council to advance development of McLennan Park. Mr. T. Clancy pointed out that while McLennan Park was a high priority in the City's Strategic Plan for the Environment, it was not considered as high a financial priority. 11. CITY OF WATERLOO "ENVIRONMENTAL FIRST POLICY" PAMPHLET A copy of the City of Waterloo's "Environmental First Policy" pamphlet was distributed to the Committee. Members agreed that it was an excellent concept and it was suggested that a sub- committee be established to consider something similar for Kitchener. However, Alderman C. Zehr commented that consideration first be given to who the target group was and why and that what was required was a public relations strategy. Alderman C. Weylie commented that people generally want basic information such as "who to call". Mr. S. Klapman suggested that the Committee refer the City of Waterloo brochure to the City's environmental staff group with direction that they develop and recommend a strategy on this matter. Mr. S. Gyorffy recommended that in addition to the needs of homeowners those of business and industry also be considered for inclusion in an information pamphlet. Alderman C. Weylie requested Mr. L. Masseo to provide her with a list of who is receiving the City's Strategic Plan for the Environment. Mr. J. Maine suggested that any brochure that was developed be prefaced by philosophical statements. Further, he noted that the public education question leads to the mandate of the Environmental Committee. Mr. B. Stanley stated that since the strategic plan was complete, it was an appropriate time to review the terms of reference of the Environmental Committee. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES - 42 - DECEMBER 2, 1992 12. PROPOSED SHOWERS FOR CYCLISTS IN THE DUKE STREET PARKING GARAGE AND POSSIBLE BICYCLE LOCKERS Alderman M. Wagner advised that Traffic Officials opposed bicycles using vehicle ramps in the new city hall and consequently the proposal for showers for cyclists in the Duke Street parking garage had come about. He noted that part of the $57,000.00 cost related to contingency for asbestos removal, tear down and re-construction. However, he pointed out that he had found unassigned storage space in the new city hall amounting to approximately 150 sq.ft., and that an 13. 14. 15. installation was being priced on a bare bones basis. In addition, he stated that he found a perfect place for bicycle storage in the new city hall at the bottom of the ramp that could be safely reached by cyclists. He advised that estimated costs were expected shortly and would be brought forward to the appropriate committee for consideration. Further, Alderman Wagner advised that he has approached the city hall staff association for a donation for the showers as well as a private donor. At the Committee's last meeting, Alderman T. Galloway agreed to report on the University of Waterloo's experience relative to cost and rental of security type bicycle lockers. Alderman Galloway reported that development in this area was not as extensive as he had hoped for. He advised that a prototype locker had been built and sent out to various manufacturers for their consideration but the expected cost of construction was in the $400-$500 range. Mr. T. Clancy stated that there was a need within the downtown for safe and secure bicycle lock-up facilities. ADOPT A PROGRAM UPDATE Alderman M. Wagner advised that he would provide an update report in January or February. KITCHENER AWARDS SUGGESTION Mr. S. Klapman explained the nature of Kitchener's Awards Program for positive employee suggestions and the question of determination of tangible benefits or intangible benefits arising from these suggestions. In this regard, he advised that one idea that has been submitted concerns an environmental matter that essentially was a public relations issue proposing development of a brochure outlining alternatives to grass. Accordingly, the issue is the merit of preparing a brochure and pro-actively considering the alternatives. Mayor D.V. Cardillo commented that this was already being done by some and there was nothing innovative about the proposal. Mr. J. Maine stated that spraying lawns was deeply ingrained and that the entire issue should be considered by a Public Education Committee. He suggested that promoting alternative ground covers on a community rather than an individual basis was new. Mr. S. Cook questioned if such an approach would be a contradiction to the Property Standards By-law. Mr. T. Clancy advised that legalities concerning the noxious weed issue are currently under review. Following further discussion, Mr. Klapman indicated that he was satisfied that the suggestion was only part of an overall program involving communication and education. Further to the lawn issue, it was suggested some guideline publication be made available that mates certain trees and plants to certain soils in order to assist property owners in various parts of the city to make informed planting decisions. It was requested that these comments be passed on to the Kitchener Horticultural Society. PROPOSED LANDFILL SITE IN GUELPH Alderman G. Leadston referred to the controversy pertaining to the new landfill site in Guelph and the concern that leaching from the site would reach the Grand River. Accordingly, he questioned if staff could ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES - 43 - DECEMBER 2, 1992 15. PROPOSED LANDFILL SITE IN GUELPH (CONT'D) raise this matter at Management Committee to review and formulate a response. Mr. S. Cook advised that the proposed site would affect the Speed River and not the Grand River within Kitchener's boundary. In reference to this information, Alderman C. Zehr recommended that Alderman G. Leadston raise the matter at the regional level for consideration. 16. CITY OF BURLINGTON RESOLUTION RE-UNSOLICITED UNADDRESSED MAIL DELIVERED BY CANADA POST Alderman C. Zehr advised that City Council was recently provided with a resolution of the City of Burlington on the issue of Canada Post delivering unsolicited unaddressed mail. 17. 18. 19. It was suggested that this matter be reviewed and a local spokesperson on the subject, Mr. Carl Hebert, be invited to a future meeting to comment on the matter. ENVIRONMENTAL PARTNERS FUND Mr. S. Cook provided a pamphlet of the Environmental Partners Fund. He indicated that he would speak to the matter at the Committee's next meeting. NEXT MEETING-JANUARY 6, 1993 It was agreed that the next meeting of the Committee would be held on Wednesday, January (5, 1993 commencing at 4:00 p.m. ADJOURNMENT On motion, the meeting adjourned at (5:11 p.m. L.W. Neil, AMCT Assistant City Clerk