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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999-03-03ENVY1999-03-03 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES MARCH 3, 1999 CITY OF KITCHENER The Environmental Committee met this date commencing at 4:10 p.m. under Councillor Jake Smola, Chair, with the following members present: Ms. D. Hartman, Ms. B. Luckhardt and Messrs. K. Cenerelli and H. Linseman. Councillor J. Haalboom entered the meeting after its commencement. Officials Present: Ms. S. Roberts, Ms. J. Billett, Ms. D. Gilchrist and Messrs. B. Stanley, S. Gyorffy, J. McBride, C. Ford, J. Cicuttin, B. Allen and R. Wyatt. This meeting of the Environmental Committee began without a quorum present. REGION OF WATERLOO PRESENTATION - WESTMOUNT ROAD/GLASGOW STREET - PROPOSED ROAD AND INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS The Committee was advised that, at the Council meeting of February 1, 1999, a request was made by Councillor C. Weylie to have this matter referred to the Environmental Committee for comment respecting any concerns the Committee may have relative to the environmental impact of the proposed project. In this regard, Mr. D. Hallman and Mr. S. van der Keere of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo were in attendance to make presentation to the Committee. Mr. Hallman provided the Committee with an overview of the project to date, which covers Westmount Road from 150 m south of Glasgow Street in Kitchener to its intersection with John Street in Waterloo. He noted that this project was undertaken as a result of concerns relating to numerous traffic accidents at the intersection of Westmount Road and Glasgow Street, the narrowness of the lane widths and the poor condition of the asphalt throughout this section of roadway. It was also pointed out that the City of Kitchener wishes to replace the existing sanitary sewer during construction of this project. Mr. Hallman pointed out that 3 design alternatives are being considered under the following Evaluation Criteria: safety, social and natural environments, traffic operations, and cost. Councillor J. Haalboom entered the meeting at this time and a quorum was now present. The Committee was advised that Alternative 1, reconstruction of existing lanes from the south of Glasgow Street to John Street, would improve conditions of the roadway, while maintaining the original configuration, with no widenings for turn lanes or increased lane widths. In addition, this Alternative would not require the removal of any trees along Westmount Road. Alternative 2 would involve a slight widening of the existing four lanes and would require removal of a number of trees up to a maximum of 39. The third and final Alternative would involve construction of opposing left turn lanes on Westmount Road at Glasgow Street, as well as a proposed northbound right turn lane. This Alternative will require widening of the existing lanes from Glasgow Street to John Street and the removal of up to a maximum of 50 trees. Mr. D. Hallman advised that, as a result of a public meeting recently undertaken, residents have been given an opportunity to relate their concerns with respect to traffic safety, construction detours, sidewalk installations and the impact on property and trees. In summary, Mr. Hallman advised the Committee that a Community Workshop is proposed for some time in April, at which time all of the issues will be thoroughly reviewed and a preferred Alternative chosen. The workshop will then be followed by another public meeting some time in May and it is hoped that construction will begin in the Fall of 1999. Mr. K. Cenerelli enquired into the status of the project under the Class EA process and Mr. Hallman advised that the project was classed as a "Schedule A", approved; however, he noted that the Project Team was proceeding as though it were a "Schedule B" to allow for further review. During discussion it was noted that speeding was a primary concern to the residents and, in view of the number of accidents at the intersection of Westmount Road and Glasgow Street, speed limit reductions were being considered. In response to further questioning, Mr. van der Keere acknowledged that widening the lanes could actually result in increased speeding, however, the Project Team will be taking into consideration a variety of traffic calming measures to address these concerns. REGION OF WATERLOO PRESENTATION - WESTMOUNT ROAD/GLASGOW STREET - PROPOSED ROAD AND INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS, CONT'D ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES MARCH 3, 1999 -9 - CITY OF KITCHENER Several members expressed concern with regard to the impact this project may have on existing trees and, in this regard, Councillor J. Haalboom stated that this Committee should be encouraging tree retention. In this regard, she urged the Committee to support Alternative 1 which would not require any trees to be removed. Councillor Jake Smola suggested; however, that the Committee could support one of the other Alternatives provided the Region agreed to undertake a satisfactory tree replacement program. Ms. B. Luckhardt noted that the City of Waterloo had recently passed a Tree Removal By-law and enquired what impact this would have on the project as it extends into their municipality. Mr. Hallman responded that the City of Waterloo had been invited to participate on the Project Team, however, the area within Waterloo is very small and at this time the Region is undertaking to keep the City of Waterloo informed and would be looking very closely at the City's new Tree Removal By-law. Ms. D. Hartman enquired if there would be an opportunity for further input and Mr. Hallman advised that, if it was this Committee's wish, a further presentation could be made following a decision as to the preferred alternative. Ms. Luckhardt also enquired whether she could be kept informed of the date for the Community Workshop as she might like to participate. Mr. Hallman advised that the format of the Workshop was such that it was intended for residents of the area only but would undertake to keep the Committee informed. Mr. K. Cenerelli asked to be provided with a summary of the residents concerns. On motion by Councillor J. Haalboom - it was resolved: "That the City of Kitchener Environmental Committee recommends to the Regional Municipality of Waterloo that whichever design is chosen for the improvements to Westmount Road, between Glasgow Street and John Street, it have the least possible impact on the existing trees, and further That the Region of Waterloo have an approved tree replacement plan in place prior to commencing the Westmount Road improvements." 2. ENVIRONMENTAL AWARDS PROGRAM Mr. B. Stanley appeared before the Committee to advise that staff is seeking endorsement for City participation in a proposed Region-wide Environmental Awards Program. He noted that several meetings have been held with representatives of the Regional EEAC, the Chambers of Commerce from Kitchener & Waterloo, Cambridge and Guelph, and the City of Kitchener for the purpose of exploring an expanded awards program. The objectives of the program will be to increase the number and quality of nominations, and to raise the profile of the event through a concentrated effort. Further endorsements are also being sought from all other area municipalities, including Guelph, and special groups such as the K-W Field Naturalists and the Waterloo Federation of Agriculture. It was pointed out to the Committee that funds have been budgeted for a City of Kitchener Environmental Awards Program that would alternate annually with the City's Urban Awards Program but has not yet been implemented. If endorsement is given to participate in the Region-wide Program a decision will have to be made whether or not to have a separate awards program for the City of Kitchener or utilize the Region wide program as the soul venue or in some integrated format. In this regard, Mr. Stanley suggested that a sub-committee could be formed to consider this matter. Mr. Stanley also pointed out that the Region-wide Environmental Awards event is planned for the first week of June to coincide with Environmental week and would be organized by the Kitchener & Waterloo Chamber of Commerce. Mr. J. Thompson, representing the Chamber, was also in attendance and advised that the Chamber has the funding and expertise required to meet the June deadline. He noted that solicitation of nominations is to be undertaken at the beginning of April with nominations to close by months end. Selection of Award recipients would then be decided during the month of May ENVIRONMENTAL AWARDS PROGRAM, CONT'D ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES MARCH 3, 1999 - 10 - CITY OF KITCHENER with presentations to follow during Environment Week. In response to questioning, Mr. Stanley noted that the City of Cambridge has confirmed their participation but the City of Waterloo and the Waterloo Federation of Agriculture have yet to confirm. In this regard, Mr. Stanley suggested that the recommendation to endorse the City's participation in the Region-wide Program be left open-ended for inclusion of additional participants. On motion by Ms. B. Luckhardt - It was resolved: "That Council endorse City participation in a proposed Environmental Awards Program involving: the Regional EEAC, the Chambers of Commerce of Kitchener & Waterloo, Cambridge and Guelph, the Cities of Cambridge and Guelph, and the K-W Field Naturalists, and any other interested groups, such as the City of Waterloo and the Waterloo Federation of Agriculture, that may be forthcoming." A sub-committee to review the issue of a separate award for the City of Kitchener was then formed consisting of Mr. B. Stanley and Councillor J. Haalboom. 3. CLEAN AIR PLAN Mr. C. Ford appeared before the Committee to present the Waterloo Region Clean Air Plan for review and adoption, in principle. He advised that adoption of the plan would be followed by implementation, where feasible, of the components within the plan. A copy of the plan is attached hereto and forms part of these minutes. Mr. Ford stressed that the ultimate success of the plan would depend heavily on public participation and educational promotion of the plan would be required. Mr. Ford advised that smog alerts will be issued, as required, by the Ministry of Environment and Energy by 4:00 p.m. on the day before an air quality alert is expected to occur. The City's Fire Dispatch Service will receive the alert and disseminate the information to all City departments to take appropriate action. He noted that the timing is very short and it will be a challenge to mobilize quickly enough in getting the word out to all affected staff. In addition, he advised that there were a number of issues still to be addressed with respect to use of the Transit system, as the main thrust of the Plan is to reduce the amount of fossil fuels in the air and, accordingly, incentives to discourage the use of individual vehicles in favour of the Transit system are being considered. Suggestions of free rides or reduced fares have been considered; however, these will have a financial impact to Kitchener Transit. Mr. J. Cicuttin, together with Mr. B. Allen and Ms. S. Roberts, advised the Committee that Kitchener Transit is eager to be a part of the solution but was hesitant to agree to free transit on smog alert days as the financial impacts could be significant. He also pointed out that those who purchase monthly bus passes would likely expect some form of discount which would create administrative difficulties. As an alternative, he advised that Transit staff are considering offering a promotional contest with awarding of prizes to encourage bus use on smog days. In addition, advertising could be placed within the buses that would encourage continued use of the system. It was also noted that, if this type of promotion was attractive enough, there may be potential for increased revenues. Mr. Ford pointed out that the number of smog days in 1999 is yet unknown and, if the number increases significantly beyond the six days experienced last year, there could be a greater impact on the Transit system. Ms. B. Luckhardt enquired if Transit would be able to handle a significant increase in ridership if its promotional concept was successful and Mr. Cicuttin responded that it may cause some operational problems; however, through monitoring these problems would be addressed in a timely manner. 3. CLEAN AIR PLAN, CONT'D ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES MARCH 3, 1999 - 11 - CITY OF KITCHENER Councillor J. Haalboom noted her concerns with respect to the number of commuters and enquired if there were any plans to coordinate other modes of public transportation into the plan. In response, Mr. Ford noted that the plan as proposed is a first step toward tackling problems within the City and, as initial implementation becomes routine, he would envision further development of the plan. Councillor Haalboom also enquired if employers throughout the Region have been approached to be a part of this plan, and, in this regard, Mr. Cicuttin pointed out that discussions are currently underway for development of a Corporate bus pass that will offer significant discounts to employees to encourage permanent ridership. Mr. Ford advised the Committee that it was intended to have the final plan in place by the end of April and he invited members of the Committee to forward any comments or suggestions they may have prior to adoption of the plan. On motion by Ms. B. Luckhardt - It was resolved: "That the Environmental Committee accepts, in principle, the Waterloo Region Clean Air Plan, prepared by the Citizens Advisory Committee on Air Quality, and recommends its adoption by City Council." 4. AIR QUALITY FESTIVAL - SATURDAY APRIL 17, 1999 Mr. C. Ford advised the Committee that an Air Quality Festival will be held at the Waterloo City Hall on Saturday April 17, 1999 beginning at 10:00 a.m. He noted that a number of speakers are planned for the day including himself, Pollution Probe and the University of Waterloo. This function is to be family oriented and a skit is planned that will be both educational and entertaining. In addition, it is planned to conduct vehicle emissions testing on site with a portable unit and the Ministry of the Environment & Energy will be presenting their "Drive Clean Program". Mr. Ford advised that the main focal point for this festival is presentation and adoption of the Waterloo Region Clean Air Plan to all Councils. Promotion of the plan will take place through advertising, the City's Home Page and flyers to be distributed. In response to Ms. B. Luckhardt, Mr. Ford advised that the contact for this event is Ms. Alida Burrett, Chair of the Citizens Advisory Committee on Air Quality and, in the case of interested vendors, application forms are available through him. Councillor Jake Smola thanked Mr. Ford for his participation in development of the Waterloo Region Clean Air Plan and coordination of the Festival and reminded members to forward any comments they may have on the plan to Mr. Ford. 5. EARTH DAY Mr. K. Cenerelli advised the Committee that Earth Day celebrations will be held on April 22, 1999 at Kitchener City Hall and that this has been designated as an annual event. He noted that a press release will be issued shortly outlining the days activities and provided the Committee with a brief overview. The main kick-off event will start at 12 noon with workshops planned throughout the day and organizers are currently seeking expert speakers from local businesses and environmental groups. In addition, there will be numerous vendors and displays set-up throughout the building and it is planned to hold a film festival throughout the day in the Council Chamber. Mr. Cenerelli advised that organizers are currently working on a schedule of events and this would be made available to the Committee at its next meeting. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES MARCH 3, 1999 - 12 - CITY OF KITCHENER 5. EARTH DAY, CONT'D Councillor J. Haalboom enquired if there had been any contact with Trees for Life in organizing the event and Mr. Cenerelli advised that there had. Further, she enquired if any thought had been given to utilizing local nurseries to decorate the building with lots of greenery and, in this regard, Ms. B. Luckhardt advised that Ontario Landscape, while it is not well known, does provide such service and may agree to participate if approached. She also noted that she would be attending a meeting of Ontario Landscape in the near future and would extend an invitation to its members to participate. Ms. S. Roberts advised the Committee that Kitchener Transit has developed a number of marketing initiatives to enhance Earth Day festivities and attract new riders to the Transit system. In an effort to encourage motorists to leave their car at home and take the bus on Earth Day a number of flyers, with coupons, will be distributed throughout the Downtown on vehicles. The coupons will allow the car user to take the bus free of charge. Promotion of the Earth Day Transit Day will be undertaken through local media prior to the event taking place, and, in addition, as part of the kick-off celebrations, it is planned to give a visual demonstration which will illustrate the "exhausting equation of 48 cars = 1 bus". Councillor J. Haalboom enquired whether or not it would be possible to have a bus on display in the main plaza area, and, Ms. Roberts advised that it is planned to have a number of vehicles including natural gas buses on display for the event. In response to questioning, Ms. Roberts advised the Committee that, at this time, Kitchener Transit is looking for endorsement of its marketing initiatives for Earth Day. Ms. B. Luckhardt enquired what the financial impact of the free bus tickets would be to Kitchener Transit and Ms. Roberts responded that funding for this initiative has been included within Transit's Marketing Plan. She advised that this concept had been done by other municipalities and proven to be successful and, in addition, Kitchener's program would be monitored for later evaluation to determine if new ridership had been gained. On motion by Councillor J. Haalboom - It was resolved: "That the Environmental Committee supports Kitchener Transit's Earth Day, 1999 Marketing Initiatives that will encourage new ridership and promote increased ridership through continued use of the Transit system." 6. THE GREAT TREE HUNT Councillor J. Haalboom provided the Committee with an overview of the event entitled "The Great Tree Hunt", last held in 1990. This event was organized by the Regional Municipality of Waterloo and the K-W Field Naturalists in conjunction with an Earth Day festivity. The purpose of the event was to promote tree conservation through discovery and appreciation of large older trees and the importance of their conservation. Organization of the event involved a number of sponsors including the Grand River Conservation Authority, the Region, Union Gas, and many volunteers; compilation of a database; publicity; collection of entries; and, presentation of awards. Councillor Haalboom noted that judges will be required who are familiar with the use of an altimeter to measure the trees and who are able to confirm the identity of the tree species nominated. Councillor Haalboom also pointed out, that with the assistance of the Parks & Recreation Department, information collected from the nomination forms will be input into a database and, as a result, a Registry of Trees will be created. Further, she advised that the awards would consist of an Honour Roll of trees and one grand prize winner. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES MARCH 3, 1999 - 13 - CITY OF KITCHENER 6. THE GREAT TREE HUNT, CONT'D Councillor Haalboom pointed out that, at this time, it is planned to implement a Great Tree Hunt for the year 2000 followed by five year intervals thereafter, and she is seeking the Committee's support for this proposal in principle. Mr. B. Stanley pointed out that, if the Committee endorses this proposal in principle, it may wish to refer the matter to the Environmental Study Group. On motion by Councillor J. Haalboom - it was resolved: "That the Environmental Committee supports, in principle, implementation of a 'Great Tree Hunt' event in the year 2000, followed by five year intervals thereafter, and a yearly tree monitoring program; and further, That this proposal be forwarded to the Environmental Committee's Environmental Study Group for their consideration." 7. NEXT MEETING - April 14, 1999 8. ADJOURNMENT On motion, the meeting adjourned at 6:15 p.m. J. Billett, AMCT Committee Administrator