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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999-09-09ENVY1999-09-09 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES SEPTEMBER 9, 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: Councillor J. Haalboom, Councillor T. Galloway, Ms. B. Luckhardt, and Messrs. K. Cenerelli, B. Krafchek, H. Linseman, and F. Wende. Officials Present: Ms. B. Newell and Ms. J. Billett, and Messrs. B. Stanley, T. Clancy, D. Daly, G. Kett, T. Boutilier, and R. Wyatt. 1. ANNUAL REPORT - CITY USE OF PESTICIDES ON PUBLIC LANDS (1998) The Committee was in receipt of a report dated September 1, 1999, from Mr. D. Daly, Manager of Parks Operations, to provide statistics on pesticide use in 1998 and to summarize alternative methods of pest control used in parks, including Victoria Park, cemeteries and golf courses. Mr. D. Daly advised that, as a result of Council approving a new Pest Control Policy in 1998, staff were directed to prepare an annual report for presentation to the Environmental Committee to provide an inventory of pesticide use. Mr. D. Daly advised that drought-like conditions in 1998 caused turf areas to be dormant most of the year. While irrigated areas survived well, he advised that unirrigated areas were devastated and suffered from grub problems. He further advised that damage experienced at the golf courses required extensive over seeding to be undertaken in April of 1999. Mr. Daly stated that conditions this year have been better and staff are committed to proceeding with programs that will reduce the use of pesticides. He noted that examples such as burning weeds, and the naturalization programs which increase ground coverage and tree planting are currently in use by staff. He further pointed out that the Front Yard Competition of the Communities in Bloom Project which encourages private citizens to participate in the reduction of use of pesticides through use of alternative methods such as planting various types of ground covers and perennials, has been very successful. Mr. Daly pointed out that pesticides are still used in some areas, especially along pedestrian routes were poison ivy is a factor; however, the overall use of pesticides has been significantly reduced. Ms. B. Luckhardt complimented staff on the results, noting that the reductions were significant, and suggested that the results be publicized to encourage private citizens to reduce the use of pesticides. Councillor J. Haalboom agreed that this issue should be publicized to the community and suggested that staff could put together a publication for insertion in community newsletters. Councillor Jake Smola suggested that, in addition to newsletters, the City's Environmental Home Page could be used to promote the reduction in use of pesticides. In response to questioning, Mr. T. Clancy stated that there were quite a few neighbourhood groups who have small newsletters or flyers and suggested that Mr. P. Sinnott, Communications Director, could compose a press release that could then be distributed through newsletters. Mr. Clancy further advised that conditions at Woodland Cemetery raised a number of citizen complaints. In this regard, he pointed out that staff preferred to dig wells so that non-potable water could be used to irrigate; however, he noted that the Region is not in favour of digging further wells. He stated that staff will be speaking further with the Region with respect to drilling wells for irrigation purposes. Councillor J. Haalboom stated that in regard to golf courses the community does not believe the City is reducing pesticide use and suggested this also needs to be publicized. In this regard, Mr. Clancy advised that the City has never stated that it would not use pesticides on golf courses as the greens do require spraying; however, he pointed out that there is a commitment to reducing the amount of pesticide used. Councillor T. Galloway stated that before and after statistics on the use of pesticides by the City should be published to point out that there has been a significant reduction which, in turn, may encourage private citizens to follow the same course of action. He stated, however, that he did not believe the City could mandate neighbourhood associations to publish information with regard to pesticides in their newsletters as they are not City publications. Councillor Galloway suggested that publication in the local newspaper may be a more appropriate course of action. In this regard, Mr. Daly responded that information could be provided within the City's Environmental Handbook ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES SEPTEMBER 97 1999 -26- CITY OF KITCHENER which is on the City's Homepage and also through the Department of ANNUAL REPORT - CITY USE OF PESTICIDES ON PUBLIC LANDS (1998), Cont'd Parks and Recreation Leisure Publication. Ms. B. Luckhardt enquired if the Cemetery Division had given consideration to using the product Merit. Mr. G. Kett responded that staff have been experimenting with a number of products and Merit has been suggested on a performance basis to be better and safer; however, it is more expensive to use. He stated that the pros and cons for potential success must be weighed in relation to cost and if proven to be more effective Merit could be utilized. Ms. B. Luckhardt further enquired if staff had investigated a study conducted at the Guelph University with respect to turf composting. Mr. G. Kett responded that he had not but would bring that to the attention of staff. Councillor J. Haalboom pointed out that, in terms of composting, staff would need to take care in the products they used as some have been known, to contain weeds that eventually take over and destroy plant life. On motion by Councillor J. Haalboom - it was resolved: "That the Department of Parks and Recreation Annual Report on Use of Pesticides on Public Lands (1998), be accepted." 2. RESIDENTIAL EMERGENCY EFFICIENCY PROJECT (R.E.E.P.) Mr. Paul Parker and Mr. Eric Mitchell appeared as a delegation to present the Residential Energy Efficiency Project (R.E.E.P.) being jointly undertaken by the University of Waterloo and the Elora Centre for Environmental Excellence. He stated that the purpose of R.E.E.P. is to improve energy performance within private homes to reduce air pollutants caused by the burning of fossils fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas. He advised that the project utilizes a nationally certified program, Energuide for Houses, consisting of a team of 2 evaluators who look at and evaluate how much heat is lost within a home. Following the evaluation, he advised that recommendations for improvements and an estimate of savings if improvements are implemented are provided to the homeowner. Mr. Parker noted that benefits of the program include energy saving, fewer pollutants being released into the air, improved health conditions and the creation of jobs through retrofit work. Mr. P. Parker advised that the City is being invited to join the partnership which currently consists of the University of Waterloo, the Elora Centre for Environmental Excellence, the Cities of Waterloo and Cambridge, and the Regional Municipality of Waterloo. He suggested that the Committee consider endorsement, promotion and financial support in the amount of $5,000.00 of the project. Councillor T. Galloway questioned how the program was monitored following inspection to determine what, if any, improvements a homeowner had chosen to undertake. Mr. P. Parker advised that a further audit would be undertaken by University students who will be asking homeowners to look at their utility bills for a certain period of time following improvements to monitor cost savings and, in addition, a survey phone call will be made after one year. He further advised that, where significant changes have been made, a free second evaluation will be provided to the homeowner. Councillor J. Haalboom enquired if evaluation had taken place on any older homes, circa 1870 to 1890, and where windows were a problem what had been suggested. Mr. Parker advised that when windows are found to be insufficient it is typically suggested that replacement take place; however, he noted that age of a home is not the only factor. In addition, he pointed out that any improvements made are entirely up to the homeowner and/or contractor as R.E.E.P. does not participate in the actual renovation. Councillor J. Haalboom questioned if the primary goal of the project was to promote energy ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES SEPTEMBER 97 1999 -27- CITY OF KITCHENER efficient windows and Mr. Parker responded that it was. RESIDENTIAL EMERGENCY EFFICIENCY PROJECT (R.E.E.P.), Cont'd Ms. B. Luckhardt questioned if specific areas, such as certain ages of homes or particular subdivisions, were targeted and Mr. Parker responded that the project does have statistics on an enumeration basis and is trying to work with the community through neighbourhood groups to make citizens aware of the program. He further stated that all homes, regardless of age, are welcome to be a part of the project. Councillor Jake Smola enquired if R.E.E.P. has a Home Page and Mr. Parker responded that the project does have a web site; however, at this time it contains only the application form. Mr. Parker stated that it is intended to improve on the web site so that more information will be available by the launch date of the program, which is October 1, 1999. Mr. K. Cenerelli questioned if financial support would be in the form of an operating grant and Mr. Parker responded that financial support would be utilized to hire a Bookings Coordinator who will accept phone calls and schedule evaluations. Councillor T. Galloway declared a pecuniary interest as he is employed by the University of Waterloo and abstained from any further discussion and voting with respect to this matter. Mr. H. Linseman suggested that the Committee recommend endorsement and promotion of the project and leave the decision with respect to financial support to Council. On motion by Mr. H. Linseman - it was resolved: "That the following recommendation of the Environmental Committee from its September 9, 1999 meeting be placed before the Finance and Administration Committee at its September 13, 1999 meeting for consideration and recommendation to City Council: 'That the Environmental Committee supports the joint request of the Elora Centre for Environmental Excellence and the University of Waterloo for endorsement by the City of Kitchener of the Residential Energy Efficiency Project (R. E. E. P.) and Kitchener promotional support of the project; and further, That the request for financial support of the project be referred to the September 13, 1999 meeting of the Finance and Administration Committee for consideration'." Councillor T. Galloway previously declared a pecuniary interest in this matter as he is employed by the University of Waterloo and did not vote. It was noted that this matter will be referred to the Finance and Administration Committee meeting of September 13, 1999, for further consideration. 3. ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES IN KITCHENER SCHOOLS Mr. T. Boutilier, Senior Planner, appeared as a delegation to present information respecting the Environmental Initiatives in Kitchener Schools Project which involved participation by 33 Kitchener schools. Mr. Boutilier advised that the project report had been jointly prepared by the Departments of Business & Planning Services and Parks and Recreation and also took this opportunity to extend appreciation to the Canada Trust Friends of The Environment Foundation for their continued financial support. Mr. Boutilier further advised that an additional 11 schools over and above the previous 22, had participated in this years project. Councillor Jake Smola commended staff on the success of this project and suggested that it be presented at a televised Council meeting. Mr. Boutilier agreed that this could be considered for some time in the Fall. Mr. K Cenerelli questioned how participation in the project was undertaken. In this regard, Mr. T. Boutilier advised that as part of the Communities in Bloom project staff undertook discussions with ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES SEPTEMBER 97 1999 -28- CITY OF KITCHENER school boards to determine what they could do. He stated that the schools had indicated ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES IN KITCHENER SCHOOLS, Cont'd they did not have an inventory of projects that had already been undertaken and this would be a beneficial tool for them. Accordingly, this project was undertaken on a voluntary basis and, in return, participating schools received a flag and certificate from the Mayor. Mr. T. Clancy advised that the Communities In Bloom Front Yard Project was being presented to City Council on September 20, 1999 and this project would fit in nicely at that time. As the September 20th Council meeting is televised, Mr. Clancy suggested that presentation of the Environmental Initiatives in Kitchener Schools Project also be presented at that time. Councillor T. Galloway also pointed out that the logo on the binder containing information on the project is that of the Friends of the Environment and questioned who actually published the information. Mr. Boutilier responded that he, in conjunction with marketing staff from the Parks and Recreation Department, published the information. In addition, Mr. Clancy advised that in future the City's Logo would be included on the publication. Following further discussion, it was agreed that Mr. Boutilier would approach the City Clerk to determine the feasibility of including presentation of this project on the September 20th Council agenda. 4. VISION & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN The Committee was in receipt of a report dated June 23, 1999 (BPS 99/101), from Ms. B. Newell, Senior Planner, outlining the process and budget requirements for provision of a Community Development Plan. Ms. B. Newell stated that the purpose of the plan was to enable future visioning of the community and to get citizens involved in working with the City to meet goals established within the plan. She advised that the Community Development Plan will be based on a Healthy City Model which attempts balance between social, environmental, economical and political community goals to achieve and promote a healthy city. Using a PowerPoint presentation, Ms. B. Newell outlined the objectives of the Plan which include development of a clear vision of all stakeholders; identification of actions needed to achieve the vision; determination of how these actions should be undertaken and what rolls/relationship should exist between the City, community and other stakeholders; and, determination of how each action should be monitored to achieve accountability and success. Ms. Newell then reviewed the Work Program, consisting of 8 phases and the timeframe in which it was to be undertaken. She noted that the program will include an extensive consultation process and a 2 day workshop to develop the plan will be conducted some time between October and December in which anyone who wishes to may participate. She advised that it is anticipated to present a Draft Plan to Council for approval by year's end. Ms. B. Newell stated that all Committees of Council are being approached for support of this project and, in this regard, invited the Environmental Committee to appoint two members to the Project Steering Committee. Ms. B. Luckhardt questioned if the timeline for this project was too tight and Ms. Newell responded that it was intended to keep a fast pace and that much of the front-end work had already been done. Councillor Jake Smola stated that the funding approved by Council for this project indicates a strong commitment and questioned what would be expected of members appointed to the Project Steering Committee in terms of time. Ms. B. Newell advised that appointees would attend approximately 1 meeting a month starting early in October. Mr. B. Stanley further pointed out that it was up to the Committee to determine how active they wish to be in the project and suggested that if 2 members were appointed to the Project Steering Committee these participants could report back to the Committee for further discussion. Ms. Newell also pointed out that staff are in the process of compiling more information with respect to the Work Program which she anticipated would be available within a two week period. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES SEPTEMBER 97 1999 -29- CITY OF KITCHENER = Councillor Jake Smola suggested that the additional information be provided for inclusion on the VISION & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN, Cont'd Committee's October meeting agenda for further consideration and Ms. Newell agreed. Councillor T. Galloway stated that, in the interim, Committee members should give thought to their willingness to be a representative on the Project Steering Committee. 5. EARTH DAY 2000 - STRATEGY & BUDGET REQUIREMENT Councillor Jake Smola stated that he had not had an opportunity to discuss this matter with the Environmental Study Group and wished to do so prior to consideration by this Committee. In this regard, Mr. B. Stanley advised that due to a number of staff changes the Study Group has lost 5 of its members and needs to be restructured. Accordingly, it was suggested that a meeting take place between Councillor Jake Smola, Mr. B. Stanley and Mr. T. Boutilier. Councillor J. Haalboom requested that any discussion include the Great Tree Hunt and Mr. Stanley agreed. Mr. K. Cenerelli also stated that, as Earth Day 2000 is scheduled to be on a Saturday and it is the millennium year, consideration should be given to enhancing the days events. 6. ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AWARDS PROGRAM - FOLLOW-UP Mr. B. Stanley advised that the Environmental Sustainability Awards Ceremony had been held on June 2, 1999 and, given the timeframe of approximately 4 1/2 months to put the program together, had gone quite well. He advised that the first formal follow-up meeting was to take place at the end of the week and stated that he wished to wait until after this meeting to provide an update to the Committee. By general consent, it was agreed to place this matter on the October 7, 1999 meeting agenda. 7. Hr PLAN DESIGN SYMPOSIUM - STATUS UPDATE Mr. B. Stanley advised that this project has been impacted by Mr. C. Ford leaving the City for employment in the private sector. He pointed out that a replacement for this position, which requires a qualified engineer, has not yet been found. Consequently, he advised that Mr. James Moore, who is also a primary participant in the Symposium project, is not available as he has had to assume many of the duties of the vacant position until such time as it is filled. Accordingly, Mr. Stanley stated that as staff resources are not available, the H2 Design Symposium will not be ready to proceed in May 2000 as planned. He advised that staff are still exploring the possibility of holding a Symposium in future. Councillor Jake Smola questioned if it was a matter of gapping taking place and if Council could do anything to help. In this regard, Mr. B. Stanley advised that the vacant position has been advertised but it is very difficult to acquire qualified engineers and until such time as the position is filled, it would not be possible to proceed with the symposium. 8. WESTMOUNT ROAD/GLASGOW STREET ROAD WIDENING - UPDATE Ms. B. Luckhardt advised that a meeting will take place at the Regional Municipality of Waterloo headquarters on September 22, 1999, commencing at approximately 7:00 p.m. with respect to the widening project for Westmount Road and Glasgow Street. Councillor Jake Smola stated that the Environmental Committee had passed a resolution requesting the Region to approve an alternative that would have the least impact on the existing trees along this stretch of roadway and questioned if the meeting would be publicly advertised. Mr. B. Stanley advised that the normal process was to publicize such meetings. Councillor T. Galloway stated that this matter would be presented to the Regional Engineering Committee and they would be making a recommendation to Regional Council on the actual preferred alternative. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES SEPTEMBER 97 1999 -30- CITY OF KITCHENER 9. DOCUMENTARY - LONGPOINT Mr. H. Linseman advised that a documentary had been televised recently on the Learning Channel with respect to the Longpoint area toured by the Environmental Committee on June 2, 1999. He advised that the area had been monitored over a 24 hour period in which 146 different species of birds had been sighted. 10. TORONTO STAR - DISTRIBUTION OF SUNDAY PAPER Councillor T. Galloway stated that the Toronto Star had recently decided to distribute its Sunday paper in the Kitchener-Waterloo area and he had received citizen complaints who felt it was not necessary. In this regard, he suggested that the Committee may wish to consider this matter in terms of recycling. He pointed out that it is planned to distribute approximately 65,000 copies and that it has been estimated to cost approximately $91,000.00 to recycle them. Councillor Galloway stated that he has requested a report be brought to the Regional Engineering Committee but had also wished to bring it to this Committee's attention. Mr. K. Cenerelli pointed out that the concerns raised may well be from people who are not currently buying Sunday newspapers and that it should be taken into consideration that those who are currently buying Sunday papers may decide to replace smaller papers with the Toronto Star. He further advised that citizens have the right to refuse to buy a Sunday newspaper. Councillor T. Galloway suggested that the right to refuse to buy a Sunday newspaper should be part of any marketing promotion of such papers. Councillor J. Smola referred to the report requested for the Regional Engineering Committee and suggested that Councillor Galloway provide this report to the Secretary of the Committee for placement on the October meeting agenda as an information item. Ms. B. Luckhardt suggested that, in addition to Sunday newspapers, the issue of flyers should also be considered and pointed out that if homeowners refuse to receive flyers it is the distributor who then has to recycle whatever is left over. Councillor Jake Smola suggested that a similar system should be in place for newspapers so that the cost of recycling is put back on to the distributor. 11. OPEN HOUSE - DRIVE-THRU FACILITIES Councillor J. Haalboom advised that a series of open houses will take place in the near future with respect to drive-thru facilities and suggested that this Committee should consider development of an idling policy. Mr. B. Stanley stated that an open house will be held on September 15th for the purpose of allowing neighbourhood associations to present their concerns with respect to drive-thru facilities and an additional open house will be held on September 17th to allow the industry to present their issues. Following these open houses, he advised that the responses will be brought back to the Planning and Economic Development Committee in October. Councillor J. Haalboom stated that the industry has complained about the public process and questioned if the process being utilized was any different from any other public process. Mr. B. Stanley responded that this process was no different and that the industry's main concern was that insufficient time was not being given to consider all the issues. Mr. Stanley advised that the industry has been made aware of the City's intentions from the outset and has been given every opportunity to participate. He noted that staff are of the opinion that the consultation time has been adequate and, if it is deemed necessary, further consultation will take place. He also pointed out that there are other issues aside from idling that need to be considered such as noise and traffic issues. Mr. T. Galloway stated that he has read the correspondence from the industry and was of the opinion that staff have not treated this public process any differently. He advised that staff have been directed to review the existing bylaws and recommend changes and the changes have been circulated to all stakeholders. In addition, he advised that through the Regional ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MINUTES SEPTEMBER 97 1999 -31- CITY OF KITCHENER 11. Master Transportation Plan it is intended to reduce the number of automobile trips by 7%. He OPEN HOUSE - DRIVE-THRU FACILITIES, Cont'd advised that drive-thrus tend to make society auto dependent and, in most cases, produce 60% of the business. He stated that on average the idling time to obtain a cup of coffee through a drive-thru facility is 7 minutes. Councillor Jake Smola suggested that this Committee consider reviewing the pros and cons of drive-thru facilities. Councillor J. Haalboom also pointed out that idling restrictions are in place in Toronto and San Francisco where idling cannot take place from more than 5 minutes at a time and suggested that the Committee consider implementing idling restrictions. Following further discussion, it was agreed that this matter would be placed on the Committee's meeting agenda for October 7, 1999. 12. ADJOURNMENT On motion, the meeting adjourned at 5:50 p.m. J. Billett, AMCT Committee Administrator