HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Minutes - 2025-08-25Council Meeting Minutes
August 25, 2025, 7:00 p.m.
Council Chambers - Hybrid
City of Kitchener
200 King Street W, Kitchener, ON N2G 4G7
Present: Mayor B. Vrbanovic
Councillor S. Davey
Councillor D. Schnider
Councillor J. Deneault (virtually)
Councillor C. Michaud
Councillor A. Owodunni
Councillor P. Singh
Councillor B. loannidis
Councillor M. Johnston
Councillor D. Chapman
Councillor S. Stretch (virtually)
Staff: D. Chapman, Chief Administrative Officer
M. May, General Manager, Community Services and Deputy
Chief Administrator
J. Readman, General Manager, Development Services
J. Lautenbach, Chief Financial Officer, Financial Services
D. McGoldrick, General Manager, Infrastructure Services
L. MacDonald, City Solicitor
G. Stevenson, Director, Development & Housing Approvals
R. Bustamante, Director, Planning & Housing Policy/City Planner
J. Miller, Director, Corporate Customer Service
N. Goss, Manager, Policy & Research
D. Saunderson, Deputy Clerk
A. Clark, Senior Urban Designer
M. Mills, Committee Coordinator
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6. COMMENCEMENT
The meeting began with a Land Acknowledgement given by the Mayor and the
singing of "O Canada."
2. MINUTES FOR APPROVAL
On motion by Councillor S. Stretch the minutes of the regular meeting held June
23, 2025, and special meetings held June 23 and August 11, 2025 as mailed to
the Mayor and Councillors, were accepted.
3. DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST AND THE GENERAL NATURE
THEREOF
3.1 Councillor C. Michaud — Official Plan Amendment Application
OPA25/005/F/AP, Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/001/F/AP,
132 Fairway Road North, Maxwell Building Consultants Ltd., DSD -2025-310,
listed as Item 7.3.d
Councillor C. Michaud declared a conflict with regard to Official Plan Amendment
Application OPA25/005/F/AP, Zoning By-law Amendment Application
ZBA25/001/F/AP, 132 Fairway Road North, Maxwell Building Consultants Ltd.,
DSD -2025-310, due to her place of employment, and did not participate in any
voting or discussion on the matter.
4. COMMUNICATIONS REFERRED TO FILE — NIL
5. PRESENTATIONS
5.1 Award Presentations
5.1.a Growing Together Awards
Adam Clarke, Senior Urban Designer, highlighted the 2025 CNU Charter Award
by the Congress of New Urbanism and 2025 Canadian Award for Planning
Excellence by the Canadian Institute of Planners which were received for work
related to the Growing Together, a project which resulted in an updated the
planning framework for the Major Transit Station Areas within the City.
5.1.b City Hall Service Centre — 2025 Peter J. Marshall Innovation Award by the
Association of Municipalities of Ontario
Mayor B. Vrbanovic acknowledged the City Hall Service Centre, which received
the 2025 Peter J. Marshall Innovation Award by the Association of Municipalities
of Ontario.
5.2 Strategic Plan 2023-2026 — Compass Kitchener 2024 Report Card, CAO -
2025 -366, listed as item 11.2.a
Rodney Gill and Judy Stephen Wells, Compass Kitchener, presented the 2024
Compass Kitchener Citizen's report card, noting the overall goal of the 2024
report card was focused on evaluating two strategic actions completed in 2024:
Accelerating Commercial Business Approvals and Advancing Truth and
Reconciliation; as well as, reflecting on the development and implementation of
the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan and providing feedback and recommendations to
inform future planning. J. Stephen Wells provided an overview of the evaluation
approach that was undertaken, sharing the rating criteria and evaluation scale. R.
Gill noted for the Accelerated Commercial Business Approvals the results
exceeded expectations, noting the Committee did have one key recommendation
to consider expanding the program beyond the downtown core and engage
equity -seeking business communities. In regards to Advancing Truth &
Reconciliation, it was noted that action also exceeded expectations, the
Committee's key recommendation was to continue to embed Truth &
Reconciliation across all departments and communicate progress in ways that
elevate Indigenous leadership. J. Stephen Wells shared some reflections on the
implementation of the Strategic Plan, provided an update on the projects from the
2019-22 Strategic Plan that were reviewed and finalized the presentation with
key themes observed and closing remarks. R. Gill, J. Stephen Wells and Dan
Chapman, Chief Administrative Officer then responded to questions from Council.
Councillor P. Singh left the meeting at this time.
6. DELEGATIONS
6.1 Official Plan Amendment Application OPA25/005/F/AP, Zoning By-law
Amendment Application ZBA25/001/F/AP, 132 Fairway Road North, Maxwell
Building Consultants Ltd., DSD -2025-310, listed as Item 7.3.d
Councillor C. Michaud declared a conflict on this item. (Councillor C. Michaud
declared a conflict with regard to Official Plan Amendment Application
OPA25/005/F/AP, Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/001/F/AP, 132
Fairway Road North, Maxwell Building Consultants Ltd., DSD -2025-310, due to
her place of employment, and did not participate in any voting or discussion on
the matter.)
Council considered Official Plan Amendment Application OPA25/005/F/AP,
Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/001/F/AP, 132 Fairway Road
North, Maxwell Building Consultants Ltd., DSD -2025-310, listed as Item 7.3.d on
the agenda this date.
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Jenna Wenzel, GSP Group and Peter Maxwell, were in attendance in support of
the subject application.
Moved by Councillor D. Chapman
Seconded by Councillor B. loannidis
"That Official Plan Amendment Application OPA25/005/F/AP for Maxwell
Building Consultants Ltd. for the property municipally addressed as 132
Fairway Road North, requesting to add Specific Policy Area 83 to permit a
multiple dwelling with a Floor Space Ratio of 1.33 on the parcel of land
specified and illustrated on Schedule `A', be approved, in the form shown
in the Official Plan Amendment attached to Development Services
Department report, DSD -2025-310 as Attachment `A'; and,
That Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA2/011/F/AP for Maxwell
Building Consultants Ltd. for the property municipally address as 132
Fairway Road North, be approved in the form shown in the Proposed By-
law and Map No. 1 attached to Report DSD -2025-310 as Attachment `B';
and further,
That the Revised Urban Design Brief, prepared by GSP Group Inc., dated
July 2025, attached as Attachment `C' to report DSD -2025-310, be
endorsed, and that staff be directed to implement the Revised Urban
Design Brief through a future Site Plan Application Approval process and,
at the discretion of the City's Director of Development and Housing
Approvals, significant changes to the Revised Urban Design Brief will be
to the satisfaction of Council."
Carried
6.2 Heritage Permit Application HPA-2025-015 and HPA-2025-016 - 11 Roy
Street and 68 Queen Street North, DSD -2025-324. listed as item 7.1.a
Heritage Permit Application HPA-2025-015 and HPA-2025-016 - 11 Roy Street
and 68 Queen Street North, DSD -2025-324. listed as item 7.1.a on the agenda
this date. Council was also in receipt of written submissions from St. Peters
Church, St. Andrews Church, Hal Jaeger and the ACO North Waterloo Region
Branch related to the subject Heritage Permit Application.
Dan Currie, MHBC Planning, Steve Burrows, Facet Design Studio and Robert
Fewster, addressed Council in support of the subject applications, expressing
opposition to the staff recommendation to refuse the demolition, noting approval
of the Heritage Permit Applications would allow for the redevelopment of the
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subject properties for a assisted living residence. In response to questions, S.
Burrows noted consideration was not given to saving the one dwelling facade
due the costs associated and the dwellings location. D. Currie then responded to
questions from Council related to the Heritage Permit Application approval
process. S. Burrows further advised the entire development process is
anticipated to take 4 years, which would include facility opening.
Councillor M. Johnston left and re-entered the meeting at this time.
Tim Welch, consultant for the applicant, responded to questions from Council
related to affordability of the units and eligibility criteria for future tenants.
Councillors A. Owodunni, S. Davey and B. loannidis left meeting at this time.
Councillors S. Davey, A. Owodunni and B. loannidis re-entered the meeting at
this time.
Judy Hight, Andrew McVicar, Christina Hall, Developmental Services Ontario and
Lisa Reitzel, Elmira District Community Living addressed Council in opposition to
the recommendation to refuse the Heritage Permit Application. Support was
expressed for the proposed supportive living residence and the benefit that the
housing would provide to the community.
Councillor P. Singh re-entered the meeting at this time.
Hal Jaeger spoke in support of the proposal to allow the redevelopment of St
Andrews Church, but noted he would like to see greater efforts from the property
owner to try to conserve the heritage resources.
Marg Rowell, ACO North Waterloo Region Branch, addressed Council in support
of the staff recommendation, noting as a suggestion that the plan for affordable
housing be made in a way that saves the heritage resources within the Civic
Centre Heritage Conservation District (CCHCD), as per several legal
requirements. M. Rowell suggested where possible the City should try to save
the house on Queen Street and try to incorporate it into the new development.
Garett Stevenson, Director, Development & Housing Approvals, was in
attendance to respond to questions from Council. G. Stevenson spoke to
Council's ability to approve the Heritage Permit Applications, noting legislation
does speak to the ability to demolish where a proposal may result in a greater
good for the Community. In response to further questions, G. Stevenson stated if
it was Council's will to approve the Heritage Permit Applications, staff does
recommend approval with conditions to ensure that if the project was not able to
proceed it would prohibit demolition of the heritage resources. In response to
further questions, if a conditional approval occurs, staff would then have
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delegated authority to proceed in negotiating future preservation opportunities
with the dwellings and what overall commemoration would look like.
Councillor P. Singh left and re-entered the meeting at this time.
Moved by Councillor S. Stretch
Seconded by Councillor A. Owodunni
"That pursuant to Section 42 of the Ontario Heritage Act, the Heritage
Permit Applications HPA-2025-V-015 and HPA-2025-V-016 be approved
to permit the demolition of the existing buildings located a 11 Roy Street
and 68 Queen Street North, subject to the following conditions
1. That prior to final approval of HPA-2025-V-015 and HPA-2025-V-016, a
Documentation and Salvage Plan be prepared by a qualified heritage
consultant, and to the standards of a provided terms of reference, to
be approved by the Director of Development and Housing Approvals,
2. That prior to final approval of HPA-2025-V-015 and HPA-2025-V-016,
that a Commemoration Plan be prepared by a qualified heritage
consultant and to the standards of a provided terms of reference, to be
approved by the Director of Development and Housing Approvals,
3. That prior to final approval of HPA-2025-V-015 and HPA-2025-V-016,
the Owner applies for a building permit for the demolition of 11 Roy
Street and 68 Queen Street North, as well as a building permit for new
construction, and
4. That prior to final approval of HPA-2025-V-015 and HPA-2025-V-016,
the Owner execute a registered Section 41 Development Agreement
containing clauses which outline the timing, implementation,
responsibilities, required securities, and any associated additional
conditions for the implementation of the approved Commemoration
Plan and the approved Documentation and Salvage Plan."
Carried, unanimously on a recorded vote
6.3 Recess and Reconvene
The Council meeting when recessed at 9:56 p.m. and reconvened at 10:05 p.m.,
chaired by Mayor B. Vrbanovic, with all members present except Councillor S.
Stretch.
6.4 Notice of Motion - D. Chapman - Responsible Growth and Opposition to
Elements of Bill 5, listed as item 9.5
n.
Council considered a Notice of Motion, brought forward by Councillor D.
Chapman, related to Bill 5 - Provincial Legislation entitled Responsible Growth
and Opposition to Elements of Bill 5, which was listed on the agenda this date as
item 9.5. Council was also in receipt of written submissions from Chantal Stieler,
Sue Savor, Hal Jaeger, Peggy Nickels and Jenna Quinn in support of the Notice
of Motion.
Alex Latte, Waterloo Region Climate Collaborative, Kim Charlesworth, Hal
Jaeger and Peggy Nickels addressed Council in support of the Notice of Motion.
Councillor A. Owodunni left the meeting at this time.
Dan Chapman, Chief Administrative Officer, responded to questions from
Council.
Councillor A. Owodunni re-entered the meeting at this time.
6.5 Council proceedings to continue beyond 11:00 p.m.
Moved by Councillor B. loannidis
Seconded by Councillor C. Michaud
"That pursuant to Section 25.9.2 of Chapter 25 (Council Procedure) of the
Municipal Code, the Council proceedings this date shall be allowed to
continue beyond 11:00 p.m. to conclude matters as listed on the agenda."
Carried
6.6 Notice of Motion - D. Chapman - Responsible Growth and Opposition to
Elements of Bill 5, listed as item 9.5 (Cont'd)
Councillor D. Chapman brought forward the Notice of Motion related to Bill 5 as
listed on the agenda this date, which was seconded by Councillor C. Michaud.
Councillor Chapman's motion was then voted on and was LOST on a recorded
vote, with Councillors D. Chapman and J. Deneault voting in favour; and, Mayor
B. Vrbanovic and Councillors C. Michaud, B. loannidis, M. Johnston, P. Singh, S.
Davey, D. Schnider and A. Owodunni voting in opposition.
Councillor P. Singh brought forward the following motion, which was seconded by
Councillor B. loannidis.
Moved by Councillor P. Singh
Seconded by Councillor B. loannidis
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"WHEREAS the Government of Ontario has enacted Bill 5: Protecting
Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025, which proposes
substantial changes to environmental planning frameworks, including
replacing the Endangered Species Act, and the creation of Special
Economic Zones (SEZs) that may override local planning authority and
environmental oversight; and,
WHEREAS the City of Kitchener is a key partner in advancing Ontario's
economic prosperity and is committed to working collaboratively with the
province to unlock new economic opportunities in response to shifting
global trade dynamics, while emphasizing the importance of balancing
growth with environmental protection and responsible development; and,
WHEREAS the City of Kitchener has taken proactive steps to streamline
development processes while upholding environmental responsibility and
public accountability; and,
WHEREAS Bill 5 may pose unintended challenges with SEZs, Kitchener
recognizes that if used effectively, SEZs can boost economic growth. For
successful results, the Province of Ontario must involve municipalities in
the establishment of SEZs; and,
WHEREAS the Province of Ontario has implemented a municipal support
requirement in its approach to long-term electricity procurements in
Ontario, which involves pre -consultation and obtaining an expression of
local support prior to advancing a project;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Kitchener Council:
1. Support AMO's position related to Bill 5 that calls on the Province of
Ontario to:
■ Commit to respecting municipal autonomy by legislating that
SEZs within municipal borders require a supportive resolution
from the host municipality and a commitment to ongoing
collaboration.
■ Include municipalities in the development of a regulatory
framework to implement SEZs including provisions that prohibit
SEZs from exempting projects from municipal by-laws that
impact municipal revenue or plan for/coordinate municipal
growth.
■ Ensure that Bill 5, and any regulations that it would enable, are
designed to be used in a balanced way that ensures the
ongoing protection of species -at -risk, natural habitats, and
environmental areas.
■ Fulfill its legal Indigenous consultation obligations through a
robust Duty to Consult process and to engage in good -faith
dialogue as it implements new, innovation approaches to
supporting our economy, including with SEZs.
2. Directs that a copy of this resolution be sent to:
■ The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario;
■ The Honourable Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and
Housing;
■ The Honourable Todd J. McCarthy, Minister of the Environment,
Conservation and Parks;
■ The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO);
■ The Ontario Big City Mayors (OBCM)."
In Favour (10): Mayor B. Vrbanovic, Councillor S.
Davey, Councillor D. Schnider, Councillor J. Deneault,
Councillor C. Michaud, Councillor A. Owodunni,
Councillor P. Singh, Councillor B. loannidis, Councillor
M. Johnston, and Councillor D. Chapman
Carried, unanimously on a recorded vote (10 to 0)
7. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES
7.1 HERITAGE KITCHENER -AUGUST 5, 2025
Moved by Councillor D. Chapman
Seconded by Councillor C. Michaud
"That the report of Heritage Kitchener, dated August 5, 2025, listed as
items 7.1.b. to 7.1.e. on the agenda this date, be adopted."
Carried
7.1.a Heritage Permit Application HPA-2025-015 and HPA-2025-016 - 11 Roy Street
and 68 Queen Street North, DSD -2025-324
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Carried, as amended, under Delegations
7.1.b Notice of Intention to Designate 14 Irvin Street Under Part IV of the Ontario
Heritage Act, DSD -2025-279
"That pursuant to Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act, the Clerk be
directed to publish a Notice of Intention to Designate the property
municipally addressed as 14 Irvin Street as being of cultural heritage
value or interest, as outlined in Development Services Department report,
DSD -2025-284."
Carried
7.1.c Notice of Intention to Designate 18 Irvin Street under Part IV of the Ontario
Heritage Act, DSD -2025-284
"That pursuant to Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act, the Clerk be
directed to publish a Notice of Intention to Designate the property
municipally addressed as 18 Irvin Street as being of cultural heritage
value or interest, as outlined in Development Services Department report,
DSD -2025-284."
Carried
7.1.d Notice of Intention to Designate 2219 Ottawa Street South & 808 Bleams Road
under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, DSD -2025-243
"That pursuant to Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act, the Clerk be
directed to publish a Notice of Intention to Designate property described
as Part 1 of Lot 129 German Company Tract within a submitted draft
Reference Plan, and currently municipally addressed as 2219 Ottawa
Street South / 808 Bleams Road as being of cultural heritage value or
interest, as outlined in Development Services Department report, DSD -
2025 -243."
Carried
7.1.e Notice of Intention to Designate 35 Roos Street under Part IV of the Ontario
Heritage Act, DSD -2025-302
"That pursuant to Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act, the Clerk be
directed to publish a Notice of Intention to Designate the property
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municipally addressed as 35 Roos Street as being of cultural heritage
value or interest, as outlined in Development Services Department report,
DSD -2025-302."
Carried
7.2 FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE -AUGUST 11, 2024
Moved by Councillor S. Davey
Seconded by Councillor B. loannidis
"That the report of the Finance and Corporate Services Committee, dated
August 11, 2025, listed as items 7.2.a to 7.2.d on the agenda this date, be
adopted."
Carried
7.2.a Idlewood Greenway, INS -2025-321
"That 2026 funding of $5.36M be reallocated from the Middle Strasburg
Naturalization project to the Idlewood Greenway project, as outlined in
Infrastructure Services Department report INS -2025-321; and further,
That the Idlewood Greenway funding in 2026 be preapproved for tender in
2025."
Carried
7.2.b Property Tax Exemption for Affordable Housing - Union Co-operative, FIN -2025-
323
"That the draft by-law attached to report Financial Services Department
report FIN -2025-323 as Appendix "A", allowing units qualifying as a
Municipal Housing Project Facility (as defined in By-law 2024-152) located
at 475-477 Lancaster Street West to participate in the Regional
Municipality of Waterloo's Municipal Housing Facility Property Tax
Exemption program and therefore exempting them from the City's portion
of the property tax levy, be approved."
Carried
7.2.c Strategic Plan Check-in Report - Insights and Adjustments at the Midway Mark,
CAO -2025-312
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"That the following adjustments be made to initiatives contained within the
2023-2026 Strategic Plan as outlined in the jointly authored report
between the City of Kitchener and KerrSmith Design, titled Kitchener's
Strategic Plan Check-in: Insights and Adjustments at the Midway Mark,
dated July 24, 2025 and attached to Chief Administrative Officers report
CAO -2025-312:
(1) Sport and Recreation Master Plan,
(2) City -led Recreation & Leisure Program Review be referred and
revisited as part of the development of the 2027-2030 Strategic Plan,
(3) Make it Kitchener 2.0 Scoped Refresh — Supporting Economic
Resiliency,
(4) Implementation of the Downtown Safety & Security Action Plan be
added; and further,
That staff be directed to take the following actions aimed at addressing
additional strategic plan midway check-in insights, including:
(1) further exploring the theme of social resilience,
(2) supporting innovative and cost-effective service delivery through
targeted Lean training and prioritized Innovation Lab projects, and
(3) improving strategic goal reporting via refined indicators."
Carried
7.2.d Kitchener Indoor Recreation Facility Public Artwork Commission, DSD -2025-263
"That the commission and installation of a new artwork "Gidinawendimin"
by Jackie Traverse, at the City of Kitchener's new indoor recreation
complex at RBJ Schlegel Park, be approved, as outlined in the
Development Services Department report DSD -2025-263; and further,
That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to implement an agreement,
satisfactory to the City Solicitor, with the artists' representative, Highness
Global Inc., outlining the obligations of the facility public art commission."
Carried
7.3 PLANNING AND STRATEGIC INITIATIVES COMMITTEE -AUGUST 11, 2025
Councillor P. Singh left the meeting at this time.
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A motion was brought forward by Councillor D. Chapman, which was seconded
by Councillor A. Owodunni to approve the balance of the Planning and Strategic
Initiatives Committee, dated August 11, 2025.
Councillor P. Singh returned to the meeting at this time.
Moved by Councillor D. Chapman
Seconded by Councillor A. Owodunni
"That the report of the Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee, dated
August 11, 2025, listed as items 7.3.a to 7.3.c and 7.3.e to 7.3.f on the
agenda this date, be adopted."
Carried
7.3.a Private Street Naming — 15 - 105 Mooregate Crescent, DSD -2025-325
"That the City of Kitchener acknowledge that the Regional Municipality of
Waterloo intends to name a private street: 'Mooregate Way' within a
multiple residential development located at 15 - 105 Mooregate Crescent,
as shown in Attachment 'D' of Development Services Department report,
DSD -2025-325; and further,
That the City's Legal Services Division be directed to proceed with the
required advertising, preparation, and registration of the necessary By-law
for the naming of 'Mooregate Way'."
Carried
7.3.b Draft Plan of Subdivision Modification Application (Stage 4, 30T-08204), Official
Plan Amendment Application OPA24/015/T/AP, Zoning By-law Amendment
Application ZBA24/010/T/AP, 468 Trussler Road, Activa Holdings Inc., DSD -
2025 -039
"That the City of Kitchener, pursuant to Section 51 (44) of the Planning Act
R.S.O. 1990, Chapter P 13, as amended, modify the conditions of draft
approval for Draft Plan of Subdivision Application 30T-08204, in the City of
Kitchener, for Activa Holdings Inc., for the property municipally addressed
as 468 Trussler Road, in the form shown in the Third Modification to
Conditions of Draft Approval, attached to Development Services
Department report, DSD -2025-039 as Attachment 'A; and,
That Official Plan Amendment Application OPA24/015/T/AP for Activa
Holdings Inc. be approved, in the form shown in the Official Plan
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Amendment attached to Report DSD -2025-039 as Attachment `B'; and
further,
That Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA24/010/T/AP for Activa
Holdings Inc. be approved in the form shown in the Proposed By-law and
Map No. 1, attached to Report DSD -2025-039 as Attachment `C'."
Carried
7.3.c Official Plan Amendment Application OPA25/004/L/BB, Zoning By-law
Amendment Application ZBA25/009/L/BB, Block 1, 58A-711 - Sandra Springs
Subdivision, 2597316 Ontario Corp., DSD -2025-286
"That Official Plan Amendment Application OPA25/004/L/BB for 2597316
Ontario Corp. requesting to change the Land Use on Map 3 from `Mixed
Use' to `Low Rise Residential', for Block 1, 58A-711 - Sandra Springs
Subdivision, be approved, in the form shown in the Official Plan
Amendment attached to Development Services Department report, DSD -
2025 -286 as Attachments 'Al', and `A2'; and further,
That Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/009/L/BB to change
the zoning from `MIX -1' to 'RES -5' be approved in the form shown in the
`Proposed By-law', and 'Map No. 1', attached to Report DSD -2025-286 as
Attachments `131' and `132'."
Carried
7.3.d Official Plan Amendment Application OPA25/005/F/AP, Zoning By-law
Amendment Application ZBA25/001/F/AP, 132 Fairway Road North, Maxwell
Building Consultants Ltd., DSD -2025-310
Carried, under Delegations
7.3.e Kitchener 2051 - Preferred Growth Scenario, DSD -2025-318
"That the Preferred Approach to Growth as presented in Development
Services Department report, DSD -2025-318 be used to inform the
development of a draft Official Plan (Kitchener 2051)."
7.3.f Parkland Acquisition Strategy, DSD -2025-331
Carried
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"That staff be directed to develop a Parkland Acquisition Strategy and
report back to Council prior to March 31, 2026, as outlined in
Development Services Department report, DSD -2025-331; and further,
That staff be directed to identify government owned properties of interest
in each ward for repurpose to potentially address parkland deficits in
identified Critical Needs Areas and circulate this data to Council prior to
the end of 2025."
Carried
8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS - NIL
9. NEW BUSINESS
9.1 - MAYORAL BUSINESS AND UPDATES - MAYOR B. VRBANOVIC
Mayor B. Vrbanovic noted for information that the deadline for residents to
request a small garbage bin from the Region of Waterloo is September 6, 2025.
9.2 Notice of Motion - M. Johnston - Dog Designation Process Enhancements
Councillor M. Johnston brought forward a motion, which was seconded by
Councillor C. Michaud, related to the Dog Designation process enhancements.
Councillor S. Davey requested that when staff provide the follow up report, can
the report related to the Committee's composition be included as an attachment.
Moved by Councillor M. Johnston
Seconded by Councillor C. Michaud
"WHEREAS the City of Kitchener Municipal Code ("the Code") Chapter
420 "Dog — Designations" provides for the designation of dogs as
"dangerous" and "prohibited" and Chapter 421 "Dog — Responsible
Ownership" provides for the role of the Animal Services Provider, the
Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth ("Humane
Society"); and,
WHEREAS the City contracts services to the Humane Society to respond
and investigate complaints of dog incidents, including issuing orders to
dog owners to designate dogs as "dangerous" and "prohibited"; and,
WHEREAS the dogs' owner may appeal the order to the Dog Designation
Appeal Committee, which has powers under Chapter 420 to affirm,
modify, substitute, or rescind the animal services provider's designation of
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the dog as potentially dangerous, dangerous, restricted, or prohibited, as
the case may be; and,
WHEREAS a number of serious dog incidents have recently come to the
attention of City Council;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the staff be directed to investigate and
report back by September 29, 2025 process enhancements including but
not limited to,
o Notification from By-law Enforcement Staff to the Ward Councillor,
Mayor, Office of Mayor and Council staff when the Humane Society
issues a "dangerous" or "prohibited" dog order,
o Periodic reports from By-law Enforcement staff to Council on actions
and investigations undertaken by the Humane Society to ensure
Owners of designated dogs are complying with the designation
requirements;
o Revising content on the city's website to clearly direct search inquiries
on reporting dangerous dogs to the Humane Society;
o Collaborating with the Humane Society on a process to share
permitted information once a complaint has been received, in
accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection
of Privacy Act; and,
o Legislative challenges with the Dog Owners Liability Act (DOLA) that
would improve the city's ability to obtain an interim order permitting the
Humane Society to hold a dog seized under a warrant in a pound until
the DOLA hearing."
Carried
9.3 Notice of Motion - S. Davey - Postage Advocacy
Councillor S. Davey brought forward a notice of motion related to postage
advocacy, as listed on the agenda this date, which was seconded by Councillor
P. Singh.
At the request of Councillor D. Chapman, Clause 3 related to the advocating for
municipalities abilities to establish fees for paper billing for new accounts that opt
for this method of delivery, be voted on separately and on a recorded vote.
W.
The balance of the motion, save and except for advocating for municipalities
abilities to establish fees for paper billing was voted on and was Carried
unanimously on a recorded vote.
Clause 3 related to advocating for municipalities abilities to establish fees for
paper billing was then voted on and was Carried on a recorded vote, with
Mayor B. Vrbanovic and Councillors C. Michaud, B. loannidis, M. Johnston, J.
Deneault, P. Singh, S. Davey, D. Schnider and A. Owodunni voting in favour; and,
Councillor D. Chapman voting in opposition.
Moved by Councillor S. Davey
Seconded by Councillor P. Singh
"WHEREAS Postage costs have seen significant increases, including
25% in 2025 alone,
WHEREAS paper billing has a further environmental cost in both materials
(trees) and transportation;
WHEREAS paper billing is increasingly being displaced by
environmentally friendly and cost-efficient e -billing;
WHEREAS the Municipal Act indicates the right to a paper bill, and cost -
recovery fees for paper billing for tax, and utility bills are unclear;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Kitchener City Council request the
Province of Ontario to amend the Municipal Act to permit municipalities
the ability to grandfather -out paper billing as the default option, and to
permit municipalities to establish fees for paper billing for new accounts
that opt for this method of delivery;
THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY BE RESOLVED that a copy of this motion
be sent to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, the Premier of
Ontario, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and housing, all other
municipalities within Ontario for their consideration and possible
endorsement."
Carried, on a recorded vote
9.4 Notice of Motion - D. Chapman - Responsible Growth and Opposition to
Elements of Bill 5
Carried, as amended, under Delegations
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9.5 Notice of Motion - P. Singh - Kitchener Connect Festival
Moved by Councillor P. Singh
Seconded by Councillor D. Schnider
"WHEREAS the City of Kitchener is committed to fostering a welcoming,
inclusive, and engaged community for all residents — both new and long-
standing; and,
WHEREAS the City has seen significant success in engaging members of
the community through the many events and festivals it organizes and
supports;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT as part of the Special Event &
Festival action plan which is being developed in 2025, staff be directed to
consider the addition of a new annual festival known as "Kitchener
Connect" which could include the following elements:
• Showcase City Services: Provide information booths and interactive
sessions with representatives from various City departments (e.g.,
Planning, Parks, Bylaw, and others) to answer questions and distribute
resources.
• Support Local Not -for -Profit Organizations: Offer exhibition space for
local organizations to highlight their services, recruit volunteers, and
engage with residents.
• Promote Volunteerism: Host a volunteer fair to connect residents with
opportunities to contribute to the community and support local causes.
• Deliver Interactive Learning Experiences: Include workshops,
presentations, and hands-on activities related to City initiatives,
bylaws, and strategic plans to enhance residents' understanding of
local governance.
• Foster Community Connection: Create a lively and inclusive
atmosphere with entertainment, cultural performances, food vendors,
and activities for all age groups to encourage engagement and
participation."
9.6 Waive Notice
Carried
19
It was requested to waive notice to add an additional urgent Notice of Motion
from Councillor P. Singh related to utility and tax billing to the agenda this date.
To approve the additional item 2/3 of the Whole of Council is required.
Moved by Councillor P. Singh
Seconded by Councillor C. Michaud
"That pursuant to Section 25.11.6 of Chapter 25 (Council Procedure) of
the Municipal Code requirement to be waived to an additional Notice of
Motion from Councillor P. Singh to the Council meeting agenda this date
related to tax and utility billing.
Carried
9.7 Notice of Motion - P. Singh
Moved by Councillor P. Singh
Seconded by Councillor B. loannidis
"WHEREAS the City currently includes return envelopes with mailed
property tax and utility bills to facilitate customer payments;
WHEREAS eliminating return envelopes may result in cost savings and
environmental benefits through reduced paper usage and waste;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that staff be directed to review the
feasibility of discontinuing the inclusion of return envelopes in mailed
customer property tax and utility bills and report back on findings and
recommendations prior to the end of 2025."
Carried
10. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS -NIL
11. STAFF REPORTS
11.1 ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
11.1.a Notice of Intention to Designate 69 Agnes Street and Notice of Intention to
Designate 80-86 Union Boulevard/571 York Street under Part IV of the Ontario
Heritage Act, DSD -2025-363
Moved by Councillor D. Chapman
Seconded by Councillor B. loannidis
19
"That pursuant to Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act, the Clerk be
directed to publish a Notice of Intention to Designate the property
municipally addressed as 69 Agnes Street as being of cultural heritage
value or interest; and further,
That pursuant to Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act, the Clerk be
directed to publish a Notice of Intention to Designate the property
municipally addressed as 80-86 Union Boulevard/571 York Street as being
of cultural heritage value or interest."
Carried
11.2 FOR INFORMATION
11.2.a Strategic Plan 2023-2026 — Compass Kitchener 2024 Report Card, CAO -2025-
366
11.2.b Summary of Bid Solicitations Approved by the Chief Procurement Officer (Apr 1,
2025 — Jun 30, 2025), FIN -2025-307
11.2.c 2025 June Variance Report, FIN -2025-365
12. BY-LAWS
At the request of D. Saunderson, Manager, Council & Committee
Services/Deputy Clerk, now that the Reports of the Committees have been
formally approved, it was agreed to formally add the By-laws listed on the
agenda under the heading of Late Starters to the agenda for Council's
consideration.
12.1 THREE READINGS
Due to the previously declared conflict by Councillor C. Michaud, it was noted the
by-laws related to the Planning Applications for 132 Fairway Road North needed
to be voted on separately.
A motion was brought forward by Councillor B. loannidis, which was seconded by
Councillor A. Owodunni to approve the by-laws related to the Planning
Applications for 132 Fairway Road North, which was voted on and was Carried,
due to the previous declared conflict by Councillor C. Michaud she did not
participate in any voting or discussion of the By-laws.
Moved by Councillor D. Schnider
Seconded by Councillor M. Johnston
"That the by-laws be given third reading, namely:
20
12.1.a Being a by law to provide for the widening of part of Pinnacle Drive as a
public highway in the City of Kitchener.
(By-law 2025-086)
12.1.b Being a by-law to name a private road as Bridlewood Crescent, in the City
of Kitchener.
(By-law 2025-087)
12.1.c To further amend By-law No. 2019-113, being a by-law to regulate traffic
and parking on highways under the jurisdiction of the Corporation of the
City of Kitchener.
(By-law 2025-088)
12.1.d Being a by-law to designate the property municipally addressed as 241-
247 Duke Street West and 55 Victoria Street North, in the City of Kitchener
as being of historic and cultural heritage value or interest.
(By-law 2025-089)
12.1.e Being a by-law to designate the property municipally addressed as 1865
Huron Road, in the City of Kitchener as being of historic and cultural
heritage value or interest.
(By-law 2025-090)
12.1.f To further amend By-law No. 2010-190, being a by-law to prohibit
unauthorized parking of motor vehicles on private property.
(By-law 2025-091)
12.1.g To further amend By-law No. 2008-117, being a by-law to authorize certain
on -street and off-street parking of vehicles for use by persons with a
disability, and the issuing of permits in respect thereof.
(By-law 2025-092)
12.1.h To further amend By-law No. 88-171, being a by-law to designate private
roadways as fire routes and to prohibit parking thereon.
(By-law 2025-093)
12.1.1 Being a by-law to provide a property tax exemption for certain qualifying
Municipal Housing Project Facilities located at 475-477 Lancaster Street
West pursuant to section 110(9) of the Municipal Act, 2001.
(By-law 2025-094)
21
12.1J tieing a by-law to adopt Amendment No. 67 to the Official Plan - 468
Trussler (Road.
(y -law 2025-095)
12.1.k Being a by-law to amend Eby -law No. 2019-051, as amended, known as
the ZoningBy-law for the City of Kitchener _._ Activa holdings Inc. -- 466
Trussler load.
12.1.1 Being a Amendment No.
58M-711 - Sandra Springs Subdivision, Lackner/Keewatin.
12.1.rn Being a by-law to amend By-law 2019-051, as amended, known as the
ZoningBy-law for the City of Kitchener - WM. J. Gies Construction
Limited, Block 1, 58M-71 1, Sandra Springs Subdivision,
Lackner/Keewatin.
12.1.n Being a by-law to adopt Amendment leo. 66 to the Official Plan - 132
Fairway Road forth.
12,1.o Being a by-law to amend By-law 2019-051, as amended, known as the
Zoning By-law for the City of Kitchener — Maxwell Building Consultants
Ltd. —132 Fa I rway Road North.
13. ADJOURNMENT
On motion, the meeting adjourned at 11:46 p.m.
,
�,payor �,� Clerk
22