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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCommunity Svcs - 2001-10-15COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES OCTOBER 15, 2001CITY OF KITCHENER The Community Services Committee met this date, commencing at 4:00 p.m., with the following members present: Councillors G. Lorentz, J. Ziegler, J. Smola, C. Weylie and M. Galloway. Mayor C. Zehr and Councillor B. Vrbanovic were in attendance for part of the meeting. Officials Present:Ms. P. Houston, Ms. S. Adams, Ms. L. Zitzelberger, Ms. L. Eckel-Braun, Ms. J. Billett and Messrs. B. Pritchard, F. Pizzuto, K. Baulk, D. Daly, J. McBride, G. Melanson and D. Chapman. Ms. J. Billett, Committee Administrator, assumed the Chair for the purpose of appointing a Committee Chair and Vice-Chair. 1. APPOINTMENTS - COMMITTEE CHAIR AND VICE-CHAIR On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler – it was resolved: “That Councillor G. Lorentz be appointed Chair of the Community Services Committee for a term to expire November 30, 2002.” On motion by Councillor G. Lorentz – it was resolved: “That Councillor J. Smola be appointed Vice-Chair of the Community Services Committee for a term to expire November 30, 2002.” Councillor G. Lorentz then assumed the Chair. 2. CSD-01-179 -COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM GRANT PROPOSAL - CAMERON COMMUNITIES AND SCHOOLS PROJECT The Committee was in receipt of Community Services Department report CSD-01-179, dated October 5, 2001, recommending that a one-time grant in the amount of $14,500. be approved for the Cameron Communities and Schools Project. It was noted in the report that this organization serves the geographic area in southwest Kitchener and provides a comprehensive community support system for children and youth by linking schools, government, social services and other communities of interest. Mayor C. Zehr entered the meeting at this time. Ms. L. Silvester, Project Facilitator, appeared as a delegation in support of the staff recommendation. She provided an overview of the project’s first year of operation, noting that it was very successful. As Facilitator, Ms. Silvester pointed out that she had assumed a leadership role and with the assistance of the Planning and Advisory Committee and volunteers new breakfast, after-school, literacy and adult basic computer programs were developed and implemented. Leadership of these programs is now being assumed by members of the volunteer core. In addition, facilitators undertook a consultation process to assist in the design of an operational model to address identified obstacles for communities and schools. Ms. Silvester stated that in 2002 the organization plans to expand and stabilize programs, as well as work towards an infrastructure that will sustain the communities and schools model. It is the latter for which Council’s financial support is needed so that momentum can be maintained and partnerships necessary for sustainability can continue to be built upon. Accordingly, Ms. Silvester requested Council’s support for the staff recommendation. In response to Councillor G. Lorentz, Ms. S. Adams advised that in-kind services, such as staff support and use of Community Centres, is also provided. 3. CSD-01-179 -COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM GRANT COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES OCTOBER 15, 2001- 67 -CITY OF KITCHENER PROPOSAL - CAMERON COMMUNITIES AND SCHOOLS PROJECT (CONT’D) On motion by Mayor C. Zehr - it was resolved: “That a one-time grant be approved in the amount of $14,500. to the Cameron Communities and Schools Project to be funded by the Community Development Infrastructure Program.” 4. CSD-01-170 -BICYCLE LANES - BLOCK LINE ROAD -FROM HOMER WATSON BOULEVARD TO HANOVER STREET The Committee was in receipt of Community Services Department report CSD-01-170, dated September 28, 2001, recommending that on-street bicycle lanes be established on both sides of Block Line Road, from Homer Watson Boulevard to Hanover Street. It was pointed out in the report that an extension of Block Line Road was recently constructed to accommodate the continuing development in the area, including the new St. Mary’s High School, and establishment of the bicycle lanes is recommended for safety reasons. On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler – it was resolved: “That on-street bicycle lanes be established on both sides of Block Line Road, from Homer Watson Boulevard to Hanover Street; and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly.” 5. CSD-01-137-ON-STREET PARKING - VERONICA DRIVE The Committee was in receipt of Community Services Department report CSD-01-137, dated September 19, 2001, recommending that parking be prohibited at any time on the north-west side of Veronica Drive from a point 28 metres south of Bettina Place to a point 57 metres south-west thereof. In response to a request from an area resident to review the existing parking regulations on Veronica Drive and, in particular, through the curve, staff determined that parking along the curve reduces free flow of traffic, hampers the ingress / egress from driveways, and compromises the efficiency of emergency vehicles and snow removal in winter months. On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler – it was resolved: “That parking be prohibited at any time on the north-west side of Veronica Drive, from a point 28 metres south of Bettina Place to a point 57 metres south-west thereof; and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly.” 6. CSD-01-168 -SPEED CONTROL - HURON ROAD The Committee was in receipt of Community Services Department report CSD-01-168, dated September 25, 2001, recommending a speed limit of 60 km/h on Huron Road between Strasburg Road to Homer Watson Boulevard. It is noted in the report that the new, realigned, Huron Road is a four lane cross section designed to accommodate continuing residential and industrial development in the area and is a designated truck route. This new section of Huron Road has been designed as an urban undivided arterial with a design speed of 80 km/h; however, it is recommended that the speed limit be posted at 60 km/h, consistent with the older established section of Huron Road. In response to Councillor M. Galloway, Mr. J. McBride reviewed the criteria on which the recommended speed limit was based, noting that the design of the road, as well as traffic volume and patterns, were taken into consideration. He stated that a road design speed of 80 6. CSD-01-168 -SPEED CONTROL - HURON ROAD (CONT’D) km/h typically results in a posted speed limit of 60 km/h and will provide uniform traffic flow through COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES OCTOBER 15, 2001- 68 -CITY OF KITCHENER both the old and new sections of Huron Road. On motion by Councillor M. Galloway – it was resolved: “That the speed limit on Huron Road, between Strasburg Road and Homer Watson Boulevard, be established at 60 km/h; and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly.” 7. CSD-01-171-ON-STREET PARKING - SHIRLEY AVENUE The Committee was in receipt of Community Services Department report CSD-01-171, dated October 1, 2001, recommending that parking be prohibited on the west side of Shirley Avenue from a point 344 metres north of Riverbend Drive to the northerly limit. In response to a request from a local business to review the existing on-street parking regulations on Shirley Avenue, staff determined that parking on Shirley Avenue north of the existing parking prohibition hampers the ingress / egress from various area businesses, as well as reduces the required turning radius needed to exit these properties. On motion by Councillor J. Smola – it was resolved: “That parking be prohibited on the west side of Shirley Avenue, from a point 344 metres north of Riverbend Drive to the northerly limit; and further, That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly.” 8. CSD-01-172-REQUEST FOR PERMANENT POSITION - SUMMER PLAYGROUND PROGRAM SUPERVISOR The Committee was in receipt of Community Services Department report CSD-01-172, dated October 3, 2001, recommending that a permanent position for a Summer Playground Program Supervisor be approved, subject to the 2002 budget deliberations. It was noted in the report that the merging and centralization of summer programs has proven to be successful and a full-time supervisory position is being recommended to address the challenges of administering the program and to facilitate co-ordination, implementation and evaluation of a community consultation process for the purpose of developing alternative methods of program delivery. On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler – it was resolved: “That subject to the 2002 budget deliberations, a permanent position be approved for a Summer Playground Program Supervisor at a cost of $23,803. on an annualized basis.” At the request of Mayor C. Zehr, it was agreed that staff be directed to prepare a summary report outlining pre-budget commitments relative to new staff positions and that this report be tabled at the October 29, 2001 Finance and Corporate Services Committee meeting. 9. CSD-01-177-DOON SKATIUM 2002 - REQUEST FOR SUPPORT AND FUNDING The Committee was in receipt of Community Services Department report CSD-01-177, dated October 4, 2001, requesting financial support for the operation of the 2002 Doon Skatium. In response to Councillor J. Ziegler, Ms. L. Zitzelberger advised that the funding request is lower than in 2001 for several reasons, including a reduction in staff support and one-time costs accrued in 2001 that are not required in 2002. Mr. F. Pizzuto added that it is intended to fully evaluate last years program to determine methods of further reducing costs. 9. CSD-01-177-DOON SKATIUM 2002 - REQUEST FOR SUPPORT AND FUNDING (CONT’D) Councillor M. Galloway raised concerns with the initial operation of the park. Ms. Zitzelberger COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES OCTOBER 15, 2001- 69 -CITY OF KITCHENER acknowledged there have been a number of challenges during the first season and it is hoped to improve operations by evaluating and identifying areas of concern, and providing fully trained staff. Mayor C. Zehr commented that he was of the understanding this was to become a self- sustaining program and expressed concern at the potential for this program to become a permanent budget commitment. Ms. Zitzelberger pointed out that the funding request is being made ahead of evaluation and planning for next season to meet 2002 budget deadlines. She further noted that the funding request is an upper limit and staff hope to further reduce costs through sponsorships and fundraising, and by securing financial support from Neighbourhood Associations. At the suggestion of Mayor Zehr, it was agreed to revise the staff recommendation to provide for a maximum of $15,000., on the understanding that staff will continue to solicit sponsorships and fundraising opportunities to assist in off-setting costs. On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler – it was resolved: “That subject to the 2002 budget deliberations, funding be approved up to a maximum of $15,000. to operate Doon Skatium in 2002, with additional sponsorships and fundraising to be solicited to assist in off-setting operating costs.” Councillor B. Vrbanovic entered the meeting at this time. 10. CSD-01-167-CHRISTKINDL MARKET - GRANT REQUEST AND FUTURE FUNDING The Committee was in receipt of Community Services Department report CSD-01-167, dated October 2, 2001, requesting approval of a general provision grant in the amount of $12,000. for the 2001 Christkindl Market Festival. In addition, it is recommended the City assume responsibility for any operating surplus or deficit and that $10,000. be budgeted in the annual operating grant account for future Christkindl Markets. Councillor J. Ziegler commented that he was of the understanding that this festival was also to become self-sustaining. Mr. D. Chapman advised that this event has grown substantially and now requires year round organization and co-ordination. Volunteer organizers rely heavily on the assistance of staff to ensure smooth operation within City Hall and it is anticipated that the festival may suffer financially this year due to the loss of a major sponsor. In response to a question from Councillor M. Galloway, Mr. Chapman advised that the wages and fringe benefits outlined in the festival budget pertain to City staff, and in particular Facilities staff who assist in set-up and take down of this event. He further advised that the purpose of the grant request is to assist in off-setting in-kind services should a deficit occur. On motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic – it was resolved: “That a general provision grant be approved in the amount of $12,000. for the 2001 Christkindl Market Festival to be held December 6 to 9, 2001; and, That the City of Kitchener assume responsibility for any operating surplus or deficit resulting from the 2001 event; and further, That $10,000. be budgeted in the annual operating grant account for future Christkindl Markets.” 11. CSD-01-175-EXEMPTION FROM THE MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 210 (CEMETERIES) -WOODLAND CEMETERY The Committee was in receipt of Community Services Department report CSD-01-175, dated COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES OCTOBER 15, 2001- 70 -CITY OF KITCHENER October 3, 2001 requesting an exemption from Chapter 210 of the City’s Municipal Code (Cemeteries) with respect to a monument located at Woodland Cemetery. It is noted in the report that the monument contravenes the Cemetery By-law as the memorial inscription is on a bronze plaque attached to, rather than etched directly into, the stone and the back of the memorial is finished in a rock style rather than polished. Councillor J. Ziegler questioned why all cemetery monuments are required to be the same rather than allowing individual choices and, in particular, if an exemption is granted for this monument why the differences could not be incorporated as an option for everyone. Ms. L. Eckel-Braun pointed out that it is difficult to securely attach plaques to monuments and over time they tend to fall off. She indicated it would not be difficult to undertake maintenance for one monument; however, it would become more onerous for a large number of monuments and that is why they are prohibited. The rock back style also makes it difficult to place inscriptions on the back of the monument and this style does not conform uniformly with the polished style used throughout the cemetery. Ms. Eckel-Braun pointed out that she did not know what rationale had been used to develop the current standards and suggested that she could review the rationale to determine if the City’s standards are still pertinent today. Councillor B. Vrbanovic requested that cemetery standards across Ontario also be investigated. It was agreed that staff be directed to provide information regarding cemetery standards, together with comparisons of standards across Ontario, at a future meeting of the Community Services Committee. On motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic – it was resolved: “That an exemption be granted to Chapter 210, Section 11.1, of the Municipal Code (Cemeteries) for an existing monument located in Woodland Cemetery, Section W, Lot #155.” 12. CSD-01-174-SEPTEMBER 11TH FREEDOM WALK PROJECT - 2002 CAPITAL BUDGET The Committee was in receipt of Community Services Department report CSD-01-174, dated October 3, 2001, recommending that a boardwalk be developed at Williamsburg Cemetery to be known as the “Freedom Walk” in memory of the tragic events that occurred in the United States on September 11, 2001. Ms. L. Eckel-Braun presented a concept drawing and provided a brief overview of the proposal. She stated that in developing this proposal staff felt it was important to create a memorial with meaning and significance for those who lived through, and will continue to live with, these tragic events. The boardwalk will be designed to follow through a natural wetland with a memorial pavilion in the centre. The boardwalk will provide an opportunity to learn of the historical accounts and implications of the events, as well as be a place where aspects of nature can be viewed and appreciated. Ms. Eckel-Braun also advised that there is opportunity for corporations and the general public to participate in the project through donations or placement of plaques in memory of loved ones. Councillor J. Ziegler commented that use of the word ‘commemoration’ in the staff recommendation was perhaps not an appropriate reference given the nature of the events and suggested the intent is really to develop a memorial for the victims and rescue workers who lost their lives. Mayor C. Zehr commented that staff had been asked to provide options and questioned what, if any, other options had been considered. Ms. Eckel-Braun advised that the cemetery lends itself to smaller projects such as tree planting, dedication of a pew in the Chapel or a cemetery bench, or creation of a garden; however, this proposal which is larger in scope, was brought forward as it was felt to have the best fit for what is intended. 12. CSD-01-174-SEPTEMBER 11TH FREEDOM WALK PROJECT - 2002 CAPITAL BUDGET (CONT’D) The Committee then entered into a lengthy discussion during which various opinions were COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES OCTOBER 15, 2001- 71 -CITY OF KITCHENER expressed and issues raised concerning: · consideration of more options on a smaller scale and in more visible locations within the municipality, such as City Hall, Victoria Park or Rockway Gardens · financial implications to other cemetery projects if this proposal proceeds · prematurity of timing given the on-going world events · the merits of the proposal with or without the concept of the memorial and the opportunity to promote cemeteries as park-like settings and a pleasant place to be. Members of the Committee were generally in agreement that the proposal has merit; however, felt more options should be provided before a decision with respect to a memorial is made. Mr. F. Pizzuto suggested this matter be deferred to the next meeting to allow staff an opportunity to look at the proposal on its own merit and to develop other alternatives for a memorial of the September 11th events. On motion by Councillor J. Ziegler – it was resolved: “That Community Services Department report CSD-01-174 regarding a proposal to develop a boardwalk at Williamsburg Cemetery to be known as the ‘Freedom Walk’, in memory of the tragic events which occurred in the United States on September 11, 2001, be deferred and and referred to the October 29, 2001 Community Services Committee meeting; further, That staff provide additional alternatives to memorialize the events of September 11th, including other locations, for consideration at the October 29th Community Services Committee meeting.” 13. CSD-01-176-KITCHENER MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM COMPLEX -COMMISSIONED SALES PERSON TO SELL CORPORATE SUITES The Committee was in receipt of Community Services Department report CSD-01-176, dated October 5, 2001 requesting approval to retain a commissioned sales person to sell corporate suites at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex. On motion by Councillor B. Vrbanovic – it was resolved: “That Council approve the hiring of a commissioned sales person on a contract basis to sell corporate suites at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex in accordance with the general terms set out in Community Services Department report CSD-01-176; and further, That the contract agreement shall be subject to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor. “ 14. INFORMATION ITEMS The Committee was in receipt of the following information items: · Thank you letter dated September 14, 2001 from Sharon Proulx · Grants Analysis Update 15. ADJOURNMENT On motion, the meeting adjourned at 5:10 p.m. COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MINUTES OCTOBER 15, 2001- 72 -CITY OF KITCHENER Janet Billett Committee Administrator