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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFin & Corp Svcs - 2009-11-16FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE NOVEMBER 16.2009 CITY OF KITCHENER The Finance and Corporate Services Committee met this date commencing at 1:33 p.m. Present: Councillor B. Vrbanovic -Chair Mayor C. Zehr and Councillors J. Smola, G. Lorentz, J. Gazzola and C. Weylie. Staff: C. Ladd, Chief Administrative Officer D. Chapman, General Manager, Financial Services & City Treasurer T. Speck, General Manager, Corporate Services J. Willmer, Interim General Manager, Development & Technical Services P. Houston, General Manager, Community Services R. Regier, Executive Director, Economic Development R. Gosse, Director, Legislated Services & City Clerk J. Witmer, Director of Operations J. Evans, Director of Revenue W. Malcolm, Director of Utilities S. Di Donato, Manager of Downtown Community Development R. LeBrun, Manager, Financial Planning P. Harris, Manager of Licensing K. Steiss, Inclusion Co-ordinator J. Billett, Committee Administrator 1. CRPS-09-147 -WATERLOO ARTS FESTIVAL - REQUEST TO HOLD BINGO EVENTS ON AN ON-GOING BASIS The Committee considered Corporate Services Department report CRPS-09-147, dated November 3, 2009 concerning a request to hold bingos in the City of Kitchener. On motion by Councillor G. Lorentz - itwas resolved: "That the request of the Waterloo Arts Festival to hold bingo events in the City of Kitchener be approved, providing that the funds being raised are used for charitable purposes as mandated in the Provincial Regulations." 2. FIN-09-157 -AGREEMENT FOR THE ACCREDITATION OF THE OPERATING AUTHORITY OF MUNICIPAL DRINKING WATER SYSTEMS The Committee considered Financial Services Department report FIN-09-157, dated November 9, 2009 concerning execution of an agreement for the purpose of providing the City of Kitchener with an Accreditation to Operate a Municipal Drinking Water System. Councillor J. Gazzola inquired as to the impact of not entering into this agreement. Mr. W. Malcolm advised that the City is required to become an Accredited Operating Authority to remain in compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act, 2002 and without, would not be licensed to operate a water distribution system and could not therefore, distribute water in Kitchener. On motion by Councillor G. Lorentz - itwas resolved: "That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute an Agreement with Her Majesty the Queen In Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of Public Works and Government Services acting through the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB) for the purpose of providing the City of Kitchener with an Accreditation to Operate the Municipal Drinking Water Systems." 3. FIN-09-158 -PROPERTY TAXATION EXEMPTION FOR LEGIONS AND VETERANS' SERVICE CLUBS The Committee considered Financial Services Department report FIN-09-158, dated November 9, 2009 requesting continuation of a taxation exemption for properties owned or leased by Legions and Veterans' Service Clubs. FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE NOVEMBER 16.2009 -159 - CITY OF KITCHENER 3. FIN-09-158 -PROPERTY TAXATION EXEMPTION FOR LEGIONS AND VETERANS' SERVICE CLUBS (CONT'D) Ms. J. Evans advised that the City has provided the tax exemption over the past 10 years and the current agreement expires December 31, 2009. Following a review of the policy, staff is recommending that the exemption be continued for a further 10 year period, ending December 31, 2019. The criteria to which the exemption will apply is: land that is used and occupied as a memorial home, clubhouse or athletic grounds by persons who served in the armed forces of His or Her Majesty or an ally of His or Her Majesty in any war. The financial impact to the City is approximately $10,200. annually. Ms. Evans added that all area municipalities and the Region of Waterloo are recommending granting of the exemption over the same period of time. Ms. Evans advised that there are currently 3 properties in Kitchener that would qualify for the exemption, being: 524 Belmont Avenue West; 601 Wellington Street North; and 408 Gage Avenue. It was also noted that consideration of an exemption for the education portion of taxation will follow this process and the annual costs referred to represents only the City's portion of property taxes. Mr. Bob Balfour, President, Army Navy Air Force Veterans Service Club, attended on behalf of the Service Club and the Royal Canadian Legion Branches 50 and 412. He thanked the City for its past support and expressed the opinion that without the tax exemption their organizations would not be able to survive within the community. He commented that the annual poppy fundraising campaign raised $1.6M over 2008-2009 and is used to support area hospitals, bursaries and 5 Cadet Squadrons. He advised that the Veterans do not receive any of the funds, with all of the fundraising dollars going back into the community. He asked for the City's continued support of the taxation exemption to allow their continued operation within the community. On motion by Mayor C. Zehr- itwas resolved: "That the City of Kitchener continue to exempt for City taxation, properties owned or leased by Legions and Veterans' Service Clubs for aten-year period ending December 31, 2019." 4. CAO-09-055 -DOWNTOWN STRATEGIC PLAN: FIVE YEAR UPDATE The Committee considered Chief Administrator's Office report CAO-09-055, dated November 9, 2009 which provides details of a five year review of the Downtown Strategic Plan, Vol.lll, as well as direction for 2010 and beyond. Ms. S. Di Donato advised that the Downtown Strategic Plan was approved on October 25, 2004 with 63 action items driving implementation of the living plan. The plan was aligned with four key strategies across the Corporation: the Economic Development Investment Fund; a Plan for a Healthy Kitchener; the Economic Development Strategic Plan; and the City of Kitchener Strategic Plan. The focus of this plan has been to maximize opportunities for economic development, particularly in respect to creation of education and knowledge based clusters to aid in transitioning the manufacturing sector into the age of innovation and technology. Major catalyst projects have included development of the Wilfrid Laurier University Graduate School of Social Work and the University of Waterloo Downtown Health Sciences Campus. A number of connected smaller projects have been collaborated on across the Corporation and with interested stakeholders, including the Kitchener Downtown Business Improvement Association (KDBIA}. The Downtown Interdepartmental Resource Group (DIRG), facilitates co-ordination of specific downtown projects such as the King Street Streetscape improvement project, overseeing financial incentive programs; design policies and guidelines; digital media promotion; process improvements; outreach to business and employers; safety action plans to address downtown perceptions; and enhancement of special events. The Healthy Communities Model provides continuous evaluation of the level of service, procedures and financing, and notwithstanding the current economic climate, the Downtown is realizing substantive positive results in a shorter timeframe than originally envisioned. Ms. Di Donato reviewed key trends and indicators as of October 31, 2009 related to: resident populations in the downtown core and surrounding neighbourhoods; businesses and FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE NOVEMBER 16.2009 -160 - CITY OF KITCHENER 4. CAO-09-055 -DOWNTOWN STRATEGIC PLAN: FIVE YEAR UPDATE (CONT'D employees; office vacancy 1 lease rates; special event attendance; and student populations. It was noted that since 2004 residential populations in the downtown core have risen by 31 and 7% in surrounding neighbourhoods; businesses by 10%; employees by 16%; lease rates by 11 %; special event attendance by 32%; and students by 82%. Also significant is an overall decline in office vacancies from 14% in 2004 to 6.8% in 2009. Going forward in 2010, four areas of improvement to maintain a positive momentum have been identified: opportunities for more residents to live in the downtown; attracting more of the right mix of retail businesses; promotion of the cultural vitality and building on the capacity for community events /activities to attract people downtown; and creation of public infrastructure to support the future physical environment, including a technology network. A strategic planning process will be brought forward in 2011 for Council's consideration regarding development of a long term comprehensive strategy for the downtown over the next 10 year period. Mayor C. Zehr raised concerns with regard to a grant application to be considered later this date by the Community Services Committee relative to the Rotary Club Mudpuppy Chase as it relates to the new King Street streetscape. He noted that the grant requested is to off-set costs associated with bollard relocation / re-installation; however, he was of the understanding the bollards were incorporated into the new streetscape to provide flexibility for seasonal outdoor patios and special events. Ms. Di Donato advised that the working group, DIRG, is currently working on policy to provide for activation of the flexible streetscape. Ms. P. Houston added that while this is a new cost, the City's underlying policy is that costs associated with the set-up and take-down of special events is to be absorbed by the event organizers, and would otherwise require a change in policy. Councillor J. Gazzola inquired as to the cost to Kitchener taxpayers over the last 5 years on the downtown and what is anticipated over the next 5 years. Ms. Di Donato advised that approximately 75% of the Economic Development Investment Fund (EDIF) has been focused on the downtown. Mr. R. Regier added that all projects have been included as part of the capital budget process and within documents on EDIF that will be considered during the 2010 budget process. Ms. C. Ladd advised that a report on EDIF will be coming forward in the next several months that will provide a summary to date of expenditures, targeted amounts for future projects and any uncommitted funds. Councillor Gazzola inquired as to the status of the Centre Block project. Mr. R. Regier advised that work is continuing on finalizing the development agreement with Andrin Investments and a report is to come forward in the near future. Councillor C. Weylie spoke in support of working toward providing more opportunities for people to live in the downtown and agreed that the grant policy should be reviewed in respect to costs for set-up 1 take-down of special events on King Street. Councillor G. Lorentz requested clarification as to how the working group envisions attracting the right mix of retail businesses. Ms. Di Donato advised that staff is working with the KDBIA to develop a realistic and positive strategy for retail recruitment, adding that positive injection of the right retail mix will help diminish problem areas and finding the right retail rental price point will be an important part of the recruitment process. Mr. Mark Garner, KDBIA, spoke to the issue of retail recruitment advising that the working group is utilizing the expertise of a consultant to develop a strategic plan. Phase 1 includes undertaking a business analysis to understand trade boundaries and how they can work with the real estate industry to successfully infill. Phase 2 will define the actual recruitment program and resources needed to support implementation of the program. Councillor B. Vrbanovic suggested that the working group revisit student residential needs in the near term as he has already heard concerns from Wilfrid Laurier students regarding accommodation availability. He added that the impact of digital media within the community should be well communicated to the general population to ensure their understanding of the significance of this growing technology. On motion by Councillor J. Smola - itwas resolved: FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE NOVEMBER 16.2009 -161 - CITY OF KITCHENER 4. CAO-09-055 -DOWNTOWN STRATEGIC PLAN: FIVE YEAR UPDATE (CONT'D) "That Chief Administrator's Office report CAO-09-055 be accepted as a five-year review of the Downtown Strategic Plan, Vol. III; and further, That the "2010 Downtown Themes and Actions" (Residents, Retail, Vitality and Infrastructure) be accepted as continued strategic direction supported by the Downtown Advisory Committee." 5. FIN-09-150 -SUBORDINATION LETTER -KITCHENER-WILMOT HYDRO INC. The Committee considered Financial Services Department report FIN-09-150, dated October 21, 2009 requesting permission to deliver a letter to Infrastructure Ontario (10) agreeing to subordinate the City of Kitchener's interest in Kitchener-Wilmot Hydro Inc.'s (KWHI) debt to 10's proposed smart meter program loan to KWHI. Mr. D. Chapman advised that the subordination letter will allow 10 to rank equally with an existing unsecured credit facility provided by the Bank of Montreal, as first claimant and the City second claimant. The additional financial risk to the City is considered reasonable based on KWHI's additional debt capacity of approximately $11 M in 2010, their ability to recover debt service costs through utility rates and their record of financial and operating performance. In response to questions, Mr. Chapman advised that 10 has not yet finalized the rate of interest for the loan to be repaid by KWHI. Councillor J. Gazzola inquired if it was necessary for KWHI to borrow monies rather than pay cash. Mayor C. Zehr advised that financing is being acquired as available cash varies month to month and it is necessary to maintain sufficient cash flows to meet KWHI's monthly operating costs. Mr. D. Chapman agreed to provide further information to Council on the cost savings to be achieved by KWHI through avoidance of financial covenants that may otherwise be imposed by 10 if the subordination letter was not given by the City. On motion by Mayor C. Zehr- itwas resolved: "That the General Manager of Financial Services be authorized to deliver a letter to Infrastructure Ontario agreeing to subordinate the City of Kitchener's interest in Kitchener-Wilmot Hydro Inc.'s debt to Infrastructure Ontario's proposed smart meter program loan to Kitchener-Wilmot Hydro Inc., as outlined in Financial Services Department report FIN-09-150." 6. FIN-09-152 -WATERLOO REGION MUNICIPALITIES INSURANCE POOL - ANNUAL UPDATE The Committee considered Financial Services Department report FIN-09-152, dated November 2, 2009 which provides an annual update on activities of the Waterloo Region Municipalities Insurance Pool. Mr. D. Chapman advised that the Pool currently has an unappropriated surplus of approximately $2.5M, adding that a surplus is maintained annually to provide stability and financial strength. The Pool's operating budget for June 1, 2009 to May 31, 2010 is $4.8M and the Advisory Board has also approved a 3% increase in the levy by the Pool from $4.3M to $4.4M. The levy distribution varies based on the municipality's claims history and the City of Kitchener's annual levy for 2009/2010 is $1.13M over $1.1 M in 2008/2009, representing a year over percentage change of -1.7%. It was noted that the Advisory Board has successfully negotiated the best available renewal terms for 2009/2010 and the Pool has achieved significant savings for the 8 municipalities in the Region of Waterloo over the past 11 years, with only a 7.6% overall increase in premium levies from 1998 ($4.1 M) to 2009/2010 ($4.4M). Councillor J. Gazzola inquired as to the amount of investment income earned in the first 9 months of this year and Mr. Chapman agreed to follow-up with this information. Councillor Gazzola requested clarification on the issue of Joint and Several Liability Reform as it relates to provisions of the Negligence Act. Mr. Chapman advised that this is in reference to the 1 rule wherein the joint and several provisions may obligate a defendant to pay the plaintiff's entire judgment. In the City's case it may be required to pay substantially more than the value FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE NOVEMBER 16.2009 -162 - CITY OF KITCHENER 6. FIN-09-152 -WATERLOO REGION MUNICIPALITIES INSURANCE POOL - ANNUAL UPDATE (CONT'D) of what it has been deemed at fault. The Association of Municipalities of Ontario is currently involved in advocating a fairer allocation of costs to provide some relief to the devastating financial effects currently imposed on municipalities. Councillor Gazzola questioned the surplus funds and Mr. Chapman noted that if the Pool were liquidated today the surplus would off-set an operating deficit and no gain would be realized. Councillor Gazzola questioned that if at year end a deficit is realized and the majority of claims relate to the Region, if the Region would be penalized based on their share of the deficit. Mr. Chapman advised that they would not immediately but it would be realized over time. Mayor C. Zehr requested explanation of the amount for pre-funded losses at $1.9 M. Mr. Chapman advised that this amount is budgeted to cover liabilities for costs associated with unsettled claims. On motion by Councillor G. Lorentz - itwas resolved: "That the Status Report of the Waterloo Region Municipalities Insurance Pool and the Financial Statements of the Pool, as outlined in Financial Services Department report FIN-09-152, be received for information." 7. FIN-09-155 -INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 2009 The Committee considered Financial Services Department report FIN-09-155, dated November 10, 2009 concerning interim financial statements as of September 30, 2009. The interim financial statements update on City expenditures and revenues compared to the 2009 budget and explain significant variances. Mr. R. LeBrun advised that in May 2009 staff identified a potential deficit resulting from the impact of economic downturn. To mitigate the effects of a potential deficit, staff implemented a series of temporary policies with the goal to reduce expenses, resulting in a cost savings of approximately $733,000., of which $588,000. will go toward the tax based operating budget and $155,000. to the Enterprise budgets. A review of capital projects identified the potential to close-out unexpended capital balances, resulting in an additional $3.6 M transfer from Capital Out of Current. The projected year-end deficit is now at $385,000., a negative variance of 0.3% on a $127M annual operating budget. Key variances projected to the end of the year include: supplementary taxes will be lower than budgeted with a negative variance of $1.5M; investment income is expected to achieve 34% over 2008 returns resulting in a negative variance of $1.3M; Community Services Operations will be over budget by $612,000. primarily due to winter maintenance, resulting in a negative variance of $552,000.; Planning and Engineering recoveries will be lower due to a decrease in site plans and subdivision applications, with a shortfall of approximately $309,000.; Community Programs & Services will provide savings of $85,000. due to the delay in opening the Williamsburg Community Centre and $115,000. resulting from deficit mitigation measures and reduced staffing costs; the Fleet budget will be over by approximately $174,000. due to an increase in the cost and use of parts; gapping currently has a negative variance of $400,000. in part, due to the difficulty in predicting the variable nature of staff changes. Staff is continuing to closely monitor budgets and undertake mitigation measures where possible. Mr. LeBrun advised that the Building Enterprise has a net deficit at this time of $488,000. due to a drop in building permit revenues at 27% lower than 2008 levels. Mitigation measures are ongoing and any net deficit from operating will be funded by the Building Enterprise Reserve Fund. Golf Courses (Rockway and Doon Valley) are $168,000. below budgeted net revenue primarily due to poor weather conditions, as well as being impacted by the current economic downturn, resulting in a decrease in the number of golf rounds played and junior memberships sold. The Water Utility is under budget by approximately $262,000. resulting from lower water sales due to significant summer rainfall and reduced industrial consumption; however, $1.1 M in capital close-outs has resulted in a positive variance of approximately $856,000. for the Water Utility. The Sanitary Sewer Utility is under budget by approximately $2.6M due to water consumption forecasts not being achieved, reducing surcharge revenues, and an increase in inflow and infiltration from high precipitation levels, increasing the cost of sewage processing from the Region of Waterloo. Notwithstanding, $3.7M in capital close-outs has resulted in a FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE NOVEMBER 16.2009 -163 - CITY OF KITCHENER 7. FIN-09-155 -INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 2009 (CONT'D) surplus of $1.2M for the Sewer Utility. Gas Delivery operations revenues and programs are trending as expected; however, Contact Centre expenses are higher than budgeted due to the need for additional part time staff. Gas Supply Company revenues are higher than estimated due to an increased retail rate in the latter 2 months; however, expenses as a percentage of revenue is higher than estimated due to gas used from inventory that was purchased at a higher value. Mayor C. Zehr inquired as to year-end projections for the Golf Courses and Mr. LeBrun agreed to follow-up on this request. Mayor Zehr asked that if possible, future interim reports include year-end projections for Enterprises. Councillor J. Gazzola requested explanation of the variance for supplementary taxes. Mr. LeBrun advised that the combined impact of lower supplementary taxes and a higher level of rebateslrefundslreductions isexpected to result in a negative variance of approximately $1.5M. Councillor Gazzola requested clarification of a $50,000. deficit attributed to Kitchener Market. Mr. R. Regier advised that this is due to a delay in finalizing lease agreements for Upper Market vendors resulting in a shortfall in lease revenues. Councillor Gazzola requested clarification of the variance attributed to the Arenas and Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex budget. Ms. P. Houston advised that the figures are year to date to September 30, 2009 and the variance is primarily due to timing differences related to the seasonal nature of operations. Councillor Gazzola requested explanation of the Community Services Operations $300,000. deficit related to administration. Mr. J. Witmer advised that this is due in part to the City's obligation to meet CVOR training requirements and an increase in cost of parts and time lost in repair of Fleet vehicles. Councillor Gazzola inquired if current mild weather will result in a lower variance for snow maintenance at year-end. Mr. D. Chapman advised that if the mild weather continues there will be a more positive outcome; however, a change in weather could result in a higher variance, adding that projections are based on an historic average. Councillor Gazzola questioned if the close-out transferred to the Uvater Utility would be taken into account when setting rates for the coming year. Mr. R. LeBrun advised that current rates were set prior to the pending deficit and while the transfer from close-outs has helped to alleviate the deficit it may have caused deferrals in other areas and the 2010 rate setting exercise will set the rates accordingly. Councillor Gazzola requested clarification of the variance in the Gas Delivery budget. Mr. Chapman advised that delivery and supply budgets fluctuate significantly and always have a variance as the City has no control over these rates. He stated that the budget was realistic based on projections at the time and staff respond to the rates when set. Mr. W. Malcolm added that TransCanada sets rates in January-February of each year while the City prepares budgets in the fall so there is no indication at budget time as to the exact rates to be applied. Mayor C. Zehr commented that the Region's wholesale rates for gas and water are not expected to be as high for 2010. Mr. Chapman concurred, adding that Regional staff have indicated the rates will be increased by 9.9% vs. 14.9% for sewer and 6.9% vs. 9.9% for water, and will result in the City's increases being lower as well. Councillor C. Weylie inquired if financial information would be provided on the operation of the Contact Centre and Mr. Chapman agreed to provide an issue paper for budget deliberations. 8. FIN-09-156 -DRINKING WATER STRATEGY The Committee considered Financial Services Department report FIN-09-156, dated November 10, 2009 which provides an update on activities of Kitchener Utilities, in partnership with area municipalities, toward development of a drinking water strategy. Mr. W. Malcolm advised that Kitchener Utilities has been working on increasing availability and promotion of tap water, installing a new tap water dispensing unit in City Hall for City staff and visitors to use and investigating alternate sites for further installations. Fountains have also been installed in a number of City facilities and Facilities Management staff is currently developing new construction guidelines to include water fountains or water refilling stations to provide accessibility to municipal tap water. Kitchener Utilities is partnered with the Region of Waterloo and Cities of Waterloo, Cambridge and Guelph in a radio campaign to educate / promote the use of local tap water and in other programming related to water conservation. FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE NOVEMBER 16.2009 -164 - CITY OF KITCHENER 8. FIN-09-156 -DRINKING WATER STRATEGY (CONT'D) The collaborative approach has achieved a $43,000. savings in promotional initiatives. A water trailer was used to distribute tap water at the Kidspark special event and was well received. The Region and Kitchener Utilities co-sponsored a Water Wagon, manufactured locally by Kewl Earth in Stratford, at the 2009 Council Grillefest and despite inclement weather, received positive feedback. The Region, Kitchener Utilities and area municipalities have agreed that it would be beneficial to sponsor co-purchase of a Water Wagon at $50,000., of which Kitchener's contribution would be $12,000. The City's contribution would be funded through Kitchener Utilities' marketing budget. The unit would rotate among major special events throughout the Region as an alternative to bottled water. The unit will also help to reduce expenditures of the City's Special Events group who currently spend approximately $500. on bottled water for special event volunteers and organizers and approximately $600. on recycling for major City operated events. Mr. Malcolm responded to questions, advising that the Water Wagon holds the equivalent of approximately 80 cases of bottled water and the unused water from the Grillefest event was not wasted, having been drained into the City Hall fountains to be recycled in an environmentally friendly manner. He noted that bottled water is still a choice at the Golf Courses primarily due to lack of infrastructure that would enable tap water to be provided on the courses. Mr. Malcolm added that bottled water remains the preferred choice of golfers. Mayor C. Zehr suggested that the emphasis should be on communicating that tap water is safe rather than placing a negative connotation on bottled water. He added that the City is committed to providing tap water in a convenient manner and as ability to do so in other City facilities is put into place the City will then be in a position to limit the sale of bottled water. In the interim, he suggested that this is a responsible manner of transition. Councillor's B. Vrbanovic and G. Lorentz agreed with the approaches taken by Kitchener Utilities, but raised concerns with an outright ban of bottled water preferring an educational approach to use of tap water while still allowing the right of choice. Mr. Malcolm advised that the partnership group will be continuing its work to educate and communicate on the use of tap water and there were no plans at this time to bring forward a recommendation on banning bottled water. Councillor's J. Gazzola and B. Vrbanovic raised concerns with the cost of the Water Wagon. Councillor Vrbanovic suggested that staff investigate the feasibility of converting a used trailer or other alternatives to lessen the associated cost. Mr. Malcolm agreed to take this under advisement but cautioned that any unit purchased must meet Ministry of Environment guidelines and the Water Wagon design does meet, and exceeds, current guidelines. 9. CSD-09-065 -ACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE POLICY The Committee considered Community Services Department report CSD-09-065, dated October 21, 2009 requesting adoption of a new policy for Accessibility Standards for Customer Service, in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA), and an amendment to Council Policy I-330 (Animal in City Facilities}. Ms. K. Steiss advised that the Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee (GRAAC) has no concerns with the proposed policy and considers it a good starting point on which to further refine procedures and practices for delivery of accessible customer service to the community. She pointed out that an amendment to Council Policy I-330 (Animal in City Facilities} is required in respect to the definition of a `service animal' so as to be consistent with the Customer Service policy. Ms. Steiss stated that there will be associated costs to implement certain procedures and practices of the policy but an exact costing is unknown at this time. On motion by Councillor C. Weylie - itwas resolved: "That the Accessibility Standards for Customer Service policy, attached to Community Services Department report CSD-09-065, be adopted; and further, FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE NOVEMBER 16.2009 -165 - CITY OF KITCHENER 9. CSD-09-065 -ACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE POLICY (CONT'D) That Council Policy I-330 (Animal in City Facilities) be amended to clarify and make consistent the definition of a service animal, as outlined in report CSD-09-065." 10. CAO-09-056 - FEDIDEV ONTARIO PROGRAM APPLICATIONS The Committee considered Chief Administrator's Office report CAO-09-056, dated October 21, 2009 requesting permission to submit a funding application to the Southern Ontario Development Program (SODP) administered by Fed/Dev Ontario for two projects: the Waterloo Manufacturing Innovation Network (MIN} and Life Sciences Incubator and Commercialization Uvet Lab Location Analysis 1 Conceptual Design. Mr. R. Regier advised that the timing to complete projects under this application is somewhat tight with a completion deadline of March 31, 2010 and in this respect, projects can be phase one or foundational processes for larger, long term projects. The two projects proposed meet the criteria and this funding will allow the projects to move forward. MIN is an on-line community connecting manufacturers in the Region to create a more responsive and globally competitive industry environment. MIN is one of two projects of its kind to be submitted, the other being the Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium proposal for an Ontario MIN. The latter is supported by the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade and it is intended the two projects will move forward in tandem. The Life Sciences Incubator project is related to the University of Waterloo Health Sciences Campus. A study is to be undertaken to investigate the feasibility of locating a life sciences incubation facility on the Campus in support of local start- up companies with appropriate incubation facilities, including wet and dry labs, to support commercialization of life sciences technologies. Councillor J. Gazzola requested clarification of the MIN project. Mr. R. Regier advised that the organization is working toward self-sustainability through private sector sponsorships, user fees and on-site advertising. Without the proposed funding current revenues will sustain a certain level of service but the additional funds will enable the organization to do more in areas of increased advertising and expanded outreach programs. Councillor Gazzola questioned why this is not being done under the umbrella of Canada's Technology Triangle (CTT). Mr. Regier advised that while the CTT supports this initiative, it is not within their area of expertise or mandate. Their mandate is to promote internationally to attract new businesses to the area and in doing so, they do utilize the MIN site to showcase what the manufacturing sector has to offer. Councillor Gazzola questioned if the objective of MIN is a core business or mandate of the City. Mr. Regier advised that the City's Economic Development Strategy identifies improving the competitiveness of the manufacturing sector as a priority in Kitchener and noted that the City's investment of $500. together with some stafftime is not demanding compared to the return realized in the manufacturing sector. Mayor C. Zehr commented that the City is not in a position to create jobs but can assist in creating an environment for the private sector to do so, of which MIN is one example. He added that while there is a cost, it is important that the City provide service to the community to enable opportunities for job creation. On motion by Mayor C. Zehr - itwas resolved: "That staff be directed to submit application to the Southern Ontario Development Program (SODP) administered by Fed/Dev Ontario for the following projects: 1. The Waterloo Manufacturing Innovation Network (MIN); and, Life Sciences Incubator and Commercialization Wet Lab Location Analysis and Conceptual Design." 11. REQUEST TO LICENSE MOTORIZED ICE CREAM VENDOR Mayor C. Zehr advised that he had been contacted by an individual who had been denied issuance of a license to operate a motorized ice cream vending vehicle because it is not FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE NOVEMBER 16.2009 -166 - CITY OF KITCHENER 11. REQUEST TO LICENSE MOTORIZED ICE CREAM VENDOR (CONT'D) permitted under the City's licensing by-law. He stated that the individual is requesting that the City consider amending the by-law to allow him to operate. Mayor Zehr requested that staff be directed to prepare a report outlining the issues and what would be required to amend the associated by-law in the event there is support for the individual's request. On motion by Mayor C. Zehr- itwas resolved: "That Licensing staff be directed to report to the January 11, 2010 Finance and Corporate Services Committee meeting on the issue of licensing motorized ice cream vendors and what would be required to amend the associated licensing by-law in support of this kind of commercial vehicle." 12. ADJOURNMENT On motion, the meeting adjourned at 4:00 p.m. J. Billett Committee Administrator