Regional Council Minutes

-
Council Chambers
Members Present:
  • K. Redman, 
  • D. Craig, 
  • R. Deutschmann, 
  • J. Erb, 
  • S. Foxton, 
  • M. Harris, 
  • C. Huinink, 
  • C. James, 
  • J. Liggett, 
  • D. McCabe, 
  • J. Nowak, 
  • N. Salonen, 
  • S. Shantz, 
  • K. Williams, 
  • and P. Wolf 
Members Absent:
  • B. Vrbanovic 

Should you require an alternative format or a copy of the official minutes please contact the Regional Clerk at Tel.: 519-575-4400, TTY: 519-575-4605, or regionalclerk@regionofwaterloo.ca


1.
This item has Video

 

Regional Chair K. Redman called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

2.
This item has Video

 

Regional Chair K. Redman provided a land acknowledgement.

M. Harris joined the meeting at 7:01 PM. ()
J. Liggett left the meeting at 7:02 PM. ()
  • Moved byC. James
    Seconded byS. Foxton

    That Council reconvene into Open Session.

    In Favor (14)J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams
    Carried (14 to 0)

R. Deutschmann declared a pecuniary interest with respect to item 3.1 on the Closed Council agenda due to his law firm being involved in claims that include the Region. 

5.
This item has Video

 

There were no presentations. 

6.
This item has Video

 

D. Marsh provided a presentation on the work of Volunteer Waterloo Region, noting that the work of volunteers cannot be overstated. A copy of the presentation is appended to the agenda. He highlighted that volunteerism is declining and noted that they are working to reach out to community members and organizations to connect individuals with volunteer opportunities. He encouraged people to talk about volunteering, be open to changes, and show appreciation to people who are volunteering.

Responding to questions, D. Marsh explained that youth volunteering is one of their key focuses and that youth and seniors are the groups that have seen the biggest reduction in volunteering. He further noted that individuals can go directly to the organization where they want to volunteer or can come to Volunteer Waterloo Region.

I. Boddy and J. Linthorne provided a presentation outlining the work of the Southwestern Isotope Coalition, noting that they are a public-private partnership. A copy of the presentation is appended to the original agenda. J. Linthorne explained that they will be working to increase awareness of the isotope industry in the region and the benefits that isotopes can provide. They requested that the Region of Waterloo join the coalition.

In response to a question from Council, J. Linthorne stated they are asking for partners to appoint a contact person, such as an economic development officer or municipal official. She stressed that they are not looking for financial support but partnerships with municipalities, and offered to circulate the terms of reference that outlines the expectations of a partner.

Council requested that staff prepare a report on the options with respect to the Southwestern Isotope Coalition.

P. Gilbride provided a presentation on the REEP impact report. A copy of the presentation is appended to the original agenda. P. Gilbride highlighted the work done by REEP, including home retrofits, English conversation circles to help newcomers, and education on reducing salt for winter maintenance. He highlighted that they saw an increase in revenue due to home energy audits and thanked the Region for ongoing funding support.

In response to a question from Council, P. Gilbride stated that heat pumps are the most energy efficient option and stressed the importance of ensuring that they are sized correctly.

6.4
This item has Video

 

A. Bonipart appeared to request that the Region install safety lights for the unhoused encampment at 100 Victoria Street. She highlighted the safety challenges that exist in the dark and the benefits that lights would provide to the residents. 

6.5
This item has Video

 

E. Jackson spoke to Council about concerns with the industrial land assembly, noting that it will increase traffic and that protecting farmland is impossible if the land is destroyed. She stressed that the Regional Official Plan and the Provincial Policy Statement speak to the need to protect farmland, and that the younger generation needs the land to be protected. She encouraged the Region to reject the staff report and further investigate the destruction of the corn.  

M. Reusser stated that the staff report does not provide the openness that the community asked for, and that it was an arbitrary deadline set by economic development that is being justified in the report. He highlighted that the Waterloo Federation of Agriculture was not contacted for advice on what could be done with the crop and stressed that this does not meet Waterloo Region’s history of visionary planning and transparency. He stated that the Region should apologize to all residents of the Region, take the mega site assembly off the table, reaffirm the country side line, hold a public process for selection of a new site, and treat landowners and farmers with respect.

In response to a question from Council, M. Reusser stated that they have participated in every official plan review, and are concerned with the actions of the provincial government. He stressed the need to build a vibrant urban and rural landscape. 

6.7
This item has Video

 

A. Van Bergeijk explained that his family are all farmers and that Mountainoak Cheese employs twenty full and part time people. He questioned what the area will look like after the land assembly and what the impact will be on the water supply. A. Van Bergeijk stressed that they are not willing sellers.

6.8
This item has Video

 

A. Compton provided her concerns with the staff report, noting that the report states there were no financial implications. She stated that there were costs for destroying the corn and the loss of the crop itself, and questioned why less invasive studies could not have been done while the crop matured. A. Compton stressed that technology or industrial companies would not have been treated similarly and that when farmland is cared for, it is more than a generational investment. She called on the Region to take the official plan seriously, support the countryside line, and recognize that they are not a willing host. 

J. Jordan appeared before Council to present his concerns with the destruction of the corn crop in Wilmot. A copy of his written remarks is appended to the original minutes. He questioned why the crop was destroyed, who the Region spoke to about the crop, what work has been done on hydrogeology, and who is responsible for the crop destruction.

Council agreed to consider the report at this point. 

Mathieu Goetzke, Acting Chief Administrative Officer, introduced the report noting that it lays out the work that was done with respect to the due diligence on the land. He stressed that the report was written under numerous confidential requirements to other parties.

Responding to questions, M. Goetzke explained that a number of technical studies need to be done, including hydrogeology and archaeology, and that the nature of the due diligence conversations are a part of the confidentiality requirements with other parties. He further noted that there are confidentiality implications with financial information that is connected to active discussions. Councillors requested that that information be shared in a closed session.

In response to questions from Council, Fiona McCrea, Senior Solicitor, noted that although legal is not listed in the approval of the report, it was reviewed by legal staff. She further stated that the non-disclosure agreement is still in effect and staff could provide more information about the agreement and Council’s options in a closed session.

Regional Chair K. Redman reminded Council that the Region has obligations for confidentiality with land owners, and stressed that the Region remains committed to fair and equitable negotiations with land owners. She stated that staff have not acted outside of any of the parameters provided by Council.

R. Deutschmann questioned why there was not more information provided in the open report on what efforts were made to arrange for completion of the due diligence included in the report. Regional Chair K. Redman ruled that this was information was not appropriate for an open session, but could be provided in a closed session.

R. Deutschmann challenged the Regional Chair’s ruling.

Council upheld the Regional Chair’s ruling
In Favor (9): K. Redman, J. Erb, M. Harris, C. Huinink, C. James, J. Nowak, N. Salonen, S. Shantz, and P. Wolf
Opposed (5): D. Craig, R. Deutschmann, S. Foxton, J. Liggett, and K. Williams. 

Responding to questions, Matthew Chandy, Director, Economic Development, explained staff spoke to farmers and feed producers about the crop but they confirmed that it was in a premature state and they turned it down. Staff also contacted a biofuel producer which would have been a very significant cost for it to be taken away. M. Chandy further noted that consultants and companies involved in the studies have received threatening calls and incidents on site, so he does not want to name the individuals and companies that were contacted in relation to the crop.

In response to a question from Council, M. Goetzke stated that Council was made aware that due diligence was ongoing on the site, but the specific details of the nature and timing of the due diligence was considered operational and was not explicitly shared with Council. M. Goetzke further noted that staff will need to consult with legal services about what additional information could be provided in an open session.

Council recessed at 8:59 p.m. and reconvened at 9:13 p.m.

R. Deutschmann brought forward a motion to send the report back to staff with direction for more information to be provided. M. Goetzke stressed that any report will continue to be subject to confidentiality obligations.

N. Salonen brought forward a motion to defer pending additional legal information.

William Short, Regional Clerk, stated that if there is a request for additional legal information, it could be provided in a closed session, following which Council could consider the motion. 

J. Liggett joined the meeting at 8:19 PM. ()
D. McCabe left the meeting at 8:44 PM. ()
D. McCabe joined the meeting at 9:24 PM. ()
  • Moved byR. Deutschmann
    Seconded byN. Salonen

    That the report PDL-ECD-24-007, Land Assembly – Due Diligence Impacts be sent back to staff; 
    And that staff be directed to provide more detailed information, including but not limited to:

    • What multiple efforts were made to arrange for the completion of the technical work;
    • What uses were explored for the premature crop and how many and the location of livestock feed producers who were contacted and the name of the biofuel company which was contacted;
    • The reasons why the uses were rejected;
    • Who removed the crops, and at what price;
    • What confidentiality agreements are referred to other than the NDA agreement;
    • Whether vendor(s) of the land was consulted with respect to the removal of the crops;

    and that this be brought back to open session;

    and further That a legal opinion be brought to closed session as to whether the NDA agreement is still valid.

  • Moved byN. Salonen
    Seconded byS. Foxton

    That the motion be deferred until October 23, 2024 pending a legal opinion being received regarding the validity of the Non Disclosure Agreement and other confidentiality agreements.

    In Favor (13)J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams
    Opposed (1)J. Erb
    Carried (13 to 1)

7.
This item has Video

 
  • Moved byP. Wolf
    Seconded byN. Salonen

    That the following minutes be approved.

    In Favor (15)J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams
    Carried (15 to 0)

7.5
This item has Video

 

7.6
This item has Video

 
  • Moved byC. Huinink
    Seconded byK. Williams

    That Council go into Committee of the Whole to consider reports.

    In Favor (15)J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams
    Carried (15 to 0)

10.

 
  • Moved byP. Wolf
    Seconded byN. Salonen

    That the following recommendations from the Administration and Finance Committee be approved:

    1. That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo approve the expenditure of up to $150,000 from the Public Art Reserve for a permanent public artwork at the Langs Drive Redevelopment, 589 Langs Drive, Cambridge.
    In Favor (15)J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams
    Carried (15 to 0)
  • Moved byJ. Erb
    Seconded byS. Shantz

    That the following recommendations from the Community and Health Services Committee be approved:

    1. That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo approve the Response Time Performance Plan (RTPP) for 2025, outlined below, in accordance with the Ambulance Act, O. Reg. 267/08, amending O. Reg. 257/00, under Part VII, Response Time Performance Plans, Sections 22-24, as outlined in PHP-PSV-24-004, dated September 10, 2024.
      1. Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) – 6 minutes or less 70% of the time. (Note: Ministry of Health target is 50%.)
      2. CTAS 1 – 8 minutes or less 70% of the time.
      3. CTAS 2 – 10 minutes or less 80% of the time.
      4. CTAS 3 – 15 minutes or less 80% of the time.
      5. CTAS 4 – 20 minutes or less 80% of the time.
      6. CTAS 5 – 25 minutes or less 80% of the time.

    2. WHEREAS one person dies every 2.5 hours from the toxic drug supply in Ontario;

    AND WHEREAS Safe Consumption Sites, also known as Consumption and Treatment Sites, have been instrumental in preventing thousands of drug overdose deaths;

    AND WHEREAS crime statistics from the Waterloo Regional Police Services indicate that the Kitchener Consumption and Treatment Site has not been linked to an increase in crime in its vicinity;

    AND WHEREAS closing Consumption and Treatment Sites will lead to increased drug use in public spaces;

    AND WHEREAS the closure of these sites would place additional strain on emergency services and the healthcare system;

    AND WHEREAS Consumption and Treatment Sites offer access to other health and medical services, aligning with the objectives of the HART hub planned by the Ontario Government;

    AND WHEREAS healthcare should emphasize prevention as well as treatment;

    THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Region of Waterloo Council urges the Ontario government to continue funding all currently operating Consumption and Treatment Sites beyond the proposed termination date in March 2025.

    AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Ontario government is encouraged to maintain funding for the proposed HART hubs.

    AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this resolution be forwarded to the Premier of Ontario, the Minister of Finance, the Health Minister and to municipalities that currently have an operating Consumption and Treatment Site/Safe Consumption Site.

    And be it further resolved that the Ontario government does not take steps to pass legislation that would prohibit the establishment of temporary Urgent Public Health Needs Sites (UPHNS).

    In Favor (13)J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, C. Huinink, and K. Williams
    Opposed (2)J. Liggett, and N. Salonen
    Carried (13 to 2)
  • Moved byS. Foxton
    Seconded byD. McCabe

    That the following recommendations from the Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development Committee be approved:

    1. That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo approve the expropriation of lands for improvements at the intersection of Fischer Hallman Road (Regional Road 50) and New Dundee Road (Regional Road 12), in the City of Kitchener and in the Township of North Dumfries, in the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, as detailed in Report PDL-LEG-24-023, dated September 10, 2024, described as follows:
      Fee Simple Partial Taking:
      1. Part of Lot 9, Beasley’s New Survey, Township of Waterloo, being Parts 1 and 3 on 58R-21999, (Part of PIN 22723-0035), City of Kitchener (2315 Fischer Hallman Road, City of Kitchener)
      2. Part of Lot 9, Beasley’s New Survey, Township of Waterloo, being Parts 1 and 3 on 58R-21999, (Part of PIN 22723-0035), City of Kitchener (2315 Fischer Hallman Road, City of Kitchener)
      3. Part of Lot 9, Beasley’s New Survey, Township of Waterloo, being Parts 1 and 3 on 58R-21999, (Part of PIN 22723-0035), City of Kitchener (2315 Fischer Hallman Road, City of Kitchener)
      4. Part of Lot 9, Beasley’s New Survey, Township of Waterloo, being Parts 1 and 3 on 58R-21999, (Part of PIN 22723-0035), City of Kitchener (2315 Fischer Hallman Road, City of Kitchener)
      5. Part of Lot 9, Beasley’s New Survey, Township of Waterloo, being Parts 1 and 3 on 58R-21999, (Part of PIN 22723-0035), City of Kitchener (2315 Fischer Hallman Road, City of Kitchener)
      6. Part of Lot 9, Beasley’s New Survey, Township of Waterloo, being Parts 1 and 3 on 58R-21999, (Part of PIN 22723-0035), City of Kitchener (2315 Fischer Hallman Road, City of Kitchener

    Temporary Easement – Grading:
    The right and easement, being a temporary easement in gross, for the free and unobstructed, right, interest and easement terminating, for the subject property set out below, on the 31st day of December, 2028, for itself, its successors and assigns, and anyone authorized by it, on, over, under and through the following property for the purposes of excavation, construction, installation, replacement, alteration, grading, and landscaping as required in connection with the improvements at the intersection of Fischer Hallman Road and New Dundee Road, and all related improvements, and works ancillary thereto and for such purposes, the free, unimpeded and unobstructed access to the lands at all times by employees, agents, contractors, workers and anyone authorized by it, and vehicles, supplies and equipment at all times and for all purposes and things necessary for or incidental to the exercise and enjoyment of the right and easement:

      1. Part of Lot 9, Beasley’s New Survey, Township of Waterloo, being Parts 1 and 3 on 58R-21999, (Part of PIN 22723-0035), City of Kitchener (2315 Fischer Hallman Road, City of Kitchener)
      2. Part of Lot 9, Beasley’s New Survey, Township of Waterloo, being Parts 1 and 3 on 58R-21999, (Part of PIN 22723-0035), City of Kitchener (2315 Fischer Hallman Road, City of Kitchener)

    And that staff be instructed to register a Plan of Expropriation for the properties within three months of the granting of the approval to expropriate the properties, as required by the Expropriations Act;

    And that the registered owners be served with a Notice of Expropriation and a Notice of Possession for the properties after the registration of the Plan of Expropriation and the Regional Solicitor is authorized to take any and all actions required to enforce such Notices including but not limited to any application pursuant to Section 40 of the Expropriations Act;

    And that the Regional Solicitor is authorized to enter into an agreement with the registered owners, or to make an application under Section 39 of the Expropriations Act, to adjust the date for possession specified in the Notice of Possession as may be required;

    And that all above-referenced fee simple partial takings situated adjacent to an existing Regional public highway be acquired for road widening purposes and therefore be deemed to form part of the adjacent public highway in accordance with subsection 31(6) of the Municipal Act, 2001;

    And that if no agreement as to compensation is made with an owner, the statutory Offer of Compensation and payment be served upon the registered owners of the properties in the amount of the market value of the interests in the land as estimated by the Region’s appraiser in accordance with the Expropriations Act;

    And that the Regional Solicitor be authorized to execute any Indemnity agreement or other document related to payment of the statutory Offer of Compensation;

    And further that the Regional Solicitor be authorized to discontinue expropriation proceedings or any part thereof, in respect of the above described lands, or any part thereof, upon the registration on title of the required documentation to complete the transaction or if determined by the Commissioner, Engineering & Environmental Services, that such lands, or any part or interest thereof, are not required for the subject Project.

    2. That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo approve the expropriation of lands for improvements at the intersection of Roseville Road (Regional Road 46) and Edworthy Side Road (Regional Road 71), in the Township of North Dumfries, in the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, as detailed in Report PDL-LEG-24-022, dated September 10, 2024, described as follows:

    Fee Simple Partial Taking:

      1. Part of Lot 19, Concession 11, being Part 6 on 58R-21981, (Part of PIN 03849-0049), Township of North Dumfries, (1636 Edworthy Side Road, Township of North Dumfries)
      2. Part of Lot 18, Concession 11, being Part 8 on 58R-21981, (Part of PIN 03797-0225), Township of North Dumfries, (1435 Roseville Road, Township of North Dumfries)

        Temporary Easement – Grading:
        The right and easement, being a temporary easement in gross, for the free and unobstructed, right, interest and easement terminating, for the subject property set out below, on the 31st day of December, 2026, for itself, its successors and assigns, and anyone authorized by it, on, over, under and through the following property for the purposes of excavation, construction, installation, replacement, alteration, grading, and landscaping as required in connection with the improvements at the intersection of Roseville Road and Edworthy Side Road, and all related improvements, and works ancillary thereto and for such purposes, the free, unimpeded and unobstructed access to the lands at all times by employees, agents, contractors, workers and anyone authorized by it, and vehicles, supplies and equipment at all times and for all purposes and things necessary for or incidental to the exercise and enjoyment of the right and easement:
        1. Part of Lot 23, Concession 12, being Part 1 on 58R-21981, (Part of PIN 03849-0036), Township of North Dumfries, (1556 Roseville Road North, Township of North Dumfries)
        2. Part of Lot 22, Concession 12, being Part 5 on 58R-21981, (Part of PIN 03849-0039), Township of North Dumfries, (1534 Roseville Road North, Township of North Dumfries)
        3. Part of Lot 19, Concession 11, being Part 7 on 58R-21981, (Part of PIN 03849-0049), Township of North Dumfries, (1636 Edworthy Side Road, Township of North Dumfries)

    And that staff be instructed to register a Plan of Expropriation for the properties within three months of the granting of the approval to expropriate the properties, as required by the Expropriations Act;

    And that the registered owners be served with a Notice of Expropriation and a Notice of Possession for the properties after the registration of the Plan of Expropriation and the Regional Solicitor is authorized to take any and all actions required to enforce such Notices including but not limited to any application pursuant to Section 40 of the Expropriations Act;

    And that the Regional Solicitor is authorized to enter into an agreement with the registered owners, or to make an application under Section 39 of the Expropriations Act, to adjust the date for possession specified in the Notice of Possession as may be required;

    And that all above-referenced fee simple partial takings situated adjacent to an existing Regional public highway be acquired for road widening purposes and therefore be deemed to form part of the adjacent public highway in accordance with subsection 31(6) of the Municipal Act, 2001;

    And that if no agreement as to compensation is made with an owner, the statutory Offer of Compensation and payment be served upon the registered owners of the properties in the amount of the market value of the interests in the land as estimated by the Region’s appraiser in accordance with the Expropriations Act;

    And that the Regional Solicitor be authorized to execute any Indemnity agreement or other document related to payment of the statutory Offer of Compensation;

    And further that the Regional Solicitor be authorized to discontinue expropriation proceedings or any part thereof, in respect of the above described lands, or any part thereof, upon the registration on title of the required documentation to complete the transaction or if determined by the Commissioner, Engineering & Environmental Services, that such lands, or any part or interest thereof, are not required for the subject Project.

    3. WHEREAS the Kissing Bridge Trailway (KBT) is a 45 km component of the Goderich to Guelph Rail Trail (G2G Trail) that stretches across the northern portion of the Region from Guelph to Millbank; and

    WHEREAS this trail is an important Regional tourist destination with economic benefits to the Region; and

    WHEREAS the KBT, as a component of the G2G Trail, is jointly leased by the Province of Ontario to the County of Wellington and the Region of Waterloo for use as a recreational trail; and

    WHEREAS the KBT as it exists is approximately 2.5 metres wide; and

    WHEREAS there are two gaps in the KBT that prevent it from becoming an entirely off-road trail: 1) crossing of the Grand River near West Montrose (Woolwich Township); and 2) crossing of the Conestogo River in Wallenstein (Wellesley Township); and

    WHEREAS the detour route for the Conestogo River crossing in Wallenstein requires users to traverse along Line 86 utilizing the shoulder of the highway and crossing the vehicular bridge over the Conestogo River; and

    WHEREAS this detour route is considered very dangerous due to the high volume of traffic, including many heavy trucks, with no sidewalks or trails for safe pedestrian/cyclist use; and

    WHEREAS unprecedented private funding has been pledged to design and construct a new pedestrian bridge along the KBT over the Conestogo River if the project can be completed in the short term; and

    WHEREAS significant structural engineering and environmental approval work has already been completed for the project by engineers and environmental consultants qualified to practice in the Province of Ontario that should be used to guide detailed design work and project approvals rather than duplicating this work;

    THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Council of the Region of Waterloo direct staff to prioritize analysis of design and construction for the Conestogo River Bridge project, utilizing previously completed engineering and environmental work to the greatest extent possible, with the intent of possible construction in 2025; and further,

    THAT staff be directed to work closely with partners including the KBT Steering Committee, Township of Wellesley, County of Wellington, G2G Rail Trail, and community volunteers, to present viable and reasonable design options and standards for this project, including a width of 2.4 metres, that meet Ontario Engineering standards for pedestrian bridges that may or may not meet all Region of Waterloo standards or guidelines; and further,

    THAT staff be directed to apply for funding for this project under the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund through the Province of Ontario, and any other applicable funding streams, to offset costs; and further,

    THAT staff consider utilizing external consultants or a short-term contract position to manage this project rather than an additional Full-Time Employee (FTE).

    And that Staff be directed to bring a report to the Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development Committee on November 5th to outline cost breakdowns and timelines associated with this project.

    And further that Staff provide a report on provincial funding on September 25th Council meeting.

    In Favor (15)J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams
    Carried (15 to 0)
  • Moved byD. McCabe
    Seconded byC. Huinink

    That the Regional Municipality of Waterloo amend the 2024-2033 capital program to add $250,000 to project 05549 Franklin Boulevard – Myers Road to Hwy 401, funded from the Transportation Capital Reserve.

    In Favor (15)J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, J. Liggett, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams
    Carried (15 to 0)

10.2
This item has Video

 

10.2.1
This item has Video

 

Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang, Commissioner, Public Health & Paramedic Services/Medical Officer of Health, provided an update on the respiratory illness season. She noted that Public Health is working closely with other partners and have received the first confirmed local cases of Influenza. Vaccinations for high risk individuals will be available in early October. She highlighted that there has been an increase in Whooping Cough across Waterloo Region and that it can be particularly severe in infants. She encouraged everyone to make sure that their vaccinations are up to date.

Responding to questions, Dr. H. Wang stated that the drug checking pilot will not continue as it is a pilot funded by the federal government. She noted that there has been advocacy across the province but no indication that the federal government will change course. Council requested that staff provide additional information on the status of the program and advocacy options.

Received for information.

11.
Other Matters Under Committee Of The Whole

  

Regional Chair K. Redman noted that the application that was referred to Regional Council by the Licensing and Hearings Committee has been withdrawn by the applicant. 

Received for information.  

Jennifer Rose, Commissioner, Engineering and Environmental Services, informed Council that staff have looked into the Community Sport and Recreation Fund for possible funding of the proposed pedestrian bridge on the G2G trail. She noted that there is no end date on the funding, but the window for submissions is closing. J. Rose stated that the current estimate for the bridge is $8 million, and that various partners would need to be involved. She explained that the Region’s costs could range from $500,000 to $4 million.

In response to a question from Council, J. Rose noted that there have been some exploratory discussions with the province about the fund, but not regarding permission.

J. Nowak noted that the community group has indicated that additional funding is possible if the project goes ahead.  

Regional Chair K. Redman reminded Council that a motion has been approved directing staff to provide a further report on this issue in November.

Received for information.

J. Liggett left the meeting at 10:01 PM. ()
  • Moved byM. Harris
    Seconded byJ. Nowak

    That Committee of the Whole rise and Council resume.

    In Favor (14)J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams
    Carried (14 to 0)
  • Moved byJ. Erb
    Seconded byC. James

    That Council adopt the proceedings of Committee of the Whole.

    In Favor (14)J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams
    Carried (14 to 0)

14.1
This item has Video

 

D. McCabe spoke to the motion noting that the intention is to have the Region of Waterloo supports the Solve the Crisis Campaign and to advocate with the provincial and federal governments providing funding for this crisis.

M. Harris left the meeting at 10:08 PM. ()
  • Moved byD. McCabe
    Seconded byC. James

    Whereas there is a humanitarian crisis in cities, large and small, urban and rural, across Ontario. We need immediate action at all levels of government, starting with the Province; and

    Whereas the homelessness, mental health and addictions crisis continues to grow with 3432 drug related deaths in Ontario in 2023 as well as with an estimated 234,000 Ontarians experiencing homelessness and over 1400 homeless encampments across Ontario communities in 2023; and

    Whereas the province has provided additional funding for mental health, addictions and homelessness programs, including the recently announced Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) Hubs, it does not adequately address the growing crisis and the financial and social impact on municipalities and regions across the province; and

    Whereas municipalities and regions are stepping up and working with community partners to put in place community-specific solutions to address this crisis, but municipalities and regions lack the expertise, capacity, or resources to address these increasingly complex health care and housing issues alone; and

    Whereas this is primarily a health issue that falls under provincial jurisdiction and municipalities and regions should not be using the property tax base to fund these programs; and

    Whereas there is no provincial Minister focused on this crisis leading to unanswered questions that span over a dozen ministries, and a lack of support to manage the increasing needs of those who are unhoused.

    Now Therefore be it resolved that the Region of Waterloo supports the Solve the Crisis Campaign;

    And calls on provincial and federal governments to commit to immediate action to solve the Humanitarian Crisis that Ontario is facing as the numbers of unhoused individuals and those suffering with mental health & addictions grows exponentially;

    AND that the province officially makes Homelessness a Health Priority;

    AND appoints a responsible Minister and Ministry with the appropriate funding and powers as a single point of contact to address the full spectrum of housing needs as well as mental health, addictions and wrap around supports;

    AND request that the provincial government strike a task force with broad sector representatives including municipalities, regions, healthcare, first responders, community services, the business community and the tourism industry to develop a Made in Ontario Action Plan;

    AND that this provincial task force reviews current programs developed by municipalities, regions and community partners that have proven successful in our communities, to ensure that solutions can be implemented quickly and effectively to tackle this crisis.

    AND provides the adequate, sufficient and sustainable funding to ensure that municipalities have the tools and resources to support individuals suffering with mental health and addictions, including unhoused people and those from vulnerable populations that may be disproportionately impacted;

    And that this Council calls on the residents across the Region of Waterloo to join us in appealing to the provincial and federal governments for support by visiting SolveTheCrisis.ca and showing your support;

    And further that a copy of this motion be sent to:

    • The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
    • The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities of Canada
    • The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario
    • The Honourable Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health
    • The Honourable Paul Calandra, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
    • The Honourable Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services
    • The Honourable Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions
    • Local and area MPs, MPPs and Heads of Council
    • The Association of Municipalities of Ontario
    • Ontario’s Big City Mayors and
    • Mayors and Regional Chairs of Ontario
    In Favor (13)J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams
    Carried (13 to 0)

15.
This item has Video

 

There was no unfinished business. 

16.
This item has Video

 

Regional Chair K. Redman provided an overview of the Jack Young Civic Award and noted that the deadline for nominations is Friday September 27, 2024. 

  • Moved byS. Foxton
    Seconded byD. Craig

    That a closed meeting of the Jack Young Civic Award Committee be held on October 2, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. in the Waterloo County Room, in accordance with Section 239 of the “Municipal Act, 2001”, for the purposes of considering the following subject matters:

    (a) personal matters about identifiable individuals, related to award nominees

    In Favor (13)J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams
    Carried (13 to 0)

17.
This item has Video

 

In response to a question from Council, W. Short noted that staff can reach out to Deputy Davis regarding a potential scrap metal by-law.

Doug Spooner, Acting Commissioner, Transportation Services responded to questions regarding the potential Ayr truck by-pass. He noted that staff have met with North Dumfries staff but will need to meet with staff from Brant and Oxford. He stated that an update is planned for October and stressed that a ban will not be perfect but will reduce truck traffic. S. Foxton requested that the detour signs placed for the Trussler Road roundabout be removed and the left turn light at the intersection of Northumberland Street and Cedar Creek Road be restored.  

  • Moved byC. Huinink
    Seconded byK. Williams

    That the following by-laws be approved.

    In Favor (13)J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams
    Carried (13 to 0)

18.1
This item has Video

 
  • Moved byC. Huinink
    Seconded byK. Williams

    That a By-Law to amend By-Law Number 23-062, A By-law to Establish Fees and Charges for the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, as Amended, be read a first, second and third time, finally passed and numbered 24-032, be signed by the Regional Chair and Regional Clerk and sealed with the Regional Seal.

    Carried

18.2
This item has Video

 
  • Moved byC. Huinink
    Seconded byK. Williams

    That a By-law to appoint a Treasurer and to Repeal By-Law Number 24-030, be read a first, second and third time, finally passed and numbered 24-033, be signed by the Regional Chair and Regional Clerk and sealed with the Regional Seal.

    Carried
  • Moved byC. Huinink
    Seconded byK. Williams

    That a By-law to Amend By-law 16-023, as amended, being a By-law to Regulate Traffic and Parking on Highways Under the Jurisdiction of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo (No Parking, Regional Road 6 – Snyder’s Road East), be read a first, second and third time, finally passed and numbered 24-034, be signed by the Regional Chair and Regional Clerk and sealed with the Regional Seal.

    Carried
  • Moved byC. Huinink
    Seconded byK. Williams

    That a By-law to Expropriate Lands for the Construction of a Roundabout at the Intersection of Fischer Hallman Road and New Dundee Road, in the City of Kitchener and in the Township of North Dumfries, , be read a first, second and third time, finally passed and numbered 24-035, be signed by the Regional Chair and Regional Clerk and sealed with the Regional Seal.

    Carried
  • Moved byC. Huinink
    Seconded byK. Williams

    That a By-law to Expropriate Lands for the Construction of a Roundabout at the Intersection of Roseville Road and Edworthy Side Road, in the Township of North Dumfries, in The Regional Municipality of Waterloo, be read a first, second and third time, finally passed and numbered 24-036, be signed by the Regional Chair and Regional Clerk and sealed with the Regional Seal.

    Carried
  • Moved byC. Huinink
    Seconded byK. Williams

    That a By-law to Confirm the Proceedings of the Council of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo at this Meeting Held on September 25, 2024 be read a first, second and third time, finally passed and numbered 24-037, be signed by the Regional Chair and Regional Clerk and sealed with the Regional Seal.

    Carried

19.
This item has Video

 

M. Harris joined the meeting at 10:14 p.m. 

  • Moved byM. Harris
    Seconded byN. Salonen

    That the meeting adjourn at 10:14 p.m. 

    In Favor (14)J. Erb, J. Nowak, K. Redman, M. Harris, S. Shantz, S. Foxton, D. McCabe, D. Craig, P. Wolf, C. James, R. Deutschmann, N. Salonen, C. Huinink, and K. Williams
    Carried (14 to 0)