LIVE BLOG: Committee of the Whole for November 7, 2016

Published on by Adam A. Donaldson

Affordable housing, the new commercial policy, and the pilot project of the service review are all on today’s agenda for Committee-of-the-Whole. You can click here for the amended agenda from City Hall, and you can click here to read Politico’s preview of today’s meeting. For the complete blow-by-blow of today’s committee meeting, you can follow me on Twitter, or follow along below via Storify.

***Note: There will be a separate live-blog for the special meeting of the Committee-of-the-Whole on water taking beginning at 7 pm.

by
Adam A. Donaldson
Mon, Nov 07 2016 23:03:28

Committee-of-the-Whole Meeting – November 7, 2016

Live blog from the meeting starting at 2 pm

  1. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Committee-Of-The-Whole will start in a few. Follow the live-blog here.  http://guelphpolitico.blogspot.ca/2016/11/live-blog-committee-of-whole-for.html#more …

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 18:57:36

  2. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Here’s the preview of the CotW meeting this afternoon (and into the night)..  http://guelphpolitico.blogspot.ca/2016/11/committee-of-whole-preview-whats-on.html …

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 18:58:14

  3. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Hofland sends regrets. Salisbury at a GHESI Board meeting. It’s a committee of 11 today.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:00:58

  4. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Randalin Ellery, Guelph and Wellington Task Force for Poverty Elimination will be presenting first.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:01:27

  5. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    First up is a presentation about the living wage movement.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:02:13

  6. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    #Guelph added 11 employers last week to be a part of the campaign to offer employees a living wage police. 2,200 ppl affected.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:03:03

  7. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    All @cityofguelph full-time employees will earn a living wage by Jan. 2017

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:04:27

  8. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The Task Force would like to see the support for fair wages enshrined in a council motion today.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:05:41

  9. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Now the 20K Homes Movement, a national effort to eliminate homelessness. gw20khomes.ca

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:06:26

  10. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    295 ppl experiencing homelessness 71% adults, 25 unattached youth under 25. The 295 number is considered a low est.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:07:28

  11. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    GW Task Force also identified 14 homeless families.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:08:28

  12. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    It’s very expensive to treat homelessness through emergency services. Over 1K interactions with police in 6 month period.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:09:07

  13. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    47 individuals accounted for 945 interactions btw homeless and police.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:09:31

  14. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Next steps: more research, by name list, coordinated access & assessment and finding housing.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:10:42

  15. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    MacKinnon declares Pecuniary Interest as an owner of a business that is part of the Living Wage campaign already.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:14:52

  16. This is the motion that GW Task Force brought forward https://t.co/U13G8DMrTe

    This is the motion that GW Task Force brought forward pic.twitter.com/U13G8DMrTe
    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:15:55

  17. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Vote to refer the 20K Homes campaign to staff passes 11-0

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:16:37

  18. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Now onto the consent agenda for Governance.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:17:35

  19. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Allt asks to pull 2017 Council and Committee Meeting Schedule; Downer asks to pull CAO Employment Contract.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:18:14

  20. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Allt has concerns about January meetings. Imperative to appreciate the part time responsibility of councillors…

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:18:55

  21. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    …a very long Nov/Dec, and the impact of staff must be considered.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:19:13

  22. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    January meetings = backdoor full-time councillors. Allt says he and his councillors look forward to R&R in Jan.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:20:04

  23. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    January 23 is actually a placeholder. Will be released if staff has nothing to bring forward.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:21:47

  24. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Gordon is also concerned about “risky precedent” of Jan meetings. A lot of councillors structure their year around having it free.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:22:44

  25. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Billings recalls there being a lull in January.
    Clerk notes only one meeting from Jan 25 this past year.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:24:18

  26. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    O’Brien says the structure of CotW needs to happen in Jan b/c some committees would be unheard for 2 months.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:25:20

  27. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    This is a lot more conversation about next year’s meeting schedule than I anticipated…

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:28:01

  28. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Allt moves to delete the CotW meeting and Jan 23 meet from the schedule.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:28:45

  29. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Gordon likes Billings suggestion that CotW be moved to Jan 30.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:29:14

  30. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Vote to remove Jan 16 and 23 from meeting schedule: fails 7-4 (Billings, Allt, Wettstein, and Gordon vote in favour)

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:30:27

  31. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie says only 2 days they would have meetings out of 31.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:31:18

  32. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Council schedule for ’17 passes 9-2. (Allt and Gordon dissent).

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:31:43

  33. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Downer asks to here more from CAO Thomson about thoughts on posting contract to city website.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:32:23

  34. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Thomson says its a matter of transparency as council’s only employee. Absolutely in favour.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:32:55

  35. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie tells Thomson he appreciates the leadership and “new era of transparency”

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:33:32

  36. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Passes unanimously.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:33:46

  37. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie discusses Bill 46. A private members bill to allow for family leave to override the condition to call seat vacated after 3 months.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:35:02

  38. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Province looking at getting municipal support to change it, Guthrie would like council to endorse too.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:35:32

  39. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Allt affirms that this is a matter of human rights too.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:36:29

  40. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Piper makes the motion, people shouldn’t be afraid of losing their position for taking care of their families, she said.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:37:04

  41. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Council votes unanimously in favour of the motion.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:37:49

  42. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Next, Proposed Framework for an Affordable Housing Financial Incentives Program

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:38:05

  43. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    A decision reserved from previous meeting about financial incentives framework and a review of 2ndary rentals

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:39:12

  44. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Secondary rentals review report will be brought forward in Q1 2017

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:39:38

  45. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Current balance of the affordable housing fund is $600K, the 2017 budget will add another $100K

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:41:39

  46. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    MacKinnon begins questions. The definition of affordable is the province’s is the 30-60%? Is that of income?

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:43:10

  47. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Staff: affordable definition based on income and market, in Guelph the bench is based on market.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:44:23

  48. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The market based definition is the lower number, says staff.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:44:46

  49. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Billings asks about the actual amount in the reserve, the current amount. What happened to 2016 in other words.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:49:56

  50. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The amount is $725K after 2016 contribution before the 2017 budget.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:50:51

  51. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Staff confirms that $100k in 2017 budget, bringing amount up to $825K. (Some of that reserve was spent last year FYI)

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:53:08

  52. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Still work to be done in terms of developing the program details, it’s intended to come back to council & can be timed w/ other reports

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:56:02

  53. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Staff: We’re asking council today to approved the high level program criteria. Next step is more detailed design.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:56:54

  54. gwpoverty

    GW Poverty@gwpoverty
    Great to have @cityofguelph Council endorse the #gwlivingwage program AND commit to helping find solutions to end homelessness #gw20khomes

    ·

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 19:59:41

  55. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Wettstein “in a box” because council has no idea who high this is on the priority list to put $500K into crafting the aff. housing policy

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:05:24

  56. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The report was meant to get the conversation going; does council want to proceed with fin. incentives b4 specific budget suggestions r heard

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:06:14

  57. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Waving DCs is an option to consider in the future, but future grants might be an option to replace DC so city not out of pocket.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:12:26

  58. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    DC=Development charges. RE: the money that pays for roads, sewers, and the like.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:13:11

  59. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie: Do you need more info regard 2ndary markets to decide what financial incentives will be?

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:17:01

  60. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Staff: Work can begin on detailed design

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:17:46

  61. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    DC review and update will be coming in 2018 too.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:19:32

  62. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Wettstein still thinks we’re putting the cart before the horse. This will not be ready for 2017 anyway.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:21:20

  63. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie looking to bring committee together on whether or not they’re going to pass the report.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:25:16

  64. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie asks that somebody do something. Bell moves all 4 recommendations with Gordon seconding

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:29:48

  65. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Bell says incentives on affordable housing have been there for as long as he’s on council. This solidifies the effort.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:30:34

  66. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Allt says the city hasn’t yet identified how to fund this effectively though they have identified the city’s role.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:37:07

  67. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Both feds and province have abdicated responsibility over last 40 years, and now dumped it on cities.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:37:50

  68. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Poverty activists note that affordable housing isn’t something “they can grasp onto” says Allt.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:38:30

  69. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Allt says he’s going to reluctantly vote against it.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:39:08

  70. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    MacKinnon: City looking at giving tax money to developer to create units we have no control over.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:40:44

  71. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    MacKinnon: need to tie this money to needs.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:41:25

  72. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Focus money to accessibility solve 2 problems: more affordable housing in 2ndary market, plus solving accessibility issues

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:42:22

  73. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Give developers $80K or give homeowners $10K is MacKinnon’s idea.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:42:50

  74. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Gordon says he’s putting faith in the staff to nudge things forward. They’re asking for council’s approval to keep nudging.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:46:38

  75. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Gibson asks to see the four referrals broken up..

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:50:20

  76. There are the 4 referrals, Wettstein has suggested that point #4 should be #1. https://t.co/cC1DS3KgTg

    There are the 4 referrals, Wettstein has suggested that point #4 should be #1. pic.twitter.com/cC1DS3KgTg
    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:53:30

  77. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie warns council to be careful to cherry pick about what they’d like to see know. Better for staff to refer the whole thing back.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:54:23

  78. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Downer says council has been talking about this “forever” putting money in every year, and no saying “we don’t want to do this”

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:55:31

  79. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Downer prepared to support this the way it is and “stop kicking this down the road”

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:56:40

  80. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Bell says he won’t support the *entire* referral, but will support item #2.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 20:59:37

  81. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie concerned about impact if one referral is passed and others are not.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:00:17

  82. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Staff looking for direction on #1, but info coming back on #2, #3 would support the path staff already on with this.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:02:23

  83. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Staff looking for #2, 3 to be referred, but decisions need on #1,4.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:02:59

  84. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    “Let’s see how this referral goes,” Guthrie says with almost no enthusiasm.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:04:17

  85. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Clerk advises that the referral be removed for all 4 points, and committee vote for them one at a time.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:06:45

  86. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    O’Brien: Procedurally cleaner to have each referred back to staff individually.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:07:23

  87. Current referral on the floor. https://t.co/O6okc5OtjK

    Current referral on the floor. pic.twitter.com/O6okc5OtjK
    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:08:28

  88. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Wettstein: Can’t say yes to 1 and 4 without info from 2 and 3.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:09:10

  89. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Referral of #2,3 passes 8-3. Gordon, Downer, Allt vote against.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:10:13

  90. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Wettstein: We’ve got a reserve, but haven’t directed staff on a way to spend it yet.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:11:02

  91. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Point #4: That funding for an Affordable Housing Financial Incentives Program be included as part of the 2017 budget discussions.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:11:19

  92. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie: Either we agree to start this or not. It will be fleshed out in 2017.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:11:43

  93. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    MacKinnon: This is a plan to create a program. Something may never happen, but the plan is there.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:12:58

  94. Yes or no on #1, says Guthrie. https://t.co/l1wivD7UJZ

    Yes or no on #1, says Guthrie. pic.twitter.com/l1wivD7UJZ
    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:13:36

  95. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Vote passes 9-2 (Allt and Wettstein against).

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:13:57

  96. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Finally point #4: That funding for an Affordable Housing Financial Incentives Program be included as part of the 2017 budget discussions.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:14:35

  97. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    MacKinnon says council can’t approve #4 b/c there’s no policy there yet to fund.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:16:03

  98. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie: I’m looking for somebody to do something on #4.
    MacKinnon: Can I delete it?

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:16:40

  99. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie asks staff to clarify the purpose of #4

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:17:15

  100. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Staff: the intention was to focus council att’n on the framework, make sure discussion is properly position for budget deliberations.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:18:30

  101. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Passing #4 gives council the opportunity to talk about it at budget time, but will talk about it anyway…

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:20:34

  102. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie calls the vote on point #4.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:20:48

  103. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The $500K expansion not in the #GuelphBudget, just the $100K

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:21:34

  104. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Gordon, Guthrie, Downer and Bell vote in favour, but the vote fails 7-4

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:22:18

  105. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Commercial Policy Review: Terms of Reference, Solid Waste, and Essex St Parking are Items to be pulled.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:25:03

  106. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Gibson withdraws his desire to pull Commercial Policy review.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:25:36

  107. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Passed unanimously.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:25:49

  108. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie has one comment on Essex St. Thanks staff for responding quickly.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:26:15

  109. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie appreciates that there was an element to create friendly atmosphere around renovations and construction work.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:26:51

  110. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Vote on end of Essex St parking pilot passes unanimously 11-0

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:28:24

  111. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie asks to set Corporate Services agenda. Reserve/Reserve Fund Consolidation and Policy & Business/Service Review Framework Implement

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:29:27

  112. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Bell asks to pull Reserve and Reserve Fund Consolidation and Policy

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:30:08

  113. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    No one asks to pull Business/Service Review Framework Implementation. Passes 11-0

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:30:59

  114. Agenda after the break + Solid Waste. https://t.co/IdZwpTEanJ

    Agenda after the break + Solid Waste. pic.twitter.com/IdZwpTEanJ
    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:32:22

  115. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Meeting is called back to order with 115 Dawn Avenue: Letter of Refusal for Tree Removal as per the City of Guelph Private Tree By-law

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:44:37

  116. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Mike Dykstra to talk about why he wants to get rid of 5 cider trees on his property.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:46:11

  117. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Concerns: 1) visibility of street (neighbourhood watch) and 2) liability concern as branches become weighted and fall

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:47:29

  118. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    City’s arborist ruled that the trees are healthy

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:48:08

  119. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Dykstra initially applied for removal b/c of aesthetics, but now notes the practical concerns now that he’s moved in.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:49:10

  120. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Dawn Ave a secluded street so dependent on neighbours looking out for one and other he says.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:49:35

  121. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Dykstra has a landscape proposal to replace the 5 trees with 9 more. Realizes bylaw was designed to stop ppl from cutting down forests.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:50:38

  122. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Bell gets clarity, no problem with the trees’ health.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:51:32

  123. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    No further questions for Dykstra from council

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:52:17

  124. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie moves to allow removal of five trees.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:52:31

  125. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Wettstein seconds.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:52:47

  126. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Gibson has 2 questions to staff.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:52:58

  127. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    1) Is there a rule or policy about compensation? Ratio is 3-1 replacement.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:53:23

  128. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Does city ask for certain size? 60 mm tree, but negotiable based on type of tree.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:53:59

  129. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The preference of the city to see native species of tree planted.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:56:09

  130. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    If council decides to allow the appeal, staff would require the compensation be offered in the replacement of those trees.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 21:59:30

  131. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Billings asks about placement of the trees. Staff will work with home owner, and there’s some flexibility.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:01:02

  132. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    In response to Downer’s question, yes, it is enforceable.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:03:09

  133. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Gordon has concerns about the precedent being established. Could ppl go to council to override staff position?

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:03:56

  134. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Wettstein points out that this is a larger lot, and element of fairness to be considered here.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:04:30

  135. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Wettstein says there’s a contradiction to think about, townhouses built in the same area, and the trees were cut down.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:05:37

  136. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie says there’s problems with tree bylaw, and doesn’t like who it interferes with homeowner rights. When is it up for review?

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:06:14

  137. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Bylaw doesn’t have a set time to review, but there is a review mechanism in one of the management plans.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:06:53

  138. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Homeowner has a choice of leaving trees in place, or be subject to the replacement criteria of 15 trees.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:09:40

  139. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie asks Chair Bell to see if they can hear from the Dykstra to hear from him about compromise.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:10:15

  140. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Bell: “I’m seeing more nods than shakes.”

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:10:46

  141. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Dykstra: applied to build garage, got permit, and then got email about the missing trees where the garage was built.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:11:47

  142. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Just not the space for 3 for 1 replace. Doesn’t mind compensating, but he doesn’t have the space.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:12:49

  143. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie: “This homeowner is doing his best” so he’s going to step away from amendment.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:13:41

  144. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Bell: this is not a black and white thing. If the trees were significant to the neighbourhood it would be a different story.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:17:34

  145. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Vote on the amendment pass 8-3.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:18:36

  146. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Main motion: that the removal of the trees be allowed in consultation with the homeowner to replace. Passes 9-2 (Gordon, Wettstein against)

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:19:29

  147. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Next up: Development of Engineering Manual.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:20:38

  148. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Fun fact: the City’s Engineering Standards of Design for Subdivision Engineering, Sewers, Roads and Watermains goes back to 1974!

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:22:54

  149. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    “We don’t want to wait another 42 years” to update engineering manual, says Staff.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:26:41

  150. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    People are streaming in to the gallery now. Early birds for the water meeting?

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:31:16

  151. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    My colleague @SaxonOnTheStorm wonders if they’re Nestle employees. Perhaps…

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:32:43

  152. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie says he’s heard nothing but positive feedback from developers about the new manual.” Another notch in the belt” for Guelph.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:33:26

  153. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Council votes unanimously for the new manual.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:34:35

  154. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Next up: Subdivision Construction – Process Change

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:35:17

  155. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Staff calls this another positive move in city management.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:35:42

  156. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Basically, the city oversees & manages infrastructure construction in new subdivisions. Report suggests less-hands-on “assumption model”

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:37:39

  157. Is Nestle representing here? https://t.co/SyVIplhqoO

    Is Nestle representing here? pic.twitter.com/SyVIplhqoO
    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:39:21

  158. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    My @GuelphTribune colleague Doug Hallet has confirmed that the 35 ppl that came in a while ago represent Nestle Waters in Aberfoyle.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:44:03

  159. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie calls it “another notch on the belt”

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:46:27

  160. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie points out that only #Guelph uses the model of managing all aspects of infrastructure construction.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:47:16

  161. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    We’ll be “rolling out the red carpet for businesses” in Guelph says Guthrie.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:47:33

  162. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Subdivision Process change passes unanimously.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:48:02

  163. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Bell asks about last item in Infrastructure, Development and Enterprise, variance in solid waste.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:48:46

  164. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    These are extraordinary items that have been resolved, but affect this year, yes?

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:49:08

  165. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The costs are tied in part to the fire at the plant in June, taking steps to offer a budget with no negative variance in 2017.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:50:19

  166. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Putting a hold on discretionary spending and program enhancements.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:50:37

  167. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Staff points out that Solid Waste will be the first department to get the full Service Review.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:51:10

  168. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Circumstances are unique and not structural in nature.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:51:35

  169. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Billings asks if insurance will cover the fire losses.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:52:07

  170. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    There’s no business interruption coverage, which is where the loss came from, insurance will replace lost equipment.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:52:51

  171. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie congratulates “the fresh set of eyes” and how it was brought forward quickly by exec team.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:54:46

  172. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Bell says he has complete confidence that “we’re in good hands now”. Looking forward to “Stellar report” in 2017.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:55:38

  173. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Report passed unanimously.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:55:49

  174. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Last item: Reserve and Reserve Fund Consolidation and Policy.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:56:15

  175. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Bell concurs with report to better balance city reserves, hopes that they would provide insight into whether the levels are adequate.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:56:55

  176. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Consolidation will come under phase 2 deadline end of Q2 when it comes to committee of the whole

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 22:57:57

  177. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie says there’s theme: council is reacting to professional information that we’re getting to make city better.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 23:00:12

  178. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    This is another step to getting city financial house in order, says Guthrie.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 23:00:42

  179. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Reserve and Reserve Fund Consolidation and Policy passed 11-0

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 23:00:53

  180. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    That’s a wrap for the main Committee-of-the-Whole. The meeting on Water Taking will commence at 7 pm.

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 23:01:49

  181. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    You’ll be able to follow the water-taking meeting at this live blog post:  http://guelphpolitico.blogspot.ca/2016/11/live-blog-special-committee-of-whole-on.html#more … See you at 7pm!

    Mon, Nov 07 2016 23:02:29

 

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