LIVE BLOG: City Council Meeting for October 26, 2017

Published on by Adam A. Donaldson

Budget battles begin as delegates offer their opinions on the 2018 Capital Budget, and the 2018 Non-Tax Supported Budget. You can click here for the agenda from City Hall, and you can click here for the Politico preview. For the complete blow-by-blow of tonight’s council meeting, you can follow me on Twitter, or follow along below via Storify.

***Please note that there will be a pause in coverage between 4:30 until shortly after 6 (if necessary) due to the regular broadcast of Open Sources Guelph.

The City of Guelph is also live streaming the meeting on its YouTube page, and you can watch it below:

 

by
Adam A. Donaldson
Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:34:57

#GuelphBudget Meeting – October 26, 2017

Live blog from the meeting starting at 2 pm

  1. Some pre-meeting prep: the outline of the Non-Tax Supported Budget and the Capital Budget for 2018, plus 10-year forecast. #GuelphBudget https://t.co/GEZq9z2wLw https://t.co/skIJU5GRr2

    Some pre-meeting prep: the outline of the Non-Tax Supported Budget and the Capital Budget for 2018, plus 10-year forecast. #GuelphBudget  http://guelphpolitico.blogspot.ca/2017/10/city-council-preview-whats-on-agenda_19.html … pic.twitter.com/skIJU5GRr2

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 17:22:35

  2. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Both #GuelphBudget items will be presented, and then there will be delegates: 5 for Non-Tax Budget, and 27 for Capital/Forecast.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 17:23:47

  3. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Unfortunately, there will be a considerable break in live-blog coverage from 4:30 till after 6 because of @OS_Guelph, so be forewarned.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 17:25:20

  4. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    In case you want to follow along in a more visual sense, the @cityofguelph will be live-streaming the meeting on its YouTube channel.  https://www.youtube.com/user/cityofguelph/featured …

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 17:50:59

  5. We’re getting underway. pic.twitter.com/MJ6RtbXsZO

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:01:37

  6. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Mayor Guthrie notes that if there’s anything in regards to Hastings Stadium or baseball, he will call a conflict on himself and remove himself from the debate.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:02:18

  7. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Deputy CAO Trevor Lee will kick-off the Non-Tax Supported budget presentation.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:03:12

  8. The live stream of this meeting is up on YouTube now.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YXvIN2NEa8 …

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:04:47

  9. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The meeting is *not* being broadcast on @RTVGuelph as Cllr Allt noted. This is due to a scheduling conflict on Rogers’ part and not the City.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:05:29

  10. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Lee notes that the 10-year forecast is not full funded. That will change next year when the 2019 budget is presented.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:07:03

  11. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Tara Baker is now presenting the budget timeline. To hear more from the GM of Finance and Treasurer on how the budget comes together every year, listen to this:  http://guelphpolitico.blogspot.ca/2017/10/guelph-politicast-98-tara-baker-city.html …

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:08:42

  12. Future #Guelph #budget delegating and decision dates https://t.co/7CHoguIgVh

    Future #Guelph #budget delegating and decision dates pic.twitter.com/7CHoguIgVh

     

     

    Mark MacKinnon@ward6mark

    ·
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:09:15

  13. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Schedule: Presentation and delegates today for capital/non-tax. These will be voted on next week at the November 2 meeting.  http://guelphpolitico.blogspot.ca/2017/10/city-council-preview-whats-on-agenda_20.html …

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:09:39

  14. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Compensation, energy costs, infrastructure funding gap, and growth are the four main challenges to the non-tax supported budget this year.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:14:14

  15. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    What’s the non-tax budget? It covers court services, water, wastewater, stormwater, and ON Building Code admin. These areas are not paid for with revenue from property taxes.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:16:05

  16. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    GM of Engineering and Capital Infrastructure Kealy Dedman says this was a good year for Water Services. Recent events in Houston show how important a functioning Stormwater Dept is.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:17:33

  17. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Average stormwater monthly charge will go up $0.60 per month according to 2018 budget, that’s $7.20 for the year. Still the second cheapest in comparator municipalities with separate stormwater fee.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:21:36

  18. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The extra $0.60 will allow Stormwater to build a base for sustainability going forward, says Dedman.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:25:18

  19. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie suggests that questions should follow the presentation of each department rather than plough through the whole presentation. Staff agrees.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:25:56

  20. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Gordon asks about extending the date to achieve sustainability. Any risks?

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:28:30

  21. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Dedman says 60 cent increase per year is important for affordability, but the risks are minimal as they build a base for sustainability.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:29:14

  22. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Dedman adds there’s a long-term 10 year program that addresses the higher risks first.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:29:56

  23. Cllr Gibson asks for "inquiring minds" is this a $250K graphic. jk. https://t.co/TxRah3tOWo

    Cllr Gibson asks for “inquiring minds” is this a $250K graphic. jk. pic.twitter.com/TxRah3tOWo

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:31:44

  24. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    We’re moving on to court services now.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:35:23

  25. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The City is the service provider as per the Gov of Ontario and it services Guelph and Wellington. It’s paid through the revenue for fines paid for provincial offences.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:36:33

  26. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Last year, Court Services collected $250K in revenue, and saved $9,700 from moving to online banking for the collection of fees. #welcometo2017

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:39:41

  27. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    There’s been a declining charge volume in #guelph year over year, this year being the lowest since the City took over the courts. Also, Court Services does not set expectations for the number of charges laid.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:42:20

  28. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The backlog being recovered in fees using collection agencies is substantial. That revenue will go down year-over-year, and a not significant portion of new delinquencies are being added.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:46:31

  29. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Also, the province instituted a plate-denial program this year where if you have overdue fines for provincial offences you don’t get your new tags.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:47:16

  30. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr MacKinnon asks about disparity of the expected revenue versus the actual revenue. Court Services GM Coutts says they’re pretty close most of the time, but a couple of things might throw them off.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:54:49

  31. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    A charge like a work place accident might result in a high fine of between $500K to a million. Court Services don’t take into account those kind of huge payouts in the budget.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:55:39

  32. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The outstanding backlog right now: $16 million. That’s 28-29K cases. 65 per cent of total fines are paid out on time, which is about the provincial average.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:56:47

  33. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    That’s it for court services. Next up, Todd Salter, GM of Planning, Urban Design and Building Services.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 18:57:33

  34. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Salter is presenting building code admin. The only real matter of concern is that 1/4 staff members are retiring in next four years, and they need to strategically plan for that.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:02:52

  35. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Now we’re on to Water and Wastewater with Peter Busatto, GM of Environmental Services.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:03:36

  36. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Overall, all customer groups are conserving more and more water, which is good but less use means less revenue.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:04:09

  37. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Water & Wastewater will be looking to three new environmental assessments, the re-coating of the Verney Water Tower, and the acceleration of the Water Meter Replacement program in 2018.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:06:50

  38. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Presently, a contest is underway to design the new wrap of the Verney Tower. Results will be available to be voted on starting Nov 6.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:08:26

  39. The live stream goes on…
     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nm39DN8bgsM …

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:12:03

  40. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Annual increases to Capital reserve is putting Wastewater on the path to sustainability.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:14:00

  41. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    New Water Meter installations will also be stepped in order to better calculate the cost of water use, and more accurately. Could be missing out on revenue, you know.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:15:04

  42. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Staff says that there are 18K water meters that are outside their useful life, they’re typically off by about 1.3% in terms of accuracy.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:18:27

  43. Cllr Gibson points out that #Guelph is competitive on water rates being one of the few comparator communities dependent on ground water. https://t.co/MvSITq1eVf

    Cllr Gibson points out that #Guelph is competitive on water rates being one of the few comparator communities dependent on ground water. pic.twitter.com/MvSITq1eVf

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:23:56

  44. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guelph has cut back on water use by the equivalent of 496 single-family homes. #FYI

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:27:09

  45. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Busatto says that increased bills will lead to more revenue versus the cost of replacing all the older meters. Cllr Salisbury asked about the cost of doing nothing.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:30:36

  46. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Staff says they can bring forward potential cost offsets to address Salisbury concern. Water thinks its in the best interest of both the customers and the City.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:33:50

  47. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Allt asks about succession planning, and how staff is going to deal with a lot of the inefficiencies there in.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:34:33

  48. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Recent changes to managerial structure has made staff more agile. Younger staff are stepping ahead and older staff are hanging back to help transfer of knowledge.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:35:16

  49. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Last presentation before delegations: Wastewater Services.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:37:15

  50. This slide sums up the total impact of water rate changes from all three branches on customers. https://t.co/DSA5vZ4w6V

    This slide sums up the total impact of water rate changes from all three branches on customers. pic.twitter.com/DSA5vZ4w6V

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:43:02

  51. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    1 minute less in the shower everyday would mean a 0% increase for rate payers, adds Busatto in summation.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:43:57

  52. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    You know, because there isn’t enough going on right now, the @cityofguelph has released the Operating portion of #GuelphBudget.  http://guelph.ca/wp-content/uploads/council_agenda_110817.pdf#page=3 …

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:47:00

  53. Apparently, neither of the GRCA reps are here, so take a look at this relevant screen grab. https://t.co/gbG68Uj2d9

    Apparently, neither of the GRCA reps are here, so take a look at this relevant screen grab. pic.twitter.com/gbG68Uj2d9

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:49:29

  54. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    So the first delegate is local resident Dorothy Griggs. Guthrie says council got an email about the topic of Griigs presentation, so that’s interesting.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:50:29

  55. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Griggs is speaking to the “Niska Property” a name she says is misleading because this is the former Kortright Water Fowl Park. All ppl have seen is locked gates, with rumours of secret planning.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:52:25

  56. Here’s some of the accompanying documentation from Griggs presentation. pic.twitter.com/vvZgf674Dc

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 19:56:38

  57. Next up is Rob Hildred and he’s got some ideas about the budget. https://t.co/PNTFiVOgCM

    Next up is Rob Hildred and he’s got some ideas about the budget. pic.twitter.com/PNTFiVOgCM

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:00:04

  58. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Hildred suggest expressing the budget expansion benefit it offers, and compare expansion to how the service is doing now.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:01:26

  59. Recommended 2018 tax-supported operating budget now online. Will be presented to Council Nov. 8. https://t.co/JRmmFfndFf #budget2018 https://t.co/JeUDkqLeZT

    Recommended 2018 tax-supported operating budget now online. Will be presented to Council Nov. 8.  http://ow.ly/teyz30g9KWM  #budget2018 pic.twitter.com/JeUDkqLeZT

     

     

    City of Guelph@cityofguelph

    ·
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:07:27

  60. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Next up, Pat Fung. He had a couple of things to talk about, but now it’s only one: Stormwater rebate.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:09:43

  61. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Salisbury asks if Fung can email his concerns to the staff as his questions are fairly technical. Fung will move those on.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:12:58

  62. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Back to council questions now, Gibson begins looking at impact of rebates, is that more on the commercial or residential?

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:14:01

  63. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Dedman: Commercial. City working towards educating the residents on how to manage their own stormwater.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:14:29

  64. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Bell and Cllr Hofland put the recommendations on the floor.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:16:13

  65. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Baker encourages council to go to the budget message board, a lot of questions asked today are answered there.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:16:44

  66. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Is this something the public has access to @cityofguelph or is this something for council/staff?  https://twitter.com/adamadonaldson/status/923644587779899392 …

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:17:09

  67. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Recommendations accepted 11-0 (@leannepiper and Karl Wettstein are regrets today.)

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:18:04

  68. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie notes that this seems like a natural place to take a break, but wants to continue on to 4:30.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:18:40

  69. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    So it looks like council will go on till a 4:30 break. I however will take my break here.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:19:14

  70. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    I’ll be on @OS_Guelph at 5 pm on @cfru_radio.  https://opensourcesguelph.com/2017/10/26/open-sources-show-notes-for-thursday-october-26-2017/ …

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:19:38

  71. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    I’ll pick up the live blog shortly after 6 pm. In the meantime, you can watch the live stream embedded on Politico’s live blog page.  https://guelphpolitico.blogspot.ca/2017/10/live-blog-city-council-meeting-for_26.html …

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:20:31

  72. pic.twitter.com/6XKLXF19is

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 20:20:49

  73. I’m not at council right now, but the live stream is. Check it out:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5oJUrNL5EE …

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 21:05:56

  74. leannepiper

    Leanne Piper Ward 5@leannepiper
    @adamadonaldson @leannepiper is in the house. Public delegations are underway. Listening intently. #GuelpghBudget2018

     

     

    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 21:46:12

  75. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The council live stream seems broken again @cityofguelph. Oh yeah, I’m watching *and* doing @OS_Guelph

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 21:49:46

  76. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    @cityofguelph @OS_Guelph Never mind, it’s back.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 21:52:12

  77. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    On my way back to City Hall now…

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:09:55

  78. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Back at city council in time for library delegations. Anne Gajerski-Cauley hopes this will be the last time she appears before council to advocate for a new main branch of the @GuelphLibrary.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:22:21

  79. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    AGC says the library does not drain the public purse. If her husband had talked to her as long as council’s been talking about a library, she’d have never gotten married.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:24:57

  80. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    “What good is a marriage if you’ll never speak to us again?” asks Cllr Allt.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:26:05

  81. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Next up, Paul Costello from the Guelph Council of Canadians office. Pro-library, anti-P3 to pay for it.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:26:48

  82. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Next up is John Parkyn, he wants to look at libraries in other municipalities, and references the Idea Exchange in #Cambridge.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:28:59

  83. This is the video we’re watching in council right now:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83U8YYtcynU …

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:31:25

  84. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Parkyn says that he knows some people have some difficulty with the word visions, but it’s not as practical as a good theory.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:33:11

  85. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Now Elaine Duignan is up to the mic. Notes that a library is needed in downtown Guelph, mostly because she doesn’t have a computer and can access there, but also because she meets a lot of beautiful people.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:35:24

  86. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Now Susan Watson will speak to libraries. Notes that the City has engaged in a priority study process to determine future development on the Baker Street lot.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:37:40

  87. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Watson says that she wants to start from a place that she and the mayor agree – much to the surprise of the crowd – the Baker Street property is under performing.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:39:15

  88. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Mira Clarke of Action Read is not here, but Donna Jennison is so the delegations will move on with her.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:42:38

  89. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Jennison has done research about the library, at the library, and notes that 100s of meetings have been held on this matter and other things. It seems clear that the city overwhelming wants and needs new library.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:43:51

  90. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cynthia Bragg is now up. Notes the infrastructure deficit is daunting, but a well-funded library is no less important to the health, wealth and prosperity of the city.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:48:55

  91. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Still about 13 people left on the delegation list, btw.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:49:34

  92. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Duncan MacKenzie is a former librarian. Worked in elementary and high schools, and thinks libraries should be happy, welcoming places.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:54:55

  93. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    MacKenzie says that the school board he worked for in California spend hundreds of thousands improving his library before and after he took his there, and he notes that this was in Silicon Valley.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 22:56:33

  94. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Next up is @Susan_T_Carey, one of the founders of the Guelph Tool Library. Notes that young people aren’t so obsessed with owning things anymore. That’s where we should be investing.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:00:37

  95. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Carey says to council that when they make decisions about the library, there are no cons, only pros. And don’t close any doors.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:01:16

  96. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie notes that it’s important when visioning the new library that everyone engage with the board between now and February.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:01:47

  97. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Anne MacKay of the Library Board now at bat. Notes that libraries aren’t about books specifically, but about sharing ideas. Books have just been the usual way to do it.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:02:57

  98. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    MacKay says she appreciates the work of staff and council, knows that it’s been a long path to get here.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:05:51

  99. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Emran Jamali notes, again, that the library is more than just books. London has the Idea Store.  https://www.ideastore.co.uk 

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:08:58

  100. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Some applause for Jamali’s words. Now my old boss Ian Findlay is up, and speaking on behalf of Friends of the Public Library.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:13:42

  101. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Friends of GPL don’t have a space for the book sale in 2018, but that search will be on again after the new year.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:14:19

  102. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Findlay reveals that for third year in a row, the book sale made $100K. Numbers are not final, but the tally all told so far is $630K. Findlay says Friends of GPL will bring a cool $1 million to the table.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:16:21

  103. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Next up, Mary Mulholland. She’s also one of the organizers of the book sale, and she’s going over the long history of redevelopment of the main library.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:19:11

  104. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Mulholland says she will try to live long enough to see the new main library finally be built. Allt notes that it’s important to note the dollar figure in all the missed opportunities.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:22:00

  105. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Jonathan Webb notes the paradox of asking developers to include the new library in with their pitches for redevelopment plans.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:23:42

  106. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    FYI: Still 5 people left on the delegate list, and there will be council questions after that.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:24:44

  107. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Jesse Tetrault of @OutOnTheShelf is now up, starts with a reminder that it’s the 19th anniversary this month of Matthew Shepard’s murder.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:29:08

  108. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Tetrault is the Library Chair and Vice-Chair of OOTS, notes the importance of libraries and their archives to protect history.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:30:37

  109. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr MacKinnon asks Tetrault about 100 Queers Who Care, a fundraiser that @OutOnTheShelf is running now. Here’s a link:  http://www.outontheshelf.com/2017/09/12/100-queers-who-care/ …

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:34:02

  110. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Next up is Maggie Laidlaw who chastises the Trib for running an editorial about taking time to develop the library. She respectfully disagrees.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:35:01

  111. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Laidlaw reading articles written for the Mercury about how desperate the need for a new library is. The year? 1993.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:36:45

  112. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Laidlaw blames herself as “one of those foot draggers” as no action was taken during her years as a city councillor.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:38:24

  113. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    .@MikeSchreiner pulls something out of his bag… and gives a shout out to Guelph staff on developing a list of priorities. He feels that staff is on top of things, but…

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:41:12

  114. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    @MikeSchreiner …Hopes that the capital budget is structured to take advantage of fed and prov offerings, and that council hears the passion of Guelphites for a new library.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:41:58

  115. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Final delegate of the night, Karen DelVecchio. Wanted to be last, b/c she wanted to talk about accessibility as this meeting started at 2 pm, when a lot of people in the community are working.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:43:11

  116. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    DelVecchio says that meetings need to be made more accessible, even if it means multiple meetings. Plus, docs need to be more accessible with large type and multi-languages.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:44:15

  117. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    DelVecchio notes that more of an effort needs to be made to make council meetings accessible via video. @ward6mark did his part last budget season.  https://guelphpolitico.blogspot.ca/2016/12/mackinnon-still-considers-cost-to.html …

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:45:48

  118. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    DelVecchio also notes that there needs to be more library resources for young people and more people of all languages to learn English, as ESL is big for a lot of newcomers to Guelph. Also, outside learning facilities would be nice.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:47:01

  119. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Delaying funding is denying funding, she says in summation.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:47:42

  120. ward6mark

    Mark MacKinnon@ward6mark
    I am optimistic that council will be approving some AODA-compliant video streaming and archiving this budget season.  https://twitter.com/adamadonaldson/status/923697201183723520 …

     

     

    ·

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:47:49

  121. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Downer also hopes that she lives to see the library built.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:48:50

  122. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Downer asks CAO Thomson if the request has gone out, or a review of the process so far.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:49:45

  123. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Thomson: We’re ready if there’s fed/prov funding. Been lobbying a number of infrastructure projects last few years, a library component has always been part of that. Recently solidified governance structure around construction.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:51:13

  124. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Also, Library CEO been working with consultant on business case. As for RFP, Peter Cartwright says staff are finalizing. Based on council endorsed concept for mixed use incl 90 sq ft library.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:52:30

  125. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    It will be staged process beginning with expression of interest, also will ask for expertise/experience on such developments. Allows council to make decisions on library concept and biz case. Both processes starting to merge.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:53:29

  126. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    This is a 2 phase approach, says Thomson. The RFP and business case will come back together in February. This project has also been identified as a Tier 1 project, so it’s a priority for the City to be sure.

     

     

    Thu, Oct 26 2017 23:58:55

  127. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The RFP will be public, Guthrie notes. As soon as its ready to go out, everyone will be able to access it and read it.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:02:04

  128. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    $622 per square foot? Allt asks. And are we narrowing the RFP too much to not including things like a new YMCA and affordable housing in the plan. People are right, libraries become a meeting place.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:03:29

  129. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Thomson wants an open transparent sounding of that land, and doesn’t want the process to be guided one way or the other by demands placed in the RFP. Also, YMCA and others might have own ideas of space/size. Working thru own biz case now

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:04:52

  130. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie reminds that we’re not here to talk about the operating works of a new library, this is about capital overall.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:05:48

  131. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Gordon offers gratitude to the inspiring delegations. Hears passion and commitment from staff and councillors too, but concerned that City hasn’t made a big enough commitment.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:07:13

  132. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    In other words, Gordon wants to take the “lie” out of “library”.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:08:26

  133. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Baker: The business case is coming back in Feb. Part of that will be costing, plus public engagement. That info is needed to recommend a budget, so they can’t recommend it now.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:10:01

  134. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Baker adds that the city has access debt funding to move the process through a quicker pace, or access other funding if it becomes available.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:11:25

  135. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Hofland also humbled by delegates. Thinks it’s important to note that all of council is on the same page.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:13:14

  136. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Thomson says City can put together a timeline complete with milestones so that council can see down the road what work needs to be done, and to answer general questions about process.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:14:07

  137. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Wettstein says when it comes to the library, $100K is all council is dealing with tonight. The vote isn’t that complex when business case comes back in Feb: does council move forward?

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:17:59

  138. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson

    Salisbury says council knows they’re going to commit to building a library, so why not commit to putting aside $500K this budget?

    Thomson says it’s simple: council hasn’t given that direction yet.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:21:07

  139. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Wettstein notes that 2019 budget will not get started until Q1 of 2019 b/c of the 2018 elxn.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:23:27

  140. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Downer noted that in 2003, everything was set to go, there was funding, and the will of the new council put the kibosh on it. This can get turned around at any time before the final vote.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:25:55

  141. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Downer notes council is closer now than anytime since 2003, but that’s politics, and that’s why the community has to stay engaged.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:27:00

  142. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Gibson and Bell move the recommendations.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:27:27

  143. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie reads an article from a year-and-a-half ago about sending a signal to rally around council rather than perpetuate incorrect rhetoric about the library. Believes all library motions (5/6) that have all been unanimous.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:29:40

  144. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie wonders how the city can send a stronger signal that they’re committed. Could have allocated surplus to Baker Street, but didn’t. Gets the optics, might make ppl feel better, but the process is dictating it being done in right way.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:31:52

  145. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The vote is called. Passes 11-0. (Van Hellemond and Piper not here)

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:33:34

  146. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie acknowledges the comments about scheduling, which will be taken into account.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:34:03

  147. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    And that’s meeting adjourned. Nov 2 is the next meeting to vote on the final recommendations for capital/non-tax budgets. Good night.

     

     

    Fri, Oct 27 2017 00:34:36

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