LIVE BLOG: Committee of the Whole for November 6, 2017

Published on by Adam A. Donaldson

Corporate Services, Public Services, and the Audit Committee all have their say, as well as a redux of the Speedvale Bridge Underpass Trail debate, are all up for discussion at this month’s 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.

 

by
Adam A. Donaldson
Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:38:35

Committee-of-the-Whole Meeting – November 6, 2017

Live blog from the meeting starting at 2 pm

  1. This month's committee of the whole begins in about 10 minutes. Here's what's on the agenda: https://t.co/MGFiyH6ODI https://t.co/vi8NmkWT01

    This month’s committee of the whole begins in about 10 minutes. Here’s what’s on the agenda:  https://guelphpolitico.blogspot.ca/2017/10/committee-of-whole-preview-whats-on.html … pic.twitter.com/vi8NmkWT01

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 18:52:03

  2. A mysterious last minute removal from the closed meeting agenda... https://t.co/gP3BIEGppG

    A mysterious last minute removal from the closed meeting agenda… pic.twitter.com/gP3BIEGppG

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 18:55:46

  3. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Mayor Guthrie is calling committee to order.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:01:24

  4. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Closed meeting items: Fall 2017 Public Appointments to Various Advisory Boards and Committees. A motion regarding this will be brought forward later today.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:02:08

  5. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Speedvale Avenue Bridge Underpass Risks and Liabilities. Council received some advice on this matter.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:02:36

  6. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr MacKinnon declares that he does a Pecuniary Interest in that a business associate has been appointed to the Committee of Adjustment.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:03:54

  7. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    First up, a presentation from Dorothy Fair about an update on the Guelph Wellington Seniors Association.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:04:39

  8. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The GWSA has 2,600 members, and encourages older adults to be active and involved in the community. It’s based out of the Evergreen Seniors Centre on Woolwich.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:05:47

  9. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Dorothy Fair is the president of the GWSA, which takes on leadership and instructional roles in activities organized for their community. Hosting an event called “The Day Before” on Nov. 10 for Remembrance Day.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:09:23

  10. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Details for The Day Before:  https://gwsa-guelph.ca/the-day-before-a-remembrance-day-celebration-one-day-early/ …

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:10:41

  11. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Fair has 3 requests: a GWSA rep gets a seat on any comm considering South End Rec Centre, to be a a part of discussions on parking solutions at Evergreen, and discussion on more transit access for seniors.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:15:16

  12. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Round of applause for the GWSA from council.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:15:42

  13. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Share Cost Allocation Basis with Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health, Single Source Purchase Audit Report, Status of Outstanding Management Action Plans, and Internal Work Plan 2018-2020s pass unanimously by conscent.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:20:46

  14. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Board and committee appointments pass unanimously, with MacKinnon sitting out the one Adjustment Committee appointment.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:21:42

  15. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Next Matthew Betik from KPMG will go over the 2017 External Audit Plan.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:22:21

  16. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    KPMG is the usually outside auditor that looks at the end of the year financial statements from the City of Guelph.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:23:55

  17. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The external audit should return to council sometime in June.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:30:27

  18. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Mayor Guthrie asks (as every year) if the auditor finds something misstated, then Betik will chase it even if its under the $355K threshold.
    Betik: That is correct.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:32:01

  19. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Wettstein points out a typo. Presentation says 2017 instead of 2018. #ithappens

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:33:34

  20. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    In response to a Q from Cllr Salisbury, Betik says there’s a lot of discussion with the finance staff, but for specific area questions, like transit fares, they will also address the appropriate staff directly.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:35:01

  21. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Gibson asks if KPMG has embedded staff that set up for a time at city hall or do they pop in all year long?
    Betik: It’s the former.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:37:28

  22. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Gibson now asking about turnover. Are the same people working on the audit every year?
    Betik: The opposite of turnover is continuity. KPMG tries to create a balance.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:38:15

  23. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Allt follows up on Gibson to make sure KPMG is following a professional ethic. Batik assures that they are.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:40:26

  24. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie puts forward the motion to receive the report. It passes 13-0.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:41:01

  25. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    No staff updates, to that’s a wrap on Audit Committee.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:41:24

  26. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Now over to public services and delegations for the Speedvale Bridge Underpass. 12 delegates in all.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:42:05

  27. DCAO Clack begins with comments. Staff is presenting three options for committee to consider, with a strong recommendation for A. pic.twitter.com/Ux0fKQlQJR

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:44:02

  28. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Clack says that proceeding with A means that there will be no more of a delay getting started on that trail then if the original version was to be approved.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:44:38

  29. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Gordon hopes to inform the discussion asking Clack about not asking for amendments for Option A. Clack says A leaves things open enough that they can consider all possible amendments to the plan going forward. #flexibility.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:47:09

  30. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Plus, it was always the intention to co-ordinate construction of the trail with construction of the bridge in 2020, but Gordon notes that there are traffic concerns for next 3 years in the meantime.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:47:58

  31. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    DCAO Stewart: We’ve got to keep the programs together, no physical and fiscal separation on the projects, but there maybe things that can be done in the meantime.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:48:51

  32. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Van Hellemond is concerned. How secure the wall is and addressing a steep incline, that will be in the next report?
    Clack: Yes, going with Option A and all that info will come back with next report.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:51:02

  33. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Chair Downer moves to the first of 12 delegations, Prof Hugh Whitely.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:52:40

  34. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Worth noting that there are also 28 letters and correspondences addressing this in addition to all the delegations and correspondences last month.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:53:21

  35. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Whiteley says that the City should proceed with an EA for the project. It requires no preconception for design, full range of types of trails to consider & opportunities to correct errors.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 19:57:55

  36. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Whiteley says he has not had any feedback from staff about the EA, but notes that going forward with it might address some of those liabilities that council discussed in the closed session.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:03:05

  37. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Next up Cyndy McLean, who was an avid runner till an accident made her paraplegic. She notes that there are a number of safety obstacles for her on the present trail system.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:04:24

  38. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Salisbury appreciates McLean pointing out how ignorant he is about the challenges for accessibility. Asks about the grades – AODA is 5% or less – but would that be accessible?

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:07:45

  39. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    McLean says you can’t look at anyone factor: 5% paved is > than 4% gravel, for example.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:08:24

  40. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Next up, Dorothe Fair of the GWSA returns…

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:10:27

  41. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Senior seniors are trying to hold on their independence, says Fair. That means using their mobility devices and aids on trails is necessary and thus pushing council to support.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:11:44

  42. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Fair notes that the north Woolwich area is a “Mecca” for seniors. Most senior activities seem to happen in the area with all the apartments and the senior centre in the area.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:16:43

  43. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Barbara Mann is the next delegate. Says we forget the “fourth” pillar of creating a great community, which is culture. Must look at the trail from all angles including safety and accessibility.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:19:37

  44. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Mann notes that a lot of people used the Neeve street underpass, and the 100 steps. Growing use of trails for more than just bikes, and this is a worldwide trend.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:21:19

  45. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Nellie Jagt of the GWSA is talking now about she’s almost been hit by cars while walking up to Walmart. A lot of pedestrians know the feeling.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:24:34

  46. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    In other news, @cityofguelph and workers with @guelphtransit have reached a tentative agreement.  https://guelph.ca/2017/11/city-guelph-guelph-transit-union-reach-tentative-agreement/ …

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:25:39

  47. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    So I guess we know why now this item was pulled from the agenda.  https://twitter.com/adamadonaldson/status/927633096031141888 …

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:26:14

  48. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Joanne McDermott wants to make sure council considers the potential damage to the river in *not* building a trail. Currently well-used manmade trail and people walking along retaining wall.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:27:20

  49. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    McDermott notes that more people in the core means more people seeking refuge in natural areas like a trail alongside the river. #hint

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:28:34

  50. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Bill Mungall from the Guelph Hiking Club is up next. We can only guess what side he’s on… jk.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:30:27

  51. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Suzanne Gates the next speaker, and there’s a video.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:36:05

  52. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Gates is with @activeguelph, praises committee for taking another look at the trail, and they are pleased with Option A but offers “significant amendments.”

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:37:15

  53. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    GCAT is asking for wide spread consultation with a variety of stakeholders before the end of Q1 in 2018. The video shows the extreme congestion at rush hour that people are facing at Speedvale.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:40:28

  54. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Mike Darmon, also with @activeguelph, is up now. Notes that there’s presently no options on the table, but Option A must include options for accessible and winter maintenance design options.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:46:28

  55. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Down to the last two delegates. Next up is Hilary Appleton who’s impressed with the expertise. She’s not with a group, just an area resident that walks dogs in the temp trail. Finds it chilling watching people trying to cross.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:50:43

  56. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Final delegate: Stan Kozak with the @2RiversFestival, and says that the plan is a river system for nature and a river system for people, and Guelph can have both.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:54:53

  57. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Kozak says that he now has up to 800 signatures on the petition. It’s being kept open for more signatures as long as the issue remains open.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:57:47

  58. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Salisbury has a number of Qs because of confusion. Option A means design different from Oct CotW plan, yes?
    DCAO Clack: Correct.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 20:59:21

  59. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Salisbury: The trail design proposed in Oct. was fully accessible.
    Clack: Yes, but there was concern from delegates about lack of accessibility about surrounding trails.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:01:44

  60. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Salisbury says it’s unclear what problem is trying to be solved by Option A?

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:04:30

  61. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Clack: There were a number of issues staff felt flagging to committee, opted to take off municipal rules and abide by the provincial mandates alone.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:05:28

  62. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Flood plain, and structures in the flood plain were all the factors that played into the decision to bring back the more flexible Option A.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:06:17

  63. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Clack: the problem is “can we get a trail under Speedvale?” There were restraints under the previous motion so can staff get an accessible trail that still meets Official Plan without all the other demands placed upon it?

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:08:25

  64. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Downer says before “we go too far into the weeds” it’s important to note that a number of partners, like the GRCA, also had issues with the original trail goals as laid out by council.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:10:26

  65. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Billings asks if there hard surface will still be explored?
    Clack: Yes.
    Billings: But it’s still in the one zone.
    Clack: Taking off minimum design criteria might help us find a way.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:11:29

  66. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Gordon/Hofland move Option A on the floor. Chair Downer says committee will proceed with staff Qs then talk to the motion.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:14:41

  67. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Clack says through Option A they will take into account all feedback today, plus there will be further engagement with interest groups and stakeholders in response to Gordon’s question.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:16:00

  68. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Allt makes point of privilege about the coldness in the council chambers. Fiiiiiiiiiiiiiinally.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:17:16

  69. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Allt hopes that Option A will take into account all the concerns of quality and needs as brought up by the delegates.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:18:18

  70. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Piper will also support. Thanks delegates for their input and thinks this is a good case of council listening to the community needs.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:19:02

  71. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie clarifies with Gordon that he’s moved all the recommendations under Option A. He has.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:19:51

  72. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Salisbury asks if there will be an option to not proceed when staff returns with findings from Option A. Clack doesn’t want to presume the outcome. Staff determined to find a solution.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:24:09

  73. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Wettstein confirms for missing delegate Martin Collier that council is looking for alternatives. Clack adds that they’ve already been looking at alternatives, they just couldn’t precede with the original mandate from council.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:27:59

  74. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Bell’s only comment: What caused us to get into this predicament? Blames the Active Transpo Master Plan for creating new class of trail not allowed. Suggests that this is policy non-compliance and reconsider the plan.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:29:20

  75. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie thanks everyone for their advocacy. Says this is positive for the city.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:30:46

  76. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Option A for Speedvale Trail Underpass passes unanimously.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:31:25

  77. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Committee going to take a quick break. We’ll reconvene in 5 minutes.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:35:36

  78. In the meantime, here’s the video courtesy of @activeguelph of the congestion along Speedvale. pic.twitter.com/FejSQZusvn

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:37:48

  79. Committee will be back in session at 4:50 now. Council and staff asked for a longer break. pic.twitter.com/kmL5jCPlOq

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:46:21

  80. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Committee meeting is called back to order, and we begin again with the Paramedic Service Master Plan.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:52:06

  81. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    The master plan will cover changes to paramedic services through 2022 including the addition of new shifts, and the move-in into new facilities. Remember: Guelph EMS covers not just Guelph, but many areas thru @wellingtncounty.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:54:05

  82. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Billings asks about moving the station from Elmira Rd to Paisley/Imperial.
    GM Dewar: That’s a leased base, and not a great location with one exit onto Elmira Rd. Also, an expensive lease.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 21:59:35

  83. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Allt asks if this is a neutral deal vis-a-vis the city’s deal with the country.
    Dewar: The cost sharing was reached thru arbitration in 2009. Whether there’s 2 calls/day or 9 calls/day the cost is relatively the same per bases.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:01:11

  84. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Hofland: Is the first time there’s been a paramedic master plan.
    Dewar: There was a consultation in 2009, but yes.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:01:56

  85. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Hofland: What’s being the 8 minute response time mandate?
    Dewar: For most severe calls, 8 minute response time is key, council then sets the target, which for Guelph is 65%.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:03:15

  86. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Hofland: Is this plan what you need to reach 80%?
    Dewar: LRH (the consultant) used a different model, when you’re on the edge of the concession, 8 mins not entirely reasonable, but yes, these changes get service closer to 80.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:04:35

  87. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Delhi = Downtown post, btw.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:05:15

  88. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie asks if 4 paramedics considered a complete “platoon” for a new shift. He’s asking because the Operating budget in 2018 is asking for 4 new FTEs for paramedics.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:11:03

  89. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    2 FTEs work 42 hours a week, 4 FTEs will work on a day-in/day-off, 12 hour day schedule.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:12:14

  90. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Dewar: asking for 4 in 2018 #GuelphBudget based on financial viability. More calls in daytime then night, so they really need the extra coverage for 12 hours during the day.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:13:50

  91. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Presently Rockwood is 12-hour covered, but a request for expanded funding there will come forward in the not-too-distant future.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:14:17

  92. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Vote on the Paramedic Master Plan passes unanimously.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:14:41

  93. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Next: Street Tree Ownership and Maintenance Report. Billings pulled this one with a question.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:15:39

  94. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Billings: emergency situation with a tree: what’s the process?

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:16:23

  95. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Clack: That still relates to safety issues regarding the road or highway, as well as sidewalk. If there’s a threat to safety, city workers can go in and take care of it.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:17:20

  96. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Salisbury notes that there are streets in the west end where he sees all the trees are dead. When does the impending fall of a tree become an emergency?

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:24:47

  97. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Staff: If a tree is standing, that’s not quite the same things as when a tree threatens to fall, like blown over in a storm or something.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:25:34

  98. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    What percentage of Guelph’s 41K trees are ash trees? Staff says 10%.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:31:00

  99. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Approximately.  https://twitter.com/adamadonaldson/status/927664642461122560 …

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:31:48

  100. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Salisbury asks if there’s a way that the City can come up with a plan to deal with the thousands of ash trees on private property that are likely to come down. Downer says that’s a political question, and there are already directions on the city website.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:33:15

  101. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie says he doesn’t want lost in the conversation that citizens can go online now/call into city so you can plan properly if you have a tree that needs maintenance.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:35:21

  102. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Street Tree Ownership and Maintenance passes.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:38:23

  103. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Second last item: Bicycle Skills Facility. Salisbury asks if the city has gone out to seek potential partners for maintenance yet?
    Clack: No. Staff waiting for council direction before proceeding.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:39:34

  104. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Salisbury says half the fun for the users of this park is getting to adjust the environment, so getting youth involved in design was key. Is that still part of the plan. Parks & Rec GM Flaherty says it is.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:43:10

  105. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    City ownership and management is a function of legal liability for such a park, although Salisbury originally though such a stand was anathema of the concept. Flaherty says there may be accommodation in the operating model when decided upon.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:44:43

  106. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Flaherty also notes that no non-profit or similar group has come forward with an offer to manage the facility. Staff will be trained on how best to manage a skills facility.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:45:28

  107. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Gibson asks if something else is being cancelled to make room for the bicycling facility. Flaherty says realignment of volleyball and basketball has made room.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:47:33

  108. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Clack says this will have to come back later for capital budget costing in the process for 2019. The only thing being paid for now is the planning.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:51:23

  109. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie encourages everyone to look at the Branford bike park design.  http://www.brantfordexpositor.ca/2017/03/14/bike-park-design-revealed …

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:56:50

  110. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Guthrie also notes that there could be revenue opportunities. BMX Canada could run events at our new Bike Skills Facility with the right consultation.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 22:58:18

  111. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Downer concerned with how this is prioritized more than any other project without public feedback. Clack says staff wanted to do the background research first with a recommendation about building, and then go out to the community engagement and here from stakeholders.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:01:07

  112. Allt moves the recommendation, but only clause #1 and 2. https://t.co/aQuy0AvYNT

    Allt moves the recommendation, but only clause #1 and 2. pic.twitter.com/aQuy0AvYNT

     

     

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    ·

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:04:42

  113. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Clack says pausing on clause #3 is no problem to staff.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:05:06

  114. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Billings adds amendment for deadline prior to 2019 budget process.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:05:27

  115. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Amendment passes 13-0.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:05:47

  116. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Wettstein says this process makes this a pilot project and that it has value city-wide as an amenity. Could be several more years until there’s a second facility if demand is high.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:07:04

  117. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Recommendation approved 13-0. One last item under public services, an item MacKinnon pulled on Subsidy Strategy.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:09:36

  118. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    MacKinnon pulled it even though it was only for information. It was a report about how city will be staying with low income cut-off (LICO) vs. low income measurement (LIM). The cost considered too great to make the transition.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:15:45

  119. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Cllr Hofland asks how staff determined why the costs were too great. If she doesn’t like the answer, she may ask for a seconder for further exploration.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:16:59

  120. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Staff: the cost came from calculations based on current trends in sales by the number of individuals that would be eligible for the programs when LICO expanded eligibility.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:19:02

  121. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Clack says that Hofland could bring forward this cost as an expansion pack at the future budget meeting, and proceed with the voting on the the receipt of the report tonight.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:21:50

  122. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Vote on the Subsidy Strategy passes 11-0. Piper and Van Hellemond are not here anymore.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:29:50

  123. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Clack reminds in an announcement that an agreement’s been reached between the City and ATU 1189:  https://guelphbreakingnews.tumblr.com/post/167208542464/city-of-guelph-and-atu-1189-reach-tentative …

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:30:49

  124. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Final item: Changes to Vacant Unit Tax Rebate. Gibson asks for clarity as to whether or not this is accounted for in the operating budget as it. DCAO Lee says that it is and that council’s approval was assumed.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:32:10

  125. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Vacant Tax Rebate changes passes 11-0.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:32:31

  126. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    Councillors remind before end of the meeting that there are budget town halls coming up. Full list is here on Politico:  https://guelphpolitico.blogspot.ca/2017/11/upcoming-councillor-town-halls-on.html …

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:34:00

  127. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    It should be noted that the upcoming Ward 5 town hall will be focused more on homecoming fall out versus budget concerns.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:36:57

  128. adamadonaldson

    Adam A. Donaldson@adamadonaldson
    That’s adjournment for committee. There’s another council meeting on Wednesday at 2 pm for #GuelphBudget.

     

     

    Mon, Nov 06 2017 23:38:03

Leave a Reply

Fill in your details below or click an icon to log in:

Gravatar
WordPress.com Logo

You are commenting using your WordPress.com account. ( Log Out /  Change )

Twitter picture

You are commenting using your Twitter account. ( Log Out /  Change )

Facebook photo

You are commenting using your Facebook account. ( Log Out /  Change )

Cancel

Connecting to %s