PRESENT
Chair: R. Chiarelli
Members: D. Beamish, R. Cantin, B. Hill, G. Hunter, P. Hume, A. Loney, M. Meilleur, W. Stewart

REGRETS
R. van den Ham

No declarations were filed.

- Environment and Transportation Deputy Commissioner’s report dated 13 Sep 00

CARRIED

- Environment and Transportation Deputy Commissioner’s report dated 21 Sep 00

Mr. David Jeanes, Transport 2000, stated the Wellington Street CPR bridge was at the exact location of the proposed light rail transit station. He presented slide images of the bridge and its vicinity in connection with the light rail project. In reference to the Hintonburg community, Mr. Jeanes reviewed the paths used for access to the transitway or light rail stations.

With respect to the public consultation process, Mr. Jeanes stated it was then suggested to be advantageous to combine the necessary bridge rehabilitation with other improvements such as providing a better access from the sidewalk to the proposed light rail project. He explained that a short set of steps would provide a simple pathway and access that would be beneficial to the local community. The speaker emphasized this was an excellent opportunity in the planning of how to repair the damaged abutments. Mr. Jeanes reiterated the community need and benefit as outlined during the public consultation process.

In closing, Mr. Jeanes noted the proposed 2001 construction season and the chance of severe disruption during the initial months of the light rail service at the Bayview Station. He emphasized the need that the project timing be conducted in a way that there was no negative impact on the light rail project.

Councillor Meilleur moved two amendments to the report recommendation.

Councillor Cantin inquired on the timing and if the repairs could be completed prior to the opening of the light rail system. M. Sheflin, Environment and Transportation Commissioner, acknowledged it would be a fairly complicated project. However, he explained the project would be co-ordinated in order that it proceeds successfully. Mr. Sheflin noted the recommended consultant was also involved in the light rail project and therefore familiar with the issues. The Commissioner reviewed phase one, that being the detailed condition inspection that would outline the priorities. He stated the construction would commence following the completion of phase one.

Councillor Hunter referenced Councillor Meilleur’s amendments. He stated they represented a change in scope of one project, was choosing one isolated part of the light rail project, and shifting the cost into another budget envelope. With respect to the costs for the light rail pilot project, Councillor Hunter expressed his concern with the lack of information available and wondered if they were within budget. He reviewed the costs of the two-year pilot project as follows: originating at $10 million, increased to $16 million and now approaching $30 million when including operating expenses. Councillor Hunter did not support adding extras without knowing what the basics were costing.

With respect to the recommended consultant, Councillor Hunter expressed concern that they were chosen due to their involvement/familiarity with the light rail project. He noted the report did not reference this need under the criteria. Mr. Sheflin confirmed that was only one criteria and the consultant was required to show they were capable of completing the work and had experienced staff available.

With respect to Councillor Meilleur’s amendment, Councillor Loney suggested replacing the word "avoid" with the word "minimize" as a precaution. Councillor Meilleur agreed to this friendly amendment.

Councillor Davis referenced the Meilleur amendment. Mr. Sheflin confirmed there would be additional costs as a result. He stated in the past Council had sought to improve pedestrian access on similar projects. Mr. Sheflin added staff would be reporting back on the required detailed design and costs associated. He did not believe at this time that it would be a major adjustment.

Speaking to the public delegation, Councillor Davis believed the proposed steps might be an impediment to some people. Mr. Jeanes referenced the Heron Station that consisted of steps and a pathway, therefore offering a choice. He stated the same design was proposed here.

Councillor Holmes commented that for different and usually valid reasons, there have been other missed opportunities with some transitway stations to connect to abutting residential areas. However, she believed this project represented an opportunity and urged Committee to support the Meilleur amendments. The Councillor reviewed the benefits to the community, such as ease of access and increased rider ship and pedestrian commuters.

Chair Chiarelli reported there were 29 kilometers of transitway. In speaking to the capital expenditures, he pointed out the costs of buses and other operating expenses were not added to the capital cost. With respect to the capital costs for the light rail project, in comparison to transitway project, he pointed out they should not include trains and other operating costs. He stated the $10 million capital cost from the 1997 official plan was not over budget and did not include vehicles.

In closing, Chair Chiarelli thanked the public delegation for their continued support and commitment. He stated their experience, involvement and partnership was valuable and essential to the success of the pilot project.

Councillor Davis reviewed other adjacent communities that would benefit from this improved access. The Councillor noted the continued support for light rail that has been expressed over the years from the Hintonburg and Laroche Park communities. She urged the Committee to support the Meilleur amendments. In closing, Councillor Davis reviewed the growing support in the community for light rail, the eventual development of LeBreton, and the need for appropriate planning.

Chair Chiarelli requested comment with respect to the financial implications of the amendments. The Environment and Transportation Commissioner explained following the detailed inspection, a project budget would be developed, at which time they would be in the position to comment on the overall costs.

Chair Chiarelli referenced the Cummings Bridge rehabilitation. He explained as a result of community involvement, steps were added to the west side embankment. Mr. Sheflin agreed this was a similar comparison and confirmed that additional cost had been accommodated from within the existing budget.

Moved by Councillor Meilleur

Moved by Councillor Meilleur

- Environment and Transportation Deputy Commissioner’s report dated 19 Sep 00

Councillor Cantin inquired if staff expected any provincial funding, noting the regulations were a product of the Provincial Ministry. Andre Proulx, Director, Water Division, Environment and Transportation, stated the Province indicated some funds would be made available. However, he added the guidelines were not yet available and it was unlikely Ottawa-Carleton, being a large municipality, would receive funding.

Councillor Meilleur referenced the Province’s inspection role. Mr. Proulx confirmed the inspections by the Ministry of Environment would continue, noting they had again started to conduct the annual inspection and would continue to do. He explained the regulations set out that annual inspections were required and municipalities were to use consultants on their behalf. Noting staff layoffs at the Province in this area, Councillor Meilleur expressed hesitation that the Provincial responsibilities would actually be upheld over time. She expressed concern that the ratepayer would be required to pay for additional Provincial requirements, noting the chance of decease in service as a result.

M. Sheflin, Environment and Transportation Department, stated Council must rely on its staff to ensure the community was protected with quality water.

Councillor Hunter inquired what value added if any, could the water customers expect as a result of the expenditures required under the regulations. Mr. Proulx stated with respect to water quality, there would be no change; objectives were changed to standards and the Corporation continues to meet those standards. With respect to the dissemination of information to the public, he explained the only real benefit to the public was more accessible up-dated information available through the website. Mr. Proulx stated otherwise the overall impact of the regulations was minimal, except the financial costs that would be incurred.

With respect to the unfortunate Walkerton incident, Councillor Hunter wondered if it was really a lack of reporting that caused the problem. He suggested the real issue was a lack of commitment to quality standard or human error. The Councillor wished the municipality could spend the funds to ensure the operators were functioning at the highest quality and skill available, and knew the importance of their individual functions to the overall system. In closing, Councillor Hunter wondered if the reporting of repetitive detail and the costs associated may be counterproductive as it may provide a false sense of security. He stated it was the Region’s reports and standards that were more important than relying on another body to carry out the inspection process. Mr. Sheflin confirmed the Corporation was meeting the provincial requirement for reporting, however, was exceeding Provincial and Federal standards for water quality.

Councillor Stewart acknowledged the regulations were an expensive level of comfort, however, expressed her support for their need. She believed the taxpayers would benefit from this comfort level, with reference to the Carleton Lodge facility as an example. The Councillor emphasized water quality was fundamental to the quality of life and an absolute necessity.

In response to a question from Councillor Cantin, Mr. Proulx reviewed the statistics associated with annual / daily water analyses, including analyses at the water plant, the source water (river) and throughout the distribution system. Mr. Sheflin stated, in particular with the Walkerton incident, the high quantity of testing was unquestionable and necessary.

- Joint Homes for the Aged Commissioner and A/Finance Commissioner’s report dated 18 Sep 00

- Planning and Development Approvals Commissioner’s report dated 15 Sep 00

- Planning and Development Approvals Commissioner’s report dated 15 Sep 00

- Planning and Development Approvals Commissioner’s report dated 18 Sep 00

- Planning and Development Approvals Commissioner’s report dated 20 Sep 00

- Planning and Development Approvals Commissioner’s report dated 18 Sep 00

Further to a request from the Planning and Development Approvals Department, this item was withdrawn from the agenda.

- Regional Clerk’s report dated 26 Sep 00

Councillor Stewart inquired on the timing of the late application. Mr. Jim Young, Chair, confirmed they were awarded the event one year ago. However, he explained that part of the procedure was to attend the previous event held in early March 2000 in order to review the activities and review how to support them in Ottawa. Mr. Young stated that based on the 2000 event, it was determined that the City could support the event in several ways that were beneficial to the event and the City. Mr. Young confirmed there were earlier discussions with the Region; however, they waited until after attending the 2000 event to submit their application.

Councillor Stewart referenced the economic impact of $10 million and approximately 5000 room nights, and inquired about the breakdown of the generated income. Mr. Young stated by examining past studies, this figure was determined. He pointed out it was not only visitors to the Capital, but also the curling community within the Ottawa Valley.

With respect to the requested $75,000, J. Barbeau, Director, Corporate Programs and Administration, confirmed transportation costs were approximately $45,000 for the OC Transpo service. She pointed out OC Transpo did not have funding to accommodate this type of event; therefore, funding was coming from the Transportation operating budget. With respect to remaining funds, M. Sheflin, Environment and Transportation, confirmed funding was available in the Transportation budget. He added it was not permitted to close with a deficit at year-end.

Chair Chiarelli referenced municipal support for previous events. Mr. Young stated Edmonton provided transportation services and the host city for the 2002 event planned to request approximately $200,000.

With respect to previous events, Mr. Young stated the most common concern expressed was over transportation, sometimes to a point of judging the success of the event on this component. He emphasized it was very important for visitors / participates to have easy, reliable access to the facility and around the city.

Councillor Cantin inquired about acknowledgment for the sponsorship and the option to host the opening or closing ceremony. Ms. Bonnie Morris, Vice-President Business, stated they were also seeking support from the corporate community. She reported the first official highlight of the Brier was to bring the sponsors / patrons together for a reception, with the plan to hold this event at 111 Lisgar Street.

Councillor Beamish inquired if there would be the opportunity for product placement and acknowledgement for the Region of Ottawa-Carleton. Ms. Morris stated details had not been finalized, however, they were happy to discuss this further. The speaker added the TSN broadcasting would include a feature on the host community/city in addition to various segments throughout the 66 hours of television coverage.

- A/Social Services Commissioner’s report dated 21 Sep 00

Mr. Alan Whitten, Chair, Long Term Planning Committee, introduced Ms. Peggy Feltmate, Executive Director, Mr. Sam Dicks, Board Chair, and Mr. Phil Brown, Consultant, in addition of other board members in the public gallery.

Councillor Stewart commended the agency for the work done in their constituency and their commitment. However, the Councillor expressed concern that there were areas within the Region, inside the Greenbelt and in the urban area, that were not covered by the fundamental services the agency provided. Councillor Stewart reported Council had recognized the need to offer these services in the Hunt Club / Riverside Park area {an area with a pressing need}, however, explained no capital funds were available.

G. Armstrong, A/Social Services Commissioner, stated that in reviewing the background and community support for the subject CRC project, and the opportunity that presently existed, the Department supported the request for capital money. With respect to the Ottawa South and Hunt Club area, Mr. Armstrong explained staff continued to look at this area / issue with the possibility of a site and capital support from the new city. With respect to the two CRC reports, he stated they were based on proposals that were presented by the agencies. In closing, Mr. Armstrong provided reassurance that staff would continue to work closely with the South Ottawa community to try to improve on the services presently provided.

With respect to the finance department comment, Councillor Stewart pointed out funding was not available to fund even these requests due to the commitment of the Region Wide Capital Reserve Fund.

Speaking to the CRC proposal, Mr. Armstrong stated it was an opportunity that would see substantial savings over time. He believed it would prevent the agency having to return to Council in the future to request significant operating money. With respect to the funding, the Commissioner confirmed the 2000 budget requirements would be finalized within the month and he was certain there would be sufficient funds to deal with the request.

Councillor Stewart expressed the difficult situation, as she did not want to take away from the need and valuable work done by the CRC. However, she did not believe it was fair for one community to have so little because there was no space available to deliver programs.

Mr. Phil Brown, Co-Chair, Coalition of Community Health and Resources Centres. Mr. Brown reported that the Coalition recognized there were gaps in the coverage area in the Region and expressed his distress for the situation. He stated it was necessary for all the CRCs to work together to fill the gaps and push for the funding that would provide the full level of services that was seamless across the Region. Mr. Brown stated an objective was to stabilize the existing centres, in addition to searching and obtaining the financing to allow other centres to develop to a similar level of service in all communities.

Councillor Munter acknowledged Councillor Stewart’s concerns. He was pleased to hear support for the notion that perhaps time had come for a capital fund in the social services budget to be able to deal with the issues. The Councillor agreed the South Ottawa group should bring forward a proposal and offered his assistance. However, Councillor Munter referenced the solid business case presented in the CRC of Goulbourn, Kanata and West Carleton proposal. In closing, he pointed out the large increase in current rent, adding that if the agency remained in their current location, the Region would have to increase their 2001 operating funding.

Councillor Cantin believed the proposal to acquire land and construct / own a building vs. renting made good financial sense, citing the move to Regional Headquarters from Queen Street. He stated the costs were then controllable. In addition, the Councillor emphasized the importance to construct a sturdy building and not scrimp on the original construction costs.

- A/Social Services Commissioner’s report dated 21 Sep 00

Councillor Meilleur referenced a lane closure on Sussex Drive between Boteler Street and King Edward Avenue. She reported this closure has resulted in traffic congestion between 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. The Councillor inquired about the rationale for the closure and why she as ward Councillor was not notified. D. Shannon, Director, Finance and Operations Support Division, explained the project was a minor operational improvement in which a safety concern was being addressed, with the result of enhancing safety for both cyclists and motorists. Councillor Meilleur supported safety for cyclists, however, noted she had not seen many cyclists using the lane. Mr. Shannon confirmed staff were currently monitoring the impact of the change and would report back to the Councillor directly.

- Deferred from Council 27 Sep 00

- Motion from Council 27 Sep 00

- A/Regional Solicitor’s report dated 19 Sep 00

- Draft Confidential Committee Minute 19 Sep 00

Moved by A. Loney

Moved by A. Loney