REGRETS

W. Stewart

D. Cameron, Regional Solicitor, provided the Committee with an overview of the staff report. He noted the report was before Committee for information and was a precursor to a more detailed report that would be presented to the Committee at its next meeting.

Chair Clark noted the figures surrounding Mega Week were constantly changing. He provided as an example the two methods proposed to calculate the education tax (6 August 97 announcement): if it was calculated in a local manner, the cost would be $48.4 million; if it was calculated on a province-wide basis, the cost would be $24 million. Chair Clark pointed out that the decision on which calculation to use would be made by the Province. He went on to say the Region did know that grant support being withdrawn was approximately $35 million and the transfer of road responsibilities would cost $9 million per year for the next five years in order to bring the roads up to the necessary standard. The Chair expressed concern that although the Region was being asked to fund those services, it was not being given control. He stated there was a lack of clarity with respect to those matters.

Finance Commissioner J. LeBelle advised that meetings held the previous week between Provincial and Municipal representatives did not provide as much information on the situation as was hoped. He noted the intention was to have the Ministry of Finance and all of the operational ministries come to the meeting to provide background information with respect to each of the sets of numbers contained in the Mega Week announcement. However, except for the Ministry of Community and Social Services, the various ministries provided very little detailed information. He added that although the session concluded on 12 September 1997, Ministry staff did undertake to provide additional information to the municipal sector.

Mr. LeBelle continued to explain that when Mega Week was first announced, given the list of the numbers, staff believed the only way to try to determine the impacts would be to do it for the entire Ottawa-Carleton area and not to try to differentiate the costs between the upper tier and lower tier impact. However, he noted that staff were now working with the eleven area municipalities to breakdown the $82 million shortfall into upper and lower tier costs.

Councillor Hunter noted that Mega Week started out with high hopes that it would be a rationalization of services and costs between the provincial level of government and the local levels, however, in many areas, had gone in the opposite direction. He referenced the adage "there is no taxation without representation" and pointed out the Region was being taxed for such things as social housing and land ambulances without any representation on how they were to be administered. The Councillor believed it imperative that if the Province was instructing the Region to pay for these services, the Region must be allowed to decide how the services were to be administered.

Chair Clark added if the Region was not given the right to control the services, it could not maximize efficiencies.

Councillor Loney pointed out, using the example of health care, that if the Province did not give the Region complete control of administering all of the services, the health programs for this community would be emasculated. He went on to express concern that the Province had given no indication that the municipalities would have complete control at the end of the two years and he interpreted this to mean that control would remain with the Province and the Region would merely be paying the bills. The Councillor also pointed out that it was not known what the effect of the new assessment system that would begin in 1998 would have.

With respect to the new assessment system, Commissioner LeBelle advised that arrangements had been made with the Assessment Commissioner to make a presentation to Regional Council on the new system. It was hoped the presentation would happen at the Council meeting of 24 September 1997.

In response to questions from Councillor Hume, Mr. Cameron advised the new Municipal Act, which was to have been released in February of this year, however, because of co-ordination of effort problems between the different Ministries, had been delayed. He suggested it should be available later in the fall of 97. Councillor Hume pointed out that the Regional Section of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) had put forward a position paper that diverged somewhat substantially from the general municipal position and it was anxiously waiting to see if any of the tools that were asked for would be utilized.

Responding to further questions from Councillor Hume, Mr. Cameron advised that the application which was approved by Council to take over the administration of the Provincial Offences Act (POA) was on hold until the Province released its criteria for submissions. The criteria could not be released until the amending Bill was given third reading. Councillor Hume pointed out the Cities of Ottawa, Nepean and Gloucester had put forward a joint application concerning the POA and inquired if staff had had discussions with them concerning their application. Mr. Cameron stated Regional staff met with officials of the City of Ottawa, however, discussions were futile.

Councillor Hume, referring to social housing, noted the Ministry had released the report of the Advisory Committee on Social Housing and inquired when the Committee could expect a report on what this means to Ottawa-Carleton. N. Tunnacliffe, Planning and Development Approvals Commissioner, advised that staff were working on such a report and hoped it would be ready in the fall. However, given the municipal elections, he could not say for certain when the report would be presented to Committee.

Chair Clark noted it was Regional Council’s responsibility to keep the Ottawa-Carleton taxpayers informed of Mega Week details. As well, if the Provincial Government did decide the Region was going to be responsible for social housing, land ambulance services, licensing child care facilities, etc., it was incumbent on the Region that it actually have control of and manage these services to maximize what the Provincial Government stated its objective to be; namely, to gain efficiencies by having these services delivered through one window. The Chair went on to say that Premier Harris, earlier this year, expressed that if the Federal Government was no longer going to fund programs downloaded to the Province, then it should stop making policy on them. Mr. Clark stated the Region merely wanted the same rules to apply.

Councillor Legendre commented that although he could see a need for a national government, as well as governments at the Regional level where the community services were actually delivered, he more and more questioned the necessity of Provincial Governments.

RECEIVED

Councillor Hill inquired what the establishment of treated water goals would entailed and the difference from the current goals. W. Bennett, Manager, Environmental Projects Branch, explained the study would review the age of the equipment, presently over 30 years old, and ways to continue to improve the drinking water quality. Mr. Bennett confirmed the current quality met all provincial and federal standards, however, it was the department’s desire to always strive to improve, if possible.

Speaking to the operation of the pilot plant located at the Britannia Water Purification Plant, Mr. Bennett confirmed the pilot had been ongoing for a number of years and allowed the opportunity to research and test new technologies; the subject matter would be a component added to the areas researched to verify what the impact would be on the water quality. Mr. Bennett emphasized the need to ensure any changes to the current process would result in better quality water and the overall operating costs would not be impacted unless improved. In closing, he noted there were numerous options available and various municipalities used other methods to reduce their corrosion concerns in the distribution system.

Councillor Hill expressed concern and questioned the need for studies during these times. She noted the impacts of Mega Week, provincial downloading and emphasized the need to question each expenditure prior to approval.

That the Corporate Services and Economic Development Committee approve the appointment of CG&S (CH2M Gore & Storrie Limited), Ottawa, to conduct a Corrosion Control Study at the RMOC’s Water Purification Plants, for a total contract provision of $72,919.

Councillor Hill expressed concern with the rationale provided regarding the new areas under the increase in scope after the original contract was awarded. J. Miller, Director, Engineering Division, explained the variation would explore the economics of another approach. He reported the belief was the best and most cost-effective approach was via pipeline, however, the expenditure of a pipeline would be over $2 million. He stated the request was modest to ensure the recommendation of a pipeline and expenditure of $2 million was correct. He noted the original scope did not include this work.

Councillor Hill accepted the explanation, however, did not believe it was appropriate to increase the scope after the original contract was awarded. She suggested the variations were contrary to designing the pipeline.

That the Corporate Services and Economic Development Committee approve an increase in scope to Contract CC-4106 with the firm of M.M. Dillon and Associates Limited, Gloucester, to provide design engineering services for a forcemain to carry leachate from the Trail Road Landfill site in the amount of $36,000, bringing the revised total contract provision to $235,000.

Councillor Legendre noted the report stated staff had engaged independent consulting firms whom provided an assessment on the WEPD services and programmes, identifying key strengths and recommendations. N. Schepers, Director, Water Environment Protection Division, explained the assessment was completed last fall with recommendations and identification of improvements coming back in January. Ms. Schepers believed there was a need to take action on those recommendations in order to be the best in class regarding effective operation and maintenance of the facilities. At the request of Councillor Legendre, Ms. Schepers agreed to supply the Councillor with copies of the assessment report and recommendations.

Speaking to benchmarking, Ms. Schepers explained it was completed by a municipality in the United States in which the WEPD agreed to participate and provide information, noting the results were only recently received in August.

Councillor Legendre referenced the lengthy exercise associated with this initiative and inquired when the evaluation process report would be coming forward. Ms. Schepers expected the material could be consolidated and the report prepared for six to eight weeks. Chair Clark indicated it was a significant review and staff’s request for deferral was understandable. He believed if the path was followed in an orderly fashion, a favourable end result would be achieved.

- Environment and Transportation Commissioner’s report dated 22 Aug 97

- Environment and Transportation Commissioner’s report dated 28 Aug 97

CARRIED

- Environment and Transportation Commissioner’s report dated 4 Sep 97

Councillor van den Ham inquired why there was a significant difference in this contract award amount of $3,113,700 in comparison to the westbound shoulder bus lane contract approved in previous years, being approximately $1.2 million.

J. Miller, Director, Engineering Division, reported he did not have the specific contract details and scope of work for the westbound lane on hand. However, he confirmed this award was the low estimate, the bids were competitive and it represented the market value for the work. Mr. Miller agreed to supply the Councillor with details on the difference in contract amount and scope of work for both circumstances.

- Environment and Transportation Commissioner’s report dated 18 Aug 97

Councillor van den Ham noted the staff recommendation was the fifth highest bid based on irregular tenders being submitted by the previous four. The Councillor reported that in discussion with some of the independent previous operators, some of whom had worked for the Ministry of Transportation and had adequate experience, difficulties with the tender process and the bid/performance bond requirement were expressed in that "bond companies did not look at them because it was not worth the paperwork to write them up

for that amount". Councillor van den Ham supported the staff recommendation, however, requested staff examine the tender process so the Region may be able to accommodate in a fair and equitable fashion, without sacrificing security, some of these similar situations and eliminate the disadvantage felt by smaller companies.

That the Corporate Services and Economic Development Committee and Council approve the award of Contract No. 97-822, Hire of Spreader/Plow Combination Truck Units, to Goldie Mohr Ltd., Nepean, to hire five (5) Spreader/Plow Trucks with operator for Winter Maintenance Operations for the next three (3) years, for the total amount of $2,319,160.00 ($773,054.00 annually for three years).

FINANCE

10. 1997 DEBENTURE FINANCING REQUIREMENTS

- Finance Commissioner’s report dated 10 Sep 97

Councillor Hill requested clarification on the investment component of the report.
J. LeBelle, Finance Commissioner, explained that of the $33,000,000 debenture issue, less than $21,000,000 was for regional purposes, a portion of which was to fund communal water and sewer systems. He explained that at the same time there was a borrowing requirement, the Region had a need to be investing its reserve funds and noted they were not always within the same fund. Mr. LeBelle reported there was the occasional opportunity to bring the two together and in fact buy our own debentures. He referenced savings as a result of this method include elimination of underwriting fees/commission, which was a significant amount. Mr. LeBelle explained it was a mechanism that allowed the reserve funds to be an investor on one side thereby becoming an investor in ourselves.

Councillor Hunter referenced Annex A and the Police Service - Building Maintenance Repairs. Mr. LeBelle reported they were major repairs outstanding, noting they had to have at least a ten year useful life otherwise the debt could not be issued for the ten year term noted in the report. Mr. LeBelle added the buildings were inherited as part of the regionalization of police at which time little reserve funds were made available. Mr. LeBelle agreed to provide the Councillor with the details surrounding this particular debenture.

- Finance Commissioner’s report dated 10 Sep 97

The Finance Commissioner, J. LeBelle, provided a presentation to Committee on the Financial Services Renewal (FSR) project.

Mr. LeBelle stated the need for change in the financial services area came about due to a number of external pressures such as reduction in funding transfers from the Provincial and Federal governments, increased need for operational accountability and performance measures, need to make the year 2000 compliant, and internal continuous improvement efforts.

Mr. LeBelle reported the $6 million was an investment and based on a very conservative estimate, it was believed to reasonably anticipate cost reductions of $1.5 million per year by the year 2000.

Councillor van den Ham referred the Governance Review Panel and the possibility of change to the local government structure. Mr. LeBelle confirmed they were sensitive to this and would continue to be so throughout the entire selection process, although the software to be selected would be flexible to accommodate any change in government or OC Transpo. Mr. LeBelle did not believe there were grounds to utilize regional development charges as it was an internal system used to support the business of the Corporation.

Councillor Hume inquired if other municipalities had recently undergone similar processes. Mr. LeBelle confirmed others include Halton, Peel and Durham.

Mr. LeBelle reported the system would be fully integrated and the vendors would be required to demonstrate a capability to interface with a number of the existing specialized applications, such as water billing.

The Commissioner confirmed the funding would be provided by a number of the capital reserves. Speaking to measurement of performance and goals, he referenced pending legislation entitled the Public Accountability and Disclosure Act which would place a requirement on the public sector to report on the unit costs of services provided, a function the FSR would provide.

Councillor Hill referenced the added responsibilities being placed on the Region from the Province, the associated costs and questioned the timing of the project. Mr. LeBelle reported the current system was acquired in the early 1980’s with software installed throughout the 1980’s. He continued that it was Council and staff’s intention to de-emphasize the use of the mainframe and move to a more improved set of architecture. Councillor Hill pointed out that in April 97 when the consultant was appointed, Council was not aware of the significant changes coming to the Region regarding transfer of responsibilities and the associated costs.

Chair Clark pointed out the capital authority did not effect the 1998 tax level, however, the savings of $1.5 million per year starting in the year 2000 would have a positive effect.

Councillor Hunter noted only four companies were to be considered for the software acquisition, and inquired if there were any local companies that should be approached. Kathleen Byrne, KPMG Consulting, stated the only local firm that may be capable of providing the service was Linktek FreeBalance Inc., a supplier to the Federal government. Ms. Byrne reviewed the four software vendors recommended for consideration. Councillor Hunter expressed concern the local market would be overlooked in favour of international companies, resulting in upset from local companies that claim they could do the job for less money while employing local people. Mr. LeBelle acknowledged the Councillor’s concern and agreed is was best to include Linktek and any other potential local supplier in the initial discussions to determine whether they were interested in putting the investment into the request for proposal, noting it would be substantial in terms of demonstrations, product evaluations, etc.

The Committee then considered the report recommendations as follows:

- Planning and Development Approvals Commissioner’s report dated 13 Aug 97

- Regional Clerk’s report dated 02 Sep 97

Councillor Hunter expressed concern in that the significant request for $75,000 was to be used as seed money to only plan the Millennium and he expected additional funds would be required to actually hold the celebrations.

Mr. Jeff Polowin, Steering Committee member, provided a brief background on the initiative. He reported it was recently discovered that no one or agency had begun to consider organizing events in the Capital for the millennium. As a result, the Steering Committee was formed with the purpose of co-ordinating all events that are to take place.

Councillor Hunter inquired if other levels of government or agencies were being requested for financial support for the planning stage as well. Mr. Doug Hotson, Steering Committee member, stated it was the intention to solicit the involvement of other stakeholders, such as the National Capital Commission and the Outaouais. Mr. Hotson stated the current objective was to develop a detailed business plan which would include the active participation and support of many public and private sector stakeholders.

Mr. Polowin noted many cities/municipalities across Canada, in particular Calgary, had already initiated extensive planning for events. He believed it was important to begin planning in Ottawa-Carleton to ensure the Region’s share of tourism attendance and dollars.

Chair Clark agreed there was a will to ensure the Capital was prepared for the year 2000 and inquired on details of the Steering Committee. Mr. Polowin stated the committee was a grass roots organization of volunteers designed to fill the need. He emphasized there would be a millennium and there was a need to ensure Ottawa did not lose the opportunity to attract major tourism through well planned and successful celebrations and events.

Councillors Holmes and McGarry expressed their support for the grant application. The Councillors concurred with the need to aggressively move forward quickly and ensure the steering committee had the necessary seed money to do so.

Councillor van den Ham inquired on the plans made to date in other cities, such as Calgary. Mr. Hotson reported they have been active through their city hall and were marketing different events and celebrations through means such as a Web site. In addition, they had been soliciting the involvement of the public. Councillor van den Ham expressed concern in that the Region was the only stakeholder at this time even through it was a multi-jurisdictional initiative. The Councillor stated he would support a portion of the request with the hope that other agencies and the private sector would be approached. Mr. Hotson noted Mayor Claudette Cain was a member of the Steering Committee representing the Mayors Forum and noted others would be approached for their support in October.

Chair Clark stated Ottawa, as Canada’s Capital, was an important location and expressed concern with the lack of initiative by others to date. He emphasized the need for objectives, events and involvement to be seriously considered.

Councillor Hunter suggested the option of splitting the grant over two budget years with the second instalment conditional on other agencies matching the amount. He subsequently moved a motion to that effect.

Councillor Hume reminded Committee the Region held the primary responsibility for tourism and economic development. The Councillor believed it was important to promote a one window approach to avoid the steering committee spending endless effort in appearing before eleven municipal councils requesting funding.

Councillor McGarry pointed out the steering committee was a volunteer group of impressive individuals that required seed money to properly begin their work. He reported the National Capital Commission had recently expressed their interest to work co-operatively on the initiative.

Councillor Hunter clarified his motion stated the grant be approved, however, the matching funding for the second instalment be sought from other "agencies", not necessarily other municipalities. Councillor Hunter suggested there should be a great deal of support from corporate and private sponsors that would receive recognition in return.

Moved by Councillor Hunter

LOST

YEAS: M. Bellemare, B. Hill, G. Hunter, R. van den Ham .... 4

NAYS: P. Hume, A. Loney, B. McGarry, P. Clark .... 4

The Committee then considered the staff recommendation as follows.

- Regional Clerk’s report dated 02 Sep 97

Councillor Hill referenced the implications of the Mega Week announcements for the Region and the unknown surrounding the financial particulars. The Councillor expressed concern with financially supporting a study to examine the feasibility of a Sports Commission in Ottawa-Carleton, and suggested there would be increased future demand each time an event was to be held in the Region. She also noted the total grant requests on the agenda outweighed the amount in the Provision for Unforeseen account.

Councillor van den Ham inquired why the initiative could not be completed through a sub-committee of the Ottawa Tourism and Convention Authority (OTCA) and funded through their budget. Ms. Louise Crandell, OTCA, explained it was a new initiative that was not currently under the mandate of OTCA. She suggested the study was appropriate at this time in light of the Canada Summer Games bid, the growing sports market, and the need for new initiatives to fill off peak periods. Ms. Crandell reported the OTCA budget was completely allocated toward marketing campaigns and to attract conventions. She added there could be discussions with the Ottawa-Carleton Economic Development Corporation (OCEDCO) and the National Capital Commission concerning the possibility of the commission’s expansion to attract such things as films, film crews and major political events, emphasizing it had potential to cover a variety of segments other than sports.

Mr. Bob O’Doherty referenced the benefits that came about with the creation and defeat of the Canada Summer Games Bid. He stated there was the realization of a vacuum in the sport tourism market and community to attract major international/national sporting events to Ottawa. Mr. O’Doherty explained the Summer Games Bid Committee was formed out of need because it was not within the mandate of OTCA, OCEDCO or government. Internationally, he reported there were 200 sport commissions; a continued growing market place. He believed the feasibility study would confirm the need and would provide recommendations on different model options, the mandate, and operational guidelines.

In reference to the budget, Mr. O’Doherty explained it was developed on the concept of completing a first rate detailed analysis. However, the panel recommendation of $15,000 would result in a less comprehensive study.

That the Corporate Services and Economic Development Committee recommend Council approve a grant request in the amount of $25,000.

- Regional Clerk’s report dated 02 Sep 97

Ms. Mary Wilson, Director General, introduced several members of the Canadian MasterAthlete Federation.

Ms. Wilson reviewed the Canadian MasterAthlete Federation and Games which are to occur in Ottawa on January 23 - February 1, 1998. She referenced and reviewed Annex D of the report which outlined the database and indicated the tremendous enthusiasm and interest generated throughout the world. Ms. Wilson then reviewed other similar events and the costs associated with the opening ceremonies in comparison to their much smaller budget of $127,000. She explained the request for contribution from the Region was based on the precedent of the $35,000 allocation provided to the 2001 Games Bid, and presumption that should it had been a successful bid, an equal amount would have been given to ensure the successful completion of the event.

Ms. Wilson reviewed the numerous advertisements to date and examples of the high calibre athletes/teams expected to attend the Games. Speaking to tourism, she noted tourists that attend the Games were known to spend 20% more than the average tourist.

In reference to the staff report and panel recommendation, Ms. Wilson stated $10,000 was recommended on the basis money could be obtained elsewhere, such as corporate sponsors and services in kind. She emphasized there was only two months until the event and corporate sponsorship was not a viable option, noting corporate sponsors required a tremendous amount of visibility prior to commitment and tended to sponsor individual athletes rather than the event. Ms. Wilson pointed out it took one year to bring Labatts on board, and businesses were not in the position to provide services without a cost. In closing, she emphasized the event should be considered Ottawa’s opportunity to market their city around the world through the athletes and visitors.

Mr. John Irvin, representing 27 local individuals who were involved in the sporting events. Mr. Irvin reviewed the service factor of the events that stayed with the community after the event was over, the high visibility of the MasterGames and the long term benefits expected.

Ms. Liz Roach, President, Board of Directors. Ms. Roach reported MasterAthlete did not use the bid process because it was an expensive and time consuming affair with chance of failure. She reviewed the highly recognized qualities of the Director General, Mary Wilson and the Committee. Ms. Roach noted she had worked extremely hard to bring the Games to Ottawa, the capital of Canada, as negotiations had been held with other venues/cities. In closing, she expressed disappointment with the lack of support expressed to date by the Region and the panel recommendation of $10,000.

Councillor Hunter expressed his support for the event. He reported he had attended the original World Masters Games in Toronto, among others, and had seen how each community could place their own identity and develop the Games into very successful enterprises. The Councillor noted the 1998 Summer Games were scheduled to be in Portland, Oregon whom had the benefit of the corporate sponsor of Nike, being a major corporation in that area. He pointed out the Winter Games in January did not have the benefit of such a corporate sponsor and therefore faced significant hurdles. Councillor Hunter acknowledged the reality was the Games would be held in Ottawa. He suggested the Committee should not be questioning whether to support the Games, but what was the appropriate level of support, understanding $75,000 was not possible.

In response to a question from Councillor McGarry regarding the 1998 Summer Games to be held in Portland, Ms. Wilson reported their budget for the opening ceremonies was much larger and noted when held in Australia, the city organized and financed the opening ceremonies. Ms. Wilson pointed out the Games first priority was the facilities and ensuring the best possible competition, leaving the opening ceremonies as their second priority. However, she suggested the opening ceremonies should be considered the Region’s top priority as it was important to welcome the athletes and ensure the community was involved.

Councillor McGarry inquired how many athletes were expected. Ms. Wilson reported the event would be very successful with 2000 athletes, however, they were expecting a higher number. She added that in addition to athletes, there were significant numbers with friends and family. Councillor McGarry did not believe the recommendation for $10,000 was adequate for a major event such as this. He referenced the economic spin offs to be had by the expected 5000 visitors to the area.

Councillor Hume inquired on the number of registrations to date. Ms. Wilson stated they currently did not have a registration database operating, however, it was to be set up within the next month. Councillor Hume noted the discounts for early registrations. Ms. Wilson explained master athletes were renown for late registrations, in particular if they were being sponsored and the benefits of early registration did not matter. She reported they were aware of a high degree of interest and intentions to attend.

Councillor van den Ham referenced the minutes of 21 Nov 95 and noted the number of athletes expected at that time was between 8,000-12,000 in addition to other marketing events and a major media conference. Ms. Wilson explained they were behind schedule and the reduced number of athletes expected was because funds were not available to market the Games overseas. Councillor van den Ham inquired if other levels of government support was sought. Ms. Wilson stated they had made many presentations to the provincial government, however, their response was it was a worthwhile project but funding was not available. With regard to the Federal government, there had been attempts to meet with Sheila Copps, Minister of Canadian Heritage, for over 18 months, without much success.

Councillor Hume inquired on the amount of revenue raised to date. Ms. Wilson reported most of the marketing items were payable at the end of the Games, making it difficult at present with little seed money. She stated they were receiving multi entries daily.

Councillor Hunter expressed disappointment in the lack of information on the number of registrations and revenue to date. The Councillor stated the request for $75,000 was on the basis of expectations and suggested staff were correct to reduce the recommended amount based on the information provided. Councillor Hunter suggested the option of granting a base amount of $10,000 and if the entries were higher, consideration could be given for additional funding to contribute to the appropriate number attending. Ms. Wilson explained it was not appropriate to wait to plan the opening ceremonies.

Chair Clark referenced the suggestion of "nickel and diming" and questioned the suggestion of absolute responsibility the Region should have. He commented he had been "nickel and diming" for many years and believed it was appropriate when dealing with taxpayers money. The Chair referenced numerous other athletic events supported by the Region in the past.

Chair Clark inquired about the opening ceremonies budget of $147,000 for a one evening event. Ms. Wilson re-emphasized the purpose of the opening ceremonies was to attract the community and media and ensure their participation, not for the benefit of the athletes themselves.

Councillor Hume proposed that a grant of $10,000 be provided for the opening ceremonies subject to athlete registration exceeding 2750 by December 1, and should the registration exceed 2800 athletes, the Finance Commissioner and the Grants Co-ordinator re-evaluate the Region’s financial commitment to the ceremonies. Ms. Wilson stated it would be difficult to properly organize opening ceremonies without knowing exactly what the contribution would be. On the matter of logistics, it was not reasonable to organize a smaller, low key event and then in December, should entries be confirmed, attempt to quickly re-organize for a larger event due to a higher contribution.

Councillor McGarry suggested the option be left open should the group wish to return to the Committee due to a higher number of participants. The Councillor believed $10,000 was not adequate and suggested $20,000. Councillor van den Ham expressed his support for $20,000 and suggested the Finance Commissioner identify an appropriate funding source should sufficient funds not be available in the Provision for Unforeseen.

Councillor Holmes expressed her disappointment in the Committee. She stated the event coming to Ottawa was something to be proud of and did not deserve the endless debate over a $10,000 contribution in a billion dollar Corporation. Councillor Holmes hoped the Committee would ensure there was the option for the organization to return in December, if appropriate.

Councillor van den Ham suggested the Region send a letter to Sheila Copps, Minister of Canadian Heritage on behalf the Canadian MasterAthlete Federation to encourage the Federal government’s attention and support in the very near future.

Mr. Duncan Noble, Vice-President, Board of Directors and Ms. Connie Barry provided a presentation to the Committee on the Peace and Environment Resource Centre (PERC) grant request. Mr. Noble and Ms. Barry reviewed the rationale surrounding why the Region should provide a grant to the PERC, as follows:

- PERC is a cost effective investment that saves the RMOC money;

- PERC provides access to, and for, over 150 local groups in the Region; and

- PERC mandate compliments the mandate and vision of the RMOC.

Mr. Noble emphasized that to a great extent the goals of the PERC and the Region were overlapping and complimentary in that they seek a higher quality of life for Ottawa-Carleton residents; a quality of life that was key to the competitive advantage of the Region which attracts employees, residents and corporations.

Mr. Noble explained the proposal was to hire a fundraiser whom would work in conjunction with PERC volunteers. A program would then be created that would be administered and taught by volunteers to teach grassroots fundraising techniques to others.

Ms. Barry concluded by reviewing why the grant application should be funded from the Provision for Unforeseen, as follows:

- proposal will provide support and service to many community groups; and

- the need was not foreseen.

Councillor McGarry inquired on the status of the organization should they not obtain the grant of $10,000. Mr. Noble stated the organization was an ongoing entity that had experienced "ups and downs" over the years. He believed the organization would continue to exist, however, in a greatly reduced format which would not be as effective in meeting their mandate or in assisting the Region to reduce its expenditure on infrastructure, etc.

Speaking to the elimination of the funding previously received from the City of Ottawa, Mr. Noble reported the reason provided by the City was because the responsibility for environment had been transferred to the Region.

Councillor Holmes explained the PERC had been in existence for approximately fifteen years and operated a resource centre that was used by many groups and individuals in the Region, being the only environmental resource centre at the grass roots level. The Councillor emphasized the centre complimented the regional mandate regarding the environment. Councillor Holmes reviewed the monthly newsletter and resource centre functions noting it could be considered an arms length project of the Regional Municipality. In closing, the Councillor stated the PERC required the emergency funding to attempt to assist themselves with getting on a more sound financial footing so they did not require ongoing government funding.

Councillor Hume pointed out there were funds left in the Community Environmental Grants budget for 1997, and inquired why the group had not originally applied through this granting stream. Mr. Noble explained they had reviewed the program, however, did not believe they were eligible as it was specifically oriented toward program funding whereas their request was more in the line of core funding. The Councillor believed their request was for one-time funding for a fundraising project. Councillor Holmes confirmed there was $4,000 remaining in the Community Environmental Grants budget, however, a group was coming forward through the appeal process.

Chair Clark noted funds were expended for the purpose of promoting of the Region’s environmental programs, such as the blue box program and transitway, through the Region’s Environment and Transportation Department. The Chair inquired if there may be duplication involved.

Councillor Bellemare pointed out the numerous agencies, organizations and advisory committees required to cut back due to difficult times. The Councillor inquired what the expected return on investment was for the $10,000 and over what period of time. He suggested there may be other venues to obtain the training needed at a lesser cost, pooling funds with other organizations, and sharing basic techniques. Ms. Barry clarified the purpose of the grant was to hire a fundraiser, but also to make the organization self sufficient in fundraising knowledge and techniques, while also reaching out and helping other community groups become more self sufficient.

Councillor McGarry moved the report recommendation for a grant in the amount of $10,000.

Councillor Hill expressed concern in that the programs provided by PERC represented duplication of regional and municipal programs, therefore, she could not support the grant request.

Moved by Councillor Hume

(Reference Regular Agenda Item No. 9)

- Regional Solicitor’s legal opinion dated 27 Aug 97