06/18/2024Niagara MINUTES
a,I Cit Council Meetin
CANADA Y g
4:00 PM - Tuesday, June 18, 2024
Council Chambers/Zoom App.
The City Council Meeting of the City of Niagara Falls was called to order on Tuesday, June 18,
2024, at 4:05PM, in the Council Chambers, with the following members present:
COUNCIL Mayor Jim Diodati, Councillor Tony Baldinelli, Councillor Wayne
PRESENT: Campbell, Councillor Lori Lococo, Councillor Mona Patel, Councillor
Victor Pietrangelo, Councillor Mike Strange, Councillor Wayne Thomson,
Councillor Ruth -Ann Neiuwesteeg
STAFF Bill Matson, Jason Burgess, Erik Nickel, Signe Hansen, Shelley
PRESENT: Darlington, Jo Zambito, Tiffany Clark, Andrew Bryce, Nihdi Punyarthi,
Kathy Moldenhauer, Margaret Corbett, Michael Stewart, James Dowling,
Matt Kernahan, Mackenzie Ceci, Heather Ruzylo, Daniel Dragosavljevic,
Grant Felker
1. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 4:05 PM.
2. ADOPTION OF MINUTES
2.1. Council Minutes of May 28, 2024
Moved by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
Seconded by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
THAT Council APPROVE the minutes of May 28, 2024 as presented.
Carried Unanimously
3. DISCLOSURES OF PECUNIARY INTEREST
a) Councillor Victor Pietrangelo declared a conflict of interest to Item #8.1, BDD-
2024-03 as the Councillor owns property that can be affected.
b) Councillor Lori Lococo declared a conflict of interest to Item#8.2, F-2024-24,
CIP as the Councillor lives downtown in the CIP area map.
c) Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg declared a conflict of interest to Item #8.2, F-
2024-24 as the Councillor owns property in the Main & Ferry CIP.
4. MAYOR'S REPORTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS
Councillor Pietrangelo left the meeting at 4:22 PM and returned at 4:24 PM.
a) Mayor Diodati extended condolences to the families of:
-Rosa Baglieri, grandmother of Jonathan Baglieri at the Gale Centre and Evan
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Baglieri in our Municipal Works Department
b) Mayor Diodati mentioned the following City events:
40U40 Awards Gala [photol
-Also attended by Councillor Patel
Niagara Canada International Film Festival [photo]
Lucas Bandi Fight [photo]
-Also attended by Councillors Strange and Patel
Annual Ching Ming Festival [photol
Mathew Fisher — Elevator Operator Certificate Presentation [photo]
-Also attended by Councillor Pietrangelo
Book Riot [photol
-More than $160K
Revel Charity Festival [photol
•10 years
17th Annual Ride to Conquer Cancer [photol
Niagara Falls Rotary Ribfest [photo]
-Also attended by Councillors Patel and Nieuwesteeg
-Happy Father's Day
Councillor Representation [photos as submitted by Councillorsl
Councillor Strange- Fill ipino Flag Raising
Business Happenings [photos for eachl
-Moonlight Lashes Grand Opening
oAlso attended by Councillors Nieuwesteeg and Patel
-]Unified Hair Studio Grand Opening
oAlso attended by Councillors Nieuwesteeg and Patel
AEI Pinche Taco & Mercadito Latino
oAlso attended by Councillors Nieuwesteeg
]Stamford Library Grand Opening
oAlso attended by Councillors Lococo, Thomson, Pietrangelo, Patel, Strange
and Nieuwesteeg
]Shelby's Shawarma Grand Opening
oAlso attended by Councillors Nieuwesteeg, Patel, Strange and Pietrangelo
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-]Simar's Barbershop Grand Opening
oAlso attended by Councillors Patel and Nieuwesteeg
Flag Raisings [photos for eachl
-National Accessibility Awareness Week
oAlso attended by Councillors Lococo, Thomson and Patel
-Pride Niagara
oAlso attended by Councillors Nieuwesteeg, Campbell
-Senior's Month
oAlso attended by Councillors Thomson, Nieuwesteeg
-Niagara Shrine Club
oAlso attended by Councillor Thomson
•14th Year of Italian Heritage Month
c) The next Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday July 16, 2024.
5. DEPUTATIONS / PRESENTATIONS / APPOINTMENTS
5.1. Mayor's Youth Advisory Committee (MYAC) Year -End Deputation
The Mayor's Youth Advisory Committee (MYAC) provided Council with a
presentation to include the following:
• Annual Year -End Deputation - MYAC Co -Chairs, Pranshu Patel and
Shreedev Patel, reviewed MYAC's 2023-2024 school year.
• Scholarship presentation - Nathan Smith, Community Development
Coordinator, recognized Joy Ge from Westlane Secondary School, as
the scholarship recipient.
Moved by Councillor Wayne Campbell
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT Council RECEIVE the presentation made by MYAC for information.
Carried Unanimously
Moved by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT staff be DIRECTED to designate a month as "Youth Month" and invite
past MYAC Alumnus to support.
Carried Unanimously
5.2. Niagara Falls Canada Hotel Association (NFCHA) (POSTPONED)
5.3. PBD-2024-23
Our Niagara Falls Plan - progress update on the new Official Plan
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Presentation - The Planning Partnership (Presentation forthcoming)
Mr. Joe Nethery (Nethery Planning, working with the Planning Partnership),
provided Council with a presentation and overview of PBD-2024-23 as to the
current progress of the New Official Plan.
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Lori Lococo
THAT Council RECEIVE Report PBD-2024-23 for information.
Carried Unanimously
6. IN CAMERA SESSION OF COUNCIL
6.1. In -Camera Resolution
Moved by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT Council ENTER into an In -Camera session.
Carried Unanimously
7. PLANNING MATTERS
Council resumed open meeting at 7:31 PM
7.1. PBD-2024-024 - PUBLIC MEETING
AM-2022-021 — Official Plan & Zoning By-law Amendment
Part Lot 175 Portage Road (PID 4866); North of Marineland Parkway
Proposal: 812-unit apartment dwelling consisting of two towers with
building heights of 29 storeys and 38 storeys.
Applicant: Rundanco Inc.
Agent: Bousfields Inc. (Cale Vanderveen / Caitlin Allan)
The Public meeting commenced at 7:31 PM.
Mackenzie Ceci, Senior Planner Current Development, provided an overview
of Report PBD-2024-024.
David Falletta from Bousfield Inc., representing the applicant, made a
presentation to Council in support of the application.
The Public meeting was closed at 8:07 PM.
Moved by Councillor Wayne Thomson
Seconded by Councillor Mona Patel
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1. THAT Council APPROVE the Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-
law Amendment to facilitate the development of an 812-unit apartment
dwelling consisting of two towers with building heights of 29 storeys and
38 storeys, subject to the regulations and modifications outlined in this
Report.
2. THAT the amending by-law INCLUDE a Holding (H) provision to require
the submission of an updated Wind Study, the submission of a detailed
Noise and Vibration Impact Study, the inclusion of warning clauses with
respect to noise, air quality and archaeological resources, and the
implementation of various noise and air quality mitigation measures
through future Site Plan and/or Condominium Agreements.
3. THAT the amending by-law INCLUDE a sunset clause to require the
execution of a Site Plan Agreement or the receipt of Draft Plan of
Condominium approval within three years of the amending by-law
coming into effect, with the possibility of a one-year extension at the
discretion of the General Manager of Planning, Building and
Development.
Carried (Councillor Lococo was opposed)
7.2. PBD-2024-25 - PUBLIC MEETING
AM-2023-036 — Combined Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment for
Lands West of Allendale Avenue, South of Main Street (PIDs 13671, 4689,
4970, 4971, 4969 and Part 137498)
Proposal: To redesignate and rezone the property to facilitate the
development of a 20-storey building containing 193 dwelling units.
Applicant: Zeljko Holdings Limited (Jeremia Rudan)
Agent: Bousfields Inc. (Caitlin Allen)
Public meeting commenced at 8:14 PM.
Matt Kernahan, Development Consultant, provided an overview of Report
PBD-2024-025.
David Falletta from Bousfield Inc., representing the applicant, made a
presentation to Council in support of the application.
The Public meeting was closed at 8:45 PM.
Moved by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Wayne Thomson
1. THAT Council APPROVE the Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-
law Amendment to permit the development of a 20-storey, residential
building containing 193 dwelling, subject to the regulations outlined in
this Report.
2. THAT the amending by-law INCLUDE a Holding (H) provision to require
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the filing of a Record of Site Condition, the submission of an updated
Wind Study, and the completion of a Heritage Impact Assessment.
3. THAT the amending by-law INCLUDE a sunset clause to require the
execution of a Site Plan Agreement or the receipt of Draft Plan of
Condominium approval within three years of the amending by-law
coming into effect, with the possibility of a one-year extension at the
discretion of the General Manager of Planning, Building and
Development.
Carried Unanimously
8. REPORTS
Council moved to Agenda Item #8.6 (R&C-2024-09 Gale Centre Junior Club
Agreement Report) at 8:45 PM.
8.1. BDD-2024-03
Municipal Accommodation Tax
Councillor Strange left the meeting at 9:17 PM.
Councillor Nieuwesteeg left the meeting at 9:17 PM and returned at 9:24 PM.
Moved by Councillor Wayne Campbell
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
THAT Council RECEIVE this report for information.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Pietrangelo declared a conflict and
Councillor Strange was absent from the vote)
8.2. F-2024-24
Community Improvement Program and Industrial Development Charge
Exemption Incentives
Mayor Diodati left the meeting and Councillor Pietrangelo resumed as chair at
9:19 PM.
Moved by Councillor Wayne Thomson
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
1. THAT Council APPROVE staff's recommended policy to provide a grant
program for Industrial Development Charges (DC), included as
Attachment 1 to this report, to maintain the current exemptions in a more
flexible format outside of the DC By -Law.
2. THAT Council APPROVE staff's recommended policy to provide a DC
grant program for Community Improvement Plan areas (CIP), included
as Attachment 2 to this report, to maintain the current exemptions in a
more flexible format outside of the DC By -Law and until such time that
the CIP programs are updated/revised to incorporate a grant component
related to Development Charges.
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3. THAT Council APPROVE an extension of one year to the City's current
CIP incentives expiring October 1, 2024, as per staff report PBD-2021-
76, resulting in a revised expiry date of October 1, 2025.
4. THAT Council DIRECT staff to report back to Council with a finalized
CIP incentive policy, inclusive of a grant program related to
Development Charges in CIP areas, by October 1, 2025, for Council's
consideration.
Carried Unanimously (Mayor Diodati and Councillors Strange and
Nieuwesteeg absent from vote) (Councillors Nieuwesteeg and Lococo
declared a conflict).
8.3. F-2024-25 White Drain Petition and Municipal Drain Analysis
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
1. THAT Council RECEIVE this report for information and;
2. THAT Council APPROVE the recommendation originally included in
Report F-2024-19 for a 2024 Capital Budget Amendment to create
project STMS 58-24 for the White Drain Petition — Willow Road with a
total budget of $95,000 (inclusive of non -recoverable HST) and;
3. THAT Council APPROVE that the costs associated with White Drain
Petition to billed in accordance with the Drainage Act, RSO 1990 to the
property owners within the watershed.
Carried (Councillor Pietrangelo was opposed and Mayor Diodati and
Councillors Nieuwesteeg and Strange were absent from vote).
8.5. PBD-2024-22
Council Education Session on City's Housing Strategy
Mayor Diodati returned and resumed as Chair at 9:20 PM and Councillor
Nieuwesteeg returned.
Brian Dick, Manager of Policy Planning, presented the City's 2022 Housing
Strategy, which provided an overview of housing needs in the City, set a 40%
affordability target for all new housing, and presented a strategy to achieve that
target.
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
It is recommended:
THAT Council RECEIVE PDB-2024-22 and the attached presentation for
information.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Strange was absent from vote).
8.6. R&C-2024-09
Gale Centre Junior Club Agreement Report
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Kathy Moldenhauer, General Manager of Recreation, Culture & Facilities,
introduced Report R&C-2024-09.
Brandon Boone, Co-owner & Director of Community & Minor Hockey
Engagement, and Mike Cressman, of the Niagara Falls Riverhawks, addressed
Council regarding Report R&C-2024-09.
Moved by Councillor Mike Strange
Seconded by Councillor Wayne Thomson
1. THAT Council APPROVE the extension of the existing agreements with
the Jr A and Jr C teams for Five (5) years with the same financial terms.
2. That the Mayor and Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to execute the extension
agreements.
Carried (Councillor Lococo was opposed to the vote).
8.7. Council returned to address Item #8.1 on agenda.
After Council discussed Item #8.5, Council addressed Item #8.7, followed by
the Consent Agenda.
R&C-2024-10
Addendum to the Domed Columbaria Capital Budget Project — Building
out Maple Grove Columbarium Garden in 2024
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Wayne Campbell
1. THAT Council APPROVE a 2024 Capital Budget Amendment of
$345,000 for a total approved budget of $532,000, funded by capital
special purpose reserves, to allow for the complete development of
Maple Grove Columbarium Garden, thereby allowing Cemetery Services
the opportunity to capitalize on an aggressive bid and economies of
scale; and,
2. THAT Kyber Columbarium, the highest ranked proponent, BE
AWARDED the contract to complete the proposed installation of three
domed columbarium and a columbarium wall (five units) in the Maple
Grove Columbarium Garden in 2024.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Strange was absent from vote).
8.4. L-2024-11
2024-2025 Insurance Program Renewal
This report was discussed after the In -Camera meeting at 11:03 PM.
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
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THAT Council RECEIVE Report L-2024-11, 2024-2025 Insurance Program
Renewal for information;
THAT Council APPROVE the 2024-2025 Comprehensive Insurance Program
from Intact Public Entities Inc. (IPE);
THAT Council AUTHORIZE the City Solicitor to execute the necessary
documents with IPE for the provision of Comprehensive Insurance Services for
the period July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025 in the amount of up to approximately
$2,138,644.00 plus applicable taxes.
Carried Unanimously (Councillors Campbell, Strange and Thomson were
absent from the vote).
9. CONSENT AGENDA
Councillor Patel & Nieuwesteeg left chambers at 9:53 PM and returned at 9:54 PM.
9.1. F-2024-22
2023 Development Charges Treasurer's Statement
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Wayne Campbell
THAT Council RECEIVE report F-2024-22 2023 Development Charges
Treasurer's Statement for information.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Strange was absent from vote).
9.2. F-2024-23
Cancellation, Reduction or Refund of Taxes Under Section 357 and 358 of
The Municipal Act, 2001
Damian Bernacik, lawyer acting on behalf of owners of 3846 Portage Road,
addressed Council in regard to a Tax Relief Application made under section
357 and 358 of the Municipal Act for the 2022 and 2023 taxation years.
Moved by Councillor Mona Patel
Seconded by Councillor Wayne Thomson
THAT Council APPROVE the cancellation, reduction or refund of taxes on the
various accounts listed in the attached summary and granted to the property
owners listed.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Strange was absent from vote).
9.3. MW-2024-28
Parking Services - Request for 2024 Capital Budget Amendment
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Wayne Campbell
THAT Council APPROVE a 2024 Capital Budget Amendment to create project
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PRKG 53-24 for the Municipal Parking Lot #3 retaining wall replacement with a
total budget of $45,000 (inclusive of non -recoverable HST), to be funded by the
Parking Reserve.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Strange was absent from vote).
10. COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK
a) Motion to extend Council Meeting past 10:00 PM curfew.
Moved by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
THAT Council EXTEND the Council meeting past the 10:00 PM Curfew.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Strange was absent from vote).
10.1. Flag -Raising Request- Nikola Tesla Day -Tesla Fest 2024
The Nikola Tesla Festival organizer requested Niagara Falls' Council's
approval for a flag -raising on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 in front of City Hall in
honour of Nikola Tesla Day and Tesla Fest 2024.
Recommendation: For the Approval of Council.
10.2. Proclamation Request - Arthritis Awareness Month
The Arthritis Society Canada requested a proclamation to declare September
2024 as "Arthritis Awareness Month."
Recommendation: For the Approval of Council.
10.3. Proclamation Request - World Hepatitis Day
Attached is a request for Council to proclaim Sunday, July 28, 2024 as "World
Hepatitis Day" in Niagara Falls.
Recommendation: For the Approval of Council.
10.4. Proclamation Request - International Trigeminal Neuralgia Awareness
Day
The Facial Pain Research Foundation along with the Canadian Trigeminal
Neuralgia Association (Niagara) requested that Council proclaim Monday,
October 7, 2024 at "International Trigeminal Neuralgia Awareness Day.
Recommendation: For the Approval of Council.
10.5. Resolution - Town of Fort Erie - Continuation of Urgent Care Centre
Operation in Fort Erie (& Port Colborne)
Attached is a resolution passed by the Municipal Council of the Town of Fort
Erie at its meeting of May 27, 2024.
Recommendation: THAT Council SUPPORT the resolution passed by the
Town of Fort Erie.
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
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Seconded by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT Council APPROVE/SUPPORT Item #10.1 through to and including
#10.5.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Strange was absent from vote).
11. COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK
11.1. Resolutions -Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority
Attached are two resolutions from the Niagara Peninsula Conservation
Authority (NPCA) pertaining to Board direction.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for information.
11.2. Niagara Region Correspondence
Attached is correspondence sent from the Niagara Region regarding the
following:
1. Niagara Region Motion Reaffirming Niagara Region's Commitment to the
Expansion of All -day, Two-way Go Train Service
2. Niagara Region Report PDS 18-2024 Staff Comments on Proposed
Provincial Planning Statement (2024)
3. Niagara Region Report PDS 16-2024 2023 Reserve Water and Wastewater
Treatment Capacities
4. Niagara Region Report PDS 13-2024 Niagara Employment Inventory
Results
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for information.
11.3. Resolution - Township of Larder Lake - Asset Retirement Obligation
At the Township of Larder Lake Regular Council Meeting held Tuesday, June
11th, 2024, the attached resolution of support was adopted:
Motion to support the Township of Harleys resolution regarding Asset
Retirement Obligation PS 3280.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for information.
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Wayne Campbell
THAT Council RECEIVE FOR INFORMATION Item #11.1. through to and
including Item #11.3.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Strange was absent from vote).
12. COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK
12.1. Lundy's Lane BIA - 2024 Budget
Attached is the Lundy's Lane BIA 2024 budget.
Recommendation: THAT Council APPROVE the 2024 budget for the Lundy's
Lane BIA.
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Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT Council APPROVE the 2024 budget for the Lundy's Lane BIA.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Strange was absent from vote).
12.2. Xscape Colour Festival Food Truck Request
Attached is a letter from Lynne Mclntee, Host of Programs and Director of
Development, Festivals & Special Events with Youth for Change Inc.
requesting that food trucks be permitted at the Gale Centre on Saturday July
27, 2024 for the Xscape Colour Festival.
Recommendation:
That Council APPROVE the one day request for food trucks to be located on
City property (Gale Centre) for the Xscape Colour Festival taking place on
Saturday July 27, 2024.
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
That Council APPROVE the one day request for food trucks to be located on
City property (Gale Centre) for the Xscape Colour Festival taking place on
Saturday July 27, 2024.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Strange was absent from vote).
12.3. Appointments to Accessibility Advisory Committee
Results of the citizen appointments to the Accessibility Advisory Committee will
be read aloud by the City Clerk, Bill Matson.
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Mona Patel
THAT Staff be DIRECTED to open the application process for interested
residents to apply to be on the Accessibility Advisory Committee.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Strange was absent from vote).
13. RATIFICATION OF IN -CAMERA
Council went back In -Camera at 10:05 PM.
a) Ratification of In -Camera
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT Council AUTHORIZE staff to proceed with completing the Cyber
Initiatives for the additional estimated cost of $170,000; THAT Council
APPROVE a 2024 Capital Budget Amendment of $170,000 funded from the
OLG Reserve Fund; and THAT Council REFER the 2025 Operating Budget
Impact in the amount of $60,000 ($43,000 net savings) to the 2025 Operating
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Budget Process; and THAT Council DIRECT that the City enter into an
Encroachment Agreement with Steadfast Hospitality Inc. to permit a sidewalk
patio at 6361 Fallsview Boulevard; THAT Council AUTHORIZE the Mayor and
the City Clerk to execute the required Encroachment Agreement; AND THAT
Council AUTHORIZE the City Solicitor to register the Encroachment
Agreement on title.
Carried Unanimously (Councillors Campbell, Thomson and Strange were
absent from the vote).
14. NOTICE OF MOTION/NEW BUSINESS
a) Panhandlers in the City
Councillor Mona Patel brought forth the issue of panhandlers in the City (ie.
Dorchester and Morrison) and was looking for information as to whether it is
legal?
Jason Burgess, CAO, addressed the issue explaining that our Municipal By-law
Enforcement Officers can move them along but the issue remains challenging
to manage. The Niagara Regional Police will be making a presentation before
Council in the near future and it was suggested that this issue be brought
before them at this time.
b) Vacant Building Registry
Councillor Patel was looking for additional information pertaining to the vacant
building registry. Jason Burgess, CAO, stated that this was an initiative
brought forth by staff a few years ago and that Planning will bring a report to
Council for information.
c) Notice of Motion - Property Standards By-law
Councillor Patel brought forth the following notice of motion:
My notice of motion is for an amendment to the property standards by-laws to
expand the scope of property standards by-law to include grass, weed on
boulevards, islands, traffic triangles, roundabout, vacant buildings , graffiti and
overflowing garbage at the public parks and trails. Part of the motion is also to
direct BIAs and commercial plaza owners to do their first land scaping including
grass cuttings, weed clean up, and flower planting(if possible) before the
Victoria Day long weekend if permitted by weather.
d) Notice of Motion - Downtown Committee
Councillor Patel brought forth the following notice of motion:
I would like to propose a motion that Council forms a Downtown Committee
made up of; Council Members, and the Downtown Merchants or other Stake
Holders, who would oversee the business expenditures, programming, and
beautification until such time as the desire for a BIA is realized.
Committee will deal with items such as; Cameras, Flowers, the Santa Clause
Parade, and special events. Also, they will provide ideas to increase local
traffic and business measures to take advantage of the thousands of people
coming off the Terminals every week.
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I would also like to extend a request for the appointment application process,
criteria; including the area of expertise, the vision for downtown, and other
relevant experience. Staff to come back with a process by which we form the
committee.
e) Transit Costs
Councillor Lococo was looking for an update on a previous item regarding the
Niagara Region and the Transit Commission. Staff to follow-up to provide
information/update.
f) Water Conservation
Councillor Lococo is looking for Staff to educate the public as to how to
conserve and preserve water.
Direction to Staff: To DIRECT Communications staff to update our website to
be able to have residents post tips/tricks on ways to conserve/preserve water.
15. MOTIONS
15.1. City of Niagara Falls - Residential Parking Pass
At the Council meeting of May 28, 2024, Mayor Jim Diodati brought forth the
following motion:
Motion:
Request that Staff implement a "Residential Convenience Pass" providing an
opportunity for residents to park on street on municipal streets and roads for
$35 + HST per calendar year with the following conditions:
1. Price is $35+HST per calendar year, not pro -rated (so buy early and get a
better deal).
2. Two (2) hours per zone, per day. Zones include Downtown, Main/Ferry,
Chippawa, Victoria/Centre, and Fallsview.
3. Two (2) license plates per permit at the same address.
4. Valid for on -street paid spaces only. Not valid for municipal parking lots or
restricted zones.
Moved by Mayor Jim Diodati
Seconded by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Request that Staff implement a "Residential Convenience Pass" providing an
opportunity for residents to park on street on municipal streets and roads for
$35 + HST per calendar year with the following conditions:
1. Price is $35+HST per calendar year, not pro -rated (so buy early and get a
better deal).
2. Two (2) hours per zone, per day. Zones include Downtown, Main/Ferry,
Chippawa, Victoria/Centre, and Fallsview.
3. Two (2) license plates per permit at the same address.
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4. Valid for on -street paid spaces only. Not valid for municipal parking lots or
restricted zones.
Carried Unanimously (Councillors Campbell, Strange and Thomson were
absent).
15.2. Provincial Cemetery Management Support Request
At the Council meeting of May 28, 2024, Councillor Lori Lococo brought forth
the attached motion pertaining to cemetery management.
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
Whereas under the Funeral, Burial and Cremation Services Act, 2002
(FBCSA), when a cemetery is declared abandoned by a judge of the Superior
Court Justice, the local municipality within whose geographic boundaries the
land of the cemetery is located, becomes the owner of the cemetery with all the
rights and obligations in respect of the cemetery and the assets, trust funds
and trust accounts related to it that the previous owner or operator possessed;
And Whereas over the last decade, there has been an increase in the number
of churches and local cemetery boards initiating processes to transfer
ownership or abandon their owned and operated cemeteries to the local
municipality due to such issues as high maintenance costs, inaccuracy of
records, lack of financial and human resources to effectively operate and
maintain the cemetery, increased regulatory processes regarding training,
selling of interment rights, financial operation of the care and maintenance
fund, etc.;
And Whereas municipalities experience the same issues and pressures that
churches and local boards experience with the operation and maintenance of
cemeteries within its jurisdiction, and additional transfers of cemetery lands
only compound the burden on municipal taxpayers;
And Whereas cemeteries are important infrastructure where the reasonable
costs for interment rights, burials, monument foundations, corner stones and
administration charges do not sufficiently support the general operation of
cemeteries;
And Whereas the interest earned from the care and maintenance fund(s) of a
cemetery do not provide adequate funding to maintain the cemetery with the
rising costs of lawn and turf maintenance contracts and monument restoration;
Now Therefore Be It Resolved that Council of the the City of Niagara Falls
requests that the Province through the Ministry of Public and Business Service
Delivery and the Bereavement Authority of Ontario (BAO) consider the
following to assist municipalities in this growing concern of cemetery transfers:
- Amending the Funeral, Burial and Cremation Services Act, 2002 (FBCSA), to
Page 15 of 19
have the Province, through the BAO, identified as the default owner and
operator of a cemetery when it is abandoned;
- Provide annual funding (based on the number of cemeteries a municipality
owns and operates) to municipalities to assist with the maintenance of inactive
and active cemeteries;
- Provide free training opportunities for municipalities regarding cemetery
administration; and,
- Investigate and support the design of universal cemetery software for use by
municipal cemetery operators that can be offered at an affordable cost;
And that this resolution be circulated to the Hon. Todd McCarthy, Ministry of
Public and Business Service Delivery, Jim Cassimatis, BAO Interim
CEO/Registrar, MPP Jill Dunlop and all Ontario municipalities.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Strange, Campbell and Thomson were
absent from vote).
Notice of Motion - Cemetery Management
16. BY-LAWS
2024- A by-law to provide for the adoption of Amendment No. 167 to the City of
059. Niagara Falls Official Plan (AM-2023-034).
2024- A by-law to amend By-law No. 79-200 to permit the use of the lands for 60
060. stacked townhouse dwelling units and a mixed -used building with 4 ground
floor commercial units fronting onto Lundy's Lane and 8 dwelling units above
the ground floor, subject to the removal of a Holding (H) symbol and a 3-year
sunset clause (AM-2023-034).
2024- A by-law to provide for the adoption of Amendment No. 166 to the City of
061. Niagara Falls Official Plan (AM-2022-024).
2024- A by-law to amend By-law No. 79-200, to permit the use of the lands for 255
062. townhouse dwellings and up to 46 Additional Dwelling Units (ADUs), establish
two outdoor amenity areas, and repeal By-law No. 2008-108, subject to the
removal of a Holding (H) symbol and a 3-year sunset clause (AM-2022-024).
2024- A by-law to declare Part Lot 7, Block "GG", Plan 999 & 1000, Part Township
063. Lot 93, being Part 1, 59R-17565, in the City of Niagara Falls, in the Regional
Municipality of Niagara, as surplus.
2024- A by-law to permanently close part of a highway
064.
2024- A by-law to adopt, ratify and confirm the actions of the City Council at its
065. meeting held on the 18th day of June, 2024.
Moved by Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
Seconded by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT the by-laws be read a first, second and third time.
Page 16 of 19
Carried (Councillor Lococo was opposed to by-law 2024-061 and by-law
2024-062 and Councillors Campbell, Strange and Thomson were absent
from the vote).
17. ADJOURNMENT
a) Adjournment
Moved by Councillor Ruth -Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
THAT Council AJOURN the meeting at 12:02AM.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Strange, Campbell and Thomson were
absent from vote).
/J
ayor
City Clerk
Page 17 of 19
SUBJECT: Provincial Cemetery Management Support Request
BACKGROUND:
Throughout Ontario, there has been an increase in the number of churches and local
cemetery boards initiating the process to transfer the ownership or abandon the cemetery
to the municipality. Municipalities are responsible for the cost, administration and
maintenance of abandoned cemeteries. Several municipalities in the Province have passed
resolutions asking for annual funding, staff training as well as appropriate and affordable
software development for all municipalities to use to administer these cemeteries.
Whereas under the Funeral, Burial and Cremation Services Act, 2002 (FBCSA), when a
cemetery is declared abandoned by a judge of the Superior Court Justice, the local
municipality within whose geographic boundaries the land of the cemetery is located,
becomes the owner of the cemetery with all the rights and obligations in respect of the
cemetery and the assets, trust funds and trust accounts related to it that the previous
owner or operator possessed;
And Whereas over the last decade, there has been an increase in the number of churches
and local cemetery boards initiating processes to transfer ownership or abandon their
owned and operated cemeteries to the local municipality due to such issues as high
maintenance costs, inaccuracy of records, lack of financial and human resources to
effectively operate and maintain the cemetery, increased regulatory processes regarding
training, selling of interment rights, financial operation of the care and maintenance fund,
etc.;
And Whereas municipalities experience the same issues and pressures that churches
and local boards experience with the operation and maintenance of cemeteries within its
jurisdiction, and additional transfers of cemetery lands only compound the burden on
municipal taxpayers;
And Whereas cemeteries are important infrastructure where the reasonable costs for
interment rights, burials, monument foundations, corner stones and administration
charges do not sufficiently support the general operation of cemeteries;
And Whereas the interest earned from the care and maintenance fund(s) of a cemetery do
not provide adequate funding to maintain the cemetery with the rising costs of lawn and
turf maintenance contracts and monument restoration;
Now Therefore Be It Resolved that Council of the the City of Niagara Falls requests that the
Province through the Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery and the Bereavement
Authority of Ontario (BAO) consider the following to assist municipalities in this growing
concern of cemetery transfers:
Page 18 of 19
- Amending the Funeral, Burial and Cremation Services Act, 2002 (FBCSA), to have the
Province, through the BAO, identified as the default owner and operator of a cemetery when
it is abandoned;
- Provide annual funding (based on the number of cemeteries a municipality owns and
operates) to municipalities to assist with the maintenance of inactive and active
cemeteries;
- Provide free training opportunities for municipalities regarding cemetery administration; and,
- Investigate and support the design of universal cemetery software for use by
municipal cemetery operators that can be offered at an affordable cost;
And that this resolution be circulated to the Hon. Todd McCarthy, Ministry of Public and
Business Service Delivery, Jim Cassimatis, BAO Interim CEO/Registrar, MPP Jill Dunlop and all
Ontario municipalities.
Page 19 of 19