HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-14-2025 Niagara MINUTESY g FqNAD Cit Council MeetinA �J
2:00 PM -Tuesday, January 14, 2025
Council Chambers/Zoom App.
The City Council Meeting of the City of Niagara Falls was called to order on Tuesday, January
14, 2025, at 4:33 PM, in the Council Chambers, with the following members present:
COUNCIL Mayor Jim Diodati, Councillor Tony Baldinelli, Councillor Chris Dabrowski,
PRESENT: Councillor Lori Lococo, Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg, Councillor
Mona Patel, Councillor Mike Strange
COUNCIL Councillor Wayne Campbell, Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
ABSENT:
STAFF Jason Burgess, Bill Matson, Erik Nickel, Tiffany Clark, Jo Zambito, Nidhi
PRESENT: Punyarthi, Kathy Moldenhauer, Kira Dolch, Shelley Darlington, Dale
Morton, Signe Hansen, Margaret Corbett, Heather Ruzylo (present in
Chambers)
Gerald Spencer, Trent Dark (present over Zoom)
1. IN CAMERA SESSION OF COUNCIL
1.1. In-Camera Resolution - January 14, 2025
Moved by Councillor Mike Strange
Seconded by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT Council ENTER into an In-Camera session on January 14, 2025.
Carried Unanimously (Mayor Diodati and Councillor Patel absent from the
vote).
2. CALL TO ORDER
The City Council Meeting was called to order at 4:33 PM.
Councillor Nieuwesteeg hadn't returned from In-Camera meeting at this point of
agenda.
3. ADOPTION OF MINUTES
3.1. Council Minutes of December 10, 2024
Moved by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council APPROVE the minutes of December 10, 2024 meeting as
presented.
Carried Unanimously (Councillor Nieuwesteeg was absent from the vote).
4. DISCLOSURES OF PECUNIARY INTEREST
None reported.
5. MAYOR'S REPORTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS
a) Mayor Diodati discussed the following events and announcements:
Polar Bear Dip
• Also attended by Councillors Nieuwesteeg, Dabrowski, Patel, Baldinelli,
Pietrangelo, Strange and Lococo
HATCH Workshops
• Also attended by Councillor Lococo
Councillor Representation
Councillor Dabrowski Grand Kerala Cuisine
Councillor Lococo Annual New Year's Eve Levee at the Military
Museum
Flag Raising
• Crime Stoppers flag raising
o Also attended by Councillor Nieuwesteeg
Business Happenings
• Red Barn Organics Grand Opening
o Also attended by Councillor
• Biryani Queens Grand Opening
o Also attended by Councillor
• Pur & Simple Grand Opening
o Also attended by Councillors
Ice Wine Gala
• 2025 Niagara Ice Wine Festival - "Cool As Ice Gala" - Niagara Parks
Power Station
• Saturday, January 18, 2025\
Team Canada - Curling -World University Games - Torino Italy
• Jessica Zheng and Victor Pietrangelo (Jr.) are competing in the World
University Games in Torino, Italy.
Coming up:
• 0 Canada Singer—talent search
o Youth singers and musicians/ up-and-coming artists
o Showcase your talent
o Online application form/video or audio recording
o All-ages welcome/ groups welcome/choirs/ instrumentalists
o Meetings are broadcast online and on Epico 100 and 700
television channels
o Resident of Niagara Falls- but open
b) The next scheduled Council meeting is a budget meeting to be held on
Tuesday, January 21, 2025.
The next scheduled Council meeting to be held on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.
6. DEPUTATIONS / PRESENTATIONS
6.1. Civic Recognition -AN Myer Secondary School - Football Team
The AN Myer Secondary High School Junior Football team won the provincial
championship in 2024.
Council recognized the team for their accomplishments.
6.2. Civic Recognition - Elizabeth Lutsyshyn and Victoria Dulepa - World
Karate and Kickboxing Champions (WKC)
Elizabeth Lutsyshyn and Victoria Dulepa, recently competed in the WKC World
Championship in Portugal.
Their mother, Olga Fiore, was present, along with their Sensei, to share both of
their outstanding achievements.
Councillor Nieuwesteeg returned to Chambers at 5:09 PM.
6.3. Appointment Request - Resident, Rose Amer, Pastor at Niagara Falls
Christian Ministries
Resident of Niagara Falls, Rose Amer, addressed Council on the topic of
encampments, homelessness, poverty and potential solutions. She is looking
for support from Council by recognizing the need to look at tiny home villages
to assist with the homelessness situation.
6.4. Recognition-=Inspector Chris Ga•lllagher _ Niagara Parks Police - (To be
rescheduled)
Mayor Diodati to recognize Inspector Chris from hi retirement from
Gallagher,
the Niagara Parks Police.
7. PLANNING MATTERS
7.1. PBD-2025-01 - Public Meeting
AM-2024-036
Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment Application
4500 Park Street
Lots 1-8 and Part Lot 9 Block BB Plan 999-1000
4200 Queen Street
Part of Lots 5 & 11, Block F Plan 999 and 1000, Part of Township Lot 93,
Stamford, being Part 1 on 59R-18256; Part of Lots 5, 10, 11, Block F, Plan
999-1000 and Part of Township Lot 93, Stamford, being Part 2 on 59R-
18256; Part of Lot 11, Block F, Plan 999 and 1000, being Parts 3 and 4 on
59R-18256; Part of Lots 2, 3, 7, 8, 10 & 11, Block F, Plan 999-1000, Lot 9,
Block F, Plan 999 and 1000, being Part 5 on 59R-18256
To permit a 20 storey residential building on the property municipally
known as 4500 Park Street; and, a 20 storey mixed-use building on the
property municipally known as 4200 Queen Street
Applicant: City of Niagara Falls
The Public Meeting commenced at 5:24 PM.
Julie Hannah, Manager of Policy Planning, provided an overview of Report
PBD-2025-01.
Yan Miao (Mary), (Nicole Wharton, neighbour of Mary spoke on Mary's
behalf, living at 4248 Huron Street) of 4711 Zimmerman Avenue and 4219
Huron Street, addressed Council citing concerns about this proposal. Limited
sightlines and concerns about her property value being negatively impacted
were issues raised. Also cited concerns of not being properly notified of
potential changes.
Shelagh Mulligan, 4671 River Road, addressed Council citing concerns about
not being properly notified. Not opposed to the development however, Sheila
cited concerns about the size of the proposal, along with potential parking
issues with the increased volume.
Franco Piscitelli, 5100 Dorchester Road, addressed Council opposing the
development as it pertains to the University of Niagara Falls Canada. Further,
added comments that he disagreed with the name of the University containing
the name "Niagara Falls."
Frank Deluca, of 4341 Kilman Place, addressed Council questioning why there
isn't a parking study conducted for the development.
Theresa Roth, of 4455 Park Street, addressed Council citing concerns about
the Park Street proposal, referencing public signs noting a 20 story
development.
Robert Jackson, of 4671 River Road, addressed Council expressing concerns
with the setbacks mentioned in application.
Joedy Burdette, of 4480 Bridge Street, addressed Council suggesting that he
was interested in potentially selling his property to the University.
Aras Raci (Aras Reisiardekani), addressed Council supporting the
development.
The Public Meeting closed at 6:34 PM.
Moved by Councillor Mike Strange
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council APPROVE the Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments for
a 20 storey residential use building on Park Street and a 20 storey mixed-use
building on Queen Street, subject to the recommended regulations outlined in
this report.
Carried (Councillor Lococo was opposed).
7.2. PBD-2025-03 - Public Meeting
AM-2024-002, Zoning By-law Amendment
7715 Beaverdams Road
Proposal: To rezone the lands to a site-specific Residential Apartment 5A
Density (R5A) Zone to facilitate the conversion of the existing building,
from a retirement home to a boarding or rooming house.
Applicant: Pranajen Group LTD.
Agent: Sagathevan Shanmugam
Councillor Dabrowski left Chambers and returned at 6:52 PM.
The Public Meeting commenced at 6:48 PM.
Chris Roome, Planner 2, provided an overview of Report PBD-2025-03.
Tracey Pillon-Abbs, acting on behalf of the agent, addressed Council virtually
answering questions of Council.
Segathevan Shanmugan, agent, of 418-95 Prince Arthur Avenue, Toronto,
answered questions of Council clarifying the use of the proposal.
The Public Meeting closed at 7:07 PM.
Moved by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
Seconded by Councillor Mona Patel
1. THAT Council APPROVE the Zoning By-law Amendment to rezone the
lands to a site-specific Residential Apartment Density (R5A) Zone to
permit the conversion of the existing building, from a retirement home to
a boarding or rooming house, subject to the regulations outlined in this
report.
2. THAT Council AUTHORIZE the amending by-law to include a sunset
clause to require the execution of a Site Plan Agreement 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
7.3. PBD-2025-04 (Public Meeting)
City Initiated Zoning By-law Amendment AM-2024-033 (PLZBA20240779)
General Amendments to Zoning By-law No. 79-200
The Public Meeting commenced at 7:07 PM.
Mayor Diodati left the meeting at 7:18 PM and Councillor Mike Strange
resumed as Chair.
Danielle Foley, Senior Planner, Long Range Planning Initiatives, provided an
overview of Report PBD-2025-04.
Mayor Diodati returned at 7:13 PM.
The Public Meeting closed at 7:14 PM.
Moved by Councillor Mona Patel
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council APPROVE the general amendments to Zoning By-law No. 79-
200, as outlined in this report.
Carried Unanimously
7.4. PBD-2025-05 (Public Meeting)
City Initiated Zoning By-law Amendment AM-2024-034 (PLZBA20240780),
Updated Additional Dwelling Unit Regulations
The Public Meeting commenced at 7:14 PM.
Danielle Foley, Senior Planner, Long Range Planning Initiatives, provided an
overview of Report PBD-2025-05.
Aras Reisiardekani, of Niagara Falls, delivered a presentation to Council.
Joedy Burdette, of 4480 Bridge Street, addressed Council citing concerns
about changing the height requirements and expressed concerns about the
window criteria.
The Public Meeting closed at 7:51 PM.
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
1. THAT Council APPROVE the amendments to Zoning By-law No. 79-
200, to update Section 4.45 Additional Dwelling Unit regulations, as
outlined in this report.
Carried Unanimously
7.5. PBD-2025-02
AM-2024-035 & 26T-11-2023-002 — Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-
law Amendment & Draft Plan of Subdivision Modification
9304 McLeod Road & PID 1337
Proposal: To facilitate the development of 544 dwelling units, parkland
and a stormwater management facility
Applicant: 800460 Ontario Limited (Fred Costabile)
Agent: NPG Planning Solutions Inc. (Mary Lou Tanner & Rob Fiedler
The Public Meeting commenced at 7:51 PM.
Mackenzie Ceci, Senior Planner, Current Development, provided an overview
of Report PBD-2025-02.
Joedy Burdette, of 4480 Bridge Street, addressed Council providing comments
pertaining to this development.
Rocky Vacca, Solicitor, addressed Council addressing concerns raised by
Joedy Burdette.
Mary Lou Tanner, acting as the agent from NPG Planning Solutions,
addressed Council supporting the application, asking Council to approve all
applications as mentioned in report.
The Public Meeting closed at 8:14 PM.
Moved by Councillor Mike Strange
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
1. THAT Council APPROVE the Official Plan Amendment and Zoning By-
law Amendment to facilitate the development of 544 dwelling units,
parkland and a stormwater management facility, subject to the
regulations and modifications detailed in this Report;
2. THAT the amending by-law INCLUDE a Holding (H) provision to require
the review and approval of a Risk Assessment and Land Use
Compatibility Study, an assessment of the job replacement to justify the
conversion, and the implementation of various noise mitigation
measures/warning clauses through the future Subdivision Agreement;
3. THAT the McLeod Meadows Draft Plan of Subdivision be draft
APPROVED subject to the conditions contained in Appendix A;
4. THAT the Mayor or designate be AUTHORIZED to sign the Draft Plan of
Subdivision as "approved" 20 days after Notice of Council's decision has
been given as required by the Planning Act, provided no appeals of the
decision have been lodged;
5. THAT Draft Plan approval be given for three years, after which approval
will lapse unless an extension is requested by the Owner/Developer and
granted by Council; and
6. THAT the Mayor and City Clerk be AUTHORIZED to execute the
Subdivision Agreement(s) and any required documents to allow for the
future registration of the Subdivision(s) when all matters are addressed
to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor.
Carried (Councillor Lococo was opposed).
Moved by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT Council approve moving to Item #9.2 on the agenda at 8:15 PM.
Carried Unanimously
8. REPORTS
8.1 CAO-2025-01
Municipal Accommodation Tax
Doug Birrell, President of the Niagara Falls Canada Hotel Association, addressed
Council asking Council to honour the agreement signed 2 years ago. Mr. Birrell
strongly opposed the proposed Municipal Accommodation Tax by-law and asked
Council not to approve the current by-law.
Moved by Councillor Mike Strange
Seconded by Councillor Lori Lococo
THAT Council agree to extend the Council meeting past 10:00 PM.
Carried Unanimously
Moved by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council DEFER Report CAO-2025-01, Municipal Accommodation Tax until
Tuesday, January 21, 2025.
Ayes: Councillor Lori Lococo, Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg, and
Councillor Chris Dabrowski
Nays: Mayor Jim Diodati, Councillor Mike Strange, Councillor Tony Baldinelli,
and Councillor Mona Patel
DEFEATED. 3-4 on a recorded vote
Moved by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
1. THAT Council RECEIVE the attached report and proposed Municipal
Accommodation Tax bylaw with the following amendments:
o That the Municipal Accommodation Tax move to 4% of the Room Rate
effective April 1, 2026 and 5% effective April 1, 2027
o That section 5.1 and 5.2 of the proposed bylaw change from a minimum
of$1 (one dollar) to a minimum of 1% respectively.
o That Council direct staff to come back to Council with a revised bylaw
prior to June 1, 2026 with any other changes that may be required to
implement these changes.
2. THAT a committee be formed to work on the specifics of how the money is to be
allocated.
Carried (Councillor Dabrowski and Councillor Lococo was opposed)
8.2. CAO-2025-02
Request for Downtown BIA Funds for 2025 Flower Program
Moved by Councillor Mona Patel
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
THAT Council APPROVE the transfer of$30,000 from the Downtown BIA
unspent levy being held in reserve to offset the cost of a seasonal flower
beautification program in the Downtown core in 2025 and that Council
APPROVE a single source supplier for the flowers.
THAT staff be AUTHORIZED to enter into a contract with 843081 Ontario Inc
o/b Snips Landscape and Nursery for the 2025 Flower Beautification Program
in the amount of$25,524.31 plus HST.
Carried Unanimously
8.3. CS-2025-04
2025 Interim Tax Levy
Moved by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT Council APPROVE the 2025 Interim Tax Levy calculation and by-law
providing for the 2025 Interim Tax Levy.
Carried Unanimously
8.4. CS-2025-08
Surplus Land - Looking for Change: City Review
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Mona Patel
THAT Council DIRECT staff to begin a multi-year coordinated effort to review
all 159 vacant land parcels across the City and report back to Council with any
potential sales opportunities including detailed valuations, risks and plans for
sale.
Carried Unanimously
8.5. CS-2025-11
Reduce Wi-Fi at Public Locations - Looking for Change: City Review
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
1. THAT Council APPROVE the elimination of wireless internet service
from City pool facilities while not in operation (September to May),
effective at the end of the current contract, approximately June 2026.
2. AND THAT Council APPROVE the elimination of wireless internet
service at Kalar Sports Park and Oakes Park during low-usage months
(November to April), effective at the end of the current contract,
approximately June 2026.
Carried Unanimously
8.6. CS-2025-15
Chippawa Boat Ramp Parking - Looking for Change: City Review (2025
Budget Proposals)
Direction to Staff: That Council give relief to staff from the requirement of proof
of ownership.
Moved by Councillor Mike Strange
Seconded by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
1. THAT Council AMEND the 2025 Schedule of Fees to include a vehicle
parking fee at the Chippawa Boat Ramp at a cost of seven dollars ($7)
per day, effective March 1, 2025;
2. AND THAT Council AMEND the 2025 Schedule of Fees to include a
vehicle with trailer parking fee at the Chippawa Boat Ramp at a cost of
ten dollars ($10) per day, effective March 1, 2025;
3. AND THAT Council AMEND the 2025 Schedule of Fees to include a
resident vehicle with trailer parking fee at the Chippawa Boat Ramp at a
cost of$120 per year, effective March 1, 2025.
4. AND THAT Council DIRECT Staff to provide alternative options should a
resident have a Resident's Convenience Pass.
Carried Unanimously
8.7. CS-2025-17
Procurement Policy Update
Mayor Diodati left Chambers at 10:19 PM and Councillor Mike Strange
resumed as Chair.
Mayor Diodati returned at 10:23 PM.
Shelley Darlington, General Manager of Corporate Services, introduced Karen
Judd, Senior Manager of Strategic Procurement & Initiatives and further
provided a brief summary of Report CS-2025-17, Procurement Policy Update.
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
1. THAT Report CS-2025-17 Procurement Policy Update be RECEIVED
for information.
2. AND THAT Policy No. XXXProcurement Policy be APPROVED with an
effective date of March 15, 2025;
3. AND THAT Report Number MW-2013-02 Consultant Selection Policy be
DISCONTINUED as of March 15, 2025;
4. AND THAT the necessary By-law be ADOPTED.
Carried Unanimously
8.8. MW-2025-01
Roadside Maintenance and Weed Control on Regional Roads - Budget
Accompaniment Report
Moved by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
1. That Council RECEIVE for information Report MW-2025-01, a Budget
Accompaniment Report, containing the supporting details for the
financial implications pertaining to Council's Motion for Staff to report
back on options to increase service levels for roadside maintenance and
weed control on Regional Roads in Niagara Falls.
2. That, Subject to Budgetary Approval, Council DIRECT Staff to negotiate
with Niagara Region on advancement of Option 2 described in this
report, for contracted services to perform weed control on commercial
and tourist regional road thoroughfares.
Carried (Councillor Lococo was opposed).
8.9. MW-2025-02
Approval of EV ChargeON Grants for Electric Vehicle Charger
Installations
Moved by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
Seconded by Councillor Lori Lococo
1. THAT Council RECEIVE this report for information;
2. THAT Council CONSIDER passing the related Resolution on today's
agenda to accept the Provincial funding and authorize the Mayor and
Clerk to execute any documents necessary as part of the EV ChargeON
grant requirements;
3. THAT Council APPROVE a the reallocation of$100,000 from FR11-22 -
Electric Vehicle Charging Station Pilot Program (contingent on previous,
unsuccessful grant application), to be used for the implementation of EV
chargers leveraging approved EV ChargeON grant funding;
4. THAT Staff REPORT BACK prior to execution of construction contracts
with a summary of financial impacts and budgetary recommendations.
Carried Unanimously
8.10. PBD-2025-06
MTO/Greater Niagara General Hospital Lands Neighbourhood Plan and
Background Study Initiation
Moved by Councillor Mona Patel
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
That Council AUTHORIZE the initiation of a Neighbourhood Plan process for
the lands identified in Appendix "1", and
That Council AUTHORIZE staff to advertise a "Request for Expression of
Interest" to seek interested persons from the community to participate on a
Community Focus Group to provide input over the course of the
Neighbourhood Plan exercise.
Carried Unanimously
8.11. PBD-2025-07
Quarter 3 Development and Housing Report and Provincial Reporting
Moved by Councillor Mona Patel
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
1. THAT Council RECEIVE the Quarter 3 Development and Housing
Status Report that reviews the status of current development and
housing activity in the City of Niagara Falls from July 1 through
September 30 of 2024 (Q3); and
2. THAT Council DIRECT staff to forward the housing information to the
Province as required.
Carried Unanimously
8.12. PBD-2025-09
Administrative Monetary Penalties System (AMPS) for Non-Parking
Matters
Moved by Councillor Mike Strange
Seconded by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
1. THAT Council RECEIVE this report for consideration and adoption
purposes;
2. THAT Council AMEND By-law No. 2024-045 and approve the additional
Non-Parking Administrative Monetary Penalties By-laws as detailed in
report PBD-2025-09 and attached as Appendix 1.
3. THAT the attached Designated By-laws referred to in the Schedules of
the Non-Parking AMPS By-law be ADOPTED by the Non-Parking
AMPS By-law such that listed violations under those Designated By-
laws are subject to the administrative monetary penalties system as of
the effective date of the Non-Parking AMPS By-law.
Carried Unanimously
8.13. PBD-2025-08
Single Room Occupancy (SRO) Project Update — Context Report
Brian Dick, Senior Manager of Policy Planning, provided an overview of
Report PBD-2025-08.
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council DEFER this Single Room Occupancy Project Update for
information, until such time as more information is gathered.
Carried Unanimously
9. CONSENT AGENDA
9.1. CS-2025-05
Q3 Parking Fund Budget to Actual Variance (Unaudited)
Moved by Councillor Mike Strange
Seconded by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT Council RECEIVE the 2024 Q3 Parking Fund Budget to Actual Variance
report for the quarter ended September 30, 2024.
Carried Unanimously
9.2. CS-2025-06
Declare Surplus Lands and Sale of Facilities
Ray St. Jean, addressed Council advocating for Chippawa, and expressed his
support of the properties to be declared as surplus as long as it remains as
historical distinction.
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council agree to waive the Procedural By-law to allow a member of the
public to speak.
Carried Unanimously
Moved by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
1. That Council AUTHORIZE that 8196 Cummington Square West,
hereinafter referred to as the "Subject 1 Lands", as shown outlined on
the plan attached as Attachment 1, be permanently closed and declared
surplus to the City's needs AND THAT all proceeds from the sale of the
property be used for future proposed developments in Chippawa.
2. That Council AUTHORIZE the City Solicitor and Chief Administrative
Officer, or their designate, to execute all documentation and take
whatever steps necessary to carry out Recommendations 1 and 2.
3. That Council AUTHORIZE the Chief Administrative Officer, the City
Solicitor, and their further designates to engage in negotiations with
respect to the proposed purchases of the Subject Lands with the
identified prospective purchasers and in accordance with the area
breakdown of the Subject Lands proposed in Attachment 2, and in
accordance with the City's land sale policy, which includes a
requirement that the prospective purchasers be responsible for the cost
of obtaining a fair market value appraisal of the Subject Lands.
Carried (Councillor Lococo was opposed)
Moved by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
1. That Council AUTHORIZE that 11211 Sodom Road, hereinafter referred
to as the "Subject 2 Lands", as shown outlined on the plan attached as
Attachment 1, be permanently closed and declared surplus to the City's
needs.
2. That Council AUTHORIZE the City Solicitor and Chief Administrative
Officer, or their designate, to execute all documentation and take
whatever steps necessary to carry out Recommendations 1 and 2.
3. That Council AUTHORIZE the Chief Administrative Officer, the City
Solicitor, and their further designates to engage in negotiations with
respect to the proposed purchases of the Subject Lands with the
identified prospective purchasers and in accordance with the area
breakdown of the Subject Lands proposed in Attachment 2, and in
accordance with the City's land sale policy, which includes a
requirement that the prospective purchasers be responsible for the cost
of obtaining a fair market value appraisal of the Subject Lands.
Carried Unanimously
9.3. CS-2025-09
Sport Tourism Rebate Program Funding - Looking for Change: City
Review (2025 Budget Proposals)
Moved by Councillor Mike Strange
Seconded by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT Council RECEIVE reportCS-2025-09, Sport Tourism Rebate Program
Funding for information.
Carried Unanimously
9.4. MW-2025-03
Summary of 2024 Traffic & Parking By-law Amendments
Moved by Councillor Mike Strange
Seconded by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
THAT Council RECEIVE this report for information.
Carried Unanimously
10. COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK
10.1. Flag-Raising Request - Italian Heritage Week
Attached is a request, on behalf of Club Italia, for Council to approve a flag-
raising ceremony for the first week of June 2025 to promote "Italian Heritage
Month."
Recommendation: THAT Council APPROVE a flag-raising ceremony for the
first week of June 2025 to promote "Italian Heritage Month."
Moved by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT Council APPROVE a flag-raising ceremony for the first week of June
2025 to promote "Italian Heritage Month."
Carried Unanimously
10.2. Proclamation Request - Indigenous Survivors Day
Attached is a request for Council to proclaim Monday, June 30, 2025 as
"Indigenous Survivors Day."
Recommendation: THAT Council PROCLAIM Monday, June 30, 2025 as
"Indigenous Survivors Day."
Moved by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
1 THAT Council PROCLAIM Monday, June 30, 2025 as "Indigenous Survivors
Day."
Carried Unanimously
11. COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK
11.1. Integrity Commissioner -2023-2024 Annual Report
Attached is the 2023-2024 Annual Report from our Integrity Commissioner.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for information.
11.2. Letter from Minister Paul Calandra, Minister of Municipal Affairs and
Housing - Municipal Accountability Act 2024
Attached is a letter from the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Paul
Calandra, introducing the proposed Municipal Accountability Act, 2024, which if
passed, would make changes to the Municipal Act, 2001 and City of Toronto
Act, 2006 to strengthen the municipal code of conduct and integrity
commissioner framework.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for information.
11.3. Correspondence from the Niagara Region
Attached is correspondence sent from the Niagara Region pertaining to the
following matters:
1. CLK-C 2024-126 Niagara Regional Police Service and Police Service
Board 2025 Operating Budget and Community Safety and Policing Act
Funding
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for information.
11.4. Correspondence from Enbridge - Natural Gas Policy Consultation
The attached correspondence from Enbridge is sent out as a result of Minister
Lecce's announcement of a provincial consultation process which recently
launched around the continued role of natural gas in Ontario's diversified
energy portfolio, and its contributions to long-term system reliability,
affordability and economic growth.
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for information.
11.5. Memo - Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee - Land
Acknowledgements and Canadian National Anthem at City Council
Meetings
The DEI Committee discussed ways for the Land Acknowledgement at Council
Meetings to be more meaningful. The following motion was passed at the DEI
meeting held on Monday, November 25, 2024:
Motion:
"A motion from Committee Member (Brian Kon) and seconded by Committee
Member (Sheila DeLuca), for the order at the beginning of Council meetings be
changed to the following":
1.Indigenous Welcome Video
2.Land Acknowledgment
3.Canadian National Anthem
Recommendation: THAT Council RECEIVE for information.
Direction to Staff: For Staff to investigate what order the anthem and land
acknowledgement
are followed at provincial parliament meetings.
Moved by Councillor Mike Strange
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council agree to continue the Council meetings with the Canadian
National Anthem played first.
Carried Unanimously
Moved by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT Council RECEIVE FOR INFORMATION Item #11.1 through to and
including Item #11.4.
Carried Unanimously
12. RESOLUTIONS
12.1. MW-2025-02
Approval of EV ChargeON Grants for Electric Vehicle Charger
Installations
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Niagara Falls:
1.Accept the funding offered by the Province of Ontario through the ChargeON
Program for the installation of electric vehicle charging stations within the City
of Niagara Falls, as outlined in the application.
2.Authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute any necessary agreements,
documentation, or contracts required to secure and implement the funding and
to ensure compliance with all terms and conditions of the ChargeON Program.
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT a copy of this resolution be
forwarded to the appropriate provincial authorities overseeing the ChargeON
Program for their records.
Moved by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
Seconded by Councillor Mona Patel
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Niagara Falls:
1.Accept the funding offered by the Province of Ontario through the ChargeON
Program for the installation of electric vehicle charging stations within the City
of Niagara Falls, as outlined in the application.
2.Authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute any necessary agreements,
documentation, or contracts required to secure and implement the funding and
to ensure compliance with all terms and conditions of the ChargeON Program.
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT a copy of this resolution be
forwarded to the appropriate provincial authorities overseeing the ChargeON
Program for their records.
Carried Unanimously
12.2. AM-2024-003 - 6546 Fallsview Bouelvard & 6503-6519 Stanley Avenue
(OPA &ZBA)
A Public Meeting was held by Council on October 1st, 2024 to consider an
Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment application to permit the use of
6546 Fallsview Boulevard for a 58-storey (200-metre) mixed-use development,
and 6503-6519 Stanley Avenue for a 7-storey (19.5-metre) parking garage.
The recommendations of Report No. PBD-2024-43, as modified, were
approved on October 1st, 2024, and By-law No. 2025-002 has been placed on
Council's agenda this evening. The attached resolution is required to deem the
proposed changes minor and exempt the requirement for further notice for the
purpose of increasing the maximum building height of the proposed 7-storey
parking garage from 19.5 metres to 20.5 metres to provide flexibility at the
detailed design stage, exempting additional architectural features and building
components (gazebos, canopies, parapets, railings, stair enclosures, and wind
screens) from the height regulations, and addressing the projection of
balconies (2.35 metres), which were depicted on the floor plans that were
submitted with the application and presented to Council and the public on
October 1st, 2024.
Moved by Councillor Mona Patel
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council APPROVE the resolution pertaining to AM-2024-003 - 6546
Fallsview Bouelvard & 6503-6519 Stanley Avenue (OPA & ZBA).
Carried Unanimously
13. RATIFICATION OF IN-CAMERA
a) Ratification of In-Camera
Moved by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
Pertaining to the In-Camera meeting of January 13, 2025, Education Session
regarding the operating budget, there was nothing to ratify; pertaining to the
January 14, 2025 In-Camera meeting, direction to staff was provided to carry
out multiple OLT matters.
Carried Unanimously
14. NOTICE OF MOTION/NEW BUSINESS
a) Social Service Groups
Moved by Councillor Lori Lococo
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council DIRECT staff to discuss other options for grants for social
service groups that the City funds.
Carried Unanimously
b) Solar Panels at City Facilities
Direction to Staff: That Council direct staff to look for grants to get solar
panels at city facilities installed.
15. MOTIONS
15.1. MOTION - Maximizing Parking at the Exchange and Niagara Falls History
Museum
Councillor Nieuwesteeg brought forth the motion attached regarding
Maximizing Parking at the Exchange and Niagara Falls History Museum.
Moved by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT the City of Niagara Falls utilize and maximize all on-site parking and
surrounding street parking to enhance the Exchange and Museum and to
redesign the parking lot to maximize the number of parking spaces and that
this be done as soon as possible to better serve the users of the facility; AND
THAT Staff come back with a report to Council prior to work being commenced.
Carried Unanimously
15.2. MOTION - Naming "March" Youth Empowerment Month
Councillor Nieuwesteeg brought forth the attached motion regarding naming
"March" Youth Empowerment Month.
Moved by Councillor Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg
Seconded by Councillor Mike Strange
THAT the City of Niagara Falls recognize "March" as "Youth Empowerment
Month."
Carried Unanimously
16. BY-LAWS
2025- A by-law to provide for the adoption of Amendment No. 176 to the City of
001. Niagara Falls Official Plan (AM-2024-003).
2025- A by-law to amend By-law No. 79-200 to permit the use of the Lands (6546
002. Fallsview Boulevard and 6503-6519 Stanley Avenue) for a 58-storey (200
metre) mixed-use development consisting of two towers and a 7-storey (19.5
metre) building containing off-site parking, respectively, subject to the removal
of Holding (H) symbols and a sunset clause, and to repeal By-law No. 1988-
133 and By-law No. 2002-210 from Parcel TC(H)-1271 (AM-2024-003).
2025- A by-law to provide for the adoption of Amendment No. 177 to the City of
003. Niagara Falls Official Plan (AM-2024-036).
2025- A by-law to amend By-law No. 79-200, to permit the use of the Lands for a 20
004. storey residential use development (AM-2024-036).
2025- A by-law to amend By-law No. 79-200, to permit the use of the Lands for a 20
005. storey mixed use development (AM-2024-036)
2025- A by-law to amend By-law No. 79-200, to introduce new definitions and
006. regulatory provisions (AM-2024-033).
2025- A by-law to provide an interim levy of realty taxes.
007.
2025- A by-law to regulate the supply of water and to provide for the maintenance
008. and management of the waterworks and for the imposition and collection of
rates for the use of water and water related services.
2025.009. Aby-IawtoestablishaMunicipalAccommodationTaxandrepealBy-IawNo.2018-
104 and By-law No. 2021-58.
2025- A by-law to adopt a policy to govern the procurement of goods and services for
010. The Corporation of the City of Niagara Falls.
2025- A by-law to adopt, ratify and confirm the actions of the City Council at its
011. meeting held on the 14th day of January, 2025.
Moved by Councillor Mike Strange
Seconded by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
THAT the by-laws be read a first, second and third time and passed.
Carried (Councillor Lococo was opposed to by-law 2025-003, by-law
2025-005 and by-law 2025-009).
17. ADJOURNMENT
a) Adjournment
Moved by Councillor Tony Baldinelli
Seconded by Councillor Chris Dabrowski
THAT Council ADJOURN the meeting at 11:11 PM.
Carried Unanimously
M or
City Clerk