2007/10/15COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE AGENDA
FOURTEENTH MEETING
Monday, October 15, 2007
4:15 p.m.
City Hall, Committee Room #2A & B
1) Approval of the September 24, 2007 Community Services Minutes.
2) REPORTS: STAFF CONTACT:
a) PD-2007-62
Growth Management Official Plan Review Alex Herlovitch
Communications Items: Letter from Dennis Savriga
Letter from Derek Costello
Presentation by Urban Metrics & Meriden Planning
Comprehensive Review of Employment and Residential Land Needs
b) PD-2007-87
Site Alteration By-law
Dumping of Fill on Agricultural Lands Alex Herlovitch
c) MW-2007-108
Results of the July 19th Storm Event Proposed Action Plan Geoff Holman
d) MW-2007-122
Rooftop Sign Stanley Avenue at Highway 420 Ed Dujlovic
e) MW-2007-120
CTAA Request for Transit Service Ed Dujlovic
f) TS-2007-02
Randy Drive at Cherrygrove Road Intersection Control Review Karl Dren
g) TS-2007-04
Swayze Drive between Portage Road and Stanley Avenue
Speed Review Karl Dren
h) TS-2007-06
Toys for Tickets Campaign Karl Dren
3) NEW BUSINESS:
4) ADJOURNMENT:
MINUTES OF COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2007, CITY HALL, ROOM 2 AT 4:30 P.M.
PRESENT: Chair -Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Mayor Ted Salci,
Councillors Jim Diodati, Victor Pietrangelo(4:40 p.m.), Bart Maves,
Vince Kerrio, Wayne Thomson, Janice Wing and Shirley Fisher
STAFF: John MacDonald, Ed Dujlovic, Ken Burden, Ken Beaman, Denyse
Morrissey, Alex Herlovitch, Dean lorfida, Geoff Holman, Todd
Harrison, Serge Felicetti, Marianne Tikky- Secretary
GUEST: Sam & Simo Bielich -Sam's Montrose Hotel, Jane Burciul of 7964
Beaverdams Road, Felix Pingue, Don, Dan & Georgina Brown, Gus
Bakoj, Nick Romagnano -Morningstar Road.
PRESS: Corey Larocque, Niagara Falls Review
Rob Lapensee, Niagara This Week
MINUTES
It was ORDERED on the motion of Mayor Salci and seconded by Councillor Maves,
that the September 10, 2007 minutes be approved with the following amendment. MW-
2007-101 Pitton Road at Lynhurst Drive Intersection Control Review. It was ORDERED
on the motion of Councillor Thomson and seconded by Councillor Fisher That the
yield sign facing eastbound motorists on Lynhurst Drive at Pitton Road be replaced with
an all-way stop control.
REPORTS
Councillor loannoni vacated the chair to Councillor Thomson in order to participate in
the discussion of report MW-2007-108.
a) MW-2007-108
Results of July 19th Storm Event Proposed Action Plan
It was ORDERED on the motion of Councillor loannoni and seconded by
Councillor Wing that the report deferred to provide staff the opportunity to check
the status of the insurance claim submitted by the owner of 7964 Beaverdams
Road.
Motion: Carried
Conflict: Councillor Maves
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 24, 2007.
b) MW-2007- 115
Request to upgrade Road Allowance -Willoughby/Morningstar
It was ORDERED on the motion of Mayor Salci and seconded by Councillor
Thomson that;
1. That staff be directed to prepare a Development Agreement between
the City and Mr. Nick Romagnano that will set out the terms for the
upgrading of a portion of Willoughby Drive and Morningstar Road to
the current municipal standard at the proponent's expense.
2. Further, that Council direct staff to pursue the closure and conveyance
the surplus portions of the subject roadways with the proponent and/or
other interested parties.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 24, 2007.
c) MW-2007-117
Montrose Road Closure
It was ORDERED on the motion of Councillor Thomson and seconded by
Councillor Wing;
To receive and file the report for information purposes.
2. That staff prepare a report on the request to reduce taxes at 8841
Montrose Road due to the road closure.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 24, 2007.
d) R-2007-26
Highway 420 and Stanley Avenue
Raised Highway Median Appearance Design Options Expanded
It was ORDERED on the motion of Councillor Thomson and seconded by
Councillor Fisher that a resolution be sent to the Provincial Government thanking
them for their offer but the City's budgetary restraints prohibit the City from
accepting and that the City respectfully request that the Province maintain the
roadway to an appropriate level befitting a Gateway.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 24, 2007.
NEW BUSINESS
It was ORDERED on the motion of Councillor Wing and seconded by Mayor
Salci that Mr. Felix Pingue be allowed the opportunity to address Committee
regarding the former Parks, Recreation and Culture Building located at the
corner of Lundy's Lane and Montrose Road.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 24, 2007.
a) It was ORDERED on the motion of Councillor Wing and seconded by Mayor
Salci that;
Mr. Pingue's offer to help fund the costs to refurbish the former Parks,
Recreation & Culture building be referred to staff with a report back to
Council detailing the maintenance cost and end use of the historic
building.
2. That the former Parks, Recreation & Culture Building not be
demolished in the interim.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 24, 2007.
b) It was ORDERED on the motion of Councillor Kerrio and seconded by Councillor
Thomson that staff prepare a report to Council on the placement of Cogeco
service boxes on City property.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 24, 2007.
c) It was ORDERED on the motion of Councillor Kerrio and seconded by Councillor
Maves that staff prepare a report on the billboard sign facing the QEW @
Stanley Avenue addressing compliance with the sign by-law.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 24, 2007.
d) It was ORDERED on the motion Councillor Kerrio and seconded by Mayor Salci
that staff revise the policy on Project notification and include Council in the
circulation of notices to residents and businesses prior to the project
commencement.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 24, 2007.
It was ORDERED on the motion of Councillor Maves and seconded by Mayor Salci,
that the regular meeting of the Community Services Committee be adjourned at 5:36
p.m.
Motion: Carried
October 15, 2007
~~
Niagara~alls
CANADA
Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chairperson
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: PD-2007-62
Growth Management Official Plan Review
RECOMMENDATION:
PD-2007-62
1. That the Comprehensive Review of Residential and Employment Land Needs and
Supply, prepared by urbanMetrics inc., be adopted.in principle except for
recommendations 1, 12 & 13 outlined in the Executive Summary in the Review.
2.
y. That processing of the Amendment Applications
be initiated in light of the findings of Phase 1.
3. f
-~gg~-; That the pre-existing amendment application by the Northwes Community
Land Group (NCLG) proceed to a public meeting; and (4) That Phase 2 of the
BACKGROUND: Growth Management Official Plan Review recommend amendments to the
Official Plan based on accommodating the City's growth needs to the year
2Q~"~ and that in that context, the consultants evaluate the appropriateness of an Urban
In December 1006, Council authorized urbanMetrics Inc. and Meridian Planningbounaary
Consultants to undertake the City's Growth Management Comprehensive Review. Bothexpansion it
urbanMetrics Inc. and Meridian Planning will be making a presentation to the Committeethe northwe:
at this evening's meeting to provide an update on their respective work on the review. Portion of
the City.
The Growth Management Official Plan Review
The Growth Management Review is a comprehensive study to assess the City's future
residential and employment lands needs and how the City should manage its growth over
the next 25 years within the context of the Provincial Growth Plan for the Greater Golden
Horseshoe. The Review is to be completed in two phases. The first phase involves an
analysis of residential and employment lands needs while the second phase involves the
creation of policies for the City's Official Plan to manage growth.
Phase 1
UrbanMetrics Inc. will speak to the findings of its final Residential and Employment Land
Needs Analysis. The needs analysis included a peer review of applications by Thundering
Waters and Warren Woods to redesignate industrial lands for residential use. Also, at the
request of the Northwest Community Landowners Group (NCLG) and the City,
urbanMetrics provided a brief evaluation of the proposed northwest urban-a
expansion with re rd to the need for these lands from a long term growth ~pe~rspective.
Corporate Services Department
Working Together to Serve Our Community Planning & Development
~~(`. _ t
October 15, 2007 - 2 - PD-2007-62
The highlights of the Phase 1 report include the following conclusions:
• Niagara Falls will grow by an estimated 25,200 persons and 10,400 jobs between
2001 and 2031;
• the City does not currently have a sufficient amount of designated and zoned lands
to accommodate the forecasted residential growth;
• most of the residential shortfall will be in the low density (single and semi) category;
• based on current information, the City has an oversupply of industrial land however
the supply should be reviewed on a 5 year basis to ensure continued supply over
the long term;
• conversion of a portion of the Warren Woods site for residential use could be
considered, however a portion which fronts onto Montrose Road should remain
industrial;
• conversion of the Thundering Waters site to residential could be considered; and
• an expansion of the urban area boundary in the northwest is premature at this time
but may be needed in the long term to satisfy residential demand.
A phasing strategy for the development of residential lands within the urban boundary
through to 2024 is also contained in the report. The phasing strategy is based on the
ability of the lands to be serviced. In setting the phasing strategy, the consultants had
regard to the impact on the existing municipal infrastructure, the need for new facilities,
upgrades to existing pumping stations and the need for new pumping stations to be
constructed.
Secondary Planning
The Comprehensive Growth Strategy recommends the City process the amendment
application for the Thundering Waters and Warren Woods areas for future development.
Both proposals involve a considerable land area, therefore the preparation of secondary
plans will ultimately be required for both areas. Secondary plans provide a policy
framework for the development of an area at a level that provides more detail than the
Official Plan. Issues that are to be addressed in secondary plans are specified in the
Official Plan:
• overall population capacity of the community related to road and service
infrastructure;
• the location of major engineering services and public utilities;
• the location and areas of various residential densities;
• parks and open space, schools, convenience opportunities for shopping,
employment and energy conservation;
• the road pattern, including existing and proposed arterial, major collector,
collector roads; and
• the environmental constraints to development and particularly recognizing
important woodlots and natural areas.
October 15, 2007 - 3 - PD-2007-62
The secondary plan areas may include lands beyond those subject to the applications.
Public involvement will also be a critical factor in the development of the secondary plans
and will require a series of open houses and public meetings. Due to the number of
issues, the ramifications on municipal infrastructure, public input and that lands of differing
ownership may be involved, it may be preferable that the secondary plans be lead by City
Staff in collaboration with the applicants and other landowners.
Phase 2
Meridian Planning will present the Committee with an overview of the key growth issues
related to intensification, greenfields development and minimum densities. Meridian is
completing its data collection phase and will use the input for the preparation of new
Official Plan policies.
CONCLUSION:
The Comprehensive Review marks the completion of the first phase of the City's Growth
Management Official Plan Review. From this point Meridian Planning will continue its work
which will be the subject of further presentations to this Committee. The findings of the
consultants will form an important part of the Regional growth plan and distribution of
development.
Recommended by: ~vt~~ ~I~ c,,~r
Alex Herlovitch, Director of Planning & Development
_~
Approved by: ~~ '~ ~'~~~ ~_.
Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director of Community Services
~~
~ ~ i- ~ '
Respectfully submitted: ~~~- ~+~~ ~~~~~, C `~
Joh acDonald, Chief Administrative -fficer
J.Barnsley:mb ~,
S:\PDR\2007\PD-2007-62, Growth Mgmt Official Plan Review.wpd
October 5, 2007
The City of Niagara Falls
Planning & Development
P.O. Box 1023
4310 Queen Street
Niagara Falls, ON
L2E 6X5
Attn: Mr. Dean Iorfida -City Clerk
On October 15, 2007, the Community Services Committee of the City of Niagara Falls will
consider a report prepared by urbanMetrics. The report provides urbanMetrics' evaluation of the
City's long term residential and employment land requirements for the City of Niagara Falls.
The study was prompted by two applications involving the proposed conversion of lands from
industrial employment to largely residential. The Province, very recently, mandated such reviews
prior to any major land use changes or urban area expansions. The City staff also referred a study
to urbanMetrics prepared by Hemsan Consulting Ltd. from a much earlier application (2004) far
a minor urban expansion located in the North West community of the City. This application was
submitted prior to the requisite Provincial mandate.
The properties, which are the subject of the application, are bounded by the QEW (to the East),
Mountain Road (to the north) Kolar Road (to the West) and hydra corridor (to the South). These
properties contain a number of existing urban uses ranging from residential, tourist commercial,
private club, recreational and institutional. The application was submitted to the City of Niagara
Falls and Regional Municipality of Niagara in 2004 on behalf of the property owners in the area.
The applicants are referred to as The Northwest Community Landowners Group (NCLG).
The Region held their public meeting in 2005 and the City still has yet to hold a public meeting
despite being requested to do so. The various consultants' reports prepared for the NCLG have
provided all the information required to continue with the application. However, delays pending
the outcome to the more recent greenbelt plan, the growth plans for the greater golden horseshoe,
the report from urbanMetric and RV Anderson Consultant (who were hired by urbanMetrics)
have stalled this application. The RV Anderson report concerning municipal services was
received after the urbanMetrics Report position was established. Currently, the recommendations
of the urbanMetrics Report state that the municipality has anover-supply of industrial
employment lands and a shortage of residential lands. Generally and subject to some
modifications, urbanMetrics supports the two industrial land conversions to residential.
In our review of the urbanMetrics report the issue of the long range urban land needs maybe
considered somewhat biased towards the industrial sites. The report narrowly focuses on the
industrial conversion applications and lacks a comprehensive review of other potential sites for
industrial conversion. In our view, the report simply asserts that there is anover-supply of
employment land and under-supply of residential land, and that the industrial sites of Thundering
Waters and the Warren Woods' applications could meet some of the residential shortfall.
.../2
-2-
We remain of the view that the NCLG proposal is appropriate and represents good planning.
This application should be considered by City Council as an option to accommodate future
residential growth.
The following matters (not an inclusive list) are to be addressed:
• urbanMetrics and RV Anderson did not recognize the health issues associated with
existing urban uses and the need for the municipality to service this area immediately (at
significant costs to the municipality};
• The economic benefits gained by permitting all the NCLG lands to be developed;
• Competitive house prices need to be maintained and offer greater choice to future
residents;
• Studies have advanced these lands far future development and from a design perspective
this can be accomplished more economically than some industrial sites.
Generally the NCLG does not take issue with the conversion of industrial employment lands far
primarily residential uses. What is at issue is the failure of urbanMetrics to fully evaluate the
economic and growth potential and the overall benefits to the City. The NCLG must be permitted
to demonstrate to Council that this application fully meets the current and future growth needs of
the City and that their application should be supported.
Representatives of the NCLG will be in attending the scheduled meeting on
October 15, 2007 and wish to address the Committee on this matter.
~,,
Sincerely, ~~--~ ~~"~~~~
~,~~'
C... _ ` ~
D. SAVRIGA '""
__~~.-~~evelopment Coordinator ~.
PIIAR3. FALL.:, C.LE&'t~.:, Ft 1`{' ~)~', ~I_l .~lr~,l.lr
7160 Mount Forest Zane
Niagara Falls, Ontario
L2J 3Z3
Phone: 905-356-0566
Fax #: 905-356-1281
August 23, 2007
City of Niagara Falls
Att: Mr. Dean Iorfida
Clerk's Dept.
4310 Queen Street P.U. Box 1023
Niagara Falls, Ont.
Z2E 6X5
Dear Dean:
I was told by Alex Herlovitch of the Planning Dept. that a report
on urban boundary expansion will be discussed at the Community
Services Meeting on the 24th of September, 2007.
I would like to make a deputation at that meeting in support of the
urban boundary expansion, north-west Mountain Road at tYie Q.E.W.
Please let me know time and place when it is confirmed.
Thank you.
Derek R. Cos
lo, C.E.T.
October 15, 2007
~~
Niagara~alls
Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chairperson
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: PD-2007-87
Site Alteration By-law: Dumping of Fill on Agricultural Lands
RECOMMENDATION:
PD-2007-87
That the Site Alteration By-law 2004-57 be amended to ensure the continued viability of
agricultural lands as outlined in this report.
BACKGROUND:
Earlier this year a motion was passed at a meeting of the Community Services Committee
for staff to prepare a report on a more restrictive site alteration by-law with regard to
agricultural lands. This motion was made in response to a presentation by Jean Grandoni
regarding the transfer of excavated materials from the Hilton Hotel property to agricultural
lands on the south side of Mountain Road, between Garner and Kalar Roads. Ms.
Grandoni expressed concern that the placement of the excavated materials would
compromise the agricultural capability of the site.
Site Alteration By-law 2004-57
The City's Site Alteration By-law 2004-57 was prepared under the Municipal Act to require
a permit for the placement or dumping of fill, the removal of topsoil or the alteration of the
grade of the land in any defined area or on any class of land. However, the By-law does
not set out specific provisions for the quality of the soil that is to be placed on agricultural
lands.
Permit applications under the By-law are submitted to and reviewed by the City's Works
Department. Proposed developments that involve site alteration may involve land use
approvals or building permits and at that time applicants are advised of the possible
requirement for a site alteration permit.
Discussion
A review of the By-law was conducted with City Works Staff, Building Staff, the Ministry of
Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. Staff also referred to the Region's Template for
municipal site alteration by-laws. After a review of possible alternatives, it was concluded
that the protection of agricultural lands, without limiting the rights of farmer-s,~h~ald-be
ensured.
Working Together to Serve Our Community
Community Services Department
Planning & Development
~~
e ~~
~x
October 15, 2007 - 2 - PD-2007-87
As a condition of a permit, a soil study prepared by a qualified professional would need to
be submitted that ensures that the fill to be placed on agricultural lands will maintain or
improve the fertility of the soils onsite. Even if the current use of the receiving lands are
not agricultural, the capability of the site for future agricultural use must be maintained.
Therefore, for the purposes of the by-law, agricultural lands are those lands outside of the
Urban Area Boundary.
Planning Act Applications
Often, soils to be dumped came from a construction site which is the result of development
that is approved under the Planning Act through a zoning amendment, plan of subdivision
or site plan control. Through pre-consultation with an applicant, Staff can advise
proponents that a site alteration permit will be needed for dumping.
Site Alteration without Permits
Any works that are in contravention of the by-law may be subject to fines under By-law
2004-57. In those instances where fill has been placed on agricultural lands without a
permit, a soil study must be prepared illustrating that the fill will not compromise the
agricultural capability of the site and a permit obtained. Where the fill is found not to be
suitable, a remediation plan will be required.
CONCLUSION:
The City's Site Alteration By-law 2004-57 contains sufficient opportunity to obtain a permit
to alter grade or place fill within the Municipality. To ensure that the viability of agricultural
lands is not compromised by the placement of fill it is concluded that a soils report/study,
prepared by a qualified professional, be required where receiving lands are outside of the
City's Urban Area Boundary.
Only minor changes are required to By-law 2004-57 to make the study a requirement for
a permit application where agricultural lands are involved and making the issuance of the
permit dependant on no loss of soil quality on agricultural lands.
Recommended by: ~ ~~~ ~-
Alex Herlovit , Director of Planning & Development
` f 9
Approved by: ' /~~ ~`~~~
Ed Dujlov , Execut've Director of Community Services
f~
Respectfully submitted: Z-
~~~ John MacDon d, Chief Administrative Officer
F. Berardi: mb
Attach.
S:\PDR\2007\PD-2007-87, Site AlterationBylaw.wpd
October 15, 2007
~~
Niagara~alls
Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: MW-2007- 108
Results of July 19, 2007, Storm Event
Proposed Action Plan
RECOMMENDATION:
M W-2007-108
It is recommended that the proposed action plan set out in this report be approved.
BACKGROUND:
On July 19, 2007, the City of Niagara Falls experienced an intense storm that resulted in
flooding and sewer surcharging in certain sections of the urban area. At its meeting on July
23, 2007, Council directed staff to prepare a report "outlining a chronology of events forthe
requests for service related to flooding made to the City and Region since 2000 in the
Beaverdams area."
The purpose of this report is to provide City Council with a summary of the findings to date
and to seek authorization to implement an action plan to mitigate the impacts of intense
storm events and their potential fordamage to the public infrastructure and private property
in the Beaverdams area and other areas that reported flooding on that date.
Storm Intensity and Duration
The intensity of the storm was measured by rain gauges located at various Regional
Niagara facilities across the City.
Location Rainfall (mm~ Duration (min.)
High Lift P.S.* 21 10
Low Lift P.S. 32 15
Kalar Rd. P.S. 24 15
Stanley Ave. S.T.P. 13 15
*The storm intensity measured at the High Lift P.S. on Oakwood Drive received 13.25mm ofrain in a 5 minute
period.
Working Together' to Serve Our Community Community Services Department
Municipal Works
October 15, 2007 - 2- MW-2007-108
Despite the relatively short duration of the storm, the impact of the storm was felt
immediately. The antecedent dryweathercreated compact soil conditions that allowed rain
waterto run off lawns and landscaped areas. Under normal conditions, some of this water
would have been absorbed or at least detained by vegetation in the roadside ditches,
swales and grassed areas. The net effect of these conditions meant that the peak flows
from the storm entered the ditches, catch basins, culverts, storm sewers and combined
sewers more rapidly than they were designed to handle under normal wet weather
conditions.
These systems are designed (theoretically) to capture and convey storm events that occur
within a standard period of time. The generally accepted practice for piped systems is the
5-year return storm or stated differently, the intensity and duration of a typical storm you
might see every five years. It is acknowledged that it would not be practical to design and
construct a system that would handle every single rainfall event and therefore, flows that
cannot be conveyed within the piped system are allowed to surcharge to the road system
where they are temporarily stored until the peak flows subside. In the case of combined
sewers surcharging occurs into sewer laterals and basements. Over the past decade, the
City has been experiencing climatic changes that have resulted in fewer but more intense
storm events. This constantly changing benchmark makes it difficult to quantify the impact
of storms and predict which areas of the system will fail under certain conditions.
For example, in anticipation of the storm's arrival, staff prepared themselves to respond
to two areas where we have historically received chronic flooding problems (Lexington Ct.,
Sarah St.). In both cases the systems were functioning below full capacity and emergency
flood relief was not required.
Summary of Service Requests and Staff Response
The Service Centre received 50 calls reporting either basement flooding orroadway/private
propertyflooding immediatelyfollowing the storm. The basementflooding locations can be
generally characterized as those homes connected to combined sewers with relatively
shallow depth (2.5m or less). The roadway/private property flooding was limited tolow-lying
areas most notably, and the lands on the south side of Beaverdams Road between
Magnolia Drive and Booth Street.
The intensity of the storm in this area of the City can be quantified as greater than a 25-
yearstorm for the 10 minute duration when it rained the hardest. This suggests that even
if the City had installed afully-functional separated storm and sanitary sewer system
designed to current standards some flooding would likely still have occurred because the
level of protection would only have captured up to the 5-year storm event.
A quick review of the Service Request History forthe Beaverdams Road area overthe past
6-years indicates an increasing number of requests primarily to clean out catchbasins,
remove blockages, replace entrance culverts and repair washouts. In each of the +/- 20
cases the work orders were completed but these responses simply restored the previous
condition. Our investigation has revealed that many of the ditches are poorly graded and
need to be re-shaped to keep road drainage within the road allowance. Some of the
culverts are undersized and contain silt that constrains the free flow of drainage. Spot
repairs and minor maintenance activities done in the past have only made marginal
improvements to the systems efficiency.
October 15, 2007 - 3- MW-2007-108
Beaverdams Road Area
Beaverdams Road was downloaded to the City from the Region in 2000. It has asemi-
urban road cross-section (i.e., ditches on both sides) and the adjacent properties are
serviced by combined sewers. The roadside ditches over the years have been modified,
filled or poorly maintained in some areas but for the most part are functional only during
minor storm events. The roadway has been overlaid with asphalt and traffic calming
devices were installed in 2004 by the City. Staff recall requests from area residents to
install storm sewers in this area however over the years, funding for Capital Projects of this
scale has been directed to other areas that were experiencing problems during minor storm
events.
The flooding experienced at 7964 Beaverdams Road on July 19, 2007 was exacerbated
by the fact the elevation of the lot is considerably lower that the roadway allowing surface
drainage to collect on private property. From the photographs and written accounts of the
flooding events, it is evident that the overland flow that was coming from the south east
could not be contained within the municipal road allowance. The matter is currently being
reviewed by the City's insurance adjuster and therefore no further comment can be made
in this regard.
Orchard Grove Extension Subdivision
The development of the Orchard Grove Extension Subdivision (Magnolia Dr.) and Recine
Court Subdivision has storm drainage systems that have been designed and constructed
in accordance with the 5-year return storm criteria which has been approved bythe Ministry
of the Environment. During major storm events when the systems reaches full capacity the
overflow is directed out to Magnolia Drive. Magnolia drive subsequently drains out to
Beaverdams Road. Staff has reviewed the storm water management reports filed forthese
developments and can confirm to the best of their knowledge that the system functioned
as designed.
Combined Sewer Separation Program
Staff has been monitoring a suspected cross connection between the storm and sanitary
sewer at the intersection of Drummond Road and Dunn Street which allows storm water
to outlet directly into the sanitary sewer at a manhole located in this intersection. A follow
up investigation shows that this overflow was activated during the July 19, 2007 storm
confirming that the system experienced surcharging in this area. The combined sewer
overflow (CSO) located in the trunk sewer inside the Thundering Waters Golf Course
(known as the Pells Creek overflow) also showed evidence of surcharging. The City's
efforts to separate storm water from sewage flows has been impressive over the past five
years however there are many more areas within the City that are at risk. Staff has been
working with the Ministry of Environment to strike a proper balance between the addition
of flows from new development and the reduction of overflows to the natural environment
during wet wether events.
October 15, 2007 - 4- MW-2007-108
Proposed Action Plan
Notwithstanding the extreme conditions that contributed to the flooding in these areas of
our municipality, the City should considerthe following actions to ensure that impacts from
future storm events are minimized.
Reallocate existing resources to increase the sewer flushing, catchbasin cleaning
and manhole rehabilitation programs to ensure the existing systems function to their
maximum capability. (No additional costs to operations budget).
2. Remove the sanitary/storm cross-connection at the intersection of Drummond
Road/DunnStreet ($35,000)
3. Modify the existing weir at the Pells Creek CSO to improve the flow pattern within
the manhole so that upstream properties have a greater level of protection from
surcharging. ($10,000)
4. Advance the completion of the Niagara Falls Pollution Control Plan and CSO
Abatement study to ensure that identified priority projects can be considered in time
for the 2008 Capital Budget deliberations. (No additional costs)
5. Re-establish the outlet, construct proper ditches and replace undersized or
damaged entrance culverts on Beaverdams Road as an interim relief measure. (No
additional costs to operations budget).
6. Prepare cost estimates and an implementation schedule for the separation of
sewers in the Beaverdams Road area through the Municipal Class Environmental
Assessment process. (Costs to be determined).
7. Prepare aninformation pamphlet/booklet for residents that will provide cost effective
technical advice on how to prevent or minimize the impacts of flooding through the
use of proper lot grading, downspout and weeping the disconnection, backflow
prevention and sump pump maintenance. (No additional costs to operations
budget).
Recommended by:
Approved by:
Respectfully submitted:
Geoff Holman, D
of Municipal Works
Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director of Community Services
John MacDonald, Chief Administrative Officer
S:\REPORTS\2007 Reports\MW-2007-108 -July 19th, Flood.wpd
October 15, 2007
~~
Niagara~alls
Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: MW-2007-122
Rooftop Sign Stanley Avenue at Highway 420
RECOMMENDATION:
That this report be received and filed.
BACKGROUND:
M W-2007-122
At the September 24, 2007 Community Services Committee meeting Council requested
that a report be prepared regarding the above sign. As was indicated at the time by staff
the sign that was installed meets the City's existing sign by-law.
The definition of a roof sign as contained in the existing by-law is, "Roof sign means any
sign, the entire face of which is above the roof level and roof area of the building." In
addition the following restrictions apply to a roof sign.
Every roof sign shall be so located as to maintain a clear space of at least three feet
between the top of the roof or parapet wall of such building and the bottom of the
sign.
No roof sign shall be so located upon any building as to obstruct any window, door,
scuttle, skylight or fire escape or so as to prevent the free access of firemen to any
part of the building in case of a fire and shall be placed a minimum of four feet from
the outer walls of the building unless a sign is composed of separate letters,
numerals or panels, each not in excess of four feet in width and spaced at least two
feet apart; and in no case shall overhang the outer wall of the building.
The structural framework of all roof signs shall be of a metal acceptable to the
Inspector.
The highest point of any roof sign shall not be more than 18 feet above the roof or
top of a parapet wall. If the top of the parapet wall is more than 3 feet above the
roof line the highest point of such sign shall not be more than 21 feet above the
roof. If the building is grester than 35 feet high the maximum height,-of t#e-sign-may
Working Together' to Serve Out' Community 'Community Services Department
Municipal Works
October 15, 2007 - 2 - MW-2007-122
exceed 15 feet only if approved by the City Council.
At any one site the total length of all roof signs shall not exceed one hundred feet.
If the building is greater than one hundred feet high the maximum length of the sign
may exceed 100 feet only if approved by the City Council.
No sign shall be painted directly on any roof without the consent of Council.
Finally, the by-law also states that, "no permit for a roof sign shall be issued for any
premises located outside of the Clifton Hill district as illustrated by the attached schedule
`C' to this by-law." The sign in question does meet all of the above restrictions that are in
place in the existing sign by-law.
Under the proposed sign by-law the roof sign is defined as, "Roof sign means a sign
supported entirely or partially by the roof of a building or structure and projects above the
roof and parapet and shall not include a sign painted onto a roof." A roof sign shall also
conform to the following regulations;
No more than one (1) roof sign shall be located on a building.
• A roof sign shall be integrated with the architecture of the building on which it is
erected and shall not appear as a separate structure.
• A roof sign shall be located a minimum of 1.2 metres from the outer wall of the
building on which it is displayed and in no case shall a roof sign overhang the outer
wall of a building.
• No part of a roof sign shall be higher than 5.5 metres above the roof or parapet of
the building.
• No part of a roof sign shall be closer than 1.0 metres to the roof deck.
• The maximum sign area of a roof sign shall not exceed 20 square metres.
• A roof sign shall not obstruct any door, window, skylight, scuttle, or fire escape or
prevent the free access of fire fighters to any part of the building.
• A roof sign shall not obstruct the view from any window or skylight that is in a
building located on an adjacent property.
• An application for a roof sign shall include a visual impact study and an
illumination study to illustrate and evaluate the impact of the roof sign with
respect to the City's skyline and appearance from Queen Victoria Park.
Under the proposed sign by-law a rooftop sign would still be allowed in this location
however based on the above regulations and definitions it would be greatly reduced in size
and would have to integrate within the structure of the building. Accordingly, it would not
be of the scale that currently exists at the site.
October 15, 2007 - 3 - MW-2007-122
It should also be noted that this sign also required a permit from the Ministry of
Transportation of Ontario (MTO). One of the requirements as part of the permit given was
that there be no third party advertising on the sign in question. As Council is aware, there
is a third party advertisement on one of the signs. Accordingly, City staff did contact the
Ministry on this matter and they have indicated that this is in violation of the permit given
and that the sign needs to be removed. City staff will be contacting the owner of the sign
indicating that if the owner does not come into compliance as per the MTO permit it will
revoke the City's permit for the rooftop sign and therefore require its removal.
Recommended by:
Ed Dujlovic,
Respectfully submitted:
~p~' John Mac
recto? of Community Services
d, Chief Administrative Officer
S:\REPORTS\2007 Reports\MW-2007-122 -Rooftop Sign at Hwy. 420.wpd
SCHEDULE "C"
(as per by-law 2005-215)
SCHEDULE "C" TO BY-LAW No. 2005 - 215
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Norember 2005
October 15, 2007
~~
Niagara~alls
Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Comittee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: MW-2007-120
Canadian Technical Asphalt Association
Request for Transit Service
RECOMMENDATION:
For the consideration of Council.
BACKGROUND:
~~
The Canadian Technical Asphalt Association is hosting its annual conference in the City
of Niagara Falls from November 18 - 22, 2007. It is expected there will be over 400
delegates and guest attending this conference. The event will require bus transportation
on November 18, 2007. The costs for the transportation is as follows;
Regular Charter Rate:
5.0 hrs/min X $75 /hr = $375.00 x 4 buses = 1,500.00+ (GST $90.00) =$1,590.00
Transit Cost:
5.0 hrs/min X $51 /hr = $255.00 x 4 buses = $1,020.00 + (GST $61.20) _ $1,081.20
The Canadian Technical Asphalt Association is requesting Council to consider providing
a grant for the charter fees for the Niagara Transit Bus Service for this event. It should be
noted that the Regional Municipality of Niagara is contributing $5,000.00 toward this event
which matches contributions which have been made by previous hosts such as Halifax and
Toronto.
Recommended by:
Respectfully submitted:.
Director of Community Services
John MacDonald, Chef Administrative Officer
S:\REPORTS\2007 Reports\MW-2007-120 - CTAA -Transit Request.wpd
Ed Dujlovic,
MW-2007-120
Working Together' to Serve Our Community Community Services Department
Municipal Works
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October 15, 2007
~~
Niagara~alls
Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: TS-2007-02
Randy Drive at Cherrygrove Road -Intersection Control Review
RECOMMENDATIONS:
TS-2007-02
1) That a stop sign be installed facing southwest bound motorists on Randy Drive at
Cherrygrove Road; and,
2) That a stop bar be painted on the west approach of Randy Drive.
BACKGROUND:
At the request of an area resident, staff has conducted a traffic control review at the
intersection of Randy Drive and Cherrygrove Road. The request pertains to the absence
of a traffic control device at the intersection, as well as speeding on Cherrygrove Road.
Both intersecting roadways are local types with two travel lanes, one in each direction.
Cherrygrove Road extends in a northwest/southeast direction in the study area, while
Randy Drive extends to the northeast from Cherrygrove Road. Both roads have a standard
subdivision 8.0 metre pavement width. Sidewalks are present on both sides of both
roadways. The intersection is currently uncontrolled. Cherrywood Acres elementary
school is located on the southwest corner of the Pettit Avenue and Cherrygrove Road
intersection, just to the southeast of the study location.
Studies have been carried out at the intersection to determine whether a stop control is
required at this location. Observations were conducted to determine whether school
children from Cherrywood Acres school use the intersection to cross. A collision review
reveals that a problem does not exist as no collisions have been reported at this
intersection in the previous three-year period.
Additionally, a speed study was conducted on Cherrygrove Road to determine whether
motorists exceed the existing speed limit of the study roadway. These studies revealed
that the 85'h percentile speed, the speed which the majority of motorists travel at or below
is 50 km/h on Cherrygrove Road between Pinedale Drive and Dovewood Drive and 47
Working Together to Serve Dur Community
Community Services Department
Transportation Services
y
October 15, 2007 - 2 - TS-2007-02
km/h on Cherrygrove Road between Cherryhill Drive and Randy Drive. Typically a
speeding issue exists when the majority of motorists travel 10 km/h in excess of the legal
speed limit. Given the 50 km/h speed limit of Cherrygrove Road, a speeding problem does
not exist. In addition, observations were carried out at the intersection of Cherrygrove
Road and Randy Drive to determine whether pedestrians use this intersection to cross
regularly during school hours. Observations reveal that no pedestrians, including school
children, cross at this location. Pedestrians were observed crossing at the intersection of
Cherrygrove Road and Cherryhill Drive, where a stop sign and a crosswalk have already
been recommended.
Based on this information it is recommended that a stop sign be installed on Randy Drive
at Cherrygrove Road facing southwest bound motorists. This traffic control will ensure that
motorists on the western approach stop prior to proceeding through the intersection,
resulting in safer intersection operation. A stop bar will also be painted at the stop sign
location which will serve to advise motorists where they should stop relative to the sign
itself.
Recommended by:
Approved by:
F
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~~ Karl Dren, Directo
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r of Transportation Services
Respectfully submitted:
Ed .Qujlovic, Execut~v~ Director of Community Services
MacDonald, Chief Ad
nistrative Officer
B. Skiba
S:\TPS\TPS 1.00 Administration\TPS 1.06 Reports\2007 Community Services\10 Oct 15\TS-2007-02 Cherryhill Drive @ Randy Drive -Intersection Control
Review.wpd
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October 15, 2007
~~
Niagara~alls
Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: TS-2007-04
Swayze Drive between Portage Road and Stanley Avenue
Speed Review
RECOMMENDATION:
TS-2007-04
1) That a traffic calming review, be included for consideration in the 2008 traffic
calming programs budget, to address concerns related to speeding on Swayze
Drive between Portage Road and Stanley Avenue; and,
2) That the Niagara Regional Police be requested to provide regular enforcement, of
the speed limit, along Swayze Drive when resources are available.
BACKGROUND:
Staff has been requested to investigate concerns related to speeding on Swayze Drive
between Portage Road and Stanley Avenue.
Swayze Drive is a minor collector roadway that extends 1.2 kilometres between Portage
Road and Stanley Avenue. A rail corridor intersects with Swayze Drive approximately 250
metres west of Stanley Avenue. Properties fronting onto Swayze Drive between Stanley
Avenue and the rail corridor are zoned industrial. Immediately west of the rail crossing, Ker
Park is situated on the south side with vacant lands on the north side of Swayze Drive.
Beyond the hydro corridor, the remainder of Swayze Drive toward Portage Road is
residential.
Swayze Drive consists of a sidewalk and wide boulevard on the north side only in front of
the residential zone. Motorists on Swayze Drive have the right-of-way between Stanley
Avenue and Portage Road, where they are required to stop at these intersections. The
roadway is level but consists of two horizontal curves west of the rail crossing and one
horizontal curve east of Portage Road. A painted yellow centre line is present for the entire
length of Swayze Drive. Heavy vehicles are prohibited on the entire length of Swayze
Drive to deter shortcutting through the subdivision. The legal speed limit on Swayze Drive
is 50 km/h.
Working Together to Serve Our Community
--- ---
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Community Services Department
Transportation Services
October 15, 2007 - 2 - TS-2007-04
Automated traffic recorders were installed at two different locations to collect volume and
speed information for a week. Swayze Drive carries approximately 1800 vehicles daily
which is typical for this type of road classification.
On Swayze Drive, between Heritage Drive and Mayfair Drive, the 85th percentile speed, or
the speed which the majority of motorists travel at or below, was recorded to be 62 km/h.
In front of Ker Park, the 85th percentile speed recorded was also 62 km/h. Manual radar
studies identify the operating speed to be 64 km/h. Based on these figures, a speeding
problem on Swayze Drive has been identified given that speeds are more than 10 km/h
above the legal speed limit.
Two collisions have been reported on Swayze Drive in the previous three-year period.
Both collisions involved motorists reversing from a driveway. Additionally, one collision has
been reported at the intersection of Swayze Drive at Portage Road. The vehicles came
into contact when both motorists made a simultaneous left turn onto Swayze Drive from
Portage Road.
A ball bank study was completed around the two curves located just west of the railroad.
This study revealed that additional signs are required in advance of the reverse curve to
advise motorists of the downstream road curvature. Reverse curve ahead warning signs
will be installed in advance of the curve in both directions.
Based on the results obtained it is recommended that staff be directed to proceed with a
traffic calming study for Swayze Drive in 2008. The primary purpose of traffic calming is
to significantly reduce vehicular speeds. Traffic calming incorporates physical measures
on the roadway which necessitates the motorist to travel at speeds of approximately 40
km/h. Constraining motorists to travel at these speeds will reduce the potential of
collisions occurring on the roadway. Traffic calming provides opportunities to directly
improve safety for pedestrians, primarily children and cyclists who are most vulnerable to
road users. As an interim measure, the Niagara Regional Police will be requested to
provide speed enforcement.
Recommended by:
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Approved by:
Respectfully submitted:
~~ ~~~
Karl Dren, Director of Transportation Services
~~ ~;
Ed Dujlovic, Exe
rector of Community Services
MacDonald, Chief Adrr~nistrative Officer
Bart Skiba
S:\TPS\TPS 1.00 Administration\TPS 1.06 Reports\2007 Community Services\10 Oct 15\TS-2007-04 Swayze Drive -Speed Review.wpd
October 15, 2007
Niagara~alls
Councillor Carolynn ioannoni, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: TS-2007-06
Toys for Tickets Campaign
RECOMMENDATION:
TS-2007-06
1) That the City of Niagara Falls implement a "Toys for Tickets" with collected toys
donated to Project S.H.A.R.E. and the Salvation Army; and,
2) That staff report back to Community Services Committee in early 2008 on the
participation and success of the campaign.
BACKGROUND:
In December 2006, Council recommended that the City of Niagara Falls participate in a
campaign to collect toys in lieu of parking ticket payments in December 2007.
Staff has researched and found that various other municipalities have had success with
this program. Residents are happy to help with a charitable donation, and the City can
promote goodwill during the season.
Staff is recommending the following plan of action and guidelines:
• the program be advertised over the local radio stations and advertised in the local
papers 2-3 weeks prior to and during the commencement of the campaign
• parking control staff will place information on the windshields of the vehicle when
issuing tickets to inform recipients of the campaign, and the details regarding
payment.
• eligible tickets will be those parking infractions issued between November 1 and
December 2, 2007.
• tickets may be "paid" in Finance with a donation with on December 3 & 4, 2007.
This will allow city staff to collect the toys in sufficient time for distribution by the
local charities.
i
', Community Services Department
Working Together to Serve Our Community Municipal Works
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October 15, 2007 - 2 - TS-2007-06
Staff has investigated and found out that there is no central "toy drive" organizer, so staff
opened discussions with numerous charitable agencies regarding this project. It was
determined during discussions that Project S.H.A.R.E. and the Salvation Army are the two
principle toy drive charitable agencies in Niagara Falls. Various other local businesses,
church's and charities also provide the same service. The toys will be split evenly between
the charities that participate in annual toy drive programs.
Staff has determined that the average dollar value of tickets issued in a similar time frame
in the past five years has been an average of $55,000.00 in tickets. Staffing costs for
parking control officers is approximately $34,000.00 fora 5-week window.
The City of Kingston which has run this program for the last few years has had a response
of approximately 5% of the tickets issued paid by Toy Donation. Kingston's program
however, advertises this program only one week before the payment date. The City will
be informing ticket recipients during the month of November. If the City of Niagara Falls
has a similar response, it may translate into a donation of approximately $2,750.00 to the
local charities. Toy Donation in lieu of payments will be recorded in the City's TicketTracer
software program, and staff will report back in January as to the success of the program,
and the exact dollar value of these "in lieu" payments.
Discussions with these organizations identify that items most in need are gifts for children
aged 12-16. All toys are welcome, however, staff has been advised that gifts for this age
group or gift cards at various merchants, restaurants or movie coupons would be most
appreciated. Toys donated must be new, unwrapped, and gift cards and toys must be
accompanied by an appropriate receipt, to ensure that a similar or equal value of toy is
received, and to ensure that gift cards are appropriately charged by the merchant.
Recommended by:
Approved by:
~~
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'. `' ~ Karl Dren, Director of Transportation Services
~ ~a
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t'
Dujlovic, Executive Director of Community Services
Respectfully submitted: ~`°~ ~`=~ d\,e'~., ~~ `~( ,,,~
J n acDonald, Chief ` dm
Officer
S. Wheeler
S:\TPS\TPS 1.00 Administration\TPS 1.06 Reports\2007 Council\10 Oct 15\TS-2007-06 Toys for Tickets Campaign.wpd