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2008/12/011) Approval of the November 3, 2008, 2008 Community Services Minutes. 2) REPORTS: a) PD-2008-107 Information Report, South Niagara Falls Watershed Plan b) BBS-2008-05 Sign By-law Variance Request Mountainview Homes -Thundering Waters Village c) R-2008-36 Arena Payment and Cancellation Policy d) TS-2008-51 Eastwood Crescent -Traffic Operations Review e) TS-2008-61 Ray's Auto Sales -Information Report 3) NEW BUSINESS: 4) ADJOURNMENT: a) Resolution to go into Closed Meeting. STAFF CONTACT: Alex Herlovitch John Castrilli Denyse Morrissey Karl Dren Karl Dren TWENTIETH MEETING Monday, December 1, 2008 4:00 p.m. City Hall, Committee Room #2A & B __~ Ng~g~r~,~'d~ll~ MINUTES OF COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE Nineteenth Meeting Monday, November 3, 2008, Committee Room 2, 4:00 P.M. PRESENT: Mayor Ted Salci, Chair; Councillors: Jim Diodati, Shirley Fisher, Vince Kerrio, Bart Maves, Wayne Thomson Janice Wing and Victor Pietrangelo. STAFF: Ed Dujlovic, Ken Burden, Serge Felicetti Geoff Holman, Dean lorfida, Ken Beaman, Lee Smith, Denyse Morrissey, Alex Herlovitch, Trent Dark, Karl Dren, Dave Stuart and Marianne Tikky -Steno. ABSENT: Councillor Carolynn loannoni (attending Health Achieve Conference) GUEST: Chris Prentice - IBI Consulting, Pauline Lauzon - 6905 Kalar Road PRESS: Corey Larocque, Niagara Falls Review Lori Sherman, Niagara This Week MOVED on the motion of Councillor Thomson and seconded by Councillor Diodati that Councillor Maves be appointed acting Chair of the Community Services Committee in Councillor loannoni's absence. Motion: Carried Unanimously 1. MINUTES MOVED on the motion of Councillor Fisher, seconded by CouncillorThomson thatthe minutes of the October 6, 2008 meeting be adopted as recorded. Motion: Carried Unanimously Action: Recommendation submitted to Council November 3. 2008 2. REPORTS a) TS-2008-49 Transit Strategic Business Plan Draft Executive Summary Report Phase 1, 2 and 3 MOVED on the motion of Mayor Salci and seconded by Councillor Diodati, that the recommendations outlined in the Niagara Transit Needs, Opportunities, Vision and Policy Options -Draft Executive Summary Report -Phases 1, 2, and 3 be adopted by Council. -2- Motion: Carried Unanimously Action: Recommendation submitted to Council November 3, 2008. b) TS-2008-27 Kalar Road and McLeod Road -Parking & Traffic By-laws MOVED by Councillor Diodati and seconded by Mayor Salci that, Council approve the report with the exception of the section south of Kate Durden/ Loretto, on the west side and that staff investigate accommodation of on-street parking in that section. 1. That various parking, stopping and standing prohibitions be installed upon completion of road reconstruction on Kalar Road (from a point 205 metres south of McLeod Road to a point 140 metres north of Forestview Boulevard/Rideau Street) and McLeod Road (from a point 325 metres west of Kalar Road to a point 250 metres east of Kalar Road); 2. That a "no stopping" restriction be posted on both sides of Rideau Street from Kalar Road to a point 38 metres east of Kalar Road; 3. That the legal speed limit on McLeod Road between Montrose Road and Parkside Road be reduced from 60 km/h to 50 km/h; 4. That Parking and Traffic By-law 89-2000 be updated to remove the stop sign references upon installation of the traffic signals at: i. Kalar Road and Forestview Boulevard/Rideau Street; ii. Kalar Road and Coventry Road; and, iii. Kalar Road and McLeod Road. Motion: Carried Unanimously Action: Recommendation submitted to Council November 3, 2008. c) TS-2008-54 Weinbrenner Road -Parking Review MOVED by 1. That a "no parking" restriction be installed on the north side of Weinbrenner Road from a point 40 metres east of Campbell Avenue to a point 40 metres west of Campbell Avenue, and; 2. That a "no parking" restriction be installed on the south side of Weinbrenner Road between a point 32 metres east of Campbell Avenue and a point 30 metres west of Campbell Avenue. Motion: Carried Unanimously Action: Recommendation submitted to Council November 3, 2008. -3- d) TS-2008-55 Carlton Avenue -Disabled Parking That two (2) disabled parking spaces be provided on the west side of Carlton Avenue from a point 28 metres north of Culp Street to a point 40 metres north of Culp Street. Motion: Carried Unanimously Action: Recommendation submitted to Council November 3. 2008. 4) NEUV BUSINESS: That staff work with Mr. Agrette concerning booking ice time in April for his event. Failing that, staff look into the suggested dates in January or February. Motion: Carried Unanimously Action: Recommendation submitted to Council November 3, 2008. 5) IN-CAMERA: a) Motion to move In-Camera Session Moved by Councillor Pietrangelo and seconded by Councillor Diodati. Motion: Carried Unanimously 6) ADJOURNMENT: MOVED by Councillor Maves seconded by Councillor Diodati that the Committee adjourn to an In-Camera session at 5:36 p.m. Motion: Carried Unanimously . December 1, 2008 `~~~~:r~~~all~ ~-~ c .a v :~ o a Councillor Carolynn loannoni and Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Members: Re: PD-2008-107 Information Report, South Niagara Falls Watershed Plan RECOMMENDATION: That the Committee receive this report for information. BACKGROUND: PD-2008-107 A representative of the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) will be presenting the South Niagara Falls Watershed Plan to the Committee at this evening's meeting. The Watershed Plan was prepared by the NPCA in cooperation with Regional and City staff, landowners and interest groups for the area of Niagara Falls located south of the Welland River including all of Willoughby and Crowland. The Plan also involves portions of the City of Welland, City of Port Colborne and the Town of Fort Erie. The purpose ofthis report is to outline thefindings and recommendations ofthe Watershed Plan and how the City can utilize the Plan's data and strategy to protect and improve water quality and quantity. The South Niagara Falls Watershed Plan A watershed is an area of land from which surface runoff drains into a common water body. The South Niagara Falls Watershed Plan includes several sub-watersheds including: Grassy Brook, Hunters Drain, Lyon's Creek, and Tee Creek which all drain into the Welland River; and Bayers Creek, Ushers Creek and several small sub-watersheds that drain directly into the Niagara River (see next page). The purpose of the Watershed Plan is make recommendations to the affected Planning authorities on the bestwayto protect, improve or restore waterquality and quantity through land use planning process. The need for the watershed plan was identified in the Niagara Water Quality Protection Strategy produced by the Niagara Region in 2003. _ Working Together to Serve Our Community Community Services Department ~., Planning & Development ~t ,. . December 1, 2008 - 2 - PD-2008-107 ~- 4.iJ ' "Zld'f c/ n ~, Pi" ,y..~l +' I ~ 1 i at~ ' '~ i ~: ~ ~~%`'~~ ~- k X11,. ~. n : i r ~- l' ~ J / ('-~ 7'i L- - ' ~ ~ j ~ ~ ~, ~& ~ x „ 4:e A ~.'~ ~~ ~1 ~y~ ~ ~_ 1 Hscerpt from the South Niagara Wmarshed Plan Through an assessment of such data as: topography, geology, soils, wetlands, wildlife/fish habitat, vegetation and current and historical lands uses, the Plan presents the current health of the watershed and its individual natural features. Recommendations on how to restore, maintain and improve the environment within the watershed in support of water quality and quantity and who would best accomplish these tasks are put forward. The first phase of the Watershed Plan Study involved a detailed background report on the area's natural features and surface and ground water resources. The following is a brief outline of what was found: Wetlands There are Provincially Significant Wetlands in the Grassy Brook, Tee Creek, Black Creek, and Lyon's Creek subwatersheds and in the Willoughby Marsh. Numerous additional wetlands have been identified through the study and the Niagara Heritage Inventory currently being undertaken by the NPCA. Figure 9 of the Watershed Plan (attached as Appendix 1) shows the location of these additional wetlands which will have to be evaluated by the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) as either of provincial or local significance. Woodlands There is a significant amount of upland area in the watershed including an old growth area that contains Black Gum trees that are 450+ years old, as well as other species that are over 100-200 years old. December 1, 2008 - 3 - PD-2008-107 Natural Using the Region's significant trees criteria, the Plan identifies Heritage numerous woodlands, many of which overlap with wetlands or Areas of Sites Natural or Scientific Interest (Appendices 1 & 2). A considerable amount of these lands are Carolinian Core Areas -intact natural areas usually >200 ha in size. Carolinian Life Zones in Ontario contain 1/3 of the Canada's rare and endangered species on only 1 % of the Country's total land area. Aquatic There are two at risk fish species in the Niagara South watershed. Fish Habitat habitat must be maintained or restored for the fish currently present. Municipal Municipal Drains can contain fish habitat. Fisheries and Oceans Drains Canada has developed a class system for drains based on such features as flow conditions, last clean out dates and fish species present. Type E drains (permanent flow with warm water and top predators such as largemouth bass or northern pike) in the City include Union Marsh Drain, Young Drain, Boyer's Creek Drain and Tee Creek Drain. The drains are shown on Appendix 3. Surface There is evidence of certain nutrient, metal, microbiological Water contamination in the Watershed's Creeks. All five water quality monitoring stations operated by NPCA Staff (Usshers, Lyons Creek, Grassy Brook, Tee and Boyers Creek -see Appendix 4) have found impaired water quality ratings in 2007. Ground There is a high susceptibility of ground water contamination in a Water southwestern area of Niagara Falls and medium susceptibility around the Willoughby Marsh and the Niagara River (see Appendix 5). Additional studies are needed to ensure that land uses don't conflict with the protection of groundwater resources in susceptible areas. The Plan identifies the challenges and opportunities for the protection and improvement of the South Niagara Falls watershed. An outline of those challenges are identified below: Faulty septic systems can contaminate ground water through improper use and maintenance. A maintenance and education program could improved local septic system operation. Landfill sites are not currently monitored for their impact on water resources. Road salt can contaminate water resources. In the South Niagara Falls watershed, there is a medium-high level for surface water contamination, less for ground water contamination. The Region has completed a study assessing the risk for Regional Roads. Municipal roads should also be assessed for risk. Nutrient contamination can occur with improper handling of manure and chemical fertilizers. A Nutrient Management Plan or Strategy is now required by the Province for lands that produce, store or apply manure. December 1, 2008 - 4 - PD-2008-107 • Development can contribute to surface runoff. The Watershed Plan has not identified development as a major concern in Niagara Falls since, outside of Chippawa, the watershed plan applies to primarily agricultural lands. • Natural Heritage resources help filter out the contaminants that can get into ground water and the loss of these resources can adversely affect ground water quality and quantity. • Forestcoveris adequatewithin the South Niagara Falls Watershed shed to protect water quality and species diversity, however, most of the forest cover is immature and may be functioning below optimum for habitat diversity. • Fish habitat needs protection from damage than can occurfrom dredging and filling near spawning areas, loss of vegetation along the creek, stream alterations including fish barriers, poorly managed stormwater management, impaired water quality and loss of groundwater recharge capability. The Watershed Plan offers Ecological Restoration and Environmental Planning tools that can be utilized to protect water quality and quantity and the natural heritage resources of South Niagara Falls. They include: I) Communication and Education -between citizens and agencies in the watershed through the identification of natural restoration programs such as: Wetlands Are Worth It Program for wetland creation on private property (NPCA); Septic System Education and Funding Program; Abandoned Well Decommissioning Program (NPCA); and Invasive Species Removal. ii) Policy tools. The Region and the local municipalities are to take water protection into consideration through policies and incentive based tools and water conservation. Examples include: • stormwater Management Policies currently being created by the NPCA that will be implemented through the Official Plan; • riparian buffer policies for waterways that provide adequate vegetated setbacks along streams to help protect water temperature and quality; • alternate subdivision design such as clustered development to retain natural areas on site; • water conservation programs such as the City's water barrel program • alternate land use services such as the use of a portion of land to produce environmental benefits in exchange for investment by the rest of society to manage the benefits; and • land acquisition programs for the City or NPCA to protect natural areas from development. iii) Best Management Practices. Best Management Practices are practices that control the source of pollution through the requirement of: construction activity such as stormwater control, grade stabilization or crib walls; vegetation to stabilize erosion sites; and site management for operations. The City can practice best management in urban areas by directing surface water drainage to infiltration areas like lawns or gardens, ban pesticide use, offer rain barrel programs for water collection or prohibit clearing around natural areas. December 1, 2008 - 5 - PD-2008-107 iv) Funding Sources for Environmental Projects. Several programsexistthatcanassist the public and private sectors to implement programs to protect water resources. Funding is available through the Region's Water Quality Improvement Program, MNR's Conservation Land Tax Incentive Program, MNR's Managed Forest Tax Incentive Program, the Fram Property Class Tax Rate or the NPCA Water Well Decommissioning Program. The Watershed Plan provides a watershed strategy based on the separate restoration plans for each of the larger subwatersheds. The strategies identify the restoration suitability of the subwatersheds based for riparian habitat (vegetative buffers); wetland habitat (storm drainage); and upland habitat (non-wetland vegetated areas). The restoration suitability areas are shown on Appendix 6, 7 and 8). Implementation of the Strategy is provided through a table that identifies specific actions and the primary stakeholder to implement the action (provincial agencies, regional government water municipalities, public interest groups or landowners). Planning Analysis Section 2.2.1 of the Provincial Policy Statement requires Planning authorities to "protect, improve or restore the quality and quantity of water" by, firstly, using the watershed as the ecologically meaningful scale forplanningand by: minimizing negative impacts, identifying the natural features necessary for the integrity of the watershed, implementing restrictions on developmentand site alteration, maintaining linkages, practicing waterconservationand proper stormwaterrnanagement. The South Niagara Falls Watershed Plan, along with the N PCA's Natural Areas Inventory and Stormwater Management Policies currently underway and the Region's Water Protection Strategy, all assist the City in meeting the Water Policies of the PPS. Several of the management actions suggested in the Watershed Plan have already been initiated by different levels of government such as the Provincial ban on cosmetic pesticides and Best Management Practices Guidelines. The current environmental policies of the Official Plan have been updated through general amendments over the past few years to recognize the changes to the Provincial Policy Statement and other policies so there is reference to the protection of linkages between natural areas, the restriction of development on significant wetlands or fish habitat and valleyland protection for increased vegetation. ,A more comprehensive review of the City's environmental policies is currently underway by staff to bring them up to date with the latest NPCA policies and the recently approved Regional Environmental policies. The policies and findings of the South Niagara Watershed Plan will be integrated into the draft environmental policies. The recommended management actions for local municipalities where they are considered the lead stakeholder include the following. An outline of the City's current and possible future actions to implement these are listed. December 1, 200$ - 6 - PD-2008-107 Official Plan policies for: Surface and ground water The additional wetlands identified in the Plan will quality protection and continued be identified for protection under the Official Plan monitoring of water quality. until their significance is confirmed by the MNR. • Fish habitat will continue to be protected under the Official Plan. Right now the Official Plan exceeds the Region's Environmental policies by designating a buffer area on both sides of the City's Creeks as an Environmental Protection Areas. • The City has made a proposal to Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the NPCA for maintenance and extension of Boyer's Creek Drain, Union Marsh Drain, and the Ushers' Creek Branch and the addition of Hunter's Drain as a municipal drain. • New Policies in the Official Plan should identify the protection of susceptible groundwater areas through mapping land use restrictions. The Source Protection Plan being undertaken under by the NPCA will further detail susceptible areas and will have the power to further restrict land uses beyond the City's Zoning By-law if necessary. • The Region is completing the Niagara Falls Intake Protection Zone (IPZ) study, as one of the technical studies required under the Clean Water Act. This study will examine the intake area for drinking water for Niagara Falls residents in Chippewa for possible contaminating land uses. The implementation of NPCA When completed, the Stormwater Policies of the Stormwater Policies and Best NPCA will be integrated in the Official Plan and, if Management Practices. applicable, into City pclicies and procedures. The utilization of conservation The Official Plan currently contains policy that easements, land dedication and supports the use of conservation easements, acquisition to secure critical linkages and land dedication. The policies will be linkages. further reviewed through the Official Plan update to include further details or guidelines. The identification and The additional wetlands identified in the Plan will incorporation of significant be identified for protection under the Official Plan natural areas; and ecological until their significance is confirmed by the MNR. linkages. December 1, 2008 - 7 - PD-2008-107 • The significant woodlands identified will be protected through an environmental designation in the City's Official Plan. • Policies regarding ecological linkages will be developed. By-laws that: Eliminate the use of lawn fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides. •. The Province will be instituting a ban on the use of cosmetic pesticide use in early 2009. • The City can consider further bans. Implement downspout The City has already taken steps to eliminate disconnection and require downspout connections to the sanitary or homeowners to disconnect their combined sewers and routinely follows up on weeping tiles from the sanitary violations. Also, a five year program started this sewer system. year to disconnect the weeping tiles from the sanitary sewer on properties that had flooding or sewer lateral problems. Council will be forwarded a by-law in the future to implement this program City wide. Implement a rain barrel The City has also taken steps to address water program. conservation including a rain barrel program and other initiatives to be made available in the future. Specific measures such as: Conducting a secondary prescribed burn at the Baden Powell Park projec# site. Continued partnership building The City has representation on the Niagara Water with public interest groups to Quality ProtectionStrategywhichcontinuestofund access funding for reforestation programs regarding water conservation programs. Ensuring compliance with the The Official Plan has been brought up to date with Provincial Policy Statement and PPS and will be brought up to date with all new NPCA policies. NPCA policies through updates and amendments. CONCLUSION: The South Niagara Falls Watershed Plan implements the Water Resources policies of the Provincial Policy Statement by provtiding a watershed scale approach to the protection of water quality and quantity. The resource identification and action plans outlined by the Plan will assist the City in achieving this objective of the PPS through the update of Official Plan mapping of natural heritage features and written policies. The Plan also assists the December 1, 2008 - 8 - PD-2008-107 City in setting specific targets and actions within the different subwatersheds. The City should proceed with the preparation of Official Plan policies and implementing zoning by- lawamendments, along with other actions and projects in support of the protection of our water resources for now and the future. ~ ,~ Recommended by: //lfZ~'~~C i"~/J~/(~~ Alex erlovi~ tch, Director of Planning & Development Approved by: FBerardi:mb Attach. Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director of Community Services ShP~R~20081P0-2008-107,Community Services Comm,SOUth NF Watershetl.wpd APPENDIX 1 r L ~, ro L 1 ~ ro ., 2 ~_ i r.. t~ .o ~~ APPENDIX 2 w ::~ //_ v J. ` ll ~~ ro ~1 ti 2 -' ~r 0 E v r A Y' S A b Z _O Y APPENDIX 3 ~~-- ~, a a, L ~, cp D1 Z ~` y O I i -. 1;:~R~. i1 f X34 t _y~~.. i t~ ~ ~ (~ TN 1 ~~ ~~~ 2 ~. ~d1`• ~~ -_ ~_ i .~ r ~ 3 _ ;~~_{. Y, ` i3 , i _ 1 - I _ -_ -.y fit2 .t ` ~ / .' ~ ~ ~' ~ - \~, ~ ~- __,~ ,.. ,., .a,.w ~ ,~. _. ~.\ ~ p 1 K ~\ I ~. .. .~...... ;- ~ ~~ 1 ti. ~ i ~ 7~1, ~ ,f ~ f ~ ~~ 'L ~ V / ~ ti 1~~j11I ~ ~~ '~ .J . ,,, ~~,` 1 ~:, ~ a ~• ~ a 3 ~ {~ ~J `~ .T_^ ` `~~~ ` ~ ZZ D ~O o' V W~ .~ 6 r 'i d .I'' V ~ ~/~ LL APPENDIX 4 a~ -C i i ep ro 2 a - ~ ° ~' ;- '~ a4 ~~ x~ t V ~~~ oC c v ~ ~ ~ V- - ~~~ ~'-- t '~ ~, a _ ~ /1 J V ~n L _ r '~ c ~ ~\ c >n -, ~~ ..{ 3 ~W~ ~: :~ u._ ~. ~~ ~ -J; ' ~ ,1 .4 ~ .~,. s ~ -i y~" ,r' j ,i ~..~ 1 r. >~y;~ ', ~. ~1. ,,~ ;~ '~ ,,. 1` ~ ~ ~~~~ ~ a ~1~r~~~~ti ~ai~ #~ s ...~~.....x a,a.s i 33 9 ~~ V I ~ ~= i _ N ~ C ~ + 7 I f7 r` C ~ 44 ~{ 7% ' n ~ ~ c 1 N ~a° APPENDIX 5 a a a~ s_ ii ~~ N ~ a; 4 ~_ ~ ~ ~b .~ Z a .~ B b N .p C _~ q~ L H ~_ 4 .~ LL APPENDIX 6 a r ~ - a~ u ~ .~ :r f/- ,_ ~L s ro ~~ R_ z o '~ APPENDIX 7 t w ,~ ~.; ~' :;} ~~t ~` S r ' o `~ N 4 _~ ~Np C _N y~ T Y P APPENDIX 8 • December 1, 2008 BBS-2008-05 _ :~i a~~Q~ ~Il~~a al~s ~ ,F,:,. , Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair and Members of fhe Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falis, Ontario Members: Re: BBS-2008-Q5 Sign By-law Variance Request Mountainview Homes - Thundering Waters Village RECOMMEPIDATION: That the Committe eny the variance request. ~ak a~~r iu~~ce For 300 U- boarc;l 5 i~v~ loe grc~v~~d -~v r 5- ~~2ar5 . BACKGROUfVD: Mountainview Homes is requesting a variance to the Sign By-law that woufd allow the installation of a ground sign where the entrance to Thundering Waters Golf Course intersects with Marineland Parkway. The sign consists of two panels-one panel is 10 feet x 20 feet and the other 15 feet x 20 feet. The sign is proposed to be located at the top of the hill on the southeast corner of the intersection, constructed in a"V" formation to maximize exposure. The sign is also set back a substantial distance from ihe intersection. Mountainview will also be removing an existing ground sign that is 168 Square feet. The Committee should also note that the purpose of ihe sign is to market the Thundering Waters Village subdivision and is proposed to be in place for a maximum of five years or until the village is sold out whichever comes first. As such, the current Sign By-law allows for the installation of ground signs, however; the maximum square footage cannot exceed 200 square feet. The variance request is for a 2-panel sign arrangement totaling 500 squarefeet which exceedsthe by-law by 300 square feet. PLANNING COMIVIEN7S: In considering the request for minor variance, Planning and Development staff have reviewed the proposed sign with respect to the following: • is it desirable; • +s it minor in nature; ~ is the general,intent and purpose of Yhe By-law maintained; and • is the general inlent and purpose of the Official Plan maintained..-- Working Togetker 1o Serve Our Cornnaurtity CommuNty Services Department +j ' ~ ~ Building & By-law Services ~ I j . e. . ~ 1Y ~ ' ` _ ? ",L?',;~ "^'_~11' ,.'`__.a lj~.-: ~ ' n..hm ; ' ~~'A...~...a•~f-n.i. . ~n ive__.`.~,.K. s December 1, 2008 - 2 - BBS-2008-05• The lands are designated Tourist Commercial in the Official Plan which encourages improvements to streetscapes as part of the creation of a high quality urban environment. Signs play a critical role in the streetscape as they can create visual clutter and intrusions if inappropriately sized, designed or located. The proposed sign is 300 square feet in excess of the maximum permitted under the Sign By-law which would result in a sign 2.5 times the maximum size now permitted. The justification for the increased area is the location, on top of a rise in the land at the southeast corner of Stanley and Marineland Parkway. There are a number of over-sized signs along the south side of Marineland Parkway and the addition of another over-sized sign and in a prominent location would be further visual intrusion into the streetscape. Clearly the variance requested is not desirable, is not minor in nature nor maintains the general intent and purpose of the By-law or the Official Plan. Recommended by: ~ ~" l/dt John Castrilli, irectoY^ ( uilding & By-law Services ~. Approved by: Ed Dujolvic, Execu ive Director of Community Services attach. hJOV-0=1-2fJ~ St6' ! ~ ~ 4 i MUUNTR I hJlr [ EIIJ HOMES P, ~J~iIJ3 ~ I' FIOM ES September 29, 2008 hlis Worship Mayor Ted Salci & Council 4310 Queen Street PO Box 1023 Niagara Falis ON L2E 6X5 685 - L~~ • ~ ~ RE: Variance far Proposed Signage Advertising TlrunQering Waters Village Dear Mayor Salei & Council, We are applying for a variance from your sign by-law to permit for the advertising of our Thundering Waters Village subdivision located at the thundering Waters golf course on Marineland Parkway. This development was Draft Plan of Condo approved by Council on June 9`h 2008, and we are now at a stage in the process where we can start preseiling homes within the community. As such, we would like to install signage at the entrance to the site where it intersects with Marineland Parkway. The signage, a copy of which is enclosed, is proposed to be located atop the hill on the south east comer of the intersection. Given the location of the sign and its distance from the intersection in both lateral and elevated terms, the sign is required to be larger so that it can be easily read by passers by. Furthermore, the sign is designed to face in two directions, one being north westerly, the other being north easterly. As a result of the intent to advertise From two different directions, and the distance of the proposed location from the intersection, our proposed sign exceeds the by-law by 300 square feet. Although [his size may seem unnecessary, for the reasons already listed iz is desired so that it can be clearly legible. In our opinion the location and size of the proposed sign is neither obstructive to the sight lines of traffic, or hazardous to motorists. Moreover, and although we appreciate that this is a ground sign and not a billboard, westerly along Marineland Parkway and McLeod Drive, on the same side of the street there are (arger billboards advertising various tourist attractions. We respectfully submit therefore that our proposed sign is in keeping with other signage in the area, and is not particularly obtrusive to any neighbouring land uses. 33 `:O NEPRIT"vILLE HwY UNIT 9 TNOPO~D ON, ~2V at9 O 90~ 99t3 3 i 00 P BO ^v 999 55'E~ `^""^'-^o~~wr-i~~~c.+.co..~ r10!.!-~7~ 2fJ~7t, 12 ~ 4'T f90UNTH, hJ~.J I Ei,i HOP1ES ; ' .iii°:--f ~, gas ~~a~ ~~~ Lastly, it shpuld be stated that this signage does not need to be, nor aze we applying far this sign to be permanent. Once sales on the site are complete we'd be in a position to remove this sign. We anticipate that we will require this signage for e period of 5 years; our hope is to be sold out sooner, but given the state of the market 5 years may be necessary. it is for these reasons that we request and hope for your support of our proposed signage. Ti iTR~ F. ~h, Respectfully, , ' r, ~ ,. , .~ ~~ ~p' _{ x~ r • v ~; r `~,:.~ ;~~' .~ ; ~~~~ ~ ~ ,~ ~, ,. ";; s:., :. " ,~ . ~. ~ _ r r ~!' ~. r A ~` - ~'+i, y,,, ' ~ , ~_.~ ~~ ~ + r ~~ Y ~' • } r ~; 'f f c ~ t '~~ ~~~ b ~ ~~ `A. ~ ~~ ..~ • , 1 . ~~, ~~~ ,,~~,,~~~ 4 '~'- , i J ~.~ f` M1 w 4 ~ ~~ ~~~ L, ~_ .. ` , ry _h ~ 1 Y f ;' ~~ J ' .. ' , ~ ~tj ~ ~~{ ~Y^^ J I~S-~( `V~ S~ r vim. ~'l. J ~F._Miii ~., T~=1 c, . w,.~~,~ ~ '~, ~;~ , g~r~~ ,~;: {{~~ .~~~. ~_ i ~~ '.,. y Q d N 4 r yl-,: c~ _' - , ~ , ,~ ~~ V ~~ • ~ ~~ „~O ,~ d v ,~ C~ .~ -~ --• ~-- Q ~ ^_ r -~- o ~ '~' 9 ~ ~ 1 ~ ~-5~-- ~ ~ ~ fo ~ ~ ..~., =~ < -~ °~~ ;. r ~, .. ~. fj ~ ~ ~ :~ ~~~ ~ ~ ~ °~ ~- ~ ~~•\ r'~ ~~ V .....y {{~~ ii. ~~/ ~~ ~ I r0 S ~ o ~. ~, v' '-i'S ''~'~ 3 '"~' ~o `,1~ IY.~ .'~ r .. 'f~5. ~ ~ :~~ 1 ~ ;, f p ~1 ~~ F ~i f F ~. w i. ~ •~ ~F ~ti ~rt `: :~~~~~. .~, ~, ~V ..~ ~. `[-` '-~ r .., ~ ~`` ' ~. i \ . .. ~~~ ~ c~ ~4 e.7 ~ •~ ~.rg1 N:~ ~~ .~ a ./+~..~ia~~, ~~e~l~ i ~Frr'~eai ' .~: write .~. ~~ ,,~ C1IFTON HILL 4 '.... ~.~^Y "-.~ .. r / `'^ ~~ .__, .~_ ~~_ {~, ~~ ~~• .., ~~ . .~' ~ _ }~ --. - :~r~ ~~ ` ` + ~ i. „ ~, • ~ ~. w 4.:. ' ~ M { iy; i, ` f ~ ~,3~' r. ~i ~•~, M ~ ,~' b ~~ ~ t~9 ~ ~ .` }: A i . .1 /e `~ t • e -- ~ ~A ~f: ~T ~ `, .~ w ~ ~ -o ~' '± ' , .-. , r" . _~~, ~,. ~~~~ ~'. V' ..,~ Q ~ , mot`, ; `,", '{ _ t f, ~ , •~ , ~'`~ • 0 ~ . ~' ~ ,~ ~ ~l~ O T f `~i ., - =.~_ .. 0 O X a n ~T O r• J '^ 7 X '~ A ~n N a ,GSr C ~i y ~\ m ~~ ,~ ` V v .r D `~ r l~ < ~ ~ b m C m n 2 D -I 1 L ~~ ~'1 C~ -I m A cn • December1,2008 R-2008-36 .~.~j ~ ~~J i~tg~:rd~~`alls Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair and ~~embers of Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falis, Ontario Members: Re: R-2008-36 - Arena Payment and Cancellation Policy RECOfUfMENDATION: 1) Thai Council apprave the new Arena Payment and Cancellation Poiicy; 2} That the new Arena Payment and Cancellation Policy becomes effective for the new arena ice season which commences Ma ~~E009; .7~a„ ao~~ 3) That staff coordinate an information meeting with arena user groups and clients on the new Arena Payment and Cancellation Policy. BACKGROUND: Many municipalities throughout Ontario have comprehensive arena use and cancellation - policies for occasional, seasonal and special event/tournament users. One of the key principles in these policies is the municipal commitment to the management of fiscally responsible arena operations, fairand equitable arena icelfloorallocation and special event arena management. A new Arena Payment and Cancellation Policy would establish and clarify the City's responsibilityforarena administration specific to ice rental cancellations. Il is expected that the increased level of a tax payer subsidy required to operate the current arenas each year, given the current cancellations experienced would be mitigated with a new cancellation policy. The 2008 actual ice rental revenues to date, for the three arenas when compared to budgeted 2008 revenue projections, show a significant variance. Approximately $80,600 in ice and facility rentals has been cancelled or'turned back' in 2008 to date from special events or tournaments in the arenas. The cancellation of one large annual special event for `dry use' held each summer was an additional $16,000. Additionally, the average wee[cly 'turn back' of ice by seasonal youth prime users or organizations (as the ma;o~ity of prime time ice is booked by youth orgai+zationsj~can-be--- 6Yorking Togeiher to Serve Our Co~xmunity Communiry Services oepartment Parks, Recrealion & Culture i - . . ~ . ~ ~;.rl 'r - _ . . . ~ ~ . , f . 'j~ l., . . I~I.~ ~1'~ !1 . 0\`.~ • . l 1~ . _ December 1, 2008 - 2 - R-200838 in the average range of 20 hrs per week. Based on an average of 20 hrs per week for 30 weeks per year using youth prime rates, can be approximately $65,000 per year. For example, the week of October 27 to November 3, 2008, 22 hours of prime time (youth prime) ice was cancelled or about $2,400 in ice time. There has been a tremendous focus and effort made to operate our arenas more cost effectively. Revenue generation is a significant component of an effective arena operation. Given the current cancellation notice requirements and the resulting financial impacts, the need for a new policy has been identified as important. It is noted that the implementing of the cancellation policy effective January 2009 would better address continued cancellations or turn back of ice in the first quarter of 2009. It is expected that the cancellation of ice and loss of revenue from tournaments and seasonal user cancellations to the City would be continued. Meeting with the user groups and ice clients would then be expedited to allow the policy to become effective prior to the new ice season (which is May 1, 2009 annually to April 30, 2010). The opportunity to re-market the ice time and attempt to recoup lost revenues from cancellations is very difficult/impossible with the current cancellation notice time lines. The current notification requirements have resulted in prime time ice not being used, resulting in no associated revenue for the City. This also has an impact on concession revenue. The policy would also contribute to improving the ice designated to users at the annual allocation meeting each June. The distribution of ice and allocation to users should ensure that their ice requests are based on actual needs. Therefore, the past cancellation practices of an organization would be accessed, whereby the ice time that is scheduled or booked for an organization is more consistent and directly tied to their actual annual utilization. The new cancellation policy is seen as essential in achieving the financial targets identified in the business plan for the Gale Centre. The Arena Payment and Cancellation Policywill guide staff and users to manage our arena resources to ensure more optimum usage and programming to reflect municipal directives as outlined in the financial policies of the City of Niagara Falls. The Policy will also support a more effective approach to arenas' financial management and facility scheduling, and play ah important role in the future allocation of ice based on actual ice usage. With the approval of the Arena Payment and Cancellation Policy an information meeting will be coordinated with all current arena user groups and seasonal tournament clients regarding the Policy. Recommended by: ~~y tir ~1 Dehyse/Morrissey, Director of Parks, Recreation & Culture Approved by: / }~/~Lr~t~~w Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director of Community Services V:12008COUNCIL1081201\R-2008-36 -Arena payment and Cancellation Policy 1.wpd DEPARTNIENT: DATE EFFECTED: POLICY: CONINIUNITY SERViCES Arena PaymenT & PARKS, RECREATIOfV & y 1, 2009 Cancellation Policy CULTURE ~ Tn li ZDO~ Report R-2068-3G SECTION: ]000.55 Purpose This policy establishes and clarifies the City's responsibility for arena administration, and its commitment to the management oF. • Fiscally responsible arena operations; ~ Fair and equitable aren~ ice/floor allocation; • Processing of tournament, special event and seasonal arena permits; • Special event arena management. 1. Arena Operations The City of Niagara Falls wil! responsibly manage its arena resources to ensure optimum usage and pro;ramming to reflect m~roicipal direclives and to minimize risk and operationa] issues, as well t~s enhance fiscal health to allow for timely and effective arena management. 2. Tournaments and Specia] Events Tlie Ciry of Niagara Fafls supports tocirnaments and special event rentals. Toiirnament and special event ren[als are revenue generating opportunities to both the organizers and the Cify o fNiagara Fal ls, as wel] as economic spin-off to the comrnunity ac targe. 'I'hey may inchide events of regional or provinciai signiFicance or tournaments hosted by seasonal clients, private individuals, organizations or the community. 2.1 Tournaments and Special Events Payment Schedule • Require 25% deposit on a credil card day ofbooking tourn~unenVspecial event. • ToumamenUevent ice/floor usage to be confirmed 30 days in advance with a second payment of 25% of the total amount owing. • Remaining 50 % payment is due the day of the to~irnamendevent. ?.2 Tou37tament Permit Amendments and Cancellarions The City will effectively manage any client requests lor tournaments and specia( event permi( 8,111817(1L11.'„iC3 OC G3~IG211c1i10115 W'Ii~'I I.'11E ~Ofll pf R711]Illll7_117~ 8(iII11111SLCilliVd, CCVCfIIIZ tlill~ OQBl'ai10[lui impacts. When chai~ges or cancel(ations are requested, the gtiidelines outlined in this policy will be applied. 3. Permit Amendments 3.1 Cancellations Parl<s, Recreation & Culttirc has the right to control all arena icelfloor distribution and use of City-otivned and operated arenas for the duration of the arena pennit. Controfs n~ust be in place to mi~imizethenegativerevenueimpacts thatunused,~etumed,amendedandcancelledice/Iloortimecan have on the arena operacion, its clients 2nd the tax payers of Niagara Falls. -2- 3.2. Transferred Arena/ Arena Trades/Sub-Leased Arena The City ofNiagara Falls is the sole permit authority for all arena times. The City must be aware of and be able to control the intended use of all arenas within its permitted times. It is recognized that last-minute changes to the intended use of the arena may occur under rare, infrequent and unforeseen circumstances however, Parks, Recreation & Culture must be notified by the permit holder. Failure to notify Parks, Recreation & Culture may result in termination of the permit and cancellation of future bookings. 3.3. Permit Cancellation Once an arena rental permit has been signed, the following cancellation policies come into effect: Tournaments and Special Events (initiated by the permit holder and/or the permit holder's designated arena permitted/scheduler(s)) • Require 60 calendar days written notice to Parks, Recreation & Culture in order to receive a full permit refund. A partia125% refund will be given upon 30 calendar days written notice. • No refund will be given upon 29 or less days cancellation notice. • Administration fee of $20.00 per permit for cancellations. • If a buyer cannot be found for the requested to be cancelled hours, the permit holder is responsible to pay the full cost for unsold hours and the additional cancellation fees. Seasonal rentals Require 15 calendar days written notice to Parks, Recreation & Culture in order to receive a full permit refund. Administration fee of $20.00 per permit for cancellations. If a buyer cannot be found for the requested to be cancelled hours, the permit holder is responsible to pay the full cost for unsold hours and the additional cancellation fees. Occasional Rentals • Require 15 calendar days written notice to Parks, Recreation & Culture in order to receive a full permit refund. • Administration fee of $20.00 per permit for cancellations. • If a buyer cannot be found for the requested to be cancelled horns, the permit holder is responsible to pay the fall cost for unsold hours and the additional cancellation fees. 3.4. Permit Cancellations by the City of Niagara Falls The City reserves the right to reasonably postpone, reschedule or cancel any permitted activity due to justified circumstances. The City reserves the right to cancel a permit or portion of the permit if there is a breach of the condition or regulations, Rzone or should the City be of the opinion that the arena is not being tuned for the purpose contained in the application. The City will exercise no tolerance to any form of violence, vandalism or inappropriate behaviour. Where postponement or rescheduling cannot be mtttuallycoordinated, the permit holder affected will receive a full refimd/credit for the time owing. 3.5 Curfew Arena The City reserves the right to curfew any games, including tournament games, to maintain the schedule submitted and will consider the cancellation of any or all pern~its if the user does not cooperate. [t is Che responsibility of user groups to inform Parks, Recreation & Culture of any special requirements regarding curfews at the time the schedules are submitted. 3.6 Opening Arena Facilities Outside of Standards Hours of Operation The opening of arenas on statutory holidays, when they are normally closed, or beyond established operating hours will be considered only if the applicant agrees to pay for the full operational costs for such an opening and pending the availability of staff. All reasonable requests will be reviewed and responded to. Application does not guarantee approval. 5:\Council\Conncil 2008\R-200836 - Attachment- r\rena Payment and Cancellation Policy.wpd ~ ~ Decem ber1,2008 T5-2008-51 ~ :1'~i~~,~~x~~~alls v., Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair and Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Members: Re: TS-2008-51 Eastwood Crescent Traffic Operations Review RECONiMENDRTIONS: 9. That a"No Heavy Vehicle" restriction including "Up to $5,000 Fine" and "No Buses" tabs be implemented on Eastwood Crescent between Victoria Avenue and Palmer Avenue; 2. 7hat a"No Heavy Vehicle" restriction including "Up to $5,000 Fine" and "No Buses" tabs be implemented on the entire length of Ryerson Crescent; 3. That a stop sign be installed #acing southbound motorists on Wesley Place at Eastwood Crescent; 4. That a"no stopping" restriciion be instafled on the south side of Eastwood Crescent between Victoria Avenue and a point 30 metres east of Victoria Avenue;and, 5. That buses be restricted from the metered parking spaces on the east side of Vicioria Avenue between Kincaid Place and Robert Street. b, ~~a~ s+u-Ff ~e~~ e~~ -jh~-Ira~~ o~~era~vr,s ~~er ~~ie v~ex-~ s,x rYwntl~s cu^d~ BACKGROUND: 4~~~r~r~ c~ VePork b~~~< -h~ Co~~mr!{ze ~ In reply to a request from an area resident, Staff has investigated the traffic operations on Eastwood Crescent between Victoria Avenue and Palmer Avenue. The concern stems from vari~us tra.ffic operation issues incl~iding lraffic veiumes, congestion, speeds, hea+ry vehicles, parking and ~isibility. A concern regarding the potential for increased traffic through the neighbourhood once the seven storey residential apartment complex a# River i Road and John Street is constructed has also been expressed. Various studies have been i completed to address these concerns. ~ , - I Community Services Department Working 1'ogetller to Serve Our Communrty I Transportation Services ~ ~ , - - - a.~~i ~:S :5{~ . i : a~ , , . ~ a ~ , . . ~ . . ~ . . December 1, 2008 - 2 - TS-2008-51 Eastwood Crescent is a local roadway that is 8. metres in width. Eastwood Crescent extends between Victoria Avenue, an arterial roadway, and Palmer Avenue, a collector roadway, continuously curving at a constant rate for most of its length. Light standards are present on the south side providing illumination during nighttime hours. Sidewalks are present on both sides. Various parking restrictions are present on both sides of the road, including a parking prohibition on the north side throughout the entire study portion, and on the south side between Victoria Avenue and a point 65 metres east of Victoria Avenue. A residential permit parking zone is present on the south side of Eastwood Crescent for a short section between Wesley Place and Ryerson Crescent. Traffic recorders were installed for a week's duration on Eastwood Crescent to record traffic volume and speed data. On an average day, Eastwood Crescent carries a 2-way volume of 1420 vehicles between College Crescent and Victoria Avenue, and a 2-way volume of 1030 vehicles between College Crescent and Palmer Avenue. These traffic volumes are sightly higher than a typical local road. An origin and destination study was carried out to determine the number of vehicles using Eastwood Crescent that does not have either an origin or destination on the roadway. Data was collected for two hours in the morning and two hours in the afternoon. During the duration of the study, a total of 212 vehicles was observed in the eastbound direction of which 115 vehicles or 54% passed directly through. In the westbound direction, a total of 218 vehicles was observed and 91 vehicles or 42% of the total passed through. These drivers are not making any stops on Eastwood Crescent. Palmer Avenue is a collector road that runs parallel to Victoria Avenue and offers an alternate route to downtown. Motorists exiting Roberts Street onto Victoria Avenue may choose to access downtown area via Eastwood Crescent and Palmer Avenue rather than proceeding north on Victoria Avenue. Motorists may feel that using Eastwood Crescent instead of Victoria Avenue is quicker as there are no traffic signals to pass through to reach downtown. A time and delay study revealed that the time to reach downtown would be the same via either route, subject to the motorist not having to stop for a red light at any of the seven traffic signals they would encounter. Thus, there is evidence that motorists that have no origin or destination on Eastwood Crescent use it as an alternate route. This is common noted on streets that extend between two arterial road and/or collector roads. Automated speed studies identified that the 85'" percentile speed, the speed which the majority of motorists travel at or below was calculated to be 50 km/h west of College Crescent, and is 49 km/h east of College Crescent. Similar results were obtained during a manual speed study with an 85`" percentile speed of 49 km/h in the morning and 47 km/h in the afternoon in the eastbound direction. Speeds acquired for the westbound direction were 50 km/h in the morning and 49 km/h in the afternoon. As the speed limit is 50 km/h, a speeding problem has not been identified on Eastwood Crescent. Further observations were conducted to determine whether delays and long queues occur on Eastwood Crescent at its intersection with Victoria Avenue. It was revealed that the longest queue in the westbound direction was observed to be five (5) vehicles. Minimal delays were observed as all motorists made their respective turning movements within a two minute time frame. A request was made to reopen McDougall Crescent at Victoria Avenue. McDougall Crescent and Stamford Street were both permanently closed when the Robert Street ramps were realigned. There is insufficient spacing between the ramp terminal and December 1, 2008 - 3 - TS-2008-51 McDougall Crescent for the two intersections to operate safely, and thus negates its reopening. A visibility review was conducted. Adequate stopping sight distance is maintained on the entire length of Eastwood Crescent, despite its curvature. The absence of parking on the innercircle assists motorists in maintaining maximum sight lines. Observations identify that motorists exercise caution prior to entering Eastwood Crescent from the various side streets. Each intersection within the study area is controlled by a stop sign except for Wesley Place at Eastwood Crescent. A stop sign is recommended for this intersection to assign the right-of-way. A 3-year collision review was conducted for the study section of Eastwood Crescent. A total of four (4) collisions were reported at the intersection of Eastwood Crescent at Victoria Avenue. Two angle collisions occurred as a result of a motorist attempting to enter Victoria Avenue from Eastwood Crescent. The collision reports noted that a bus was presentwithin the metered parking zone, which appeared to have been the contributing cause in the collision. One angle collision was reported at the intersection of Eastwood Crescent at Palmer Avenue. Also, two mid-block collisions occurred on Eastwood Crescent with one single motorvehicle collision between College Crescent and Victoria Avenue, and one rear end collision caused by a motorist reversing their vehicle between College Crescent and Wesley Place. Both collisions occurred during slippery road conditions. No collisions have been reported at the intersections of Eastwood Crescent at College Crescent, Eastwood Crescent at Wesley Place and Eastwood Crescent at Ryerson Crescent. Staff is recommending that buses be restricted from the metered parking zone to ensure that adequate sight lines are present for motorists to see approaching northbound traffic on Victoria Avenue. Observations reveal that drivers of trucks, tour buses, delivery vehicles and school buses utilize Eastwood Crescent. Currently, a "heavy vehicle" restriction is not present on Eastwood Crescent within the study area, though there is a restriction in place on Eastwood Crescent between Palmer Avenue and River Road. Since the closure of McDougall Crescent, Eastwood Crescent is now the first road north of Highway 420 on the east side. McRae Street is the first roadway north of Roberts Street on the west side, and it has a heavy vehicle restriction to prevent bus operators from shortcutting in place of using Roberts Street or Morrison Street. To deter heavy vehicle operators from using Eastwood Crescent as a shortcut route, a "no heavy vehicle" restriction including "Up to $5,000 Fine" and "No Buses" tabs are recommended on Eastwood Crescent between Victoria Avenue and Palmer Avenue. The same restriction is required for Ryerson Crescent, as operators that may use this road will illegally enter the Eastwood Crescent restriction without the opportunity to turn onto another road once drivers notice the restriction. Vehicles were observed parked within the permitted parking area on the south side of Eastwood Crescent throughout the day during several site visits. Trucks were also observed parked on Eastwood Crescent within the prohibited parking zone to unload deliveries to the Jade Garden restaurant. The loading area for the Jade Garden Restaurant is via Eastwood Crescent and trucks delivering goods to the restaurant park on the street. This activity is permitted in a "no parking" zone provided the goods or persons are actively being loaded or unloaded. However, to ensure that adequate clearance from Victoria Avenue is maintained, Staff is recommending that a "no stopping" restriction be installed on the south side of Eastwood Crescent between Victoria Avenue and a point 30 metres east of Victoria Avenue. December 1, 2008 - 4 - TS-2008-51 The seven-storey residential apartment building is proposed on River Road between John Street and Philip Street. Residents of this apartment building may contribute to additional traffic on Eastwood Crescent. Outgoing motorists would logically access Roberts Street via Falls Avenue, which is two blocks away from this apartment. Inbound traffic may use Bender Street and Hiram Street from Victoria Avenue to gain access to the apartment complex, but some may use Eastwood Crescent. The traffic study identified that this development is expected to generate a total of 59 and 69 two-way site trips for the morning and afternoon peak hours respectively. The traffic impact study identified that there will be marginal traffic increases in the surrounding neighbourhood as only a small percentage of the total traffic will elect to use Eastwood Crescent. Based on the above information it is recommended that heavy vehicles and buses be prohibited from using Eastwood Crescent. The absence of these vehicles will also help in reducing unnecessary noise pollution caused by diesel engines. School bus operators will be permitted. Furthermore, it is recommended that buses be restricted from the metered parking spaces on the east side of Victoria Avenue between Kincaid Place and Robert Street, and that a "no stopping" restriction be installed on the south side of Eastwood Crescent between Victoria Avenue and a point 30 metres east of Victoria Avenue. A stop sign is recommended facing southbound motorists on Wesley Place at Eastwood Crescent. Recommended by: Dren, Director of Transportation Services Approved by: ~1 ~'~^.~~!~1y ~i~- Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director of Community Services Bart Ski6a 5'1General Atlministration\GA 1.01 Repods@008 Community Servicesll2 Dec 11T5-2008-51 Eastwood Crescent -Traffic Operations Revlew.wpd ;: .. ;:. E ;. JJ.. ~ ~ -~,~ ''~~ !~ •. !~ .may - ~ ~ ~f r ,~ . "tea. ~ `i;! ~ a1 J\r ~ ~ .'`~A~ ~~ ~ n~ ~~ ~ ~~ ~~ ~A~Z ~ _ ;~:~ ~- r ~~ ~7,, Location of ~-~~ ~ . ~ '~`.;"~~ £~~. Approved 7 Storey ,. u_,.. =~,~ ~!':~,~'~:' ,~' • ,,~_ ;~ ~,~ ~ ~'~:'.,~~'~ '~~.. Residential Apartment ~~~ r ~ ~ , ~, a Traffic Signal ~ All-Way Sfop :~~~ir,~;s~r~;'~a1ls NORTH ' ~. «~~u~ Eastwood Crescent a•~~ Route from Roberts Street Ramp Terminal fo Downtown via Victoria Avenue Traffic Operations Review ~ ~ Route hom Roberts Street Ramp Terminal to Downtown via Eastwood Crescent ",~~: 4 "r^-'o - _1 •~ s °•` +- Cam"/ ::~ M a ~ - •. r. - ~ `~ ~ d ., . <_ Z to ti _ s _ O .~ ~ ,~ .~ ; . ,,_. ... ~, O ._ ~'=- ''~~'' _. ~ -_~, r~ Vii.. ~~, y sir: ' f ~ r -~a• 1~ -?+~.§ r 1 O U r c i t ~.~ ~~ ~ ~~ p N O s s ,. ~ ~~T~i f,{ r ~ ~ .. ' . ~ a s, .• •'tr H a a ~,~~~., ..~ -tom Y'` -~ _ v ~t 1~~ ~ ,D- w }-~, ~~ ^ s. . [. .i. u~i y~ ~ ~' _ '1` ~ ~t 7 ~ e1 ~' ~ `+1'.~ ~Y,~ < , cep ,~ ,_L ` 4 r' £ ~`~~ ,. ar '4 fi r, . r °~;~.rr~;,~ . .,~• ~.. :.:fly"". acs N .wi4 ~.!+~flMi~ - ~ - Cam-] ~ w ~ V ICTU«1l~ AVE .,.: ~ • VICIJR-A AVI O ' December 1, 20D8 TS-2D08-61 _1`~{ 1~~r1.~'rl~+'a~~S Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair and Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Members: Re: TS-2008-61 Ray's Auto Sales Information Report RECOMhAENDATIdN: Forthe information of Corr~mitfee. Thv.~LC Sec,cncE ~cces5 i"VbtM l~rs-~t~veilue L gr:zv~~C~~.~^Gl-~4v,~} ~he ctay~;5h-~"~v~~ +riah~le BACKGROUfi10: reco~~?eyect +Dthe~'~%~~~'' ~fV~e <tY~u}line~ ~i,r~~lS. The following report chronicles the history of Ray's Auto 5ales, located at 4874 Bridge Street: October 2000: Rays Auto Sales is located on the southwest corner of Bridge Street and First Avenue. First Avenue is a city-owned road, however, 8ridge Street is a Regional Road. A site plan was approved for this property in 2060, which consisted of a new building containing four garage bays and vehicle parking spaces at the south end of the property for empfoyees and patrons. As a condition of site plan approval the City requested the dedication of a 4.5mx4.5mdaylighttriangleincompliancewiththeOfficialPlan. Daylighttrianglesensure unobstructed visibility for motorists at intersections and provide for the placement of underground and aboveground utilitieslfacilities. The request for triangle dedications as well as any right-of-way dedications is typical for applications during site plan appro~al. The need for the additional property may not be recognized immediately, but may be a necessity in the future when roadway configurations or in#ersection configurations change. it is only during site plan approval fhat these are dedicated free and clear to the city. January 2007: Mr. Vuksan requested the construction of a second driveway to the property via First Avenue. A review of the property and its operation indicated that a single access was deemed to be adequate to serve this facility. Multiple driveways are generally considered for developments that generaie"re(atively high traffic volumes and create the potential for - - I I Community Services Departmant WUY~(illb+ TOgQt)12Y l0 .SL'7'VL' Our Community Transportation Services ~ I ~ . ' ' ' ~ . _ _ . ~~,~4!E'sJ~~'Y~SI i~~.h,~?~C'W . . _ December 1, 2008 - 2 - TS-2008-61 vehicle queuing on the road and increased delays for motorists entering/exiting the facility. Very low traffic volume is generated by this development. BAay 2007: A site meeting took place with Mr. Vuksan, political representatives, City and Regional staff. At that time, Mr. Vuksan identified the reason for the second driveway was to allow access into the northern garage door. When questioned how this driveway could function when vehicles are parked in front of the garage door impeding access, Mr. Vuksan identified his preference to park those vehicles that are "for sale" on the grass boulevards instead, within City and Regional road allowances. It was acknowledged vehicle sales are the main business operation, and maximum exposure to display vehicles to drivers on Bridge Street is critical. Both Regional and City Staff explained that he was unable to park on City and Regional property for safety and visibility reasons. October 2007: A review was undertaken to identify if the northernmost garage bay is accessible from the existing driveway, again at Mr. Vuksan's request. Turning templates identified that although quite tight, passenger vehicles are able to access the overhead door. Large vehicles requiring larger turning manoeuvres may not be able to access the last bay. The exercise was performed assuming that they would be no vehicles parked next to the bays which would impede access. June 2008: City Staff prepared report PD-2008-53 for the Committee's consideration in Mr. Vuksan's request to park vehicles on the boulevard. The Committee granted Mr. Vuksan's request for the City to accommodate a second driveway to the site from First Avenue, and use a portion of the First Avenue road allowance between the two driveways to display vehicles. The new driveway would be placed directly south of the daylight triangle. Drivers will now be able to access the northernmost bay from either driveway. September 2008: Mr. Vuksan has further requested to be allowed to display vehicles within the daylight triangle. Conclusion. The daylight triangle was obtained for the specific purpose of providing a higher level of driving safety for the general public by providing improved sight lines. Allowing the use of a daylight triangle for any purpose that would interfere with those sight lines would defeat the purpose for which the lands that made up the daylight triangle. Such a permitted use of the daylight triangle would also expose the City to potential lawsuits in which it would be alleged that the City had failed to preserve a proper sight line by permitting the sight line to be blocked on its own property. The Region of Niagara being the higher authority over the intersection, would typically request daylight triangle dedication at the time of site plan at an intersection where a City road intersects a Regional road. However, upon review, it was noted that the daylight December 1, 2008 - 3 - TS-2008-61 triangle at this location was dedicated to the City in 2000 and never transferred to the Region of Niagara. At this time, the City has the opportunity to transfer the daylight triangle to the Region of Niagara. Should Council permit Mr. Vuksan to utilize the daylight triangle as requested, to display vehicles, it is suggested that the daylight triangle then be reconveyed to the owner of the abutting lands. There would then no longer be a direct connection between the City and any obstruction of sight lines by the abutting owner displaying automobiles. Recommended by: Karl Dren, Director Approved by: nsportation Services ~L Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director of Community Services M.Carrick S:1General AdminislrationlGA 1.01 Reports\2008 Community Services112 Dec 1\TS-2008-61 Ray's AUto Sales-Information Report wpd ~ ~. ~, _~~ ~ ~. r 4 , L `~ ~l." ; ~` r ~' v + ai o > :~ ~ - ~ O Z ~ ~," ~. '"` anua~~ ~s~i~ ~ '~ 'I~i t~!'' ,~ ~"" ~~ x~ ~ aQ z~ } a ~ o ~ c °° d' ~ ~ o~ C N Q .- 'u. •- N a- ~- ~ N ~ N O v1 Q7 N O .i m ~ ~- ~~ AK r s !y The City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Resolution No. Moved by Seconded by WHEREAS all meetings of Council are to be open to the public; and WHEREAS the only time a meeting or part of a meeting may be closed to the public if the subject matter falls under one of the exceptions under s. 239(2) of the Municipal Act, 2001. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT on December 1, 2008, Niagara Falls Council will go into a closed meeting to consider a matter that falls under the subject matter of 239(2)(d) of the Municipal Act, 2001, labour relations and employee negotiations and a matter that falls under the subject matter of 239(2)(e) potential litigation and 239(2)(c) to receive advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege. AND The Seal of the Corporation be hereto affixed. DEAN IORFIDA R. T. (TED) SALCI CITY CLERK MAYOR