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2009/10/19
1) Approval of the September 28, 2009 Community Services Minutes. 2) DEPUTATIONS: a) Peter Smith, Hospitality Resorts Inc. re: Mont Rose at Niagara b) Butch Sacco, Niagara Falls Minor Hockey 3) REPORTS: STAFF CONTACT: a) CSC - 2009 -01 Lundy's Lane Historical Museum Expansion Progress Report Ed Dujlovic b) PD- 2009 -79 Matters Arising from the Municipal Heritage Committee Alex Herlovitch c) MW- 2009 -76 Request for Infrastructure Improvements Vine Street, Sinnicks Avenue to West of Coholan Street d) MW- 2009 -55 Regional Niagara Waste Collection Revision to Base Level and Enhanced Level of Service e) MW- 2009 -79 Site Preparation Costs - Gale Complex f) PRC- 2009 -30 Kalar Road Sports Park Washroom Building g) PD- 2009 -63 • Summary of CIP Applications and Proposed, Changes to the Financial Incentive Programs h) PD- 2009 -75 CB &FIG - 2009 -004, RBL- 2009 -001 5936 -5942 Main Street (former Mandarin Shoe Building) i) TS- 2009 -42 Kalar Road - Parking Control Review j) MW- 2009 -61 City of Niagara Falls Engineering Design Standards Manual 3) NEW BUSINESS: 4) ADJOURNMENT: Approval of the September 28, 2009 Community Services Minutes. 1) 2) REPORTS: a) CD- 2009 -13 Customer Services Standard Policy b) FS- 2009 -08 Master Fire Plan 3) NEW BUSINESS: 4) ADJOURNMENT: THIRTEENTH MEETING Monday, October 19, 2009 4:00 p.m. City Hall, Committee Room #2A & B Alex Herlovitch Geoff Holman Ed Dujlovic Denyse Morrissey Alex Herlovitch Alex Herlovitch Karl Dren Geoff Holman STAFF CONTACT: Dean lorfida Lee Smith 4 MINUTES OF COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE Twelfth Meeting, Monday, September 28, 2009, Committee Room 2, 6:00 P.M. PRESENT: Mayor Ted Salci, Councillor, Carolynn loannoni, Chair; Councillors Jim Diodati, Shirley Fisher, Vince Kerrio, Bart Mayes, Wayne Thomson, Janice Wing and Victor Pietrangelo STAFF: Ed Dujlovic, Ken Burden, Dean lorfida, Ken Beaman, Alex Herlovitch, Todd Harrison, Steve Norris, Jim Jessop, Serge Felicetti, Trent Dark, Denyse Morrissey, Karl Dren, Geoff Holman and Lisa Wall. GUEST: Malcolm Paine, 4435 Fifth Avenue; Vince Catone, 5212 Bridge Street; Jonathon Kennedy, 4309 Fourth Avenue; Chris Frail, 4397 Third Avenue; Sharon Reeb, 5224 Bridge Street; Teresa Roth, 4455 Park Street. PRESS: Corey Larocque, Niagara Falls Review 1. MINUTES: MOVED by Councillor Kerrio, seconded by Councillor Thomson that the minutes of the September 14, 2009 meeting be adopted as recorded. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 28, 2009. 2. REPORTS: TS- 2009 -39 Fourth Avenue - Temporary Use and Mitigation Plan for Access to Gale Centre MOVED by Councillor Kerrio, seconded by Councillor Pietrangelo that the Committee endorse the action plan outlined in the report. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 28, 2009. TS- 2009 -38 Park Street Parking Control Review MOVED by Councillor Pietrangelo, seconded by Mayor Salci that a permit parking zone is implemented on the north side of Park Street between a point 37 metres west of St. Clair Avenue and a point 14 metres west of Ontario Avenue and; That staff report back on traffic issues and that the Police be requested to do speed enforcement. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 28, 2009. MW- 2009 -72 Amendment to By -law 2007 -161 Collection of Rates and Meter Costs -2- MOVED by Councillor Thomson, seconded by Councillor Mayes that Council adopt the proposed amendments to by -law #2007 -161 that will clarify the timing for the establishment of water accounts, update the purchase costs for new water meters and update the costs for bulk water purchases. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 28, 2009. MW- 2009 -71 Oakwood Drive Reconstruction Development Agreement with Oakwood Place Shopping Centres Inc. (Smart Centres) MOVED by Councillor Thomson, seconded by Mayor Salci that the City enter into an agreement with Oakwood Place Shopping Centres Inc. for the reconstruction of Oakwood Drive south of McLeod Road; that the Mayor and the City Clerk be authorized to execute the Development Agreement; and that the 2009 Capital Budget Project worksheet be amended as shown in Attachment #2 to reflect the new funding opportunities. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 28, 2009. MW- 2009 -70 Edgewood Estates Subdivision Stormwater Management Facility Development Charges Payment MOVED by Mayor Salci, seconded by Councillor Thomson that staff be authorized to process a payment to the developer of Edgewood Estates Subdivision (1473944 Ontario Limited) for oversizing of the stormwater management facility in the amount of $332,679.36. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 28, 2009. 3. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 6:50 p.m. 9/21/200 • Dean lorfida - Request or .ele• ation - October 9t ouncil Pa e 1 From: Mike Bissett <mbissett@bousfields.ca> To: <diorfida @niagarafalls.ca> Date: 9/21/200911:07 AM Subject: Request for delegation - October 19th Council CC: Peter Smith <psmith @bousfields.ca >, Ed Lustig <elustig @broderickpartners... Dear Mr. lorfida, We are the planning consultants for Hospitality Resorts Inc. with respect to their lands located on the west side of Kalar Road, north and south of Mountain Road, which are proposed to be developed for 'MONT ROSE At Niagara We hereby request that Peter Smith be added as a delegation to the October 19, 2009 meeting of Council. Peter will be making a presentation on behalf of Hospitality Resorts Inc. with respect to the MONT ROSE proposal for a destination Gateway Experience encompassing the 'Best of Niagara including vineyards, a winery, a championship 18 -hole golf course, seasonal entertainment/cultural experiences and limited, high quality residential accommodations. If you have any questions or require any further information, please contact me at 416 -947 -9744. Thank you very much, Michael Bissett, MCIP, RPP Bousfields Inc. 3 Church Street, Suite 200 Toronto, Ontario M5E 1M2 t:416.947.9744 x.155 m:416.903.6950 f:416.947.0781 e:mbissett@bousfields.ca www.bousfields.ca October 6, 2009 Dear Mr. lorfida: Mr. Dean lorfida City Clerk City Hall, P.O. Box 1023 4310 Queen Street Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5 NIAGARA FALLS MINOR HOCKEY ASSOCIATION With the new arena scheduled to be open for the 2010 & 2011 Hockey Season, I wanted to discuss the needs of the Niagara Falls M inor Hockey Association. Our offices at Jack Bell Arena have served our Association extremely well. Having the necessary space to conduct our day -to -day operations, daily meetings, and ongoing development has been instrumental in creating and sustaining the quality hockey program we provide. Currently we have a business office, equipment facility, boardroom, and coaching development room. When the plans to the new arena were proposed, we were informed that we will receive business office space only. Now while we appreciate having that space allocated to us in the new arena, we respectfully request the same space we currently have. The original proposal indicated that one Board Room would be available to all User Groups and it was to be centrally booked. This is a growing concern of ours. We use our boardroom everyday and in the evenings. An equipment room is certainly necessary as is our development room where the coaches and teams meet for continuing development and education, meetings, and off -ice training. On any given day or evening you can find our space being utilized at maximum with team, parent, coach's, and executive meetings; off -ice training, classroom style clinics being conducted, as well as a variety of other Association business. We also host 5 annual tournaments in which our Boardroom serves as Headquarters to our visiting teams, on and off -ice officials, and OM HA representatives. We have always let other user groups utilize our space when it was available for various reasons over the years like meetings or training sessions. The Al Reid and Niagara Falls Cataracts Tournaments count on our offices, boardroom, and coach's room to successfully run their tournaments each year. We humbly request permission to have the same space and facilities we currently have. Thank you in advance for your consideration to our request. Yours in Hockey, Butch Sacco, President and Niagara Falls Minor Hockey Executive 6570 Frederica Street Niagara Falls, ON. L2G 1C9 • Phone — 905-374-2613 • Fax — 905-354-2828 nfmha @belinet.ca • www.hockeyniagara.com October 6, 2009 Dear Mr. Iorfida: Mr. Dean lorfida City Clerk City Hall, P.O. Box 1023 4310 Queen Street Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5 NIAGARA FALLS MINOR HOCKEY ASSOCIATION Please accept this letter as formal opposition to the Parks, Recreation & Culture's new Arena Payment and Cancellation policy. The Niagara Falls Minor Hockey Association disagrees strongly with these new policies. The City's user groups were not consulted prior to these policies being implemented. It was apparent after the meeting held on Thursday, June 11 that we are not the only user group upset over this issue. We are the City of Niagara Falls' largest user group, and we pay our bills on time every month. We are not in the position to pay for our tournaments in advance. Tournament registration and payment collection continues well into our season. As we are financially responsible, requesting payment for an event that has not yet occurred is not necessary. Asking for cancellation of any ice 15 days prior to an event is something we are not often able to do. Having additional teams enter or withdraw from our tournaments days before is very common. During the March Break, our governing body allows teams to withdraw day of. We have to comply. To create a successful tournament, we need to be flexible. We believe 15 days notice is unrealistic. By implementing this policy, you force the user groups to keep potentially unused ice which in tum keeps your staffing costs high as you will have to staff accordingly "just in case" the ice is utilized. In the current economic conditions, we respectfully ask for your reconsideration on these policies. Dean, the Niagara Falls Minor Hockey Association wishes to address City Council and ask for their support to readdress these policies. Yours in Hockey, Butch Sacco, President and Niagara Falls Minor Hockey Executive 6570 Frederica Street Niagara Falls, ON. L2G 1C9 • Phone - 905.374.2613 • Fax - 905.354 -2828 nfmha@bellnet.ca • www.hockeyniagara.com REPORT TO: SUBMITTED BY: SUBJECT: BACKGROUND Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair and Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, ON Community Services Department October 19, 2009 CSC - 2009 -01 Lundy's Lane Historical Museum Expansion Progress Update RECOMMENDATION The Board of Museums is requesting consideration from City Council of the following: 1. Approval of the new design direction for the Lundy's Lane Historical Museum. 2. Approval to re -brand the facility from Lundy's Lane Historical Museum to Niagara Falls History Museum. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Niagara Falls Board of Museums and the City of Niagara Falls have undertaken a major expansion of the Lundy's Lane Historical Museum located at 5810 Ferry Street. This Expansion is part of a larger project, the Lundy's Lane Battlefield Legacy Project, whose aim is to create a lasting legacy of the War of 1812 and the Battle of Lundy's Lane on the Lundy's Lane Battlefield. The Lundy's Lane Battlefield Legacy Project includes the Museum Expansion project, interpretive signage on the battlefield, a pedestrian walkway over Lundy's Lane and improvements to the Battle Ground Hotel property. The purpose of this report is to provide an update to Council regarding the status of the Lundy's Lane Museum Expansion project. The Architectural firm Moriyama and Teshima has been retained to design the new Lundy's Lane Historical Museum. Upon consideration of the original design as well as site visits to the current property, Moriyama and Teshima has recommended a new design scheme. There were a number of reasons to consider a new design scheme: 1. The current building has little street presence on Ferry Street and it is quite difficult to see the building as you drive in either direction on Ferry Street. The new design scheme creates a rather dramatic street presence. This new design scheme places the building within the same context of the adjacent commercial properties which were built abutting the sidewalk. The City's Planning staff supports the engaging of the public at the front of the proposed building. October 19, 2009 -2- CSC- 2009 -01 2. The original specifications for the Expansion project included the addition of an Events Courtyard which would provide outdoor space for public and educational programming and for a wide variety of events and activities. Upon visiting the site, it was quite obvious that locating the courtyard within the current side -yard would be problematic. The noise levels on Ferry Street where high and the location of the Niagara Falls Transit bus stop directly in front of this area generated a great deal of noise from the buses. The new design scheme relocates this Events Courtyard to the back of the property where the current parking lot is located. This location has two major advantages; 1. it is a quieter and sunnier location and would therefore have more flexible usage, and 2. it provides a stronger interface with the Sylvia Place Market. The previous design scheme had no interface with the Market. The Sylvia Place Market will be redeveloped in the future. The City's Community Improvement Plan for this area encourages property that backs onto the Market property to engage the public with future cafes and restaurants. Engagement will be encouraged as a result of the new design. 3. Upon consideration of the current state of the Stamford Township Hall and the originally proposed usages within the historic structure (artifact exhibition and public functions) there was some discussion of the risk posed to the ongoing conservation of the historic building should the building be required to meet the humidity and temperature standards as set up by the Ministry of Culture in the Standards for Community Museums in Ontario. The new design scheme proposes to locate all artifact display and storage within the new construction and to locate public and staff functions within the historic structure. Not only will this option be less costly, it will also ensure that the historic building is under less pressure from climatic conditions. The Board of Museums has endorsed the new design direction as presented by Moriyama and Teshima in a motion at the Board meeting held on September 17, 2009. One of the Eight (8) Guiding Principles in Conservation of Historic Properties is that new work should be distinguishable from old. Buildings should be recognized as products of their own time. This is the only Guiding Principle that applies. The remaining principles deal largely with restoration which does not apply in this situation. The new design scheme was presented to the Municipal Heritage Committee on September 23, 2009. The Municipal Heritage Committee did not endorse the new design scheme and suggested that the Board look at making the "entrance platform" look more historic and consider a complete redesign of the addition to the building to make it less obtrusive and not so modern looking. The Board of Museums is requesting City Council's endorsement of the new design direction. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The City of Niagara Falls has retained CM2R Cost Estimators to work with the team throughout the process to provide accurate and timely cost estimates. CM2R has carried out a preliminary cost estimate for the project based on the current design and specifications. In working with Genivar (Project Managers) and Moriyama and Teshima the following were noted: October 19, 2009 -3- CSC- 2009 -01 1. Some soft costs were not originally allocated in the original Concept Plan Update Study. 2. Escalation costs built into the Concept Plan Update Study assumed a construction date of May 2009 and did not build in escalation up to an early 2010 start date. 3. Due to the unique climate control needs of Museums, a large HVAC plant is required. In consideration of the original design plans, there was not sufficient mechanical and electrical space built into the design. Additional space was required to meet the mechanical and electrical needs of the facility. These factors have led to a variance of approximately 12.7% in the cost estimates for the project. This is a preliminary cost estimate and CM2R will be carrying out cost projections on a number of occasions throughout the project. It is expected that efficiencies will be considered throughout the project in order to keep costs down. Re- branding the New Facility At the beginning of the Feasibility phase of the Museum project, the Board of Museums began investigating the re- branding of the Lundy's Lane Historical Museum site. The name of this facility has been problematic for a number of reasons: 1. The Museum is not actually located on Lundy's Lane, making it difficult for visitors to find. While it is on the Lundy's Lane Battlefield, a majority of the visitors to the site are not aware of this prior to visiting the Museum. 2. This facility is the community's local history museum and the collection is owned by the City of Niagara Falls, however, there is no mention of the community connection in the name of the building. 3. There is frequently confusion between the Museum and the Lundy's Lane Historical Society — a completely separate organization. In the original Feasibility Study commissioned by the Board of Museums in 1987, there was a recommendation made by the consultants, that the Board considers renaming the Museum in order to better reflect the entire scope of its mandate. The Board decided to do this as a part of the new facility plan and upon consultation with local stakeholders, are recommending re- branding the facility from Lundy's Lane Historical Museum to Niagara Falls History Museum. CITY'S STRATEGIC COMMITMENT The Museum expansion will recognize and promote the importance of the local history in Niagara Falls. One of the Strategic Priorities of Council is implementing recommendations in support of the Parks, Recreation, Arts and Culture Master Plan. The Master Plan recognizes such uses as museums have a direct impact on improving the quality of life for the residents of our community. The Board of Museums requests City Council approve a change in name for the Lundy's Lane Historical Museum to Niagara Falls History Museum. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS • Proposed Museum Expansion Renderings October 19, 2009 Recommended by: Approved by: Respectfully submitted: S: \REPORTS120091CSC- 2009 -01 - LLHM Update Report.wpd -4- CSC - 2009 -01 ° o f Kathy Powell, M Ed D jlo ic, ecutive irector of Corporate Services Ken odd Chief Administrative Officer laW 4 NiagaraJtlls rn en• REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair and Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario SUBMITTED BY: Planning & Development SUBJECT: PD- 2009 -79 Matters Arising from the Municipal Heritage Committee RECOMMENDATION 1. That Council approve the proposed alterations to the following Designated Heritage Properties: a) Spence Weaver House, 6590 Dunn Street b) Former Post Office Customs House, 4177 Park Street • to install new plywood and a water /ice shield covering on the roof of the building with the condition that the owner supply confirmation from the manufacturer of the water/ice shield that the material will last without further roofing material for 20 -30 years. 2. That Council receive for information the Municipal Heritage Committee's recommendation regarding the most recent plans for the Lundy's Lane Museum expansion. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Municipal Heritage Committee is supportive of the proposed re- establishment of a verandah on the Spence Weaver House as it is being re- created based on historic photographs of the verandah. The Municipal Heritage Committee is conditionally supportive of the partial roofing restoration on the former Post Office /Customs House as it will assist in limiting further deterioration of the structure. The Committee is requiring that the owner provide the City with confirmation from the manufacturer of the water /ice shield material that it will retain its roof protection without additional roof covering for 20 -30 years. The Municipal Heritage Committee, after reviewing the most recent plans submitted by the architects for the Lundy's Lane Museum expansion, have concerns regarding the alteration of the existing front entrance to the museum as well as the size and massing of the proposed addition. BACKGROUND PD- 2009 -79 October 19, 2009 • to re- establish a verandah along the north side of the house. The Municipal Heritage Committee typically reviews any alterations or additions to designated buildings and provides a recommendation to Council. October 19, 2009 - 2 - PD- 2009 -79 The Spence Weaver House was designated under the Ontario Heritage Act in March 17, 1978 by By -law No. 1978 -66 and lists as its designated features: The 2 storey red brick Georgian style dwelling with a gable roof. Double hung 6/6 windows set beneath segmental arches with shutters. 5 bay facade with offset front door with a transom Original wood frame settler's cabin at the rear of the house. Brick scullery to west of settler's cabin. Dwelling retains its original location. The former Post Office /Customs House was designated under the Ontario Heritage Act in February 6, 1978 by By -law No. 1978 -25 and lists as its designated features: • Romanesque Revival style. • Location on a corner lot, emphasizing its importance in the heart of downtown. • Important as a Federal Post Office. • Designed by nationally significant architect Thomas Fuller. • Limestone exterior with quoins on all corners. • Timber roof with slate tile shingles. • Limestone gable at the south facade with a diamond cut to the head of the windows, and a decorative rosette in the centre of the gable. • Truncated hip roof with cross gables facing north and south. • Entrance portico with medieval columns. • Featured in the movie "Niagara" with Marilyn Monroe. ANALYSIS /RATIONALE 6590 Dunn Street - Spence Weaver House The Municipal Heritage Committee was supportive of the proposed verandah on the Spence Weaver house as it has been recreated based on documentary evidence. From photographs, drawings have been made illustrating as closely as possible the dimensions of the verandah. It is proposed to be built along the two storey portion of the house, although it would have originally covered the length of the house. The owners desire to keep as much ambient light coming into the main floor of the house as possible. It is for all of these reasons the Committee approved the project. The Municipal Heritage Committee's motion regarding this project was as follows: "That the proposal to re- establish the verandah on the front of the Spence Weaver House based on historic photographs, be approved as presented." 4177 Park Street - Former Post Office /Customs House The Municipal Heritage Committee had some concerns with the proposed work on the roof of the former Post Office /Customs House on 4177 Park Street as the work involved the installation of new plywood and a water and ice shield material on the sloped portions of the roof, only. At this time, there are no immediate plans to complete the roof restoration with the installation of slate or simulated slate. The Committee's concerns were that by leaving the roof without the final layer of material, the roof would need repair again in a few months. The owner has advised the committee that the water and ice shield material is guaranteed for 20 -30 years without any additional covering. The Municipal Heritage Committee has granted approval for the project with the condition that the owner provide to the City, written information regarding the 20 -30 year warranty without the final layer of roofing. October 19, 2009 - 3 - PD- 2009 -79 The Municipal Heritage Committee's motion regarding this project was as follows: "That the removal of the existing roofing material and the installation of 3/4" solid plywood and a waterproof rubber membrane be approved based on receiving literature from the membrane manufacturer that the membrane material has a life span of 20 -30 years without finished roofing material being applied." 5810 Ferry Street - Proposed Expansion Lundy's Lane Museum The Municipal Heritage Committee was given a presentation from the architects for the Lundy's Lane Museum Expansion. There were two concerns raised by the Committee that resulted in the Committee being unable to support the concept drawings as presented. The first concern was that the existing front stairs were being removed to allow for an accessible entrance and it was thought that this could be accomplished without changing the appearance of the front of the building so dramatically. Secondly, was the location, size and massing of the proposed addition. The new building seemed to overwhelm the existing museum building as the new building was set to the street frontage, which would hide the existing museum, especially when approaching from the west. The size and massing of the addition is not in proportion with the existing building which further detracts from the prominence that should be given to the existing museum building. The Municipal Heritage Committee's motion regarding this project was as follows: "That the Municipal Heritage Committee is not supportive of the design as presented regarding the Lundy's Lane Museum expansion as the removal of the front stairs and replacement with a large ramped area will alter the front facade of the Museum and the proposed new addition overwhelms the existing building in terms of its size and location." CITY'S STRATEGIC COMMITMENT The City lists as part of its strategic priorities for 2007 -2010 that, among other Parks, Recreation and Cultural items, the quality of the City's museums have a direct impact on our quality of life. Therefore, an expansion to the existing Museum would be in line with the City's strategic commitment for the next 3 years. Recommended by: Approved by: Respectfully submitted: P.Boyle $:1PDR\20091PD- 2009 -79, Matters Arising from MHC.wpd o Alex Herlovitgh, Director of Planning & Development Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director, Community Services Ken odd, Chief Administrative Officer REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario SUBMITTED BY: Community Services Department RECOMMENDATION MW- 2009 -76 October 19, 2009 SUBJECT: MW- 2009 -76 Request for Infrastructure Improvements Vine Street - Sinnicks Avenue to west of Coholan Street That the request from local residents to include infrastructure improvements and the reconstruction of Vine Street be referred to staff for inclusion in the 10 -year Infrastructure Needs Assessment. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Municipal Works staff has received a petition from Vine Street residents requesting the installation of concrete curbs to help define the edge of the pavement and to address some perennial operational problems such as tire rutting and plow damage. The installation of curbing will require the lowering of the road profile so that drainage is not directed onto private property. When considering road reconstruction staff needs to look at the condition of the underground infrastructure to see if its replacement or rehabilitation should be included in the scope of the work. This project is not identified presently in the 2009 -2013 Capital Projects Budget and any decision in this regard should be made with due consideration for other priorities. Staff will be preparing a 10 -year Infrastructure Needs Assessment in 2010 which will provide the decision matrix with which to schedule this project. BACKGROUND In May of this year, Munipipal Works staff received a petition signed by 31 of 51 residents living on Vine Street requting consideration for the installation of curbs. Mr. Ron Gienow acted as the spokesman for the group and was instrumental in collecting the signatures for the petition. Staff explained that this work was not currently in the City's Capital Forecast but could be considered as a Local Improvement Project if the majority of the benefitting property owners were willing to pay their share of the costs. This is the City's policy for any work that is considered to be "out of phase" (i.e., not included in the Capital Budget). Municipal Works staff prepared some preliminary costs estimates and informed Mr. Gienow that the average assessment for this project might be in the range of $7,700 per lot. See attached letter dated July 6, 2009 and plan showing the scope of the project. October 19, 2009 FINANCIAL /LEGAL IMPLICATIONS None at this time. COMMITMENT TO COUNCIL PRIORITIES ATTACHMENT 1. Letter (Holman - Gienow), dated July 6, 2009. 2. Vine Street Local Improvement Plan. 3. Letter (Gienow- Holman and Council), August 19, 2009. Recommended by: Approved by: Respectfully submitted: S:\REPORTS\2009 \MW -2009 -76 - Vine Street Curb Request.wpd -2- MW-2009-76 Staff received a response from Mr. Gienow on behalf of the Vine Street residents dated August 19, 2009. This letter is also attached for your reference. According to our records, the watermain in this section has had 12 breaks and has a remaining service life of one year. The sanitary sewer is in reasonable condition however staff expect that a number of laterals need replacing. The storm sewer is in good condition and the road was resurfaced in 1997 giving it a remaining service life of 14 years. In the 2010 Corporate Goals report presented to Council on September 14, 2009 the Council reaffirmed its objective of establishing infrastructure investment priorities. The proposed 10 -year Infrastructure Needs Assessment Project will provide a vision to effectively identify and prepare projects of this nature. The recommendation contained in this report is consistent with Council's priorities to identify and evaluate alternative sources of revenue and to establish infrastructure investment priorities. Ed Dujlovic, Ex`utive Director of Corporate Services Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer Mr. Ron Gienow 5848 Vine Street Niagara Falls, ON L21 11(9 Dear Ron: NiagaraaaaaaaafraJIs CANADA July 6, 2009 Re: Request to Install Curbs Vine Street - Sinnicks Avenue to Coholan Drive Our File: Vine Street Thank you for your letter and petition signed by a number of residents who will be impacted by the requested curb installation on Vine Street. Our staff has completed a review and has the following information for your consideration. The installation of concrete curbs and gutters along the edge of the paved asphalt road cannot be done without lowering the profile of the entire roadway. As a result, what appears to be a simple solution cannot be achieved without a complete reconstruction of Vine Street for a distance of approximately 187 m (613 ft). The cost of reconstructing the roadway at $800 /m would require financing of approximately $150,000 excluding engineering design costs. Since the existing roadway is in good condition, the works would be considered to be "out of phase" in terms of the City's Capital Forecast. Out of Phase construction is funded under the Local Improvement provision in the Municipal Act which allocates the costs based on lot frontage. 0.-Queen Street; P0. Box 1023, Niagara Falis, ON, Canada L2E 6X5 905- 356 -7521 wwwniagarafalls.ca , mmunityServices Department a nldpal Works 1 4219 Fax 905- 356 -2354 olman©nlagarafalls.ca Assume that the total assessable frontage is; • 187 m x 2 side - 20 m (Dayman Avenue) = 354m; and Estimated total project cost = $150,000 Working Together to Serve Our Community C M E 9 -2- The assessed cost to each resident with a 18.2 m (60 ft) wide lot would be; • Total Cost Assessable Frontage x Lot Frontage = Average Assessment • $150,000 354m x 18.2m= $7,711.86 per lot I understand that you have had discussions with your neighbours regarding their wish to have curbs installed however there does not appear to be any written commitment to a cost of this or any magnitude. Before we proceed with the next steps (i.e., public meeting, detailed engineering, updated cost estimates) I would appreciate your advice as to the feasibility of proceeding using this approach. I suspect that this assessment will not be well received by the residents but I don't want to discourage you from proceeding. Other alternatives could involve a request to City Council to include this project in a future Capital Forecast or to identify it as a candidate for any future funding programs that might be available from the Provincial or Federal governments. Unfortunately, most of the financial resources available for Municipal Works projects are allocated to projects designed to address more urgent needs such as chronic basement flooding, watermain breaks, storm drainage problems and dangerous road conditions. I acknowledge the efforts you have taken to get the residents support and I would be happy to meet with you and your neighbours to discuss any options you may wish to pursue. Thanks for your consideration and I look forward to your response. GH/mt Attach: Yours truly, Cc: Mayor Salci Councillor Diodati Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director of Community Services Geoff Holman, C.E.T. Director of Municipal Works August 19, 2009 Dear Mr. Holman and Niagara Falls City Council, I would like to put forward a request, on behalf of myself and the residents living on Vine Street in Stamford Centre, for having curbs put in on our street when money becomes available to do so. I circulated a petition for the installation of curbs in the spring of this year (submitted to Mr. Holman in June) and received a positive response from a majority of Vine St. residents. The positive response from residents living east of Sinnicks Ave. was nearly unanimous. Mr. Holman was kind enough to cost out this curb work based on the response of the residents living on Vine St. to the east of Sinnicks Ave. Unfortunately, as Mr. Holman pointed out in his response, doing the curbs at this time would require lowering the grade of the road and repaving, which represented too large an additional tax burden to make it reasonably cost effective. We are therefore requesting that the city consider making this project a priority should any additional infrastructure money become available in the near future, or should the Federal or Provincial governments provide additional grants to the City of Niagara Falls for infrastructure improvements. Mr. Holman acknowledged in his response that there has been numerous water main breaks on our street in recent years, (as a 28 year resident of Vine St, I can personally attest to this fact), and that this may provide some justification for giving work on Vine Street a higher priority. Through discussions with other residents we have formulated the following arguments for putting forth our case for expediting this work: • Extensive snowplow damage to our boulevards occurs each year. This year was particularly bad, with considerable amounts of sod being peeled up. The Vine Street area is an older neighbourhood with an aging population, which makes yearly repairs difficult for some of the residents. 1 provided Mr. Holman with photos of the damage that occurred this year. • Every other street in the immediate area running east /west across Sinnicks Ave. has curbs, including a small section at the bottom of Vine St. where homes were built more recently. Vine St. is the only street running east /west across Sinnicks Ave. that does not have curbs. • Curbs would be an aesthetic improvement that would raise property values. Thankfully, most of the residents of Vine Street have worked hard to keep up their properties in this aging section of town, and we would welcome any assistance the city might offer toward the improvement of our street. • As mentioned above, there has been numerous water main breaks in recent years, which unfortunately often leads to damage of boulevards, driveways and sidewalks when repairs take place. One resident complained that they have suffered 3 breaks in front of his property alone. • Due to the fact that a side entrance to Kerr Park is located on Vine Street, we have had problems with people damaging the boulevards when parking on Vine St. to gain access to the park, particularly in the spring when the ground is still soft and easily damaged. It is our hope, that for the reasons listed above, Niagara Falls City Council will seriously consider making infrastructure work on Vine Street, including the installation of curbs, a priority. I would also like to take this opportunity to commend Mr. Holman for his prompt reply to our petition and for his professionalism throughout the process. Sincerely, Ronald Gienow and the residents of Vine Street. Niagarajalls Legend Proposed Curb and Gutter ( - -- 1 Property Parcels 2006 Aerial Photography VINE STREET LOCAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT 1 y_ N s 1:2000 June 2009 K: \GIS_ Requests\ 2009\ Custom \ Internal \Munworks \VineSt_curb. map REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario SUBMITTED BY: Community Services Department RECOMMENDATION EXECUTIVE SUMMARY BACKGROUND MW- 2009 -55 October 19, 2009 SUBJECT: MW- 2009 -55 Regional Niagara Waste Collection Request for Proposal (RFP) Revision to Base Level and Enhanced Level of Service That Council support the proposed changes to the Region's Base Level of Service and the City's Enhanced Level of Service for the upcoming Regional Waste Collection Request for Proposal (RFP). The Region of Niagara is in the final stages of preparing its new waste and recycling collection contract. In July of this year, Regional Council adopted a report that identified opportunities to increase waste diversion and improve efficiencies. The current waste collection contract expires on February 28, 2011. However, a new Request for Proposal (RFP) will be called this Fall to allow enough time to order the new equipment for a seven - year contract. Changes to waste collection service levels have been discussed with other area municipalities in an effort to define a more consistent level of service across the Region. Those services included in the new Base Level of Service (BLOS) would be charged to the City in quarterly installments as per the present practice. Those services that are unique requests from area municipalities are tendered and paid for separately as Enhanced Levels of Service (ELOS). The adoption of the BLOS and ELOS by City Council at this time is necessary to ensure the City's waste collection preferences are included in the RFP document. This endorsement does not commit the Region nor the City to accepting the RFP prices until the results are available. The ELOS services will be identified as provisional items in the RFP which gives the City an option to make revisions and deletions based on the proposed costs. The responsibility for waste collection and disposal rests under the jurisdiction of the Region of Niagara but prior to 1995 The City's Municipal Works department provided this service. The City of Niagara Falls has paid for (and provided with its own resources) a level of service that well exceeds the service levels in other municipalities in the Niagara Region and beyond. Payments to the Region of Niagara amount to just over $6 million making this service worthy of careful review when the opportunity presents itself. October 19, 2009 - MW- 2009 -55 On March 19, 2009, the Executive Director of Community Services provided a memorandum which commented on proposed changes to the Waste Diversion Act, 2002, and in particular the Ministry of Environment's discussion paper entitled Towards a Zero Waste Future. Staff recommended support for Provincial initiatives to require producers of products that generate waste to assume more responsibility by contributing financially to the costs of recycling. This policy would encourage manufacturers, importers and brand owners to minimize packaging and provide a tangible incentive to reduce waste at the source. In addition staff supported the need for role clarity. The Region of Niagara has taken an aggressive stance in moving toward prescribed waste diversion targets and has strategically modified its approach by enhancing recycling services and reducing waste collection service levels. In addition they have identified opportunity for cost savings by making minor changes to collection policies that evolved out of outdated past practices. Proposed changes to the BLOS include; • Standardization of service levels for recycling, waste and organics collection. • Provision of recycling collection to multi - residential buildings Region -wide. • Discontinuation of all collection services to properties; - within industrial parks, - commercial plazas and buildings over 7,500 sq.ft. located outside BIA's, - commercial and industrial buildings greater than three (3) stories in height. • Elimination of municipal collection boundaries. • Same side of road collection in rural areas. Each municipality also has the opportunity to modify the levels of services which currently extend beyond the BLOS. Staff invited representatives from each of the City's BIA's to attend an information session on March 26, 2009. While the feedback was generally positive there was concern raised that modifications to current service levels should only be considered with regard for costs that may be directly or indirectly shifted to local businesses. ANALYSIS AND RATIONALE Some of the changes to the Region's BLOS will affect each sector in different ways. Low Density and Multi- residential Properties (1 - 6 Units) • Weekly waste collection (1 container) or 3 bags every other week collection. • Weekly Blue and Grey box collection (instead of alternating weeks). • No changes to the collection of bulk goods, organics, leaf and yard waste or brush collection. Multi- residential Properties (7 Units or greater) • No waste collection services. • Weekly Blue and Grey box or cart collection (instead of alternating weeks) • New weekly green bin collection (provisional) October 19, 2009 _3- MW- 2009 -55 Designated Business Areas INCLUSION: No changes to 7 bag /week limit New weekly Blue and Grey box or cart collection (instead of alternating weeks) Weekly green bin or cart collection Small Institutional and Commercial (outside designated business areas) Properties Change from 7 bags /weekly to 4 bags /weekly or 10 bags every other week Up to 4 Blue or Grey boxes or 2 carts alternating weeks & residential levels. (Weekly both streams - provisional) or (weekly alternating streams) Up to 4 Green bins collected weekly The actual costs are difficult to predict and won't affect the Operating Budget until 2011. Perhaps the greatest opportunity for cost savings is in the proposed changes to the Enhanced Level of Service (ELOS). The payment for enhanced services amount to just over $1 million. Based on the feed back we have received from BIA representatives and staff's identification of redundant services we are requesting that the Region consider the following inclusions and exclusions in the upcoming RFP; A. The set out service for 32 property owners with special needs be included in the tender for the Base Level of Service (BLOS), This is a valuable service to a small group of residents who must pre - qualify to receive this service. B. The increased bag limit of up to 10 bags /week for 34 residents with medical conditions should remain in the BLOS. Again this service to small group of pre - qualified residents to be absorbed in the overall collection cost. C. Waste collection bag limits to 583 properties within the defined BIA's should be revised as follows; - Victoria Day (May to Thanksgiving Day (October) - Christmas Day (December) to New Year's Day (January - All other times 15 bags /week, 15 bags /week, 7 bags /week, This change reflects the property owners needs during peak commercial activity periods. D. The collection of street litter bins in designated business area be continued. This service will be supplement on an as needed basis by Municipal Works staff during the peak commercial activity seasons. EXCLUSIONS: E. Waste container collection service to approximately 160 multi - residential properties. Section 10 of Ontario Regulation 103/94 requires owner of building that contains 6 units or more to implement a source separator program for waste generated at the October 19, 2009 building. The cost of this service has previously been paid for by the City of Niagara Falls at a costs of over $595,000 in 2008. Staff is recommending that this service be removed from the ELOS and affected owners notified of their legal obligations under this regulation in the Environmental Protection Act. F. Extra Cardboard Collection service in the designated business areas has been provided as and ELOS at an annual cost of $148,000. With the Region's consideration of weekly collection in this area this extra service can be eliminated in the new RFP. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The City's costs in 2009 can be broken down as follows; Waste Diversion Waste Collection Waste Disposal Total BLOS The potential cost savings from making these modifications is approximately $743,330 however these savings would be offset be any increases in the tendered prices. In addition, the new RFP provides the City with an opportunity eliminate the City run Blue Cart Collection program and dispose of two ageing packer trucks. The program has an annual cost of $140,000 and this service will be provided by the Region to multi - residential and commercial properties under 7,500 sq.ft. As part of the new BLOS. Staff employed for this service will be reassigned to other areas of operation. Municipal staff will still provide manpower to supplement the Region's street litter bin collection. COMMITMENT TO COUNCIL PRIORITIES The recommendation contained in this report is consistent with Council's priorities to identify and evaluate alternative sources of revenue and to continue to monitor and improve the efficiency of the organization. ATTACHMENT $2,122,587 $2,185,718 $1,592.219 $5,900.524 Total ELOS $1,084,869 1. Region's Report PWA 79 -2009, dated July 2 , 2'09 2. Ontario Regulation 103/94 Recommended by: Approved by: Respectfully submitted: -4- MW- 2009 -55 $ 156,929 $ 860,876 $ 67,064 Ed Dujlovic xecutive D' ector of Corporate Services Ken To Chief Administrative Officer S: \REPORTS■2009\MW- 2009 -55 - Regional Waste Collection Contract2.wpd EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Niagaralri Region REPORT TO: Co- Chairs and Members of the Integrated Community Planning and Public Works Committee RECOMMENDATION(S) That this Committee recommend to Regional Council: 1 PWA 79 -2009 July 22, 2009 SUBJECT: The Next Collection Contract - Opportunities to Increase Waste Diversion and Improve Efficiencies 1. That the range of waste, recycling and organics collection services, as outlined in this report, be approved and included in the new collection contract tender document, including the following changes to existing base service levels: i) Standardized service levels for recycling, waste and organics collection for the low density residential sector (one to six units) across the Region, including the Townships of Wainfleet and West Lincoln; ii) Provision of recycling services to multi - residential buildings Region -wide; iii) Discontinuation of collection services to properties located in industrial parks /zones, properties with commercial buildings and plazas greater than 7,500 sq. ft. in total floor area located outside designated business areas, and all commercial buildings greater than three storeys. 2. That the elimination of municipal collection boundaries, the same side of the road set out on rural roads and various provisional service options, as outlined in this report, be approved and included in the new collection contract tender document. Niagara Region's collection contract 2002 -T-46 will expire on February 28, 2011. New service levels are being proposed as part of the new seven —year contract in order to: — simplify the collection contract options; — standardize services across the Region; — improve efficiencies; and — increase waste diversion. PWA 79 -2009 July 22, 2009 The major recommended changes to existing service levels are as follows: i) Standardization of service levels for recycling, waste and organics collection for the low density residential sector (one to six units) across the Region, including Green Bin collection service to the Townships of Wainfleet and West Lincoln; ii) Provision of recycling services to multi - residential buildings Region wide; iii) Discontinuation of collection services to properties in industrial parks /zones, properties with commercial buildings and plazas over 7,500 sq. ft. in total floor area located outside of designated business areas, and to all commercial buildings greater than three storeys in height; iv) Elimination of municipal collection boundaries; and v) Same side of the road set out on rural roads. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS Staff has undertaken a review of current service levels and identified opportunities to reduce the complexity of the collection contract and avoid unnecessary contract costs. These opportunities include streamlining the enhanced service options and eliminating collection to buildings in industrial parks and to large commercial establishments. It is also recommended that recycling collection be provided to multi - residential buildings with seven units and greater at a projected annual cost of $300,000 to $400,000. Waste Diversion Ontario funding will cover approximately 30% of the net collection costs. It should be noted that the Province is considering moving to kill producer responsibility for recycling programs which could result in 100% funding by the paper and packaging industries. Once the collection tender results are received (end of 2009), the costs associated with various collection options and other provisional services will be provided to Council. Following an assessment of cost and diversion impact of the options, recommendations for collection frequency changes and provisional services will be made. The contract costs will be included in the appropriate annual operating budgets beginning in 2011. PURPOSE The purpose of this report is to request approval for new waste management service levels and various provisional items that will be incorporated into the specifications for the new collection contract, which will be issued to vendors in September 2009. 2 BACKGROUND REPORT 3 PWA 79 -2009 July 22, 2009 An implementation strategy which addressed the proposed level of service options for the low density residential sector was approved by Council in the fall of 2008. One of the key strategy recommendations in Council Report PWA 111 -2008 was to request pricing in the waste collection services tender for the following collection frequency options: i) Every other week curbside waste collection with a three container (bag /can) limit, ii) Weekly waste curbside collection with a one container (bag /can) limit, iii) Alternating weekly Blue /Grey Box curbside collection, iv) Weekly Blue and Grey Box curbside collection. In preparation for the new collection contract, a review of the multi - residential and industrial /commercial/ institutional (IC &I) sector services, along with the range of enhanced services provided across the Region, was completed. New service changes for these sectors were presented to Waste Management Planning Steering Committee and Integrated Planning and Public Works Committee in December 2008. Waste Management Advisory Committee also passed a motion supporting the proposed multi - residential and IC &I services at their April 2009 meeting. Over the past six months, local municipalities and other stakeholders have provided further input on service levels through presentations and meetings with local public works officials and downtown business associations. Part A - Service Levels The proposed service levels for each sector and associated key challenges or implications are listed below. A summary chart showing current and proposed service levels is provided in Appendix A. 1. Low Density Residential Buildings (1 to 6 unit residential buildings) Base Service: • Region -wide curbside garbage collection — 3 bag /can limit if every other week garbage collection (with option of phasing in 2 bag/can limit) or — 1 bag /can limit if weekly curbside garbage collection — Garbage tags available for containers over the prescribed limit • Blue /Grey Box recycling curbside collection (on a weekly basis or alternating weekly basis) PWA 79 -2009 ` July 22, 2009 • Once per week Green Bin organics curbside collection — Region wide, including Wainfleet & West Lincoln • Bulky and white goods curbside collection — call in basis • Weekly Leaf and Yard waste curbside collection • Seasonal curbside brush collection (minimum six times per year) • Special set -out service for garbage, Blue /Grey Box and Green Bin collection for the physically challenged • Exemptions from garbage limits for households with three or more children under the age of four and /or with an individual with a medical condition, if garbage container (bag /can) limits are reduced Implications In accordance with Ontario Regulation 103/94, owners of multi - residential buildings and condominium corporations with six units and greater are responsible for providing garbage and recycling collection services. Under the Region's current policy, residential buildings up to five units receive full curbside service. However, it is proposed that six unit buildings be included in the Region's new base curbside service due to the fact that approximately 75% of these properties (97 out of 129) currently utilize Regional services, and they can be accommodated within curbside container limits. The Township of West Lincoln has passed a resolution supporting Green Bin collection in Smithville only and not supporting any changes to waste collection frequency. Waste collection frequency and limits will be addressed as part of a separate report (December 2009 /January 2010) reviewing pricing for various collection frequency options. Regarding the Green Bin program, staff continue to recommend Region -wide implementation from a service consistency and communications perspective. Waste audit results in rural areas of West Lincoln and Wainfleet have demonstrated that over one third of what is left in the curbside garbage is comprised of food and pet waste. The diversion impact of the Green Bin collection program is even more essential if a decision is made to go to every other week garbage collection. Under the every other week garbage collection scenario, West Lincoln residents would be required to hold onto any food waste for two weeks. It should also be noted that Regional Council approved a bylaw that stipulates that no more than 5% of waste can contain organics (and recyclables). By not approving a Green Bin collection program for the entire Township, residents could contravene the Region's Waste Management By -law 95 -2008. The program is needed to assist West Lincoln in achieving the goal of 65% diversion from landfill. 2. Multi- Residential Buildings (seven units and greater) i) Recommended base service for residential buildings with seven units or more: • Weekly Blue /Grey cart based recycling • Provisional pricing for organics collection in future 4 PWA 79 -2009 July 22, 2009 • No curbside or front -end garbage container collection including bulky goods and appliances (private service) • No curbside collection of leaf and yard waste ii) Enhanced service for seven units or greater residential buildings at the request of the area municipality Implications Under the Region's current policy, any multi - residential building can place up to 12 bags per week at the curb for collection. It is proposed that curbside waste collection be discontinued for all buildings of seven units and greater. This change will impact approximately 171 out of 564 properties (30 percent) that are currently using curbside waste collection. Buildings with seven or more units would be provided with recycling collection at the start of the new collection contract and potentially organics collection in the future, subject to Council's approval (December 2009 /Janaury 2010). It should be noted that approximately 96 out of 564 properties (17 %) currently use the curbside recycling service. The estimated annual costs for providing recycling to multi - residential buildings are in the range of $300,000 to $400,000. Waste Diversion Ontario funding will cover approximately 30% of the net collection costs and potentially cover 100% of costs in the future. It is assumed that owners of multi - residential buildings with seven units and greater would be responsible for the cost of all required in -unit containers (e.g. mini blue boxes or reusable bags) and collection containers (e.g. 360 litre wheeled recycling carts). Regional staff would be responsible for social marketing and outreach activities related to maximizing recycling program participation and minimizing contamination. 3. Industrial, Commercial & Institutional (IC &I) Service Options i) Recommended base service for designated business areas (downtowns /BIAs): • Once per week curbside garbage collection — 7 bag /can limit per property maximum • Once per week curbside Blue /Grey Box or cart collection (mandatory) • Once per week curbside Green Bin or cart based organics collection • No collection service to IC &I buildings greater than three storeys (note: mixed commercial /residential buildings are currently classified as IC &I) • No bulky and white goods collection as per current service levels ii) New streamlined enhanced levels of service for designated business areas, at the request of the area municipality: • Eliminate communal bulk lift garbage bins in downtowns 5 6 PWA 79 -2009 July 22, 2009 • Standardize additional garbage collection frequency to two, three or four times per week iii) New base service levels for small institutional and "store front" commercial buildings outside the designated business areas (up to 7,500 sq. ft. in total floor area): • Curbside garbage collection: - 10 bag /can limit per property maximum if every second week garbage collection or - 4 bag /can limit per property maximum if every week garbage collection • Same Blue /Grey Box curbside collection frequency as single family homes, max of 4 Grey and 4 Blue boxes or 2 carts • Weekly curbside Green Bin collection, max 4 bins • No service to properties in industrial parks/zones and to properties with commercial buildings greater than 7,500 sq. ft. in total floor area • No service to commercial buildings greater than three storeys (note: mixed commercial/residential buildings are currently classified as IC &I) • No bulky and white goods collection as per current service levels Implications All IC &I properties are currently eligible to receive curbside collection service, although the majority of these properties receive collection services from private sector waste companies (e.g. front -end containerized service). Provision of Regional curbside collection service to some large commercial buildings and some buildings in industrial zones results in higher contract costs due to inefficient collection routes. More precisely defined eligibly criteria for IC &I collection services are required to improve collection efficiency. Specifically, it is proposed that curbside commercial collection service be limited to all commercial /mixed commercial buildings less than four storeys, commerciaVmixed commercial buildings 7,500 sq. ft. or less in total floor area located outside of downtowns /BIAS and to farms only. It is also proposed that curbside services be discontinued to all buildings in industrial parks and zones. A number of data sources have been used to identify which commercial properties will be affected by curbside collection eligibility criteria noted above. Approximately 454 commercial properties will no longer be eligible for curbside collection, of which approximately 116 commercial properties (26 %) are currently using curbside service. In order to isolate industrial parks /zones which are not appropriate for curbside collection, input was sought from local public works officials, and other sources such as MPAC. It is estimated that approximately 298 industrial properties that are currently using curbside service will no longer receive service. PWA 79 -2009 July 22, 2009 Practices in large and medium sized regions /municipalities were reviewed as a benchmark for IC &I collection service eligibility requirements. The vast majority do not provide collection service to industrial buildings and commercial buildings outside downtown business cores. In conjunction with the City of St. Catharines and the Downtown Business Improvement Association, a number of changes to the waste /recycling collection services were implemented in the downtown core on June 1, 2009, including the new criterion of no service to buildings with more than three storeys and elimination of communal bulk lift garbage bins. Five of the nine buildings, with more than three storeys, were affected by this change. 4. Student Housing Students living in low density housing will continue to receive curbside collection services consistent with those services provided to low density residential (Le. 1 to 6 unit residential buildings, townhouses and other street level residential buildings) as detailed under item 1 of this section. Given the nature of this housing type, on -road staff will continue to monitor areas that are densely populated with off campus students to ensure compliance. 5. Bed and Breakfast Establishments Bed and Breakfast establishments with three rooms and less will continue to receive the base level of services as provided to low density residential (i.e. 1 to 6 unit residential buildings, townhouses and other street level residential buildings) as noted earlier in this report. Bed and Breakfast establishments with four rooms or more will be considered commercial and will continue to be provided with collection services as noted in item 3 of this section. 6. Litter Bin Service Options i) Enhanced level of service at the request of the area municipality (see Appendix A for detailed descriptions): • Provision of street side litter bin collection as enhanced service at same frequency as curbside collection ii) Conversion of litter and park bins to 2 or 3 compartment garbage/ recycling bins over time, subject to approval of a Public Open Spaces Recycling Policy which is under development. 7. Clear Bags for Garbage Collection Mandatory use of clear bags for garbage is one mechanism used to change behaviour and motivate participation in diversion programs. The 2008, Council approved Level of Service Implementation Strategy recommends that a pilot be considered for implementation after the Region determines how the every other week and /or reduced 7 PWA 79 -2009 July 22, 2009 garbage bag /can limits would impact the diversion rate. Based on monitoring and evaluation of waste collection changes that would be in effect beginning March 1, 2011, the pilot would be implemented in 2013 to 2014. WMAC has presented a motion to WMPSC recommending that a clear bag program be implemented at the start of the contract, if every other week waste collection is not approved. General wording will be included in the contract that a change to clear bag for garbage could occur at any time in the contract period with notice to the contractor, subject to approval by Council. Part B - Efficiency Issues 1. Elimination of Municipal Collection Boundaries Staff is recommending that under the terms of the new contract, contractors be permitted to collect materials across municipal boundaries without any constraints. This will allow contractors to optimize routing, resulting in an expected savings of at least $100,000 annually. If local municipal diversion rates are still required, these rates could be based on estimates from waste audits or detailed waste composition studies. 2. Same Side of Road Set Out on Rural Roads It is recommended that same side of the road collection for rural areas be included in the new contract using the following criteria: i) Roads located outside the Regional Urban Area Boundaries (April 2008), which in tum are based on local official plans, excluding Regional and Provincial roads; and ii) Subject to input from local municipalities, based on traffic patterns /volumes. Allowing contractors to collect material on one side of the street on rural roads with low traffic volumes will increase collection efficiency in rural areas. Nine out of twelve municipalities have provided a list of roads that may be suitable for same side of the road collection services. Staff is continuing discussions with the City of Welland and the Townships of Wainfleet and West Lincoln to determine suitable rural roads for same side collection. This policy change could result in a reduction in the fleet required by one to two collection vehicles which would potentially save the Region $150,000 to $300,000 annually. It is recommended that this service only be offered in the rural areas as the disadvantages of same side of the street collection in urban areas, specifically safety concerns, outweigh potential benefits. 8 3. Fuel Alternatives One of the major cost components of a collection contract is fuel. Therefore, bidders will be requested to demonstrate their ability to reduce fuel costs and the emissions associated with fuel consumption, through the use of alternative collection vehicle technologies and fuels, such as hybrid vehicles or biofuel. Part C — Provisional Items 1. Low Density Residential (e.g. 1 to 6 unit residential buildings, townhouses and other street level residential buildings) It is recommended that staff include, as provisional items, the separate collection of bulky items that have been designated by the Province, under the Waste Diversion Act, as requiring industry funded diversion programs (such as waste electronics and electrical equipment). It is also recommended that staff seek provisional pricing for the separate collection of mattresses, which may be designated by the Province in the future. Once prices are confirmed through the tender process, staff will report back to Council in December 2008 /Janaury 2009 on the feasibility of implementing a separate collection service for designated materials. 2. Multi- Residential (seven units and greater) Staff is recommending that pricing be requested for collection of organic materials as base service to seven or more unit residential buildings across the Region. Given the potential financial impacts and resources required to implement this service, it is recommended that this be included as a provisional item in the new contract, with an implementation date of one to two years after the commencement of the new contract. Once prices are known, and further study on the diversion impact is completed, staff will report back on the cost of this service level to Council in December 2009 /January 2010. 9 PWA 79 -2009 July 22, 2009 Action Item Target Date Regional staff present service level changes to ICP & PW Committee /Regional Council and receive approval on new base and enhanced levels of service July 22, 2009 (ICP &PWC) Area Municipalities to review & sign -off on properties impacted by service changes July — August 2009 Changes incorporated into new tender August 2009 Dialogue with multi - residential property owners to discuss the proposed service change Summer 2009 Issue new collection tender Early October 2009 Council approval and tender award December 2009 - January 2010 Develop Implementation and Communication Strategy March — May 2010 Contract start date March 1, 2011 Conclusions Co Submitted by: Kenneth J. Brothers, P.Eng. Mike Trojan Commissioner of Public Works Chief Administrative Officer Appendix A — Base Level of Service Summary by Sector This report was prepared by Catherine Habermebl, Associate Director, Collection and Diversion Operations and Lydia Torbicki, Manager, Policy and Planning and reviewed by Andrew Pollock, Director, Waste Management Services. 10 Approved by: PWA 79 -2009 July 22, 2009 Property Type :Service Garbage Bulky & Recycling Organics White € I Goods 1 Leaf/ 'Brush Yard Low density residential curbside (single family, low -rise, town- houses, etc.) 1 -5 units Current 2 bag /can limi Call -in jltemating weeklyWeekly weekly, $1+ tag�ervice jBlue /Grey Boxes Preen Bins ear I 1 ound j Weekly 6 x per year Proposed 1 bag /can limit Weekly or altemating INo change No Min. 6 x weekly or 3 No w eekly Blue /Grey Boxes change per year bag /can limit change EOW, $1+ tags Multi -res with 6 units Current 12 bag /can IimitNo Alternating weekly No service No No ;weekly service Blue /Grey Boxes or service 'Service Carts + j Proposed bag /can limit all -in IWeekly Weekly Weekly ;Min 6 x 'weekly or 18 ervice Blue /Grey Boxes or preen Bins per year bag /can limit year Carts 1 EOW $1+ tags round t II j Multi -res (high -rise) with 7 or more units Current 12 bag /can limi weekly No No service or limited !No service No No service service (enhanced or I ervice service jlternating weekly Blue /Grey Boxes or 1 Carts) �_.....___ Proposed No service No Weekly Provisional No ; No hange Blue /Grey Boxes or organics !change change Carts ;collection I Designated business areas Current 7 bag /can IimitNo weekly service Alternating weekly ! Weekly No 1No Blue /Grey Boxes ;Green Bins ervice !service collection Proposed No change No change Weekly Blue /Grey Weekly No INo Boxes/ Carts — Green hange !change (mandatory) ;Bins /Carts � Ilection Small institutional and commercial properties outside designated business areas Current 7 bag /can IimilNo weekly service Alternating weekly Blue/ eekly Grey Boxes or carts Green Bins residential quantities' residential ; ,quantities' No No service ervice No 1No ervice (service j Proposed 4 bag /can limit weekly or 10 bag /can limit EOW No Alternating weekly max Weekly max change 1 1 4 Blue/ 4 Grey Boxes orj4 Green 12 carts (mandatory) ;Bins € 1 I Appendix A — Summary of Base Level of Service by Sector PWA 79 -2009 July 22, 2009 Environmental Protection Act Loi sur la protection de l'environnement ONTARIO REGULATION 103/94 INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL AND INSTITUTIONAL SOURCE SEPARATION PROGRAMS Consolidation Period: From March 3, 1994 to the e-Laws currency date. No amendments. This Regulation is made in English only. SOURCE SEPARATION PROGRAMS 1. In this Regulation, "Northern Ontario" means the territorial districts of Algoma, Cochrane, Kenora, Manitoulin, Nipissing, Parry Sound, Rainy River, Sudbury, Thunder Bay and Timiskaming and The Regional Municipality of Sudbury; "source separation program" means a program to facilitate the source separation of waste for reuse or recycling. O. Reg. 103/94, s. 1. 2. (1) A source separation program required under this Regulation must include, (a) the provision of facilities for the collection, handling and storage of' source separated wastes described in subsection (2) adequate for the quantities of anticipated wastes; (b) measures to ensure that the source separated wastes that are collected are removed; (c) the provision of information to users and potential users of the program, (i) describing the performance of the program, (ii) encouraging effective source separation of waste and full use of the program; (d) reasonable efforts to ensure that full use is made of the program and that the separated waste is reused or recycled. (2) The source separated waste referred to in clause (1) (a) is waste that has been source separated from other kinds of waste and that consists solely of waste from one or more of the following categories: 1. The categories of waste set out in the part of the Schedule applicable to the person required to implement the source separation program. 2. The categories of waste set out in Schedule I, 2 or 3 of Ontario Regulation 101 /94 that the source separation program accepts. (3) A source separation program required under this Regulation must provide for all the categories of waste set out in the part of the Schedule applicable to the person required to implement the program except for categories of waste that cannot be reasonably anticipated. O. Reg. 103/94, s. 2. 3. Source separation programs required by this Regulation are exempt from sections 27, 40 and 41 of the Act. O. Reg. 103/94, s. 3. 4. (1) A source separation program that is not required by this Regulation is exempt from sections 27, 40 and 41 of the Act if, (a) the program is restricted to waste generated at a single site; (b) the program only accepts waste that has been source separated from other kinds of waste and that consists solely of waste from one or more of the categories of waste set out in Schedule 1, 2 or 3 of Ontario Regulation 101/94; (c) the program includes everything set out in subsection 2 (1). (2) For the purposes of clause (1) (c), the reference to source separated waste in clause 2 (1) (a) shall be deemed to be a reference to the waste described in clause (1) (b). O. Reg. 103/94, s. 4. RETAIL SHOPPING ESTABLISHMENTS 5. (1) This section applies to the owner of an establishment that sells goods or services at retail to persons who come to the establishment if, (a) the establishment occupies premises with a floor area of at least 10,000 square metres; or (b) the establishment occupies premises in a complex in respect of which section 6 applies and the owner of the establishment is solely responsible for the establishment's waste management. (2) The owner shall implement a source separation program for the wastes generated by the establishment or shall ensure that such a program is implemented. (3) This section applies only in respect of an establishment located within a local municipality that has a population of at least 5,000. (4) This section takes effect with respect to an establishment in Northern Ontario on July 1, 1996. O. Reg. 103/94, s. 5. RETAIL SHOPPING COMPLEXES 6. (1) This section applies to the owner of a complex that contains premises occupied by establishments that sell goods or services at retail to persons who come to the establishments if the total floor area of such premises is at least 10,000 square metres. (2) The owner shall implement a source separation program for the wastes generated at the complex or shall ensure that such a program is implemented. (3) The source separation program need not provide for the waste generated in the operation of an establishment in the complex if section 5 applies to the owner of the establishment. (4) This section applies only in respect of a complex located in a local municipality that has a population of at least 5,000. (5) This section takes effect with respect to a complex in Northern Ontario on July 1, 1996. O. Reg. 103/94, s. 6. LARGE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS 7. (1) A person who undertakes, on their own behalf or on behalf of another person, a construction project consisting of the construction of one or more buildings with a total floor area of at least 2,000 square metres shall implement a source separation program for the waste that will be generated in the construction of the structure or shall ensure that such a program is implemented. (2) In addition to the requirements set out in section 2, the source separation program required under this section shall, (a) deal separately with each of the categories of waste set out in Part III of the Schedule that have been source separated from other kinds of waste and also from each other category of waste in Part III; or (b) provide for removal from the building site of any commingled categories of waste set out in Part III of the Schedule and for the immediate separation of such waste from all other kinds of waste and also from each other category of waste in Part III, at, (i) permanent premises of the person undertaking the construction project, (ii) permanent premises of the person on whose behalf the construction project is undertaken, or (iii) a waste disposal site operating under the authority of a certificate of approval or provisional certificate of approval. (3) The source separation program shall be implemented before construction work begins at the site. O. Reg. 103/94, s. 7. LARGE DEMOLITION PROJECTS 8. (1) A person who undertakes, on their own behalf or on behalf of another person, a demolition project consisting of the demolition of one or more buildings with a total floor area of at least 2,000 square metres shall implement a source separation program for the waste that will be generated in the demolition of the structure or shall ensure that such a program is implemented. (2) In addition to the requirements set out in section 2, the source separation program required under this section shall, (a) deal separately with each of the categories of waste set out in Part IV of the Schedule that have been source separated from other kinds of waste and also from each other category of waste in Part IV; or provide for removal from the demolition site of any commingled categories of waste set out in Part IV of the Schedule and for the immediate separation of such waste from all other kinds of waste and also from each other category of waste in Part IV, at, (i) permanent premises of the person undertaking the demolition project, (ii) permanent premises of the person on whose behalf the demolition project is undertaken, or (iii) a waste disposal site operating under the authority of a certificate of approval or provisional certificate of approval. (3) The source separation program shall be implemented before demolition work begins at the site. O. Reg. 103/94, s. 8. (b) 2 OFFICE BUILDINGS 9. (1) The owner of a building or group of buildings that has at least 10,000 square metres of floor area for use as offices shall implement a source separation program for the waste generated at the building or shall ensure that such a program is implemented. (2) For purposes of subsection (1), "group of buildings" means two or more buildings where, (a) each of the buildings has the same ownership, and (b) each of the buildings is in proximity to at least one other of the buildings such that there is at most one building or other real property of different ownership located between the two. (3) For purposes of determining, under subsection (2), whether there is at most one building or other real property of different ownership located between two buildings, the following properties shall not be counted: public roads; public parks; and any land over which the public has a general right of access. (4) This section applies only in respect of a building located within a local municipality that has a population of at least 5,000. (5) This section takes effect with respect to a building in Northern Ontario on July 1, 1996. O. Reg. 103/94, s. 9. MULTI -UNIT RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS 10. (1) The owner of a building that contains six or more dwelling units shall implement a source separation program for the waste generated at the building. (2) In subsection (1), "owner" includes a condominium corporation created under the Condominium Act. (3) This section applies only in respect of a building located within a local municipality that has a population of at least 5,000. (4) This section takes effect with respect to a building in Northern Ontario on July 1, 1996. O. Reg. 103/94, s. 10. RESTAURANTS 11. (1) This section applies to the owner of a restaurant, including a take -out restaurant. (2) The owner shall implement a source separation program for the waste generated by the operation of the restaurant or ensure that such a program is implemented. (3) This section does not apply with respect to a restaurant that occupies premises in, (a) an establishment in respect of which section 5 applies; (b) a complex in respect of which section 6 applies; (c) a building in respect of which section 9 applies; (d) a hotel or motel in respect of which section 12 applies; (e) a hospital in respect of which section 13 applies; (f) a location or campus of an educational institution in respect of which section 14 applies. (4) This section does not apply to an owner of a restaurant in a particular calendar year if, (a) during the two preceding calendar years there was no year in which the gross sales for all restaurants operated by the owner in Ontario equalled or exceeded $3,000,000; and (b) the owner is able to demonstrate this fact, within seven days of a request from the Director, through evidence satisfactory to the Director. (5) Copies of the records related to purchase and sale maintained under subsection 5 (1) of Regulation 1013 of the Revised Regulations of Ontario, 1990 shall be deemed to be sufficient evidence of the gross sales of a restaurant if the copies are certified by the owner or the owner's representative as to the accuracy of the records. (6) This section applies only in respect of a restaurant located within a local municipality that has a population of at least 5,000. (7) This section takes effect with respect to a restaurant in Northern Ontario on July 1, 1996. O. Reg. 103/94, s. 11. HOTELS AND MOTELS 12. (1) The owner of a hotel or motel that has more than seventy-five units shall implement a source separation program for the wastes generated by the operation of the hotel or motel or shall ensure that such a program is implemented. 3 (2) This section applies only in respect of a hotel or motel located within a local municipality that has a population of at least 5,000. (3) This section takes effect with respect to a hotel or motel in Northern Ontario on July I, 1996. O. Reg. 103/94, s. 12. HOSPITALS 13. (1) The operator of a public hospital classified as a class A, B or F hospital in Regulation 964 of the Revised Regulations of Ontario, 1990 shall implement a source separation program for the wastes generated by the operation of the hospital or shall ensure that such a program is implemented. (2) This section applies only in respect of a public hospital located within a local municipality that has a population of at least 5,000. (3) This section takes effect with respect to a public hospital in Northern Ontario on July 1, 1996. O.Reg. 103/94, s. 13. EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS 14. (1) This section applies to the operator of an educational institution in respect of a location or campus of the institution if, at the location or campus, at any time during the calendar year, more than 350 persons are enrolled. (2) The operator shall implement a source separation program for the waste generated by the operation of the institution at the location or campus or shall ensure that such a program is implemented. (3) This section continues to apply in respect of a location or campus for the two calendar years following the last year in which more than 350 persons were enrolled at the location or campus. (4) This section applies only in respect of a location or campus located within a local municipality that has a population of at least 5,000. (5) This section takes effect with respect to a location or campus in Northern Ontario on July 1, 1996. O. Reg. 103/94, s. 14. LARGE MANUFACTURING ESTABLISHMENTS 15. (1) This section applies to the owner or operator of a site that is a manufacturing establishment. (2) The owner shall implement a source separation program for the waste generated by the operation of the establishment at the site or shall ensure that such a program is implemented. (3) This section does not apply to an owner of a site in a particular calendar year if, (a) during the two preceding calendar years there was no calendar month in which the hours worked by the persons employed at the site exceeded 16,000 hours; and (b) the owner is able to demonstrate this fact, within seven days of a request from the Director, through evidence satisfactory to the Director. (4) Copies of the records related to hours of employment maintained under section 11 of the Employment Standards Act shall be deemed to be sufficient evidence of hours worked at a site if the copies are certified by the owner or the owner's representative as to the accuracy of the records. (5) In this section, "owner" includes the operator of a manufacturing establishment but does not include a landlord; "site" means one property and includes nearby properties owned or leased by the same person where passage from one property to another involves crossing, but not travelling along, a public highway. O. Reg. 103/94, s. 15. TRANSITION 16. Except as otherwise provided, a person who, upon the coming into force of this Regulation, or at any time within twelve months after the coming into force of this Regulation, becomes subject to an obligation with respect to the implementation of a source separation program shall fulfil the obligation within twelve months after the coming into force of this Regulation. O. Reg. 103/94, s. 16. SCHEDULE WASTES TO BE PROVIDED FOR IN SOURCE SEPARATION PROGRAMS PART I RETAIL SHOPPING ESTABLISHMENTS (referred to in section 5) 1. Aluminum food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of aluminum). 2. Cardboard (corrugated). 4 3. Fine paper. 4. Glass bottles and jars for food or beverages. 5. Newsprint. 6. Steel food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of steel). PART II RETAIL SHOPPING COMPLEXES (referred to in section 6) 1. Aluminum food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of aluminum). 2. Cardboard (corrugated). 3. Fine paper. 4. Glass bottles and jars for food or beverages. 5. Newsprint. 6. Steel food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of steel). PART III LARGE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS (referred to in section 7) 1. Brick and Portland cement concrete. 2. Cardboard (corrugated). 3. Drywall (unpainted). 4. Steel. 5. Wood (not including painted or treated wood or laminated wood). PART IV LARGE DEMOLITION PROJECTS (referred to in section 8) 1. Brick and Portland cement concrete. 2. Steel. 3. Wood (not including painted or treated wood or laminated wood). PART V OFFICE BUILDINGS (referred to in section 9) 1. Aluminum food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of aluminum). 2. Cardboard (corrugated). 3. Fine paper. 4. Glass bottles and jars for food or beverages. 5. Newsprint. 6. Steel food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of steel). PART VI MULTI -UNIT RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS (referred to in section 10) 1. Aluminum food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of aluminum). 2. Glass bottles and jars for food or beverages. 3. Newsprint. 4. Polyethylene terephthalate bottles for food or beverages (including bottles made primarily of polyethylene terephthalate). 5. Steel food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of steel). 6. The categories of waste that are collected or accepted by the blue box waste management system, if any, of the municipality where the building is located. PART VII RESTAURANTS (referred to in section 11) 1. Aluminum food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of aluminum). 2. Cardboard (corrugated). 3. Fine paper. 4. Glass bottles and jars for food or beverages. 5. Newsprint. 6. Polyethylene terephthalate bottles for food or beverages (including bottles made primarily of polyethylene terephthalate). 7. Steel food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of steel). PART VIII HOTELS AND MOTELS (referred to in section 12) 1. Aluminum food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of aluminum). 2. Cardboard (corrugated). 3. Fine paper. 4. Glass bottles and jars for food or beverages. 5. Newsprint. 6. Polyethylene terephthalate bottles for food or beverages (including bottles made primarily of polyethylene terephthalate). 7. Steel food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of steel). PART IX HOSPITALS (referred to in section 13) 1. Aluminum food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of aluminum). 2. Cardboard (corrugated). 3. Fine paper. 4. Glass bottles and jars for food or beverages. 5. Newsprint. 6. Steel food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of steel). PART X EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS (referred to in section 14) 1. Aluminum food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of aluminum). 2. Cardboard (corrugated). 3. Fine paper. 4. Glass bottles and jars for food or beverages. 5. Newsprint. 6 6. Steel food or beverage cans (including cans made primarily of steel). PART XI LARGE MANUFACTURING ESTABLISHMENTS (referred to in section 15) 1. Aluminum. 2. Cardboard (corrugated). 3. Fine paper. 4. Glass. 5. Newsprint. 6. Polyethylene (high density) jugs, pails, crates, totes and drums. 7. Polyethylene (linear low density and low density) film. 8. Polystyrene (expanded) foam. 9. Polystyrene trays, reels and spools. 10. Steel. 11. Wood (not including painted or treated wood or laminated wood). Back to top 7 0. Reg. 103/94, Sched. REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario SUBMITTED BY: Community Services Department SUBJECT: MW- 2009 -79 Site Preparation Costs - Gale Complex RECOMMENDATION That this report be received and filed. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The cost to develop the Cytec site for the Gale Centre was approximately $2,995,000, of this amount $1,115,000 was as a result of developing this brownfield site. The additional works required consisted of foundation and rubble excavation, crushing (reuse and placement), contaminated material excavation and disposal and finally testing. This results in a per acre cost of $67,600. BACKGROUND On November 7, 2005, Council approved report R- 2005 -57 entitled, "Selection of the Preferred Site for the Arena Complex Development Project." This report recommended the Cytec site be chosen for the Gale Centre Project. Some of the rationale for selecting the site included; • ANALYSIS MW- 2009 -79 October 19, 2009 15 acres of land be offered at no costs to the City (final amount of land donated was 16.5 acres). Act as a catalyst for future brownfield development in the area. Preliminary development costs were estimated to be lower than other three sites considered. On September 24, 2007, Council approved report R- 2007 -25 "Tender T12 -2007, Site Clearing, Grading and Subsurface Work Niagara Falls Four Pad Arena Complex" which recommended the award of the site preparation tender to AIM Waste Management Incorporated at a cost of $2,863,100. The final site preparation costs and breakdown are provided on the September 2009 Site Preparation Cost Summary. As is shown the cost to prepare the site was $2,995,000 of which $1,115,000 was required in order to deal with the existing foundation and contaminated materials that were on site. Accordingly, the costs to remediate the 16.5 acres that was donated to the City by Cytec was approximately $67,600. October 19, 2009 FINANCIAL/LEGAL IMPLICATIONS The site preparation works has been accounted for in the overall Gale Centre Project budget. COMMITMENT TO COUNCIL PRIORITIES This project fell under Council's key strategic priority being move forward with the arena complex development project. ATTACHMENT • Report R- 2005 -57 • Report R- 2007 -25 • Site Preparation Costs, September 2009 Approved by: Respectfully submitted: S:\REPORTS\2009 \MW -2009 -79 - Site Preparation Gale Complex.wpd -2- MW- 2009 -79 Ed Dujlovic, E'ecutive Director of Corporate Services J Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer The City of Niagara Fall Canada are Members: His Worship Mayor Ted Salci and Members of the Municipal Council City of Niagara Falls, Ontario RECOMMENDATION: Community Services Department R-2005-5T Parks, Recreation & Culture Adele Kon 4310 Queen Street Director P.O. Box 1023 Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5 web site: www.city.niagarafalls.on.ca Tel.: (905) 356 -7521 Fax: (905) 356 -7404 E -mail: akon©city.niagarafalls.on.ca November 7, 2005 Re: R- 2005 -57 - Selection of the Preferred Site for the Arena Complex Development Project That the 15 acre (6 hectares) property located within the former Cytec industrial property (4001 Fourth Avenue) offered at no cost to the City from Canadian Niagara Hotels be developed as the future site for the Niagara Falls Arena Complex, subject to the following conditions being met: 1. That a satisfactory memorandum of agreement be executed between the City and the "relevant parties" including Canadian Niagara Hotels and Cytec by December 31, 2005 that defines the respective roles and responsibilities of the three parties leading to the transfer of ownership. 2. That the City receive indemnification by the appropriate party(s) (i.e., Cytec and/or Canadian Niagara Hotels) from any responsibility and costs of any environmental issues that may arise from developing or using the Preferred Site. Indemnification should also be extended to cover any environmental effects /risks on the Preferred Site that may arise from adjacent lands that were used by Cytec for industrial purposes. 3. That Canadian Niagara Hotels provide to the City by March, 2006, a Record of Site Condition prepared by a "qualified professional" declaring the Preferred Site as environmentally suitable for the proposed twin pad arena and ancillary uses such as parking and access roads. 4. That site specific investigations be initiated at the Preferred Site to further confirm the suitability of the Preferred Site for the proposed arena complex. The site investigations should proceed at the same time as the other recommendations in order to meet the project development schedule. Working Together to Serve Our Community Municipal Works • Fire Services • Parks, Recreation & Culture • Business Development • Building & By-Law Services November 7, 2005 -2 - R- 2005.57 BACKGROUND: The arena complex site selection process was undertaken by the Arena Complex Development Steering Committee with assistance from City Staff. The selection process used to identify the preferred site was considered by the Steering Committee at its October 18, 2005, meeting. The Steering Committee agreed that the Canadian Niagara Hotels (CNH) Site was preferred and should be developed as the site for the twin pad arena complex. The Arena Complex Development Project City Council decided to replace the Niagara Falls Memorial Arena with a twin pad complex. On October 3, 2005, it was decided that the arena complex should include a 2001 seat arena and a smaller 250 seat arena. The project development schedule includes the following milestones: • November 7, 2005 — Council's consideration and approval of the preferred site. • November 2005 to March 2006 — Site specific investigations at preferred site and completion of facility design. • June 2006 — initiate facility construction. • September 2007 — complete construction and open new arena complex. The arena development schedule is attainable if there are no delays encountered at any stage or decision point during the project. The Arena Site Selection Process The five -step site selection process, including the type and priority of evaluation criteria was accepted by City Council on May 16, 2005, and involves: • Step #1 — Development and Acceptance of Process (May 16, 2005) • Step #2 — Identification of "Long List" (August 8, 2005) • Step #3 — Determination of "Short List" (September 13, 2005) • Step #4 — Selection of "Preferred Site" (November 2005) • Step #5 — Confirmation of "Preferred Site" Suitability and Site Preparation (ongoing from November 2005) The selection process is a comparative evaluation which weighs the relative advantages and disadvantages of potential sites. The Step #4 evaluation compares a "short list" of sites and identifies a "Preferred Site" based on the relative importance of evaluation criteria. The Evaluation of "Short List" Sites The Steering Committee, at its September 13, 2005, meeting agreed to evaluate four "short list" sites that included one "offered" site and three City -owned sites: 1. 4001 Fourth Avenue, being the Cytec Canada Inc. property, proposed by Canadian Niagara Hotels (The CNH Site). November 7, 2005 - 3 - R- 2005 -57 2. A City -owned property located on Mewbum Road and adjacent to the now closed Mountain Road Landfill Site (The Mewbum Road Site). 3. A City-owned property located on the north -west comer of McLeod Road and Montrose Road (The McLeod/Montrose Site). 4. A City-owned property located on the north -east corner of Montrose Road and McLeod Road, part of this site is occupied by the MacBain Community Centre and the skatepark (The MacBain Community Centre Site). A comprehensive comparative evaluation of the four sites concluded that the CNH Site was the preferred location to establish the new arena complex. Reasons for Selecting the CNH Site The proposed arena complex is an excellent use to initiate the rehabilitation of a former industrial property. Comprehensive environmental investigations have concluded that there will be no risk to public health and safety of using this property for the proposed uses. The other advantages of proceeding with the CNH Site as the Preferred Site for the Arena Complex Project are as follows: • It is being offered by Canadian Niagara Hotels at no cost to the City. • Development of this property could be an impetus to further development on this property and for other properties in this part of the City. The site is a former industrial property that has been vacant since 1992. An arena complex development with parking is a suitable redevelopment use for part of this property. • The Cytec property, including the preferred site, is within the Brownfields Community Improvement Plan which encourages reuse of the land for community facilities. This is consistent with City and Provincial policy. • The preliminary development costs are estimated to be lower than the other three sites. • The CNH Site could be available to the City within the development schedule estimated if environmental clearances and site plan and building permit approvals are obtained no later than March 2006. • The site size is significantly large to provide flexibility in the site design and could potentially be considered for future expansion purposes. • Independent and comprehensive environmental investigations completed at this location concluded that the site is suitable for the proposed arena complex. There are no hazardous wastes or contaminant materials on the property being offered to the City. • In the comparative evaluation of traffic, engineering and planning considerations by the respective City departments, the CNH Site ranked higher, or at least equal to the other three sites. November 7, 2005 - 4 - R- 200547 • Adjacent land uses do not conflict with the proposed arena complex. • Access roads have the capacity to accommodate forecasted traffic increases resulting from the arena complex. • The site can potentially be accessed from at least two points including Stanley Avenue and also from Fourth Avenue. The site can also be accessed by visitors to the City arriving from the QEW via Thorold Stone Road or Highway 420 via Stanley Avenue. Matters That Must be Addressed — The CNH Site If it is decided to proceed with the Arena Development Project at the CNH Site there are several important matters that must be addressed. These are considered significant issues with the potential to delay the project if these issues are not resolved within the scheduling milestones established for this project. However, Staff is confident these issues can be resolved and that proceeding with this site is preferred compared to other siting alternatives. The disadvantages of proceeding with the CNH Site are outweighed by the many advantages of developing the property and the anticipated positive effect on the future development of the surrounding lands which have been idle since 1992. It is important, however, to identify the possible implications of selecting the CNH Site and moving forward without these issues being fully resolved. These issues include: • It is Staffs information that the CNH Site is owned by Cytec. The ownership and any agreements with Canadian Niagara Hotels have not been made available or reviewed by Staff. Canadian Niagara Hotels proposes that it will purchase the entire 38 hectare (93acre) property and provide, at no cost to the City, a 15 acre (6 hectare) parcel. The entire property will not be purchased by Canadian Niagara Hotels until it is deemed environmentally acceptable. This process may take several more months and perhaps years. In the interim, Canadian Niagara Hotels proposes to lease the Preferred Site to the City at a nominal rate (i.e., $1 per year). Since this transaction involves a third party (i.e., the owner, Cytec) there is a need to develop appropriate agreements to ensure that the City can proceed with the project without undue risk. The City must immediately engage legal assistance to research the "ownership" issue and prepare the necessary agreement(s) to facilitate the land transfer. • Comprehensive environmental studies have been completed throughout the Cytec property and within the Preferred Site offered by Canadian Niagara Hotels. Contrary to public perception, these investigations have concluded that the Preferred Site is environmentally suitable for the proposed arena project and is not a risk to public health and safety. However, there is a process that must be followed to receive the necessary environmental clearances (referred to as a Record of Site Condition). This process is the responsibility of Cytec and may take several months to complete. Other approvals, including site plan approval and building permit issuance are contingent on or conditional to receiving a Record of Site Condition. As noted, this process could delay the project to the extent that the September 2007 opening is not met. To address the above issues and the potential risks of moving forward, it is recommended that a "memorandum of agreement" be developed between the City, Canadian Niagara Hotels and Cytec that defines the roles, responsibilities and commitment of the three parties. The matter of indemnification November 7, 2005 -5 - R•2005.57 by Cytec and/or Canadian Niagara Hotels from potential environmental risks must also be addressed. A Record of Site Condition must also be prepared by a "Qualified Professional" that declares the CNH site as environmentally acceptable for the proposed uses. Elimination of Other "Short List" Sites The major reasons for eliminating the other three sites are summarized in Table 1. It was determined that the other three sites had location and development disadvantages t hat would result in higher development costs or significantly delay the implementation of the project. The MacBain Community Centre Site might be a suitable location for a twin pad arena complex although the configuration of the site would require an innovative and more costly design and construction approach. Another major disadvantage of the MacBain Community Centre Site is that it would not allow any future expansion of the arena complex. It is also noted that a twin pad arena complex would dominate the site unless significant and higher cost architectural modifications were employed to blend the building into the contours of the site. The Next Steps — Step #5 If the CNH Site is accepted by City Council, then other site development work must be undertaken. The site development work would usually be completed after the recommended "conditions" of a "memorandum of agreement" and a Record of Site Condition are satisfied. However, if this project completion schedule is to be met, this work must be undertaken at the same time. This additional work is necessary to confirm the suitability of the CNH Site for the proposed arena complex use and to ensure the project development schedule (i.e., Fall 2007 opening) is met. The site specific investigations and supporting activities include: • Continue with the community, stakeholder and user group consultation process. This should include working closely with the Mayor's Disability Advisory Committee. • Initiating the architectural program in anticipation that ownership issues and environmental clearance will be completed by March 2005. • Complete a legal survey of the property to establish the specific limits of the 15 acre site, prepare a reference plan and review property title. • Undertake geotechnical investigations to establish design parameters. • Determine the need for any other site specific investigations including an archaeological assessment. • Complete a traffic assessment to determine site access preferences and to establish project costs for any road improvements and related works. • Undertake a topographical survey of the site and prepare a contour plan to the level of detail necessary to initiate servicing and design activities. November 7, 2005 -6 - R-2005-57 • Prepare a conceptual site plan and initiate approvals in consultation with Planning and Public Works. • Work closely with the Building Services to ensure the design meets requirements and potential review and approval delays are mitigated. • Determine the need and timing for a consent to sever the Preferred Site from the larger property. • Establish detailed and comprehensive site preparation, servicing and development costs. • Erect a large public notice at one or more key locations about the site to identify it as the future location of the arena complex. Conclusion The Arena Complex Development Steering Committee concluded that the recommended site is the preferred and most suitable site for the twin pad arena and for any future expansion of the arena complex. The site is considered environmentally acceptable for the proposed arena use and is not a risk to public health and safety. Staff is confident that ownership of the property can be transferred to the City in a timely manner. However, it is essential that the City move quickly with Canadian Niagara Hotels and its generous offer of a 15 acre site to address the implementation issues and potential risk of delay associated with accepting this location as the preferred site for the arena complex. This means that "ownership" issues and the timing to receive environmental clearance be completed as soon as possible and no later than March 2005. If there are any delays in addressing any of the development matters with this site the objective to open the arena complex by September 2007 will not be met. Prepared by: 1 At j Rob McDonald Community Development Coordinator Recommende A.ee on Director of Parks, Recreation & Culture RM/das Attachment Respectfully submitted: John MacDonald Chief Administrative Officer S:\Council\Council 2005Vt- 2005 -$7 - Selection of the Preferred Site for the Arena Complex Development Projectwpd "Short List" .: Site/Site Size Major Reasons for Eliminating "Short List" Site 1.Mewburn Road (Part of • Availability of site to meet project schedule potentially Township Lots 7 & 14) - effected by need to obtain Niagara Escarpment 36 ha (90 acres) Commission approvals and likelihood of success; • Would require an environmental site assessment to determine its suitability for the proposed use because of its location adjacent to the former Mountain Road landfill; • Development of an arena complex at this site would have the least impact on the future development of surrounding properties; • The site is located outside the Urban Area Boundary and outside the Urban Service Area. Extension of urban services may not be permitted and Regional approvals are required. 2. North West Corner of • Highest comparative development cost ($2+ million); McLeod Road and • Significant site preparation/development works required Montrose Road - 6.1 ha for this site to be suitable could potentially delay the (15 acres) project schedule; • Property recently re -zoned for commercial purposes establishing a higher value and potential uses for the property that would be compromised by using all or part of the site for an arena complex; • Significant road improvements would be required on Montrose Road to accommodate traffic increases from the development of a twin pad arena complex. TABLE 1 November 2005 SUMMARY OF DISADVANTAGES — "SHORT LIST" SITES ELIMINATED Proposed Niagara Falls Arena Complex (Step #4) Table #1 cont'd... November 2005 3. MacBain Community Centre Site - 4.9 ha (12 + acres) • Site configuration, site contours and existence of other uses (i.e. skatepark and MacBain Community Centre) would impact the siting of a twin pad at this location; • Site size and configuration would not permit future expansion to a four pad arena; • Second highest comparative development costs; • Significant road improvements would be required on Montrose Road to accommodate traffic increases from the development of a twin pad arena comple; • Arena building would dominate site unless architectural modifications undertaken at significant extra costs. September 24, 2007 His Worship Mayor Ted Salci and Members of the Municipal Council City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Members: Re: R-2007-25 - Tender T12-2007 Site Clearing, Grading and Sub - Surface Work Niagara Falls 4 Pad Arena Complex RECOMMENDATION: 1) That Tender # TR12 -2007 be awarded to AIM Waste Management Inc. for the tendered price of $2,863,100.00 excluding GST, and 2) that the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the necessary agreement. BACKGROUND: Niagaraj7alls This tender is for the site clearing, grading and sub - surface preparation at 4001 Fourth Avenue, the City -owned property (15 acres / 6 hectares) for Niagara Falls 4 -Pad Arena Complex project. Work will commence in October 2007 and be completed by December 31, 2007. The seven (7) Contractors listed below were pre qualified with all seven (7) submitting bids by Friday, September 21, 2007 at 1:15 p.m.. Tenders were opened in the presence of the City Clerk on Friday, September 21, 2007 at 1:30 p.m. The Tender asked for specified Tender prices for: The recommendation(s) contained in this report were adopted by City Council R- 2007 -25 1) Total price for all site clearing, excavating, removal, disposal, supply, place and compact fill. 2) Total price for all on site underground services. 3) Supply and install municipal services on Fourth Avenue including new storm water management pond and all associated work. Working Together to Serve Our Community ada1 6X5 905 -356 -7521 www.nia•arafalls.ca Community Services AIM Waste Management Inc. Stoney Creek $2,863,100.00 Alfidome Construction Ltd. Niagara Falls $3,366,000.00 Greenspoon Specialty Contracting ULC Brampton $3,330,171.00 Rankin Construction Inc. St. Catharines $3,688,225.00 Integrated Municipal Services Thorold $3,779,564.00 Provincial Construction Limited Niagara Falls $5,762,350.00 Hard Rock Construction Inc. Port Colborne $6,060,423.36 OeptelllUer L4, LUUI Staff is suggesting that item # 3 be excluded (noted above) from the awarded contract at this time. The work to supply and install municipal services on 4 Avenue will tendered and completed at a later date when all necessary approvals are in place. Listed below is the summary of the adjusted bid prices, excluding GST, received from each of the seven (7) pre qualified bidders. (The chart below reflects the tendered amounts exclusive of item #3). The $34.7 million budget for the 4 -pad arena, as outlined and approved on May 2007, had included these estimated costs for overall site preparation. The Architects for this project, Barry, Bryan Associates (1991) Limited have reviewed the tender document submissions. The recommendation is to award the site clearing, grading and sub - surface contract to AIM Waste Management Inc., for the adjusted tender price of $2,863,100.00 Recommended by: Approved by: Respectfully submitted: UC - /171 orrissey, Director of fla Recreation & Culture �7Z•2L Ar Denys Ed Dujlovic, E -L- 6' cutive Director of Community Services trin 4t fin MacDonald, Chief Administrative Officer K- LUU1 - L3 Niagaraf'alls October 19, 2009 REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair and Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario SUBMITTED BY: Parks, Recreation & Culture SUBJECT: PRC - 2009 -30 Kalar Road Sports Park Washroom Building RECOMMENDATION PRC- 2009 -30 That the proposed washroom building at the Kalar Road Sports Park be expanded to include a community club house at a maximum cost to the City of $550,000. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Niagara United Soccer Club, (NUSC), has requested that the proposed washrooms for the sports park be expanded to include amenities such as changerooms, offices and hall to accommodate their needs as well as provide enhanced facilities to service field events and tournaments. The City is to provide funding to a maximum of $550,000, $330,000 is budgeted in the 2009 Capital Budget and $220,000 in RNiC funding that was approved for the project. Any costs in excess of this will be funded by NUSC. BACKGROUND Included in the development of the multi purpose artificial turf sports field was the construction of a washroom building which was to include storage for park related equipment and a small concession area. Currently, portable toilets are used to provide amenities for the park. Accordingly, the washroom project was included in the 2009 Capital Budget. NUSC identified opportunities to expand the market to attract additional users to the artificial turf field. In order to do so an expanded City owned community facility is required that would provide additional amenities such as change rooms with showers, a main hall and offices. Although the main user of the facility will be NUSC, this expanded building will be available to the community. An agreement will be entered into with NUSC following the model used for the Boys Home for Soccer which will be the subject of a future Council report. FINANCIAL /STAFFING /LEGAL IMPLICATIONS The City did budget $330,000 in the 2009 Capital Budget. Funding sources included operating and as well development charges. The City also made an application in 2009 for RNiC funding for the proposed washrooms at the park. The City was successful in receiving $220,000 towards the project. It is clearly stated in the RNiC funding application October 19, 2009 - 2 - PRC- 2009 -30 that, "the work to be undertaken is an incremental construction activity that would not otherwise have been constructed by March 21, 2011 where not for the funding from the RNIC program." Accordingly, the RNiC funding should not be used to offset funding for what the City was planning to do. STRATEGIC COMMITMENT The development of the artificial turf sports field follows the recommendations contained in the Strategic Plan for Park Recreation & Culture. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS 1. Capital Budget Worksheet 2009 - Kalar Park Washroom Building Recommended by: Approved by: Respectfully submitted: Denyse Morrissey Director of Par Recreation & Culture Ed Dujlovic ecutive Director, Community Services Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer ATTACHMENT 1 Category in 2008 1 Year InlUelly Approved' Project Description Construction of a standard pads washroom building with a minor concession and operations room to replace the temporary portables; includes servicing costs , accessible public washrooms Opening Balance -Jan 01 (surplus} l deficit EXPENDITURES Engineering Fees / Design Studies Land 1 Building / Furniture / Equipment Construction Roads Storm Sewers Water Sanitary Sewers Sitework /Landscaping Contingency Interest Expense TOTAL EXPENDITURES FUNDING SOURCES Spedai Purpose Reserves Reserve Fund Transfer from Operating Development Charges Debentures Land Sale Proceeds ProvindaVFederal Grants External Contributions Interest Earned Omer TOTAL FUNDING SOURCES Closing Balance - Dec 31 (surplus)1 deficit Depannwrt Parke, Recreation & Culture Project Name KalarPark'Home for Girls Soccer" (b) WASHROOM/PARK BUILDING Project 1.D.9 New CURRENT ACTUAL as of December 31 Capital Budget Worksheet 2009 Capital Management Reference Purchase Improvement Consbtw0on (new) •135 Development p YEAR 2008 YEAR 2009 YEAR 2010 YEAR 2011 YEAR 2012 YEAR 2013 01 0 0 0 0 0 45,000 100,000 50,000 105 000 30,000 330,000 0 0 0 0 187,195 55,821 107,184 30 000 0 0 0 0 0 Q:r2005 Budget\Capital BudgettPRClKalar Park Home for Olds Soccer (b) washroom.parkbuilding (new).gpw EMI GM 01- Jun -09. 11:48 44 AM PD- 2009 -63 Niagaraj'alls October 19, 2009 REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair and Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario SUBMITTED BY: Planning & Development SUBJECT: PD- 2009 -63 Summary of CIP Applications and Proposed Changes to the Financial Incentive Programs RECOMMENDATION That Committee approve the proposed revisions to the Financial Incentive Programs for the Downtown and Historic Drummondville CIP areas for implementation on January 1, 2010 and that landowners within the two CIP areas be invited to a Public Forum to discuss the funding programs. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY There is an opportunity to revise the current financial incentive programs to better address the priorities of the Downtown and Historic Drummondville CIP areas. The Downtown BIA believes that now is the time to change the residential loan to a residential grant in order to upgrade older apartments above retail businesses along Queen Street and Erie Avenue. Meanwhile, the Main and Ferry BIA feels strongly that the redevelopment of the Sylvia Place Market would be a catalyst for the rejuvenation of Historic Drummondville area and they have requested that a fair share of the annual CIP budget be set aside for the redevelopment of Sylvia Place Market. BACKGROUND For the past couple of years, staff has provided City Council with an annual summary of the number of CIP applications and amount of grants or loans approved, as well as, the value of work carried out by the proponents. A summary of applications from 2007 to present is attached to this report. The Annual Budget for the three CIP areas (Downtown, Historic Drummondville and Brownfields) has been based on the estimated number of applications expected to be received every year. The actual number of applications has been lower than expected, resulting in year end surpluses which are divided into separate areas such as program incentives and property acquisition. The amount of money in reserves was a key reason why Council reduced the 2009 CIP budget by 50% ($465,000) and placed the funds under one account. The funds are available on a first come first serve basis. Approximately $60,000 of the 2009 budget of $465,000 has been allocated to approved applications. October 19, 2009 - 2 - PD- 2009 -63 There is concern that the programs do not specifically target the needs of the community improvement areas which accounts for low participation. Therefore, improvements and reprogramming may be necessary. On September 22, 2009, Planning staff hosted a public forum inviting 50 developers and representatives of the Downtown and Historic Drummondville BIA's and asked the attendees how the City may alter the financial incentive programs to make the funding programs more attractive. There were 5 people in attendance including three members of the Main & Ferry BIA, a developer and consultant. Despite low attendance, it was noted at the meeting that a number of landowners within the CIP areas are carrying out improvements without making application to the City for financial assistance. When questioned why this was happening, people suggested that if they receive City funding, their taxes would increase. Other felt that the applications were too complex. In discussion with the Downtown BIA, they felt that changes to the financial incentive programs were important at certain stages of redevelopment. With a number of new stores in the Downtown and many facades having been improved, they feel now is the time for the residential loan program to be changed to a grant program. Such a grant should be directed to refurbishing older existing apartments above the commercial level that are in poor condition. This type of grant would help attract potential tenants who desire living in an arts environment that is being created Downtown by providing very good standards in apartment units. ANALYSIS/RATIONALE 1. Downtown The current financial incentive programs for the Downtown CIP include (1) Commercial Building and Facade Improvement Grant, (2) Residential Loan and (3) Revitalization Grant. Staff have discussed the funding programs with the Downtown BIA and they advised that the most desired change at this time would be the residential loan to a residential grant for existing older apartments that are above businesses along Queen Street and Erie Avenue. They feel that if grants are available at a level of $15,000 per apartment (based upon a minimum of $30,000 worth of improvements), there would be a positive impact in attracting more people living and doing business Downtown. The current Residential Loan is a no interest loan of a maximum of $20,000 per residential unit. There has been one loan application approved in the Downtown and two applications approved in the Historic Drummondville area in the 3 years that the program has been available. While interest in the program has been low, staff believe applications received demonstrate a need for the program. The lack of interest may be a result of the loans having to be repaid and the first 60% of the loan is not paid out until 60% of the construction is complete. There is also additional financial information required from the applicant and because they need to register the agreement on title of the property which shows the City holding the second mortgage. It is recommended that the loan program remain available for the development of new apartment buildings or condominiums. October 19, 2009 - 3 - PD- 2009 -63 In order for a grant to be effective, it is important that the grant be large enough to stimulate the renovation of older apartments or unused/vacant space. A grant in the amount of $15,000 may be large enough to encourage such renovations. Staff has inspected a number of older buildings along Queen Street and Erie Avenue, and there are a number of opportunities for loft type apartments. There is renewed interest in people wanting to live in the Downtown and a change to a residential grant could result in more attractive apartments being available. The City's Housing Strategy contained in the Official Plan encourages the renewal of existing housing stock in the City. Information from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation states that the core vacancy rates for Downtown Niagara Falls is 5.9 % versus 4.1 % for the rest of the City in 2008. When contacting municipalities who have CI P programs, we found there to be some who provide residential grants, while others provided residential loans. We know that the grant program is easier to administer and is more attractive to landowners. The Region is a partner through their Smart Growth Program and they will contribute $5,000 for each approved application. Therefore, if the program is changed to a $15,000 grant, the Region would offset the City's contribution whereby the true cost to the City would be $10,000 per apartment. Staff would recommend there be a cap of $250,000 or 25 units to this program. If this change is successful, and the funds are utilized early in the new year, a request can be made to reallocate a portion of the special purpose reserve funds. The Revitalization Grant Program benefits the redevelopment of vacant land or redevelopment of buildings that have low assessment. Grants are recoverable through the increase in assessment received following redevelopment. It is suggested that this program not be changed, but reviewed in the future. There has not been a great deal of interest in this program. As other funding programs are used more frequently, the City should continue to monitor the program and report back on whether it should be continued. This will assist the City in receiving the benefits of the redevelopment much sooner in form of increased taxes. Proposed Changes to the Financial Assistance Programs for the Downtown CIP: A Residential Grant Program be introduced for the renovation of older existing apartments and unused vacant space above businesses along Queen Street and Erie Avenue and the maximum grant be $15,000 per apartment with an annual expenditure cap for this program of $250,000 or for 25 units. That the Residential Grant Program come into effect on January 1, 2010 and be established for an initial three year period to be reviewed after that time. October 19, 2009 - 4 - PD- 2009 -63 2. Historic Drummondville The Historic Drummondville CIP contains four financial incentive programs and they are the (1) Commercial Building and Facade Improvement Grant, (2) Revitalization Grant, (3) Residential Loan and the (4) Residential Rehabilitation Grant. The Residential Rehabilitation Program provides grants for the residential area east of Main Street between Peer and Robinson Streets. A similar program does not exist in the Downtown Area. There has only been one application approved under this program in 3 years. The Residential Rehabilitation Program was originally intended to improve the appearance of residential properties that were in poor physical condition. This program, while having good intentions, has not been successful and it is proposed that this program not be funded. At the October 24 meeting, the Main and Ferry BIA representatives were questioned as to what changes to the financial incentive programs would most benefit the Historic Drummondville Area. They agreed that the Residential Rehabilitation Grant should not be funded and did not recommend any other changes to the financial incentive programs. However, they recommended that their share of the budgeted CIP funds be redirected towards the redevelopment of Sylvia Place Market. They agreed that a small amount of CIP funds could be made available in the 2010 Budget for a few commercial building and facade improvement applications. Proposed Changes to the Financial Incentive Programs for the Historic Dummondville CIP: • The Residential Rehabilitation Program within the Historic Drummondville CIP not be funded. • That a share of the annual CIP budget be redirected for the future 3. Brownfield CIP redevelopment of Sylvia Place Market. Although the City has a number of brownfield sites within it's urban area, there has only been three Environmental Study Grants and one Rehabilitation Grant issued. The lack of applications could be partly the result of Niagara Falls having a healthy supply of greenfields where new development can be processed more quickly and at less cost. Until it is more economically viable to redevelop brownfields, it is unlikely that there will be much in the way of redevelopment of brownfield sites. It is recommended that there be no change to the brownfield financial incentive programs. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The approved CIP budget for 2009 was $465,000. About $400,000 remains uncommitted. A portion of the surplus funds will be set aside to pay for the interest on the approved residential loan applications. The change to the Downtown Financial Incentives Program October 19, 2009 - 5 - PD- 2009 -63 for the Residential Loan to change to a Residential Grant is proposed for implementation January 1s 2010. A budget cap of $250,000 or 25 units is recommended. Meanwhile, for the Historic Drummondville CIP area, it is recommended that $200,000 be allocated for the future redevelopment of the Sylvia Place Market. CITY'S STRATEGIC COMMITMENT It is an objective of the Downtown and Historic Drummondville CIP's to develop financial incentives that will help promote private sector investment and redevelopment in the commercial business areas. The proposed changes in this report will redirect funds to priority areas for both CIP areas. It is intended to encourage a better utilization of the funds and help stimulate economic development within the areas. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS ► Appendix 1 - Summary of Financial Incentive Applications Recommended by: Approved by: B.Bolibruck Attach. �x Herl�irector of Planning & Development Ed Dujlovic,`'Executive Director, Community Services Respectfully submitted: Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer S: \PDR12009 \PD- 2009 -63, Existing CIP Programs and Proposed Improvements.wpd Historic Drummondville CIP # of Applications Approved Amount of Grants /Loans Approved Value of Work to be Undertaken Commercial Building & Facade Improvement Grants 10 $161,336 $368,326 Revitalization Grant 2 $858,591 $18,311,000 Residential Loan 1 $500,000 in the total noted above Residential Rehabilitation 1 $8,500 $17,000 Downtown CIP # of Applications Approved Amount of Grants /Loans Approved Value of Work to be Undertaken Commercial Building & Facade Improvement Grants 25 $392,535 $1,117,416 Revitalization Grant 2 $95,851 $2,403,000 Residential Loan 1 $262,200 in the total noted above Brownfields CIP # of Applications Approved Amount of Grants /Loans Approved Value of Work to be Undertaken Environmental Study Grant 3 $30,000 - Rehabilitations Grant 1 $3,985,835 $17,967,040 October 19, 2009 - 6 - APPENDIX 1 SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL INCENTIVE APPLICATIONS 2007 -2009 PD- 2009 -63 • _�i-S Nia garafla lls REPORT TO: SUBMITTED BY: SUBJECT: RECOMMENDATION That the Commercial Building and Facade Improvement GrantApplication and Residential Loan Application for 5936 -5942 Main Street be approved subject to the owner satisfying the program requirements including satisfaction of outstanding orders to comply with the Ontario Building Code and Ontario Fire Code and the execution of the necessary agreements with the City. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair and Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Planning & Development PD- 2009 -75 CB &FIG - 2009 -004, RBL- 2009 -001 Applicant: 1594268 Ontario Ltd. (Adam Newington) Agent: Chuck Vanoverbeke 5936 -5942 Main Street (former Mandarin Shoe Building) The applications can be supported because: BACKGROUND PD- 2009 -75 October 19, 2009 • the building has been subject to Building Code and Fire Code violations in the past and the improvements will rectify these problems; • the proposed improvements are eligible items under the Commercial Building and Facade Improvement Grant Program; • sufficient funds are available in the 2009 CIP Budget; • the development will provide for new residential apartments in the area; and • the proposed work will enhance and improve an unsightly building which has been a blight in the area for sometime. The City has received it's fourth Commercial Building and Facade Improvement Grant application and second Residential Loan application of 2009 within the Historic Drummondville area. The property has been vacant for sometime and been under order from the Building Division and Fire Department for Code violations. There is a new owner of the property and they are aware of the violations and wish to cooperate with the City to resolve these issues. The building is unsightly and attempts have been made to encourage the owner to carry out improvements. While the new owner intends to carry out a number of improvements, he wishes to obtain approval of the grant and loan applications before proceeding. Any approved grant applications will not involve payment until the work is completed, proof is provided that contractors are paid, and resolution of previous Building Code and Fire Code violations is provided. The Finance Division has advised that the municipal taxes are paid and up to date for the property. October 19, 2009 - 2 - PD- 2009 -75 The proposed facade improvements include replacing the facade with a new brick veneer and masonry store front. The addition of stucco moulding above the first and second levels will add accents to the finished building. New signage on a cantilevered canopy is also proposed. The projected cost of the facade is approximately $60,000 and the owners will be eligible for a $15,000 facade grant which includes property adjacent to Sylvia Place Market where eligible rear or side facade improvements are proposed. The owner is proposing all new mechanical and electrical systems throughout the building and the construction of 4 residential apartments on the second floor. The reconstruction costs of the building is estimated to be $575,000. The owner would be eligible for a commercial building grant of $10,000 and an $80,000 interest free loan for the 4 proposed apartments. ANALYSIS /RATIONALE The proposed work complies with the eligibility requirements of the City's financial incentive programs of the Historic Drummondville CIP. The building is in dire need for improvement and approval of the applications will encourage the proposed improvements to happen. Furthermore, approval of the applications will assist in addressing the Building Code and Fire Code violations. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS If the applications are approved, the owners will be eligible for a Commercial Building and Facade Improvement Grant of $25,000 and a zero percent interest free residential loan of $80,000. The grant and loan will be provided from the 2009 CIP Budget (Account 11-3 - 823005 - 050000). The Region of Niagara is a partner in community improvement efforts and it is expected that they will contribute$5,000 towards the facade improvement, thereby reducing the total grant provided by the City to $20,000. CITY'S STRATEGIC COMMITMENT The approval of the grant and loan for 5936 -5942 Main Street satisfies the objectives of the Historic Drummondville CIP and will assist in the continued rejuvenation of the Main and Ferry area. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS ► Appendix 1 - Location map of the subject property. ► Appendix 2 - Illustrates the proposed facade of the building. Recommended by: Approved by: Respectfully submitted: Alex Herlovj #ch, Director of Planning & Development Ed i ujjovf , Executive Director, Community Services Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer B.Bolibruck Attach. S: \PDR12009 \PD- 2009.75, CB &FIG-2009- 005,RBL- 2009 -002 (Mandarin Shoe).wpd October 19, 2009 -3 APPENDIX 1 Location Map 5936 -5942 Main St PD- 2009 -75 11111111111111 1 - 1111 111u11111IllWIWWW R r - = � 1ii 11 1!11 1111 _ rins 11 11� rapi111111111111111110 - SE MS MI MN SINN MIS NMI MI SINN ■ 111E1 IS C� MI IS MEI SEIM SIMMS SEW 191tra Mania '1111= :Er -11111A11= 1 11 1 1 1 n71 Iliift 5936-5942 Main 5t Historic Drummondville Community Improvement Protect Area � all>wln I 111 101 >: tin September 2009 , 11 ^1 ;111 ma amithir ■ iiiI llpr °r te Inf11111111111111U 111 IS IIMMos MMOIMMOI ISIS OW =111111 October 19, 2009 -4- APPENDIX 2 PD- 2009 -75 Niagara , 114 REPORT TO: SUBMITTED BY: SUBJECT: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls Transportation Services TS- 2009 -42 Kalar Road Parking Control Review TS- 2009 -42 October 19, 2009 RECOMMENDATIONS 1. That a "No Parking" zone be established on the west side of Kalar Road between a point 40 metres north of McGarry Drive and a point 230 metres north of McGarry Drive; 2. That a "No Standing" zone be established on the west side of Kalar Road between McGarry Drive and a point 40 metres north of McGarry Drive; 3. That a "No Stopping" zone be established on the west side of Kalar Road between McGarry Drive and a point 40 metres south of McGarry Drive; 4. That a "No Parking" zone be established on the west side of Kalar Road between a point 40 metres south of McGarry Drive and a point 200 metres south of McGarry Drive; 5. That a "No Stopping" zone be established on the west side of Kalar Road between a point 200 metres south of McGarry Drive and McLeod Road; 6. The bike lane on the west side of Kalar Road be extended to McLeod Road and that the regulatory signs and markings be applied; and, 7. That a "No Heavy Vehicles" restriction including "No Buses" condition, be established on Kalar Road between Lundy's Lane and McLeod Road. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The recommended parking restrictions will ensure an unobstructed two -lane operation on Kalar Road in the southbound direction, and accommodate the extension of the bike lane. The designation of the bike Lane promotes active transportation, provides continuity of the cycling network in the area, and is consistent with the preferred alternative approved in the Kalar Road Environmental Assessment. The recommended corner standing restriction is dedicated to the existing transit stop. The recommended corner stopping restriction will ensure adequate visibility to motorists entering Kalar Road from McGarry Drive. The recommended stopping restriction abutting Pinewood Plaza is recommended to ensure safe traffic operations at the access to the plaza. The recommended restriction for heavy October 19, 2009 2 TS- 2009 -42 vehicles including buses, will prohibit heavy trucks and commercial buses from accessing the residential segment of Kalar Road. BACKGROUND Further to report TS- 2008 -27, Staff conducted an investigation regarding the on- street parking on the west side of Kalar Road between Loretto /Kate S. Durdan School and McLeod Road. In the aforementioned report, various parking restrictions were recommended throughout the reconstructed Kalar Road corridor to ensure unobstructed vehicular traffic mobility. Concerns were raised by an area resident that the prohibition of parking along Kalar Road in this area would cause a hardship for families that own multiple vehicles. A subsequent parking study was carried out ANALYSIS /RATIONALE Area residents were requested to provide their input through a questionnaire which gave them the opportunity to comment on the preferred parking control that would most benefit their needs. A total of twenty -nine (29) questionnaires were delivered and five (5) responses were received. Given the extremely low number of responses, and that the 60% response threshold was not achieved, there is no residential consensus on a preferred parking plan. Site investigations identify that each residential property can accommodate at least three (3) vehicles. A response was received from the Trails and Bike Committee commenting that cycling should be promoted and encouraged as the community continues to grow. Currently there are four schools, a community centre and a shopping centre in the area with a future Boys and Girls club planned on McLeod Road. Younger cyclists may not have developed the confidence to pass parked vehicles and share the same lane used by vehicular traffic. Therefore, the committee endorses restricting parking on this section of road, and the extension of the bike lane to McLeod Road. Kalar Road is an arterial roadway, and its purpose is to carry high traffic volumes between major land uses within the City. Staff strongly recommends that vehicular traffic progression on the urban arterial roadway not be obstructed by parked vehicles. At this time, parked cars not only obstruct the bike lane, but also half of the adjacent vehicle travel lane. Parking observations at various times in the area revealed low parking activity. Therefore, to ensure a two -lane traffic operation in the southbound direction, a parking restriction at all times is recommended encompassing the residential establishments fronting onto Kalar Road. This restriction will accommodate the extension of the existing bike lane on the west side of Kalar Road to McLeod Road. Presently, the southbound bike lane terminates at the south limit of Loretto /Kate S. Durdan School due to permitted parking in the study area. The extension of the bike lane is also in accordance with the Kalar Road Environmental Assessment study. A "No Standing" zone is recommended at the existing transit stop location, just north of McGarry Drive. A corner "No Stopping" zone is recommended on the west side of Kalar Road south of McGarry Drive to ensure that adequate visibility is maintained for motorists that are turning from McGarry Drive onto Kalar Road. Additionally, a "No Stopping" zone abutting Pinewood Plaza is recommended to maintain safe traffic operations at the plaza driveway and the signalized intersection at McLeod Road. October 19, 2009 3 TS- 2009 -42 Further to a request from the Community Services Committee Meeting on November 3, 2008, Staff has investigated the feasibility of restricting heavy vehicle and commercial bus operators from travelling on Kalar Road through the residential segment. A mechanical garage business that services out -of -town buses is present on Kalar Road, south of McLeod Road. There are no restrictions that prevent heavy vehicle operators including bus drivers from using any section of Kalar Road, given that it is an arterial roadway and constructed to accommodate heavy vehicles. Typically, heavy vehicles are encouraged to travel on regional arterial roads such as Montrose Road and Thorold Townline Road that are better suited to accommodate this type of traffic. The study section of Kalar Road does not consist of industrial or major commercial establishments. Therefore, to deter heavy vehicle traffic including commercial buses from travelling through the residential segment of Kalar Road, a heavy vehicle restriction including buses is recommended to be installed on Kalar Road between Lundy's Lane and McLeod Road. This restriction will not apply to Niagara Falls Transit buses that access the area on preassigned routes. FINANCIAL /STAFFING /LEGAL IMPLICATIONS The installation of all signs is carried out by Transportation Services staff. The labour and material costs are accounted for in the Approved 2009 General Purposes Budget. Cost studies estimate that the cost to replace the signs is approximately $1,750. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS Study Area drawing. Recommended by: Approved by: Respectfully submitted: Tim Burshtein rI Dren, Direct f Transportation Services Ed C vic, Executive Director of Community Services rtes Ken Todd Chief Administrative Officer re Niagaraj?p1.1 TS- 2009 -42 Kolar Road Parking Review ....... Mina Proposed sign will face southbound traffic at Lundy's Lane Proposed "No Parking" zone Proposed "No Standing" zone Proposed "No Stopping" zone Proposed extension to existing bike lane NORTH McI!OS s REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair and Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario SUBMITTED BY: Municipal Works Department SUBJECT: MW- 2009 -61 City of Niagara Falls Engineering Design Standards Manual RECOMMENDATION That Council adopt the Engineering Design Standards Manual. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Engineering Design Standards Manual will become the Policy Document that provides the basis for design review to ensure consistency while streamlining the process in all applications. These standards represent sound engineering principles and best management practices that are utilized across this province. BACKGROUND MW-2009-61 October 19, 2009 Municipal Works Department is responsible for the review of engineering submissions for subdivision and Site Plan development applications. This manual will incorporate all development and design policies into one document. It outlines the general requirements for the design of items such as roads, sewers, watermain, lot grading and street lighting. This manual has been developed with the input from all City departments and may be amended periodically by staff to ensure it is kept current. This document will function similar to a standard form of agreement in that the developers are to meet the City's standards in both design and construction of services in their respective subdivisions. Any future reports to Council will highlight issues that are proposing works that are not in accordance with the standards outlined in this document. The purpose of this document is to provide the Development community with a set of guidelines to be used to define the minimum expectations of Municipal staff when planning the development or redevelopment of lands through the Plan of Subdivision process. These minimum requirements have been established because they represent time - tested good engineering practice which is the fundamental ingredient in any successful construction project. In most cases, the City of Niagara Falls will assume ownership and responsibility for the perpetual maintenance of this infrastructure, so it is important that a degree of quality control is incorporated at the design stage of the project. It is not the intent of this document to stifle innovation or discourage creative solutions, but to create a benchmark by which Municipal staff can objectively and consistently evaluate a development proposal and quickly facilitate the necessary approvals. Requirements imposed by other Federal, Provincial or other local agencies having higher jurisdiction may exceed the parameters established in this document, in which case these standards may be set aside. The standards and criteria outlined in this document are subject to review and modifications from time to time and as such, responsibilities lie with the proponents of any new project to apprise themselves of the current standards and criterion prior to proceeding beyond the Planning approval phase. ANALYSIS /RATIONALE The purpose of this document is to formalize the City criteria and incorporate new policies and standards relative to; • Roads • Sanitary Sewer System Water Distribution System Storm Drainage System Lot Grading and Surface Drainage Streetlighting Landscaping and Surface Features FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS There are no direct financial implications resulting from the formal adoption of this manual. However, staff expect efficiencies to be gained by streamlining the development process. LEGAL IMPLICATIONS This document becomes the new policy for all engineering design standards which supercedes the following current policies; • 312.10 Lot Grading and Drainage Policy, • 316.70 Boulevard Seeding or Sodding in New Subdivisions. CITY'S STRATEGIC COMMITMENT The recommendation identified in this report satisfies City Council's strategic priority; "Continue to monitor and improve the efficiency of the organization." ATTACHMENT 1. City of Niagara Falls Engineering Design Standards Manual. Recommended by: Approved by: Respectfully submitted: Geoff Holma R.Vdpini S:IREPORTS120091MW- 2009 -61- Engineering Design Standards Manul.wpd tor of Municipal Works Ed DWI vic Exe tive Dir ctorof Community Services 1 Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer Engineering Design Standards Manual Table of Contents Interpretation of this Document 5 Definitions 6 Section 1 General Requirements 1.1 Introduction 1.2 Required Submissions 1.3 Preparation & Execution of the Subdivision Agreement 1.4 Administration Fees & Security Deposits 1.5 Commencement of Construction 1.6 Completion of the Works and Interim Maintenance 1.7 "As- Built" Records and Drawings 1.8 Assumption of the Works Section 2 Roads 2.1 Road Design 2.2 Curbs 2.3 Sidewalks 2.4 Boulevards 2.5 Driveway Entrances 2.6 Day Lighting 2.7 Footpaths & Walkways 2.8 Street Name & Traffic Sign Requirements 2.9 Trees 2.10 Utility Installations 2.11 Traffic Signals 2.12 Emergency /Fire Access Requirements Section 3 Sanitary Drainage Systems 3.1 Design Flows 3.2 Sewer Design 3.3 Easements 3.4 Pipe Design 3.5 Pipe Materials 3.6 Sanitary Sewer Service Connection 3.7 Construction 3.8 Sanitary Force Mains & Siphons 3.9 Sewage Pumping Stations -2- Section 4 Water Distribution Systems 4.1 Design Flows 4.2 System Pressures & Structural Requirements 4.3 Friction Factors 4.4 Water main Sizing & Layout 4.5 Line Valves 4.6 Hydrants 4.7 Thrust Restraint 4.8 Water main Pipe Materials 4.9 Tracer Wire 4.10 Cathodic Protection of Water main & Appurtenances 4.11 Water Service Connection 4.12 Construction 4.13 Water Meters 4.14 Booster Pump Stations Section 5 Storm Drainage Systems 5.1 Stormwater Management 5.2 Rational Method 5.3 Sewer Design 5.4 Easements 5.5 Pipe Design 5.6 Pipe Materials 5.7 Storm Sewer Service Connection 5.8 Construction 5.9 Roof Leaders 5.10 Watercourse Alterations & Outfalls 5.11 Erosion & Siltation Control 5.12 Foundation Drains 5.13 Stormwater Management Facilities Section 6 Lot Grading & Surface Drainage 6.1 General 6.2 Objectives 6.3 Requirements Under the Policy 6.4 Design Criteria 6.5 Pre - grading 6.6 Sodding 6.7 Retaining Walls -3- 6.8 Post - Construction Considerations 6.9 Revisions to Grading After Issuance of a Grading Conformance Certificate 6.10 Technical Requirements for Master Grade Control Plans 6.11 Technical Requirements for Lot Grading Plans (Plot Plans) Section 7 Streetlightinq 7.1 General Overview 7.2 Material Specifications 7.3 Design Standards 7.4 Installation Procedures Section 8 Landscaping & Surface Features 8.1 Overview 8.2 Landscape Review Process 8.3 Park & Greenbelt Development 8.4 Tree Preservation 8.5 Boulevard Landscaping 8.6 Landscape Features 8.7 Fencing 8.8 Landscaping of Stormwater Management Facilities -4- Subdivision Design Standards Manual Interpretation of this Document The purpose of this document is to provide the Development community with a set of guidelines to be used to define the minimum expectations of Municipal staff when planning the development or redevelopment of lands through the Plan of Subdivision process. These minimum requirements have been established because they represent time - tested good engineering practice which is the fundamental ingredient in any successful construction project. In most cases, the City of Niagara Falls will assume ownership and responsibility for the perpetual maintenance of this infrastructure, so it is important that a degree of quality control is incorporated at the design stage of the project. It is not the intent of this document to stifle innovation or discourage creative solutions, but to create a benchmark by which Municipal staff can objectively and consistently evaluate a development proposal and quickly facilitate the necessary approvals. Requirements imposed by other Federal, Provincial or other local agencies having higher jurisdiction may exceed the parameters established in this document, in which case these standards may be set aside. Recently, City Council has adopted the Region's Facility Accessibility Design Standards Document. This is intended to be applied to all new construction and/or renovated public - owned, leased or operated facilities. The Standards outlined in this Facility Accessibility Design Standards Manual are intended to be applied and read in conjunction with this manual in its entirety. The standards and criteria outlined in this document are subject to review and modifications from time to time and as such, responsibilities lie with the proponents of any new project to apprise themselves of the current standards and criterion prior to proceeding beyond the Planning approval phase. -5- Definitions The Development Standards and Criteria described in this document are self - explanatory, however to clarify the Municipality's intentions in the case of specific matters, the following definitions have been provided: "Building Permit" The Permit issued by the Chief Building Official in accordance with the Ontario Building Code. "Chief Building Official" The Chief Building Official appointed by the Corporation of the City of Niagara Falls. "Consultant" The Consulting Engineer engaged by the Developer. "Council" The appointed Municipal Council for the Corporation of the City of Niagara Falls. "Director" "Grading Conformance Certificate" "Master Grade Control Plan" "Securities" "Utilities" A Director appointed by the Corporation of the City of Niagara Falls and for the purpose of this document shall include any employee of the Municipality authorized by a Director to exercise any such powers /duties on his /her behalf and to his /her satisfaction. "Fire Chief" The Fire Chief for the Corporation of the City of Niagara Falls, or his/her designate. Written confirmation issued on a lot -by -lot basis by Municipal staff that the site specific lot grading conforms to the intent of the Master Grade Control Plan. "Landscape Architect" Shall be a full member and certified with the O.A.L.A. The plan established for the purposes of controlling the overall drainage pattern through the determination of relative surface elevations in accordance with good drainage principles. Any combination of Letters of Credit or Cash deposited by the Developer used to guarantee that all obligations made with respect to the construction of the Works are completed to the Municipality's satisfaction. Any or all of the following: i) Hydro service, complete ii) Natural Gas, Telephone & Cable TV services, complete "Works" All servicing and development to be done in the context of the Subdivision Agreement. -6- 1.1 Introduction ) Water Supply & Distribution System f) Natural Features Subdivision Development Standards Criteria Section 1 General Requirements This document is presented in a format that will direct the proponent through the various steps of the approval process for all industrial, commercial and residential subdivision development in the City of Niagara Falls. It is important that all required submissions are provided in proper sequence to avoid time delays. Applications for development are processed on a first come, first served basis and by following the prescribed procedures, Municipal staff will be able to ensure that the project can proceed in an efficient manner. 1.2 Required Submissions 1.2.1 Functional Design Report The functional design report shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, an overall analysis of the following: a) Soils Report b) Transportation Network c) Sanitary Sewer System d) Storm Sewers & Stormwater Management Subsurface investigation prepared by a qualified Geotechnical Consultant identifying areas of the site that may require special consideration during construction. Traffic impact assessment, signage, signalization, construction detours and access, sidewalk locations (Transportation Services Division), off -road pathways and trails. Drainage areas, proposed flows, proposed outlets, sizing, alignment and downstream capacity assessment of the collection system. Drainage areas, proposed flows, delineation of major /minor drainage systems, quality /quantity control facilities, sizing and downstream assessment of erosion, capacity and fisheries impacts, natural heritage system water balances. Sizing, alignment, looping considerations, fire flows, system pressure and valve locations. Woodlots, watercourses, wetlands, slopes, vegetation, development limits as per approved environmental impact studies, or other identified resources that require protection during development. -7- g) Conditions of Draft Plan Approval h) Required Agency Approvals 1.2.2 Drawing Requirements A complete set of drawings shall include the following• a) b) c) d) e) f) g) h) i) j) k) 1) Title Sheet Draft Reference Plans (or Registered Plans if available) Draft Plan of Subdivision General Plan of Services Subdivision Grade Control Plan Sanitary Drainage Area Plan Storm Drainage Area Plan Plan and Profile Drawings Construction Details Street lighting Plan Landscaping /Streetscaping/Park Plans (including details) Standard Notes The conditions of Draft Plan Approval should be included as an Appendix. The applicant is responsible to obtain all required agency approvals prior to works commencing on -site (City, MNR, NPCA, Regional Niagara, MTO, etc.) All drawings shall be prepared in strict conformance with Standard drawing specifications described in Appendix I -C, and conform to the Niagara Regional CAD /GIS drawing standards. 1.2.3 Title Sheet The Title Sheet shall include the following: a) b) c) d) e) f) Registered name of the Plan of Subdivision Name of the Developer Name of the Consulting Engineering Firm Name of the Mayor and Director of Municipal Works Key plan of the development and adjacent lands at 1:10,000 scale An index of all drawings included in the complete set. 1.2.4 Reference Plans (Pre registered and Draft Legal Plans) The complete set of drawings shall include a copy of any Reference Plans showing all dedications, easements, widening or other conveyances to be referred to in the Subdivision Agreement. -8- 1.2.5 Draft Plan of Subdivision The complete set of drawings shall include a copy of the approved Draft Plan of Subdivision drawn to an acceptable scale. 1.2.6 General Plan of Services The General Plan of Services shall include the following: a) roadways, property lines, easements, new lot numbers and existing municipal addresses b) sanitary and storm sewers showing manholes, pipe materials, diameters, lengths, direction of flow, lateral Locations and related appurtenances or facilities c) water mains, service connections, hydrants valves or other appurtenances d) culverts, watercourse, woodlots, marshes and other significant topographic features e) existing streets and services surrounding the development that will be integrated into the new project 0 location and description of geodetic benchmarks used for the topographic survey g) street lighting h) locations of existing trees, including size, condition, species name, etc., to be completed by a certified arborist i) approved development limits (natural heritage & tree preservation) 1.2.7 Subdivision Grade Control Plan The Subdivision Grade Control Plan shall include the following: a) all existing and proposed topographic features required on the General Plan of Services b) existing and proposed elevations at all lot corners, mid lot grade changes and the direction of overland flow c) existing grade contours at 0.5m intervals sufficient to determine the general direction of surface drainage patterns d) proposed centerline of road elevations at 20m intervals, changes in grade, intersections and at catch basins e) gutter grade on all curb radii f) top of grate and invert elevations of all catch basins and storm sewer manholes g) maximum building envelope permitted by the zoning bylaw for each proposed building lot h) minimum basement floor and first floor elevations for all buildings that require Building Permits and identification of those buildings requiring the installation of sump pumps for the discharge of weeping tile drainage i) proposed apron elevations at the front, rear and sides of all proposed buildings j) proposed drainage swales including invert elevations, top of slope elevations, grade and direction of flow -9- k) required drainage easements for all pipes, inlets or other drainage related appurtenances 1) rear lot catch basins, inlets, leads, tile drains or connections including sizes, materials and lengths m) typical cross - sections for all swales, channels or sewers conveying surface drainage n) location and design details for any retaining wall required o) erosion protection, flow control devices, stormwater management facilities or other feature of the development that would require special consideration for final grading of adjacent land p) street lighting 1.2.8 Sanitary Drainage Area Plan The Sanitary Drainage Plan shall include the following: a) all existing and proposed topographic features shown on the General Plan of Services b) all proposed sanitary sewers, manholes, pumping stations, forcemains or related appurtenances required in the servicing of the subject property c) information regarding the size, length, pipe material, grade and direction of flow for the conveyance system d) the sanitary drainage areas for each pipe section including information about service population (per 1,000) and catchment area (in hectares) e) any design assumptions made to accommodate the sanitary flows generated from adjacent developed or undeveloped property 1.2.9 Storm Drainage Area Plan The Storm Drainage Area Plan shall include the following: a) all existing and proposed topographic features shown on the General Plan of Services b) all proposed storm sewers, manholes, catch basins, ditches, inlets, control devices, Storm water management facilities or related appurtenances required in the servicing of the subject property c) information regarding the size, length, pipe material, grade and direction of flow for the conveyance system d) the storm drainage areas for each pipe section including information about the runoff coefficient and catchment area (in hectares) e) any design assumptions made to accommodate storm drainage flows generated from adjacent developed or undeveloped property f) major flow routes, flood lines and contours that are proposed as a result of the development of the subject property g) contours at 1.0m intervals maximum with contour elevations -10- 1.2.10 Plan and Profile Drawings Plan and profile drawings must be drawn for all new streets and service corridors within and external to the subdivision or site plan. All chainages shall be calculated along the centreline of the road or service corridor. At least two ties per sheet must be provided showing the relationship of the centreline to existing property bars. All Plan and Profile drawings shall include: a) Plan View • all existing and proposed topographic features shown on the General Plan of Services drawn at a scale of 1:500 • streetlighting. b) Profile View • chainages for the centreline of the road or service corridor • existing and proposed sanitary sewers, storm sewers, watermains including any related appurtenances labeled to match the corresponding location in the Plan View, drawn at a scale of 1:50 vertical, 1:500 horizontal • location and description of the nearest benchmark • borehole log information including the elevation of any soil characteristics that may affect the construction of the Works such as the water table or bedrock • the proposed centreline of the road and the existing ground elevation along the same alignment • invert, top of frame, vertical curve data • the location and elevation of any conflicting utility, service, sewer or water main • high & low points • centreline of intersections 1.2.11 Construction Details The Construction Details sheet shall include• a) any cross - sections, cut -away views, schematic diagrams or schedules deemed necessary to provide the contractor and Municipal staff with a better understanding of the components of a particular portion of the Works b) generally, the Construction Details sheet does not include standard details that are presently available in other formats (Le. manuals, OPSS, OPSD etc.) rather it should be used to show unique or non - standard information about an important element of the design c) all details shall be properly titled with cross references provided to direct the reader to the appropriate Plan and Profile drawing. 1.2.12 Landscaping/Streetscaping Plan The Landscaping /Streetscaping Plan shall include the following• a) all existing and proposed topographic features shown on the General Plan of Services b) all proposed plants complete with a schedule showing the species, number of plants, location and planting details c) any existing or proposed fences, structures or equipment to be constructed as part of the proposed development d) any proposed walkways, pathways or pedestrian links including the size, material and interconnection with existing linkages e) a description of the type of finished surfaces (i.e. sod, seed, asphalt, concrete, etc.) f) the location of any community mailboxes, fire hydrants, transformers, streetlights or other utility pedestals g) streetlighting h) existing trees i) proposed entrance features and details j) proposed park block dedications 1.3 Preparation and Execution of the Subdivision Agreement The draft Agreement is prepared by Municipal staff and will follow a standard format. Site specific matters will be addressed in detail in the Schedules appended to the Agreement. 1.4 Administration Fees and Security Deposits The Owner of the project is required to submit prescribed administration fees, cash payments and security deposits prior to the registration of the Subdivision Agreement for the applicable department requirements. 1.5 Commencement of Construction The Municipality will permit clearing and grubbing, stripping of topsoil and the pre - grading of land prior to land registration. Should the Developer choose to commence construction of services prior to registration (Le. pre - servicing), the Municipality accepts no liability or responsibility. The Developer shall provide insurance coverage in respect of any one accident or occurrence that may happen in a public road allowance in the amount of at least $5.0 Million, exclusive of interest and costs, prior to the commencement of any servicing works. The Developer acknowledges that he will bear the responsibility of all repercussions that result as a direct result of pre - servicing. Prior to the commencement of any work on the subject property, the owner must arrange a pre - construction meeting with the general contractor, consulting engineer, Municipal staff, and other affected parties to coordinate the construction schedule. -12- 1.6 Completion of the Works and Interim Maintenance The Owner shall be responsible for the complete maintenance and operation of all Works constructed in conjunction with the project until the facilities are assumed by the Municipality. The Municipality reserves the right to extend the maintenance period for any or all components of the project. The Works will be deemed to be complete on the basis of a three -step process referred to as Class I, II or III. As each Class is completed in accordance with City standards, the Owner may request a reduction in any securities or letters of credit submitted. 1.7 "As Built" Records and Drawings The Consultant is responsible for recording the daily progress of the Contractor and providing appropriate documentation to the Municipality upon request. The Municipality will not consider assumption of Works until "as- built" records have been filed with the appropriate departments. 1.8 Assumption of the Works 1.8.1 Assumption of Class I Works The Class I Works, Underground Services (Sewers and Watermains) and granular roads will be assumed by the Municipality two (2) years after performance acceptance of the Class I Works or completion of Class II Works, whichever is later. 1.8.2 Assumption of Class II Works The Class II Works (base asphalt, parkland, curbs and sidewalks) will be assumed by the Municipality two years after performance acceptance of the Class II Works or the completion of Class III Works whichever is later. 1.8.3 Assumption of Class III Works The Class III Works (top course asphalt, Right -of -way fencing and tree planting) will be assumed by the Municipality one year after performance acceptance of the Class III Works. 1.8.4 Final Assumption of the Subdivision The Subdivision will be assumed by the Municipality upon assumption of the Class I, II and III Works, and Street Lighting Works by the Municipality, in addition to satisfactory completion of all other outstanding obligations of the Developer under the provisions of the subdivision agreement. -13- Section 2 Roadways 2.1 Road Design 2.1.1 Road Types Road classification shall be subject to the approval of the Director of Municipal Works, and are generally described in the Official Plan. It has been recognized that the service functions and traffic flow characteristics on urban local streets, urban collector streets and urban arterial streets are unique. To ensure that traffic flows in an expeditious and safe manner, it is important to understand the function of roads within the City of Niagara Falls street network. Improper use of traffic devices on high - volume roads (arterial) can have devastating impacts on road functions and traffic flows within the Municipality. The following definitions are used to determine the road classification within the City of Niagara Falls: • Urban Arterial Streets Urban arterial streets are intended to carry large volumes of all types of traffic moving a t medium to high speeds. These streets serve the major traffic flows between the principal areas of traffic generation and also connect to rural arterial and collector roads. In urban areas without freeways, arterial roads provide the best quality of traffic service, with average daily traffic volumes of 5,000 - 30,000 vehicles. The traffic flow is desirably uninterrupted except at signalized intersections and cross walks. Where signals are closely spaced they should be interconnected and synchronized to minimize the interference to through movements. Parking and unloading should be prohibited where they might affect through movement of traffic, particularly at rush hours. In the City of Niagara Falls, any roadway under the jurisdiction of the Province of Ontario, the Niagara Parks Commission or the Regional Municipality of Niagara is designated as an Arterial Road. Design of arterial roadways are to meet the requirements of the controlling authority. • Major Collector Streets Major collector streets provide both traffic service and land service. The traffic service function of this type of road is to carry traffic between local and arterial roadways. Full access to adjacent properties is generally allowed on collectors, where the average daily traffic ranges from 5,000 - 12,000 vehicles. Major collector streets have stop or signalized controls where they intersect arterial streets. There are few parking restrictions except during peak hours when traffic movement may be the most important consideration. There are generally no special pedestrian crossing restrictions, but special crosswalks might be provided where traffic volumes are high. To improve traffic flow, particularly at peak hours, it is sometimes desirable to provide major collector streets with bus -14- bays or turning lanes similar to those provided on arterial streets. (a) (b) • Minor Collector Streets Urban Local Streets will serve as access to 100 or more homes will serve as a traversing route for residents outside of the subdivision. -15- The City of Niagara Falls classifies collector roads as any roadway which, in the opinion of the Municipality: Minor collector streets provide both traffic service and land service. The traffic service function of this type of street is to carry traffic between local and arterial streets. Full access to adjacent properties is generally allowed on collectors, where the average daily traffic ranges between 1,000 and 5,000 vehicles. Minor collector streets have stop, yield or signalized controls where they intersect major collector streets and arterial streets. There are few parking restrictions except during peak hours when traffic movement may be the most important consideration. There are generally no special pedestrian crossing restrictions. The main function of local streets is to provide land access. Direct access is allowed to all abutting properties. Local streets are not intended to move large volumes of traffic. The local street primarily carries only traffic with an origin or destination along its length. It is not intended to carry through - traffic other than to immediately adjoining streets. Local streets have stop, yield or signalized controls where they intersect more important streets. Parking may be restricted to one side on narrow streets. Pedestrian traffic is unrestricted. 2.1.2 Geometric Design Standards The following criteria should be used when designing roads for new developments. However, it is acknowledged that some areas possess topographic constraints that may exist, and make the use of portions of these criteria impractical. In these instances, reference should be made to the various Geometric Design Guidelines published by the Transportation Association of Canada. Any variance to the following criteria will require approval of the Municipal Works Director. -16- DESIGN PARAMETERS LOCAL ROADS COLLECTOR ROADS MINIMUM GRADE 0.5% 0.5% MAXIMUM GRADE 8.0% 6.0% MAXIMUM GRADE @ INTERSECTIONS 3.5% 2.5% MINIMUM CURB RADIUS (LOCAL) 10m 10.5m MINIMUM CURB RADIUS (COLLECTOR) 10.5m 10.5m MINIMUM CURB RADIUS (ARTERIAL) 15m 15m MINIMUM CUL -DE -SAC RADIUS 14.3m N/A MINIMUM R.O.W. WIDTH 18m / 20m 23m MINIMUM R.O.W. RADIUS 22m N/A DESIGN SPEED 50 km /hr 60 krn /hr MINIMUM SIGHT STOPPING DISTANCE 65m 85m MINIMUM VERTICAL CURVE (SAG)' 12m 18m MINIMUM VERTICAL CURVE (CREsT)' 8m 15m SUPERELEVATION N/A N/A INTERSECTION ANGLE 70" - 110" 80" - 100" • ' Vertical curves are required for changes in grades greater than 2 %. The minimum length of each grade is 6m • 2 Cul -de -sacs must have a minimum grade of 0.50% around the longest curb to ensure adequate drainage. • 3 At any intersection of two roads, the cross fall of the through road must be maintained. Where possible, a 2% cross fall shall be maintained on all roads. -17- 2.1.3 Drainage Design Standard The following frequency based criteria shall be used for the design of road drainage systems unless otherwise determined by other relevant studies or government agencies: Urban Arterial /Collector Rural Arterial /Collector Local Depressed Roadways (Subways, etc.) 100 Yr. 50 Yr. 25 Yr. Minor System 5 Yr. 5 Yr. 5 Yr. 25 Yr. Major System 100 Yr. 100 Yr. 100 Yr. 2.1.4 Road Pavement Design a) Road pavement for local and collector roads shall be as per City Standard Drawings, and be confirmed by a Geotechnical Consultant based on anticipated loading and existing soil conditions b) The pavement design for arterial roads will be considered on an individual basis. The composition and construction thickness of the road pavement shall be designed based upon the following factors: • mechanical analysis of the subgrade soil • drainage • frost susceptibility • the future volume and class of traffic expected to use the pavement. Pavements shall be designed for a minimum ADT - 1000 vehicles and an anticipated life of 25 years. 2.1.5 Road Allowance Cross - Section The typical road allowance cross - section shall be as per the City's Standard Drawings. Details shall be provided for any special provisions required due to unique physical conditions on the site, or for existing or future design conditions, such as retaining walls, slope protection, culverts, bridges or special cross fall conditions. -18- 2.1.6 Road Sub - Drains In general, sub - drains will be required to run continuously along both sides of all roads, as per City Standard Drawings, however the Municipality will consider reducing sub -drain requirements for a particular development where a qualified soils consultant indicates that there will be no adverse effects to the road either during or after construction. In all cases, sub - drains will be required for a minimum length of 6.0m on the upstream side of all catch basins. 2.2 Curbs Curbs as shown on City Standard Drawings shall be used on local streets. "Capping" of curb depressions will not be permitted. Saw cutting of curb depressions will be allowed. Mountable curbs as per City Standard Drawings may be used with the approval of the Director of Municipal Works. There shall be no mountable curbs along parkland frontages, except at pedestrian pathway /sidewalk connection locations. Two stage curb construction in accordance with City Standard Drawings may be used with the approval of the Director of Municipal Works. 2.3 Sidewalks Concrete sidewalks as per City Standard Drawings shall be considered on both sides of all arterial roads and collector roads, and on one side of local streets, such that no lot is further than 150m from a sidewalk. The developer should discuss the location and requirement for sidewalks with Municipal staff prior to commencement of detailed design. Sidewalk design shall make considerations for connectivity to public parkland pathway /trail systems. Curb -faced sidewalks will not be permitted. Sidewalks will not be required in cul -de -sacs unless necessary to link to adjacent public recreation or walkway systems. 2.4 Boulevards All boulevards shall be final graded with a minimum of 300mm of topsoil from curb line to property line and shall be kept free of rubbish and other materials during the development. The home builder will be responsible for sodding the boulevard areas adjacent to their lot once the final lot grading has been verified by Municipal staff. -19- Residential Driveway 50mm HL3 surface course 75mm HL8 OR 200mm Granular `A' base course Light Industrial / Commercial / Apartment Driveway 40mm HL3 surface course 50mm HL8 base course 300mm Granular `A' base Heavy Industrial Driveway 40mm HL3 surface course 75mm HL8 base course 300mm Granular `A' base 2.5 Driveway Entrances The subdivider shall be required to provide for the excavation, stoning and maintenance in good condition of each driveway from the traveled portion of the road to the lot line, until the roadways have been completed. The owner of the lot shall, upon the construction of the sidewalk, construct, at his/her expense, a concrete, brick or asphalt driveway entrance for each lot, from the back face of the curb to the sidewalk, extending the full width of the driveway. The following are the minimum requirements for driveway entrances: The width of curb cut -out for residential driveways shall be as per City Standard Drawings. Where mutual driveways are constructed between two adjoining properties, the curb cut -out shall be continuous. The maximum grade permissible for an access driveway, from the sidewalk to the garage shall be 6 %. This maximum grade is not recommended and should be employed only in exceptional cases where physical conditions prohibit the use of lesser grades. There shall be a minimum grade of 2 %, and a maximum grade of 8% from the street line to the curb line. The radius of curvature from the road into apartment, commercial and industrial driveways shall be designed to accommodate the anticipated vehicular traffic without causing undue interference with the traffic flow on the street. Minimum entrance requirements for apartment, commercial and industrial sites are as per City Standard Drawings. Minimum clearance between the edge of driveway and a utility structure or hydrant shall be 1.2m. -20- 2.6 Daylighting Daylighting triangles are required for all new roads. The size of daylighting required will be governed by the major road. The minimum daylighting requirements are as listed below; however Municipal staff may require additional daylighting in unique circumstances. a) Local Road b) Collector Road c) Arterial Road 5.0m x 5.0m 7.0m x 7.0m 12.0m x 12.0m 2.7 Footpaths and Walkways Typically for footpaths and walkways which run adjacent to or behind residential property, the width of those blocks shall be 6.0m -7.0m. A 1.50m wide concrete sidewalk with asphalt aprons as per City Standard Drawings, and a minimum 1.20m high chain link fence, on both sides along the property line is required, on all footpaths and walkways. Where footpaths or walkways run between residential lots, fencing along property lines on both sides of the path or walk must meet height requirements of the local by -law for swimming pool installations. Where possible, the location of footpaths and walkways shall complement the public parkland pathway /trail systems. 2.8 Street Name and Traffic Sign Requirements The owner shall be responsible for having the street name signs manufactured and installed. The Municipality shall install regulatory and warning signs upon assumption of the development, however at the cost of the developer. All street names must be approved in advance by the Municipal Works Department. A street name list may be used to select appropriate street names. 2.9 Trees The developer shall supply the cost for the planting of one tree per lo, and two trees on flanking lots within the subdivision, in accordance with Municipal tree planting details and specifications. Tree spacing shall be 10.0m on- centre, unless it is determined not to be practical. Street tree specifications and acceptable species are provided in Section 8.5. -21- 2.10 Utility Installations Location and installation details for all utilities must be approved by the Director of Municipal Works prior to the installation. All utilities to be constructed in existing municipal roads will require a Municipal Consent Application. All utility trenches within the road allowance are to be in accordance with City Standard Drawings. All control mechanisms, hydro transformers, etc. are to be housed in underground vaults, unless otherwise approved by the Director of Municipal Works. Road crossings shall be installed, including density testing for proper compaction, prior to curb and asphalt placement. 2.11 Traffic Signals The requirement, location and installation details for traffic signals shall be made /approved by the Director of Municipal Works. In general, traffic signals shall be designed in accordance with the Uniform Manual of Traffic Control Devices and the Ontario Provincial Standard Specification. Any works associated with traffic signals shall be done by Municipal staff and their authorized contractor only. If the developer necessitates any traffic signal work, the owner shall be requested to fund the project. 2.12 Emergency/Fire Access Requirements Emergency accesses shall have a minimum unobstructed easement width of 6.0m. A minimum travel width of 3.50m shall be provided to the satisfaction of the City of Niagara Falls Fire Department. 2.12.1 Turnarounds In the event that construction of the Plan of Subdivision is phased, or abuts future development land, an adequate turnaround facility (hammerhead or cul -de -sac) for fire vehicles at the applicable phase shall be provided and details submitted in the Plan of Subdivision. The turnaround shall be constructed in accordance with the Development Standards Manual, and the Municipality shall determine, at its sole discretion, whether it will require ownership or a temporary easement with respect to the turnaround. All turnaround facilities shall be maintained free of snow at all times. -22- 2.12.2 Firebreak Lots The lots in a Plan of Subdivision shall indicate the location designated firebreak lots. Every seven lots shall be designated by the developer and final layout approved by the Fire Chief. No building permit shall be issued for designated firebreak lots until such time as the exterior finish cladding, roofing and windows on the buildings abutting the said designated firebreak lots have been completed, unless otherwise approved in writing by the Fire Chief. 2.12.3 Model Homes Prior to receiving a conditional permit for the construction of a model home, there shall be adequate access to the property for the purpose of fire suppression, together with an adequate water supply for fire suppression, as may be determined in the sole and absolute discretion of the Fire Chief and Chief Building Official. 2.13 Traffic Calming Design requirements shall reflect the Transportation Association of Canada's Neighbourhood Guide to Traffic Calming. In specific cases, designs may be altered to fit local conditions. Transportation Services staff shall work closely with the developer in achieving a suitable traffic calming plan for the development. -23- Section 3 Sanitary Drainage Systems 3.1 Design Flows For residential areas sanitary design flows shall be calculated as follows: Q= PXgXM +(IXA) 86.4 Where: P = design population in thousands q = avg. daily per capita flow in I /cap.day M = peaking factor = (1 + 14) / (4 + p us I = infiltration in 1/ha. sec A= tributary area in ha Q = design flow in 1 /sec a) for design purposes an infiltration allowance of 0.28 1/ha.sec shall be used b) for design purposes an avg. domestic flow allowance of 450 1/cap.day shall be used c) check with Municipal staff when designing sewers in areas where high I/I has been identified For calculation of sewage design flows for heavy industrial or commercial areas reference should be made to the latest editions of the Ontario Ministry of the Environment's "Guidelines for the Design of Water Storage Facilities, Water Distribution Systems, Sanitary Sewage Systems and Storm Sewers ". 3.2 Sewer Design 3.2.1 Hydraulic Calculations a) Sewer capacities can be computed using Manning's Formula on the basis of sewer pipe flowing full; however the "actual" flow depth and velocity at the design flow shall also be calculated and taken as the basis for design b) Pipe sizes shall not decrease from a larger size upstream to a smaller size downstream, regardless of slope c) All calculations shall be summarized utilizing the standard spreadsheets provided 3.2.2 Roughness Coefficients For smooth wall concrete, polyvinyl chloride and polyethylene, a minimum value of n = 0.013 shall be used. 3.2.3 Velocity and Slope The minimum velocity in a sanitary sewer shall be 0.60m/s, and a maximum shall be 3.00m/s, based on full flow velocity. The minimum slope in the highest or starting leg of a sanitary sewer shall be 1.0 %. -24- 3.2.4 Minimum Size The minimum size for a local sanitary sewer will be 200mm diameter. 3.2.5 Minimum Depth and Clearance a) Depth is measured from the final centreline finished road elevation to the top of the sanitary sewer. For residential, commercial and institutional areas, the minimum depth is 2.80m. For industrial areas, the minimum depth is 2.15m. In all cases, the proposed sanitary sewers shall be installed at sufficient depth to service lands external to the site as required by the Municipality. b) Generally, a minimum clearance of 0.25m shall be provided between the outside of the pipe barrels at the point of crossing for storm and sanitary sewers. Generally, a sanitary sewer shall pass under a water main at a minimum clearance of 0.50m as per the MOE. In the event the clearances cannot be obtained, the criteria contained in Section 5 of this manual will govern. 3.2.6 Location Sanitary sewers shall be located 2.0m from the centreline as shown on City Standard Drawings. Common trenching will only be considered for exceptional sub surface conditions (eg. rock) and any non - standard arrangement will be subject to the approval of the Municipal Works Director. 3.2.7 Manholes a) In general, manholes shall be constructed as per City Standard Drawings. However, it is the responsibility of the designer to analyze each application of the standard (i.e. soil conditions, loadings, etc.) to determine structural adequacy. In cases where the standards can not be used manholes shall be individually designed and detailed b) Manholes shall be provided at each change in alignment, grade, and pipe material /size and at all junctions, except where radius pipe is used c) Generally, manholes shall be spaced at: • a maximum of 120 metres for pipe sizes 200mm diameter to 450mm diameter • a maximum of 150 metres for pipe sizes 525mm diameter and larger d) The type and size of manholes shall be specified on the profile and a detail of the benching is to be shown on the plan portion of the drawing for cases when the benching differs from the standard drawings -25- e) All manhole chamber openings shall be located on the upstream side of the manhole f) The maximum change in the direction of flow in any sanitary sewer manhole shall be 90 degrees. A change of flow direction at acute interior angles shall not be permitted g) The maximum drop allowed across a manhole is 0.90m. If the design of the sewer system is such that the difference in elevation between the manhole inlet and outlet will exceed 0.90m, then a drop structure will be required h) When pipe size does not change through a manhole and the upstream flow velocity does not exceed 1.5m/s, the following allowances shall be made to compensate for hydraulic losses: Alignment Change Drop Required 1) Straight run Grade of sewer 2) 15 - 45 degrees 0.03m 3) 45 - 90 degrees 0.06m When the flow velocity exceeds 1.5m/s, the drop required shall be calculated. i) For all junction and transition manholes, the drop required shall be calculated j) The obvert(s) on the upstream side of a manhole shall in no case be lower than the obvert(s) on the downstream side of the manhole k) Safety gratings shall be required in all manholes greater than 5 0 metres in depth. Safety gratings shall not be more than 5 Om apart and shall be constructed in accordance with the Standard Drawings 3.3 Easements The minimum width of easements for pipes shall be determined to account for the number of pipes, pipe size, depth and excavation of open cut method. In no case shall the easement width be less than 3.0 metres. The developer must grant permanent easements for any sanitary drainage works which are not within the road allowance to the Municipality. -26- 3.4 Pipe Design a) All pipe and embedment material selection shall be as per City Standard b) Pipe class, type and pipe bedding material shall be shown on the profile for each length of sewer c) The use of radius pipe or deflected pipe will be permitted to achieve changes in horizontal alignment for sewer sizes 1050mm diameter and larger. The minimum radius allowed for various pipe diameters shall be as detailed in the manufacturer's specifications. When pipes are deflected at the joints, the angle of joint displacement shall not exceed 3 degrees 3.5 Pipe Materials 3.5.1 Sanitary Sewer a) Sanitary sewers may be constructed of polyvinyl chloride, concrete, or polyethylene pipes b) All pipe used for sanitary sewer shall have a smooth interior wall c) For main sewers, the Standard Dimension Ratio (SDR) of the PVC pipe shall not exceed SDR 35 d) For service connections the Standard Dimension Ratio of the PVC pipe shall not exceed SDR 28 e) Exterior "profiled" or "ribbed" wall polyvinyl chloride or polyethylene pipe will not be used for sanitary sewers, except in certain exceptional circumstances, as approved by the Director of Municipal Works f) Polyvinyl Chloride and Polyethylene pipe can be used for diameters up to 600mm when installed under roadways. In other locations this limit may be extended to 900mm diameter upon the approval of the Director of Municipal Works g) All pipe materials and associated appurtenances must meet current relevant Ontario Standard Specifications (OPSS). Where no specification exists, the current Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) specification will govern -27- 3.6 Sanitary Sewer Service Connection 3.6.1 General All sanitary sewer service connections for single and semi - detached dwellings shall be individual. The connection to the main sewer shall be made with an approved manufactured tee or approved saddle. In new developments, the service connections shall be installed in accordance with the City Standard Drawings terminating at the property line. Under no circumstances will roof water leaders or foundation weepers be permitted to be connected to the sanitary sewer. 3.6.2 Pipe Size a) Service connections for single family and semi - detached units shall be 100mm in diameter b) Service connections for multiple family, commercial, institutional areas are to be sized individually according to the intended use 3.6.3 Depth The depth of the service connections for single family units and semi- detached units, at the street line, measured from the final centreline road elevation shall be a minimum of 2.50m. Risers shall be used when the invert depth of the sewer main exceeds 4.0m. 3.6.4 Velocity and Grade Minimum low flow velocity 0.60 m/s. Minimum grade - 100mm dia. 2% Minimum grade - 150mm dia. 1% 3.6.5 Sanitary Sewer Connections to Multiple Family Blocks Manholes shall be required to be located on private property at the property line. 3.6.6 Sanitary Sewer Connections to Commercial and Industrial Blocks A manhole shall be required to be located in accordance with the applicable Regional Niagara Sewer Use By -law. 3.6.7 Materials for Sanitary Sewers Service Connections Sanitary sewer service connections may be constructed using any of the materials outlined in Section 3.5 except for polyethylene, which is not listed as an acceptable material under The Plumbing Code. -28- 3.6.8 Location of Service Connections Sanitary connections shall be located in accordance with the applicable City Standard Drawing. 3.7 Construction Construction of all sanitary sewers and service connections shall be in accordance with the current and appropriate City Specifications and Standard Drawings. 3.8 Sanitary Forcemains & Siphons Forcemains and siphons will only be considered in exceptional circumstances when no other feasible option exists. Any proposed use must be supported by a thorough technical analysis by a consultant with significant experience in designing these systems. The requirements for each proposed use will be assessed by the Director of Municipal Works on an individual basis. -24- Section 4 Water Distribution Systems 4.1 Design Flows a) Determination of demand design flows shall conform to the latest edition of the Ontario Ministry of the Environment's "Guidelines for the Design of Water Storage Facilities, Water Distribution Systems, Sanitary Sewage Systems and Storm Sewers" b) Fire flows shall be determined in accordance with the "Water Supply for Public Fire Protection Guidelines" by the Fire Underwriters Survey. However, for new systems or major upgrades, fire flow allowances should not be less than 80 0 L /sec 4.2 System Pressures & Structural Requirements The maximum sustained operating pressures shall not exceed 700 kPa. Where pressures in localized areas are above this level, pressure- reducing valves shall be installed on the services. The distribution system shall be sized to meet normal peak demands. Under conditions of simultaneous maximum day and fire flow demands, the pressure shall not drop below 149 kPa. Under normal operating conditions, the pressure shall not drop below 275 kPa. Water mains shall be designed to withstand the maximum operating pressure plus the transient pressure to which it may be subjected. All water mains shall be capable of withstanding a minimum design pressure of 1035 kPa, regardless of the working pressure in the system or the rating necessary to meet the structural requirements of the trench condition. 4.3 Friction Factors The following "C" values shall be used for the design of water distribution systems regardless of pipe materials: Pipe Diameter (mm) C - Factor 50 120 100 to 150 100 200 to 250 110 300 to 600 120 Over 600 130 The above "C" factors represent long term values. A "C" factor of 140 shall be used to calculate maximum velocities for transient pressure estimations, or for checking pump motor sizes for runout conditions. -25- 4.4 Water main Sizing & Layout 4.4.1 Sizes Sizes and looping of water mains will be determined at the preliminary stage of development. In areas where no master servicing scheme has been prepared, the consultant shall be required to undertake an analysis of the distribution system in order to determine an acceptable size of water main The following are the minimum size requirements. Residential Areas 150mm diameter minimum (SOmm diameter copper pipe /HDPE around cul -de -sac bulb) Schools 300mm diameter servicing all schools Industrial Areas 200mm diameter minimum for new industrial developments High- density 300mm diameter mainline Residential 4.4.2 Depth of Cover Generally the depth of cover shall not be less than 1 50m measured in a vertical plane above the pipe from the top of the pipe to the finished ground elevation. However, at no time should the minimum depth of cover to water mains be less than the depth of frost penetration. It will be the responsibility of the consultant to justify any reduction in the depth of cover less than 1.50m by documenting the reasons for the reduction and alternate frost protection measures to be taken. 4.4.3 Vertical Separation between Water mains and Sewers a) Under normal conditions, water mains shall cross above sewers with sufficient vertical separation to allow for proper bedding and structural support of the water main and sewer main. As a minimum, the vertical separation between the crown of the sewer and the invert of the water main should be 0.5m as per MOE, refer to Section 3.2.5(b) b) When it is not possible for the water main to cross above the sewer, the water main shall be protected as follows: • a vertical separation of at least 0.50m shall be provided between the invert of the sewer and the crown of the water main • the sewers shall be adequately supported to prevent excessive deflection of joints and settings • the length of water main shall be centred at the point of crossing so that the joints will be equidistant and as far as possible from the sewer. -26- 4.4.4 Horizontal Separation between Water mains and Sewers Under normal conditions, water mains shall be laid with a horizontal separation of at least 2.50m from any sewer manhole. The distance shall be measured from the nearest edges. 4.4.5 Separation of Water main and Sewers - Special Conditions Under unusual conditions, where a significant portion of the construction will be in rock, where it is anticipated that severe de- watering problems will occur, or where congestion with other utilities will prevent a clear horizontal separation of 2.50m, a water main may be laid closer to a sewer, provided that the elevation of the crown of the sewer is at least 0.50m below the invert of the water main. Such separation shall be in -situ material or compacted backfill. Under no conditions will the clear horizontal separation be less than 1.20m. Where this vertical separation cannot be obtained, the sewer shall be constructed of materials and with joints that are equivalent to water main standards of construction and shall be pressure tested to assure water tightness. Each situation must be reviewed on an individual, site specific basis 4.4.6 Utility Crossings Where water mains cross over or under utilities other than sewers, the clearance and type of crossing provided shall conform to the requirements of the particular utility involved and provide proper bedding and structural support of the water main and utility. 4.4.7 Dead Ends Wherever possible, the distribution system shall be designed to eliminate dead -end sections. Where dead -ends cannot be avoided, they shall be provided with a fire hydrant or flushing port to City Standards. 4.5 Line Valves 4.5.1 Type Gate valves shall be used on all water mains 300mm diameter and under. All valves shall be of the approved type with non -rising stem and a 20mm square operating nut opening counterclockwise. 4.5.2 Sizes The sizes of the line valves shall be the same size as the water main. -27- 4.5.3 Number, Location and Spacing Generally, a minimum of three valves are required at a tee intersection and a minimum of four valves are required at a cross intersection. The valves shall be located at the point where the projections of the street line intersect the water main. Valve boxes and chambers shall be located in boulevards wherever possible. Line valves shall be located such that no more than 20 houses will be shut off at one time. In no case shall the spacing exceeded 220m. Maximum spacing of line valves on feeder mains shall be 750m. 4.5.4 Air Release Valves Air release valves shall be placed at all significant high points of the distribution system. In addition, an attempt shall be made to locate hydrants at high points or at dead ends, thereby eliminating the need for vacuum -air relief valves and/or blow -offs. 4.5.5 Drain Valves Drain valves shall be located at the low points of all water mains 600mm diameter and greater. 4.5.6 Valve Boxes and Chambers All valves 250mm diameter and smaller shall have valves boxes and specified direct bury operators shall be used. All valves 300mm diameter and larger shall be installed in valve chambers with stainless steel extension stems and valve box on the edge of the chamber as per City Standard Drawings. The tops of valve boxes and valve chamber manhole covers shall be set flush with finished grade. The top of the roof slab of valve chambers shall be at least 0.60m below the profile of the finished pavement. Valve boxes should be 125mm in diameter. Chambers or pits containing valves, blow -offs, meters or other such appurtenances to a distribution system shall not be connected directly to any sanitary or combined sewer, nor shall blow -offs or air- relief valves be connected directly to any such sewer. In order to minimize the total number of chambers on any project, care should be exercised in locating the line valves, air - reliefs, drains, etc., with a view to combining these functions in a single chamber. 4.6 Hydrants a) All hydrants shall be Canada Valve century, McAvity M -67 Brigidier or American AVK 2780 and to be supplied with a STORTZ' connection b) All hydrants installed on water mains shall have a 150mm anchor tee with 150mm valve. Hydrant installation shall be as per City Standard Drawing -28- c) Hydrants shall be installed on all water mains 150mm diameter and larger with the following maximum allowable spacing, measured along the fire vehicles path of travel to the principle entrance of the unit • 150m in residential areas, or to provide for a maximum hose length of 75m • 75m in industrial and commercial areas to provide for a maximum hose length of 37.5m; d) In the case of lot frontages Less than 15.0m, hydrants should be located on the left hand side of the new driveway approximately 1.0m inside the left edge of the driveway. 4.7 Thrust Restraint Thrust blocks or restrained joints will be used for thrust restraint as follows: a) Concrete thrust blocks shall be as per City Standard Drawings. All concrete for thrust blocks shall be laid to undisturbed ground. Where soil conditions or working pressures exceed those values contained in the City Standards, thrust blocking shall be individually designed. b) Joint restraining devices to be by Uniflange Series 1300, 1350, 1360, 1390 or approved equal. Use of restrained joints must be supported by appropriate design calculations. 4.8 Water main Pipe Materials a) The following materials may be used for water mains; • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC DR 18) can be used for sizes up to 600mm diameter, when installed under roadways. In other locations this limit may be extended to 900mm diameter upon approval of the Municipal Works Director, or designate • Reinforced Concrete Pressure Pipe (RCPP) can be used for sizes 400mm and greater • Polyethylene Pipe (PE) may be used for sizes up to 600mm diameter, upon the approval of the Municipal Works Director, or designate. b) All pipe material and associated appurtenances must meet current American Water Works Association (AWWA) specifications and Ontario Provincial Standard Specifications (OPSS). 4.9 Tracer Wire a) Tracer wire to be 8 -gauge 7- strand insulated copper wire specifically manufactured for direct buries. b) All spliced or repaired wire connections in the tracer wire shall be made using a 37 Marr Wire Connector and made water -tight using an approved buried service wire enclosure. c) Buried service wire enclosure to be Klik -It Buried Service Wire enclosure. d) Tracer wire shall be continuous along the crown of the pipe for its entire length and strapped to the pipe at a minimum of 3.0 intervals. Tracer wire shall be terminated on the inside of all structures and manholes and shall be tied off on the top ladder rung At all -32- Pipe / Fittinu Size Zinc Anode Size (kg) 100 and 150 5.5 200 5.5 250 5.5 300 5.5 400 5.5 450 5.5 Hydrant 11 Conner Service (min) 20 5.5 25 5.5 38 5.5 50 5.5 main line valves and fire hydrant secondary valve locations, the tracer wire shall be brought up the outside of the valve box with a 300mm loop of wire inserted into the upper section of the box under the cap. Before acceptance by Owner, the Contractor shall demonstrate the integrity of the underground tracer wire by applying an electric current or toning. 4.10 Cathodic Protection of Water main and Appurtenances For non - metallic water main installation all metallic water main fittings, valves, hydrants, water services and restrainers are to have high grade zinc anodes installed of the sizes specified in the following table: 4.11 Water Service Connection 4.11.1 General In new developments, the service connections shall be installed in accordance with the Standard Drawings terminating at the property line. 4.11.2 Pipe Sizes a) The minimum size for service connections shall be 20mm diameter except when the length of the connection from the main to the building setback exceeds 30.0m, then the minimum size shall be 25mm diameter; b) Service connections for multiple family dwellings shall be sized to provide capacity equivalent to a 20m diameter connections to each dwelling unit; -33- c) Service connections for blocks, commercial and industrial areas shall be sized according to the intended use. 4.11.3 Location Every attempt shall be made so that no water service connections will be located under a driveway. 4.11.4 Depth In no case shall the cover of the water service connection be less than 1.50m. 4.11.5 Mainstops All main stops shall be of a Mueller II Ori -Seal or approved equal, utilizing stainless steel service saddle with double stainless steel bolts, as per City Standard Specifications. 4.11.6 Curb Stops and Boxes All curb stops shall be Meuller Mark II Ori -Seal or approved equal, as per City Standard Specifications. All curb stops will use stainless steel stems to operate the valve. 4.11.7 Materials Water service connection 50 mm diameters or less shall be type "K" soft copper. Water service connections larger than 50mm diameter shall be as per Section 4.8. 4.12 Construction Construction of all water mains and service connections in the City of Niagara Falls shall be in accordance with the current City Specifications and Standard Drawings. 4.13 Water Meters Water meters must be installed in accordance with the City specifications in all buildings prior to occupancy. Water meters must be purchased from the Municipality. 4.14 Booster Pump Stations In general, all booster pump installations shall have the following: a) automatic detection and shutdown for overloads, underloads, overheating and rapid cycling; b) visual fault display; c) field adjustable automatic restart -34- Booster Pumping Stations will only be considered in exceptional circumstances and the requirements for each proposed use will be assessed by the Municipal Works Director or designate on an individual basis. -35- Section 5 Storm Drainage Systems 5.1 Stormwater Management For stormwater quality criteria reference should also be made to the latest edition of the Ontario Ministry of the Environment's Stormwater Management Planning and Design Manual. The developer and/or his consultant shall meet with the City's Municipal Works staff prior to commencement of detailed design to establish the acceptable methodology for determination of stormwater design flows, etc. required by the Municipality. Applications for a Certificate of Approval, once reviewed by the Municipality, will be forwarded to the Region/MOE if acceptable. 5.2 Rational Method 5.2.1 General The rational method is acceptable for determination of most storm sewer design flows. Generally all storm sewers shall be designed according to the rational formula where: Q = 2.78AIR A = Drainage area in hectares I = Average rainfall intensity - mm /h R = Runoff coefficient Q = Runoff quantity in 1/s 5.2.2 Watershed and Drainage Areas The watershed area shall be determined from contour plans and shall include all areas that naturally drain into the system and shall also consider all lot grading plans for proposed developments. A plan of the watershed area shall be prepared and shall include all affected streets, lots and watercourses. The proposed storm sewer system shall be shown on this plan including each manhole numbered consecutively for design reference. Manholes shall generally be located at each and every change of pipe size, grade and alignment. Manholes shall be the tributary points in design. The areas tributary to each manhole shall be clearly outlined on the storm drainage area plan with the area in hectares (to the nearest tenth) and runoff coefficient shown in a circle. In cases where areas of different runoff coefficients are tributary to one manhole, the areas tributary to the manhole shall be individually outlined. The tributary area and runoff coefficient for each area shall be shown as set out above. In determining tributary areas to manholes, the proposed grading of lots should be taken into account. -36- In the case of large tributary areas under single ownership, such as shopping centres, apartment developments, schools, etc., the design shall be prepared on the basis of the whole area being tributary to a manhole in an abutting storm sewer. When more than one sewer connection will be necessary to serve the property in question, the appropriate area tributary to each sewer connection shall be clearly shown and taken into account in the design of the storm sewer. In lieu of precise information on development of the whole or any part of a watershed area, the latest approved zoning by -law and plans shall be used to select the correct values of the runoff coefficients to be used in the design and to determine the specific areas where they will apply. 5.2.3 Rainfall Intensity a) The values of the rainfall intensity shall be determined using the approved Rainfall Intensity Duration Curve (IDC) for Niagara Falls, and shall be provided for all design storms b) For new developments return frequency values for design shall be as follows: Minor System - 5 year; major System - 100 year c) In addition, reference should be made to Section 2 of this manual for frequency bases criteria governing the design of road drainage systems. 5.2.4 Runoff Coefficients Values for the runoff coefficient "R" shall be approved by the Director of Municipal Works. Listed below are the minimum runoff coefficients to be used: Surface Type or Land Use Recommended Coefficient Parks 0.30 Single Family Residential 0.45 Semi - detached 0.55 Maisonettes, Townhouses, etc 0.70 Apartments, Schools, Churches 0.75 Industrial 0.85 Commercial 0.90 Paved Areas 0.90 -37- 5.3 Sewer Design 5.3.1 Hydraulic Calculations a) Sewer capacities can be calculated using Manning's Formula on the basis of the pipe flowing full; however, the "actual" flow depth and velocity at the design flow shall also be calculated and taken as the basis for design. b) Pipe sizes shall not decrease from an upstream size to a smaller downstream size, regardless of slope. c) All calculations shall be summarized utilizing standard Municipal forms, provided in the Appendix. 5.3.2 Roughness Coefficient The roughness coefficient to be used for storm sewer pipes shall be a) Smooth wall concrete, polyvinyl chloride and polyethylene; a minimum valve of n = 0.013, shall be used. b) Corrugated wall; according to manufacturers recommendations. 5.3.3 Velocity The velocity in storm sewers shall be generally limited to a minimum of 0.8 m/s and a maximum of 6.0 m/s. 5.3.4 Minimum Sizes Pipes Sewer Mains 300mm Catchbasin Connections 200mm (single) 300mm (double) 5.3.5 Minimum Depth and Clearance a) The minimum cover to the top of the pipe shall generally be 1.20m. In all cases, the proposed storm sewers shall be installed at sufficient depth to service lands external to the site as required by the Municipality. b) Generally, a minimum clearance of 0.25m shall be provided between the outside of the pipe barrels at the point of pipe crossing for storm and sanitary sewers. Generally, a storm sewer crossing a waterman must maintain a minimum clearance of 0.50m. In the event that the minimum clearances cannot be obtained, the criteria contained in the Waterworks Section of this manual shall govern. -38- 5.3.7 Manholes a) In general, manholes shall be constructed as per City Standard Drawings. However, it is the responsibility of the designer to analyse each application of the standard (i.e. soil conditions, loadings, etc.) to determine structural adequacy. In cases where the standards can not be used manholes shall be individually designed and detailed. b) Manholes shall be provided at each change in alignment, grade, and pipe material /size, except where radius pipe is used. c) Generally, manholes shall be spaced at: • a maximum of 120m for pipe sizes 250mm diameter to 450mm diameter • a maximum of 150m for pipe sizes 500mm diameter and above d) The type and size of manhole shall be specified on the profile and a detail of the benching shall be shown on the plan portion of the drawing for cases when the benching differs from the standard drawings. All manhole chamber openings shall be located on the upstream side of the manholes. e) Storm sewer pipe greater than 525mm shall not be turned to less than 90 degrees in any manhole. In cases where there is more than one inlet, no storm sewer greater than 450mm shall be less than 90 degrees in a manhole. 1) Obverts on the upstream side of a manhole shall, in no case, be lower than those on the downstream side. g) Safety gratings shall be required in all manholes greater than 5.0m in depth. Safety gratings shall not more than 5.0m apart and constructed in accordance with the Standard O.P.S. Drawings. 5.3.8 Catchbasins The spacing of catchbasins shall be as follows: Road Gradient Maximum Spacing 0.5% to 3% 107m 3% to 4.5% 91m 4.5% > 76m In sags, when drainage is received from more than one direction, double catchbasins shall be installed and the maximum length of gutter contributing from each side shall be 75% of the spacing permitted above. Catchbasins shall conform to City Standard Drawings. 5.4 Easements The minimum width of easements for pipes shall be determined to account for number of pipes, pipe size, depth and excavation by open cut method. In no case shall the easement width be less than 3.0m. -39- 5.5 Pipe Design a) All pipe and embedment material selection shall be supported with appropriate structural design calculations. In the case of flexible pipe materials, long term deflection will be limited to 5% of the diameter. Both dead loads and live loads shall be considered. b) The class and type of pipe and type of pipe bedding shall be shown on the profile for all lengths of sewer. c) All storm sewers shall be located as shown on the appropriate road cross - section standard. d) Subject to the approval of the Director of Municipal Works, radius pipe will be permitted to achieve changes in horizontal alignment. The minimum radius allowed for various diameters of pipe shall be as detailed in the manufacturer's specifications. 5.6 Pipe Materials a) Storm sewers may be constructed of concrete pipe, polyvinyl chloride pipe or polyethylene pipe. Corrugated metal piping may be used for culverts. b) All pipe used for storm sewer shall have a smooth interior wall. c) Polyvinyl chloride and Polyethylene pipe can be used for diameters up to 600mm when installed under roadways. In other locations this limit may be extended to 900mm diameters upon the approval of the Municipal Works Director or designate. d) All pipe materials and_associated appurtenances must meet current relevant Ontario Provincial Standard Specifications (OPSS). Where no such specification exists, the current Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or American Society for Testing & Materials (ASTM) specification will govern. 5.7 Storm Sewer Service Connections 5.7.1 General In new developments, the service connections shall be installed in accordance with the Standard Drawings terminating a property line. The storm sewer connections to the main sewer shall be made with an approved manufactured tee for main sewer sizes up to and including 375mm diameter and in accordance with Municipal requirements for larger sizes. Service connections shall not connect into a catchbasin. 5.7.2 Pipe Size a) Service connections for single family and semi - detached units - minimum 150mm diameter; b) Service connections for multiple family and other blocks, commercial and industrial areas are to be sized individually according to the intended use. -40- 5.7.3 Depth The depth of service connections at the street line in residential areas, measured from the final centreline road elevation shall be: • Minimum - 1 80m • Maximum - 2.50m Risers shall be used when the invert depth of the sewer main exceeds 4.60m. Risers shall not exceed 3.0m in depth. 5.7.4 Storm Drainage and Storm Sewer Connections to Multiple Family, Commercial and Other Blocks Parking lots, driveways and/or other hard surfaced areas servicing multiple families, commercial and other blocks shall be drained by a properly designed internal drainage system (including catchbasins, manholes and pipe) which shall connect to the storm sewer system or other approved outfall. A manhole shall be required, located either on private property, 1.50 metres from property line to centre of rim or on the municipal main. 5.7.5 Velocity and Grade Minimum velocity - 0.75 m/s Maximum velocity - 4.50 m/s Standard residential connections shall have a minimum slope of 1 %. 5.7.6 Location of Service Connections Sanitary and storm sewer connections shall be located in accordance with the applicable City Standard Drawing. 5.7.7 Material for Storm Sewer Service Connections Storm sewer service connections may be constructed using any of the materials outlined in Section 5.6 except for polyethylene, which is not listed as an acceptable material under the Plumbing Code. 5.8 Construction Construction of all storm sewers and service connections shall be in accordance with the current and appropriate City Specifications and Standard Drawings. -41- 5.9 Roof Leaders Roof drains shall discharge at the front of the dwelling onto splash pads with flows directed away from the building foundations without erosion or inconvenience to others. Wherever possible, runoff from roof drains should flow across pervious ground surfaces. Roof water leaders will not be permitted to be connected to the storm sewer system, unless absolutely necessary. 5.10 Watercourse Alterations & Outfalls a) Where existing drainage courses are to be altered the requirements will be assessed by the Director of Municipal Works on an individual basis. Also the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority has regulations applying to certain watercourses which govern the construction in any area which may affect flooding, pollution or conservation of land. All alterations to existing watercourses must satisfy the requirements of both the Municipality and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority. b) In general, all outfalls shall be designed to dissipate energy to a level that will not cause erosion of the receiving watercourse. Where structures are to be used, they shall be oriented in such a manner as to not impede flow in the receiving channel. As a minimum, erosion control materials as per City Standard Drawing shall be placed at all sewer /culvert outlets. c) All watercourse alterations and /or outfall designs shall be supported by appropriate design calculations /analysis. 5.11 Erosion and Siltation Control Drainage designs for all developments shall incorporate stormwater management techniques designed to minimize both site and downstream erosion, as well as minimize siltation and water quality impairment downstream. The developer will be responsible for meeting the requirements of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ministry of the Environment, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority and the City of Niagara Falls. 5.12 Foundation Drains Foundation drains for single family residences may be directed to grade, provided local soil conditions make this practical. For row or townhouses, connection to the storm sewer is permitted in accordance with City Standard Drawings. -42- 5.13 Stormwater Facilities 5.13.1 Retention/Detention Ponds (Non Residential) a) Retention/detention ponds are required in most sewer systems in order to attenuate both the quantity and quality of storm water. Quantity is attenuated by reducing the amount of flow by such items as throttled outlets, or flow control appurtenances such as hicken- bottom control structures. Quality is attenuated by retarding the flow for a specified period of time, therefore allowing any contaminates heavier than water to settle to the bottom. Some attenuation is also achieved with the flow of the storm water going through vegetation such as cattails and other plants. b) Enough property should be set aside to allow for the necessary subdivision surface areas to effectively drain based on the maximum flow rate specified in approved storm water management standards, and proper accessibility for periodic maintenance of these facilities. A minimum 3.0m flat area should be provided around the perimeter of any retention/detention pond, in order to allow access by maintenance vehicles. c) All retention/detention ponds should be fenced around the perimeter, especially where they abut residential properties. The type of fencing should be OPSS Commercial Grade, 1.8m high, galvanized chain -link. Two (2) vehicle access gates a minimum of 3.66m wide to be located at each end of the retention pond to permit ease of access to the 3.0m top of bank maintenance area. No pressure- treated wood fencing or other materials will be permitted based on their increased long term maintenance requirements and replacement costs related to their shorter life expectancy. d) No slopes steeper than a 3:1 ratio will be allowed (3 units run to 1 unit rise), gentler slopes are encouraged. The gentler slopes facilitate periodic maintenance and address risk management concerns. e) The inlet/outlet structures shall be located away from shore whenever possible to discourage public access. Trash racks (grates) with low entry velocities are required to prevent plugging with debris and to provide safety to the public. f) Under no circumstances should the maximum water depth retained be allowed to exceed 1.20m in depth, at any time, based on storm water management design standards and specifications. g) Maintenance of stormwater management facilities shall be the responsibility of the developer, until such time as the maintenance period has expired, or the City assumes the subdivision in which they are located. The facilities shall be returned to design conditions as set out in the -43- approved stormwater management report, along with a plan submitted by the Engineering Consultant, for review and acceptance by City staff prior to subdivision assumption. The following maintenance criteria in terms of accessing the ponds shall apply to the design of stormwater management facilities of all types and shall have a maintenance access road around the pond that; • Has a minimum width of 3.0 -6.0m • A maximum cross fall of 2% • A maximum slope of 12:1 (8 %), with an absolute maximum of 10:1 (10 %) • Have a minimum setback of 3.0m from any residential fence /property line • Provide access to the headwall, outlet structure and sediment drying area • Be located at the predicted 5 -year water level • Be located such that any section of the pond is within 30m of the access road • Be constructed of 300mm of 50mm diameter crusher run limestone, 100mm of topsoil and vegetated to the satisfaction to the Director of Municipal Works and/or his/her designate • Have trail connections where the pond is adjacent to parklands 5.13.2 Retention/Detention Ponds (Recreational Amenity Use) a) The purpose of these types of ponds is to incorporate storm water management aspects and passive recreation uses, i.e., pathways, interpretive ecological areas. The advantages of these types of facilities range from more efficient use of land, to community recreational facilities being built at the early stages of subdivision developments. This type of combined facility is not suited for neighbourhood park areas unless all risk management standards and requirements are met related to public access and use of facilities and the necessary neighbourhood park amenities can be safely incorporated into the proposed green space/blue space overall design. b) Enough property should be set aside to allow for gentler slopes, and the necessary subdivision surface area to effectively drain based on the maximum flow rate specified in approved storm water management standards, and proper accessibility for periodic maintenance of these facilities. A minimum 3.0m flat area should be provided around the perimeter of a retention pond, in order to allow ease of access for maintenance vehicles. Fencing is not required, based on gentler slopes of 4 to 1 or greater unless recommended by risk management consultant. c) Under no circumstances should slopes be steeper than a 4:1 ratio (4 units to 1 unit rise), 5:1, 6:1 or gentler slopes are encouraged, particularly where soil conditions warrant. Gentler slopes facilitate periodic maintenance and address risk management concerns. -44- d) The inlet/outlet structures will be located away from common areas whenever possible so as to discourage public access. Trash racks (grates) with low entry velocity are required to prevent plugging with debris and to provide safety to the public. e) Under no circumstances should the maximum water depth retained be allowed to exceed 0.9m in depth at any time. O Hydro seeding and /or sodding will be the minimum requirement. However, additional site specific vegetation and trees (evergreen and deciduous) will be encouraged. g) All ponds shall be well landscaped with a mixture of naturalization plantings including; upland, riparian, emergent and aquatic species. Landscape designs for these ponds shall be reviewed by a landscape architect for the proper planting designs, and shall allow for future capacity expansions. h) Maintenance of stormwater management facilities shall be the responsibility of the developer, until such time as the maintenance period has expired, or the City assumes the subdivision in which they are located. The facilities shall be returned to design conditions as set out in the approved stormwater management report, along with a plan submitted by the Engineering Consultant, for review and acceptance by City staff prior to subdivision assumption. The following maintenance criteria in terms of accessing the ponds shall apply to the design of stormwater management facilities of all types and shall have a maintenance access road around the pond that; • Has a minimum width of 3.0 -6.0m • A maximum cross fall of 2% • A maximum slope of 12:1 (8 %), with an absolute maximum of 10:1 (10 %) • Have a minimum setback of 3.0m from any residential fence /property line • Provide access to the headwall, outlet structure and sediment drying area • Be located at the predicted 5 -year water level • Be located such that any section of the pond is within 30m of the access road • Be constructed of 300mm of 50mm diameter crusher run limestone, 100mm of topsoil and vegetated to the satisfaction to the Director of Municipal Works and/or his/her designate • Have trail connections where the pond is adjacent to parklands -45- Section 6 Lot Grading and Surface Drainage 6.1 General The following policy has been developed to ensure that newly created building lots are suitable for the erection of buildings and provide satisfactory and environmentally sustainable drainage of lands within the development. The design and completion of lot grading is of primary concern to the Municipality and the following criteria shall apply to all residential development in the City of Niagara Falls. Variances from these criteria may be permitted where the lot grading complies with the overall design and a reasonable balance is achieved between the provision of relatively flat amenity areas, effective drainage, the preservation of natural topography, and the environmental impact of urban runoff. 6.2 Objectives The following statements of objectives of the Lot Grading and Drainage policy for subdivisions are used as the premise upon which the policy contained herein is based. a) To ensure the establishment and certification of a cost - effective grading scheme for development lands by means of relative ground elevations in accordance with good drainage practices. b) To enable the establishment of a point in time up to which the Municipality and Subdivider/Developer/Builder are responsible for the establishment of the grading scheme and after which the maintenance of the grading and drainage becomes the owner's responsibility. c) To insure maintenance of, or acceptable revisions to, the grading and drainage scheme established on lands developed under this policy through the Building Permit applications for future works which require excavation (i.e. garages, swimming pools, buildings additions, etc.) d) To insure surface drainage is self - contained within the lands being developed and to insure surface drainage from or on adjacent lands is accommodated or not adversely affected. e) The grading, drainage and building construction should be such that unanticipated storm water does not enter the sanitary sewer system. f) The grading and drainage on lands developed under this policy should be congenial with nature and thus preserve the natural terrain as much as possible including the presentation of existing trees and vegetation where possible. g) Grading and drainage schemes shall include erosion and sediment control measures. -46- 6.3 Requirements under the Policy All subdivision agreements for development of subdivisions in the City of Niagara Falls shall include the following requirements. These requirements apply to the entire subdivision with the exception of blocks which are under Site Plan Control. 6.3.1 Preparation of Subdivision Grade Control Plan a) The Subdivider or its Agent shall prepare, as part of the engineering drawings for the subdivision, a Subdivision Grade Control Plan for the purpose of controlling the overall drainage pattern through the establishment of relative surface elevations in accordance with good drainage practices. b) At the time of execution of the Subdivision Agreement, the Subdivider shall convey to the Municipality, at his expense and in a form satisfactory to the City Solicitor, easements for all rear yard catchbasins and leads. These easements will typically be centered on the lot line and will be a minimum of 3.0m in width (the width may vary according to circumstances.) c) The Subdivision Grade Control Plan is to be prepared in conformance with Section 6.4 of this policy. d) The completed Subdivision Grade Control Plan shall be reviewed by the Subdivider and then approved by the Director of Municipal Works. e) The approved plan along with any approved revisions will be maintained on file by the Director of Municipal Works. 6.3.2 Subdivider's Grading Deposit a) At the time of execution of the Subdivision Agreement or phase thereof, the Subdivider shall deposit with the Municipality as surety for carrying out the provisions of the Subdivision Grade Control Plan the amount of $1,500.00 per lot. The deposit shall be either cash, or a letter credit in a form suitable to the Municipality. This Subdivider's Grading Deposit shall be returned to the Subdivider as set out in Section 3, subject to any amounts retained under Article b) below. b) Should drainage problems arise which are as a result of non - compliance to the requirements of this policy, the Municipality may, at its sole discretion, give the Subdivider 14 days notice to correct the problems. Upon failure of the Subdivider to rectify the problems, the Municipality will use the Subdivider's Grading Deposit to cover the costs of any remedial works deemed necessary. Any costs of these remedial works in excess of the amount of the Subdivider's Grading Deposit shall be responsibility of the Subdivider. -47- 6.3.3 Subdivider's Responsibility A copy of the Subdivision Grade Control Plan or its latest revision shall be made available to the Subdivider. It is the Subdivider's responsibility to ensure that the grading of lots within the subdivision is in accordance with the latest revision of this Subdivision Grade Control plan. In this regard, the Subdivider shall ensure that all offers to purchase lots within the subdivision include a statement outlining the responsibility of subsequent owners to adhere to the City's Lot Grading & Drainage Policy. 6.3.4 Revisions to Subdivision Grade Control Plan a) Prior to acceptance of the subdivision by the Municipality, any requests for revisions to the Subdivision Grade Control Plan to accommodate proposed or as constructed deviations from the plan shall' be made by the Subdivider, to the Director of Municipal Works, in writing. b) A revision will only be granted if deemed reasonable and it shall be reviewed by the Subdivider and then approved by the Director of Municipal Works. 6.3.5 Grading Requirements prior to Building Permits The following grading works shall be completed prior to the issuance any building permits: a) installation, to grade, of all rearyard catchbasins including connections to the main sewers. b) rough grading of all lots and blocks to generally conform to the Subdivision Grade Control Plan. c) construction and sodding of all drainage swales and other erosion control devices deemed necessary (subject to weather conditions). 6.3.6 Proposed Lot Grading Plans a) Prior to the issuance of a Building permit for each lot, the Builder shall submit to the Municipality two copies of a proposed Lot Grading Plan which has been reviewed and approved by the Consultant to ensure conformance with the intent of Subdivision Grade Control Plan. b) Lot Grading Plans shall be prepared and signed by an Ontario Land Surveyor, Licensed Professional Engineer or Certified Engineering Technologist (C.E.T.). c) The Plan must take into consideration, among other factors, the suitability of the type of building proposed on a lot or block and must illustrate the "specific lot grading type ". d) Where a revision to the Subdivision Grade Control Plan is necessary to accommodate a proposed grading plan which does not conform to the Subdivision Grade Control Plan, the builder must submit the request for a revision through the Subdivider in accordance with Section 6.3.4 of this policy. The -48- request for a major revision to the Subdivision Grade Control Plan shall be accompanied by written assurance that the owners of adjacent lands which are developed or are in the building stage, have no objection to the proposed revision. 6.3.7 Construction Requirements a) The elevation of footings is to be set in the field by an Ontario Land Surveyor. b) Prior to commencing framing, the Ontario Land Surveyor shall also ensure that the top of the foundation is at the correct elevation. If an error is found at this stage then before proceeding with construction: • the error is to be corrected, or • if it not reasonably possible to correct the error, then the builder must submit a request for a revision, in writing, through the Subdivider in accordance with Section 6.3.4 of the policy. c) The grading of a lot shall be considered to be completed when the building has been erected and the lands have been graded and sodded in accordance with the SubdivisionGrade Control Plan. Grading shall be done within two months after authorization of occupancy of the building. If authorization of occupancy occurs between November 1 and April 30 then grading and sodding must be completed by the next June lst. 6.3.8 As Constructed Lot Grading Plan a) Within 30 days after the completion of the grading as noted in Section 6.3.7, and preferably prior to landscaping or fencing, the builder shall be required to submit to the Municipality one copy of the Lot Grading Plan which shall indicate the finished elevation of the grade control points as shown on the proposed Lot Grading Plan. b) As- constructed Lot Grading Plans shall be prepared and certified by an Ontario Land Surveyor, Licensed Professional Engineer or Certified Engineering Technologist (C.E.T.). c) Where a revision to the Subdivision Grade Control Plan is necessary to accommodate completed grading not in conformance with the proposed Lot Grading Plan and Subdivision Grade Control Plan, the builder must submit the request for a revision, in writing, through the Subdivider in accordance with Section 6.3.4 of the policy. 6.3.9 Grading Conformance Certificate a) Once the "as constructed" grading of a lot has been accepted to be in conformance with the latest revision of the Subdivision Grade Control plan the Lot Grading Plan shall be certified and dated, by the Municipality, as the Grading Conformance Certificate. -49- b) The date on the Grading conformance Certificate shall mark the end of the City's and Subdivider 's /Developer'sBuilder's responsibility to establish the lot grading and the beginning of the owner's responsibility to maintain the grading and drainage scheme. 6.4 Design Criteria The following guidelines should be considered when designing the grading on lots. Many of the guidelines set out are illustrated in the sample drawings in the appendix. a) all surface drainage, including downspout discharge, shall be directed away from the building(s), including adjacent existing or future buildings. b) Unless otherwise stipulated, the lot shall have a minimum slope of 1.5% and a maximum slope of 6 %. Average slopes between 6% and 10% can be achieved by combining a 6% maximum slope with a 3:1 slope at the rear of the lot/block. c) Should the average slope exceed 10 %, the Director of Municipal Works may require a retaining structure to reduce the grade differential to an acceptable amount. Notwithstanding the above, elevation changes exceeding 1.0m in height shall require a retaining structure. d) The maximum slope between the dwelling unit and the side property line shall be 3:1. Otherwise, appropriate steps or retaining structures shall be required. e) Terraces between lots shall be located on the lower lot with the top of the terrace slope at the lot line. f) Drainage flows shall be confined to defined swales which shall be located as far from the dwelling units as possible. g) Swales shall have a minimum grade of 1.5 %, and a maximum grade of 6 %. h) The swale depth shall not be less than 150mm and shall not exceed 600mm. A desirable swale depth shall be 200mm. i) The sideslope of swales shall not be steeper than 3 to 1. j) The alignment of swales shall not change more than 45 degrees unless otherwise approved. k) Rearyard swales shall be located: • Centered on the rear lot line if adjoining lots are within the same subdivision. • Entirely on the subject lot if the adjoining land is outside the subdivision. 1) The maximum length of rearyard swales from the high point to the outlet (rearyard catchbasin or other suitable outlet) shall be 50m, or the width of three lots, whichever is less unless otherwise approved. This maximum length of swales may be varied at the discretion of the Director of Municipal Works. m) The maximum flow allowed in a sideyard swale shall be that from two backyards. If backyards are of an unusually large size, the Director of Municipal Works may require that drainage be directed by rearyard swales. n) Generally speaking, all semi - detached and minimum sized lots shall have rear lot drainage schemes. Sideyard swales shall only be permitted with approval of director Municipal Works if the construction of such swales could be accommodated properly. o) the minimum grade on driveways shall be 1.5 %, and a maximum grade of 8 %. p) Depressed driveways sloping toward the dwelling units are not permitted. q) Side and back entrances and stairwells shall not be located adjacent to main swales or downspouts. -50- r) Window -wells should preferably be avoided but where they are required, special care shall be taken to insure that surface water from overland flow and from other sources such as downspouts shall not enter these wells. The edge of the window -well shall be higher than the adjacent ground. s) Downspouts must discharge via splash pads (concrete or other suitable material) to grass surfaces. These splash pads shall extend a distance at least 1.0m away from the building. t) Downspouts must direct the flow away from the building, not onto walks or driveways and not towards adjacent property. 6.5 Pregrading The existing topsoil shall be removed over the entire area of the subdivision lands, excluding park lands and stockpiled at locations approved by the Director of Municipal Works. The lands shall then be graded to the elevation shown on the Subdivision Grade Control Plan, making due allowance for final application of sod and topsoil and for placing material to be excavated from foundations and basements. 6.6 Sodding The entire yard of all residential lots is to be sodded to the satisfaction of the Director of Municipal Works. Sodding may not be permitted in the months July and August. Sod shall be placed over topsoil of a minimum depth of 100mm and in accordance with the current City Specifications. 6.7 Retaining Walls a) Any retaining walls that exceed a height of 0.6m require a hand railing. b) Retaining walls are to be located entirely on the "high" lot. c) Retaining walls over 1.0m high may require a Building Permit. 6.8 Post - Construction Considerations 6.8.1 Release of Subdivider's Grading Deposit a) When Grading Conformance Certificates have been issued for at least 50% of the lots within the subdivision, the Municipality will release a portion of the Subdivider's Grading Deposit. The Municipality will retain that amount required as surety for the remaining uncertified lots in accordance with Section 6.3.2. b) Annually thereafter, the Municipality will release further portions of the Subdivider's Grading Deposit in the same manner as described above. -51- c) The balance of the Subdivider's Grading Deposit less any amounts retained under Article 1.3 will be released upon acceptance of the subdivision by the Municipality. The Municipality will not accept a subdivision until the following matters have been complied with: • the completion of all works stipulated in the Subdivision Agreement. • the issuance of Grading Conformance Certificates for at least 80% of the lots within the subdivision for which building permits have been issued. Acceptance of the subdivision may be granted if Grading Conformance Certificates have not been issued for some of these lots. In this event, the Municipality will treat the undeveloped lots on an individual basis for which separate lot grading deposits will be required at the Building Permit stage. • revisions to the Subdivision Grade Control Plan to accommodate the as constructed grading on finished lots or the proposed grading on uncompleted lots. 6.8.2 New Construction after Acceptance of the Subdivision The construction of a new house on a lot within the subdivision after acceptance of the subdivision by the Municipality shall be subject to all the requirements of this policy. However, the builder of the lot will be required to provide a Lot Grading Deposit at the time of building permit application. The Lot Grading Deposit will be returned upon issuance by the Municipality of the Grading Conformance Certificate. 6.9 Revisions to Grading After Issuance of a Grading Conformance Certificate As stated in 6.3.9 of this section, the maintenance of the grading after issuance of the Grading Conformance Certificate is the responsibility of the owner. Therefore, any revisions to the grading and drainage scheme established on the lands developed under this policy will be subject to the following requirements: a) prior to the issuance of a building permit for any works which necessitate excavation (garages, swimming pools, building additions, etc.) the owner or builder shall submit to the City a proposed Lot Grading Plan (Plot Plan) indicating any proposed grade changes. b) If changes are proposed to the grading which will affect the established drainage: • Submission of the proposed Lot Grading Plan shall be accompanied by the required cash Lot Grading Deposit • Upon completion of the works and grading including restoration (sodding or preparation of seeding) the Owner shall submit to the City an `as- constructed' Lot Grading Plan indicating the finished grades in accordance with Section 6.3.4 above • Upon acceptance by the City that the grading conforms to the Master Grade Control Plan, the `as- constructed' Lot Grading Plan shall be certified by the City as the revised Grading Conformance Certificate, and the cash Lot Grading Deposit returned to the Owner • Upon failure of the Owner to rectify drainage problems which are a result of non- compliance to the requirements of this policy, the City will use the cash Lot Grading Deposit to cover the cost of any remedial works in excess of the amount of the cash Lot Grading Deposit shall be the responsibility of the Owner -52- 6.10 Technical Requirements for Master Grade Control Plans Master Grade Control Plans shall be prepared in conformance with this part and with regard to the Design Guidelines set out in Section 6.4 above. The Master Grade Control Plan shall be prepared at a minimum scale of 1:500, on 610mm x 914mm (24" x 36 ") size sheet, and clearly illustrate the following. a) legend, north direction, name of subdivision, City of Niagara Falls Geodetic Benchmark(s), date of preparation and any subsequent revisions b) property boundaries, lots/block numbers /designations c) existing/proposed contours /elevations d) existing elevations and drainage from lands adjacent to the proposed subdivision and if drainage from these lands is towards the proposed subdivision, the existing information shall be obtained to the high point of the drainage area or at least to the adjacent street e) location of sewer manholes, hydrants, sidewalks, catchbasins, and rearyard catchbains f) proposed elevations at the centreline of the finished road and relative data showing distances and slopes between these elevations g) existing and proposed ground elevations at the corner of each lot or block with suitable intermediate elevations as required h) existing and proposed ground elevations at the house/building envelope i) location, elevation, and longitudinal slopes at the invert of swales together with rearyard catchbasin elevations and drainage arrows showing the direction of swale drainage j) the lot grading type of each lot or block with arrows to indicate the direction of surface drainage (see Plates that follow this section) k) any drainage obstruction such as berms, retaining walls, sound barriers, silt traps, vegetation, etc. 1) artificial or natural impoundments m) existing trees and vegetation as they affect proposed drainage and catch basin schemes which are to be saved/preserved n) any lots or blocks not suitable for the construction of any type of buildings or features due to the grading and drainage patterns, should be clearly indicated on the plan 6.11 Technical Requirements for Lot Grading Plans (Plot Plans) Lot Grading Plans for individual lots shall be prepared in conformance with this part, and with regard to the design guidelines set out in Section 6.4 above. a) The plan shall be at a scale of no more than 1:200 b) The plan shall be on a legal -size sheet or an 1 1x17 sheet, if so needed c) The plan shall include at least the identification and certification information shown on Plate 2 following this section d) The plan shall clearly illustrate the following. i) General Information • Shape and dimension of the lot • House location and shape (type) • Abutting street names -53- • Existing or proposed curbs, catchbasins, sidewalks utility plant, hydrants, driveway location(s) within the Municipal road allowance • Proposed walkways, patios, decks, porches, chimneys, environmental control units (a/c units, heat pumps, etc.) swimming pools, etc. • Existing trees to be saved • Location of proposed entrances, outside stairwells and window -wells • Location of easements for rearyard catchbasins and leads or other utilities ii) Drainage and Grading Information • Specific lot grading with drainage arrows to indicate direction of surface drainage flow • Location and direction of flow of swales • Existing or proposed geodetic ground elevations at each corner of the lot, at high and low points, at changes in slope of ground, where a change in the direction of flow occurs, at the corners of the house, and at entrances to outside stairwells • Existing or proposed elevations of the centreline of the road, side walk or top of ditch abutting the subject lands • Elevations of top of footing, top of the foundation wall, and ground (finished) floor • Elevations for finished garage floor and entrance elevations if different from the floor elevations • Elevation of rim of any rearyard or on -site catchbasins to which flow from the lot is directed • Ground elevations on adjacent lands if drainage is to cross these lands to a catch basin or other outlet on these lands • Location of downspouts and direction of discharge (NOTE: No downspouts shall be directed so as to adversely affect adjacent properties) • Location of terraces and retaining walls • Any slope which exceeds three horizontal to one vertical (3H:I V), including side slopes of swales • Elevation of top of step of outside stairwells (to be a minimum of 150mm (6 ") above the adjacent ground -54- Section 7 Streetlighting 7.1 General Overview 7.1.1 General Requirements of the Subdivider The City of Niagara Falls requires street lighting to be installed as part of residential, commercial and industrial development servicing. Street lighting is to be fed by underground electric supply, connected directly to the underground secondary power supply for the subdivision. The Municipality permits two styles of street lighting in subdivisions; a) standard 70 Watt High Pressure Sodium Cobra Bracket arm fixtures. b) 100 Watt Decorative Nostalgia Streetlighting. The Developer agrees to supply and construct, at its sole cost and expense, all lighting fixtures, poles, hardware, wiring and all related appurtenances required for adequate street lighting in accordance with the plans and specifications, and to the satisfaction of the Municipality. All street lighting installations and electrical connections shall be approved and inspected by the authorized Street Lighting Consultant prior to acceptance, at the sole expense of the Developer. Prior to the issuance of any building permits in the plan of subdivision, the Developer shall pay to the Municipality the estimated cost of the authorized street lighting consultant inspection fee, in cash, provided that if the actual fee is less than the amount paid, the Municipality will refund the surplus to the Developer forthwith. 7.12 Qualifications and Quality of Work All work shall be carried out by qualified personnel with proper and safe equipment and be completed in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations for Construction Projects, Revised Statutes of Ontario, 1980 Chapter 321, Revised Regulations of Ontario, 1980, Regulation 691 and the Electrical Utility Safety Association Regulations. A Journeyman Power Lineman must remain on site throughout the duration of the work and a minimum of one person of a two man crew shall be classified "Journeyman Power Lineman" or "Journeyman Electrician". The contractor must also have staff qualified and equipment available to install street lights in close proximity to high tension wires and transformers. When required, 600 Volts and higher shall be considered to be high voltage and the contractor must comply with the Electrical Utility Safety Association Regulation Nos. 114, 115, 211, 212, and 234 when working in close proximity to those areas. -55- 7.1.3 Pole Relocations and Replacement Where an existing streetlight pole is to be relocated or replaced, the City's Streetlighting Contractor shall supply all labour material and equipment to replace such pole(s) and will complete the work by installing the specified luminaire as directed by the Municipality, all at the cost of the Developer. The old pole shall be delivered to the Service Centre, 3200 Stanley Avenue, Niagara Falls, Ontario. New poles will be supplied by the Municipality at the Developer's expense. A purchase order or certified cheque shall be deposited with the Municipality to cover the estimated cost of this work and a minimum 48 hrs notice be given to the Municipality prior to the work being initiated. 7.1.4 Utility Locates The Contractor will be required to have a qualified person on staff able to arrange and attend to locates of various utilities (i.e. gas, hydro, bell, water and any other required locates) and to attend work related meetings. 7.1.5 Field Layout Field survey layout for streetlighting will be provided by the Municipality as part of its contract administrative services specified in the subdivision agreement. 7.1.6 Detailed Drawings, As - Built Drawings and System Changes The utility and streetlighting contract drawings and specifications shall be submitted to the Municipality for review and comments prior to the award of the work to a Contractor. Two sets of streetlighting specifications and drawings shall be submitted to the Municipality at the time of the streetlighting preconstruction meeting. All detailed drawings and system changes are to be documented by an Electrical Power Engineering Technologist or a person with equal qualifications to prepare the necessary as-built pole locations and wiring drawings. These drawings are to be in a format which will show the streetlight locations, pole and fixture types and underground streetlighting plant. -56- 7.2 Material Specifications 7.2.1 Standard Streetlighting a) Streetlight Fixtures: • As approved b) Streetlight Pole - Standard • As approved c) Streetlight Arms • As approved d) Post -Top Fixtures (for cul -de -sac) • As approved e) Types of Wiring in Poles • As approved 0 Types of Ballast • As approved g) Types of Photocell • As approved h) Types of Connectors for Wires • As approved i) Connections to Secondary Hydro Feed • Niagara Peninsula Energy Inc. shall make this connection after the joint use trench installations, and shall be inspected by Municipal staff prior to backfilling. 7.2.2 Decorative Streetlighting a) Streetlighting Fixture • As approved b) Streetlight Pole- Decorative • As approved c) Streetlight Arms • As approved d) Post -Top Fixtures (Cul -de -Sacs) • As approved e) Types of Wiring in Poles • As approved f) Types of Ballast • As approved g) Types of Photocell • As approved h) Types of Connectors for Wires • As approved i) Connections to Secondary Hydro Feed • Niagara Peninsula Energy Inc. shall make this connection after the joint use trench installations, and shall be inspected by Municipal staff prior to backfilling. -57- 7.3 Design Standards 7.3.1 Standard Streetlighting a) Pole Location Location opposite property lines in single family subdivision and near centre of lot for semi- detached lots where it will not conflict with other services within a tolerance off 75mm. Offset a minimum of 0.60 m from services that are located on property line such as a rear yard catchbasin lead or storm laterals. Locate the pole 3.80 m from the property line for 18.3 m, 20.1 m and 23.2 m road allowances within a tolerance of ± 75mm b) Pole Spacing Poles shall be spaced from 50.0 m minimum to 55.0 m maximum on- centre. Pole location shall be staggered from side to side of the road rather than all poles being located on one side of the road to provide for more efficient illumination. This spacing applies to all road classes (i.e. local to arterial). c) Intersections A pole must be located specifically in each and every intersection. Intersection and street Intensity Requirements are as follows: • Local to Local Road - 70 Watt • Local to Collector Road — 70 -150 Watt • Collector to Collector Road —150 -200 Watt • Arterial — 150 -200 Watt 7.3.2 Decorative Streetlighting a) Pole Location Locate opposite property lines in single family subdivisions and near centre of lot for semi- detached lots where it will not conflict with other services within a tolerance off 75mm. Offset a minimum of 0.60 metre from services that are located on the property line such as rearyard catchbasin lead or storm lateral. Locate the pole 3.80 metre from the property line 18.30m, 20 12m and 23 2m road allowances within a tolerance off 75mm. b) Pole Spacing Poles shall be spaced from 33.0 metre minimum to 36.0m maximum on- centre. Pole location shall be staggered from side to side of the road rather than all poles being located on one side of the road to provide for more efficient illumination. -58- c) Intersections A pole must be located specifically at each and every intersection. Intersection and street Intensity Requirements are as follows: • Local to Local Road - 70 Watt • Local to Collector Road — 70 -150 Watt • Collector to Collector Road —150 -200 Watt • Arterial —150 -200 Watt 7.4 Installation Procedures 7.4.1 Pole Installation Upon the completion of Gas, Bell, Hydro, and Cable underground installation, excavate the necessary holes by angering to a maximum of 450 mm diameter and 1.50 m t 75mm in depth and compact bottom of hole. Install poles at various locations including compacting native soil every 150 mm around the base of the pole for the full depth of the bury. Pile excess material around the pole to match final boulevard grade within a tolerance oft 0.100m. 7.4.2 Cable Installation Excavation of trench and installation of the Secondary Cable shall be the responsibility of the contractor, and Municipal staff shall inspect connections to secondary feeds prior to backfilling. Pole wires are to exit the pole below grade of the aperture. Conductors to be left long enough to reach Niagara Peninsula Energy Inc.'s trench and fastened to the pole above ground. -58- Section 8 Landscape Development 8.1 Overview This section is designed to assist developers and their agents to successfully fulfill the subdivision requirements affecting parkland dedication and greenspace developments. This process involves a partnership between the development community and Municipality that will successfully address and fulfill the park requirements of communities within the City of Niagara Falls. Our goal in this document is to provide helpful information regarding park planning and landscape related development. 8.2 Landscape Review Process 8.2.1 Park Planning Review The Park Planning Review process is the responsibility of Parks, Recreation & Culture staff. Parks, Recreation & Culture will consult with staff representatives from the City's Planning & Development, Engineering, Transportation Services Division and Transit Section when reviewing park needs within proposed subdivisions. Municipal staff will work together with the Developer, their Planners and Landscape Architects to assist in the processing of subdivision applications. 8.2.2 Required Documents and Drawings Parks, Recreation & Culture requires the following information from the Developer to effectively review and approve Park and Landscape Development for a subdivision: • Two (2) copies of the complete set of drawings 8.3 Park and Greenspace Development 8.3.1 Overview The basic objective of this program is to ensure that parkland and greenspace lands are developed to best service the projected population and in accordance with approved standards. Parks, Recreation & Culture will work with the Developer's agents, other departments and agencies to achieve this objective. Parks, Recreation & Culture is responsible for providing data on the quantity, type and sizes of required recreation facilities. The Municipality would provide assistance to the Developer and his agents in plan preparation and monitoring site construction. In the case of greenspace lands, Parks, Recreation & Culture is committed to working with other -59- Preliminary Meeting Parks, recreation & Culture staff meet with the Developer and his/her Landscape Architect to define the program and drawing requirements Municipal review and comment period Draft Park Concept Plan Revised Park Concept Plan Municipal review and comment period Draft Park Master Plan Municipal review and comment period Final Park Master Plan Approval by Director of Parks, Recreation & Culture Final Subdivision Plan Subdivision Plan showing final Park design Working Drawings and Details for Park Review and approval by Municipal staff Park Construction Municipal inspection and approval required Post Construction Plans and Documents Required prior to release of securities Preliminary Acceptance of Park One year guarantee commences Final Acceptance of Park End of one year guarantee and release of securities Municipal Departments, Conservation Authorities and the Developer to ensure that required landscape improvements within these lands comply with storm water management and environmental protection requirements and restrictions. 8.3.2 Park Development Within a subdivision where parkland is dedicated in terms of park block(s) and/or lineal parks /trails, the parkland areas will typically be developed by the Municipality. Advantages may exist for the developer to complete the park in advance, in which case permission may be granted to the developer to complete the works. A written letter to the Director of Parks, Recreation & Culture requesting that the responsibility of developing the park be granted to the developer shall be submitted for review and approval. If approval is given to the developer, Section 8.3.2 (a) will apply. 8.3.2.1 Developer is permitted to develop the parkland The following describes the process for parkland planning and design by the Developer's Landscape Architect in consultation with Parks, Recreation & Culture; -60- 8.3.2.2 The Developer's responsibilities for Park Development: a) Drawings b) Services c) Planting Preparation of concept, master plans, and working drawings, including utility drawings Supply and installation of grading, storm drainage and utility services. Supply and installation of planting details, including trees, shrubs, sodding, and seeding, where applicable. The minimum caliper of deciduous trees to be planted shall be 50mm native species preferred. The minimum height of coniferous trees shall be 1.50m. Appendix I contains a typical tree details and standards d) Paved Areas Supply and installation of pathways, recreational trails and parking lots, where applicable. e) Lighting Major pathways serve as a link through the park areas to link with facilities such as schools, community centers, transportation routes, and libraries. Trails are to be designed to accommodate typical maintenance vehicles. These pathways are to be 2.4 m - 3.0 m wide asphalt. A 3.0 m - 3.2 m curb cut is required at the curb line where the pathway meets or crosses the road and shall meet flush. Refer to the asphalt walkway detail in Appendix II. The minimum buffer requirement between the property line or top of bank of a greenspace and the pathway is 5.0 m, wherever possible. Supply and installation of lighting, where applicable lighting may be introduced in parks and walkways in subdivisions to provide a safe, efficient level of lighting or in any other cases, deemed necessary by Parks, Recreation & Culture through the Master Plan process. As a minimum, street lighting should be along the park side of the street so the opportunity to have street lighting extend into the park exists. Parks, Recreation & Culture will assess each situation on an individual site basis for lighting requirements, if any. Electrical Supply Supply and installation of electrical service, if required. Drainage all surface drainage shall be collected internally to catch basins within the development boundaries unless specified otherwise. Drainage from surrounding properties will generally not be accepted on park property. Overland drainage swales shall be graded wide with gradually sloping banks and sodded for stabilization and ease of maintenance. In some cases, the Municipality may request the Developer to over seed or plant these slopes with naturalized plant cover. -59- h) Topsoil i) Sod / Seed All parkland is to be covered with a combination of sod and grass seed with the exception of portions of some parks and areas of naturalization. Where development is to be phased, the portion left undeveloped will be planted with an acceptable vegetation cover. j) k) Fencing Stockpiling of topsoil other than that which will be used for the park is not permitted without the expressed written consent of the Director of Parks, Recreation & Culture. Any excess topsoil which is remaining after final grading of the park site is complete, shall be first offered to the Municipality at no cost prior to any removal off site. Generally, the Developer is required to sod 50% of the parkland which would focus on the park frontage, around facilities and amenities, along sides of pathways (1.5m wide), and around catchbasins. The remaining 50% of the open areas of the park will be hydro seeded with an approved seed mixture. Both sodding and seeding must conform to Parks, Recreation & Culture specifications as supplied by the Municipality. Structures Supply and installation of support structures, where required, such as retaining walls and bridges. Parks, Recreation & Culture will require engineering details from Developer to ensure the support structures meet quality standards for safety. the Developer will be required to supply and install property boundary fencing as per City Standard in areas adjacent to residential lots and within new parks along green belt and natural areas. Typically the standard for park fencing shall be 1.8m high commercial level galvanized chain link fence (knuckled -end on top). 1) Water Service If the park is to contain a water service, it must be 50 mm in diameter and properly designed for such purposes as outdoor skating ponds A 100 mm water service is required for all community parks designed to have underground irrigation systems. Zuni Yard Hydrant(s) (3/4" size) and lead(s) are to be installed if specified. Locations shall be shown on the Master Plan and Working Drawings Water services must meet the requirements and standards of the Municipality Water Department. m) Warranty Provision of a one (1) year warrantee on all workmanship and materials from date of acceptance for finished construction by the Municipality. n) Bonds A 10% Maintenance Bond of the total cost of park construction to a maximum of $50,000.00 shall be held until the end of the warranty period. -60- 8.3.2.3 Municipality to Develop the Parkland When the Municipality opts to develop the park, the Developer is required to provide the following as part of the parkland requirements for the subdivision: a) Perimeter chain link fencing as per City Standard Detail is attached as Appendix III. b) Topsoil shall be stockpiled in designated areas within the park to the approval of Parks, Recreation & Culture. c) Complete preliminary grading to ensure positive internal drainage with protection of topsoil as much as possible. Developer shall provide Parks, Recreation & Culture with a Park Grading and Servicing Plan for review and comment in conjunction with Engineering Services prior to approval. d) Protect all existing trees worthy of preservation by snow fencing at the tree `drip line'. e) Hydro -seed all areas; including areas where erosion control and bank stabilization measures are carriec out to the satisfaction of the Municipality to allow future maintenance. I) Clean up all debris and foreign materials from the park. g) Install temporary snow fence barrier along the park entrance, if required. h) Install temporary "no dumping" signs in the areas of the future park to deter illegal dumping. Signage shall be as per Parks, recreation & Culture Sign Standards. 8.3.3 Subdivisions without a Park When there is no park involved in the subdivision, the typical Landscape Plan requirements are listed below, if required: a) Reverse lot frontage areas b) Noise attenuation walls c) Entrance features d) Boulevard tree planting, streetscaping e) Storm water management areas 1) Provincially Significant Wetlands, woodlots, easement areas g) Trails and walkways 8.3.4 Greenspace Development Greenspace requirements vary depending upon the situation and the amount of disruption of the green belt's original state caused by the development of the subdivision. Greenspace will require reinstatement of any disturbed areas in the form of grading to the satisfaction of Municipal Works and Parks, Recreation & Culture and re- vegetation to the satisfaction of Parks, Recreation & Culture. -61- Greenspace may require walkways in the form of a standard 2.4 m - 3.0 m wide asphalt path or a limestone screening path depending on the situation. Pathway lighting may also be required. Where a Greenspace is part of a channelized water course, a 1.80m high galvanized chain link fence may be considered along the City's property boundary. In case of a restricted access detention pond, a 1.80m high galvanized chain link fence may be required. Where development is proposed adjacent to a green belt, a temporary 1.20m high snow fence is required to be installed 3.00m from the greenspace. This snow fence is to remain in good repair by the Developer throughout the entire construction process. All builder's debris, foreign material and dead trees which pose a safety hazard are to be removed from the greenspace prior to the City's acceptance of the land. All noxious weeds are to be eradicated from the site prior to the City's acceptance of the land. 8.4 Tree Preservation At the request of the Municipality, the Developer may be required to provide a preliminary vegetation inventory prepared by a registered Professional Forester or licenses Landscape Architect. Based upon the findings of the vegetation inventory, the Developer may be required to prepare a Tree Preservation Plan. Summary of Requirements The basic objective of this program is to preserve as many quality trees as possible in a manner that is practical and economically feasible. Parks, Recreation & Culture philosophy is to work with the Developer, his agents and other departments to achieve this objective. The Developer, when required, will be responsible for the preparation of documents, plans and proposed implementation of works as follows: 8.4.1 Vegetation Inventory This shall be a written report with associated plans, for the existing vegetation that outlines the present conditions of the site and makes recommendations on preservation in conjunction with the development program This document will normally be required when a site is treed. This report is required to provide a general site description and overview of the vegetation on site. All individual trees and tree groupings shall be given a general description including tree species, size and condition. -62- 8.4.2 Tree Preservation Plan Following the review of a Vegetation Inventory, a decision will be made as to whether or not a Tree Preservation Plan is required. This plan indicates existing vegetation on the subject site to be preserved and removed. This plan is to be developed prior to the Engineering Lot Grading Plan. The following Vegetation Information is required: a) Location of each tree exceeding 60 mm D B H (Diameter at breast height) b) Location of general areas of smaller trees or shrubs c) Species of trees d) Size of trees e) Crown of trees t) General condition (state of health) of trees g) Quality of trees with regard to species h) Sensitivity of trees to development i) Location of groups or stands of trees The Plan should indicate whether the trees are to be retained or removed. State reasons if the trees are to be removed. Compensation tree plantings may be required. 8.4.3 Tree Preservation Clause Parks, Recreation & Culture will review all Tree Preservation Plans and indicate whether a clause should be included into the Subdivision Agreement, and if so, will indicate the individual lots where the trees are to be protected. Trees to be preserved must be protected with fencing erected at the drip line, or at other specific locations, prior to site alteration. Monthly monitoring reports are required to be submitted by the developer to Parks, Recreation & Culture through periods of active construction. After construction is complete, confirmation must be submitted indicating that no trees designated for preservation were either damaged or removed without approval. The following notes are to be included in the Tree Preservation Plan: a) All existing trees which are to remain as indicated on the plan shall be fully protected with hoarding (snow fence) erected under the "drip line" of trees, prior to commencement of any construction. Groups of trees and other existing vegetation to be protected shall be similarly protected with snow fencing or other acceptable hoarding around entire clump(s) Areas within the protective fencing shall remain undisturbed and shall not be used for the storage of debris, building materials, surplus soil or equipment. b) No rigging cables shall be wrapped around or installed in trees. No contaminants will be placed over the root systems of the trees within the protective fencing. No contaminants will be dumped or flushed where feeder roots of trees exist. c) The Developer or his agents shall take every precaution necessary to prevent damage to trees or shrubs to be retained. d) Where limbs or portions of trees are removed to accommodate construction work, they will be removed carefully and in accordance with accepted arboriculture techniques. -63- e) Where root systems of trees designated for preservation are exposed or damaged by construction work, they shall be trimmed neatly and the area backfilled with appropriate material to prevent desiccation or drying f) If grades around trees to be protected are likely to change, the Developer shall be required to take precautions such as dry welling and root feeding, to the satisfaction of the Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture. 8.5 Boulevard Landscaping The basic objective of this program is to ensure that adequate levels of street landscape works occur within road allowances. Parks, Recreation & Culture philosophy is to work with the Developers, their agents, other departments and agencies in the development of plans, documents, and on site construction practices that are necessary to achieve this objective. Parks, Recreation & Culture shares joint responsibility with the Municipal Works, Planning & Development, Building & By -Law Services and Transportation Services & Transit Departments for the review and approval of plans and site works developed in accordance with Municipal guidelines. The Developer is required to submit to the City funds for street tree planting and is responsible for the preparation of all plans inclusive of a boulevard tree location plan, and the implementation of site works for the programs listed below. 8.5.1 Boulevards This program involves the supply and installation of street trees along all streets within the plan of subdivision. In the majority of subdivisions, the boulevard improvements requirement will consist of Street Tree Planting only. Generally, the standard size tree required for boulevard planting is 60mm DBH for deciduous species with a wire basket root system. Trees are to be No.1 quality in accordance with the Standards of the Canadian Nurserymen's Association. The type of trees that may be planted are contained in the City's Street Tree Planting Acceptable Species List found attached as Appendix IV. Trees shall be planted in accordance with City Standard Drawings at locations as specified on the Streetscape/Landscape Plans. All trees that fail to grow or die within the two year maintenance period shall be replaced at the Developer's expense. The Developer is to ensure that all street tree planting areas have excellent drainage, free of all builders' debris, and is backfilled with grade "A" quality topsoil to a depth of 0.5m and a surface area of 1.0m Tree planting is based on a maximum spacing of 10.0m on- centre. The Developer's landscape architect shall provide Parks, Recreation & Culture with a street tree planting plan illustrating the locations of boulevard trees for the subdivision. -64- Street Tree Planting Plan to include: a) Existing above ground utilities, elevations, vegetation, easements, etc. b) Proposed plot lines, services, grades, road and boulevard widths, and daylight triangles c) Planting locations, plant list to include• botanical and common name, height, spread, caliper, root condition, and quantity 8.5.2 Streetscape Streetscape is a term used to refer to the overall landscape appearance of the street. Streetscape requirements involve the provision of landscaping of the boulevard and generally include planting of boulevard trees, any reverse lot frontage designs, and entry features into the subdivision. Other major elements within the streetscape area include street furnishings, light standards, hydrants and utility boxes. 8.6 Fencing / Bollards 8.6.1 Fencing Fencing is required around park or greenspace properties that abut private lands unless otherwise specified by Parks, Recreation & Culture. Fencing shall be 1.80m high galvanized commercial standard chain link fence as per Parks, Recreation & Culture specifications and details. Gates to park areas can be requested by abutting private property owners by making a Gate Application. Approved gates are to be erected by a qualified installer and at the applicant's expense. An application form is attached as Appendix V. 8.6.2 Bollards In the case of a pedestrian walkway linkage through a subdivision, where there is a concern regarding vehicular access, steel park bollards are to be installed in place of fencing at entry and exit points. Fencing is to be installed adjacent to private property. In some cases, bollards may be erected to define the limits of the park property. The bollard spacing in these situations shall be a maximum of 10.0m apart Bollards are to be placed 0.30m inside park property. This offset of the bollards is to allow adjacent property owners to erect fencing on their property without interfering with the bollards. A steel bollard detail is attached as Appendix VI. 8.7 Storm Water Management Areas Storm water management areas that are to be developed as a landscape amenity shall meet appropriate City specifications. These areas may also be developed by providing opportunities for recreation trails with linkages to other green spaces, parks, schools and commercial areas. Landscape plans are required as part of the subdivision agreement for stormwater management areas. -65- MINUTES OF CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 28, 2009. 2. REPORTS: CD- 2009 -12 Green Oakes Mobile Home Park Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 28, 2009. NiagaraJtlIs ('ATApA Eighth Meeting, Monday, September 28, 2009, Committee Room 2, 4:05 P.M. PRESENT: Mayor Ted Salci, Councillor Victor Pietrangelo, Chair; Councillors Jim Diodati, Shirley Fisher, Vince Kerrio, Bart Mayes, Wayne Thomson, Janice Wing and Carolynn loannoni STAFF: Ed Dujlovic, Ken Burden, Dean lorfida, Ken Beaman, Alex Herlovitch, Todd Harrison, Steve Norris, Jim Jessop, Serge Felicetti, Trent Dark, Denyse Morrissey and Lisa Wall. GUEST: Nicholas Bader, Campbell Partners; Thomas Richardson, Sullivan Mahoney; Brian Topolinsky, Beverley Morrissette, Bonnie Vankesteren, - residents of Green Oaks Mobile Home Park; Mark Palumbi, Crawford, Smith and Swallow. PRESS: Corey Larocque, Niagara Falls Review 1. MINUTES: MOVED by Mayor Salci, seconded by Councillor Diodati that the minutes of the. September 14, 2009 meeting be adopted as recorded. MOVED by Councillor loannoni, seconded by Councillor Wing that the City decline to enact a by -law pursuant to section 99.1 of the Municipal Act, to specifically deal with the Green Oaks Mobile Home Park situation; but That staff continue to investigate the possibility of a by -law related to conversion applications. -2- CPS - 2009 -11 6592 Dunn Street Disposition of Property MOVED by Councillor Wing, seconded by Mayor Salci that Council receive the staff recommendations as follows: 1) re -zone 6592 Dunn Street from residential to open space 2) lift part lot control from the subject and abutting properties 3) prepare a reference plan to show the portions of the property used by the abutting landowners of 6580, 6590 and 6602 Dunn Street 4) negotiate the sale of the property to the abutting landowners according to the reference plan, for the appraisal value of $1,000 and for the costs of the transaction 5) amend the heritage designation of 6590 Dunn Street (Barclay property) with certain conditions (e.g. preservation of trees, no construction of buildings, fences, etc.) 6) carry out any other actions to satisfy Council's intent. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 28, 2009. F- 2009 -46 2008 Consolidated Financial Statements MOVED by Councillor Thomson, seconded by Councillor Mayes that Council receive the 2008 Consolidated Financial Statements report for information purposes. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 28, 2009. F- 2009 -45 Operating Results as of August 31, 2009 MOVED by Councillor Thomson, seconded by Councillor Kerrio that Council receive the Operating Results report for information purposes. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 28, 2009. CPS - 2009 -09 Water/Wastewater Operations Long Range Financial Plan MOVED by Councillor Kerrio, seconded by Councillor loannoni that the allocation of $19,780 plus applicable taxes to engage a consultant to develop a Water/Wastewater Operations Long Range Financial Plan in accordance with O.Reg.453 /07 be approved. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 28, 2009. FS- 2009 -04 Radio System MOVED by Councillor Ioannoni, seconded by Councillor Wing the following recommendations: 1) that Council authorize staff to designate Glentel Inc. (Glentel) as the preferred proponent for the Niagara Falls Fire Services radio system 2) that staff negotiate with the preferred proponent, as per the Request for Proposal (RFP), to conclude the terms of a contract for the replacement of the Niagara Falls Fire Services radio system at an upset limit $2,099,035. 3) that, at the conclusion of negotiations, the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute the contract. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council September 28, 2009. 3. ADJOURNMENT: -3- There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 5:55 p.m. Niagara&lls REPORT TO: Councillor Victor Pietrangelo, Chair and Members of the Corporate Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario SUBMITTED BY: Clerks/ Human Resources SUBJECT: CD- 2009 -13, Customer Services Standard Policy RECOMMENDATION That Council adopt the Customer Services Standard. Policy in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY CD- 2009 -13 October 19, 2009 The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act aims, by 2025, to eliminate all barriers facing persons with disabilities. To accomplish this goal, standards in five areas are being developed. The first standard that has been proclaimed, through regulation, is the customer service standard, which requires municipalities to develop appropriate policies and train staff by January 1, 2010. Staff has prepared a policy for Council's consideration and staff training will take place during the month of November. The policy recognizes practices that the Corporation has already informally been doing over the years. BACKGROUND In 2005, the Provincial government enacted the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (the "AODA "). The AODA followed 2001's Ontarians with Disabilities Act. The introduction of the legislation was seen as a way to catch up with strides in other countries and jurisdictions (see for example the Americans with Disabilities Act). The AODA is intended to ensure that all Ontarians with disabilities have full and equal access to goods, services, facilities, accommodation, employment, buildings, structures and premises by January 1, 2025. In order to meet the goal, the Province has proposed standards in five areas: Customer Service, Transportation, Information and Communications, Built Environment and Employment. The first standard to be proclaimed, through a regulation to the AODA, is the customer service standard. The public sector has to be in compliance by January 1, 2010. Compliance with the standard requires that a policy be established for such matters as use of service animals and support persons and notice of temporary disruptions, training of staff occurs and a feedback mechanism is put in place. October 19, 2009 - 2 - CD- 2009 -13 ANALYSIS /RATIONALE Staff involved with the Mayor's Disability Advisory Committee has attended sessions on the Customer Service standard and has liaised with other municipalities in developing a proposed policy. Some of the requirements of the standard are things this municipality has already been doing, although not necessarily in a formal manner. Through the Mayor's Disability Advisory Committee, the municipality has advocated recognition of service dogs for all disabilities, a wheelchair is available to the public, at both the MacBain Community Centre and City Hall, notice was given of a service disruption when City Hall's elevator was being replaced and voluntary sensitivity training has taken place in conjunction with National Access Awareness Week. Staff has formalized these practices in the attached proposed policy. In addition, staff training will be taking place during the month of November. Depending on the staff member's level of interaction with the general public, they will receive either a two -hour session with a trainer, who specializes in accessibility issues or a computer tutorial developed by the Regional Municipality of Niagara. Staff will also investigate making the policy available in alternate formats. A feedback mechanism will be encouraged primarily through the website but other forms of feedback will certainly be accepted. FINANCIAL /STAFFING /LEGAL IMPLICATIONS Municipalities are required to establish a policy for such matters as use of service animals and support persons and notice of temporary disruptions. Staff dealing with the public requires training on dealing with individuals with disabilities and a feedback process, for providers of goods or services, has to be in place. For the public sector these requirements are mandated for 2010. Enforcement of the standard will be through a process of reporting to the Province. The legislation does contemplate possible inspection, investigation, compliance orders and administrative penalties. The 2009 Operating Budget does have budgeted monies to cover the customer service training costs for all staff. The type of training proposed will be a good complement to other customer service initiatives. While all the legislative standards being developed through AODA appear to be commendable and necessary to ensure the accessibility of goods and services, without the necessary provincial government funding, the City and could face significant budget and resource challenges in implementing the proposed standards. At the moment, there is no provincial funding to support the implementation of this legislation. Once the remaining standards are passed into law, the actual costs of compliance of AODA will need to be reassessed. ` October 19, 2009 - 3 - CD- 2009 -13 CITY'S STRATEGIC COMMITMENT Arguably, greater accessibility would fall under Council's strategic priority to monitor and improve the efficiency of the organization. The development and implementation of accessibility and customer service standards will demonstrate Council's ongoing commitment to make the City of Niagara Falls a better place to live, work, and play. The Corporation has been committed to accessibility issues. The City's Disability Advisory Committee predated the requirement of such a committee under the Ontarians with Disabilities Act by six years. In 2006, Council supported a staff recommendation to adopt the Region's Facility Accessibility Design Standards (FADS) as a guide for the development of future municipal facilities. Staff will continue to monitor the other proposed standards and provide input from a municipal perspective. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS ► Proposed Customer Service Standard Policy and briefing note. • Standards under the AODA ► Resolution 2004 -06 re: service dogs Recommended by: Recommended by: Approved by: Respectfully submitted: DITTO De n lorfida, ty CI rk Trent bettor of Human Resources K. E. Burden, Executive Director, Corporate Services Ken T dd, Chief Administrative Officer Corporate Services Human Resources Date Effected January 2010 Accessible Customer Service Standard Compliance Policy Last Revised Support Services & Training Requirements SECTION 400.41 PURPOSE: The Corporation of the City of Niagara Falls is committed to being responsive to the diverse needs of all its residents by striving to provide equal access to its programs, services and facilities, including people with disabilities. RATIONALE: The Corporation of the City of Niagara Falls will develop policies, procedures and practices which address integration, independence, dignity and equal opportunity, to comply with the legislative requirements prescribed under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), and to promote accessibility. The policy is a complement to the Corporation's existing Customer Service policy (400.30). SCOPE: This policy applies to the Council and staff of the Corporation of the City ofNiagara Falls, including volunteers, contractors, agents and any other people who interact with the public or other third parties, on behalf of the City. ASSISTIVE DEVICES: If a person with a disability requires assistive devices to access goods or services from the City, they are allowed to use such devices. The City does provide assistive devices at some of its facilities (ie. Wheelchairs). GUIDE DOGS, SERVICE ANIMALS: Service dogs can assist adults and children who are visually impaired, have autism, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, mobility related disabilities, hearing problems and seizure disorders, amongst other disabilities. If a person with a disability is accompanied by a guide dog or other service animal, the City will permit the person to enter the premises with the animal and keep it with him or her, unless the animal is otherwise excluded by law from the premises. If the service animal or guide dog is excluded by law from the premises, the City will look to other available measures to enable the person with a disability to obtain, use or benefit from the City's goods and services. SUPPORT PERSONS: If a person with a disability is accompanied by a support person, they are permitted to enter the premises together and are not prevented from having access to each other while on the premises. The City may require a person with a disability to be accompanied by a support person while on its premises, but only if a support person is necessary to protect the health or safety of the person with a disability or the health or safety of others on the premises. Where fees for goods and services are advertised or promoted by the City, it will provide advance notice of the amount payable, if any, in respect of the support person. Corporate Services Human Resources Date Effected January 2010 Accessible Customer Service Standard Compliance Policy Last Revised Support Services & Training Requirements SECTION 400.41 DISRUPTION OF SERVICES: If there is a disruption in a particular facility or service used to allow a person with a disability to access goods or services, the City will give notice of the disruption to the public by posting the reason for the disruption. Further, the City will provide notice on the anticipated duration of the disruption and, notify if any alternative facilities or services may be available. This posting will be in a conspicuous place on the premises of the affected City building, or by other reasonable methods in the circumstances. If the disruption is anticipated, the City will provide a reasonable amount of advance notice of the disruption and provide notice in a local newspaper. If the disruption is unexpected, notice will be provided as soon as possible. TRAINING: The City will provide training about the provision of its goods and services to persons with disabilities. All City employees, volunteers, agents, contractors and others who deal with the public or other third parties, and those involved in developing customer service policies, practices, and procedures, will receive Accessibility Awareness Training within six months of beginning their duties. The City will also provide ongoing training with respect to changes in its policies, practices, and procedures to those individuals who require such training as soon as practicable. Lastly, the City will keep records of all staff who have received training (ie. dates, trainer etc). Accessibility Awareness Training will include the following: (a) How to provide goods and services in a manner that respects the dignity and independence of persons with disabilities; (b) How to interact and communicate with persons in a manner that takes into account their disabilities; (c) The process for people to provide feedback to the City, its provision of goods and services to persons with disabilities, and how the City responds to the feedback and takes action on any complaint; (d) How to interact with persons with disabilities who use an assistive device or require the assistance of a guide dog, service animal or a support person to access goods and services; (e) Information on other Municipal policies, practices, and procedures dealing with the AODA; (f) A review of the purposes of the AODA and the requirements of the customer service standard. (g) How to use equipment or devices available on City premises or provided by the City that may help with the provision of goods and services; (h) What to do if a person with a disability is having difficulty accessing the City's goods and services. Corporate Services Human Resources Date Effected January 2010 Accessible Customer Service Standard Compliance Policy Last Revised Support Services & Training Requirements FEEDBACK PROCESS: The public can provide feedback on the accessibility of the provision of goods and services by the Corporation of the City of Niagara Falls through the Mayor's Disability Advisory Committee: (a) by mail addressed to: (b) by phone to: (c) in person at: (d) by email to: Feedback will be responded to within three business days of its receipt by the City. DEFINITIONS: SECTION 400.41 4310 Queen Street, Niagara Falls, ON, L2E 6X5 c/o the Mayor's Disability Advisory Committee 905 356 -7521 ext. 4294, 4271 or 4202 4310 Queen Street, Niagara Falls, ON, L2E 6X5 accessibility a,niagarafalls.ca Assistive Devices Auxiliary aids such as communication aids, cognition aids, personal mobility aids and medical aids (i.e. canes, crutches, wheelchairs, or hearing aids). Disabilities As per the Ontario Human Rights Code, disability means: a) any degree of physical disability, infirmity, malformation or disfigurement that is caused by bodily injury, birth defect or illness and, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, includes diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, a brain injury, any degree of paralysis, amputation, lack of physical coordination, blindness or visual impediment, deafness or hearing impediment, muteness or speech impediment, or physical reliance on a guide dog or other animal or on a wheelchair or other remedial appliance or device; b) a condition of mental impairment or a developmental disability; c) a learning disability or a dysfunction in one or more of the processes involved in understanding or using symbols or spoken language; d) a mental disorder; or; e) an injury or disability for which benefits were claimed or received under the insurance plan established under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997. ( "handicap ") Corporate Services Human Resources Date Effected January 2010 Accessible Customer Service Standard Compliance Policy Last Revised Support Services & Training Requirements SECTION 400.41 Employees Every person who deals with members of the public or other third parties on behalf of the Corporation of the City of Niagara Falls, whether the person does so as an employee, agent, volunteer or otherwise. Persons with Disabilities Individuals who are afflicted with a disability as defined under the Ontario Human Rights Code. Service Animals Any animal individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability. Support Persons Any person whether a paid professional, volunteer, family member, or friend who accompanies a person with a disability in order to help with communications, personal care or medical needs, or with access to goods or services. • Accessibility for Ontarians Disability Act (AODA), 2005 What is the AODA? Recognizing the history of discrimination against persons with disabilities in Ontario, the purpose of this Act is to benefit all Ontarians by, (a) developing, implementing and enforcing accessibility standards in order to achieve accessibility for Ontarians with disabilities with respect to goods, services, facilities, accommodation, employment, buildings, structures and premises on or before January 1, 2025; and (b) providing for the involvement of persons with disabilities, of the Government of Ontario and of representatives of industries and of various sectors of the economy in the development of the accessibility standards. ACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS: There are 5 new Accessibility Standards developed under the AODA. The Customer Service Standard is the first standard developed under the AODA and has a Public Sector compliance date of January 1, 2010. Other proposed standards being developed under the AODA include the following: - Transportation Standard - Information & Communications Standard - Employment Standard - Built Environment Standard - Customer Service Standard (Effective date of Jan 1, 2010) Like the customer service standard, the other proposed standards are being developed by standards development committees. The committees are made up of people with disabilities or their representatives, representatives of the business community, the broader public sector and the Ontario government. Standard Under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 Customer Service Ontario's first accessibility standard, the customer service standard, came into effect on January 1, 2008. The standard states what businesses and other organizations in Ontario must do to make the provision of their goods and services more accessible to people with disabilities. The legal requirements of the accessibility standards for customer service are set out in two Ontario Regulations under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act 2005 Ontario Regulation 429/07 states the requirements of the customer service standard, and Ontario Regulation 430/07 exempts organizations that have fewer than 20 employees (unless the organization is a designated public sector organization) from certain documentation requirements of the standard. Establishment of policies, practices and procedures Use of service animals and support persons Notice of temporary disruptions Training for staff Feedback process for providers of goods or services Notice of availability of documents Transportation Information and Communications The initial proposed standard was released for its mandatory public review period from June 27, 2007 to September 28, 2007. The committee has revised the initial proposed standard to reflect the public's input. At their last meeting on October 31, 2008, the committee voted on the standard clause by clause. The final proposed standard has now been submitted to the Minister of Community and Social Services for consideration as law. The proposed standard outlines how businesses and organizations may be required to create, provide and receive information and communications in ways that are accessible for people with disabilities. The final proposed standard has now been submitted to the Minister of Community and Social Services for consideration as law. It is being posted for your information. Built Environment On July 14, 2009, the Ontario government released the initial proposed Accessible Built Environment Standard for a public review period. It aims to break down barriers in buildings and other structures for people with disabilities by proposing requirements in areas such as: Entrances, doorways and ramps Parking spaces Signs and displays Recreation, such as parks and trails. Until October 16, 2009, everyone in Ontario can: review the proposed standard, and submit comments. Employment On February 18, 2009, the Ontario government released the proposed Employment Accessibility Standard for a public review period. A standards development committee, composed of representatives from the disability and business communities, developed the proposed standard. The goal of the proposed standard is to help employers create equal employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The proposed standard: sets out specific requirements for the recruitment, retention and accommodation of people with disabilities, and applies to all organizations in Ontario with at least one employee. Everyone in Ontario can: review the proposed standard, and submit comments. The committee will use the feedback received during the review period to shape the final proposed standard before submitting it to the government for consideration as law. commenting on the proposed standard by May 22, 2009. The City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Council Chambers No. 06 Moved by Alderman WING Seconded by Alderman MOROCCO WHEREAS service dogs are dogs that assist individuals with disabilities; and May 31, 2004 WHEREAS service dogs assist adults and children who suffer from autism, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, mobility related disabilities, hearing problems and seizure disorders, amongst others; and WHEREAS service dogs are trained to pick up items, fetch items, assist individuals who have fallen, provide physical support, and get help; and WHEREAS studies have shown that children with service dogs have better self - esteem, are more affectionate, and better connected to the outside world; and WHEREAS individuals with seeing eye dogs are afforded rights under the Blind Persons' Rights Act, a provincial piece of legislation; and WHEREAS the Blind Persons' Rights Act permits guide dogs in all places in which the public is admitted and prohibits discrimination against a blind person accompanied by a guide dog; and WHEREAS there is no similar legislation for individuals with service dogs. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Provincial Government be petitioned to introduce legislation that will afford access, prevent discrimination and provide protection to individuals that require service dogs. AND The Seal of the Corporation be hereto affixed. Carried Unanimously P 9 DEAN IO CITY CLERK R. T. (TED) SALCI MAYOR 4 FS- 2009 -08 Niagara,Palls October 19, 2009 REPORT TO: Councillor Victor Pietrangelo, Chair and Members of the Corporate Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario SUBMITTED BY: Fire Services FS- 2009 -08 SUBJECT: Master Fire Plan RECOMMENDATION 1) That Council approve the expenditure of funds in the amount of $50,000 to secure the services of Ernest Yakiwchuk as the preferred proponent for the Niagara Falls Fire Services Master Fire Plan. 2) That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute the contract. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Every day in Niagara Falls, the fire service encounters fire and other types of emergencies at different types of occupancies and at different levels of risk. The evolving nature and complexity of these emergencies, along with increased legislative responsibilities, requires the development of a comprehensive Master Fire Plan. The master fire planning process will assist the Corporation with complying with the provisions of the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, the delivery of efficient, effective, and safe emergency services and reduce the municipality's exposure to liability. The objective of this project is to identify the risks and determine satisfactory service delivery that will meet the needs of the City now and with a progressive, cost - effective vision for the future. The development of the Master Fire Plan will be modelled to meet the advice, recommendations and expectations of the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal. BACKGROUND The City of Niagara Falls has always presented unique challenges to emergency services: rail lines, the gorge, a number of provincial highways, the border and the highest number of high - rise buildings per capita in Ontario. The decision of the provincial government to open Casino Niagara in 1996 and then Fallsview Casino in 1998 triggered an investment that resulted in the development of complex, high occupant load assembly buildings. The completion of the new Hilton Hotel and the anticipated opening of the Convention Centre are two (2) examples of buildings that place additional responsibilities on the fire service for the delivery of emergency services. Future development, including, but not limited to, the residential development in the west end of the city and further intensification in the Fallsview area, will continue to affect the ability of the fire service to deliver safe and effective emergency services to the residents and visitors of the City. r October 19, 2009 - 2 - FS- 7009 -08 The City of Niagara Falls called for proposals for a consultant to oversee the master fire planning process in the form of an RFP. Proposals were received from three (3) companies; of which two (2) were compliant. The preferred proponent complied with the specifications set out in the RFP, has overseen the development, approval and implementation of a number of master fire plans in the province, has extensive fire experience both municipally and provincially and submitted the proposal with the lowest cost. The cost for each proposal is provided below: Ernest Yakiwchuk $50,000 (Compliant) Emergency Services Consulting International $72,218 (Complaint) Morrison Hershfield $78,750 (Non - Compliant) ANALYSIS /RATIONALE In 2004, the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal evaluated the Niagara Falls Fire Services through the Municipal Fire Protection Information Survey. The fire service received a "Certificate of Compliance" with respect to the municipal requirements for fire prevention and public education. The review by the Office of the Fire Marshal did however identify the absence of a Master Fire Plan as an opportunity for improvement. "The fire department should prepare a Master Fire Plan to cover a minimum of five (5) years and this plan should be reviewed annually ". The development of the master fire plan will satisfy the recommendation made by the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal and the Corporation will be able to demonstrate due diligence to the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal during the next Municipal Fire Protection Information Survey. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS This project was approved in the 2009 Capital Budget. The approved total expenditures amount for this project was $90,900. The cost of the agreement staff is recommending that Council approve is within the budget allocated for this project. A summary is shown below. T he amount approved and allocated for the project: $ 90,900 The proposed cost from the preferred proponent: $ 50,000 Recommended by: Respectfully submitted: J. Jessop:tc Lee Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer