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2009/11/30a) MW- 2009 -75 Charnwood Drainage Ditch Improvements 3) NEW BUSINESS: a) Resolution to go into Closed Meeting. COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE SIXTEENTH MEETING Monday, November 30, 2009 5:00 p.m. City Hall, Committee Room #2A & B 1) Approval of the November 16, 2009 Community Services Minutes. 2) REPORTS: b) PD- 2009 -93 CB &FIG - 2009 -010, Commercial Building & Facade Improvement Grant Application Applicant: 1790073 Ontario Limited (Tihomir Zubic) 4738 - 4740 Valley Way c) PD- 2009 -94 CB &FIG - 2008- 028,CB &FIG - 2009 -11 and CB &FIG - 2009 -012 Commercial Building & Facade Improvement Grant Application Applicant: Historic Niagara (Mordecai Grun) Queen Street (3 properites) d) PD- 2009 -97 Bill 198 - An Act to amend the Planning Act with respect to Inclusionary Zoning Alex Herlovitch e) TS -2009 Niagara Region Inter - Municipal Transit Initiative Karl Dren 3) NEW BUSINESS: CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE ELEVENTH MEETING Monday, November 30, 2009 d) FS- 2009 -10 Fire Communications Dispatch Centre Renovations and Infrastructure Requirements IN- CAMERA SESSION STAFF CONTACT Geoff Holman Alex Herlovitch Alex Herlovitch 1) Approval of the November 16, 2009 Corporate Services Minutes. 2) REPORTS: STAFF CONTACT a) IS- 2009 -02 Phone System VoIP Upgrade at Service Centre Steve Norris b) F- 2009 -50 2008 Municipal Performance Measures Todd Harrison c) F- 2009 -58 Third Quarter Review Capital Budget Report Todd Harrison Lee Smith -__ N;Eagara,FrxIIs MINUTES OF COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE Fifteenth Meeting, Monday, November 16, 2009, Committee Room #2, 4:00 P.M. PRESENT: Councillor Carolynn loannoni ,Chair; Mayor Ted Salci, Councillors Jim Diodati, Shirley Fisher, Vince Kerrio, Bart Maves, Wayne Thomson, Janice Wing and Victor Pietrangelo STAFF: Ken Todd, Ed Dujlovic, Ken Burden, Dean lorlida, Ken Beaman, Serge Felicetti, Steve Norris, Alex Herlovitch, Denyse Morrissey, Geoff Holman, Marzenna Carrick, John Grubich, Peggy Boyle and Lisa Wall. GUEST: David Fotheringham, 2922 St. Paul Avenue; Bob Pysher, Greater Niagara Baseball Association; Wayne Stark, Optimist Club. PRESS: Corey Larocque, Niagara Falls Review Gareth Vieira, Niagara This Week 1. MINUTES: MOVED by Mayor Salci, seconded by Councillor Kerrio that the minutes of the November 2, 2009 meeting be adopted as recorded. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council November 16, 2009. 2. REPORTS: PD-2009-91 James Oswald Fence with Stone Wall 2922 St. Paul Avenue MOVED by Councillor Wing, seconded by Councillor Thomson: 1. That the Committee recommend to Council that is reconsider its August 10, 2009 decision; and 2. That the Committee recommend that Council approve Option 2, subject to an agreement with the owners of the James Oswald House 2922 St. Paul Avenue. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council November 16, 2009. -2- PD-2009-92 Willoughby Township Hall Roof Re-shingling 11211 Sodom Road MOVED by CouncillorThomson,seconded by Councillor Fisherthat Council consider the recommendation from the Municipal Heritage Committee to approve the re- shingling work proposed by Dominion Roofing for the former Willoughby Township Hall. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council November 16, 2009. PRC-2009-33 Playing Field User Fees MOVED by Councillor Pietrangelo, seconded by Councillor Diodati that Council approves playing field fees and guidelines as indicated in the report with the effective date of January 1, 2010; that staff investigates the development of a Sport Tourism Policy for the City of Niagara Falls; if any organization wishes to enter into a formal agreement with the City of Niagara Falls that staff is authorized to do so. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council November 16, 2009. TS-2009-41 Heikoop Crescent Parking Review MOVED by CouncillorThomson, seconded by Councillor Fisherthat a permit parking zone be established on the south side of Heikoop Crescent between a point 120 metres east of Parkside Road and a point 136 metres east of Parkside Road. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council November 16, 2009. TS-2009-49 Crawford Street Parking Control Review MOVED by Mayor Salci, seconded by Councillor Fisher that the existing permit parking control on the north side of Crawford Street between Confederation Avenue and a point 90 metres east of Confederation Avenue be removed. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council November 16, 2009. -3- TS-2009-46 2008 Motor Vehicle Collision Report MOVED by Councillor Diodate, seconded by Councillor Pietrangelo that the Council receive the report for information purposes. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council November 16, 2009. 3. ADJOURNMENT: MOVED by Councillor Pietrangelo, seconded by Councillor Fisher that Committee adjourn to an In-Camera Session at 5:15 p.m. ~l~gs`~C'~~fj<~~S MW-2009-75 November 30, 2009 REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario SUBMITTED BY: Community Services Department SUBJECT: MW-2009-75 Charnwood Drainage Ditch Improvements RECOMMENDATION That Council approve the proposed improvements to the drainage ditch located on City- owned property and that funding in the amount of $15,000 be pre-approved from the 2010 Municipal Works Operating Budget for this project. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY At its meeting on June 29'h, 2009, Council directed staff to meet with the property owners of Charnwood Avenue who have lots backing onto the adjacent City-owned lands to address drainage and safety concerns raised bythe area residents. The drainage ditch that is located on the City's property collects the surface run-off from the neighbouring rear yards to the north and part of the landfill site to the south as well as overland flow from the road during major storm events. Staff requested and received feedback from the residents which was included in the design of the proposed solution. The project involves the removal some physical obstructions and minor cleaning of the ditch profile to minimize the duration of standing water after significant storm events. This work also includes some re-grading and filling in isolated areas of the heavily-treed areas to address safety concerns. The proposed works were presented to the residents at a Public Information Session held on November 4'h, 2009 at the McBain Community Centre at which time the participants were informed of the presentation of this report to Council and, if approved, staff's intentions to complete the work at an appropriate time during the winter months. The 2009 Municipal Works Drainage/Ditching program is nearing completion and there are no surplus funds available to accommodate this unplanned work. Given the proposed January/February work schedule it would be prudent to fund the project in the 2010 Operating Budget. BACKGROUND The Greenway Estates Subdivision (59M-219) was assumed by the City in 2007 at which time all of the surface and underground drainage infrastructure was constructed in accordance with the City's standards. The only anomaly with this development was that the drainage swale had to be located on the adjacent City-owned land in order to provide more useable area in the rear yards of each lot. Normally the rear yard drainage swales November 30, 2009 _2_ MW-2009-75 only encumber up to 2m. By shifting the swale to the City-owned property the drainage from both directions was accommodated into one larger drainage ditch. Most of the residents in this area have been maintaining the grass to a higher standard than the City might otherwise have provided. At this time there are no immediate plans to develop a closure plan for the existing landfill. Staff has responded to complaints of standing water and overgrowth of vegetation in the ditch however due to limited access only minor spot improvements could be addressed. Some of the drainage problems are attributable to the planting of gardens, access bridges, encroachments and modifications to the ditch grade made by residents in an effortto effect their own solutions. Residents were sent a letter on July 20'h, 2009 asking for their input so that staff could confirm the scope of the problem. Staff used this feedback to develop a solution that includes; the removal of small diameter trees and vegetation growing in the ditch near the west end of the drain. Minorcleaning and filling ofthe ditch bottom to remove areas where ponding and stagnant water collects. Minor filling and re-grading of low-lying areas within the heavily-treed areas at the base of the slope of the landfill. This proposal seemed to be well received by those residents who attended the Public Information Session. Those in attendance were informed that a pathway from Montrose Road will have to be constructed to allow the equipment to access the site. Restoration of the ditch and pathway is included in the scope of the project. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The annual ditching program is a critical annual service of the Municipal Works department. The annual budgeted expenditure for 2009 was $94,800. Since the 2010 Budget will not likely be approved before this work must be planned and completed, staff requires preapproval of this $15,000 expenditure so as to meet work schedules this winter. The cost of this project can be accommodated within the proposed 2010 expenditure amount of $94,800. COMMITMENT TO COUNCIL PRIORITIES The recommendation contained in this report is consistent with Council's priorities to continue to monitor and improve the efficiency of the organization. ATTACHMENTS July 20`", 2009 Letter to Residents Recommended by: Geoff Holman, Directoyt5ljMunicipal Works Approved by: Ed Dujlovic, ~x~cutive Directgt of Corporate Services Respectfully submitted: Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer Niagara~alls CARADA July 20, 2009 Dear Resident: Re: Charnwood Avenue Drainage/Encroachment Review Our Fi]e: Charnwood Avenue Please be advised that City Council has requested Municipal Works staff to undertake a review of the reported drainage problems along the north boundary of the city-owned land adjacent to your home. Ourpreliminary investigation has identified anumber ofprivate encroachments onto the City-owned ]ands and in an effort to resolve the drainage issue we would like your feedback prior to taking any remedial action. Normally, the City would host an informal Public Meeting and invite those residents who might be immediately affected however, it is quite often very difficult to get feedback during the Summer. I am therefore asking for your feedback via fax, letter, email or telephone call at your earliest convenience. Your feedback will be included in the report I have been asked to submit at a future Council meeting. In particular I would like to know your thoughts regarding; Does the swale on the city-owned lands need to be widened and cleaned out to accommodate surface drainage runoff after minor storm events? 2. Should the City be considering the erection of fencing along the property line to delineate this boundary? 3. Can the removal o£~some trees and vegetation be allowed to provide access to this area so it can tained on a more frequent basis? ~ommunay Services Department Workiug Together to Serve Our Community unicipal Woks Ext 4219 Fax 905-356-2354 ~ gholman@niagarafalls.ra -2- Please fee] free to add any additional comments that would be helpful to us in completing our review of this issue. Please forward your feedback via: Phone Fax Email letter 905-356-7521 905-356-2354 ¢holman ct,niagarafalls.ca City of Niagara Falls ext. 4219 4310 Queen St. Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5 Yours truly, G off Holman, C.E.T. GH/mt Director of Municipal Works Attach: 0 ~ ~..~d:; o ~ o o ~ ~~ ~ m n N v N O O '~~ 2 ~. w na ~ \` ~t ^9 ,y ,~, lT/ .^../' W 5~ O O D rn D ~' co m n 0 m ~- CD CD a ~~~., _ ;~F ~~: ~` x' w -c-.... ~.--°_ ~. i '~~ c u. ~ , ~~~ __%/ia Niagara,FalIs PD-2009-93 November 30, 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-2009-93 CB&FIG-2009-010, Commercial Building & Facade Improvement Grant Application Applicant: 1760073 Ontario Inc. (Tihomir Zubic) 4738-4740 Valley Way RECOMMENDATION That the Commercial Building & Facade Improvement Grant application for 4738-4740 Valley Way be approved subject to the owner satisfying the program requirements, and that the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute the grant agreement. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The application can be supported because: • the items to be funded are eligible under the Commercial Building & Facade Improvement Grant Program; • sufficient funds are available in the 2009 CIP Budget; • the workwillimprovethefacadeofthebuildingandencouragetheoccupancyofthe main floor of the building; and • the redevelopment will have a positive impact on the revitalization of the Downtown area. BACKGROUND The City has received it's tenth Commercial Building & Facade Improvement Grant application of 2009 for the Downtown area. The property consists of two vacant stores on the main floor and existing business offices on the second floor. The applicant also owns the neighbouring Euro Cafe which was recently approved for facade and commercial building improvements. The owner wishes to extend the facade improvements approved for the Euro Cafe across the subject property and replacement of the existing flat roof. The extent of improvements to the facade include new doors and windows, awning, gooseneck lighting and front stucco. The colours of the facade will satisfy the heritage colours as referenced in the City's Urban Design Guidelines (June 2007). The cost of the facade improvements will be approximately $28,500. The building has a flat roof that needs to be replaced. The estimated cost of the new work is $24,000. The total cost of the improvements is estimated at $52,500. The ownerwould be eligible for 50% ofthe facade work ($14,250) and up to $10,000 for the roof replacement for a total grant of $24,250. November 30, 2009 - 2 - PD-2009-93 ANALYSIS The proposed work consists of eligible items contained in the Commercial Building and Facade Improvement Program forthe Downtown CIP. The detailed finishing ofthe facade will be similar to the approved facade for the neighbouring property and create a more historical feel and appearance of the building. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The approval of this application will provide a grant to the applicant of approximately $24,250 based on estimated costs of $52,500. The grant amount will be provided from the Downtown CIP account within the 2009 General Purpose Budget (11-3-823005-050000). In addition, once the recipient receives the grant, the City will request that the Region of Niagara provide the City with a portion of the grant for the facade. CITY'S STRATEGIC COMMITMENT The approval of the grant application will satisfy the objectives of the Downtown CIP and encourage the continued rejuvenation of the area. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS Appendix 1 -Location map of the subject property. Appendix 2 -Illustrates the proposed facade by the owner. Recommended by: Approved by: Respectfully submitted: ~~ Alex Herlovitch, Director of Planning & Development Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director, Community Services Todd, Chief Administrative Officer B.Bolibruck Attach. V:~2009COUNCIU2009 11 30~PD-2009-93, CB&FIG-2009-010, Zuhic, 4738-4740 Valley Way.wpd November 30, 2009 - 3 - PD-2009-93 APPENDIX 1 November 30, 2009 - 4 - PD-2009-93 APPENDIX 2 i i e ~r Niagarafalls PD-2009-94 November 30, 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-2009-94 Commercial Building & Facade Improvement Grant Applications CB8:FIG-2008-028, CB&FIG-2009-011 and CB&FIG-2009-012 Queen Street (3 .properties) Applicant: Historic Niagara .(Mordecai Grun) RECOMMENDATION That Council approve the applications for Commercial Building and Facade Improvement, subject to Historic Niagara meeting the Downtown CIP Program requirements. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The three applications can be supported because: the items of improvement are eligible under the Commercial Building and Facade Improvement Grant program and no funds will be provided until all program requirements are met; sufficient funds are available in the 2009 CIP Budget; and the work has had a positive impact on the revitalization of the Downtown area. BACKGROUND The City has received three Commercial Building and Facade Improvement Applications for the Downtown area from Historic Niagara. One application (CB&FIG-2008-028) was received last year but returned due to the lack of claim information. The other two applications are new(CB&FIG-2009-011 and CB&FIG-2009-012). All the buildings related to the applications have undergone significant improvements and a summary of the improvements are highlighted as follows: 4444 Queen Street - CB&FIG-2008-028 -Cranberry Creek and Adonis Hair Salon This application had been submitted previously and now resubmitted with more detailed information. The building contains two businesses on the main floor and apartments above on the second floor. One of the new businesses is Cranberry Creek and both the inside and outside of this portion of the building have been extensively renovated. The total cost of the facade improvement was $23,668.52 November 30, 2009 - 2 - PD-2009-94 and included new lighting, awning, entranceway, signage and painting. The inside improvements included new electrical wiring, plumbing, ceiling, flooring and walls. The total interior work costs were $30,058.18. In calculating the eligible grant, the applicant would be entitled to almost $21,834.26. 2. 4695 Queen Street - CB&FIG-2009-011 -The Wedding Gallery (new application) Improvements have occurred to the front facade with the removal of the old corrugated sheathing and return of the underlying brick. The facade improvements include a new awning, lighting and signage. This cost was $5,403.21. The structural and interior improvement costs were $6,206.09 and included new electrical wiring and lighting. The total amount of grant will be $5,804.66. 3. 4624 Queen Street - CB&FIG-2009-012 -Seneca Theatre (new application) The application for the Seneca Theatre is only for the interior of the building at this time. The theatre has undergone extensive interior renovations including major electrical work, new barrier free washrooms and HVAC system. The interior improvements cost submitted was almost $90,000. The total amount of grant for the interior of the building is $10,000. ANALYSIS A large portion of the work carried out on the buildings comply with the eligibility items contained in the Commercial Building and Facade Improvement Program. However, one of the requirements is that the work not begin until Council has approved the application and the owner enters into an agreement with the City. Historic Niagara has made more than twenty grant applications which have been approved. In the past cases, Council has approved the applications subject to the applicant satisfying all of the program requirements including the .payment of all outstanding property taxes. Staff wish to recommend a similar approach as before, whereby the approval of the applications are subject to meeting all the CIP program requirements. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The City's Finance Division has been working very closely with the Historic Niagara regarding their required tax payments and they have advised that the owner is on a payment plan for all three of the properties subject to this report. The total grant amount to be provided from the 2009 CIP General Purpose Budget (11-3-823005-050000) will be almost $38,000. In addition, once the applicant receives their grant, the City will request payment from the Region of Niagara for a portion of the facade grants through their Smarter Niagara Incentive Programs. CITY'S STRATEGIC COMMITMENT The improvements carried out on the buildings of Historic Niagara satisfy the objectives of the Downtown CIP and encourage the continued improvement of the area. Although the improvements have been carried out before approval by Council, the improvements have had a positive impact on the appearance of Downtown and more store fronts are being improved as a result. November 30, 2009 - 3 - LIST OF ATTACHMENTS PD-2009-94 Appendix 1 - Location map of the subject properties. Appendix2- SummaryChartofthethreegrantapplicationsfromHistoricNiagara. Appendix 3 - Illustration of facade improvements for Cranberry Creek and Adonis Hair Salon property and the Wedding Gallery property. Recommended by: ~ l~.m 1~ Alex Herlovi Director of Planning & Development Approved by: Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director, Community Services Respectfully submitted: I Ke Todd, Chief Administrative Officer B.Balibruck Attach. S:\PDR\2009\PD-2009.94, CB&FIG-2009-011, CB&FIG-2009-012 & CB&FIG-2008-028 wpd.wpd r ' PD-2009-97 Niagara~i[lls November 30, 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-2009-97 Bill 198 - An Act to amend the Planning Act with respect to Inclusionary Zoning RECOMMENDATION That Staff continue to monitor private member Bill 198 and report back to Council; and that staff request input from area Developers and Builders on Bill 198. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Councillor Wing brought to the attention of Council private member Bill 198 to amend the Planning Act to give municipalities additional powers to secure affordable housing within the local planning framework. Bill 198 would allow municipalities to pass zoning by-laws and approve plans of subdivision to require that a percentage of new housing units be affordable to low and moderate income households. The changes would also allow municipalities to enter into an agreement(s) to address the provision of affordable units in residential areas. There are a number of pros and cons to the Bill which may be addressed as the Bill moves though Committee. BACKGROUND Bill 198 Bill 198 received first reading in June 2009 and is proceeding toward second reading. The Bill would amend the Planning Act as follows: • change the Provincial interest in providing a full range of housing by adding the phrase that would specifically include housing that is affordable to the low and moderate income ranges; • allow zoning by-laws to be passed to require a specific percentage of affordable units in all new housing developments greater than 20 units; • allow zoning by-laws to be passed to require a percentage of affordable units be provided in new housing developments greater than 20 units which were zoned prior to the enactment of Bill 198; • require that Official Plan policies be in place before passing inclusionary zoning by- laws; and November 30, 2009 - 2 - PD-2009-97 • permit the municipality to enter into one or more agreements with the developer/builderdealingtyith affordable units and provide that the agreement may be registered on title to bind future land owners. Forthe purposes of interpretation, the Bill proposes to use the definition of affordable from the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS). This definition provides that no more than 30 % of gross income be spent on housing. Alternatively, the purchase price of housing that is considered affordable must be at least 10% below the average resale of a unit in the regional market area. Based on CMHC data that the average re-sale house in the City is $202,000, staff has calculated a maximum affordability level of $181,800.00. For the purposes of identifying low and moderate income households, the PPS includes households with incomes in the lowest 60 percent of the income distribution for the regional market area. ANALYSIS The housing policies of the City's official Plan are "intended to guide the provision of housing which is affordable, accessible, adequate and appropriate to the needs of a full range of households" in the city. While staff works with builders and developers to encourage a range of housing types, lot sizes and unit sizes, it is still up to the developer to determine the units he puts on the market. The City does not have any tools to force housing to be set aside to meet specific affordability targets. There are a number of pros and cons to the legislation. The changes contained in the draft Bill would give staff the a tool to require a percentage of lots or units be developed/built to cater to those at an income level of the 60`h percentile or lower. A provision to require a percentage of units to be affordable would help the municipality better work toward the provision of a range of housing at various price points. However, these units would be made available on the open market and it would not be possible for staff to ensure that only the lowest income groups occupy the units. This could be part of the Regulations not yet developed. It would also be difficult to ensure affordable ownership units remain as such beyond the initial purchaser. It may be the units escalate in value when surrounded by more expensive units. The cost of development and construction to bring units to the market continues to grow. It may be that developers and builders may find that a unit made available at a lower price level would affect the viability of the project because return is proportionately lower. It would be unfortunate to have development stalled or stopped because the developer perceives his project as being uneconomic. The proposed legislation would affect not only new zonings for residential properties, but also pre-existing zoning. The City has an inventory of prezoned lands which would accommodate in excess of 3,000 units. This amendment removes one of the fundamental principles of planning in Ontario which basically has the effect of allowing any prior zoning approvals to be "grandfathered" (ie. allowed to continue without needing to meet the new standards). Bill 198 would secure the actual affordable units through agreements with the developer/owner. This could potentially mean that the provision of affordable units would be determined on a site by site basis and may result in extensive negotiations not only November 30, 2009 - 3 - PD-2009-97 about location and number of units, but could also take the form of cash-in-lieu of affordable units or provision of land. All of which could extend approval times and delay construction. Because the Bill would allow the agreement to be registered on title, it has the advantage of ensuring the requirement will remain in effect even if the land is sold to someone else. If the Bill comes into effect, the City would be required to update its Official Plan policies to address how the affordability will be achieved and set out the rules for development in Niagara Falls. This project would have to be examined relative to the existing work program or necessitate additional staff to negotiate, regulate and monitor. It would also be dependent on the Province preparing Ontario Regulations to implement the changes. In the past, it has taken months to years for the Province to bring back the appropriate regulations to facilitate the use of such legislative changes. CITY'S STRATEGIC COMMITMENT While there are concerns with the Bill, it would serve to assist in implementing the Official Plan policies regarding the provision of affordable housing. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS None. Recommended by: Alex Herlov~h, Director of Planning & Development Approved by: Ed DI, Respectfully submitted: Executive Director, Community Services Todd, Chief Administrative Officer A.Herlovitch:gd S:1PDR120091PD-2009-97, Bi111981nclusionary ZOning.wpd November 30, 2009 - 4 - PD-2008-94 APPENDIX 1 November 30, 2009 - 5 - PD-2009-94 APPENDIX 2 d p ~ °o a o o U p C M r C O ~ C GOI O ~ Q~U ~ ~s u r O NN O O N O N 0 O p p ~ M 0 O .-~ = C~ r ~ O N O i0 CV f'M O {O ~ U' W fA b4 fA d9 N4 N ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~a~- g ~ V W C ~~ O ..+ S d N O ~ N ~ ~ > O r N' 00 CO ~ O 1~ N ~ N V O 1_ d 3 ~ „ mco ~ mo NM ~ a > ~ T ~ sc> fa ~» ~ sss w d G' O E ~, gyp. ~ d m -o c m c_ yrn -a c . a ~ ~m m u14.m a Q c ~° c ~ ~ ~'-~' ~ m~ ` lgg ~ ' ~ N a ~ Y _ ~ ~ U ~ O ~ ~ ~ N CI c c c~ c U ~ m v a~i ~ a~i ~ 2 ~ ~ cam a~ ~ ~~ ~ ~ ~~ ~~ a ~~ ¢ VIA- vu1 U~ T- N OD r C a _ O~ (y O ~ p ~ O C O N N N F LL LL LL m m m a Q U U U ~ November 30, 2009 - 6 - PD-2009-94 APPENDIX 3 s~°~~~ ~ ~ - ~ 0 5 o• ~~ o~ ;~ i 11 ~ £ F - c, ~ -----1 _ ~ ~. ~,.~•~ 1 ~ -•- ~;: ' ~ l -~ -. 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SR o[ V id J _r ~ w r d `~ w i 9 ~ .~ - ~ m ~a r__ ~ _ ~ LL F w ~ g November 30, 2009 - 7 - PD-2009-94 .., s 4 ~C ~v ~~a ~ o~ ~ 4 ~ 0 ;;; m ~ m e ~ 2 F a Fg m~ ~ W N N r~ C ~° 7 ~~~ a ~:; ~a~ ~~ d ~~$ ~ U~o a~~ ~ ~~_ sae s ~".~~ _.~ ~I~~'~Y'~~~~ TS-2009.61 November 30, 2009 REPORT TO: CouncillorCarolynn loannoni, Chair and Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario SUBMITTED BY: Transportation Services SUBJECT: TS-2009.61 Niagara Region Inter-Municipal Transit Initiative RECOMMENDATION That the materials presented to the Region's Transportation Strategy Steering Committee {TSSC} regarding the Inter-municipal Transit Work Plan, be received; 2~ That Niagara Falls needs to focus on initiatives such as People Mover and it's Conventional Transit Service Business Plan as priorities for the municipality; 3) That Ni ra Falls is very supportive a need for inter-municipal transit and has initiated se ai initiatives in support o roviding regional transit including college/universit ransit, transit between Niaga Falls and Fort Erie, etc.; ® That Niagara Falls supports the triangle service approach involving Niagara Falls, Welland and St. Catharines; ~rovr'd~ r~- is not-~ur+ded V~,uy.rupG.IluJ or ~eg~onall~• 5) That th ility of Niagara Falls to be active partner in the short term re: the triangle serv approach is limited by mg capacity, not by interest in or commitment to th oncepts; and, 6} Th if the Region were to to responsibiiify for fu 'ng inter-municipal transit, inclu i thetriangle service, Niag Falls would suppo 's in principle, butwould want to kn more about the costs, t ormula for allocatin hem, etc. Included in Phis discus ' should be considerate of the role of the rivate sector in delivering some o e services. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Niagara Region, through the Transportation Strategy Steering Committee (TSSC) has engaged Entra Consultants to develop a work plan for establishing an Inter-Municipal Transit system and a delivery mechanism for the Niagara Region in a phased manner. Entra Consultants have completed Phase One (Needs Assessment and Delivery Model Assessment} of a three-phase study. On September 15, 2009, the consultant was given the authorization to proceed to Phase Two (Short and Long Term Strategy), which includes assessment of capital and operating costs, routes and services, performance measures, and the establishmentofa governance model. November 30, 2009 - 2 - TS-2009-51 Niagara Falls currently provides inter-municipal connections to Welland, St. Catharines, Niagara -on-the-Lake and Fort Erie, through its partnerships with the Niagara College and Brock University Student Unions and the Town of Fort Erie. These partnerships are fully funded charter services. The primary focus for Niagara Falls in the short to medium time frames is, the implementation of the Transit Strategic Business Plan and the procurement of the People Mover system. The supportof a triangle service approach requires further information regarding the costs, the formula for allocating them, etc. As well, included in this discussion should be consideration of the role of the private sector in delivering some of the services. BACKGROUND The Niagara Region Transportation Strategy SteeringGommittee (TSSC) meets bimonthly todiscuss the Region's transportation issues. The City's representatives include the Mayor and Councilor Bart Maves. Transportation Services staff also attends on a regular basis, to provide inputwhen requested and keep up to date on Region wide transportation issues. The concept of a single tier inter-municipal transit system has been a vision of Niagara Region for 40 years and continues to be part of the Region's Transportation Strategy. The strategic directions include improved travel and commuting within Niagara and surrounds, planned economic growth and land use, enhanced quality of life, enhanced accessibility to tourist and recreational destinations and choice ways to affordably access places of employment, educational, social, recreational, essential services as well as the Niagara Health System (NHS). Accordingly expanded transit service between the municipalities in Niagara was identified as pivotal initiative toward these. Presently, conventional fixed-route transit systems are operated by the City of Niagara Falls, St. Catharines Transit Commission, the City of Welland, the Town of Fort Erie (private contractor). The contracted services are being provided to Thorold and Port Colborne by St. Catharines and Welland. Inter-municipal service from Niagara Falls, St. Catharines and Welland to the college/university campuses are being fully funded by the student Unions. In addition the Town of Fort Erie has also fully funded a student connection to/from Niagara Falls. More specifically, Niagara Falls currently offers Inter-Municipal connections to Brock University (St. Catharines), Niagara College (Welland & Niagara on the Lake Campuses), and the Town of Fort Erie, all on a full cost recovery charter basis. These services are designed to meet the needs of the students attending post secondary institutions and thus, operate on a limited basis on school days when Brock University and Niagara College are in session. Specialized Transit Services (ie. Chair-A-Van, NST, etc.) is also operated by the three transit operators as well by the Niagara Region and other community organizations. ANALYSIS/RATIONALE Three levels of service concepts were evaluated under Phase One the study. The study recommends the first step being the implementation of a Triangle Service, nextthe addition November 30, 2009 - 2 - TS-2009-51 of a Second-Tier Feeder system, followed by the addition of a rural Demand Response system and are all illustrated on the Service Concepts map in the TSSC attachment. Niagara Region, through the Transportation Strategy Steering Committee has engaged Entra Consultants to develop a work plan forestablishing an Inter-Municipal Transitsystem and a delivery mechanism forthe Niagara Region in a phased manner. Entra Consultants have completed Phase One (Needs Assessment and Delivery Model Assessment) of a three-phase study. The consultant was given the authorization to proceed to Phase Two (Short and Long Term Strategy), which includes assessment of capital and operating costs, routes and services, performance measures, and the establishment of a governance model. This also included the adoption of the Short Term Extended Municipal Service (triangular service concept) government recommendation. This involves a cooperative agreement between three municipalities and the Region owning the vehicles and lease to the three municipalities. Proposed routing and system costing analysis is illustrated in the TSSC presentation materials attached. The Region's consultant was provided with the following information as part of their Phase One Review: 1) Niagara Falls needs to focus on initiatives such as People Mover and it's Conventional Transit Service Business Plan as priorities for the municipality; 2) Niagara Falls is very supportive of the need for inter-municipal transit and has initiated several initiatives in support of providing regional transit including college/university transit, transit between Niagara Falls and Fort Erie, etc.; 3) Niagara Falls supports the triangle service approach involving Niagara Falls, Welland and St. Catharines; 4) The ability of Niagara Falls to be an active partner in the short term re: the triangle service approach is limited by funding capacity, not by interest in or commitment to the concepts; and, 5) If the Region were to take responsibility for funding inter-municipal transit, including the triangle service, Niagara Falls would support this in principle, but would want to know more about the costs, the formula for allocating them, etc. Included in this discussion should be consideration of the role of the private sector in delivering some of the services. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS Welland City Council Resolution -Figure 1 TSSC presentation materials -Figure 2 November 30, 2009 - 2 - Recommended by: `~i`J rl Dren, Director oj; Approved by: Respectfully submitted: TS-2009-51 Services Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director of Community Services Ken Tddd. Chief Administrative Officer S:1General AdminislrationlGA 1.01 Reports12009 Community Services\11 Nov 301TS-2009-51 Niagara Region I nter-Municipal Transit Initiative.wpd AGENDA PAGE 1 NUMBER MOVED BY: SECONDED BY; ~~~e„~.~~~~, ~, del land MOTION ,~~~ THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WELLAND receives for information the materials presented to the Region's Transportation Strategy Steering Committee (TSSC) regarding the Inter-Municipal Transit Work Plan; and further THAT Welland City Council authorizes the Mayor and City Manager to explore a Triangle Service Co-operative Agreement between municipalities, that would see the Region own the vehicles and lease them to the municipalities. REF. NO. OCT 2 0 2009 CARRIED LOST J NOT PUT J 09-13 COUNC2LOK5 TCAJ nniJ ~~ O'DELL VAN VLIET D2UGAN CAMPION CHIOCCHIO LETOURNEAU ALEXANDER LAROUCHE GRENIER ALAKAS BELCASTRO SHARPE -MAYOR GOULBOURNE ENrxa CONSULTANTS Inter-Municipal Transit Work Plan TSSC Presentation Tuesday, September 15, 2009 ENTRA Consultants - Excellence in Transportation Planning Study Structure ENT CONS(/LTANIS • Three Stage Study • Needs Assessment and Delivery Model Assessment • Update previous work to incorporate Niagara 2031 Growth Strategy, Metrolinx RTP and GO Transit plan • Identify most appropriate delivery model • Short- and long-term service strategy • Capital and Operating costs • Routes and services • Performance measures • Phasing strategy with "quick-wins" • Implementation plan details ENTRA ConsulWnls - Excellence in TTSnaporlation Planning t Ke TO ICS ENT CONSifLiAM3 • Background Review • Regional Travel Demand • Stakeholder Consultation • Public Survey Results • Vision • Ridership and Costs • Governance Models • Funding ENTRA CensulWnls - Excellence In Trenaporlation Planning Ke 1 Q ~C,S ENT canuuavrs • Background Review • Regional I ravel Demand • Stakeholder Consultation • Public Survey Resi.~lts • Vision • Ridership and Costs • Governance Models • Funding ENTRA Consultants -Excellence in Tranaporletion Nanning 2 Vision Elements ENT CONSULTANTS • Public transit services will form an important and integral component of Niagara's transportation system. • Residents of urban areas will be provided convenient, affordable and reliable transit service connecting to the urban areas of Niagara, including connections to local transit systems, employment centers, education and health institutions, and social and recreational opportunities. • All residents of Niagara with disabilities will have specialized transit service to provide travel to essential health care services, employment, shopping and other services in the region to ensure an acceptable quality of life. • Inter-municipal transit services will connect Niagara residents to inter- regional transit services with access to the surrounding regions and municipalities and the Greater Toronto Area. ENTflA Consultants - ExCellenCa in TranspoNation Planning Vision Elements ENT coNSULraNrs • Public transit services will form an important and integral component of Niagara's transportation system. • Residents of urban areas will be provided convenient, affordable and reliable transit service connecting to the urban areas of Niagara, including connections to local transit systems, employment centers, education and health institutions, and social and recreational opportunities. • All residents of Niagara with disabilities will have specialized transit service to provide travel to essential health care services, employment, shopping and other services in the region to ensure an acceptable quality of life. • Inter-municipal transit services will connect Niagara residents to inter- regional transit services with access to the surrounding regions and municipalities and the Greater Toronto Area. ENTflA Consultants -Excellence In Tranaporlatian Planning Ridershi and Costs EN Anwal Rev. Annual Net Operating Hcura Annual Ritlershi Annual O aQ radng Copt Cost Yearl 2016 I Vear1 ~ 2016 Yeart 2018 Year1 2016 SewnbTier Feeder 38600 25600 4000 244,000 $?488000 18000 x,353,000 $1,318.000 Rural Demand Res nse ~ 22.500 ~ 31.W0 115,000 1 282.000 I $1.800.000 $2,520,000 $1.512.500 $1,885.000 Service Conce 1 32400 55,600 407,000 634000 592,000 $4,4fi4,000 $1,574500 $2379000 Service Conce t2 51000 77400 541000 1078000 4080000 192000 727500 3497000 Service Conce t3 73500 108900 656,000 7,340,000 $5880000 8712000 $4240000 $5382000 ENTRA Cansullants-Excellence In Transportation Planning 4 Vehicle Costs ENT coNSUimlurs ENTRA ConsWtanls-Excellence In Trenspotlatlan Planning Governance O tions -Models ENro • Extended Municipal Services • Inter-Municipal Partnership • Regionally Controlled Agency • Controlled Corporation • Non-profit Corporation • Modified Regional Services Board • Crown Agency ENTRA Consulran[a -Excellence In Tranaporlation Planning Trian le Service 7 14 $3 150 000 $6 300 000 Second-Tier Feeder 5 5 $2 250 000 $2,250,000 Rural Demand Res nse 6 9 1 500 000 $2 250,000 Service Conce t 1 7 14 $3,150,000 $6,300,000 Service Conce t 2 12 19 $5400,000 $6,550,000 Service Cortce t 3 18 28 $6,900,000 $10,600,000 Buses Vehicle Costs Yeart 2016 Year1 2016 5 Governance O tions -Criteria ENT CONSULTANTS • Ability to Achieve Goals Consistent with Broader Regional Governance and Directives • Transparent and Accountable Decision-Making • Clear and Open Communication • Ability to AttracUAccommodate Committed Members from Diverse Backgrounds • Varied, Sustainable Funding Strategy • Restrains Costs • Ease of Establishing and Maintaining the Agency • Independent Control • Ability to Monitor and Evaluate Performance • Customer Focus • Development of Multi-Faceted Transit System EMRA Consultants - Excellence in Transportation Banning Governance Recommendation EN coNSULrarns • Short-term: Extended Municipal Service ^ suitable for Concept 1 -Triangle service ^ easiest to implement ^ Medium-term: Regional Controlled Agency ^ suitable for Concept 2 or Concept 3 ^ allows better regional control over services ^ Long-term ^ Depends on long-term conditions and objectives ENTRA Consutlams ~ Excellence in Treneporlation Planning 6 Funding Sources ^ operating funding: ^ fare revenue ^ other revenue (advertising, etc) ^ Provincial gas tax ^ Regional/municipal tax base ^ capital funding ^ grants ^ Federal gas tax ^ Provincial gas tax ^ Ontario Bus Replacement Program (OBRP} ^ Regional/municipal tax base ENTRACOnsultants- ENoNS~vLrnNrs Some Key Issues EIJT CONSULTANTS • Assets and Ownership • public ownership ensures eligibility for OBRP • local ownership in short-term may ease implementation - but capacity issue exists • regional ownership beyond short-term ensures flexibility • Planning and Fares • as long as costs are passed to municipal level in relation to service received, municipalities control • longer-term, with regional levy base, Region controls ENTRA ConsulTanTS- EusAenc9 in Transportation Planning 7 Some Key Issues ENT CONSYNTAMS • Triple Majority? -Service Concepts and Contracts • Triangle Service • cooperative agreement between three municipalities • Region could own vehicles and lease to municipalities • Feeder Services • existing services can remain as contracts between municipalities or with private sector • new feeders could be added on same basis • Region could own vehicles and lease to municipalities/contractor • Regional Benefits • as system expands and matures, network benefits will accrue to all municipalities, and require cost sharing ENTRA ConsuAanls - Excellence in Transportation Planning ENT corvsul-rA'sn Inter-Municipal Transit Work Plan TSSC Presentation Tuesday, September 15, 2009 ENTRA Consultants -Excellence in Transportation Planning 8