2007/07/23
~ -
CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE AGENDA
NINTH MEETING
Monday, July 23, 2007
Committee Room 2 - 4:00 p.m.
Staff Contact
1. Minutes of the May 28, 2007 Meeting
2. Reports:
F-2007-28 -Annual Investments Report for 2006 Todd Harrison
F-2007-29 -Proposed Changes to Water Billing Todd Harrison
and Process for the 2007 Utility Budget
CPS-2007-02- BMA Water and Wastewater Rate Ken Burden
Review Proposal
3. Communications:
.Request from Amanda Ocasion for donation
to Global Youth Network initiative
4. New Business
5. Adjournment
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Nagara,~alls
fANADA
CORPORATE SERVICES MINUTES
EIGHTH MEETING
:MONDAY, MAY 28, 2007
COUNCIL CHAMBERS - 5:00 pm
PRESENT: Mayor Ted Salci, Councillor Victor Pietrangelo, Chair; Councillors
Jim Diodati, Shirley Fisher, Carolynn loannoni, Vince Kerrio, Bart
Mayes, Wayne Thomson and Janice Wing.
STAf F: John MacDonald, Ed Dujlovic, Dean lorfida, Denyse Morrissey, Ken
:Beaman, Lee Smith, Geoff .Holman, Todd Harrison, Angela
Duerksen, and Joanna Daniels.
PRESS: Corey Larocque, Niagara Falls Review
Rob Lapensee, Niagara This Week
1. MINUTES
MOVED by Mayor Salci, seconded by Councillor Diodati, that the minutes
of the May 16th meeting be approved as recorded.
Motion Carried Unanimously
2. LEGAL SERVICES REVIEW
Mr. Ed Lustig of Broderick & Partners has been engaged by the City to
conduct a Legal Services Review and assist with moving forward with the
administration of the Legal Services Division. Mr. Lustig was in attendance
at the meeting and explained .the terms of reference that had been
developed, He anticipates that the review will becomplete bymid--June and
at that time will direct his report to the ChiefAdministrative Officer and the p
Acting Executive Director of Corporate Services,
3. REPORTS:
CD-2007-11 -Bingo Operations New Municipal Polio/
MOVED by Councillor Thomson, seconded by Mayor Salci, that the revised
municipal bingo policy and amendments to the lottery licensing fee bylaw
be approved.
Motion Carried Unanimously
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F-2007-18 -Financing Lease Report
MOVED by Mayor Sa1ci, seconded by Councillor Diodati, that the 2007
:Financing :Lease Report be .received #or information.
:Motion Carried 'Unanimously
F-2007-19 - :Final Tax Notice
MOVED by 'Mayor Salci, seconded by Councillor Diodati, that June 29 and
September 28 be approved as the 2007 final due dates for the Residential,
Pipeline, Farmland and Managed Forest Assessment Classes.
Motion Carried Unanimously
f-2007-20 -Property Tax Rates
MOVED by Mayor Salc, seconded by Councillor Kerrio, that the 2007
Property Tax .Rates be approved.
Motion Carried
Councillors Fisher and Thomson Opposed
CD-2007-10 -Specific Location Daily Sales Licences
Mr. Lizhi Liu was in attendance at the meeting. Mr, Liu is a portrait sketch
artist residing in the City. He expressed his concerns with the restrictions
of the Specific Location Daily Sales Licence. A lengthy discussion ensued
regarding possible options that could be made available to seasonal
vendors.
MOVED by Councillor Thomson, seconded by Councillor Mayes, that the
report on ..possible long-term changes to the Licensing By-law to permit
seasonal vendors be deferred to the June 11th meeting.
Motion Carried Unanimously
3. NEW BUSINESS
a) Councillor Fisher requested that staff investigate .possible safety issues
with the former Crowne Plaza property on Dunn Street and Stanley Avenue.
b) :MOVED by Councillor loannoni, seconded by Councillor Fisher, That
Council be provided with a copy of the draft Market .Feasibility Study that
was sent back to the consultant.
Motion Carried
Mayor Salci and Councillor Diodati Opposed
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4. ADJOURNMENT;
RESOLVED by Councillor Thomson, seconded by Councillor Maves, thatthe
committee go into a closed meeting to consider a proposed or pending
acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality.
Motion Carried Unanimously
July 23, 2007 F-2007-28
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NiagaraFalls
CANADA
Councillor Victor Pietrangelo
and Members of the Corporate Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: F-2007-28
Annual Investments Report for 2006
:RECOMMENDATION:
For the information of the Corporate Services Committee.
BACKGROUND:
Annually, Staff provides financial information for the previous. year's performance
concerning the investment of the City's Reserve Funds and Trust Funds. Scotia Cassels
is engaged by the City to manage the two investment accounts respective to the two funds.
:Reserve 'Funds
On January 1, 2006, the opening balance in this investment account was $16,862,061.
In accordance with the City's investment policy, the funds were invested in Government
treasury bills, Government and Canadian Corporate issues of bonds, bankers' acceptance,
term deposits and similar investments.
During 2006, the investment income was $795,125, and realized loss of asset disposition
was $325,190. A deposit of $5,720,000 was made to the investment. Management fees
of $57,985 were paid to Scotia Cassels for their services. As at .December 31, 2006, the
closing balance in this investment account was $22,994,011, annual income on the
portfolio was $864,138.
Trust Funds
3
On January 1, 2006, the opening balance in this investment account was $2,168,899. In
accordance with the City's investment :policy, the funds were invested in Government
treasury bills, Government and Canadian Corporate issues of bonds, bankers' acceptance,
term deposits and similar investments.
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Finance
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July 23, 2007 - 2 - F-2007-28 r
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During 2006, the investment income was $102,292, and the realized loss on asset
disposition was $6,415. Management fees of $7,053 were paid to Scotia Cassels for their
services. As at December 31, 2006, the closing balance in this investment account was
$2,257,724, and the estimated annual income of the portfolio was $101,258. The annual
rate of return on the Gity's weighted .portfolio of investments was 4.0% as compared to
3.91 % for the benchmark indices.
'More information, such as the investment portfolio report or the City's investment policy, is
available for inspection in the Finance Division Office.
Recommended by: ~k~-~l
Todd Harriso , Acting D ctor of Financial Services
Approved by: ~ c~
Ken Burden, Acting Executive Director of Corporate Services
Respectfully submitted: G~~~ G ~
Jo ~ acDonald, Chief Adminis rative Officer
C. Luey
Schedule A
Statement of Investment Policies and Goals (SIP&G)
City of Niagara Falls
Revenue Fund (IC4$7N)
PURPOSE: To support the operational activities of the municipality by providing back up
liquidity for the main banking facility.
OBJECTIVE: To provide investment returns in excess of tle benchmarks while investing in a
conservative portfolio of short term money rr~arket and bond securities.
POLICY ASSET MIX:
Benchmark Portfolio Benchmark Index
Asset W_ eight Range
Cash/Short Term 100% 100% SCM 91-day CTB
ELIGIBLE INVESTMENTS:
i) Short Term: including Canada and Provincial gove~nrnent (and guaranteed) T-Bills and
Bonds due within one year, Canadian commercial paper, bankers' acceptances and other
short term notes with a minimum rating of "R1(mid)" on Dominion Bond Rating
Services or equivalent.
ii) Bonds and debentures: including Canada and Provincial Government (as guaranteed)
bonds, and Canadian Corporate issues with a minimum rating of "AA(low)" on
Dominion Bond Rating Service or equivalent.
OTHER RESTRICTIONS:
i) Term to maturity will. not exceed 1 year for any investment.
ii) All investments will be in Canadian dollars.
iii) No derivative securities will be purchased or sold.
iv) Investments will be made in accordance with the Enabling Legislation of The Ontario
Municipal Act where applicable.
REPORTING: Will be on a quarterly (3 month) basis or as requested.
J U L 0 8 2005
Signing Officer Date Scotia Cassels Date
June OS
Schedule A .
Statement of Investment Policies and Goals (SIP&G)
City of Niagara Falls
Reserve Fund {IC494N)
PURPOSE: To provide funds as needed for specific or general purpose use by the
municipality. The rate of the usage will enable a slightly longer term focus for
the investments.
OBJECTIVE: To provide returns in excess of the benchmarks while investing in money market
and short term bonds. The Fund will empha:;ize capital preservation.
POLICY ASSET MIX:
Benchmark Portfolio Benchmark Index
Asset Weight Range
Short Term 5 0-10 SCM 91-day CTB
Bonds 95 90-100 SCM Short Term Index
(All Governments)
ELIGIBLE INVESTMENTS:
i) Short Term: including Canada and Provincial government (and guaranteed} T-Bills and
Bonds due within one year, Canadian commercial paper, bankers' acceptances and other
short term notes with a minimum rating of "R1(mid)" on Dominion Bond Rating
Services or equivalent.
ii) Bonds and debentures: including Canada and Prov~.ncial Government (as guaranteed)
Bonds, and Canadian Corporate issues with a minimum rating of "AA(low)" on
Dominion Bond Rating Service or equivalent. .
OTHER RESTRICTIONS:
i) Term to maturity will not exceed 5 years for any investment.
ii) All investments will be in Canadian dollars.
iii) No derivative securities will be purchased or sold.
iv) investments will be made in accordance with the Enabling Legislation of The Ontario
Municipal Act where applicable.
REPORTING: Will be on a quarterly (3 months) basis or as requested.
JUL 0 8 2005
Signing Officer Date Scotia Cassels Date
June OS
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Schedule A
Statement of Investment Policies and Goals (SIP&G)
City of Niagara Falls
Trust Fund (IC493N)
PURPOSE: To provide funds for the support of the municipal cemeteries and perpetual care
requirements.
OBJECTIVE: To provide income and growth so as to meet she ongoing expenses of the
cemeteries, expected to increase by normal contribution rates plus inflation.
POLICY ASSET MIX:
Benchmark Portfolio Benchmark Index
Asset Wei~lit Ran. e
Cash/Short Term 5 0-10% SCM 91-day CTB
Bonds 95 90-100% SCM Universe Index
ELIGIBLE INVESTMENTS:
i) Short Term: including Canada and Provincial government (and guaranteed) T-Bills and
Bonds due within one year, Canadian commercial paper, bankers' acceptances and other
short term notes with a minimum rating of"Rl(mid)" on Dominion Bond Rating
Services or equivalent.
ii) Bonds and debentures: including Canada and Provincial Government (as guaranteed)
Bonds, and- Canadian Corporate issues with a minimum rating of "Allow)" on Dominion
.Bond Rating Service or equivalent.
OTHER RESTRICTIONS:
i) All investments will be in Canadian dollars.
ii) No derivative securities will be purchased or sold.
iii) Investments will be made in accordance with The Trustee Act and/or The Cemeteries Act
where applicable.
REPORTING: Will be on a quarterly (3 months) bads or as requested.
NOV 2 5 2005
Signing Officer Date Scotia Cassels Date
Nov OS
July 23, 2007 F-2007-29
Niagara~alls
CANADA
Councillor Victor Pietrangelo, Chair
and Members of the Corporate Services Committee
Cities of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: F-2007-29
Changes to Water Collection Procedures
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Corporate Services Committee approves the following changes to amend the
Water By-law:
1) The supply of water for a tenanted water account will be shut off when the tenant
fails to provide or continue to provide the required deposit in full;
2) In situations wherein a change of tenants has occurred, the property owner is
required to have written direction to staff regarding the establishment of the new
account.
BACKGROUND:
On March 5, 2007, City Council received an information report relating to proposed
changes to the City's water by-law. At that meeting, Council directed staff to investigate
changes to the process of terminating the supply of water to tenant properties. A copy of ~
the March 5, 2007, report is included.
The proposed changes were outlined in a public information meeting with concerned
properly owners on May 30, 2007. Staff of the Legal, Finance and Municipal Works
divisions as well as Niagara Falls Hydro has investigated the concerns outlined in the
March 5 report as identified by property owners. These concerns relate specifically to:
a) the continuation of water supply once a tenant misses a payment
b) establishment of a tenant water account
c) the transfers of water arrears to the property owner
Working Together to Serve Our Community Corporate Services Department
Finance
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July 23, 2007 - 2 - F-2007-29
Staff is recommending that in circumstances where in a tenant fails to make full payment
on the due date and after appropriate notice, the deposit on hand will be used to pay the
owed amount. Since the deposit will be less than the required amount, the tenant would
be in contravention to the by-law and, as a result, the water supply would be discontinued
and the account stopped. The final bill would be prepared and the balance of the deposit
would be used to settle the amount owing. In staff
s estimation, the majority of delinquent
accounts situations will be processed in this manner.
Staff is recommending when there is a change of tenants at a property, the property owner
will be required to provide written direction to staff to ensure that the account is closed
appropriately and the new tenant's account is established correctly. In situations where the
owner has not provided written direction, the water supply to the property would be stopped
and all costs associated with shutoff will be borne by the property owner.
As outlined, staff is recommending a change in process that puts accountability on the
tenant. Further, while it is expected that in the majority of cases, the need to transfer water
arrears to the property owner will be eliminated, staff recognizes that there may be
situations where the tenant's account will be in excess of the deposit. to these
circumstances, the outstanding balance will be transferred to the property owner's tax
account.
The public information meeting with .property owners was attended by approximately 40
people. Staff received excellent feedback and, in general, there was support for the
proposed changes. There were discussions and concern on the timing of the shut off
process, but staff has reviewed the notification process and believes that it is reasonable.
Likewise, staff has received concerns regarding the transfer of excess amounts to the
property owner's tax account. Staff believes that the City should not be incurring a
financial expense to offset a property owner's business risk. It should be noted that all
Utility budget expenses are borne by all ratepayers. In 2006, the City transferred
approximately $78,000 in tenant water arrears. Lastly, concerns were raised about the
level of the security deposit, however, staff feels it is an appropriate amount.
In summary, staff will review the measures undertaken and report back to the Corporate
Services Committee as part of the 2008 Utility Budget process.
Recommended by:
Todd Harrison, cting Dir ctor of Financial Services
Approved by:
Ken Burden, Acting Executive Director o Corporate Services
Respectfully submitted:
John M onald, Chief Administra ve Officer
Niagara~alls
CANADA
Councillor Victor Pietrangelo, Chair
and Members of the Corporate Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
7iae recasaamendation{~~
Members: captained in dais repart vsrere
adapted in committee and
ratified iy city Council
Re: F-2Q07-10
Proposed Changes to Water Billing
Processes for the 2007 Utility Budget
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Corporate Services Committee direct staff to investigate the following changes to
the water billing process:
1) Commencing in 2007, interest to be paid on tenant water deposits;
2) The supply of water for a tenan#ed water account may be shut off when the tenant
fails to provide or continue to provide the required deposit in full;
3) The supply of water to a property with a tenanted water account will be immediately
shut off when the tenant vacates, unless the owner has supplied written direction
prior to the shut off for the continuation of the account in the owner's name. The
cost of the shut off will be the responsibility of the property owner. The supply of
water to a properly will be turned on when a new account is established by a new
tenant or the property owner and the new account holder has provided the
appropriate re-connection fees and deposits.
BACKGROUND:
In 2000, Council approved the City's implementation of a metered system of billing. As a
result, all residential properties were required to have metres~installed. In prior years, only
commercial and industrial water accounts were required to have metres. In addition, at the
time of implementing the metre program, the City of Niagara Falls transferred responsibility
to Niagara Falls Hydro for the billing and collection of water and sewer accounts. Since
this time, the City has provided direction to Hydro to perform this work through its water
bylaw.
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While metre reading and producing the bills were transferred to Hydro, City staff has -
remained significantly involved in duties relating to water billing. Specifically, staff of the
City's Water department pertorm a variety of functions including metre replacement, metre
and associated equipment installation and repair, water shut offs, investigation of unusual
consumption histories, on top of the ongoing responsibility for the maintenance of a
sustainable water and sewer distribution network. Similarly, staff of the City's Finance
department perform a variety of functions including the collection of delinquent account
through the transfer of unpaid water accounts to taxes, investigating and processing the
High Water Consumption applications, processing the Annual Water Rebate for Low
Income Senior's and financial analysis.
Throughout Ontario, Municipalities entrusted with the responsibility of operating a water
system have established a variety of billing and collection practices. Staff has reviewed
these practices and has the following comments. Many municipalities provide water billing
only to landlords, while a minority provide billing to tenants as well. For those
municipalities that provide water billing to tenants, the majority require a deposit of some
amount. Lastly, there is a divergency of practices in respect to shutting off water services.
In short, each municipality provides a local solution to collection of delinquent accounts.
Since the introduction of metres and the transfer of billing responsibilities, three issues
have emerged that require Committee's direction. The first issue is in regard to the
process for collecting delinquent water accounts held by tenants. The second issue
revolves around the process undertaken at the time that tenants move from that residence.
The third issue relates to the payment of interest on the water deposits provided by
tenants.
Firstly, in regards to the collection of delinquent tenant accounts, the City's current process
results in all unpaid amounts being applied to the roll number of the propertyto which water
was supplied. At the time of transfer, the owner and tenant are notified of the transaction.
Many landlords feel that this process is not fair, however, the City is provided this recourse
as per the Municipal Act 2007, s 398 (2} and the City's By-law No. 2005-60. This by-law
regulates the supply of water and provides for the maintenance and management of the
waterworks and for the imposition and collection of water rates. The intention ofthis by-law
is to ensure that the City is able to fully collect all water and sewer system billings. Staff
proposes that an additional collection step be added priorto transferring an unpaid balance
to the property tax account. Specifically, priorto the transfer, Niagara Falls Hydro would
apply the amount required on the delinquent account from the tenant's deposit.. Staff
would send immediate notification to the tenant that the supply of water may be stopped
in accordance with the shut off provisions in the City's water by-law. Should the tenant fail
to replenish the deposit to the required amount within the required time as set out in the
By-law, the water would be shut off. This process change will ensure that tenants who are
delinquent are made accountable for the payment of their account.
The second issue relates to a situation when tenants are moving in/out of a residence.
Currently, when a tenant moves out of a residence, that tenant, will notify Niagara Falls
Hydro that the account should not be billed in their name any longer. The account is
finalized, changed to the property owner's name and billed in this fashion until the new
tenant moves in. There have been situations where the new tenant has moved in but has
not established the water account in their name, and as a result, the billing of the account
has remained in the owner's name. In these circumstances, the owner does not have
recourse to force the tenant to change the account (as statutory regulation requires that
s
~ , .the landlord provide potable water to the property). Staff is proposing that in all situations
the water is shut off at the time that the tenant moves out. The owner would then be billed
for the shut off fee. Once the new tenant moves in, the tenant can have the water turned
on and the account established correctly. The tenant would be billed for the turn-on fee.
For those landlords that accept the risk associated with non-compliant tenants and do not
wish the water to be shut off at the time their tenant moves out, they can provide this
direction by letter to staff.
The last issue is in respect to the payment of interest on tenant deposits. As Committee
may recall, all residential tenants are required to provide a deposit of $230 at the time of
establishing the account. At the present time NF Hydro holds approximately $285,000 for
all of the tenant deposits. The purpose of this deposit is to minimize the risk to the landlord
as they are ultimately accountable #or payment. This required deposit amount was
increased to $230 at the time NF Hydro took on their duties. As a result, a few longtime
account holders were grand-fathered at the transfer date and have deposits of less than
$230. Similarly, as the purpose of the deposit is to minimize the risk to the landlord, there
is no provision to excuse a tenant account from providing a deposit unless the owner
provides written notification. Currently interest is not paid to the providers of the deposit
as there is no statutory requirement to do so. However, in the last year there have been
is. Staff is ro osin that interest be aid to
' o the ossibilit of th
numerous enquiries int p y p p g p
deposit holders annually commencing in when Niagara Falls Hydro can implement
this change. The expected expense of $7,000 has been included in the 2007 Municipal
Utility Budget.
Summary
The staff proposals are being broughtforward to address concerns raised by landlords and
tenants while also ensuring the City's risk of loss due to delinquent accounts is minimized.
These proposals have been taken after consideration of practices in other communities
and the statutory provisions pertaining to water billing.
Recommended by:
K. E. Burden, Treasurer
~d
Respectfully submitted:
Joh acDonald, Chief Administrative Officer
7. Harrison:jd
Corporate Services Department
Finance
July 23, 2007 CPS-2007-02
Niagara~alls
CANADA
Councillor Victor Pietrangelo, Chair
and Members of the Corporate Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Members:
Re: CPS-2007-02
BMA Management Consulting Inc. Proposal
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Corporate Services Committee authorizes staff to engage BMA Management
Consulting Inc. to review the City's water and sewer rates.
BACKGROUND:
During Council's deliberation ofthe 2007 Municipal Utility Budget, the Council directed staff
to report back on the validity of the suggestions for alternative water and sewer rates as
provided by Mr. Ed Bielawski. Staff met with Mr. Bielawski and gathered significant
information that showed that water .rate percentage increases varied depending upon the
class of user and the volume of water used. Also during this discussion, staff received
another letter from the public expressing their concern over the comparative statistics that
staff used for presenting water and sewer rates.
In preparation for the 2008 Budget, staff recommends that a consultant be engaged to do
a complete analysis of water and sewer rates. The consultant would work with staff,
Council and the public to identify and prioritize goals and objectives of a water rate
structure; to explore wholesale water and wastewater supply issues; to analyze historical
data on classes of users to identify implications of various water rate structure options and
to prepare a report and make presentations on the findings and recommendations.
In December of 2000, City Council approved auser-based billing structure that would
replace the previously flat rate billing structure providing for a more equitable distribution
of the water and sewer costs. At that time, R.M. Louden Limited, who provided the
consultant study, advised that the total rate structure should be reviewed in order to ensure
that the equitable distribution of costs is being maintained. !I
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The observations of Mr. Bielawski with regard to equity and fairness of water and sewer
rates suggests that a full review of the rate structure is both necessary and timely.
Attached to this report is the proposal from BMA Consultants Ltd. for Council's
consideration.
Recommended by:
K. E. Burden, Acting Executive Director of Corporate Services
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Respectfully submitted:
Joh acDonald, Chief Administr ~ive Officer
Management Consulting Ine.
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Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Table of Contents
Introduction 1
Challenges and Issues to be Addressed 1
We Understand Your Requirements 2
Team Roles and Responsibilities 3
Jim Bruzzese 4
Catherine Minshull 5
BMA Management Consulting Inc. Overview g
Proven Track Record With Municipalities g
Relevant Experience g
Study Approach -Work Plan (High Level Overview) 17
SECTION 1 - WATER/SEWER RATE REVIEW
Guiding Principles -Consultation 19
First Principles Meeting 20
Build .Baseline Knowledge 20
Research/Best Practices 21
.Prepare Information Package ~
Open House Session ~
Working Session With Council ~
Develop Financial Model 23
Review Findings of Financial Model 24
Draft Recommendations and Report 24
Public Meeting/Consultation 24
Provide Overview with Council 24
Update Report Based on Input 25
Final Report 25
SECTION 2 -Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review 26
First Principles Meeting 26
Analysis of Current Operations and Costs 26
External Analysis/Benchmarking 27
Review Metering Technology Options 27
Undertake Cost/Benefit analysis of Service Delviery Options 2g
Report and Recommendations 28
Professional Fees and Expenses 29
References 30
Summary 31
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Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Introduction This will include an analysis of the current
contract, service levels and technologies
The City of Niagara Falls is seeking the employed. It will also include a benchmarking
assistance of a consultant to undertake a comparison of alternate service delivery
two staged review. options and in relation to other municipalities.
Options will be evaluated and a
recommendation will be made to ensure -that
In the first section of the study, the the services are provided in an efficient and
consultants will work with staff, Council and effective manner.
the public to identify and prioritize goals
and objectives of a water/sewer rate
structure; to analyze historical data on Challenges and Issues to Be
classes of users to identify implications of Addressed
various rate structure options and to
prepare a report and make presentations Some of the challenges and issues that will
on the findings and recommendations. need to be addressed based on our
experience on other similar engagements
The study will be undertaken in include:
accordance with all legislative and .Reaching consensus with staff and Council
regulatory requirements and will
incorporate feedback from staff, Council on the City's goals and objectives
and the public throughout the process, .Managing and prioritizing goals and
along with best practices identified by objectives, some of which may be in
various associations and experts in the conflict with one another (e.g. conservation
field of rate setting including but not limited objectives versus revenue stability,
to the American and Canadian Waterworks economic development versus true rate
Associations (AWWA and CWWA). equity, etc.)
The study will also consider trends across • Managing the potential change from the
Ontario in establishing rate structures and existing rate structure to a new structure
the implications of changes to existing rate and addressing phase-in requirements
practices. The study will be based on a .Managing the shifts that may be caused by
detailed financial analysis using various changes to the existing rate structure
sources provided by the City and will between classes of properties (residential
consider the prioritized objectives. versus the ICI sector)
The second section of the review will focus .Identifying practical implementation
on ensuring that the current reading/billing challenges of any recommended changes
and collection services are provided in the in current service provision, technologies,
most efficient and effective manner. etc.
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Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Other relevant experience includes a water,
• Addressing administrative challenges sewer, storm rate structure study in the City
that may be caused by changes to the of London which currently has one of the
rate structures most complex water/sewer/storm rate
• Considering the implications of the structures in Ontario. For example, their
wholesale rate structure and any structure includes an inclining residential
proposed retail rate structure change water rate (2 blocks), declining ICI water
rate structure (3 blocks) and 7 different
• Considering new legislative and wastewater rates which evolved over time.
regulatory requirements under Bill 175 as The project involves extensive modeling
well as future requirements under PSAB with multiple variables and considerations
such as:
• # of classes to be used and rationale
We Understand Your for establishing separate classes
Requirements . Analysis of consumption patterns,
peaking factors, pipe length
BMA Management Consulting Inc. (BMA) ~ Which costs to be distributed to a
has proven experience in consultation, fixed monthly fee
financial modeling, -water/wastewater rate ~ Alignment with the identified goals
setting and best practices, cost/benefit and objectives
analysis, economic impact analysis and
public policy development. BMA also recently undertook a review on
behalf of the Region of Niagara and the
Specifically, BMA has undertaken Local Area Municipalities in Niagara to
extensive work in the area of water/sewer review the wholesale rate structure and
rate structure analysis and benchmarked make recommendations moving forward
the structures in 80 Ontario municipalities based on feedback from the Working
over the past 6 years, which represents Group and alignment with primary and
over 85% of the Ontario population and secondary objectives. The report and
includes a wide array of cost recovery associated recommendations was well
methodologies. This study will provide an received by Council and staff and was
excellent basis upon which to provide implemented in 2007.
feedback to Council and staff on trends
across Ontario. This database includes a Other recent water and wastewater studies
comparison of costs across different include the City of Sarnia, the District of
classes and consumption levels as well as Muskoka and the Township of Middlesex
a summary of the rate structures used by Centre. We are also currently working
each municipality. Niagara Falls has been through a similar process in Richmond Hill
included in the analysis for the past 6 to that contemplated by Niagara Falls.
years.
Page 2
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Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
BMA has also been actively working with ? Creates customized graphs and reports
municipalities in the development of full to significantly reduce staffs time in
cost recovery plans in accordance with Bill routine report processes.
175 as well as working with municipalities
to ensure that their budgeting and Once developed, by the end of June 2007, this
accounting practices will be aligned to the will be available to other municipalities and will
PSAB requirements. significantly improve existing processes used
to manage financial planning requirements
Further, BMA has undertaken a number of under the new legislative and regulatory
alternative service delivery reviews. BMA requirements. BMA is currently working with
undertook a review similar to that each of the Department's in the Region to
contemplated by the City on behalf of the identify their specific modeling needs from an
City of London which also has their Hydro operating and capital perspective. Further,
utility as the service provider. This study this software system will calculate water/sewer
resulted in significant savings to the City, costs.
through contract renegotiations.
Team -Roles and Responsibilities
BMA was recently retained by the Region
of Niagara to develop a comprehensive Our team members are both qualified to
long .range financial and economic undertake this work and highly credible with
planning software system. This leading their peers and colleagues in this sector. The
edge software solution: quality of our work will withstand careful
? Facilitates analytic intelligence and scrutiny. We know our product will be reliable
answers "what if' questions; and credible. Our team has extensive
? Demonstrates how policy decision's and experience in finance, rate modelling, water/
socio-economic factors impact taxpayer waster water infrastructure, best practices,
affordability and the financial health of alternate service delivery reviews and
the Region;
? Provides the ability to load and communications. We understand more than
consolidate data from many source just the theories -because we have extensive
systems; practical municipal experience.
? Allows unlimited sets of versions/ Our team includes the two artners of BMA:
scenarios to be created in a secure p
environment to test different long range
financial plans; ? Jim Bruzzese, CGA, PMM, former
? Allows long-range financial planning City Manager and Treasurer
models to be developed and provides an
impact analysis at the residential and ? Catherine Minshull, MBA, B.Comm,
business level using pre-defined metrics; former Director of Municipal Studies
and and Senior Financial Policy Advisor
Page 3
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Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and .Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
'BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Jim Bruzzese, CGA PMM, Principal, BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Jim Bruzzese is one of two partners of BMA which provides leading edge, innovative and
customized solutions in partnership with our clients. Jim has over 30 years of extensive,
progressive experience in financial analysis/modeling, forecasting/trend and economic
analysis, long term strategic planning, development of public policy, public consultation and
rate setting. Jim would be the project leader on this engagement and would be involved in all
aspects of the engagement. Specifically, Jim will play the lead role in all public, Council and
staff consultation and presentations. He will also play a lead role in identifying possible rate
structure options aligned to the City's defined goals and objectives and will review and validate
all models run to identify the most appropriate option for the Town. Jim will also be responsible
for addressing all wholesale issues with the Region of Niagara.
Prior to forming BMA, Jim held many senior level positions in the Region of Hamilton-
Wentworth, including Commissioner of Finance, General Manager of Corporate Services and
his final position prior to forming BMA was the City Manager for the combined administrations
of the City of Hamilton and Region of Hamilton-Wentworth. Jim has been extensively involved
in all aspects of capital financing, long term financial planning and rate setting in a two tiered
structure throughout his career. He was also directly responsible for overseeing Water/Sewer
operations in the Region of Hamilton-Wentworth, at which time he was responsible for
recommending water/sewer rates and determining the most appropriate rate structure.
Jim has led several recent water/sewer/storm projects which included the development of
evaluation criteria, financial modelling, report writing and presentations as well as extensive
benchmarking, best practice reviews and stakeholder consultations. He is recognized for his
ability to work effectively with disparate groups to develop solutions that are acceptable to all
parties and are based on sound principles of fairness and equity.
Since forming BMA, Jim has been the project leader for the firm's annual Municipal Study for
the past six years, working with municipalities across Ontario, (the study represents
approximately 85% of the Ontario population). Jim has also been project lead in a number of
finance related projects including development charges, water/sewer rate studies, cash
management, reserve and debt policies, long term financial planning and financing
agreements. Jim has extensive experience in public consultation, having undertaken
numerous projects on behalf of municipalities that required stakeholder input through public
meetings and focus group sessions.
Jim is a Certified General Accountant, has received a diploma in public administration from the
University of Western Ontario and an advanced government finance diploma ftom the
University of Berkley (California).
Page 4
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Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Catherine Minshull, B.Comm MBA, Partner, BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Catherine Minshull .has held senior management positions in the areas of Project Management
and Finance. Over the past fourteen years, she spearheaded numerous public policy reviews,
developed detailed financial models and has undertaken trend and economic forecasting
studies to assist municipalities in establishing various financial policies and long term
strategies. The financial models developed are designed in auser-friendly format and are
provided to the client to allow for future modelling and to transfer knowledge to staff within the
client municipalities.
As a partner in BMA, Catherine's most recent projects include project lead in the completion of
numerous financial studies including the development of reserve policies, capital budgeting,
Local Service Realignment, tax policies, water/sewer rates, development charge studies, user
fees, asset management, assessment analysis and pro forma analysis for the development
community.
Catherine was responsible for developing an on-line, web-enabled database to allow
municipalities to compare taxes, water/sewer costs, economic development programs,
municipal spending, development charges, etc. In addition, Catherine was engaged to prepare
and co-ordinate all aspects of municipal operating and capital budgets for several Ontario
municipalities. She is also the key report writer on all projects undertaken by BMA and the
development of communication strategies associated with the implementation of recommended
changes in municipal policies.
Prior to forming BMA, Catherine was the Director of Management Studies, an internal
consulting division for the Region of Hamilton-Wentworth, advising senior staff on change
management, alternative service delivery, best practices, continuous improvement processes
and business re-engineering initiatives. In addition, she was Senior Financial Policy Advisor,
responsible for developing various financial strategies and undertaking detailed financial
models including water/sewer rate studies.
Catherine has consistently been recognized by municipal clients for her commitment to
delivering excellence, her sensitivity to client needs and her uncompromising approach to
managing projects and delivering solutions than can be readily implemented. Clients also
recognize her talents in financial analysis, report writing and communications.
Catherine holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) in Finance and Economics and an M.B.A.
from 11I~Master University, specializing in Management Sciences and Decision Theory.
Page 5
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Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Overview Our areas of expertise include:
BMA Management Consulting provide leading
edge, innovative and customized solutions in • • - •
partnership.. with our .clients. We have
extensive experience in the public sector '
specializing in financial modelling, economic
impact analysis, policy development and public • ' •
consultation.
. .
-
• •
• • C •
• - •
• •
• ' •
- • C-
- • • • • • -
•
• •
' -
• -
• • • • • •
•
Our Professionalism
•
The partners at BMA have worked as a unit for
fifteen years and have developed internal
processes that deliver a highly credible and
well-researched end product. We regularly
partner with other reputable consultants to
augment our internal strengths.
Page 6
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Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Fa11s
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Company Profile
For all types and sizes of projects, services available
Project Management include: project scoping and planning, on-site project
management or support to internal team, tracking and
monitoring progress
Preparing current and capital budgets, including innovative
Financial, Economic and solutions for infrastructure and capital asset financing,
economic impact analysis, competitive positioning,
Trend Analysis developing options and preparing financial models to
support policies such as taxes, water/sewer rates, user
fees, development charges and reserves
Business Process Moving .present operations toward corporate vision and
Re-engineering mission, developing comprehensive performance measures
for strategic measurement and management systems
Improving the efficiency and effectiveness of an operation
Strategic Planning to meet demands and provide superior customer service
through extensive qualitative and quantitative analysis,
research on best practices, establishment of performance
measures and benchmarking
Database Management/ Together with our technology partners, we provide web-
Tool Development enabled database management services and the
development of advanced financial modelling that includes
the development of detailed "what-if' sensitivity analysis
tools
Public/Stakeholder Consultation is critical prior to implementing any change.
Consultation Our methodology follows clearly articulated guiding
principles including timing, responsiveness, accountability,
transparency, respect, accessibility and efficiency.
Page 7
Mntx~jerr+~rn ~xxw.tBnp k+e,
Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Proven Track Record With Municipalities
BMA has worked extensively with municipalities across Ontario on various public sector
projects. Our public sector clients include the following:
Town of Ajax District of Muskoka
Town of Aurora Region of Niagara
Association of Municipalities of Ontario City of Niagara Falls
City of Barrie Niagara-on-the-Lake
City of Belleville Norfolk County
City of Brampton Northumberland County
City of Brantford City of North Bay
Town of Caledon Ontario Municipal Benchmarking Initiatives
Chatham-Kent City of Orillia
Town of Cobourg City of Oshawa
Town of Collingwood City of Ottawa
City of Cornwall City of Owen Sound
Town of East Gwillimbury Region of Peel
Town of Fort Erie City of Peterborough
Town of Georgina City of Pickering
Municipality of Greenstone Prince Edward County
City of Guelph Town of Richmond Hill
Region of Halton City of Sarnia
City of Hamilton City of Sault Ste. Marie
Town of Innisfil City of Stratford
Kawartha Lakes Greater Sudbury
Township of King Southern Georgian Bay
City of Kingston City of Timmins
Town of Lakeshore City of Toronto
County of Lanark Region of Waterloo
Town of Leamington City of Welland
City of London Town of Whitby
Town of Markham Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville
City of Mississauga City of Windsor
Municipal Finance Oi~cers' Association City of Woodstock
Region of York
The quality of our work is evidenced through the repeat business we receive from our valued
municipal clients.
Page 8
nMrrogerr~am~gMa
Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Relevant Experience
Based on our understanding of the engagement, in order to successfully meet the terms of the
engagement, the consulting group should possess skills and have expertise in the following
areas:
.
• ~ • • •
• ~ - - • •
I
• • • ~
•
~ • • ~ •
The next section of our proposal provides an overview of some relevant projects undertaken by
BMA that highlight the above noted skills and expertise.
B~ Page 9
r,+nr~amgrn rgrx~,itMx,~ rrc,
i
WateNSewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
BMA Consulting
Municipal Study- (Benchmarking, Water/Sewer Rate Structures)
On behalf of 80 municipalities in Ontario, BMA Consulting undertake an annual municipal
competitiveness study which included the following (past 6 years):
? Current market conditions and future trends -economic profile and demographic trends
? Municipal competitive position -calculated relative tax burdens in various municipalities
across 13 property types
? Comparison of debt and reserves
• Comparison of select user fees
• Assessed the impact of existing tax and water and sewer rates on residential,
commercial and industrial properties using various factors such as land/ property values
and income levels
• Summary ofwater/sewer rate structures and costs
? Summary of tax policies and economic development incentive programs
• Macro municipal expenditure review
? Review of ability to pay for services in each _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
municipality - - _ _ _ ~
• Review of some key demographic and
growth related factors including
development charges, building permit
activity, assessment growth, income and
average housing values ~~~~r`
This resulted in the production of a 300+ page
report and online database format which provides
users with the ability to customize their searches
and download information into other formats such
as Excel and PowerPoint.
QY~E'fV!!'1N L~Og-1t1 ~~ltlt~Ci 19g
_ ------rr'r
Page 10
~n+~Y+c,
Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Water/Sewer/Storm Rate Studies-(Financial Modelling, Public Consultation)
Engaged by the City of London to undertake a detailed review of the water/sewer and storm
rate structure and make recommendations on a new structure based on detailed financial
modeling and a set of evaluation criteria. The review included:
• Review the existing rate structures and rationale
• Review and investigate other municipal rate structures
• Compare the costs of water/sewer across Canada
• Identify the total costs of services (Capital and Operating) and identify financing
options to smooth the impact on various classes of consumers
? Assess annual revenue and funding requirements for the City's water, wastewater
and storm operations
• Assess the various cost recovery options
• Provide rationale for the allocation of costs to water, sewer and storm to various types
of users
? Calculate unit costs to support the water/sewer/storm rates
? Evaluate alternative ratemaking concepts that may be beneficial to the City's
operations and it's customers and evaluate against a set of objectives
• Develop optional rate setting models and identify the impact by class of properties
using various consumption patterns
• Determine the need for phase-in of recommended rate structure
• Undertake extensive public consultation with various stakeholder groups including
institutional, industrial, residential and small business
• Prepare final report and recommendations
? Make presentations to Council and senior management team
• Develop communication tools (brochures, Q&A, web material)
BMA started working with London in 2004 and was subsequently engaged by the City to
update the study in 2006/07. Recently, similar work was also undertaken in the City of Sarnia
and the District of Muskoka.
Development Charges Study-(Financial Modelling, Public. Consultation)
On behalf of the City of Sarnia, BMA was retained to undertake a development charge study.
This included:
? Review and update growth and demographic projections
• Review existing development charge program
• Review and update background study
• Communication with Stakeholders
? Public Meeting
? Prepare by-law
Page 11
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Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Wholesale Water/Wastewater Study- Region of Niagara (Financial Modelling,
Water/Sewer Rate Structures, Financing Options, Public Consultation)
The Regional Municipality of Niagara retained BMA to work closely with the Joint Water and
Wastewater Cost Recovery Working Group to develop a water and wastewater rate structure
suitable for the Region and Local Municipalities.
The study was undertaken in accordance with all legislative and regulatory requirements and
incorporated feedback from the Working Group, local treasurers and local public works officials
throughout the process. The study included a review of the existing methodology for cost
recovery and rate setting, a review of the Region's operating and capital budgets for water and
wastewater, historical flows for each service, debt management practices and reserve
requirements. A review of other wholesale rate structures currently employed was also
included in the analysis for various Canadian and US municipalities. A framework/template
was developed to review and summarize alternative rate structures and to provide the pros/
cons of each based on the best practice review and based on an assessment against pre-set
evaluation criteria. This project was completed in September 2006 and received very positive
feedback and endorsement from Council and staff.
Financial Condition Assessment and Financial Policy Developmen>~City of
Niagara Falls (Financial Modelling, Council and Staff Consultation, Financial
Policies)
On behalf of the City of Niagara Falls, undertook a financial trend analysis using a number of
key financial indicators over a period of 5-10 years. This analysis was presented to Council in
a report and presentation format to help assist in budget deliberations as well as the
development of financial policies to support the organization. This includes user fee .policies,
reserves, debt, capital financing, capital budgeting, cash management and investments.
BMA then completed a three phased follow up project which included forecasting capital needs
in consideration of Bill 175 requirements. The future trend analysis used the City's long term
capital budget and -other supporting material such as development charge studies, growth
projections, asset management studies and infrastructure needs assessments. BMA brought
forward a host of possible recommendations and financial policies based on best practices and
the analysis undertaken. This was used in a facilitated session with Council to finalize
financing strategies to support a sustainable infrastructure solution and user fee policies.
Page 12
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Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara fads
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Development of an Integrated Financial Planning System-Region of Niagara
BMA Management Consulting Inc. and Scarsin Corporation were retained to work with the
Region of Niagara in the development of an integrated financial planning software system that:
? Facilitates analytic intelligence and answers "what if' questions;
? Demonstrates how policy decision's and socio-economic factors impact taxpayer
affordability and the financial health of the Region;
? Provides the ability to load and consolidate data from many source systems;
? Allows unlimited sets of versions/scenarios to be created in a secure environment;
? Facilitates long range financial planning;
? Is user-friendly and simple to use;
? Is scalable and can evolve over time to increased levels of sophistication; and
? Is affordable.
This will allow modeling and impact analysis to be undertaken to track taxpayer and ratepayer
affordability, using defined metrics. The system will allow users to run scenarios to test the
impact of:
• changes to various socio-economic and demographic factors;
• changes in service levels;
• changes in regional policies; and
• changes in external funding sources, etc.
Regional staff will be able to define various levels of inflation and track the impact on the
measures determined (e.g. taxpayer affordability, taxes as a percentage of income, water/
sewer rates, etc.)
Socio-Economic Conditions Regional Policy Decisions
? Inflation ? Level of Municipal Services
? Salaries/Compensation ? Efficiency Improvements
? Demographics ? Tax Policies
? Population Growth ? Council Policies on Cost Recovery
Assessment Growth (New Growth/ (DC By-law) -level of sophistication
Redevelopment) for this version of the model would
? Changes in water/sewer consumptions/flows be based on existing DC policies
? Capital Financing Policies
? Reserve .Policies
Page 13
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Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Water Meter Management Study-(Knowledge of Water/Sewer Operations)
Engaged by the City of London to determine how best to position itself to administer, install,
maintain and read water meters for its current and future customers. BMA conducted a
detailed review of the current operation and an analysis of service and equipment alternatives
to optimize service delivery. The study included a detailed internal analysis, analysis of the
existing contract with Hydro, external benchmarking, review of software and hardware options,
outline options/alternatives, complete a detailed financial analysis and make recommendations
and develop an implementation schedule.
A cash flow analysis was also undertaken to determine the most appropriate billing/reading
cycle. In addition, the study included an analysis of revenues and usage by sector and meter
size. The rate structure was also reviewed.
The study included recommendations on how to improve contract management, monitor
service level agreements and fine-tune policies to provide an efficient and effective service
delivery. An implementation/action plan was developed. This project resulted in multiple
recommendations that provided the City the ability to reduce the cost of service by
approximately $2 million which has since been implemented by the municipality.
Municipal Policy-Related Projects
(Public Consultation, Public Policy, Financial Modelling and Analysis)
? Infrastructure Maintenance and New Growth Policies
? Planning Policies
? Investment Policies
? Reserve Policies
User Fee Policies
? Development Charge Policies
? Area Rating of Services
? Risk Management Strategies
? Capital Budget Strategic Direction
? Facilities Management Strategies
Financial Manuals-MFOA (Finance Knowledge)
BMA recently completed the development of a finance user manual which will assist treasurers
and investment officers in developing sound investment and cash management policies. The
manuals were released in the Spring of 2006.
Page 14
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6
Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Infrastructure Condition Audit/Capital Budget Plan (Bill 175, Asset Management,
Financial Modelling, Rate Setting, Council Consultation)
BMA was retained in April 2006 to commence an Infrastructure Condition Audit/Capital Budget
Plan and Fleet Management Plan for the Township of Middlesex Centre. This included an
analysis of current financial practices, the financial status of the Township reserves, long and
short-term debt loads and the underlying financial policies. Consideration was also given to the
impact of Provincial legislation, including the Sustainable Water and Sewage Systems Act,
2002. The renewal of infrastructure and development of new growth areas were costed and
translated into fiscal expense over the varying life cycles of the components. Criteria for
determining capital projects were established. The project was completed in November 2006
and was very well received by staff and Council and included specific recommendations on
water/sewer rates different from the existing practice which were endorsed by Council.
User Fee Studies-Fort Erie, Hamilton, Kitchener (User Fees, Financial Analysis)
BMA was retained to conduct an analysis of historical building permits activity, an analysis of
the costs of services and a process mapping of the various stages associated with providing
building permit related services on behalf of several municipalities in accordance with Bill 124.
The reviews included identifying various cost allocation methods for direct and indirect
functions and reserve policies within the context of legislative requirements. In addition, an
analysis of prior year's activities, revenues and expenditures was undertaken to identify
whether the municipality is currently recovering the full cost of service and to make
recommendations on fees for 2006/07. The scope of the undertaking consisted of ensuring
that the fees ultimately established are in compliance with the legislation and that they are fair,
reasonable and proportionate to the actual cost of the service. In addition, a comparison of
fees to other municipalities was included for the purposes of ensuring that recommended fees
are competitive and to provide financial context related to fee adjustments. Extensive public
consultation was undertaken as part of these engagements.
Tangible Capital Assets-PSAB -Region of Halton, City of Guelph
BMA recently completed phase one of a tangible capital asset project for the Region of Halton
to undertake a comprehensive integrated approach to analyze and make recommendations
with respect to asset management and tangible capital asset accounting. This involved an
extensive review of current asset management practices, benchmarking and best practices, the
development of financial policies and practices as well as definitions for capital asset
management. The study also included numerous workshops with staff across the Corporation
to develop an implementation strategy to meet legislative requirements by 2009. BMA was
recently retained by the City of Guelph for a similar engagement.
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Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
GTA Pooling Analysis and Policy Development ForAlternative Financing
Options-Joint Project with the Regions of Halton, Peel and York
GTA Pooling was introduced by the Province to deal with the financial shortfall faced by the
City of Toronto as a result of Local Services Realignment. GTA Pooling assigns the Regions of
Durham, Halton, Peel and York and the City of Toronto a share of the total GTA cost for Social
Assistance and Social Housing Programs based on each municipality's share of total GTA wide
average weighted assessment. Those municipalities with a percent share of GTA assessment
that is larger than its percent share of social services spending are net contributors to Pooling.
Ontario Municipal Benchmarking Initiative (OMBI) (Benchmarking, Database
Management)
.Retained by the Ontario Municipal Benchmarking Initiative to develop a data warehouse to
streamline data collection, simplify the analysis process and capture benchmark performance
data on an ongoing basis.
Financial Planning-Region of Halton, City of Sarnia, Town of East Gwillimbury
(Infrastructure Financing, Financial Analysis, Policy Development)
• Prepared an historical understanding of the reserves and a 5-year projection
• Identified future encumbrances and unfunded liabilities
• Identified the adequacy of the reserves and trust funds and made recommendations on how
each reserve should be funded
• Developed clear policies on how reserves should be replenished and utilized
• Reviewed existing policies and made recommendations on the allocation of interest to
reserves and the treatment of year-end surpluses
• Conducted research on policy papers with respect to reserves, restrictions/limitations, legal
issues, reserve protocol, Benchmarking with other municipalities
Page 16
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Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
.BMA Management Consulting Inc.
References
t~r-Jry ~ S '
'4 ¦ - ' v~i'~' t¢ -
- _ E~~~,. .R..
' A'~
w
- U`+
r,
a e b~ o. - 6.
pia a ~ r
~ ~ r r
s:
a 'e' j a -
_
Y.
e ' ~ ewe
~ ~ ~
r Stephen Cairns; T~easurer,bistrict of Muskok we er- were rate`stu'd~`.
c
' ~ Rte:
`~t
Mr. Ken Burden, Director of Finance, City of Niagara Falls fir?ancial frend analysis, rate.
policies, (905)' 356-7521.
- y ~
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Water/Sewer Rate Structure Review and Meter Reading/Billing Service Delivery Review
City of Niagara Falls
BMA Management Consulting Inc.
Summary
BMA Management Consulting have the proven knowledge and expertise to complete this
engagement. The following summarizes our strengths and commitment to the City of Niagara
Falls in the completion of this important project.
.Market Knowledge -Given our extensive background in public policy, public consultation,
financial modeling and water/sewer rates, we are sure we can deliver excellence on this project
and meet all requirements. We offer senior level professional consulting experience equal to
that found in very large consulting firms. We also offer an extensive network of municipal
contacts across Ontario that will provide significant additional value to the study.
Experience and Qualifications - We have the expertise to complete this project. We have
a thorough knowledge from hands-on experience as practitioners, from similar consulting
engagements and from our educational backgrounds. We offer both the deep functional
knowledge and the holistic approach that only a broad experience and knowledge base can
provide.
Ability to Meet Deadlines - We are experienced in completing multi-faceted assignments
and have an excellent track record in managing process and ensuring adherence to tight
deadlines. We will work with you and your staff to meet your target deadlines and are ready to
commence the study immediately.
Track Record - We have handled similar types of assignment before and are fully aware of
the work required, the need for client involvement throughout the process and the need for
excellent communication and reporting. We believe that we have the ability to complete all
facets of the assignment in a comprehensive and professional manner. We have worked with
other municipalities on similar projects and are confident that we will be able to deliver a quality
report with well substantiated recommendations.
Competitive Pricing - We are able to provide services at competitive rates by maintaining a
professional office with limited overhead. We have invested heavily in ensuring that we stay
current in our training and have sound backup and computer networking capabilities to take on
projects requiring the manipulation of large data sets.
We Want To Work With The City of Niagara Falls- We regard this mandate as
important and recognize that the work undertaken will be carefully scrutinized, requiring
considerable resources, effort and commitment to complete. We are dedicated professionals
who want to work on this assignment and are well qualified to complete it within the required
time frame. As a result, the City and the participating municipalities can be assured that it will
receive the highest level of professional commitment and enthusiasm from BMA.
Page 31
~~car~AthpV+a
c
t~
Box 26100, 25 Frederick St.
G ~`H ~„K
Kitchener, ON Canada
. unity N2H 6M0
-a:?if.
June 28, 2007
To Whom It May Concern,
It is my pleasure to inform you that Amanda Ocasion has been accepted for our volunteer internship program
and is heading to Brazil for 3 months at the beginning of October 2007. Amanda will be one of many
individuals sent out by Global Youth Network, a nondenominational Christian organization committed to
Y th Culture. While in Brazil Amanda will be working with our partner organization Youth
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With a Mission in Manaus, Amazonas. She will be joining their various projects which include a rescue house
far abandoned and abused children, a primary school, work with street children aad visiting and servicing
isolated ricer communities. Amanda will also be a part of a cultural and language exchange during her time
living with the $razilian staff and students at the Youth With a Mission location. .
The purpose of this internship is to offer young adults an experience that will increase their confidence in ability
to make a difference in the world. An experience such as this is also designed to encourage and develop
leadership skill and offer valuable work experience that will better help them determine their future career
focus.
Each intern is asked to raise $3850 to cover the expenses of transportation, accommodation, meals, and training,
If you would like to support Amanda in this effort, your donations should be mailed directly to our office.
CHEQUES SHOULD BE MADE PAYABLE TO GLOBAL YOUTH NETWORK. PLEASE DO NOT
WRITE THE PARTICIPANT'S NAME ANYWHERE ON THE CHEQUE. Tax receipts are available for
all gifts of $15.00 or mare. Any support you are able to offer will be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your
interest in Amanda's development and in this work in Brazil. If you have any further questions please feel free
to contact me at (5I9) 742-9383.
Sincerely,
Sharon Beatty, Administration ~,~,N~ ~~P~•
Global Youth Network
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phone and fax: (S19) 742-9383 e-mail: globalyouthnet@yahoo.ca www.globalyouthnetwork.ca
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53 Fredonia Drive
Niagara Falls, ONT
L2J 3M9
Home: 374 4714
amends ocasicn@hotmail.com
July, 2007
To Whom It May Concern:
I am grateful to be contacting you in regards to my upcoming volunteer trip to Manaus, Brazil in October
as an individual intern for Global Youth Network, anon-profit organization. Missionary work has been a
passionate lifetime goal of mine and after thorough research; Global Youth Network was the perfect fit.
Our primary intentions for the trip are to provide opportunities for underprivileged children and offer our
services in community development in Manaus and in various rural areas. Beyond the service aspect of
our endeavor, my goal is to gain personal growth and interpersonal skills via an environment that is
geographically and emotionally foreign, thus able to add an experiential and applied dimension to our
education.
I currently live in Niagara Falls, and have for my whole life. I just recently received my High school
diploma this past June. In my years of studying science a lot about myself has been revealed, such that my
need to help others is not one that I can let happen over time. I strongly believe that I need to create my
own opportunities so I can be sure of my capabilities and strengths before I am truthfully able to decide
my future plans of study.
This opportunity is especially relevant to me in terms of my personal interests and ambitions. It is the
ideal combination of travel and volunteerism, allowing me to develop my own sense of self and an idea of
my role in the world: This type of experience is well suited to my career goal of hospitality. My career
ambitions involve working with humanitarian aid so this experience will give me practical insight into the
realities of such areas.
As an active member of my community in volunteer work, I am also very passionate about helping those
less fortunate than myself. More than 1.2 billion people in our world live on less than $2 a day. Here in
the western world, too often we take advantage of our wealth and comfort, and overlook our
responsibility to show compassion to every human being. While volunteering, I wish to be able to both
-help those less fortunate than I, and learn to truly understand their situations. When I return, I wish to
share my experiences with everyone and would love to make various presentations to those that request
so.
I have much enthusiasm far volunteering and perhaps making a difference in this world. I hope you share
in my excitement for the work that Lwill be doing in Brazil. I would be eternally grateful if you would be
interested in helping me reach my goal of $3850 for this trip.: Any donations would be greatly appreciated
and'can be made directly to Global Youth Network by mail or online. T have included a letter with details
on how to donate.
Thank you far your time and consideration! If you have any questions, please da not hesitate to contact
me.
Sincerely,
FINANCE DEPT.
Amanda Ocasion
JUL Q`4.2001
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