2007/08/27 - RegionalCouncil Information
*for period ended August 27, 2007*
*Regional*
1. Level of Service & Rate Study Report (Full version of Report can be e-mailed
upon request)
2. Update on Judicial Resources
3. Notice of OP Appeal -Portage Road/ Stanley Avenue Mixed Use Development
4. Homeless Partnership Strategy
5. Escarpment Commission Appeal -Building at Firemen's Park
6. Water Strategy
7. Council Highlights
8. Police Board Highlights
~u
Nis ara ; , ~, ~ f
August 21, 2007
• Office of the Regional Clerk
Thorold
Te1:905-685-1571 Toll-free:1-800-263-7215
Fax: 905-685-4977
www.regional.niagara.on.ca
R~~t~'~ ~ F ~ 221 ~,St. David's Road, P.O. Box 1042,
ON~ L2V 4T7
Our Ref.: COTW 6-2007, August 16, 2007
PWA 105-2007/CSD 100-2007
C.02.0040
Mr. Dean lorfida
City of Niagara Falls
4310 Queen Street
Niagara Falls, Ontario L2E 6X5
Dear Mr. lorfida,:
Level of Service & Rate Study Report
Review and Comments
The Committee of the Whole of the Council of the Regional Municipality of Niagara at its
meeting of August 16, 2007, requested that Municipal Councils be included, along with
Public Works Officials and Area Treasurers, in the distribution of the Watson &
Associates report "Niagara Region Waste Management Level of Service and Rate
Study "and its Appendices.
Further details can be found in the attached letter which was sent with the report to
Public Works Officials and Area Treasurers. We would ask that you circulate this report
to your Councillors for their review and comment.
Yours trul ,
Janet Pilon
Acting Regional Clerk
/bs
Attachment
c. B. Friesen, Director, Waste Management Services
Building Community. Building Lives.
rr
Niagara ~,f Region
August 17, 2007
Title> «Fname» «Lname»
«JobTitle»
Municipality»
«Address 1»
«Address2»
«City», «Prov» «PC»
Dear «Title» «Lname»:
PUBLIC WORKS
WASTE MANAGEMENT SERVICES
2201 St. David's Road, P.O. Box 1042,
Thorold ON L2V 4T7
Tel: 905-685-1571 Toll-free: 1-800-263-7215
Fax: 905-687-8056
www.regional.niagara.on.ca
Level of Service & Rate Study Report Review and Comments
File No. E.07.00 88 060
As part of Niagara Region's Level of Service and Rate Study's ongoing consultation process,
please find attached a copy of the Draft Study dated June 8, 2007, for review and comments by
the Area Municipal Public Works Officials and Treasurers. Additionally, we have included a
copy of the Council report and a briefing memo with questions and answers, for your
information.
The Draft Study was received by Regional Council's Committee of the Whole, at their meeting
of August 16, 2007. It was further recommended at this meeting that the Draft Study also be
circulated to the Area Municipal Councils, for review and comment.
The Draft Study will be presented at a meeting of all Area Municipal Public Works Officials
and Treasurers. The agenda for this meeting is as follows:
Location: Community Room, City of Welland Civic Square, 60 East Main Street, Welland
Date: September 6, 2007
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Agenda Items:
1. Study Introduction -Barry Friesen
2. Overview of Level of Service and Rate Study Recommendations -Presentation by Watson
& Associates Economists and Urban & Environmental Management Inc. Consultants
3. Discussion -All
4. Next Steps -Barry Friesen
It would be appreciated if you would confirm your attendance at this meeting by contacting
Susan Archer at 905-685-4225 ext. 3369, or by email Susan.Archer~aregional.niagara.on.ca
prior to August 24, 2007.
Building Community. Building Lives.
«Title» «Fname» «Lname» ~'
August 17, 2007
Page 2
Your written comments on the Draft Study should be directed to Lydia Torbicki, Manager,
Waste Policy and Planning, by mail, fax, or email Lydia.torbicki~a regional. niagara. on. ca by
September 17, 2007.
The final Level of Service and -Rate Study recommendations will be presented to Regional
Council in November, for approval.
Thank you for participating in this process.
Sincerely,
~~L~--
Barry Friesen, P.Eng.
Director, Waste Management Services
encl.
L:\2007\E07 Waste Management Planning\Level of Service\Letter to PWO's-Area Treasures requesting comments on LOS-RS Aug 17 07.doc
Title Fname Lname JobTitle Municipality Address1 Address2 City Prov PC
4800 South Service Beamsvill
Ms. Angela Cifani Town of Lincoln Road e ON LOR 1 B1
Township of West
Mr. Bill Young Lincoln Box 400 Smithville ON LOR 2A0
Mr. Bob LeRoux Director of Public Works Town of Grimsby Box 159 Grimsby ON L2M 4G3
General Manager,
Corporate
Mr. Bruno Silvestri Services/Treasurer City of Welland 60 East Main Street Welland ON L3B 3X4
Acting Chief
Administrative Officer/City
Treasurer/Director of St.
Financial Management City of St. Catharine
Mr. Colin Briggs Services Catharines Box 3012 s ON L2R 7C2
Mr. David Shantz City Engineer City of Welland 60 East Main Street Welland ON L3B 3X4
Township of
Mr. Dean Ostryhon Director of Operations Wainfleet Box 40 Wainfleet ON LOS 1 VO
Ms. Debbie Williams Niagara Region
Town of Niagara-on-
Mr. Scott Tipping the-Lake Box 100 Virgil ON LOS 1T0
Town of Niagara-on-
Ms. Donna Lake the-Lake Box 100 Virgil ON LOS 1 TO
Director of Municipal Niagara
Mr. Ed Dujlovic Works City of Niagara Falls 4310 Queen Street Falls ON L2E 6X5
Town of Niagara-on-
Mr. Ewald Kuczera Director of Public Works the-Lake Box 100 Virgil ON LOS 1T0
1 Municipal Centre
Ms. Gillian Corney Town of Fort Erie Drive Fort Erie ON L2A 2S6
Mr. Gord Lockyer Niagara Region
Mr. Gordon Cherney Director of Finance Town of Pelham Box 400 Fonthill ON LOS 1 EO
Mr. John Bergsma Niagara Region
Mr. John Murphy Niagara Region
4800 South Service Beamsvill
Mr. John Kukalis Director of Public Works Town of Lincoln Road e ON LOR 1 B1
L:\2007\E07 Waste Management Planning\Level of ServiceWddresses Combined Area Treasurers & PWO August 2007
Township of West
Ms. Kathy Sipos Public Works Manager Lincoln Box 400 Smithville ON LOR 2A0
Mr. Kelly Walsh Director of Operations Town of Pelham Box 400 Fonthill ON LOS 1 EO
1 Municipal Centre
Ms. Margaret Neubauer Town of Fort Erie Drive Fort Erie ON L2A 2S6
3540 Schmon
Ms. Maria Mauro City of Thorold Parkway Box 1044 Thorold ON L2V 4A7
Ms. Marilyn Coull Treasurer Town of Grimsby Box 159 Grimsby ON L2M 4G3
Ms. Norene Broome Town of Grimsby Box 159 Grimsby ON L2M 4G3
Director of Transportation St.
and Environmental City of St. Catharine
Mr. Paul Mustard Services Catharines Box 3012 s ON L2R 7C2
Director of Community City of Port Port
Mr. Peter Senese and Corporate Services Colborne 66 Charlotte Street Colborne ON L3K 3C8
Director of 4800 South Service Beamsvill
Mr. Robert Spadoni Finance/Treasurer Town of Lincoln Road e ON LOR 1 B1
1 Municipal Centre
Mr. Ron Tripp Director of Infrastructure Town of Fort Erie Drive Fort Erie ON L2A 2S6
Director of Corporate Township of
Mr. Scott Luey Services/Treasurer Wainfleet Box 40 Wainfleet ON LOS 1V0
Acting Operations Township of
Mr. Fabio Magazzeni Manager Wainfleet Box 40 Wainfleet ON LOS 1V0
Mr. Steven Gruninger Town of Grimsby Box 159 Grimsby ON L2M 4G3
Director of Operational,
Planning and City of Port Port
Mr. Ron Hanson Development Services Colborne 66 Charlotte Street Colborne ON L3K 3C8
Niagara
Mr. Todd Harrison City of Niagara Falls 4310 Queen Street Falls ON L2E 6X5
3540 Schmon
Mr. Tom Doherty Director of Operations City of Thorold Parkway Box 1044 Thorold ON L2V 4A7
Mr. Joe Cousins Niagara Region
Mr. Barry Friesen Niagara Region
Mr. Leo Gohier Niagara Region
Mr. Bob Steele Niagara Region
L:\2007\E07 Waste Management Planning\Level of Service\Addresses Combined Area Treasurers & PWO August 2007
Niagara ~~Q'j~~ ._Office of the Regional Clerk
~.,! ~ -..,;_',~2~7~t.- David's Road, P.O. Box 1042, Thorold ON L2V 4T7
Te1:905-685-1571 Toll-free:1-800-263-7215
Fax: 905-687-4977
pam.gilroy@regional. niagara.on.ca
www. regional.niagara.on.ca
August 17, 2007
Mr. Dean lorfida
Municipal Clerk
City of Niagara Falls
4310 Queen Street
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
CL 11-2007, August 16, 2007
CSC 11-2007, August 7, 2007
Report CSD 127-2007
Update on Judicial Resources
The Council of the Regional Municipality of Niagara, at its meeting of August 16, 2007, approved the
following recommendation of its Corporate Services Committee:
"That Report CSD 127-2007, August 8, 2007, respecting Update on Judicial Resources,
be received for information; and
That this report be circulated to all area municipalities for their information."
A copy of Report CSD 127-2007 is enclosed for your information.
If further information is required, please contact Mr. Bill Bernard, Associate Director, Court Services,
at (905) 371-8749, ext. 333.
Yours truly,
Pam Gilroy
Regional Clerk
cc: J. Bergsma, Commissioner, Corporate Services
B. Bernard, Associate Director, Court Services
Building Community. Building Lives.
CSD-127-2007
August 8, 2007
Niagara~~`f Region
REPORT TO: Co-Chairs and Members of the
Corporate Services Committee
SUBJECT: Update on Judicial Resources
RECOMMENDATION
That this Committee recommend to Regional Council:
That this report be received for information; and
That this report be circulated to all area municipalities for their information.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In response to province-wide concerns by numerous stakeholders in the justice system,
including the Region of Niagara and many area municipalities, the Attorney General of
Ontario, in a series of recent announcements, has appointed forty-four (44) new Justices
of the Peace.
In Niagara, the appointment of two (2) additional Justices of the Peace coupled with the
use of per diem Justices of the Peace is expected to allow easier public access to the
judiciary, assist in reducing time to trial, result in fewer matters being abandoned for
systemic delay and support continued public confidence in the integrity of the justice
system.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Over time, the enhancement of judicial staffing levels in Niagara should ensure fewer court
cancellations and timelier scheduling of matters proceeding to trial. Timely scheduling of
matters to be resolved by way of trial should reduce the risk of financial loss on conviction
of matters which otherwise may have been dismissed for systemic delay.
CSD-127-2007
August 8, 2007
Also, in that timely resolution by way of trial should now be more readily available, it should
decrease the pressure on Regional Prosecutors to offer reduced fine amounts by way of
plea negotiation.
PURPOSE
This report provides an update on recent Justice of the Peace appointments announced
by the Attorney General.
BACKGROUND
For the past several years, there has been a chronic shortage of presiding Justices of the
Peace and these judicial shortages have been the subject of several earlier reports to the
Joint Board of Management, Niagara Region Courts and Regional Council.
The province-wide shortage has resulted in reduced public access to judicial services, the
cancellation of many scheduled court dates, scheduling delays for matters requiring
resolution by way of a trial and the need to plea bargain fine amounts as part of a
negotiated settlement rather than risk abandonment or court dismissal of the matter due to
systemic delay.
During the period of judicial shortages numerous council motions, petitions of concern and
requests for additional judicial appointments through a "fast tracking" process were made
to the Attorney General by concerned stakeholders.
Stakeholders in the justice system including municipalities responsible for the operation of
Provincial Offences Courts, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, the Ontario
Association of Chiefs of Police, the Municipal Law Departments Association of Ontario, the
Prosecutors Association of Ontario and the Municipal Court Managers Association of
Ontario joined together in voicing their support fora "fast tracking" concept for judicial
appointments.
In response, the Attorney General in October 2005 announced the Access to Justice Act,
2005 which was intended to amend several pieces of legislation to address Justice of the
Peace reform and amendments to the Provincial Offences Act.
In October 2006, the Ontario legislature passed the Access to Justice Act, 2006 which,
among other things, updated the Provincial Offences Act and reformed the Justice of the
Peace system. Changes included a more transparent appointment process (including
minimum qualifications), the establishment of a new Justices of the Peace Appointments
Advisory Committee and the ability for retired Justices of the Peace to be hired on a per
diem basis to hear specific matters including POA offences.
2
CSD-127-2007
August 8, 2007
The use of per diem Justices of the Peace was intended to provide municipalities with
greater access to judicial resources to specifically preside over POA offences and this
initiative has provided some assistance in clearing up backlogs and reducing time to trial.
Over two thousand applications for judicial appointment were received by the office of the
Associate Chief Justice/Co-ordinator of Justices of the Peace by the end of March 2007.
Following a review of the applications and scrutiny through an interview process a number
of recommended applicant names were forwarded to the office of the Attorney General for
final consideration and appointment.
REPORT
Concerns raised by numerous stakeholders in the justice system (including the Region of
Niagara and many local area municipalities) over the lack of judicial resources available to
serve Provincial Offences courts has prompted the Attorney General to make a number of
recent appointments to fill judicial vacancies.
In a series of recent announcements, the Attorney General appointed forty-four (44) new
presiding Justices of the Peace. The following table provides detail on the number of
judicial appointments sorted by judicial district and appointment date.
Judicial
District Effective
March 21,
2007 Effective
May 30,
2007 Effective
June 20,
2007 Effective
June 27,
2007 Effective
July 11,
2007 Total by
Judicial
District
Northeast 1 0 0 0 0 1
East 0 3 2 0 1 6
Central
East 1 4 5 0 2 12
Toronto 2 2 0 2 3 9
Central
West 2* 2 3 1* 1 9
West 1 0 3 1 2 7
Total 7 11 13 4 9 44
*1 appointee to St Catharines bench on each date
The forty-four (44) recent appointments bring the Justice of the Peace complement in
Ontario to three hundred and forty five (345), which is in line with judicial staffing needs
identified by the Honorable Donald Ebbs, Associate Chief Justice/Co-ordinator of Justices
of the Peace.
The training period for newly appointed Justices of the Peace varies depending on the
appointee's background and education and it is common that a period of 6-12 months is
3
CSD-127-2007
August 8, 2007
required before a newly appointed Justice of the Peace is able to independently preside in
all courts.
The availability and use of per diem Justices of the Peace has led to a slight increase in
the number of available court dates in Niagara in mid 2007. It can be anticipated that the
recent appointments of Justice Bruce Phillips (March 21, 2007) and Justice Patricia
Lavallee (June 27, 2007) to the St. Catharines bench will have a significant positive effect
on the availability of scheduled court dates in 2008 and beyond.
The appointment of additional judicial resources to Niagara's bench, coupled with the
continued use of per diem Justices of the Peace, should allow easier public access to the
judiciary, assist in reducing time to trial, result in fewer matters being abandoned for
systemic delay, and will assist in efforts to restore public confidence in the integrity of the
justice system.
Submitted by: Approved by:
ohn Ber ma Michael Trojan
Commissioner of Corporate Services Chief Administi
This report was prepared by Bill Bernard, Associate Director, Court Services and was
reviewed by Mike Kyne, Director Legal Services.
4
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g g
August 23, 2007
File: D.10.M.11.21
Ms. Vivette Williams,
Case Management Administrative Assistant
Ontario Municipal Board
655 Bay Street
Suite 1500
Toronto, ON M5G 1 E5
Dear Ms. Williams:
Re: Appeal of Regional Council's Decision to Approve
Official Plan Amendment 72
Proposed Mixed Residential Development
North of Portage Road, West of Stanley Avenue
City of Niagara Falls
Pursuant to Section 17(36) of The Planning Act, the Region has received a Notice of
Appeal of Regional Council's decision to approve Amendment No. 72 to the Niagara Falls
Official Plan. The appeal was submitted by Thomson Rogers Barristers & Solicitors on
behalf of their client Cytec Canada Inc.. The Notice of Appeal was filed subsequent to the
Region giving notice of Regional Council's decision and was received within the legislated
time for submitting an appeal. The appellant has previously filed appeals to the Ontario
~,'lunicipal Board concerning decisions to approve related applications to amend the
Regional Policy Plan (Amendment 7-2005, OMB Case No.: PL070601) and to amend the
City of Niagara Falls Zoning By-law (By-law 2007-144).
In accordance with Section 17(42) of The Planning Act, the Region herewith submits to
the Board the following:
original notice of appeal and OMB appeal form received by the Regional
Clerk on August 20, 2007 (last day of appeal was August 20, 2007);
2. the Board's fee of $125.00;
3. the Board's Municipal Submission Form (R1); and
4. a list of persons to be notified of a hearing.
In addition, we are in the process of compiling the appeal record as prescribed under The
Planning Act regulations (Part 8 on Municipal Submission Form (R1)) and will forward this
Building Community. Building Lives.
2
in the near future. In the meantime, submission of the above items will hopefully be
sufficient to allow the Board to schedule an appointment for hearing.
Should you have any questions regarding the material submitted, please contact Peter
Colosimo, MCIP, RPP, Senior Planner (905-984-3630, Ext. 3382). For all other matters
related to this file, please contact Mr. Michael Kyne, Director of Legal Services (905-685-
1571, Ext. 3415).
Yours truly,
~~ C~ ~_
David J. Farley
Director of Planning Services
c: Ms. P. Gilroy, Regional Clerk
Mr. M. Kyne, Director of Legal Services
Mr. D. lorfida, Clerk, City of Niagara Falls
Mr. D. Darbyson, Director of Planning & Development, City of Niagara Falls
Mr. R. Brady, Urban & Environmental Management
Mr. J. Wilker, Thomson Rogers Barristers & Solicitors, Suite 3100, 390 Bay St., Toronto, ON M5H
1W2
Ms. M. Moretti, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Regional Planning Services Committee
M:WISWORD\PC\RPPA's\RPPA 7 05 NF urb boundary expb4ppeal RPPA 7-2005.doc
Niagara Re jQ~~ Office of the Regional Clerk
g :. R ~~-22b~1'.'=fit C1~vid'~-.mod `I~'.O. Box 1042, Thorold ON L2V 4T7
Te1:905-685-1571 Toll-free:1-800-263-7215
Fax: 905-687-4977
pam.gilroy@regional.niagara.on.ca
www.regional.niagara.on.ca
August 17, 2007
Mr. Dean lorfida
Municipal Clerk
City of Niagara Falls
4310 Queen Street
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
CL 11-2007, August 16, 2007
PHSS 11-2007, August 7, 2007
Report COM 35-2007
Application to Service Canada to become
the Community Entity regarding the
Homelessness Partnership Strategy
The Council of the Regional Municipality of Niagara, at its meeting of August 16, 2007, approved the
following recommendation of its Public Health and Social Services Committee:
"That Report COM 35-2007, August 7, 20007, respecting Application to Service Canada
to become the Community Entity regarding the Homelessness Partnership Strategy, be
received: and
That Community Services be authorized to submit an application to Service Canada to
become the Community Entity related to federal homelessness prevention initiatives."
A copy of Report COM 35-2007 is enclosed for your information.
If further information is required, please contact Mr. Brian Hutchings, Commissioner, Community
Services Department at (905) 685-4225, ext. 3800.
Yours truly,
.~; ,
Pam Gilroy
Regional Clerk
cc: B. Hutchings, Commissioner, Community Services
Building Community. Building Lives.
COM 35-2007
August 7, 2007
Page 1 of 3
Niagara'~~`f Region
REPORT TO: Co-Chairs and Members of Public Health and Social Services
Committee
SUBJECT: Application to Service Canada to become the Community Entity
regarding the Homelessness Partnership Strategy
RECOMMENDATION
That this Committee recommend to Regional Council that Community Services be
authorized to submit an application to Service Canada to become the Community Entity
related to federal homelessness prevention initiatives.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
• Since first established in 1999, the Supporting Communities Partnership Initiative
(SCPI) greatly increased Niagara's capacity to respond to the needs of people who
are homeless by building infrastructure and services.
• The initiative ended on March 31, 2007 however Service Canada announced the
Homelessness Partnership Strategy (HPS) which came into effect April 1, 2007
• Both SCPI and HPS require local community mechanisms to plan, manage and be
accountable to Service Canada for program deliverables.
• Community Services is well positioned to assume this role, become the Community
Entity for Niagara and work with a community agency to assume this responsibility.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
There are no financial implications directly associated with this report.
PURPOSE
This report has been prepared to request Committee and Council authorization for
Community Services to submit an application to become the Community Entity regarding
federal homelessness prevention initiatives.
COM 35-2007
August 7, 2007
Page2of3
BACKGROUND
Established in 1999, the introduction of SCPI as part of a federal strategy to end
homelessness has lead to local investments in emergency shelters, as well as prevention
and outreach programs that have strengthened the capacity of Niagara communities to
address the needs of people who are homeless. Although much has been done there are
gaps in service that still need to be addressed.
Federal funding is critical to enhance investments made by the provincial and regional
government. As the service system manager for the provincially funded Consolidated
Homelessness Prevention Program (CHPP), Community Services relies on Federal
funding to ensure that emergency shelters and support agencies are able to positively
impact the lives of people who are homeless.
The cumulative SCPI investment in Niagara was $1,937,990 in the most recent round of
SCPI (2003 - 2007). Agencies received one time funds for capital improvements to
enhance emergency shelter services and approximately $368,190 supported the Boys and
Girls Club of Niagara, Community Care of St. Catharines and Thorold and the Young
Women's Christian Association (YWCA) to provide direct client homelessness services.
REPORT
Coordinating the funding received for homelessness initiatives from all orders of
government is an important element in maximizing Niagara's capacity to positively impact
the lives of people who are homeless.
The introduction of HPS renewed the federal government's commitment to
homelessness initiative funding. HPS came into effect on April 1, 2007 and committed
$270 million in funding Canada wide .over two years.
HPS is comprised of the following three initiatives:
^ Homelessness Partnership Initiative (HPI) -Considered the cornerstone of the
HPS, this initiative has ahousing-first approach followed by other supports to
improve health, parenting, education, and employment.
^ Surplus Federal Real Property for Homelessness Initiative (SFRPHI) -This
initiative makes surplus federal property available to community organizations, the
non-profit sector, and other levels of government for projects aimed to alleviate
and prevent homelessness.
^ Homelessness Accountability Network (HAN) -This initiative streamlines reporting,
strengthens program accountability, develops knowledge and encourages
organizations to reinforce their networks and share best practices.
The renewed commitment is very positive for Niagara and of further encouragement is
the strategy's focus on transitional and supportive housing which is in line with
Niagara's vision to develop a system of supported housing for individuals who are
COM 35-2007
August 7, 2007
Page 3 of 3
homeless and unable to transition from the emergency hostel system into permanent
housing.
Service Canada requires a local community mechanisms to plan, manage and be
accountable to the federal government for program deliverables. In the past, Niagara
relied on a Community Advisory Board (CAB) comprised of community volunteers who
would come together to review proposals to be recommended to the federal
government for funding. This approach met the need for local input into funding of
projects but was not established to provide a local coordinated planning and
accountability mechanism.
The need for enhanced coordination and planning for homelessness services was
highlighted by stakeholders during the community engagement process for the creation
of the Niagara Region Community Homelessness Prevention Plan. Consequently,
Community Services staff have consulted with CAB members, Service Canada and the
Niagara Homelessness Plan Advisory Committee regarding transitioning Niagara from
the current shared model (CAB) to a Community Entity model. Most communities
across Canada previously receiving SCPI funding used the Community Entity approach
for local coordination, planning and accountability.
The Community Entity model would enhance Niagara's capacity to align local priorities
with all available funding and provide a mechanism for the planning, development and
evaluation of investments made in Niagara's homelessness prevention initiatives.
Community Services staff will work with a community agency to fulfill the responsibilities
and requirements expected from the Community Entity which include community planning,
evaluation and reporting of outcomes to Service Canada. In 2007, Opportunities Niagara
will provide coordination services related to Community Entity work.
Submitted by:
Brian Hutchings
Commissioner, Commu ity Services
Approved by:
Mike Trojan
Chief Administrative c
This report was prepared by Dave Pelette, Manager Housing, Hostels and Homelessness and
Sarah Pennisi, Director Social Assistance and Employment Opportunities.
~_
Niagara Bureau des audiences
Escarpment sur 1'escarpement
j Hearing du Niaga~.~- '~' ~ '` t . ~.ll` ' ~` t~ '~
~~i~ Office
Ontario
Case Nos. 07-060/07-061
N.E.C. File No. N/L/06-07/354
Notice of Pre-Hearing Conference and Hearing
A Hearing Officer will conduct aPre-Hearing Conference and a public Hearing to consider
appeals by Giancarlo Sergio Condotta and A. Tansu Barker of a decision of the Niagara
Escarpment Commission dated July 23, 2007. In this decision the Commission conditionally
approved an application, subject to terms and conditions, for Development Permit
N/L/06-07/354 made by Stamford Centre Volunteer Firemen's Association. The details are as
follows:
Applicant: Stamford Centre Volunteer Firemen's Association
Lot: Part Lots 15 and 26
IVlunicipality: City of Niagara Falls
Region: Niagara
Description of Proposed Development:
To construct a 1 storey, maximum sized 279 sq m (3000 sq ft) building to be used for business
and events of the Stamford Volunteer Firemen's Association on an existing 44 ha (108 ac) parcel
known as Firemen's Park.
DATE and TIME of PRE-HEARING CONFERENCE:
The Niagara Escarpment Hearing Office will be conducting aPre-Hearing Conference by
telephone on Thursday, September 13, 2007, at 10:00 a.m. During this teleconference, the
Parties, Participants and Presenters are identified, preliminary motions may be heard, procedural
issues may be addressed, issues are identified, witnesses are identified, facts or evidence that may
be agreed upon are established, and dates that the documents to be tendered and exchanged are
established. The I-Tearing Officer will also consider requests at the Pre-I~Tearing Conference from
groups or individuals who wish to participate in the Hearing as a Party, Participant, or Presenter.
Groups or individuals interested in participating in the Hearing may express either their private
concerns or their concerns regarding the public interest. "I~hey may participate as a Presenter,
Participant or Party. A Presenter may make a statement to the Hearing Officer, either orally or in
writing. be questioned by the Dearing Officer and the Parties, receive a copy of documents
07-060/07-061
N/L/06-07/354
exchanged by the Parties that are relevant to his or her interests, and attend site visits where a
request to attend is made to the Hearing Off cer and the Hearing Officer grants the request. A
Participant may make a statement to the Hearing Officer, either orally or in writing, be
questioned by the Hearing Officer and the Parties, receive copies of all documents exchanged by
the Parties that are relevant to his or her interests, and attend site visits. Normally a Participant is
expected to attend every day of the Hearing. A Party assumes the rights and responsibilities of
this fullest form of involvement in the Hearing process. Parties are often represented at the
Hearing by legal counsel or an agent.
Please advise the Niagara Escarpment Hearing Office no later than Thursday, September 6, 2007,
if you wish to participate in the Pre-Hearing Conference. At that time, the Case Manager will
confirm the teleconference as the Parties to the appeal must first confirm that they wish to
participate in order for the teleconference to proceed.
If you do not notify the Hearing Office of your interest to participate prior to the scheduled
teleconference, the Pre-Hearing Conference will proceed in your absence. A request to
participate may also be made at the Hearing provided that the proceeding has not been terminated
in the interim.
For more information regarding the three levels of participation, please refer to the Rules of
Practice and Practice Directions of the Environmental Review Tribunal and "A Guide to
Development Permit Appeal Hearings and Niagara Escarpment Plan Amendment Hearings under
the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development ~lct."
If you wish to participate in the Pre-Hearing Conference and require the assistance of a French
language interpreter or have special needs that must be accommodated, please contact the Case
Manager at (416) 314-4712 as soon as you receive this Notice. The Office accepts collect calls.
Si vous avez besoin de services en fran~ais, veuillez appeler le Bureau des audiences
416-314-4600. Les appeas a frais vires sont acceptes.
DATE, TIME and LOCATION of HEARING
The Hearing will be held on:
Date: Monday, October 22, 2007
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Committee Rooms 2A and 2B
City I-Tall
City of Niagara Falls
4310 Queen Street
Niagara Falls, Ontario
07-060/07-061
N/L/06-07/35~t
STATUTORY AUTHORITY
Section 25(8) of the ~\'iagara Escarpment Planning and Development Ac•t, R.S.O. 1990, c. N.2,
as amended requires the Minister of Natural Resources to appoint a Hearing Officer for the
purpose of conducting a Hearing at which representations may be made respecting the decision.
TAKE NOTICE that this Hearing date is peremptory to all Parties. If you do not attend at this
Hearing and identify yourself to the Hearing Officer, the Niagara Escarpment Hearing Office
may proceed in your absence and you may not receive any further notice in these proceedings.
For further information, please review the appropriate legislation, "A Guide to Development
Permit Appeal Hearings and Niagara Escarpment Plan Amendment Hearings under the Niagara
Escarpment Planning card Development Act" and the Rules of Practice and Practice Directions of
the Environmental Review Tribunal, all of which are available at www.el-t.~;ov.on.ca.
DATED at TORONTO, this 20th day of August, 2007.
,,
-~.
~t +~ ~y
`~.l"i.,
Evangeline Berlie
Case Manager
Niagara Escarpment Hearing Office
2300 Yonge Street, Suite 1700
P.U. Box 2382
Toronto, Ontario
M4P 1 E4
Tel: (415) 314-4600 Fax: (416) 3 i 4-4506
www.ert.~ov.on.ca
NIAGARA PENINSULA
CONSERVATION
A U T H® R I T Y
25o Thorold Road West, 3rd Floor Tel (goy) 788-3135
Welland, Ontario L3C 3W2 Fax (goy) 788-llzl
E-mail: npcaQconservation-niagara.on.ca
August 23, 2007
Our File No. WMWP .2.4.10
City of Niagara Falls
4310 Queen Street
Niagara Falls ON L2E 6X5
Attention: Mr. Dean lorfida, City Clerk
Dear Mr. lorfida:
Subject: Proposed Source Protection Committee -Niagara Peninsula Source Protection Area
On July 3, 2007, the Clean Water Act (CWA) and the first set of complimentary regulations were
proclaimed by the Province. Under the legislation, a source protection plan is to be prepared for the
Niagara Peninsula Source Protection Area that is science-based and developed locally through a Source
Protection Committee (SPC).
Under the regulations:
The formation of the SPC will be the responsibility of the Source Protection Authority (which is the
Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority)
The Niagara Peninsula SPC will consist of nine (9) members plus a committee chair
Three committee seats will be reserved for municipal representation. The three representatives are
to be selected by the municipalities. However, the municipalities may be divided into one or more
groups by the Source Protection Authority for the purposes of selecting the municipal SPC members.
At their meeting of August 15, 2007, the Niagara Peninsula Source Protection Authority Board of
Directors approved the fol-owing groupings for the purposes of municipal representation on the SPC:
Haldimand County -Group 1 - 1 representative
City of Hamilton -Group 2 - 1 representative
Region of Niagara and its Area Municipalities -Group 3 - 1 representative
Please contact our office if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Andrew L. Burt
General Manager/Secretary-Treasurer
• - ' • A partnership for water protection in Niagara.
. ,.,..
Dean Iorfida
Clerk
4310 Queen Street
Niagara Falls, ON
L2E6X5
July 16, 2007.
Dear Mr. Iorfida:
Niagara Water Strategy Annual Report 2006
File No.: 0.01.13 99 30720
Please find enclosed, the 2006 Niagara Water Strategy Annual Report which provides an
update to all our partners and the public on the progress of the Niagara Warr Strategy. The
Niagara Water Strategy, formerly known as the Niagara Water Quality Protection Strategy, is
a water-shed based, multi jurisdictional framework that guides stakeholders on how best to
manage human activities affecting our valuable ground and surface water resources. It is
intended to build on past success, current initiatives, and future plans of stakeholders and area
municipalities.
The Niagara Water Strategy is an on-going public process that will be updated over time
through monitoring and feedback from many stakeholders. These stakeholders have been very
crucial to the development of the Niagara Water Strategy by attending workshops and
promoting water protection activities throughout the Niagara watershed.
Stewardship is a joint responsibility of government agencies and citizens, and Niagara Region
sincerely appreciates the continued support of our partners. Our Municipal partners include
the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, the Ministry of the Environment, City of Fort
Erie, Town of Grimsby, Town of Lincoln, City of Niagara Falls, Town of Niagara on the
Lake, Town of Pelham, City of Port Colborne, City of St.Catharines, Town of Thorold,
Township of Wainfleet, City of Welland and Township of West Lincoln. Other prominent
stakeholders include the City of Hamilton, Haldimand County, Environment Canada, the
Ministry of Natural Resources and local and national environmental, agricultural and
recreational groups and associations. We continue to rely on and commend the significant and
on-going work of our partners in their efforts to improve water quality for all Niagara
watershed residents.
WaterSmart Niagara, a project formerly known as the Niagara Water Quality Protection Strategy is a partnership for water protection in
Niagara. The main partners are the Ministry of the Environment, the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, City of Fort Erie, Town of
Grimsby, Town of Lincoln, City of Niagara Falls, Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Town of Pelham, City of Port Colborne, City of St. Catharines,
Town of Thorold, Township of Wainfleet, City of Welland, Township of West Lincoln and Niagara Region. Stakeholders include local and
national environmental, agricultural and recreational groups and associations, the City of Hamilton, Haldimand County, Environment Canada
and the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Niagara Water Strategy Annual Report 2006
2007-07-16
Page 2 of 2
On behalf of Niagara Region and WaterSmart Niagara, I respectfully request that you provide
the enclosed copies of the Niagara Water Strategy Annual Report 2006 to members of your
Council. Please make the rest of the copies available at your reception desk for the public. If
you have any questions, comments or concerns regarding the Niagara Water Strategy or the
Annual Report, please contact me at bob. steele@regional. nagara. on. ca.
Yours truly,
~~F
Bob Steele, Environmental Coordinator,
Public Works Dept., Water & Wastewater Services Division
Phone: 905-685-1571 ext. 3745
bob. steele(a~re gional.niagara. on. ca
~liaga~a ~ f Regioln
Building Community. Bur"Iding Lives.
From the July 26, 2007 Meeting of Regional Council
Volume 15, Issue 10
M ILESTONE AGREEMENT
Regional council approved a
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
for planning healthy, sustainable
communities across Niagara well into
the future. The agreement, negotiated
under the direction of a Planning
Review Committee made up of elected
officials from the Region and Area
Municipalities, and board
representatives from the Niagara
Peninsula Conservation Authority
(NPCA), recently received the approval
of the NPCA and the Councils of all 12
Area Municipalities. The MOU includes
a clearer definition of the roles and
responsibilities of the Region, Area
Municipalities and NPCA in the
planning process in order to reduce
duplication, and make the process
more effective and efficient in setting
policy and reviewing development
applications.
V OARD OF HEALTH UPDATE
RE: THE WAINFLEET BOIL WATER
ADVISORY
Next CounciE ~1leeting
August 16, 2pU7
Regiorjai Headquarters
COTW 4:0#3 part.
~, ~ Dr. Williams, Medical Officer
of Health and Mr. Hunter,
Manager, Health Protection &
~~ Promotion, provided Regional
Council with an update respecting the
Wainfleet Boil Water Advisory (BWA).
Mr. Hunter outlined the results of the
various studies undertaken in October
2002 (MacViro), March 2005 (MacViro)
and August 2005 (MacViro), which
indicated a significant impact on local
water supplies, most likely due to
private individual sewage disposal
systems.
The Board of Health is mandated to
"raise public awareness of health
hazards" and has done so through
door-to-door "drops"; paid ads in local
media; the establishment of a hot line;
and a mailout of letters to all affected
residents in May 2007.
A public meeting is scheduled for
Saturday, August 11 from 9:00 a.m. to
Noon, at the Port Colborne Brethren In
Christ Church, 10641 Highway 3,
Wainfleet.
I NTER-MUNICIPAL
TRANSPORTATION APPLICATION
TO FCM
Mr. Peter Papp provided , -~~-
Regional Council with the
background information `
and status of the joint
submission by the Niagara Region and
its participating municipal partners,
along with Opportunities Niagara, to
the Federation of Canadian
Municipalities, Green Municipal Fund -
Transportation Project.
Regional Council received the
information and supported the
participating partners including the
Niagara Region (St. Catharines,
Welland, Niagara Falls, Fort Erie,
E=e f .P'~ !ir c r E rr ~' 4fia
t~ a ~ ~ <;
Port Colborne, Thorold) or other potential
municipal partners to approve and prepare
Letters of Support and commitment for the
Federation of Canadian Municipalities -Green
Municipal Fund (Transportation Projects).
N IAGARA REGIONAL POLICE SERVICE
2007-2009 BUSINESS PLAN
Ms. Wendy Southall, Chief, Niagara
Regional Police Service and Mr.
Larry Iggulden, Board Chair,
Niagara Regional Police Services Board
provided Regional Council with an overview of
the Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS)
2007-2009 Business Plan and Annual Report.
The NRPS Goals and Objectives for 2007 -
2009 have been developed after
comprehensive consultation with the
community and their members. The goals are
to improve service delivery in police operations;
enhance public safety; optimize effective
resource management and advance
organizational development.
2 008 BUDGET PRESENTATION
In the Budget Review Committee,
~,Y1 Mr. Janssen, a resident of St.
,,,
`_;,~~..e. Catharines, expressed his
'~"~' concerns, and noted the
consequences of, the continuance of
increasing property tax levels on the residents
of Niagara. He requested that Councii and
staff try to develop innovative ways to create
sustainable budgets, and that local taxpayers
have an opportunity to provide input into how
the new hospital levy will be paid.
Mr. John Bergsma, Commissioner, Corporate
Services provided an overview of the 2008
budget process, highlighting statistics from the
BMA study on Niagara's population growth;
employment growth; affordability issues;
Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
Trends -Caseloads; and the impact of a 3.4%
increase in taxes on the average taxpayer
household.
The Committee received the presentation, and
approved a guideline increase not to exceed
3.4%. A further meeting will be held in
September for consideration of a report from
staff which responds to the questions,
comments and issues raised.
EXCELLENCE AWARDS
Ms. Barb Dupont, Co-Chair, Recognition of
Excellence Sub-Committee of the Corporate
Employee Recognition Team introduced
employees who were nominated by their peers
for their outstanding contributions to
life and work at the Region. Three
teams received an excellence
award in the category of Team
Participation. They were the Tangible Capital
Assets Team; the IT Solutions Open House
Team: and the SAEO Niagara Falls Family
Room Team. As well individual excellence
awards were presented to Mairi Birr, Dave
Pelette, and Lucretia Harris for Customer
Service; and Jane Beamer and Fran Hubley for
Leadership. Three recipients were not in
attendance to accept their awards: Jeremy
Kelly for Innovation; Sheila Tucker for
Customer Service, and Rick Crysler for
Leadership.
T HINK AND DRIVE CAMPAIGN
Council received an update on the Think and
Drive Campaign, for which $10,000 of funding
was recently received from the provincial
Ministry of Transportation. Thanks was
conveyed to CAA Niagara, the Niagara
Regional Police, Chair Partington's Office,
Niagara Region's Public Health Department
and the Niagara-on-the-Lake Task Force for
Traffic Safety for their joint
campaign to reduce the number
of traffic fatalities in Niagara
BOARD REPORT ~ ~~_
REPORTS FROM THE CHAIR
Chair Larry Iggulden reported on the following
topics:
NRPS 2007-2009 Business Plan & Annual
Regon`.
On July 26 Chair Iggulden and Chief Southall
presented the 2007-2009 Niagara Regional
Police Service Business and the 2006 Annual
Report to Regional Council.
Niagara Regional Police Recruit Swearing-
in Ceremonv - On August 9, the Service will
be holding aSwearing-in Ceremony for 8 new
recruits and 8 currently serving police officers.
The ceremony will take place at Club Italia
and Chair Iggulden will be in attendance to
deliver welcoming comments on behalf of the
Board.
Canadian Association of Police Boards
Conference -The CAPB will hold its Annual
Conference and General Meeting in Calgary,
Alberta from August 18 - August 20.
Members Bentley, Woodhouse and the
Board's Executive Director will be
representing the Board.
OAPSB/OACP Zone 4 Meeting - The
Ontario Association of Police Boards and the
Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police will
hold is quarterly zone meeting in Hamilton on
September 11, 2007.
closure of the Niagara Falls Division may have
on the community. Mayor Salci also requested
that the process and any development
information be shared with Council members in
order to allow informative and educated
decisions, and engage in discussions that will
serve in the best interest of residents and visitors.
The Board received Mayor Salci's presentation as
information.
A media representative spoke with Chair Iggulden
after the pubic session and the Chair announced
that a relating accommodations report that
suggests locations of buildings is still being
digested by Board members and is yet
considered a sensitive property matter. He stated
that the report should be open to the public no
later than the Board's September meeting.
2008 Budget -PSB Minute #126. - Mr. John
Bergsma, Commissioner, Corporate Services,
Regional Municipality of Niagara, was in
attendance to discuss the 2008 budget schedule
for the Region, the synchronization of the regional
and police budgets and the proposed 2008
Regional Council targets/guidelines.
Mr. Bergsma provided the Board with statistics
from the BMA study which depicted Niagara
Region's population growth in the last ten years
as the lowest in the survey; employment growth
negatively between 2003-2006; percentage of
population with towering debt as the highest in
the survey, noting affordability issues; Ontario
Disability Support Program (ODSP) Trends -
Caseloads as 19% in 2006 when all of Ontario is
at 17%; percentage of households, `Bill and Wills'
and the highest in the survey; population trend 50
years plus higher than all of Ontario, with the
percentage of population over 65 at 17% in
Niagara and 13% in all of Ontario and reserves as
a percentage of expenditures are low which
poses challenges as there is less flexibility to use
reserves to offset expenditures.
The Board received Mr. Bergsma presentation for
information.
REPORTS FROM THE CHIEF OF POLICE
Chief Southall reported on the following topics:
Board Chair
Larry A. Iggulden, C.A.
Board Vice-Chair
Doug Martin
Board Members
Bob Bentley
Todd Shoalts
Bill Smeaton
Larry Tufford
Mal Woodhouse
~~~
Board Staff
Deb Morton
Executive Director
Sandi Taylor
Executive Assistant
Dawn Cichocki
Board Clerk
~~~
For further
information contact:
Regional Municipality of
Niagara Police Services Board
68 Church Street
St. Catharines, Ontario
L2R 3C6
Bus: (905) 685-0321
Fax: (905) 688-0036
Email: nvpboard@nrps.com
Website:
www. nrps. com
PRESENTATION
Long-term Facilities Strategy - 2 District
Niagara Falls -PSB Minute #125. - As the
result of a resolution passed at the Niagara
Falls City Council meeting held June 25tH
Mayor Ted Salci was in attendance to address
the Board to share concerns regarding the
future of policing facilities and the impact that
2007 Operational Statistics
Marijuana Grow Operations
For the period January 1 through July 25:
• Total estimated seized street value
$4,167, 700;
^ Estimated value of seized equipment
$149,520.
Homicides
For the period January 1 through July 25:
^ 2 homicides compared to 4 for the same period in
2006.
Robberies
For the period May 24 through July 25:
^ 21 with 8 cleared, 38% cleared this period.
Traffic Fatalities Statistics
For the period January 1 through July 25:
^ 19 compared to 18 for the same period in 2006.
Regional Traffic Enforcement - As a result of several
initiatives directed at traffic enforcement to ensure effective
traffic enforcement in Niagara, the Service has experienced a
significant increase in the number of provincial offence notices
that have been issued to drivers in the region. The total for the
first six months of the year is in excess of 20,000 tickets, while
the entire total for all of 2006 was 27,484. This equates to an
increase of approximately 1,100 tickets per month. All efforts
are being made to continue this effort and maintain the safest
traffic flow possible.
The Regional Road Safety Committee initiative will now move
into its educational phase in September.
Serial Bank Robber Arrested - On June 13, a lone male
entered the TD Canada Trust Bank branch located at 240
Glendale Avenue, St. Catharines, approached a female teller
and handed her a note that demanded cash. The teller
complied and gave the male an undisclosed amount of money.
The male then fled the bank.
St. Catharines detectives initiated an investigation that resulted
in amulti-jurisdictional investigation, with officers from Halton,
Hamilton and Waterloo Police Services assisting. Based on
the collaborative effort, aforty-year-old male was arrested and
charged with five bank robberies in southern Ontario, including
the St. Catharines branch of TD Canada Trust.
NRPS Pipe Band -Success in Competitions -Over three
weekends in July, the Service's Pipe Band performed in
competitions in Kincardine, Chatham and Cambridge, Ontario,
placing first in Kincardine and Cambridge, and second in
Chatham. The band will compete next in Maxville, Ontario,
during the upcoming holiday weekend, leading to their
appearance at the world championships in Glasgow, Scotland,
in August.
The band is under the direction of Pipe Major Dave Goodall.
Several members, Scott Roxton, Kaitlin Kmove, Cindy
Kimove, Mike Eagle, and Lionel Tupman, were also recognized
with individual awards.
Niagara Regional Police Service -Promotions -Chief
Southall advised that the Service has had recent uniform and
civilian promotional processes. Two newly promoted
Inspectors, Scott McLean and Carl Scott, and Director of
Business Services, Ms. Monika George, were introduced to the
Board. The positions became effective July 29, 2007.
ONTARIO ASSOCIATION OF POLICE SERVICES BOARDS
PSB Minute #127. -The Board received the OAPSB Bulletin
Board newsletter for June/July 2007 providing policing
information relative to civilian governance in Ontario. Articles
of interest contained in the Bulletin are as follow:
OAPC Welcomes Initiatives for Ontario's Police -The
Ontario government has announced that it will be providing
Ontario police services with additional funding in the amount of
$6.3 million. The funding is being allotted to support initiatives
that deal with marijuana grow operations, crystal
methamphetamine elimination, the enhancement of OPP
efforts with municipal police regarding criminal organization,
support towards a new intelligence unit for efforts regarding
gang members and to improve crown attorneys responses to
gun crimes.
Joint Forces Moves Against Hells Angels - A successful
joint forces operations against members of organized crime led
to 31 arrests and 169 charges throughout Ontario. The arrests
were made in a series of raids throughout the province but also
targeted biker clubhouses to include a clubhouse in Niagara,
amongst others. The arrests follow a number of significant
operations against biker clubs by Ontario authorities over the
past year. According to Ontario's Criminal Intelligence Service
Canada, of an estimated 460 full-patch Hells Angels members
nationwide, about 175 operate in Ontario.
Ombudsman to Investigate Special Investigations Unit
S,(_ IUZ - Mr. Andre Marin, Province of Ontario's Ombudsman,
announced that he would be investigating allegations against
how the SIU operates, stating that there have been an
increase in the number of complaints about the SIU. Mr. Marro
has received complaints that the SIU is slow to investigate,
isn't impartial enough, and is "less than thorough" in its
investigations.
Mr. Marin's investigation will consist of reviewing eight cases
involving death and serious injury. He will be looking at
incidents from 2003 on and is requesting anyone who has
information about the SIU to come forward. Result findings are
expected to made public by November 2007.
Anti-Terrorism Power for Police -Bill Drafted -Public
Safety Minister Stockwell Day has drafted a bill to reinstate
"preventive arrests", which seek to detain or restrain terror
suspects without charge, powers which were killed by the
opposition parties earlier this year. The bill will also bring back
"investigative hearings", which require those with information
relevant to a terrorist attack to appear before a judge. Also,
the Canadian Security Intelligence service will be expanded to
do covert foreign intelligence gathering abroad.
Order of Merit of the Police Force -The OAPSB is inviting
members of police services to submit the names of nominees
for admission to the Order of Merit Police Forces. The award
was established to honour careers of exceptional service or
distinctive merit displayed by men and women of Canadian
Police Services and to acknowledge the total contributions
made over one's career as opposed to one single incident or
contribution to any one program. It was noted, efforts that
foster better relationships among police services in Canada
and throughout the world can be an important consideration
toward choosing the successful recipient.
Volume 6, Issue 7
July 2007
Page #2
e Vt .i l~,F.. ..,,it ,.
REPORTS FROM THE CHAIR
Chair Larry Iggulden reported on the following
topics:
Annual Awards Ceremony - On May 31 the
Chair and Members Bentley, Smeaton,
Shoalts and Tufford attended the annual
NRPS Annual Awards Ceremony. The event
recognized members of the Service and
citizens who have made valuable
contributions to the community as well as
members with 20 and 30 years of exemplary
service and those members who retired during
2006.
Alternate Fuel Options - On June 4 Member
Tufford and the Board's Executive Director
attended the NRPS Fleet Services Unit to look
at vehicles displayed as part of its assessment
of alternate fuel options. This included natural
gas, propane and hybrid powered vehicles.
The Board looks forward to hearing more from
the Service about options being considered to
address environmental challenges and to
reduce fuel operating costs.
Promotional Ceremony - On June 13 the
Board was proud to participate in the
Promotional Ceremony held at Headquarters.
Members Smeaton and Tufford attended the
event to honour the promotion of four
members from the rank of Sergeant to Staff
Sergeant, and eleven officers from the rank of
Constable to Sergeant. On behalf of the
Board, congratulations are extended to each
of the newly promoted officers.
as well as the opportunity to support the ongoing
development of the members that continue to
make the program a success.
NRPS 2007-2009 Business Plan - On July 26
the Chair and Chief Southall will attend Regional
Council to introduce the Niagara Regional Police
Service 2007-2009 Business Plan.
REPORTS FROM THE ACTING CHIEF OF
POLICE
Acting Chief Gary Beaulieu reported on the
following topics:
2007 Operational Statistics
Marijuana Grow Operations
For the period January 1 through June 27:
^ Total estimated seized street value
$3, 942, 700,
^ Estimated value of seized equipment
$149, 500.
Homicides
For the period January 1 through June 27:
^ 2 homicides compared to 4 for the same
period in 2006.
Robberies
For the period May 24 through June 27:
^ 27 with 3 cleared, 11 % cleared this period
Traffic Fatalities Statistics
For the period January 1 through June 27:
^ 16 compared to 14 for the same period in
2006.
Acting Chief Beaulieu thanked Mr. Grant
LaFleche of the St. Catharines STANDARD, who
is preparing a major study on Niagara's traffic
fatalities for the opportunity of the NRPS to
communicate its strategies.
Vehicle Utilization Study/Alternate Fuels -The
NRPS Vehicle Utilization Study involving alternate
fuel use and fuel consumption strategies will be
presented to the Board in the near future.
Board Chair
Larry A. Iggulden, C.A.
Board Vice-Chair
Doug Martin
Board Members
Bob Bentley
Todd Shoalts
Bill Smeaton
Larry Tufford
Mal Woodhouse
~~~
Board Staff
Deb Morton
Executive Director
Sandi Taylor
Executive Assistant
Dawn Cichocki
Board Clerk
~~~
For further
information contact:
Regional Municipality of
~Jiagara Police Services Board
68 Church Street
St. Catharines, Ontario
L2R 3C6
Bus: (905) 685-0321
Fax: (905) 688-0036
Email: nrpboard@nrps.com
Website:
www. nrps. com
Crime Stoppers Gala Dinner - On June 16
the Chair and Member Woodhouse, along
with Chief Southall, attended the Crime
Stoppers Gala Dinner held in Niagara Falls.
The Board and Service are pleased to support
this valuable program involving citizens,
media and the police
2007 Law Enforcement Torch Run - On June 6
NRPS members partnered with staff from the
Niagara Parks Police, the Ministry of Community
Safety and Correctional Services, the Canada
Border Services Agency, enforcement officers
from the Ministry of Transportation and Brock
University Campus Security Services to carry the
`flame of hope' in the 21St annual Law
Enforcement Torch Run sponsored by the Ontario
Association of Chiefs of Police. The Torch Run is
the largest fundraiser event for the Special
Olympics. Acting Chief Beaulieu recognized
Sergeant Mike McAllister for his efforts in
organizing the run, which realized a very large
participation by Service members.
Guns & Gangs' Next Step Strategy - On June 6 Chief
Southall attended two press briefings in Hamilton and Niagara
Falls to support the provincial government's commitment to
combating guns and gangs, marijuana-grow operations, crystal
methamphetamine labs and other criminal activities. Provincial
funding will be used to counter the threat to the public and
emergency responders through investment in the 1,000 Officer
Partnership Program, the creation of the Youth Opportunities
Strategy and funding an operations centre for the Guns and
Gangs Task Force -the first one of its kind in North America.
NRPS Pipe Band -Competition Successes - On two
weekends in June the NRPS Pipe Band competed in
competitions in Georgetown, Ontario, and in Ohio, USA, where
they placed first and second, respectively, as a result of their
performances. The band is under the direction of Pipe Major
Dave Goodall, and member Kyle Gorman was also awarded a
first place finish in the Bass Drum category. The Band will next
compete in Kincardine on July 7, which will lead to an
appearance at the world championships in Glasgow, Scotland,
in August.
Training Exercise at St. Catharines Collegiate - On June 13
the District School Board of Niagara and the NRPS
collaborated on a training scenario involving an active shooter
within the St. Catharines Collegiate and Vocational Institute.
The scenario was based on a real-time response to the threat,
and included police use of Immediate Rapid Deployment and
school administration implementation of a lockdown procedure.
Due to the accuracy of the event and the excellent role-playing
by the actors, the process was extremely beneficial as an
educational exercise.
Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police Conference -From
June 24-28 police leaders from federal, provincial, regional,
municipal and First Nations Police Services gathered in
Waterloo Region for the 56th Annual OACP Conference.
The conference theme Today's Leader's - Tomorrow's
Solutions provided the opportunity for police leaders from all
parts of the province to participate and network in education
sessions. At the Tuesday awards luncheon, Niagara's retired
Deputy Chief of Police Frank Parkhouse received the OACP
President's Award, which recognizes an individual who has
provided extraordinary dedication and support in advancing the
goals and objective of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of
Police. The 57th Annual Conference is scheduled to be held in
Niagara in 2008.
PRESENTATION
PSB Minute #113. -The Board considered a presentation
entitled Niagara's "Think & Drive" campaign, aimed at reducing
fatal and serious motor vehicle collisions by Ms. Linda Beyer,
Chair, Regional Niagara Road Safety Committee, and
Sergeant Todd McKinnon, Field Support -Traffic, Niagara
Regional Police Service.
The Board expressed concern regarding recent press
coverage criticizing NRPS traffic enforcement activities. Ms.
Beyer advised that the Regional Niagara Road Safety
Committee is preparing a collaborative response as a 'letter to
the editor'.
CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF POLICE BOARDS
PSB Minute #114. -The Board received the June 2007 edition
of the CAPE National from the Canadian Association of Police
Boards providing boards with national and provincial news of
interest. Subject matter pertinent to Niagara follows.
New Police Review System - On May 15, 2007 the
legislature passed the Independent Police Review Act, to
establish a police complaints system administered by a new
civilian organization that will be led by an Independent Police
Review Director. The new system is expected to be in place
in approximately one year, once the director has been hired.
In 2004, the McGuinty government appointed former Chief
Justice of Ontario's Superior Court of Justice, the Honourable
Patrick J. LaSage, to conduct a review of Ontario's police
complaints system. After an extensive review, a number of
recommendations were made that led to the creation of the
Independent Police Review Act. It is believed the new
legislation will help strike the right balance between the needs
of the public and the police in terms of dealing with police
complaints.
MINISTRY OF COMMUNITY SAFETY AND
CORRECETIONAL SERVICES -R.I.D. E. Program
PSB Minute #115. -The Board received a letter from the
Honourable Monte Kwinter, Minister, Community Safety and
Correctional Services providing a cheque in the amount of
$20,692.11 to cover the overtime or paid duty costs incurred by
the Niagara Regional Police Service for the 2006-2007
"Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (RIDE) program.
REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF NIAGARA - RECIEPT OF
CORRESPONDANCE
PSB Minute #116. &117. -The Board received two letters
from Pam Gilroy, Regional Clerk, RMON, informing the Board
of Regional Council approvals of Corporate Services
Committee recommendations.
At the Council meeting held May 24, 2007, the following
recommendations were approved:
"That Communication CSC 24-2007, from Deb Morton,
Executive Director, Regional Municipality of Niagara Police
Services Board, (April 26, 2007) respecting Niagara Police
Services Board - Initiation, Purchasing - Capital Project
ZP00506, Purchasing Capital Projects P00409 & P00605 -
Voice Radio System Infrastructure & Equipment 63.2007, be
received." And,
"That Communication CSC 27-2007, from Deb Morton,
Executive Director, Regional Municipality of Niagara Police
Services Board, (May 1, 2007) regarding Community Policing
Partnership (CPP) Program -Contract Renewal 84.2007, be
received; and
That the Contractual Agreement be executed by Chair Peter
Partington on behalf of the Regional Municipality of Niagara."
The following recommendation as contained in the Closed
Session of the Corporate Services Committee was also
approved:
"That Communication CSC 25-2007 from Deb Morton, Executive
Director, Niagara Police Services Board, regarding Wainfleet
Addressing, be received; and
That staff be authorized to proceed as recommended."
Also, at the Council meeting held June 14, 2007, the following
recommendations were approved:
Volume 6, Issue 5 May 2007
Page #2
"That Communication CSC 24-2007, from Deb Morton,
Executive Director, Regional Municipality of Niagara Police
Services Board, (April 26, 2007) respecting Niagara Police
Services Board -Initiation, Purchasing - Capital
Project ZP00506, Purchasing Capital Projects P00409 &
P00605 -Voice Radio System Infrastructure & Equipment
63.2007, be received." And,
"That Communication CSC 27-2007, from Deb Morton, Executive
Director, Regional Municipality of Niagara Police Services Board,
(May 1, 2007) regarding Community Policing Partnership (CPP)
Program -Contract Renewal 84.2007, be received; and,
That the Contractual Agreement be executed by Chair Peter
Partington on behalf of the Regional Municipality of Niagara."
The following recommendation as contained in the Closed
Session of the Corporate Services Committee was also
approved:
"That Communication CSC 25-2007 from Deb Morton,
Executive Director, Niagara Police Services Board,
regarding Wainfleet Addressing, be received; and
That staff be authorized to proceed as recommended."
INFORMATION & TECHNOLOGY
CONTRACTS/COMMITMENTS
PSB Minute #107. -The Board received Service report
113/2007 providing a listing of all maintenance agreements
currently in effect through the Service's Information Services
Unit.
Further to approval for the payment of a maintenance/support
fees for Versadex applications that was requested at April's
Board meeting, Member Bentley requested that afollow-up
report be prepared summarizing a list of all maintenance
agreements that currently exist for the purpose of technical
support to the Information Services Unit. The Board received
the report and it was noted that the Service has maintenance
agreements with nine venders/manufacturers and the
maintenance fees average approximately $603,000 annually.
It was also noted that in order to provide the necessary
coverage of various systems supported by the Information
Services Unit, related costings are budgeted in the Information
Systems operating budget on a yearly basis.
BROCK UNIVERSITY CAMPUS SECURITY SERIVICES
PSB Minute #118. -The Board received report 128/2007 from
Mr. Steven Pillar, Vice President, Finance and Administration,
Brock University. As a requirement of a Protocol between
Brock and the Board, the University is required to provide
information relative to complaints, discipline and arrests
associated to the officers designated as Special Constables
employed through Brock University Campus Security Services.
It was noted in the report that during the second quarter of
operations for 2007, there was one complaint received on April
23, 2007 regarding an allegation against a special constable
who advised an individual that if harassing behaviour
continued, the individual would be banned from campus. The
matter was investigated and later cleared as unsubstantiated.
Also reported was that one `Use of Force' option was exercised
when a Special Constable used oleoresin capsicum spray on
male while assisting another officer who was attempting to
affect an arrest. A `Use of Force' report was filed with the
NRPS. There were no occurrences that resulted in discipline
against any member of Campus Security Services and no
member was arrested for an offence.
LINCOLN COMMUNITY POLICING COMMITTEE
PSB Minute #120. - On March 6, 2007, his Worship Mayor Bill
Hodgins and approximately 40 citizens met with Staff Sergeant
Randy Bleich, District Commander of #8 District, NRPS, at an
information session for the residents of the Town of Lincoln to
discuss community policing. It was found that those in
attendance felt a community policing committee would
definitely be beneficial as it was felt more police and
community involvement would help address concerns relating
to traffic and speeding; theft from vehicles, youth problems and
parking issues.
A Community Policing Committee currently operates in the
Town of Grimsby, which has been operational for 9 nine years.
Staff Sergeant Bleich has approached Grimsby's committee
members requesting that they expand their borders to include
Lincoln and West Lincoln however, members were not
receptive to the idea. Therefore, considering the growing
population of the Town of Lincoln and the interest shown by
the citizens and Town Council to support a community policing
committee, Staff Sergeant Bleich concluded that this would be
an opportune time to establish a committee and he took the
necessary action to bring the request to the Board. Acting
Chief Beaulieu acknowledged the hard work of Staff Sergeant
Bleich for his efforts on this initiative.
The Board received the information and approved the
formation of a Community Policing Committee in the Town of
Lincoln as outlined in the submitted report.
VARIANCE REPORT
PSB Minute #121. -The Board received Service report
125/2007 providing a financial overview and forecast for both
the Service and the Board to May 31, 2007.
The Board expressed concern with the summary of uniform
overtime listed on appendix #2 as it relates to Western
Operations and Executive Services of the Police Service. In
response, Acting Chief Beaulieu indicated that he would report
back to the Board at its next meeting with specific trends in
Western Operations. He also advised that the budget
differential in Executive Services is largely a result of changes
in the structure of the organizational chart, which was realigned
in April 2007.
Any future impacts on the achievements of the budget will be
reflected in upcoming monthly variance reports and reported
on in accordance to their developments.
HP CANADA -COMPUTER EQUIPMENT PURCHASE
PSB Minute #122. -The Board received Service report
127/2007 requesting authorization to purchase computer
equipment from HP Canada, as per the Services equipment
schedule.
Every four years the Service is required to update computer
equipment used by employees. Therefore, in accordance to
the schedule, the Board approved the purchase of desktop and
laptop computers in the amount of $72,929.00 plus applicable
taxes from HP Canada from funds allocated in the IT
Equipment Replacement fund.
Volume 6, Issue 5
May 2007
Page #3