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MINUTES OF CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE
Ninth Meeting
Monday, October 19, 2009, Committee Room 2, 6:14 P.M.
PRESENT: Councillor, Victor Pietrangelo Chair; Mayor Ted Salci, Councillors: Jim
Diodati, Shirley Fisher, Vince Kerrio, Bart Maves, Wayne Thomson
Janice Wing and Carolynn loannoni.
STAFF: Ken Todd, Ed Dujlovic, Ken Burden, Bob Bolibruck, Geoff Holman,
Denyse Morrissey, Dean lorfida, Ken Beaman, Lee Smith, Karl Dren,
Serge Felicetti, and Marianne Tikky -Steno.
PRESS: Corey Larocque, Niagara Falls Review,
1) MINUTES
MOVED by Councillor Maves seconded by Councillor Diodati that the minutes of the
September 28, 2009 meeting be approved.
Motion: Carried Unanimously
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
2) REPORTS:
a) CD-2009-13
Customer Services Standard Policy
MOVED by Mayor Salci, seconded by Councillor Thomson that Council adopt
the Customer Services Standard Policy in compliance with the Accessibility for
Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005.
Motion: Carried Unanimously
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
b) FS-2009-08
Master Fire Plan
MOVED by Councillor Thomson, seconded by Councillor Fisher;
1) That Council approve the expenditure of funds in the amount of $50,000 to
secure the services of Ernest Yakiwchuk as the preferred proponent for the
Niagara Falls Fire Services Master Fire Plan.
2) That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute the contract.
a l:q
-2
3) ADJOURNMENT:
MOVED by Councillor Kerrio, seconded by Councillor Maves that the Corporate
Services meeting be adjourned at 6:18 p.m.
Niagara~alls
F-2009-51
November 2, 2009
REPORT TO: Councillor Victor Pietrangelo, Chair
and Members of the Corporate Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
SUBMITTED BY: Finance
SUBJECT: F-2009-51
Water Account Collections -Residential Tenanted Accounts
RECOMMENDATION
1. at the City direct Ni ara Peninsula Energy Inc. enhance the water account collections
pro by providing the er ty owners with the a notification as their tenants
througho a process.
2. at the City c 'nue to shut off the s I of water to properties wh 'the account holder
fails meet the req ' d payment obligatio .
3. That, in event that the ter arrears exceed t eposit on hand, that the City inue to
transfer unpa ater/sewer c es onto the owner account in accordance wit
provisions of the icipal Act.
1. That staff report back to Council with a revised deposit amount for residential tenanted
accounts.
2. That the practice of transferring arrears of unpaid water/sewer charges onto the owner's tax
account be discontinued effective November 3, 2009
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
City staff was directed to review two issues pertaining to the treatment of water arrears for
tenant water accounts. Firstly, staff was directed to work with NPEI to improve
communication during the collection process with impacted property owners. Modifications
to the notification process conducted by NPEI as it relates to tenanted accounts will ensure
that landlords are aware of the account status at the earliest time of arrears. The second
concern related to the collection of outstanding amounts after application of the deposit.
Specifically, the final collections step wherein outstanding amounts owed by tenants are
transferred to the property owner. Staff believes that the steps taken to resolve
communication concerns will minimize transfers. However, staff also recommends that the
risk of default is a business risk of the property owner engaged in the residential rental
market. The improvements in communication with owners will result reducing -the risk,
however, this risk should not be passed onto all of the other water rate payers.
BACKGROUND
At the June 30, 2009 Council meeting, staff provided a report summarizing the impact of
changes made to the water by-law in 2007, specifically as it related to tenanted water
accounts. The report showed that the City had performed approximately 50 shut offs during
2009 and that the volume of tenanted accounts in arrears transferred to taxes had reduced
by implementing these amendments. However, there have been concerns expressed by
landlords on the process of transferring arrears and the timing of communication to
stakeholders of City actions. Staff was requested to meet with Niagara Peninsula Energy Inc.
to identify opportunities to improve communication with property owners earlier in the process
and secondly to review the policy of transferring water arrears to the property tax bill.
November 2, 2009 - 2 -
F-2009-51
~~
ANALYSISlRATIONALE
a) Communication
City staff met with Niagara Peninsula Energy Inc. staff to identify opportunities to
improve communication with property owners. NPEI staff indicated that their legal
adviser had reviewed the position regarding the Freedom of Information constraints
that NPEI staff had in responding to property owner requests. NPEI can now
respond verbally to inquiries from property owners.
A second modification for all tenanted water accounts, is that NPEI will notify all
property owners on record with arrears notification at the same time as tenants.
This will ensure that owners will be aware of the account status of a renter at the
initial time the account goes into arrears. In addition, owners will receive the same
communication as thetenantthroughoutthe collection process including notification
at the time of shut off similar to the tenant.
To facilitate this change, City and NPEI staff have worked together to update the
property owners' data base at NPEI. In addition, subsequent letters will be sent to
all property owners outlining the changes that have been initiated.
b) Shutoffs
City staff continues to shut off water of delinquent account holders. This process
will continue as has been previously undertaken. There are some properties that
cannot be shut off due to the fact that properties are multi-residential with one
service. In situations, wherein the water cannot be shut off, staff will continue to
transfer delinquent water charges to the tax account.
c) Final Resolution of Accounts
The proposed modification wherein landlords are notified at the first stage in arrears
will result in fewer delinquencies and shut offs. However, like any system, there
may be circumstances where in accounts in arrears exceed the deposit held.
Reasons for this include but are not limited to, excessive use, move outs and fees
for shut offs. In these circumstances, it is still the staff's position that the risk for
nonpayment remains with the property owner and that anything other than
transferring arrears to the owner's accounts penalizes all other account holders in
the City. The changes proposed in this report in respectto notification should result
in fewer instances fo transfers to accounts.
FINANCIALISTAFFING/LEGAL IMPLICATIONS
The enhanced notification to landlords will result in increased processing costs. It is
difficult to predict the cost allocation of the increased notification because it is based on
volumes. Based on the historical volumes of tenant accounts, the cost of enhanced
mailing could be up $10,000 annually. The transfer of water to taxes results in no loss for
bad debt expense and achieves the implied purpose of collecting all billed revenues.
However, if Council's intention is to implement the alternative suggested by landlord groups
that the water be sent to collections alone without property tax allocation, then this will
increase expenditures of the water budget. Again, projection of amounts is difficult based
on volumes, but historically, staff has, annually, transferred $40,000 fortenant accounts.
ti November 2, 2009
-3-
F-2009-51
Council is reminded of the difficulties in establishing water and sewer rates. Again,
increased expenditures, whatever their cause, will contribute to the difficulties in keeping
rate increases reasonable.
~~~-{
Recommended by:
Todd Harris n,Q~D,,irect of Financial Services
Approved by: ~~/~G~'~GIf/
K. E. Burden, Executive Director, Corporate Services
Respectfully submitted:
Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer
rwn~
MINUTES OF COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE
Thirteenth Meeting
Monday, October 19, 2009, Committee Room 2, 4:00 P.M.
PRESENT: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair; Mayor Ted Salci, Councillors: Jim
Diodati, Shirley Fisher, Vince Kerrio, Bart Maves, Wayne Thomson
Janice Wing and Victor Pietrangelo.
STAFF: Ken Todd, Ed Dujlovic, Ken Burden, Todd Harrison, Denyse Morrissey,
Bob Bolibruck, Geoff Holman, Dean lorfida, Ken Beaman, Lee Smith,
Karl Dren, Serge Felicetti, Kathy Powell, John Barnsley, Peggy Boyle
and Marianne Tikky -Steno.
GUEST: PeterSmith & Michael Bissett (Bousfields), ChuckVanoverbeke (Corche
Technical Services Inc.), John Fry & Khaud Manzodr (Genivar), John
Fatheringham (Municipal Heritage Committee), Brian Rudy & Drarmuld
Nash (Moriyama&Teshima Architects), Don Jackson, Gordon West
(Board of Museums), Christopher Borgol (GBCD), Lisa Wilson, Rick
Frederick (Kalar Road Parking Review)
PRESS: Corey Larocque, Niagara Falls Review,
1. MINUTES
MOVED by Mayor Salci seconded by Councillor Fisher that the minutes of the
September 28, 2009 meeting be approved.
Motion: Carried Unanimously
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
2) DEPUTATION:
Mont Rose at Niagara - presentor, Mr. Peter Smith (Hospitality Resorts Inc.)
MOVED by Councillor Thomson, seconded by Mayor Salci;
That staff be directed to initiate an urban boundary expansion on behalf of the
City, to include the Mont Rose lands, and,
2. That the Region be requested to take such steps as are necessary to ensure that
the Region's adopted official plan policies regarding urban area boundary
expansions are not reversed by the Province.
Motion: Carried
Opposed: Councillor Wing
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
-z-
3) REPORTS:
a) CSC-2009-01
Lundy's Lane Historical Museum Expansion Progress Report
MOVED by Councillor Fisher, seconded by Councillor Diodati that the Board of
Museums requests for consideration from City Council on the following:
Approval of the new design direction for the Lundy's Lane Historical Museum.
2. Approval to re-brand the facility from Lundy's Lane Historical Museum to Niagara
Falls History Museum.
Motion: Carried Unanimously
Conflict: Councillor Wing
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
b) PD-2009-79
Matters Arising from the Municipal Heritage Committee
MOVED by Councillor Pietrangelo, seconded by Mayor Salci;
1. That Council approve the proposed alterations to the following Designated
Heritage
Properties:
a) Spence Weaver House, 6590 Dunn Street
• to re-establish a verandah along the north side of the house.
b) Former Post Office Customs House, 4177 Park Street
• to install new plywood and awater/ice shield covering on the roof of the
building with the condition that the owner supply confirmation from the
manufacturer of the water/ice shield that the material will last without
further roofing material for 20-30 years.
2. That Council receive for information the Municipal Heritage Committee's
recommendation regarding the most recent plans for the Lundy's Lane Museum
expansion.
Motion: Carried Unanimously
Conflict: Councillor Wing (item #2 only)
Action: .Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
Community Services Committee _3_ October 19, 2009
c) MW-2009-76
Request for Infrastructure Improvements
Vine Street, Sinnicks Avenue to West of Coholan Street
MOVED by Councillor Kerrio, seconded by Mayor Salci that the request from local
residents to include infrastructure improvements and the reconstruction of Vine Street
be referred to staff for inclusion in the 10-year Infrastructure Needs Assessment.
Motion: Carried Unanimously
Conflict: Councillor Diodati
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
d) MW-2009-55
Regional Niagara Waste Collection
Revision to Base Level and Enhanced Level of Service
e)
fl
MOVED by Councillor Thomson, seconded by Councillor Wing that Council support
the proposed changes to the Region's Base Level of Service and the City's Enhanced
Level of Service for the upcoming Regional Waste Collection Request for Proposal
(RFP).
Motion: Carried
Opposed: Councillors: Maves, Diodati and Pietrangelo
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
MW-2009-79
Site Preparation Costs -Gale Complex
MOVED by Councillor Kerrio, seconded by Thomson that this report be received
and filed.
Motion: Carried Unanimously
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
PRC-2009-30
Kalar Road Sports Park
Washroom Building
MOVED by Councillor Thomson, seconded by Councillor Pietrangelo that the
proposed washroom building at the Kalar Road Sports Park be expanded to include
a community club house at a maximum cost to the City of $550,000.
Motion: Carried Unanimously
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
Community Services Committee _4_ October 19, 2009
g) PD-2009-63
Summary of CIP Applications and Proposed Changes to the Financial Incentive
Programs
MOVED by Councillor Wing, seconded by Mayor Salci that Committee approve the
proposed revision to the Financial Incentive Program for the Historic Drummondville
CIP area for implementation on January 1, 2010 and that landowners within the CIP
area be invited to a Public Forum to discuss the funding programs.
Motion: Carried Unanimously
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
MOVED by Mayor Salci, seconded by Councillor Diodati that the Financial Incentive
Program for the Downtown CIP area be deferred to the next Council meeting.
Motion: Carried
Opposed: Councillors Thomson and Wing.
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
h) PD-2009-75
CB&FIG-2009-004, RBL-2009-007
5936-5942 Main Street (former Mondarin Shoe Building)
MOVED by Councillor Pietrangelo, seconded by Councillor Fisher that the Commercial
Building and Facade ImprovementGrantApplication and Residential Loan Application
for 5936-5942 Main Street be approved subject to the owner satisfying the program
requirements including satisfaction ofthe Ontario Building Code and Ontario Fire Code
and the execution of the necessary agreements with the City.
Motion: Carried Unanimously
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
i) TS-2009-42
Kalar Road -Parking Control Review
Mrs. Lisa Wilson advised Committee that she was in favour of the recommendations
outlined in the report. Avid cyclists are forward to connectivity on McLeod Road once
reconstruction works are completed. The vehicles that currently park in the bike lane
actually extend into the roadway diminishing the width of the road.
Mr. Rick Frederick of 7023 Kalar Road advised Committee that there is no additional
parking available in the area. The driveways of the homeowners on the west side of
Kalar Road can fit one car length only. He's opposed the parking restrictions as he
feels this is unfair to the property owners along this section of Kalar Road.
Community Services Committee _5_ October 19, 2009
A letter was received from Noelle Sinclair of 6917 Kalar Road siting limited on-street
parking, with the majority of extra vehicles parking in the bike lane during evening
hours when bicycle activity is minimal. She's in favour of the current arrangement.
MOVED by Councillor Diodati, seconded by Councillor Pietrangelo;
That a "No Parking" zone be established on the west side of Kalar Road between a
point 40 metres north of McGarry Drive ahd a point 230 metres north of McGarry
Drive;
• That a "No Standing" zone be established on the west side of Kalar Road between
McGarry Drive and a point 40 metres north of McGarry Drive;
• That a "No Stopping" zone be established on the west side of Kalar Road between
McGarry Drive and a point 40 metres south of McGarry Drive;
• That a "No Parking" zone be established on the west side of Kalar Road between
a point 40 metres south of McGarry Drive and a point 200 metres south of
McGarry Drive;
• That a "No Stopping" zone be established on the west side of Kalar Road between
a point 200 metres south of McGarry Drive and McLeod Road;
• The bike lane on the west side of Kalar Road be extended to McLeod Road and
that the regulatory signs and markings be applied; and,
• That a "No Heavy Vehicles" restriction including "No Buses" condition, be
established on Kalar Road between Lundy's Lane and McLeod Road.
Motion: Carried
Opposed: Councillors Wing and Thomson
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
j) MW-2009-61
City of Niagara Falls Engineering Design Standards Manual
MOVED by Councillor Kerrio, seconded by Councillor Pietrangelo that Council adopt
the Engineering Design Standards Manual.
Motion: Carried
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
Community Services Committee _(_ October 19, 2009
4)
a)
NEW BUSINESS:
MOVED by Councillor Thomson, seconded by Councillor Wing that a 3-way stop be
installed at the Bellevue and Valley Way intersection.
Motion: Carried Unanimously
Action: Recommendation submitted to Council October 19, 2009.
5) ADJOURNMENT:
MOVED by Councillor Kerrio, seconded by Councillor Maves that the Community
Services meeting be adjourned at 6:14 p.m.
s
Nl~.g~"8
MW-2009-80
November 2, 2009
REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair
Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
SUBMITTED BY: Community Services Department
SUBJECT: MW-2009-80
Request for Infrastructure Improvements
Mulhern Street (Paddock Trail to Montrose Road) and Baldwin
Avenue (Mulhern Street To 200m northerly)
RECOMMENDATION
That the Baldwin Avenue &Mulhern Street Watermain Replacement project identified in
the 2009 Capital Budget be deferred pending the completion of the 10-year Infrastructure
Needs Assessment.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Municipal Works staff has received a requestfrom Mulhern Street residents requesting the
installation of concrete curbs to help define the edge of the pavement and to address some
perennial operational problems such as tire rutting and plow damage.
The installation of curbing will require the lowering of the road profile so that drainage is
not directed onto private property. When considering road reconstruction staff needs to
look at the condition of the underground infrastructure to see if its replacement or
rehabilitation should be included in the scope of the work.
This project is listed in the 2009 Capital Projects Budget at a cost of $950,000. Included
in the funding of this project was an expectation of $535,000 to come from external
contributions and a transferfrom the Utility Budget of $415,000. The residents, through Mr.
Simon Howcroft, have indicated that they are not willing to contribute through the Local
Improvement process. Staff is recommending that any decision in this regard should be
made with due consideration for other priorities within the 10-year Infrastructure Needs
Assessment and that the funding transferred from the Water Utility Budgetwill be allocated
to reserves for consideration in the 2010 budget process.
BACKGROUND
In February of this year, Municipal Works staff received a request for the installation of
curbs on Mulhern Street as part of the proposed watermain project. Mr. Simon Howcroft
acted as the spokesman for the residents and was instrumental in facilitating the
communication with staff. Staff explained that this work was not currently in the City's
Capital Forecast but could be considered as a Local Improvement Project if the majority
of the benefitting property owners were willing to pay their share of the costs. This is the
City's policy for any work that is considered to be "out of phase" (i.e., not included in the
Capital Budget).
November 2, 2009 _2_ MW-2009-80
Municipal Works staff prepared some preliminary costs estimates and informed Mr
Howcroft that the average assessment for this project might be in the range of $10,000 to
$15,000 per lot.
Staff received a response from Mr.Howcroft on behalf of the Mulhern Street residents
dated August 25, 2009. This letter is attached for your reference.
According to our records, the watermain in this section has had several breaks and has a
remaining service life of less than two years. The sanitary and storm sewers are in good
condition. The road was resurfaced in 1983 but is in poor condition due to the deterioration
of the road base.
As you may be aware there are many road sections in similar or worse condition and by
considering the importance of this project in the context of the overall needs, we can make
more cost effective decisions.
FINANCIAL/LEGAL IMPLICATIONS
In the 2009 Water Utility Budget a transfer to capital was approved to fund this project for
$415,000. This amount will be transferred and held in reserves to be considered during
preparation of the 2010 Utility and 2010 Capital Budgets.
COMMITMENT TO COUNCIL PRIORITIES
The recommendation contained in this report is consistent with Council's priorities to
identify and evaluate alternative sources of revenue and to establish infrastructure
investment priorities.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Letter (Holman-Howcroft), dated July 6, 2009.
2. Mulhern Street Local Improvement Plan.
3. Letter (Howcroft-Holman ), August 25, 2009.
4. Capital Budget Worksheet.
Recommended by:
Approved by:
Respectfully submitted:
Geoff Holmah, Dir~cjpr of Municipal Works
Ed
of Corporate Services
Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer
S:IREPORTS\2009\MW-2009-80 -Mulhern Report 1.wpd
~, Munkipai Worka
SpnnaG
flre:M~t
August 25,2008
Mr. Geoff Holman, C.E.T.
Director of Municipal Works
City of Niagara Falls,
4310 Queen St,
Niagara Fatis, On
L2E 6X5
Dear Mr. Holman,
Re: Mulhem Street Muniapal Roadway Improvement
Y Dr ~',..~ ~i
AUG 2 5 2ppg
ENGryy~RING
Thank you for the update. The majority of the Mulhem residents are retired and
are living on faed incomes. They would not be able to contribute the sum
mentioned in your letter.
I agree with your suggestion of getting City Council's direction to expand the
scope of the work so that it would be considered to be "rn phase".
Thank u.
Simon Howcroft
Niag
July 6, 2009
Mr. Simon Howcroft
7731 Mulhern Street
Niagaza Falls, ON L2H 1B4
Deaz Mr. Howcroft
Re: Mulhern Street Municipal Roadway Improvements
Petition for Local Improvements
Our File: Mulhern Street
MunblpNNbrla
Fik
I am writing to give you an update on the above referenced project and to seek your opinion
regarding the next steps to advance this project. The 2009 Capital Budget, approved in April
included funding to replace an aging cast iron watermain on Mulhern Street (Paddock Trail -
MontroseRoad) and on Baldwin Avenue (Mulhem -Vincent) at a cost of approximately $415,000.
The project could be expanded to include the curbs and sidewalks you requested if the adjacent
property owners agreed to contribute an additional $535,000 through the provisions of the Local
hnprovement regulations in the Municipal Act. The City is completing the engineering design for
the watermain replacement portion of the project and needs to confirm if the curbing, sidewalk
and/or any other components should be included in the contract tender. Our preliminary estimate
for the costs to each resident is in the $10,000 to $15,000 range for this work.
Although, the City's policy for "out ofphase"Capital Proj ects has been to require adjacent property
owners to contribute financially, I have some difficulty proceeding with the curb and sidewalk
portion of the project given the existing condition of the mad surface. According to the Pavement
Condition evaluation recently completed, the road needs extensive improvements to the base which
will involve considerable work beyond spot repairs. As a result I would like to get City Council's
direction to expand the scope of the watennain project to include the complete reconstruction of the
roadway (including curbs, gutter and sidewalks) so that it would be considered to be "in-phase."
I
Cibmmunay 6arwces Dapartmem
Workin To ether to Serve Our Common Muniapal Works
8 8 ~' Ext 4219 Fax 905356.2354
ghWman~n~agarafa9s.ca
'- -2-
• ' This approach would signifccantly reduce or eliminate the need for contributions paid directly by the
Mulhern Street property owners however any final decision may not be made until the 2010 Capital
Budget deliberations are completed (later this yeaz or eazly next January).
Of course, if you wish to proceed under the cun'ent approach (i.e., Local Improvement) I will be
happy to arrange a public meeting and commence the formal process.
I look forward to your input and appreciate your patience in this regard.
Thanks again for your cooperation.
GH/mt
Attach:
Yours truly,
Geoff Holman, C.E.T.
Director of Municipal Works
Cc: Mayor Salci
Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director of Community Services
' ~~~~ MULHERN STREET
,~
Jiagaraf~c,lls LOCAL IMPROVEMENT PR0,7ECT
.'
Nlt~g~'~,~St
MW-2009-82
November 2, 2009
REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair
Members of the Community Services Committee
Niagara Falls, Ontario
SUBMITTED BY: Community Services Department
SUBJECT: MW-2009-82
Waterloo Drive Consultant Appointment
RECOMMENDATION
That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute the required Consultant Services
Agreement with AECOM Canada Ltd at an upset limit of $28,000.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Municipal Works staff has determined through field investigation that the current storm and
sanitary systems on Waterloo Drive between Dorchester Road and Rolling Acres Drive are
structurally unsafe causing significant settlement in the roadway. Due to the complexity of
the existing pipe failures combined with the weak sub-grade conditions, staff is
recommending that AECOM Canada Ltd. be retained to complete the proposed design
works and construction specification for the project at an upset limit of $28,000.
BACKGROUND.
The Municipal Works Infrastructure group established that Waterloo Drive has required
continuous asphalt patching over a very short period of time. Video inspections of the
sewer revealed serious cracking resulting in infiltration into the open pipe joints and road
base failure. A geotechnical report indicated that poor soil conditions on Waterloo Drive
were a major contributing factor to the failing infrastructure. Although base plans were
prepared by in-house staff, the detailed design requires specialized expertise to address
the unique soil conditions.
ANALYSIS/RATIONALE
Staff had intended to complete the design of the sewers in-house and where practical
utilizing trenchless technology to reduce the impact of construction in this area. Soils
information and field investigations have confirmed that this approach my not be viable.
AECOM Canada Ltd. has the expertise to complete this analysis and to prepare the
engineering design drawing needed to obtain all necessary approvals and project tender
documents.
According to Council policy, direct appointments are allowed up to $60,000. The proposal
from AECOM includes an upset limit of $28,000 plus applicable taxes.
November 2, 2009 -2- MW-2009-82
FINANCIALILEGAL IMPLICATIONS
The 2009 Capital Budget included funding for construction works in the amount of
$580,000. This project will not proceed to construction until 2010 or later. The proposed
$28,000 fee for engineering services should be funded from this account.
CITY'S STRATEGIC COMMITMENT
The recommendation is consistent with the following Strategic Priorities;
• Establish infrastructure investment priorities,
LIST OF ATTACHMENTS
1. Letter from AECOM to City dated October 14, 2009 (Work Program and
Engineering Fee Estimate).
2. Location Plan
3. Capital Budget Worksheet
Recommended by:
Approved by:
Respectfully submitted:
Geoff Holman„ptfector of Municipal Works
Ed
Ken l'odd, Chief Administrative Officer
C. McLeod
S:SREPORTS12009\MW-2009-82 - Waterlood Drive Consultant Appointment.wpd
AECOM
AECOM
3 - 30 Hannover Drive, St. Catharines, ON, Canada L2VV OA1
T 805.862.0212-F905.882.4495 vnvw.eeoom.com
October 14, 2009
Geoff Holman, C.E.T.
Director
Municipal Works
City of Niagara Falls
4310 Queen Street, PO Box 1023
Niagara Falls, ONT L2E 8X5
Dear Mr. Holman:
Re: Waterloo Drive Rehabilitation
Work Program and Engineering Fee Estimate
As requested, we have reviewed the information provided by the City regarding on-going settlement within tl1e Waterloo
Drive roadway. This settlement appears to be the resutl of existing for soil conditions and inilltretion and settlement of the
underground sewer systems. We have reviewed Information provided by the City and provkle the following
recommendations to address this issue. The information provided by the City consists of plan and profile drawings of
Waterloo Drive, a Geotechnical Report prepared by Shaheen and Peaker dated October 31, 2008 and videos of the existing
sewer system. We also provide an estimate of our engineering fees based on our recommendation, to prepare contract
dopinttehts for tendering and provide contract administration services during construction. We understand that the City
wishes to proceed with this project as soon as possible, subJect to Ciry approval and availability of funding. We are prepared
to corilmence this project immediately following your authorization to proceed.
Exlstlnc Conditbna
F~cisting conditions on Waterloo Drive consist of on-going settlement of the roadway along the sewer alignments including
some manholes. A review of the sewer videos indicates numerous open pipe joints, pipe deflections and some structural
cracking. The'as-built information provided by the City also indicates a negative slope in some pipe sections.
Proposed Restora8on Plan
Based on our review of the. site and information provided by the City, we provide the following recommendations to rectify
the existing deficiencies an Waterloo Drive:
• Sewer sections wi8r an existing negative sbpe should be replaced, including manholes, to provide a positive
slope.
• Existing sewer sections showing structural cracking should be replaced.
Page 2
Cny of Niagara Falls
October 14, 2009
• Other sewersections should be grouted internalty to correct and prevent further in8ttration problems.
We note that fhe Geotechnical Report provides recommendations regarding repairs to the sewer system.
These recommendations include using a geotexble fabric around the sewer beddsrg as well as new pipe
joints. In addition, proper quality control doting construction will be required to address existing soil
condiions, weak sub-grade conditions or localized ground water conditions. We anticipate implementing
these recommendaNonslnto this project.
• We also note that the use of a sewer liner is an alternative solution for this project however, this method of
repair does not rectify negative slops conditions or settled manholes. 7hls technique generally is also more
crosBy than Jointsealing which for this pr%ct 1s more cosAeffectrve.
• Our recommendation includes repairs to both the existng sanitary and storm sewer systems.
• We note that the sewer videos provided by the City only include approximately 50% of fhe existing storm
sewer system. Therefore, the balance of the storm sewer system should be videoed in order ~ complete our
assessment
Estimated Construction Costs
Based on our preliminary review of the existing sewer systems, we have prepared an'order of magnitude' cost estimate for
the repairs as follows:
• Sanitary Sewer System
• Storm Sewer System
Enain~rina Feee
$ 250,000.00 - $ 300,000.00
$175,000.00 - $ 200,000.00
The following engineering fee estimate is based on the recrommended restoration plan described above and includes
preparation of engineering drawings, comract documents, tendering and construction administration.
Task
1, Preliminary Design-Review existing conditions
2. Detailed Design and Preparation of Engineering Drawings
3. Preparation of Contract Documents
4. Ass(st the City with the Tendering Process
Total -Design
5. Construction Administragon (40 working days)
Total Fstimated Englncering Fee
wakWan_oc,iao9m«
Estimated Fee
$ 8,380.00
$ 9,490.00
$ 7,390.00
1 820.0
$27,oso.oo , -~ evtg , on ~ y
49 0
$76,140.00 (Plus GST)
AECOM
Page 3,
Ciry of Niagara Falls
October 74, 2009
As part of the engineering costs, we r~ommend an allowance of $25,000.00 io cover geotechnical costs during the detailed
design and construction phases of the project. Nso, the estimated construction administration fee is based on 40 working
days of construction. This estimate may be lower depending on the amount of work to be determined during detailed design.
We appreciate your consideration for thls project and look forward to wrorldng with the City. If addhional information or
clar'rfication is required, do not hesitate to contactihis office.
Sincerely,
AECOM Canada Ltd.
Gob Shields, P. Eng.
Gord.Sh fields ~ aecom.com
Copy to: Chuck McLeod, C.E.T., Gity of Niagara Falls
w~~~a„~~ ~ AECOM
APPROVED SCALE
MUNICIPAL WORKS_ N.T.S.
REVISION DATE
DIRECTOR OF WHNCIPAL
WATERLOO DRIVE
FROM ROLLING ACRES DRIVE TO DORCHESTER ROAD
DWG. NO. Rev.
1 of 1 0
DATE
i ,8
° Capital Budget Worksheet
i ~ 2009
I Capital Management Reference
Purchase Q
.
Department Municival Works - Improvement 0
t
Project Name Wa[erbe Drive San tary Sewer Repair ConsWCtion(new) Q
- Project I.D. R Development Q
Category in 2008 2 Year lnitialb Approvetl
- Project Description Waterloo Drive Dorchester to Rolling Acres Sanitary Sewer repair/refining7replacement & storm sewer spot repairs
CURRENT
ACTUAL
as of December 31
YEAR
YEAR
YEAR
YEAR
YEAR
YEAR
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Opening Balance -Jan O1
0
0 p 0 0
(surplus)/deficit 0
E%PENDD'URES - -
Engineerlng Fee:
Studies
Landf Building!
Equipment
COnetmCtlgn
Siteworkf Land:
-
~ Contingency
Other
EXPEN
TOTAL
ING SONRCES
FDND
SPei
S~
Ti
Prv
TOTALF
Closing Balance-Ded31
0
0 0 0
(surplus) 7 deficit 0 0
0:12009 SudgetlCapital ButlgeaMunicipal WorkalWaledoo Drive Sanitary Sewer Repair (new).gpw - 01JUn-09, 10:19:32 AM
Nagara,Falls
P[)-2008-84
November 2, 2009
REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ohtario
SUBMITTED BY: Planning & Development
SUBJECT: PD-2009.-84
CB&FIG-2008-020 to 2008-023 & CB&FIG-2009-008 to 2009-009
Commercial Building & Facade Improvement Applications
Queen Street (4 properties) & Crysler Avenue (1 property)
Applicant: Historic Niagara (Mordecai Grun)
RECOMMENDATION
That Council approve the applications for Facade and Commercial Building Improvement,
subject to Historic Niagara meeting the Downtown CIP program requirements.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The applications can be supported because:
the items of improvement are eligible under the Commercial Building and Facade
Improvement Grant program and. no funds will be provided until all program
requirements are met.
sufficient funds are available in the 2009 CIP Budget; and
the work. has had a positive impact on the revitalization of the Downtown area.
BACKGROUND
The City has received five Commercial Building and Facade Improvement Applications for
the Downtown area from Historic Niagara. Three of the applications (CB&FIG-2008-020,
CB&FIG-2008-022 & CB&FIG-023) were received last year but were returned to the
applicant because they lacked sufficient detail to provide a recommendation to Council.
The other two applications are new (CB&FIG-2009-008 and CB&FIG-2009-009). All the
buildings related to the applications have undergone improvements to both their facades
and interior of the buildings over the past year. The applications and extent of
improvements are briefly highlighted as follows:
4437 Queen Street - CB&FIG-2008-022 -The Buttery
Extensive rehovations have occurred in the building that contains The Buttery.
There is a restaurant and bar area as well as a separate room used for
entertainment and feast with King Henry. The cost of facade improvements was
almost $40,000 which included new doors, wooden cladding facia and awning. The
structural and interior improvements cost almost $135,000 and included extensive
electrical upgrades, new HVAC system and plumbing.
November 2, 2009 - 2 - PD-2009-84
2. 4609-4611 Crysler Avenue - CB&FIG-2009-009 - Bella'r Spa and Hair Salon.
(new application)
The building was improved. during the summer of 2009. The facade improvements
cost approximately $12,500 which included painting and new awnings. The
structural improvements included new plumbing and air conditioning totalling
$6,300.
3. 4613 Queen Street - CB&FIG-2008-023 -Paris Crepes
The building was extensively refurbished with much of the inside restaurant and
outside facade entirely new. The facade improvement costs were approximately
$35,000 and included a rebuilding of the store front, new doors and windows,
painting and signage. The inside improvements included new electrical wiring,
HVAC system and plumbing. The structural and interior work costs were
approximately $4(),000.
4. 4680 Queen Street - CB&FIG-2009-008 -Taps Brewery (new application)
Extensive renovations have been carried out at Taps Brewery who operate their
actual brewery operations on the site as well as a restaurant and bar. The brewery
portion of the operation includes large stainless steel kettles and bottling operations.
The facade costs were more than $77,000 which included a new store front and
stucco exterior. Interior improvement costs were more than $145,000 and included
extensive electrical and plumbing. work along with a nevv HVAC system.
5. 4388 Queen Street - CB&FIG-2008-020 - (Elgin Block), Balzacs Cafe and 4394
Gallery
Improvements were carried out largely in two areas. One vvas for Balzac's Coffee
Shop and secondly for 4384 Gallery. The facade improvement cost was
approximately $27,000 and included a new store front for Balzacs with new
vvindows, doors and awnings. The structural improvements were morethan $35,000
and included new lighting, plumbing and HVAC system.
ANALYSIS
A large portion of the work carried out on the buildings comply with the eligibility items
contained in the Commercial Building and Facade ImprovementProgram forthe Downtown
CIP. However, one of the requirements to be eligible for a grant is that the work is not to
occur until after Council has approved the applications and the owner enters into
agreements with the City. In the spring of 2008, Historic Niagara made application for
thirteen (13) grantapplications and many ofthese applications involved buildings thatwere
already improved. In this case, Council approved the applications subject to the payment
of all outstanding property taxes. A large grant was paid to the applicant of these
applications following the payment of all outstanding taxes for the properties and proof of
all eligible expenses were paid to the. contractors. The recommendation of this report is
based upon a similar approach as the previous applications.
November 2, 2009 - 3 -
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
PD-2009-84
The City's Finance Division has been working very closely with the Historic Niagara
regarding their required tax payments and they have advised that owner is on a payment
plan for all five of the properties subject to this report. The grant amount to be received
under the 2009 CIP General Purpose Budget (1 t-3-823005-050000) is approximately
$105,000. In addition, once the applicant receives their grant, the City will request that
Region of Niagara to provide the City with a portion of the facade grant which is expected
to be about $23,000.
CITY'S STRATEGIC COMMITMENT
The improvements carried out on the buildings of Historic Niagara satisfy the objectives of
the Downtown CIP and encourage the continued rejuvenation of the area. Although the
improvements have been carried out before approval by Council, the overriding positive
is that many of the Dowhtovvn buildings have been renovated and facades improved.
These improvements have changed the appearance. of Downtown and continue to
stimulate additional development.
LIST OF ATTACHMENTS
Appendix 1 -Location map of the subject properties.
Appendix 2 -Summary Chart of the five grant applications from Historic Niagara.
Appendix 3 -Illustration. of facade improvements.
Recommended by:
Approved by:
Respectfully submitted:
~~~~~~~
.Alex Herlovitch, Director of Planning & Development
Ed Dujlovic,~x ive Director, Community Services
Ken A'odd. Chief Administrative
B.BOlibruck
Attach.
S:\PDRt20091PD-2009-84, CB&FIG-2008-020to2008-023 & 2009-OOSto2009-009, Historic Niagara.wpd
. November 2, 2009 -4 - PD-2009.84
APPENDIX 7
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4613 Queen Street
EXISTING BUILDING ELEVATION -FACING QUEEN STREET
COMPLETED BUILDING FACADE IMPROVEMENT
~~ _~
Taps Brewery
4680 Queen Street
~~ PD-2009-85
Niagar~-~ November 2, 2009
REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
SUBMITTED BY: Planning & Development
SUBJECT: PD-2009-85
CB&FIG-2009-005, Commercial Building & Facade
Improvement Application
Applicant: Franjo and Anda Marjanovic
5844 Ferry Street (Ferry Street Cafe)
RECOMMENDATION
1) That the Commercial Building & Facade Improvement Grant Application for 5844
Ferry Street be approved subject to the owner satisfying the program requirements.
2) That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute the grant agreement.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The application can be supported because:
the building improvement requested by the applicant is an eligible item under the
Commercial Building Grant program; and
sufficient funds are available in the 2009 CIP Budget.
BACKGROUND
The City has received its fifth CB&FIG application of 2009 within the Historic
Drummondville area. The property is currently occupied by the Ferry Street Cafes. The
Committee may recall that the applicant applied earlierthis yearfor a facade improvement
grant and this application was approved.
The applicant indicated, at the time of the previous application, that she wished to seek
additional funding under the Commercial Building Grant. However, she had limited funds
at her disposal that did not allow her to carry out any additional improvements. The
internal building work that requires replacing is the furnace. Recent failure of the fumace
and eligibility of such items under the Commercial Building program has encouraged her
to apply for a grant. The applicant has submitted two estimates from furnace contractors.
The lower estimate is $4,838.00. If approved, the applicant will be eligible for a grant of
$2,419.00.
November 2, 2009 - 2 - PD-2009-85
ANALYSIS
Under the Commercial Building component of the grant program there are a variety of
building maintenance and improvement works that are- eligible for a matching grant. '
Required improvements to heating systems is identified as one such item.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The approval of this application will provide a grant to the applicant of $2,419.00. The
grant amountwill be provided from the ClPfunding in the approved 2009 General Purpose
Budget (11-3-823007-050000).
CITY'S STRATEGIC COMMITMENT
The approval of the grant application will satisfy the objectives of the Historic
Drummondville CIP and encourage the continued improvements of buildings within the
Main and Ferry area.
LIST OF ATTACHMENTS
Appendix 1 -Location map of the subject property.
Recommended by:
Approved by:
Respectfully submitted:
6Z Alex Herlovitchr ire or of Planning & Development
~n
Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director, Community Services
Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer
B.BOlibruck
Attach.
S:\PDR12009\PD-2009-85, CB&FIG-2009.005, Marjanovlc, 5844 Ferry St.wpd
November 2, 2009 - 3 - PD-2009-85
APPENDIX 1
~~
NiagarapaIIs
PD-2009-81
November 2, 2009
REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
SUBMITTED BY: Planning & Development
SUBJECT: PD-2009-81
Open Houses for Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments
RECOMMENDATION
That Council pass the revised Pre-consultation By-law appearing on the agenda to require
an open house to beheld for applications to amend the City's Official Plan and Zoning By-law
as part of a complete application.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Staff is proposing an amendment to the City's Pre-consultation By-law (No. 2008-189). The
amendment is proposed to require proponents of applications to amend the City's Official
Plan and/or Zoning By-law to attend open houses hosted by City staff to inform surrounding
property owners about the developments that could result from the proposed amendments.
The open houses would occur prior to the formal Public Meetings required by the Planning
Act to be held with Council.
BACKGROUND
On November 3, 2008, Council passed the City's Pre-consultation By-law No.2008-189 which
requires persons who intend to file an application to amend the City's Official Plan and/or
Zoning By-law, subdivide land (plan of subdivision or consent), or obtain site plan approval
to consult with staff first. Refer to the attached report (PD-2008-94) and By-law (No. 2008-
189) for further detail.
Proposal
Open houses provide an opportunityforthepublic tolearn aboutdevelopmentproposals and
ask questions in a relatively informal setting. Staff is proposing an amendment to the City's
Pre-consultation By-law to require proponents of applications to amend the City's Official Plan
and/or Zoning By-law to attend open houses to inform property owners within 120 metres of
subject lands about developments that could result from the proposed amendments before
the required Public Meeting before Council. Open houses would typically occur at City Hall
to minimize costs and ensure meetings are accessible to all persons.
These meetings would be held approximately two weeks after all the required information was
received to ensure there is sufficient time to obtain department and agency comments before
meeting with the public. The meetings would be held either late afternoon or in the evening
to enable working residents to attend. The applicant and the public would receive notice
aboutthe meeting through the mail approximately two weeks in advance. The City-produced
notice would identify the purpose, date, time and location of the open house.
November 2, 2009 - 2 - PD-2009-81
Open houses would be hosted by City staff to facilitate an orderly exchange of information
and input between applicants and the public. It is hoped applicants would take advantage of
the opportunity to interact with the property owners surrounding the developments. It is also
hoped area property owners would more readily provide feedback outside of the formal public
meeting process. A number of developers have already been holding open houses on a
voluntary basis with much success.
Open houses would be held a minimum of three days in advance of the City giving notice of
the public meeting before Council. This would afford the applicant an opportunity to modify
the proposal and the application if desired.
To assist the public in understanding the proposed development the following information
would be available at open houses:
• A graphic presentation depicting the layout and the proposed development.
• A development "fact sheet" including the size of the proposed project, proposed land
use, number of dwelling units, tenants of the .project, building heights, parking
requirements, land dedications, landscaped open space, setbacks, lot coverage, floor
area, public recreation components or facilities, etc. and the current and proposed
designation and/or zoning.
• A letter of intent from the applicant explaining how the proposed development will be
compatible with surrounding land uses and what steps have been taken to ensure
compatibility with the neighbourhood and community.
Sign-in sheets would be used to record who was in attendance at the meetings and forfollow-
up if necessary. City planners chairing the meetings would provide the introductory remarks
including an overview of the proposal and would record the comments made during the
meetings. Written comments would also be welcome. Following the applicants presentation
and a question and answer period, the City plannerwould inform the public regarding the next
steps and the need to attend the mandatory public meeting or submit formal comments if they
wish to pursue their concerns with Council or file an objection.
An amendment to the City's Pre-consultation By-law is necessary to require the holding of
open houses as part of a complete application. The amending By-law is included in Council's
agenda for consideration and passing. The By-law is identical to By-law No. 2008-189
passed on November 3, 2008-with the exception of an additional clause requiring an open
house to be held as part of a complete application.
CITY'S STRATEGIC COMMITMENT
Council is committed to improving the quality of life for City residents. Public consultation is
an excellent way to find out the quality of life City residents desire. Public open houses are
one of a number of tools that can be used to obtain public views and can help resolve issues
that have not been discovered until the required public meeting before Council.
Council is also committed to monitoring and improving the efficiency of the organization. It is
believed that public open houses for development applications will assist in addressing
various development issues prior to the formal review by Council at required public meetings.
November 2, 2009 - 3 - PD-2009-81
LIST OF ATTACHMENTS
Staff report PD-2008-94
By-law No. 2008-189
Recommended by:
Approved by:
Respectfully submitted:
Itch, Director of Planning & Development
r ~ ~
Ed Dujlovic,t.l=xecutive Director, Community Services
Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer
K.Mech:mn
Attach.
S:1PDR42009\PD-2009.81, Open Houses for OP & ZBA.wpd
. novemuer 3, 2ppS
PD-200$-94
l~T~.~ara,~alls
CANADA
His Worship Mayor Ted Salci
and Members of the Municipal Council.
City of Niagara Fails, Ontario
The recommendation(s)
contained in this reportwere
adopted by City Council
Members:
Re: PD-2008-94
Preconsultation on Certain Applications Underthe Planning Act
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council approve the preconsultation by-law on this evening's agenda.
BACKGROUND:
The Planning and Conservation Land Statute Law Amendment (Bill 51) introduced
changes to the Ontario Planning Act including the option for Council to require
preconsultation between applicants and the-City as part of a complete application
for an Official Plan or zoning amendment, plan of subdivision, site plan or consent.
Through Planning Report PD-2008-13, Staff recommended that preconsultation be
made a condition of a complete application so that applicants can be advised by
Staff early in the process of what is necessary for the application and the costs of
the work involved. This would result in a-better quality proposal and thus fewer
delays at the review and decision making stages.
Preconsultation involves a meeting, either.foi-mally orinformally, behveen staff and
a proponent where details of a proposal are provided to the Planner and, fn return,
an outline of which reports and studies are required through the Planning Act
regulations and the City's Official Plan to constitute a complete application. Where
an application is considered to be minor in nature, the Director of Planning or his
delegate, may waive the requirement for a formal meeting.
Council must adopt a By-law to require preconsultation and a policy mast be
included in the Official Plan to include preconsultation as part of a complete
application:
- The Region recentlyapproved the City's Official Ptan Amendment#76 which
adds a policy to tie Official Plan to require preconsultation as part of a
complete application:•
Working Together to Serve Our Community ~ ComP~ann ng 6 p~ P ~r~Nnent
November 3, 2008 - 2 - PD-2608-94
- By-Iaw200$-164 was approved by Council on September 22, 2008 to require
preconsultation as provided for under the Planning Act for Official Plan and
Zoning By-IawAmendments, draft Plans of subdivision or condominium and
consents to sever.
• The By-law on this evening's agenda adds the requirement for preconsultation for
applications for site plan control.
Recommended by:
of Planning
Approved by:
Services
Respectfully submitted: (/ ~ C
John Ma Wald. Chief Admi
F.Berardl:mb
S:IPbR120081P0.2008-84, AM•2008.013, Preconsultadon.wpd
CITY OF NIAGARA FALLS
By-Iaw No. 2008 -189
A by-law to require pre-consultation on certain Planning Act applications in the City oflViagara Falls.
WHEREAS Sections 22(3.1), 34(] 0.01 }, 41(3.1) and 51(16.1) of the Planning Act, R.S,0.1490, Part
3, as amended, allow municipalities to pass by-laws to require applicants to consult with the
municipality prior to the submission of an application made under the Act for an amendment to the
Official Plan or Zoning By-law, plans of subdivision, site plan control or consent; and
WHEREAS the Official Plan allows for such consultation meetings as aprovision of orihe submission
of a complete application; and
WHEREAS the Council of the City of Niagara Falls wishes to require consultation with the City prior
to the submission of certain applications made under the Planning Act;
THE COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF NIAGARA FALLS ENACTS
AS FOLLOWS:
1. That persons intending to make application to the City of Niagara Falls for an amendment to
the Official Plan or Zoning By-Iaw, draft plan of subdivision, site plan control or consent, be required
to consult with City Staff prior to the submission of the application.
2. That the purpose of such consultation meetings will be to review a draft development proposal
for the lands affected by the proposed applications and to identify the scope of additional supporting
information or material required. by the City of Niagara Falls and/or other affected agencies to allow
frill consideration of the development application.
3. That in the absence of consultation prior to the submission of an application and the submission
of all required supporting information or material, the City of Niagaaa Falls may deem an application
as incomplete under the provisions of the Planning Act.
4. The Director of Planning or his designate shall have the discretion to waive the requirement
for a formal consultation meeting when, in his/her opinion, it has been deemed to beunnecessary-for
a complete review of the application.
5. Where a consultationmeeting is deemed to be necessary, a consultation checklist or agreement
shall be completed and signed by all parties present.
6. That By-law No. 2008-164 be repealed.
Passed this third day of November, 2008.
. ~..
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DEAN IORFID CITY CLERK
Fist Reading:
Second Reading:
Third Reading:
November 3, 2008
November 3, 2008
November 3, 2008
~, , ,
R. T. (TED) SALCI, MAYOR
TS-2009-43
Nigar~,j~alls November 2, 2009
saxana
REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
SUBMITTED BY: Transportation Services
SUBJECT: TS-2009-43
Erie Avenue -Parking Review
RECOMMENDATION
That a "No Parking -Passenger Drop Off Zone Only" zone be established on the west side
of Erie Avenue from a point 29 metres south of Bridge Street to a point 41 metres south
of Bridge Street.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The proposed zone will enable persons to stop their vehicle momentarily next to the transit
terminal to discharge passengers and luggage.
BACKGROUND
Drivers are currently prohibited from stopping on the west side of Erie Avenue adjacent to
the transit terminal building. A request has been received to allow the public to have the
ability to discharge passengers and luggage next to the building similar to the newly
established zones next to the train station.
ANALYSIS/RATIONALE
Transportation Services has no concerns with the requested passenger drop off zone.
Drivers will be permitted to stop their vehicles for short periods while they drop off
passengers; they will not be permitted to-park their vehicles within this area. Two (2)
vehicles will be able to fit into the "no parking -passenger drop off zone only" zone.
Further to the signing revision, the proposed zone will be augmented with hatched yellow
markings, while the bus area to the south will be painted with white hatched marking to
match the painted zones on Bridge Street next to the VIA train station. The proposed zone
will not affect the ability of bus drivers in accessing the downstream bus standing area.
FINANCIAL/STAFFINGILEGAL IMPLICATIONS
The installation of the signs is carried out by Transportation Services staff. The labour and
material costs are accounted for in the Approved 2009 General Purposes Budget. Cost
studies estimate that the cost to manufacture and install the signs and applythe pavement
markings is approximately $400.
November 2, 2009 -2- TS-2009-43
LIST OF ATTACHMENTS
Study Area drawing.
Recommended by:
Approved by:
Respectfully submitted:
Dren, Director of Transportation Services
Ed DujlovicvExecutive Director of Community Services
Ken 1"odd, Chief Administrative Officer
J. Gru6ich
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TS 2009-45
November 2, 2009
,REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
SUBMITTED BY: Transportation Services
SUBJECT: TS-2009-45
Peer Street -Heavy Vehicle Restriction
RECOMMENDATION
That heavy vehicles including buses be prohibited on Peer Street between Allendale
Avenue and Main Street.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The proposed prohibitions will prohibit large trucks including buses from shortcutting on
Peer Street. The signs will not affect local deliveries that have a destination within the
prohibited zone, ortourbus operatorswhich provide Underground Railroad /Freedom Trail
tours, for which a national historic site is present on Peer Street.
BACKGROUND
Concerns have been raised by Peer Street residents that commercial bus drivers have
been utilizing Peer Street as a shortcut route.
ANALYSISIRATIONALE
Peer Street is a predominantly mature residential street that extends between Allendale
Avenue and Main Street. Peer Street extends parallel with Ferry Street, which is the next
street to the north. When Ferry Street is congested, bus operators may choose to infiltrate
into the neighbourhood and use Peer Street. To mitigate concerns regarding heavyvehicle
operators from infiltrating onto Peer Street to avoid major roads, a heavy vehicle prohibition
including buses is required to be posted. Signs to identify the prohibition will be posted at
both ends of Peer Street.
The R. Nathaniel Dett Chapel, British Methodist Episcopal Church has been designated
by the Canadian Government as a place of national historic significance. The Church is
located on the southwest corner of Peer Street and Grey Avenue. The church is one stop
on tours which highlight significant Underground Railroad /Freedom Trail history. The
proposed restriction will not affect bus operators which provide tours of the Underground
Railroad history, given that there are no other routes which a driver can use to gain access
to the church property.
November 2, 2009 -2- TS-2009-45
FINANCIAL/STAFFING/LEGAL IMPLICATIONS
The installation of the signs is carried out by Transportation Services staff. The labour and
material costs are accounted for in the Approved 2009 General Purposes Budget. Cost
studies estimate that the cost to manufacture and install the signs is approximately $450.
LIST OF ATTACHMENTS
Study Area drawing.
Recommended by:
Approved by:
Respectfully submitted:
Karl Dren, Director of Transportation Services
Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director of Community Services
Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer
J. Grubich
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TS-2009-44
November 2, 2009
REPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
SUBMITTED BY: Transportation Services
SUBJECT: TS-2009-44
Mewburn Road -Road Closure
RECOMMENDATION
That Council approves the by-law appearing on tonight's agenda to prohibit passage over
the Mewburn Road rail bridge. With an amendment to allow temporary passage of
pedestrians and human powered vehicles.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A bylaw to authorize the closure of Mewburn Road at the rail bridge has been prepared.
The bylawwill be in effect until bridge remediation is completed and traffic is again allowed
to pass overthe rail corridor. The detoursignswill be removed and replaced with "No Exit"
signs, and supplementary information signs identifying the closure at the bridge.
BACKGROUND
At its meeting on June 8, 2009, City Council adopted the recommendations set in report
MW-2009-42 regarding the temporary closure of the Mewburn Road Bridge over the CN
Railway. On August 31, 2009, City Council approved the engagement of Delcan
Corporation to complete the Environmental Assessment that would examine options for
reopening the roadway. (See MW-2009-59)
Recent discussion with Emergency Services and Operations staff has identified the need
to make the road closure signage more visible and durable so that they will not be
jeopardized during winter conditions. The issue of pedestrian activity has become a
concern to staff given the uncertainty of the structural integrity of the bridge. This bridge
is identified as part of the Bruce Trail and staff continue to have concerns about the use
of the bridge by pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles.
Since the bridge is owned by CN, staff requested their position regarding the use of this
structure even by non-motorized vehicles and pedestrians to which staff received the
following response. "We have discussed fhe matterof permitting pedestrian use only and
are of the opinion that no traffic of any kind be permitted to use the bridge. It appears that
any safety factors with the load capacity of the bridge no longer meet standards. We are
not concerned at this time that the structure will collapse since it was handling heavy traffic
a short time ago. We will continue fo monitorthe bridge forsigns of failure and movement."
John MacTaggart, P.Eng., Senior Engineering Services Officer.
November 2, 2009 -2- TS-2009-44
The Notice of Study Commencement for the Environmental Assessment has been
advertised and the first Public Information Centre is scheduled for mid-November.
ANALYSISIRATIONALE
It may be another two years before remedial action is completed which would allow traffic
to traverse the rail corridor. Municipal works have identified a concern regarding the quality
of snow plowing on Mewburn Road around the large road-closed sign. Furthermore,
detour signing is normally not used for durations that extend beyond one year. In the
interim, Staff is suggesting that the street be signed with a "No Exit" sign supplemented
with the star burst "New' sign on top. An information sign stating "Mewburn Road Closed
at Bridge" will also be posted for driver information, Section 35 of the Municipal Actgives
municipalities the authority to pass a bylaw to restrict the common right of passage over
highways.
The opposite end of the road segment, north of the rail bridge, is located within the Town
of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Staff has updated town staff on the City's undertakings. As the
bridge is entirely within Niagara Falls, town officials would only need to install similar
signage at the ingress to the road segment.
FINANCIALlSTAFFING/LEGAL IMPLICATIONS
The installation of the signs is carried out byTransportation Services staff. The labourand
material costs are accounted for in the Approved 2009 General Purposes Budget. Cost
studies estimate that the cost to manufacture and install the signs is approximately $725.
LIST OF ATTACHMENTS
Study Area drawing.
Recommended by:
Approved by:
Respectfully submitted:
Karl Dren, Director of Transportation Services
Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director of Community Services
Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer
J. Grubich
Location Proposed
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TS-2009-47
November 2, 2009
t.2EPORT TO: Councillor Carolynn loannoni, Chair
and Members of the Community Services Committee
City of Niagara Falls
SUBMITTED BY: Transportation Services
SUBJECT: TS-2009-47
Eastwood Crescent
Traffic Operations Review
RECOMMENDATION
That this report is received for the information of Committee.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
No additional traffic control devices are warranted on Eastwood Crescent between Victoria
Avenue and Palmer Avenue.
BACKGROUND
A follow up review was carried out on Eastwood Crescent between Victoria Avenue and
Palmer Avenue in response to report TS-2008-51 which was presented at Committee on
December 1, 2008. The Committee requested Staff to review the traffic operations over
the next six months.
The concerns which precipitated the original review stemmed from traffic operation issues
including traffic volumes, congestion, speeds, heavy vehicles, parking and visibility. A
concern regarding the potential for increased traffic through the neighbourhood once the
seven storey residential apartment complex at River Road and John Street is constructed
was also expressed. In response to these concerns, Staff recommended the installation
of a heavy vehicle restriction on Eastwood Crescent, a stop sign on Wesley Place at
Eastwood Grescent, a stopping prohibition on the south side of Eastwood Crescent to the
east of Victoria Avenue and prohibited buses from parking in the metered parking stalls on
Victoria Avenue to the north and south of Eastwood Crescent.
ANALYSIS/RATIONALE
Traffic recorders were installed for a duration of one week on Eastwood Crescent to record
traffic volume and speed data. Similar traffic volume results were obtained with last year's
study. On an average day, Eastwood Crescent carries a 2-way volume of 1580 vehicles
between College Grescent and Victoria Avenue, and a 2-way volume of 1040 vehicles
between College Crescent and Palmer Avenue.
Speed studies identified that the 85`h percentile speed on Eastwood Crescent, the speed
which the majority of motorists travel at or below was calculated to be 48 km/h west of
November 2, 2009 - 2 - TS-2009-47
College Crescent, and is 46 km/h east of College Crescent. The speed data collected is:
similar to the studies carried out in autumn 2008. Given that the speed limit is 50 km/h, a
speeding problem was not identified.
An origin and destination study was carried out to determine the number of drivers using
Eastwood Crescent that does not have either an origin or destination on the roadway.
Data was collected for two hours in the morning and two hours in the afternoon. During
the duration of the study, a total of 258 vehicles was observed in the eastbound direction
of which 129 vehicles or 50% passed directly through. In the westbound direction, a total
of 250 vehicles was observed and 140 vehicles or 56% of the total passed through.
These study results indicate little change from previous studies.
As noted in the previous report, Palmer Avenue is a collector road that runs parallel to
Victoria Avenue and offers an alternate route to downtown. Motorists exiting Roberts
Street onto Victoria Avenue may choose to access downtown area via Eastwood Crescent
and Palmer Avenue rather than proceeding north on Victoria Avenue. Motorists may feel
that using Eastwood Crescent instead of Victoria Avenue is quicker as there are no traffic
signals to pass through to reach downtown. A time and delay study revealed that the time
to reach downtown would be the same via either route, subject to the motorist not having
to stop for a red light at any of the seven traffic signals they would encounter. Thus, there
is evidence that motorists that have no origin or destination on Eastwood Crescent use it
as an alternate route. This is not an uncommon occurrence on streets that extend
between two arterial roads and/or collector roads.
Drivers on College Crescent are afforded maximum sight lines in both directions from a
stopped position given that parking is prohibited on the inner circle. Permit parking is
present on the outer circle abutting the residential dwellings. Each intersection within the
study area is controlled by a stop sign on the minor approach to assign the right-of-way.
Observations were done to determinewhetherdelays and long queues occuron Eastwood
Crescent as driver wait for a suitable gap to turn onto Victoria Avenue. The longest queue
was observed to be four (4) vehicles. All motorists were able to make their respective
turning movements from Eastwood Crescent onto Victoria Avenue with little delay.
Although Eastwood Crescent curves throughout its extent, drivers approaching the
intersection are able to see if vehicles are already stopped at the intersection, given that
parking is prohibited on the inner curve and stopping is prohibited on the outer curve within
30 metres of Victoria Avenue. There has not been any rear-end collisions at this
intersection which would indicate thatthere is a visibility issue as drivers approach the stop
sign.
There has been one (1) collision within the study area since the previous review. It
involved a westbound driver on Eastwood Crescent not yielding the right-of--way to a
northbound cyclist on Victoria Avenue. A stop sign compliance study was carried out at
the intersection of Eastwood Crescent at College Crescent to address concerns related to
drivers disobeying the posted signs. Although a low sample was obtained, observations
identified that 85% of motorists performed a rolling stop.
Based on the results of the follow-up studies, no additional traffic control devices are
warranted. Staff has requested the Niagara Regional Police to provide stop sign
enforcement at the intersection of Eastwood Crescent at College Crescent, as there is
evidence that the majority of motorists are not completing a full legal stop.
November 2, 2009
LIST OF ATTACHMENTS
Study Area drawing.
Recommended by:
Approved by:
- 3 - TS-2009-47
Karl Dren, Director Transportation Services
Ed Dujlovic, Executive Director of Community Services
Respectfully submitted: I
Ken Todd, Chief Administrative Officer
Bart Skiba
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