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2002/11/181) 2) 3) 4) b) e) TWELFTH MEETING Monday, November 18, 2002 From 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. City Hall, Committee Room #2A & B Approval of the 2002 10 21 Community Services Committee Minutes DEPUTATION R-2002-67 - Construction of Slo-Pitch Complex Bill Miller STAFF CONTACT Adele Kon Casino Niagara Exterior Sign Package Falls Management Company - Action - Refer to Staff Ed Dujlovic PRESENTATION MW-2002-139 - Presenter: REPORTS Dorchester Road Environmental Assessment - Update Delcan and Bob Darrall BBS-2002-14 - BBS-2002-16 - MW-2002-149- MW-2002-150- MW-2002-153- Tender for Demolition of Unsafe Building at 5972 Grey Avenue Embassy Suites - Fallsview Boulevard Sign Variance Brookfield Court Subdivision - Storm Sewer Cost Sharing Proposal Grey Avenue Traffic Review Environmental Assessment Review - Consultant Engagement Beaver Valley Subdivision Phase 2, Clearance of Draft Plan #7, Cost Sharing Green Avenue Extension Ed Dujlovic Ed Dujlovic Ed Dujlovic Ed Dujlovic Ed Dujlovic Community Services Committee - 2 - November 18, 2002 R-2002-68 - Chippawa Outdoor Swimming Pool R-2002-69 - Request for a Fence Encroachment Andrew & Mary Morgan - 6397 Jupiter NEW BUSINESS Adele Kon Adele Kon 6) ADJOURNMENT MINUTES OF COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING, Monday, October 21, 2002, CITY HALL, ROOM 2 at 5:00 P.M. PRESENT: Chairman Victor Pietrangelo, Mayor Wayne Thomson, Alderman Paisley Janvary-Pool, Alderman Shirley Fisher, Alderman Selina Volpatti, Alderman Janice Wing, Alderman Carolynn Ioannoni, Alderman Art Federow, Alderman Judy Orr, Alderman Kim Craitor Alderman, Norm Puttick, Alderman Wayne Campbell, Alderman Ken Feren STAFF: John MacDonald, Tony Ravenda, Adele Kon, Ed Dujlovic, Dean Iorfida, Pat Burke, Ken Burden, Sue Forcier, Paul Pingue, Lynn Molloy, Steve Norris ABSENT: PRESS: GUEST: Ray Kallio Corey Larocque, Niagara Falls Review Residents of Gunning Drive and Tim Matthews representing Scared Heart School 1) MINUTES IT WAS MOVED BY ALDERMAN FISHER, seconded by Alderman Volpatti that the minutes of the October 7, 2002, meeting be accepted. Motion: Carried Action: Recommendation submitted to Council 200210 21 2) REPORTS a) MW-2002-126 - Gunning Drive New Petition for New Sidewalk & Public Meeting After a lengthy discussion the residents of Gunning Drive and surrounding area advised Committee that they were not in favour of sidewalks being installed in an established neighbourhood. The residents were willing to compromise and have curb faced sidewalks installed which would require the removal of eleven healthy trees that line Gunning Street on the north side. Staff expressed concerns regarding snow plowing and that it was not City policy to remove healthy trees. Committee taking into account all the aspects of safety and not wanting to cause too much of a disruption to the neighbourhood, .motioned that curb faced sidewalks to be installed and a three way stop at the corner of Gunning Street and Mear Crescent be referred to the Parking & Traffic Committee. Community Services Committee -2- October 21, 2002 IT WAS MOVED BY MAYOR THOMSON, seconded by Alderman Feren that a curb- faced sidewalk be constructed on Gunning Drive from Willoughby Drive to Oliver Street on the north side. That a three-way stop be considered at Gunning Drive and Mear Crescent and that staff consider existing driveways. Motion: Conflict: Opposed: Action: Carried Alderman Pietrangelo Alderman Puttick Recommendation submitted to Council 2002 10 21 b) F-2002-58 - Cancellation, Reduction or Refund of Taxes under Section 442 and 443 of the Municipal Act IT WAS MOVED BY ALDERMAN IOANNONI, seconded by Alderman Janvary-Pool that the cancellation, reduction or refund of taxes on the various accounts per attached summary be approved and granted to the individuals listed. Motion: Conflict: Carried Alderman Fisher - Daughter employed by HOCO Ltd. Alderman Wing - Jointly own property with a Niagara Parks employee Alderman Craitor - Employed by the Regional Municipality of Niagara Alderman Pietrangelo - Employed by the Catholic School Board Alderman Campbell - Employed by the Niagara District School Board _ Alderman Federow - Spouse employed by the Catholic School Board Action: Recommendation submitted to Council 2002 10 21 c) F-2002-59 - Municipal Accounts IT WAS MOVED BY ALDERMAN FEREN, seconded by Mayor Thomson that the Community Services Committee approve the municipal accounts totalling $13,634,212.87 for the period ending October 21, 2002. Motion: Conflict: Carried Alderman Campbell Alderman Ioannoni Alderman Craitor Alderman Feren #270940 - Wayne Campbell #270950 - Carolynn Ioannoni #270876 - Carmine Ioannoni #270967 - Regional Municipality of Niagara #270785 - Regional Municipality of Niagara #270731 - Regional Municipality of Niagara #270983, Regional Municipality of Niagara #270850 - Feren Sign Systems Community Services Committee -3- Action: Recommendation submitted to Council 2002 10 21 October 21, 2002 d) R-2002-56 - Proposed Facility Increases Following some discussion issues were raised regarding budget and subsidy to lower income families. Further that free skate times should be implemented as with public swimming pools. The following motions were passed. IT WAS MOVED BY ALDERMAN VOLPATTI, seconded by Alderman Fisher that City Council approve the fees of 2003/2004 season. Motion: Opposed: Action: Carried Alderman Pietrangelo Alderman Ioannoni Alderman Orr Alderman Craitor Recommendation submitted to Council 2002 10 21 IT WAS MOVED BY ALDERMAN WING, seconded by Alderman Ioarmoni that a seasonal pass be established. Motion: Opposed: Action: Carried Alderman Orr Alderman Puttick Recommendation submitted to Council 2002 10 21 e) R-2002-57 - Family Passes for Public Skating IT WAS MOVED BY MAYOR THOMSON, seconded by Alderman Volpatti that the above report be filed for the information of Council. Motion: Action: Carried Recommendation submitted to Council 2002 10 21 R-2002-58 - Tender TR15-2202 for the Landscape Beautification and Irrigation of the Queen Street Gazebo Area IT WAS MOVED BY MAYOR THOMSON, seconded by Alderman Volpatti that the contract be awarded to Touchstone Site Contractors Inc. for a total contract price of $22,650.46. Motion: Action: Carried Recommendation submitted to Council 2002 10 21 Community Services Committee -4- October 21, 2002 g) R-2002-60 - Coronation 50 Plus Recreation Centre - 2003 Membership Fees IT WAS MOVED BY MAYOR THOMSON, seconded by Alderman Volpatti that Council endorse the recommendation of the Advisory Committee of the Coronation 50 Plus Recreation Centre. Motion: Action: Carried Recommendation submitted to Council 2002 10 21 h) IS-2002-02 - System Upgrades IT WAS MOVED BY MAYOR THOMSON, seconded by Alderman Volpatti that Council approve the upgrades for a total cost of $74,077.82. Motion: Action: Carried Recommendation submitted to Council 2002 10 21 3) ADJOURNMENT MEETING WAS ADJOURNED, MOVED BY MAYOR THOMSON, seconded by Alderman Campbell at 6:15 p.m. Community Services Department T ..... ~,~. Parks, Recreation & Culture ne LJITy O! ~r~l~ 4310 Queen Street Niogoro Folls~ll~ P.O. Box 1023 Conodo"-- Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5 ~~ web site: www.city, niagarafalls.on.ca~' Tel.: (905) 356-7521 Fax: (905) 356-7404 E-mail: akon@city, niagarafalls.on.ca R-2002-67 Adele Kan Director November 18, 2002 Alderman Victor Pietrangelo, Chairperson and Members of Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Members: Re: R-2002-67 Construction of Slo-Pitch Complex RECOMMENDATION: That the cost ($ 530,000) to construct 4 "A" calibre slo-pitch diamonds and a parking lot in Chippawa Willoughby Community park be referred to the 2003 Capital Construction Budget. BACKGROUND: The City of Niagara Falls, in conjunction with the Niagara Falls Optimist Club and Slo-Pitch National has been hosting the Molson Slo-Pitch Provincial Championships in Niagara Falls since 1988. The Championships in 1988 were held over two weekends and in 1991 expanded to a three weekend format, starting the first weekend after Labour Day. The City also successfully hosted Molson's National Tournament in August since 1992 and the next National Tournament in Niagara Falls will be in 2003. The organizer of this tournament is concemed with the current slo-pitch facilities in Niagara Falls and he has expressed an urgent need to construct new facilities. As Members of Council are aware, approximately 40 acres of land that is adjacent to Chippawa Willoughby Memorial Arena was donated to the City by River Realty. The community parkland has been designed to accommodate eight (8) "A" Calibre slo-pitch diamonds, with lighting on four (4) of the diamonds, parking lots, and other recreation amenities. Phase 1 of this development will include construction of four unlit baseball diamonds and an auxiliary parking lot at an approximate Working Together to Serve Our Community Municipal Works · Fire Services · Parks, Recreation & Culture · Business Development · Building & By-Law Services November 18, 2002 - 2 - R-2002-67 cost of $530,000. The remaining four (4) lit diamonds will be referred to the 2004 budget and the remaining recreation amenities will be phased in over a five (5) to ten (10) year period. Economic Impact of Molson Slo-Pitch Program City Staff, in cooperation with the Niagara Falls Optimist Club and Slo-Pitch National conducted an Economical Impact Study in 1994. The results of the study showed a significant financial benefit for the City of Niagara Falls by hosting these events. The total impact of the National Tournament was $1.3 Million and the Provincial Slo-Pitch Tournament is $13 Million, annually. The study also showed the important link between the tournaments and the tourism industry in Niagara Falls. The organizers of the Provincial Championships have received numerous complaints from teams about playing at facilities out of town which required up to two hours travel time to and from the Tournament Headquarters. "Teams are sent to neighbouring towns (Niagara-on-the-Lake - 20 minutes away, Port Colborne - 45 minutes away) due to the lack of facilities in Niagara Falls. When teams are sent out of town, they take their money with them, thus impeding any spending that would have taken place at local businesses in Niagara Falls." SPN currently hosts the Provincial and National Championships out of the Niagara Falls Optimist Park, which has eight slo-pitch diamonds. Of the eight diamonds that are located at Optimist Park, seven are used at each tournament. We are limited as to what calibre we can play on each diamond due to the advancement of skills in the game (for example, recreational players are now able to hit the ball, an average of 275-300 feet). Due to the advancement in skills by most players, nets had to be erected to prevent the balls from being hit into the neighbouring back yards. Because of the advancement of players skills, the organizer can now only schedule the lowest divisions at Optimist Park, and thus we have to send higher calibre teams to diamonds outside of the city to play their games. In 2002, approximately 800 men's and women' s teams participated in the Provincial Championships. With the exception of the first weekend, there was little room to expand this number based on the current number of diamonds available. During the second weekend of the tournament, of the 42 diamonds scheduled for the event, only 20 were directly controlled/owned by the City and only four (4) of the City diamonds were able to accommodate "A" calibre games. With the exception of John Allen Park (2 diamonds) there have been no "A" calibre slo-pitch facilities built in the City of Niagara Falls in over 10 years and the tournament continues to draw more and more teams into the community each year for the Provincial and National Tournaments. Teams are complaining about the slo-pitch facilities in Niagara Falls and SPN's competitor actually uses the lack of diamonds in Niagara Falls as a reason for teams to come and compete in their Provincial tournaments which are held in London, Ontario. November 18, 2002 - 3 - R-2002-67 Teams travel to Niagara Falls from all provinces and territories across Canada for the National Championships. The organizer of the Tournament has stated that in comparison to other National Championship venues across Canada, the City diamonds are quite substandard. When bidding to host National Championships, the facility conditions are always a concern of voting delegates, and if there are no new facilities built in Niagara Falls, there may come a time when we are unable to successfully obtain National Championship tournaments. In addition to the Provincial and National tournaments that are hosted in Niagara Falls, multiple local tournaments and 75+ local league teams use the slo-pitch facilities in Niagara Falls. The local leagues and tournaments would like to increase their participation numbers, however, are limited to this because of the lack of local slo-pitch facilities. Conclusion The City of Niagara Falls is the Home for the Molson Slo-Pitch Championships. The average slo- pitch player has improved and with the advanced bat technology available to players, the diamonds that were ideal ten years ago are now outdated. To continue to host this event and allow room for expansion, new "A" calibre diamonds are crucial at this time. Staff is of the opinion that the economic impact of the Molson Program to the City of Niagara Falls is of great financial benefit to our community and to facilitate the expansion of adult slo-pitch leagues justifies the construction of a new Slo-pitch Complex with eight "A"calibre diamonds. Adele Kon i . -- Director of Parks, Recreation & Culture Respectfully submitted: John Mac~ ~ministrative Officer VS/das S:\Council\Council 2002\R-2002-67 - Construction of Slo-Pitch Complex.wpd seopues ,~e'l-~(g ¥ flu!pl!n~ · ~uemdole4eo sse~isn~ · o~n~lnO ~ uo#ee~e~l '$~ed · seoFues e~!:t · s~o4/I ledplunF~ ,O!unm,aoo ~n0 ~,u~$ el ~¥~,Yo~ ~uppoA{ '_,~it~) o$ sso.~.~ loons uos.moI~I.lO uo!suolxo oql pu~ 'looalS Uos.moIAI UO ~o/pu~ p~o}I ~OlsoqoiOCl UO ~0~.~ ~ oql ZO*O uo.~mdos ope~ ~ gmjonnsuoo 'sp~o~ iOllm~d luoo~{'lye ol o!~al i~ .u!~,~$o Al!t!q!s~o.l o~1 'sou~I oIo,t~[q 'uo.~oos-ssoio p~o,,iq ou~I !;/l~ ~ pu~ ~ 'V '~ ~ ol,f~,~Veoi oql l~ml. onasuoooz pol~i~!lso~,m, lU~llnsuoo oql 'ssoocud-ifli o$ i~u.tmcI · sluomo~,ozdm!, p~oi posodo~d oql ol osuodsoI pu~ uo.m-ldo s,o~qnd oql u.~qo ol :OOZ; '6 ~oqoloo ',f~psoupoA~ uo ~uamssossv leluomuo.~, u[t ss~iD peo~t zolsoq:uocI oql zoj o~luaD uop.~uuojuI oHqnE ~,~ oql ploq XI!D oql 'o.re~e s! aol~!urtuoc) sV : NOIJ.¥C]N:alall~OO:a~l z{~pdI1 - luamssassv le{aamuo.L~u3 peoH..Ta~soq:).zo~ :aH :S.Toqmo~ o.u,nuo 'Slte.4 e.~g~.tN.lo oo11.nutuo;3 soo?dos Al.ummmoD aqLlo s.mqumpi pue uosIach.tmtD 'OlOgU'e~!d Zolo!A uetmoPlV ~00~ '81 ~oqmo,ol~ OlAOIl'n(] Pl] 6i'I,-;500g-NUN eo' uo'sllEUeJe§elu'~ll:)~)!AOll'npo :lletu-3 (gOB) :xe:l (gO6) :'lel eo'uo'slleleJe§elu'~.O'MMM :ells qaM _~l~~P~ gX9 3UI NO 'Slle:l eJel3elN £?~Ot xo8 'O'd leeag ueeno O~£t, ~'~ SlIO:I oJoOOIN · ~OM IudlolUnl~ ~ 10/q!O eql ~uetulJedeQ SeOIAJeS ~ilunmtuoo November 18, 2002 - 2 - MW-2002-139 No bike lanes are proposed The sidewalk will be adjacent to the curb and gutter in many areas with no boulevards. The proposed 4/5 lane hybrid design, was recommended as presented, since it had the least amount of impact on property acquisition and tree removals. Bike lanes and a 1.5 m boulevard would require an additional 8,528 m2 of property, from 85 property owners and the removal of 77 more trees. Council's concurrence with the recommendation made would be appreciated. Project Manager Respectfully submitted: ~mDiOn~sa~rdative Officer Ed Dujlovic Director of Municipal Works S:'uREPORTS~2002 ReportsWIW-2202-139 - Dorchester Road EA.wpd The City of Niagara Falls Canada Community Services Department Building & By-Law Services 4310 Queen Street ~P.O. Box 1023 Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6×5 web site: www.city, niagarafalls.on.ca Tel.: Fax: E-mail: (905) 356-7521 (905) 374-7500 melb@city.niagarafalls.on,ca BBS-2002-14 Mel Brown Director November 18, 2002 Alderman Victor Pietrangelo; Chair and Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Members: Re: BBS-2002-14, Tender for Demolition of Unsafe Building at 5972 Grey Avenue RECOMMENDATION: That the Director of Building and By-law Services be authorized to call for tenders for the demolition of the unsafe dwelling at 5972 Grey Avenue. BACKGROUND: The building at the above location is an old existing dwelling in a residential neighbourhood and has been unoccupied and derelict for several years. It is in a considerable state of decay due to age, lack of maintenance and upkeep, intrusion and frequent vandalism. It is a significant eyesore and a potential fire hazard and has had to be boarded up on many occasions by City forces to prevent access to the interior. On August 15, 2002, an Unsafe Building Order, under the Building Code Act, was issued to the owner, requiring demolition or evaluation by an engineer and repair, followed by an Order Prohibiting Occupancy on August 21, 2002. Both of these Orders were sent by registered mail and posted on the property. Both Orders are now final and binding as neither has been appealed. The owner has made no attempt to comply or take any other remedial action. The Building Code Act authorizes a Chief Building Official to undertake the demolition or repair, of a building at the owner's expense where an Unsafe Building Order, which is final and binding, has not been complied with. In default of payment, the cost of the demolition may be added to the taxes of the property. The owner has been advised accordingly. Working Together to Serve Our Community Municipal Works · Fire Services · Parks, Recreation & Culture · Business Development · Building & By-Law Services - 2 - BBS-2002-14 Prepared by: or Mel Brown Director of Building & By-Law Services Respectfully submitted: ~~,. cOhih~e fMAad~~;ida ~ 1 ~ ~~0 ffi c e r The City of Niagara Falls Canada Community Services Department Building & By-Law Services 4310 Queen Street P.O. Box 1023 Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5 web site: www.city.niagarafalls.on.ca Tel.: Fax: E-mail: (905) 356-7521 (905) 374-7500 melb@city.niagarafalls.on.ca BBS-2002-16 Mel Brown Director Alderman Victor Pietrangelo; Chair and Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario November 18, 2002 Members: Re: BBS-2002-16 -Embassy Suites, 6700 Fallsview Boulevard Variance to Sign By-Law No 6661, as amended RECOMMENDATION: That the variance to By-law 6661, as amended for three proposed wall signs be approved. BACKGROUND: The building, on which the proposed signs are intended to be located, is a new hotel currently under construction. The owner wishes to erect three wall signs, each having an area of 255 square feet on the North, South and East elevations of the building approximately 215 feet above ground level. The signs are to be individual letters spelling out the name of the hotel plus the company logo. By-law 6661, as amended, restricts the size of wall signs to not more thanl50 square feet in area, or 25% of the wall area of the building, whichever is greater. However, if the wall area is greater than 1,200 square feet, the sign may exceed the maximum if approved by Council. Each of the three walls in question has an area in excess of 1,200 square feet and the proposed signs occupy less thanl0% of the area of each wall. The proposed signs are not inconsistent with general nature of the existing buildings or the current development of the area. Working Together to Serve Our Community Municipal Works · Fire Services · Parks, Recreation & Culture · Business Development · Building & By-Law Services Robert Judge Manager of By-Law Services ,~LMel Brown . Director of Building & Bylaw Services -2- BBS-2002-16 Respectfully submr~ted:I / //John MacDonald (/' Chief Administrative Officer 50' 17'-8" SOUTH ELEVATION ]ALE' NTS Distributed by Sign Up Company  CUSTOMER EMBASSY SUITES J DATE OF APPROVAL TITLE DRWG. NO. BUILDING ELEVATION E45-O2/lOgB SiZE DRAWN BY: DATE AS NOTED RMG 10/ LOCATION REVISIONS - NIAGARA FALLS ISHEET /O2 OF APPR. BY: BLL The City of Niagara Falls Canada Community Services Department Municipal Works 4310 Queen Street P.O. Box 1023 Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6×5 web site: www.city.niagarafalls.on.ca Tel.: (905) 356-7521 Fax: (905) 356-2354 E-mail: eduilovi~.cit¥.nia~arafalls.on. MW-2002-149 Ed Dujlovic Director November 18, 2002 Alderman Victor Pietrangelo, Chairperson and Members of the Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Members: Re: MW-2002-149 Brookfield Court Subdivision Storm Sewer Cost Sharing Proposal RECOMMENDATION: That the City of Niagara Falls enter into a cost sharing agreement with the developer of the Brookfield Court Subdivision for the construction of a new storm sewer that will serve as the outlet for this project and allow the City to separate storm drainage from the existing combined sewer located on Clare Crescent. BACKGROUND: Municipal Works staff, in their technical review of the engineering for the Brookfield Court Plan of Subdivision, has examined a number of alternatives to provide a storm outlet to the new development and have recently been requested to consider an option that would involve a cost sharing solution with the developer. The Brookfield Court project is located on 1.712 hectares (4.23 acres) site situated on the north side of Clare Crescent, between Brookfield Avenue and the Hydro Canal. The 13-lot subdivision received Drat't Plan approval earlier this Spring subject to satisfying a number of conditions. The issue of securing a suitable storm drainage outlet has been problematic despite its proximity to the adjacent Hydro Canal. Efforts by the developers' consultants to negotiate easement and access fights through the Hydro property could not be achieved in a timely or cost-effective manner. In addition, the conditions and responsibilities imposed by O.P.G would be transferred to the City once the outlet subdivision was completed and assumed. Municipal Works staff is now reviewing an alternative that would require the construction of approximately 338 m of storm sewers that would collect the flows fi.om the new development and convey them southerly along Clare Crescent into the existing storm sewer outlet at Coach Drive Most of Clare Crescent is not currently serviced with an adequate storm sewer and surface drainage from the roadway and front yards are directed into the combined sewer. By extending the new storm Working Together to Serve Our Community Municipal Works · Fire Services · Parks, Recreation & Culture · Business Development · Building & By-Law Services I° onsulting Inc. 1372761 Ontario Inc. 7111 Loring Crescent Niagara Falls, ON L2J 3S8 (905) 356-0215 E Mail: siorfidal ~x>geeo. ea GeoffHolman Manager of Development 4310 Queen Street Niagara Falls, Ontario L2E 6X5 November 12, 2002 Dear Geoff: Re: Storm Sewer on Clare Cres. Cost Sharing between the City and Brookfield Court Subdivision Further to our discussions &November 11, 2002 please accept this letter as our agreement on the following items: 1)The Storm sewer outlet for the Brookfield Crt. Subdivision will be the existing 48" diam. storm sewer at Coach drive. 2)The city and the developer will share equally in the construction costs of the new storm sewer on Clare Cres. from the new street coming from the subdivision (Cuviello Court) to Coach Drive.(est. size- 450 mm diam) 3) The developer will include in the drainage area of the subdivision storm sewer the rear yards of the homes on Brookfield Ave. and approx. 1 acre area to the north of the subdivision. 4)The City and the developer will share equally in the engineering fees for the storm sewer on Clare Cres. 5)The Engineering Design will be carried out by V&S Engineering Group. 6) The city will pay 100% of the cost to re-connect the existing catchbasins into the new storm sewer Attached is a cost estimate of the new storm sewer. Thank you for your help in this matter. Yours truly The City of Niagara Falls Canada Community Services Department Municipal Works 4310 Queen Street P.O. Box 1023 Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5 web site: www.city.niagarafalls.on.ca Tel.: Fax: E-mail: (905) 356-7521 (905) 356-2354 edujlovi@city.niagarafalls.on.ca MW-2002-150 Ed Dujlovic Director November 18, 2002 Alderman Victor Pietrangelo and Members of the Municipal Council City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Members: Re: MW-2002-150 Grey Avenue Traffic Review Environmental Assessment Review Consultant Engagement RECOMMENDATION' It is recommended that the consulting firm SRM Associates be engaged to conduct the Environmental AsSessment review of the Grey Avenue traffic management problems in accordance with their proposal dated November 6, 2002. BACKGROUND: The Municipal Parking and Traffic Committee at its meeting on October 15, 2002 considered report MW-2002-124 and passed the following resolution regarding the restriction of buses on Grey Avenue. "It is recommended that the Environmental Assessment Review process for the reversal of traffic flow for Grey Avenue begin immediately and that funds for the E.A. be allocated in the 2003 Capital Works budget." Municipal Works staff has selected a qualified firm and has met to discuss the scope of the work and a project schedule. If the project can commence shortly, the process can be completed by the end of February 2003 at an estimated cost of $10,500 including G.S.T. While it is acknowledged that the 2003 Capital Works budget has not been formally approved the relatively minor expense should be easily accommodated. Given the history of this problem and anticiPation of a simple solution, staff is requesting your favorable consideration. Working Together to Serve Our Community Municipal Works · Fire Services · Parks, Recreation & Culture · Business Development · Building & By-Law Services November 18, 2002 Prepared by: GeoffHolman, C.E.T. Manager of Development Ed Dujlovic, P.Eng. Director of Municipal Works -2- Respectfully submitted: o~~ MacDonald~ ~/Chief Administrative officer MW-2002-150 Municipal Works $oaltnecl Rle:~ November 6, 2002 The City of Niagara Falls 4310 Queen Street P.O. Box 1023 Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5 Attention Mrs. Ma~enna Carrick C.E.T. ~ Dear Ma~enna: RE: Grey Avenue Traffic Management Proposal for Class EA Study Consulting SRM02-~ Back.qround This is a proposal for transportation consulting services to assist the City of Niagara Falls in determining the preferred solution to the problem of heavy vehicles using Grey Avenue along the southerly portion of the roadway where residential development exists. Grey Avenue a narrow roadway serves pdmadly residential development except for two commercial properties fronting Ferry Street, a Regional Road. Currently traffic flow is restricted to one-way in the southbound direction. The goal of this study is to develop a traffic management solution that mitigates the traffic impacts associated with commercial development in proximity to a residential neighbourhood. In an effort to resolve the matter of heavy vehicle traffic infiltration, staff met with the residents and commercial proprietors on several occasions. Although many solutions were discussed, and preference was given to the reversal of one-way traffic flow, the City has resolved to complete the traffic management review by undertaking a.Class Environmental Assessment. This study will determine if a one- way traffic reversal is the preferred solution or if other alternatives will better serve the interests of all stakeholders. Why A Class EA Study Process Projects for which there is the potential for some adverse environmental impacts such as traffic calming are subject to a screening process including consultation with those who may be directly affected. As you know, traffic calming projects or traffic operations measures that may affect more than the local stakeholders are subject to the Class EA process. Based on your description of the scope of issues, we recommend this study be undertaken following a Schedule 'B' classification. Projects qualify under Schedule 'B' if the cost of improvements or alterations is not going to exceed $1,500,000 and the impacts are predictable and may be mitigated. Mrs. Marzenna Carrick, C.E.T. Grey Avenue Traffic Management Review Proposal for Consulting Services November 6, 2002 Page 2 The Class EA is a self-assessment process and does not require the Ministry of the Environment to sign-off before following through on the undertaking unless concerns remain unresolved. We will however notify them of the study commencement. Preposed Study Tasks A Class EA study formalizes the four-step problem solving process as documented by the Municipal Engineers Association, June 2000. The conduct of a Schedule 'B' Class EA includes screening of alternatives and mandatory public contact at project milestones. Schedule 'B' projects require the completion of only 'Phase 1 - Preblem' and 'Phase 2 -Alternative Solutions'. In terms of legal obligation, the selection of a preferred solution will fulfill the Class EA requirements. We understand however, that the City wishes to develop the alternatives and the preferred solution in greater detail. This is justified since the alternatives must be evaluated for their impacts and benefits in order to make a rationale selection. The study tasks apprepriate to the specific circumstances will emphasize documentation of the operational problems and evaluation of the alternative solutions. In this regard, the preferred solution will be conceptualized and estimates of cost presented in a final report. PHASE 1 - PROBLEM Step 1 - Problem Statement The problem(s) may or may not be obvious to the public but it is necessary to document factors, which lead to the conclusion that an improvement or change is needed. This phase will therefore lead to the development of a clear statement of the problem being addressed. From the problem statement, the rest of the project will be developed. The nature of traffic management concerns on Grey Avenue demands a careful examination of traffic flows, circulation patterns, and accessibility, in order to document the reasons why buses and trucks exit the Super 8 Hotel and adjacent commercial developments using Grey Avenue. In this regard, the following data are to be colle.cted: Description of Data Timing of Collection Data Collector Traffic Volume · Two-way flows Grey Avenue and · U.S. Thanksgiving Hose machine Ferry Street weekend counts by City · Vehicle classification Grey Avenue · Christmas week Mrs. Marzenna Carrick, C.E.T. Grey Avenue Traffic Management Review Proposal for Consulting Services November 6, 2002 Page 2 Description of Data Timing of Collection Data Collector Mapping/Assessment · Aerial photos · Plan and Profile drawings with r.o.w. At study commencement City archives · Recent site plans · Property database for Grey Avenue and surrounding addresses Traffic Collisions At study commencement City database Traffic Circulation and Pattems · Access, bus circulation, parking Phase 1 fieldwork SRM distribution November 29/30 Associates · Telephone and on-site interviews Step 2 - First Public Consultation In order that the public may be involved at this stage in defining the problem and formulating the problem statement a public meeting is proposed. Normally at this step only a notice of study commencement is required. In this case the notice will include and invitation to the first of two public meetings. Prior to the public meeting, and with your consent, we propose to telephone contact the study area residents to solicit their input on defining the problem(s). We believe this will both engender the trust of the stakehOlders and provide the best possible feedback to focus our study activity. We will also give notice of the upcoming public meeting at that time. The format of the meeting, which we expect will be scheduled in Mid-January, will be a drop-in centre. We will prepare documentation of the local conditions and display the data collected to define the problem(s). The purpose of the meeting will be to gain consensus of the problem statement through solicitation of input from the stakeholders. A second objective is to document all the possible solutions to the problem with input from the public. At the conclusion of the meeting we will have a complete list of alternative solutions to carry forward to 'Phase 2 - Alternative Solutions' where each option will be evaluated. All reasonable and feasible solutions shall be identified and briefly described and/or illustrated. At this stage in the study the following alternatives have been identified: · Do Nothing · Heavy Vehicle Restrictions · One-way Street Reversal · Partial Reversal Mrs. Marzenna Carrick, C.E.T. Grey Avenue Traffic Management Review Proposal for Consulting Services November 6, 2002 Page 2 · Closure or Partial Closure (with or without reversal) These are preliminary alternatives, however, and will be reviewed and confirmed during the consultation and in Phase 2. We have assumed that the City will provide advertisement printing and posting services and a venue for the meeting(s). Our Mr. Mark Lenters, P. Eng, will facilitate the drop-in centre assisted by our Mr. Bob Gilchrist, P.Eng. Our translator Dina Cannella will also be on-hand to assist if necessary. PHASE 2 - ALTERNATIVE SOLUTIONS Following the procedures outlined in Phase 2 will lead to the conclusion that the project is approved subject to screening (Schedule B). Step 1 - Evaluation of Alternatives Identification of the magnitude of the net poSitive and negative effects of each alternative solution, with respect to the environmental factors and operational measures of effectiveness will be documented. This Step will lead to the preliminary identification of a recommended solution to be conveyed to the public and the review agencies. The Identification of measures to mitigate any anticipated negative impacts associated with the preferred alternative will also be identified and documented. It is important to note that the recommended solution will be presented as a preliminary preference based on a rational evaluation.of available information. The consultation that follows will assist in confirming or influencing the final outcome. Step 2 - Second Public and Agency Consultation This is the first mandatory point of contact with the public according to the Class EA process; however, in the interests of open communication and transparent problem solving process, this will be the second, of two, information meetings. The detailed considerations that will be addressed during the evaluation of alternatives, the final list of alternative solutions being considered and their impact on the environment, together with the evaluation itself, will come to light at the second public drop-in centre. Step 3 - Selection the Preferred Solution This step involves selection or confirmation of the preferred solution taking into consideration input and comments received from the review agencies and the public and after evaluation of the net environmental effects of the various alternatives. As Mrs. Marzenna Carrick, C.E.T. Grey Avenue Traffic Management Review Proposal for Consulting Services November 6, 2002 Page 2 indicated from our partial list of alternative solutions, the preferred solution may involve a combination of alternative solutions rather than a single outcome. Step 4 - Documentation To complete the Schedule 'B' process, a Notice of Completion shall be submitted to review agencies and the public and a period of at least 30 calendar days shall be allowed for comment and input. We understand that you require a camera-ready copy of the report, 10 hard copies and electronic copies in Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.0 and Word Perfect format. Schedule The anticipated sChedule depends on the availability of reasonable count data from the U.S. Thanksgiving weekend, November 28th to December 2nd. Prior to that date we can collect stakeholder feedback and receive assembled land use and engineering documentation from your files. The first public meeting is anticipated for mid-January, and the subsequent information meeting approximately four weeks later. Fees The fee estimate based on the above work program has been divided as follows: Tasks Phase 1 Study (including two meetings with staff) Public Information Meeting #1 Phase 2 Study Tasks (including one meeting with staff) Public Information Meeting #2 Draft and Final Report (including one meeting to present findings) Disbursements (printing, materials, phone, fax, mileage) G.S.T. Total Upset Limit Fee $2,600.00 $1,500.00 $2,300.00 $1,500.00 $1,500.00 $400.00 $686.00 $10,486.00 In addition to the above, we estimate a provisional sum of $350.00 to present the study findings to Council if necessary. Streamlined Study Approach A Schedule 'B' Class EA does not strictly require two public information meetings; however, we understand that the matter may be too sensitive as your cOmments indicated. However, an alternative approach that could reduce consulting costs and be nearly as effective would be to stage only one public meeting supplemented by the telephone surveys as the first public contact, preceded by an advertisement or Mrs. Marzenna Carrick, C.ET. Grey Avenue Traffic Management Review Proposal for Consulting Services November 6, 2002 Page 2 hand-out notice. In such a case, the alternate study fee would be $8,880.00 including G.S.T. We trust that this work program addresses the City's expectation for the consulting assistance necessary to resolve the subject matter. If you are in agreement with the proposed work program and fee, please signify your acceptance on the attached sign-back form. SRM Associates greatly appreciates the opportunity to support the City's initiatives to improve traffic operations for its residents and visitors. Yours truly, SRM Associates Mark S. Lenters, P. Eng., General Manager Sign-back to be attached The City of Niagara Falls Canada Community Services Department Municipal Works 4310 Queen Street P.O. Box 1023 Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5 web site: www.city.niagarafalls.on.ca Tel.: Fax: E-maih (905) 356-7521 (905) 356-2354 edujlovi@city, niagarafalls.on.ca MW-2002-153 Ed Dujlovic Director November 18, 2002 Alderman Victor Pietrangelo and Members of the Municipal Council City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Members: 'Re: MW-2002-153 Beaver Valley Subdivision - Phase 2 Clearance of Draft Plan Condition//7 Cost Sharing - Green Avenue Extension RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the developer of the Beaver Valley Subdivision - Phase 2 be required to modify the entrance at the intersection of Beaver Valley Way and Beaverdams Road to accommodate traffic coming from the undeveloped lands to the west instead of having to construct a new roadway across the CN Rail line and extending Green Avenue. BACKGROUND: In June of 1998, the developer of the Beaver Valley Subdivision received Drat~ Plan approval for the construction of 56 single family homes just north of the first phase which is currently nearing completion. To the east of the subject lands under different ownership is a 17.9 acre parcel of land that is constrained from access by the M.T.O. property to the north and east and the CN Rail line to the south. The original plans for this area contemplated the construction of a second permanent access that would link with the extension of Green Avenue, the costs of which were to be shared by the two developers. Condition #7 of the Draft Plan approval states: "That the developer share the cost of constructing a rail crossing and the extension of Green Avenue with the landowners to the east on a prorated basis, to the satisfaction of the City of Niagara Falls." IVorking Together to Serve Our Community Municipal Works · Fire Services · Parks, Recreation & Culture · Business Development · Building & By-Law Services November 18, 2002 - 2 - MW-2002-153 Municipal Works staff, having considered the concems raised by residents at the recent Beaverdams Rd. Traffic Calming workshop revisited this matter and sought the input of CN Rail. In their response, dated September 4, 2002 they discouraged proceeding with the original plan for the following reasons; "Another crossing in this vicinity would ultimately result in four grade crossings in a span of only 0.69 miles, from Kalar Road to Montrose Road. The introduction of an additional crossing for the proposed extension of Green Avenue increases the potential for problems in the future. It does not represent good planning and it would not be in the best interest of the existing and future residents, City nor the Railway." Given this position, which is also shared by the two developers, staff requested the completion of an Operational Review study to see what changes would have to be made to handle all of the traffic through the one existing outlet on Beaver Valley Way. A study was completed by Paradigm Transportation Solutions Ltd. which identified that, with some minor modifications to entranceway, the extension to Green Avenue could be avoided. These modifications include the removal of the first center median and the addition of lane markings to allow for a left and right tum onto Beaverdams Road. Also, identified was the possible need for a right tum lane or taper on the west bound approach of Beaverdams Road. These modifications also include the restriction of on-street parking in this area. Staff is recommending that these new costs be shared between the two developers which will be significantly less than the other altemative. The servicing for the Beaver Valley Subdivision-Phase 2 is now complete and this condition requires clearance in order to register the final Plan. The solution appears to be mutually beneficial for all parties. The Committee's favorable conSideration of this recommendation is appreciated. Prepared by: Manager of Development Respectfully submitted: fJohn MacDonald Chief Administrative Officer Approved by: Ed Dujlovic, P.Eng. Director of Municipal Works o\ POST ROAO liS' '! (/~) -Lands of present Application (~¢) -Lands owned by ~i~hers \ I - Proposed Road Pattern for Total Developable Area Dc.r. q. ,,,' rJr_J.,' 1 J. · r_IDHI'I L.l'tl"(i'-' I ur<uPi I ~) I"IU. BBb I-'. ! Canadian Propri~t~s National ferroviaires du Railway C,nadien Properties Ina Nationallnc, V~A FAX; 905-356-2354 4 September 2002 Mr. Geoff Holman Manager of Development Cib/of Niagara Falls P.O. Box 1023~ 4310 Queen Street Niagara Falls ON 1.2E 6X5 277 Front Street WeSt Floor 8 Tomato, Ontario MSV 2X7 Telephone: (416) 217-6961 Facsimile'. (416) 217-6743 Your File: Our File:* 277, rue Rent ouest 8° ~taga Toronto (Ontario) MSV 2X7 T61&phone: (416) 217-6961 T616copleur: (416) 217-6743 91-265 TS-4500-SFD-027-76 Dear Mr. Holman: Rel Proposed Hew At Grade Crossing - Extension of Green Lane Avenue Proposed Draft Plans Of Subdivision Beaver Valley Extension 1 (Phase 2) - 26T-95016 (Revised) Beaver Valley EXtension 2:- 26T-9701B (Revised) North of Beaverdams Road; east of Kalar Road We have reviewed your letter dated 26 .July 2002, regarding the above noted matter. As you may be aware~ the Railway previously met with fl~e City in July 2001 to review safely and access issues with the existing Kalar Road and Beaverdam Road mil crossings. Due to concerns expressed by the Cib/and existing residents In the area, urban gmwth~ schools in dose proximity to the railway right-of-way and train speed variance all parties attending agreed to pursue ga~es and grade crossing predictors for both crossings, currently equipped with flashers, Another crossing in this vlcinlb/would ulLimately resu~c In four grade crossings in a span of only 0.69 miles, from Kalar Road [o Nontrose Road. The inl~oductJon of an additional grade crossing for the proposed extension of Green lane Avenue increases the potenUa[ for problems in the future, ]~t does not represent good planning principles and would not be in the best In~re.~ of existing and future residents~ the Qb/or the Railway. Based on the information provided, it is not clear that detailed transportation s~udies have been completed and alternaUve access mutes thoroughly explored. CN is not In favour of another at grade crossing at this location and strongly prefers that an existing crossing be utilized. Should you require any further questions, please do not hes~te to con~act me at (416) 217-6961. Yours truly, Geoff Woods, B.E.S. Development Review Coordinator cc, 3. MacTaggart, CN Engineering ,~<..: ~. ..... ..~, ,,,,, P, Gorskl~ CN Engineering A wholly owned s.~ldl.ry of Canadian Natlcmal ~llway Campany/Uno "---L,:L..-,: .... ' Community Services Department T ..... .~, . Parks, Recreation & Culture ne *,.;~fy oT jr~ 4310 Queen Street Uiogoro F(:IlIs~~ P.O. Box 1023 Conodo ~~'~~ Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5 TI~ web site: www.city, niagarafalls.on.ca Tel.: (905) 356-7521 Fax: (905) 356-7404 E-mail: akon@city, niagarafalls.on.ca R-2002-68 Adele Ken Director November 18, 2002 Alderman Victor Pietrangelo, Chairperson and Members of Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Members: Re'. R-2002-68 Chippawa Outdoor Swimming Pool RECOMMENDATION: That the additional cost to construct the swimming pool be referred to the 2003 Capital Construction Budget. BACKGROUND: In the 1997, Feasibility Study report presented to Council by F.J. Galloway & Associates Inc., it was recommended that an outdoor swimming pool be constructed in Chippawa at an approximate cost of $600,000 and that the cost be equally shared between the City and the Chippawa Swimming Pool Committee. Council agreed to this recommendation and each year has matched what has been fundraised by the Community Group. In a report dated July 15, 2002, Council supported a smaller, and therefore, less costly swimming pool being constructed in Chippawa Lions Park. The approximate cost was $150,000. Staff was of the understanding that the existing building in the park would be used for washroom purposes and a small change room with an on deck shower would be constructed. However, staff recently discovered that according to Ontario Building Code we are constructing a Class A Public Pool and as such, we are required to provide dressing rooms, showers, washrooms and a drinking fountain adjacent to the swimming pool. Therefore, we cannot use the existing building which would require the public to walk a short distance of 95 metres to public restrooms. The proposed new building would be similar to the building at Lions Park swimming pool located on Drummond Road. It has been estimated that the cost for the project will now increase to $350,000. This figure is still substantially lower than the original 1997 estimate of $600,000. Working Together to Serve Our Community Municipal Works · Fire Services · Parks, Recreation & Culture · Business Development · Building & By-Law Services November 18, 2002 - 2 - R-2002-68 The Chippawa Swimming Pool Committee has worked very hard and has raised approximately $75,000. They are willing to work toward raising the additional dollars but realize that with all the competition they are facing, it will be difficult to raise these funds within the next few years. The Committee is therefore asking Council to provide the additional required funding. Adele Kon Director of Parks, Recreation & Culture Respectfully submitted: //John MacDonald .~/ Chief Administrative Officer AK/das S:\Council\Counci12002kR-2002-68 Chippawa Outdoor Swimming Pool.wpd Community Services Department T ..... ~a Parks, Recreation & Culture ne L;~ of ~'~'j¢. 4310 Queen Street NiagaraFa,,sll P.O. Bo× 1023 Cana~~Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5 T~ web site: www, city, niagarafalls.on.ca Tel.: (905) 356-7521 Fax: (905) 356-7404 E-mail: akon@city, niagarafalls.on.ca R-2002-69 Adele Kon Director November 18, 2002 Alderman Victor Pietrangelo, Chairperson and Members of Community Services Committee City of Niagara Falls, Ontario Members: Re: R-2002 - 69 Request for a Fence Encroachment - Andrew & Mary Morgan - 6397 Jupiter Blvd. RECOMMENDATION: ']'~at Council approve the entering into an encroachment agreement with Andrew and Mary Morgan to allow the extension of a fence along the Haulage Road Trail. BACKGROUND: On November 4, 2002 Council approved the entering into encroachment agreements for those residential properties having encroachments along the Haulage Road Trail. The City has received a letter from Andrew and Mary Morgan for a request to extend their fence onto the Haulage Road Trail property to meet the other residential fences currently encroaching into the park property (see attached photo). The Morgan's recently purchased the property and staff received calls from Mr. Morgan wanting to relocate his fence. Mr. Morgan was advised not to move the fence as Council would be considering the encroachment issue along the Haulage Road Trail area. Based upon the recent decision of Council, and the fact that the fence on the Morgan property is the only fence in that vicinity that is not encroaching, it is recommended that Committee and Council approve the entering into an encroachment agreement with' the Morgan's to allow their fence to encroach on City property and create a straight fence line. Working Together to Serve Our Community Municipal Works · Fire Services · Parks, Recreation & Culture · Business Development · Building & By-Law Services November 18, 2002 - 2 - R-2002-69 Adele Kon Director of Parks, Recreation & Culture BB/das Attachment Respectfully submitted: ohn MacD~o~ ~dministrative Officer S:\Council\Counci12002LR-2002-69 RequeSt for a Fence Encroachment - Andrew & Mary Morgan.wpd