Niagara Region public meetings in 2024

Niagara Region Licensing Appeals Committee

The Licensing Appeals Committee will hear two appeals concerning the refusal of licence renewals for Transportation Network Company drivers. These hearings are conducted under Niagara Region By-law 2021-57 and the Statutory Powers Procedure Act.

• Appeal by Pardeep Singh regarding refusal of Transportation Network Company Driver licence renewal
• Appeal by Jun He regarding refusal of Transportation Network Company Driver licence renewal

Council

The Regional Municipality of Niagara Council will consider several by‑laws, including adopting the 2025 Operating Budget and General Levy Tax. Other items include adopting the 2025 Capital Budget, establishing a new schedule of fees and charges, authorising expropriation of land on Regional Road 98 – Montrose Road, and appointing municipal by‑law enforcement officers. Committee reports and presentations will be reviewed before the council votes on these measures.

• Bill 2024-83 – adopt the 2025 Operating Budget and General Levy Tax
• Bill 2024-82 – adopt the 2025 Capital Budget
• Bill 2024-81 – establish fees and charges for regional services
• Bill 2024-80 – authorize expropriation of land on Regional Road 98 – Montrose Road
• Bill 2024-79 – appoint Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Officers

Council approved the 2025 Consolidated General Levy Budget, including a $311.9 million departmental budget (up 5.98%) and $224.8 million for agencies, boards, and commissions (up 5.13%). The police budget was approved at $212.5 million, and a separate motion directs the Chair to ask the province to fund a $10.3 million police increase. Council also approved the 2025 capital budget, a new fees and charges by-law, and a hauled sewage fee increase.

• Approved 2025 departmental budget of $311,861,262 (5.98% increase)
• Approved 2025 agencies/boards/commissions budget of $224,833,591 (5.13% increase)
• Approved Niagara Regional Police Service budget of $212,456,352 (4.97% increase)
• Approved motion directing Chair to request provincial funding for $10,323,969 police increase
• Approved 2025 capital budget (Bill 2024-82)
• Approved fees and charges by-law (Bill 2024-81) with hauled sewage fee set at $71/1000 gallons rising to $89 by 2028
• Approved expropriation by-law for Regional Road 98 (Montrose Road) in Niagara Falls (Bill 2024-80)
• Approved 2025 operating budget and general levy tax (Bill 2024-83)

Budget Review Committee of the Whole

The Budget Review Committee of the Whole is meeting to consider the 2025 Consolidated General Levy Budget Update. The discussion includes potential program change deferrals and business cases.

• 2025 Consolidated General Levy Budget Update (BRC-C 25-2024)
• Potential Program Change Deferrals
• Business Cases

The Budget Review Committee approved the 2025 Consolidated General Levy Budget Update, including a $4,607,815 (0.95%) levy increase for program changes, a $311,861,262 operating budget for Regional Departments and General Government (up 5.98%), and operating budgets for agencies, boards, and commissions. The Niagara Regional Police Service budget was reduced by $852,194 to $212,456,352 before approval. All clauses were carried, with recorded votes on Clauses 1 and 2 (19-10 each).

• Approved 2025 levy increase of $4,607,815 (0.95%) for program changes (19-10)
• Approved Regional Departments and General Government operating budget of $311,861,262 (19-10)
• Approved NRPS and Police Service Board operating budget of $212,456,352 after $852,194 reduction
• Approved Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority operating budget of $7,959,083
• Approved Court Services operating budget of ($99,454)
• Approved Niagara Regional Housing operating budget of $4,517,610

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee will review internal audit reports on vendor performance, purchasing cards, and controlled medications, as well as the 2024 external audit plan. The committee will also set the meeting schedule for 2025.

• Review Internal Audit Report on Vendor Performance Management
• Review Follow-Up Audit Report on Purchasing Card Program
• Review Follow-up Report on Controlled Medications Inventory Audit
• Review 2024 External Audit Planning Report
• Set 2025 Audit Committee Meeting Schedule

The Audit Committee approved its 2025 meeting schedule and received several audit reports for information. No substantive decisions were made beyond scheduling.

• Approved 2025 meeting schedule: March 24, May 20, October 6, December 8 (carried)
• Received Internal Audit Report on Vendor Performance Management (carried)
• Received Status Update on Internal Audit Engagements (carried)
• Received consent items: Follow-up Audit on Purchasing Card Program, Follow-up on Controlled Medications Inventory, 2024 External Audit Planning Report (carried)

Waste Management Planning Steering Committee

The Waste Management Planning Steering Committee will present and discuss Niagara Region comments on proposed amendments to the tires, batteries, electrical and electronic equipment, and hazardous and special products regulations. It will also consider the 2025 Waste Management Steering Committee meeting dates, a response to an environmental review order for beneficial reuse of excess soil, and notes from the citizen liaison committee on the Niagara Road 12 landfill site. Additional items include a councillor information request.

• Proposed Amendments to Tires, Batteries, Electrical and Electronic Equipment, and Hazardous and Special Products Regulations (item 6.1)
• 2025 Waste Management Steering Committee Meeting Dates (item 5.1)
• Niagara Region Response to ERO 019-9196 – Enabling Beneficial Reuse of Excess Soil (item 6.3)
• Citizen Liaison Committee Niagara Road 12 Landfill Site Meeting Notes, Sep 19 2024 (item 6.4)
• Councillor Information Request (item 6.2)

The Waste Management Planning Steering Committee approved its 2025 meeting schedule (Feb 24, Apr 28, Jun 23, Oct 20, Dec 8) and received several information items, including comments on provincial producer responsibility regulations and a response on excess soil reuse. No substantive policy decisions were made; all items were either carried or received for information.

• Approved 2025 meeting dates: Feb 24, Apr 28, Jun 23, Oct 20, Dec 8 (carried)
• Received information on comments to producer responsibility regulations for tires, batteries, electronics, hazardous products (carried)
• Received information on councillor information request memorandum (carried)
• Received information on response to ERO 019-9196 on beneficial reuse of excess soil (carried)
• Received Citizen Liaison Committee meeting notes for Niagara Road 12 (carried)

Budget Review Committee of the Whole

The Budget Review Committee of the Whole is meeting to consider the 2025 Consolidated General Levy Budget and the 2025 Schedule of Fees and Charges. The committee will also review the proposed operating budget for the Niagara Regional Police Service.

• 2025 Consolidated General Levy Budget (CSD 64-2024)
• 2025 Proposed Operating Budget for Niagara Regional Police Service (BRC-C 14-2024)
• 2025 Schedule of Fees and Charges (CSD 57-2024)
• Proposed increase in building permit fees for sewage system applications (BRC-C 10-2024)
• Recommendations from the Public Works Committee (BRC-C 15-2024)

The Budget Review Committee approved the 2025 Consolidated General Levy Budget of $537,547,047, a 5.98% increase for Regional Departments and 5.30% for Agencies, Boards, and Commissions. The committee also approved the Niagara Regional Police Service's proposed operating budget of $213,308,546 in principle, and directed the Regional Chair to request provincial funding for the police budget increase. Several amendments were made, including reducing the 2022 Tax Deferral levy increase to $2,000,000 and the Smart Growth DC Incentive to $2,000,000, while adding a $128,000 one-time request for the Welcoming Streets Pilot Project.

• Approved 2025 general levy of $537,547,047 (carried)
• Approved NRPS 2025 operating budget of $213,308,546 in principle (16-11)
• Defeated amendment to cap NRPS budget at $207,322,860 (13-14)
• Approved $128,000 for Welcoming Streets Pilot Project (carried)
• Defeated $400,000 temporary seasonal shelter request
• Referred $40,000 seasonal shelter request to Public Health and Social Services Committee (19-8)
• Referred Clause 7 (program changes) to staff for options at Dec 12 meeting (carried)
• Approved low concentration hauled sewage rate of $71/1000 gallons (carried)

Corporate Services Committee

The Corporate Services Committee will review the 2024 third-quarter financial update and a corporate security policy. The body will also consider requests to write off outstanding amounts and review non-competitive procurement activities.

• Q3 2024 Financial Update (CSD 62-2024)
• Corporate Security Policy (CSD 53-2024)
• Request to write-off outstanding amounts over $25,000 (CSD 60-2024)
• Non-competitive procurement activities exceeding $100,000 (CSD 58-2024)
• Proposed land acquisition on Regional Road 98 in Niagara Falls (Closed Session)

The Corporate Services Committee received the Q3 2024 financial update and approved using the Wastewater Stabilization Reserve to offset the rate-supported program deficit. It also approved the Corporate Security Policy and a write-off of $76,327.43 in uncollectible accounts. Two confidential items regarding litigation and land acquisition were approved in closed session. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Received Q3 2024 financial update and approved use of Wastewater Stabilization Reserve to offset 2024 deficit
• Approved Corporate Security Policy C-A-030
• Approved write-off of uncollectible accounts receivable totaling $76,327.43
• Approved confidential recommendations re: litigation (MMMC Inc. architectural services) and land acquisition (Regional Road 98)

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The Planning and Economic Development Committee will consider a strategy for post-secondary student housing and review the 2024-2029 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan. The committee will also receive a presentation from the Hamilton Oshawa Port Authority regarding Great Lakes shipping.

• Post-secondary Student Housing Strategy presentation
• 2024-2029 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan presentation
• Hamilton Oshawa Port Authority presentation

The committee received and endorsed the Post-secondary Student Housing Strategy (Report PDS 24-2024) as amended. The amendment, which was carried, kept the original motion to receive and endorse the strategy. No other substantive decisions were made; other items were received for information.

• Endorsed Post-secondary Student Housing Strategy (carried)
• Received 2024-2029 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (carried)
• Received HOPA presentation memorandum (carried)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will consider extending a one-year contract for hauling garbage, recyclables, and organics. The committee will also award a contract for the replacement of the Twenty Mile Creek Arch Bridge on Regional Road 81.

• Extension of curbside collection haulage contract (2019-RFP-156)
• Award of contract for Regional Road 81 Twenty Mile Creek Arch Bridge replacement
• Review of responses to Hauled Sewage Rate Comment Period
• Annual Water Quality Management System Update
• Oswego Creek Bridge Replacement Project

The Public Works Committee approved the low concentration hauled sewage rate of $71/1000 gallons and directed staff to consult with impacted wineries before the December 12 Council meeting. It also approved extending curbside collection contracts with Miller Waste and GFL Environmental for one year at a combined cost of about $24.5 million, and awarded a bridge replacement contract to Urban Link Civil Ltd. for $8.1 million.

• Approved low concentration hauled sewage rate of $71/1000 gallons (Carried)
• Directed staff to consult with wineries with high concentration volumes >170,000 imperial gallons before Dec 12 Council meeting (Carried)
• Directed staff to report back to Council on Dec 12 with alternatives for high concentration rate (Carried)
• Approved one-year extension of Miller Waste curbside collection contract at $15,443,060 (Carried)
• Approved one-year extension of GFL Environmental curbside collection contract at $9,042,844 (Carried)
• Awarded Contract 2024-T-195 for Twenty Mile Creek Arch Bridge replacement to Urban Link Civil Ltd. at $8,101,010.12 (Carried)

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee will hear three presentations: the Niagara Ontario Health Team Strategic Plan, the Sexual Health Program, and an overview of Seniors Community Programs. No items are scheduled for formal consideration. A consent item (COM 34-2024) provides the Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report for July‑September 2024. The meeting will conclude with routine business and scheduling of the next session.

• Presentation of Niagara Ontario Health Team Strategic Plan
• Presentation of Sexual Health Program
• Presentation of Overview of Seniors Community Programs
• Consent item COM 34-2024: Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report (July‑Sep 2024)
• No items for consideration

The Public Health and Social Services Committee met on December 3, 2024, and received three informational presentations on the Niagara Ontario Health Team strategic plan, the Sexual Health Program, and Seniors Community Programs. The only formal decision was to receive the Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report for July to September 2024. No substantive policy decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was largely informational.

• Received Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report July-September 2024 (carried)

Agricultural Policy and Action Committee

The Agricultural Policy and Action Committee is meeting to hear presentations on land use and the health of international agricultural workers. The body will also determine its meeting dates for 2025.

• Presentation on the Alternative Land Use Services (ALUS) program in Niagara
• Presentation on the role of health inspectors in protecting international agricultural workers
• Decision on 2025 Agricultural Policy and Action Committee meeting dates
• Review of a letter from Niagara Federation of Agriculture regarding woodland conservation
• Review of a news release on mental health services for international agricultural workers

The Agricultural Policy and Action Committee voted to request that Regional Council seek provincial and federal funding to hire additional full-time public health inspectors for international agricultural workers. The committee also established its 2025 meeting schedule and received several informational reports regarding woodland conservation and mental health services.

• Requested Regional Council seek funding for additional public health inspectors (Carried)
• Approved 2025 meeting dates for Feb 28, May 9, Sept 19, and Nov 28 (Carried)
• Received correspondence on Niagara Region Woodland Conservation (Carried)
• Received news release on mental health services for agricultural workers (Carried)
• Received minutes from April 19, 2024 meeting (Carried)

Joint Board of Management

The Joint Board of Management will consider the proposed 2025 meeting dates, receive an update on the collection agency RFP process, review third‑quarter variance analysis and forecasts, and examine the 2025 board membership list. Minutes from the August 22 and October 24, 2024 meetings will also be reviewed. No formal decisions are indicated; items are presented for information.

• 2025 Joint Board of Management Meeting Dates (Item 5.1)
• Collection Agency RFP Update (Item 6.1)
• 3rd Quarter Variance Analysis and Forecast to Dec 31 2024 (Item 6.2)
• Joint Board of Management 2025 Membership (Item 6.3)
• Review of August 22 and October 24, 2024 meeting minutes (Items 6.4‑6.5)

The Joint Board of Management approved its 2025 meeting schedule, with five Thursday meetings at 3:30 p.m. It also received several informational items, including a collection agency RFP update and quarterly variance report. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved 2025 meeting dates: Feb 6, Apr 17, Aug 21, Oct 16, Nov 27 (carried)
• Received collection agency RFP update (carried)
• Received 3rd quarter variance analysis and forecast (carried)
• Received 2025 board membership list (carried)
• Received minutes from Aug 22 and Oct 24, 2024 meetings (carried)

Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee will present the Niagara Well-Being Tool and the 2025 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Significant Dates Calendar. It will consider DEIAC-C 5-2024, which contains the proposed 2025 DEI Advisory Committee meeting dates. The meeting also includes a review of the October 29, 2024 DEIAC minutes for information.

• Presentation of the Niagara Well-Being Tool
• Presentation of the 2025 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Significant Dates Calendar
• Item for consideration: DEIAC-C 5-2024 – 2025 DEI Advisory Committee meeting dates
• Item for information: DEIAC 5-2024 minutes from October 29, 2024
• Other business (no specific items listed)

The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee approved its meeting schedule for 2025. The committee also received presentations regarding the Niagara Well-Being Tool and the 2025 Significant Dates Calendar.

• Approved 2025 meeting dates (Carried)
• Received October 29, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)

Budget Review Committee of the Whole

The Budget Review Committee of the Whole will consider the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority's 2025 draft budgets and municipal levies. A motion will be voted on to receive the correspondence and approve the NPCA 2025 municipal levy apportionment. The committee will also review a 2025 budget update comparing planned versus approved increases.

• Approve Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority 2025 municipal levy apportionment
• Presentation of NPCA 2025 draft budgets and municipal levies
• Review of 2025 budget update – planning vs proposed and approved increases

The Budget Review Committee received the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) 2025 draft budgets and municipal levies, and approved the NPCA's 2025 municipal levy apportionment to Niagara Region. The committee also received a 2025 budget update memorandum for information. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved NPCA 2025 municipal levy apportionment to Niagara Region (carried)
• Received NPCA 2025 draft budgets and municipal levies (carried)
• Received 2025 Budget Update – Planning vs Proposed and Approved Increases (carried)

Council

The Regional Municipality of Niagara Council will consider adopting the 2025 operating budgets for the Waste Management, Transit, Wastewater, and Water services, along with several traffic regulation by-laws and committee reports.

• Adoption of 2025 Waste Management Budget
• Adoption of 2025 Transit Commission Budget and Special Levy
• Adoption of 2025 Wastewater Budget and Requisitions
• Adoption of 2025 Water Budget and Requisition
• Traffic regulation by-laws for Grimsby, Fort Erie, and West Lincoln

Council approved the Niagara Regional Police Service and Police Service Board 2025 proposed operating budget of $213,308,546 (13.18% increase) in principle, but referred it back to the Police Service Board for a further reduction of $1.067 million. Council also directed the Regional Chair to write to Premier Doug Ford and Solicitor General Michael Kerzner requesting provincial funding for the $10,323,969 (5.7%) increase due to the replacement of the Police Services Act with the Community Safety and Policing Act. The motion to refer was carried, and the balance of the Budget Review Committee recommendations was approved.

• Approved Niagara Regional Police 2025 budget of $213,308,546 in principle (referred for $1.067M cut)
• Directed Regional Chair to write to Premier and Solicitor General requesting provincial funding for police budget increase
• Approved 2025 Waste Management Budget (Bill 2024-73)
• Approved 2025 Transit Commission Budget and Requisition (Bill 2024-74)
• Approved 2025 Wastewater Budget and requisitions (Bill 2024-75)
• Approved 2025 Water Budget and requisitions (Bill 2024-76)
• Appointed William Barnes to Niagara Transit Commission Public Advisory Committee (Welland representative)
• Directed staff to report on affordable housing programs and potential Regional Affordable Housing Community Improvement Plan

Budget Review Committee of the Whole

The Niagara Region Budget Review Committee will consider and approve in principle the proposed 2025 operating budgets for Court Services, Niagara Regional Housing, the Niagara Regional Police Service and Police Service Board, and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority. Each budget approval is subject to the region's general levy. Presentations will precede each consideration.

• BRC-C 5-2024 – Proposed Court Services 2025 Operating Budget
• BRC-C 6-2024 – Proposed Niagara Regional Housing 2025 Operating Budget
• BRC-C 7-2024 – Proposed Niagara Regional Police Service and Police Service Board 2025 Operating Budget
• BRC-C 8-2024 – Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority 2025 Municipal Levy Apportionment

The committee approved the 2025 proposed operating budgets for Court Services and Niagara Regional Housing in principle. The Niagara Regional Police Service budget was approved in principle following a split vote, and a request for provincial funding was authorized.

• Approved Court Services 2025 Proposed Operating Budget in principle
• Approved Niagara Regional Housing 2025 Proposed Operating Budget in principle
• Approved Niagara Regional Police Service 2025 Proposed Operating Budget of $213,308,546 (15-14)
• Directed Regional Chair to request province fund $10,323,969 police budget increase (29-1)
• Deferred Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority 2025 Draft Budgets to Nov 21, 2024
• Extended meeting curfew to 11:00 p.m.

Women's Advisory Committee

The Niagara Region Women's Advisory Committee will hear two presentations: the "Niagara Region's New Parents" program and the "Niagara Well‑Being Tool". The committee will also consider a document with the 2025 meeting dates for future Women's Advisory Committee sessions. Past meeting minutes from September 17, 2024 will be provided for information.

• Presentation: Niagara Region's New Parents program
• Presentation: Niagara Well‑Being Tool
• Item WAC‑C 2‑2024 – 2025 Women's Advisory Committee meeting dates
• Item WAC 5‑2024 – Minutes from September 17, 2024 meeting

The committee approved its 2025 meeting schedule, receiving a correspondence item and setting six Tuesday meetings at 4:00 p.m. It also received the minutes from the September 17, 2024 meeting for information. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included informational presentations and announcements.

• Approved 2025 meeting dates: Jan 14, Mar 18, May 13, Jul 15, Sep 16, Nov 11 (carried)
• Received September 17, 2024 meeting minutes for information (carried)

Budget Review Committee of the Whole

The Budget Review Committee of the Whole will consider the 2025 Water and Wastewater Operating Budget, including rate setting and requisition (CSD 48-2024). It will also revisit the Niagara Transit Commission 2025 Operating Budget (BRC-C 2-2024), which was deferred at the October 17 meeting. Several consent items provide information on water and wastewater rate methodology, additional transit budget details, legal obligations under the Safe Drinking Water Act, and a resident correspondence on transit budgeting.

• CSD 48-2024 – 2025 Water and Wastewater Operating Budget, Rate Setting and Requisition
• BRC-C 2-2024 – Niagara Transit Commission 2025 Operating Budget (deferred previously)
• CSD 59-2024 – Water and Wastewater Rate Methodology Review (information)
• BRC-C 3-2024 – Niagara Transit Commission Additional Budget Information (information)
• CWCD 2024-172 – Councillor request on legal obligations under the Safe Drinking Water Act (information)

The Budget Review Committee approved the 2025 operating budgets and rate settings for water, wastewater, and Niagara Transit. The water and wastewater budget increases were approved without a recorded vote, while the transit budget was approved by a 21-8 vote. The committee also received information on rate methodologies and various correspondence items.

• Approved 2025 Water & Wastewater net operating base budget increase of $5,751,426 (3.72%) plus $11,160,869 (7.22%) for capital financing
• Approved 2025 Water Operations gross operating budget of $57,615,260
• Approved 2025 variable water rate of $0.751 effective January 1, 2025
• Approved 2025 Wastewater Operations gross operating budget of $121,023,619
• Approved Niagara Transit Commission 2025 net base Special Levy of $60,488,929 (3.66% increase) (21-8 vote)
• Approved additional capital financing for transit of $2,166,667 (3.71% increase) (21-8 vote)
• Received Report CSD 59-2024 on Water and Wastewater Rate Methodology Review for information

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The Planning and Economic Development Committee will hear presentations on the Niagara Economic Update and Foreign Direct Investment. The meeting also includes a closed session regarding a land tribunal appeal concerning a proposed quarry.

• Niagara Economic Update presentation
• Foreign Direct Investment update
• Closed session on proposed Uppers Quarry appeal
• Meeting held at Regional Headquarters in Thorold

The Committee approved recommendations regarding an Ontario Land Tribunal appeal for the Proposed Uppers Quarry Regional Official Plan Amendment. Members also received updates on the regional economy and foreign direct investment.

• Approved recommendations for Confidential PDS 30-2024 regarding Uppers Quarry litigation (Carried)
• Received Niagara Economic Update Report ED 14-2024 (Carried)
• Received Foreign Direct Investment Update Report ED 15-2024 (Carried)

Corporate Services Committee

The Corporate Services Committee will consider a one-time grant request for a property in Niagara Falls. The meeting also includes a presentation on asset management for Regional Councillors and updates on public right-of-way imagery.

• One-time grant consideration for 5698 Main Street, Niagara Falls
• Update on graphic images in the public right of way
• City of St. Catharines report on Older Homeowner Tax Increase Deferral Program
• Presentation on Asset Management in Niagara for Regional Councillors
• Closed session discussions regarding litigation for Canada Games Park and South Side Low Lift Sewage Pumping Station Upgrades

The Corporate Services Committee approved a one-time grant of $276,621.79 to the City of Niagara Falls to cover outstanding property taxes for 5698 Main Street, in lieu of tax increment grant (TIG) payments, and denied any future TIG or other grant requests for that development. The committee also received informational reports on graphic images in the public right-of-way and St. Catharines' older homeowner tax deferral program. Several confidential items were received and approved in closed session, including a non-union compensation review update and litigation matters.

• Approved one-time grant of $276,621.79 to City of Niagara Falls for 5698 Main Street property taxes (carried)
• Denied future TIG or other grant requests for 5698 Main Street development (carried)
• Received CSD 51-2024 on graphic images in public right-of-way (carried)
• Received CSC-C 11-2024 on St. Catharines older homeowner tax deferral program (carried)
• Received confidential CSC-C 12-2024 on non-union compensation review (carried)
• Received confidential HR 7-2024 on non-union compensation review (carried)
• Approved confidential CSD 50-2024 bi-annual litigation claims summary (carried)
• Approved confidential CSD 52-2024 and CSD 54-2024 litigation matters (carried)

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee is meeting to consider budget adjustments for child care and early years services. The body will also discuss property management services agreements for housing and a funding announcement for social assistance and employment.

• Child Care and Early Years 2024 Budget Adjustment (COM 32-2024)
• Housing Services Property Management Services Agreements (COM 33-2024)
• Social Assistance and Employment Opportunities Funding Announcement (COM 31-2024)
• Board of Health Evaluation results presentation

The committee approved three reports: receiving provincial funding reinstatement for social assistance, endorsing a 50/50 levy-provincial funding model, and converting 21 temporary FTEs to permanent effective January 1, 2025. It also approved a $3,043,856 gross budget adjustment for child care (fully funded by the Ministry of Education) and authorized the Commissioner to enter property management agreements with third-party housing providers. All items were carried without recorded opposition.

• Approved COM 31-2024: received provincial funding reinstatement for Ontario Works, endorsed 50/50 levy-provincial funding, and converted 21 temporary FTEs to permanent (carried)
• Approved COM 32-2024: $3,043,856 gross budget adjustment for child care, $0 net, funded by Ministry of Education (carried)
• Approved COM 33-2024: authorized Commissioner to enter property management agreements with third-party housing providers (carried)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee is meeting to consider the award of a contract for the Biosolids and Residuals Management Program. The committee will also receive updates on road reconstruction costs and reports on water festivals and traffic enforcement appeals.

• Award of Contract 2024-T-207 for Biosolids and Residuals Management Program
• Update on additional costs for Regional Road 98 (Montrose Road) reconstruction
• Process to appeal red-light camera and automated speed enforcement infractions
• 2024 Niagara Children’s Water Festival Summary Report

The Public Works Committee awarded the Biosolids and Residuals Management Program contract to Thomas Nutrient Solutions for an estimated $5.7 million in year one, with a six-year term and a one-year extension option. The committee also received informational updates on road costs, a children's water festival, and red-light camera appeals. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Awarded Contract 2024-T-207 for Biosolids and Residuals Management to Thomas Nutrient Solutions (estimated $5,735,826 year one, 6-year term, 1-year extension) (carried)
• Received update on additional costs for Regional Road 98 (Montrose Road) reconstruction (for information)
• Received 2024 Niagara Children's Water Festival summary report (for information)
• Received process to appeal red-light camera and automated speed enforcement infractions (for information)

Transportation Strategy Steering Committee

The Transportation Strategy Steering Committee met on October 30, 2024 at the Niagara Region Headquarters in Thorold. The agenda included a presentation of the Transportation Master Plan Overview and the full Transportation Master Plan documents by Maged Elmadhoon, Manager of Transportation Planning. The committee considered item TSSC‑C 3‑2024, which proposes the dates for the 2025 Transportation Strategy Steering Committee meetings. No decisions were recorded; the next meeting date is to be determined.

• Transportation Master Plan Overview presentation (pdf attached)
• Transportation Master Plan (TMP) presentation (pdf attached)
• Consideration of TSSC‑C 3‑2024: proposal of 2025 Steering Committee meeting dates

The committee approved a schedule for four meetings in 2025, all held on Wednesdays at 3:00 p.m. Staff presented an overview of the current and 2051 Transportation Master Plans. The committee also discussed the provincial Bill 212, with staff noting they are awaiting further details from the province to assess its impact.

• Approved 2025 meeting dates: Feb 12, May 14, Sep 17, Nov 26
• Received Report TSSC-C 3-2024 regarding 2025 meeting schedule
• Staff presented overview of Transportation Master Plan (TMP)
• Staff advised awaiting provincial detail on Bill 212 impact

Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee will present a Student Housing Strategy. It will discuss the Anti‑Discrimination Statement Proposed Approach. The meeting will also provide updates on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan 2023 (PDS 12‑2024) and review minutes from previous DEIAC meetings.

• Student Housing Strategy presentation by Marian Bannerman
• Discussion of Anti‑Discrimination Statement Proposed Approach
• Presentation of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan 2023 Updates (PDS 12‑2024)
• Review of DEIAC 1‑2024 minutes (April 16, 2024)
• Review of DEIAC 2‑2024 minutes (April 30, 2024) and DEIAC 4‑2024 minutes (August 27, 2024)

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee received the 2023 DEI Action Plan progress report and discussed a proposed approach for an Anti-Discrimination Statement, including community input and alignment with human rights codes. The committee also received minutes from previous meetings and preferred a 5:00 p.m. start time for future meetings. No formal decisions were made on the anti-discrimination statement or meeting time.

• Received DEI Action Plan 2023 Progress Report (PDS 12-2024) for information
• Received minutes from April 16, April 30, and August 27, 2024 meetings
• Amended agenda to move minutes before presentation
• Preferred 5:00 p.m. start time for future meetings (discussion only)

Joint Board of Management

The Joint Board of Management for Niagara Courts is meeting to discuss and consider the Court Services 2025 Operating Budget. A presentation will be provided before the board considers the item.

• Court Services 2025 Operating Budget (Item JBM-C 7-2024)

The Joint Board of Management approved the Court Services 2025 operating budget, including a gross base budget of $12,777,778 and net base revenue of $218,342, plus an additional $118,888 for program changes. The total 2025 gross operating budget of $12,896,666 and net revenue of $99,454 was recommended to Niagara Region Council. The motion was carried unanimously.

• Approved 2025 Court Services gross base operating budget of $12,777,778 and net base revenue of $218,342 (carried)
• Approved $118,888 increase for Part III/IX prosecution transfer and digital evidence management system (carried)
• Approved total 2025 gross operating budget of $12,896,666 and net revenue of $99,454, recommended to Council (carried)

Council

The Niagara Region Council will consider several by‑laws, including authorizing loan and grant agreements with the Green Municipal Fund for projects in St. Catharines and Welland, and establishing a system for Trespass to Property Act notices. The council will also conduct the Annual General Meeting of the Niagara Regional Housing Corporation, reviewing audited financial statements, appointing an auditor, and re‑appointing board members. A motion to endorse Ontario Big City Mayors’ “Solve the Crisis” campaign will be presented for a vote.

• Bill 2024-66 – authorizes a loan and grant agreement for the Green Municipal Fund with the City of St. Catharines
• Bill 2024-67 – authorizes a loan and grant agreement for the Green Municipal Fund with the City of Welland
• Bill 2024-68 – creates a system for administering notices under the Trespass to Property Act
• Motion to endorse Ontario Big City Mayors’ “Solve the Crisis” campaign
• Annual General Meeting of the Niagara Regional Housing Corporation: financial statements, auditor appointment, board member re‑appointments

Council endorsed the Ontario Big City Mayors' 'Solve the Crisis' campaign, calling on the province to address homelessness, mental health, and addictions. An amendment to include those with lived/living experience in a task force was approved. The motion passed unanimously (27-0).

• Endorsed 'Solve the Crisis' campaign, calling on province to act (27-0)
• Approved amendment to include lived/living experience in task force (14-13)
• Re-appointed four community directors to Niagara Regional Housing Board
• Appointed KPMG as auditor for Niagara Regional Housing for 2024
• Confirmed Niagara Regional Housing financial statements for 2023
• Adopted minutes from four committee meetings
• Passed by-laws for Green Municipal Fund agreements with St. Catharines and Welland
• Approved confidential report on recruitment for Commissioner of Community Services

Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting to consider a draft of the 2024-2029 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan and set meeting dates for 2025. The session includes a presentation on accessible design for the NRPS 911 Back-Up Facility.

• Draft 2024-2029 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (MYAP)
• NRPS 911 Back-Up Facility accessible design implementation presentation
• 2025 Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting dates

The Accessibility Advisory Committee endorsed the 2024-2029 Draft Accessibility Plan and set its 2025 meeting dates. The meeting adjourned early due to loss of quorum after a presentation on the NRPS 911 backup facility.

• Endorsed 2024-2029 Draft Accessibility Plan (carried)
• Set 2025 meeting dates: Jan 21, Apr 29, Jul 22, Oct 21 (carried)
• Received minutes from Jan 23 and Apr 23, 2024 meetings (carried)

Joint Board of Management

The Joint Board of Management will receive a presentation and then consider the Court Services 2025 Operating Budget. The agenda also includes routine items such as call to order, disclosures of pecuniary interest, delegations, and a consent item to approve the August 22, 2024 meeting minutes. Other business will be discussed, and the next meeting is scheduled for November 28, 2024.

• Presentation and consideration of the Court Services 2025 Operating Budget (attachments JBM-C 7-2024 PDFs)
• Consent item: approval of Joint Board of Management minutes from August 22, 2024
• Routine items: call to order, disclosures of pecuniary interest, delegations
• Discussion of other business (no specific items listed)
• Next meeting set for Thursday, November 28, 2024 at 3:30 p.m.

The Joint Board of Management for Niagara Courts met on October 17, 2024, but no quorum was present within 30 minutes of the scheduled start. Chair Mark Tardif adjourned the meeting per the procedural by-law, so no decisions were made.

• Meeting adjourned due to lack of quorum

Budget Review Committee of the Whole

The Budget Review Committee of the Whole is meeting to consider the 2025 operating budgets for the Niagara Transit Commission and Waste Management. The session includes presentations on proposed spending and requisitions.

• Niagara Transit Commission 2025 Operating Budget and Special Levy Requisition
• Waste Management 2025 Operating Budget and Requisition
• Proposed 2025 Waste Management Requisition by Municipality
• 2025 Waste Management Requisition for Typical Residential Property by Municipality

The committee deferred the Niagara Transit Commission's 2025 proposed operating budget and special levy to November 7, 2024, to allow staff to provide additional information on intermunicipal transit, reserve surplus, and assessment value. The committee approved the Waste Management 2025 operating budget and requisition, including a net operating budget increase of $416,952 (0.9%) and a transfer of $350,000 from the Waste Management Stabilization Reserve. An amendment to increase the net operating budget increase to $672,952 (1.5%) was defeated.

• Deferred Niagara Transit Commission 2025 budget and special levy to Nov 7, 2024
• Approved Waste Management 2025 net operating budget increase of $416,952 (0.9%)
• Approved $350,000 transfer from Waste Management Stabilization Reserve for one-time costs
• Approved 2025 Waste Management gross operating budget of $53,029,717 and net budget of $45,584,715
• Defeated amendment to increase Waste Management net operating budget increase to $672,952 (1.5%)

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The Planning & Economic Development Committee will review and decide on the Planning Service Level Agreement and the 2024 Memorandum of Understanding for engineering services (PDS 27-2024). It will also receive a strategic marketing update presentation (ED 13-2024) and updates on shared services (PDS 29-2024 and PDS 31-2024). Closed‑session items will address litigation matters related to Ontario Land Tribunal appeals for sites on Stanley Avenue and a West Lincoln Official Plan amendment.

• Review and approve Planning Service Agreement and 2024 Engineering MOU (PDS 27-2024)
• Strategic Marketing Update presentation (ED 13-2024)
• Shared Services Update presentation (PDS 29-2024)
• Shared Services Inventory Update presentation (PDS 31-2024)
• Closed‑session discussion of litigation on Stanley Avenue sites and West Lincoln Official Plan Amendment No. 63

The committee received and approved recommendations to authorize the Chief Administrative Officer to sign a Planning Service Agreement and a 2024 Memorandum of Understanding for engineering services, contingent on provincial proclamation of Planning Act amendments. It also received information reports on strategic marketing and shared services, and approved two confidential litigation-related items.

• Approved authorization for CAO to sign Planning Service Agreement with area municipalities (carried)
• Approved authorization for CAO to sign 2024 MOU on Engineering Function and Services (carried)
• Received Strategic Marketing Update report ED 13-2024 (carried)
• Received Shared Services Update PDS 29-2024 and Shared Services Inventory Update PDS 31-2024 (carried)
• Approved confidential litigation item PDS 25-2024 re: OLT appeal at 8970 and 9015 Stanley Avenue, Niagara Falls (carried)
• Approved confidential litigation item PDS 28-2024 re: OLT partial settlement of West Lincoln Official Plan Amendment No. 63 (carried)

Corporate Services Committee

The Corporate Services Committee will review three items for decision: a new Trespass By‑law and Conduct of Persons Policy, an amendment to the construction agreement for Gilmore Lodge LTC, and the renewal of the UKG Kronos time‑and‑attendance software contract. It will also receive information on a low‑income seniors and disability property tax deferral program and a development charges memo for 7667 Chippawa Creek Road. Closed‑session portions will discuss HR matters related to non‑union compensation and upcoming collective bargaining strategy.

• CSD 41-2024 – Adoption of a Trespass By‑law and Conduct of Persons Policy (including public conduct procedure).
• CSD 49-2024 – Amendment to the construction agreement for Gilmore Lodge LTC (project cost detailed in attached appendix).
• HR 8-2024 – Renewal of the UKG Kronos time‑and‑attendance software contract.
• CSD 32-2024 – Information on the Low‑Income Seniors and Disability Property Tax Deferral Program.
• CSC‑C 10-2024 – Development Charges memo for 7667 Chippawa Creek Road, Niagara Falls.

The Corporate Services Committee approved an $875,750 increase for the Gilmore Lodge LTC construction contract and a five-year, $2.23 million renewal for UKG Kronos software. The committee also adopted a new Public Conduct Policy and Trespass By-law. Additionally, members authorized a one-year extension for a Regional Development Charges agreement with Trent Lakes Developments Inc.

• Approved $875,750 increase for Gilmore Lodge construction contract (Carried)
• Approved 5-year, $2.23M UKG Kronos software renewal (Carried)
• Approved new Public Conduct Policy and Trespass By-law (Carried)
• Authorized 1-year extension for Trent Lakes Developments Inc. RDC agreement (Carried)
• Directed staff to report on St. Catharines tax deferral program (Carried)
• Deferred non-union compensation review to Nov 6 meeting (Carried)
• Approved labour relations strategy for CUPE Locals 1287 and 1757 (Carried)

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee is meeting to decide on the approval of the 2023 Child Care Services Program Audit and the extension of the Primary Public Safety Answering Point Agreement. The body will also receive information regarding winter homelessness plans and veterans funding.

• Approval of 2023 Child Care Services Program Audit (COM 30-2024)
• Extension of the Primary Public Safety Answering Point Agreement (PHD 6-2024)
• Homelessness Plans for Winter 2024-2025 (COM-C 12-2024)
• Veterans Funding (COM-C 13-2024)
• Ontario Public Health Standards: Risk Management Requirement (PHD 5-2024)

Public Works Committee

The Committee will consider the award of a contract for 12 dump trucks with winter control equipment. Members will also hear a delegation regarding hauled sewage rate setting and receive an update on the Biosolids Master Plan.

• Award of Contract 2024-T-148 for the supply and delivery of 12 dump trucks with winter control equipment
• Delegation from Tom Richardson (Sullivan Mahoney LLP) regarding Hauled Sewage Rate Setting
• Biosolids Master Plan Update presentation

The Public Works Committee approved awarding Contract 2024-T-148 for the supply and delivery of 12 dump trucks with winter control equipment to Rush Truck Centres of Canada at $6,739,382 (including 13% HST). The committee also received a presentation on the Biosolids Master Plan Update for information and directed staff to provide requested information on hauled sewage rate setting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Awarded Contract 2024-T-148 for 12 dump trucks to Rush Truck Centres of Canada at $6,739,382 (including HST)
• Received Biosolids Master Plan Update (PW 31-2024) for information
• Directed staff to provide information on hauled sewage rate review process and financial justification for proposed fee increase

Council

Council will review several debenture by-laws to authorize borrowing for regional and municipal capital projects. The meeting also includes delegations regarding the reconstruction of Regional Road 87 and requests for incentive program extensions.

• Bill 2024-62: Borrowing of $55,299,403.00 for Regional Municipality of Niagara capital work
• Bill 2024-60: Borrowing of $7,500,000.00 for City of Niagara Falls capital work
• Bill 2024-63: Borrowing of $5,054,825.00 for Town of Lincoln capital work
• Bill 2024-57 & 2024-58: Speed limit reductions on Regional Road 54 (Welland) and Regional Road 529 (Pelham)
• Bill 2024-64: Approval of the Regional Official Plan Amendment for Law Quarry (Wainfleet)

Council voted 17-8 to not proceed with the reconstruction of Regional Road 87 in Port Dalhousie, instead continuing with regular maintenance. Council also extended the Smart Growth and Smarter Niagara incentive program deadlines by 18 months to April 1, 2026, and directed staff to retain a consultant for a new incentive program. A motion to refer the incentive extension to the Budget Review Committee was defeated 3-18.

• Approved motion to not proceed with Regional Road 87 reconstruction (17-8)
• Extended Smart Growth and Smarter Niagara incentive program deadlines to April 1, 2026 (16-5)
• Directed staff to retain consultant for new incentive program, report by Jan 1, 2026
• Defeated referral of incentive extension to Budget Review Committee (3-18)
• Approved 12 by-laws including traffic regulations and debenture borrowings
• Adopted minutes from multiple committee meetings
• Supported AMO call for provincial legislation on municipal codes of conduct (tie broken by chair)

Niagara Region Licensing Appeals Committee

The Licensing Appeals Committee will hear appeals from five transportation network company drivers whose licence renewals were refused under Niagara Region By-law 2021‑57. The hearings will be conducted in accordance with the By-law and the Statutory Powers Procedure Act. The committee will decide whether to uphold or overturn each refusal.

• Waheed Gul – appeal of licence renewal refusal (Transportation Network Company driver)
• Bunrorn Chan – appeal of licence renewal refusal (Transportation Network Company driver)
• Gurpreet Singh – appeal of licence renewal refusal (Transportation Network Company driver)
• Jaspreet Singh – appeal of licence renewal refusal (Transportation Network Company driver)
• Vijo Mandumpal – appeal of licence renewal refusal (Transportation Network Company driver)

Women's Advisory Committee

The Women's Advisory Committee will receive a presentation on updates to the Children's Services System Plan for 2024-2026. The committee will also review information regarding graphic images in the public right of way.

• Children's Services - Service System Plan (2024-2026) updates
• CSD 35-2024: Graphic Images in the Public Right of Way

The committee received two reports for information: CSD 35-2024 on graphic images in the public right-of-way and the minutes from the July 16, 2024 meeting. Members also discussed their role in providing feedback on corporate initiatives, noting they have mostly been receiving information. No substantive decisions were made.

• Received Report CSD 35-2024 on Graphic Images in the Public Right of Way (carried)
• Received Minutes WAC 4-2024 from July 16, 2024 meeting (carried)

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee is meeting to consider the appointment of auditors. The body will also receive information regarding various program audits and financial statements.

• Appointment of Auditors (AC-C 6-2024)
• Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority 2023 Audited Financial Statements
• Public Health and Emergency Services Program Audits
• 2024 Community Services Program Audits
• Status Update on Internal Audit Engagements

The Audit Committee approved the appointment of KPMG as the Region's external auditor for a five-year term starting with the 2024 financial year, with an option to renew until 2032. The committee also received for information the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority's 2023 audited financial statements, approvals of public health and community services program audits, and a status update on internal audit engagements. A confidential matter regarding identifiable individuals and litigation was received. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved appointment of KPMG as external auditor for five-year term (2024-2029), with renewal option to 2032 (carried)
• Received Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority 2023 audited financial statements for information (carried)
• Received approvals of Public Health and Emergency Services Program Audits (PHD 3-2024) for information (carried)
• Received approvals of 2024 Community Services Program Audits (COM 21-2024) for information (carried)
• Received status update on Internal Audit Engagements (AC-C 9-2024) for information (carried)
• Received confidential memorandum AC-C 8-2024 regarding personal matters and litigation (carried)

Budget Review Committee of the Whole

The Budget Review Committee of the Whole is meeting to consider the 2025 Capital Budget. The session includes a presentation and review of capital project recommendations, debt information, and a 9-year forecast.

• Consideration of the 2025 Capital Budget (CSD 46-2024)
• Review of Capital Budget submissions from Niagara Regional Housing
• Review of Capital Budget submissions from Niagara Regional Police Service
• Review of Capital Budget submissions from Niagara Transit Commission

The Budget Review Committee approved the 2025 Capital Budget of $376,112,038 for regional departments, agencies, boards, and special levies, pending final by-law approval in December. The motion also approved financing of $333,872,038 gross and $174,157,666 net, and directed that certain incremental transfers be considered in the 2025 operating budgets. A motion to call the question was defeated, but the main motion carried.

• Approved 2025 Capital Budget of $376,112,038 (carried)
• Approved financing of $333,872,038 gross and $174,157,666 net
• Approved incremental transfers: General Capital Levy $12,075,960, Water & Wastewater $11,160,869, NTC $2,166,667, NRPS $320,000
• Approved $290,900 for incremental operating costs funded from Assessment Growth
• Increased DC funding for Barrick Road Trunk Watermain from 40% to 50%
• Funded WTP Upgrade – Welland Phase 2 50% with DCs and 50% non-DC
• Directed preparation of necessary by-laws for Council consideration
• Received capital budget submissions from Niagara Regional Housing, NRPS, and NTC for information

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The Planning and Economic Development Committee is reviewing requests for Regional and Local Official Plan amendments regarding the Law Quarry Extension. The body will also consider a Niagara Gateway application and a zero-emission vehicle blueprint.

• Regional and Local Official Plan Amendment for Law Quarry Extension (PDS 23-2024)
• Niagara Gateway CIP Application from City of Port Colborne for E-Materials Canada Corporation (ED 12-2024)
• Zero Emission Vehicle Blueprint for EV Sector Development (ED 11-2024)

The Planning and Economic Development Committee approved a Regional Official Plan Amendment and the Township of Wainfleet Official Plan Amendment No. 4 for the Law Quarry extension, and approved a Gateway CIP Tax Increment Grant for E-Materials Canada Corporation in Port Colborne. Both motions were carried. The committee also received an information report on the Niagara Electric Vehicle Blueprint.

• Approved Regional Official Plan Amendment for Law Quarry extension (carried)
• Approved Township of Wainfleet Official Plan Amendment No. 4 (carried)
• Approved Gateway CIP Tax Increment Grant for E-Materials Canada Corporation (carried)
• Received Niagara Electric Vehicle Blueprint report (carried)

Corporate Services Committee

The Corporate Services Committee is meeting to consider updates to the regional investment policy and a development charge credit extension in Grimsby. The body will also review the 2025 meeting schedule and a contract extension for lobbyist registrar services.

• Update of C-F-009 Investment Policy
• Development Charge Demolition Credit Extension Request for brownfield redevelopment at 21-23 Main St. East, Grimsby
• Extension of Lobbyist Registrar Services Contract
• Review of non-competitive procurement activities exceeding $100,000
• Q2 2024 Financial Update

The committee approved an updated investment policy, a development charge credit extension for a Grimsby brownfield site, and the 2025 meeting schedule. Members also authorized a contract extension for lobbyist registrar services and received reports on financial updates and procurement activities. Additionally, the committee approved recommendations regarding a labour relations arbitration award following a closed session.

• Approved updated C-F-009 Investment Policy
• Extended development charge demolition credits for 21-23 Main St E, Grimsby
• Approved 2025 Legislative Schedule of Meetings
• Extended Lobbyist Registrar services contract to October 31, 2027
• Received Q2 2024 Financial Update
• Received report on non-competitive procurement activities
• Approved recommendations regarding CUPE 1263 Interest Arbitration Award

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee will hear a presentation on the 2023 Early Development Instrument results for the Niagara Region. It will consider three items: a housing provider end‑of‑mortgage strategy and related service agreements, a budget adjustment for seniors services, and an emergency social services contract with the Canadian Red Cross. The committee will also receive informational updates on early learning and child‑care priorities and a seniors services quality‑improvement report.

• COM 28-2024 – Housing Provider End‑of‑Mortgage Strategy and Service Agreements
• COM 25-2024 – Budget Adjustment for Seniors Services
• COM 27-2024 – Emergency Social Services contract with the Canadian Red Cross
• COM 23-2024 – Update on Canada‑Wide Early Learning and Child‑Care Program
• COM 26-2024 – Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report (April‑June 2024)

The committee approved the Housing Provider End of Mortgage Strategy, authorizing the Commissioner of Community Services to modify it and enter into service/exit agreements with housing providers. It also approved a $5,675,723 operating budget adjustment for Senior Services, fully funded by the Ministry of Long-Term Care, adding 13 permanent full-time equivalents. A three-year agreement with the Canadian Red Cross for Emergency Social Services (2025-2027) was authorized. Two information items were received, and a verbal update noted intent to apply for provincial HART Hub funding.

• Approved Housing Provider End of Mortgage Strategy and delegated authority to modify it (carried)
• Authorized Commissioner to enter into service/exit agreements with housing providers under Housing Services Act (carried)
• Approved $5,675,723 budget adjustment for Senior Services funded by Ministry of Long-Term Care (carried)
• Approved addition of 13 permanent FTEs funded from Long-Term Care Staffing Increase Funding (carried)
• Authorized execution of 3-year Canadian Red Cross agreement for Emergency Social Services, Jan 1 2025 - Dec 31 2027 (carried)
• Received for information: Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Program Directed Growth Priority Neighbourhood (carried)
• Received for information: Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report April-June 2024 (carried)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will consider a motion (PWC‑C 11‑2024) establishing a process to appeal red‑light camera and automated speed‑enforcement infractions. It will also review an extension to the 2022‑T‑145 winter and summer grounds‑maintenance contract (PW 27‑2024) and receive a presentation on hauled sewage rate setting (PW 26‑2024). Additional updates include Regional Road 87 reconstruction in Port Dalhousie (PW 28‑2024), the Niagara Escarpment crossing environmental assessment terms of reference (PW 29‑2024), and a capital‑project status report (PWC‑C 10‑2024).

• Motion Respecting the Process to Appeal Red‑light Camera and Automated Speed Enforcement Infractions (PWC‑C 11‑2024)
• Extension to 2022‑T‑145 Winter and Summer Grounds Maintenance – WWW (PW 27‑2024)
• Hauled Sewage Rate Setting presentation (PW 26‑2024)
• Update Regarding Regional Road 87 Reconstruction in Port Dalhousie (PW 28‑2024)
• Niagara Escarpment Crossing Comprehensive Environmental Assessment – Terms of Reference (PW 29‑2024)

The Public Works Committee approved extending a grounds maintenance contract for water and wastewater facilities by one year at a cost of $2,565,651, and directed staff to report on the appeal process for red-light and speed camera infractions. The committee also voted to not proceed with the Regional Road 87 reconstruction in Port Dalhousie and continue regular maintenance instead. Reports on hauled sewage rates and other items were received for information.

• Approved one-year extension of Contract 2022-T-145 for grounds maintenance at $2,565,651 (15-2)
• Directed staff to report on appeal process for red-light and speed camera infractions (carried)
• Voted to not proceed with Regional Road 87 reconstruction and continue regular maintenance (13-2)
• Received hauled sewage rate setting report for information (carried)
• Received Niagara Escarpment Crossing EA terms of reference and other items for information (carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is considering a review of the Niagara Region Incentive Policy. The meeting includes a presentation on the state of repair for water and wastewater services and discussions regarding the expiry of the Smarter Niagara Incentive Program and Smart Growth Program.

• Niagara Region Incentive Policy Review (Report PDS 26-2024)
• Water and Wastewater Service State of Repair presentation
• Smarter Niagara Incentive Program and Smart Growth Program Expiry Background (PDS-C 27-2024)
• City of St. Catharines request for extensions to Niagara Region Incentive Programs
• Delegation from Rachel Braithwaite of the St. Catharines Downtown Association

The Committee of the Whole approved changes to the Niagara Region Incentive Policy, including removing obsolete programs and moving others to different departments. It also extended the Smart Growth and Smarter Niagara incentive program deadlines to October 1, 2027, despite a failed motion to refer the extension to budget review.

• Approved changes to Niagara Region Incentive Policy (PDS 26-2024), removing obsolete programs and moving others (carried)
• Extended Smart Growth RDC Reduction Program deadline to October 1, 2027 (carried 13-8)
• Extended Smarter Niagara Incentive Program TIG and BTIG deadlines to October 1, 2027 (carried 13-8)
• Directed staff to collaborate with municipalities on a new incentive program (carried)
• Defeated motion to refer program extension to Budget Review Committee (defeated 8-13)

Council Special

The Regional Municipality of Niagara Council will hold a special meeting on August 29, 2024. Items include a land acknowledgement, adoption of the agenda, disclosures of pecuniary interest, and a closed‑session discussion of confidential CAO matters. The council will consider Bill 2024‑49, a by‑law to confirm the actions taken at this meeting.

• Closed session to discuss confidential CAO 12‑2024
• Closed session to discuss confidential CAO 13‑2024
• Adoption of Bill 2024‑49 confirming the council’s actions at this meeting
• Land acknowledgement statement
• Disclosures of pecuniary interest

At a special meeting on August 29, 2024, Niagara Region Council approved two confidential recommendations: one regarding labour relations and organizational structure realignment (CAO 12-2024), and another concerning the appointment of a Deputy Chief Administrative Officer (CAO 13-2024). Both were approved as moved, with no recorded opposition. The meeting also adopted the agenda and passed a by-law to confirm the actions taken.

• Approved confidential report CAO 12-2024 on organizational structure realignment (carried)
• Approved confidential report CAO 13-2024 on Deputy Chief Administrative Officer appointment (carried)
• Adopted agenda CL 12-2024 (carried)
• Passed Bill 2024-49 to confirm actions of the special meeting (carried)

Council

The Regional Municipality of Niagara Council will review the South Niagara Shelter Expansion proposal. It will also address a vacancy on the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority board, a 9‑1‑1 service contract with Bell Canada, and a special equipment budget transfer for the NRPS 911 Backup Centre. Several by‑laws, including a dedication of part of 59R‑17966 as Regional Road 98, will be adopted.

• South Niagara Shelter Expansion (COM 29‑2024)
• Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority Board vacancy (CL‑C 73‑2024)
• Bell Canada NG 9‑1‑1 Authority Service Contract (CSD 45‑2024)
• NRPS Special Equipment Budget Transfer for 911 Backup Centre (CL‑C 75‑2024)
• Dedication by‑law for part of 59R‑17966 as Regional Road 98 (Bill 2024‑50)

Council approved a $2.84 million capital transfer to Niagara Regional Housing for a South Niagara Emergency Shelter, with operations to begin by end of 2024 and a $1 million annual operating budget considered for 2025. The Hope Centre contract was increased by up to $1 million per year through March 2027, plus $250,000 in startup funding. The motion passed 19-5 after a recorded vote. Council also approved a $3.024 million budget transfer for a 911 backup centre and appointed Councillor Witteveen to the NPCA board.

• Approved $2,840,400 transfer to Niagara Regional Housing for South Niagara Emergency Shelter (19-5)
• Approved creation of South Niagara Shelter, operational by end of 2024, with $1M annual operating budget for 2025 consideration
• Approved up to $1M/year increase to Hope Centre contract (Jan 2025–Mar 2027) plus $250,000 startup funding
• Approved $3,024,000 capital budget transfer for 911 Back Up Centre
• Appointed Councillor Witteveen to NPCA Board of Directors (13 votes)
• Approved $412,752 increase to Parsons Inc. contract for Montrose Road project, total $3,063,906
• Approved Bell Canada NG 9-1-1 Authority Service Contract
• Passed amended Procedural By-law restricting signs, props, and flags at meetings

Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee

The Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee is meeting to receive presentations on regional planning and data. The session focuses on accessibility engagement, child care service plans, and employment inventory data.

• Niagara Region Accessibility Planning engagement overview
• Children's Services - Service System Plan (2024-2026) updates
• Niagara Employment Inventory Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion data
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan 2023 updates (PDS 12-2024)

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee met electronically but lost quorum at 5:15 p.m. and could not make any decisions. Presentations on accessibility planning, children's services, and employment DEI data were given, but no votes or approvals occurred. The meeting adjourned at 5:51 p.m. after quorum was not regained.

• No decisions made due to loss of quorum
• Meeting adjourned without regaining quorum

Waste Management Planning Steering Committee

The Waste Management Planning Steering Committee will hear presentations on the 2025 waste‑management tipping fees and on the 2025 capital projects for waste services. It will also consider several consent items that provide information on council requests, a residential drop‑off depot agreement, and the cancellation of the deposit‑return program. No decisions are listed; the items are for discussion and information.

• Presentation of 2025 Waste Management Tipping Fees (Emil Prpic)
• Overview of Waste Management 2025 Capital Projects (Peter Kryger)
• Consent item WMPSC‑C 6‑2024 – Councillor Information Requests
• Consent item WMPSC‑C 8‑2024 – Walker Environmental Residential Drop‑off Depot Agreement
• Consent item WMPSC‑C 10‑2024 – Cancellation of Deposit Return

The committee received presentations on proposed 2025 waste management tipping fees and capital projects, with councillors requesting further review of specific fee rates. No formal decisions were made; all items were received for information only.

• Received presentation on 2025 tipping fees; councillors requested revisiting contaminated soil and minimum fee rates
• Received overview of 2025 capital projects including Mountain Road End Use Works and Bridge Street asphalt
• Received WMPSC-C 6-2024 (Councillor Information Requests) for information
• Received WMPSC-C 7-2024 (Waste Management Strategic Plan Update) for information
• Received WMPSC-C 8-2024 (Walker Environmental Drop-off Depot Agreement) for information
• Received WMPSC-C 9-2024 (RPRA Administrative Penalty) for information
• Received WMPSC-C 10-2024 (Cancellation of Deposit Return) for information
• Received WMPSC-C 11-2024 (Soil Acceptance Change) and WMPSC-C 12-2024 (Bronze Award) for information

Joint Board of Management

The Joint Board of Management will consider the 2nd Quarter Variance Analysis and Forecast to December 31, 2024, presented in several attached PDFs. It will also review the minutes from the April 18, 2024 meeting. No other decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.

• Review Q2 2024 variance analysis for Base Operations (Appendix 1)
• Review Q2 2024 forecasted distribution to Local Area Municipalities (Appendix 2)
• Review Q2 2024 variance analysis for Vision Zero Operations (Appendix 3)
• Consider the 2nd Quarter Variance Analysis and Forecast document (main attachment)
• Consider minutes from the April 18, 2024 Joint Board of Management meeting

The Joint Board of Management for Niagara Courts held a brief meeting with no substantive decisions. Members received the 2nd Quarter Variance Analysis and Forecast to December 31, 2024, and the minutes from the April 18, 2024 meeting, both for information only. No items were considered, and no other business was discussed.

• Received Q2 Variance Analysis and Forecast to Dec 31, 2024 (carried)
• Received minutes of April 18, 2024 meeting (carried)

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The Planning & Economic Development Committee will hear a presentation on the Attainable Housing Strategy (Item 6.1) and discuss related housing initiatives. Delegations will request extensions for the Smart Growth Program at 75 Ormond Street, Thorold, and present seniors housing options for Niagara‑on‑the‑Lake. Information items include updates on Niagara Signature Sites, the 2024 Public Realm Investment Program funding commitments, and the Q1‑Q2 2024 Economic Development report.

• Smart Growth Program Extension Request – 75 Ormond Street, Thorold (Item 5.1)
• Seniors Housing Options – Niagara‑on‑the‑Lake (Item 5.2)
• Attainable Housing Strategy presentation (Item 6.1)
• Niagara Signature Sites presentations (Item 7.1)
• 2024 Public Realm Investment Program Funding Commitments (Item 7.3)

The committee endorsed the Attainable Housing Strategy, which aims to address housing needs across the housing spectrum. A request to extend the Smart Growth Incentive Program for a property in Thorold was referred to the September 5 Committee of the Whole meeting. Several reports were received for information, including the Niagara Signature Sites and economic development updates.

• Endorsed Attainable Housing Strategy (PDS 14-2024)
• Referred Smart Growth Program extension request for 75 Ormond Street, Thorold to Committee of the Whole on September 5, 2024
• Received Niagara Signature Sites report (ED 10-2024) for information
• Received Economic Development Q1 and Q2 2024 update (ED 9-2024) for information
• Received 2024 Public Realm Investment Program Funding Commitments (PDS-C 22-2024) for information

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee will review updates to the Sewer Use By-law and revoke the Hauled Sewage Program Policy. The committee will also consider budget increases for a wastewater treatment plant upgrade and a road reconstruction project in Niagara Falls.

• Update to Sewer Use By-law and revocation of Hauled Sewage Program Policy
• Gross budget increase for Seaway Wastewater Treatment Plant Influent Channel Upgrade
• Purchase Order Amendment for Regional Road 98 (Montrose Road) reconstruction
• Contract approval for GO Station Precinct Development Project in St. Catharines
• Receipt of a written warning under the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulation

The Public Works Committee approved a $34,880,190 contract for the GO Station Precinct Development Project in St. Catharines, awarded to Rankin Construction Inc. They also approved a $5.85M budget increase for the Seaway Wastewater Treatment Plant influent channel upgrade, a new Sewer Use By-law, and a $412,752 increase to a Parsons Inc. contract for Montrose Road work. All items were carried unanimously.

• Approved $34,880,190 contract for GO Station Precinct Development Project to Rankin Construction Inc.
• Approved $5,850,000 gross budget increase for Seaway Wastewater Treatment Plant Influent Channel Upgrade
• Approved new Sewer Use By-law, repealing By-law 27-2014 and two related policies
• Approved $412,752 increase to Parsons Inc. contract for Montrose Road environmental assessment and design
• Received written warning under Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulation

Budget Review Committee of the Whole

The Niagara Region Budget Review Committee will hear a presentation on the 2025 Budget Strategy. It will also receive updates on the Investing in Ontario Fund, the levy impact of mandated provincial and federal services, health‑equity‑informed planning, and the region’s debt strategy. No formal decisions are listed; the items appear to be for discussion and information.

• 2025 Budget Strategy presentation by Beth Brens, Associate Director, Budget Planning & Strategy
• Investing in Ontario Fund update (CSD 38‑2024)
• Levy impact of mandated services under provincial and federal agreements (CSD 30‑2024)
• Health Equity Informed Planning update (CSD 34‑2024)
• Debt Strategy update (CSD 37‑2024)

The Budget Review Committee received the 2025 Budget Strategy and approved $10,616,951 in provincial Investing in Ontario Fund money for East Side Employment Lands water and wastewater servicing projects, to be included in the 2025 capital budget. Several information reports were received, and councillors requested additional data on landfill liability, taxpayer relief reserve, OLG payments, and staffing levels.

• Approved $10,616,951 provincial Investing in Ontario Fund allocation for East Side Employment Lands water/wastewater projects
• Received 2025 Budget Strategy report (CSD 29-2024) and circulated to agencies, boards, and commissions
• Received information reports on levy impact of mandated services, health equity planning, and debt strategy

Council

The Niagara Regional Council will consider several items, including recommended changes to the Council’s procedural by‑law and code of conduct, a contract award for Niagara Road 12 landfill operations, and a branding request from the Niagara Transit Commission. Presentations on the Asahi Kasei lithium‑ion battery separator plant (Project Eagle) will be given. The council will also vote on a borrowing by‑law (Bill 2024‑47) that authorizes $39,800,000 in debentures for capital works across multiple municipalities.

• Recommended changes to Council’s Procedural By‑law and Code of Conduct (CLK 3‑2024)
• Award of Contract 2024‑T‑90 for Niagara Road 12 Landfill Operations (PW 21‑2024)
• Niagara Transit Commission request for operating brand name change (CL‑C 58‑2024)
• 2024 Operating Budget amendment for the Niagara Regional Police Service training unit (CL‑C 60‑2024)
• Bill 2024‑47 authorizing $39,800,000 in debentures for regional capital projects

Council approved amendments to the Procedural By-law and Code of Conduct, including restrictions on signs, props, and audible demonstrations at meetings, and a requirement for motions outside regional jurisdiction to have a mover and seconder. A separate clause on detailed briefs for delegation requests was also approved. The changes were approved despite opposition from several delegates.

• Approved procedural by-law and code of conduct amendments (26-2)
• Approved clause requiring detailed briefs for delegation requests (22-6)
• Referred clause on detailed briefs to committee (defeated)
• Awarded $2,124,348 contract to Future Waste System for landfill operations
• Approved Niagara Transit brand name change
• Approved $385,000 police training budget amendment
• Defeated motion to remove national anthem from council meetings (0-27)
• Referred graphic images report to Women's Advisory Committee

Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Accessibility Advisory Committee will hear three presentations: the Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy, the Attainable Housing Strategy, and the Niagara Transit Commission's Transit Master Planning Project. No items are listed for formal consideration, so the meeting is informational. The committee will also receive consent items consisting of the minutes from the January 23 and April 23, 2024 meetings.

• Presentation: Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy (overview PDF)
• Presentation: Attainable Housing Strategy (PDF)
• Presentation: Niagara Transit Commission – Transit Master Planning Project (PDF)
• Consent item: AAC 1-2024 minutes from January 23, 2024
• Consent item: AAC 2-2024 minutes from April 23, 2024

The Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting was adjourned because a quorum was not achieved within 30 minutes of the scheduled start time. No official business was transacted, though an informal discussion among those present was permitted.

• Meeting adjourned due to lack of quorum

Council Special

The Regional Municipality of Niagara will hold a special council meeting to adopt a by-law ratifying the actions taken during the session. The agenda includes a closed session regarding litigation and employment matters, followed by the adoption of the confirming by-law.

• Adoption of Bill 2024-39 confirming July 18 council actions
• Closed session regarding litigation concerning former senior administration officials
• Closed session regarding personal matters of an identifiable individual
• Adoption of agenda and disclosures of pecuniary interest
• Closed session: confidential verbal update

The special council meeting was largely procedural, with the only substantive decision being approval of recommendations from a confidential report (CAO 11-2024) regarding a personal employment matter, discussed in closed session. The agenda and a confirming by-law (Bill 2024-39) were also adopted. No other public decisions were made.

• Adopted agenda CL 10-2024
• Moved into closed session for confidential employment matter
• Approved recommendations in Confidential Report CAO 11-2024 (employment matter)
• Passed Bill 2024-39 to confirm actions of the special meeting

Women's Advisory Committee

The Women's Advisory Committee will meet electronically to receive presentations on the Niagara Workforce Coalition and the Niagara Employment Inventory, focusing on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion data. The committee will also review the minutes from the May 14, 2024, meeting.

• Presentation: Niagara Workforce Coalition
• Presentation: Niagara Employment Inventory - DEI Data
• Review: WAC 3-2024 Minutes (May 14, 2024)
• Next meeting: September 17, 2024

The committee received information presentations regarding the Niagara Workforce Coalition and the Niagara Employment Inventory's diversity, equity, and inclusion data. No substantive policy decisions were made during the meeting.

• Received May 14, 2024 meeting minutes for information (Carried)

Corporate Services Committee

The committee will consider development charge exemptions for affordable and attainable housing. The agenda also includes information regarding graphic images in the public right of way. A closed session item addresses a proposed land acquisition for Regional Road 10 in Grimsby.

• Development Charges Act exemption for affordable and attainable residential units
• Information on graphic images in the public right of way
• Proposed land acquisition for Regional Road 10 in Grimsby

The Corporate Services Committee approved recommendations to implement new exemptions for affordable residential development charges under the Development Charges Act. Staff were directed to draft formal policies and prepare agreement forms, while temporary authority was delegated to senior officials to execute exemption agreements as an interim measure. The committee also received a confidential report regarding a proposed land acquisition for Regional Road 10 in Grimsby.

• Approved recommendations for Development Charges Act exemption for affordable units (Carried)
• Amended clause 2 to require template agreements be reviewed by the Committee (Carried)
• Directed staff to draft policy and prepare agreement forms for DC exemptions
• Delegated temporary authority to CAO and Treasurer to execute DC exemption agreements
• Received confidential report on proposed land acquisition for Regional Road 10 in Grimsby (Carried)

PHSSC

The committee will review the 2024 Community Services Program Audits for approval. Members will also discuss the Niagara Prosperity Initiative Grant Process. Information regarding homelessness counts and housing mortgage renewals will be presented.

• Approval of 2024 Community Services Program Audits
• Niagara Prosperity Initiative Grant Process
• 2024 'Niagara Counts' Point-in-Time Homelessness Count report
• Social Non-Profit Housing Mortgage Renewal correspondence

The committee approved audited financial returns for the Community Support Services and Reaching Home programs. It also authorized a second pilot project using a granting approach to allocate funding for the Niagara Prosperity Initiative.

• Approved 2024 audited annual reconciliation return for Community Support Services Program
• Approved 2024 audited schedule of Revenue and Expenses for Reaching Home Program
• Approved use of granting for Niagara Prosperity Initiative funding allocation
• Authorized Commissioner of Community Services to develop procedures for Niagara Prosperity Initiative grants

Transportation Strategy Steering Committee

This meeting consists of procedural orientation and committee establishment tasks. Members will nominate and vote for a Chair and Vice Chair and review the 2024 meeting schedule.

• Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair
• Committee orientation on roles, responsibilities, and codes of conduct
• Review of the 2024 meeting schedule
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion orientation

The Transportation Strategy Steering Committee held its first meeting of the 2024 term on July 3, 2024, focused on orientation and organization. Councillor Jacob Baradziej was named Chair and Councillor Tony Brunet Vice Chair for the 2024-2026 term, each by acclamation after a single nomination. The committee received its 2024 meeting schedule and set meetings for September 4 and October 30, 2024. No substantive transportation policy or spending decisions were made.

• Named Councillor Jacob Baradziej as Committee Chair for 2024-2026 term (acclaimed, sole nomination)
• Named Councillor Tony Brunet as Committee Vice Chair for 2024-2026 term (acclaimed, sole nomination)
• Closed nominations for Chair (carried)
• Closed nominations for Vice Chair (carried)
• Received Report TSSC-C 1-2024 on 2024 meeting dates (carried)
• Set committee meetings for Sept 4 and Oct 30, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. (carried)

Council

The Niagara Regional Council will review proposed amendments to the flag raising and sign lighting policy. The meeting also includes discussions on provincial housing legislation and a protocol for information sharing with the Niagara Police Service Board. Additionally, the council will consider a municipal funding agreement for the Canada Community-Building Fund.

• Proposed Flag Raising and Sign Lighting Policy Amendments
• Update on Bill 185 (Cutting Red Tape to Build Homes Faster Act, 2024)
• Information sharing protocol between Niagara Police Service Board and the Region
• Canada Community-Building Fund municipal funding agreement
• Correspondence regarding the Fort Erie and Port Colborne Urgent Care Centre

Niagara Region Council approved amendments to Corporate Policy C-A-027, the Flag Raising and Niagara Sign Lighting Policy, by a recorded vote of 26-2. Council also denied a request from the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee to amend its Terms of Reference, voting 24-2. Council supported the Town of Fort Erie in advocating to the Minister of Health and Niagara Health to continue operating the Urgent Care Centre at Douglas Memorial in Fort Erie after the South Niagara Hospital opens. Council authorized the Regional Chair and Regional Clerk to sign an information-sharing protocol with the Niagara Police Service Board, and approved the 2024 Chief Administrative Officer Performance Objectives and Development Plan.

• Approved amendments to Flag Raising and Niagara Sign Lighting Policy C-A-027 (26-2)
• Denied DEI Advisory Committee request to amend its Terms of Reference (24-2)
• Supported Fort Erie in advocating to keep Urgent Care Centre at Douglas Memorial open after South Niagara Hospital opens
• Authorized Chair and Clerk to sign information-sharing protocol with Niagara Police Service Board
• Approved 2024 CAO Performance Objectives and Development Plan
• Received Bill 185 Update (Cutting Red Tape to Build Homes Faster Act, 2024) for information
• Received confidential CAO 10-2024 respecting Associate Medical Officer of Health and approved its recommendations
• Passed by-laws amending the Procedural By-law, authorizing the Canada Community-Building Fund agreement, and confirming Council actions

Procedural By-law Review Committee

The committee will consider items regarding the display of signage within the Council Chamber. The agenda also includes information regarding the singing of the national anthem at council meetings.

• Review of signage display in the Council Chamber (PBLRC-C 5-2024)
• Information on singing the national anthem at council meetings (PBLRC-C 6-2024)

The Procedural By-law Review Committee amended the Procedural By-law to prohibit the public and delegates from bringing signs, props, placards, or flags to meetings. The committee also voted to remove the requirement for singing O'Canada at meetings.

• Amended Procedural By-law to prohibit signs, props, placards, or flags by the public and delegates (Carried)
• Amended Procedural By-law to delete Section 11.1(d) regarding the singing of O'Canada (Carried)

Waste Management Planning Steering Committee

The provided agenda for the Waste Management Planning Steering Committee contains only procedural boilerplate and lacks specific discussion or decision items.

Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss a proposed approach for an anti-discrimination statement. Presentations are scheduled regarding the Attainable Housing Strategy and DEI data from the Niagara Employment Inventory. The committee will also review the 2023 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan progress report.

• Discussion of Anti-Discrimination Statement Proposed Approach
• Presentation on Attainable Housing Strategy
• Presentation on Niagara Employment Inventory - DEI Data
• Review of 2023 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan Progress Report

The Niagara Region Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee met on June 18, 2024, but could not achieve quorum because of late regrets from several members. Chair Ip announced that no official business could be transacted and adjourned the meeting. Outstanding agenda items may be brought to a future meeting after consultation between the Chair and staff. No substantive decisions were made.

Corporate Services Committee

The committee is reviewing the regional Asset Management Policy and a transit plan addendum for the Niagara Transit Commission. Members will also consider amendments to flag raising and sign lighting policies. Additionally, the committee will review non-competitive procurement activities exceeding $100,000.

• Asset Management Policy (CSD 14-2024)
• Niagara Transit Commission Asset Management Plan Addendum (CSD 22-2024)
• Proposed Flag Raising and Sign Lighting Policy Amendments (CLK 2-2024)
• Non-competitive procurement activities exceeding $100,000 (CSD 25-2024)
• Proposed land acquisition for SW Regional Road 98 in Niagara Falls (CSD 24-2024)

The committee approved a new Asset Management Policy and an addendum to the Niagara Transit Commission Asset Management Plan. Amendments to the Flag Raising and Niagara Sign Lighting Policy were also approved. Additionally, the committee approved recommendations regarding a land acquisition on SW Regional Road 98 in Niagara Falls.

• Approved Asset Management Policy (Carried)
• Approved 2024 Niagara Transit Commission Asset Management Plan Addendum (Carried)
• Approved amendments to Flag Raising and Niagara Sign Lighting Policy (Carried)
• Approved recommendations for land acquisition at SW Regional Road 98 in Niagara Falls (Carried)

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The committee is holding a statutory public meeting regarding an official plan amendment for 502 Winston Road in Grimsby. The agenda also includes consideration of the Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee Terms of Reference. Information on proposed amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act will be presented.

• Statutory Public Meeting: Regional Official Plan Amendment at 502 Winston Road
• Consideration of Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee Terms of Reference
• Information on proposed amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act
• Closed session regarding land acquisition or disposition in St. Catharines and Fort Erie

The Committee denied a request to change the Terms of Reference for the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee. A statutory public meeting was held regarding a land redesignation in Grimsby, but no recommendation was made. The Committee also received a report on proposed amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act.

• Denied request to amend Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee Terms of Reference
• Received public comments and correspondence regarding 502 Winston Road, Grimsby, and referred them to staff
• Received Report PDS 19-2024 regarding 502 Winston Road (Statutory Public Meeting)
• Received Report PDS 20-2024 and ordered circulation to several Niagara towns and cities
• Received Confidential PDS 8-2024 regarding land acquisition or disposition in St. Catharines and Fort Erie

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee is considering several infrastructure budget adjustments. These include a contract increase for the Regional Road 10 reconstruction and updates to the St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge replacement and Bridge Street Drop Off Depot budgets.

• Contract increase for Regional Road 10 (Casablanca Boulevard) reconstruction
• Budget adjustment for St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge replacement
• Budget adjustment for Bridge Street Drop Off Depot

The Public Works Committee approved a gross budget adjustment for the St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge replacement and increased a contract for the reconstruction of Regional Road 10. A budget increase for the Bridge Street Drop Off Depot was also approved.

• Approved increasing Associated Engineering (Ont.) Ltd. contract for Regional Road 10 to $1,476,724
• Approved $6,805,204 gross capital budget adjustment for St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge replacement
• Authorized negotiation of cost sharing agreement with City of St. Catharines for CNR Bridge project
• Approved $263,493 gross capital budget adjustment for Bridge St. Drop-Off Depot
• Received confidential memorandum PWC-C 8-2024 regarding recycling collection

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee is considering updates to the Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy regarding social assistance rates. The meeting also includes discussions on group purchasing for homelessness services and the approval of several public health program audits. Information regarding new homeless shelter site selection will also be presented.

• Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy - Social Assistance Rates
• Group Purchasing Services for Homelessness Services
• Approval of Public Health and Emergency Services Program Audits
• New Homeless Shelter Site Selection considerations
• Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report

The Public Health & Social Services Committee approved a report directing the Regional Chair to write to the Provincial Government requesting higher Ontario Works (OW) and Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) basic financial assistance rates and inflation indexing for OW. It also approved adding Homelessness Services sites to an existing group purchasing agreement and approved 2023-24 public health program audits. Two information reports were received, and no other business was raised.

• Approved directing the Regional Chair to ask the Province to raise OW and ODSP rates and index OW to inflation (carried)
• Approved circulating the Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy and correspondence to MCCSS, AMO, OMSSA, local MPs/MPPs and area municipalities (carried)
• Approved adding Homelessness Services sites to the existing Complete Purchasing Services Inc. group purchasing agreement (carried)
• Approved draft audited schedules and reconciliation returns for Public Health General Programs (2023) and Community Mental Health Program (year ended March 31, 2024) (carried)
• Approved audited schedules for Ambulance Communication Services, Infant and Child Development Services, and Healthy Babies Healthy Children (year ended March 31, 2024) (carried)
• Directed staff to co-ordinate with the auditor to finalize statements and forward Report PHD 3-2024 to the Audit Committee (carried)
• Received COM 17-2024 Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report and COM 19-2024 Considerations for New Homeless Shelter Site Selection for information (carried)

Procedural By-law Review Committee

The Procedural By-law Review Committee is meeting to consider a report on display of signage in the Council Chamber and to receive an update on its work plan. No presentations or delegations are scheduled. The next meeting date is to be determined.

• Consideration of PBLRC-C 3-2024: Display of Signage in the Council Chamber
• Information item PBLRC-C 4-2024: Procedural By-law Review Work Plan Update May 27, 2024

The committee received a memorandum and directed staff to draft language for a Procedural By-law amendment that would ban all props, signs, placards, and flags at Regional Council and Committee meetings. A work plan update was received for information. The committee also discussed the history of singing the national anthem, with the Clerk noting it stopped during the pandemic and will be discussed at the next meeting.

• Received Memorandum PBLRC-C 3-2024 on signage display
• Directed staff to draft by-law amendment banning props, signs, placards, and flags
• Received Procedural By-law Review Work Plan Update for information
• Deferred discussion on singing national anthem to next meeting

Council Special

Niagara Region Council is holding a special meeting to receive an update on the GO Station Development Strategy and to consider a motion reaffirming commitment to expanding all-day, two-way GO Train service. The agenda also includes a confirming by-law to ratify actions taken at the meeting.

• GO Station Development Strategy Update presentation by Matt Robinson, Director, Strategic Transformation Office
• Motion by Councillor Diodati to reaffirm commitment to expansion of all-day, two-way GO Train service
• Bill 2024-34, a confirming by-law for actions at the May 23, 2024 special meeting

Council approved a motion to prioritize securing all-day, two-way GO Train service between Niagara Falls and Union Station. The Regional Chair's Office was directed to lead an advocacy campaign with local municipalities to influence provincial decision makers.

• Approved motion to prioritize all-day, two-way GO Train service with stops in St. Catharines, Grimsby, and Lincoln (Carried)
• Directed Regional Chair's Office to lead an advocacy campaign for increased GO Train frequency and reliability (Carried)
• Directed CAO to provide resources and personnel to support the GO Train advocacy campaign (Carried)
• Directed Regional Clerk to send the motion to 12 local councils (Carried)
• Directed Regional Chair to send the motion to four MPPs and provincial transportation ministries (Carried)
• Passed Bill 2024-34 to ratify actions of the May 23, 2024 special meeting (Carried)

Council

Niagara Region Council is meeting to receive presentations from the Niagara Parks Commission and on the Region's land acknowledgement, and to consider reports from several committees including Public Works, Public Health, Corporate Services, Planning, and Audit. The agenda also includes a procedural by-law amendment notice, a proposed municipal councillor appointee to the Transportation Strategy Steering Committee, and a proposed delegation to the AMO conference. Several items will be discussed in closed session, including personal matters and litigation.

• Niagara Parks Commission 2024 updates and initiatives presentation
• Niagara Region Land Acknowledgement presentation
• Notice of Procedural By-law Amendment (CL-C 41-2024)
• Town of Lincoln Transportation Strategy Steering Committee appointee (CL-C 42-2024)
• Proposed AMO conference delegations (CAO 7-2024)

Niagara Region Council met on May 23, 2024 and approved the recommendations contained in minutes from seven committees, including the Procedural By-law Review Committee, Committee of the Whole, Public Works, Public Health and Social Services, Corporate Services, Planning and Economic Development, and Audit Committee. Council also approved a recommended municipal Councillor appointment to the Transportation Strategy Steering Committee and received a report on 2024 proposed Association of Municipalities of Ontario conference delegations. In closed session, Council received a confidential memorandum on personal matters regarding the Associate Medical Officer of Health and referred a confidential memorandum on litigation to the Audit Committee. No motions, notices of motion, delegations, or disclosures of pecuniary interest were recorded.

• Approved committee minutes and recommendations from PBLRC 1-2024, COTW 3-2024, PWC 5-2024, PHSSC 5-2024, CSC 5-2024, PEDC 5-2024, and AC 2-2024
• Approved recommended municipal Councillor appointment to Transportation Strategy Steering Committee (appointee named in Confidential Appendix 1)
• Received Report CAO 7-2024 on 2024 proposed AMO conference delegations
• Received Memorandum CL-C 41-2024 on notice of Procedural By-law Amendment
• Received Confidential Memorandum CAO 8-2024 on personal matters regarding Associate Medical Officer of Health
• Referred Confidential Memorandum HR 4-2024 on litigation to the Audit Committee
• Adopted minutes of Open and Closed Session CL 5-2024 and Open Session CL 6-2024 (April 25, 2024)
• Passed Bill 2024-35 to adopt, ratify and confirm Council actions

Audit Committee

The Niagara Region Audit Committee is meeting to review the 2023 audited consolidated financial statements, the internal audit workplan, and several audit-related reports. The committee will also receive a presentation on internal audit results for Q1 2024 and consider an updated workplan for 2024-2026.

• 2023 Audited Consolidated Financial Statements (AC-C 2-2024) with Deloitte audit findings report
• Updated 2024-2026 Internal Audit Workplan (AC-C 3-2024)
• Status update on councillor-requested audits (AC-C 4-2024)
• Internal audit of controlled medication management in long-term care homes (AC-C 5-2024)
• Approval of Court Services 2023 draft audited schedule of revenues and expenses (JBM-C 5-2024)

The Audit Committee approved the updated 2024-2026 Internal Audit Workplan, amended so the Whistleblower Policy Implementation and Benchmarking Audit (#17) is done in 2024. It also approved the 2023 audited consolidated financial statements, including the sinking fund and trust fund statements, and received the related audit findings report. Several information items were received, and a confidential memorandum on a litigation matter was referred to the May 23, 2024 Council meeting. No vote tallies were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved updated 2024-2026 Internal Audit Workplan, as amended
• Amended workplan so Whistleblower Policy Implementation and Benchmarking Audit (#17) is undertaken in 2024
• Approved 2023 audited consolidated financial statements, including sinking fund and trust fund statements
• Received 2023 audit findings report for information
• Directed staff to co-ordinate with auditors to finalize the statements as presented
• Received for information: AC-C 4-2024, AC-C 5-2024, JBM-C 5-2024
• Referred confidential Memorandum HR 4-2024 (litigation matter) to May 23, 2024 Council meeting

Women's Advisory Committee

The Niagara Region Women's Advisory Committee is meeting electronically to receive presentations on the Living in Niagara 2023 report, the 2024-2029 Accessibility Plan, and the Attainable Housing Strategy. The committee will also consider a motion to include a Women of Distinction Award in the Niagara Impact Awards, and review a progress report on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan.

• Presentation: Living in Niagara 2023 Report by Mary Wiley, Niagara Connects
• Presentation: Niagara Region 2024-2029 Accessibility Plan by Tammy Dumas
• Presentation: Attainable Housing Strategy by Cheryl Selig
• Motion WAC-C 1-2024: Include Women of Distinction Award in Niagara Impact Awards
• Information item PDS 12-2024: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan 2023 Progress Report

The Women's Advisory Committee directed staff to provide information and adjudication recommendations for a new Women of Distinction Award. The committee also received reports on diversity and accessibility and discussed workplace accommodations for new parents.

• Directed staff to provide information on developing a Women of Distinction Award for the Niagara Impact Awards (Carried)
• Received Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan 2023 Progress Report (Carried)
• Received March 19, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The Planning and Economic Development Committee is meeting to consider a funding recommendation for the Combined Sewer Overflow Control Program for 2024. The agenda also includes informational updates on economic development marketing, the Niagara economy, reserve water and wastewater treatment capacities, and staff comments on the proposed provincial planning statement.

• PDS 15-2024: Combined Sewer Overflow Control Program – 2024 Funding Recommendations
• ED 4-2024: Economic Development Strategic Marketing Update
• ED 7-2024: Niagara Economic Update
• PDS 16-2024: 2023 Reserve Water and Wastewater Treatment Capacities
• PDS 18-2024: Staff Comments on Proposed Provincial Planning Statement (2024)

The committee approved recommendations to prepare and execute partnership funding agreements with local municipalities for Combined Sewer Overflow Control projects. It also received updates on economic marketing and regional economic indicators, and circulated staff comments on the proposed Provincial Planning Statement to local authorities.

• Approved funding agreements for Combined Sewer Overflow Control Program (Carried)
• Received Economic Development Strategic Marketing Update (Carried)
• Received Niagara Economic Update (Carried)
• Received and circulated 2023 Reserve Water and Wastewater Treatment Capacities report (Carried)
• Received and circulated Staff Comments on Proposed Provincial Planning Statement (2024) (Carried)

Corporate Services Committee

The Corporate Services Committee is meeting to receive information reports on the 2023 Regional Development Charges Treasurer's Statement, non-competitive procurement activities over $100,000, and the 2024 debt information report. The Asset Management Policy report has been removed from the agenda. The committee will also hold a closed session to discuss litigation matters, including an update on the Niagara-on-the-Lake wastewater treatment plant lawsuit.

• Regional Development Charges Treasurer's Statement 2023 (CSD 11-2024)
• Corporate Non-Competitive Procurement Activities Exceeding $100,000 (CSD 12-2024)
• Debt Information Report - 2024 Debenture Issuance (CSD 17-2024)
• Closed session: Bi-Annual Litigation Claims Summary (Confidential CSD 19-2024)
• Closed session: NOTL Wastewater Treatment Plant and Sewage Pumping Station litigation update (Confidential CSD 23-2024)

The committee approved recommendations regarding a bi-annual litigation claims summary and litigation involving Niagara-on-the-Lake wastewater and sewage facilities. Several financial and procurement reports were received for information, while the Asset Management Policy was removed from the agenda.

• Approved recommendations for Bi-Annual Litigation Claims Summary (Confidential CSD 19-2024)
• Approved recommendations for Niagara-on-the-Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant and Sewage Pumping Station litigation (Confidential CSD 23-2024)
• Received Regional Development Charges Treasurer’s Statement 2023 (CSD 11-2024)
• Received Corporate Non-Competitive Procurement Activities Exceeding $100,000 (CSD 12-2024)
• Received Debt Information Report – 2024 Debenture Issuance (CSD 17-2024)
• Removed Asset Management Policy (CSD 14-2024) from the agenda

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee is meeting to consider a child care and early years operating budget adjustment and to receive a presentation on the Public Health Strategic Review. Several informational reports will also be received, covering seniors services quality, long-term care medical director's report, a grant program evaluation, housing and homelessness action plan update, school-age child care affordability, and correspondence from Niagara Regional Housing and the Minister of Health.

• Presentation: Public Health Strategic Review
• COM 16-2024: Child Care and Early Years 2024 Operating Budget Adjustment
• COM 12-2024: Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report Oct-Dec 2023
• COM 15-2024: Housing and Homelessness Action Plan Update 2023
• PHD-C 2-2024: Correspondence from Minister of Health re: additional funding for Public Health

The Public Health & Social Services Committee approved a gross operating budget adjustment of $6,274,822 for Child Care and Early Years, which is fully funded by the Ministry of Education. The committee also received several reports for information, including updates on seniors services, long-term care, and housing plans. No other substantive decisions were made during the meeting.

• Approved $6,274,822 gross operating budget adjustment for Child Care and Early Years (Carried)
• Received Seniors Services Quality Improvement Report for information
• Received Medical Directors Annual Report 2023 for information
• Received Building Safer Communities Grant Program Pilot evaluation for information
• Received Housing and Homelessness Action Plan Update 2023 for information
• Received School-age Child Care Affordability Pilot Update for information
• Received correspondence regarding Niagara Regional Housing letter to Ombudsman for information
• Received correspondence regarding additional Ministry of Health funding for Public Health Department for information

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee is meeting to consider two gross budget increases: one for the Catherine Street Sewage Pumping Station upgrades (Stage 4 archaeological assessment) and one for the Niagara Falls Water Treatment Plant intake relocation property purchase. They will also hear a presentation on the Niagara Escarpment Crossing project, a delegation on district energy at a proposed wastewater treatment plant, and make appointments to the Transportation Strategy Steering Committee. Several items are for information only, including a sewer use by-law update and capital project updates.

• Gross budget increase for Catherine Street Sewage Pumping Station Upgrades – Stage 4 Archaeological Assessment
• Gross budget increase for Niagara Falls WTP Intake Relocation (20000464) Property Purchase
• Appointments to Transportation Strategy Steering Committee
• Presentation: Niagara Escarpment Crossing Project Update
• Delegation: District Energy at Proposed Wastewater Treatment Plant

The Public Works Committee approved budget increases for sewage pumping station upgrades in Fort Erie and a water treatment plant intake relocation in Niagara Falls. The committee also confirmed appointments to the Transportation Strategy Steering Committee and requested a feasibility study for district energy.

• Approved $988,000 budget increase for Catherine Street Sewage Pumping Station Upgrades
• Approved $2,071,000 budget increase for Niagara Falls WTP Intake Relocation
• Approved $1,525,000 purchase of two properties for Niagara Falls WTP Intake Relocation
• Approved appointments to the Transportation Strategy Steering Committee
• Directed staff to provide a high-level feasibility assessment for a District Energy site at the proposed South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Plant

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to receive presentations on Strategic Communications and Public Affairs, and on the Board of Health evaluation. A planned GO Station Development Strategy update was removed from the agenda and will come to a future meeting. The meeting also includes a closed session for a diversity, equity and inclusion training session and a confidential verbal update.

• GO Station Development Strategy Update removed from agenda, deferred to future meeting
• Presentation: Strategic Communications and Public Affairs Overview and Update
• Presentation: Board of Health Evaluation by Medical Officer of Health Dr. Azim Kasmani
• Closed session: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion training session
• Closed session: Confidential verbal update on commercial information

The Committee held a closed session to receive diversity, equity, and inclusion training and a confidential verbal update on commercial information. Staff provided presentations on strategic communications and the Board of Health evaluation process.

• Received confidential Diversity, Equity and Inclusion training session (Carried)
• Received confidential verbal update regarding business specific commercial information (Carried)
• Removed GO Station Development Strategy Update from agenda

Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee is meeting electronically to discuss its terms of reference and a related action plan, and to consider correspondence from a resident about a previous delegation. No items are listed for information.

• Review of DEIAC Terms of Reference (May 2023)
• DEI Action Plan 2023-2027 included for reference
• Correspondence from Gabriel Gebril, St. Catharines resident, regarding April 16, 2024 delegation

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee voted to recommend amendments to its Terms of Reference to the Planning and Economic Development Committee. The committee also received correspondence from a resident and requested staff provide information on an anti-discrimination acknowledgement statement. A request was made to explore live-streaming future committee meetings.

• Recommended amendments to DEIAC Terms of Reference (5-3 vote)
• Received correspondence from resident Gabriel Gebril for information
• Requested staff provide info on anti-discrimination acknowledgement statement
• Requested staff assess feasibility of live-streaming meetings

Council Special

This is a special council meeting with a closed session for Integrity Commissioner training related to the January 25, 2024 council meeting. The open portion includes adopting minutes from that meeting and a by-law to confirm council actions.

• Closed session: Integrity Commissioner education and training session re: Jan 25, 2024 council meeting
• Closed session: confidential correspondence from Councillor Bateman re: Jan 25, 2024 meeting
• Adoption of Council Minutes CL 2-2024 (Jan 25, 2024), referred to Integrity Commissioner
• Bill 2024-24: confirming by-law for actions at this special meeting

Council received training from the Integrity Commissioner regarding a January 25, 2024, meeting. Staff were directed to provide a report by July 25, 2024, covering recommendations, implementation options, and best practices for decorum and agenda management.

• Directed staff to report on Integrity Commissioner recommendations and decorum best practices by July 25, 2024 (Carried)
• Received training session provided by Integrity Commissioner Michael Maynard (Carried)
• Received Confidential Memorandum CHR 3-2024 regarding correspondence from Councillor Bateman (Carried)
• Adopted minutes from the January 25, 2024, Regional Council meeting (Carried)
• Passed Bill 2024-24 to ratify actions of the April 25, 2024, special meeting (Carried)

Council

Niagara Region Council is meeting to consider several administrative items, including the 2025 budget timetable, appointments, and by-laws. They will also discuss a response to Ontario's Bill 185 (Cutting Red Tape to Build More Housing Act, 2024) and a request to expand Niagara Transit's customer experience department. The agenda includes routine approvals of minutes and committee reports, plus a closed session for confidential matters.

• 2025 Budget Timetable (CSD 20-2024)
• Response to Bill 185 (Cutting Red Tape to Build More Housing Act, 2024) (PDS 17-2024)
• Expansion of Niagara Transit Customer Experience Department for specialty transit consolidation (CL-C 38-2024)
• Appointment to Niagara Convention and Civic Centre Board (CL-C 36-2024)
• By-laws amending traffic regulations in St. Catharines and Niagara Falls (Bills 2024-27 to 2024-31)

Regional Council authorized the addition of four speed cameras annually in 2025 and 2026 and approved 13 new full-time positions for the Niagara Transit Commission. Council also appointed Councillor Morocco to the Niagara Falls Convention and Civic Centre Board.

• Approved expansion of Automated Speed Enforcement by 4 cameras annually in 2025 and 2026
• Approved $1,863,835 contract extension with Redflex Traffic Systems (Canada) Limited
• Approved 13 permanent full-time equivalents for Niagara Transit Commission totaling $498,500
• Appointed Councillor Morocco to the Niagara Falls Convention and Civic Centre Board (19-4)
• Confirmed Niagara Regional Police Service Board composition as seven members
• Approved 2025 budget timetable
• Passed Bill 2024-33 to assume part of Lot 7, Concession 6 in Wainfleet as Regional Road No. 627
• Passed traffic regulation by-laws for the City of St. Catharines and City of Niagara Falls

Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting electronically to hear two presentations: one on community engagement feedback for Niagara Region's 2024-2029 Accessibility Plan, and another introducing the Niagara Transit Commission's Transit Master Planning Project. No items are listed for consideration, and the only consent item is the approval of minutes from the January 23, 2024 meeting.

• Presentation: Niagara Region 2024-2029 Accessibility Plan - Community Engagement - What We've Heard
• Presentation: Introduction to Niagara Transit Commission's Transit Master Planning Project
• Consent item: Approval of AAC 1-2024 minutes from January 23, 2024

The committee received presentations on the 2024-2029 Accessibility Plan community engagement and the Niagara Transit Commission's Transit Master Planning Project. No substantive decisions were made as the meeting was adjourned after quorum was lost.

Procedural By-law Review Committee

The Procedural By-law Review Committee is meeting to consider two items: a motion from Regional Council about workplace harassment and the display of signage in the council chamber, and a proposed amendment to the procedural by-law regarding notice of motion. A resident delegation will also present on barriers to public participation in delegating to Council. The committee is also receiving correspondence from a resident about procedural by-law amendments.

• Delegation by Saleh Waziruddin on barriers to public participation in delegating to Council
• PBLRC-C 1-2024: Motion from Regional Council on workplace harassment and display of signage in council chamber
• PBLRC-C 2-2024: Consideration of procedural by-law amendment on notice of motion
• Correspondence from S. Waziruddin on procedural by-law amendments, circulated from Dec 14, 2023 Council meeting

The Procedural By-law Review Committee directed staff to suggest amendments to the Procedural By-law regarding workplace harassment signage, modeled on Hamilton's rules. The Committee also amended Section 18.1 to extend the notice period for motions from seven to ten days, after rejecting a motion to delete that section entirely. A resident delegation raised concerns about delegation submission deadlines, and correspondence regarding by-law amendments was received for information.

• Directed staff to propose signage amendments similar to Hamilton's by-law (Carried)
• Amended Section 18.1(b) to change motion notice period from 7 to 10 days (Carried)
• Motion to delete Section 18.1(b) entirely defeated
• Received correspondence item CL-C 84-2023 for information (Carried)

Agricultural Policy and Action Committee

The Agricultural Policy and Action Committee is meeting electronically to hear a presentation on Pelham greenhouse policies from John Langendoen of Pelham Greenhouse Growers. The committee will also receive informational items on soil health and climate change, and discuss several other business items including Bill 185, woodland conservation, irrigation, and farm signs.

• Presentation on Pelham Greenhouse Policies by John Langendoen, Pelham Greenhouse Growers
• Soil Health report (APAC-C 1-2024)
• Open letter on climate change to councillors and provincial/federal representatives (APAC-C 2-2024)
• Discussion of Bill 185 - Cutting Red Tape to Build More Homes Act and draft Provincial Planning Statement
• Discussion of Woodland Conservation By-law Update, Irrigation Project Update, and Farm Signs on Rural Regional Roads

The committee requested staff provide information on supporting the Pelham Greenhouse Growers Group appeal to the Normal Farm Practices Board. Members also requested information on establishing a soil health working group and consistent burn permit fees across municipalities.

• Requested staff provide information on supporting Pelham Greenhouse Growers Group appeal to Normal Farm Practices Board (Carried)
• Requested staff provide information regarding a soil health working group and potential scope of work (Carried)
• Received presentations and reports on soil health, climate change, and December 2023 meeting minutes (Carried)

Joint Board of Management

The Joint Board of Management for Niagara Courts is meeting electronically to consider approving the 2023 audited schedule of revenues, expenses, and funds available for distribution for Court Services. The board will also receive for information the 2023 year-end report for the Provincial Offences Court and the minutes from its February 1, 2024 meeting.

• Approval of Court Services 2023 audited schedule of revenues, expenses and funds available for distribution (JBM-C 5-2024)
• 2023 Year End Report for Provincial Offences Court (JBM-C 4-2024)
• Minutes of February 1, 2024 meeting (JBM 1-2024)

The Joint Board of Management – Niagara Courts approved the draft audited Schedule of Revenues, Expenses and Funds Available for Distribution for Court Services for the year ended December 31, 2023. Staff were directed to work with the auditor to finalize the statements, and the report will be forwarded to the Region's Audit Committee and the Ministry of the Attorney General. The board also received two information items, including the 2023 year-end report for the Provincial Offences Court. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved 2023 draft audited Schedule of Revenues, Expenses and Funds Available for Distribution for Court Services (carried)
• Directed staff to co-ordinate with the auditor to finalize the statements (carried)
• Forwarded the report to the Region's Audit Committee and the Ministry of the Attorney General (carried)
• Received 2023 Year End Report for Provincial Offences Court for information (carried)
• Received minutes of the February 1, 2024 Joint Board of Management meeting for information (carried)

Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee

The Diversity Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee meets electronically to hear presentations on collecting socio-demographic data and the Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy, plus a delegation on DEI and the local Palestinian community. Members will also consider a motion to add a DEI category to the Niagara Impact Awards and discuss their work plan. The agenda is substantive with multiple presentations and a delegation, not just procedural items.

• Presentation: Collecting Socio-demographic Data by Cassie Ogunniyi and Emily Chemnitz
• Presentation: Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy by Marc Todd
• Delegation: DEI and the Local Palestinian Community by Gabriel Gebril, St. Catharines resident
• Motion DEIAC-C 1-2024: Add DEI category to Niagara Impact Awards
• Discussion: DEI Advisory Committee Work Plan

The Committee approved a motion to have staff develop a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion category for the Niagara Impact Awards. Members also received presentations on socio-demographic data collection and the Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy.

• Directed staff to provide information on developing a Diversity Equity and Inclusion category for the Niagara Impact Awards (Carried)
• Received November 14, 2023 meeting minutes for information (Carried)

Corporate Services Committee

The Corporate Services Committee is meeting to consider a report on the Municipal Insurance Program renewal for 2024-2025, including options and recommendations. A closed session will discuss cyber coverage under the insurance program. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no other substantive items listed.

• CSD 8-2024 - Municipal Insurance Program Renewal Update and Options for 2024-2025 Renewal
• Closed session on cyber coverage under Section 239(2)(a) of the Municipal Act

The Corporate Services Committee authorized staff to negotiate a one-year renewal of the municipal insurance program with Marsh Canada Limited for Niagara Region, Police, and Housing. The committee also received a confidential update on cyber coverage. Several councillors raised questions about internal audits, the lobbyist registry, and the solar eclipse emergency declaration, but no motions were passed on these topics.

• Approved staff authorization to negotiate one-year insurance renewal with Marsh Canada Limited
• Received confidential update on cyber coverage (Closed Session)
• No vote recorded on internal audit review request
• No vote recorded on lobbyist registry concerns

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The Planning and Economic Development Committee is meeting to receive presentations and information reports on the Niagara Workforce Coalition, the 2023 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan progress, the 2023 Niagara Employment Inventory, and a Foreign Direct Investment update. The agenda is largely informational, with no major decisions listed; a closed session will address a litigation matter regarding an Ontario Land Tribunal appeal of Regional Official Plan Amendment 3.

• Presentation by Niagara Workforce Coalition on workforce development
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan 2023 progress report
• 2023 Niagara Region Employment Inventory results
• Economic Development Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) update
• Closed session: litigation on Ontario Land Tribunal appeal of ROPA 3

The committee approved recommendations regarding a litigation matter involving an Ontario Land Tribunal appeal of Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA) 3. Several reports were received and circulated, including updates on workforce planning, employment inventory, foreign direct investment, and shared services. No new zoning or development applications were decided in this session.

• Approved recommendations for Confidential PDS 10-2024 regarding OLT appeal of ROPA 3
• Received and circulated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Action Plan 2023 Progress Report
• Received and circulated 2023 Niagara Employment Inventory Results
• Received Economic Development Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Update
• Received Shared Services Update
• Received Workforce Coalition correspondence item

Public Works Committee

The Niagara Region Public Works Committee is meeting to consider several items, including awarding a contract for detailed design and construction of the South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Plant, increasing the budget for the Montrose Road reconstruction, and reviewing preliminary results of automated speed enforcement. The committee will also discuss an extension for a ferric chloride supply contract and receive an update on the Children's Water Festival.

• Award notice for detailed design and construction services for South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Plant and outfall
• Gross budget adjustment for road widening reconstruction of RR 98 (Montrose Road) in Niagara Falls
• Vision Zero: Automated Speed Enforcement preliminary results and next steps
• Extension to contract 2023-T-38 for supply and delivery of ferric chloride
• 2024 Niagara Children's Water Festival update

The Public Works Committee approved a $3,578,963 increase to Contract 2021-T-269 for road widening and reconstruction on Regional Road 98 (Montrose Road), Regional Road 47 (Lyons Creek Road) and Biggar Road in Niagara Falls, bringing the total contract to $34,225,455 including HST. It also awarded a $12,617,193.85 contract to Stantec Consulting Inc. for Phase 1 design of the South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Plant and Outfall. The committee authorized expanding the Automated Speed Enforcement program by four cameras annually in 2025 and 2026, subject to funding from fine collections, and extended a ferric chloride supply contract at an estimated $4,019,930. All items carried; no votes were recorded as divided.

• Approved $3,578,963 increase to Contract 2021-T-269 for road widening/reconstruction on Regional Road 98, Regional Road 47 and Biggar Road, Niagara Falls; total contract now $34,225,455 (carried)
• Approved $2,664,034 gross capital budget adjustment for the same road project, funded by the City of Niagara Falls (carried)
• Awarded Contract 2023-RFP-176 for detailed design and construction services for the South Niagara Wastewater Treatment Plant and Outfall to Stantec Consulting Inc. at $12,617,193.85 for Phase 1 Design (carried)
• Authorized expansion of Automated Speed Enforcement by four cameras annually in 2025 and 2026, subject to funding from fine collections (carried)
• Authorized extension of agreement with Redflex Traffic Systems (Canada) Limited for approximately 60 months, upset limit $1,863,835 (carried)
• Extended Contract 2023-T-38 for supply and delivery of ferric chloride with Fanchem Ltd. (dba PVS Benson) for one year at estimated $4,019,930 (carried)
• Authorized Director of Waste Management to execute an agreement with Product Care Association of Canada for collection and funding of designated lighting materials (carried)
• Received Report PW 7-2024 on the 2024 Niagara Children's Water Festival (carried)

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee is meeting to consider two main items: an update on the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Program, and a proposed extension of a lease agreement at 350 Ontario Street in St. Catharines. The committee will also receive informational updates on long-term care home volunteers, emergency plumbing work by Niagara Regional Housing, and an urgent service manager notification.

• Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Program update with presentation
• Extension of lease agreement at 350 Ontario Street, St. Catharines
• Seniors Services LTC Homes volunteer update
• Niagara Regional Housing single source emergency plumbing work
• Urgent Service Manager notification for Niagara

The Public Health & Social Services Committee approved adding two permanent full-time Children's Services positions — a CWELCC compliance position and a Licensed Home Child Care Advisor — at a total gross cost of $199,102, fully funded through provincial funding. It also approved extending the short-term lease at 350 Ontario Street, St. Catharines from April 1, 2024 to April 30, 2025, and authorized staff to execute the extension. Three consent items were received for information. No delegations or presentations were held; the meeting adjourned at 1:55 p.m.

• Approved two new permanent full-time Children's Services positions (CWELCC compliance and Licensed Home Child Care Advisor), $199,102 gross cost, fully provincially funded (Carried)
• Approved extending the short-term lease at 350 Ontario Street, St. Catharines from April 1, 2024 to April 30, 2025 (Carried)
• Authorized the Commissioner of Community Services to execute the lease extension notice and ancillary documents (Carried)
• Directed Real Estate Services to complete lease extension negotiations and obtain Council approval through Corporate Services Committee (Carried)
• Received consent items for information: COM-C 3-2024 Seniors Services LTC Homes Volunteer Update, COM-C 4-2024 NRH Single Source Emergency Plumbing Work, COM-C 5-2024 Urgent Service Manager Notification (Carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss and receive information on two main items: an update on the 2023-2026 Council Strategic Priorities (Growing Better Together) and the Niagara Region's Lobbyist Registry. The agenda also includes a closed session for a confidential technology update and a lobbyist registry training session. No decisions are listed on the agenda; items are for consideration or information.

• CAO 3-2024: Council Strategic Priorities Update (Growing Better Together) with presentation and appendices
• COTW-C 2-2024: Lobbyist Registry report and consolidated by-law (By-law No. 2022-24)
• Closed session: Confidential presentation on Technology Update (security of municipal property)
• Closed session: Training session on Niagara Region's Lobbyist Registry
• Next meeting scheduled for May 2, 2024

The Committee received several reports for information, including an update on the 2023-2026 Council Strategic Priorities and a memorandum regarding the Region's Lobbyist Registry. No substantive policy decisions or bylaws were enacted during the session.

• Received 2023-2026 Council Strategic Priorities Update (Carried)
• Received memorandum on Niagara Region's Lobbyist Registry (Carried)
• Received confidential technology update presentation (Carried)
• Received confidential lobbyist registry training session (Carried)

Council

Niagara Region Council is meeting to consider several items, including setting 2024 tax rates and ratios, a 2025 budget planning update, and appointments to committee and board positions. The agenda also includes delegations on the flag raising policy and a motion supporting the end of the gas pipeline subsidy, plus closed-session items on litigation and a CAO contract extension.

• Bill 2024-18: by-law to set 2024 regional tax rates
• Bill 2024-19: by-law to set 2024 tax ratios and reductions
• 2025 Budget Planning Update (CSD 18-2024)
• Motion supporting Ontario Energy Board decision to end gas pipeline subsidy
• Delegations on Flag Raising and Niagara Sign Lighting Policy

Council defeated a motion supporting the Ontario Energy Board's decision to end gas pipeline subsidies. The body approved several administrative appointments, budget planning updates, and new traffic bylaws for regional roads.

• Defeated motion to support ending gas pipeline subsidies (11-15)
• Approved 2024 taxation rates and tax ratios (Bills 2024-18, 2024-19)
• Approved all-way stop designations at RR 3/Brawn/Augustine Rd and RR 101/Mountain Rd
• Approved nomination of Councillor Robert Foster to the AMO Board of Directors
• Endorsed Councillor Diana Huson for the FCM National Board of Directors
• Approved contract extension for the Chief Administrative Officer
• Approved amendment to Budget Planning Requirements By-law (Bill 2024-22)
• Directed staff to report on Procedural By-law amendments regarding signage and harassment

Women's Advisory Committee

The Women's Advisory Committee is meeting electronically to receive two presentations: one on the Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy and one on collecting socio-demographic data. No items are listed for discussion. The committee will also review minutes from its January 16, 2024 meeting.

• Presentation on Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy by Marc Todd and Lisa Gallant
• Presentation on Collecting Socio-Demographic Data by Cassie Ogunniyi
• Review of WAC 1-2024 minutes from January 16, 2024
• Next meeting scheduled for May 14, 2024

The committee received presentations on the Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy and the collection of socio-demographic data. No substantive policy decisions were made during the meeting.

• Received January 16, 2024 meeting minutes for information (Carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to receive two presentations: one from Niagara Health on its future, and one on the Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy. No items are listed for consideration, and the poverty reduction strategy is also included as a consent item for information. The meeting is primarily informational with no decisions scheduled.

• Presentation by Niagara Health President and CEO Lynn Guerriero on 'Niagara Health - Our Future'
• Presentation on Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy by Community Services and Niagara Regional Native Centre
• Consent item COTW-C 1-2024: Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy (for information)

The Committee of the Whole received the Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy memorandum for information purposes only. Staff presentations were given on Niagara Health's future plans and the poverty reduction strategy. No substantive decisions, approvals, or votes on policy changes were made during this meeting.

• Received Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy memorandum for information (Carried)

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The Planning and Economic Development Committee is meeting to receive a presentation on the implementation of Economic Development Dynamics software, and to consider several information items, including a development applications monitoring report, a regional archaeological management plan, and an inventory of regional grants and incentives. No major decisions are on the agenda; most items are for information or circulation.

• Presentation on Economic Development Dynamics Implementation by BDO Lixar
• PDS 6-2024: Development Applications Monitoring Report - 2023 Year End
• PDS 7-2024: Regional Archaeological Management Plan
• PDS-C 11-2024: Inventory of Current Regional Grant and Incentive Programs

The Planning and Economic Development Committee received three information reports: the 2023 year-end Development Applications Monitoring Report, the Regional Archaeological Management Plan, and an inventory of regional grant and incentive programs. No items for consideration or delegations were on the agenda, and no substantive decisions were made. A presentation on a new CRM system for economic development was given, and councillors asked about the budget for the archaeological plan and the timing of information on Bill 23 implications.

• Received 2023 year-end Development Applications Monitoring Report for information (carried)
• Received Regional Archaeological Management Plan for information (carried)
• Received Inventory of Current Regional Grant and Incentive Programs for information (carried)

Corporate Services Committee

The Corporate Services Committee will consider several financial items, including the 2023 year-end results and transfer report, the 2024 property tax policy, and an update to the development charges deferral policy. The committee will also hear two delegation requests from St. Catharines residents regarding the flag raising and Niagara Sign lighting policy, and consider motions on a new funding model and graphic images. Consent items include the People Plan, non-union compensation review, and councillor remuneration for 2023.

• 2023 Year-End Results and Transfer Report (CSD 10-2024) with financial surplus/deficit and transfer reports
• 2024 Property Tax Policy report (CSD 7-2024) including tax ratios and rate reductions
• Update of Regional Development Charges Deferral Policy (CSD 3-2024)
• Motion for new funding model (CSC-C 4-2024) and motion on graphic images (CSC-C 5-2024)
• Delegations from St. Catharines residents on flag raising and Niagara Sign lighting policy (CSC-C 3-2024)

The Corporate Services Committee approved the 2023 year-end results, transferring a $4,988 thousand surplus from tax-levy programs to reserves and covering a $3,462 thousand water/wastewater deficit from reserves. It also approved updated development charge deferral rules, 2024 property tax ratios, and court services write-offs. A motion asking the province to review municipal finances passed after all 'whereas' clauses were removed, and a motion to light regional headquarters in Palestinian flag colours failed for lack of a seconder.

• Approved 2023 year-end transfers: $4,988K surplus to reserves; $3,462K deficit from water/wastewater reserves (Carried)
• Approved amendments to C-F-025 Development Charges Deferral Policy removing letter of credit and legal co-signatory requirements (Carried)
• Approved 2024 property tax ratios and sub-class reductions (Carried)
• Approved write-off of 2,200 delinquent court cases valued at $1,181,518.43 (Carried)
• Approved motion requesting provincial social and economic prosperity review, after removing all 'whereas' clauses (Carried)
• Directed staff to report by July 10, 2024 on governing display of graphic images in public right of way (Carried)
• Directed staff to review Flag Raising and Niagara Sign Lighting Policy for possible amendments (Carried)
• Motion to light Niagara Regional Headquarters in Palestinian flag colours failed for lack of a seconder

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee is meeting to consider awarding a contract for the replacement of the Regional Road 45 Oswego Creek Bridge in Wainfleet. The committee will also receive minutes from the Waste Management Planning Steering Committee and hold a closed session to discuss confidential negotiations with waste management companies regarding recycling collection.

• Award of Contract 2023-T-222 for Regional Road 45 Oswego Creek Bridge (Structure No. 045205) over Oswego Creek, Wainfleet
• Closed session: negotiations with Miller Waste Systems Inc. and GFL Environmental Inc. for recycling collection from non-eligible sources under Blue Box Regulation (O. Reg 391/21)
• Waste Management Planning Steering Committee minutes from February 26, 2024

The Public Works Committee approved a contract for the reconstruction of the Regional Road 45 Oswego Creek Bridge. The committee also received minutes from the Waste Management Planning Steering Committee and a confidential memorandum regarding recycling collection negotiations.

• Awarded Contract 2023-T-222 for Regional Road 45 Oswego Creek Bridge to Anthony’s Excavating Central Inc. for $5,836,335.87 (Carried)
• Received Waste Management Planning Steering Committee minutes from February 26, 2024 (Carried)
• Received confidential memorandum PWC-C 2-2024 regarding recycling collection negotiations with Miller Waste Systems Inc. and GFL Environmental Inc. (Carried)

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee is meeting to consider the Public Health 2024 Annual Service Plan and Budget Submission, the Homelessness Prevention Plan Investment Plan for 2024-25, and findings from the CSWB 911 Action Table. They will also receive a presentation on the Community Health Status Assessment and information items on seniors services accreditation and data on declared states of emergency.

• Public Health 2024 Annual Service Plan and Budget Submission (PHD 2-2024)
• Homelessness Prevention Plan Investment Plan 2024-25 (COM 8-2024)
• CSWB 911 Action Table: Findings and Recommendations (COM 9-2024)
• Seniors Services Accreditation Update (COM-C 2-2024)
• Data Update on Council's Declared States of Emergency (PHD-C 1-2024)

The committee approved the 2024 Public Health Annual Service Plan and Budget and the 2024-25 Homelessness Prevention Plan investment plan. It also voted to request provincial investment in mental health crisis response and treatment services.

• Approved Public Health 2024 Annual Service Plan and Budget of $41,266,266 (Carried)
• Approved Homelessness Prevention Plan investment plan for 2024-25 funding allotment (Carried)
• Approved request for Province of Ontario to invest in civilian-led mental health crisis response and treatment services (12-1)
• Approved circulation of CSWB 911 Action Table report to Ontario Health and Niagara Regional Police Services Board (12-1)
• Requested Canadian Mental Health Association, Niagara Branch to present an alternative crisis-response model (12-1)
• Received Accreditation Report and Data Update on Council’s Declared States of Emergency for information (Carried)

Waste Management Planning Steering Committee

The Waste Management Planning Steering Committee is meeting to receive information reports on collection contractor performance, illegal dumping statistics, the waste management strategic plan update, and the 2023 special events recycling program. No decisions are listed on the agenda; all items are for information only. The meeting is scheduled for February 26, 2024, at Niagara Region Headquarters in Thorold.

• Collection Contractor Performance Report for October 18, 2022 to October 19, 2023
• Illegal Dumping 2023 Year End Summary with statistics appendix
• Waste Management Strategic Plan Update with stakeholder communication timeline
• 2023 Special Events Recycling & Organics Program Update
• Councillor Information Requests report

The Waste Management Planning Steering Committee met on February 26, 2024 and received five correspondence items for information, including reports on collection contractor performance, illegal dumping in 2023, a strategic plan update, and a special events recycling program update. No presentations, delegations, or items for consideration were brought forward. In other business, a committee member asked whether special set-out collection service information would be posted on the Niagara Region website, and staff said they would look into adding it. The meeting adjourned at 9:25 a.m.; the next meeting is April 29, 2024.

• Received Councillor Information Requests memo (WMPSC-C 1-2024) for information — carried
• Received Collection Contractor Performance Report Oct 19, 2022–Oct 18, 2023 (WMPSC-C 2-2024) for information — carried
• Received Illegal Dumping 2023 Year End Summary (WMPSC-C 3-2024) for information — carried
• Received Waste Management Strategic Plan Update (WMPSC-C 4-2024) for information — carried
• Received 2023 Special Events Recycling & Organics Program Update (WMPSC-C 5-2024) for information — carried

Council

Niagara Region Council is meeting to consider several items, including requests from the Niagara Transit Commission for a one-time levy adjustment and an in-year budget change for Chair-A-Van, as well as a recommended community member appointment. Council will also vote on by-laws authorizing borrowing for Wainfleet and a bridge project, and dedicating road parts in St. Catharines and Niagara Falls. The agenda includes reports from committees on topics like physician recruitment and long-term care redevelopment, plus a delegation from the International Medical Graduates Support Group.

• Niagara Transit Commission requests one-time levy adjustment for employee future benefits (NTC 3-2024)
• Niagara Transit Commission requests in-year FTE and budget adjustment for Chair-A-Van assumption (NTC 4-2024)
• By-law 2024-10: authorize $4,645,000 debenture borrowing for Township of Wainfleet capital work
• By-law 2024-15: authorize $5,954,010 long-term financing for St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge (Structure 081215)
• By-laws 2024-11 to 2024-14: dedicate road parts on Regional Roads 81, 20, and 71 in St. Catharines and Niagara Falls

Regional Council approved a cost-sharing agreement with Canadian National Railway to replace the St. Paul Street West bridge, authorizing $14.6 million in total financing. The council also approved amendments to the 2024 Niagara Transit Commission budget, including a one-time levy adjustment and the addition of nine permanent staff positions. Several by-laws were passed to authorize debt financing and accept new road sections into the regional network.

• Approved St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge replacement cost-sharing agreement with CNR
• Initiated $14.6M gross / $5.95M net financing for bridge project
• Approved amendment to 2024 Niagara Transit Commission Budget and Requisition
• Approved addition of 9 permanent FTEs to Niagara Transit Commission ($665,833 gross)
• Approved appointment to Niagara Transit Commission Public Advisory Committee
• Passed Bill 2024-15 authorizing $5,954,010 long-term debt for bridge project
• Passed Bills 2024-10 through 2024-14 accepting/dedicating various road sections
• Adopted minutes from Public Works, Health, Corporate, Planning, and Audit committees

Audit Committee

The Niagara Region Audit Committee is meeting to consider the Corporate Audit Plan for 2024-2026, which will be presented before discussion. The committee will also receive, for information, the approval of the 2022 Long Term Care Home Annual Report Audits, forwarded from the Public Health and Social Services Committee.

• Corporate Audit Plan 2024-2026 (presentation and workplan attached)
• Approval of the 2022 Long Term Care Home Annual Report Audits (for information)

The Committee approved the draft 2024-2026 Internal Audit Plan. It also received a report regarding the 2022 Long Term Care Home Annual Report Audits for information.

• Approved draft 2024-26 Internal Audit Plan (Carried)
• Received 2022 Long Term Care Home Annual Report Audits report for information (Carried)

Corporate Services Committee

The Corporate Services Committee will review an amendment to the Linhaven Long Term Care construction agreement. The committee will also discuss a contract extension for the Integrity Commissioner and receive a construction update on long-term care redevelopment.

• Amendment to Linhaven LTC Construction agreement (CSD 5-2024)
• Integrity Commissioner contract extension (CLK 1-2024)
• Long Term Care Redevelopment construction update presentation
• Discussion of Regional Flag and Lighting Policy
• Proposed disposition of land at 4206 Fly Road, Town of Lincoln

The Corporate Services Committee approved a $2,260,000 increase (including 13% HST) to the Buttcon Ltd. construction contract for the Linhaven Long Term Care Facility in St. Catharines, raising the total contract price to $103,232,238. The committee also approved extending the Integrity Commissioner contract with ADR Chambers Inc. to October 31, 2027. In closed session, the committee received and approved recommendations in a confidential report about a proposed disposition of land at 4206 Fly Road (Regional Road 73) in the Town of Lincoln. All items carried.

• Approved $2,260,000 increase to Linhaven LTC construction contract with Buttcon Ltd., total revised price $103,232,238 (Carried)
• Authorized Regional Chair and Clerk to execute contract amendment for Linhaven increase (Carried)
• Approved extension of Integrity Commissioner contract with ADR Chambers Inc. to October 31, 2027 (Carried)
• Authorized Regional Chair and Clerk to execute amending agreement with ADR Chambers Inc. for April 1, 2024 to October 31, 2027 (Carried)
• Received and approved recommendations in Confidential Report CSD 4-2024 on proposed disposition of land at 4206 Fly Road (Regional Road 73), Town of Lincoln (Carried)

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The Planning and Economic Development Committee is holding a statutory public meeting under the Planning Act for a proposed Regional Official Plan Amendment to expand the Law Quarry in Wainfleet. The committee will also hear a presentation from the Shaw Festival on arts and tourism recovery, consider Port Colborne's request to expand its Niagara Gateway Economic Zone and Centre Community Improvement Plan, and receive information items on a tree and forest canopy project, tree planting at the Winger Road landfill, and an economic development update.

• Statutory public meeting for Law Quarry expansion, Township of Wainfleet (PDS 3-2024)
• Presentation by Shaw Festival on arts and tourism recovery
• Port Colborne's Niagara Gateway Economic Zone and Centre CIP expansion request (ED 3-2024)
• Tree and Forest Canopy Project report (PDS 4-2024)
• Tree planting at Winger Road Closed Landfill Site (PDS-C 9-2024)

The committee approved adding Port Colborne's rural employment area as a strategic location under the Gateway Economic Zone and Centre Community Improvement Plan, allowing 10-year tax increment grants for eligible developments. A statutory public meeting was held on a proposed Regional Official Plan Amendment for the Law Quarry Expansion in Wainfleet; no recommendation was made, and Report PDS 3-2024 was received and circulated to the Township of Wainfleet and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority. The committee also received reports on the Tree and Forest Canopy Project and tree planting at the Winger Road Closed Landfill Site, and received an economic development quarterly update.

• Approved adding Port Colborne's rural employment area to the Gateway Economic Zone and Centre CIP, allowing 10-year tax increment grants (carried)
• Received and circulated Report PDS 3-2024 on the Law Quarry Expansion statutory public meeting to Wainfleet and NPCA (carried)
• Received and circulated Report PDS 4-2024 on the Tree and Forest Canopy Project to local municipalities and NPCA (carried)
• Received for information PDS-C 9-2024 (Tree Planting at Winger Road Closed Landfill Site) and ED 2-2024 (Economic Development Quarterly Update) (carried)

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee is reviewing several budget adjustments for child care, homelessness, and social assistance. The committee will also consider a new procurement strategy for Niagara EMS vehicles and review emergency shelter award results.

• Niagara EMS Vehicle Procurement Strategy
• Child Care and Early Years 2024 Operating Budget Adjustment
• Emergency Shelter Negotiated Request for Proposal (NRFP) Award Results
• Homelessness Services Budget Adjustment
• Social Assistance and Employment Opportunities Budget Adjustment

The committee awarded contracts for housing-focused emergency shelters and approved several budget adjustments for child care, homelessness, and social assistance. It also authorized a sole-source procurement strategy for Niagara EMS vehicles.

• Approved $18,170,365 in contracts for Housing Focused Emergency Shelters (April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2027)
• Approved $500,000 contingency for emergency shelter system adjustments
• Approved $8,265,385 gross operating budget adjustment for Child Care and Early Years
• Approved $1,255,835 gross operating budget adjustment for Homelessness Services
• Approved $1,398,412 gross operating budget adjustment for Social Assistance and Employment Opportunities
• Approved one-year Sole Source of 2024 Ambulances and 2023-24 Emergency Response Vehicles
• Directed Regional Chair to request reinstatement of $2,225,742 transitional grant from Ministry of Education

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee is considering two items: a cost-sharing and divestiture agreement with Canadian National Railway for replacing the St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge (Structure 08125), and a budget adjustment for the major rehabilitation of the Regional Road 20 (Lundy's Lane) Hydro Canal Bridge North. No dollar amounts are listed in the agenda text. The rest of the agenda is procedural (call to order, land acknowledgement, disclosures, etc.).

• St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge (Structure 08125) replacement cost-sharing and divestiture agreement with Canadian National Railway
• Regional Road 20 (Lundy's Lane) Hydro Canal Bridge North major rehabilitation budget adjustment

The committee approved a cost-sharing agreement with Canadian National Railway (CNR) to replace the St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge and transfer ownership to the Region. It also approved a budget adjustment for the Hydro Canal Bridge North rehabilitation.

• Approved $14.6M gross funding for St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge replacement (Carried)
• Authorized ownership transfer of St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge from CNR to the Region (Carried)
• Authorized $5,954,010 in long-term debt financing for St. Paul Street West CNR Bridge (Carried)
• Approved $2,888,972 gross budget adjustment for Hydro Canal Bridge North rehabilitation funded by Federal Gas Tax (Carried)

Joint Board of Management

The Joint Board of Management for Niagara Courts is meeting to elect a chair and vice-chair, and to consider items including 2024 meeting dates and court services write-off recommendations. The board will also receive information on the 2024 court services budget and prior meeting minutes.

• Election of Board Chair and Vice-Chair
• JBM-C 1-2024: 2024 Joint Board of Management Meeting Dates
• JBM-C 2-2024: Court Services Write-Off Recommendations for period ending December 31, 2023
• JBM-C 3-2024: Council Approval of 2024 Court Services Budget (information)
• JBM 5-2023: Minutes from September 18, 2023 meeting

The Board appointed a Chair and Vice-Chair for 2024 and established a schedule for future meetings. The Board also approved the write-off and removal of delinquent court cases from the Integrated Court Offences Network system.

• Appointed Mark Tardif as Chair for 2024
• Appointed Jason Simpson as Vice-Chair for 2024
• Approved 2024 meeting dates: April 18, August 22, October 17, and November 28
• Approved write-off and removal of delinquent cases from the Integrated Court Offences Network (ICON) system

Council

Niagara Region Council meets to consider several by-laws, including the 2024 interim tax levy, a street name change for Regional Road 61, and an official plan amendment for the Port Colborne Quarry Pit 3 Extension. The agenda also includes delegations on a proposed motion supporting Israelis and Palestinians living in Niagara, and reports from standing committees.

• Bill 2024-02: 2024 Interim Tax Levy, Waste Management Levy and Transit Charge
• Bill 2024-03: Rename Regional Road 61 to Niagara Townline Road in Niagara-on-the-Lake
• Bill 2024-05: Official Plan Amendment for Port Colborne Quarry Pit 3 Extension
• Motion: Support for Israelis and Palestinians Living in Niagara (with 18 delegations)
• Motion: Comprehensive Review of Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act

Regional Council did not adopt the minutes from the January 25, 2024 meeting. Instead, the minutes and meeting video were referred to the Integrity Commissioner to inform a training session scheduled for Q2.

• Referred January 25 meeting minutes and video to Integrity Commissioner for review

Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Niagara Region Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting electronically to receive updates on accessible facilities, review the 2023 Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) compliance report, and discuss community engagement for the Multi-Year Accessibility Plan. No items are listed for formal consideration, and the agenda consists mainly of information items and a presentation.

• Presentation on accessible facilities follow-up by Bradley Ray, Associate Director, Construction Energy & Facilities Management
• 2023 Accessibility Compliance Reporting (AAC-C 1-2024) including Niagara Region's 2023 AODA Compliance Report
• Update on Multi-Year Accessibility Plan – Community Engagement (AAC-C 2-2024)
• Approval of November 28, 2023 meeting minutes (AAC 4-2023)
• Discussion on Accessibility Planning – Community Engagement with Amitai Zand, LURA Consulting

The committee received reports on accessibility compliance and community engagement for the Multi-Year Accessibility Plan. Staff provided follow-up information on accessible facilities and outlined plans for public feedback sessions. No substantive items were decided for consideration.

• Received Accessibility Compliance Reporting (Carried)
• Received Update on Multi-Year Accessibility Plan – Community Engagement (Carried)
• Received November 28, 2023 meeting minutes (Carried)

Women's Advisory Committee

The Women's Advisory Committee is meeting electronically to receive presentations on Niagara's Housing and Homelessness Action Plan and the Lived Expert Advisory. The committee will also discuss International Women's Day 2024 and review minutes from the previous meeting. No delegations or discussion items are listed.

• Presentation on Niagara's Housing and Homelessness Action Plan by Jeffrey Sinclair
• Presentation on Lived Expert Advisory for the Housing and Homelessness Action Plan by Marni Katzman
• Discussion of International Women's Day on March 8, 2024
• Review of November 28, 2023 meeting minutes

The Niagara Region Women's Advisory Committee met on January 16, 2024, to receive presentations on Niagara's Housing and Homelessness Action Plan (HHAP) and related recommendations. The committee also amended the agenda to receive the minutes from the previous meeting held on November 28, 2023.

• Amended the agenda order to move the previous meeting's minutes prior to presentations (Carried)
• Received the minutes of the November 28, 2023 Women's Advisory Committee meeting for information (Carried)

Council Special

This special meeting of Niagara Region Council is largely procedural. Council will receive a report on the Chief Administrative Officer performance appraisal process, then move into a closed session to discuss the CAO's 2023 performance appraisal under personal matters provisions. A confirming by-law will be considered to ratify actions taken at the meeting.

• Report CHR 1-2024 on CAO Performance Appraisal Process
• Closed session: CAO 2023 performance appraisal under s. 239(2) of Municipal Act
• Bill 2024-01: confirming by-law for actions of the special meeting

Niagara Regional Council held a special meeting to review the Chief Administrative Officer's performance. The council moved into closed session to discuss confidential personal matters regarding the CAO's 2023 appraisal. Upon returning to open session, the council approved the performance appraisal for the period of October 2022 to October 2023 and directed staff to proceed as instructed in the closed session.

• Agenda CL 1-2024 adopted
• CAO Performance Appraisal Process memorandum received for information
• Council moved into closed session for confidential CAO appraisal discussion
• CAO Performance Appraisal (Oct 2022–Oct 2023) approved
• Bill 2024-01 passed to ratify actions of the special meeting

Planning and Economic Development Committee

The Planning and Economic Development Committee is considering two official plan amendments: one to approve a Regional Official Plan Amendment and a Local Official Plan Amendment for the Port Colborne Quarries Pit 3 Extension, and another to approve a Regional Official Plan Amendment regarding Regional Road Allowance Widths. The agenda also includes informational items on the Niagara Economic Update and the Combined Sewer Overflow Control Program Update. Multiple delegations are scheduled for the quarry item.

• Approval of Regional Official Plan Amendment and Local Official Plan Amendment for Port Colborne Quarries Pit 3 Extension (PDS 2-2024)
• Approval of Regional Official Plan Amendment for Regional Road Allowance Widths (PDS 1-2024)
• Niagara Economic Update (ED 1-2024)
• Combined Sewer Overflow Control Program Update (PDS-C 1-2024)
• Delegations from residents and groups on the quarry extension

The committee approved official plan amendments for the Port Colborne Quarries Pit 3 extension and changes to regional road allowance widths. Several residents and organizations spoke in opposition to the quarry extension, citing environmental and safety concerns.

• Approved Regional Official Plan Amendment for Port Colborne Quarries Pit 3 Extension
• Approved City of Port Colborne Official Plan Amendment 13 as modified
• Approved Regional Official Plan Amendment for Regional Road Allowance Widths
• Received Niagara Economic Update report (ED 1-2024)
• Received Combined Sewer Overflow Control Program Update report (PDS-C 1-2024)

Corporate Services Committee

The Corporate Services Committee will consider two items: a request to write off an outstanding amount over $25,000, and approval of the 2024 interim levy dates and amounts. The agenda also includes a closed session on a labour relations matter (CUPE 911 interest arbitration award) and other business items.

• Request to write off outstanding amount over $25,000 (CSD 1-2024)
• Approval of 2024 interim levy dates and amounts (CSD 2-2024)
• Councillor information request on non-competitive procurement activities exceeding $100,000
• Councillor Bateman requested more frequent communication on regional initiatives
• Closed session: CUPE 911 interest arbitration award (labour relations)

The Corporate Services Committee approved the write-off of uncollectible accounts receivable and the 2024 interim Regional levy dates and amounts. The committee also approved recommendations regarding a CUPE 911 interest arbitration award.

• Approved write-off of uncollectible accounts receivable totalling $798,684.97 (Carried)
• Approved 2024 interim Regional levy amounts and dates (11-2)
• Approved recommendations in Confidential Report HR 01-2024 regarding CUPE 911 Interest Arbitration Award (Carried)

Public Works Committee

The Public Works Committee is holding a public participation meeting on a proposed street name change for Regional Road 61 in the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. The agenda also includes consent items for information, including minutes and presentations from the Waste Management Planning Steering Committee. No other substantive decisions are listed.

• Proposed street name change for Regional Road 61, Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake
• Public participation meeting pursuant to regional policy
• Waste Management Planning Steering Committee minutes from December 11, 2023
• Presentation on 2023 curbside green bin audits
• Presentation on recycling collection options for non-eligible sources

The Public Works Committee approved a recommendation to rename a portion of Regional Road 61 from Townline Stamford Road to Niagara Townline Road. The committee also received minutes from the Waste Management Planning Steering Committee.

• Approved recommendation to rename Regional Road 61 (Townline Stamford Road) to Niagara Townline Road between Regional Road 100 and Regional Road 102 (Carried)
• Approved preparation of a by-law for the Regional Road 61 name change (Carried)
• Received Waste Management Planning Steering Committee Minutes from December 11, 2023 (Carried)

PHSSC

The Public Health & Social Services Committee will consider approving the 2022 annual report audits for eight long-term care homes and will review the results of negotiated requests for proposals (NRFPs) for homelessness services, including prevention, housing first, and supportive housing programs. The agenda also includes a consent item for information on homelessness services NRFP awards for 2024-2027 covering street outreach, permanent supportive housing, and transitional housing.

• Approval of 2022 Long Term Care Home Annual Report Audits for Deer Park Villa, Douglas H. Rapelie, Gilmore Lodge, Linhaven, The Meadows of Dorchester, Northland Pointe, Upper Canada Lodge, The Woodlands of Sunset
• Homelessness Services NRFP Award Results for Prevention Services and Housing First and Home for Good Supportive Housing Programs
• Homelessness Services NRFP Award Results 2024-2027 for Assertive Street Outreach, Permanent Supportive Housing and Transitional Housing (consent item for information)

The committee approved funding for prevention services and supportive housing programs running from April 2024 to March 2027. It also approved the 2022 audited annual reports for long-term care homes.

• Approved 2022 Long Term Care Home Annual Report Audits (Carried)
• Awarded $5,256,707 for Prevention Services homelessness contracts (Carried)
• Approved $250,000 contingency for Prevention Services (Carried)
• Awarded $6,337,693 to Gateway Residential and Community Support Services for Housing First and Home for Good programs (Carried)
• Approved $500,000 contingency for Housing First and Home for Good (Carried)