Niagara-on-the-Lake public meetings in 2024

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is meeting to consider several land-use applications. The body will review requests for minor variances and a condition wording revision for specific properties.

• Condition wording revision for 280 & 298 Niven Road (B-25/23 & B-27/23)
• Minor Variance Application A-07/24 for 136 Church Road
• Minor Variance Application A-22/24 for 350 Concession 3 Road
• Minor Variance Application A-23/24 for 1564 Concession 1 Road

The Committee of Adjustment approved condition wording revisions for consent files B-25/23 and B-27/23 at 280 and 298 Niven Road, deeming the changes minor. It also approved minor variance A-07/24 at 136 Church Road with a condition, and A-23/24 at 1564 Concession 1 Road. However, it refused minor variance A-22/24 at 350 Concession 3 Road, rejecting the staff recommendation.

• Approved condition wording revisions for B-25/23 and B-27/23 (Niven Road) as minor
• Approved minor variance A-07/24 at 136 Church Road with condition
• Approved minor variance A-23/24 at 1564 Concession 1 Road
• Refused minor variance A-22/24 at 350 Concession 3 Road
• Approved November 21, 2024 minutes by unanimous consent

Municipal Accommodation Tax Committee

The Municipal Accommodation Tax Committee will meet on December 16, 2024. The agenda includes routine items such as Call to Order, Adoption of Agenda, Conflict of Interest, and Previous Minutes. The main business item is a review of the Updated Draft Criteria and Summary Report (CS‑24‑031) concerning the municipal accommodation tax. No other decisions or contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Review of Updated Draft Criteria and Summary Report (CS‑24‑031) for the municipal accommodation tax

The Municipal Accommodations Tax Committee approved the Updated Draft Criteria and Summary Report (CS-24-031) in principle, with a summary report to be prepared for Council. The committee reviewed the draft criteria and asked clarifying questions, with next steps including circulating an executive summary in early to mid-January for input.

• Approved Updated Draft Criteria and Summary Report CS-24-031 in principle (moved by Norm Arsenault)
• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved minutes from October 21, 2024

Open House

The Niagara-on-the-Lake council will hold an Open House on Dec 12, 2024. The only agenda item is a notice of a complete application for the property at 1594 Concession 6 Road. No attachments or decisions are listed for this item.

• Notice of Complete Application for 1594 Concession 6 Road (no attachments provided)

Council Meeting

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Council will consider a budget motion that permits town departments to incur costs up to 35% of their prior‑year expenditure budget if the 2025 budget is not yet approved. Other items include consolidation of front‑ending agreements on Line 1 Road, several by‑law approvals, and motions on development charges, special event permit fees, short‑term rentals, and a hiring freeze.

• Budget Motion – 2025: allow departments to spend up to 35% of prior‑year budget without approved budget
• Consolidation of Front‑ending Agreements along Line 1 Road (CDS‑24‑188)
• Area‑specific Development Charge Motion (Councillor O'Connor)
• Special Event Permit Fees Motion (Councillor Mavridis)
• Hiring Freeze Motion (Councillor Cheropita)

Council approved a motion to pause issuing new short-term rental licences for cottages, villas, and vacation apartments until staff report back by June 1, 2025, with a detailed analysis on appropriate limits. The motion passed 7-1, with Lord Mayor Zalepa opposed. Council also approved a $100 fee for special event permits starting January 1, 2025, and directed staff to prepare an area-specific development charge background study for the Glendale Secondary Plan Area, also 7-1. A motion to freeze hiring of unfilled positions was deferred to the January budget meeting.

• Paused new STR licences for cottages, villas, vacation apartments until June 1, 2025 report (7-1)
• Approved $100 fee for each special event permit starting Jan 1, 2025
• Directed staff to prepare area-specific development charge study for Glendale (7-1)
• Deferred hiring freeze motion to January budget meeting (5-3)
• Approved 2025 interim budget spending up to 35% of prior year department budgets
• Approved six tax cancellation/refund applications under Section 357
• Approved consolidation of front-ending agreements for Line 1 Road sanitary sewer to Dec 2034
• Approved 2025 Icewine Festival funding request and directed engagement with Tourism NOTL for MAT funding

CAO Recruitment Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss the recruitment of a Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). The meeting includes a closed session to discuss personal matters regarding identifiable individuals.

• Closed session under Section 239(2)(b) regarding CAO recruitment

The CAO Recruitment Committee met and approved its agenda. No conflicts of interest were declared. The committee entered a closed session to discuss personal matters related to CAO recruitment and, upon rising, approved a motion directing staff and the consultant to proceed as directed in that closed session. No other business was conducted.

• Adopted the agenda as presented
• Proceeded into closed session under Section 239(2)(b) regarding CAO recruitment
• Approved direction to staff and consultant as directed in closed session

Short Term Rental Committee

The Short-Term Rental Committee is meeting to review a final draft of the Short-Term Rental By-law. The session also includes the adoption of the agenda and a review of minutes from November 27, 2023.

• Review of the Draft STR By-law - Final

The Short-Term Rental Committee reviewed the by-law section by section and asked clarifying questions. They approved a motion to hold another meeting as soon as possible to continue the review. No substantive decisions were made on the by-law itself.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved November 27, 2023 minutes
• Approved motion to hold another meeting to review by-law

Information Package

This meeting is an Information Package containing public announcements and correspondence. It includes updates on the Official Plan Review and notices regarding specific land applications.

• Official Plan Review Report updates to Council
• Town statement on Site Plan Approval Process
• Notice of Complete Application for 1594 Concession 6 Road (ZBA-15-2024)
• Notice of Decision for lands south and east of 419 Line 1 Road (OPA-02-2024, ZBA-04-2024)
• Correspondence from other municipalities regarding rural road safety and provincial tax redistribution

Municipal Heritage Committee

The Municipal Heritage Committee will consider a request for comments on the Seasonal Patio Program Minimum Design Standards (CDS-24-187). It will review the Priority Designation Work – Heritage Designation Draft By-law for 167 Four Mile Creek Road (CDS-24-184). The committee will also discuss a heritage permit and grant application for façade restoration at 57 Queen Street (CDS-24-183). The January meeting is rescheduled to Wednesday, January 8, 2025.

• Request for Comments – Seasonal Patio Program Minimum Design Standards (CDS-24-187)
• Priority Designation Work – Heritage Designation Draft By-law for 167 Four Mile Creek Road (CDS-24-184)
• Heritage Permit and Grant Application – Façade Restoration at 57 Queen Street (CDS-24-183)
• Objection to Designation – 4 Walnut Street (letter dated 10 Nov 2024)
• Rescheduling of the regular January meeting to January 8, 2025

The Municipal Heritage Committee approved recommendations to endorse the heritage designation of 167 Four Mile Creek Road, send a midway letter to the owner, and issue a Notice of Intent to Designate. It also recommended approval of a heritage permit and grant for facade restoration at 57 Queen Street, with up to $7,500 in town funding. The committee approved carrying over remaining 2024 budget into 2025 for the Heritage Grant Program.

• Endorsed designation by-law for 167 Four Mile Creek Road in principle (approved)
• Directed staff to send midway letter to owner of 167 Four Mile Creek Road (approved)
• Directed staff to issue Notice of Intent to Designate for 167 Four Mile Creek Road (approved)
• Recommended approval of Heritage Permit HER-17-2024 and Grant HIP-01-2024 for 57 Queen Street facade restoration (approved)
• Approved up to $7,500 in grant funding for 57 Queen Street restoration (approved)
• Approved carrying over remaining 2024 budget to 2025 for Heritage Grant Program (approved)

Heritage Trail Committee

The Heritage Trail Committee will receive a construction update, a financial report to date, and an update on a grant application response from the Niagara Community Foundation. No decisions are listed; the agenda consists of informational items and standard committee business.

• Construction update
• Financial report to date
• Grant application update – Niagara Community Foundation response

The Heritage Trail Committee met to receive routine progress reports on Phase 2 construction, finances, and potential grant opportunities. Staff confirmed that culvert replacement costs will not be charged to the Heritage Trail account. No substantive policy or spending decisions were made beyond standard procedural approvals.

• Adopted the meeting agenda
• Received the Oct. 16, 2024 meeting minutes
• Adjourned the meeting unanimously

Committee of the Whole - Planning

The Committee of the Whole – Planning will consider a consent agenda item to adopt the Glendale Secondary Plan Official Plan Amendment (OPA‑06‑2022, CDS‑24‑182). It will also review an Official Plan update (CDS‑24‑185), the 2025 corporate insurance renewal (CS‑24‑022), proposed 2025 indexing of development charges (CS‑24‑023) and cash‑in‑lie of parking (CS‑24‑029), and a road closure at 1634 Four Mile Creek Road (CAO‑24‑053). Additional information reports on additional dwelling units, NPCA strategies, and a site‑plan application for 325 King Street will be presented. A closed session will address litigation matters.

• Glendale Secondary Plan – Official Plan Amendment (OPA‑06‑2022, CDS‑24‑182) – consent agenda
• Official Plan Update (CDS‑24‑185) – includes Minister's letter on LT exemption
• 2025 Corporate Insurance Renewal (CS‑24‑022)
• Proposed 2025 Development Charges Indexing (CS‑24‑023)
• Road Closure – 1634 Four Mile Creek Road (CAO‑24‑053)

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Committee of the Whole deferred approval of the Glendale Secondary Plan to January 2025 while approving amendments regarding school board discussions and policy schedules. The committee also approved a 2025 municipal insurance agreement with Marsh Canada Ltd. for $815,333, a 3.3% increase in development charges and cash-in-lieu of parking fees, and a road allowance closure at 1634 Four Mile Creek Road.

• Deferred approval of Glendale Secondary Plan and urban design guidelines to January 2025
• Directed staff to continue school board discussions regarding potential new schools in Glendale area
• Approved 2025 municipal insurance agreement with Marsh Canada Ltd. for $815,333 plus taxes
• Approved annual indexing of Development Charge fees with a 3.3% increase effective January 1, 2025
• Approved annual indexing of Cash-in-Lieu of Parking set at $72,664 per stall effective January 1, 2025
• Approved stopping up and closing a road allowance at 1634 Four Mile Creek Road in Virgil
• Received Official Plan update work plan targeting revised plan approval by October 2025
• Directed staff to post 325 King Street site plan documents on the Town's website

Open House

The council will hold a public session and an open house to present the Harvest Creek application (file 26CD-18-24-06). No decisions are scheduled; the meeting is informational. No attachments are provided with the agenda item.

• Harvest Creek – 26CD-18-24-06 – Notice of Complete Application and Open House

Information Package

The council will receive several public announcements, including a news release about a local holiday mission and a budget update from Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa. They will also review correspondence from the Niagara Region on the 2025 water and wastewater operating budget, rate setting and requisition, as well as emails from other municipalities on topics such as mental‑health care, rural road safety, and affordable‑housing building code changes. No decisions are listed; the items are for informational review.

• News Release – “A Little Tree with a Big Heart – Tommy's Holiday Mission”
• Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa – 2025 Budget Update
• Niagara Region email – 2025 Water and Wastewater Operating Budget, Rate Setting and Requisition
• City of Niagara Falls email – Strengthening Existing System of Mandatory Mental Health Care
• Municipality of Val Rita – Harty email – Rural Road Safety Program

Budget Review Committee

The Budget Review Committee will hear presentations on the 2025 water and wastewater budget and the related salary costs. The agenda lists three PDF documents covering the presentation, the budget, and the salary details. No formal decisions are indicated; the meeting appears to be for informational review.

• 2025 Water and Wastewater Presentation (PDF)
• 2025 Water and Wastewater Budget (PDF)
• 2025 Water and Wastewater Salaries (PDF)

The committee received presentations on the 2025 Water and Wastewater budget and salaries. They approved moving the next budget review meeting from December 5, 2024, to mid-January 2025. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Agenda adopted as presented
• 2025 Water and Wastewater presentations received
• Budget review meeting moved from Dec 5, 2024, to mid-Jan 2025
• Committee adjourned to Dec 3, 2024

Special Council Meeting

The Special Council Meeting on November 27, 2024 will consider the appeal of Committee of Adjustment Decision FV-02-24 dated July 18, 2024 for 474 William Street. Council members will hear evidence, then vote to either approve or deny the fence variance under the Fence By-law. The decision will be final, written, signed by the concurring members, and not subject to court review.

• Appeal of Committee of Adjustment Decision FV-02-24 for 474 William Street
• Presentation of the fence variance application and supporting documents (e.g., staff report, public comments, recommendation report)
• Council's authority to approve or refuse the variance per the Fence By-law and Zoning By-law
• By-law No. 2024-076 to confirm the council proceedings on this matter

Council approved a minor variance to the Fence By-law, allowing the maximum front-yard fence height to increase from 1.0 metres to 3.5 metres for existing cedar trees at 474 William Street. The decision was made after hearing from the applicant, Julia Buxton-Cox, and the appellant, Evi Mitchinson. The vote was 8 to 0, with one councillor absent.

• Approved fence height variance from 1.0m to 3.5m for existing cedar trees at 474 William St (8-0)
• Adopted the meeting agenda as presented
• Approved By-law 2024-076 to confirm proceedings of the November 27, 2024 Council meeting
• Adjourned at 10:08 a.m. to the next Budget Review Committee meeting

Council Meeting

The Council meeting will focus on adopting the 2025 Capital Budget, hearing appeals regarding tree removals at six addresses, and considering a lease agreement with the Shaw Festival. The agenda also includes closed sessions on legal matters and the review of committee minutes.

• Adoption of 2025 Capital Budget (By-law 2024-074)
• Tree appeal hearings at 7 Plantation Dr, 105 Tanbark Rd, 1 Mulberry Lane, 15 Shakespeare Ave, 14467 Niagara River Parkway, and 14390 Niagara River Parkway
• Court House Lease Agreement between Shaw Festival and Town of NOTL (By-law 2024-073)
• Closed session regarding legal expenditures and litigation
• By-law 2024-072 for Water Distribution System

Council voted to approve official plan and zoning amendments alongside a vacant land condominium plan for lands east and south of 419 Line 1 Road. Councillors also approved free parking in the Heritage District for December 2024 and handled several tree removal appeals. The 2025 Capital Budget was deferred to a future meeting for joint discussion with the operating budget.

• Approved tree removal for 7 Plantation Drive with 3 replacement trees (or cash in lieu)
• Approved tree removal for 105 Tanbark Road with permit fee
• Approved tree removal for 1 Mulberry Lane with 1 replacement tree (or cash in lieu)
• Denied tree removal for 15 Shakespeare Avenue (9-0)
• Approved tree removal for 14390 Niagara River Parkway with 4 replacement trees (or cash in lieu)
• Approved Official Plan, Zoning, and Condominium applications for 419 Line 1 Road (7-2)
• Deferred 2025 Capital Budget to a future meeting
• Approved free parking in the Heritage District for December 2024

Information Package

This meeting is an information package containing public announcements, correspondence from other municipalities, and miscellaneous reports. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• News release regarding 2025 budget discussions
• Notice of complete application and open house for Harvest Creek (26CD-18-24-06)
• Chamber of Commerce request for free parking in Heritage District for December 2024
• NOTL Hydro report to Council on outages
• News release regarding Canadian Union of Postal Workers strike

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment will review three minor variance applications for 477, 479 and 485 Butler Street (B-13/24, A-19/24, A-20/24) and a fence variance appeal for 474 William Street (FV-02/24). A draft Advisory Committees of Council policy (CAO-24-044) will also be discussed. The agenda includes routine items such as adoption of the agenda and approval of the September 19, 2024 minutes.

• Consent Application B-13/24 – 479 Butler Street (minor variance)
• Consent Applications A-19/24 and A-20/24 – 477 and 485 Butler Street (minor variances)
• Notice of Appeal Hearing – 474 William Street, Fence Variance FV-02/24
• Draft Advisory Committees of Council Policy – CAO-24-044
• Approval of September 19, 2024 Committee of Adjustment minutes

The Committee of Adjustment approved Consent Application B-13/24 to merge parts of 479 Butler Street with adjacent properties at 477 and 485 Butler Street, subject to conditions including legal descriptions, lawyer's undertakings, and servicing disconnections. Minor Variance Applications A-19/24 (477 Butler) and A-20/24 (485 Butler) were also approved, each conditional on provisional approval of the consent application. The September 19, 2024 minutes were approved unanimously.

• Approved Consent Application B-13/24 to merge parts of 479 Butler Street with 477 and 485 Butler Street (unanimous)
• Approved Minor Variance Application A-19/24 for 477 Butler Street, conditional on consent approval
• Approved Minor Variance Application A-20/24 for 485 Butler Street, conditional on consent approval
• Approved September 19, 2024 minutes (unanimous)

Budget Review Committee

The Budget Review Committee will review the 2025 Operating Budget, including proposed studies, salaries, and debt. The committee will also consider a Discretionary Grant Policy update.

• 2025 Operating Budget Presentation
• 2025 Change Drivers
• 2025 Salaries Summary
• 2025 Proposed Studies
• Discretionary Grant Policy Update

The Budget Review Committee received the 2025 operating budget presentations and directed staff to show CAO and Administration budgets separately. It approved the Discretionary Grant Policy and Procedure as amended, delegating authority to the Director of Corporate Services to execute grant agreements and scheduling the 2025 application period to open January 13, 2025. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and adjourned at 7:41 p.m.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Received 2025 operating budget presentations (items 4.1-4.8)
• Directed staff to show CAO and Administration budgets separately
• Approved Discretionary Grant Policy and Procedure as amended
• Delegated authority to Director of Corporate Services to execute grant agreements
• Set 2025 grant application period to open January 13, 2025 for four weeks

Committee of the Whole - General

The Committee of the Whole will review and vote on several consent‑agenda items, including the renewal of a lease agreement with the Niagara Foundation for the Foghorn Property at 99 River Beach Drive; a draft Water By‑law; a Special Events Work Plan and Engagement; public engagement for the former hospital site at 176 Wellington Street; and the appointment of Councillor Andrew Niven to committees and boards. The meeting also includes closed‑session discussions on the Ontario Superior Court matter Town of Niagara‑on‑the‑Lake v Arriscraft Canada Inc.

• Renewal of Lease Agreement with the Niagara Foundation (Foghorn Property) 99 River Beach Drive
• Draft Water By‑law (OPS‑24‑034)
• Special Events Work Plan and Engagement – Next Steps (CAO‑24‑041)
• Former Hospital Site (176 Wellington Street) – Public Engagement (CAO‑24‑042)
• Appointment of Councillor Andrew Niven to Committees & Boards (2022‑2026 term)

Council approved several key items, including an $80,000 allocation for a special events policy review, an $85,000 public engagement process for the former hospital site at 176 Wellington Street, and a new water by-law. A discretionary grant policy update was deferred to the next day's budget meeting. Council also appointed Heloisa Varesio to the Library Board and approved committee appointments for Councillor Niven.

• Approved $80,000 MAT allocation for Special Events Policy Review (unanimous)
• Approved $85,000 public engagement for former hospital site, funded from parking revenue (unanimous)
• Approved new Water By-law, repealing By-law 814-77 (unanimous)
• Deferred Discretionary Grant Policy Update to Nov 20 Budget Review Committee
• Appointed Heloisa Varesio to Library Board for remainder of term
• Appointed Councillor Niven to Court of Revision, NOTL Historical Society, Sports Wall of Fame, and NOTL Museum
• Approved one-year lease extension for Foghorn Property (99 River Beach Drive) to Jan 31, 2026, with no further extensions
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule and Committee of the Whole chair appointments

Information Package

This meeting is an information package containing public announcements and correspondence. It includes updates on business recruitment and legal appeals regarding local developments.

• News release welcoming Koppert Canada to the community
• Town statement regarding Ontario Land Tribunal appeals for 223 and 227 Mary Street
• Correspondence on the establishment of an Ontario Rural Road Safety Program
• Correspondence regarding the OPP Billing Model
• Correspondence on the redistribution of Land Transfer Tax and GST

Irrigation Committee

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Irrigation Committee will meet on November 13, 2024 to discuss updates on the St. Lawrence Seaway and the status of irrigation pumps. The agenda includes routine items such as call to order, adoption of agenda, conflict of interest, review of previous minutes, presentations, announcements, correspondence, and other business. No specific decisions, contracts, or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• St. Lawrence Seaway
• Pump Status Update
• Presentations
• Announcements
• Correspondence

The committee declined a delegation request from B. Ruck due to a legal conflict of interest. They also reviewed water license costs of $820 plus tax per location for Eastchester, Carlton, and Dee Road, and received updates on pump statuses.

• Declined delegation request from B. Ruck due to legal conflict of interest
• Adopted agenda (moved by Wiens and Oppenlander)
• Accepted previous minutes as amended
• Scheduled next meeting for December 11, 2024, with possible change to December 18

Committee of the Whole - Planning

The Committee of the Whole – Planning will hold a public meeting on the zoning by‑law amendment application ZBA‑14‑2024 for 280, 282 and 298 Niven Road. The meeting will include a staff presentation and an open house as noted in the attached documents. The committee will also consider a consent agenda for lands east and south of 419 Line 1 Road, including draft official plan and zoning by‑law amendments. Additional items include town representation at the Ontario Land Tribunal for applications at 223 and 227 Mary Street and presentations of NPCA conservation and watershed strategy drafts.

• Public meeting on ZBA‑14‑2024 for 280, 282 and 298 Niven Road (notice, open house, staff presentation)
• Consent agenda: Lands east and south of 419 Line 1 Road – draft official plan amendment and zoning by‑law amendment (CDS‑24‑161)
• Town representation at Ontario Land Tribunal for OPA‑04‑2022 and ZBA‑23‑2022 at 223 and 227 Mary Street (CDS‑24‑178)
• NPCA Conservation Area Strategy Draft (information package)
• NPCA Watershed‑based Resource Management Strategy Draft (information package)

Council approved directing legal counsel to settle the Ontario Land Tribunal appeal for 223 and 227 Mary Street by accepting staff recommendations on Official Plan Amendment OPA-04-2022 and Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-23-2022. A proposed Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-law Amendment, and Draft Plan of Vacant Land Condominium for lands near 419 Line 1 Road was defeated. Council also received information reports on NPCA conservation and watershed strategies, and entered closed session to discuss litigation regarding 187 Queen Street.

• Approved settlement direction for OLT appeal on 223/227 Mary Street (OPA-04-2022, ZBA-23-2022)
• Defeated OPA/ZBA/condominium application for lands east/south of 419 Line 1 Road
• Received NPCA Conservation Area Strategy Draft and Watershed-based Resource Management Strategy Draft
• Approved closed session under litigation exception for 187 Queen Street OLT matter
• Received information report on public meeting for 280, 282, 298 Niven Road (ZBA-14-2024)

Information Package

This meeting package consists of information items and correspondence for review. It includes public announcements, regional budget updates, and requests for support from other municipalities.

• Notice of Decision ZBA-09-2023 for 925 Line 2 Road
• Notice of Decision ZBA-07-2024 for 15608 and 15618 Niagara River Parkway
• Niagara Region Waste Management 2025 Operating Budget and Requisition CSD-2024
• Recruitment process update for new CAO
• NPCA Conservation Area Strategy and Watershed-based Resource Management Strategy drafts

Municipal Heritage Committee

The Municipal Heritage Committee is meeting to discuss heritage designation reports for specific local addresses. The committee will also review a draft policy regarding Advisory Committees of Council.

• Heritage Designation Report for 167 Four Mile Creek Road
• Heritage Designation Report for 4 Walnut Street
• Heritage Designation Report for 1665 Four Mile Creek Road
• Draft Advisory Committees of Council Policy (Report CAO-24-044)

The Municipal Heritage Committee endorsed pursuing heritage designation for 167 Four Mile Creek Road, 4 Walnut Street, and 1665 Four Mile Creek Road under O.Reg.9/06, and directed staff to prepare a draft designation by-law for December. The committee also discussed a draft Advisory Committees of Council Policy and provided feedback, but took no formal action on it. New business items were discussed without decisions.

• Endorsed heritage designation pursuit for 167 Four Mile Creek Road, 4 Walnut Street, and 1665 Four Mile Creek Road (approved)
• Directed staff to prepare draft designation by-law for December consideration (approved)

Open House

The body is holding an open house regarding a complete application for ZBA-14-2024. This session serves as a public meeting for the specified properties on Niven Road.

• Zoning application ZBA-14-2024 for 280, 282 and 298 Niven Road

Budget Review Committee

The Budget Review Committee will continue discussions on the 2025 Capital Budget, reviewing capital reserves, prioritization lists, and information sheets.

• Review of 2025 Capital Reserves by Department
• Review of Proposed 2025 Capital Index List
• Review of 2025 Capital Information Sheets
• Review of 2025 Capital Prioritization
• Review of 10-Year Capital Summary with Schedules

The Budget Review Committee approved the proposed 2025 Capital Budget as amended, including adding soccer nets to Sparky's Park, removing an engineering printer to offset Mississauga debt, and adding Boundary Stones to the Town's website donation page. Several motions to defer or reduce projects were defeated. The committee adjourned to the next meeting on November 12, 2024.

• Approved 2025 Capital Budget as amended
• Approved adding Boundary Stones to donation page on Town's website
• Approved removing Project C02470 Engineering Printer, reallocating funds to offset Mississauga debt
• Approved adding two soccer nets (6.5' x 18.5') in Sparky's Park to budget
• Defeated motion to defer Project C02508 Elden Road
• Defeated motion to defer Queens Parade resurfacing to 2026
• Defeated motion to limit Fire Department Capital Budget to last year's amount plus truck cost
• Defeated motion to defer cameras in Project C02499 to 2026

Council Meeting

The Council will hear 2025 budget presentations from Niagara College, the Niagara District Airport, and the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum. The meeting also includes several by-laws regarding property rezoning, heritage designations, and encroachment agreements.

• Rezoning of 15608 and 15618 Niagara River Parkway to Rural Residential Site Specific Zone
• Heritage designation of Corus Farm at 1823 Niagara Stone Road
• Encroachment agreements for 134 Victoria Street and 242 Ricardo Street
• Budget requests from Niagara College, Niagara District Airport, and Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum
• Model Home Agreement for Tawny Ridge Phase 1

Council approved transferring $21,000 from the Discretionary Grant program and contributing town labour to complete Phase 2 of the Heritage Trail to Line 3. They also delegated authority for Model Home Agreements, adopted several by-laws, and approved minutes and proclamations. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved transfer of $21,000 from Discretionary Grant program to Heritage Trail Phase 2
• Approved town labour as in-kind contribution for Heritage Trail Phase 2
• Approved delegation of authority for Model Home Agreements (CDS-24-171)
• Adopted By-law 2024-065 - 242 Ricardo Street Encroachment Agreement (Councillor O'Connor abstained)
• Adopted By-laws 500XC(1)-24, 2024-063, 2024-064, 2024-066, 2024-067, 2024-068, 2024-069, 2024-070
• Approved proclamations for World Town Planning Day and GivingTuesday
• Approved minutes from September 24, October 8, 15, 16, 22, 2024 meetings
• Approved committee minutes from library, irrigation, heritage, CAO recruitment, selection, and MAT committees

Information Package

This meeting is an information package containing public announcements and correspondence. Council will review a draft policy regarding Advisory Committees of Council.

• Review of Draft Advisory Committees of Council Policy
• Zoning application ZBA-14-2024 for 280, 282 & 298 Niven Road
• Update on Ontario Land Tribunal decision regarding Rand Estate heritage preservation
• Notice of commencement of environmental assessment from Walker

Irrigation Committee

The Irrigation Committee will meet via video conference to conduct routine business. The primary agenda item is a status update regarding pumps.

• Pump Status Update

The committee received updates on pump statuses, including the Carton siphon still running for nurseries and winterization of Dee Road and 3 Mile transfer pump. They discussed metering private pumps, the cost share for a study with GEI, and the Carlton Street water-right with the seaway. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the agenda and previous minutes.

• Approved amended agenda (moved by Rob Enns)
• Received August 14, 2024 minutes (moved by Michael Kauzlaric)

Committee of the Whole - General

The Committee of the Whole will receive a budget presentation for the NOTL Public Library and a report on the Randwood OLT decision. The body will also consider several encroachment agreements and a new policy for advisory committees.

• 2025 NOTL Public Library budget presentation
• Randwood OLT Decision presentation by Turkstra Mazza Associates
• Memorial Tennis Courts agreement with NOTL Tennis Club (OPS-24-025)
• Encroachment agreements for 134 Victoria Street (OPS-24-046) and 242 Ricardo Street (OPS-24-047)
• Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority Memorandum of Understanding (OPS-24-048)

The Committee of the Whole approved several items, including a tennis club agreement for Memorial Tennis Courts, encroachment agreements for properties at 134 Victoria Street and 242 Ricardo Street, and a conservation authority MOU. They also referred a request for a letter of municipal significance for the NOTL Drinks Fest to staff and received a presentation on the Randwood OLT decision.

• Approved agreement with NOTL Tennis Club for Memorial Tennis Courts and Pavilion at 370 King Street
• Approved encroachment agreement for 134 Victoria Street (front porch and steps into right of way)
• Approved encroachment agreement for 242 Ricardo Street (heritage building encroachment)
• Endorsed Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority MOU for services (Virgil Reservoirs)
• Received draft Advisory Committees of Council Policy and directed consultation
• Approved proclamation for World Town Planning Day (Nov 8, 2024)
• Approved proclamation for Giving Tuesday (Dec 3, 2024)
• Referred Drinks Fest letter of municipal significance request to staff

Municipal Accommodation Tax Committee

The Municipal Accommodation Tax Committee will consider the Draft Criteria and Summary Report (CS‑24‑017) for the municipal accommodation tax. The agenda includes review of the report and its appendices, which contain a facilitation summary and Mississauga Capital Project sheets. No other items are listed for discussion or decision.

• Municipal Accommodation Tax – Draft Criteria and Summary Report (CS‑24‑017) with appendices

The committee approved recommendations for Council regarding the administration of the project evaluation process and the adoption of a draft criteria report. It also recommended a specific percentage-based allocation for how MAT funds are distributed.

• Recommended Council allow Corporate Services to administer the project evaluation process (Approved)
• Recommended Council receive the Draft Criteria and Summary Report CS-24-017 with discussed modifications (Approved)
• Recommended Council allocate MAT funding as 20% for infrastructure, 20% for small projects, and 60% for large projects (Approved)
• Withdrawn: Motion to allocate $600k from MAT reserve and $2M over four years for Mississauga St reconstruction

Selection Committee for Committees of Council

The Selection Committee will open the meeting, adopt the agenda, address any conflict of interest, hold a closed session under Section 239(2)(b) to consider personal matters about an identifiable individual and to review a Library Board application, then discuss business, set the next meeting date, and adjourn.

• Closed session under Section 239(2)(b) for personal matters about an identifiable individual
• Review and evaluation of Library Board application (closed session)
• Conflict of interest declaration

The Selection Committee met in closed session to review and evaluate Library Board applications. The committee approved forwarding a short list of candidates to the Library Board for consideration. No other substantive business was conducted; the meeting was procedural and brief.

• Adopted meeting agenda as presented
• Proceeded into closed session under Section 239(2)(b) for Library Board application review
• Forwarded short list of Library Board candidates to the Library Board for consideration
• Adjourned meeting at 10:39 a.m.

Information Package

The council will review a series of information items, including media releases announcing a holiday card design contest, the appointment of Andrew Niven to a vacant council seat, and a budget survey invitation. A town statement will address the Ontario Land Tribunal decision on the Randwood development. A notice of decision concerning 223‑227 Mary Street will also be presented. No formal motions or votes are listed for this meeting.

• Media Release - Lord Mayor Zalepa’s Holiday Card Design Contest Calls on Young Artists to Participate
• Media Release - Council Appoints Andrew Niven to Fill Vacant Council Seat
• Media Release - Niagara-on-the-Lake Invites Community Feedback on 2025 Budget Survey
• Town Statement - Statement from the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake Regarding the Recent Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) Decision on Randwood
• Notice of Decision - OPA-04-2022, ZBA-23-2022 - 223-227 Mary Street

CAO Recruitment Committee

The CAO Recruitment Committee will hold a regular meeting with standard procedural items such as call to order, agenda adoption, and conflict of interest review. The key agenda item is a closed session under Section 239(2)(b) to consider personal matters about an identifiable individual, specifically the recruitment of a Chief Administrative Officer. No other business items are listed.

• Call to Order
• Adoption of Agenda
• Conflict of Interest review
• Closed session on CAO recruitment (personal matters under Section 239(2)(b))
• Business (no items listed)

The CAO Recruitment Committee held a meeting on October 16, 2024, and approved the agenda. The committee entered a closed session to discuss personal matters related to the CAO recruitment, and after rising, directed staff and The Phelps Group Inc. to proceed as instructed. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted the agenda as presented
• Proceeded into closed session under Section 239(2)(b) for CAO recruitment
• Rose from closed session and directed staff and The Phelps Group Inc. to proceed as directed

Heritage Trail Committee

The Heritage Trail Committee will meet on Oct. 16, 2024 to discuss a trail update, a debrief of the "Paws on the Trail" program, comments from the town on safety of the trail crossing across the E‑W line, and a financial update on funding. The meeting includes a new business segment before adjourning.

• Trail Update
• Paws on the Trail – Debrief
• Safety of the Trail crossing across E‑W Line – Town comments
• Financial Update – Funding
• New Business

Special Council Meeting

The Special Council meeting on October 16, 2024 will consider options to fill a vacant council seat for the 2024‑2026 term (CAO‑24‑039). It will also consider adopting Proceedings By‑law No. 2024‑062 to confirm the meeting’s proceedings. Standard procedural items such as call to order, agenda adoption, and conflict‑of‑interest declarations are also on the agenda.

• Options to Fill Vacant Council Seat – 2024 to 2026 (CAO‑24‑039)
• Proceedings By‑law No. 2024‑062 to confirm meeting proceedings
• Call to Order
• Adoption of the Agenda
• Conflict of Interest declaration

Council voted 6-2 to appoint Andrew Niven to fill the vacant councillor seat for the remainder of the 2022-2026 term, pending confirmation of acceptance and eligibility. An earlier motion to appoint the next-place finisher from the 2022 election was defeated 2-6. The proceedings by-law was also approved.

• Appointed Andrew Niven to Council for remainder of 2022-2026 term (6-2)
• Defeated motion to appoint next-place finisher from 2022 election (2-6)
• Approved deferral of next-place finisher motion until after closed session (6-2)
• Approved entering closed session for personal matters about identifiable individual (6-2)
• Approved proceedings by-law 2024-062 confirming meeting proceedings (6-2)

Committee of the Whole - Planning

The Committee of the Whole - Planning will hold a statutory public meeting regarding the Glendale Secondary Plan. The session includes a discussion on Official Plan Amendment CDS-24-168.

• Statutory Public Meeting - Glendale Secondary Plan
• Official Plan Amendment CDS-24-168

The Committee of the Whole held a statutory public meeting to receive input on the Glendale Secondary Plan, an Official Plan Amendment. No decisions were made; the item was received for information only. Council requested staff engage with residents on height concerns.

• Adopted agenda as presented
• Received Glendale Secondary Plan public meeting item (CDS-24-168)
• Adjourned to next Special Council meeting on October 16, 2024

Budget Review Committee

The Budget Review Committee will hear presentations on the draft 2025 capital budget, including capital reserves, project information, index list, prioritization, and a 10‑year summary. No formal decisions are listed; the meeting is for review and discussion of these documents.

• 2025 Draft Capital Budget presentation
• Appendix I – Capital Reserves by Department and Reserve
• Appendix II – Capital Project Information Sheet
• Appendix III – 2025 Capital Information Sheets
• Appendix IV – 2025 Capital Prioritization

The Budget Review Committee reviewed the proposed 2025 Capital Budget and directed staff to return with more information on several items. No final budget decisions were made; the meeting was primarily a discussion and direction-setting session. Council directed staff to explore a bike lane for Business Case C02510, deferring Queens Parade Road resurfacing, and other items.

• Adopted the meeting agenda as presented
• Directed staff to explore a bike lane for Business Case C02510 instead of a paved shoulder
• Directed staff to return with info on deferring Queens Parade Road resurfacing (C02369) and reallocating Canada Community-Building Fund to Mississauga Road project
• Directed staff to return with info on custom fire apparatuses
• Directed staff to look into customer relations software for operating budget
• Directed staff to look into building tools and drones for various purposes
• Directed staff to return with info on centralization of the fleet
• Directed staff to get a price for soccer netting at Tanbark Park

Council Workshop Meeting

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Council held a workshop meeting on October 8, 2024. The meeting covered standard procedural items such as call to order, agenda adoption, and conflict of interest. A closed session was held to provide training to members on the Transportation Master Plan. The meeting concluded with adjournment.

• Closed session: training for members on the Transportation Master Plan

Committee of the Whole - Planning

The Committee of the Whole - Planning is meeting to discuss several land-use applications and heritage updates. The session includes a public meeting for a specific zoning amendment and the review of a draft plan extension.

• Public meeting for Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-13-2024 at 933 Niagara Stone Road
• Recommendation report for Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-07-2024 at 15608 and 15618 Niagara River Parkway
• Draft plan extension request for 46 Paxton Lane (26CD-18-24-04)
• Heritage designation update for 1 Paxton Lane
• Recognition of Niagara-on-the-Lake Electrifying Eels for a first place regional win

The Committee of the Whole approved a zoning by-law amendment for 15608 and 15618 Niagara River Parkway, forwarded it to Council for adoption, and granted a two-year extension to the draft plan approval for 46 Paxton Lane. They also received information reports on a zoning application at 933 Niagara Stone Road and a heritage designation update for 1 Paxton Lane. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved zoning by-law amendment for 15608 and 15618 Niagara River Parkway (ZBA-07-2024)
• Approved two-year draft plan extension for 46 Paxton Lane (26CD-18-24-04) to August 16, 2026
• Received information report on ZBA-13-2024 for 933 Niagara Stone Road
• Received heritage designation update for 1 Paxton Lane

Information Package

The meeting is an information package where the council will receive public announcements, media releases, and notices of decision on zoning applications for properties on Hunter Road and Ricardo Street. Items include a preliminary review of the Queen‑Picton Heritage Conservation District expansion and a new feature on the town’s Strategic Plan Dashboard. No formal motions or votes are listed.

• Notice of Decision (500YL-24) – ZBA‑11‑2024 for 181 Hunter Road
• Notice of Decision (500YG-24) – ZBA‑10‑2024 for 216 and 224 Hunter Road
• Notice of Decision (4316FT-24) – ZBA‑08‑2024 for 242 Ricardo Street
• Media Release – Preliminary Review of Queen‑Picton Heritage Conservation District Expansion
• Media Release – Launch of New Feature on Strategic Plan Dashboard

Municipal Heritage Committee

The Municipal Heritage Committee will review heritage permit applications for roof replacements and building alterations, as well as draft by-laws for designating new heritage properties.

• Heritage permit for 187 Queen Street (Crysler Burroughs House)
• Heritage permit for 307 Mississagua Street (Cedar roof replacement)
• Heritage permit for 169 King Street (Alterations)
• Draft by-law for 716 King Street (Heritage designation)
• Draft by-law for 18 Wilberforce Avenue (Heritage designation)

The Municipal Heritage Committee recommended approval of heritage permits and grants for properties at 307 Mississagua Street and 169 King Street. The committee also recommended Council approve the heritage designation for 716 King Street and endorse the designation of 18 Wilberforce Avenue. A heritage permit application for 187 Queen Street was deferred to a future meeting.

• Recommended approval of Heritage Permit and Grant for 307 Mississagua Street (Cedar Roof Replacement)
• Recommended approval of Heritage Permit for alterations at 169 King Street
• Recommended approval of Heritage Designation By-law for 716 King Street
• Endorsed designation in principle for 18 Wilberforce Avenue
• Deferred Heritage Permit Application for 187 Queen Street
• Received Heritage Conservation District Study findings
• Received updates on Restoration of Ordnance Boundary Stones

Open House

The Niagara-on-the-Lake council will hold an Open House public session on September 26, 2024. The meeting will consider the complete application for ZBA-13-2024 concerning the property at 933 Niagara Stone Rd. No attachments are provided with the agenda item. The session will be conducted via video conference.

• ZBA-13-2024 – complete application for 933 Niagara Stone Rd

Council Meeting

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Council will adopt its agenda and review minutes from recent Committee of the Whole meetings. It will consider a series of consent agenda items, including multiple by-law approvals such as a zoning amendment for 187 Queen Street and service agreements for local properties. A closed‑session will address potential litigation concerning the former Vandermeer nursery property on Four Mile Creek Road. The meeting also includes a presentation on physician recruitment and a discussion of the 2025 budget timeline.

• Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-05-2024 & Consent Application B-09/24 – 187 Queen Street (Ontario Land Tribunal representation)
• By-law 2024-056 – Agreement for Services with Principles Integrity
• By-law 2024-057 – Servicing Agreement for 61 Princess Street
• By-law 2024-058 – Assumption of Municipal Services for The Settlement Subdivision (Plan 30M‑375)
• 2025 Budget Timeline (CS-24-015)

Council approved a motion to engage in mediation for the 187 Queen Street zoning dispute rather than defending the previous refusal at the Ontario Land Tribunal. The 2025 budget timeline was approved, including a $150,000 transfer to the Capital Reserve. A motion to regulate commercial activities in agricultural lands was amended to direct staff to report on enforcement issues, while by-laws for 223-227 Mary Street were defeated.

• Approved mediation for 187 Queen Street zoning dispute (5-2)
• Defeated motion to defend 187 Queen Street refusal at OLT (3-4)
• Approved 2025 budget timeline with $150,000 Capital Reserve transfer
• Approved motion to direct staff report on agricultural land enforcement
• Defeated motion to defer agricultural land regulation to committee (2-5)
• Approved tree canopy inventory and replacement policy
• Approved FCM infrastructure funding recommendations
• Defeated By-law 2024-060 for 223-227 Mary Street OPA (3-3)

Committee of Adjustment

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Committee of Adjustment will consider several variance applications, including a minor variance for a new single‑family dwelling at 486 Queen Street. It will also hear a fence variance for 14541 Niagara River Parkway and a sign variance for 976 York Road. A notice of appeal concerning 187 Queen Street (Consent B‑09/24) will be discussed, and the committee will address a conflict‑of‑interest declaration by Steve Bartolini on the 486 Queen Street item.

• Minor Variance Application A-18/24 – 486 Queen Street (conflict of interest declared by Steve Bartolini)
• Fence Variance Application FV-05/24 – 14541 Niagara River Parkway
• Sign Variance Application SV-01-24 – 976 York Road
• Notice of Appeal – 187 Queen Street, Consent B-09/24
• Adoption of agenda and approval of previous meeting minutes

The Committee of Adjustment approved all three variance applications on the agenda: a minor variance for a new dwelling at 486 Queen Street, a fence variance at 14541 Niagara River Parkway, and a sign variance at 976 York Road. Each approval included specific conditions, such as driveway setback compliance, fence setback from the front property line, and engineering/archaeological requirements for signs. The committee also approved the April 15, 2024 minutes and noted the cancellation of the October 17, 2024 meeting due to no applications.

• Approved minor variance A-18/24 for 486 Queen Street, subject to driveway setback condition
• Approved fence variance FV-05/24 for 14541 Niagara River Parkway, subject to 0.3m front setback condition
• Approved sign variance SV-01-24 for 976 York Road, with modified condition 3 and added engineering report condition
• Approved April 15, 2024 minutes by unanimous consent
• Noted cancellation of October 17, 2024 meeting due to no applications

Information Package

This meeting consists of an information items package. The body is reviewing public announcements, correspondence from the Niagara Region and other municipalities, and miscellaneous notifications.

• Fire & Emergency Services $500 grant for home fire sprinkler community outreach
• Notification regarding Walker South Landfill Phase 2 from the Ministry of Environmental Conservation and Parks
• NPCA notices for Public Information Centres on Conservation Area and Watershed-based Resource Management Strategies
• Media release regarding Councillor Nick Ruller
• 2024 Fall and Winter WEGO Brochure

Heritage Trail Committee

The Heritage Trail Committee will meet on September 18, 2024 to review recent trail activities. Items include a general trail update, a debrief of the "Paws on the Trail" program, and comments from the town regarding safety at the trail crossing of the E‑W line. No decisions or approvals are listed in the agenda.

• Trail Update – general status report
• Paws on the Trail – program debrief
• Safety of the Trail Crossing Across E‑W Line – town comments

CAO Recruitment Committee

The CAO Recruitment Committee will hold a closed session under Section 239(2)(b) to consider personal matters about an identifiable individual related to the CAO recruitment. The remainder of the meeting follows a standard agenda (call to order, adoption of agenda, conflict of interest, business, adjournment) with no listed items or attachments.

• Closed session on personal matters concerning CAO recruitment (Section 239(2)(b))
• Call to order
• Adoption of agenda
• Conflict of interest declaration
• Business discussion (no items listed)

The CAO Recruitment Committee held a brief meeting on September 17, 2024, with all members present. The only substantive action was a closed-session discussion about the CAO recruitment, after which the committee approved a motion directing staff and The Phelps Group Inc. to proceed as directed. No other business was conducted, and the meeting adjourned shortly after.

• Adopted the agenda as presented
• Approved entering closed session under Section 239(2)(b) for CAO recruitment
• Approved rising from closed session and directing staff and The Phelps Group Inc. to proceed as directed

Committee of the Whole - General

The Committee of the Whole will hear presentations on tourism and life in Niagara-on-the-Lake from Abacus Data and the Shaw Festival. The body will also consider a consent agenda item regarding a pump replacement.

• Pump 1 Replacement, FES-24-011
• Presentation by Eddie Sheppard of Abacus Data on tourism and life in Niagara-on-the-Lake
• Closed session regarding Integrity Commissioner Services negotiations

Council approved the award of a contract to Fort Garry Fire Trucks for $1,372,922.00 plus tax to replace Pump 1, and approved debenturing the cost. Council also appointed Principles Integrity as Integrity Commissioner for four years starting October 1, 2024, and approved the associated agreement and by-law. A delegation from Abacus Data presented survey results on tourism and life in Niagara-on-the-Lake, which Council discussed.

• Approved $1,372,922.00 contract to Fort Garry Fire Trucks for Pump 1 replacement (unanimous)
• Approved debenture of fire apparatus cost during construction period (unanimous)
• Appointed Principles Integrity (Jeffrey A. Abrams and Janice Atwood) as Integrity Commissioner for 4 years effective Oct 1, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved terms and conditions of professional services agreement for Integrity Commissioner (unanimous)
• Authorized staff to enact by-law for Integrity Commissioner appointment (unanimous)
• Appointed Councillor Burroughs as Council representative at Transport Canada meeting (unanimous)

Special Council Meeting

The Special Council meeting will adopt its agenda, address any conflict of interest, and consider a consent agenda that includes a declaration of vacancy for Council member Nick Ruller. It will also consider Proceedings By‑law No. 2024‑055 to confirm the meeting’s proceedings. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Declaration of Vacancy in the Office of a Member of Council – Nick Ruller (CAO‑24‑038)
• Proceedings By‑law No. 2024‑055 to confirm the meeting’s proceedings
• Adoption of the agenda and standard procedural items (call to order, conflict of interest)

Council declared the office of a Member of Council vacant following the resignation of Nick Ruller, and approved the proceedings by-law. A special meeting will be called to discuss options for filling the vacancy. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Declared vacancy in Council office after Nick Ruller's resignation (approved)
• Approved Proceedings By-law No. 2024-055 (approved)

Information Package

This meeting is an information package containing public announcements, correspondence from other municipalities, and miscellaneous communications. No decisions or votes are scheduled for this session.

• Restoration of the Historic Queen Street Cenotaph and Clock Tower
• Notice of complete application and public meeting for ZBA-13-2024 at 933 Niagara Stone Rd
• Correspondence regarding the Municipal Elections Act from the City of Quinte West
• Correspondence regarding homelessness and mental health crisis from the City of Welland
• Email from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing regarding the Provincial Planning Statement

Committee of the Whole - Planning

The Committee of the Whole - Planning is meeting to hold public hearings and review recommendation reports for several property developments. The body will discuss zoning by-law amendments and official plan amendments for multiple sites across the municipality.

• Public meeting and information report for 1570 Niagara Stone Road (OPA-03-2024, ZBA-09-2024)
• Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments for 223 and 227 Mary Street (OPA-04-2022, ZBA-23-2022)
• Zoning By-law amendment recommendation for 242 Ricardo Street (ZBA-08-2024)
• Zoning By-law amendment recommendations for 216 and 224 Hunter Road (ZBA-10-2024)
• Zoning By-law amendment recommendations for 181 Hunter Road (ZBA-11-2024) and 855 Line 2 Road (ZBA-12-2024)

The Committee of the Whole approved five zoning by-law amendments and one official plan amendment, forwarding them to Council for adoption. These include projects at 223/227 Mary Street, 242 Ricardo Street, 216-224 Hunter Road, 181 Hunter Road, and 855 Line 2 Road. A public meeting was held for a proposed development at 1570 Niagara Stone Road, but no decision was made on it.

• Approved OPA-04-2022 and ZBA-23-2022 for 223 and 227 Mary Street, forwarded to Council
• Approved ZBA-08-2024 for 242 Ricardo Street, forwarded to Council
• Approved ZBA-10-2024 for 216-224 Hunter Road, forwarded to Council
• Approved ZBA-11-2024 for 181 Hunter Road, forwarded to Council
• Approved ZBA-12-2024 for 855 Line 2 Road, forwarded to Council
• Received information report on 1570 Niagara Stone Road (no decision)

Information Package

This meeting is an information package containing correspondence and announcements. No decisions are being made; the body is reviewing communications from other municipalities and regional partners.

• Media release regarding local priorities at the 2024 AMO Conference
• Niagara Region email on Waste Management Strategic Plan Phase Two engagement
• Correspondence from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities on 2025 Federal Budget consultations
• Correspondence from various municipalities regarding physician shortages and mental health addictions
• Correspondence from the Township of Nairn and Hyman regarding radioactive material transport

Municipal Heritage Committee

The Municipal Heritage Committee will review the Heritage Restoration and Improvement Grant application for 12 Princess Street (HIP-02-2024, HER-22-2024, CDS-24-148). The committee will also examine the Designating By‑law 2024‑023 and the Priority Designation Report for 18 Wilberforce Avenue (CDS-24-150). These items are listed under the Business agenda and will be discussed before the meeting adjourns.

• 12 Princess Street – Heritage Restoration and Improvement Grant (HIP-02-2024, HER-22-2024, CDS-24-148)
• Designating By‑law 2024‑023 attached to the grant package
• Priority Designation Work – Heritage Designation Report for 18 Wilberforce Avenue (CDS-24-150)
• Adoption of agenda and procedural items
• New business (no specific items listed)

The Municipal Heritage Committee recommended Council approve a $7,500 Heritage Restoration and Improvement Grant for exterior wooden element restoration at 12 Princess Street (St. Saviour's the Brock Memorial Church), subject to conditions including a grant agreement and possible reduction if final costs are lower. The committee also approved a motion to seek additional input on heritage designation reports and to add the Ordnance Boundary Stones restoration to the October agenda. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved recommendation to Council for $7,500 grant for 12 Princess Street restoration (moved by Balasiuk)
• Approved motion to seek MHC input and prepare draft designation by-laws for October
• Approved adding Ordnance Boundary Stones restoration to October 2, 2024 agenda

Information Package

The Town Council will review an information package at its August 22 meeting. Items include a media release honoring Trisha Romance, a zoning by‑law application for 216‑224 Hunter Road, and correspondence from other municipalities on topics such as mental‑health surveys, funding programs, and library support. No formal motions or votes are listed; the items are for informational purposes only.

• Media Release – Niagara‑on‑the‑Lake to present key to the town to Trisha Romance
• Notice of Complete Application, Open House and Public Meeting – ZBA‑10‑2024 for 216‑224 Hunter Road
• Correspondence from City of Cambridge – mental health and addictions survey results
• Correspondence from City of Quinte West – Canada Community‑Building Fund
• Correspondence from Town of Essex – declaring intimate partner violence an epidemic in Ontario

Committee of Adjustment

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Committee of Adjustment will consider several minor variance applications (A-15/24, A-16/24, A-17/24) and consent applications (B-07/24, B-08/24, B-09/24, B-10/24, B-11/24, B-12/24) for properties on Concession 2 Road, Hunter Road, Queen Street, Queenston Road, and Line 2 Road. It will also receive a notice of appeal for a fence variance at 474 William Street, approve the July 18, 2024 meeting minutes, and set the next meeting for September 19, 2024.

• Minor Variance Application A-15/24 – 1114 Concession 2 Road
• Minor Variance Application A-16/24 – Ball Street & Delater Street
• Minor Variance Application A-17/24 – 475 Victoria Street
• Consent Applications B-07/24 and B-08/24 – 216-224 Hunter Road
• Consent Application B-09/24 – 187 Queen Street

Irrigation Committee

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Irrigation Committee meeting on August 14, 2024 will consider updates on pump status, the permit to take water, and flow volumes during high‑intensity events. No decisions are listed; the agenda items are presented as informational updates. The meeting will also include routine items such as call to order, adoption of agenda, and announcements.

• Pump status update
• Permit to take water update
• Flow volumes during high intensity events

The Irrigation Committee met and received updates on pump status and the Permit To Take Water. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational, with staff providing updates on pump operations and the hydrological study authorization. The next meeting is scheduled for September 11, 2024.

• Agenda adopted as presented
• July 10, 2024 minutes received

Open House

The body is holding an open house to provide public information regarding the Glendale Secondary Plan Update. This is the third Public Information Centre session for this update.

• Public Information Centre #3: Glendale Secondary Plan Update

Open House

The body is holding an open house and public meeting regarding a complete application for ZBA-12-2024. The session focuses on the property located at 855 Line 2 Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake.

• ZBA-12-2024: Open House and Public Meeting for 855 Line 2 Road

Open House

The body is holding an open house regarding a complete application for ZBA-11-2024. This session is for public review of the application for 181 Hunter Road.

• Open House for ZBA-11-2024 regarding 181 Hunter Road

Information Package

This meeting is an information package containing public announcements and correspondence. No decisions are being made; the body is reviewing notices and communications from other municipalities and regional partners.

• Notice of public meeting for zoning application ZBA-11-2024 at 181 Hunter Road
• Notice of public meeting for zoning application ZBA-12-2024 at 855 Line 2 Road
• Town statement regarding the King Street Ontario Land Tribunal decision
• Niagara Region email regarding Development Charges Act exemptions for affordable housing
• Media release for Niagara-on-the-Lake Fire & Emergency Services seeking volunteer educators

Municipal Heritage Committee

The Municipal Heritage Committee will discuss several heritage matters, including the process and timelines for designations. It will review a volunteer working group report on a Heritage Conservation District study. The committee will consider a heritage permit application for 12 Princess Street (St. Saviour's The Brock Memorial Church). It will recommend that the heritage designation application HER-23-2024 for 716 King Street be sent to Council for approval.

• Heritage Designation Application – 716 King Street (HER-23-2024) – recommendation to Council
• Heritage Permit Application – 12 Princess Street – St. Saviour's The Brock Memorial Church (CDS-24-132)
• Presentation: Heritage Designation Process and Timelines (CDS-24-130)
• Heritage Conservation District Study – Volunteer Working Group report (CDS-24-131)
• Delegated Authority By-law for Heritage Planning for Heritage Permits (CDS-24-097)

The Municipal Heritage Committee recommended that Council approve the heritage designation application for 716 King Street and prepare a draft designation by-law. The committee also approved recommendations to make the heritage designation process more welcoming, including sending a warmer initial letter and considering an open house. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Approved recommendation to Council for heritage designation of 716 King Street (HER-23-2024)
• Approved recommendation for Council to direct staff to prepare a draft designation by-law for 716 King Street
• Approved recommendation to send initial courtesy letter to Communications Department for a warmer tone
• Approved recommendation for CDS Department to consider hosting an open house on designation process
• Received report on Heritage Conservation District Study Volunteer Working Group
• Received correspondence items 7.1 and 7.2
• Approved agenda as amended
• Approved minutes of July 10, 2024

CAO Recruitment Committee

The CAO Recruitment Committee will meet to discuss the recruitment process for the Chief Administrative Officer position. The session includes a closed meeting to address personal matters regarding the candidate selection.

• Closed session regarding CAO recruitment
• Discussion of personal matters for identifiable individuals
• Council Chambers meeting

The committee met and approved the agenda as amended, then moved into a closed session to discuss personal matters related to the CAO recruitment. No substantive public decisions were made; the only action was directing staff and The Phelps Group Inc. to proceed as directed.

• Approved agenda as amended
• Approved closed session under Section 239(2)(b) for CAO recruitment
• Approved rising from closed session and directing staff and The Phelps Group Inc. to proceed as directed

Open House

The Niagara-on-the-Lake council will hold an open house to present the Corner Stone Condominium application located at 1570 Niagara Stone Road. The session is scheduled for Wednesday, July 31, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. via video conference. No formal decisions are expected; the meeting is for public information.

• Open house presentation for Corner Stone Condominium (ZBA-09-2024, OPA-03-2024, 26CD-18-24-03) at 1570 Niagara Stone Road

CAO Recruitment Committee

The CAO Recruitment Committee will meet on July 31, 2024. After routine items, the committee will hold a closed session under Section 239(2)(b) to consider personal matters about an identifiable individual related to the CAO recruitment. No other agenda items have attached documents or decisions.

• Closed session under Section 239(2)(b) to discuss personal matters about CAO recruitment
• Call to Order (routine opening)
• Adoption of Agenda (routine)
• Conflict of Interest declaration (routine)
• Business – no items selected

The CAO Recruitment Committee held a closed session to discuss personal matters related to the recruitment of a Chief Administrative Officer. The committee approved the agenda and unanimously agreed to proceed as directed with staff and The Phelps Group Inc. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Agenda adopted as presented
• Closed session entered under Section 239(2)(b) for CAO recruitment
• Closed session ended; staff and The Phelps Group Inc. directed to proceed

Council Meeting

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Council will adopt the agenda, approve minutes from recent meetings, and receive proclamations. Presentations will cover water and wastewater rates, the 2023 audit, and economic development with a Michigan partnership. The consent agenda includes a heritage permit for 12 Princess Street and a water‑and‑wastewater financial plan. Several by‑laws will be voted on, notably traffic speed and stop‑sign amendments and rezoning proposals for Konik Estates Phase 2, Four Mile Creek Road, Queen Street, York Road, and heritage designations.

• By‑law 4316FL‑24 – Rezoning Konik Estates Phase 2 for 52 single‑detached homes, 6 townhouses and 102 block townhouses
• By‑law 4316FQ‑24 – Rezoning 308 Four Mile Creek Road for nine townhouses and environmental protection of the creek corridor
• By‑law 4308AS‑24 – Amend Schedule W to change speed limits on the EW Line
• By‑law 4308AT‑24 – Amend Schedules N & P to add all‑way stop signs at Tanbark Hickory
• Heritage Permit Application – 12 Princess Street for St. Saviour’s the Brock Memorial Church

Council approved the 2024 Water System Financial Plan for submission to the Ministry and the 2023 consolidated financial statements and audit findings. A motion to approve the July 16 Planning Committee minutes was defeated, but after waiving procedure rules, the minutes were revisited and the balance approved. A zoning amendment for 187 Queen Street was defeated in a 3-3 tie vote.

• Approved 2024 Water System Financial Plan (CS-24-013) for submission to Ministry
• Approved 2023 Financial Statements and Audit Findings Report (CS-24-014)
• Defeated motion to approve Committee of the Whole Planning Minutes - July 16
• Waived Procedure By-law to revisit Planning minutes; balance approved
• Defeated Zoning By-law Amendment for 187 Queen Street (3-3 tie)
• Defeated motion to remove cash-in-lieu of parkland for Konik Estates Phase 2 (2-4)
• Approved heritage permit for 12 Princess Street (St. Saviour's Church)
• Deferred By-law 4308AT-24 (all-way stop at Tanbark/Hickory) for staff review

Open House

The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake will hold an open house on July 29, 2024. The meeting will present the complete application for ZBA-10-2024 concerning properties at 216 and 224 Hunter Road. No formal decisions are scheduled; the session is for public information and discussion.

• ZBA-10-2024 application for 216 and 224 Hunter Road (open house presentation)

Information Package

The Niagara-on-the-Lake council will review an information package that includes a media release announcing that the Melville Street Dock is now open. The package also contains correspondence from the County of Frontenac about a request for provincial recognition of a physician shortage, from the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury regarding an Ontario Long Service Medals resolution, and from Niagara College about its Together Campaign. Additional emails request proclamations for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and for Parliament Day on September 17, 2024. No items are marked for decision at this meeting.

• Media Release – Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Melville Street Dock is Now Open
• County of Frontenac email requesting provincial recognition of physician shortage
• Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury email regarding Ontario Long Service Medals resolution
• Niagara College email about the Together Campaign
• Patti Bauer email requesting a Childhood Cancer Awareness Month proclamation

Committee of the Whole - General

The Committee of the Whole will discuss a zoning by-law amendment for 976 York Road and the assumption of municipal services for The Settlement subdivision. The meeting also includes reviews of 2023 financial reports and several road and watermain projects.

• Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-12-2023 for 976 York Road (Amo Winery)
• Assumption By-law CDS-24-103 for The Settlement subdivision
• Road rehabilitation for Line 8 Road from Concession 1 Road to Niagara River Parkway
• Watermain extension servicing agreement for 61 Princess Street
• Closed session regarding the Court House Lease

The Committee of the Whole approved a lease agreement with the Shaw Festival Theatre for performance and workshop space at the Courthouse, and authorized the Lord Mayor and Town Clerk to execute it. They also approved several consent agenda items, including a zoning amendment for 976 York Road, a subdivision services assumption, and various financial reports. A delegation request to allow tour bus pickups was referred to staff for further investigation.

• Approved lease agreement with Shaw Festival Theatre for Courthouse space (unanimous)
• Approved zoning by-law amendment for 976 York Road (Amo Winery) (unanimous)
• Approved assumption of services in Settlement Subdivision (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 capital project closure report with $1,552,653.58 variance transfer (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 operating surplus allocation of $234,613 to reserves (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of GEI Consultants for Airport Drainage System scope amendment (unanimous)
• Approved servicing agreement for 61 Princess Street watermain extension (unanimous)
• Referred tour bus loading/unloading by-law change to staff for September report (unanimous)

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is meeting to consider several minor variance, fence variance, and consent applications. The body will also address a deferral request for a fence variance due to public notice requirements.

• Minor Variance Applications for 240 Nassau Street, 14695 Niagara River Parkway, and 50 Henry Street
• Fence Variance Applications for 474 William Street, 59 Stoneridge Crescent, and 1551 Niagara Stone Road
• Consent Application B-02/24 for 489 Regent Street
• Consent Applications B-03/24, B-04/24, and B-05/24 for 1320 Niagara Stone Road
• Consent Application B-06/24 for 15608 Niagara River Parkway

The Committee of Adjustment approved all four minor variance applications (A-08/24, A-13/24, A-14/24, FV-02/24) and all five consent applications (B-02/24, B-03/24, B-04/24, B-05/24, B-06/24) as recommended by staff. One fence variance application (FV-03/24) at 59 Stoneridge Crescent was deferred due to unmet public notice requirements. Two members declared conflicts of interest on specific applications and recused themselves from those items.

• Approved minor variance A-08/24 at 240 Nassau Street
• Approved minor variance A-13/24 at 14695 Niagara River Parkway with condition
• Approved minor variance A-14/24 at 50 Henry Street
• Approved fence variance FV-02/24 at 474 William Street
• Approved consent B-02/24 at 489 Regent Street with 11 conditions
• Approved consents B-03/24, B-04/24, B-05/24 at 1320 Niagara Stone Road with conditions
• Approved consent B-06/24 at 15608 Niagara River Parkway with conditions
• Deferred fence variance FV-03/24 at 59 Stoneridge Crescent

Information Package

This document is an information package containing public announcements, regional correspondence, and notices. It does not contain items for decision or a formal meeting agenda for deliberation.

• Media release regarding response to recent flooding events
• Unveiling of a new Strategic Plan Dashboard
• Public meeting notices for 216 and 224 Hunter Road and 1570 Niagara Stone Road
• Decision notices for 325 King Street, 235-253 Taylor Road, and 489 Regent Street
• Correspondence regarding the Niagara Poverty Reduction Strategy

Selection Committee for Committees of Council

The Selection Committee for Committees of Council will meet to review applications and select members for various boards and committees. The meeting includes a closed session to discuss personal matters and evaluate a Library Board application.

• Closed session to discuss personal matters and evaluate Library Board application
• Review and selection of members for committees of council
• Adoption of previous meeting minutes from June 4, 2024

The Selection Committee for Committees of Council met in closed session to review and evaluate Library Board applications under personal matters provisions. No substantive decisions were made; the committee approved the agenda, previous minutes, and adjourned. A suggestion was made to interview prospective committee members in person for future appointments.

• Agenda adopted as presented
• Minutes of June 4, 2024 adopted
• Proceeded to closed session at 10:04 a.m. for Library Board application review
• Rose from closed session at 10:20 a.m.
• Adjourned at 10:21 a.m.

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss business items. The primary focus is a Memorandum of Understanding and Agreement for Services with the NPCA.

• NPCA Memorandum of Understanding - Agreement for Services - OPS-23-066

The Environmental Advisory Committee reviewed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority regarding services and the Virgil Reservoirs. The Committee approved a motion recommending that Council endorse the agreement, provided four specific changes are made to the document. These changes include attaching a fee schedule, updating names, and revising wording about municipal appointments.

• Approved motion to recommend Council endorse NPCA MOU with four amendments
• Recommended attaching fee schedule to the MOU
• Recommended updating Chief Administrative Officer names on the agreement
• Recommended revising Appendix 1 wording regarding municipal appointments to NPCA
• Agenda adopted as presented
• Meeting adjourned at 3:44 p.m.

Heritage Trail Committee

The Heritage Trail Committee will consider proposals for new trail signage, review the Paws on the Trail fundraising event scheduled for September 7, 2024, and receive an update on the trail including cost information.

• New Trail Signage
• Paws on the Trail - Fundraising Event - September 7, 2024
• Trail Update including Cost

The committee discussed implementing an awareness campaign and new signage for trail users, including reminders to dismount bikes at East West Line. Members coordinated preparations for the Paws on the Trail fundraising event scheduled for September 7, 2024.

• Adopted amended agenda
• Received June 19, 2024, minutes

Committee of the Whole - Planning

The Committee of the Whole – Planning will review public meeting reports for 242 Ricardo Street and the Niagara River Parkway sites. It will consider consent agenda items that include an Official Plan Amendment and a Zoning By‑law Amendment for 308 Four Mile Creek Road, a Zoning By‑law Amendment for 187 Queen Street, and a subdivision and condominium proposal for Konik Estates Phase 2. Additional information packages on a draft Glendale Secondary Plan and a Delegated Authority By‑law will also be discussed.

• 308 Four Mile Creek Road – Official Plan Amendment (OPA‑08‑2023) and Zoning By‑law Amendment (ZBA‑18‑2023)
• 187 Queen Street – Zoning By‑law Amendment (ZBA‑05‑2024)
• Konik Estates Phase 2 – Subdivision and Condominium proposal (ZBA‑02‑2024)
• 242 Ricardo Street – Public meeting on ZBA‑08‑2024
• 15608 and 15618 Niagara River Parkway – Public meeting on ZBA‑07‑2024

The Committee approved zoning by-law amendments for 187 Queen Street and Konik Estates Phase 2, as well as an official plan amendment for 308 Four Mile Creek Road. Several draft plans for subdivisions and condominiums were also approved for forwarding to Council. The committee received information reports on other planning files and heritage permits.

• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-05-2024 for 187 Queen Street
• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-02-2024, Draft Plan of Subdivision 26T-18-24-02, and Draft Plan of Condominium 26CD-18-24-01 for Konik Estates Phase 2
• Denied motion to remove cash in lieu of parkland for Konik Estates Phase 2
• Approved Official Plan Amendment OPA-08-2023, Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-18-2023, and Draft Plan of Vacant Land Condominium 26CD-18-23-01 for 308 Four Mile Creek Road
• Received information reports for 242 Ricardo Street (ZBA-08-2024) and 15608/15618 Niagara River Parkway (ZBA-07-2024)
• Received Draft Glendale Secondary Plan and Urban Design Guidelines (CDS-24-125)
• Received Delegated Authority By-law report for Heritage Planning permits (CDS-24-097)

Information Package

This meeting consists of an information package containing announcements and correspondence for review. It includes details on the Play in the Park initiative and the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The document also contains various communications from other municipalities and organizations.

• Launch of Play in the Park Initiative
• Parks and Recreation Master Plan update
• South Landfill Phase 2 Terms of Reference notice
• NPCA 2023 Water Quality Monitoring Program Summary Report
• Proposed amendments to the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act

Irrigation Committee

The Irrigation Committee will discuss the current status of pumps and provide an update regarding the Permit to Take Water. The meeting also includes a review of minutes from the June 12, 2024 meeting.

• Pump Status update
• Permit to Take Water update

The committee received updates on pump shutdowns due to rainfall and a revised proposal for a Permit to Take Water. No substantive votes on expenditures or policy changes were recorded.

• Adopted the meeting agenda
• Received the June 12, 2024, minutes

Municipal Heritage Committee

The Municipal Heritage Committee is reviewing a heritage permit application for rear alterations at 169 King Street. The committee will also review priority designation work regarding draft heritage designation by-laws, including 1823 Niagara Stone Road.

• Heritage Permit Application – 169 King Street (Rear Alterations)
• Draft Heritage Designation By-law for 1823 Niagara Stone Road

The committee recommended that Council seek a public site for the Harriet Tubman sculpture and endorsed the designation of 1823 Niagara Stone Road. A heritage permit for rear alterations at 169 King Street was defeated and sent back for further review.

• Recommended Council and Staff examine public lands for relocation of Harriet Tubman sculpture (Approved)
• Endorsed in principle the designation by-law for 1823 Niagara Stone Road (Approved)
• Recommended Council issue Notice of Intent to Designate for 1823 Niagara Stone Road (Approved)
• Recommended heritage permit for 169 King Street rear alterations be brought back for review (Approved)
• Recommended approval of heritage permit for 169 King Street subject to conditions (Defeated)

Open House

This Open House session includes a notice of complete application for 15608 and 15618 Niagara River Parkway. No other items are listed on the agenda.

• Notice of Complete Application for 15608 and 15618 Niagara River Parkway

Open House

The agenda for this video conference Open House contains no selected items or attachments. No specific topics or discussions were scheduled for this session.

Council Meeting

Niagara-on-the-Lake Council approved Official Plan Amendment No. 85 and a zoning by-law for a hotel up to 19.0 metres tall at 325 King Street, both by 5-4 recorded votes. Council also approved Official Plan Amendment No. 95 for 235-253 Taylor Road by 8-1 and directed staff to work with the applicant on building layout. A heritage designation for 1 Paxton Lane was deferred back to staff for two months, and several other heritage designations and a rezoning at 489 Regent Street were approved.

• Approved By-law 2024-043, Official Plan Amendment No. 85 for 325 King Street (5-4)
• Approved By-law 4316EY-24 rezoning 325 King Street for a hotel up to 19.0 metres (5-4)
• Approved By-law 2024-048, Official Plan Amendment No. 95 for 235-253 Taylor Road (8-1)
• Directed staff to work with the 235-253 Taylor Road applicant on building layout, keeping tallest buildings furthest from adjacent single-family dwellings
• Deferred heritage designation report for 1 Paxton Lane back to staff for two months for discussion with Woodruff
• Approved By-law 4316FO-24 rezoning 489 Regent Street to create one new residential lot
• Approved heritage designation by-laws for 23 Vincent Avenue, 287 Warner Road, and 463 King Street
• Endorsed the Paddock Party event requested by Alana Hurov, Niagara 5000

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee is reviewing multiple consent and minor variance applications for various properties. This includes items for 298 Niven Road, 501 East and West Line, and 149 Read Road. A deferral has been requested for 240 Nassau Street due to unmet public notice requirements.

• Consent application B-27/23 for 298 Niven Road
• Consent applications B-09/23 and B-10/23 for 501 East and West Line
• Minor variance application A-09/24 for 149 Read Road
• Minor variance application A-10/24 for 93 River Beach Drive
• Deferral request for 240 Nassau Street (A-08/24)

The Committee of Adjustment approved a land severance consent for 298 Niven Road, rejecting the staff recommendation to refuse it. Four minor variance applications were approved for properties at 149 Read Road, 93 River Beach Drive, 134 Victoria Street, and 8 Henegan Road. A consent application for 501 East and West Line was also approved with conditions, while a variance for 240 Nassau Street was deferred.

• Approved Consent Application B-27/23 for 298 Niven Road with six conditions
• Approved Consent Applications B-09/23 & B-10/23 for 501 East and West Line with conditions
• Approved Minor Variance A-09/24 for 149 Read Road with septic system condition
• Approved Minor Variance A-10/24 for 93 River Beach Drive
• Approved Minor Variance A-11/24 for 134 Victoria Street with six conditions
• Approved Minor Variance A-12/24 for 8 Henegan Road
• Deferred Minor Variance A-08/24 for 240 Nassau Street to July 18, 2024
• Approved May 16, 2024 minutes by unanimous consent

Information Package

This meeting consists of an information items package for review. The agenda includes various correspondences from the Niagara Region and other municipalities regarding employment results, infrastructure, and bridge replacement. No decisions or actions are scheduled for this session.

• 2023 Niagara Employment Inventory Results
• Champlain Bridge Replacement support from West Nipissing
• Community School Alliance 2024 Call for Nominations
• Shaw Festival Board of Governors Debrief
• Correspondence regarding provincial water testing

Heritage Trail Committee

This meeting consists primarily of procedural items, such as adopting the agenda and reviewing previous minutes. The committee is also scheduled to receive a trail update.

• Review of May 15, 2024, minutes
• Trail Update

Committee of the Whole - General

The Committee will review a short-term rental appeal for 33 Mary Street and a proposed speed limit reduction on East and West Line. The agenda also includes the sale of surplus lands in Garrison Village and an information package regarding small watercraft floating docks. A closed session is scheduled to discuss potential litigation.

• Short-term rental appeal hearing for 33 Mary Street
• Speed limit reduction and traffic by-law amendment for East and West Line (OPS-24-024)
• Declaration and sale of surplus lands at Garrison Village (CAO-24-025)
• Information regarding floating docks for a small watercraft launch (OPS-24-030)

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Committee of the Whole denied a short-term rental license appeal for 33 Mary Street based on zoning bylaws. The committee also approved reducing the speed limit on East and West Line, declared surplus lands at Garrison Village for sale, and supported a fire apparatus resolution from Prince Edward County.

• Denied short-term rental license appeal for 33 Mary Street
• Approved sale of surplus lands at Garrison Village for nominal value without appraisal
• Supported Prince Edward County resolution 2024-26 for expanding fire apparatus life span
• Approved speed limit of 70 km/h on East and West Line with $3,300 estimated signage cost
• Received information report on floating docks and small watercraft launch
• Appointed Councillor Maria Mavridis to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Chamber Board of Directors for the 2024 calendar year
• Moved into closed session to discuss litigation or potential litigation under Section 239(2)(e)

CAO Recruitment Committee

The committee will discuss the recruitment of a new Chief Administrative Officer. This includes an introduction to Phelps, an executive recruitment firm. Members will also review position opportunity briefs for candidates and discuss next steps.

• Introduction of Phelps - Executive Recruitment Firm
• Discussion of Position Opportunities Brief for CAO Recruitment Candidates

The CAO Recruitment Committee met to discuss the hiring process for the Chief Administrative Officer position. The Phelps Group, an executive recruitment firm, presented their qualifications and a proposed process timeline. The committee engaged in a lengthy discussion regarding candidate priorities and challenges but did not make any final hiring decisions or approve specific candidates.

• Agenda adopted as presented
• Phelps Group introduced as recruitment firm
• Process stages and timelines discussed
• Next steps outlined for leadership feedback and role finalization
• Meeting adjourned at 11:54 a.m.

Information Package

This session consists of an information package containing public announcements and municipal correspondence. No items are scheduled for decision or vote during this meeting.

• Announcement of the 2024 Golf Classic Tournament
• Announcement of the Niagara-on-the-Lake Step Challenge
• Correspondence from Niagara Falls regarding libraries and older adults
• Correspondence from Grimsby regarding Niagara Escarpment enforcement
• Correspondence from Cochrane regarding phasing out free well water testing

Irrigation Committee

The Irrigation Committee will discuss updates regarding pump status and letters to permit holders. The meeting also includes an update on the Permit to Take Water.

• Pump Status Update
• Letter to Permit Holders
• Permit to Take Water - Update

The Committee approved a letter to be mailed to permit holders to update contact information for electronic notices. Staff provided updates on pump status and a $32,000 quote for a hydrological study required for water permit renewal.

• Approved letter to be delivered to permit holders
• Received May 15, 2024, minutes
• Adopted amended agenda

Committee of the Whole - Planning

The Committee of the Whole - Planning is reviewing several zoning and official plan amendment applications. The meeting includes public delegations regarding developments at 235-253 Taylor Road and 325 King Street. Information regarding GO Train expansion and water treatment capacities will also be presented.

• Zoning By-law Amendment for 489 Regent Street (ZBA-06-2024)
• Official Plan and Zoning amendments for 235-253 Taylor Road
• Official Plan and Zoning amendments for 325 King Street
• Information on GO Train Service Expansion
• Information on 2023 Reserve Water and Wastewater Treatment Capacities

The Committee of the Whole approved zoning and official plan amendments for 325 King Street and 489 Regent Street. It denied applications for development at 235-253 Taylor Road, including a motion to reduce building heights. The committee also received information packages regarding GO Train expansion and water treatment capacities.

• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment for 489 Regent Street
• Denied Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments for 235-253 Taylor Road
• Defeated motion to reduce Taylor Road building heights to 20 and 16 storeys
• Approved Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments for 325 King Street
• Received Niagara Region email on GO Train Service Expansion
• Received Niagara Region email on 2023 Reserve Water and Wastewater Capacities

Municipal Accommodation Tax Committee

The Municipal Accommodation Tax Committee is meeting to review minutes from April 22, 2024. The agenda includes a closed session for member training and visioning regarding the tax.

• Closed session for Municipal Accommodation Tax visioning and training

The committee approved a closed session to provide training and education to members regarding visioning for the Municipal Accommodation Tax. Staff from Optimus sbr presented an overview of next steps, which include submitting a final report and scheduling a future meeting to review it. No new business was discussed, and the meeting adjourned at 2:13 p.m.

• Agenda adopted as presented
• April 22, 2024 minutes approved
• Closed session approved for training on Municipal Accommodation Tax visioning
• Committee rose from closed session to consider matters under Municipal Act Section 239(3.1)

Discretionary Grant Committee

This meeting consists of procedural items and a closed session regarding discretionary grant policy information. No specific new grants or business items are listed for discussion.

The committee approved moving into a closed session to discuss discretionary grant policy. Staff were directed to prepare a report on the matter. No other new business was conducted.

• Adopted the agenda
• Received May 15, 2024, minutes
• Approved closed session regarding discretionary grant policy
• Directed staff to prepare a report on discretionary grant policy

Information Package

This meeting consists of an information package containing media releases and various correspondences. The items include updates on water capacities, GO Train expansion, and communications from other municipalities. No decisions are scheduled for this session.

• Media Release: Summer Niagara-on-the-Lake
• Niagara Region update on water and wastewater treatment capacities
• Niagara Region update on GO Train service expansion
• Enbridge Gas Inc letter regarding updates
• Niagara Peninsula Conservation email on fish and wildlife status

Municipal Heritage Committee

The committee will review signage permit applications for 106 Queen Street Unit E and 215 King Street. Members will also discuss updates on Ordnance Boundary Stone restoration and new heritage designation reports.

• Heritage permit application for signage at 106 Queen Street Unit E
• Heritage permit application for signage at 215 King Street
• Updates on the restoration of Ordnance Boundary Stones
• Heritage designation report for 1823 Niagara Stone Road
• Draft heritage designation by-law for 1413 Lakeshore Road

The Municipal Heritage Committee recommended Council approve two heritage permit applications for signage at 106 Queen Street Unit E and 215 King Street, with the Ontario flag at 215 King Street not recommended for approval. It endorsed in principle the designation by-law for 1413 Lakeshore Road and asked staff to send the owner a midway letter and have Council issue a Notice of Intent to Designate. The committee also received an update on restoring Ordnance Boundary Stones and endorsed staff proceeding with priority designation work. All items were approved by the committee; final decisions rest with Council.

• Recommended Council approve heritage permit HER-15-2024 for fascia signage at 106 Queen Street Unit E, with conditions (approved)
• Recommended Council approve heritage permit HER-09-2024 for signage and alterations at 215 King Street, but not the Province of Ontario flag (approved)
• Endorsed in principle the designation by-law for 1413 Lakeshore Road and directed a midway letter to the owner and a Notice of Intent to Designate (approved)
• Endorsed staff proceeding with priority designation work and returning in July with draft by-laws (approved)
• Received update on restoration of Ordnance Boundary Stones (approved)
• Adopted the agenda and received the May 1, 2024 minutes (approved)

Selection Committee for Committees of Council

The Selection Committee for Committees of Council is reviewing the selection process and recruitment materials. This includes a review of the Library Board advertisement and the draft application form for the 2024-2026 term.

• Review of the selection process
• Review of the Library Board recruitment advertisement
• Review of the 2024-2026 Library Board application form
• Discussion regarding closing dates for advertisements

The Selection Committee for Committees of Council met on June 4, 2024, and agreed to advertise for candidates, review applications, and recommend appointments to Council. It accepted revisions to a prior advertisement and application form, and by consensus set a three-week advertisement period ending with an end-of-June closing date for applications. The Lord Mayor was appointed Chair with Councillor O'Connor as Vice Chair, and a meeting was scheduled for early July. No appointments were made at this meeting.

• Adopted the agenda as presented (approved)
• Appointed Lord Mayor as Chair and Councillor O'Connor as Vice Chair (approved)
• Agreed to advertise for candidates, review applications, and recommend to Council (discussed/determined)
• Accepted revisions to the prior Library Board advertisement (accepted)
• Accepted revisions to the draft application form (accepted)
• Set a three-week advertisement process with an end-of-June closing date (by consensus)
• Scheduled a meeting for early July (agreed)

Council Meeting

Niagara-on-the-Lake Council is meeting to consider a series of by-laws, including several rezonings and official plan amendments for hotels and residential developments. The agenda also includes delegations on Niagara Parks and Queenston traffic safety, a police presentation, and multiple motions. Several items are routine approvals of minutes and committee reports.

• By-law 4316FJ-24: Rezoning north side of York Road, east of Airport Road for three 3-storey hotel suites, one 8-storey hotel, and one 10-storey residential apartment building
• By-law 4316FK-24: Rezoning 228 Queen Street, 209-217 Simcoe Street for an 81-room hotel with restaurant, meeting room, and spa
• By-law 500YI-24: Rezoning 256 East and West Line for commercial and agriculture-related uses, with environmental protection near Lavigne Drain
• By-law 4316FM-24: Rezoning 1320 Niagara Stone Road to create three new residential lots
• By-law 5155B-24: Amendment to the Swimming Pool By-law

Niagara-on-the-Lake Council approved Official Plan Amendment No. 94 and a zoning by-law for 228 Queen Street and 209-217 Simcoe Street, with recorded votes of 6-2 and 5-3 respectively. Council also approved a $325,000 loan to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum to purchase 25 Castlereagh Street, and directed staff to investigate allowing three rural winery patios to continue operating in 2024 after permits were issued in error. A special meeting will be convened in July to review infrastructure financial gaps.

• Approved By-law 2024-040 - 228 Queen Street, 209-217 Simcoe Street (OPA-06-2023) Official Plan Amendment No. 94 (6-2)
• Approved By-law 4316FK-24 - 228 Queen Street, 209-217 Simcoe Street (ZBA-15-2023) (5-3)
• Approved $325,000 loan agreement with Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum for 25 Castlereagh Street; By-law 2024-041 authorized
• Approved motion directing staff to investigate permitting Konzelmann Estate, Pillitteri Estates and Caroline Cellars temporary patios to continue in 2024 (7-1)
• Approved motion to convene a Special Meeting of Council in July to review infrastructure financial gaps and Strategic Plan priorities
• Approved By-law 500YI-24 - 256 East and West Line (ZBA-16-2022) (7-1)
• Approved By-law 2024-039 and By-law 4316FJ-24 - North Side of York Road, East of Airport Road (OPA-09-2023 and ZBA-20-2023)
• Endorsed 'Day of Romance' event on September 14, 2024, and awarded Trisha Romance the first Key to the Town

Information Package

This is an information package for the Niagara-on-the-Lake council meeting on May 23, 2024, containing only announcements and correspondence for council's awareness, with no decisions or votes scheduled. Items include media releases on the council's strategic plan, new parking machines, and community programs, plus letters to the province on Bill 185 and various municipal correspondence on topics like water testing and wild animal regulations.

• Media release on Council's Strategic Plan
• Media release on new parking machines coming soon
• Letter to the Province re: Bill 185 and PPS
• Correspondence from multiple municipalities re: restricting non-native wild animals
• Correspondence re: phasing out free water testing for private wells

Urban Design Committee

The Urban Design Committee is meeting to review and provide comments on the Terms of Reference for a Sun/Shadow Study (CDS-24-087), as part of a broader pre-application process improvement review. The agenda also includes routine items such as adoption of the agenda, approval of previous minutes, and announcements.

• Request for Comments – Terms of Reference Review (Sun/Shadow Study), CDS-24-087
• Appendix I – Niagara Region Sun Shadow Study Terms of Reference
• Appendix II – Pre-Application Process Improvement Review – CDS-24-063, April 16, 2024
• Approval of minutes from April 24, 2024 meeting

The Urban Design Committee approved two motions recommending revisions to the Town's Sun/Shadow Study Terms of Reference. One motion proposes measuring height in metres rather than storeys and adding rules to limit shadow on existing solar panels to no more than 10% on any day. The other asks staff to review terminology, clarify timing and test dates, and consider local context for the height that triggers a Sun/Shadow Study. The committee also received the April 24, 2024 minutes and heard announcements about a new Manager of Planning and Senior Heritage Planner.

• Approved motion recommending Sun/Shadow Study paragraphs 1.3 and 2.1 use height in metres instead of storeys
• Approved motion recommending new items 4.2.3 and 4.3.4 limiting shadow on existing solar panels to no more than 10% on any day
• Approved motion asking staff to review Terms of Reference wording, changing 'should' to 'must' and/or 'shall' where appropriate
• Approved motion asking staff to clarify wording in Sections 3 and 4 on timing and test dates
• Approved motion asking staff to consider local context to determine the height that triggers a Sun/Shadow Study
• Received the April 24, 2024 minutes
• Adopted the agenda as amended with two announcements

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment is meeting to consider two variance applications: a minor variance at 588 King Street and a fence variance at 682 Warner Road. The agenda also includes approval of the April 18, 2024 minutes and routine procedural items.

• Minor Variance Application A-06/24 – 588 King Street (CDS-24-081)
• Fence Variance Application FV-01/24 – 682 Warner Road (CDS-24-080)
• Approval of April 18, 2024 minutes

The Committee of Adjustment approved two applications: a minor variance for 588 King Street subject to obtaining an Entrance Permit for driveway changes, and a fence variance for 682 Warner Road. Both approvals were based on staff recommendations that the applications met the four Planning Act tests for minor variance.

• Approved Minor Variance Application A-06/24 for 588 King Street, subject to obtaining an Entrance Permit for driveway access changes
• Approved Fence Variance Application FV-01/24 for 682 Warner Road
• Approved April 18, 2024 minutes by unanimous consent

Discretionary Grant Committee

The Discretionary Grant Committee will meet to discuss the approval of the Discretionary Grants Policy and Procedure. The meeting includes a closed session for member training regarding grant policy.

• Approval of Discretionary Grants Policy and Procedure (P-CS-23-04)
• Closed session for member education and training on grant policy

The committee held a closed session to provide training to members regarding discretionary grant policy. Following this, the committee received the discretionary grant policy.

• Adopted the agenda
• Received the discretionary grant policy

Irrigation Committee

The Irrigation Committee is meeting to discuss routine business including adoption of the agenda, previous minutes, and conflict of interest declarations. The main substantive items are a presentation on a metering research study by the Vineland Research Centre, and updates on pump status, the NPCA MOU, CIB, and a debrief from the All Growers Meeting. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Presentation by Amy Bowen and Evan Pilkington of Vineland Research Centre on Metering Research Study
• Pump Status Update
• NPCA MOU Update
• CIB Update
• All Growers Meeting Debrief

The Committee decided not to proceed with a proposed metering research study from the Vineland Research Centre because of the cost. Instead, the Committee will survey irrigators to ensure water usage is being reported as required by permits.

• Shelved Vineland Research Centre metering research study
• Approved survey of irrigators regarding water usage reporting
• Approved amended agenda

Heritage Trail Committee

The Heritage Trail Committee is meeting to adopt the agenda, approve previous minutes, and discuss routine business items including new membership, the Paws on the Trail event, and a trail update. The agenda contains no major decisions or public hearings; it is largely procedural.

• Review of March 20, 2024 meeting minutes
• Discussion of new committee membership
• Update on Paws on the Trail event
• General trail update

The committee scheduled the Paws on the Trail event for September 7, 2024. Staff provided a construction timeline for the next phase of the trail, with completion expected by the end of the year.

• Adopted the meeting agenda
• Received the March 20, 2024, minutes
• Scheduled Paws on the Trail for September 7, 2024, at Memorial Park - Tennis Pavilion

Special Council Meeting

This special meeting focuses on matters related to Niagara-on-the-Lake Energy Inc. Council will review the 2023 Annual General Meeting minutes and financial statements. The agenda also includes the appointment of directors and auditors.

• Review of 2023 Annual General Meeting Minutes
• Appointment of Directors
• Review of 2023 Financial Statements
• Appointment of Auditors
• Proceedings By-law No. 2024-036

Council approved the appointment of seven individuals to the Board of Directors of Niagara-on-the-Lake Energy Inc. The meeting also approved the corporation's 2023 financial statements and appointed KPMG, LLP as auditors.

• Approved appointment of Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa, Councillor Adriana Vizzari, Bruce Zvaniga, Jim Ryan, Philip Wormwell, Marc Devlin, and Marcelo Gruosso to the Board of Directors of Niagara-on-the-Lake Energy Inc.
• Approved 2023 Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2023
• Appointed KPMG, LLP as auditors of the Corporation
• Approved 2023 Annual General Meeting Minutes from June 13, 2023
• Passed Proceedings By-law No. 2024-036 to confirm all corporate acts and appointments

Committee of the Whole - General

The Committee of the Whole - General is meeting to discuss and potentially decide on several items, including a request to extend deadlines for listed heritage properties, a cost forecast for municipal bridge repairs, speed limit and parking changes on Line 3 Road, updates to the pool bylaw, and a library board vacancy. A closed session is scheduled for litigation related to King Street and Cottage Street.

• Closed session under Section 239(2)(e) re: litigation on northwest side of King Street, south of Cottage Street
• Architectural Conservancy Ontario request for deadline extension for listed properties (CDS-24-078)
• 2023 Municipal Bridge Appraisal and Structure Asset Management Cost Forecast (OPS-24-021)
• Line 3 Road Reconstruction – speed limit reduction and parking prohibitions (OPS-24-023)
• Pool Bylaw 5155-19 updates (FES-24-007)

Council supported a request from Architectural Conservancy Ontario to extend provincial deadlines for removing listed properties from the Municipal Heritage Register. Other actions included referring a library board vacancy to a selection committee and deferring a road reconstruction report.

• Endorsed Architectural Conservancy Ontario request to Province to extend listed properties deadline
• Referred Library Board vacancy to Selection Committee for review
• Received 2023 Municipal Bridge Appraisal and Structure Asset Management Cost Forecast report
• Deferred Line 3 Road Reconstruction speed limit and parking report pending Transportation Safety Audit
• Authorized amending by-law for Pool Bylaw 5155-19 updates
• Received Strategic Plan Implementation Q2-2024 Report and First Strategic Plan Update 2024

CAO Recruitment Committee

The Niagara-on-the-Lake CAO Recruitment Committee met on May 13, 2024. The agenda consisted primarily of procedural items and a closed session. The only substantive discussion was held in private regarding the retention of an executive recruitment firm for the Chief Administrative Officer position.

• Closed session under Section 239(2)(k) regarding the retention of an executive recruitment firm.

The CAO Recruitment Committee approved the recommendation to engage a selected firm for Executive Recruitment Services. The Interim CAO was granted authority to negotiate final contractual terms with the firm.

• Endorsed recommendation to engage selected firm for CAO recruitment services
• Authorized Interim CAO to negotiate final contractual terms with the firm

Information Package

This is an information package for Niagara-on-the-Lake council, containing media releases and correspondence from other municipalities. It includes announcements about a financial reporting award, an idling reduction by-law, and an Ontario Land Tribunal decision on a King Street apartment application, plus letters on various provincial funding and policy issues.

• Media release: 11th consecutive Canadian Award for Financial Reporting
• Media release: strengthened idling reduction by-law
• Town statement on Ontario Land Tribunal decision for King Street apartment application
• Notice of decision for Opulence development (26T-18-23-01, OPA-05-2023, ZBA-14-2023)
• Correspondence from Welland, Hastings, Pelham, Alnwick, Brudenell Lyndoch and Raglan, Manitouwadge, North Glengarry on funding and policy resolutions

Committee of the Whole - Planning

The Committee of the Whole - Planning is holding public meetings for zoning by-law amendments at 489 Regent Street, 187 Queen Street, and south of 419 Line 1 Road. It will also consider recommendation reports on several planning applications, including an official plan and zoning amendment on York Road, and zoning changes at 95 Johnson Street, 256 East and West Line, 1320 Niagara Stone Road, and properties on Queen and Simcoe Streets. Delegations are scheduled for some of these items. The meeting will close with a closed session regarding a proposed land purchase.

• Public meeting: ZBA-06-2024, 489 Regent Street
• Public meeting: ZBA-05-2024, 187 Queen Street
• Public meeting: OPA-02-2024, ZBA-04-2024, 26CD-18-24-02, south of 419 Line 1 Road
• Recommendation: OPA-09-2023 & ZBA-20-2023, north side of York Road, east of Airport Road
• Closed session: proposed acquisition of land

The Planning Committee approved several zoning by-law and official plan amendments for various properties. Council also directed staff to negotiate affordable housing units for a development on York Road and to submit comments regarding the Cutting Red Tape to Build More Homes Act, 2024.

• Approved Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments for North Side of York Road, East of Airport Road (OPA-09-2023 & ZBA-20-2023)
• Approved holding provision for York Road land until stormwater management details are addressed
• Directed staff to negotiate affordable housing units for York Road development
• Approved Zoning By-law amendment for 95 Johnson Street (ZBA-25-2023)
• Approved Zoning By-law amendment for 256 East and West Line (ZBA-16-2022)
• Denied request to delete fitness facility use from 256 East and West Line bylaw
• Approved Zoning By-law amendment for 1320 Niagara Stone Road (ZBA-01-2024)
• Approved Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments for 228 Queen St, 209 Simcoe St, and 217 Simcoe St (OPA-06-2023 & ZBA-15-2023)

Information Package

This is an information package for the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, containing announcements and correspondence from other municipalities and agencies. No decisions are being made; items are for council's information only. Notable items include a media release on digital building permits, a notice of decision for the Opulence development, and a memorandum on pickleball acoustic panels.

• Media release: Modernizing Building Permits – digital transformation
• Notice of Decision for 26T-18-23-01, OPA-05-2023, ZBA-14-2023 (Opulence)
• Memorandum re: Pickleball Acoustic Panels
• Niagara Region Waste Management Strategic Plan correspondence
• MPAC 2023 Pursuing Excellence and Performance Reports

Municipal Heritage Committee

The Municipal Heritage Committee is meeting to review several heritage-related items, including a heritage impact assessment for 187 Queen Street, heritage permit applications for signage and a shed addition, and updates to the Municipal Heritage Grant Program. The committee will also discuss priority heritage designations for properties on Lakeshore Road, Wesley Avenue, and Niagara River Parkway. The meeting is scheduled for May 1, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers.

• Review of Heritage Impact Assessment for 187 Queen Street (File No. ZBA-05-2024)
• Heritage permit application for signage and shed addition at 95 Johnson Street
• Heritage permit application for signage at 57 Queen Street
• Updates to the Municipal Heritage Grant Program
• Heritage designation reports for 1413 Lakeshore Road and draft by-laws for 14 Wesley Avenue and 15618 Niagara River Parkway

The Municipal Heritage Committee reviewed several heritage applications and grant program updates. It recommended that Council approve a heritage permit for 95 Johnson Street with specific signage conditions, while declining to endorse staff recommendations for 187 Queen Street. The Committee also endorsed revised Heritage Restoration and Improvement Grant Program documents, including a $210 application fee, and recommended designating properties at 14 Wesley Avenue and 15618 Niagara River Parkway.

• Recommended Council approve heritage permit for 95 Johnson Street signage and shed addition with conditions
• Recommended Council NOT endorse staff recommendations for 187 Queen Street heritage impact assessment
• Endorsed revised Heritage Restoration and Improvement Grant Program and $210 application fee
• Recommended Council issue Notice of Intent to Designate for 14 Wesley Avenue and 15618 Niagara River Parkway
• Recommended 1893 York Road be expedited on the designation list
• Approved recommendations for signage material and name consistency at 57 Queen Street

Council Meeting

Niagara-on-the-Lake Council is meeting to consider several by-laws, including setting the 2024 final tax rates, adopting the 2024 operating budget, and establishing fees and charges. The agenda also includes appeal hearings for a short-term rental denial and two tree removal denials, as well as multiple motions and delegations on various topics.

• By-law 2024-032: 2024 Final Tax Rates
• By-law 2024-033: 2024 Operating Budget
• By-law 2024-034: 2024 Fees Charges By-law
• Short-term rental appeal hearing for 972 Line 3 Road
• Tree appeal hearings for 68 Princess Street and 286 Nassau Street

Council approved a short-term rental license for 972 Line 3 Road, effective June 1, 2024, after a tied vote on an earlier motion. They also approved tree removal permits for 68 Princess Street and 286 Nassau Street, subject to replacement planting. Additionally, Council passed resolutions supporting a Minister's Zoning Order for lands in Virgil and increased councillor salaries to $20,000 per year.

• Approved STR license for 972 Line 3 Rd effective June 1, 2024 (7-1)
• Approved tree removal permit for 68 Princess St with replacement tree (5-4)
• Approved tree removal permit for 286 Nassau St with replacement trees (8-1)
• Approved resolution supporting MZO for 1287-1313 Niagara Stone Rd
• Increased councillor salaries to $20,000/year for 2024
• Approved $10,000 grant to Friends of Fort George for Canada Day
• Approved $1,500 grant to Niagara-on-the-Lake Rotary for Canada Day
• Deferred motion on $80,000 floating dock installation to next meeting

Information Package

This is an information package for the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, not a decision-making meeting. Council is receiving a media release about a nurse practitioner hired for the NOTL health care clinic, a compliance report from Emergency Management Ontario, and correspondence from other municipalities on various topics. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Media release: Nurse practitioner hired for NOTL Health Care Clinic
• Emergency Management Ontario: Town's EMCPA compliance results for 2023
• Correspondence from 30+ municipalities on topics like wild animal restrictions, ODSP rates, heritage properties, and water testing
• Proclamation: Canadian Viral Hepatitis Elimination Day (NOTL 2024)
• Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake: Icewine Festival correspondence

Urban Design Committee

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Urban Design Committee is meeting to adopt the agenda and previous minutes, then review the 2023 Year in Review and the Annual Planning and Building Monitoring Report for 2023. These are informational items for discussion, not decisions on specific projects.

• Adoption of January 31, 2024 minutes
• Annual Planning and Building Monitoring Report - 2023 (CDS-24-043)
• Urban Design Committee - 2023 Year in Review (CDS-24-037)

The Urban Design Committee received the 2023 Year in Review report (CDS-24-037) and agreed to reconvene after three Urban Design meetings to assess progress based on the Staff Report direction. It approved a motion that members' discussions and responses to deputations be led through the Chair, and defeated two other motions on committee procedures. The committee also received the 2023 Annual Planning and Building Monitoring Report (CDS-24-043) and was told member Allan Killin was removed for a Code of Conduct contravention.

• Approved agenda as amended with an added announcement
• Received January 31, 2024 minutes
• Received 2023 Annual Planning and Building Monitoring Report (CDS-24-043)
• Defeated motion disagreeing with Staff Report improvement suggestions and seeking a sub-committee/working group
• Approved motion that member discussions and deputation responses be led through the Chair
• Defeated motion that comments be limited to staff recommendations and directed by the Chair
• Approved receiving 2023 Year in Review (CDS-24-037) and reconvening after three Urban Design meetings
• Adjourned unanimously at 6:25 p.m.

Open House

This is an open house public session for applications OPA-02-2024, ZBA-04-2024, and 26CD-18-24-02 regarding lands south of 419 Line 1 Road. The meeting is held by video conference and provides an opportunity for public input on the proposed development.

• Open house for OPA-02-2024, ZBA-04-2024, and 26CD-18-24-02
• Lands south of 419 Line 1 Road

Open House

This is an open house for a zoning by-law amendment application (ZBA-06-2024) for 489 Regent Street. The public can attend to learn about the proposal before a future public meeting.

• ZBA-06-2024 - 489 Regent Street - Notice of Complete Application, Open House and Public Meeting

Municipal Accommodation Tax Committee

The Municipal Accommodation Tax Committee is meeting to review and discuss criteria for evaluating MAT-funded initiatives, based on attached evaluation forms and suggestions. The agenda also includes a closed session for member training on visioning for the tax, plus routine items like adopting minutes from September 2023.

• Review of MAT project evaluation form and suggestions for evaluating initiatives
• Closed session under Section 239(3.1) for training on visioning for the Municipal Accommodation Tax
• Adoption of minutes from September 20, 2023

The committee met to discuss the Municipal Accommodation Tax and held a closed session for member training on visioning. The evaluation of criteria was deferred to the next meeting.

• Adopted agenda as amended
• Deferred Criteria Evaluation to next meeting

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment will hold a public meeting to consider one minor variance application (A-05/24) for 128 Line 4 Road, and will also receive a notice of appeal regarding a previous minor variance at 332 Johnson Street. The agenda includes approval of the March 21, 2024 minutes and routine procedural items.

• Minor Variance Application A-05/24 – 128 Line 4 Road (CDS-24-061)
• Notice of Appeal – 332 Johnson Street, Minor Variance A-03/24
• Approval of March 21, 2024 minutes

The Committee of Adjustment approved Minor Variance Application A-05/24 for a garage expansion at 128 Line 4 Road, subject to a condition that the structure contains no living spaces. The committee also approved the previous meeting's minutes and noted an appeal filed for a different property at 332 Johnson Street.

• Approved Minor Variance A-05/24 for 128 Line 4 Road garage expansion
• Approved March 21, 2024 minutes as amended
• Noted appeal received for 332 Johnson Street (A-03/24)

Committee of the Whole - General

This is a Committee of the Whole meeting with a closed session for a proposed land purchase. The open agenda includes delegations on watermain extension and speed limit petitions for East and West Line, plus several information items on infrastructure and community matters. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Closed session for proposed or pending land acquisition
• Delegations on watermain extension petition (OPS-24-016) and reduced speed limit petition (OPS-24-018) for East and West Line
• 2023 State of the Infrastructure and Asset Management Plan for Roads (OPS-24-004)
• Outdoor Pickleball Courts reopening at Virgil Sportspark (OPS-24-015)
• Dorchester Street at Gage Street culvert replacement tender award (OPS-24-019)

The Committee of the Whole approved awarding Contract 2024-959 for the Dorchester Street at Gage Street Culvert Replacement to Rankin Construction Inc. at $668,604.00 excluding taxes, plus an estimated $100,000 for an Enbridge Gas line relocation funded by debenture. It also approved reopening the Virgil Sportspark outdoor pickleball courts on June 17, 2024, and a $10,000 transfer from the Capital Reserve for acoustic panels contingent on an Ontario Trillium Grant outcome. Staff were directed to lower the speed limit to 70 km/h on East West Line from Creek Rd to Lakeshore and to proceed with a functional servicing report for drinking water on East West Line. A motion to send information directly to residents near the pickleball courts was defeated.

• Awarded Contract 2024-959 for Dorchester Street at Gage Street Culvert Replacement to Rankin Construction Inc. at $668,604.00 excluding taxes (approved)
• Approved additional estimated $100,000 for Enbridge Gas line relocation, funded by debenture (approved)
• Approved reopening Virgil Sportspark outdoor pickleball courts on June 17, 2024 (approved)
• Approved $10,000 transfer from Capital Reserve for acoustic panels, contingent on Ontario Trillium Grant outcome (approved)
• Directed Staff to lower speed limit to 70 km/h on East West Line from Creek Rd to Lakeshore and conduct speed minder test (approved)
• Directed Staff to proceed with functional servicing report for drinking water on East West Line from Creek Rd to Lakeshore Rd (approved)
• Directed Communications team to send information directly to those in the immediate area of pickleball courts (defeated)
• Deferred Pre-Application Process Improvement Review (CDS-24-063) to May 7, 2024 Committee of the Whole - Planning Meeting (approved)

Open House

This is an open house and public meeting for a zoning by-law amendment application (ZBA-05-2024) at 187 Queen Street. The meeting is informational, allowing residents to learn about the proposal and provide input. No decisions are being made at this session.

• ZBA-05-2024 – 187 Queen Street – Notice of Complete Application Open House and Public Meeting

Information Package

This is an information package for the April 11, 2024 meeting, containing public announcements and correspondence from other municipalities and agencies. No decisions are being made; items are for council's information only. The package includes notices for public meetings on zoning and planning applications at 187 Queen Street, 419 Line 1 Road, and 489 Regent Street, plus various correspondence on topics like waste management, heritage, and provincial legislation.

• Notice of Complete Application Open House and Public Meeting - 187 Queen Street - ZBA-05-2024
• Notice of Complete Application Open House and Public Meeting - 419 Line 1 Road - OPA-02-2024 ZBA-04-2024 and 26CD-18-24-02
• Notice of Complete Application, Open House and Public Meeting - ZBA-06-2024 - 489 Regent Street
• Niagara Region email re: Development Applications Monitoring Report - 2023 Year End
• Town of Cobourg Council Resolution email re: Amend the Blue Box Regulations

Irrigation Committee

The Irrigation Committee is meeting to discuss routine business items including pump status, Canada Infrastructure Bank funding, an NPCA memorandum of understanding, and an upcoming all-growers meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or dollar amounts listed.

• Pump status update
• Canada Infrastructure Bank funding discussion
• NPCA MOU discussion
• All Growers Meeting scheduled for April 17, 2024 at 7:00 pm at Community Centre

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Irrigation Committee confirmed its support for the NPCA Memorandum of Understanding and asked staff to confirm the annual costs for the Virgil Dams. Staff reported a temporary permit to take water has been issued until June 30, 2024, with a new permit to be valid for ten years once signed. The committee agreed to invite a delegation from Vineland Research to a future meeting on metering, and proposed holding next year's growers meeting in late April or early May. The meeting adjourned unanimously at 2:40 p.m.

• Agenda adopted as amended to add financial update, metering, and permit renewal (approved)
• February 7, 2024 minutes received (moved by Rob Enns)
• Committee confirmed support for the NPCA MOU
• Staff directed to confirm annual costs for the Virgil Dams
• Committee agreed to invite a Vineland Research delegation to next meeting
• Committee requested staff resend NPCA MOU to members for review
• Next meeting set for Wednesday, May 8, 2024, 2:00 p.m.
• Meeting unanimously adjourned at 2:40 p.m.

Committee of the Whole - Planning

The Committee of the Whole - Planning is holding public meetings for four zoning by-law amendment applications (976 York Road, 95 Johnson Street, 1320 Niagara Stone Road, and Konik Estates Phase 2) and will receive a recommendation report on the Opulence Subdivision (OPA-05-2023, ZBA-14-2023, 26T-18-23-01). Delegations are scheduled, including a quarterly regional update from Regional Councillor Andrea Kaiser and Director Frank Tassone. The committee will also receive information reports on the public meetings.

• Public meeting for ZBA-12-2023 at 976 York Road
• Public meeting for ZBA-25-2023 at 95 Johnson Street
• Public meeting for ZBA-01-2024 at 1320 Niagara Stone Road
• Public meeting for Konik Estates Phase 2 (ZBA-02-2024, 26T-18-24-02, 26CD-18-24-01)
• Recommendation report on Opulence Subdivision (OPA-05-2023, ZBA-14-2023, 26T-18-23-01)

The Committee approved an Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-law Amendment, and Draft Plan of Subdivision for the Opulence project. Several other information reports regarding zoning amendments were received following public presentations.

• Approved Official Plan Amendment (OPA-05-2023) for Opulence Subdivision
• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA-14-2023) for Opulence Subdivision
• Approved Draft Plan of Subdivision (26T-18-23-01) for Opulence Subdivision
• Authorized Lord Mayor to endorse Opulence Draft Plan of Subdivision
• Received information report for 976 York Road (ZBA-12-2023)
• Received information report for 95 Johnson Street (ZBA-25-2023)
• Received information report for 1320 Niagara Stone Road (ZBA-01-2024)
• Received information report for Konik Estates P2 (ZBA-02-2024, 26T-18-24-02, 26CD-18-24-01)

Information Package

This is an information package for Niagara-on-the-Lake, not a decision-making meeting. It includes notices about a public meeting for Konik Estates Phase 2, a decision on the Character Study, and media releases about the approved 2024 operating budget, a new nurse practitioner, and a new economic development officer. It also compiles correspondence from Niagara Region and other municipalities on various topics.

• Notice of Complete Application, Open House and Public Meeting for Konik Estates Phase 2 (ZBA-02-2024, 26T-18-23, 26CD-18-23-01)
• Notice of Decision for Character Study (OPA-01-2024)
• Media release: Town Council Approves 2024 Operating Budget
• Media release: Niagara-on-the-Lake Hires Economic Development Officer
• Niagara Region email re: 2024 Property Tax Policy, Ratios and Rates

Municipal Heritage Committee

The Municipal Heritage Committee is meeting to review a demolition permit for 134 Victoria Street, consider heritage designation reports and draft by-laws for several properties, and discuss a heritage permit application to wrap hydro boxes. The agenda also includes correspondence from property owners, including objections to designations at 36 Princess Street and 1 Paxton Lane.

• Demolition permit for 134 Victoria Street (CDS-24-055) with structural engineer reports
• Heritage permit application to wrap hydro boxes (CDS-24-051)
• Heritage designation reports for 14 Wesley Avenue (Lansdowne Villa) and 15618 Niagara River Parkway (Grand Victorian)
• Draft designation by-laws for 287 Warner Road (Warner House) and 463 King Street (Best House)
• Objections to designation from owners of 36 Princess Street and 1 Paxton Lane (Locust Hall)

The Committee approved recommendations for Council to allow the demolition of a historic dwelling at 134 Victoria Street, provided the applicant salvages materials and builds a new residence with specific heritage features. A proposal to wrap hydro boxes in vinyl art in the Queen-Picton Heritage Conservation District was defeated. The Committee also endorsed heritage designation by-laws for properties at 287 Warner Road and 463 King Street.

• Approved demolition of 134 Victoria Street with salvage and design conditions
• Defeated stricter demolition conditions for 134 Victoria Street
• Defeated recommendation to approve vinyl art wrapping for hydro boxes
• Approved heritage designation by-laws for 287 Warner Road and 463 King Street
• Approved requirement for midway letters to homeowners during designation process

Open House

This is an open house for a zoning bylaw amendment application (ZBA-12-2023) for the property at 976 York Road. The public can attend to learn about the application and provide input before a future public meeting.

• Open house for 976 York Road zoning bylaw amendment (ZBA-12-2023)
• Notice of complete application and public meeting

Council Meeting

Niagara-on-the-Lake Council is meeting to vote on a consent agenda that includes a town-initiated Official Plan Amendment for a character study of the Rand Estate and John Street East, plus 13 by-laws covering heavy vehicle traffic, administrative penalties, site plan control, heritage designations, and idling reduction. The meeting also includes delegations from Crime Stoppers of Niagara and FACS Niagara, and motions from Councillor O'Connor on a Forest Management Plan and a Transportation Strategy Appointment.

• Character Study for Rand Estate and John Street East – Town Initiated Official Plan Amendment (OPA-1-2024), CDS-24-045
• By-law 5157B-24 - Heavy Motor Vehicle Prohibition - By-law Amendment
• By-law 4744D-24 - Administrative Penalties Amendments (adds Schedule E for heavy motor vehicle traffic)
• By-law 2024-025 - Idling Reduction By-law
• By-law 2024-023 and 2024-024 - Heritage designations for 12 Princess Street (St. Saviour's Church) and 130 Front Street (Kirby House)

Niagara-on-the-Lake Council approved a town-initiated Official Plan Amendment (OPA-01-2024) and endorsed the Former Rand Estate and John Street East Character Study. Council also directed staff to prepare a forestry management plan, nominated Councillor Adriana Vizzari to the Transportation Strategy Steering Committee, and voted 5-4 to approve staff recommendations on a minor variance at 332 Johnson St. and appeal the decision (later reconsidered and defeated on April 30, 2024, with the appeal withdrawn). A Caleche report update was received and Option two pursued, and a series of by-laws were passed.

• Approved Official Plan Amendment OPA-01-2024 (Former Rand Estate and John Street East Character Study) and endorsed the study
• Directed staff to review forestry policy and prepare a forestry management plan with canopy targets and timelines
• Nominated Councillor Adriana Vizzari to the Transportation Strategy Steering Committee; approved advocacy resolution 6-3
• Approved staff recommendations on minor variance at 332 Johnson St. and appeal, 5-4 (later reconsidered and defeated April 30, 2024; appeal withdrawn)
• Received Update CAO-24-2013 Caleche Report and pursued Option two
• Received By-law Enforcement Metrics December 2023 (FES-24-002)
• Approved Tourism Strategy Committee minutes (March 4, 2024) and other committee minutes
• Passed 13 by-laws including heavy motor vehicle prohibition, administrative penalties, William Street subdivision agreement, Official Plan Amendment 92, site plan control, delegated authority, heritage designations, idling reduction, and noise amendments

Special Council Meeting

This special council meeting focuses on the 2024 proposed operating budget and water/wastewater rates. Council will also hear a budget update from the Chamber of Commerce and consider a motion regarding Tourism NOTL. The meeting includes adoption of budget committee minutes and several by-laws.

• 2024 Proposed Operating Budget (CS-24-001) with appendices on salaries, studies, and debt
• 2024 Water and Wastewater Rates (CS-24-002)
• By-law 2024-017 to amend water and wastewater rates
• Minerva Ward, Chamber of Commerce, 2024 Budget Request Update
• Councillor O'Connor motion on Tourism NOTL (deferred from Feb 29)

Council approved the 2024 Operating budget with an operating levy of $16,111,963. New water and wastewater rates were approved to take effect April 1, 2024. Council also decided not to fund Tourism NOTL.

• Approved 2024 Operating budget with $16,111,963 operating levy and $961,600 Storm Water Special Area Levy
• Approved 10.8% increase to 2024 water fixed and variable rates
• Approved 12% increase to 2024 wastewater fixed and variable rates
• Decided the Town does not fund Tourism NOTL
• Approved By-law 2024-017 (Water Waste-Water Rates) and By-law 2024-018 (Council Proceedings)
• Received Budget Review Committee minutes from February 29, 2024
• Received staff memo regarding CIB irrigation funding

Open House

This is an open house for a zoning by-law amendment application at 95 Johnson Street (file ZBA-25-2023). The public can attend to learn about the proposal before a future public meeting. No decisions are being made at this session.

• Open house for 95 Johnson Street zoning by-law amendment (ZBA-25-2023)
• Public session held via video conference on March 25, 2024, 5:00-6:00 PM

CAO Recruitment Committee

The CAO Recruitment Committee is meeting to advance the hiring process for a new Chief Administrative Officer. The committee will consider endorsing the terms of reference, executing confidentiality agreements, approving an initial draft job description, and discussing the engagement process for an executive search firm. All items are at the discussion or approval stage.

• Endorsement of Terms of Reference
• Execution of Confidentiality Agreements
• Approval of Initial Draft Job Description for Chief Administrative Officer
• Engagement process for Executive Search Firm (Invitational Request for Proposals)

The committee approved the terms of reference and the initial draft job description for the CAO position. Members also agreed to a process of inviting three to five recruitment firms to submit proposals.

• Approved terms of reference documentation
• Approved confidentiality agreement documentation
• Approved draft job description
• Approved engagement process to invite 3-5 recruitment firms for proposals

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment will review several property applications including minor variances and a consent application. The meeting includes discussions regarding properties on Johnson Street, Firelane 2 Road, and Niven Road.

• Minor Variance Application A-03/24 for 332 Johnson Street
• Minor Variance Application A-04/24 for 69 Firelane 2 Road
• Consent Application B-27/23 for 298 Niven Road

The Committee of Adjustment approved Minor Variance Application A-03/24 for 332 Johnson Street with conditions, despite a staff recommendation to refuse. It also approved Minor Variance Application A-04/24 for 69 Firelane 2 Road with conditions. Consent Application B-27/23 for 298 Niven Road was deferred to allow further discussion. The committee also approved the February 15, 2024 minutes and noted that member Allan Killin has been removed from the committee.

• Approved Minor Variance Application A-03/24 for 332 Johnson Street with conditions (recommendation refused, application approved)
• Approved Minor Variance Application A-04/24 for 69 Firelane 2 Road with conditions (recommendation accepted)
• Deferred Consent Application B-27/23 for 298 Niven Road
• Approved February 15, 2024 minutes by unanimous consent
• Adopted the agenda as presented

Information Package

This is an information package for the March 21, 2024 meeting. It includes a notice of complete application, open house, and public meeting for a zoning by-law amendment at 976 York Road, plus media releases and correspondence from other municipalities on various topics. No decisions are being made; items are for information only.

• Notice of Complete Application, Open House and Public Meeting for 976 York Road ZBA-12-2023
• Media release: Niagara-on-the-Lake digital information boards enhanced with touchscreen technology
• Media release: Niagara-on-the-Lake prepares for solar eclipse
• Correspondence from multiple Ontario municipalities on topics like AODA funding, operational budgets, and provincial-municipal fiscal framework
• Queenston Gardens email re: Queenston Quarry notice for March 18, 2024

Heritage Trail Committee

The Heritage Trail Committee is meeting to discuss routine business including a presentation from the Niagara Bee Group on the next phase of pollinator gardens, updates on new members, land care (bat houses), signage and trail updates, and a stone material offer. The agenda is mostly procedural with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Presentation: Niagara Bee Group - Pollinator Gardens - Next Phase
• Update: New Members
• Update: Land Care - Bat Houses
• Update: Signage and Trail Updates
• Discussion: Stone Material Offer

The committee approved inviting Albrecht Sieger to join as a representative for the agricultural community. Staff committed to repairing or replacing a trail bench damaged by a vehicle and are reviewing a proposal for bat houses.

• Approved invitation for Albrecht Sieger to join the committee
• Approved amended agenda
• Received February 21, 2024, minutes

Open House

This is a public open house for a development application at 353 Townline Road (file 26T-18-24-01). The town is presenting the application and gathering public input. No decisions are being made at this open house.

• Open house for 353 Townline Road development application (26T-18-24-01)
• Notice of complete application presented

Committee of the Whole - General

The Committee of the Whole - General is meeting to discuss and decide on several items, including renewing horse-drawn carriage agreements, regulating heavy vehicles and idling in the historic Old Town, and receiving a tourism strategy presentation. The agenda also includes a closed session on property matters and a delegation from Crime Stoppers.

• 2024 Caleche Renewal Agreements (CAO-24-013) with delegations from two carriage companies
• Proposed by-laws to prohibit heavy motor vehicles in Historic Old Town and amend administrative penalties
• Proposed idling reduction by-law and amendments to noise and non-parking by-laws
• Tourism strategy presentation by CBRE
• Closed session on 144 & 176 John Street East, 200 John Street & 588 Charlotte Street

The Committee of the Whole approved 2024 caleche Licences to Occupy Town Land: three to Sentineal Carriages Inc., one to Queens Royal Tours Inc., and one to 1000220148 Ontario Inc. (Ronda Cave), with a $500 fee per licence. Council also approved temporary speed humps on Shakespeare Avenue, expanded 3,000 kg weight restrictions in Old Town, adopted a new idling reduction by-law, and endorsed the Fire & Emergency Services Standards of Cover. Several information items were received, and new business topics were discussed without decisions.

• Approved 2024 caleche licences: Sentineal Carriages Inc. (3), Queens Royal Tours Inc. (1), 1000220148 Ontario Inc. (1); Queens Royal Tours space to Sentineal if regional licence not activated
• Approved $500 LOTLA fee per each of the five caleche licences
• Approved temporary speed humps on Shakespeare Avenue from Addison Avenue to Lakeshore Road at $2,500 (excluding HST)
• Approved expansion of 3,000 kg weight restrictions to all streets bounded by Queen-Picton Streets, Simcoe Street and the Niagara River
• Approved new Idling Reduction By-Law 2024-0XX and related amendments; up to $10,000 for communications and signage
• Endorsed Fire & Emergency Services Standards of Cover document; received 2023 Year-End Report FES-24-004
• Received 2023 Drinking Water Summary Report OPS-24-013
• Received Hunter Road Watermain Replacement Tender Results OPS-24-005, Temporary Patio Program Review CDS-24-046, and Walker Industries landfill letter

Open House

This is an open house for a proposed residential development called Konik Estates Phase 2, located north of Line 2 and east of Concession 6 in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The meeting is a public session to discuss the application, which involves zoning, draft plan of subdivision, and draft plan of condominium. No decisions are being made; it is an information and comment session.

• Open house for Konik Estates Phase 2 (ZBA-02-2024, 26T-18-24-02, 26CD-18-24-01)
• Location: north of Line 2, east of Concession 6
• Application includes zoning by-law amendment, draft plan of subdivision, and draft plan of condominium

Information Package

This is an information package for the Niagara-on-the-Lake council meeting on March 14, 2024. It includes public announcements about development applications, open houses, and public meetings, as well as notices of decisions on several planning applications. The package also contains correspondence from other municipalities on various topics, and miscellaneous items such as media releases and letters.

• Notice of Complete Application, Open House, Public Meeting - 95 Johnson Street
• Notice of Complete Application, Open House and Public Meeting - Konik Estates Phase 2
• Notice of Complete Application, Open House and Public Meeting - 1320 Niagara Stone Road
• Notice of Decision - OPA-02-2022, ZBA-07-2022, 26T-18-22-01 - Modero Estates Subdivision
• Media Release - Niagara-on-the-Lake Extends Temporary Patio Program to 2025

Open House

This is an open house public session for a zoning by-law amendment application (ZBA-01-2024) at 1320 Niagara Stone Road. The meeting is held virtually via video conference, and the agenda includes a notice of complete application, open house, and public meeting. No decisions are being made; it is an information and comment session.

• ZBA-01-2024 for 1320 Niagara Stone Road
• Notice of Complete Application, Open House and Public Meeting

Municipal Heritage Committee

The Municipal Heritage Committee is meeting to review its accomplishments, discuss priority heritage designation work, and consider draft designation by-laws for several properties. The committee will also discuss next steps for heritage designation work in 2025.

• Review of committee accomplishments (CDS-24-038)
• Heritage designation reports for 287 Warner Road (Warner House) and 463 King Street (Best House)
• Draft designation by-laws for 23 Vincent Avenue and 46 Johnson Street
• Discussion of next steps for heritage designation work in 2025

The Municipal Heritage Committee endorsed the designation of four properties in principle and recommended that Council issue Notices of Intent to Designate for two of them. The committee also approved a 2025 work plan for heritage surveys and requested information on construction at 242 Riccardo Street.

• Endorsed designations for 287 Warner Road and 463 King Street in principle
• Endorsed designation by-laws for 23 Vincent Avenue and 46 Johnson Street in principle
• Recommended Council issue Notice of Intent to Designate (NOID) for 23 Vincent Avenue and 46 Johnson Street
• Approved recommendations for the 2025 Designation Work plan and survey forms
• Directed staff to provide information on construction at 242 Riccardo Street
• Received report CDS-24-038 regarding committee accomplishments

Committee of the Whole - Planning

The Committee of the Whole - Planning is meeting to discuss and potentially decide on several planning items, including a subdivision agreement for 455 William Street, an update to the site plan by-law, and an annual planning and building monitoring report. The agenda also includes delegations on pedestrian safety in St. Davids and support for the 455 William Street subdivision, as well as petitions and information items.

• 455 William Street Subdivision Agreement - Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA-03-2024) - Removal of Holding Symbol (CDS-24-027)
• Site Plan By-law Update (CDS-24-030)
• Annual Planning and Building Monitoring Report - 2023 (CDS-24-043)
• Petition: St. David's Roundabout
• Delegation: Mike Pearsall on Pedestrian Safety in St. Davids

The Committee of the Whole - Planning approved a subdivision agreement for the 455 William Street subdivision and a zoning by-law amendment to remove the Holding (H) symbol from the site. It also approved an updated Site Plan Control By-law and repealed the existing by-law and its amendments. Council directed staff to report on sidewalk and pedestrian crossover options for St. Davids, to be considered in the 2025 capital program in conjunction with the Region, and agreed to forward a St. Davids roundabout petition to the Region. Several information items were received.

• Approved 455 William Street subdivision agreement and authorized Lord Mayor and Clerk to execute it
• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-03-2024 to remove Holding (H) symbol at 455 William Street
• Approved updated Site Plan Control By-law and repealed By-law 3622-02 and amendments 3622A-06, 3622B-12, 3622C-14
• Directed staff to report on sidewalk networks and pedestrian crossover options for St. Davids, for possible inclusion in 2025 capital program with the Region
• Received Annual Planning and Building Monitoring Report - 2023 (CDS-24-043)
• Received Niagara Region email regarding Tree and Forest Canopy Project
• Received St. Davids Ratepayers Association petition on roundabout and forwarded it to the Region with Council's August 2022 motion

Tourism Strategy Committee

The Tourism Strategy Committee is meeting to approve the final Tourism Strategy Masterplan and Action Plan, and to review the formatted executive summary. The agenda is otherwise routine, covering minutes, announcements, and correspondence.

• Approval of Final Tourism Strategy (Phase 5 Strategy Masterplan and Action Plan)
• Review of Formatted Executive Summary
• Adoption of previous minutes from January 29, 2024

The Committee approved the final draft of the Tourism Strategy and its Executive Summary for Council consideration. Both approvals included specific requirements for edits to priorities, funding designations, and visual content.

• Approved final Tourism Strategy draft for Council consideration with edits to priorities, funding attribution, and quotes
• Approved formatted Executive Summary for Council consideration with specific photo and text revisions
• Adopted agenda
• Received January 29, 2024, minutes

Budget Review Committee

The Budget Review Committee is meeting to review the 2024 draft operating budget, including contract conversions, budget reduction strategies, salaries, proposed studies, and proposed debt. They will also discuss a letter of support for CIB funding related to irrigation, referencing a commitment from the Town of Lincoln. The meeting is a working session to refine budget details before final approval.

• 2024 Draft Operating Budget Running Total
• Contract Conversions – BC2024-30 (updated)
• Budget Reduction Strategies
• 2024 Proposed Debt
• CIB Funding - Letter of Support (Town of Lincoln irrigation commitment)

The committee approved the use of one-time reserve funding for budget reductions and committed $50,000 annually for 2024 and 2025 toward a piped irrigation system. A proposal to increase Council wages to 4.9% was defeated, and a motion regarding Tourism NOTL funding was deferred.

• Approved incorporating Option 2 (One-Time Reserve Funding Opportunities) into the budget
• Deferred motion to deny funding to Tourism NOTL and reallocate parking funds
• Defeated proposal to increase Council wages to 4.9%
• Approved $100,000 total contribution ($50,000 in 2024 and 2025) and letter of support for Piped Irrigation System
• Approved receiving items 4.1 to 4.5 regarding budget summaries, salaries, studies, and debt

Information Package

This is an information package for the February 29, 2024 meeting, containing correspondence from other municipalities and agencies. No decisions are being made; items are for council's information only. Topics include tree canopy, volunteer firefighter tax credits, long-term care, library funding, and a petition about the St. David's roundabout.

• Petition regarding St. David's Roundabout
• Niagara Region email re: Tree and Forest Canopy Project
• County of Frontenac email re: Bill C-310 volunteer firefighter tax credits
• Town of Lincoln resolution re: increased funding for libraries and museums
• Niagara Region Transit email re: NRT OnDemand 2023 statistics

Council Meeting

Niagara-on-the-Lake Council is meeting to consider several by-laws, including zoning changes for properties on York Road, Line 2 Road, and Concession 7 Road, as well as a temporary patio program. Council will also hear a delegation on mental health and addiction, and consider applications for tax cancellations or refunds under Section 357 of the Municipal Act. Several motions from councillors on topics like flood risk criteria, tree protection, and a heritage trail appointment are on the agenda.

• By-law 4316CC(1)-24: ZBA for 524 York Road
• By-law 4316EG(2)-24: Temporary Use (Patios)
• By-law 4316FH-24: ZBA for 431 Line 2 Road
• By-laws 4316FI-24 and 500YH-24: ZBA for Concession 7 Road (Modero)
• Delegation: Steven Soos on Mental Health and Addiction

Council approved a by-law extending temporary patio use within the urban area until February 28, 2025, with a provision that no new temporary patio permits be issued for Queen Street until staff bring forward a permanent seasonal patio program and Council approves its recommendations. Council also defeated a motion to nominate Regional Councillor Andrea Kaiser to the Transportation Strategy Steering Committee (4-5) and defeated an amendment to charge a fee for patios occupying municipal parking stalls (1-8). Several other motions were approved, including directing staff to review flood risk criteria, investigate mandatory pre-application meetings for development applications, prepare tree protection guidelines, and report on the Rand Estate Character Study.

• Approved by-law extending temporary patio use in urban area to February 28, 2025
• Approved provision barring new temporary patio permits on Queen Street until a permanent seasonal patio program is approved (7-2)
• Defeated nomination of Regional Councillor Andrea Kaiser to Transportation Strategy Steering Committee (4-5)
• Defeated amendment to charge fee for patios occupying municipal parking stalls (1-8)
• Approved tax cancellation/reduction/refund applications 2022-00017, 2022-00007, 2023-00017
• Approved permitting Councillors Wiens, Cheropita, and O'Connor to attend 2024 AMO Conference
• Approved appointment of Albrecht Sieger to Heritage Trail Committee
• Approved directing staff to review flood risk criteria and report in Q3 2024

Information Package

This is an information package, not a decision-making meeting. Council is receiving correspondence from other Ontario municipalities on topics such as water and wastewater affordability, social assistance rates, fire apparatus life, and volunteer firefighter tax credits. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Correspondence from County of Renfrew on water and wastewater affordability for rural municipalities
• Resolution from County of Prince Edward on Ontario Works and ODSP financial assistance rates
• Support resolutions from several municipalities for expanding the life of fire apparatus
• Letters of support for conservation officer reclassification from Townships of Coleman and Lanark Highlands
• Autism Ontario notice about World Autism Day on April 2, 2024

Heritage Trail Committee

The Heritage Trail Committee is meeting to adopt the agenda, approve previous minutes, and receive updates on land trust, new membership, fundraising, and signage. No decisions or public hearings are listed; the agenda is largely procedural with routine status reports.

• Review of January 17, 2024 meeting minutes
• Land Trust Update
• New Membership Update
• Fundraising Update
• Sign Update

The Heritage Trail Committee met on February 21, 2024 and received its previous minutes, adopted the agenda, and adjourned at 1:23 p.m. The committee heard updates only: the Land Trust is offering bat boxes to the Town at no cost, but the Town is requesting more information (maintenance plan, health and safety concerns, pollinator gardens) before deciding. Councillor Cheropita put forth a notice of motion to welcome new members, and Chair Tony Chisholm confirmed a dog walk fundraiser will be held on a Saturday in June with planning starting in March. No substantive decisions were made beyond receiving minutes and adopting the agenda.

• Agenda adopted as presented (moved by Councillor Cheropita)
• January 17, 2024 minutes received (moved by Cheryl Morris)
• No decision on bat box offer — Town requesting more information first
• Notice of motion put forth to welcome new members (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned unanimously at 1:23 p.m.

Committee of Adjustment

The Committee of Adjustment will review several minor variance and consent applications. These applications involve property changes at 540 Simcoe Street, 724 Green Street, and 474 Simcoe Street.

• Minor Variance Application A-39/23 at 540 Simcoe Street
• Minor Variance Applications A-01/24 & A-02/24 at 724 Green Street
• Consent Application B-01/24 at 724 Green Street
• Consent Application B-35/23 at 474 Simcoe Street

The Committee of Adjustment approved two minor variance applications and two consent applications for properties on Simcoe Street and Green Street. All approvals were subject to specific conditions, including tree preservation plans, legal surveys, and payment of cash-in-lieu for parkland dedication. No applications were denied or tabled.

• Approved Minor Variance A-39/23 for 540 Simcoe Street
• Approved Minor Variance A-01/24 & A-02/24 for 724 Green Street
• Approved Consent Application B-01/24 for 724 Green Street
• Approved Consent Application B-35/23 for 474 Simcoe Street
• Approved January 18, 2024 minutes by unanimous consent

Committee of the Whole - General

The Committee of the Whole - General is meeting to discuss several items, including tree removal appeals for two properties, a proposed subdivision, and the recruitment of a new Chief Administrative Officer. The agenda also includes a closed session for personal matters and negotiations related to NOTL Energy.

• Tree appeal hearings for 680 Penner Street and 342 Victoria Street
• CAO recruitment recommendation report (CAO-24-008)
• Modero Estates Subdivision – OPA-02-2022, ZBA-07-2022 & 26T-18-22-01 on Concession 7 Road (West Side) north of York Road
• 2024 Solar Eclipse information package (FES-24-003)
• Temporary Use By-law extension for Temporary Patio Program (CDS-24-017)

Council approved an Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-law Amendment, and Draft Plan of Subdivision for Modero Estates. A recruitment process and committee for a new Chief Administrative Officer were established. Decisions were also made on two tree removal permit appeals.

• Approved Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-law Amendment, and Draft Plan of Subdivision for Modero Estates
• Approved CAO recruitment and selection process and Terms of Reference
• Appointed Councillors Wiens, O'Connor, and Mavridis to the CAO Recruitment Committee
• Approved tree removal permit for 680 Penner Street on condition a tree be replanted
• Denied tree removal permit for 342 Victoria Street
• Directed CAO to return to a future meeting with analysis regarding NOTL Energy

Information Package

This is an information package for the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, containing media releases and notices of decision. It includes the Town Council's approval of the 2024 capital budget, installation of interpretive signage along the Heritage Trail, and zoning by-law amendment decisions for four properties. The package also includes correspondence from other municipalities on topics like rail transit, cemetery management, firefighting strategy, mental health, and social/economic prosperity.

• 2024 Capital Budget approved by Town Council
• Heritage Trail interpretive signage installed
• ZBA-22-2023 decision for 135 Queen Street
• ZBA-23-2023 decision for 145 Hunter Road
• ZBA-19-2023 decision for 474 Simcoe Street

Irrigation Committee

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Irrigation Committee meets by video conference to discuss routine business including an NPCA memorandum of understanding, Canada Infrastructure Bank funding, capital buy-in billing, meters, pump status, and an all-growers meeting. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no votes or decisions listed.

• NPCA MOU discussion
• Canada Infrastructure Bank funding with Project Charter attachment
• Capital buy-in billing chart for 2024 season
• Meters update
• Pump status update

The committee discussed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority regarding Virgil Dams. Members reviewed a funding request for a Canada Infrastructure Bank project and received updates on 2024 irrigation billing rates.

• Adopted the meeting agenda
• Received minutes from November 8, 2023
• Agreed to investigate placing flow meters on both sides of hydro canal pumps
• Set 2024 irrigation rate at $41.23/Acre

Municipal Heritage Committee

The Municipal Heritage Committee is meeting to discuss heritage designations for several properties, including draft by-laws for 1 Paxton Lane, 1294 McNab Road, and 14795 Niagara River Parkway, and reports for 23 Vincent Avenue (Peake Inn) and 46 Johnson Street (Barker Hall). They will also hear a presentation on the Property Standards By-law, review a letter regarding St. Mark's designation, and provide comments on a seasonal kiosk at the Ambassador. The meeting includes routine items like adopting the agenda and previous minutes.

• Draft heritage designation by-laws for 1 Paxton Lane, 1294 McNab Road, and 14795 Niagara River Parkway
• Heritage designation reports for 23 Vincent Avenue (Peake Inn) and 46 Johnson Street (Barker Hall)
• Request for comments on Ambassador Seasonal Kiosk (CDS-24-018)
• Presentation on Property Standards By-law overview
• St. Mark's designation letter

The Municipal Heritage Committee approved recommendations to Council on heritage designation for 1 Paxton Lane, 1294-1296 McNab and 14795 Niagara River Parkway, including issuing Notices of Intent to Designate. It also endorsed a third set of priority heritage properties and approved design recommendations for the Ambassador Seasonal Kiosk. A property standards by-law presentation was received, and no new business decisions were made.

• Approved recommendations for Ambassador Seasonal Kiosk design (map on back, red shingling, locks, storage/transportation talks)
• Approved endorsing in principle designation by-laws for 1 Paxton Lane, 1294-1296 McNab, 14795 Niagara River Parkway
• Approved issuing Notice of Intent to Designate for each property
• Approved classifying 1 Paxton Lane as Neo-Classical
• Approved removing Christ Church and replacing with 'formally known as (Christ Church)'
• Approved heritage advice to 1 Paxton Lane on garage door colour
• Approved McNabb parallels wheelchair ramp and vegetation in front of ramp
• Approved endorsing third set list of Heritage Properties for Priority Designation

Committee of the Whole - Planning

The Committee of the Whole - Planning is meeting to discuss and potentially decide on several planning matters, including a public meeting for a Character Study Official Plan Amendment for the Rand Estate and John Street East area, and consent agenda items for zoning and official plan amendments at 431 Line 2 Road and 524 York Road. The agenda also includes an information report on the Character Study.

• Public meeting for Character Study Official Plan Amendment (OPA-1-2024) covering Rand Estate and John Street East
• Zoning by-law amendment at 431 Line 2 Road (ZBA-24-2023)
• Official plan and zoning amendments at 524 York Road (OPA-03-2021, ZBA-07-2021)
• Information report on Character Study OPA-1-2024

The Committee approved a Zoning By-law Amendment for 431 Line 2 Road and both an Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendment for 524 York Road. An information report regarding a Character Study Official Plan Amendment was also received following public delegations.

• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-24-2023 for 431 Line 2 Road
• Approved Official Plan Amendment OPA-03-2021 for 524 York Road
• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-07-2021 for 524 York Road
• Received Information Report Character Study Official Plan Amendment OPA-1-2024

Special Council Meeting

This special council meeting focuses on adopting the 2024 capital budget, with a presentation and a by-law for its adoption. Council will also hold closed sessions for legal advice on the Tawny Ridge planning applications and for labour negotiations. Several budget review committee minutes are on the agenda for approval.

• 2024 Capital Budget presentation and report CS-23-034
• By-law 2024-009 to adopt the 2024 Capital Budget
• By-law 2024-010 for a Community Preparedness Grant
• Closed session: Tawny Ridge Planning Applications (solicitor-client privilege)
• Closed session: Employee Bargaining Group Agreement (labour relations)

Council approved the 2024 Capital Budget and authorized a $750,000 debenture for the Dorchester Street Culvert. The body also passed by-laws regarding the Tawny Ridge Estates Phase 2 development and authorized a new agreement with the Employee Bargaining Group.

• Approved 2024 Capital Budget of $10,217,210
• Approved $750,000 debenturing for C02157 – Dorchester Street Culvert
• Approved By-law 2024-007 and 4316FD-24 for Tawny Ridge Estates Phase 2
• Approved agreement with Employee Bargaining Group for pay and working conditions
• Approved employment terms for non-covered management and supervisory staff
• Approved Budget Review Committee minutes from Sept 27 to Nov 28, 2023
• Passed By-law 2024-010 regarding Community Preparedness Grant

Information Package

This is an information package for the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, containing correspondence from other municipalities and agencies. No decisions are being made; the items are for council's information only.

• Niagara Region email on overhaul of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, 1990
• Niagara Region notice of decision to approve ROPA 2 - Regional Road Allowance Width Update
• City of Niagara Falls public notice under Section 26(3) of the Planning Act
• Town of Orangeville emails on police services board resolution on intimate partner violence and social/economic prosperity review
• Enbridge letter on OEB decision on Phase 1 of the 2024 rebasing application

Urban Design Committee

The Urban Design Committee is meeting to review two development applications: one at 253 Taylor Road and another on the north side of York Road east of Airport Road. The committee will provide design feedback on these proposals, which involve official plan amendments and zoning by-law amendments.

• Urban design review of 253 Taylor Road (OPA-07-2023, ZBA-16-2023)
• Urban design review of north side of York Road, east of Airport Road (OPA-09-2023, ZBA-20-2023)
• Adoption of previous minutes from November 22, 2023

The Committee approved design recommendations for projects at 253 Taylor Road and the north side of York Road. Both applicants are required to return to the Committee during the site plan application process with more landscaping details.

• Approved design recommendations for 253 Taylor Road including enhanced landscaping, sustainability features, and masking of cell towers
• Required 253 Taylor Road applicant to return for site plan application process
• Approved design recommendations for North Side of York Road including removing the drive-thru component and reducing building height to 6-7 storeys
• Required North Side of York Road applicant to return for site plan application process
• Adopted agenda as amended
• Received November 22, 2023 minutes

Council Meeting

Niagara-on-the-Lake Council is meeting to hear two short-term rental appeal hearings, receive the final audit report from KPMG, and consider a consent agenda with several by-laws, including zoning amendments and the closure of a portion of Tanbark Road. The meeting also includes a closed session for labour relations regarding an employee bargaining group agreement.

• Short-term rental appeal hearings for 282 East-West Line and 729 Line 1 Road
• By-law 2024-004: 2024 Interim Levy of Realty Taxes
• By-law 2024-005: Closing a portion of Tanbark Road
• Zoning by-laws for 135 Queen Street, 474 Simcoe Street, 1696 Niagara Stone Road, 145 Hunter Road, and Tawny Ridge phases
• Chautauqua Area 30 kph speed limit pilot

Council passed multiple zoning amendments and approved the closure of a portion of Tanbark Road. The board appointed Bruce Zvaniga as a Director of Niagara-on-the-Lake Energy and ruled on two short-term rental appeals.

• Approved short-term rental exemption for 282 East West Line
• Upheld denial of short-term rental application for 729 Line 1 Road
• Approved closing a portion of Tanbark Road (4-3)
• Approved By-law 4316FC-24 for Tawny Ridge Phase 1 (5-2)
• Defeated By-law 4316FD-24 for Tawny Ridge Phase 2 (3-4)
• Approved By-law 4316FE-24 for 474 Simcoe Street (4-3)
• Approved By-law 2024-006 for Tawny Ridge Phase 1 (4-3)
• Appointed Bruce Zvaniga as Director of Niagara-on-the-Lake Energy

Open House

This is an open house, not a decision-making meeting, held by Niagara-on-the-Lake to present and discuss a character study for the Rand Estate and John Street East area, tied to Official Plan Amendment OPA-01-2024. The public can attend virtually and view the attached study document. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Character Study for Rand Estate and John Street East (OPA-01-2024)
• Virtual open house via video conference

Tourism Strategy Committee

The Tourism Strategy Committee is meeting to review the draft final Tourism Strategy Report and Draft Implementation Plan, and to receive a progress update on the Economic Impact Assessment. The agenda is otherwise routine, with standard items like call to order, adoption of agenda, and approval of previous minutes.

• Review of Draft Final Tourism Strategy Report
• Review of Draft Implementation Plan
• Progress update on Economic Impact Assessment
• Approval of December 18, 2023 minutes

The Tourism Strategy Committee adopted its agenda and received the December 18, 2023 minutes. Consultant Rebecca Godfrey of CRBE presented the Draft Tourism Strategy Report and Draft Implementation Plan; the committee suggested edits and asked clarifying questions. Godfrey also gave a progress update on the Economic Impact Assessment and asked that additional comments and file-labeled images be emailed to the consultant by February 5, 2024, at noon for consideration in the final report. No new business was raised and the meeting adjourned unanimously at 12:18 p.m.

• Agenda adopted as presented (moved by Robin Garrett)
• December 18, 2023 minutes received (moved by Tim Jennings)
• No conflict of interest declared
• Draft Tourism Strategy Report presented; committee suggested edits and asked clarifying questions
• Draft Implementation Plan presented; committee suggested edits
• Comment and image submission deadline set for February 5, 2024, at noon
• Next meeting scheduled for Monday, March 4, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.
• Meeting adjourned unanimously at 12:18 p.m.

Information Package

This is an information package, not a decision-making meeting. Council is receiving public announcements and correspondence from other Ontario municipalities on topics such as amalgamation, the Rand Estate, fire apparatus lifespan, volunteer firefighter tax credits, road safety, and cemetery management. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Statement from Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa regarding amalgamation
• Town statement on Rand Estate update
• Correspondence supporting Bill C-130 tax credit for volunteer firefighters
• Emails from multiple townships requesting provincial cemetery management support
• Media release on snow and sidewalk plow naming contest

Special Council Meeting

This special council meeting is primarily focused on a proposed Official Plan Amendment (OPA-04-2023) and Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA-13-2023) for the northwest side of King Street, south of Cottage Street. The council will hear delegations from residents and planning representatives, then consider the consent agenda item for this development. The meeting also includes a closed session for litigation matters related to the same King Street property, and a by-law to confirm previous council proceedings.

• Public delegations on OPA-04-2023 and ZBA-13-2023 for NW side of King Street, south of Cottage Street
• Consent agenda item CDS-24-010: NW Side of King Street, South of Cottage Street - OPA-04-2023, ZBA-13-2023
• Closed session under Section 239(2)(e) re: litigation on King Street property
• By-Law 2024-003 to confirm proceedings of January 16, 2024 council meeting

At a special meeting on January 24, 2024, Niagara-on-the-Lake Council decided not to redesignate lands on the northwest side of King Street, south of Cottage Street (OPA-04-2023, ZBA-13-2023, report CDS-24-010) from 'Low Density Residential'. Council voted 5-2 to hire an outside planner to support that position and to direct the Town's Solicitor to proceed to the scheduled Ontario Land Tribunal hearing based on maintaining the current Official Plan designation. Earlier, Council met in closed session under Section 239(2)(e) regarding litigation or potential litigation about the same King Street lands and rose with no report. Council also heard nine delegations on the proposed development and passed By-law 2024-003 confirming its proceedings.

• Declined to redesignate NW side of King Street, south of Cottage Street from 'Low Density Residential' (OPA-04-2023, ZBA-13-2023, CDS-24-010) — Approved 5-2
• Directed Town Solicitor to proceed to the scheduled Ontario Land Tribunal hearing maintaining the current 'Low Density Residential' Official Plan designation — part of the same 5-2 motion
• Directed that an outside planner be hired to support the Town's position at the OLT — part of the same 5-2 motion
• Lifted report CDS-24-010 from the consent agenda for discussion — Approved 7-0
• Held a closed session under Section 239(2)(e) on litigation/potential litigation regarding the NW side of King Street, south of Cottage Street, and rose with no report — Approved 6-0
• Passed By-law 2024-003 confirming Council proceedings for January 24, 2024 — Approved 7-0
• Adopted the agenda as presented — Approved 6-0
• Adjourned at 7:43 p.m. to the next Council meeting on January 30, 2024 — Approved 7-0

Committee of Adjustment

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Committee of Adjustment is meeting to consider three minor variance applications at 146 East and West Line, 265 Ricardo Street, and 318 Victoria Street. The committee will also approve minutes from the December 21, 2023 meeting and set the next meeting date.

• Minor Variance Application A-36/23 – 146 East and West Line (CDS-24-013)
• Minor Variance Application A-37/23 – 265 Ricardo Street (CDS-24-008)
• Minor Variance Application A-38/23 – 318 Victoria Street (CDS-24-009)
• Approval of December 21, 2023 minutes
• Next meeting scheduled for February 15, 2024 at 6:00 pm

The Committee of Adjustment approved three minor variance applications for properties at 146 East and West Line, 265 Ricardo Street, and 318 Victoria Street. Each approval was subject to conditions, primarily requiring archaeological assessments before any site disturbance. The committee also discussed updates to the Town's Procedural By-law regarding meeting procedures and technology use.

• Approved Minor Variance A-36/23 for 146 East and West Line with archaeological and usage conditions
• Approved Minor Variance A-37/23 for 265 Ricardo Street with archaeological assessment condition
• Approved Minor Variance A-38/23 for 318 Victoria Street with archaeological assessment condition
• Approved December 21, 2023 minutes by unanimous consent
• Discussed updates to Procedural By-law (speaking rights, reporting, iPad usage)

Heritage Trail Committee

The Heritage Trail Committee is holding a routine meeting with no public hearings or major decisions listed. The agenda covers standard items: adopting the agenda, reviewing previous minutes, and discussing new membership, a finance update, and fundraising events. The next meeting is scheduled for February 21, 2024.

• Review of post-meeting minutes from December 20, 2023
• Discussion of new committee membership
• Finance update
• Fundraising event planning

The Heritage Trail Committee met on January 17, 2024, and approved the agenda as amended and the minutes from December 20, 2023. The committee discussed ongoing planning for a Dog Walk in June, a proposal from a developer to use part of the Heritage Trail as an entranceway for the Charlotte Street development, and a delay in new signage until mid-February. No substantive decisions beyond procedural approvals were recorded.

• Approved agenda as amended (moved by Chair Rick Meloen)
• Approved minutes from December 20, 2023 (moved by Chair Rick Meloen)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:18 PM (moved by Chair Rick Meloen)

Committee of the Whole - General

The Committee of the Whole - General is meeting to discuss and potentially decide on several planning and policy items. Key items include the Tawny Ridge Estates subdivision (phases 1 and 2) on Tanbark and Warner Roads, a zoning by-law amendment for the Pillitteri Estate Winery at 1696 Niagara Stone Road, and a review of the Temporary Patio Program. The agenda also includes delegations on an Indigenous mobile mental health crisis unit and traffic calming near Ryerson Park, plus a progress report on the accessibility plan.

• Tawny Ridge Estates - Phase 1 and 2 (OPAs, ZBAs, Subdivisions) - Tanbark Road and Warner Road
• 1696 Niagara Stone Road (Pillitteri Estate Winery) Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-17-2022
• Councillor O'Connor - Motion re: Temporary Patio Program
• Temporary Patio Program Review – Additional Information, CDS-24-007
• Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee Multi-Year Accessibility Plan for 2022-2026 - Progress Report

The Committee of the Whole approved Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments and draft subdivision plans for Tawny Ridge Estates Phase 1 and 2 on Tanbark Road and Warner Road, with added parking and crosswalk conditions. It also approved a zoning amendment for 1696 Niagara Stone Road (Pillitteri Estate Winery). A motion to end the Temporary Patio Program was defeated, while staff were directed to draft a permanent seasonal patio program and extend the temporary by-law to February 28, 2025. Council also directed a 30 km/h speed limit trial in the Chautauqua area.

• Approved Tawny Ridge Estates Phase 1 and 2 Official Plan amendments, Zoning By-law amendments, and draft subdivision plans
• Approved requiring 2 parking spaces per unit for stacked townhouses in Tawny Ridge Phase 2
• Approved requiring a pedestrian crosswalk on Tanbark Road and shifting walkway blocks in Tawny Ridge Phases 1 and 2
• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-17-2022 for 1696 Niagara Stone Road (Pillitteri Estate Winery)
• Defeated motion to sunset the Temporary Patio Program
• Approved directing staff to prepare a permanent Seasonal Patio Program for food and drink establishments in the urban area
• Approved extending the Temporary Use By-law for patios in the urban area until February 28, 2025
• Approved directing staff to reduce the speed limit in the Chautauqua area to 30 km/h for a one-year trial and report back on traffic calming for Shakespeare Avenue

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting with a closed session under Section 239(2)(e) for litigation or potential litigation affecting the municipality, specifically regarding the northwest side of King Street, south of Cottage Street. The only public action is adoption of By-Law 2024-002 to confirm the council proceedings of January 16, 2024. No other substantive decisions or discussions are on the agenda.

• Closed session under Section 239(2)(e) re: litigation on northwest side of King Street, south of Cottage Street
• By-Law 2024-002 to confirm council proceedings of January 16, 2024

Council met in a closed session to discuss litigation regarding the northwest side of King Street, south of Cottage Street. Following the session, Council scheduled a special meeting for January 24, 2024, to include the King Street Report for public review.

• Approved agenda (5-1)
• Approved closed session regarding King Street litigation (6-0)
• Approved direction for legal counsel and scheduled special meeting for Jan 24 (8-0)
• Passed By-law 2024-002 regarding Council Proceedings (8-0)

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting with a closed session to receive solicitor-client privileged advice regarding 144 & 176 John Street East, 200 John Street, and 588 Charlotte Street. The only open item is a by-law to confirm the proceedings of this meeting. No other substantive decisions are on the agenda.

• Closed session under Section 239(2)(f) for solicitor-client privilege regarding 144 & 176 John Street East, 200 John Street & 588 Charlotte Street
• By-Law 2024-001 to confirm council proceedings of January 12, 2024

Council voted to withdraw consent for Solmar Properties to access Town-owned lands at Charlotte Street. The Town will release a public statement regarding the Randwood Estate properties development on January 17, 2024.

• Withdrew consent for Solmar Properties access over Town owned lands at Charlotte Street (7-0)
• Approved preparation of public statement on Randwood Estate properties development for January 17, 2024 (7-0)
• Passed By-law 2024-001 regarding Council Proceedings (7-0)

Information Package

This is an information package, not a decision-making meeting. Council is receiving correspondence from Niagara Region about approved 2024 water/wastewater and waste management budgets, plus letters from other municipalities on provincial matters. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Niagara Region 2024 water and wastewater operating budget and rate-setting by-laws
• Niagara Region 2024 waste management services operating budget and requisition
• Township of Alnwick Haldimand letter on Bill 3 Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act
• Township of Alnwick Haldimand letter on amending Income Tax Volunteer Fire Fighter Tax Credit
• Township of Wainfleet request for cemetery transfer-abandonment administration support

Municipal Heritage Committee

The Municipal Heritage Committee is meeting to review a heritage permit application for the Cenotaph and Clock restoration, and to consider priority heritage designation reports and draft by-laws for several properties. The agenda also includes a property standards by-law overview and a review of heritage application timelines. No votes are listed on the agenda; items are presented for discussion and recommendation.

• Heritage Permit Application HER-19-2023 for Cenotaph and Clock restoration (CDS-24-003)
• Heritage designation reports for 1 Paxton Lane (Locust Hall), 1294 McNab Road (Anglican Christ Church), 14795 Niagara River Parkway (Glencairn Hall)
• Draft designation by-laws for 130 Front Street and 12 Princess Street
• Property Standards By-law Overview presentation
• Heritage Applications and Timelines Review presentation

The Municipal Heritage Committee approved recommendations to Council for the restoration of the Cenotaph and the heritage designation of five properties. Staff were directed to prepare draft by-laws for three of these locations.

• Recommended approval of restoration for Cenotaph at Queen Street and King Street (Approved)
• Endorsed pursuit of designation for 1 Paxton Lane, 1294 McNab Road, and 14795 Niagara River Parkway (Approved)
• Endorsed designation by-laws and Notice of Intent to Designate for 130 Front Street and 12 Princess Street (Approved)

Committee of the Whole - Planning

The Committee of the Whole - Planning is meeting to discuss and potentially decide on several planning matters, including a public meeting for a zoning by-law amendment at 431 Line 2 Road, a delegation regarding 474 Simcoe Street, and consent agenda items covering zoning amendments and a subdivision extension. The agenda includes both public hearings and recommendation reports.

• Public meeting for ZBA-24-2023 at 431 Line 2 Road
• Zoning by-law amendment ZBA-19-2023 at 474 Simcoe Street
• Zoning by-law amendment ZBA-22-2023 at 135 Queen Street
• Zoning by-law amendment ZBA-23-2023 at 145 Hunter Road
• Extension of draft plan approval for Niagara-on-the-Green (North) Subdivision (26T-95005)

The Committee approved zoning by-law amendments for 474 Simcoe Street, 135 Queen Street, and 145 Hunter Road. A two-year draft plan approval extension was granted for the Niagara-on-the-Green (North) Subdivision. The Committee also agreed to send a letter of support for volunteer firefighter tax credit increases.

• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment for 474 Simcoe Street (4-2)
• Directed staff to consider tree preservation for 474 Simcoe Street conditions (4-2)
• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment for 135 Queen Street (Approved)
• Approved Zoning By-law Amendment for 145 Hunter Road (Approved)
• Approved 2-year draft plan extension for Niagara-on-the-Green (North) Subdivision until Dec 28, 2025 (Approved)
• Approved sending letter of support for volunteer firefighter tax credit increase to Minister of Finance, MP and AMO (Approved)

Information Package

This is an information package for the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, not a decision-making meeting. It includes notices of decisions on zoning by-law amendments for properties at 434 Hunter Road, 451 Line 1 Road, and 1436 & 1442 York Road, plus a revised public meeting notice for 431 Line 2 Road and a hearing notice for Butler's Garden Development Inc. The package also contains correspondence from Niagara Region, other municipalities, and other bodies on topics like waste management, blue box transition, and various advocacy requests.

• Notice of Decision ZBA-06-2023 for 434 Hunter Road
• Notice of Decision ZBA-21-2023 for 451 Line 1 Road
• Notice of Decision ZBA-17-2023 for 1436 & 1442 York Road
• Notice of Public Meeting (Revised Start Time) ZBA-24-2023 for 431 Line 2 Road
• Notice of Hearing OLT-23-001106 for Butler's Garden Development Inc.