Owen Sound public meetings in 2024
88 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will receive a presentation on the draft Master Storm Water Management and Drainage Plan. Members will also consider a boundary road agreement with Georgian Bluffs and a motion regarding a potential transit subcommittee.
- Deputation from Tatham Engineering regarding the draft Master Storm Water Management and Drainage Plan
- Report OP-24-049 regarding the Boundary Road Agreement Georgian Bluffs
- Motion by Deputy Mayor Greig to study the feasibility of a transit subcommittee
- Status update memo on the Downtown River Precinct Project
The Operations Committee recommended that City Council direct staff to bring forward a by-law authorizing the Mayor and Clerk to execute the Boundary Road agreement with Georgian Bluffs. The committee also received a status update on the Downtown River Precinct Project, noting substantial completion on December 6, 2024. A deputation on the draft Storm Water Management and Drainage Plan was presented, with next steps to assess overflow spill risks. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Recommended Council direct staff to bring forward by-law for Boundary Road agreement with Georgian Bluffs (carried)
- Received Downtown River Precinct Project status update for information (carried)
- Approved minutes of November 21, 2024 meeting (carried)
Committee - Community Services
The Community Services Committee is meeting to discuss several staff reports regarding city planning, heritage properties, and facility fees. Key items include a demolition request for a listed property and a review of non-resident lacrosse fees.
- Request from Royal Rose Court for partial demolition of listed property of Jail (Report CS-24-111)
- Parkland contributions for site plan applications (Report CS-24-108)
- Non-resident fee review for Summer 2025 Lacrosse (Report CS-24-110)
- Partnership with the Scenic City Order of Good Cheer regarding Kelso Beach at Nawash Park (Report CS-24-106)
- November 2024 Development Update from the Chief Building Official
The Community Services Committee recommended that City Council direct staff to prepare a draft Parkland Conveyance by-law for site plan approvals. The committee also recommended allowing demolition of portions of the listed Royal Rose Court property, reducing the non-resident lacrosse fee for 2025, and pursuing a partnership for the Kelso Beach playground and splash pad. All recommendations require final approval by City Council.
- Recommended drafting a Parkland Conveyance by-law for site plan approvals (carried)
- Recommended permitting demolition of specified structures at Royal Rose Court (carried)
- Recommended reducing non-resident lacrosse fee to $50+HST for Owen Sound Minor Lacrosse for 2025 only (carried)
- Recommended bringing forward a contribution agreement for Kelso Beach playground and splash pad partnership (carried)
- Recommended Council receive November 2024 Chief Building Official update for information (carried)
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment is meeting to consider three specific application files for properties in Owen Sound. The body will also review the minutes from the October 15, 2024 meeting.
- Application A10-2024 for 901 2nd Avenue East (TD Bank)
- Application A11-2024 for 241 9th Street West (Murphy Construction)
- Application A12-2024 for 986-1000 5th Avenue East (Barry's Construction)
The Committee of Adjustment approved all three minor variance applications on the agenda, each subject to conditions in the respective staff reports. The approvals cover properties at 901 2nd Avenue East, 241-261 9th Street West, and 986-1000 5th Avenue East. All motions were carried.
- Approved minor variance A10-2024 for 901 2nd Avenue East (TD Bank) with conditions (carried)
- Approved minor variance A11-2024 for 241-261 9th Street West (Murphy Home and Design) with conditions (carried)
- Approved minor variance A12-2024 for 986-1000 5th Avenue East (Barry's Construction) with conditions (carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council will confirm meeting minutes, approve by-laws for medical resident housing and road rehabilitation, and select members for 2025 boards and committees.
- By-law to authorize agreement with Ontario for 9th Avenue East road rehabilitation
- By-law to authorize MOU with County of Grey for medical residents' accommodation
- By-law to appoint Todd Robins and Renee Robins to enforce Noise By-law
- By-law to authorize agreement with Paymentus for electronic bill payment services
- By-law to amend delegation authority for Alternative Locate Agreements
Council defeated a motion to explore a lobbyist registry by-law in a 7-2 recorded vote. Council approved seven by-laws, including agreements for medical student housing, a Connecting Links contribution, and electronic bill payment services. Council also directed staff to prepare by-laws for 2025 board/committee appointments and to delegate authority for utility locate agreements.
- Defeated motion to explore lobbyist registry by-law (7-2)
- Approved by-law for MOU with County of Grey and Rural Ontario Medical Program for medical residents' accommodation
- Approved by-law authorizing Connecting Links Program contribution agreement (Highway 26 – 16th Street East Pedestrian Tunnel)
- Approved by-law amending Delegation of Powers to allow Director of Public Works to execute Alternative Locate Agreements
- Approved by-law appointing Todd Robins and Renee Robins to enforce Noise By-law and Matt Given as Inspector/Parking Enforcement Officer
- Approved by-law for third amending agreement with Paymentus Corporation for electronic bill payment services
- Directed staff to bring forward 2025 Board and Committee By-law with terms effective February 1, 2025
- Directed staff to report on options for committee structures
Committee - Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to discuss several staff reports regarding city service strategies. The body will review updates on customer service, succession planning, by-law services, and park operating costs.
- Review of Park Classification System, Service Levels and Associated Operating Costs (Project 3a2)
- Winter Maintenance Review (Project 5b1)
- Customer Service Strategy (Project 1b4)
- Provision of By-law Services Update (Project 1c5)
- Partner Agreements for Services used by Non-Residents (Project 3b2)
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee recommended that City Council approve an updated park classification system and direct staff to use an 800-metre walking distance standard for park and playground coverage. It also recommended approving a winter-maintained width of 1.45 metres for multi-use paths and proceeding with further winter maintenance review phases, including deferring road policy changes until new traffic data is collected. Other reports on customer service, succession planning, by-law services, partner agreements, and year-end recap were recommended for information only.
- Recommended approving updated park classification system (SR-241211-005)
- Recommended 800m walking distance standard for neighbourhood/community parks and playgrounds (SR-241211-005)
- Recommended approving 1.45m winter-maintained width for multi-use paths (SR-241211-007)
- Recommended directing staff on winter maintenance review phases, including deferring road policy changes (SR-241211-007)
- Recommended Council receive customer service strategy report for information (SR-241211-002)
- Recommended Council direct staff to bring forward by-law for revised Recruitment and Selection Policy HR-011 (SR-241211-003)
- Recommended Council receive by-law services update report for information (SR-241211-004)
- Recommended Council receive partner agreements and year-end recap reports for information (SR-241211-006, SR-241211-008)
Council Meeting - Special
The agenda for the Owen Sound Council Special meeting on 2024-12-10 contains no listed items. It appears to consist only of procedural placeholders and no decisions or discussions are specified.
Council Meeting - Special
The city council holds a special meeting to receive a presentation on the 2025 draft budget and consider a multi-year capital plan update for 2025-2029. Other items include reports on in-sourcing licensed plumbing services, the heritage property tax relief program, a Vision 2050 update, and a fire station expansion pre-design study. The meeting also includes correspondence regarding the Tom Thomson Art Gallery budget.
- Presentation of 2025 Draft Budget with operating tally and staffing complement
- Multi-Year Capital Plan Update for 2025-2029 with project changes summary
- Report OP-24-044 on in-sourcing of licensed plumbing services
- Report CS-24-048 on Heritage Property Tax Relief Program 2023 refunds and request to increase program budget
- Report CR-24-121 on Owen Sound Fire Station expansion and renovation pre-design study
Council reviewed the 2025 draft operating budget and the 2025-2029 Multi-Year Capital Plan. The capital plan was approved as amended, including adding a $5.4 million fire station expansion and renovation project for 2026 and removing the Brooke Basin A3 project. Several budget-related motions were carried, including directing staff to request the Police Services Board limit its 2025 budget increase to 5% and to report on garbage bag tag costs. A motion to remove a new part-time position at the Tom Thomson Art Gallery was defeated.
- Approved 2025-2029 Multi-Year Capital Plan as amended (carried)
- Added $5.4M Fire Station Expansion and Renovation as 2026 project (carried)
- Directed Police Services Board to limit 2025 budget increase to 5% (carried)
- Removed Brooke Basin A3 project from five-year capital plan (carried)
- Directed staff to report on framework for part-time art gallery position (carried)
- Directed staff to report on garbage bag tag cost increase (carried, 5-4)
- Defeated motion to remove new part-time Tom Thomson Art Gallery position (defeated, 4-5)
- Defeated motion to create full-time Licensed Plumber position (defeated)
Council Meeting - Regular
Council will consider the 2025 Interim Tax Levy By-Law and award multiple contracts, including water meter replacement, insurance, and animal control services. Deputations include Brightshores Health System on health and wellness and the Métis Nation of Ontario on violence against women. A motion proposes planning a Local Government Week event for students.
- 2025 Interim Tax Levy By-Law (CR-24-122)
- Award of RFP-24-016: Water Meter Replacement Program
- Award of RFP-24-020: Insurance and Risk Management Services
- Award of RFP-24-023: Animal Control Services
- By-law to amend River District Constitution reducing council and increasing public members
Council approved the River District 2025 budget as presented, and passed several by-laws authorizing contracts for animal control, insurance, and water meter replacement. A motion to approve a tree stewardship recommendation from the Community Services Committee was defeated on a recorded vote (3-6). Council also directed staff to plan a student event for Local Government Week in 2025.
- Approved River District 2025 budget (carried)
- Approved animal control services agreement with Todd Robins and Renee Robins (By-law 2024-129)
- Approved insurance and risk management services agreement with HUB International (By-law 2024-133)
- Approved water meter replacement program agreement with Neptune Technology Group (By-law 2024-134)
- Defeated motion to approve tree stewardship recommendation (3-6)
- Directed staff to plan student event for Local Government Week 2025 (carried)
- Approved 2024 Asset Management Plan for Non-Core Assets (By-law 2024-131)
- Approved amendments to Traffic By-law for parking, speed, and accessible zones (By-law 2024-135)
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will discuss a report on in-sourcing licensed plumbing services (OP-24-044), hear a deputation on sewer and water as a utility, and receive updates on the Alpha Street reconstruction and Downtown River Precinct projects. Items on bus route changes and corrugated cardboard collection are also on the agenda.
- Report OP-24-044 on in-sourcing of licensed plumbing services
- Deputation from Francesca Dobbyn re: sewer and water as a utility
- Status update on Alpha Street reconstruction (November 2024 memo)
- Status update on Downtown River Precinct Project (November 2024 memo)
- Proposed bus stop and route change from East Bayshore Route to Crosstown Route
The Committee recommended that City Council defer a report on in-sourcing licensed plumbing services to the budget meetings on December 9 and 10, 2024. Several other items, including transit route changes and cardboard collection updates, were received for information purposes.
- Approved minutes from October 17, 2024 (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive deputation on sewer and water as a utility for information (Carried)
- Recommended Council defer report OP-24-044 on in-sourcing licensed plumbing services to December 9-10 budget meetings (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive status updates on Alpha Street and Downtown River Precinct projects for information (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive memo on East Bayshore and Crosstown bus route changes for information (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive memo on corrugated cardboard collection changes for information (Carried)
Committee - Community Services
This committee will hear a staff report on updating the City's Official Plan and Zoning By-law and developing urban design guidelines. They will also consider a Community Improvement Plan grant application for 945 2nd Ave E (Sunday Service). A motion previously given calls for staff to report on creating a plan, policy or by-law to protect mature and native trees on private land. Staff will present wrap-ups of summer recreation programs and events.
- Report CS-24-104: update of Official Plan and Zoning By-law and development of urban design guidelines
- Report CS-24-101: Community Improvement Plan grant application for 945 2nd Ave E (Sunday Service)
- Motion for notice from Member Bousfield-Bastedo regarding stewardship of mature and native trees on private land
- Report CS-24-099: Summer Recreation Programs 2024 wrap-up
- Report CS-24-096: 2024 Summer Events wrap-up
The Community Services Committee recommended that City Council direct staff to proceed with the next steps for updating the Official Plan and Zoning By-law and developing Urban Design Guidelines. It also recommended approving grants for a facade and accessibility improvement project at 945 2nd Ave E, and approved a motion to study the protection of mature and native trees on private land, with a recorded vote of 5-3.
- Recommended Council direct staff to proceed with Official Plan and Zoning By-law update and Urban Design Guidelines (carried)
- Recommended approval of Facade and Structural Improvement grant up to $5,000 for 945 2nd Ave E (carried)
- Recommended approval of Accessibility Improvement grant up to $10,000 for 945 2nd Ave E (carried)
- Recommended Council receive Summer Recreation Programs 2024 wrap-up for information (carried)
- Recommended Council direct event year-end surplus to Events Reserve and approve up to $15,000 for event supplies (carried)
- Approved motion to consider creating a plan/policy/by-law for mature and native trees on private land in 2026 work plan (5-3)
Council Meeting - Special
This is a special council meeting with the primary purpose of moving into a closed session to discuss the education and training of members regarding policing. The only scheduled public action is a by-law to confirm the proceedings of this meeting.
- Motion to enter closed session for member education on policing
- By-law No. 2024-120 to confirm the meeting's proceedings
Owen Sound City Council met in a special session to discuss the education and training of members respecting policing in a closed session, with no direction provided. Council also passed the confirming by-law for the meeting.
- Moved into Closed Session to consider a matter regarding the education and training of members respecting policing (Carried)
- Passed By-law No. 2024-120 to confirm the proceedings of the meeting (Carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council will consider adopting a transit fee amendment and awarding a streetlight maintenance contract. The meeting also includes a confirmation of minutes, a report on the 2025 draft budget engagement, and a deputation from the YMCA.
- By-law to amend Fees and Charges By-law No. 2024-078 for public transit
- By-law to authorize streetlight system maintenance contract (RFT-24-022)
- By-law to authorize a new columbarium at Greenwood Cemetery
- Report on 2025 Draft Budget Committee Engagement Wrap Up
- Deputation from YMCA Owen Sound Grey Bruce regarding annual report
Owen Sound City Council directed staff to bring forward a draft operating budget with a municipal rate increase between 3% and 5% for the December 9, 2024 special meeting. Council also approved a site plan agreement for 1555 18th Avenue East, authorized a building services agreement with the Township of Georgian Bluffs, and enacted several by-laws including authorization for internet and telephone voting in the 2026 municipal election.
- Directed staff to bring forward a draft operating budget with a 3% to 5% municipal rate increase for December 9, 2024 (R-241118-005)
- Directed staff to amend the River District Constitution to reduce City Council members from two to one and add a public member (R-241118-003)
- Directed staff to bring forward a by-law for a building services agreement with the Township of Georgian Bluffs (R-241118-004)
- Approved site plan (ST2023-001) and master servicing agreement at 1555 18th Avenue East, reducing off-site security to 50% (R-241118-006)
- Approved consent agenda items including lottery licences, streetlight maintenance tender, and columbarium purchase (R-241118-007)
- Authorized direct sale of surplus 2004 fire truck by waiving standard procurement provisions (R-241118-008, carried by 2/3)
- Passed multiple by-laws including internet and telephone voting for the 2026 election and public transit fee updates (R-241118-011)
Committee - Corporate Services
The Corporate Services Committee will hear deputations on the RentSafe Owen Sound Collaborative and the 2023 audited financial statements. Staff reports include a pre-design study for the Owen Sound Fire Station expansion and renovation, the 2024 asset management plan covering non-core assets, arenas, corporate facilities, fire services, IT, parks, and roads, and a resolution from AMCTO proposing updates to the Municipal Elections Act. The committee will also receive a 2024 T2 financial update and year-end forecast and discuss a new 'Report a Concern' system.
- Deputation from United Way Bruce Grey on RentSafe Owen Sound Collaborative
- Deputation from BDO Canada on 2023 audited financial statements
- Report CR-24-121: Owen Sound Fire Station expansion and renovation pre-design study
- Report CR-24-124: 2024 Asset Management Plan for non-core assets and facilities
- Report CR-24-115: AMCTO resolution respecting an update to the Municipal Elections Act
The Corporate Services Committee recommended that City Council include the Owen Sound Fire Station Renovation and Expansion project in the 2025-2029 Multi-Year Capital Plan update, with a recorded vote of 6-1. The committee also recommended approving the 2023 audited financial statements, endorsing an AMCTO resolution on the Municipal Elections Act, and approving the 2024 Asset Management Plan for Non-Core Assets. A deputation from United Way Bruce Grey led to a recommendation for a staff report on rental housing habitability issues.
- Recommended including fire station expansion in 2025-2029 capital plan (6-1)
- Recommended approving 2023 audited financial statements (carried)
- Recommended endorsing AMCTO resolution on Municipal Elections Act (carried)
- Recommended approving 2024 Asset Management Plan for Non-Core Assets (carried)
- Recommended receiving Report a Concern form report for information (carried)
- Recommended receiving 2024 T2 financial update for information (carried)
- Recommended staff report on RentSafe housing recommendations (carried)
- Approved minutes of October 10, 2024 meeting (carried)
Committee - Strategic Planning Ad Hoc
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to discuss a staff report regarding the Vision 2050 November 2024 update. The session includes a review of the Future Owen Sound – Vision 2050 Survey Report.
- Report CM-24-040: Vision 2050 - November 2024 Update
- Future Owen Sound – Vision 2050 Survey Report
- Confirmation of September 4, 2024 meeting minutes
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee received an update on Vision 2050, including survey results and a presentation from consultant Jay Pitter. The committee voted to recommend that City Council include a $100,000 business case for initial implementation of the Strategic Plan in the 2025 Operating Budget. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved minutes of September 4, 2024 meeting (carried)
- Recommended Council direct staff to include $100,000 Business Case for Strategic Plan implementation in 2025 Operating Budget (carried)
Board - River District
The River District Board of Management will hold a public meeting to present the 2025 budget. The board will also receive a deputation from BDO Canada LLP on the 2023 audited financial statements and consider an amendment to the River District Constitution. Additional reports cover the 2024 mid-year financial update, a community partner meeting, and a board vacancy. The agenda also includes a police update and final approvals for three business licences.
- Public meeting on 2025 Budget
- Deputation from BDO Canada LLP re: 2023 audited financial statements
- Request for endorsement of amendment to River District Constitution
- Report CR-24-116: 2024 mid-year financial update
- Final approvals for business licences: The Goods Kitchen Pastry Coffee (938 2nd Ave E), Cut Master Salon (882 2nd Ave E), Prohibition Pool & Billiards (1063 2nd Ave E)
The River District Board of Management approved the proposed 2025 River District budget, which includes a 1.95% levy increase, and directed staff to request City Council approval. The board also approved the audited 2023 financial statements, endorsed a constitutional amendment, and directed a $2,000 donation to the Owen Sound Police Services' Citizens on Patrol. Richard Thomas was acclaimed as Vice-Chair.
- Approved 2025 River District budget with 1.95% levy increase (carried)
- Approved audited 2023 financial statements (carried)
- Endorsed amendment to River District Constitution (carried)
- Directed $2,000 donation to Owen Sound Police Services' Citizens on Patrol (carried)
- Directed staff to issue invoice for year-end reserve funding requirement (carried)
- Received Community Partner Meeting report for information (carried)
- Received Board vacancy report for information (carried)
- Richard Thomas acclaimed as Vice-Chair
Committee - Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory
The Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory Committee will discuss the 2025 draft operating budget and a public art condition assessment. The meeting includes updates from the gallery's fundraising and art collection teams.
- 2025 Draft Operating Budget presentation
- Public Art Condition Report (AG-24-010)
- November Update Report (AG-24-011)
- Verbal reports from Fundraising and Art Collection teams
- Correspondence regarding the loan of Stephen Andrews' Sonnets Series to McGill University
The Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory Committee met and recommended that City Council receive the 2025 Draft Operating Budget presentation, the Public Art Condition Report, the November Update Report, and reports from the Fundraising and Art Collection Teams for information purposes. The committee also discussed gallery staffing, fundraising challenges, and the upcoming HVAC renovation, but made no decisions on these topics. The meeting was largely procedural, with all motions carried unanimously.
- Recommended council receive 2025 Draft Operating Budget presentation (carried)
- Recommended council receive Public Art Condition Report AG-24-010 (carried)
- Recommended council receive November Update Report AG-24-011 (carried)
- Recommended council receive Fundraising Team verbal report (carried)
- Recommended council receive Art Collection Team verbal report (carried)
- Recommended council receive correspondence items 12.a-12.e (carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council will discuss a development permit application for 318087 Highway 6 & 10 and the 2025 Grey Sauble Conservation Authority budget. The body is also deciding on several by-laws related to property agreements and city policies.
- Agreement with Hansa Financial & Property Management Inc. regarding 1144 1st Avenue West
- Agreements for catenary lighting in Carney’s Lane and Artists’ Alley
- Proposed Niagara Escarpment Development Permit Application at 318087 Highway 6 & 10
- Adoption of MAT Revenue Allocation Policy AF008
- Review of HR019 Salary Administration and HR015 Vacation Management policies
City Council approved agreements for the installation of catenary lighting in Carneys Lane and Artists’ Alley. Council also formally opposed the extension of municipal water or sanitary services to a proposed development outside of settlement areas in the Municipality of Meaford.
- Approved catenary lighting agreements for Carneys Lane and Artists’ Alley
- Opposed municipal service extensions for a Meaford development
- Directed staff to report on responsibilities for waterlines outside city limits
- Adopted minutes from the October 21, 2024, regular council meeting
- Approved HR019 Salary Administration and HR015 Vacation Management policies
- Passed By-law 2024-117 regarding 1144 1st Avenue West
- Passed By-laws 2024-115, 2024-116, 2024-118, and 2024-119
Committee - TTAG Special Meeting
The Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory Committee will hold a special meeting to review financial presentations and brainstorm fundraising strategies. The group will conduct a S.W.O.T analysis of current revenue sources and discuss next steps.
- Review of TTAG Special Fundraising Meeting Presentation
- Small Group Brainstorming on fundraising strategies
- S.W.O.T analysis of gallery's revenue sources
- Discussion of next steps for fundraising
Council Meeting - Regular
The Owen Sound City Council will discuss a motion asking staff to prepare a report evaluating an interim control by‑law that would prohibit the development of any further drive‑thrus. The meeting also includes a City Manager update, several staff reports on development charge exemptions, parking leases and construction requests, and a consent agenda for recreation‑facility funding. A closed‑session will be held to review prior meeting minutes and privileged advice.
- Motion to request staff report on interim control by‑law prohibiting further drive‑thrus (item 14.a)
- Report on extension of development charge exemption for Hansa Financial, 1144 1st Avenue West (item 10.a)
- Lease of 8 parking spaces in Municipal Lot 3 to Royal Rose Court (item 10.b)
- Request from R. Graham Construction Ltd. regarding 297 18th Street East (Georgian Landing) (item 10.c)
- Community Sport and Recreation Fund application for Bayshore Arena upgrades (item 11.a)
Council approved extending the development charge deferral for the Hansa Financial and Property Management site at 1144 1st Avenue West, contingent on a building permit by March 31, 2025. They also directed staff to assess final building permit fees per the 2024 schedule. For the Georgian Landing project, Council defeated a motion to waive development charges and instead directed staff to charge them in full, while waiving the building permit fee and charging the site plan amendment fee. Council also declined to appoint a member to the Georgian Bay Folk Society board and requested a report on a potential interim control by-law prohibiting new drive-thrus.
- Approved extension of development charge deferral for Hansa property (1144 1st Ave W) (carried)
- Directed staff to assess final building permit fees per 2024 schedule for Hansa property (carried)
- Defeated motion to waive development charges for Georgian Landing (297 18th St E) (defeated)
- Directed staff to charge development charges in full for Georgian Landing (carried)
- Directed staff to charge fee for minor site plan amendment for Georgian Landing (carried)
- Directed staff to waive building permit fee for Georgian Landing (carried)
- Declined invitation to appoint council member to Georgian Bay Folk Society board (carried)
- Requested staff report on interim control by-law prohibiting further drive-thrus (carried)
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will discuss proposed traffic by-law amendments for several streets, review a draft fleet management strategy, and examine transit fare and ridership initiatives. The committee will also hear a presentation on the Public Works and Engineering Operating Budget.
- Traffic by-law amendments proposed for 1st Ave East, 1st Ave West, 7th Street East, and 4th Ave East
- Review of Transit Fares and Ridership Initiatives
- Draft Fleet Management Strategy for Project 1d1
- Public Works and Engineering Operating Budget Presentation
- Sydenham Sportsmen's Association lease renewal at Derby Landfill Property
The Operations Committee recommended City Council approve several traffic by-law amendments, including new parking/loading zones on 1st Avenue East, speed limit reductions to 40 km/h on three streets, and an accessible parking stall on 4th Avenue East. The committee also recommended transit fare increases and new pass options effective January 1, 2025, and endorsed a lease renewal for the Sydenham Sportsmen's Association at the Derby Landfill property. A motion to study a transit subcommittee was postponed to the November 21, 2024 meeting.
- Recommended traffic by-law amendments for parking, speed limits, and accessible stall (carried)
- Recommended lease renewal for Sydenham Sportsmen's Association at Derby Landfill (carried)
- Recommended transit fare increases and new day/10-pass/semester pass options (carried)
- Postponed motion to study transit subcommittee feasibility to Nov 21, 2024 (carried)
- Recommended receiving Public Works & Engineering operating budget presentation (carried)
- Recommended receiving transit dashboard for information (carried)
- Recommended receiving correspondence items 11.a-11.d for information (carried)
- Approved minutes of June 20, 2024 meeting (carried)
Committee - Community Services
The Community Services Committee will receive a presentation on the municipal accommodation tax progress, an update on the Bayshore Community Centre arena floor and boards, and a report on a facade grant for St. George's Anglican Church. A draft of the 2025 operating budget will be presented by the Director of Corporate Services. The meeting will also include discussion of park signage and camping at Kelso Beach, and a notice on mature and native trees on private land.
- Municipal Accommodation Tax Progress Report presented by Diane Austin, CEO of the Owen Sound and District Chamber of Commerce
- Bayshore Community Centre arena floor and boards update (Report CS-24-084)
- Facade and structural improvement grant application for 1049 4th Ave E, St. George's Anglican Church (Report CS-24-086)
- 2025 Draft Operating Budget presentation by the Director of Corporate Services (2025 Draft Operating Budget.pdf)
- Discussion of signage in parks/playgrounds and camping at Kelso Beach Campground (Councilor Farmer)
The Community Services Committee recommended Council approve a facade and structural improvement grant of up to $7,500 for St. George's Anglican Church at 1049 4th Ave E, and direct staff to prepare an agreement. It also recommended a two-year agreement for the Home and Cottage Expo for 2025-2026, and received several reports for information, including the 2025 Operating Budget and Bayshore arena floor update. A notice of motion was given to explore a tree protection by-law for private land.
- Approved recommendation for $7,500 facade grant for St. George's Anglican Church (carried)
- Approved recommendation for two-year Home and Cottage Expo agreement with Grey Bruce Home Builders and Knights of Columbus (carried)
- Received 2025 Operating Budget presentation for information (carried)
- Received Bayshore arena floor and boards update for information (carried)
- Received Provincial Planning Statement 2024 for information (carried)
- Received correspondence items 11.a to 11.e for information (carried)
- Approved minutes of July 17, 2024 meeting (carried)
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment will consider a minor variance and a consent application for a property at 1718 6th Avenue East. Staff has delegated approval for two consent applications at 2707 20th Street East.
- Minor Variance A09-2024 for 1718 6th Avenue East
- Consent B08-2024 for 1718 6th Avenue East
- Staff delegated approval for Consents B09-2024 and B10-2024 for 2707 20th Street East
- Confirmation of September 17, 2024 meeting minutes
- Public hearing procedures for Committee of Adjustment decisions
The Committee of Adjustment approved Minor Variance A09-2024 and Consent Application B08-2024 for 1718 6th Avenue East, both by Barry's Construction and Insulation Ltd., subject to conditions in Schedule 'E' of Staff Reports CS-24-089 and CS-24-090. The approvals followed public comments about protecting mature spruce trees and birds, and the applicant's commitment to preserve or replace trees at a 2:1 ratio. Member Hawko declared a conflict and left the room during the votes. The committee also received an information item on staff delegated approval for applications at 2702 20th Street East.
- Approved Minor Variance A09-2024 for 1718 6th Avenue East, subject to Schedule 'E' conditions (carried)
- Approved Consent Application B08-2024 for 1718 6th Avenue East, subject to Schedule 'E' conditions (carried)
- Approved minutes of the September 17, 2024 meeting as printed (carried)
Committee - Corporate Services
The Corporate Services Committee will confirm the September 12 minutes and hear a presentation on the 2025 Draft Operating Budget. It will also receive reports on city grants to community groups, a property tax write‑off for extenuating circumstances, the 2024 building condition assessments, and election 2026 voting methods. No motions or decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Presentation: 2025 Draft Operating Budget – Director of Corporate Services
- Report CR-24-099: City Grants to Community Groups Update
- Report CR-24-092: Property Tax Write Off – Extenuating Circumstances
- Report CR-24-107: 2024 Building Condition Assessments Summary
- Report CR-24-106: Election 2026 Voting Methods and Inaugural Meeting
The Corporate Services Committee recommended that City Council adopt internet and telephone voting for the 2026 municipal and school board election, and approved a $5,000 budget for an off-site inaugural event. It also recommended a property tax write-off of $5,205.27 and endorsed a community grants policy. A $1,500 budget for the inaugural meeting was defeated.
- Recommended internet & telephone voting for 2026 election (carried)
- Approved $5,000 for off-site 2026 Inaugural Meeting event (carried)
- Defeated $1,500 for Inaugural Meeting (defeated)
- Recommended property tax write-off of $5,205.27 for roll 4259-010-006-26400 (carried)
- Recommended community grants policy by-law (carried)
- Recommended using 2024 Building Condition Assessments in asset management (carried)
- Approved minutes of September 12, 2024 meeting (carried)
Committee - Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee will confirm minutes from its June 12 meeting and receive a series of staff reports on projects such as fleet management, onboarding, civil marriage services, and Microsoft Teams integration. It will then vote on a motion to enter closed session to consider a labour‑relations matter related to Service Review Projects 1c2, 1c3 and 1c4. The meeting ends with a public question period and adjournment.
- Motion to move into closed session to consider labour relations and employee negotiations for Service Review Projects 1c2, 1c3, 1c4
- Report CR-24-110: Draft Fleet Management Strategy (Project 1d1)
- Report CR-24-109: Comprehensive Onboarding Program update (Project 1a1)
- Report CR-24-098: Civil Marriage Services update (Project 1a5)
- Report CR-24-104: Integration of Microsoft Teams (Project 1b1)
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee made several recommendations to City Council, including approving the draft Fleet Management Strategy and directing staff to include the expansion of the Automatic Vehicle Locator program in the 2025 Operating Budget. The committee also recommended continuing the Tourism pilot at the Tom Thomson Art Gallery for 2025 and received several reports for information. All motions were carried unanimously.
- Recommended Council approve the Fleet Management Strategy (carried)
- Recommended Council direct staff to include AVL expansion in 2025 Operating Budget and develop an AVL Policy (carried)
- Recommended Council continue the Tourism pilot at the Tom Thomson Art Gallery for 2025 (carried)
- Recommended Council receive onboarding program update for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive civil marriage services update for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive Microsoft Teams integration report for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive agreement development policy report for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive KPI and revenue targets report for information (carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
The Owen Sound City Council will adopt three by‑laws: confirming the meeting proceedings, authorizing a Heritage Conservation and Maintenance Agreement with Marianne Williams for the property at 795 2nd Avenue West (Kennedy Terrace), and updating dog licensing regulations while repealing By‑law No. 2011‑156. Staff reports on 2025 Board and Committee By‑law housekeeping and a proposed County of Grey Centralized Planning Service Model will also be presented. No public meetings, deputations, or closed‑session items are scheduled.
- By‑law No. 2024‑111 – confirm proceedings of the Regular Council meeting of Oct. 7, 2024
- By‑law No. 2024‑112 – authorize Mayor and Clerk to execute a Heritage Conservation and Maintenance Agreement with Marianne Williams for 795 2nd Avenue West (Kennedy Terrace)
- By‑law No. 2024‑113 – licence, regulate and control dogs and repeal By‑law No. 2011‑156
- Report CR‑24‑101 – 2025 Board and Committee By‑law Housekeeping
- Report CR‑24‑085 – Proposed County of Grey Centralized Planning Service Model
Council approved staff directions to return to the former application process for 2025 board and committee recruitment, remove the scoring tool for public appointments, and bring forward a report on reducing Council representation on the River District Board from 2 to 1. A motion to support a Kitchener resolution on renovictions was defeated, as were motions to appoint a council member to a safety committee and to create a community advisory committee. Council also received a report on Grey County's centralized planning model and directed staff to prepare a condensed follow-up response.
- Approved staff report on 2025 board/committee housekeeping, returning to former recruitment process and removing scoring tool (carried)
- Approved staff report to bring forward process for reducing River District Board Council members from 2 to 1 (carried)
- Defeated motion to appoint council member to Community Safety and Well-Being Committee (defeated)
- Defeated motion to direct staff to report on creating a Community Advisory Committee (defeated)
- Defeated motion to support Kitchener resolution on renovictions and send to Premier and MPP (defeated)
- Received report on Grey County centralized planning model for information (carried)
- Directed staff to bring forward condensed follow-up report on Grey County planning model (carried)
- Passed By-laws 2024-111, 2024-112, and 2024-113 (carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
The council will consider a motion to endorse exploring a joint municipal police service with the Municipality of West Grey and direct the City Manager to begin discussions. A closed‑session motion will be moved to review confidential land disposition and acquisition matters on 2nd Avenue East and 8th Street East. The meeting also includes routine approvals for business licences, short‑term rental permits, and a property tax exemption application.
- Motion to endorse exploration of joint police services with West Grey
- Closed‑session motion on confidential land disposition (2nd Ave E) and acquisition (8th St E)
- Final approvals for Hawker and Peddler licences for Ribfest and Fall Fair
- Final approvals for short‑term rental locations at 822 5th Ave W and 867 4th Ave 'A' W
- Property Tax Exemption Application under s.357(1)(c)
Council endorsed exploring a joint municipal police service with West Grey and directed the City Manager to start discussions with West Grey and police boards. Council also approved the 2025 meeting calendar, received committee minutes, and approved a property tax exemption. A special constable program for downtown foot patrols is on hold pending legislative review.
- Endorsed exploring joint police services with West Grey (carried)
- Directed City Manager to discuss joint police service feasibility with West Grey and police boards (carried)
- Approved 2025 Council and Committee meeting calendar (carried)
- Received Grey County verbal report for information (carried)
- Approved consent agenda including property tax exemption (carried)
- Approved Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee minutes (carried)
- Approved Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory Committee minutes (carried)
- Approved Corporate Services Committee minutes (carried)
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment will consider three applications related to properties on 1581 6th Avenue East and 986‑1000 5th Avenue East. Two consents (files B03‑2024 to B07‑2024) and two minor variance requests (A07‑2024 and A08‑2024) are on the agenda. The committee will review the submitted plans, heritage assessments and draft conditions of approval.
- Consents B03‑2024 through B07‑2024 for 1581 6th Avenue East
- Minor variance A07‑2024 for 1581 6th Avenue East
- Minor variance A08‑2024 for 986‑1000 5th Avenue East
The Committee approved consent applications for lot creation and easements at 1581 6th Avenue East, alongside a minor variance for the same property. Additionally, the Committee approved a minor variance for 986-1000 5th Avenue East to allow for the addition of four residential units in the basement.
- Approved July 16, 2024 minutes (Carried)
- Approved consent applications B03-2024 through B07-2024 for 1581 6th Ave East (Carried)
- Approved minor variance A07-2024 for 1581 6th Ave East (Carried)
- Approved minor variance A08-2024 for 986-1000 5th Ave East (Carried)
Committee - Corporate Services
The committee will receive reports from Corporate and Facility Services, Accounting, Human Resources, and the Clerk's office. Items include a bi‑annual summary of purchases between $50,000 and $249,000, an update to the Capital Budget Policy (AF006), recruitment and retention metrics, and a draft dog by‑law and animal‑control contract review. No deputations, motions, or decisions are listed for this meeting.
- Bi‑annual summary of awarded purchases $50,000‑$249,000 (Jan‑Jun 2024) – Report CR‑24‑091
- Update to Capital Budget Policy (AF006) – Report CR‑24‑090
- Human Resources recruitment and retention metrics – Report CR‑24‑095
- Draft Dog By‑law 2024‑XXX and proposed short‑form wording and set fines – Report CR‑24‑097
The Corporate Services Committee reviewed four staff reports and recommended that City Council receive them for information. The most substantive action was a recommendation that Council direct staff to repeal and replace the Dog By-law, update associated fines, amend the Fees and Charges By-law, repeal two policies, and adjust the animal control contract's service level. All motions were carried unanimously.
- Approved minutes of July 11, 2024 meeting (carried)
- Recommended Council receive Capital Budget Policy report for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive Bi-Annual Summary of Awarded Purchases report for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive Human Resources Metrics report for information (carried)
- Recommended Council direct staff to repeal and replace Dog By-law, update fines, amend Fees and Charges By-law, repeal two policies, and amend animal control contract (carried)
Board - River District
The River District Board of Management is meeting to review budget considerations for 2025 and a 2024 metrics update. The board will also receive reports from the Owen Sound Police Service and the Board Treasurer.
- Draft 2025 River District Budget Considerations (Report CS-24-071)
- 2024 River District Metrics Update (Report CS-24-062)
- Police update from Owen Sound Police Service
- Board finances report from the Board Treasurer
- Business licence approvals for Nymph Nails, Café Gilou, Grow Your Mind Hypnotherapy, Northern Fight Club, Panda Garden Chinese Restaurant, The Gathering Table, and Fierce Deer Jewelry Inc.
The River District Board of Management approved one-time allocations of up to $30,000 for a marketing plan and up to $15,000 for lighting, while defeating a $4,000 request for small capital items. The board also directed staff to schedule a public meeting on the draft 2025 budget for November 13, 2024. Police foot patrol hours in the district were reported, and the surveillance camera installation is set to begin September 23.
- Approved up to $30,000 for River District Marketing Plan (carried)
- Approved up to $15,000 for lighting improvements (carried)
- Defeated $4,000 allocation for small capital items for Phase II Completion Celebration
- Directed staff to provide notice of public meeting on draft 2025 budget for November 13, 2024 (carried)
- Received police update with foot patrol hours (carried)
- Received 2024 River District Metrics Update (carried)
- Received verbal report on board finances (carried)
- Received business licence correspondence (carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council will discuss a zoning by-law amendment for 10th Avenue Estates and receive an update from the Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force. The body is also reviewing several land leases, grant agreements, and heritage designations.
- Zoning By-law Amendment No. 53 for 10th Avenue Estates
- Heritage designation for 791 and 795 2nd Ave W (Kennedy Terrace)
- Renewal of land lease C0108101 with Crown for 10th Street Bridge
- Housing Enabling Water System Grant Transfer Payment Agreement
- Provincial Gas Tax Funding for Public Transportation Program
Council approved a zoning by-law amendment for an 85-unit residential development at the eastern terminus of 10th Avenue East, consisting of 63 apartment dwellings and 22 cluster townhouses. Council also passed several by-laws, including designating Kennedy Terrace (791 and 795 2nd Ave W) as heritage properties and authorizing agreements for housing-enabling water system funding and the YMCA operating lease. A motion to support comments on provincial correspondence was defeated, and a motion to waive notice for a time-sensitive procedural by-law matter failed on a recorded vote.
- Approved Zoning By-law Amendment No. 53 for 85-unit development at 10th Avenue East (carried)
- Passed By-law 2024-101 and 2024-103 designating Kennedy Terrace properties as heritage (carried)
- Passed By-law 2024-104 authorizing Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund agreement (carried)
- Passed By-law 2024-105 authorizing YMCA operating agreement and lease (carried)
- Passed By-law 2024-106 authorizing Dedicated Gas Tax Funds agreement (carried)
- Passed By-law 2024-108 amending zoning for 10th Avenue Estates (carried)
- Defeated motion to support Colin Best's comments and send to Premier (defeated)
- Defeated motion to waive notice for procedural by-law change (4-5)
Committee - Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory
The committee is meeting to review a September update report from the gallery director and chief curator. The session also includes an update from the fundraising team and the confirmation of previous meeting minutes.
- Report AG-24-009: September Update Report from the Tom Thomson Art Gallery Director and Chief Curator
- Update Report from the Fundraising Team (Memo dated Aug 26 2024)
- Confirmation of May 29, 2024 meeting minutes
The Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory Committee received the September update report from the Gallery Director and Chief Curator, which included details on fundraising, donations, and revenue. The committee also received updates from the Fundraising and Art Collection Teams, all for information purposes. No substantive decisions were made beyond receiving the reports.
- Approved minutes of May 29, 2024 meeting (carried)
- Recommended Council receive September Update Report for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive Fundraising Team Update Report for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive Art Collection Team Update Report for information (carried)
Committee - Strategic Planning Ad Hoc
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to discuss the progress of the Vision 2050 project. The session includes a staff report on the Phase 1 update and a presentation from Jay Pitter Placemaking.
- Report CM-24-033: Vision 2050 - Phase 1 Update
- Deputation from Jay Pitter, Jay Pitter Placemaking regarding Vision 2050
- Confirmation of May 8, 2024 meeting minutes
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee approved the minutes from May 8, 2024, and recommended that City Council receive Staff Report CM-24-033 on the Vision 2050 Phase 1 update for information. The report was discussed, with details on consultation and upcoming Visioning Sessions scheduled for November 8-10, 2024. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved minutes of May 8, 2024 meeting (carried)
- Recommended Council receive Vision 2050 Phase 1 update report (carried)
Council Meeting - Emergency
City Council is holding an emergency meeting to review a staff report regarding the Kiwanis Sk8 and Bike Park Concrete Rehabilitation Capital Project. The session includes a report from the Manager of Parks and Open Space.
- Report CS-24-070: Kiwanis Sk8 and Bike Park Concrete Rehabilitation Capital Project
- By-law No. 2024-099 to confirm proceedings of the July 29, 2024 emergency meeting
Council approved additional funding of $97,225.97 from the Parks Reserve to complete extra work on the Kiwanis Sk8 and Bike Park concrete rehabilitation, plus $25,833.90 in contingency funding for unforeseen costs. The decision was made in Committee of the Whole and confirmed by council. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved $97,225.97 additional funding from Parks Reserve for skatepark concrete work (carried)
- Approved $25,833.90 contingency funding from Parks Reserve for unforeseen costs (carried)
- Confirmed Committee of the Whole proceedings (carried)
- Passed By-law 2024-099 to confirm proceedings (carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council is meeting to discuss several infrastructure reports and approve various municipal by-laws. The session includes a review of the 2025-2029 Multi-Year Capital Plan and waste management agreements.
- Approval of 2025-2029 Multi-Year Capital Plan (Report CR-24-087)
- Agreement with Miller Waste Systems Inc. for waste collection and disposal services
- Sale of a portion of a City lane in the 300 block of 12th Street West to Murray McDonald
- Façade and structural improvement grant for 275 8th Street East
- Cost sharing apportionments for 3195 East Bayshore Road (Sky Dev)
Council approved the 2025-2029 Multi-Year Capital Plan, including projects for waste receptacles and caboose rehabilitation, and directed staff to bring forward a further update in December 2024. Council also approved amendments to the Procedural By-law, reducing public forum speaking time from 5 to 3 minutes and allotting 15 minutes total, while a motion to require public forum comments to relate to agenda items was defeated. Additionally, Council approved cost-sharing for infrastructure upgrades to support a 712-unit development at 3195 East Bayshore Road and directed staff to bring forward an agreement with Miller Waste Systems to extend recycling depot funding until September 30, 2024.
- Approved 2025-2029 Multi-Year Capital Plan (carried)
- Approved Procedural By-law amendments reducing public forum speaking time to 3 minutes, 15 minutes total (7-2)
- Defeated motion requiring public forum comments to relate to agenda items
- Approved cost-sharing for infrastructure upgrades for 712-unit development at 3195 East Bayshore Road (carried)
- Directed staff to bring forward by-law to extend Miller Waste recycling depot funding to September 30, 2024 (carried)
- Approved capital detail sheet for Inner Harbour waste receptacles project 25D.13 (carried)
- Approved capital detail sheet for Community Waterfront Heritage Centre caboose rehabilitation project 25M.6 (carried)
- Approved sale of part of City lane (consent agenda item 11.a) (carried)
Committee - Community Services
The Community Services Committee is meeting to discuss updates to the Parks and Open Space Capital Plan and a lease amendment with Transport Canada. The body will also consider a partnership with Georgian College for a student capstone project.
- Proposed amendments and adjustments to the Parks and Open Space Capital Plan (Report CS-24-061)
- Amendment 6 to Lease C0108102 with Transport Canada for East and West Boat Launch
- Partnership with Georgian College for a Power Engineering Capstone Project
- Deputation from Christina Durocher regarding Tom Williams Park scoreboard and parks projects
- June 2024 Development Update from the Chief Building Official
The Community Services Committee recommended that City Council approve amendments to the Parks Capital Plan and accept a $20,000 donation for a scoreboard. The committee also recommended authorizing a lease amendment with Transport Canada and a partnership with Georgian College.
- Recommended approval of Parks Capital Plan amendments and reserve allocations
- Recommended authorization to receive $20,000 donation for Tom Williams scoreboard
- Recommended Council direct staff to bring forward a by-law for Transport Canada lease amendment ending June 30, 2027
- Recommended approval of Georgian College Power Engineering capstone project partnership
- Approved minutes of the June 19, 2024 meeting
- Recommended Council receive the June 2024 Chief Building Official update for information
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment is meeting to consider two specific land-use applications. The body will also review the minutes from the June 18, 2024 meeting.
- Application B02-2024 for Bruce Grey Catholic District School Board (16th St E and 28th Ave E)
- Application A06-2024 for 367 29th Street West (Vasa Gataiance)
The Committee of Adjustment approved a consent application for lot creation to facilitate a new Bruce Grey Catholic District School Board secondary school. A minor variance for a property on 29th Street West was also approved.
- Approved Consent Application B02-2024 for lot creation at 16th Street East and 28th Avenue East (Carried)
- Approved Minor Variance A06-2024 for 367 29th Street West (Carried)
- Approved minutes from the June 18, 2024 meeting (Carried)
Committee - Corporate Services
The committee will review a mid-year operations update for Fire and Emergency Services. Staff will also present reports regarding electronic donation options and a procedural by-law review.
- Fire and Emergency Services Mid-Year Operations Update (Report CR-24-084)
- Electronic Donation Options (Report CR-24-078)
- Procedural By-law Review (Report CR-24-077)
Owen Sound's Corporate Services Committee recommended a package of Procedural By-law changes to Council, including renaming public question period to public forum and allowing comment-only submissions. It defeated two proposals: one giving the Clerk, Mayor and City Manager discretion over agenda items, and one cutting speaker time from five to three minutes. The committee also received mid-year Fire and Emergency Services and electronic donation reports for information, and discussed backyard chickens without a decision.
- Recommended Council approve most Procedural By-law Review recommendations (Recommendations #2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14) — carried
- Defeated Recommendation #1 giving Clerk, Mayor and City Manager discretion to omit agenda items
- Defeated amendment to cut public question period speaker time from 5 to 3 minutes and cap the period at 15 minutes
- Recommended renaming 'public question period' to 'public forum', allowing comment-only submissions, with electronic comments due one business day ahead and inappropriate ones withheld — carried
- Recommended staff bring forward an updated Procedural By-law and repeal By-law No. 2021-123 — carried
- Received Fire and Emergency Services Mid-Year Operations Update (CR-24-084) for information — carried
- Received Electronic Donation Options report (CR-24-078) for information — carried
- Approved June 13, 2024 committee minutes — carried
Council Meeting - Regular
Owen Sound City Council will hold a public hearing on Zoning By-law Amendment No. 53 for the 10th Avenue Estates site in Graham, with presentations from planning staff and the applicant followed by public comments. The council will also vote on consent agenda items that authorize contracts for parking enforcement, crossing guard services, watermain construction, and project management software. These zoning decisions determine future land use in the Graham area, while approved agreements fund local traffic safety programs and infrastructure upgrades.
- Zoning By-law Amendment No. 53 public hearing for 10th Avenue Estates in Graham
- Contract awards for parking enforcement and crossing guard services (RFP-24-009)
- Watermain construction contract for the 9th Avenue East Looping Watermain – Phase 2 project
- Operational agreement renewal with YMCA Owen Sound Grey Bruce covering 2024–2044
- Authorization to purchase vacant land at 2181, 2207 and 2229 8th Avenue East for Shay Haven Developments
Council directed staff to continue processing a zoning by-law amendment for an 85-unit senior residential development at 10th Avenue Estates, though no final approval was granted. The council also passed by-laws authorizing contracts for watermain construction, parking enforcement, and project management services. Additionally, council supported a request to pause hospital service reductions in the Bruce, Grey, and Huron regions.
- Directed staff to process ZBA No. 53 for 85-unit senior housing at 10th Avenue Estates
- Passed By-law 2024-083 authorizing Sturrock Construction for 9th Avenue East Looping Watermain Phase 2
- Passed By-law 2024-084 authorizing Fairmount Holdings Inc. for parking enforcement and crossing guard services
- Passed By-law 2024-085 authorizing Solution Guidance Corporation for project management system
- Passed By-law 2024-086 authorizing E.C. King for milling and hot asphalt paving
- Passed By-law 2024-087 adopting Art Collection Policy ACT001
- Passed By-law 2024-088 appointing Marianne Williams to housing corporation boards
- Passed By-law 2024-089 authorizing lease agreement with FC Entertainment & Hospitality Inc. for parking at 1399 2nd Avenue East
Council Meeting - Special
Owen Sound City Council is reviewing a draft lease agreement with Royal Rose Court for a property at 1399 2nd Avenue East. The meeting also covers a presentation on the 2025–2029 Multi-year Capital Plan and a proposed funding agreement with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario for the Canada Community Building Fund. Council will enter closed session to discuss legal advice regarding the lease. These items outline long-term infrastructure spending and local service arrangements.
- Draft lease agreement with Royal Rose Court for 1399 2nd Avenue East
- Addendum report on the Royal Rose Court lease agreement
- 2024–2034 Canada Community Building Fund funding agreement
- Summary of committee feedback for the 2025–2029 Multi-year Capital Plan
- Presentation on the 2025–2029 Multi-year Capital Plan update
Owen Sound City Council held a special meeting on June 24, 2024, moving into closed session to discuss solicitor-client privileged advice on a lease agreement, with no direction provided. In open session, Council directed staff to bring forward a by-law authorizing the Mayor and Clerk to execute a lease with Royal Rose Court for 1399 2nd Avenue East, and to execute a funding agreement with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario for the Canada Community-Building Fund. Council also received the 2025-2029 Multi-year Capital Plan feedback report and directed staff to report back on caboose roof repairs, alternative designs for the Inner Harbour waste receptacle project, and deferred $60,000 from a Brooke Basin project to 2026. By-laws 2024-080 and 2024-081 were passed.
- Directed staff to bring forward a by-law authorizing the Mayor and Clerk to execute a lease with Royal Rose Court for 1399 2nd Avenue East (Carried)
- Directed staff to bring forward a by-law authorizing the Mayor and Clerk to execute a funding agreement with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario for the Canada Community-Building Fund (Carried)
- Received Report CR-24-073 on 2025-2029 Multi-year Capital Plan feedback for information (Carried)
- Directed staff to bring forward a report on July 8, 2024, on funding repairs to the Marine and Rail Museum caboose roof and siding project (Carried)
- Directed staff to bring forward a report on July 8, 2024, on alternative designs to reduce the budget for Project 25D.13 Inner Harbour Waste Receptacle Upgrade (Carried)
- Deferred $60,000 from Project 24P.21 Brooke Basin A3 MP - Reach 3 - Easement and Channel Improvements until 2026 (Carried)
- Passed By-law 2024-080 to confirm proceedings of the special meeting and By-law 2024-081 to authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute a Municipal Funding Agreement with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario respecting the Canada Community-Building Fund (Carried)
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will review a proposed update to the Street Occupation Permit By-law, including a recommended schedule of fees and security deposits that would apply to contractors and businesses using city streets. Staff will provide status updates on the Alpha Street reconstruction and Downtown River Precinct projects, and answer questions on the 2025 Multi-Year Capital Budget. The agenda contains no recorded votes or final decisions.
- Proposed Street Occupation Permit By-law review with recommended fee and security deposit schedules
- Status update on Alpha Street reconstruction
- Status update on Downtown River Precinct project
- Q&A session on the 2025 Multi-Year Capital Budget
- Review of the 2023 DWQMS External Audit results
The Operations Committee recommended that City Council approve a street occupation permit by-law review, including amended fees, a new Temporary Encroachment By-law to replace By-law No. 2010-169, delegated authority, and a set fine application. It also recommended Council receive the 2023 DWQMS external audit results and three information items. All motions carried; no deputations, public questions, or correspondence requiring direction were recorded.
- Approved minutes of the May 16, 2024 Operations Committee meeting (OP-240620-001)
- Recommended Council approve Staff Report OP-24-009 street occupation by-law review, including fee amendments, new Temporary Encroachment By-law, delegated authority, and set fine application (OP-240620-002)
- Recommended Council receive Staff Report OP-24-034 on 2024 DWQMS external audit results for information (OP-240620-003)
- Recommended Council receive correspondence items 11.a to 11.c for information (OP-240620-004)
Committee - Community Services
The committee will review several heritage-related items including property designations and grant applications. Other business includes an economic second quarter report and a facility agreement renewal for the Active Lifestyles Centre Grey-Bruce.
- Request to increase Heritage Property Tax Relief Program budget
- Heritage designation request for 791 and 795 2nd Ave W (Kennedy Terrace)
- Façade and Structural Improvement Grant application for 279 8th St E
- Agreement renewal for Active Lifestyles Centre Grey-Bruce use of Bayshore Community Centre and McQuay Tannery Building
- Commemorative tree proposal for Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre
Owen Sound's Community Services Committee met June 19, 2024 and recommended several items to City Council, including a new 5-year agreement with the Active Lifestyles Centre Grey-Bruce for use of the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre and McQuay Tannery Building. It also recommended planting a commemorative oak tree for Sharif Rahman, heritage tax relief refunds plus a proposed $10,000 budget increase, and designation of 791 and 795 2nd Ave W. All recorded motions carried; the committee received several reports for information only.
- Recommended Council approve planting an oak tree at the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre in memory of Sharif Rahman (carried)
- Recommended Council direct staff to bring forward a by-law for a new 5-year Active Lifestyles Centre Grey-Bruce agreement (carried)
- Directed staff to include Active Lifestyles Centre Grey-Bruce financial statements with committee minutes to Council (carried)
- Recommended Council receive Owen Sound's Economic Second Quarter Report for information (carried)
- Recommended Council process 2023 heritage tax relief refunds, notify County of Grey, and consider a $10,000 program budget increase in 2025 (carried)
- Recommended Council receive report on Bill 200 and Ontario Heritage Act changes for information (carried)
- Recommended Council approve a Façade and Structural Improvement Grant up to $7,500 for 275 8th St E (carried)
- Recommended Council support designating 791 and 795 2nd Ave W under the Ontario Heritage Act (carried)
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment will review two applications for minor variances. These include a request for 1536 5th Avenue 'A' West and another for 1660 20th Avenue East.
- Minor Variance application A03-2024 for 1536 5th Avenue 'A' West
- Minor Variance application A05-2024 for 1660 20th Avenue East
The Committee of Adjustment approved two minor variance applications. Minor Variance A03-2024 for 1536 5th Avenue 'A' West, requested by Ken Jentas on behalf of Daniel Cahoon, was approved subject to conditions in Schedule 'E' of Staff Report CS-24-058. Minor Variance A05-2024 for 1660 20th Avenue East, requested by Cuesta Planning Consultants Inc. on behalf of Hwy 26 and 20th Ave Commercial Inc., was approved with no conditions per Staff Report CS-24-057. The committee also approved the May 21, 2024 minutes as printed; no members of the public spoke on either application.
- Approved Minor Variance A03-2024 for 1536 5th Avenue 'A' West (Ken Jentas on behalf of Daniel Cahoon), subject to conditions in Schedule 'E' of Staff Report CS-24-058
- Approved Minor Variance A05-2024 for 1660 20th Avenue East (Cuesta Planning Consultants Inc. on behalf of Hwy 26 and 20th Ave Commercial Inc.), with no conditions per Staff Report CS-24-057
- Approved minutes of the May 21, 2024 Committee of Adjustment meeting as printed
Council Meeting - Special
The Owen Sound City Council special meeting on June 17, 2024, will review a staff report regarding RFP-24-007 for waste collection and disposal services. Council will also consider By-law No. 2024-074 to confirm the proceedings of this session. The agenda lists standard procedural steps and shows no recorded votes or final decisions yet.
- Review of Report CR-24-075 on RFP-24-007 for waste collection and disposal services
- Consideration of By-law No. 2024-074 to confirm special meeting proceedings
- Attachments include a 2024 waste collection calendar, downtown core map, and the original RFP document
Owen Sound City Council awarded RFP-24-007 for waste collection and disposal to Miller Waste Systems Inc. at an estimated annual cost of $1,334,577.77, including HST. The contract covers bi-weekly solid waste collection and weekly source-separated organics (SSO). Council also approved $50,000 from the Garbage Equipment Reserve for marketing and implementation, and directed staff to prepare a fee-based revenue policy for the 2025 budget. All decisions were carried unanimously; no vote tallies were recorded.
- Awarded RFP-24-007 for bi-weekly solid waste collection and weekly source-separated organics to Miller Waste Systems Inc. at an estimated annual cost of $1,334,577.77 including HST (carried)
- Directed staff to bring forward a by-law authorizing the Mayor and Clerk to execute the agreement (carried)
- Approved $50,000 from the Garbage Equipment Reserve for marketing and implementing the new curbside waste and organics program (carried)
- Directed staff to prepare a fee-based revenue policy for waste collection costs for the 2025 budget deliberations (carried)
- Passed By-law No. 2024-074 confirming the proceedings of the June 17, 2024 Special Meeting (carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
The City Council will review several reports and by-laws including a labor settlement and infrastructure procurement. The agenda includes discussions on road rehabilitation and information technology equipment.
- Ratification of CUPE 1189-00 Memorandum of Settlement
- Non-Standard Procurement for Information Technology Network Equipment
- Award of Grey County Joint Tender RFT-TS-08-24 for Milling and Hot Mix Asphalt Paving
- Business Licence approval for Soundside Medical Aesthetics at 133 9th Street West
- Short-Term Rental approvals for 2545 5th Avenue West and 899 9th Avenue 'A' East
City Council passed several by-laws, including a new schedule of fees and charges and a memorandum of settlement with CUPE 1189-00. Council also approved a contract for milling and hot mix asphalt paving for approximately one kilometre of roadway.
- Approved Memorandum of Settlement with CUPE 1189-00
- Approved non-standard procurement for IT network equipment
- Approved Grey County Joint Tender for milling and hot mix asphalt paving
- Approved recommendations from Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory Committee
- Passed By-law 2024-078 establishing city fees and charges
- Passed By-law 2024-079 authorizing amendment to purchase agreement for 1235 and 1259 3rd Avenue East
- Passed By-law 2024-077 updating delegation of powers for flag flying requests
- Adopted minutes from four previous Council meetings
Committee - Corporate Services
The Corporate Services Committee will review staff reports on establishing new city wards, a shared fire prevention agreement with Georgian Bluffs, an updated asset management plan, and the T1 financial update. The agenda also includes plans for public engagement ahead of the 2025 operating budget. No other departmental reports or motions are scheduled for this meeting.
- Report on council composition and establishment of wards (CR-24-048)
- Shared service MOU with Georgian Bluffs for fire prevention services (CR-24-065)
- Asset Management Plan update from Corporate Services (CR-23-071)
- T1 financial update and 2025 operating budget public engagement plan
Owen Sound's Corporate Services Committee met on June 13, 2024 and recommended that City Council direct the City Manager to execute a memorandum of understanding with Georgian Bluffs for fire prevention services. The committee also recommended that Council receive four staff reports for information: composition of Council and establishment of wards, the 2024 Asset Management Plan update, the 2024 T1 financial update, and 2025 operating budget public engagement. All items carried; the committee approved its May 9, 2024 minutes. No deputations, public questions, or correspondence were presented.
- Recommended Council direct City Manager to execute Fire Prevention Services shared service MOU with Georgian Bluffs (carried)
- Recommended Council receive report CR-24-048 on composition of Council and establishment of wards for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive report CR-24-071 on 2024 Asset Management Plan update for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive report CR-24-063 on 2024 T1 financial update for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive report CR-24-068 on 2025 operating budget public engagement for information (carried)
- Approved minutes of the May 9, 2024 Corporate Services Committee meeting (carried)
Committee - Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee is reviewing several staff reports regarding municipal operations. Discussions include tax levy offsets, online service updates, and waste site projects.
- Review of Parks and Public Works operations for synergies
- Proposal to utilize MAT proceeds to offset Tourism, TTAG and Events tax levy requirements
- Update on increasing online services
- Request for the Province to review lower tier and upper tier responsibilities
- Implementation of Cloudpermit for building permits
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee approved the minutes from its April 26, 2024 meeting and advanced several staff reports to City Council. Key recommendations include exploring the re-amalgamation of the Parks and Public Works departments, adopting a Municipal Accommodation Tax revenue allocation policy, and receiving updates on online services, municipal responsibilities, Cloudpermit, and the leaf and yard waste site.
- Approved minutes of the April 26, 2024 meeting
- Recommended city manager bring forward a report outlining a re-amalgamated Parks and Public Works department
- Recommended City Council receive Report OP-24-033 on Parks and Public Works synergies for information
- Recommended City Council direct staff to bring forward a by-law to adopt MAT revenue allocation policy AF007
- Recommended City Council receive Report CR-24-061 regarding online services update for information
- Recommended City Council receive Report CM-24-028 regarding provincial responsibilities review for information
- Recommended City Council receive Report CR-24-056 regarding Cloudpermit implementation for information
- Recommended City Council receive Report OP-24-032 on the Leaf and Yard Waste Site for information and direct staff to report back on October 9, 2024 with a reduced scope and cost estimate
Council Meeting - Special
The City Council is holding a special meeting that includes a closed session. The closed session covers matters related to an agreement with the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce, Code of Conduct training, and facility tours.
- Discussion of an agreement with the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce
- Member education regarding the Code of Conduct
- Training regarding a tour of the Public Works building at 1900 20th Street East
- Training regarding a tour of the Owen Sound Fire Hall at 1209 3rd Avenue East
- By-law No. 2024-073 to confirm meeting proceedings
City Council held a special meeting primarily in closed session to discuss YMCA agreements, the Code of Conduct, and facility tours. Direction was provided to staff regarding negotiations for an agreement with the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce.
- Provided direction to staff regarding negotiations for an agreement with the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce
- Passed By-law No. 2024-073 to confirm the proceedings of the June 3, 2024 meeting
Committee - Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory
The Advisory Committee is reviewing the 2025-2029 Multi-Year Capital Plan for the gallery. The meeting includes discussions on a May update report, an art collection policy, and public programming.
- 2025-2029 Multi-Year Capital Plan including TTAG Expansion Fundraising Feasibility Study
- TTAG Facility Expansion capital detail
- TTAG Window and Door Replacements capital detail
- Art Collection Policy report
- Public Programming, Engagements and Projects presentation
The Advisory Committee recommended that City Council adopt a new Art Collection Policy and a 2025-2029 Multi-Year Capital Plan. Members also reviewed a May update report on gallery programming and operations.
- Approved minutes from February 23, 2024 (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive the May Update Report for information (Carried)
- Recommended Council direct staff to bring forward a report on the 2025-2029 Multi-year Capital Plan (Carried)
- Recommended Council direct staff to bring forward a by-law to adopt Art Collection Policy ACT001 (Carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
The City Council is reviewing several staff reports including updates to water and sewer rates. Other items include a proposed lease agreement for 1399 2nd Avenue East and a review of spring fees and charges.
- Refurbished Fire Truck Purchase (Report CR-24-062)
- Miller Waste Systems Transfer Station Recycling Convenience Depot (Report OP-24-031)
- 2024 Water Rate and Sewer Surcharge Update (Report CR-24-053)
- 2024 Spring Fees and Charges Review (Report CR-24-054)
- Draft Lease Agreement with Royal Rose Court for 1399 2nd Avenue East (Report CS-24-045)
Council approved a 4% increase to water rates effective July 2024 and directed staff to prepare a new Fees and Charges By-law. Two motions to end or renegotiate funding for the Miller Waste Systems recycling depot were defeated, so the report was received for information only. Council also passed a resolution supporting the immediate passing of Bill 173 regarding intimate partner violence.
- Approved 4% water rate increase for July 2024 billing (8-1)
- Motion to discontinue recycling depot funding defeated
- Motion to renegotiate recycling cost-sharing defeated
- Resolution supporting Bill 173 on intimate partner violence carried
- Lease agreement for 1399 2nd Avenue East postponed for legal review
- By-laws 2024-070, 2024-071, and 2024-072 passed and enacted
- Committee minutes from May 8-16 approved
- Fire truck purchase report received for information
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment will review a minor variance application for 723 5th Street East. The committee will also confirm the minutes from the April 16, 2024 meeting.
- Minor variance application (A04-2024) for 723 5th Street East
- Confirmation of minutes from the April 16, 2024 meeting
The Committee of Adjustment approved a minor variance for a property at 723 5th Street East to allow for an enclosed mudroom. The approval is subject to conditions outlined in Staff Report CS-24-046.
- Approved minor variance A04-2024 for 723 5th Street East (Carried)
- Approved April 16, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will review engineering reports regarding the Kenny Drain Long Term Plan and 2024 road rehabilitation locations. The meeting also includes discussions on the 2025-2029 Multi-Year Capital Plan and updates on transit services and street reconstruction projects.
- 2025-2029 Multi-Year Capital Plan review
- Kenny Drain Long Term Works Plan report
- 2024 Road Rehabilitation Locations report
- Flix Bus contract update for the transit terminal
- Alpha Street reconstruction and Downtown River Precinct status updates
Owen Sound's Operations Committee met on May 16, 2024, and recommended that City Council direct staff to bring forward a report on the draft 2025-2029 multi-year capital plan, incorporating committee feedback on proposed projects. The committee also recommended that Council receive several staff reports for information, including the Kenny Drain Long Term Plan, 2024 Road Rehabilitation Locations, the 2023 Annual Transit Report, and the FlixBus contract update. All recommendations carried; no items were denied or tabled.
- Recommended Council direct staff to bring forward a report on the draft 2025-2029 multi-year capital plan with committee feedback (carried)
- Recommended Council receive Kenny Drain Long Term Plan report OP-24-022 for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive 2024 Road Rehabilitation Locations report OP-24-030 for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive 2023 Annual Transit Report OP-24-028 for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive FlixBus contract update report OP-24-026 for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive correspondence items 11.a and 11.b for information (carried)
- Approved minutes of the April 18, 2024 Operations Committee meeting (carried)
Committee - Community Services
The Community Services Committee is reviewing the 2025-2029 Multi-Year Capital Plan. Staff will also present updates regarding the Kiwanis Soccer Complex and the final draft of the Harrison Park Master Plan.
- 2025-2029 Multi-Year Capital Plan
- Kiwanis Soccer Complex - Capital Priorities Update for 2024
- Harrison Park Master Plan - Final Draft
- Deputation regarding innovation in affordable housing
The Community Services Committee recommended that City Council approve the Harrison Park Master Plan final draft and use $10,000 from the capital reserve plus about $6,500 in donations to upgrade the waterfowl and bird area, subject to a future report. It also recommended Council direct staff to bring forward a report on the draft 2025-2029 multi-year capital plan incorporating committee feedback. Other recommendations included reallocating $10,000 in 2023 funding from Kiwanis Soccer Complex bleachers to replanting trees lost to Emerald Ash Borer, receiving two information items, and directing staff to report on a commemorative item for Sharif Rahman on City property. All motions carried; the committee is an advisory body, so these are recommendations to Council, not final decisions.
- Recommended Council approve the Harrison Park Master Plan final draft
- Recommended using $10,000 from capital reserve plus approx. $6,500 donations to upgrade waterfowl and bird area, subject to future report
- Recommended Council direct staff to report on draft 2025-2029 multi-year capital plan with committee feedback
- Recommended reallocating $10,000 from 2023 Capital Project 23D.57 (Kiwanis Soccer Complex bleachers) to replant trees lost to Emerald Ash Borer
- Recommended Council receive correspondence items 11.a and 11.b for information
- Waived notice of motion requirement to discuss Sharif Rahman commemoration (carried by 2/3)
- Recommended Council direct staff to report on an appropriate commemorative item for Sharif Rahman on City property
- Approved minutes of the April 17, 2024 meeting
Council Meeting - Regular
The Council will review reports regarding a water main easement on 9th Avenue East and a geotechnical allowance for the Alpha Street Reconstruction Project. Additional business includes an agricultural land lease at 217641 Concession 3 Derby and amendments to Grey Transit Route bus stops.
- 9th Avenue East Looping Water Main Phase 2 Easement
- Alpha Street Reconstruction Project Geotechnical Allowance
- Agricultural Land Lease – 217641 Concession 3 Derby
- GTR Bus Stop Amending Agreement No. 2
- Business and Short-Term Rental license approvals
Owen Sound Council approved a $131,168.64 change order for the Alpha Street reconstruction project and directed staff to create by-laws for new water main easements at 9th Avenue East and Superior Street. The council also passed several by-laws, including one authorizing an agricultural lease and another updating tax policies. No public deputations or questions were received during the meeting.
- Approved $131,168.64 change order for Alpha Street reconstruction
- Directed staff to bring forward by-law for 9th Ave E water main easement
- Directed staff to amend Delegation of Powers By-law for easement authority
- Approved award of RFQ-24-008 Agricultural Land Lease at Concession 3 Derby
- Approved GTR Bus Stop Amending Agreement No. 2
- Passed By-law 2024-064 adopting Tax Policy
- Passed By-law 2024-065 authorizing agricultural lease with Sharedon Farms Ltd.
- Passed By-law 2024-066 authorizing water main easements at 595 9th Ave E and 1010 Superior St
Committee - Corporate Services
The committee will review several staff reports including a multi-year capital plan and updates to the holiday closure schedule. Other discussions include information technology needs, physician recruitment, and provincial tax policy changes.
- 2025-2029 Multi Year Capital Plan
- Holiday Closure Schedule Revisions
- Information Technology Needs Assessment Status Update
- 2024 Physician Recruitment Update
- Tax Policy Changes in 2024 Provincial Budget
The Corporate Services Committee recommended that City Council adopt a new flag-flying and proclamations policy and amend the 2024-2025 holiday closure schedule. The committee also moved to advance discussions on medical professional accommodations and requested a revised multi-year capital plan.
- Recommended by-law to adopt Flag-Flying, Proclamations and Public Awareness Campaigns Policy (Carried)
- Recommended amendment to 2024 and 2025 holiday closure schedule (Carried)
- Recommended staff open discussions with Brightshores Health System regarding transient medical professional accommodations (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive IT Needs Assessment status update for information (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive report on 2024 Provincial Budget tax policy changes for information (Carried)
- Recommended staff bring forward a report on the 2025-2029 Multi-year Capital Plan incorporating committee feedback (Carried)
- Approved minutes from April 11, 2024 meeting (Carried)
Board - River District
The River District Board of Management is reviewing several staff reports including a three-year video camera pilot project. The board will also discuss proposed modifications and budget reallocations for River District Blooms.
- River District Three-Year Video Camera Pilot Project (Report CM-24-001)
- River District Blooms Proposed Modifications and Budget Reallocation (Report CS-24-043)
- Business Licence approval for CURIO Vintage at 851 2nd Avenue East
- Owen Sound Police Service update
- Brightshores Ball Hockey Cellybration report
The Board approved modifications to the River District Blooms event and reallocated its remaining budget to the Locals Love it Here program. Members also received reports on police activity, board finances, and a ball hockey event. Residents expressed concerns regarding street closures and safety in the River District.
- Approved modifications to River District Blooms and reallocation of remaining budget to Locals Love it Here program
- Approved minutes from March 13, 2024 meeting
- Received police update report for information
- Received Brightshores Ball Hockey Cellybration report for information
- Received board finance report for information
- Received information on River District Three-Year Video Camera Pilot Project and a new business licence for CURIO Vintage
Committee - Strategic Planning Ad Hoc
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee is reviewing the Vision 2050 work plan and May 2024 update. The agenda includes a presentation regarding the 'Future Owen Sound Deck' and a review of a proposed logo.
- Vision 2050 Work Plan and May 2024 Update (Report CM-24-017)
- Deputation from Jay Pitter regarding Vision 2050
- Review of proposed logo for Vision 2050
- Confirmation of March 6, 2024, meeting minutes
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee reviewed a presentation and report regarding the Vision 2050 strategic planning process. The committee recommended that City Council receive the work plan update for information. A future meeting date was also rescheduled.
- Approved minutes from March 6, 2024 meeting (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive Staff Report CM-24-017 regarding Vision 2050 Work Plan and May 2024 Update for information (Carried)
- Approved changing the September committee meeting date from September 11 to September 4, 2024 (Carried)
Council Meeting - Emergency
The Owen Sound City Council is holding an emergency meeting to enter a closed session. The discussion involves a position, plan, procedure, criteria, or instruction regarding negotiations for fleet procurement.
- Closed session regarding fleet procurement negotiations
Owen Sound City Council held an emergency meeting on May 7, 2024, moving into closed session to discuss a matter regarding negotiations for fleet procurement. After returning to open session, the Mayor reported that Council directed staff to submit a bid for the purchase of a piece of fire equipment. Council then passed By-law 2024-062 confirming the proceedings of the meeting, and adjourned at 9:37 a.m. No other substantive decisions were recorded.
- Directed staff to submit a bid for the purchase of a piece of fire equipment (reported out of closed session)
- Passed By-law 2024-062 confirming the proceedings of the May 7, 2024 emergency meeting (carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
The meeting includes a discussion on provincial planning changes and a shared services pilot with Georgian Bluffs. Council will also review a motion regarding social assistance rates and approve several business licenses.
- Motion to urge increased social assistance rates and guaranteed livable income
- 10-year agreement with Owen Sound Attack (2024-2034)
- Building services pilot program with Georgian Bluffs
- Report on Bill 185 and the Proposed Provincial Policy Statement 2024
- Approval of business licenses for CURIO Vintage, People's Café eh!!, and Stacked Pancake
Owen Sound City Council passed a motion calling on the provincial government to increase Ontario Works and ODSP rates, and directed staff to submit comments on Bill 185 and the proposed Provincial Policy Statement 2024. Council also approved a 10-year agreement with the Owen Sound Attack, a shared building services pilot with Georgian Bluffs, and several by-laws including leases with FlixBus and Rogers TV. All decisions were carried; no substantive items were denied or tabled.
- Approved motion urging province to increase Ontario Works and ODSP rates (carried)
- Directed staff to submit comments on Bill 185 and Provincial Policy Statement 2024 to the Environmental Registry of Ontario (carried)
- Approved consent agenda items 11.a to 11.d, including 10-year Owen Sound Attack agreement and shared building services pilot with Georgian Bluffs (carried)
- Received Community Services Committee minutes, except item 8.c.1 on Harrison Park Master Plan, which was referred back to staff (carried)
- Received Corporate Services and Operations Committee minutes and approved their recommendations (carried)
- Passed by-laws 2024-055 to 2024-061, including leases with FlixBus, Owen Sound Attack, Rogers TV, and Community Waterfront Heritage Centre (carried)
- Received verbal report on Grey County Council's $59 million Rockwood Terrace long-term care expansion (carried)
Committee - Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc
The committee will review several staff reports regarding city service implementation and project updates. Discussions include court security funding, water meter conversions, and various strategic initiative updates.
- Business case to review critical funding needs for Court Security
- City-wide conversion of radio water meters
- Implementation of a project management system
- LEAN continuous improvement introduction
- Policy regarding the development of agreements
The committee recommended that City Council adopt a new Agreement Development Policy and pursue provincial and regional advocacy to address court security funding gaps. It also recommended approval of a consolidated service review project list and reporting schedule.
- Recommended Council approve consolidated project list and reporting schedule (Carried)
- Recommended Council direct staff to implement Goss Gilroy Review for court security (Carried)
- Recommended Council request Grey County investigate court security funding shortfalls (Carried)
- Recommended Council advocate provincially for court security funding changes (Carried)
- Recommended Council adopt Agreement Development Policy AF007 via by-law (Carried)
- Received HR market review and compensation policy update for information (Carried)
- Received project management system report for information (Carried)
- Received radio water meter conversion report for information (Carried)
Committee - Operations
The committee will review several staff reports including a presentation on a new transit app. Discussion items include updates on Alpha Street reconstruction and the Downtown River Precinct project.
- Transit App Demonstration and Report
- 2023 Collision Report
- Alpha Street Street Reconstruction status update
- Downtown River Precinct Project status update
- Transit Dashboard - April 2024
The Committee reviewed a presentation on the 'Find my Bus' app and the 2023 Collision Summary. Both items, along with several status memos, were recommended to City Council for information purposes.
- Approved minutes from March 21, 2024 (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive 'Find my Bus' App report for information (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive 2023 Collision Summary report for information (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive correspondence items 11.a to 11.e for information (Carried)
Committee - Community Services
The committee will review several staff reports including a pilot project for the Marine and Rail Waterfront Museum. Discussions also include input on the Harrison Park Master Plan and a heritage maintenance agreement for 883 2nd Ave E.
- Agreement with the Marine and Rail Waterfront Museum - 2024 Pilot Project
- Harrison Park Master Plan - Input on Draft Recommendations
- Heritage Conservation Maintenance Agreement Update - 883 2nd Ave E
- Tourism Services Update
- Owen Sound Jr. B Northstars 2024 Banner Application
The Community Services Committee recommended several items for City Council approval, including a one-year agreement for the Marine and Rail Waterfront Museum and support for a Great Lakes economic initiative. The committee also reviewed draft recommendations for the Harrison Park Master Plan and a heritage agreement for 883 2nd Ave E.
- Recommended City Council authorize a one-year agreement with the Marine and Rail Waterfront Heritage Centre for a 2024 pilot project
- Recommended City Council support the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative on the Blue-Green Economic Corridor
- Recommended City Council direct staff to bring forward a final report on the Harrison Park Master Plan incorporating committee feedback
- Recommended City Council approve a memorial banner for Tyson Downs at the Bayshore Community Centre
- Recommended City Council authorize an updated Heritage Conservation and Maintenance Agreement for 883 2nd Ave E
- Approved minutes from the March 20, 2024 meeting
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
Sitting as the Property Standards Committee, the board heard an appeal regarding a property standards order. The Committee confirmed the order and required the appellant to prove the furnace is operational by April 23, 2024.
- Approved minutes from March 19, 2024 meeting
- Confirmed Property Standards Order Number 24 000303 for 489 14th Street West
- Required operational furnace report for 489 14th Street West by April 23, 2024
- Waived $180.00 invoice #OSINV155159 subject to appellant compliance
Council Meeting - Regular
The April 15 meeting includes reviews of agreements for bulk highway salt supply and use of City lands by the Owen Sound Rowing Club. Council will also consider updates to property standards regarding vacant building security and new business licenses. Presentations are scheduled regarding the official definition of antisemitism and a new Poet Laureate.
- Agreement with Cargill Salt for bulk highway salt supply (By-law 2024-053)
- Amendments to Property Standards By-law regarding vacant building security (By-law 2024-052)
- Update to the agreement with River District Board of Management
- Approval of business licenses including Mary Brown's Chicken and Glimmer
- Release regarding Gitche Namewikwedong Bridge reconstruction
City Council directed staff to finalize a new five-year agreement with the River District Board of Management and approved a contract for bulk highway salt. Council also passed several by-laws regarding property standards, land use, and employment terms.
- Directed staff to bring forward a by-law for a new five-year River District Board of Management agreement
- Approved the City's component of the Grey County Joint Tender for bulk highway salt
- Supported a resolution requesting the province amend Blue Box Regulations for 'ineligible' sources
- Approved the recommendations of the Community Services Committee (March 20, 2024)
- Approved the recommendations of the Operations Committee (March 21, 2024)
- Passed By-law 2024-052 to update security provisions for vacant buildings
- Passed By-law 2024-051 for the Owen Sound Rowing Club's use of City lands
- Passed By-law 2023-054 for a release with Looby Builders (Dublin) Limited regarding the 10th Street Bridge
Committee - Corporate Services
The committee will review the 2023 year-end financial report and an animal control year in review. Discussions also include a website transformation and a condition assessment for the Owen Sound Fire Station.
- 2023 Year End Financial Report
- Owen Sound Fire Station Building Condition Assessment and Pre-Design Study
- Website Transformation report
- Animal Control 2023 Year in Review
Owen Sound's Corporate Services Committee met on April 11, 2024 and recommended that City Council accept the 2023 Year End Financial Report, transfer the operating surplus to the tax stabilization reserve, and approve unbudgeted reserve transfers. It also recommended directing staff to proceed with a pre-design study for renovation and possible expansion of the Owen Sound Fire Station. Several staff reports — website transformation, animal control 2023 review, and the 2024 Fire and Emergency Services Work Plan — were recommended to Council for information only. All items carried; the committee's recommendations now go to City Council for decision.
- Recommended Council accept the Treasurer's Statement on Development Charges Act compliance (carried)
- Recommended Council direct staff to transfer the operating surplus to the tax stabilization reserve (carried)
- Recommended Council approve unbudgeted transfers to and from reserves as presented in Appendix B (carried)
- Recommended Council direct staff to proceed with a pre-design study for renovation and possible expansion of the Owen Sound Fire Station (carried)
- Recommended Council receive the City Website Transformation report (CR-24-012) for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive the Animal Control 2023 Year in Review report (CR-24-038) for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive the 2024 Fire and Emergency Services Work Plan (CR-24-023) for information (carried)
- Recommended Council receive correspondence 11.a on Prince Edward County fire apparatus lifespan for information (carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
The council will receive a presentation regarding the Ontario Pumped Storage Project and a report on the River District Three-Year Video Camera Pilot Project. Other items include a by-law to close a lane in the 300 block of 12th Street West and an easement agreement for Alpha Street. The meeting also covers access to the city's composting site for Meaford and Georgian Bluffs.
- Ontario Pumped Storage Project presentation
- River District Three-Year Video Camera Pilot Project report
- By-law to close a lane in the 300 block of 12th Street West
- Alpha Street Hydro One anchor easement agreement
- Composting site access agreement with Meaford and Georgian Bluffs
City Council provided conditional support for the Ontario Pumped Storage Project pending further assessments and approval from the Saugeen Ojibway Nation. Council also approved a three-year video camera pilot project for the River District and scheduled a community open house for November 2024.
- Conditionally supported TC Energy and Saugeen Ojibway Nation pumped storage project (8-0)
- Approved three-year video camera pilot project in the River District
- Directed staff to host a Community Open House on November 7, 2024
- Passed By-law 2024-043 to close and declare surplus a lane in the 300 block of 12th Street West
- Passed By-law 2024-044 to execute an anchor easement agreement with Hydro One Networks Inc.
- Passed By-law 2024-045 regarding leaf and yard waste site access for Meaford and Georgian Bluffs
- Passed By-law 2024-046 to remove the Council Remuneration Review Task Force
- Approved recommendations from Corporate Services and Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committees
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will review several staff reports regarding water and wastewater management. The agenda also includes discussions on transportation town hall proceedings and snowplow operations.
- 2023 Wastewater Treatment Plant Annual Report
- 2023 DWQMS and WWQMS Management Review
- Chamber of Commerce Transportation Town Hall report
- Correspondence regarding a school zone sign on 8th Avenue East
- Correspondence regarding snowplow operations
The Operations Committee recommended that City Council receive three staff reports for information purposes: the Chamber of Commerce Transportation Town Hall summary, the 2023 Wastewater Treatment Plant Annual Report, and the 2023 DWQMS and WWQMS Management Review. The committee also received updates on construction projects, audible pedestrian signals, bus shelter maintenance, and a new transit app. No new policies or funding decisions were made.
- Recommended Council receive Chamber of Commerce Transportation Town Hall report for information (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive 2023 Wastewater Treatment Plant Annual Report for information (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive 2023 DWQMS and WWQMS Management Review for information (Carried)
- Approved minutes from February 15, 2024 meeting (Carried)
- Requested placeholder on future agendas for construction project updates
Committee - Community Services
The committee will review several staff reports including an economic development progress overview and a summer events report. Discussions also include a lease extension request for the Owen Sound Rowing Club and proposed changes to the Community Improvement Plan guidelines.
- Owen Sound's Economic First Quarter Report
- 2024 Summer Events Report
- Lease agreement extension request from Owen Sound Rowing Club
- Proposed amendments to the Community Improvement Plan (CIP) Program Guidelines
The Community Services Committee recommended that City Council authorize a five-year lease extension for the Owen Sound Rowing Club. The committee also recommended modifications to the Community Improvement Plan (CIP) guidelines and the addition of two new grant programs. Reports on economic development and summer events were received for information.
- Recommended City Council authorize a five-year lease extension for the Owen Sound Rowing Club at Bayshore (Carried)
- Recommended City Council approve modifications to Community Improvement Plan (CIP) program guidelines (Carried)
- Recommended adding Landscape & Property Improvement and Vacant Building Conversion grants to the CIP by-law (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive the Economic First Quarter Report for information (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive the 2024 Summer Events Report for information (Carried)
- Recommended City Council receive the March 2024 Chief Building Official update for information (Carried)
- Approved minutes from February 21, 2024 (Carried)
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment will review reports regarding property standards appeal procedures and the appointment of a Secretary-Treasurer. There are no new development applications scheduled for this meeting.
- Report CR-24-034: Property Standards Appeal Procedure
- Report CR-24-037: Appointment of Committee of Adjustment Secretary-Treasurer
The Committee of Adjustment approved a Property Standards Committee Procedure and authorized the City Clerk to make administrative changes, with substantive changes returning to the committee. It also suspended Staci Landry's appointment as Secretary-Treasurer while she is on leave and appointed Allison Penner to that role for the leave period. The February 20, 2024 minutes were approved as printed. There were no applications or correspondence items, and the meeting adjourned at 3:14 p.m.
- Approved February 20, 2024 minutes as printed (carried)
- Adopted Property Standards Committee Procedure and authorized City Clerk administrative changes (carried)
- Suspended Staci Landry's appointment as Secretary-Treasurer during her leave (carried)
- Appointed Allison Penner as Secretary-Treasurer during Staci Landry's leave (carried)
Board - River District
The River District Board of Management is reviewing the 2023 year-end financial report and the 2024 staff work plan. The meeting includes discussions on updating the agreement between the Board and the City of Owen Sound.
- Deputation regarding BanditFest
- Presentation on 2024 Art Gallery, Culture, Tourism programming
- 2023 Year End financial report
- 2024 River District Staff Work Plan
- Update to the agreement between the Board and the City of Owen Sound
The Board approved a street closure request for the Big Banditfest event in July and updated its management agreement with the City of Owen Sound. Member Thomas was appointed to the Municipal Accommodation Tax Stakeholder Committee. The Board also authorized a $4,505 deposit into its bank account.
- Supported street closure on 1st Avenue East for Banditfest on July 20 and 21, 2024
- Approved updated agreement between River District Board of Management and City of Owen Sound
- Appointed Member Thomas to the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) Stakeholder Committee
- Authorized $4,505.00 cheque to be deposited in the Board's bank account
- Approved minutes from January 10, 2024 meeting
Council Meeting - Special
The City Council is convening a special meeting for a closed session. Discussion items include employee performance reviews, wage negotiations, and a proposed municipal land acquisition.
- Employee training and performance reviews
- Labour relations and wage negotiations
- Proposed acquisition of land by the municipality
- By-law No. 2024-024 regarding meeting proceedings
Council met in a special session to discuss personnel, labour relations, and land acquisition. No direction was provided on the items discussed during the closed session.
- Approved motion to move into closed session
- Passed By-law No. 2024-024 to confirm meeting proceedings
Council Meeting - Regular
The council will review a presentation regarding the Art Gallery Expansion Feasibility Study. The agenda also includes appointments to the Municipal Accommodation Tax Stakeholder Committee and several infrastructure contract awards. Additionally, multiple by-laws concerning noise, nuisance, and fees are up for consideration.
- Art Gallery Expansion Feasibility Study presentation
- Appointment of a Council Member to the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) Stakeholder Committee
- Alpha Street Reconstruction contract award (6th Avenue West to 9th Avenue West)
- Downtown River Precinct, 1st Avenue East, 900 Block, Phase 2 contract award
- Approval of 2024 Non-Union and Council COLA increases
City Council awarded two major construction tenders for Alpha Street and the Downtown River Precinct. Council also directed staff to conduct a fundraising feasibility study for the Tom Thomson Art Gallery expansion.
- Awarded Alpha Street Reconstruction contract to Moorefield Excavating for $5,258,819.42
- Awarded Downtown River Precinct Phase 2 contract to MacDonnell Excavating Ltd. for $1,730,968.13
- Approved Fundraising Feasibility Study for Art Gallery expansion using reserve funds (9-0)
- Appointed Councillor Middlebro' to the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) Stakeholder Committee
- Approved access agreement with South Bruce Peninsula ATV Club
- Supported resolution for increased funding to Ontario Libraries and Museums
- Denied resolution calling for provincial rent protections for all units
- Passed 17 by-laws including new noise and public nuisance regulations
Committee - Corporate Services
The Corporate Services Committee will review several staff reports regarding city operations. These include an update on the 2024 tax policy and a review of property standards by-laws. The committee will also discuss annual work plans for fire services and corporate services.
- 2024 Tax Policy Update (CR-24-018)
- 2023 By-law Enforcement Overview and Property Standards By-law Review (CR-24-010)
- 2024 Fire and Emergency Services Work Plan (CR-24-023)
- 2024 Corporate Services Work Plan (CR-24-014)
- Policy Review Project - Annual Update (CR-24-019)
The Corporate Services Committee recommended that City Council direct staff to amend the Property Standards By-law and reduce the multi-residential tax class ratio to 1.338950. The committee also recommended repealing certain redundant policies and receiving the 2024 Corporate Services Work Plan for information. The 2024 Fire and Emergency Services Work Plan was postponed until the next meeting in April.
- Approved minutes from February 8, 2024 meeting
- Recommended Council direct staff to repeal redundant policies and update formats
- Recommended Council direct staff to amend Property Standards By-law
- Recommended Council receive 2024 Corporate Services Work Plan for information
- Recommended Council reduce multi-residential tax class ratio to 1.338950
- Recommended Council authorize collection of 2024 property taxes
- Postponed 2024 Fire and Emergency Services Work Plan to April 11 meeting
Committee - Strategic Planning Ad Hoc
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee is reviewing a March 2024 update regarding the Strategic Plan 2050. The meeting includes a review of previous minutes from January 24, 2024.
- Report CM-24-008: Strategic Plan 2050 - March 2024 Update
- Vision 2050 - Lessons Learned To Date March 2024 Update (CM-24-006)
- 2050 Vision Project Charter
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee recommended that City Council approve a revised community engagement plan for Vision 2050. The committee also recommended authorizing an agreement with Jay Pitter Placemaking to provide staff training and engagement coaching.
- Approved minutes from January 24, 2024 (Carried)
- Recommended Council approve revised community engagement plan (5-1)
- Recommended Council authorize agreement with Jay Pitter Placemaking for an upset limit of $80,000 (5-1)
Committee - Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc
The Service Review Implementation Ad Hoc Committee will elect a Chair and Vice Chair. The committee will also receive an initial report from the City Manager regarding Building Service Excellence.
- Election of Committee Chair
- Election of Vice Chair
- Report CM-24-007: Service Review - Building Service Excellence - Initial Report
The committee acclaimed Mayor Boddy as Chair and Councillor Koepke as Vice Chair. Members reviewed an initial report on the 49 actions of the Service Review implementation and agreed the committee will make recommendations to Council for final decisions.
- Acclaimed Mayor Boddy as Chair
- Acclaimed Councillor Koepke as Vice Chair
- Recommended City Council receive Report CM-24-007 for information purposes
Council Meeting - Regular
The Council will review the 2024 Municipal Levy approval and several staff reports. Discussion includes upcoming community events at Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre and the Owen Sound River District.
- 2024 Municipal Levy Approval (Report CR-24-016)
- Dirt Road Revival Concert at Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre on May 4, 2024
- Brightshores Fundraising Event at Owen Sound River District on May 4, 2024
- Lease Agreement at the Owen_Sound Transit Terminal (Report CR-24-005)
- 2024 Court Security and Prisoner Transport Transfer Payment Agreement (Report CR-24-017)
City Council directed staff to create a by-law for a $34,899,000 municipal levy and $46,536,276 in total operating expenditures. Council also voted to remove the Council Remuneration Review Task Force for the current term and approved two events scheduled for May 4, 2024.
- Authorized $34,899,000 municipal levy and $46,536,276 operating expenditures (9-0)
- Directed staff to remove the Council Remuneration Review Task Force for the current term (7-2)
- Approved Brightshores Ball Hockey 'Cellybration' street closures and licensed area for May 4, 2024
- Approved licensed Dirt Road Revival Concert at Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre for May 4, 2024
- Passed By-law 2024-020 for Owen Sound Transit Terminal lease agreement
- Passed By-law 2024-021 for Court Security and Prisoner Transportation Transfer Payment Agreement
- Passed By-law 2024-023 for Marriage Licence Modernization Phase 2 participation agreement
- Received Integrity Commissioner's Annual Report for information
Committee - Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory
The committee will elect a new Chair and Vice Chair. Members will also receive an orientation and review staff reports regarding February updates and 2024 gallery work plans.
- Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair
- Staff Report AG-24-001 (February 2024 Update)
- Staff Report AG-24-002 (Gallery Work Plans)
- Verbal reports from Fundraising, Art Collection, and Expansion Planning teams
- Confirmation of November 1, 2023, meeting minutes
The Tom Thomson Art Gallery Advisory Committee elected a new Chair and Vice Chair. The committee recommended that City Council receive updates on gallery programming, operations, and 2024 work plans for information purposes.
- Acclaimed Peter Tovell as Chair
- Acclaimed Jane McKerroll as Vice Chair
- Approved minutes from November 1, 2023
- Recommended Council receive February Update Report AG-24-001 (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive 2024 Gallery Work Plans Report AG-24-002 (Carried)
- Recommended Council direct staff to provide written Fundraising Reports for future meetings (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive Ontario Arts and Culture Tourism Profile report (Carried)
Committee - Community Services
The committee will elect a Chair and Vice Chair for the upcoming term. Staff will present various work plans, including updates on community development, campground policies, and heritage plaque refreshes.
- Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair
- Rogers TV Control Room Lease Agreement Extension at Bayshore Community Centre
- Campground booking request for refund policy update and rules/regulations
- Interpretive Heritage Plaque Refresh
- Financial Accountability Agreement with the Owen Sound & District Chamber of Commerce
Owen Sound's Community Services Committee met on February 21, 2024, elected Marion Koepke as Chair after a tie broken by drawing names, and acclaimed Jon Farmer as Vice Chair. The committee recommended that City Council add a $20 administration fee for campground booking changes, approve a new campground booking refunds policy, and approve updated campground and cabin rules. It also recommended extending the Rogers TV control room lease at the Bayshore Community Centre to August 31, 2029, and endorsed a heritage plaque refresh plan contingent on grant funding. All recommendations carried and now go to City Council for a final decision.
- Elected Marion Koepke as Chair after a tie vote was broken by drawing names; Jon Farmer acclaimed as Vice Chair
- Approved December 13, 2023 committee minutes (carried)
- Recommended City Council add a $20 administration fee for campground booking changes and approve Policy FPR002 Campground Booking Refunds Policy and updated campground/cabin rules (carried)
- Recommended extending the Rogers TV control room lease at Bayshore Community Centre to August 31, 2029 (carried)
- Recommended endorsing the interpretive heritage plaque refresh phasing plan and applying for RTO7 grant funding (carried)
- Recommended authorizing a Financial Accountability Agreement with the Owen Sound & District Chamber of Commerce for Municipal Accommodation Tax funds (carried)
- Received staff reports on 2024 work plans, the 2023 Community Improvement Plan wrap-up, and the Art Gallery/Culture/Tourism February update for information (carried)
- Received correspondence on 2023 development activity and a Community Heritage Ontario newsletter for information (carried)
Committee - Committee of Adjustment
The Committee of Adjustment is reviewing three specific property applications. These include two requests for minor variances and one request for consent.
- Minor Variance application for 862 5th Avenue East
- Minor Variance application for 1660 20th Avenue East
- Consent application for 1548 20th Street East
The Committee of Adjustment approved two minor variance applications and one consent application for lot creation. All approvals were granted subject to specific conditions outlined in staff reports.
- Approved minor variance A01-2024 for 862 5th Avenue East (Carried)
- Approved minor variance A02-2024 for 1660 20th Avenue East (Carried)
- Approved consent application B01-2024 for lot creation at 1548 20th Street East (Carried)
- Approved minutes from the December 12, 2023 meeting (Carried)
Committee - Operations
The committee will hold elections for its Chair and Vice Chair. Discussion items include Flixbus transit service use, intercommunity transit between Guelph and Owen Sound, and the 2023 annual water system report.
- Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair
- Amending agreement with Automotive Materials Stewardship Inc.
- Recycling Convenience Depot at Miller Transfer Station follow-up
- Flixbus Transit Service use of Owen Sound Transit Terminal Platform
- 2023 Annual Water System Report
The committee recommended that City Council authorize agreements for automotive waste collection and Flixbus terminal use. It also recommended funding for a recycling convenience depot and initiating talks with Grey County to sustain the GOST transit service.
- Acclaimed Carol Merton as Chair and Marion Koepke as Vice Chair
- Approved January 18, 2024 meeting minutes
- Recommended Council authorize agreement with Automotive Materials Stewardship Inc. for oil and antifreeze collection
- Recommended Council fund Miller Waste recycling convenience depot until June 30, 2024
- Recommended Council authorize agreement for Flixbus use of Transit Terminal platform
- Recommended Council discuss transferring GOST Transit service to Grey County for sustainability
- Recommended Council receive the 2023 Annual Report – City of Owen Sound Water System for information
Council Meeting - Regular
The City Council will review a request to purchase a portion of a lane near 385 12th Street West. The agenda also includes updates to the Short-Term Rental By-law regarding insurance and electrical safety requirements.
- Request to purchase portion of lane abutting 385 12th Street West
- Update to Short-Term Rental (STR) By-law regarding insurance and electrical safety
- Deputation regarding Community Safety and Well-Being Planning Action Tables
Owen Sound Council directed staff to close and sell a portion of a city lane adjacent to 385 12th Street West. They also passed By-law 2024-016 to update insurance and electrical safety rules for short-term rentals. A deputation on community safety planning was received for information, and several committee minutes were approved.
- Directed staff to close and sell lane portion at 385 12th Street West
- Passed By-law 2024-016 updating short-term rental insurance and electrical rules
- Approved minutes and recommendations from Accessibility Advisory Committee
- Approved minutes and recommendations from Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee
- Received Community Safety and Well-Being Plan deputation for information
- Adopted previous meeting minutes and consent agenda items
Committee - Corporate Services
The committee will hold elections for the Chair and Vice Chair positions. Members will also review updates to the flag-flying policy and draft noise and nuisance by-laws. Additionally, staff will present the 2023 Fire and Emergency Services Annual Report.
- Election of Committee Chair and Vice Chair
- Updates to Flag-Flying, Proclamations and Public Awareness Campaigns Policy
- Review of draft Noise and Nuisance By-laws for STR implementation
- Summary of awarded tenders between $50,000 and $249,999
- 2023 Fire and Emergency Services Annual Report
The Corporate Services Committee recommended several by-law amendments to support the short-term rental licensing program, including new noise and nuisance regulations. The committee also postponed updates to the flag-flying policy to allow for further revisions.
- Acclaimed Melanie Middlebro' as Chair and Carol Merton as Vice Chair
- Approved minutes from December 7, 2023 meeting
- Recommended postponing flag-flying policy report for further changes to flying periods and proactive flag use
- Recommended Council receive 2023 FOI Year in Review report for information
- Recommended Council direct staff to amend several by-laws for short-term rental licensing, including Noise, Nuisance, and Fireworks by-laws
- Recommended Council receive 2023 awarded tenders and proposals report for information
- Recommended Council receive 2023 Fire and Emergency Services Annual Report for information
- Recommended Council request Mayor send support letter for Prince Edward County Resolution No. 2024-46
Council Meeting - Special
The City Council is meeting to discuss multi-year budgeting processes. The agenda includes a presentation on multi-year budgeting and a correction regarding the 2024-2028 Multi-Year Capital Plan.
- Presentation from the Director of Corporate Services regarding Multi-Year Budgeting
- Memorandum regarding Report CR-23-124 - Multi-Year Capital Plan (2024-2028) Correction
- Discussion of the Multi-Year Capital Plan Update (2024-2028)
City Council approved the projects funded within the Multi-Year Capital Plan for 2024-2028. Council also directed staff to provide an updated 2025-2029 plan for approval in June 2024.
- Approved projects funded within the Multi-Year Capital Plan (2024-2028)
- Directed staff to bring forward a Multi-Year Capital Plan (2025-2029) update in June 2024
- Received memorandum regarding a formula-based error in Report CR-23-124 for information
- Passed By-law No. 2024-014 to confirm meeting proceedings
Council Meeting - Regular
The Council will hold a public meeting to present the 2024 draft budget and receive comments. The agenda also includes reviewing zoning settlement minutes and awarding a sewer replacement contract.
- Public presentation of the 2024 draft budget
- Awarding tender RFT-23-035 for 17th Street East sanitary sewer replacement to Moorefield Excavating Ltd.
- Review of settlement minutes regarding Zoning By-law Amendments 44 and 48
- Transfer of Bruce Telecom Municipal Access Agreement to WPC Infrastructure Fund LP
City Council approved a plan to implement town hall style meetings in 2024 to increase public engagement. Council also passed by-laws for a sanitary sewer replacement and a municipal access agreement transfer. A public meeting was held to discuss the 2024 draft budget, which includes an estimated levy increase of 2.81%.
- Directed staff to report on a structure for town hall meetings in 2024 (9-0)
- Approved 17th Street East Sanitary Sewer replacement contract with Moorefield Excavating Ltd.
- Approved transfer of Municipal Access Agreement from Bruce Telecom to WPC Infrastructure Fund LP
- Passed By-law 2024-013 for Minutes of Settlement regarding Heritage Grove and Sydenham Square appeals
- Called on Province of Ontario to undertake a social and economic prosperity review of municipal finances
- Adopted minutes from January 15, 2024 meeting
- Approved recommendations from the January 18, 2024 Operations Committee meeting
Committee - Strategic Planning Ad Hoc
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee is reviewing a report regarding a proposed Community Engagement Plan. This plan is intended to assist in the development of the city's Strategic Plan.
- Proposed Community Engagement Plan for the Development of the Strategic Plan (Report CM-24-004)
The Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee recommended that City Council approve a community engagement plan for the city's Strategic Plan. The plan includes a 'Tell Us Your Vision' phase from March to June 2024 using digital tools, physical vision cards, and local events. The committee also approved the minutes from the November 22, 2023 meeting.
- Approved minutes of the November 22, 2023 meeting (Carried)
- Recommended City Council approve the Community Engagement Plan for the Strategic Plan with discussed amendments (Carried)
Committee - Accessibility Advisory
The Accessibility Advisory Committee is reviewing a draft of the City's Multi-Year Accessibility Plan for 2024-2028. Staff are also seeking committee comment on draft plans of subdivision for Greystone Village and Redhawk.
- 5-Year Review and Update of the City's Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (MYAP)
- Draft Plan of Subdivision - Greystone Village (42T-20501)
- Draft Plan of Subdivision - Redhawk (42T-15501)
- Mobility Transit Dashboard for October and December 2023
- 2023 Accessibility Compliance Report
The Accessibility Advisory Committee recommended that City Council approve the updated 5-Year Multi-Year Accessibility Plan. The committee also provided accessibility recommendations for two new subdivision developments and approved the previous meeting's minutes.
- Approved minutes of the September 22, 2023 meeting (Carried)
- Recommended Council accept AODA compliance and sidewalk accessibility comments for Redhawk subdivision (Carried)
- Recommended Council accept AODA compliance and sidewalk accessibility comments for Greystone Village subdivision (Carried)
- Recommended Council approve the 5-Year Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (Carried)
- Recommended Council direct staff to involve persons with disabilities in future accessibility plan reviews (Carried)
- Recommended Council receive transit dashboards and the 2023 Accessibility Compliance Report for information (Carried)
Committee - Operations
The Operations Committee will review several staff reports regarding environmental services and transit. Discussions include a request for proposals for curbside waste collection and the recycling convenience depot at Miller Transfer Station.
- Curbside Waste Collection RFP (Report OP-24-001)
- Recycling Convenience Depot Miller Transfer Station (Report OP-24-002)
- Transit Dashboard - January 2024
The Operations Committee recommended that City Council proceed with a Curbside Waste Collection RFP including a seasonal collection option. The committee also recommended negotiating cost-sharing for a recycling depot and received a transit report for information.
- Recommended issuing Curbside Waste Collection RFP with seasonal garbage and green bin options (Carried)
- Recommended negotiating cost-sharing agreement with Georgian Bluffs and Meaford for Miller Transfer Station recycling depot (Carried)
- Received January 2024 Transit Dashboard report for information (Carried)
- Approved minutes from December 14, 2023 meeting (Carried)
Council Meeting - Regular
The Council is reviewing several by-laws including a 2024 interim levy and municipal accommodation tax amendments. The agenda also includes a memo regarding the River District 2024 Budget and a traffic signal maintenance agreement.
- River District 2024 Budget memo
- Traffic Signal Maintenance Agreement (RFT-23-036)
- Amendment to Municipal Accommodation Tax By-law No. 2023-127
- By-law for a 2024 Interim Levy for all property classes
- Increase of bag tag fees via amendment to Fees and Charges By-law No. 2023-080
Owen Sound City Council met on January 15, 2024, with Mayor Ian Boddy and Councillor Travis Dodd absent. Council approved the River District 2024 budget, passed eight by-laws covering governance, interim levy, community engagement, traffic signal maintenance, a facade grant, and accommodation tax amendments, and received committee minutes and consent agenda items. A proposed by-law to increase bag tag fees was defeated in a recorded vote of 2 in favour and 5 opposed, so the fee remains at $2.50 per tag. A notice of motion was presented to schedule a town hall-style meeting in October 2024, but no decision was made on it.
- Approved River District 2024 budget as presented (carried)
- Passed By-laws 2024-001 through 2024-008, including interim levy, community engagement policy, traffic signal maintenance agreement, facade grant, and accommodation tax amendments (carried)
- Defeated By-law 2024-009 to increase bag tag fees (2 in favour, 5 opposed)
- Received consent agenda items 11.a to 11.g and approved recommendations in 11.a and 11.b (carried)
- Received Community Services Committee minutes and approved recommendations (carried)
- Received Operations Committee minutes and approved recommendations (carried)
- Adopted minutes of December 18, 2023 regular council meeting (carried)
Board - River District
The Board of Management is holding a public meeting to discuss the draft 2024 budget, which includes a 2 percent increase option. Staff will also present reports regarding 2023 year-end events and the plan for 2024 activations and promotions.
- Public Meeting: Draft 2024 Budget (including a 2 Percent Increase option)
- Report CS-24-001: 2023 Year-End Events, Activations and Promotions Wrap Up
- Report CS-24-002: 2024 Events, Activations, and Promotions Plan
- Business License approvals for The Curry House, The Rumpus Room, Grey County Ranch, VIP Vape, AM 2 PM Cabs, Precision Cuts, Body Edit - by Heather & Kristy, and Kash Cares
The Board recommended the 2024 budget, which includes a 2% levy increase, to City Council for final approval. Members also approved the 2024 Events, Activations, and Promotions Plan and supported upcoming street closures for community events.
- Recommended 2024 River District budget to City Council (Carried)
- Approved 2024 Events, Activations, and Promotions Plan (Carried)
- Pre-approved $500.00 Just Say Yes budget for 2025 (Carried)
- Supported street closures for Wheel & Ride Safety Festival and Brightshores Street Hockey event (Carried)
- Directed staff to initiate road closure process for 8th Street East for Wheel & Ride Safety Festival (Carried)
- Appointed Chair Parsons, Member Dwyer, and Member Walcott to 2024 Membership Event working group (Carried)
- Approved minutes from November 8, 2023, regular and closed sessions (Carried)