Region of Waterloo public meetings in 2023

Public Art Advisory Committee

The Public Art Advisory Committee will consider approving amendments to its terms of reference, a revised Region of Waterloo Public Art Policy, and a $2,250 partnership with the University of Waterloo Fine Arts program for a 2024 exhibit. The agenda also includes approval of the November 6, 2023 minutes and standard procedural items.

• Approve revised PAAC Terms of Reference (Appendix A)
• Approve Region of Waterloo Public Art Policy draft (Appendix A)
• Approve 2024 exhibit partnership with University of Waterloo Fine Arts program for $2,250
• Approve minutes of November 6, 2023 meeting

All Councils

This is a brief All Councils meeting with two presentations: an update on the Build Now initiative by Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region, and an update on building a safe and well Waterloo Region. No decisions or votes are listed on the agenda; it is largely informational and procedural.

• Presentation: Build Now – Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region update
• Presentation: Building a Safe and Well Waterloo Region update
• Next All Councils meeting scheduled for June 21, 2024

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee will consider the final 2024 Plan and Operating Budget, including a net expenditure of $1.5 billion and a property tax levy of $753 million. The agenda also includes several motions to adjust funding for housing, transit, waste management, and community programs.

• Approve 2024 Operating Budget with net expenditure of $1,515,724,561 and property tax levy of $753,307,957
• Approve Waterloo Regional Police Service 2024 Operating Budget of $252,409,148
• Motion to increase Food Bank of Waterloo Region grant from $744,000 to $1.5 million
• Motion to increase waste bag tag fee from $2.00 to $3.00 per bag effective April 1, 2024
• Motion to invest $10.2 million for Plan to End Chronic Homelessness

Council Meeting

Council will consider approving an $11.1 million plan to end chronic homelessness, including funding for a hybrid shelter and new housing programs. It will also vote on contract increases for the Kitchener landfill gas system and wastewater treatment plant, and a tax grant for a Cambridge redevelopment. Several committee reports and by-laws are up for approval.

• Approve $11,124,967 for Plan to End Chronic Homelessness, funded by tax levy and reserve
• Increase contract with CIMA Canada Inc. by $470,332 for Kitchener Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrades
• Increase contract with Comcor Environmental Ltd. by $147,788 for former Kitchener Landfill gas system upgrades
• Approve up to $1,299,598 Tax Increment Grant for 201 and 217 Hespeler Rd, Cambridge redevelopment
• Reappoint Councillor Sue Foxton to SWIFT Board of Directors

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee will receive the 2023 Year-End Audit Plan and a presentation on Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards compliance. The meeting includes a motion to go into closed session to discuss security of municipal property.

• 2023 Year-End Audit Plan (COR-TRY-23-038) for information
• Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards Compliance presentation
• Motion to enter closed session under Municipal Act for security of property

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will consider a motion to discontinue the Green Bin Replacement program, replacing bins only if damaged by service trucks or improper collection. The agenda also includes information items on 2023 property assessment growth, a 2024 temporary borrowing bylaw, and a 2022 performance measurement report.

• Motion to discontinue Green Bin Replacement program
• 2024 Temporary Borrowing By-laws (COR-TRY-23-036) to authorize CFO to borrow funds
• 2023 Property Assessment Growth report (COR-CFN-23-045)
• 2022 MBNCanada Performance Measurement Report (HRC-ADM-23-001)

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee will consider endorsing location T1 as the preferred Stage 2 ION south terminal, directing staff to proceed with it in the initial business case. They will also vote on a brownfields tax increment grant for 201 and 217 Hespeler Road in Cambridge, and hear delegations on LRT Phase 2. Consent items include reports on transit corridor monitoring, building permits, and a GRCA memorandum of understanding.

• Endorse location T1 as preferred Stage 2 ION south terminal (report TSD-RTS-23-004)
• Approve Tax Increment Grant up to $1,299,598 for 201 and 217 Hespeler Road, Cambridge
• Authorize MOU with Grand River Conservation Authority for non-mandatory services
• Receive monitoring reports on Central Transit Corridor and building permit activity
• Delegations on LRT Phase 2 to Cambridge and GO integration

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will hear a delegation from Kamil Ahmed regarding an anti-hate bylaw and restorative justice. The committee will also receive updates on the Doon Heritage Village utility upgrade project and on alternate destination clinics for health care.

• Delegation by Kamil Ahmed on anti-hate bylaw and restorative justice
• PDL-CUL-23-016, Doon Heritage Village Utility Upgrade Project Update
• PHP-SPS-23-003, Alternate Destination Clinics Update with presentation

Library Committee

The Library Committee will consider and vote on the 2024 Region of Waterloo Library budget, including a $3,548,700 operating budget and a capital plan through 2033. The budget will then be referred to the Strategic Planning and Budget Committee. An operations update is also on the agenda for information.

• Approve 2024 operating budget with net expenditure of $3,548,700 and property tax levy of $2,996,496
• Approve 2024 capital budget and 2025-2033 capital forecast
• Refer budget to Strategic Planning and Budget Committee
• Receive Region of Waterloo Libraries operations update for information

Strategic Planning and Budget Public Input Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee is holding a public input session for the 2024 budget. The agenda lists 34 delegations and several written communications on topics including the future of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony, proposed ION service changes, homelessness and housing, police funding, and property tax increases. No decisions are scheduled; the meeting is solely for receiving public feedback.

• Delegation from KWS Players' Association on the future of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony
• Delegation from Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth requesting regional financial support for a capital build
• Multiple delegations opposing proposed ION service reductions to 30-minute headways during off-peak hours
• Delegations and correspondence regarding police budget surpluses
• Delegations on homelessness, including requests for mental health and addiction support in the homeless budget

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee will hear presentations on the 2024 Plan and Budget and the 2024-2033 Capital Program. Reports include councillor motions on the budget and responses to councillor requests, with a recommended motion to amend Light Rail Transit service levels to 10-minute peak headways year-round starting June 2024.

• Presentation on 2024 Plan and Budget
• Presentation on 2024-2033 Capital Program
• Report COR-CFN-23-043: 2024 Plan and Budget - Councillor Motions
• Report COR-CFN-23-044: 2024 Plan and Budget - Responses to Councillor Requests, including proposed LRT service level amendment
• Recommended motion to change LRT to 10-minute peak headways all year from June 2024, maintaining 15-minute shoulder headways

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Board will review the accounts and grants summary for information. The meeting includes a verbal update from M. Lee regarding strategic planning.

• Accounts and Grants Summary report
• Approval of October 24, 2023 minutes
• Strategic Planning update by M. Lee
• Staffing announcement

Council Meeting

Council will consider approving a $9.6 million contract for eight hybrid/electric transit buses from Nova Bus Inc. and a $2.6 million extension of the busPLUS feeder service contract with Voyageur Transportation Services. Other items include a $700,000 legal settlement with Kieswetter Excavating, permanent speed limit reductions in school zones, and a request for more provincial court judges.

• $9,595,992 contract with Nova Bus Inc. for eight hybrid/electric transit buses, with vendor-of-record status through 2028
• $2,605,000 two-year extension of busPLUS feeder service contract with 947465 Ontario Ltd. o/a Voyageur Transportation Services
• $700,000 settlement of Kieswetter Excavating Inc. lawsuit against the Region
• Permanent lowering of posted speed limits in school zones on regional roads, with Snyder's Road in Wilmot exempted
• Request to Ministry of the Attorney General for more judicial resources for the Region's Provincial Offences Court

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee will hear presentations on the Grand River Conservation Authority's 2024 draft budget and the Waterloo Regional Police Services 2024 budget. Key decisions include approving $3,113,493 for housing service proposals and an $11,124,967 plan to end chronic homelessness, though a motion to defer both to December 13 is also on the table. The committee will also consider establishing a $5 million Industrial Land Readiness Reserve and a $1 million Community Capacity Building Fund, plus a motion to adjust GRT fares.

• Approve $3,113,493 for nine housing service proposals from 2024 Housing Services Operating Budget
• Direct $11,124,967 to implement Plan to End Chronic Homelessness, funded by $3.2M from Tax Stabilization Reserve and $7,924,967 from property tax levy
• Establish Industrial Land Readiness Reserve with $5 million contribution from property tax levy
• Motion to create $1,000,000 annual Community Capacity Building Fund from property tax levy
• Motion to keep GRT cash fare at $3.75 and increase monthly pass to $99 effective July 1, 2024

Active Transportation Advisory Committee

The Active Transportation Advisory Committee will hold introductory remarks, elect a chair and vice-chair, and approve minutes from October 2022. Staff will highlight major upcoming projects for 2024, including the Integrated Mobility Plan, shared micromobility, and cycling network expansions. No binding decisions are expected; the meeting is largely organizational.

• Election of Committee Chair and Vice-Chair
• Approval of minutes from October 18, 2022
• Preview of 2024 projects: Integrated Mobility Plan, Shared Micromobility, Grand River Transit Business Plan
• Preliminary design alternatives for Elgin St-Saginaw Pkwy/Franklin Blvd intersection
• Separated Cycling Network Expansion in Waterloo and Kitchener

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee will receive a presentation on the 2024 Plan and Budget and a staff report on options to achieve budget guidelines. The report is for direction, meaning the committee will discuss and provide guidance on how to meet budget targets. The meeting is a regular session focused on budget planning.

• Presentation on Plan and Budget 2024
• Report COR-CFN-23-038: Options to Achieve Budget Guidelines (for direction)
• Notice of motion by Councillor D. McCabe

Special Council

This special council meeting is called solely to consider a motion to go into closed session under the Municipal Act. The closed session would discuss solicitor-client privileged advice related to a proposed acquisition of lands. No public decisions or discussions are scheduled.

• Motion to hold closed session for solicitor-client advice on proposed land acquisition

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee will consider permanently lowering posted speed limits in school zones on regional roads by amending the Traffic and Parking By-law. Other items include delegating authority to declare significant weather events, adding a road to the regional system, closing a portion of Fischer-Hallman Road, and receiving updates on Bill 23 implementation, transit ridership, and asset management policy.

• Permanent lowering of school zone speed limits on regional roads (TSD-TRP-23-014)
• Delegating authority to declare Significant Weather Events to Transportation Commissioner and three cities (TSD-TRP-23-013)
• Adding 2040 Eagle Street North, Cambridge to Regional Road 39 (PDL-LEG-23-052)
• Permanent closure of a non-travelled part of Fischer-Hallman Road (Regional Road 58) in Kitchener (PDL-LEG-23-053)
• Update on Bill 23 implementation for housing (PDL-CPL-23-031)

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will discuss and decide whether to reinstate public art galleries as eligible for operating support through Council-approved grant programs, effective January 1, 2024. The committee will also receive updates on judicial shortages in Provincial Offences Court, a summary of 2023 grant allocations, a corporate vision refresh, a Q3 2023 financial update, and a police service operating surplus. A notice of motion proposes splitting future police service surpluses 50% to police reserves and 50% to the Region.

• Reinstate public art galleries as eligible for operating support through grant programs (report PDL-CUL-23-014)
• Request adequate judicial resources for Provincial Offences Court due to shortages (report PDL-CAS-23-015)
• Approve refreshed Corporate Vision, Mission, and Core Value statements (report CAO-23-005)
• Receive Q3 2023 Plan and Financial Update (report COR-CFN-23-036)
• Notice of motion to split future Waterloo Region Police Service surpluses 50% to police reserves and 50% to the Region

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will consider two major housing and homelessness items: approving $3.1M in fee-for-service housing stability proposals for 2024, and beginning implementation of the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness with an $11.1M budget increase. The committee also hears delegations on encampments, housing stability, and ending chronic homelessness. A consent item reports on school immunization compliance.

• Approve nine housing stability service proposals totaling $3,113,493 for 2024
• Direct staff to increase 2024 Housing Services budget by $11,124,967 for the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness
• Direct staff to discuss 15-unit transitional/supportive housing for pregnant women at Marillac Residence
• Direct staff to discuss a 20-bed women's emergency shelter with YWCA Cambridge
• Receive report on Immunization of School Pupils Act compliance rates for 2022-2023

Public Art Advisory Committee

The Public Art Advisory Committee is meeting to elect a chair and vice-chair, approve minutes from August 2022, and receive staff overviews of the public art collection and the committee's work plan. No binding decisions or financial items are on the agenda.

• Election of committee chair and vice-chair
• Approval of minutes from August 25, 2022
• Staff overview of the permanent public art collection and temporary projects
• Staff walk-through of the PAAC work plan

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee will hear a presentation on the 2024 budget and consider two motions: one to add $500,000 in annual funding for youth initiatives, and another to increase the Region's annual grant to the Food Bank of Waterloo Region from $744,000 to $1.5 million. The meeting also includes a closed session for labour relations and personal matters.

• Presentation: 'Growing with Care: Plan and Budget 2024'
• Motion by Councillor C. James to add $500,000 in annual funding for youth priority initiatives
• Motion by Councillor R. Deutschmann to increase annual grant to Food Bank of Waterloo Region to $1.5 million (from $744,000)
• Closed session for labour relations and personal matters under Section 239 of the Municipal Act

Strategic Planning and Budget Public Input Committee

The committee hears delegations on funding for the Counselling Collaborative of Waterloo Region, property tax increases, and regional metrics. A communication on external transit advertising is also received. The meeting is primarily for public input and discussion.

• Delegation from Amanda Wood-Atkinson and Lisa Akey advocating for continued funding of the Counselling Collaborative of Waterloo Region
• Delegation from Hardy and Renate Willms regarding high property tax increases (deferred to November 29)
• Delegation from John Waylett on Waterloo Region metrics and property tax growth
• Communication from Rory Farnan on external transit advertising

Council Meeting

Council will consider a $13.7 million contract for security upgrades at water and facilities buildings, and debate a request for a new municipal fiscal framework from the province. Several delegations will address homelessness, housing, and development issues. The meeting begins with a closed session for ongoing negotiations.

• $13,713,069.75 contract with Fire Monitoring of Canada for security upgrades at Region of Waterloo water and facilities buildings
• Request to province for a new municipal fiscal funding framework to address growth and revenue shortfalls
• Proposed amendment to Regional Official Plan to allow up to 6 lots at 63 Benjamin Street, New Dundee using tertiary wastewater treatment
• Approval of settlement for partial expropriation at 255 King Street, Cambridge for $475,000 plus interest and costs
• Direction to explore redevelopment of 651 Concession Road, Cambridge for paramedic services, affordable housing, and social services

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation board is meeting electronically to review finance reports, including an accounts and grants summary, and to approve the minutes from its September 26, 2023 meeting. The agenda includes no delegations and no committee reports, but features a verbal update from the Strategic Planning committee and correspondence from Wordscribe Productions and the Waterloo Historical Society.

• Accounts and Grants Summary - October 24, 2023
• Approval of minutes from September 26, 2023
• Verbal update from Strategic Planning committee by M. Lee
• Invitation to see The Ghost and Castle Kilbride from Wordscribe Productions
• October 2023 Waterloo Historical Society newsletter

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee will hear presentations on the 2024 budget and reserves, consider proposed 2024 user fees, and debate three motions related to police budgeting, a child and youth well-being reserve, and budget amendment rules.

• 2024 User Fees and Charges report (COR-CFN-23-032) with proposed by-law changes
• Motion requesting WRPS present draft budget to Council before final approval
• Motion to create Child and Youth Well-being Reserve funded by first $500,000 of police surplus
• Motion setting notice rules for final budget amendments
• Presentations on Growing with Care Plan and Budget 2024 and reserve updates

Strategic Planning and Budget Public Input Committee

The agenda contains only procedural boilerplate with no specific items, decisions, or proposals listed. The meeting is for public input on strategic planning and budget, but no details are provided.

Special Council

This special council meeting is called to approve a series of by-laws authorizing $60 million in ten-year instalment debentures for capital projects in Kitchener, Cambridge, Wellesley, Wilmot, Woolwich, and the region itself. The agenda also includes a loan to the Township of Wellesley under the Tile Drainage Act. All items are procedural and focused on borrowing approvals.

• By-law 23-043: $4,374,000 debenture for City of Kitchener capital works
• By-law 23-044: $19,465,000 debenture for City of Cambridge capital works
• By-law 23-049: $60,000,000 consolidated debenture series covering all municipal borrowings
• By-law 23-050: Tile drainage debenture for Township of Wellesley
• Report COR-TRY-23-032: Loan to Wellesley under Tile Drainage Act

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will hear a delegation from Heather Majaury of Kitchener regarding evictions in Cambridge and the voluntary closure at 150 Main St. Cambridge. The committee will also receive for information a report on respiratory pathogens in Waterloo Region from 2020-2023.

• Delegation: Heather Majaury on evictions in Cambridge and voluntary closure at 150 Main St. Cambridge
• Report PHP-IDS-23-002: Waterloo Region Respiratory Pathogen Report, 2020-2023 (for information)

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will discuss redeveloping the region-owned property at 651 Concession Road, Cambridge, into a multi-use building with paramedic services and affordable housing. A motion also proposes splitting future Waterloo Regional Police Service surpluses 50/50 with the Region. Other items include development charge indexing and a quarterly summary of CAO-approved tenders.

• Motion to explore redevelopment of 651 Concession Road, Cambridge, for paramedic services, affordable housing, and social services
• Motion to apply for a Federation of Canadian Municipalities Sustainable Affordable Housing study grant for the property
• Notice of motion to split future WRPS surpluses 50% to police reserves and 50% returned to the Region
• Development charge indexing update effective December 1, 2023
• Quarterly summary of tenders, quotations, and RFPs approved by the CAO

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee will consider three main items: a zoning amendment to allow up to six lots at 63 Benjamin Street in New Dundee, changes to Grand River Transit advertising policies to increase bus wraps and allow ION train wraps, and approval of a two-way cycle track on Duke Street in downtown Kitchener. The meeting also includes a closed session for legal advice on pending mediation and litigation.

• Regional Official Plan amendment for 63 Benjamin Street, New Dundee, to allow up to six lots with tertiary wastewater treatment
• Increase in fully wrapped GRT buses from 5 to 10% of fleet, and allow exterior vinyl advertising on one ION train
• Approval of physically separated two-way cycle tracks on Duke Street from Frederick Street to Francis Street in Kitchener
• Delegation from Reep Green Solutions on their impact report
• Closed session for solicitor-client privileged advice on mediation, litigation, and land disposition

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee is considering a motion requesting the Province of Ontario commit to a new municipal fiscal funding framework for Waterloo Region, citing population growth to 1 million by 2050 and inadequate revenue tools. The committee will also receive a presentation on the 2024 Plan and Budget. No reports or communications are listed.

• Motion requesting new municipal fiscal funding framework from Province of Ontario
• Motion cites $150 million annually in property taxes funding provincial/federal services
• Presentation: Towards a Municipal Growth Framework, FCM Advocacy on Municipal Finance Reform
• Presentation: 2024 Plan and Budget: Setting the Stage

Council Meeting

Regional Council held a meeting that began in closed session and reconvened in open session. The main item was a proposed amendment to the code of use by-law aimed at addressing harassment, with extensive public delegations both supporting and opposing it. Council also approved committee recommendations, including a bridge replacement design, administrative penalties for parking, and expansion of automated speed enforcement. No final decision on the by-law amendment is recorded in this agenda.

• Proposed amendment to code of use by-law to address harassment (public hearing held)
• Approved Scheifele Bridge Replacement design, Northfield Drive at Conestogo River, Woolwich
• Approved administrative penalties for parking on Regional roads
• Approved expansion of Automated Speed Enforcement to all school zones, subject to 2024 budget
• Authorized purchase of 16 Reinhardt Street, Kitchener for $801,000

Licensing and Hearings

The Licensing and Hearings Committee is meeting to elect a chair and vice chair, and to receive an information report on licensing and enforcement services. The report includes an appendix on accessibility funds. No decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Report PDL-CAS-23-014, Licensing and Enforcement Services Update (for information)
• Appendix A - PDL-CAS-21-03, Accessibility Funds

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation is meeting to review and potentially accept recommendations from a strategic planning review, and to direct a committee to create action items for the rest of 2023. The board will also approve minutes from June 27, 2023, and hear a brief overview of the Doors Open event held on September 16, 2023.

• Recommended motion to accept strategic planning review recommendations from the Centre for Community Based Research
• Direct Strategic Planning Review Committee to establish action items for remainder of 2023
• Approval of minutes from June 27, 2023
• Overview of Doors Open Event held September 16, 2023
• Accounts and Grants Summary report

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

This is a procedural meeting of the Strategic Planning and Budget Committee focused on strategic action planning, including a strategic plan overview, context setting, and group work. No votes, public hearings, or binding decisions are scheduled.

• Strategic Plan Overview presentation
• Context Setting discussion
• Action Planning Group Work session

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will discuss and vote on a motion to declare intimate partner violence an epidemic in Waterloo Region, and will also consider several housing and paramedic service reports. Key items include a proposed investment plan for affordable housing funding, a pre-budget request for paramedic service enhancements, and an amendment to the Code of Use By-Law to prohibit harassing or discriminatory behavior on regional premises.

• Motion to declare intimate partner violence an epidemic and request provincial declaration (Notice of Motion by Councillor Deutschmann)
• Approval of Year 5 and 6 Investment Plan for Canada-Ontario Community Housing Initiative and Ontario Priorities Housing Initiative, including 2 new FTEs
• Paramedic Services 2024 pre-budget request for service enhancements effective January 1, 2024
• Amendment to Code of Use By-Law (13-050) to prohibit harassing/discriminatory behavior on regional premises
• Report on The Plan to End Chronic Homelessness Key Findings (for information)

The Committee amended the Code of Use By-law to prohibit harassing and discriminatory behavior on regional premises, including protections for socio-economic and housing status. Other key actions included approving a 2024 pre-budget request for paramedic service enhancements and an investment plan for community housing initiatives.

• Amended Code of Use By-law (#13-050) to prohibit harassing/discriminatory behaviour on Regional premises (13-0)
• Amended proposed by-law to include socio-economic and housing status (13-0)
• Approved Paramedic Services 2024 pre-budget request for service enhancements (13-0)
• Approved Year 5 and 6 Investment Plan for COCHI and OPHI (Carried)
• Approved 2 new full-time equivalent (FTE) positions funded by COCHI and OPHI (Carried)
• Requested provincial government allocate additional Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit funding for households experiencing homelessness (Carried)
• Approved Consent Agenda items (14-0)

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee is meeting to discuss several financial and operational items. Key items include a proposal to establish a regional processing centre for automated speed enforcement, a debenture issuance preview, a credit rating update, and a review of reserve fund continuity. The committee will also consider entering a closed session for solicitor-client privileged matters.

• Proposal to establish a Region of Waterloo processing centre for automated speed enforcement infractions
• Direct staff to submit staffing and budget for the processing centre as part of 2024 budget
• Amending agreement with Redflex Traffic Systems (Canada) Limited for equipment supply
• Debenture issuance preview (COR-TRY-23-029)
• Moody's credit rating update (COR-TRY-23-028)

The Committee approved the establishment of a processing centre for automated speed enforcement infractions to support the expansion of the program to all school zones. This decision is subject to 2024 budget approval. The Committee also received several financial reports for information.

• Approved establishment of a Region of Waterloo processing centre for automated speed enforcement infractions (12-1)
• Approved directing staff to submit staffing and budget requirements for the processing centre as part of the 2024 Plan and Budget (12-1)
• Approved amending the agreement with Redflex Traffic Systems (Canada) Limited for equipment supply (12-1)
• Approved Consent Agenda items (16-0)
• Received Moody's Credit Rating Update for information
• Received Debenture Issuance Preview for information
• Received Five Year Continuity – Tax Stabilization Reserve and Working Funds Reserve report for information
• Approved holding a closed session to discuss litigation and a proposed land acquisition in Kitchener (13-0)

Planning and Works Statutory Public Meeting - Regional Official Plan Amendment

The Planning and Works Committee holds a statutory public meeting to hear presentations and delegations regarding a proposed Regional Official Plan Amendment for 63 Benjamin Street in New Dundee (Township of Wilmot). The item is presented for information only; no decision is made at this meeting.

• Proposed Regional Official Plan Amendment for 63 Benjamin Street, New Dundee (Township of Wilmot)
• Staff presentation on the proposed amendment
• Delegations from Don Poth, Angie Hallman, and Scott Patterson (consultant for property owner) regarding 63 Benjamin Street

The Planning and Works Committee heard a staff presentation and public delegations supporting the proposed Regional Official Plan Amendment for 63 Benjamin Street, New Dundee. The report was recorded as received for information only, and no vote or formal decision on the amendment was taken.

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee will consider approving the design for replacing the Scheifele Bridge on Northfield Drive at the Conestogo River in Woolwich Township, and will vote on amending the Traffic and Parking By-law to allow administrative penalties for parking on Regional roads. They will also receive an informational presentation on aligning asset management with the capital budget.

• Project approval for Scheifele Bridge replacement, Northfield Drive at Conestogo River, Woolwich Township
• Amendment to Traffic and Parking By-law to allow administrative monetary penalties for parking on Regional roads
• Staff presentation on Asset Management and Capital Budget Alignment (EES-SAM-23-001)

The committee approved the recommended design concept for the Scheifele Bridge replacement on Northfield Drive. It also authorized the Director of Water and Wastewater Services to act as the owner representative for the Region's drinking water systems. Finally, the Traffic and Parking By‑law was amended to permit administrative penalties for parking on regional roads, with a 16‑to‑0 vote.

• Approved Scheifele Bridge Replacement design concept (EES-DCS-23-008) – carried
• Authorized Director of Water and Wastewater Services as owner representative for drinking water systems – carried
• Amended Traffic and Parking By‑law to allow administrative penalties for parking on regional roads – carried (16‑0)

Nominating Panel

The Region of Waterloo Nominating Panel is meeting to consider a motion to go into closed session. The closed session is for discussions about identifiable individuals related to advisory committee appointments. The agenda contains only procedural items and no substantive public decisions.

• Motion to hold closed session under Section 239 of the Municipal Act, 2001
• Closed session topic: discussions about identifiable individuals related to advisory committee appointments

Council Meeting

Council will consider several major capital projects and contracts, including a $28.2 million tender for a 6-storey residential building, a $1.7 million roof replacement, and a $3.5 million road rehabilitation. The meeting begins with a closed session for legal and property matters, followed by public delegations on trail accessibility, financial inequality, and basic income.

• $28,227,200 tender for 6-storey residential development at 82 Wilson Ave, Kitchener, with $23,615,000 debenture authority
• $1,724,840 tender for roof replacement at 150 Main St, Cambridge
• $3,521,013 tender for Regional Road 10 (Herrgott Road) rehabilitation from Sunset Drive to Ament Line, Wellesley
• Expropriation of lands for roundabout at New Dundee Road and Robert Ferrie Drive, Kitchener, and at Sawmill Road and Ebycrest Road, Woolwich
• Conversion of Breslau Satellite Branch to full-service library at Breslau Community Centre

Council approved several major capital projects, including a 6-storey residential development in Kitchener and road rehabilitation in Wellesley. The board also accepted a proposal for a new airport café and a roof replacement in Cambridge.

• Approved $28,227,200 tender to Melloul-Blamey Construction Inc. for 82 Wilson Ave residential development
• Approved $3,521,013.20 tender to Capital Paving Inc for Regional Road 10 rehabilitation
• Approved $1,724,840.00 tender to Flynn Canada Ltd. for roof replacement at 150 Main St. Cambridge
• Accepted Stockyards Beverage Co. proposal to operate a café at the International Airport
• Increased Mayhew Inc. contract by $1,300,000 for regional facilities consolidation
• Approved $203,000 budget increase for Airport Capital Program project #03609
• Approved debenture authority of $23,615,000 for the 82 Wilson Ave project
• Decided to implement through truck diversion from downtown Cambridge via McQueen Shaver Boulevard

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will consider approving the 2023-2027 Corporate Strategic Plan and receive the 2023 Mid-Year Update, which includes proposed amendments to the tax-supported capital budget. Other items include adopting an updated Emergency Management By-Law and approving pre-budget vehicle procurement for 2024.

• Approve 2023-2027 Strategic Plan (CAO-COM-23-003)
• Receive 2023 Mid-Year Update and amend 2023 Tax Supported Capital Budget (COR-CFN-23-029)
• Adopt updated Emergency Management By-Law and Emergency Response Plan (HRC-LRE-23-005)
• Approve pre-budget procurement of vehicles and equipment for 2024 replacement (COR-FFM-23-002)
• Approve establishment of a Region-run processing centre for automated speed enforcement, subject to 2024 budget (PDL-CAS-23-012)

The Committee approved the 2023-2027 Strategic Plan and amended the 2023 Tax Supported Capital Budget. Members also approved an updated Emergency Management By-Law and the continuation of electronic participation for Council meetings.

• Approved 2023-2027 Strategic Plan (16-0)
• Amended 2023 Tax Supported Capital Budget (16-0)
• Approved updated Emergency Management By-Law
• Approved continuation of electronic participation for Council/Committee meetings (16-0)
• Approved pre-budget 2024 procurement of vehicles and equipment
• Ratified appointment of Robert Shipley to Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation
• Directed Regional Clerk to provide cost estimates for Council Chamber tech upgrades in 2024 budget

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee is deciding on several transportation and economic development items. Key decisions include authorizing land expropriations for roundabouts at New Dundee Road/Robert Ferrie Drive in Kitchener and Sawmill Road/Ebycrest Road in Woolwich, extending Elmira transit service for $125,000, and approving a $500,000 funding increase for the Waterloo Region Economic Development Corporation. The committee will also consider a truck diversion study for downtown Cambridge and a blue box program transition.

• Authorization to expropriate land for a roundabout at New Dundee Road and Robert Ferrie Drive, Kitchener
• Authorization to expropriate land for a roundabout at Sawmill Road and Ebycrest Road, Woolwich Township
• Extension of Kiwanis Transit contract for Elmira local transit service at $125,000 for one year
• Approval of roundabout designs at Dickie Settlement Road/Roseville Road and Roseville Road/Edworthy Side Road, North Dumfries
• Proposed $500,000 increase in funding for Waterloo Region Economic Development Corporation starting 2024

The Planning and Works Committee authorized the expropriation of lands for roundabout construction at New Dundee Road and Robert Ferrie Drive in Kitchener, and at Sawmill Road and Ebycrest Road in Woolwich. The committee also approved several consent agenda items.

• Authorized land expropriation for roundabout at New Dundee Road and Robert Ferrie Drive (Carried)
• Approved land expropriation for roundabout at Sawmill Road and Ebycrest Road (Carried)
• Approved Consent Agenda items except for 6.1.4 and 6.1.7 (16-0)

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will consider several items, including a $8,380,262 budget amendment for Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care funding, approval of $163,550 in tourism grants, and a property transfer of two community housing buildings. A notice of motion to declare intimate partner violence an epidemic will also be discussed.

• Amend 2023 operating budget by adding $8,380,262 for child-care funding, fully funded by Ministry of Education
• Approve $163,550 in Cultural Drivers of Tourism Pilot Grant Program allocations
• Transfer ownership of 199 Elm Ridge Drive, Kitchener and 86 Elgin St. S, Cambridge (92 units) from ROWCHI to Region
• Discharge mortgage on 86 Elgin St. S valued at $2,775,936 using Housing Capital Reserve
• Notice of motion to declare intimate partner violence an epidemic and request Province of Ontario to do same

The Committee approved a budget amendment for child care funding and allocated grants for tourism. It also authorized the transfer of two community housing properties from ROWCHI to the Region and directed staff to report on funding for public art galleries.

• Approved $8,380,262 budget increase for Children’s Services funded by the Ministry of Education
• Approved $163,550 in funding for the Cultural Drivers of Tourism Pilot Grant Program (13-0)
• Approved transfer of two community housing properties (92 units) at 199 Elm Ridge Drive and 86 Elgin St. S (14-0)
• Authorized discharge of $2,775,936 mortgage for 86 Elgin St. S using Housing Capital Reserve (14-0)
• Directed staff to prepare a report on including public art galleries in Regional operating funds

Library Committee

The Library Committee will consider a report recommending converting the Breslau Satellite Branch to a full-service library in the Breslau Community Centre. An operations update is also presented for information. The next meeting is scheduled for December 5, 2023.

• Report PDL-CUL-23-011 recommends converting Breslau Satellite Branch to a full-service library in the lower level of the Breslau Community Centre
• Appendix A compares Breslau and Baden library services
• Appendix B includes Woolwich Township Council report
• Appendix C summarizes 2023 Breslau Library engagement results
• Report PDL-CUL-23-012 provides a Region of Waterloo Libraries operations update for information

The Committee approved the conversion of the Breslau Satellite Branch into a full-service library located in the lower level of the Breslau Community Centre. An additional cost estimate of $33,000 may be included in the 2024 budget if approved.

• Approved conversion of Breslau Satellite Branch to full-service library (5-0)

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation will ratify three new director appointments, elect a chair and vice chair, and receive a presentation on Doors Open participation. The board will also approve $1,200 in honourariums for strategic planning roundtable participants, as previously passed electronically.

• Ratification of Philippe Elsworthy, Andrea Carswell, and Brian Dietrich as directors for terms ending June 2026
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Approval of $1,200 for honourariums for Strategic Planning Review roundtable participants
• Presentation by Kelly Spencer of True Nature Communications Inc. on Doors Open WRHF Participation
• Approval of minutes from May 23, 2023 meeting

The Board elected John Glass as Chair and Michelle Lee as Vice-Chair for a one-year term. The Foundation approved the appointment of Robert Shipley as a Director for a three-year term. A request for $3,500 in funding for a children's activity book was denied due to a pause in grant funding.

• Elected John Glass as Chair (Carried)
• Elected Michelle Lee as Vice-Chair (Carried)
• Approved May 23, 2023 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Denied $3,500 funding for Doors Open children's activity book
• Approved honourarium amounts for Strategic Planning Review participants based on Regional Director recommendations, within the $1,200 budget (Carried)
• Approved Robert Shipley for a three-year term as Director (Carried)

Special Council

This is a special meeting of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo Council dedicated to a strategic planning session. The agenda includes a workshop led by Creative Futures, a discussion on mission, vision and values, and standard procedural items. No decisions or specific action items are listed.

• Strategic Planning Workshop facilitated by Heather Russek and Jessica Thornton of Creative Futures
• Mission, Vision and Values discussion led by Rebecca Sutherns
• Declarations of Pecuniary Interest under the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act

Council participated in workshops led by Creative Futures and Rebecca Sutherns to discuss priorities, mission, vision, and values for the 2023-2027 strategic plan. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded.

All Councils

This is a meeting of all Waterloo Region councils to receive presentations from the Waterloo Region Economic Development Corporation, Explore Waterloo Region, and regional hospitals. The agenda also includes a presentation on the 2023-2027 Strategic Plan. No decisions are scheduled.

• Presentation by Tony LaMantia, President and CEO, Waterloo Region Economic Development Corporation (WEDC update)
• Presentation by Michele Saran, CEO, Explore Waterloo Region (state of tourism)
• Presentation by hospital leaders from St. Mary's, Grand River, and Cambridge hospitals
• Presentation on the 2023-2027 Strategic Plan

The meeting consisted of presentations regarding economic development, tourism, and hospital infrastructure. No substantive motions were decided, approved, or denied. The session included a consultation workshop for the Region's 2023-2027 Strategic Plan.

Council Meeting

This is a regular Council meeting with a closed session for legal and negotiation advice. In open session, Council will consider reports on the 2024 budget process, a road and active transportation construction contract, and several land expropriations for trail and intersection projects. They will also hear delegations on transit fares and arts funding, and vote on committee recommendations including speed enforcement expansion and transit route changes.

• Approve 2024 Plan and Budget review timetable (report COR-CFN-23-027)
• Accept Steed and Evans Limited tender for road/active transportation improvements: $2,435,157.10
• Approve expropriations for Farmers Market Trail (Northfield Drive West, Waterloo) and Cedar Creek/Trussler intersection (North Dumfries)
• Expand Automated Speed Enforcement to all 175 school zones by 2028 (25-30 new zones/year starting 2024)
• Approve $103,795 in Community Environmental Fund grants for 20 projects

Regional Council approved the expropriation of lands to complete the Farmers Market Trail in the City of Waterloo. Council also approved land expropriations for improvements at the intersection of Cedar Creek Road, Trussler Road, and County Road No. 8.

• Approved land expropriation for Farmers Market Trail works at Northfield Drive West (Carried)
• Approved land expropriation for intersection improvements at Cedar Creek Road and Trussler Road (Carried)
• Approved minutes from 10 previous meetings (Carried)
• Approved motion to enter closed session for legal advice and negotiations (Carried)

Audit Committee

The Region of Waterloo's Audit Committee is meeting to consider appointing KPMG as the external auditor for the 2023 fiscal year at a cost of $172,400 plus taxes. The agenda also includes a motion to go into closed session to discuss fraud prevention related to regional property. No other substantive items are listed.

• Appointment of KPMG as external auditor for 2023 at $172,400 plus taxes
• Closed session for discussion of fraud prevention related to regional property

The Audit Committee appointed KPMG LLP as the external auditor for the 2023 fiscal year. The committee also voted to enter a closed session to discuss fraud prevention and the security of Regional property.

• Appointed KPMG LLP as external auditor for the 2023 fiscal year at a cost of $172,400 plus taxes (Carried)
• Approved motion to enter closed session to discuss security of Regional property related to fraud prevention (Carried)

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation AGM

This is the annual general meeting of the Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation. The board will vote to approve the 2022 annual report and financial statements, and elect directors for three-year terms. The agenda is largely procedural, with no substantive policy or funding decisions listed.

• Adoption of the 2022 Annual Report
• Adoption of the 2022 Financial Statements and Auditor's Report
• Election of Directors for three-year terms

The Foundation approved its 2022 annual report and financial statements. The board filled three vacancies by appointing new directors for three-year terms.

• Approved minutes from June 14, 2022
• Adopted Annual Report for year ending December 31, 2022
• Adopted Auditor's Statements dated June 7, 2023
• Approved Andrea Carswell and Brian Dietrich as Directors for three-year terms
• Approved Philippe Elsworthy as Director for a three-year term

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will consider approving $340,000 in 2023 grants for major arts and culture organizations, and a new protocol for evaluating housing stability fee-for-service requests. Members will also receive updates on the 10-year housing and homelessness plan, a consumption and treatment services evaluation in Kitchener, a neighbourhood safety program, infectious disease highlights, an affordable housing roadmap, and an anti-racism advisory working group report.

• Vote on $340,000 in Major Arts and Culture Organizations 2023 grants
• Direct Housing Services to implement a Housing Stability System Fee for Service Request and Proposal Response Protocol starting in 2024 budget
• Receive 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan 2022 Annual Report
• Receive Consumption and Treatment Services in Kitchener Evaluation
• Receive Building Better Futures update and roadmap to 2,500 affordable homes

The Committee approved funding for major arts organizations and established a new protocol for housing stability service requests. Members also resolved to further embed equity and reconciliation initiatives into Regional operations.

• Approved $340,000 for 2023 Major Arts and Culture Organizations grant program
• Approved implementation of Housing Stability System Fee for Service Request and Proposal Response Protocol starting in 2024
• Resolved that the CAO consider expanding community connectors for anti-racism and reconciliation and adding EDI directors to the Corporate Leadership Team
• Approved circulation of anti-racism and reconciliation resolution to area municipalities
• Approved motion to enter closed session to receive solicitor-client privileged advice regarding Regional property security

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee will consider several items, including a plan to expand automated speed enforcement to all school zones, expropriations for trail and road projects, and funding for environmental projects. They will also receive updates on the Regional Official Plan Amendment and the Charles Street Terminal. The meeting begins with a closed session for legal and land acquisition matters.

• Approve expropriation of lands for Farmers Market Trail in Waterloo (580 Weber Street North)
• Approve expropriation for roundabout at Cedar Creek Road and Trussler Road in North Dumfries
• Approve up to $99,995 in Community Environmental Fund grants for 20 projects
• Extend funding agreement with rare Charitable Research Reserve at $50,000/year for 5 years
• Expand Automated Speed Enforcement to 25-30 new school zones per year, all 175 by 2028

The Planning and Works Committee approved the expropriation of lands for the Farmers Market Trail in the City of Waterloo and a roundabout at Cedar Creek Road and Trussler Road. The committee also heard presentations regarding youth transit programs and urban development requests.

• Approved land expropriation for Farmers Market Trail works in the City of Waterloo
• Approved land expropriation for roundabout construction at Cedar Creek Road and Trussler Road
• Approved Consent Agenda items (excluding item 8.2.1)

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will discuss the 2024 Plan and Budget process and guidelines, including a proposed review timetable. They will also consider deferring a lobbyist registry to the 2024 budget cycle. Other items include an update on an administrative penalties program for automated speed enforcement and a report on the sustainability of regional development charges.

• Approve the 2024 Plan and Budget review timetable as set out in Appendix A of report COR-CFN-23-027
• Defer consideration of a Lobbyist Registry to the 2024 Plan and Budget (report PDL-CAS-23-006)
• Implementation of an Administrative Penalties Program for automated speed enforcement (PDL-CAS-23-003)
• Sustainability of Regional Development Charges report (COR-CFN-23-026) with exemption data from 2019-2022
• Strategic Planning Process 2023-2027 update (CAO-SPL-23-004)

The Committee approved the timetable for the 2024 Plan and Budget and deferred the consideration of a Lobbyist Registry to the 2024 Plan and Budget. Several reports regarding administrative penalties, strategic planning, and development charges were received for information.

• Approved 2024 Plan and Budget review timetable (Carried)
• Deferred consideration of a Lobbyist Registry to the 2024 Plan and Budget (Carried)
• Forwarded Report COR-CFN-23-027 to Waterloo Region Police Services Board and Area Municipalities (Carried)
• Referred 2024 Plan and Budget Process and Guidelines report back to Staff for changes to Council on June 21, 2023 (Carried)
• Received for information: Implementation of an Administrative Penalties Program (Carried)
• Received for information: Strategic Planning Process 2023-2027 Update (Carried)
• Received for information: Sustainability of Regional Development Charges (Carried)

Special Council

This is a special meeting of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo Council convened solely for a strategic planning workshop. No decisions or public hearings are scheduled; the agenda consists only of procedural items and a workshop session.

• Strategic planning workshop (no details provided in agenda)

Council participated in a workshop led by Creative Futures regarding priorities for the 2023-2027 strategic plan. No substantive motions were decided or voted upon during the session.

• Conducted strategic planning workshop for 2023-2027 priorities

Council Meeting

Waterloo Regional Council will consider approving a $11.25 million purchase of a student residence at 139 University Avenue West for housing, and a $1.48 million tender for LED traffic signal upgrades. Other items include endorsing Bill 5 on removing councillors for harassment, expanding automated speed enforcement to 32 sites, and receiving an update on three high-risk encampments.

• Purchase of 139 University Avenue West, Waterloo, for $11,250,000 for student housing
• Tender to Fortran Traffic Systems for $1,483,695.20 for LED traffic signal and pedestrian heads
• Endorsement of Bill 5 to allow removal of councillors who violate workplace violence policies
• Expansion of automated speed enforcement to 32 sites with $362,000 budget advance
• Update on three high-risk encampments in Waterloo Region

Council approved the purchase of an 88-unit student residential building and a property in Cambridge. The board also endorsed Bill 5 regarding the removal of municipal leaders for harassment and approved a $1.48M traffic signal contract.

• Approved purchase of 139 University Avenue West student residential building for $11,250,000
• Approved purchase of 1650 Dundas Street South, Cambridge for $1,300,000
• Accepted $1,483,695.20 tender from Fortran Traffic Systems for LED traffic signals
• Endorsed Bill 5, Stopping Harassment and Abuse by Local Leaders Act, 2022
• Directed Clerk to amend by-law to require recording of all individual Council votes
• Approved Multi-Year Accessibility Plan 2023-2027
• Approved Cultural Drivers of Tourism Pilot Grant Program Guidelines
• Approved expansion of 2023 Automated Speed Enforcement program to 32 sites

Special Planning and Works

This special meeting includes education sessions on MobilityPLUS and Stage 2 ION, and considers a report on Stage 2 ION project status. The committee will vote on a motion to direct staff to include three project alternatives in the Stage 2 ION business case. The meeting also includes a closed session for solicitor-client privileged advice on land disposition and litigation.

• Education session on MobilityPLUS overview
• Education session on Stage 2 ION
• Motion to consider report TSD-RTS-23-001, Stage 2 ION Project Status Update
• Motion to direct staff to include three project alternatives in Stage 2 ION business case
• Closed session for solicitor-client privileged advice on land disposition and litigation

The Planning and Works Committee approved additions to the Stage 2 ION project business case, including specific route alternatives and the consideration of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT). The meeting also included education sessions on MobilityPLUS and Stage 2 ION.

• Directed staff to include three project alternatives in the Stage 2 ION business case
• Directed staff to add emergency ramps to the Stage 2 ION business case
• Directed staff to add a fourth alternative from south terminus in Cambridge to Preston
• Directed staff to add a T4 alternative with the terminus in east Cambridge
• Directed staff to provide feasibility information on a route down Dundas in Cambridge
• Approved adding BRT consideration and costing to the Stage 2 ION business case
• Approved motion to enter closed session for solicitor-client privilege regarding land disposition and litigation

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation board will consider approving draft audited financial statements for the year. Members will also review a grants and accounts summary, approve minutes from the previous meeting, and receive updates on completed restoration work at Central Presbyterian Church in Cambridge.

• Draft audited financial statements for approval
• Accounts and grants summary review
• Central Presbyterian Church completed $2.5 million restoration; foundation provided $218,500 in total grants since 2005
• Approval of minutes from April 25, 2023 meeting
• Next meeting scheduled as AGM on June 7, 2023

The Foundation approved the Auditor Draft Financial Statements dated May 23, 2023. The board also approved the amended minutes from the April 25, 2023 meeting. Members discussed the completion of restoration work at the Central Presbyterian Church.

• Approved Auditor Draft Financial Statements dated May 23, 2023 (Carried)
• Approved amended minutes from April 25, 2023 (Carried)

Special Council

This special council meeting is primarily procedural, with the main purpose being to consider a recommendation related to labour relations in a closed session under the Municipal Act. The agenda includes motions to enter and exit closed session, a land acknowledgement, declarations of interest, and a by-law to confirm proceedings.

• Motion to go into closed session under Section 239 of the Municipal Act for labour relations
• By-Law 23-022 to confirm proceedings of the meeting

Council approved a tentative Memorandum of Settlement for transit staff represented by Unifor Local 4304. The agreement covers the period from May 1, 2023, to April 30, 2026.

• Approved tentative Memorandum of Settlement for transit staff (Unifor Local 4304) for May 1, 2023 to April 30, 2026
• Passed By-law 23-022 to confirm the proceedings of the May 11, 2023 meeting

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee is meeting to receive updates on finances, reserves, tenders, and strategic planning, and to vote on the Multi-Year Accessibility Plan 2023-2027. Two notices of motion are also on the agenda: one endorsing provincial Bill 5 to allow removal of councillors who violate workplace violence policies, and another requiring recorded votes at council meetings. The meeting also includes a closed session for legal and security matters.

• Approve Multi-Year Accessibility Plan 2023-2027 (report HRC-TCE-23-003)
• Endorse Bill 5, Stopping Harassment and Abuse by Local Leaders Act
• Direct Regional Clerk to prepare by-law amendment requiring recorded votes
• Receive Q1 2023 Plan and Financial Update (COR-CFN-23-025)
• Receive 2023 Annual Debt Repayment Limit (COR-TRY-23-015)

The committee approved a new multi-year accessibility plan and endorsed provincial legislation to allow the removal of local leaders for harassment. Additionally, the committee directed the Regional Clerk to amend bylaws to require recorded votes for all council and committee decisions.

• Approved Multi-Year Accessibility Plan 2023-2027 (Carried)
• Endorsed Bill 5, Stopping Harassment and Abuse by Local Leaders Act, 2022 (Carried)
• Directed Regional Clerk to amend procedure by-law to require recorded votes for all meetings (Carried)
• Determined a full review of the reserve and reserve fund policy will be brought to Council
• Approved Consent Agenda items for information (Carried)
• Approved closed session to discuss land acquisition, property security, and labour relations (Carried)

Library Committee

The Region of Waterloo Library Committee is meeting to review and potentially approve the 2022 year-end financial report, including allocating a $66,127 operating surplus to the Library Capital Reserve. The committee will also receive informational updates on 2022 library statistics and operations from January to March 2023. The agenda includes standard procedural items such as call to order, land acknowledgment, and declarations of interest.

• Approve 2022 financial results for Region of Waterloo Library
• Allocate $66,127 operating surplus to Library Capital Reserve
• Receive 2022 library statistics report (PDL-CUL-23-007)
• Receive operations update for January–March 2023 (PDL-CUL-23-006)

The Committee approved the 2022 financial results for the Region of Waterloo Library. It also decided to move the 2022 operating surplus into the Library Capital Reserve.

• Approved 2022 financial results for the Region of Waterloo Library (Carried)
• Allocated 2022 operating surplus of $66,127 to the Library Capital Reserve (Carried)

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee will consider several items, including approving an accelerated expansion of the Automated Speed Enforcement program to 32 sites with a $362,000 budget advance, responding to the province's proposed new Planning Statement, and accepting a completed environmental assessment for water treatment upgrades in New Dundee. The committee will also receive information reports on 2022 building permits and green development standards, and discuss a notice of motion regarding GRT bus route #2.

• Approve $362,000 advance for Automated Speed Enforcement expansion to 32 sites
• Forward response to province on proposed 2023 Provincial Planning Statement
• Accept New Dundee Water Supply Iron and Manganese Treatment Upgrades Class EA and authorize real estate acquisitions
• Notice of motion to explore alternatives to closure of GRT route #2
• Receive 2022 Building Permit Activity and Growth Monitoring report

The Committee approved funding and staffing to accelerate the 2023 Automated Speed Enforcement program. It also accepted a water supply environmental assessment for New Dundee and directed staff to explore alternatives to the closure of bus routes #2 and #73.

• Approved advancing $362,000 and a new Traffic Engineering Technologist start date to expand Automated Speed Enforcement to 32 sites
• Accepted New Dundee Water Supply Iron and Manganese Treatment Upgrades Class Environmental Assessment and authorized real estate acquisitions
• Referred report on Proposed New Provincial Planning Statement, 2023 back to staff for changes
• Directed staff to explore alternatives to mitigate the closure of bus routes #2 and #73 and report back in June 2023
• Approved the Consent Agenda items for information

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will consider approving guidelines for a Cultural Drivers of Tourism Pilot Grant Program and continuing as an Employment Ontario provider until at least March 31, 2025. Several informational reports are also on the agenda, including updates on vector-borne disease, peer programs, community paramedicine, Sunnyside Home, youth engagement, and the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan.

• Approve Cultural Drivers of Tourism Pilot Grant Program Guidelines (PDL-CUL-23-008)
• Continue as Employment Ontario provider until at least March 31, 2025 (CSD-EIS-23-001)
• 2023 Vector-Borne Disease Program Update (PHP-HPI-23-001)
• 2022 Community Paramedicine Program Report (PHP-PSV-23-004)
• Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan: Year one learnings and Year 2 priorities (CAO-EDI-23-001)

The Committee approved guidelines for a new Cultural Drivers of Tourism Pilot Grant Program funded by the Municipal Accommodations Tax. It also decided to remain an Employment Ontario provider through at least March 31, 2025. Additionally, staff were directed to study providing assistance for a new Cambridge food bank facility.

• Approved Cultural Drivers of Tourism Pilot Grant Program Guidelines (Carried)
• Approved continuing as an Employment Ontario provider until at least March 31, 2025 (Carried)
• Directed Staff to report on feasibility of Regional assistance for new Cambridge food bank facility
• Received Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan year one learnings for information
• Received 2023 Vector-Borne Disease Program Update for information
• Received 2022 Community Paramedicine Program Report for information
• Received Sunnyside Home Medical Director's Report 2023 for information
• Received Children and Youth Planning Table report for information

Special Council

This is a special meeting of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo Council held for a strategic planning session. The agenda includes a motion to go into closed session for education on leadership, followed by reconvening in open session and a strategic planning workshop. No specific decisions or proposals are listed on the public agenda.

• Motion to go into closed session for education on leadership
• Strategic planning workshop
• Meeting held at 150 Main St. Cambridge, Room 170

Council conducted a strategic planning workshop to discuss priority setting for the 2023-2027 strategic plan. Members deliberated on strategic foresight and short- and long-term priorities. No formal votes on policy or budget were recorded.

• Approved motion to enter closed session for leadership education
• Approved motion to reconvene into open session

Audit Committee

The Region of Waterloo Audit Committee is meeting to review the 2022 audited financial statements, including consolidated, sinking fund, and trust fund statements, with a recommended motion to approve them. They will also receive, for information, the 2022 financial statements for Region of Waterloo Community Housing Inc. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with standard items like call to order, land acknowledgment, and declarations of interest.

• Approval of Consolidated, Sinking Fund, and Trust Fund Financial Statements for fiscal year ending December 31, 2022 (Report COR-TRY-23-014)
• KPMG presentation of audit findings for year ended December 31, 2022
• 2022 Financial Statements for Region of Waterloo Community Housing Inc. (for information)

The Audit Committee approved the Consolidated, Sinking Fund, and Trust Fund Financial Statements for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2022. The committee also received an update regarding the 2022 financial statements for Region of Waterloo Community Housing Inc.

• Approved Consolidated, Sinking Fund, and Trust Fund Financial Statements for fiscal year ending December 31, 2022 (Carried)
• Received 2022 Financial Statements for Region of Waterloo Community Housing Inc. for information

Special Council

This is a special meeting of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo Council, held to consider a matter related to labour relations. The agenda consists of procedural items leading to a motion to move into closed session under the Municipal Act, 2001, for the purpose of discussing labour relations. No public decisions or discussions are scheduled.

• Motion to hold closed session on April 26, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. for labour relations
• Meeting is a special session with no public agenda items beyond procedural motions

Council met for a special session to consider a matter related to labour relations. The meeting proceeded into a closed session and then adjourned.

• Approved motion to enter closed session to consider labour relations
• Approved motion to adjourn following the closed session

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation is meeting to review finance reports, approve March minutes, and discuss participating in Doors Open Waterloo Region 2023. They will also receive a verbal update on a project with the Centre for Community Based Research and an update on the 2023 Annual General Meeting.

• Accounts and Grants Summary for April 25, 2023
• Approval of minutes from March 28, 2023
• Discussion of participating in Doors Open Waterloo Region on September 16, 2023
• Verbal update on project launch with Centre for Community Based Research
• 2023 Annual General Meeting update

The Board approved the March 28, 2023 meeting minutes and directed staff to coordinate a display booth for Doors Open Waterloo Region 2023. Members were informed that the Foundation received no funding allocation in the 2023 budget.

• Approved March 28, 2023 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Directed staff to contact Doors Open representatives regarding a display booth
• Authorized staff to reserve a caterer for the June 7, 2023 AGM

Council Meeting

Council will vote on accepting a $5.17M tender for Sawmill Road reconstruction and a $3.83M tender for a roundabout on Line 86. It will also decide on permanently closing the Highway 85 and Lancaster Street ramps in Kitchener, approving 2023 property tax ratios, and allocating 997 new child care spaces.

• Accept $5,167,000 tender from Steed and Evans Ltd. for Sawmill Road reconstruction, River Street to Snyder’s Flats Road, Woolwich
• Accept $3,831,000 tender from Steed and Evans Ltd. for roundabout construction at Regional Road 86 (Line 86) and Regional Road 19 (Floradale Road)
• Endorse permanent closure of both ramps at Highway 85 and Lancaster Street interchange, Kitchener
• Approve 2023 property class tax ratios (residential 1.0000, multi-residential/commercial/industrial 1.9500)
• Approve allocation of 997 new licensed child care spaces under Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) growth mandate

Regional Council approved two major road construction tenders and established property tax ratios for 2023. A proposal to permanently close both ramps at the Highway 85 and Lancaster Street interchange was defeated in an 8-8 tie vote. Council also reappointed the Integrity Commissioner and approved child care space allocations.

• Approved $5,167,000 tender for Sawmill Road Reconstruction (Carried)
• Approved $3,831,000 tender for Roundabout Construction at RR 86 and RR 19 (Carried)
• Reappointed Aird & Berlis LLP as Integrity Commissioner for a four-year term (Carried)
• Established 2023 property tax ratios, including 1.0000 for Residential and 1.9500 for Commercial/Industrial (Carried)
• Approved up to $20,000 for a temporary public art installation along ION and GRT routes (Carried)
• Approved allocation of new licensed Child Care spaces for CWELCC growth mandate (Carried)
• Permanent closure of Highway 85 and Lancaster Street ramps defeated (8-8)
• Approved Municipal Accommodation Tax Investment Policy (Carried)

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee will consider several transportation and environmental items, including a recommendation to permanently close both ramps at the Highway 85 and Lancaster Street interchange in Kitchener. They will also review a $6.8 million brownfield tax increment grant for 130 Water Street North in Cambridge, approve interim active transportation improvements on Myers Road, and receive updates on the Stage 2 ION project and greenhouse gas inventories.

• Endorse permanent closure of Highway 85 ramps at Lancaster Street, Kitchener
• Approve Joint Brownfield Tax Increment Grant up to $6,801,489 for 130 Water Street North, Cambridge
• Approve interim active transportation improvements and two pedestrian crossovers on Myers Road
• Authorize expropriation of lands for Sawmill Road/Ebycrest Road roundabout in Woolwich
• Direct staff to include three alternatives in Stage 2 ION business case

The Planning and Works Committee endorsed the permanent closure of ramps at the Highway 85 and Lancaster Street interchange. The committee also approved land expropriations for a roundabout in Woolwich and a brownfield tax grant for a project in Cambridge.

• Endorsed permanent closure of Highway 85 and Lancaster Street interchange ramps
• Approved $138,000 in full grant funding for five eligible entrepreneurial applicants
• Approved Joint Brownfield Tax Increment Grant for 130 Water Street North, Cambridge (not to exceed $6,801,489)
• Authorized land expropriations for a roundabout at Sawmill Road and Ebycrest Road
• Approved by-law speed amendments and pedestrian crossovers for three new roundabouts
• Approved interim active transportation and traffic calming measures on Myers Road
• Approved Baden-New Hamburg Water and Wastewater System Servicing Review
• Endorsed guiding principles within the Water Supply Strategy

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will discuss and recommend 2023 property tax policies and rates, including tax ratios for residential, commercial, industrial, and other property classes. They will also consider reappointing Aird & Berlis LLP as Integrity Commissioner, amending airport fees, approving a Municipal Accommodation Tax Investment Policy, and receiving the 2022 year-end financial results.

• 2023 property tax ratios: Residential 1.0000, Multi-residential/Commercial/Industrial 1.9500, Landfill 1.5400, Pipeline 1.1613, Farmland/Managed Forest 0.2500
• Reappointment of Aird & Berlis LLP as Integrity Commissioner for 2023-2027 (June 1, 2023 to May 31, 2027)
• Amendment to fees and charges bylaw to include new/adjusted Waterloo International Airport fees
• Approval of Municipal Accommodation Tax Investment Policy
• 2022 year-end financial results and plan update

The committee set the 2023 property class tax ratios and approved the Municipal Accommodation Tax Investment Policy. They also reappointed the Integrity Commissioner and approved preliminary 2022 financial results showing a $7.2 million consolidated budget surplus.

• Established 2023 property tax ratios: Residential/New Multi-residential (1.0000), Multi-residential/Commercial/Industrial (1.9500), Landfill (1.5400), Pipeline (1.1613), Farmland/Managed Forest (0.2500)
• Reappointed Aird & Berlis LLP as Integrity Commissioner for June 1, 2023 to May 31, 2027
• Approved Municipal Accommodation Tax Investment Policy
• Approved preliminary 2022 financial results and applied Surplus Allocation Policy
• Amended By-law 23-009 to include new and adjusted Waterloo International Airport fees and charges
• Directed staff to review multi-residential property class ratio options for 2024 and beyond

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will vote on allocating 997 new licensed child care spaces under the Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care program, approve $771,450 in total funding for the Kitchener Waterloo Symphony and THEMUSEUM, and receive updates on the Plan to End Chronic Homelessness and paramedic response times. A temporary public art installation along the ION transit corridor with up to $20,000 from the Public Art Reserve is also on the consent agenda.

• Allocation of 997 new licensed child care spaces under CWELCC growth mandate
• $385,725 funding to Kitchener Waterloo Symphony and $385,725 to THEMUSEUM under Key Cultural Institutions grant
• Temporary public art installation along ION Rapid Transit corridor and GRT bus route, up to $20,000 from Public Art Reserve
• Update on Plan to End Chronic Homelessness (for information)
• Paramedic Services 2022 response time performance results (for information)

The Committee approved the allocation of new licensed child care spaces and a request for 997 additional spaces to meet population targets. It also authorized the Regional Chair to advocate for better educator wages and capital funding from the Province. Funding for key cultural institutions was deferred to a future Council meeting.

• Approved allocation of new licensed child care spaces and request for 997 additional spaces (Carried)
• Directed Regional Chair to advocate with Ontario for educator wages, benefits, and capital funding (Carried)
• Approved up to $20,000 from Public Art Reserve for CAFKA 2023 Festival installation (Carried)
• Deferred funding motions for Key Cultural Institutions to April 19, 2023 Council meeting (Carried)
• Deferred direction to staff to review eligibility criteria for Key Cultural Institutions grant program (Carried)
• Received Plan to End Chronic Homelessness update for information
• Received Interim Housing Plan verbal update for information

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation board is meeting to review finance reports, approve previous minutes, and discuss the 2023 Annual General Meeting and director applications. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Review of March 2023 Accounts and Grants Summary
• Approval of minutes from February 28, 2023 meeting
• Discussion of 2023 Annual General Meeting
• Discussion of director applications (distributed separately)

The Board approved the appointment of two new directors and scheduled the 2023 Annual General Meeting for June 7. The Board also identified the Centre for the Community Based Research as the recommended consultant for strategic planning.

• Approved appointment of Heidi Peller-Oliver as director through June 2026 (Carried)
• Approved appointment of Susan Burke as director through June 2026 (Carried)
• Approved February 28, 2023 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Directed staff to book June 7 for an in-person, catered Annual General Meeting

Council Meeting

Regional Council will consider several reports and recommendations, including accepting a tender for the Waterloo Landfill liner and leachate collection system, a contract for hazardous waste processing, and a report on council remuneration. The agenda also includes committee recommendations on housing regulations, grant funding, road improvements, and transit service changes. A closed session is scheduled for legal and tax policy advice.

• Accept Arcadis Canada Inc. tender for $8,695,067.73 for Cell SE-5A/B Liner and Leachate Collection System at Waterloo Landfill
• Accept GFL Environmental Services Inc. tender for $2,456,918.80 for transportation and processing of Municipal Hazardous or Special Waste
• Approve 2023 grant program envelopes totaling $5,603,820
• Direct staff on housing regulations (Ont. Reg. 241/22 and 242/22) including asset limits of $75,000 for single households and $100,000 for multi-person households
• Approve expropriation of lands for Cedar Creek Road/Trussler Road intersection improvements and for Waterloo landfill soil management

Council approved several high-value waste management contracts and authorized land expropriations for road and landfill improvements. The body also adopted new housing service regulations and approved $5.6M in grant program envelopes.

• Approved $8,695,067.73 tender to Arcadis Canada Inc. for Waterloo Landfill liner and leachate system
• Approved $2,456,918.80 five-year tender to GFL Environmental Services Inc. for hazardous waste processing
• Approved $5,603,820 for 2023 grant program envelopes
• Authorized expropriation of lands for Cedar Creek Road and Trussler Road intersection improvements
• Approved expropriation of 2322 Snyder’s Road East for landfill soil management (By-law 23-013)
• Adopted new asset limits for RGI subsidy: $75,000 for single households and $100,000 for multi-person households
• Approved transit service improvements effective September 4, 2023
• Declared 22 Mockingbird Drive surplus and authorized sale to Township of Woolwich for $2.00

Special Council

This is a procedural special council meeting. Council will reconvene from closed session, receive a summary of closed committee items, and approve a by-law (23-012) confirming the proceedings of this meeting. No substantive policy decisions or public hearings are listed on the agenda.

• Ratification of closed-session items
• By-law 23-012 to confirm proceedings of the March 9, 2023 meeting

Council approved a tentative Memorandum of Settlement for Public Health Nursing staff represented by ONA Local 15. The agreement covers the period from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2025. By-law 23-012 was also approved.

• Approved tentative Memorandum of Settlement for Public Health Nursing staff (ONA Local 15) for July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2025
• Approved By-law 23-012

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee is meeting to hear a delegation from REEP Green Solutions presenting their work over the past year and thanking the Region for support. The agenda also includes a tracking list of council/committee items and routine procedural matters.

• Delegation from REEP Green Solutions presenting 2022 work and impact report
• Council/Committee Tracking List review

The Administration and Finance Committee approved the 2023 grant program envelopes totaling $5,603,820. The Committee also directed staff to include inflationary considerations for grant funding in the 2024 budget.

• Approved 2023 grant program envelopes totaling $5,603,820 (Carried)
• Directed Staff to include inflationary considerations for grant funding in the 2024 budget

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will hear presentations on early child development, the region's drug strategy, and earlier implementation of a medical dispatch system. The main decision item is a recommended motion directing staff to implement regulatory changes to the Housing Services Act, including a new funding model, a housing reinvestment plan, and new asset limits for rent-geared-to-income households.

• Recommended motion to direct staff on regulatory changes under Ont. Reg. 241/22 and 242/22
• Proposed asset limits of $75,000 for single households and $100,000 for multi-person households for RGI subsidy
• Proposal to cap accumulated surplus at $500/unit for community housing providers
• Presentation on Supporting Healthy Early Child Development including a new Indigenous-led program
• Presentation on Waterloo Region Integrated Drug Strategy and Public Health's work

The Committee approved a new funding and reinvestment model for community housing and established new asset limits for rent-geared-to-income subsidies. The Committee also formally requested the Ministry of Health to accelerate the implementation of the Medical Priority Dispatch System.

• Approved new asset limits for rent-geared-to-income (RGI) subsidy: $75,000 for single households and $100,000 for multi-person households
• Directed staff to draft a funding model for community housing providers reaching End of Mortgage (EOM)
• Approved the development of an annual housing reinvestment plan for RGI units and asset renewal
• Authorized the Commissioner of Community Services to enter into service or exit agreements for housing providers at EOM
• Approved capping accumulated housing provider surpluses at $500/unit
• Requested the Ministry of Health adopt the Medical Priority Dispatch System at the Cambridge Central Ambulance Communications Centre
• Directed staff to advocate to the Ministry for the inclusion of inhalation supplies at Consumption and Treatment (CTS) Sites
• Directed staff to report on steps to establish a Women and Youth Shelter in Cambridge

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee will consider several items including authorizing expropriations for a roundabout and landfill expansion, approving transit service changes for Cambridge, and endorsing the permanent closure of Highway 85 ramps at Lancaster Street. They will also receive updates on development activity, population estimates, and the Charles Street Terminal visioning process.

• Expropriation for roundabout at Cedar Creek Road and Trussler Road, North Dumfries
• Expropriation of 2322 Snyder's Road East, Wilmot for landfill soil management
• Transit priority lane on King Street at Weber Street, Waterloo
• No parking anytime on Foundry Street, Wilmot
• Permanent closure of Highway 85 ramps at Lancaster Street, Kitchener

The Planning and Works Committee deferred the decision on the Lancaster Street and Highway 85 ramp closure to April 4, 2023, or March 22, 2023. The committee also approved several land expropriations, transit network changes for Cambridge, and new parking restrictions. Other reports on indigenous space needs and the Charles Street terminal were received for information.

• Deferred Lancaster Street and Highway 85 ramp closure decision to April 4, 2023, or March 22, 2023
• Authorized land expropriation for roundabout at Cedar Creek Road and Trussler Road
• Approved transit priority lane designation on King Street at Weber Street
• Approved 'No Parking Anytime' restriction on Foundry Street between Beck and Charles Street
• Approved University Avenue rehabilitation design and reserved bike lanes from King Street to Weber Street
• Endorsed 11 Municipal Drinking Water Licenses and operational plans
• Approved land expropriation at 2322 Snyder’s Road East for landfill development
• Approved Cambridge transit service improvements effective September 4, 2023

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation is meeting to review finance reports, approve January minutes, and discuss committee updates. Key items include deciding whether past grant recipients should receive plaques or lawn signs, reviewing plaque vendor options, and receiving an update on the KPL Oral History Digitization Project. The meeting is largely administrative with some policy direction sought.

• Accounts and Grants Summary for February 28, 2023
• Approval of January 24, 2023 minutes
• Consultant RFP deadline update: February 28, 2023 at 4:30 p.m.
• KPL Oral History Digitization Project invoices from Studio A and Media House
• Direction sought on plaques vs lawn signs for grant recipients

The Board approved the January 24, 2023 minutes and confirmed approval of KPL Oral History Tape Digitization Grant invoices. The Foundation decided to stop distributing plaques or lawn signs until a strategic planning consultant reviews grant funding processes. Grant applications remain paused while the strategic planning review continues.

• Approved January 24, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved KPL Oral History Tape Digitization Grant invoices
• Paused distribution of plaques and lawn signs pending strategic review
• Directed Staff to provide membership applications for consideration

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee is meeting to finalize the 2023 Plan and Operating Budget and 2023-2032 Capital Program for regional services, with a proposed net expenditure of $1,191,102,868 and property tax levy of $470,284,678. The committee will also consider the Waterloo Regional Police Service budget, transit fare changes, user fees, and several referred items. A main budget motion is expected to be introduced and considered.

• Approve 2023 Operating Budget for regional services (excluding Police) with net expenditure of $1,191,102,868 and property tax levy of $470,284,678
• Approve Waterloo Regional Police Service 2023 Operating Budget with net expenditure of $236,742,817 and property tax levy of $214,060,266
• Approve 2.5% general public transit fare increase effective July 1, 2023, and increase affordable transit program discount from 48% to 50%
• Add $1,200,000 to 2023 Homelessness operating budget for Community Agencies serving the Housing Stability System
• Repeal By-laws 21-072, 21-067, 21-068, 21-069, 21-070 and pass new Consolidated Fees and Charges By-law

The Committee approved the 2023 Plan and Operating Budget for regional services with a net expenditure of $1,190,044,868. It also approved the 2023 Waterloo Regional Police Service Operating Budget and a new Consolidated Fees and Charges By-law.

• Approved 2023 regional services operating budget with $468,826,678 property tax levy (10-6)
• Approved 2023 Police Service Operating Budget with $214,060,266 property tax levy (10-6)
• Approved 2.5% general public transit fare increase effective July 1, 2023 (9-7)
• Approved 41,400 net annual transit service hours at $3,518,000 property tax levy impact (15-1)
• Approved $82,000 increase to 2023 Grants to Organizations budget (16-0)
• Approved $400,000 contribution from Rural Mobility Plus reserve to reduce tax levy (16-0)
• Removed Regional Bunker project 43019 from 10-year Capital Budget (16-0)
• Passed new Consolidated Fees and Charges By-law (16-0)

Council Meeting

Regional Council will consider several committee recommendations, including expanding automated speed enforcement, changing curbside waste collection to automated carts, and requesting the police service present its draft budget earlier for public input. The agenda also includes routine approvals of minutes, a fees by-law, and a $421,000 borrowing by-law. Delegations will address public health, emergency operations, and homelessness.

• Direct staff to expand Automated Speed Enforcement to 32 sites in 2023 and explore expansion to all school zones and community safety zones
• Authorize $450,000 contract with WZMH Architects for King-Victoria Transit Hub Phase 1 design work
• Change curbside waste collection to automated carts and a four-day collection week (Tuesday–Friday)
• Request Waterloo Regional Police Service to present draft budget to Council and community before final approval
• Approve By-law 23-010 to borrow $421,000 for a capital work

Council approved the 2023 operating budget for regional services and the Waterloo Regional Police Service budget. Other key decisions included a transit fare increase, changes to curbside waste collection, and the authorization of land expropriations for the Farmers Market Trail.

• Approved 2023 Police Operating Budget with $214,060,266 property tax levy (13-3)
• Approved 2023 Operating Budget for regional services with $468,826,678 property tax levy (10-6)
• Approved 2.5% general public transit fare increase effective July 1, 2023
• Approved conversion to automated cart collection for garbage and green bin organics
• Authorized land expropriation for Farmers Market Trail construction on Northfield Drive West
• Lowered New Dundee Road speed limit from 80 km/h to 60 km/h at specific section
• Denied $288,441 request from All Saints Anglican Church for a community centre
• Approved $450,000 fee for WZMH Architects for King-Victoria Transit Hub consulting

Library Committee

The Region of Waterloo Library Committee is meeting to consider the 2023 Library Budget, which includes an operating budget with a net property tax levy of $2,773,898 and a capital budget for 2023-2032. The committee will also receive an operations update for information. The meeting includes procedural items such as electing a chair and vice chair.

• Approve 2023 RWL Operating Budget with net property tax levy of $2,773,898
• Approve 2023 RWL Library Capital Budget and 2024-2032 Capital Forecast
• Refer RWL Budget to Region of Waterloo's Strategic Planning and Budget Committee
• Receive Region of Waterloo Libraries Operations Update (PDL-CUL-23-002)

The Committee approved the 2023 Region of Waterloo Libraries Operating Budget and the Capital Budget and 2024-2032 Capital Forecast. The operating budget includes a net property tax levy of $2,773,898. The budget was referred to the Strategic Planning and Budget Committee for further consideration.

• Acclaimed N. Salonen as Chair
• Acclaimed S. Shantz as Vice-Chair
• Approved 2023 RWL Operating Budget with net property tax levy of $2,773,898
• Approved 2023 RWL Library Capital Budget and 2024-2032 Capital Forecast
• Referred RWL Budget to the Strategic Planning and Budget Committee
• Directed Staff to investigate feasibility of adding a library facility to the 2025-2026 budget for Wellesley in the arena center
• Directed Staff to provide details on establishing consistency between library branches
• Directed Staff to schedule regular library meetings on a quarterly basis

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee will hear staff presentations on the preliminary 2023-2032 capital budget and the 2023 budget, and receive reports on reserves and the municipal budget regulation. A councillor's motion proposes rejecting the Waterloo Region Police Services Board's requested 7.2% budget increase and sending it back for a smaller expansion.

• Preliminary 2023-2032 Capital Budget presentation (deferred from Feb 1)
• 2023 Budget: Supporting the Plan presentation
• Reserves and Reserve Fund Update (COR-CFN-23-011)
• Municipal Budget Regulation report (COR-CFN-23-010) for adoption
• Motion to reject police budget increase of $18,299,610 and cap expansion at 8 FTEs

The Committee defeated a motion to reject the Waterloo Region Police Services Board budget and limit FTE expansion to 8. It also defeated a request for staff to find a 1-1.5% decrease in the overall proposed budget. The Municipal Budget Regulation report was adopted.

• Adopted report COR-CFN-23-010 'Municipal Budget Regulation' (Carried)
• Defeated motion to have staff report options for a 1-1.5% overall budget decrease (6-9)
• Defeated motion to reject the Waterloo Region Police Services Board budget and limit expansion to 8 FTEs (8-8)

Strategic Planning and Budget Public Input Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee is holding a public input meeting for the 2023 budget, with 21 scheduled delegations. Most speakers focus on the police budget, with many advocating for reallocation to community services, while others request funding for housing, addiction services, and other community groups.

• 21 delegations on the 2023 budget, including 10 on the police budget
• Delegations from ReallocateWR, Waterloo Regional Police Association, and YWCA
• Requests for increased funding for SHORE Centre, Porchlight Counselling, and Leadership Waterloo Region
• Discussion of homelessness, decriminalization, and affordable housing
• Snow clearing issues at GRT and LRT stops raised

The committee held a public input session where delegations presented requests for funding and expressed opposition to the proposed police budget. No substantive budget decisions or funding approvals were made during this meeting.

• Adjourned meeting at 9:56 p.m.

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee will consider a motion to reject the Waterloo Region Police Services Board's proposed 2023 budget and send it back for review. The motion asks for a smaller increase of 8 FTEs and directs the difference in funding to upstream services.

• Motion to reject WRPSB 2023 budget request of $18,299,610 (7.2% increase)
• Proposed cap of 8 new FTEs (1% growth) instead of 19 FTEs
• Directs savings to upstream services like food security and housing
• Notice of motion by Councillor Rob Deutschmann

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee will consider several items, including a $450,000 consulting contract for the King-Victoria Transit Hub, a development charge complaint, and funding requests for the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony and All Saints Anglican Church. The committee will also hear a presentation on the GRCA 2023 budget and a notice of motion regarding the police budget process.

• King-Victoria Transit Hub: authorize amended cost sharing agreement with Metrolinx and $450,000 contract with WZMH Architects
• Development charge complaint by McLean-Peister Limited at 375 New Dundee Road, Kitchener – recommended dismissal
• Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony one-time funding request – recommended no action
• All Saints Anglican Church request for $288,441 for community centre – recommended no action
• Notice of motion requesting police chief present draft budget to Council before final approval

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee will consider several significant items, including a 2.5% transit fare increase, the removal of two low-ridership bus routes, and changes to curbside waste collection. The committee will also review a proposed speed limit reduction on New Dundee Road and an expropriation for the Farmer's Market Trail.

• Approve 2.5% GRT fare increase effective July 1, 2023; ATP discount rises to 50%
• Add 41,400 annual transit service hours at $3.5M levy impact; remove Routes 2 and 73
• Lower New Dundee Road speed limit from 80 to 60 km/h near Robert Ferrie Drive
• Authorize expropriation of land at 580 Weber St N for Farmer's Market Trail
• Convert curbside garbage and organics to automated cart collection; 4-day collection week

The Committee approved changes to Grand River Transit service and the future curbside waste collection contract. It also authorized land expropriation for the Farmer's Market Trail and a future speed limit reduction on New Dundee Road.

• Authorized land expropriation for Farmer's Market Trail construction in the City of Waterloo
• Approved lowering New Dundee Road speed limit from 80 km/h to 60 km/h upon completion of the Robert Ferrie Drive roundabout (planned 2024)
• Approved 2023 transit changes: added 41,400 annual service hours, extended Route 79 Breslau pilot, and removed routes 2 and 73
• Deferred transit fare structure and discount motion to the Strategic Planning and Budget Committee
• Approved transition to automated cart collection for garbage and green bin organics in next waste contract
• Approved changing waste collection from a five-day to a four-day week (Tuesday to Friday)
• Approved requiring alternative fuel sources for future waste collection vehicles
• Directed staff to report on free transit fare pilots for children under 12 and seniors over 65

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee will discuss and potentially direct staff on several health and housing items. A councillor's notice of motion would require Regional Council approval before any eviction of encampments, including at Victoria and Weber Streets in Kitchener and 150 Main Street in Cambridge. The committee will also receive updates on dental programs, a paramedic alternate destination clinic, and the interim housing plan, and will provide direction on community funding requests in the housing stability system.

• Notice of motion to require Council vote before enforcing evictions at encampments, including Victoria/Weber Streets and 150 Main Street
• PHE-CFH-23-001: Public Health Dental Program Updates, including phased OSDCP implementation and school screening resumption
• PHE-SPS-23-001: Alternate Destination Clinic for Paramedic Services (mental health/addiction response)
• CSD-HOU-23-005: Community Funding Requests in the Housing Stability System (for direction)
• Verbal update on Interim Housing Plan

Special Council

This is a special meeting of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo Council. The only substantive item is a motion to move into a closed session to receive solicitor-client privileged advice related to litigation. No public decisions or discussions are scheduled.

• Motion to hold closed session under Section 239 of the Municipal Act, 2001
• Closed session purpose: receiving solicitor-client privileged advice related to litigation

The meeting was procedural. Council voted to enter a closed session to receive advice subject to solicitor-client privilege related to litigation.

• Approved motion to enter closed session for litigation-related legal advice

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee will hear presentations on the Waterloo Regional Police Service's proposed 2023 operating and capital budget and a preliminary 2023-2032 capital budget from regional staff. The committee will also consider a motion to enter closed session for solicitor-client privileged advice related to legislation, and a memorandum on Police Services Act provisions regarding council approval of police board estimates.

• Presentation: Waterloo Regional Police Service 2023 proposed operating and capital budget
• Presentation: Preliminary 2023-2032 capital budget from regional staff
• Memorandum from Regional Solicitor Jeff Schelling on Police Services Act provisions regarding council approval of police board estimates
• Motion to enter closed session for solicitor-client privileged advice related to legislation

The Committee received a presentation on the Waterloo Police Services 2023 Operating and Capital Budget and a legal memorandum regarding police budgeting. No substantive votes were taken on budget approvals. The preliminary 2023-2032 Capital Budget presentation was deferred.

• Received memorandum from Regional Solicitor regarding Police Services Act budget considerations
• Deferred Preliminary 2023-2032 Capital Budget presentation to February 8, 2023

Special Council

This is a special meeting of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo Council, held primarily to consider items in a closed session. The agenda includes a motion to go into closed session to receive solicitor-client privileged advice related to litigation and information about a position or plan for negotiations. No public decisions or discussions are listed on the open agenda.

• Motion to enter closed session under Section 239 of the Municipal Act, 2001
• Closed session topics: solicitor-client privileged advice on litigation
• Closed session topics: information on a position or plan for negotiations

The meeting was called to order and adjourned within five minutes to enter a closed session. No substantive decisions were made during the open session.

• Approved motion to enter closed session to discuss personal matters, solicitor-client privilege litigation, and negotiation plans

Council Meeting

Regional Council will hold a closed session for confidential matters, then reconvene to hear presentations on COVID-19 and organic waste diversion, and consider reports on extending an option to purchase a share of the Waterloo parking structure, approving committee recommendations on a transfer payment agreement, writing off accounts receivable, appointing accessibility committee members, supporting an affordable housing proposal at 34 Peel Street, and authorizing land purchases from the Province.

• Extend option to purchase share of Waterloo parking structure to June 30, 2023
• Write off accounts receivable of $169,481.50 for 2022
• Support affordable housing proposal by Love Your Neighbourhood Communities at 34 Peel Street, New Hamburg
• Authorize Rapid Housing Initiative Round 3 agreements with CMHC
• Purchase two land parcels in Waterloo from Province for $394,500 and $84,750

Council approved the purchase of two land parcels from the Province of Ontario and supported a land contribution for affordable housing in New Hamburg. The meeting also included approvals for a transit funding agreement and the write-off of over $169,000 in accounts receivable.

• Approved purchase of two land parcels from the Province of Ontario for $394,500 and $84,750
• Approved land contribution of 34 Peel Street, New Hamburg to Love Your Neighbourhood Communities for affordable housing
• Authorized agreement with CMHC for Rapid Housing Initiative Round 3
• Approved $169,481.50 write-off of accounts receivable for year ended December 31, 2022
• Approved Transfer Payment Agreement with Province of Ontario for Safe Restart Agreement Transit Stream Phase 4
• Extended option to purchase share of a City of Waterloo parking structure to June 30, 2023
• Appointed 8 new members to the Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee
• Approved By-laws 23-007 and 23-008

Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation is meeting to review finance reports, approve its 2023 insurance policy renewal, and consider committee updates. The board will also approve minutes from November 2022 and discuss plaque pricing and membership changes.

• 2023 insurance policy renewal at $2,482.92 from Intact Insurance through Cowan Insurance Brokers
• Accounts and grants summaries for 2022 and 2023
• Approval of minutes from November 22, 2022
• Plaque pricing update
• Membership update on resignations and applications

The Waterloo Regional Heritage Foundation approved its 2023 insurance portfolio and a revised request for proposal for a strategic planning consultant. The Board also authorized the removal of an expired grant and requested further research on plaque vendors.

• Approved 2023 insurance portfolio from Intact Insurance for $2,482.92 (Carried)
• Approved revised request for proposal for a consultant in principle (Carried)
• Approved minutes from November 22, 2022 (Carried)
• Authorized staff to remove P. Langen publication grant from financial account
• Directed staff to contact Kitchener Public Library regarding oral history digitization grant
• Directed staff to contact additional plaque vendors and local foundries for pricing

Strategic Planning and Budget Public Input Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee is holding a public input meeting on the 2023 budget. Delegations will address the overall budget, the police budget, drug decriminalization, Ukrainian newcomers, and active transportation. The meeting includes a closed session before reconvening for public input.

• Delegation on 2023 Budget by Donald Bourgeois, Kitchener
• Delegation on Police Budget by Jessica Hutchison, ReallocateWR
• Delegation on police budget and de facto decriminalization by Geoff Bardwell, Drug Action Team
• Delegation on needs of Ukrainian newcomers by Michael Doroshenko, Ukrainian Canadian Congress
• Delegation on Active Transportation Strategy and budget by Josh Orita and Emily Slofstra, CycleWR

The committee held a public input meeting to receive delegations on various regional issues. No substantive decisions, budget approvals, or policy changes were voted upon during the session.

• Reconvened into Open Session (Carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:49 p.m. (Carried)

Strategic Planning and Budget Committee

The Strategic Planning and Budget Committee is meeting to review the 2023 Plan and Budget Overview, proposed changes to user fees and charges, and several councillor proposals related to budget items, including transit and transportation. The meeting also includes a closed session for employee negotiations. The agenda is substantive, with reports and proposals for discussion.

• 2023 Plan and Budget Overview (COR-CFN-23-004)
• 2023 User Fees and Charges report (COR-CFN-23-005) with proposed changes to the Fees and Charge By-Law
• Councillor D. Craig budget proposal
• Councillor R. Deutschmann oneROOF proposal
• Councillor McCabe and Deutschmann transit proposal, and McCabe transportation proposal

Community and Health Services

The Community and Health Services Committee is meeting to receive an update on interim housing solutions and a tracking list of council/committee items. The agenda is largely procedural, with one information item and no regular agenda items for decision.

• CSD-HOU-23-003, Interim Housing Solutions Implementation Update (for information)
• Council/Committee Tracking List

The Committee directed staff to review urgent security concerns at all Regional shelter sites and evaluate security funding opportunities in the 2023 budget. Staff were also directed to review warming center hours and coordinate inclement weather efforts with area municipalities.

• Directed staff to review urgent security concerns at all Regional shelter sites and 2023 budget funding opportunities
• Directed staff to review potential extensions for warming center hours of operation
• Directed staff to conduct a debrief with area municipalities regarding inclement weather coordination
• Approved Consent Agenda items (Carried)

Planning and Works

The Planning and Works Committee is meeting to hear a delegation from the Waterloo Region Age Friendly Network proposing free GRT rides for children under 12 and older adults on Sundays and Wednesdays to restore ridership. The committee will also receive updates on the Laurier U-Pass program and the Blue Box transition, along with other routine items.

• Delegation on free GRT rides for children under 12 and seniors over 65 on Sundays and Wednesdays
• Laurier U-Pass Program Update (TSD-TRS-23-001)
• Blue Box Transition Update (EES-WMS-23-001)
• Closed session items include land disposition/acquisition, insurance pool, noise policy

The Committee received information reports regarding the Wilfrid Laurier University U-Pass program and the Blue Box Transition under the Waste-Free Ontario Act. No substantive policy decisions or budget approvals were made during the regular session.

• Received Laurier U-Pass Program Update for information
• Received Blue Box Transition Update for information
• Approved motion to hold a closed session for insurance, land disposition, land acquisition, and other confidential matters

Administration and Finance

The Administration and Finance Committee is meeting to consider several items, including approving a write-off of uncollectible accounts, authorizing a transit funding agreement with the province, and receiving reports on property assessment, accessibility, and workforce. Most items are for information, with two requiring decisions.

• Write-off of uncollectible accounts for $169,481.50 for year ended Dec 31, 2022
• Authorize Regional Chair and Clerk to enter into Safe Restart Agreement Transit Stream Phase 4 with Province of Ontario
• Regional Property Assessment and 2022 Growth report for information
• 2022 Accessibility Status Report for information
• Sustaining a Strong Workforce staff presentation for information

The Committee approved the write-off of uncollectible accounts receivable totaling $169,481.50 for the year ended December 31, 2022. It also authorized a Transfer Payment Agreement with the Province of Ontario for the Safe Restart Agreement Transit Stream Phase 4. Staff provided updates on workforce retention and hybrid work models.

• Approved write-off of accounts receivable totaling $169,481.50 (Carried)
• Authorized Regional Chair and Clerk to enter Transfer Payment Agreement for Safe Restart Agreement Transit Stream Phase 4 (Carried)
• Directed staff to report back on policy regarding Councillors hiring external support staff