Council Meeting Minutes

Council Meeting

Meeting #:

Date:

Monday, January 15, 2024 at 7:00 P.m. - 11:00 P.m.

Location:

Council Chambers - Hybrid

60 Snyder's Road West

Baden, Ontario

N3A 1A1

Members Present:

• Mayor N. Salonen
• Councillor S. Cressman
• Councillor K. Wilkinson
• Councillor H. Sidhu
• Councillor L. Dunstall
• Councillor S. Martin

Staff Present:

• Chief Administrative Officer, S. Chambers
• Interim Treasurer / Chief Financial Officer, D. Elliott
• Director of Infrastructure Services, J. Molenhuis
• Director of Development Services, H. O'Krafka
• Director of Community Services, C. Catania
• Fire Chief, R. Leeson
• Interim Director of Corporate Services / Clerk, J. Bunn
• Supervisor of IT, K. Jeffreys
• Manager of Communications and Strategic Initiatives, D. Kell
• Supervisor of Legislative Services / Deputy Clerk, K. Bos

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1.

CALL TO ORDER

• Moved by: Councillor L. Dunstall
  Seconded by: Councillor S. Cressman

  THAT the Regular Council Meeting held on January 15, 2024 be called to order at 7:02 p.m.

  Motion Carried Unanimously

  Mayor N. Salonen reflected on Blue Monday, and noted the 9-8-8 Suicide Prevention Phoneline which is a resource for those in need of support. Council paused for a moment of silence to recognize the approximate 4,500 people who die each year in Canada as a result of suicide.

  
  

2.

TERRITORIAL LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Mayor N. Salonen read the Territorial Land Acknowledgement.

3.

ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA

Item 7 - Delegations

• Item 10.1 – Jeff Van Gyssel
• Item 12.2 - Glen Mathers

Item 8 – Correspondence

• Correspondence from Barry Wolfe Regarding Councillor K. Wilkinson Notice of Motion re: Prime Ministers Path Statues Next Steps
• Correspondence from Dennis and Pat Mighton Regarding Councillor K. Wilkinson Notice of Motion re: Prime Ministers Path Statues Next Steps
• Correspondence from Marlene Knezevich Regarding Councillor K. Wilkinson Notice of Motion re: Prime Ministers Path Statues Next Steps

Item 10.1 - Draft 2024 Operating, Utility and Capital Budget

• Attachment 2 - 2024 Draft Operating Budget and Capital Budgets Package 
• Replacement of Page 129 
• Addition of 129A New Insert
• Addition of 129B New Insert

4.

ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA

• Moved by: Councillor S. Cressman
  Seconded by: Councillor S. Martin

  THAT the Agenda as presented for January 15, 2024 be adopted.

  Motion Carried Unanimously

5.

DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST UNDER THE MUNICIPAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST ACT

Mayor N. Salonen declared a conflict with Agenda Item 10.2 Special Event and Facility Subsidies, CS-2024-01 due to being a member of the Wilmot Aquatic Aces Swim Club. 

6.

MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS

• Moved by: Councillor S. Martin
  Seconded by: Councillor L. Dunstall

  THAT the Minutes of the December 11, 2023 Regular Council Meeting and the December 18, 2023 Special Council Meeting, be adopted as presented.

  Motion Carried Unanimously

7.

DELEGATIONS

7.1

Agenda Item 10.1 Draft 2024 Operating, Utility and Capital Budget, COR-2024-01 (addendum)

7.1.1

Jeff Van Gyssel (addendum)

7.2

Agenda Item 12.2 - Councillor K. Wilkinson Notice of Motion Regarding Prime Ministers Path Statues Next Steps (addendum)

7.2.1

Glen Mathers representing Creatscape (addendum)

8.

CORRESPONDENCE

Councillor S. Martin spoke to correspondence received in regards to the Schneider Family land donation and directed a question to Manager of Community Services, M. O'Krafka for clarification. 

Councillor K. Wilkinson spoke to Item 8.1, 8.2 and 8.3 in regards to Region of Waterloo Official Plan (ROPA 6) and the storing of chemicals and compounds.

Councillor S. Cressman spoke to Item 8.1, 8.2 and 8.3 in in regards to Region of Waterloo Official Plan (ROPA 6).

8.1

Correspondence from Nith Valley EcoBoosters Regarding Region of Waterloo Official Plan (ROPA 6)

8.2

Correspondence from Kevin Thomason Regarding Region of Waterloo Official Plan (ROPA 6)

8.3

Correspondence from Andrew Wilson Regarding Region of Waterloo Official Plan (ROPA 6)

8.4

Correspondence from Barry Wolfe Regarding Councillor K. Wilkinson Notice of Motion re: Prime Ministers Path Statues Next Steps (addendum)

8.5

Correspondence from Dennis and Pat Mighton Regarding Councillor K. Wilkinson Notice of Motion re: Prime Ministers Path Statues Next Steps (addendum)

8.6

Correspondence from Marlene Knezevich Regarding Councillor K. Wilkinson Notice of Motion re: Prime Ministers Path Statues Next Steps (addendum)

9.

CONSENT AGENDA

• Moved by: Councillor L. Dunstall
  Seconded by: Councillor S. Martin

  THAT Consent Agenda Item 9.1 be approved.

  Motion Carried Unanimously

9.1

Nith River Promenade Project Completion, CS-2024-03

• THAT Report CS-2024-03, Nith River Promenade Project Completion be received for information.

10.

REPORTS

10.1

Draft 2024 Operating, Utility and Capital Budget, COR-2024-01

Chief Administrative Officer, S. Chambers gave opening remarks and Interim Treasurer / Chief Financial Officer, D. Elliott, presented the report. 

Council asked and received responses from staff regarding the following:

• The portion of industrial tax base in comparison to adjoining municipalities.
• Budget presentation resources and availability. 
• The items deferred beyond the 2024 budget year.

J. Van Gyssel spoke requesting that Council prioritize transit, and the need for improvement to the Grand River Transit routes. J. Van Gyssel also highlighted the opportunities that transit would bring to the communities and businesses in the Township of Wilmot.

Mayor N. Salonen provided clarification on the jurisdiction of Grand River Transit and the funding for transit through the Region of Waterloo area rates. Mayor N. Salonen expressed support for working with J. Van Gyssel and others to enhance the transit system for Wilmot. 

Councillor S. Martin provided comments in support of increasing transit options.

• Moved by: Councillor S. Cressman
  Seconded by: Councillor S. Martin

  THAT Report COR-2024-01, Draft 2024 Operating, Utility and Capital Budgets be received and immediately referred to Finance & Budget Committee for detailed review, and recommendations to Council.

  Motion Carried Unanimously

10.2

Special Event and Facility Subsidies, CS-2024-01

Mayor N. Salonen declared a conflict of interest as a member of the Wilmot Aquatic Aces Swim Club (Aces). Mayor N. Salonen requested that the Aces be considered separately from the other affiliated groups outline in Report CS-2024-01.

Council considered Corporate Services report CS-2024-01, regarding the Special Event and Facility Subsidies excluding the affiliated group the Aces. Director of Parks, Facilities and Recreation Services, C. Catania spoke to the report.

• Moved by: Councillor L. Dunstall
  Seconded by: Councillor S. Cressman

  THAT Report CS 2024 – 01 Special Event and Facility Subsidies be received for information and further,

  THAT Staff be directed to continue facility use subsidies and in-kind staff costs for legacy facility bookings, by affiliated groups, excluding the Aces and special events taking place at Township facilities in 2024 and further,

  THAT Staff be directed to continue fully subsidizing the Mennonite Relief Sale, Moparfest and New Hamburg Fall Fair as directed per the Council Resolution dated March 20, 2023.

  A motion was brought forward by Councillor K. Wilkinson, seconded by Councillor L. Dunstall, THAT the Council of the Township of Wilmot refer Item 10.2 Special Event and Facility Subsidies, CS-2024-01 excluding the affiliated group the Aces to the Finance and Budget Committee for discussion. The motion carried unanimously.

  Mayor N. Salonen stepped down as Chair at 8:15 p.m. for Council to consider the following motion.

  
  

• Councillor H. Sidhu, as Acting Chair called forward the motion. 

  Moved by: Councillor S. Cressman
  Seconded by: Councillor K. Wilkinson

  THAT the Council of the Township of Wilmot refer the subsidy for the affiliated group the Aces to the Finance and Budget Committee for discussion.

  Motion Carried

  Mayor N. Salonen resumed as Chair at 8:16 p.m.

  
  

11.

BY-LAWS

• Moved by: Councillor L. Dunstall
  Seconded by: Councillor S. Cressman

  THAT By-Laws as attached to this Agenda be read a first, second and third time, and finally passed in Open Council. 

  Motion Carried Unanimously

11.1

By-Law 2024-01 Being a By-Law to Appoint a Deputy Clerk for the Corporation of the Township of Wilmot

12.

NOTICES OF MOTION

12.1

Councillor K. Wilkinson Regarding Wilmot Township Road Safety

Councillor K. Wilkinson has given notice to introduce the following motion for consideration this date:

Councillor K. Wilkinson introduced the motion for consideration.

Councillor S. Cressman provided comments in support of the motion and sought clarification from staff.

Director of Infrastructure Services, J. Molenhuis provided clarification on the scope, timelines, and appropriateness of the timeline for 2024 budget considerations.

Councillor H. Sidhu provided comments in support of the motion.

• Moved by: Councillor K. Wilkinson
  Seconded by: Councillor H. Sidhu

  WHEREAS the safety and well-being of our community's residents, pedestrians, and motorists are of utmost priority; and,

  WHEREAS there has been an increasing concern regarding road safety and vehicle speeds within the municipality, specifically in areas where significant roads feed into our communities and settlement areas; and,

  WHEREAS the jurisdiction of certain roads within our municipality falls under the responsibility of the Region of Waterloo; and,

  WHEREAS road safety and speed mitigation are concerns that extend beyond municipal boundaries and require a coordinated approach between different levels of government.

  THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that staff be directed to report back to Council during the 2024 capital budget deliberations on undertaking a study to develop a road safety and speed mitigation strategy with the goal of enhancing the safety of all road users in our community, considering both residential and commercial areas.

  BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the scope of such road safety and speed mitigation strategy should include, but not be limited to, the following elements:

  • Assessment of current road safety conditions and high-risk areas;
  • Review of best practices in speed mitigation and road safety measures;
  • Consultation with local law enforcement, community groups, and other stakeholders;
  • Consultation with upper-tier municipal government;
  • Development of a range of effective speed mitigation options, including speed bumps; and,
  • Cost analysis of proposed measures.

  BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that staff are requested to provide to Council for consideration:

  • A detailed report outlining the research findings and proposed strategies;
  • An estimated timeline for the implementation of these strategies; and,
  • A comprehensive cost analysis for the execution of the proposed measures.

  BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that Council requests the Region of Waterloo to actively engage with the Township of Wilmot staff to address road safety and speed mitigation concerns on regional roads within the Township of Wilmot, including:

  • Sharing of research, data, and best practices related to road safety and speed mitigation;
  • Joint development of strategies that are consistent and effective across both municipal and regional roads;
  • Coordination in the implementation of road safety measures to ensure a cohesive approach; and,
  • Exploration of funding opportunities and resources that may be available through regional or provincial programs.
  Motion Carried Unanimously

  At this time Mayor Salonen noted that Council had inadvertently not voted on the referral of the refer the subsidy for the affiliated group the Aces to the Finance and Budget Committee for discussion under Item 10.2.

  Mayor N. Salonen stepped down as Chair at 8:15 p.m. for Council to consider the following motion.

  Councillor H. Sidhu, as Acting Chair called forward the motion. A motion was moved by Councillor M. Cressman, seconded by Councillor S. Wilkinson, THAT the Council of the Township of Wilmot refer the subsidy for the affiliated group the Aces to the Finance and Budget Committee for discussion. The motion carried.

  Mayor N. Salonen resumed as Chair at 8:16 p.m.

  
  

12.2

Councillor K. Wilkinson Regarding the Prime Ministers Path Statues Next Steps

Councillor K. Wilkinson introduced the motion for consideration.

Councillor L. Dunstall provided support for the motion, and further commented on the need for a permanent plan for the statues that engages a complete cross section of the community.

Councillor S. Cressman provided support for the motion, and further commented on the need to establish a facilitated process that allows peoples voices to be heard in a respectful manner. 

Councillor S. Martin spoke to the motion and further commented on referendums. Councillor S.Martin asked staff for more information on the process and timeline.

Chief Administrative Officer, S. Chambers provided a response.

An amendment was moved by Councillor S. Martin, seconded by Councillor S. Cressman, THAT Council amend the motion by striking out February 12th and replace with February 26th. The motion carried.

Councillor H. Sidhu spoke in support of the motion and further commented on to the importance of communication with residents. 

G. Mathers spoke on behalf of Createscape and noted the organizations support for the project.

• Moved by: Councillor K. Wilkinson
  Seconded by: Councillor L. Dunstall

  WHEREAS in 2020 the Township of Wilmot retained First Peoples Group to assist the Township with a consultation process on the future of the Prime Ministers Path Statues; and,

  WHEREAS on July 5, 2021 Wilmot Council received Report CAO-2021-03 Presentation of Findings and Recommendations First Peoples Group Prime Ministers Path Community Engagement recommending:

  THAT the report from First Peoples Group dated June 30, 2021, be endorsed,

  THAT staff arrange for the immediate removal and temporary storage of the four remaining statues on the Prime Ministers Path and discontinue any future expansion or investment in the Prime Ministers Path as it exists today;

  THAT staff work with the Township solicitor to activate the termination clause in the agreement with Createscape;

  AND FURTHER, THAT staff be directed to report back to Council with an implementation plan for the incorporation of the remaining recommendations from First Peoples Group, including;

  a) Creating a working group comprised of a balanced representation of the individuals and communities within Wilmot Township to discuss, develop and suggest plans for the implementation of next steps centred in community cohesion and healing.

  b) Commitment to transforming community engagement and consultation processes in Wilmot Township in a way that encourages greater openness, accountability, and citizen participation in decision-making; and further,

  WHEREAS on July 5, 2021 Wilmot Council voted in favor of the recommendation contained in Report CAO-2021-03 and temporarily remove and store the Prime Ministers Path Statues;

  THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Staff be directed to report back to Council at the February 26, 2024 Regular Council Meeting on any interim actions taken since the statues were placed in storage;

  THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that staff be directed to prepare options on ways to proceed with a permanent plan for the Prime Ministers Path Statues, including information relating to a potential referendum, for Council’s consideration at the February 26, 2024 Regular Council Meeting.

  Motion Carried Unanimously

12.3

Councillor Martin Regarding Electronic Vehicle (EV) ChargeON Program

• Moved by: Councillor S. Martin
  Seconded by: Councillor L. Dunstall

  THAT Council waive the Notice of Motion requirement.

  Motion Carried Unanimously

• Councillor S. Martin introduced the motion for consideration.

  Councillor S. Cressman asked for clarification on motion.

  Councillor L. Dunstall asked for clarification on the motion. 

  Councillor K. Wilkinson asked for a long-term revenue forecast to be included in the report.

  Director of Parks, Facilities and Recreation Services C. Catania provided a response.

  Moved by: Councillor S. Martin
  Seconded by: Councillor H. Sidhu

  WHEREAS the Government of Canada has released its electric vehicle sales mandate regulations encouraging the increased production and sales of electronic vehicles; and, 

  WHEREAS the Province of Ontario is currently seeking applications for its Electronic Vehicle (EV) ChargeON Program by January 31, 2024; 

  THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that staff be asked to include two Level 3 chargers for the Township of Wilmot (New Hamburg and Baden) in the draft 2024 capital budget at an estimated cost of $50,000 each; and further, 

  BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that if recommended by the Budget and Finance Committee on January 27, 2024, that staff be directed to apply to the Electronic Vehicle (EV) ChargeON Program for provincial funding.

  Motion Carried Unanimously

13.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Mayor N. Salonen provided announcements on:

• Snow Event on the Weekend
• Christmas at the Castle
• Nith River Promenade 
• ROMA Conference 
• Provincial Standing Committee of Heritage, Infrastructure and Cultural Policy- Regional Waterloo Review

Councillor S. Martin an announcement on:

• Heritage Day 2024 "Celebrating Wilmot's Heritage." 

14.

CONFIRMATORY BY-LAW

• Moved by: Councillor S. Cressman
  Seconded by: Councillor L. Dunstall

  THAT the Confirmatory By-Law as attached to this Agenda be read a first, second and third time, and finally passed in Open Council. 

  Motion Carried Unanimously

15.

ADJOURNMENT

• Moved by: Councillor L. Dunstall
  Seconded by: Councillor S. Martin

  THAT we do now adjourn to meet again at the call of the Mayor.

  Motion Carried Unanimously