Authorization to Release Section 37 funds from the Development at 39 Park Lawn Road to Complete the Berry Road Food Co-op - by Councillor Mark Grimes, seconded by Councillor Frances Nunziata

An opening date for the food co-op was set for March 2020, and staff were hired and trained. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed the opening, which placed significant strain on the food co-op's resources. There remains a need to provide the food co-op with additional funding to ensure that they can open to serve the residents in this neighbourhood. The intent of this motion is to redirect Section 37 funding from 36 Park Lawn Road in Ward 3 towards the Berry Road Food Co-op, for use towards capital and leasehold improvements including refrigeration, cabinetry, kitchen equipment, and shelving and display. Authority is being sought to amend the 2021 Approved Operating Budget for Non-Program by $50,000 gross, $0 net, fully funded by Section 37 community benefits to provide one-time funding for capital improvements to the Berry Road Food Co-op to supplement fundraising efforts for the 150 Berry Road renovation. Sufficient Section 37 funds to fulfill this motion have been secured and received by the City from the development at 36 Park Lawn Road for the purpose of funding capital facilities within vicinity of the site.

2. City Council direct that the $50,000.00 be forwarded to the Berry Road Food Co-op, subject to proof that the Co-operative has secured a lease with the property owner Vandyk, and subject to co-operative signing an Undertaking governing the use of the funds and the financial reporting requirements.