Toronto City Council
The full agenda, as filed
All 39 items in the clerk’s order. Each carries the city’s own words: the staff recommendation, what the body decided, and its status. Nothing below is written by us.
BL14.1adopted
Introduction and Enactment of General Bills and Confirming Bills
City Council will introduce and enact General Bills and Confirming Bills. Consolidated Bills Index for January 29 and 30, 2020 City Council meeting: http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewBillBylaw.do?meeting=2020.CC14
City Council on January 29, 2020, enacted By-laws 75-2020 to 118-2020.
CC14.1deferred
2706 Bayview Avenue - Request for Directions Regarding Local Planning Appeal Tribunal Hearing
The purpose of this report is to seek instructions respecting the appeal of the Zoning By-law Amendment application for 2706 Bayview Avenue, currently before the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (the "LPAT"). On December 21, 2016, the City of Toronto (the "City") received a Zoning By-law Amendment Application to permit the re-location of an existing single family detached dwelling and development of three, three-storey townhouse units on Bayview Avenue (the "Application"). The applicant also submitted an accompanying Site Plan application. On November 28, 2017, the applicant appealed the Application to the LPAT, citing City Council's failure to make a decision on the Application within the time prescribed by the Planning Act. The Site Plan application has not been appealed to date. Two pre-hearing conferences have since taken place before the LPAT. City Planning has been involved in the preparation of this report.
City Council on January 29, 2020, deferred consideration of Item CC14.1 to the April 1 and 2, 2020 meeting of City Council.
Staff recommendation as filed
The City Solicitor recommends that: 1. City Council adopt the recommendations contained in the Confidential Attachment 1 to this report. 2. If the confidential instructions in Confidential Attachment 1 are adopted, City Council authorize the public release of: a. the recommendations contained in Confidential Attachment 1; and b. Appendices "A", "B" and "C" to Confidential Attachment 1. 3. City Council direct that all other information contained in Confidential Attachment 1 is to remain confidential at the discretion of the City Solicitor, as it contains advice which is subject to solicitor-client privilege.
IA14.1referred
Delays in Traffic Construction Projects throughout Scarborough-Guildwood, Ward 24
Councillor Paul Ainslie has submitted the following Administrative Inquiry: "I am submitting this Administrative Inquiry under Municipal Code S27-61 to seek information regarding Transportation Services delays in Traffic Construction Projects throughout Scarborough-Guildwood Ward 24. Transportation Services and Engineering Construction Services has on numerous instances delayed traffic construction projects throughout Ward 24, measures that are required to provide a safe environment for residents. Delays have been made with the construction of over 10 projects for: Traffic Control Signals and Pedestrian Crosswalks. I regularly receive inquiries from my constituents requesting why the projects are delayed, I share these concerns. I am requesting answers to the following questions from Transportation Services and Engineering Construction Services. 1. Report on each Ward 24 construction project from 2016 to present with detailed information from the project adoption date to the date of installation; to include reasoning for delays. 2. Transportation Services to provide their detailed procedure when planning a project from receiving the project, going out for bid, construction planning, priority listing, contacting utilities and other processes in place. 3. Transportation Services provide a list of all their projects city wide from 2018 to present and those planned in 2020. The list is to include, sidewalk replacement, new sidewalks, repaving of roads, installation of traffic lights and the installation of pedestrian crosswalks. 4. Transportation Services is to provide the rational for not reconstructing Keeler Boulevard in Ward 24 as of date. The work was scheduled to be done in 2018 and has been delayed and reprioritized continuously."
City Council on January 29, 2020, referred Administrative Inquiry IA14.1 from Councillor Paul Ainslie, Ward 24, Scarborough-Guildwood regarding Delays in Traffic Construction Projects throughout Scarborough-Guildwood and Answer 14.1a from the General Manager, Transportation Services, to the Infrastructure and Environment Committee for consideration.
MM14.1adopted
At its meeting of July 4, 5, 6 and 7, 2017, City Council endorsed the vision, guiding principles and action plan identified in the Bathurst Quay Neighbourhood Plan report (June 8, 2017) from the Director, Community Planning Toronto and East York District; and further, City Council requested the City Planning Division to lead the creation of a strategy to deliver streetscape and public realm improvements envisioned within the Bathurst Quay Neighbourhood Plan, inclusive of (amongst others) a revitalization of the City-owned Canada Malting Silos property at 5 Eireann Quay. After an extensive community consultation process, and various subsequent City Council approvals regarding leasing, funding and planning policy matters, implementation of the Bathurst Quay Neighbourhood Plan formally began with an October 25, 2019 ground-breaking ceremony for the project's first of six construction phases. The Bathurst Quay Neighbourhood Plan's second construction phase is scheduled to commence in March 2020. This phase consists, in part, of a reduction and relocation of an existing, shared (by Toronto District School Board and Ports Toronto) surface parking area on the 5 Eireann Quay property. This planned change will increase the amount of open space available for a planned public space on this City-owned waterfront property. Ports Toronto is funding the design, construction and maintenance costs associated with this second construction phase. This proposal has been through a rigorous site plan control process, including extensive community consultation, and detailed technical and design review and revisions by various City divisions and partner agencies. The review process has determined that, while both the existing and proposed Toronto District School Board parking use is permitted under the in-force Zoning By-Law, the License Areement, dated August 18, 1997 between The Corporation of the City of Toronto and The Board of Education for the City of Toronto, now Toronto District School Board, does not permit parking within the Toronto District School Board-licensed portion of the 5 Eireann Quay property. An amendment to the Licence Agreement is therefore required to permit the additional parking use in its proposed new location. Since the Licence Agreement was approved by Toronto City Council, Council authority is required to undertake this amendment and allow construction to proceed as planned in March 2020. The Toronto District School Board is a funding and implementation partner of the Bathurst Quay Neighbourhood Plan, and is supportive of this proposed amendment.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management to amend the Licence Agreement between the City of Toronto and the Board of Education for the City of Toronto, now the Toronto District School Board, to permit parking (consisting of approximately 15 parking spaces) as a permitted use. 2. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management to execute and deliver any amendments to the Licence Agreement, and any related documents contemplated thereunder on behalf of the City. 3. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management to administer and manage the Licence Agreement and any amendments including the provision of any consents, approvals, waivers, notices and notices of termination, provided that the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management may at any time, refer consideration of such matters to City Council for its determination and direction.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Joe Cressy, seconded by Councillor Mike Layton, recommends that: 1. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management to amend the Licence Agreement between the City of Toronto and the Board of Education for the City of Toronto, now the Toronto District School Board, to permit parking (consisting of approximately 15 parking spaces) as a permitted use. 2. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management to execute and deliver any amendments to the Licence Agreement, and any related documents contemplated thereunder on behalf of the City. 3. City Council authorize the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management to administer and manage the Licence Agreement and any amendments including the provision of any consents, approvals, waivers, notices and notices of termination, provided that the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management may at any time, refer consideration of such matters to City Council for its determination and direction.
RM14.1adopted
- O Canada - Moment of Silence - Declarations of Interest under the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act
CALL TO ORDER: 9:37 a.m. Speaker Nunziata took the Chair and called the Members to order. The meeting opened with O Canada. Wednesday, January 29, 2020 Members of Council observed a moment of silence and remembered: Isabel Anderson Antonino "Nino" Cicirello Father Pier Giorgio Di Cicco Rocco Di Donato Diane Ford William (Bill) Graham Marilyn Lastman Michael McGee and the victims of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 Speaker Nunziata acknowledged that City Council was meeting on the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Speaker Nunziata also acknowledged that Toronto is covered by Treaty 13 signed with the Mississaugas of the Credit.
CC14.2deferred
2477879 Ontario Inc., 1579661 Ontario Inc., Clarieville Holdings Limited, and Frances Danyliw (together the "Applicant") own lands municipally known as 301-319 King Street West (the "Subject Site"). The Subject Site is located on the south side of King Street West, west of John Street. The Subject Site currently contains four 3-storey buildings with commercial uses at grade. Each of the properties that compose the Subject Site have recognized heritage value: The properties at 301-303, 315, and 319 King Street West are designated heritage properties and the property at 305, 309, and 311 King Street West has been listed. On April 4, 2013, the Applicant submitted a Zoning By-law Amendment application to the City proposing to amend former City of Toronto Zoning By-law 438-86 and City of Toronto Zoning By-law 569-2013 to permit the development of a 42-storey (174.6 metres in height, including mechanical penthouse) commercial building at 305-319 King Street West (the "Original Proposal"). The Original Proposal included office, hotel, and restaurant uses, as well as four levels of underground parking. Portions of the heritage buildings on the site were proposed to be retained and integrated into the 5-storey podium of the new building. The Original Proposal did not include any setbacks from the eastern property line, and therefore provided no tower separation to the neighbouring property. The total proposed gross floor area ("GFA") of the Original Proposal was 38,343 square metres, with a floor space index ("FSI") of 31.5. The tower floor plate proposed was 900 square metres. On December 3, 2017, the Applicant appealed the Application to the Ontario Municipal Board ("OMB") (now known as the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal ("LPAT")) as LPAT File No. PL171514. The first prehearing conference was held on October 3, 2018 before the LPAT. The second prehearing conference was held on May 13, 2019. In October 2019, as a result of discussions between the Applicant and City staff, the Applicant modified their application and submitted revised plans to the City dated October 28, 2019 (the "Revised Proposal"). The Revised Proposal (which now also includes the property at 301-303 King Street West) proposes a 50-storey mixed-use residential and commercial building, with a reduced total height of 157 metres. As part of the Revised Proposal the Applicant also proposed a revised heritage retention strategy regarding the existing heritage buildings included as part of the development and submitted an updated Heritage Impact Assessment ("HIA"), prepared by Philip Goldsmith Architect, dated October 25, 2019. On December 9, 2019, the Applicant's counsel, McMillan LLP, submitted to the City Solicitor a with prejudice settlement offer (the "Settlement Offer"). The Settlement Offer proposes a resolution of the LPAT appeal based on the Revised Proposal and further proposes to provide to the City a Section 37 cash contribution of $3.2 million to be put towards community benefits. The Revised Proposal and the Settlement Offer are described in further detail in the "Comments" section below. The Settlement Offer is included as Public Attachment 1 to this report. The architectural plans showing the Revised Proposal dated October 28, 2019 by Scott Shields Architects Inc. are included as Public Appendix 1 to Public Attachment 1 to this report. It should be noted that a related alterations report from Heritage Preservation Service ("HPS") dated October 29, 2019, is also intended to be considered by City Council at its meeting on December 17 and 18, 2019, as Item TE11.9 (the "Heritage Report"). The Heritage Report recommends that City Council approve alterations to the heritage properties on the Subject Site in accordance with Section 33 of the Ontario Heritage Act in order to permit a development pursuant to the Revised Proposal and the updated HIA, subject to certain conditions of approval. The Heritage Report also recommends that City Council designate the properties at 305, 309, and 311 King Street West under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. The Heritage Report should be considered in conjunction with this report. A copy of the Applicant's letter to the Toronto and East York Community Council regarding Item TE11.9 and the Heritage Report is also included as Public Appendix 2 to Public Attachment 1 to this report. The purpose of this report is to request further instructions regarding the Settlement Offer in relation to the LPAT appeal. City Planning has been involved in the preparation of this report.
City Council on January 29, 2020, deferred consideration of Item CC14.2 to the February 27, 2020 meeting of City Council.
Staff recommendation as filed
The City Solicitor recommends that: 1. City Council adopt the recommendations contained in the Confidential Attachment 1 to this report. 2. City Council authorize the public release of the confidential recommendations contained in the Confidential Attachment 1 to this report, if adopted by City Council. 3. City Council direct that all other information contained in Confidential Attachment 1 is to remain confidential at the discretion of the City Solicitor, as it contains advice which is subject to solicitor-client privilege.
IA14.2referred
Open Data - Cycling and Infrastructure Programs - Bike Share Ridership
Councillor Paul Ainslie has submitted the following Administrative Inquiry: "I am submitting this Administrative Inquiry under Municipal Code S27-61 to seek information regarding the release of timely and current bike share datasets. The Toronto Parking Authority has two main bike share datasets: the ridership dataset (CSV) and live JSON file. The Toronto Parking Authority publishes ridership data annually, the intention of open data is to provide purposeful current information. The Toronto Parking Authority has been directed on a number of occasions to provide an information release schedule. The City of Toronto's Open Data team has not been provided a current update or release schedule identifying when the most current data will be made available on the City's Open Data portal. The Toronto Parking Authority continues to advise that they will continue to release data annually. The City or Toronto's Open Data team as on a number of occasions communicated with The Toronto Parking Authority to offer their expertise in finding improvements to the publishing of data and to have the City's expectations satisfied. I am requesting the following from Toronto Parking Authority; 1. Toronto Parking Authority report on their work with the City of Toronto Open Data Team including meeting dates, project status and implementation plan. 2. Toronto Parking Authority provide a detailed plan to commence releasing current bike share datasets to the City of Toronto's open data team daily or monthly to be available on the City of Toronto's Open Data Web Portal by March 1, 2020. 3. Toronto Parking Authority together with the City of Toronto's Open Data Team report to the General Government and Licensing Committee at the March 9, 2020 with the bike share dataset release schedule."
City Council on January 29, 2020, referred Administrative Inquiry IA14.2 from Councillor Paul Ainslie, Ward 24, Scarborough-Guildwood regarding Open Data-Cycling and Infrastructure Program - Bike Share Ridership, and Answer 14.2a from the Acting President, Toronto Parking Authority, to the Executive Committee for consideration.
MM14.2adopted
An application has been submitted to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario for a liquor licence at the premises at 1306 King Street West to operate under the name of The Sand Trap Golf and Lounge. The application is for an indoor area only. This Motion requests that City Council advise the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario that this application for a liquor licence is not in the public interest unless certain conditions, addressing the concerns of the community, are attached to the licence. This establishment is located in close proximity to residential units. There are concerns that an establishment with a liquor licence can cause noise and disturbance to residents in the area. If conditions are put in place, these concerns may be mitigated. Under no circumstance should the establishment be granted a liquor sales license without conditions attached. This item is deemed urgent as the deadline to file objections was January 13, 2020.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council direct the City Clerk to advise the Registrar of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario that the issuance of a liquor licence for The Sand Trap Golf and Lounge, 1306 King Street West is not in the public interest having regard to the needs and wishes of the residents unless conditions are placed on the licence and that the Registrar should issue a Proposal to Review the liquor licence application. 2. City Council request the Licence Appeal Tribunal to provide the City of Toronto with an opportunity to be made party to any proceedings with respect to the Premises. 3. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attend all proceedings before the Licence Appeal Tribunal in this matter and City Council direct the City Solicitor to take all necessary actions so as to give effect to this Motion, including adding conditions to any liquor licence issued for the Premises.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Gord Perks, seconded by Councillor Josh Matlow, recommends that: 1. City Council direct the City Clerk to advise the Registrar of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario that the issuance of a liquor licence for The Sand Trap Golf and Lounge, 1306 King Street West is not in the public interest having regard to the needs and wishes of the residents unless conditions are placed on the licence and that the Registrar should issue a Proposal to Review the liquor licence application. 2. City Council request the Licence Appeal Tribunal to provide the City of Toronto with an opportunity to be made party to any proceedings with respect to the Premises. 3. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attend all proceedings before the Licence Appeal Tribunal in this matter and City Council direct the City Solicitor to take all necessary actions so as to give effect to this Motion, including adding conditions to any liquor licence issued for the Premises.
RM14.2adopted
City Council will confirm the Minutes from the regular meeting held on December 17 and 18, 2020.
City Council confirmed the Minutes of Council from the regular meeting held on December 17 and 18, 2019.
CC14.3adopted
Appointment of Tourism Toronto Representative to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre Board
The Corporations Nominating Panel will consider the appointment of the new President and Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Toronto to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre Board.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council appoint Scott Beck, President and Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Toronto to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre Board, at pleasure of Council, for a term of office ending July 16, 2022 and until a successor is appointed. 2. City Council direct that Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 7, 2020) from the City Clerk remain confidential in its entirety as it relates to personal matters about an identifiable individual being considered for appointment to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre Board. Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 7, 2020) from the City Clerk remains confidential in its entirety in accordance with the provisions of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, as it relates to personal matters about an identifiable individual being considered for appointment to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre Board.
Staff recommendation as filed
The City Clerk transmits the Decision Letter from the Corporations Nominating Panel. The Corporations Nominating Panel recommends that: 1. City Council appoint Scott Beck, President and Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Toronto to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre Board, at pleasure of Council, for a term of office ending July 16, 2022 and until a successor is appointed. 2. City Council direct that Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 7, 2020) from the City Clerk remain confidential in its entirety as it relates to personal matters about an identifiable individual being considered for appointment to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre Board. Candidate's biography: Scott Beck Scott Beck is a native of the United States, born in Utah. Scott was raised with tourism as the driving force in his family. Scott is currently President & CEO of Tourism Toronto. Prior to joining Tourism Toronto in October 2019, Scott served as the President & CEO of Visit Salt Lake from 2005-2019. Scott is past international board chair of Destinations International. Prior to joining Visit Salt Lake, Scott was the General Manager of the Salt Lake City Marriott City Center hotel.
MM14.3adopted
The City of Toronto is building a new child care centre in CityPlace, one of our newest and fastest growing communities. There will be spaces for 42 toddlers and pre-school children along with 10 infants. The service will be operated out of space within a brand new building shared with two elementary schools and the Canoe Landing Community Recreation Centre. Bishop Macdonell Catholic School and Jean Lumb Public School both opened on January 6, 2020, and the rest of the building is nearing completion and will open in the coming months. Long term nominal leases to each of the Toronto District School Board and the Toronto Catholic District School Board and a shared facilities agreement between the City and the Boards, for the operation of the schools, were approved by City Council at its meeting held on July 16, 17, and 18, 2019 (Item 2019.GL6.18). The child care centre will be operated by St. Stephen's Community House, who is the successful proponent chosen through a formalized process administered by City of Toronto Children's Services. St. Stephen's has received a large number of applications for child care spots at this location, demonstrating the high demand for child care services in this area. Delays in construction due to labour disruptions and labour shortages affecting a number of critical trades pushed out the anticipated opening date, and many parents have had to make alternative child care arrangements. Accordingly, Children's Services, St. Stephen's, and I are all anxious to open the child care centre as soon as possible. A report was scheduled to go to the General Government and Licensing Committee meeting on March 9, 2020 to approve a nominal lease for the Child Care Centre space to St Stephens's, followed by a report to City Council on April 1 and 2, 2020. St. Stephen's has now indicated they expect to receive their provincial licence to operate the Child Care Centre by mid-February, and as such would like to open the facility earlier than planned. The recommendation in this Motion was prepared by City staff and seeks authority for the City of Toronto to enter into a nominal lease with St. Stephen's, in order to allow the parties to expedite the negotiation and execution of the lease and the opening of the child care centre.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council authorize the City of Toronto, as landlord, to enter into a lease with St. Stephens Community House, as tenant, for the use of approximately 675 square metres of City-owned space and adjoining outdoor space at 26 Brunel Court as a child care centre; such lease to be for a term of five (5) years commencing when the tenant obtains its licence to operate the premises, with a tenant's option to extend the term for a further five (5) years, at a nominal base rent with the tenant responsible for its proportionate share of the costs incurred by the City of Toronto in operating and maintaining the joint elementary school-community facility of which the premises form a part; and on such other or amended terms and conditions satisfactory to the Deputy City Manager, Corporate Services in consultation with the General Manager, Children's Services and in a form satisfactory to the City Solicitor. 2. City Council authorize the Director, Real Estate Services to execute the above lease on behalf of the City of Toronto.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Joe Cressy, seconded by Councillor Mike Layton, recommends that: 1. City Council authorize the City of Toronto, as landlord, to enter into a lease with St. Stephens Community House, as tenant, for the use of approximately 675 square metres of City-owned space and adjoining outdoor space at 26 Brunel Court as a child care centre; such lease to be for a term of five (5) years commencing when the tenant obtains its licence to operate the premises, with a tenant's option to extend the term for a further five (5) years, at a nominal base rent with the tenant responsible for its proportionate share of the costs incurred by the City of Toronto in operating and maintaining the joint elementary school-community facility of which the premises form a part; and on such other or amended terms and conditions satisfactory to the Deputy City Manager, Corporate Services in consultation with the General Manager, Children's Services and in a form satisfactory to the City Solicitor. 2. City Council authorize the Director, Real Estate Services to execute the above lease on behalf of the City of Toronto.
RM14.3adopted
Deferred Committee Items: Toronto and East York Community Council Item TE11.9 Toronto and East York Community Council Item TE11.35 Report of the Executive Committee from Meeting 12 on January 23, 2020 Submitted by Mayor John Tory, Chair Report of the Board of Health from Meeting 13 on January 13, 2020 Submitted by Councillor Joe Cressy, Chair Report of the Civic Appointments Committee from Meeting 12 on January 22, 2020 Submitted by Deputy Mayor Denzil Minnan-Wong, Chair Report of the Economic and Community Development Committee from Meeting 11 on January 14, 2020 Submitted by Councillor Michael Thompson, Chair Report of the General Government and Licensing Committee from Meeting 11 on January 6, 2020 Submitted by Councillor Paul Ainslie, Chair Report of the Infrastructure and Environment Committee from Meeting 11 on January 9, 2020 Submitted by Councillor James Pasternak, Chair Report of the Planning and Housing Committee from Meeting 12 on January 22, 2020 Submitted by Councillor Ana Bailão, Chair Report of the Etobicoke York Community Council from Meeting 12 on January 8, 2020 Submitted by Councillor Mark Grimes, Chair Report of the North York Community Council from Meeting 12 on January 8, 2020 Submitted by Councillor James Pasternak, Chair Report of the Scarborough Community Council from Meeting 12 on January 8, 2020 Submitted by Councillor Jim Karygiannis, Chair Report of the Toronto and East York Community Council from Meeting 12 on January 8, 2020 Submitted by Councillor Gord Perks, Chair New Business and Business Previously Requested submitted by City Officials
Committee Reports, New Business and Business Previously Requested were presented to City Council for consideration.
CC14.4referred
Provincial legislation requires City Council to review and update the Investment Policy on an annual basis as required. Since January 1, 2018, the City's long-term investments have been managed by the Toronto Investment Board under a new Council adopted Investment Policy which is based on the prudent investor standard. Changes to the Investment Policy are reviewed and adopted by TIB before they are brought forward to City Council. This report also responds to Council direction to review and report on sections of the Investment Policy with regard to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors and makes recommendations to enhance these sections. The Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer (CFO&T) along with other City staff have consulted with several stakeholders and subject matter experts with regard to ESG and climate change. Additional consultations were made with the Toronto Investment Board (TIB) and The Atmospheric Fund (TAF) following the direction by Council in October 2019. This report makes a recommendation to add a section to allow for the CFO&T to accept minor variations of the City's Investment Policy when compared to the standard terms in the policies of pooled funds (and other types of funds). These funds are allowed by the current legislation and would be reviewed and selected by TIB. The report makes a recommendation to the Real Assets section of the Investment Policy to allow for the Real Estate sub-component to change its geographic focus to a North American/Global basis. This change would provide greater liquidity and transparency. In addition, widening the geographical scope provides more options and flexibility to improve the risk and return profile.
City Council on January 29, 2020, referred Item CC14.4 to the Executive Committee for further consideration.
Staff recommendation as filed
The Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer recommends that: 1. City Council approve the following amendments to the City Council-approved Investment Policy (Policy) and adopt the amended Policy as shown in Attachment 1: a. the Investment Beliefs (Section 2.2) be enhanced to include recognition of Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) factors as material to risk/return outcomes; b. the Environmental, Social, and Governance Factors (Section 6.6) be strengthened by having investment managers consider the United Nations' 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) which includes climate change, and that these investment managers have a process that integrates ESG in the analysis and on-going review of the assets under management; c. Long Term Fund and Sinking Fund Long Term Constraints (Section 3.2 (b)) to add a subsection named "Investments in Pooled Funds, Mutual Funds, and other similar products", to allow the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, at their discretion, to accept minor variations of the City's Investment Policy when compared to the standard terms in the policies of these funds; d. Asset Mix Guidelines (Section 2.4 (b)) and Real Asset Portfolio Constraints (Section 3.2 (b)(iii)) such that references in the Real Assets sub-category to "Canadian Core" and "Global Core" be replaced with "North American/Global Core"; and e. References to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) updated to reflect the current title of Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer (CFO&T). 2. City Council request the Toronto Investment Board and the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer to develop a process to monitor and report on external investment firms hired by the City are compliant with the terms of the Investment Policy governing ESG and that the information and data regarding climate change risk from these reviews be reported to City Council semi-annually.
MM14.4adopted
Currently, the City of Toronto has no by-laws or jurisdiction to regulate the installation and/or use of surveillance cameras on private property. As the use of this technology becomes more common, we must take into consideration the direct impact that these devices may have on our neighbours. The City of Toronto is increasingly receiving complaints about privately owned surveillance cameras capturing images of residents on their own private property, such as a backyard, front porch, and even into their own homes. Other municipalities have passed by-laws regulating the use of surveillance cameras, or are considering doing so. The Ontario Privacy Commissioner has addressed the issue of CCTV cameras and private properties, and has outlined privacy concerns regarding the use of data collected by these devices. Municipal Licensing and Standards has a report scheduled for 2020 to update the City of Toronto's Property Standards By-law. This Motion seeks to include an assessment of the feasibility of prohibiting or restricting surveillance cameras from recording video footage of any residential property beyond an individual's property, as part of the review of Chapter 629, Property Standards.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council direct the Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards to assess the feasibility of prohibiting or restricting surveillance cameras from recording video footage of any residential property beyond an individual's property, as part of the review of Chapter 629, Property Standards, expected in the third quarter of 2020.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Mark Grimes, seconded by Councillor Anthony Perruzza, recommends that: 1. City Council direct the Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards to assess the feasibility of prohibiting or restricting surveillance cameras from recording video footage of any residential property beyond an individual's property, as part of the review of Chapter 629, Property Standards, expected in the third quarter of 2020.
RM14.4received
Members of Council may file petitions.
No petitions were filed during the Routine Matters portion of the meeting.
CC14.5amended
At its meeting of November 26, 2019, council considered Item CC12.4 and directed the City Solicitor to continue discussions with the appellant and attend at the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal, if necessary and authorize the hiring of outside consultants as may be required.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council adopt the confidential instructions to staff attached to motion 1 by Councillor John Filion. 2. City Council direct that the confidential instructions to staff attached to motion 1 by Councillor John Filion be made public at the discretion of the City Solicitor. 3. City Council direct that Confidential Attachments 1 and 2, and Confidential Appendix A to the report (January 20, 2020) from the City Solicitor remain confidential in their entirety as they contain advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege. The confidential instructions to staff attached to motion 1 by Councillor John Filion remain confidential at this time in accordance with the provisions of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, as they contain advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege. The confidential instructions to staff attached to motion 1 by Councillor John Filion will be made public at the discretion of the City Solicitor. Confidential Attachments 1 and 2 and Confidential Appendix A to the report (January 20, 2020) from the City Solicitor remain confidential in their entirety in accordance with the provisions of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, as they contain advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege.
Staff recommendation as filed
The City Solicitor recommends that: 1. City Council adopt the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to this Report from the City Solicitor. 2. City Council authorize the public release of the confidential recommendations in Confidential Attachment 1 and Confidential Appendix A to this Report from the City Solicitor, if adopted by City Council. 3. City Council direct that the balance of Confidential Attachment 1 and all of Confidential Attachment 2 to this Report from the City Solicitor remain confidential as it contains advice, which is subject to solicitor-client privilege.
MM14.5adopted
This Motion will give the City Solicitor authority with appropriate City Staff to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body in order to support the Committee of Adjustment's decision refusing a severance and certain variances sought in an application respecting 318 Hounslow Avenue (Application B0034/19NY, A0531/19NY, A0532/19NY). The Application sought a severance and variances to the City's Zoning By-law 569-2013 in order to permit the creation of two undersized residential lots. In a report Dated November 27, 2019, Community Planning recommended refusal of the proposed severance as it failed to satisfy the consent criteria of the Planning Act; staff also recommended refusal of the variances as they failed to satisfy the four tests set out in the Act. On December 5, 2019, the North York District Panel of the Committee of Adjustment refused the severance and the variances. On December 18, 2019, the owner of 318 Hounslow Avenue appealed the Decision to the Toronto Local Appeal Body. The Appeal, which will be considered by the Toronto Local Appeal Body, seeks to have the requested consent to sever and variances to the City-wide Zoning By-law 569-2013 granted, which would permit the creation of undersized residential lots. This matter is urgent as the Toronto Local Appeal Body hearing is scheduled for April 29 and 30, 2020 and filing deadlines must be met in advance of that date.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council direct the City Solicitor to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body in order to oppose the appeal of the Committee of Adjustment's decision to refuse the severance and minor variances requested in Applications B0034/19NY, A0531/19NY, A0532/19NY regarding 318 Hounslow Avenue. 2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attempt to negotiate a resolution regarding the appeal, and that the City Solicitor be authorized to resolve the matter on behalf of the City in the City Solicitor's discretion after consulting with the Ward Councillor and with the Director of Community Planning, North York District.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor John Filion, seconded by Councillor Shelley Carroll, recommends that: 1. City Council direct the City Solicitor to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body in order to oppose the appeal of the Committee of Adjustment's decision to refuse the severance and minor variances requested in Applications B0034/19NY, A0531/19NY, A0532/19NY regarding 318 Hounslow Avenue. 2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attempt to negotiate a resolution regarding the appeal, and that the City Solicitor be authorized to resolve the matter on behalf of the City in the City Solicitor's discretion after consulting with the Ward Councillor and with the Director of Community Planning, North York District.
RM14.5received
Presentations, Introductions and Announcements
Various presentations and announcements will be made at the City Council meeting.
Various presentations, introductions and announcements were made to City Council on January 29, 2020. Wednesday, January 29, 2020: Speaker Nunziata, during the morning session of the meeting, acknowledged Nick and Pat Di Donato, who were present in the Council Chamber, and offered condolences to their family. Councillor Holyday, during the morning session of the meeting, acknowledged the family of Michael McGee, who was present in the Chamber: his wife Elizabeth, sons Lucas and Matthew, and his brother and sister Maureen and Paul, along with Parks, Forestry and Recreation staff. Councillor Holyday acknowledged Mr. McGee's work in his 28 years with the City and recognized his contributions to Aquatics and the Learn to Swim program across the City. Councillor Holyday offered condolences to Mr. McGee's family and offered thanks for the work that Mr. McGee did to build the City of Toronto and to improve the quality of life for its inhabitants. Speaker Nunziata, during the morning session of the meeting, invited Giuliana Carbone, Deputy City Manager, Community and Social Services to come forward to recognize Patricia Walcott, General Manager, Toronto Employment and Social Services, on her retirement from the City of Toronto. Ms. Carbone advised Council of Ms. Walcott's meaningful impact on the City's organizations, programs and services, and on the lives of Toronto's most vulnerable residents. Ms. Carbone further advised Council that Ms. Walcott is retiring after a 46-year career in public service, 40 years with the Federal Government, during which Ms. Walcott was awarded the Lieutenant Governor's Medal of Distinction in Public Administration, and the last six years with the City of Toronto, where Ms. Walcott has been instrumental in driving positive, sustainable change, focussed on improving the quality and level of services. Mayor Tory came forward and advised Council that Toronto is the third-largest social assistance delivery provider in Canada and stated that Ms. Walcott had not only administered the function competently and with compassion, but also implemented projects such as a low-income fare pass. Mayor Tory presented Ms. Walcott with a scroll on behalf of the Members of Council and thanked Ms. Walcott for her wonderful contribution to the City. Ms. Walcott addressed City Council and said that she was grateful for the opportunity to cap off her public service career at the City. Ms. Walcott spoke of how proud she is of the important changes and innovative work, and that she was honoured to have served the City's residents. Councillor McKelvie, during the morning session of the meeting, rose to announce a special occasion taking place on Saturday, February 1st, and shared a short video commemorating the occasion: Councillor Mike Colle's 75th birthday. Councillor McKelvie thanked Councillor Colle for representing his residents well and wished him a happy birthday on behalf of City Council. Councillor Colle thanked Members of Council for their well wishes and said how privileged he felt to have the opportunity to do good for the City and to have done so for so many years. Councillor Colle invited all Members of Council to have a piece of the Sicilian tangerine cake that he'd baked that morning. Councillor Grimes, during the morning session of the meeting, rose to wish his wife Anne a very happy birthday. Councillor Pasternak, during the morning session of the meeting, wished his wife a belated happy birthday. Councillor Pasternak, during the morning session of the meeting, advised Members of Council that the North York Community Council, at its last meeting, paid tribute to two long-term employees at the City of Toronto who had retired. Councillor Pasternak acknowledged Joe Nanos, Director of Community Planning, North York District, who retired after 32 years with the City of Toronto, having shaped many of the large infrastructure and planning projects across the City during that time and making a major contribution to planning and building in North York. Councillor Pasternak also paid tribute to Francine Adamo, who retired after 48 years with the City of Toronto. Councillor Pasternak recognized Ms. Adamo as a major asset to the North York Community Council, making sure everything stayed on track, and that she did a remarkable job across the City, having touched almost every public policy issue regarding the Clerk's Office. Speaker Nunziata, during the afternoon session of the meeting, called upon Mayor Tory to come forward to make a very special recognition. Mayor Tory recognized Francine Adamo, Administrator, North York Community Council, present at the Clerk's Centre Table, on her retirement, and thanked her for 48 years of service. Mayor Tory acknowledged the work that takes place at the Clerk's table and said that it was a privilege to honour Ms. Adamo before City Council. Mayor Tory remarked that it was an opportunity for the Members to thank Ms. Adamo, as she had spent most of her career working directly with elected representatives, and that he had heard that she carried out her work with distinction, competence, capability and compassion, and that she had been a great mentor. Mayor Tory wished Ms. Adamo a long, healthy and happy retirement. Councillor Filion also addressed Council and said that he was the Councillor who has had the pleasure of working the most with Ms. Adamo in her career and that during the "old North York days" Ms. Adamo held the place together, knowing how to synthesize Councillors' passionate addresses into motions, and that's what kept the place going. Councillor Filion thanked Ms. Adamo and remarked that she was a North York institution. Councillor Karygiannis, during the afternoon session of the meeting, advised Members of Council that they were all invited to a dinner tomorrow at the Royale Fine Dining Banquet at 648 Silver Star Boulevard to show solidarity with their Chinese-Canadian constituents in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area.
CC14.6adopted
On July 8, 2014, City Council adopted a Motion to request the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning to undertake a planning study of Danforth Avenue in two segments, from the Don River to Coxwell Avenue and from Coxwell Avenue to Victoria Park Avenue, and to report on the funds necessary to complete these studies. City Planning commenced the Danforth Avenue Planning Study (Coxwell Avenue to Victoria Park Avenue) in June 2016. At its meeting on July 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 and 30, 2018, City Council adopted the Recommendations in the (June 15, 2018) Report from the Acting Director, Community Planning, Toronto and East York District and enacted By-law 1136-2018, adopting Official Plan Amendment 420 (OPA 420). OPA 420 was appealed to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (LPAT) by two landowners, and a two-day mediation was held at the LPAT on December 4 and 5, 2019. The City Solicitor seeks direction on this matter no later than the completion of the City Council meeting on January 29 and 30, 2020.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council adopt the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 21, 2020) from the City Solicitor. 2. City Council authorize the public release of: a. the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 21, 2020) from the City Solicitor; and b. Confidential Appendix 1 to the report (January 21, 2020) from the City Solicitor. 3. City Council direct that the balance of Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 21, 2020) from the City Solicitor remain confidential as it contains information that is subject to solicitor-client privilege. The confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 21, 2020) from the City Solicitor were adopted by City Council and are now public, as follows: 1. City Council authorize the City Solicitor and appropriate City Staff to attend at the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal to advise that City Council supports a modified Official Plan Amendment 420 related to the Danforth Avenue Planning Study attached as Confidential Appendix 1 to the report (January 21, 2020) from the City Solicitor. Confidential Appendix 1 to the report (January 21, 2020) from the City Solicitor is now public and can be accessed under Background Information (City Council). The balance of Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 21, 2020) from the City Solicitor remains confidential in accordance with the provisions of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, as it contains information that is subject to solicitor-client privilege.
Staff recommendation as filed
The City Solicitor recommends that: 1. City Council adopt the confidential recommendation in Confidential Attachment 1. 2. If the City Solicitor's confidential recommendation is adopted by Council, then City Council authorize the public release of: a. the recommendation contained in Confidential Attachment 1 (with the remainder of Confidential Attachment 1 to remain confidential as it contains information that is subject to solicitor-client privilege), and b. Confidential Appendix 1.
MM14.6adopted
The City of Toronto's Municipal Land Transfer Tax was implemented on February 1, 2008 and updated on March 1, 2017. There is a Rebate program available for eligible First-Time Home Buyers, but it only provides relief from the Municipal Land Transfer Tax up to a value of $400,000. Since the Municipal Land Transfer Tax was introduced, the cost of housing in Toronto has risen drastically and residents' housing choices have become increasingly restricted. The cost of both rental and ownership housing has increased significantly, while incomes have not kept pace. The average cost of a home in Toronto in early 2008 was around $331,000. By the end of 2019 that figure had more than doubled, to around $816,000. Many young people and first-time home buyers are choosing to purchase homes outside of Toronto to avoid paying the Municipal Land Transfer Tax. The people who help our City run - teachers, firefighters, paramedics, nurses, and Toronto Transit Commission drivers - can no longer afford to live in the City they serve. The City of Toronto's emerging HousingTO 2020-2030 Action Plan is working to address the full spectrum of housing needs in Toronto, and the Municipal Land Transfer Tax First-Time Home Buyers rebate should be part of the solution.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council direct the City Manager to report to the April 1, 2020 City Council meeting on opportunities to provide first-time home buyers with greater relief from the Municipal Land Transfer Tax, including increasing the maximum eligibility threshold of $400,000 to reflect increased home prices in Toronto.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Mark Grimes, seconded by Councillor Brad Bradford, recommends that: 1. City Council direct the City Manager to report to the April 1, 2020 City Council meeting on opportunities to provide first-time home buyers with greater relief from the Municipal Land Transfer Tax, including increasing the maximum eligibility threshold of $400,000 to reflect increased home prices in Toronto.
RM14.6amended
City Council will review the Order Paper.
January 29, 2020: City Council adopted the January 29, 2020, Order Paper, as amended, and all other Items not held on consent. January 30, 2020: City Council adopted the January 30, 2020, Order Paper.
CC14.7amended
Recovery of Costs - 650 Parliament Street
There is a 22 storey residential rental building with 570 apartment units at 650 Parliament Street, Toronto (the "Building" and "Property"). At 12:51 PM on August 21, 2018, Toronto Fire Services were dispatched to a reported fire at the Property. Fire crews arrived and identified smoke in the lobby area and residents trapped on their balconies. Initial information indicated some sort of failure had occurred in the Building's hydro vault. That failure resulted in localized fires at various electrical panels. Fire crews extinguished the fires and evacuated all of the apartment units with residents transported to local shelter nearby, with the assistance of Toronto Police Service. Approximately 1,500 residents were displaced from their homes. At the time of writing this report, residents have not returned to the Property. Parwell Investments Inc. and Bleeman Holdings Ltd. own the Property (the "Property Owner"). The Property Owner has stated that they were not immediately equipped to respond to the emergency, including the provision of interim shelter, food, wares, and transportation for all of the displaced residents of the Building. City officials advised the Property Owner that it was their responsibility to provide for the displaced residents. Mr. Samuel Grosz, President of the Property Owner, indicated that the Property Owner did not have the staff or resources to provide emergency assistance to the displaced residents but agreed to make the City whole if the City would provide those services. The City incurred significant costs in providing and facilitating the delivery of emergency human services (accommodation, clothing, food, access to medical aid, transportation etc.). The bulk of the costs incurred by the City were known and tabulated by October 10, 2018. At that time, the City Manager wrote to the Property Owner and provided them with an interim invoice. Since that time, the Property Owner's representatives have sought time to review and consider the City's demand for reimbursement. Through the City Solicitor's office, the City provided the Property Owner's lawyers with an updated accounting and detailed records (hundreds of pages of documentation) supporting all of the costs the City was seeking to recover. The Property Owner has failed to remit any payment to reimburse the City for the costs incurred. The Property Owner has been given documentation that supports the City's claim for reimbursement and ample time to consider the matter. A logical next step is to commence a civil action to recover the monies owed to the City. Confidential Attachment 1 contains legal advice from the City Solicitor relating to the proposed civil action.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to commence a civil action to recover the City's costs of providing emergency human services to the displaced residents of the Property from the Property Owner. 2. City Council adopt the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor. 3. City Council direct that the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor remain confidential at the discretion of the City Solicitor and City Council direct that the balance of Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor remain confidential as it pertains to potential litigation and it contains advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege. 4. City Council request the City Solicitor to report back to City Council at the earliest available opportunity on the outcome of the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor. Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor remains confidential at this time in accordance with the provisions of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, as it pertains to potential litigation and it contains advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege. The confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor will be made public at the discretion of the City Solicitor.
Staff recommendation as filed
The City Solicitor recommends that: 1. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to commence a civil action to recover the City's costs of providing emergency human services to the displaced residents of the Property from the Property Owner. 2. City Council adopt the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1. 3. City Council direct that the confidential instructions in Confidential Attachment 1 remain confidential at the discretion of the City Solicitor and that the balance of Confidential Attachment 1 remain confidential in its entirety, as it pertains to potential litigation and contains advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege.
MM14.7adopted
Ontario's libraries are reaching the limits of what they can do to keep up with these changes on their own, especially as it comes to meeting the growing need for access to digital resources. The Province of Ontario has for the past 22 years funded only four percent of local public library budgets. It is important that libraries across Ontario remain robust, specifically in small towns where the library is often the only community gathering place. Ensuring modernization of libraries is key and can be achieved through a Broadband Action Plan as it would leverage the Province's significant purchasing power to give all Ontario public libraries access to a common set of e-learning and online information resources, to support the growing use of digital library tools. Since 2000, Ontarians have accessed their local public library digitally 1.3 billion times. In 2018, 284,000 Ontarians enrolled in over 700,000 online courses through local public libraries across Ontario. Ontarians borrowed 494,026 e-books from local public libraries in 2018. Rural Ontario residents accessed twice as many e-books per capita through the library as people in urban communities. Transformation of Inter-Library Loan is a service available to all Ontarians enabling them to borrow material across the Province through their local library, however 35 percent of requests are not fulfilled due to lack of funding. The Federation of Ontario Libraries is requesting that funding be increased to meet demand.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council request the City Manager to write to the Province of Ontario to express City Council's support of the Federation of Ontario Public Libraries 2020 Pre-Budget Submission for targeted investment of new funds into: a. delivering on the Ontario Government's Broadband Action Plan through an Ontario Digital Public Library; and b. completing the Transformation of Inter-Library Loan.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Paul Ainslie, seconded by Councillor Gord Perks, recommends that: 1. City Council request the City Manager to write to the Province of Ontario to express City Council's support of the Federation of Ontario Public Libraries 2020 Pre-Budget Submission for targeted investment of new funds into: a. delivering on the Ontario Government's Broadband Action Plan through an Ontario Digital Public Library; and b. completing the Transformation of Inter-Library Loan.
CC14.8adopted
The applicant, Artmico Holdings G. P. Inc., the owner of the property at 265 Balliol Street (the "Site"), has appealed its Zoning By-law Amendment application to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (the "LPAT"), due to City Council's failure to make a decision on the application within the time prescribed by the Planning Act (the "Appeal"). The application proposes to demolish seven existing rental townhouse dwellings and replace them with a new 29-storey residential building with a six-storey base building to the west of an existing 26-storey rental apartment building at 265 Balliol Street. On March 27, 2019, City Council directed the City Solicitor, along with appropriate staff, to oppose the application in its current form, and to oppose the Appeal at the LPAT. City Council also directed that staff continue to work with the applicant and seek revisions to the application and report back to City Council on the outcome of those discussions.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council adopt the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor. 2. City Council authorize the public release of the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor. 3. City Council direct that the balance of Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor remain confidential at the discretion of the City Solicitor as it contains advice and information that is subject to solicitor-client privilege. The confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor were adopted by City Council and are now public, as follows: 1. City Council accept the Settlement Offer as described in the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor and attached as Public Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor subject to Parts 2 to 7 below. 2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor and appropriate City Staff to attend the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal hearing on this matter in support of the Settlement Offer. 3. City Council defer making a decision at this time on the Rental Housing Demolition and Conversion Application (17 224019 STE 22 RH) under Chapter 667 of the Toronto Municipal Code pursuant to Section 111 of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, to demolish the seven (7) existing rental dwelling units at 265 Balliol Street (the "Site"), known municipally as 239-251 Balliol Street, and City Council instruct staff to report to the Toronto and East York Community Council at such time as an Local Planning Appeal Tribunal decision has been issued regarding the Zoning By-law Amendment appeal. 4. In the event that the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal allows the appeal, in whole or in part, City Council direct the City Solicitor to request the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal to withhold its Order(s) on the Zoning By-law Amendments until such time as the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal has been advised by the City Solicitor that: a. the proposed Zoning By-law Amendments are in a final form satisfactory to the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning and the City Solicitor; b. City Council has authorized the Rental Housing Demolition Application 17 224019 STE 22 RH under Chapter 667 of the Toronto Municipal Code pursuant to Section 111 of the City of Toronto Act, as applicable to demolish the seven (7) existing rental dwelling units at 265 Balliol Street, known municipally as 239-251 Balliol Street, and should City Council authorize the application, that the owner has entered into a Section 111 Agreement pursuant to Section 111 of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, and registered such Agreement on title to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor and the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning; c. all existing rental units to be retained on Site, tenant relocation and assistance, and any other rental housing related matters in conformity with Chapter 667 of the Toronto Municipal Code and Policy 3.2.1.5 of the Official Plan, and the owner has entered into and registered a Section 37 Agreement with the City incorporating language securing the above all to the satisfaction of the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning and the City Solicitor; d. any and all required replacement rental units on the Site are secured in conformity with Policy 3.2.1.6 of the Official Plan, if applicable; e. all existing rental units, together with the new and retained associated facilities and amenities of the existing rental apartment building, are secured for a period of at least 20 years commencing from the date that the Zoning By-law Amendments come into full force and effect and with no applications for demolition or conversion from residential rental use during such 20 year period, all to the satisfaction of the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning and the City Solicitor; f. the owner shall provide residents of the existing rental building with access to all indoor and outdoor amenities within and adjacent to the proposed addition, at no extra charge to the tenants and with no pass-through cost to tenants of the existing building; access and the use of these amenities shall be on the same terms and conditions as any other resident of the proposed addition, all to the satisfaction of the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning; g. the Chief Engineer and Executive Director, Engineering and Construction Services has confirmed water, sanitary and stormwater capacity, and pending receipt of a Functional Servicing and Stormwater Management Report satisfactory to the Chief Engineer and Executive Director, Engineering and Construction Services; h. a Section 37 Agreement satisfactory to the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning and the City Solicitor has been executed and registered on title to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor, securing the community benefits and matters of legal convenience outlined in Part 5 below; and i. the owner has withdrawn its appeal of Official Plan Amendment 320 as it relates to 265 Balliol Street. 5. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to enter into an agreement pursuant to Section 37 of the Planning Act as follows: a. the community benefits offered in the Settlement Offer attached as Public Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor and recommended to be secured in the Section 37 Agreement are as follows: i. payment of a cash contribution in the amount of one million dollars ($1,000,000) prior to the issuance of the First Above-Grade Building Permit for the New Rental Building to be allocated to the Davisville Aquatic Centre; ii. in the event the cash contribution referred to in Part 5.a.i. has not been used for the intended purpose set out above, within three (3) years of the Zoning By-law Amendments coming into full force and effect, the cash contribution may be redirected for another purpose, at the discretion of the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning, in consultation with the Ward Councillor, provided that the purpose is identified in the Official Plan and will benefit the community in the vicinity of the Site; iii. the above noted cash contribution in Part 5.a.i above shall be indexed upwardly in accordance with the Building Construction Price Index for Toronto Census Metropolitan Area, reported quarterly by Statistics Canada in Construction Price Statistics Publication 327-0058 or successor, calculated from the date of the Agreement to the date of payment; iv. a minimum of 40 percent of new rental dwelling units in the New Rental Building shall have two or more bedrooms, and a minimum of 10 percent of the new rental dwelling units in the New Rental Building shall have three bedrooms or more; v. in accordance with the terms set out at in Schedule C of the Settlement Offer attached as Public Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor, for a period of 15 years, the owner shall provide as affordable rental unit housing the following: 1. rental dwelling units if the New Rental Building contains 233 or fewer rental dwelling units; or 2. 10 percent of the new rental dwelling units in the New Rental Building as affordable rental housing units if there are 234 or more new rental dwelling units in the New Rental Building; with a unit mix of 11 one-bedroom units, 2 one-bedroom-plus-den units, 8 two-bedrooms, and 2 three-bedroom units; if the New Rental Building contains 234 or more new rental dwelling units, the unit mix will be as set out in Schedule C of the Settlement Offer attached as Public Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor; vi. the owner will provide a publicly accessible pedestrian walkway (the "Pedestrian Clearway"), to be secured by means of a surface pedestrian public easement, in the location as generally shown on Schedule B of the Settlement Offer attached as Public Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor, the final location and design of which will be secured as part of and through the site plan approval process, the Pedestrian Clearway shall have a minimum width of 2.1 metres, unless otherwise satisfactory to the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning; vii. if within 10 years from the date of execution of the Section 37 Agreement redevelopment of the adjacent lands to the south of the Site, municipally known as 276-290 Merton Street (the "East Merton Property") and/or 250-260 Merton Street (the "West Merton Property"), receive(s) development approval through the enacting of the necessary amending Zoning By-laws, and such approval secures the provision of a publicly accessible pedestrian clearway connection from Merton Street to the Property (the "Merton Street Pedestrian Clearway"), the owner agrees to provide a pedestrian walkway in addition to the Pedestrian Clearway commencing at a point on the boundary of the Property (the "North South Connection") within one of the areas identified as "Potential Future Pedestrian Clearway" on Schedule B subject to the following conditions: 1. for clarity, there shall be only the one North South Connection and thus it will provide a connection to either the East Merton Property or the West Merton Property, but not both; 2. the North South Connection will have a minimum east-west dimension of 2.1 metres, unless otherwise determined in the site plan approval process; 3. in the event the North South Connection is provided to the East Merton Property the North South Connection shall be extended to Balliol Street, and the extent and location of which shall respect and not conflict with the development as approved and constructed on the Site; 4. the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning will notify the owner in writing that the City has secured the Merton Street Pedestrian Clearway in a binding written agreement with the subject Merton Street owner; and 5. upon the City bona fide securing the Merton Street Walkway and notifying the owner as required above, the owner will make reasonable commercial efforts to obtain necessary approvals for and implement a North South Connection, subject to any approvals by the City or by any other required authorities; and b. the following matters are also recommended to be secured in the Section 37 Agreement as a legal convenience to support development: i. in accordance with the terms set out in Schedule D of the Settlement Offer attached as Public Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor, the owner will continue to provide and maintain the existing 202 rental dwelling units in the Existing Rental Building as rental housing for a minimum period of 20 years commencing from the date that the Zoning By-law Amendments come into full force and effect, with no applications for demolition or conversion from residential rental use during such 20-year period; ii. the owner will make improvements to the Existing Rental Building and the New Rental Building substantially in accordance with the Settlement Plans (the "Improvements"), to the benefit of the tenants in the Existing Rental Building and the New Rental Building, as follows: A. for the tenants of the Existing Rental Building and the New Rental Building: 1. a new indoor amenity lounge on the ground floor of the Existing Rental Building with a minimum gross floor area of 50 square metres; 2. a new laundry room on the ground floor of the Existing Rental Building which shall replace the laundry room on the basement level, a portion of which shall be located adjacent to an exterior wall to provide views to the outdoor amenity area on the Site; 3. new storage area provided in the basement in the area of the Existing Rental Building vacated by the laundry room; 4. an indoor amenity space in the New Rental Building having a minimum gross floor area of 500 square metres; 5. an outdoor pet relief area; and 6. two new outdoor patio areas in proximity to the Existing Rental Building; B. for the tenants of the Existing Rental Building: 1. the provision of 48 new bicycle parking spaces in addition to the existing 48 bicycle parking spaces, for a total of 96 bicycle parking spaces for the use of tenants of the Existing Rental Building; the cost of the Improvements will not be passed through to the tenants of the Existing Rental Building; iii. the owner shall develop a Tenant Relocation and Assistance Plan with assistance and financial compensation provisions that extend beyond those provided under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, based on the City`s usual considerations and requirements as of the date of the Settlement Offer, all to the satisfaction of the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning as set out in Schedule D of the Settlement Offer attached as Public Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor; iv. the owner shall develop a Tenant Communication Plan prior to the issuance of the first below building permit for the proposed Development of the Property to the satisfaction of the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning; v. the owner shall develop a Construction Mitigation Plan prior to the issuance of the first below grade building permit for the proposed Development of the Property to the satisfaction of the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning; and vi. a cash-in-lieu of parkland dedication payment by the owner to the City prior to the issuance of the First Above-Grade Building Permit for the New Rental Building in accordance with Section 42 of the Planning Act and the City's parkland dedication By-law, as amended (as reflected in Chapter 415 of the City's Municipal Code), as they exist as of the date of the Settlement Offer, calculated based on the market value of the proposed new non-residential gross floor area and residential gross floor area as provided for and subject to the Zoning By-law Amendments, which contribution shall satisfy all current and future parkland dedication requirements in respect of the development (which does not exceed the permitted density in accordance with the Settlement Offer) in accordance with the Planning Act, or otherwise. 6. As part of its Site Plan application for the Site, City Council direct that the owner shall submit all the revised plans and drawings, and any additional information, as required in the Development Engineering memo dated January 20, 2020, all to the satisfaction of the Chief Engineer and Executive Director, Engineering and Construction Services. 7. City Council authorize the City Solicitor and appropriate City Staff to take such necessary steps, as required, to implement City Council's decision. The balance of Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor remains confidential at this time in accordance with the provisions of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, as it contains advice and information that is subject to solicitor-client privilege. The balance of Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor will be made public at the discretion of the City Solicitor.
Staff recommendation as filed
The City Solicitor recommends that: 1. City Council adopt the recommendations contained in the Confidential Attachment 1 to the Report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor. 2. City Council authorize the public release of the confidential recommendations in Confidential Attachment 1 to the Report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor, if adopted by City Council. 3. City Council direct that all other information contained in Confidential Attachment 1 to the Report (January 22, 2020) from the City Solicitor is to remain confidential at the discretion of the City Solicitor, as it contains advice and information which is subject to solicitor-client privilege.
MM14.8adopted
Safe, culturally significant LGBTQ2S+ independent and small businesses are in danger of closing in the gay village in Toronto and other major cities around the world. These small businesses - gathering spaces such as local cafés, eateries, pubs, bookshops and non-traditional cultural spaces such as dance clubs and the like - are vital to breaking social isolation. In 2018, the United Way of Greater Toronto reported that 1 in 3 Canadians do not report a strong, or very strong, sense of belonging to their local community. This statement is exacerbated in the LGBTQ2S+ communities, especially when racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia and other such discrimination and violence are compounded. Social isolation, particularly amongst LGBTQ2S+ youth, seniors, newcomers, and people living with disabilities is increasing and can lead to a host of physical and mental health challenges. Statistically LGBTQ2S+ communities face higher rates of depression, anxiety, suicidality, self-harm, and substance use. Rainbow Health Ontario and Canadian Mental Health Association Ontario reported that 77 percent of trans respondents in Ontario had seriously considered suicide and 45 percent had attempted suicide. Trans youth and those who had experienced physical or sexual assault were found to be at greatest risk. This year, Glad Day Bookshop, the oldest LGBTQ2S+ bookstore in the world located in Toronto's Church-Wellesley Village is celebrating 50 years of community service. It is an accessible community hub, a tourist destination, and a host to many public events that draws visitors locally, nationally and across the globe to engage in conversations about LGBTQ2S+ culture. We are at risk of losing such unique, independently owned and operated small businesses due to the absence of commercial rent control, development speculation, and unsustainable Current Value Assessment-related tax increases. The retention and expansion of unique LGBTQ2S+ businesses should be a priority for the City of Toronto's retention of character neighbourhoods and its street-level retail strategy. Small businesses in culturally-rich neighbourhoods from all across Toronto, such as Church Wellesley Village, Cabbagetown, St. Lawrence Market, Kensington Market, Chinatown, Greektown, Little Italy, Little India, Koreatown, Little Portugal, and many more all have a historic and cultural significance that contribute to the character of our communities, provide safe and welcoming environments, and support our tourism industry. They are the backbone and an important driver of Toronto's economy, fostering local entrepreneurship and creating jobs. City Council has historically acknowledged the multiple challenges facing small businesses and has already undertaken a number of policy reforms to respond. Examples include: reducing the incremental property tax burden for small businesses relative to residential rates; reviewing taxation tools to provide relief to small business owners facing unsustainable Current Value Assessment-related tax increases capping commercial tax increases at 10 percent in the 2018 and 2019 City Budgets; ending the Vacant Commercial and Industrial Unit Tax Rebate Program; and strengthening Toronto's economy through winter-focused events, festivals and recreation activities, and strengthening the night-time economy. Despite the City of Toronto's efforts over the years to support and retain small businesses, there are numerous indications that the small business sector, specifically independently owned, non-franchise LGBTQ2S+ businesses continue to experience significant stress. Widespread unaffordability and high commercial rents are adversely impacting the character of our neighbourhoods and the economic vitality of the City of Toronto. This indicates that a more holistic and coordinated response is necessary. San Francisco has successfully implemented a small business economic retention strategy while Seattle and Vancouver are currently undertaking similar studies. Like Toronto, these cities share many of the same economic successes but face similar challenges retaining local small businesses in the face of rising unaffordability and development speculation. To support the retention and growth of independently owned, non-franchise LGBTQ2S+ businesses and cultural space, the City of Toronto needs a proactive and integrated strategy to supplement the work already being undertaken by the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, and the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council direct the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture, in consultation with the Church-Wellesley Village Business Improvement Area, other Business Improvement Areas, Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas and the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning to develop immediate and long-term recommendations to support the retention and growth of independently owned and operated LGBTQ2S+ small businesses and cultural space. 2. City Council direct the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture to report back with the recommendations requested in Part 1 above to the May 6, 2020 meeting of the Economic and Community Development Committee. 3. City Council direct the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture, as part of the report requested in Part 2 above, to conduct a comprehensive review of all existing City of Toronto programs and include recommendations that can further enhance optimal conditions for LGBTQ2S+ small businesses and cultural spaces to succeed and thrive including the feasibility of creating a LGBTQ2S+ Small Business and Cultural Space Retention Program. 4. City Council request the Province of Ontario to introduce rent control legislation for commercial units to protect small to medium-sized businesses from unfair and drastic increases to their rent.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam, seconded by Councillor Paul Ainslie, recommends that: 1. City Council direct the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture, in consultation with the Church-Wellesley Village Business Improvement Area, other Business Improvement Areas, TABIA and the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning to develop immediate and long-term recommendations to support the retention and growth of independently owned and operated LGBTQ2S+ small businesses and cultural space. 2. City Council direct the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture to report back with the recommendations requested in Recommendation 1 above to the May 6, 2020 meeting of the Economic and Community Development Committee. 3. City Council direct the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture, as part of the report requested in Recommendation 2 above, to conduct a comprehensive review of all existing City of Toronto programs and include recommendations that can further enhance optimal conditions for LGBTQ2S+ small businesses and cultural spaces to succeed and thrive including the feasibility of creating a LGBTQ2S+ Small Business and Cultural Space Retention Program. 4. City Council request the Province of Ontario to introduce rent control legislation for commercial units to protect small to medium-sized businesses from unfair and drastic increases to their rent.
CC14.9adopted
Appeals of City-wide Zoning By-law 569-2013 - Request for Direction
The Conservatory Group appealed the regulations in the City-wide Zoning By-law 569-2013 dealing with mechanical penthouses. Staff have revised the mechanical penthouse regulations, following a series of without prejudice discussions with the appellant and the City Solicitor requires direction regarding these revisions.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council adopt the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 23, 2020) from the City Solicitor. 2. City Council authorize the public release of: a. the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 23, 2020) from the City Solicitor; and b. Revised Confidential Appendix A to the report (January 23, 2020) from the City Solicitor. 3. City Council direct that the balance of Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 23, 2020) from the City Solicitor remain confidential as it contains information that is subject to solicitor-client privilege. The confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 23, 2020) from the City Solicitor were adopted by City Council and are now public, as follows: 1. City Council adopt the revisions to the Zoning By-law regulations as found in Revised Confidential Appendix A to Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 23, 2020) from the City Solicitor and City Council authorize the City Solicitor to make stylistic changes, as necessary, and City Council direct the City Solicitor and appropriate City staff to attend at the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal hearing in support of the revisions. Revised Confidential Appendix A to the report (January 23, 2020) from the City Solicitor is now public and can be accessed under Background Information (City Council). The balance of Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 23, 2020) from the City Solicitor remains confidential in accordance with the provisions of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, as it contains information that is subject to solicitor-client privilege.
Staff recommendation as filed
The City Solicitor recommends that: 1. City Council adopt the confidential recommendations in Confidential Attachment 1. 2. If the City Solicitor's confidential recommendation is adopted by Council, then City Council authorize the public release of: a. the recommendation contained in Confidential Attachment 1 (with the remainder of Confidential Attachment 1 to remain confidential as it contains information that is subject to solicitor-client privilege), and b. Confidential Appendix "A".
MM14.9adopted
The Housing Now site at 50 Wilson Heights Boulevard will become a key addition on remediating the struggling affordable housing market in Ward 6 and Toronto. The site is planned to replace the existing commuter parking lot, highly used by residents of Ward 6 and neighbouring Wards. Approximately 855 commuters use the site on a daily basis and consequentially, many users have expressed their concerns with the future disappearance of the parking lot. While collected parking data has shown that most of the lot users come from Vaughan and Richmond Hill, the closure of this lot will impact local users as they - unlike users from beyond municipal boundaries - have fewer alternative commuter parking options. The recommendations in this Motion are designed to direct current users to existing parking lots with excess capacity further north along the subway line, secure temporary parking capacity within Ward 6 when the lot enters construction and improve transit service to the neighbourhoods immediately to the east and north of the Housing Now site.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council request the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning, in consultation with CreateTO and the Toronto Transit Commission, to deliver a communication campaign in coordination with the local Councillor, to alert current users of the Toronto Transit Commission parking lot at 50 Wilson Heights Boulevard of the proposed change in use for that site, including: a. alternative parking options such as the commuter parking lots at Yorkdale Mall, Sheppard West, Finch West, Pioneer Village, Highway 407 and Vaughan Metropolitan Centre Subway stations; and b. where commuters can access accurate and up-to-date parking lot capacity figures to help changing their parking routines. 2. City Council request the Toronto Parking Authority Board and the Toronto Transit Commission Board to engage in discussions with Canada Lands Corporation, to temporarily transform the north section of the Downsview Park Merchants Market parking lot, and in close proximity to Downsview Park Subway Station, into a weekday pay-and-display commuter parking lot before and during construction phases at the 50 Wilson Heights Boulevard site, as outlined in Attachment 1 to this Motion. 3. City Council request the Toronto Transit Commission Board to request the Chief Executive Officer, Toronto Transit Commission to report by the end of the third quarter of 2020 on the feasibility of improving community bus service and reinstating the cancelled Ward 6 Community Bus to service neighbourhoods that will be adversely affected by the removal of commuter parking stalls at the 50 Wilson Heights Boulevard, as outlined in Attachment 2 to this Motion.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor James Pasternak, seconded by Councillor Mike Colle, recommends that: 1. City Council request the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning, in consultation with CreateTO and the Toronto Transit Commission, to deliver a communication campaign in coordination with the local Councillor, to alert current users of the Toronto Transit Commission parking lot at 50 Wilson Heights Boulevard of the proposed change in use for that site, including: a. alternative parking options such as the commuter parking lots at Yorkdale Mall, Sheppard West, Finch West, Pioneer Village, Highway 407 and Vaughan Metropolitan Centre Subway stations; and b. where commuters can access accurate and up-to-date parking lot capacity figures to help changing their parking routines. 2. City Council request the Toronto Parking Authority Board and the Toronto Transit Commission Board to engage in discussions with Canada Lands Corporation, to temporarily transform the north section of the Downsview Park Merchants Market parking lot, and in close proximity to Downsview Park Subway Station, into a weekday pay-and-display commuter parking lot before and during construction phases at the 50 Wilson Heights Boulevard site, as outlined in Attachment 1 to this Motion. 3. City Council request the Toronto Transit Commission Board to request the Chief Executive Officer, Toronto Transit Commission to report by the end of the third quarter of 2020 on the feasibility of improving community bus service and reinstating the cancelled Ward 6 Community Bus to service neighbourhoods that will be adversely affected by the removal of commuter parking stalls at the 50 Wilson Heights Boulevard, as outlined in Attachment 2 to this Motion.
CC14.10adopted
The report from the Chief Planner dated August 12, 2019 (Item PH8.8) identified five developments where Section 37 cash payments to the City totalling $701,387 were due, and no records of receipt had been found. Staff have continued to seek outstanding payments from responsive developers. Discussions have resulted in the payment of an additional outstanding $3,387.44 by one developer and an offer to make a payment of $100,000 on behalf of a developer whose company has been dissolved. The purpose of this report is twofold. This report responds to the request to report to City Council with respect to any additional outstanding funds received. It also seeks City Council's instructions respecting the proposed $100,000 payment noted above and discussed in Confidential Attachment 1.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council adopt the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 23, 2020) from the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning and the City Solicitor. 2. City Council direct that Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 23, 2020) from the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning and the City Solicitor remain confidential in its entirety as it contains advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege. Confidential Attachment 1 to the report (January 23, 2020) from the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning and the City Solicitor remains confidential in its entirety in accordance with the provisions of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, as it contains advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege.
Staff recommendation as filed
The Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning and the City Solicitor recommend that: 1. City Council adopt the confidential instructions to staff in Confidential Attachment 1 from the City Solicitor and the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning. 2. City Council direct that Confidential Attachment 1 to this report from the City Solicitor and the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning remain confidential in its entirety as it contains advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege.
MM14.10adopted
The City of Toronto flag has been a key part of the City's identity for 45 years. However, it is seldom used in communications, marketing materials, and civic initiatives and public events. This Motion requests staff to develop a plan that addresses this shortcoming and create a strategy that gives our flag the prominence it deserves.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council direct the City Manager and the City Clerk to report to City Council in the second quarter of 2020, with a comprehensive strategy and select ideas for incorporating the Toronto flag in City of Toronto events, communications and marketing initiatives.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor James Pasternak, seconded by Councillor Mike Colle, recommends that: 1. City Council direct the City Manager and the City Clerk to report to City Council in the second quarter of 2020, with a comprehensive strategy and select ideas for incorporating the Toronto flag in City of Toronto events, communications and marketing initiatives.
MM14.11adopted
Given the existing levels of traffic congestion on Dufferin Street caused by some of the highest levels of gridlock of any Major City arterial roads, and with the unprecedented level of residential development applications being proposed from Eglinton Avenue to Highway 401 on Dufferin Street, it is essential to accelerate the plans of transforming our City into a low carbon zero emissions community.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council request the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning to report on the feasibility of accelerating the plans of transition to include Electric Charging Station Infrastructure in all new major residential development applications and building designs in order to reduce the use of traditional diesel or gasoline powered vehicles, which would help improve air quality on the Dufferin Corridor between Eglinton Avenue West to Highway 401.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Mike Colle, seconded by Councillor Ana Bailão, recommends that: 1. City Council request the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning to report on the feasibility of accelerating the plans of transition to include Electric Charging Station Infrastructure in all new major residential development applications and building designs in order to reduce the use of traditional diesel or gasoline powered vehicles, which would help improve air quality on the Dufferin Corridor between Eglinton Avenue West to Highway 401.
MM14.12adopted
Dufferin Street is one of Toronto's busiest and congested major arterial roads. The Dufferin Bus ranks eight on the Toronto Transit Commission bus ridership in the City carrying approximately 43,000 customers per weekday. It is a key workplace and shopping-destination street with a number of big employers, which includes Dufferin Mall, Yorkdale Mall, COSTCO located just off Dufferin Street and it is a major gateway to Highway 401, East and West. Given the non-stop traffic gridlock, plus the unprecedented number of new high density residential and commercial development applications that are being brought forward for approval, it is crucial that further options be explored.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council request the Toronto Transit Commission Board to request the Chief Executive Officer, Toronto Transit Commission to report on the options and feasibility of converting or replacing the diesel buses on the Dufferin 29 route to Zero Emissions Electric Buses in order to reduce carbon emissions and help improve air quality in the Dufferin Corridor.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Mike Colle, seconded by Councillor Mike Layton, recommends that: 1. City Council request the Toronto Transit Commission Board to request the Chief Executive Officer, Toronto Transit Commission to report on the options and feasibility of converting or replacing the diesel buses on the Dufferin 29 route to Zero Emissions Electric Buses in order to reduce carbon emissions and help improve air quality in the Dufferin Corridor.
MM14.13adopted
This Motion seeks City Council's approval to provide an exemption from Committee of Adjustment application fees to Adam House which operates a shelter at 430 Gladstone Avenue. Following completing a Preliminary Project Review Adam House is requesting two variances from the Committee of Adjustment to address the following: 1. in Rooming House Area B1, a rooming house is a permitted use provided the maximum number of rooms used for living accommodation is 6; the number of rooms used for living accommodation in the proposed rooming house is 10; and 2. in Rooming House Area B1, a rooming house is a permitted use provided the building in which it is located has a minimum interior floor area of 7.0 square metres per occupant in each room with two or more occupants; none of the bedrooms at Adam House currently meet that criteria. The Committee of Adjustment application fees are estimated at $9,383.72. Adam House was established in 2002 and provides refugee claimants with clean and safe living accommodations. Adam House also provides assistance and advice to clients with respect to immigration procedures, referrals to legal services, medical assistance, and community resources. Approval of the exemption will help the non-profit organization bring the property to compliance with Zoning By-law 569-2013 and continue to provide crucial housing services to refugee claimants in Toronto.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council exempt the property located at 430 Gladstone Avenue, operated by Adam House, from Committee of Adjustment application fees required to bring the property to compliance with Zoning By-law 569-2013.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Ana Bailão, seconded by Councillor Gary Crawford, recommends that: 1. City Council exempt the property located at 430 Gladstone Avenue, operated by Adam House, from Committee of Adjustment application fees required to bring the property to compliance with Zoning By-law 569-2013.
MM14.14adopted
On December 3, 2019, with the adoption of Item TE11.73, Toronto and East York Community Council approved a reduction in the speed limit on Old Weston Road, between Davenport Road and Lavender Road, from 50 km/h to 40 km/h. The speed limit on the remaining stretch of Old Weston Road, between Lavender Road and Rogers Road, should also be reduced to 40 km/h. As this section of Old Weston Road forms the boundary between Ward 5, York South-Weston and Ward 9, Davenport, which fall under different Community Councils (Etobicoke York and Toronto and East York respectively), this matter is being brought to City Council for approval.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council reduce the speed limit from 50 km/h to 40 km/h on Old Weston Road between Lavender Road and Rogers Road.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Frances Nunziata, seconded by Councillor Ana Bailão, recommends that: 1. City Council reduce the speed limit from 50 km/h to 40 km/h on Old Weston Road between Lavender Road and Rogers Road.
MM14.15adopted
Toronto is an artistic City. From film, to live music, to the visual arts, to theatre, our City is a hub for artistic creation and expression. Live theatre is an essential part of this cultural makeup, promoting deeply held societal values like freedom of expression, tolerance, and communal experience. From large downtown theatres to small and independent cultural incubators, our theatres are multi-disciplinary spaces, promoting the work of actors, dancers, musicians, visual artists, and other performances, and making Toronto a cultural destination. In addition, our theatres are an essential part of our economy, particularly our nighttime economy, intersecting as they do with hotels, restaurants, bars, and other performance venues. Due to changes affecting our City, especially the rising price of land and rent, our artists and theatres are facing new challenges that require a comprehensive strategy on the part of our municipal government. On the part of artists, low wages and high rents, as well as high levels of student debt for the new generation, have made it difficult to develop a sustainable artistic practice. Exciting start up theatres, storefront spaces, incubators, and rehearsal rooms have closed not just in the downtown, but across the City due to high commercial rents and a lack of supports for emerging artists and spaces. At the same time, our existing institutions are facing a unique set of challenges. Over the last past number of years, we have lost many independent theatres across our City due to increased cost pressures. For many theatres in the Downtown West, stagnating operating grants on the provincial level limit the amount that theatres can spend on attracting top talent for administration, marketing, and fundraising. High commercial rents are making auxiliary spaces - offices, carpentry shops, rehearsal rooms - increasingly out of reach. And the heritage buildings they inhabit require increasing maintenance and modernization for heating, water, lights, and accessibility standards. As these venerable institutions are helmed by a new generation of artists, we have an opportunity to create a culture that is more inclusive, more diverse, and reflects the City that we have become - but only if we support them in this transition. Live theatre is an essential part of our City, our economy, and our culture. As we do with many other cultural industries, like film and live-music, it is essential that the City work to support new theatrical spaces, and preserve our existing theatres.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council request the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture to identify and explore short and long-term actions to support the sustainability and continued viability of independent theatrical spaces in the Downtown West, in consultation with the independent live theatre sector, including but not limited to: the Canadian Actors Equity Association; the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees; the Professional Association of Canadian Theatres; the Toronto Arts Council; the Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts; and other interested parties.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Joe Cressy, seconded by Councillor Gary Crawford, recommends that: 1. City Council request the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture to identify and explore short and long-term actions to support the sustainability and continued viability of independent theatrical spaces in the Downtown West, in consultation with the independent live theatre sector, including but not limited to: the Canadian Actors Equity Association; the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees; the Professional Association of Canadian Theatres; the Toronto Arts Council; the Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts; and other interested parties.
MM14.16adopted
The Applicant submitted an application that proposed to amend the City-wide Zoning By-law 569-2013 to permit a three-storey semi-detached dwelling on the lands municipally known as 1218 Royal York Road. The subject site is currently occupied by a two-storey detached dwelling with an attached garage, which is proposed to be demolished. The subject site is located in a RD zone and a semi-detached dwelling is not a permitted residential building type in a RD zone. Site specific amendments are also required to provide applicable performance standards such as: building height, density, building length, building depth, exterior main wall heights, platform area and setbacks for the proposed development. At the City Council meeting on October 2 and 3, 2019, City Council refused the Zoning By-law Amendment application: http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2019.EY8.1 . The Applicant has filed an appeal of City Council's decision to refuse the Zoning By-law Amendment application to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal. A case management conference has been scheduled. This Motion will authorize the City Solicitor to attend the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal in order to oppose the proposed rezoning application. This Motion will also give the City Solicitor the authority to retain an outside consultant and the authority to negotiate a settlement of the appeal. This matter is time sensitive and urgent as the Applicant has filed an appeal to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal and the required case management conference is scheduled on February 3, 2020.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council authorize the City Solicitor, along with appropriate City Staff, to attend the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal respecting 1218 Royal York Road, to oppose the Applicant's appeal of City Council's decision to refuse Zoning By-law Amendment application 18 271115WET 02 OZ (Local Planning Appeal Tribunal File PL190559), and to retain outside consultants as necessary. 2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to negotiate a settlement of the Applicant's appeal of City Council's decision to refuse Zoning By-law Amendment application 18 271115WET 02 OZ (Local Planning Appeal Tribunal File PL190559) respecting 1218 Royal York Road, and City Council authorize the City Solicitor to settle the matter on behalf of the City in the City Solicitor's discretion after consultation with the Ward Councillor and the Director, Community Planning, Etobicoke York District.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Stephen Holyday, seconded by Councillor Frances Nunziata, recommends that: 1. City Council authorize the City Solicitor, along with appropriate City Staff, to attend the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal respecting 1218 Royal York Road, to oppose the Applicant's appeal of City Council's decision to refuse Zoning By-law Amendment application 18 271115WET 02 OZ (Local Planning Appeal Tribunal File PL190559), and to retain outside consultants as necessary. 2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to negotiate a settlement of the Applicant's appeal of City Council's decision to refuse Zoning By-law Amendment application 18 271115WET 02 OZ (Local Planning Appeal Tribunal File PL190559) respecting 1218 Royal York Road, and City Council authorize the City Solicitor to settle the matter on behalf of the City in the City Solicitor's discretion after consultation with the Ward Councillor and the Director, Community Planning, Etobicoke York District.
MM14.17adopted
This Motion will give the City Solicitor authority with appropriate City Staff to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body in order to support the North York District Panel of the Committee of Adjustment's decision refusing the consent-to-sever a lot and variances sought in applications (Applications B0025/19NY, A0479/19NY and A0480/19NY) concerning 320 Hollywood Avenue. The Application seeks to sever a lot with approximately 18.24 metres of frontage into two (2) separate lots in order to construct two (2) new dwellings. The Application also seeks numerous variances to the City's Zoning By-law 569-2013 and North York By-law 7625 with respect to: reducing side yard set-backs; increasing the main wall height; reducing the lot frontage; reducing the lot area; increasing the lot coverage; reducing the front yard landscaping, among others. Planning Staff submitted a report to the Committee recommending that the Committee refuse the Application. On December 12, 2019, the Committee refused the Application. However, the applicant appealed the Decision to the Toronto Local Appeal Body.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council authorize the City Solicitor, along with appropriate City Staff, and outside consultants, as necessary, to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body in order to support the Committee of Adjustment's decision to refuse the consent-to-sever a lot and minor variances requested in Applications B0025/19NY, A0479/19NY and A0480/19NY regarding 320 Hollywood Avenue. 2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attempt to negotiate a resolution regarding the appeal of Applications B0025/19NY, A0479/19NY and A0480/19NY, and authorize the City Solicitor to resolve the matter on behalf of the City in the City Solicitor's discretion after consulting with the Ward Councillor and with the Director of Community Planning, North York District.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor John Filion, seconded by Councillor Mike Colle, recommends that: 1. City Council authorize the City Solicitor, along with appropriate City Staff, and outside consultants, as necessary, to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body in order to support the Committee of Adjustment's decision to refuse the consent-to-sever a lot and minor variances requested in Applications B0025/19NY, A0479/19NY & A0480/19NY regarding 320 Hollywood Avenue. 2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attempt to negotiate a resolution regarding the appeal of Applications B0025/19NY, A0479/19NY and A0480/19NY, and authorize the City Solicitor to resolve the matter on behalf of the City in the City Solicitor's discretion after consulting with the Ward Councillor and with the Director of Community Planning, North York District.
MM14.18adopted
City Council adopted MM13.27, entitled "Response to Proclamation of Development Charges Act changes effective January 1, 2020" at its meeting held on December 17 and 18, 2019. In doing so, Council authorized interim actions to help manage the transition to the new Act and help preserve revenue neutrality of the changes, particularly during the City's development charges rate phase-in period. Following passage of MM13.27, there have been requests to clarify how the interest rates are calculated for the "frozen" development charges rates and for how long these interest rates would apply. This Motion seeks to more clearly explain to the affected parties the interim interest rate policies. In addition, the Province of Ontario released regulations on December 19, 2019 that provides definitions for rental, institutional and non-profit housing that are subject to the mandatory deferral to occupancy and five to 20 year installment payment. Staff would undertake to report back with further changes to the interest rate or related development charges policies once there is an opportunity to more fully assess the impact and options. This Motion is urgent to ensure that applicants understand the new policy. REQUIRES RE-OPENNG: Member Motion Item MM13.27, entitled "Response to Proclamation of Development Charges Act changes effective January 1, 2020", as adopted by City Council on December 17 and 18, 2019, only as it relates to Part 2.a.i and ii. of City Council's decision.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council amend MM13.27 by deleting and replacing Part 2. a.i. and ii. with the following: a. in order to support revenue neutrality during the City's development charges rate phase-in period, as permitted under Section 26.2 (3) of the Development Charges Act, City Council authorize the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer to apply interest charges to the "frozen" development charges payable for Site Plan and Rezoning Applications received on or after January 1, 2020 and before November 1, 2020, for building permits issued before November 1, 2021: i. at a rate of 1.5 percent for each complete 30 day period from the date an applicable Site Plan Application or Rezoning Bylaw Amendment is received, until the date of building permit issuance; and ii. limited so that the total amount of interest payable when combined with the development charges payable does not exceed the development charges in effect under the City's bylaw at the date of building permit issuance. 2. City Council direct the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer to report back with any recommended modifications to the interest rates or development charges policies once there is an opportunity to more fully assess the impacts of Bill 108 Development Charges Act changes and options, including the interest rates applicable to rental, institutional and non-profit housing that are subject to the mandatory development charge deferral and five and 20 year installment payments, now that regulations setting out the definitions have been released.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Gary Crawford, seconded by Councillor Brad Bradford, recommends that: 1. City Council amend MM13.27 by deleting and replacing Part 2. a.i. and ii. with the following: a. in order to support revenue neutrality during the City's development charges rate phase-in period, as permitted under Section 26.2 (3) of the Development Charges Act, City Council authorize the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer to apply interest charges to the "frozen" development charges payable for Site Plan and Rezoning Applications received on or after January 1, 2020 and before November 1, 2020, for building permits issued before November 1, 2021: i. at a rate of 1.5 percent for each complete 30 day period from the date an applicable Site Plan Application or Rezoning Bylaw Amendment is received, until the date of building permit issuance; and ii. limited so that the total amount of interest payable when combined with the development charges payable does not exceed the development charges in effect under the City's bylaw at the date of building permit issuance. 2. City Council direct the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer to report back with any recommended modifications to the interest rates or development charges policies once there is an opportunity to more fully assess the impacts of Bill 108 Development Charges Act changes and options, including the interest rates applicable to rental, institutional and non-profit housing that are subject to the mandatory development charge deferral and five and 20 year installment payments, now that regulations setting out the definitions have been released.
MM14.19adopted
With the loss of flight PS752, many families from Toronto and across Canada have been devastated. The world continues to mourn the 176 people, including 57 Canadians, who were lost in an instant in this senseless tragedy. In typical fashion, Torontonians have stepped up to help those in need. Through the Canada Strong campaign, started by philanthropist Mohamad Fakih, residents of Toronto have joined with residents across Canada with the goal of raising $1.5 million for the families impacted by this disaster. The Government of Canada has now announced it will match donations, up to $1.5 million, to the Canada Strong campaign. The funds raised must be equitably distributed to grieving families with proper management and accounting guaranteed. To achieve this, Dentons Canada LLP has offered pro bono oversight and will disseminate money directly to families. This Motion directs staff to accept the donations and develop an agreement with Dentons Canada LLP for effective oversight and distributions.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council authorize the Controller to receive funds of approximately $1.5M donated to the #CanadaStrong Fund (Toronto Foundation) for distribution to the families of those killed on Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752. 2. City Council authorize the Controller to negotiate and enter into all necessary agreements or other documents to support the receipt and distribution of the funds, in forms satisfactory to the City Solicitor, including an agreement with Dentons Canada LLP, who will be acting without charge, to ensure appropriate oversight mechanisms are established and to take other actions required for the proper distribution of the funds.
Staff recommendation as filed
Mayor John Tory, seconded by Deputy Mayor Denzil Minnan-Wong, recommends that: 1. City Council authorize the Controller to receive funds of approximately $1.5M donated to the #CanadaStrong Fund (Toronto Foundation) for distribution to the families of those killed on Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752. 2. City Council authorize the Controller to negotiate and enter into all necessary agreements or other documents to support the receipt and distribution of the funds, in forms satisfactory to the City Solicitor, including an agreement with Dentons Canada LLP, who will be acting without charge, to ensure appropriate oversight mechanisms are established and to take other actions required for the proper distribution of the funds.
MM14.20adopted
Setless Architecture (the "Applicant"), on behalf of the owner Lucas Rocky Dibratto, applied to the Etobicoke-York Panel of the Committee of Adjustment for minor variances respecting the site at 5 Wadsworth Boulevard (the "Original Application"). The Original Application sought permissions to construct a new detached dwelling with an attached garage. On November 25, 2019, the Committee of Adjustment issued a Public Hearing Notice for the Original Application with the wrong hearing date and so on December 5, 2019 the Original Application was deferred. The Applicant subsequently submitted a revised application eliminating the variance for number of storeys and reducing the variances for floor space index, side yard setback and dwelling height, referenced as Committee of Adjustment File A0555/19EYK (the "Revised Application"). On December 23, 2019, Community Planning for the Etobicoke York District ("Community Planning") wrote a report to the Committee of Adjustment (Attachment 2) recommending that the Revised Application be refused, noting concerns with the proposed floor space index and dwelling height. In addition to the concerns raised by Community Planning, objection to the Revised Application was voiced by several area residents. On January 16, 2020, the Committee of Adjustment approved the Revised Application. The Decision is attached to this Motion. This Motion will authorize the City Solicitor to appeal the Decision to the Toronto Local Appeal Body, and will authorize the City Solicitor and appropriate City staff to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body to oppose the application. This Motion is urgent as the last day to appeal the Decision to the Toronto Local Appeal Body is February 5, 2020.
City Council on January 29, 2020, adopted the following: 1. City Council direct the City Solicitor to appeal the Decision of the Committee of Adjustment, Etobicoke York Panel to oppose the proposed development for 5 Wadsworth Boulevard (A0555/19EYK). 2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor and appropriate City staff to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body to oppose the proposed development and to retain outside consultants, as necessary. 3. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attempt to negotiate a resolution of the appeal and, if a resolution is reached, to settle the appeal at the City Solicitor's discretion after consulting with the Ward Councillor and the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning.
Staff recommendation as filed
Councillor Frances Nunziata, seconded by Councillor Mark Grimes, recommends that: 1. City Council direct the City Solicitor to appeal the Decision of the Committee of Adjustment, Etobicoke York Panel to oppose the proposed development for 5 Wadsworth Boulevard (A0555/19EYK). 2. City Council authorize the City Solicitor and appropriate City staff to attend the Toronto Local Appeal Body to oppose the proposed development and to retain outside consultants, as necessary. 3. City Council authorize the City Solicitor to attempt to negotiate a resolution of the appeal and, if a resolution is reached, to settle the appeal at the City Solicitor's discretion after consulting with the Ward Councillor and the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning.