council in committee of the whole

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COUNCIL IN COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE

August 27, 2012 3:35 p.m.

Committee Room 2, City Hall

MINUTES

PRESENT:

Mayor Wayne Wright Councillor Jonathan Coté Councillor Bill Harper Councillor Jaimie McEvoy Councillor Betty McIntosh Councillor Chuck Puchmayr Councillor Lorrie Williams

STAFF:

Mr. Paul Daminato - City Administrator

Mr. Rick Page - Corporate Officer/Director of Legislative Services Mr. G. Dean Gibson - Director of Parks, Culture and Recreation

Mr. Gary Holowatiuk - Director of Finance & Information Technology Mr. Jim Lowrie - Director of Engineering Services

Ms. Lisa Spitale - Director of Development Services Mr. Eugene Watt - Acting Director of Engineering Services Ms. Jan Gibson - Assistant Corporate Officer

Ms. Stephanie Lam - Committee Clerk

The Regular Council meeting was called to Order at 3:38 pm.

MOVED and SECONDED

THAT Council adjourn to a meeting as a Committee of the Whole with resumption of the regular meeting of Council immediately following the Committee of the Whole.

CARRIED.

All members of Council present voted in favour of the motion.

ADDITIONS / DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA

THAT the agenda be amended as follows:

• Removing Item 22;

• Adding 24a – Sale of City Owned Property;

• Adding 24b – IBM Smart Cities Challenge Program.

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PRESENTATION

3:00 p.m.

1. – Mr. Douglas Smith, Executive Director of the

Hyack Festival Association

Ron Unger, Hyack Festival Association, spoke to the following details regarding the propose Christmas Parade of Lights Event:

• Part of the Hyack Festival Association’s new strategy is to host large scale events.

In support of this strategy, the Hyack Festival association is transitioning from hosting many smaller events, to fewer larger events;

• The proposed Christmas Parade of Lights event would support this direction

• The current Christmas Parade has been competing for audience members since the Rogers Parade in Vancouver began;

• Consultation has been conducted with the Downtown Business Association, who reported that the blocking off of access for the parade has affected businesses negatively and restricts patrons;

• As a result, the Downtown Business Association has expressed support for a different model/event during this season;

• The festival is proposed to be held in Columbia Square, which would benefit downtown retailers;

• Activities such as live entertainment, a Santa Clause booth, food vendors, and a large Christmas tree would be part of the festival;

• The Festival would kick-off with a tree lighting ceremony;

• The association considered including a synthetic skating rink at Hyack Square;

however, research indicated that there is an insufficient amount of space available at this site to support this proposal;

• With respect to the Christmas tree, the Hyack Festival Association is requesting the City purchase the tree;

• In addition to the tree, a moving Christmas Light display was proposed to be featured on the buildings;

• The light display and the tree would pose as a tourist attracting, bringing more people to the downtown core;

Mr. Unger noted that those who participated in the parade in past years could still be involved in the new event.

Council spoke to their support of the parade, noting the sudden change in event may be too soon for residents. Council questioned the Hyack Board of Director’s thoughts on the proposal and Mr. Unger advised that at this time he is unaware of the Board’s stance, and suggested Mr. Smith be contacted with respect to receiving confirmation of that information.

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With respect to cost, Council questioned how the proposed festival would be funded . Mr.

Unger advised that the festival would be supported through sponsorship and donations.

With respect to City sponsorship, the association is proposing that the City provide funding for the Christmas tree.

CONSENT AGENDA

Note: Council members may adopt in one motion all recommendations appearing on the Consent Agenda or, prior to the vote, request an item be removed from the Consent Agenda for debate or discussion, voting in opposition to a recommendation, or declaring a conflict of interest with an item.

THAT items 2, 5, 6, 15, 17, 18, 19, and 20 be removed from the consent agenda.

CARRIED.

MOVED and SECONDED and CARRIED, this Committee recommends THAT the following Consent Agenda item recommendations be approved:

CARRIED.

3.

(Bylaw No. 7529, 2012)

The report dated August 27, 2012 seeking consideration with respect to a bylaw to authorize a Development Agreement between the City of New Westminster and the Salient Group to provide off-site engineering works and services for the proposed Trapp Block project at 660-700 Columbia Street.

THAT Downtown Development Bylaw No. 7529, 2012 be given three readings;

THAT the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to sign the required documents.

CARRIED.

4.

The report dated August 27, 2012 seeking consideration of covenants which would further the goals and objectives of the City in connection with the Trapp Block project.

THAT Council approve the covenants attached to the report dated August 27, 2012;

THAT the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to sign and execute all documents on behalf of the City.

CARRIED.

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7.

The report dated August 27, 2012 outlining the principles for the Housing Agreements, which will provide the legal framework for operating and maintaining the non-market rental housing and the market rental housing.

THAT Council concur with the principles outlined in the report dated August 27, 2012, which forms the framework for draft Housing Agreements for Parcel O.

CARRIED.

8.

The report dated August 27, 2012 seeking approval for revised design guidelines for Parcel E in Victoria Hill and to seek authorization to proceed with rezoning the site to CD Comprehensive Development District based on the revised design guidelines.

THAT Council adopt the design guidelines, as attached to the report dated August 27, 2012, to replace the design guidelines for Parce E within the Woodlands Rezoning and OCP Amendment Appendix 3 Design Guidelines.

THAT Council authorize staff to proceed with rezoning the site to CD Comprehensive Development District, based on parameters contained in the attached design guidelines.

CARRIED.

9.

The report dated August 27, 2012 advising Council of the applications.

THAT Council issue notice that it will consider a resolution to issue Development Variance Permit DVP00540 to allow for the construction of a four storey multiple family residential building, where the Zoning Bylaw requires the height of the building to vary between two and four storey, on September 17, 2012;

THAT Council consider the issuance of Development Permit DPW00009 on September 17, 2012, after the opportunity to be heard is held for Development Variance Permit DVP 000540.

CARRIED.

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10.

The report dated August 27, 2012 advising of the application and request that Council issue notice that it will consider a resolution to issue Development Variance Permit 545.

THAT Council issue notice that it will consider a resolution to issue Development Variance Permit 545 to allow a fascia sign, freestanding sign and two canopy signs at 1101 Ewen Avenue.

CARRIED.

11.

The report dated August 27, 2012 advising Council of the application and requesting notice be issued for consideration of Development Variance Permit No. 546.

THAT Council issue notice that it will consider a resolution to issue Development Variance Permit 546 to allow a third freestanding sign at 805 Boyd Street.

CARRIED.

12.

The report dated August 27, 2012 advising Council of the application and to recommend that notice be issued to consider a resolution to issue Development Variance Permit DVP00531.

THAT Council issue notice that it will consider a resolution to issue Development Variance Permit DVP000531 to vary section 150.8 (required off-street parking). Section 460.12 (required side yard setback), and section 460.19 (maximum building width) of the City of New Westminster Zoning Bylaw in order to allow the construction of 35 ground oriented townhouse dwelling units at 838 Royal Avenue.

CARRIED.

13.

THAT the report dated August 27, 2012 from the Director of Development Services be received for information.

CARRIED.

14.

THAT the report dated August 27, 2012 from the Director of Development Services be received for information.

CARRIED.

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Director of Engineering

16.

THAT the report dated August 27, 2012 from the Director of Engineering Services be received for information.

CARRIED.

Recommendations

21. a)

4.2 Queensborough Pedestrian Bridge

MOVED, SECONDED this Committee recommends:

WHEREAS, there has been recent changes in the allocation of DAC funds;

WHEREAS, this pedestrian bridge is a key transportation link between Queensborough and the Quay;

THAT Council reaffirms its strong support for the Queensborough/Quay pedestrian bridge, and that Council direct City Staff to explore further funding options to ensure that the project move forward in a timely manner.

5.2 Bicycle and Pedestrian Access Routes to the New Schools

MOVED, SECONDED this Committee recommends

WHEREAS, the existing diagonal path through the current John Robson Elementary School site and Simcoe Park is an important connection to existing pedestrian and cycling infrastructure and will be the preferred route for students to access the new middle school;

WHEREAS, the topography through the St. Mary’s site is favourable to cyclists and there is an importance of a southeast to northwest connection through the St. Mary School Site;

THAT Council recommend to the school board that they ensure that connectivity, safety and preservations of existing greenways and pathways are included in the parameters of the new schools projects.

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REPORTS FOR ACTION

Director of Development Services

22. DVP No. 521 Amendment 002 for Signage at 811 Columbia Street and 888 Carnarvon Street (Plaza 88)

This item was removed from the agenda.

Director of Finance and Information Technology

23.

(Royal City Farmer’s Market; Senior Services Society)

THAT Council receives this report for information and provides staff with direction regarding:

• The Royal City Farmer’s Market’s request for re-allocation of funds awarded for their 2012 City Partnership Grant; and

• The Senior Services Society request for re-allocation of funds awarded for their 2012 Community Grant.

CARRIED.

Councillor Chuck Puchmayr

24.

Councillor Puchmayr gave the following notice of motion:

WHEREAS the Provincial Government, through the Regional Health Boards, is lobbying Local Governments to introduce strict new Smoking Laws;

AND WHERE these laws can vary in severity from Community to Community, causing ambiguity and confusion;

THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Provincial Government addresses this matter to ensure that any regulations be imposed, and enforced by the Provincial Government, and done so with the intent to provide clarity.

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24a.

The report dated August 27, 2012 presenting a Purchase and Sale Agreement for the sale of City owned property for Council’s consideration and approval.

Eugene Watt, Acting Director of Engineering Services, introduced the report and advised that the subject property of the report dated August 27, 2012 is the Gyro building.

THAT Council approves and authorizes execution of the Offer to Purchase and Sale Agreement between 0896002 BC Ltd. (South Street Financial Corp.) and the Corporation of the City of New Westminster for the sale of property at 57 Sixth Street described as Pcl. 1 (Ref. Plan 3177) of Lots 26, 27, Block B Plan 2620 in the form attached to the report from the Director of Engineering Services dated August 27, 2012.

CARRIED.

24b.

The report dated August 27, 2012 providing background information on the IBM Smarter Cities Challenge Grant Program and to request Council’s approval to proceed with an application.

Council expressed their pleasure of working with the School Board, noting that the grant has been encouraged by School Trustee Jonina Campbell, who has been a strong advocate for keeping children active.

THAT Council direct staff to apply to the IBM Smarter Cities Challenge Grant Program with a focus on enhancing active transportation for school and business travel in the City of New Westminster.

CARRIED.

ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA

25. Procedural Note: “Items Removed from the Consent Agenda” was mis-numbered as item 25.

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Director of Development Services

2.

The report dated August 27, 2012 seeking consideration of a zoning amendment bylaw to rezone areas of the streets surrounding the Multi-Use Civic Centre and over which the building projects from Columbia Street Historic Comprehensive Development Districts (C-8) to Comprehensive Development Districts (Multi Use Civic Facility) (CD-35).

THAT Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 7490, 2012 be read a first and second time;

AND THAT a Public Hearing be scheduled for September 17, 2012.

CARRIED.

5.

The report dated August 27, 2012 seeking consideration of a proposed text amendment to the Central Business Districts (Restricted) (C-4A) zone.

Council spoke to public consultation and queried if Larco had been consulted with respect to the proposed amendment. Staff advised that anyone who’s property will be affected will be notified of the Public Hearing.

Council questioned what type of business would continue on the ground floor. Staff advised that the zoning will continue to allow the existing commercial uses.

THAT Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 7540, 2012 be read a first and second time.

CARRIED.

6.

The report dated August 27, 2012 seeking consideration of a zoning amendment byla to establish a new comprehensive zoning district, Comprehensive Development Districts (295 Francis Way) (CD-26), and to rezone the property at 295 Francis Way in order to accommodate a multiple unit residential building, with market and non-market rental housing units.

Council thanked staff for the report and made note of their position to not support the reduction of certain types of parking.

Council questioned accessibility in the non-market housing units for those with mobility issues, noting it can be costly to adapt a house to accommodate certain needs. Staff advised that the bylaw requirement ensures that 40% of the units are adaptable. Council

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THAT Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 7532, 2012 be read a first and second time;

AND THAT a Public Hearing be scheduled for September 17, 2012.

CARRIED.

Director of Development Services and Director of Engineering

15.

Jim Lowrie, Director of Engineering Services, spoke to the proposed terms of reference and advised the proposed Panel would operate in a similar manner to the City’s existing committees and advisory bodies of Council. Recommendations created by this Panel would need to be presented and approved by Council before coming into effect.

Council discussed the importance and purpose of the proposed panel, and noted the following:

• The direction to create this panel stems from the Canadian Transportation Authority (CTA);

• The Panel would create a forum for collaborative and cooperative discussion where members, of all parties, can communicate and create ideas and resolutions to existing railway issues;

• The current rules regarding railways were originated approximately 100 years ago;

• It is anticipated that the Panel can draft policies and framework to deal with issues such as whistle cessation and idling.

With respect to membership, Council supported the number of City representatives (including staff); however, requested the positions be clarified in the terms of reference.

THAT membership for the Railway Community Advisory Panel be amended to define the following:

• Mayor as Co-Chair of the Panel;

• Council Representative (1);

• Emergency City Staff (1);

• City Staff – Other (1).

CARRIED.

Council made reference to the letter regarding the establishment of the Panel which was recently sent to UBCM. Staff confirmed that the letter was sent; however, no response has been received to date regarding the letter.

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THAT the City supports a Railway Community Advisory Panel being established;

AND THAT the proposed Terms of Reference for the Railway Community Advisory Panel be approved, as amended.

CARRIED.

17.

Staff introduced the report and advised they are going forward with a request for proposal (RFP) would provide Council with the details required to consider options for this

crossing.

Referencing the elevators located at the skytrain stations, which seem to be regularly out of order, Council expressed concerns with the maintenance of elevators at the Fourth Street connection.

Discussion continued regarding the types of crossings that could be built at this site, and it was suggested the feasibility of a zip line be investigated, as revenue incurred from its operation could be used as a source of fundraising. Council noted although they support the investigation of zip line feasibility, that the top priority in terms of the crossing be universal access.

THAT staff be directed to proceed with the issuance of an RFP for the design and construction of a overpass, including either stairs and a ramp or elevator connection to the Westminster Pier Park; and

THAT staff report back to Council with preliminary design concepts and costing prior to proceeding to final design and construction.

CARRIED.

18.

The report dated August 27, 2012 updating on the current status of the Digital Media Signage Program and to obtain Council’s approval for the relocation of the existing Entry Sign located at the Pattullo Site.

Council queried the new location of the entry sign and staff advised that the recommendation is to incorporate the welcome aspect of the original sign with the new digital billboard. Staff distributed samples of the proposed sign for Council to examine.

Council spoke suggested minimal time be committed to relocating the sign as it may need to be changed depending on the outcomes of the Pattullo Bridge project. Staff advised the proposed location will have the least amount of impact to surrounding residents.

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Council requested staff report back with a proposed timeframe for action on relocating the signage.

THAT the relocation of the existing Entry Gateway sign at the Pattullo Bridge, in order o accommodate the placement of the Digital Billboard, be approved.

CARRIED.

Director of Human Resources

19.

Procedural Note: Councillor McIntosh declared a conflict of interest and exited the meeting at 5:03pm.

Council commended the Human Resources Department, staff, and the Union for the negotiations for the collective agreement. Council noted the settlement marks the first collective agreement signed in Metro Vancouver, and that the decision marks a win-win for all parties.

Council noted the settlement demonstrates real economic stability.

Staff advised that the August 21, 2012 saw the largest turn-out of employees for voting, adding that the settlement was ratified by 97%.

THAT the report dated August 27, 2012 from the Director of Human Resources be received for information.

CARRIED.

Procedural Note: Councillor McIntosh re-entered the meeting at 5:07pm concluding the vote on item 19.

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Director of Legislative Services

20.

Council spoke to the need to engage residents more fully, noting the importance of ensuring the public are aware of the project and the benefits the MUCF and office tower will have for the City. Council acknowledged concerns received regarding the timing of the Alternative Approval Process; however, made note that the process and reports relative to the debt financing commenced in the Spring of 2012.

Discussion continued and the following points were noted:

• The Alternative Approval Process does not mandate the borrowing of funds for the MUCF/Office Tower, it provides flexibility and options;

• The City also has the ability to use Development Assistance Compensation (DAC) funds, an option that many other municipalities do not have;

• Jobs will be created with the construction of the building;

• The revenue from the annual taxes will be good for the City;

• There are many inaccurate stories regarding the construction of the MUCF/Office Tower in the community and Council would like to find a way to correct these myths;

• The AAP is a process conducted in many other municipalities.

WHEREAS the deadline of 4:30 pm, August 7, 2012, for the Alternative Approval Process regarding Civic Facilities, Road Maintenance and Park Development Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 7528, 2012 (the Bylaw), has passed;

AND WHEREAS 10% (4, 528) of electors are required to complete the Elector Response Form indicating they are opposed to the bylaw in order to prevent Council from proceeding without the assent of the electors;

AND WHEREAS 2, 198 responses were received by the deadline;

NOW THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Certificate of Sufficiency for the Alternative Approval Process regarding Civic Facilities, Road Maintenance and Park Development Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 7528, 2012, be received and that the Bylaw be forwarded to Council for adoption.

CARRIED.

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CORRESPONDENCE

26. a)

Council expressed concerns regarding the redistribution of Federal Electoral Boundaries in BC, as it proposes Queensborough be separated from New Westminster.

Council spoke to the following points:

• There has been good interaction and synergy between the Queensborough area and the existing Federal riding;

• Queensborough is a community rich with culture and is an integral part of the City.

• Suggested that New Westminster be retained as a whole – whether it be coupled with Burnaby, or separated to stand alone.

Council referred to the scheduled September 26, 2012 Public Hearing regarding this matter, and encouraged people to attend to provide their comments.

WHEREAS Queensborough is an integral part of the City of New Westminster;

AND WHERE the proposed changes to the electoral boundaries in BC separates Queensborough from New Westminster

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the City of New Westminster oppose the proposed changes to the Electoral Boundaries;

AND THAT staff develop a presentation regarding the City’s opposition at the Public Hearing for the Redistribution of Federal Electoral Boundaries.

CARRIED.

b)

Council requested staff provide a report regarding the Provincial Recycling regulations to review prior to consideration of the resolution provided in the City of Coquitlam’s letter dated August 2, 2012.

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THAT the correspondence be received;

AND THAT staff investigate the Provincial Recycling Regulations and report the findings to Council at a future meeting.

CARRIED.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS 27. No items.

NEW BUSINESS 28. No items.

ADJOURNMENT

ON MOTION, the meeting was adjourned at 5:49 pm.

Certified Correct,

WAYNE WRIGHT RICHARD PAGE

MAYOR CORPORATE OFFICER