THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF PEEL

GENERAL COMMITTEE

M I N U T E S

GC-2009-11

The Regional General Committee met on November 12, 2009 at 9:38 a.m. in the Council Chamber, Regional Administrative Headquarters, 10 Peel Centre Drive, Suite A, Brampton.

Regional Chair E. Kolb presided.

A. ROLL CALL

B. DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICTS OF INTEREST - Nil


C. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

RECOMMENDATION GC-201-2009:

That the agenda for the November 12, 2009, General Committee meeting be approved.

D. DELEGATIONS/PRESENTATIONS

D1. Dr. David Mowat, Medical Officer of Health, and Janette Smith, Commissioner of Health Services, H1N1 Response Update

Received

Councillor Saito arrived at 9:43 a.m.

Dr. David Mowat, Medical Officer of Health, reported that the number of visits to emergency rooms for flu like illness has decreased at the two Mississauga hospitals but has increased at the Brampton hospital. This may indicate that people are now going to their family doctor rather than to local emergency rooms. School absenteeism is down with only 10 Peel-area schools reporting more than 10 per cent absenteeism. Since April 2009, 83 Peel residents have been hospitalized as a result of the H1N1 virus and there have been four H1N1 related deaths in the Region. The Region has immunized 34,000 people and provided family doctors with 180,000 vaccine doses. The Region received an additional 43,500 doses from the provincial government the week of November 9 and another shipment is expected to arrive on Monday, November 16, 2009.

Dr. Mowat noted that Peel mass immunization clinics were closed this week due to a shortage of vaccine. While the flu clinics were closed, the Region received a small shipment of vaccine from the province which has been administered to people in homeless shelters, pregnant women and eligible first responders. The Provincial government will be providing further details on whether children need to receive a second dose of vaccine. A flu assessment centre opened in Mississauga on Tuesday, November 10 and another one opened today, November 12, in Brampton. The flu assessment centres have been established to relieve the pressure on local emergency rooms that have been inundated by the number of people reporting flu like symptoms.

Janette Smith, Commissioner of Health Services, recognized the area-municipal staff who assisted with setting up the flu assessment centres in Mississauga and Brampton.

Councillor Saito thanked Dr. Mowat and staff for the work undertaken in this regard and stressed the importance of encouraging people to get the vaccine.

Councillor Groves thanked Dr. Mowat and Janette Smith for providing clear information on the H1N1 virus to help the residents of Peel understand the situation.

D2. Angela Nijhar, Director, Peel Committee Against Woman Abuse, and Berna Balanos, Violence Against Women Coordinator, Catholic Cross Cultural Services, Regarding the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

Withdrawn

See also Items Related to Health – Item HE-A1

D3. Peter Dundas, Director, Peel Regional Paramedic Services, Recognizing John Thompson, Peel Paramedic for Receiving the Governor General's Award for Exemplary Service

Received

Peter Dundas, Director, Peel Regional Paramedic Services advised that on September 24, 2009, Major General Richard Rohmer, on behalf of the Governor General of Canada, presented the Governor General’s Award to Peel Paramedic John Thompson in recognition of his exemplary service. John Thompson began his career as a paramedic in 1981 and continues to serve as a front line paramedic in Caledon.

Regional Chair Kolb thanked John Thompson for his dedication and years of service to the residents of Peel.

Councillor Morrison congratulated John Thompson and stated that his dedication is much appreciated.

D4. Brian Wilson, President, Peel Federation of Agriculture (PFA) and Ian Sinclair, Member, PFA Environment Committee, Regarding Peel Regional Official Plan Review – Regional Official Plan Amendment 21

Received

See also Item D5 and Items Related to Management – Items MA-A1 and MA-E5

Brian Wilson, President, Peel Federation of Agriculture (PFA), requested a time extension regarding the Natural Heritage and Agriculture policies of proposed ROPA 21 so that farmers have an opportunity to review the policies and provide their comments.

Ian Sinclair stated that the draft policy should include an ecosystem approach which incorporates a balanced consideration of environmental, economic and cultural aspects in planning.

Ian Sinclair indicated that the PFA has seven requests, to date, for consideration regarding ROPA 21:

1. Provide sufficient time for Agricultural Policy Development. Concern was raised that Region of Peel staff is required to meet the Provincial guidelines and time periods, however time is needed to review the policies to ensure that the policies are correct, in particular with regard to global food production and biomass energy production.
   
   
2. Protect Agriculture from non-conforming use status. The Provincial Policy Statement has incorporated a new term ‘existing agricultural uses’ which requires clarification as the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) and environmental zoning designations resulting from the Region Official Plan Amendment may result in Agricultural operations being designated as non conforming uses.
   
   
3. Determine the assessment costs of Provincial Natural Heritage Policies. The PFA requests that Regional Council initiate a study with the area municipalities to determine the associated costs of a 0 per cent tax rate implemented on environmental land by the Province.
   
   
4. Stop secret land use prohibitions. Concern was raised that the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has the authority to incorporate land use prohibitions and it is suggested that MNR become a proponent of Official Plan Amendments.
   
   
5. Hold a public open house for proposed Schedule A mapping. The land uses can not be identified on the 8.5” x 11” maps and it is suggested that Schedule A be tiled into smaller blocks with large maps.
   
   
6. Make significant wildlife habitat an opportunity. Wildlife habitat should be changed to a conservation approach with practical methods for restoration. Policies already exist in the Region Official Plan (ROP) and should be relied upon.
   
   
7. Outstanding requests. Brian Wilson noted that there are outstanding requests from the PFA’s April 23, 2009 presentation and that the PFA previous requests do not constitute all of their concerns. Brian Wilson requested that the proposed Natural Heritage and Agricultural Policies be deferred to allow consultation with the PFA.

Councillor Thompson supported the requests of the PFA and requested that the Region of Peel, area and neighbouring municipalities, Countryside Mayors, and the Association of Municipalites of Ontario (AMO) lobby the Province to review the wording of the guidelines and Provincial Policy Statements which will help protect agriculture and natural heritage.

Councillor Morrison supported the requests of the delegation and suggested that the proposed policies for Natural Heritage and Agriculture be deferred and that Regional staff and Town of Caledon staff collaborate with PFA on the ecosystem conservation approach.

Councillor Sprovieri enquired what the implications will be on the farming industry if the proposed ROPA 21 is passed as presented today.

Ian Sinclair responded that the biggest asset of a farm is the land and that if broad scale and vague wording is used to meet the Provincial Policy Statement then the uncertainty of what can happen to the land increases. It may increase costs because of the need for studies and permits on lands that are near environmentally significant areas, this could reduce the value of the property. Further, the vagueness of the wording may result in restrictions without realizing the impact.

Councillor McCallion suggested that a comparison be provided for members of Council with respect to the Provincial Policy Statement, the wording of ROPA 21 and the PFA’s requests. David Szwarc, Chief Administrative Officer undertook to report back with the requested information.

RECOMMENDATION GC-201-2009:

That the policies related to Natural Heritage and Agriculture within Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA) Number 21 be received and deferred to a future meeting of Regional Council;

And further, that Regional staff, along with staff from the Town of Caledon, continue to work with the Peel Federation of Agriculture on an Ecosystem/Conservation approach on Agriculture and Natural Heritage and engage in dialogue with the Province and neighbouring Regions and Municipalities.

D5. Peter Orphanos, Chair, Sierra Club Canada - Peel Region Group and Bruce Haines, Resident, To Discuss Gaps in Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA) 21 and the Natural Heritage Policies

Received

See also Item D4 and Items Related to Management – Items MA-A1 and MA-E5

Peter Orphanos congratulated Region of Peel staff for their hard work in producing a plan with many progressive inclusions. Peter Orphanos indicated that the Sierra Club supports a systems approach, consistent with the Greenbelt Plan and Provincial Policy Statement. Peter Orphanos stated that the natural heritage system remaining in the City of Brampton is approximately six per cent and noted that the City of Brampton does not currently have Natural Heritage policies. Peter Orphanos introduced Bruce Haines, resident, to identify issues of concern with the proposed ROPA 21, including:

Section 2.3.2.5 Subsection (e) – Minor development. The word minor needs to be interpreted.

Subsection (f) – wording of new single residential dwelling on an existing lot of record. Concern was raised that the exemption will impede the need for connectivity and public access within core areas of the Greenlands System. Further, the Region of Peel will only provide policy direction to area municipalities and there are provisions for exemptions regarding the Core Area features.

Section 2.3.2.15. Concern was raised regarding the downloading of setbacks and buffers to area municipalities. This is a good opportunity for the Region of Peel to develop consistent standards for setbacks and buffers.

Section 2.3.2.16 Subsection i) Compatible active recreation within the Urban System. Concern was raised that compatible active recreation (for example, golf courses) is not compatible with policy objectives in protecting and enhancing natural features of Core Areas.

Subsection ii) Development permitted within approved Two Zone and Special Policy Area flood plains. Concern was raised that the policy may provide obstacles in protecting the Credit River system.

Section 2.3.2.22 Environmental Impact Studies (EIS). The Region is shifting the responsibility of EIS to area municipalities. Concern was raised as to who will oversee the need for an independent process if the municipality has a conflict of interest.

Councillor McCallion concurred with the delegates, stating that City of Mississauga staff have raised concern about the policy with respect to active recreation uses in greenbelt designations.

Councillor Mullin expressed concern with inconsistencies in active recreational use policies within area municipal Official Plans and suggested that there should be a common approach within the Region. Councillor Mullin raised the issue of Lots of Record and requested Legal staff to undertake a report outlining the limitations of developing Lots of Record.

Councillor Thompson enquired if the Sierra Club would consider meeting with the PFA to share ideas. Peter Orphanos and Bruce Haines responded that they would be willing to meet with the PFA.

Councillor Paterak addressed Lots of Record and suggested that public agencies consider purchasing properties to regulate development on the lands. Councillor Paterak proposed that the Sierra Club fundraise in support of the Conservation Authorities to purchase environmentally sensitive lands.

Items Related to Management – Item MA-A1 was dealt with.

MA-A. INTERDEPARTMENTAL

MA-A1. Peel Region Official Plan Review (PROPR) - Adoption of Regional Official Plan Amendment No. 21 - Natural Heritage, Agriculture, Air Quality and Integrated Waste Management Policies

RECOMMENDATION GC-202-2009:

Whereas, at the November 12, 2009 General Committee meeting staff was directed to conduct further consultation regarding Natural Heritage and Agriculture Policies set out in Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA) No. 21;

And whereas, staff was further directed to proceed with the adoption of Air Quality and Integrated Waste Management Polices set out under ROPA 21, hereafter referred to as ROPA 21A;

Therefore be it resolved, that Regional Official Plan Amendment No. 21A - Air Quality and Integrated Waste Management Policies, as amended November 12, 2009, in the joint report of the Chief Financial Officer and Commissioner of Corporate Services, Commissioner of Health Services and the Medical Officer of Health, dated October 22, 2009, titled “Peel Region Official Plan Review (PROPR) – Adoption of Regional Official Plan Amendment No. 21 - Air Quality and Integrated Waste Management Policies” be approved;

And further, that Regional Council deem that no further public meetings related to Regional Official Plan Amendment No. 21A are required as per the provisions of Section 17 of the Planning Act;

And further, that the necessary by-law be presented to Regional Council for enactment;

And further, that a copy of the subject report be forwarded to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH), the Cities of Brampton and Mississauga, the Town of Caledon, municipalities adjacent to the Region of Peel, and those parties requesting notification;

And further, that notice of decision of Council’s adoption of Regional Official Plan Amendment No. 21A be given in accordance with the Planning Act;

And further, that Natural Heritage and Agriculture policies be dealt with under a separate future report to Regional Council.

And further, that the report of the General Committee (GC-2009-11) meeting held on November 12, 2009, be adopted, as amended

E. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS

HS-A1. National Child Day 2009

RECOMMENDATION GC-203-2009:

That November 20, 2009 be proclaimed “National Child Day” in the Regional Municipality of Peel;

And further, that members of Regional Council wear the designated royal blue and yellow pin to demonstrate their support and commitment to children and the National Child Day.

HS-A2. Neighbourhood Capacity Support Strategy Update

Received

Councillor Miles stated in reference to report HS-A2, titled “Neighbourhood Capacity Support Strategy Update”, that investing in neighbourhoods is a good long term strategy that will impact people’s lives in a positive way and commended staff for the direction they have taken on this issue.

HS-B. CHILDREN’S SERVICES

HS-B1. Brampton West Nursery School Opening

Received

HS-B2. Learn.Play.Care Food Services Contract Amendment - Document Number 2007-534Q

RECOMMENDATION GC-204-2009:

That the contract (Document 2007-534Q) between the Region of Peel and the Palmer Group Distributors Ltd., for the provision of Food Services to the Learn.Play.Care. Child Care Centres be increased by $50,000 (excluding applicable taxes), for each of the two optional periods for a new total annual contract value of $550,000 (excluding applicable taxes), in accordance with Purchasing By-law 63-2008;

And further, that authority be given to increase the Palmer Group Distributors Ltd. contract by $100,000 (excluding applicable taxes), to accommodate recession-related food costs over 2009 and 2010.

HS-B3. The Expanded Early Learning Program within Peel Shelters

Received

HS-B4. Peel Children and Youth Initiative

Received

HS-C. COMMUNICATIONS

HS-C1. Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario, Letter dated October 6, 2009 to Marolyn Morrison, Mayor, Town of Caledon in Response to her Letter and Enclosure Regarding Child Poverty and Advising that the Correspondence was forwarded to Deb Matthews, Minister of Children and Youth Services for her Information

Received

HS-C2. Erin Hannah, Director, Ontario Works, Ministry of Community and Social Services, Memorandum dated October 7, 2009 Providing Details of the Two Per Cent Increase to Social Assistance Rates Announced in the 2009 Ontario Budget

Received

Councillor Miles stated that investing in neighbourhoods is a good long term strategy that will impact people’s lives in a positive way and commended staff for the direction they have taken on this issue.

HS-C3. Member Communication - Alert: Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), dated October 27, 2009 Announcing that AMO Applauds the Ontario Government for Moving Forward on the Implementation of Early Learning and Child Care in Ontario

Received

Councillor Mullin requested that staff prepare a chart illustrating the various agencies and the services provided to children, for reference during 2010 budget deliberations.

Councillor Miles reported there is an ever increasing number of groups and organizations that the Region partners with to provide services to the community and it is challenging to keep up to date on all of the available services. Councillor Miles requested that staff report to a future meeting with a model for tracking the various community programs.

MA-A1. Peel Region Official Plan Review (PROPR) - Adoption of Regional Official Plan Amendment No. 21 - Natural Heritage, Agriculture, Air Quality and Integrated Waste Management Policies

This item was dealt with earlier in the meeting

MA-A2. Peel Region Official Plan Review (PROPR) - Adoption of Regional Official Plan Amendment No. 23 - Housing Policies

RECOMMENDATION GC-205-2009:

That Regional Official Plan Amendment Number 23 – Housing Policies, attached as Appendix I to the report of the Commissioner of Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer and Commissioner of Human Services dated October 27, 2009, titled “Peel Region Official Plan Review (PROPR) – Adoption of Regional Official Plan Amendment Number 23 – Housing Policies” be approved;

And further, that Regional Council deems that no further public meetings related to Regional Official Plan Amendment Number 23 are required as per the provisions of Section 17 of the Planning Act;

And further, that the necessary by-law be presented to Regional Council for enactment;

And further, that a copy of the subject report be forwarded to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH), the Cities of Brampton and Mississauga, the Town of Caledon, municipalities adjacent to the Region of Peel, and those parties requesting notification;

And further, that notice of decision of Council’s adoption of Amendment Number 23 be given in accordance with the Planning Act.

MA-B. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER AND CORPORATE SERVICES

MA-B1. Reserve Sustainability

Received

Norma Trim, Chief Financial Officer and Commissioner of Corporate Services provided an update on three different types of reserves, being the Working Funds, Capital Financing and Capital Construction. Staff will recommend a 1 per cent increase in the tax supported non-growth related capital reserve fund and the elimination of a 3 per cent increase on the utility rate reserve fund during the 2010 budget deliberations.

MA-B2. Short-Term Financing for Caledon Infrastructure Capital Projects

RECOMMENDATION GC-206-2009:

That staff be authorized to enter into an agreement with the Town of Caledon to provide short-term financing with respect to Caledon’s infrastructure capital projects;

And further, that the agreement reflect the principles, terms and conditions as outlined in the Town of Caledon’s Report CS-2009-030 dated October 20, 2009 and titled “Bridge Financing for Infrastructure Grant Capital Projects”;

And further, that the Chief Financial Officer and Commissioner of Corporate Services be authorized to establish the appropriate internal financing mechanisms for Caledon’s infrastructure capital projects, to a maximum value of $10,400,000;

And further, that the required documents be executed by the duly authorized signing officers of the Regional Corporation.

MA-B3. Report of the Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC-2009-8) meeting held on October 20, 2009

1. CALL TO ORDER


2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

RECOMMENDATION AAC-23-2009:

That the minutes of the September 22, 2009 Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC-2009-7) meeting, be approved.

3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

RECOMMENDATION AAC-24-2009:

That the agenda for the October 20, 2009 Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting be amended to defer Presentations - Item 5b to the November 24, 2009 Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting;

And further, that the agenda for the October 20, 2009 Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting be amended to include a presentation by Anita Stellinga, Director, Community Investment, United Way of Peel Region, regarding the Community Investment Strategy, to be dealt with under Presentations – Item 5e;

And further, that the agenda for the October 20, 2009 Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting be amended to include an additional item regarding the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Consultation with Charles Beer, to be dealt with under Other Business – Item 7a;

And further, that the agenda for the October 20, 2009 Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting be approved, as amended.

See also Presentations – Items 5b, 5e and Other Business – Item 7a

4. COMMUNICATION ITEMS - Nil

5. PRESENTATIONS

Additional Item – Item 5.e was dealt with.

e. Anita Stellinga, Director, Community Investment, United Way of Peel Region, Presenting the Community Investment Strategy

Received

See also Approval of Agenda

a. Edward Wong, Manager, Real Property Asset Management, Region of Peel and Gillian Haley, Architect, Goldsmith Borgal & Company Ltd., Providing Additional Information and Proposed Changes to the Peel Heritage Complex Renovation Project, City of Brampton, Ward 3

Received

b. Michael Wright, Chair, Peel Advisory Working Group on Older Adults’ Housing (PAWGOAH), Presenting an Update on the Initiatives Undertaken by PAWGOAH

Deferred to the November 24, 2009 AAC meeting

See also Approval of Agenda

c. David Hodkin, Public Affairs Associate, Employee and Business Services, Region of Peel, Presenting the Accessibility Advisory Committee Communication Strategy

Deferred to the November 24, 2009 AAC meeting

d. Meenu Sikand, Accessibility Planning Specialist, Region of Peel, Providing an Update on the Activities for the 2009 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD)

Received

e. Anita Stellinga, Director, Community Investment, United Way of Peel Region, Presenting the Community Investment Strategy

This item was dealt with earlier in the meeting

6. REPORTS

	a.	Monthly Activity Report – July/August/September 2009 (Oral)
			Update by Meenu Sikand, Accessibility Planning Specialist, Region of Peel

This item was dealt with earlier under Presentations – Item 5d

	b.	Monthly Activity Report – October 2009 (Oral)
			Update by Meenu Sikand, Accessibility Planning Specialist, Region of Peel

This item was dealt with earlier under Presentations – Item 5d

	c.	Employment Accessibility Standards Development Committee Update (Oral)
			Update by Naz Husain, Vice-Chair, Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC)

Received

	d.	Accessible Transportation Standards Development Committee (Oral)
			Update by Glenn Barnes, Member, Region of Peel Accessibility Advisory Committee

Deferred to the November 24, 2009 AAC meeting

7. OTHER BUSINESS

Additional Item – Item 7.a:

a. Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Consultation with Charles Beer

Received

See also Approval of Agenda

MA-B4. Report of the Greenlands Securement Subcommittee (GSSC-2009-4) Meeting held on October 29, 2009

1. DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICTS OF INTEREST - Nil

2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

RECOMMENDATION GSSC-10-2009:

That the agenda for the October 29, 2009 Greenlands Securement Subcommittee meeting be approved.

3. DELEGATIONS/PRESENTATIONS - Nil


4. REPORTS - Nil


5. COMMUNICATIONS - Nil


6. IN CAMERA MATTERS

Committee moved In Camera at 8:40 a.m.

a) REPORTS

	i)	Greenlands Securement Project Land Costs Per Acre (A proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board)
			Presentation by Janet Wong, Planner, Regional Municipality of Peel

	ii)	Toronto and Region Conservation Authority October 2009 Project Proposal, Town of Caledon, Ward 1 (A proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board)
			Presentation by Janet Wong, Planner, Regional Municipality of Peel

Committee moved out of In Camera at 9:15 a.m.


7. OTHER BUSINESS - Nil

MA-C. EMPLOYEE AND BUSINESS SERVICES

MA-C1. 3-1-1 Service Update

Received

MA-C2. 9-1-1 Awareness Week - December 7 to 11, 2009

RECOMMENDATION GC-207-2009:

That the week of December 7 to 11, 2009, be proclaimed “9-1-1 Awareness Week” in the Regional Municipality of Peel;

And further, that Emergency Communicators be commended for their dedication and commitment to public safety.

MA-D. EXECUTIVE OFFICE

MC-D1. Report of the Intergovernmental Relations Advisory Committee (IRAC-2009-3) meeting held on November 5, 2009

1. DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICTS OF INTEREST - Nil


2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

RECOMMENDATION IRAC-4-2009:

That the agenda for the November 5, 2009 Intergovernmental Relations Advisory Committee meeting, be approved.

3. REPORTS

	a)	Approach to Communicating Region of Peel’s Public Policy Initiatives with Members of Parliament and Members of Provincial Parliament (Oral)
			Discussion led by Curry Clifford, Director, Strategic Innovation and Policy

Received

Additional Item – Item 4. b.iii was dealt with.

b) Provincial News

iii. Children’s Aid Society Funding

Received

4.	GOVERNMENT RELATIONS STATUS REPORT AND CURRENT ACTIVITIES
		Discussion led by Lowell Rubin, Intergovernmental Relations Advisor, Office of Strategic Innovation and Policy

a) Federal News

i. Bill C-50 an Act to Amend the Employment Insurance Act and to Increase Benefits (Oral)

Received

ii. Update on Canada’s Economic Action Plan: A Third Report to Canadians (Oral)

Received

b) Provincial News

i. Update on Current Advocacy Initiatives (Oral)

Received

ii. Ontario’s Economic Statement (Oral)

Received

Additional Item – Item 4.b. iii:

iii. Children’s Aid Society Funding (Oral)

This item was dealt with earlier in the meeting

c) Local News

i. Chairman’s Business Breakfast (Oral)

Received

5. COMMUNICATIONS - Nil

6. OTHER BUSINESS or CURRENT ISSUES TO BE DISCUSSED - Nil

MA-E. COMMUNICATIONS

MA-E1. Matthew Talbot, Wasaga Sun, Newspaper Article dated October 14, 2009, Advising of the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority’s (NVCA) Approval of Draft Policy – NVCA-Municipal Streamlining Partnership Agreement for Plan Review and Technical Clearance and Fee Collection

Received

MA-E2. Jim Watson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Letter dated October 19, 2009, Advising of Continued Funding for the Provincial 2010-2011 Ontario Municipal Internship Program (MIP)

Received

MA-E3. Member Communication – Alert: Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), Dated October 22, 2009, Advising of the Status of Bill 168 the Occupational Health and Safety Amendment Act (Violence and Harassment in the Workplace)

Received

MA-E4. Member Communication – Alert: Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), Dated October 27, 2009, Advising of the Proposed Good Government Bill to Amend the Municipal Elections Act, 1996

Received

MA-E5. Katarzyna Sliwa, Davies Howe Partners, on behalf of Osmington Inc., Letter dated November 10, 2009, Outlining Concerns with Region Official Plan Amendment No. 21 (ROPA 21)

Received

See also Delegations/Presentations – Items D4 and D5 and Item MA-A1

PW-A1. Public Works Capital Works Update

Received

Councillor Miles commended the Commissioner of Public Works on the management of Regional capital works projects.

PW-B. OPERATIONAL SUPPORT

PW-B1. Background Information on Utility Rate Process

Received

PW-C. TRANSPORTATION

PW-C1. Peel Region Official Plan Review (PROPR) – Adoption of Regional Official Plan Amendment Number 22 – Transportation Policies

RECOMMENDATION GC-208-2009:

That Regional Official Plan Amendment Number 22 – Transportation Policies, attached as Appendix I to the report of the Commissioner of Public Works, dated October 13, 2009, titled “Peel Region Official Plan Review (PROPR) – Adoption of Regional Official Plan Amendment Number 22 – Transportation Policies”, be approved;

And further, that Regional Council deem that no further public meetings related to Regional Official Plan Amendment Number 22 are required as per the provisions of Section 17 of the Planning Act;

And further, that the necessary by-law be presented to Regional Council for enactment;

And further, that a copy of the subject report be forwarded to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, the Cities of Brampton and Mississauga, the Town of Caledon, municipalities adjacent to the Region of Peel, and parties who have requested notification;

And further, that notice of decision of Council’s adoption of Regional Official Plan Amendment Number 22 be given in accordance with the Planning Act.

PW-D. WASTE MANAGEMENT

PW-D1. Report of the Waste Management Committee (WMC-2009-6) Meeting held on November 5, 2009

1. DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICTS OF INTEREST – Nil


2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

RECOMMENDATION WM-18-2009:

That the agenda for the November 5, 2009, Waste Management Committee meeting, be approved.

3. DELEGATIONS/PRESENTATIONS

a) Norman Lee, Director, Waste Management, Presenting an Update on the Waste Diversion Act

RECOMMENDATION WM-19-2009:

That the presentation made by the Director of Waste Management regarding the proposed amendments to the Waste Diversion Act, be received;

And further, that staff review the feasibility of holding the December 17, 2009 Waste Management Committee meeting at 11:00 a.m. to allow the Committee ample time to review and deliberate the proposed revisions to the Waste Diversion Act;

And further, that any discussions or recommendations on the “Report on the Waste Diversion Act Review” released by the Minister of Environment on October 28, 2009 and how it will impact the waste diversion programs of the Region of Peel be dealt with at the December 17, 2009 Waste Management Committee meeting.

See also Communications – Items 5a and 5b

Councillor Moore advised that the December 17, 2009 Waste Management Committee meeting cannot be rescheduled to commence at 11:00 a.m. as requested by the Committee at its meeting held on November 5, 2009 as there are other meetings scheduled at that time.

Councillor Mullin expressed concern regarding the current status and management of the domestic markets on recycling and questioned what has been done to encourage market producers to deal with recycling. Dan Labrecque, Commissioner of Public Works, responded that the government’s position on the current market is temporary and transitional. The goal of the Minister of the Environment is to remove the costs from the tax base, as requested by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO). The proposed changes to the Waste Diversion Act will require that producers bear the cost of recycling, including the loss of commodity revenue. Dan Labrecque indicated that the government is looking for long term solutions.

Councillor Mullin suggested that the Region of Peel should develop strategies to engage the Federal and Provincial governments on waste matters.

Councillor Saito expressed concern that the proposed changes to the Act could potentially eliminate the waste collection responsibilities of municipalities as this will be a significant change for the general public that expects municipalities to provide this service. She indicated that it is important that Council and staff meet to discuss the comments that will be submitted to the Province by the Region regarding the proposed changes.

Councillor Saito indicated that the Waste Management Committee will meet on December 17, 2009 at 1:00 p.m., as scheduled, and encouraged all members of Regional Council to attend the meeting as the proposed changes to the Waste Diversion Act will impact all waste management services provided by the Region of Peel. She further stated that the Waste Management Committee can discuss and formulate comments to the Province at the December 17, 2009 meeting and subsequently present the recommendations to Regional Council in January 2010, for endorsement.

Councillor McCallion advised that AMO has been working with the Minister of Environment to place more responsibility for the recycling of goods on the product producers. Councillor McCallion indicated that the responsibility of producers should include paying for the cost of recycling collection. She further stated that the Province is moving in the right direction but warned of the potential high cost that could be borne by municipalities should the legislation be approved.

Councillor Morrison sought clarification from the Director of Waste Management as to whether the Region of Peel could potentially be out of the waste business should the proposed amendments to the Waste Diversion Act be implemented. Norman Lee, Director, Waste Management, responded that the Provincial government will decide what items will be recycled at the municipal level which could potentially impact the waste services currently provided by the Region.

Councillor Morrison expressed concern that changes to the waste services provided by the Region will create confusion among residents and indicated that producers should be held accountable if the extended producer responsibility program is implemented.

4. REPORTS

a) Material Recovery Facility End Market Condition and Economic Impact Update

Received

5. COMMUNICATIONS

a) Member Communication – Alert: Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), dated October 22, 2009, Providing an Update on the Waste Diversion Act Review Recently Announced by the Minister of Environment at the Recycling Council of Ontario’s Waste Reduction Week

Received

See also Delegations/Presentations – Item 3a and Communications - Item 5b

b) Member Communication – Alert: Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), dated October 28, 2009, Providing Highlights of the “Report on the Waste Diversion Act Review” Released by the Minister of Environment on October 28, 2009

Received

See also Delegations/Presentations – Item 3a and Communications - Item 5a

PW-E. COMMUNICATIONS

PW-E1. Denis Kelly, Regional Clerk, York Region, Letter dated October 23, 2009, Providing a Copy of a Region of York Recommendation and Report titled “2008 Travel Time Study Results and Future Study Participation”

Received

PW-E2. Neil McKenna, Vice President, Transportation, Canadian Tire Corporation Limited, Letter dated October 26, 2009, Providing Information on Canadian Tire’s Use of Long Combination Vehicles (LCV) as Part of its Innovative Business Sustainability Strategy

Received

See also Items PW-E3 and PW-E4

PW-E3. R.H. Ballantyne, President, Canadian Industrial Transportation Association (CITA), Letter dated November 9, 2009, Requesting the Continued Support of Regional Council for the Use of Long Combination Vehicles (LCVs) in Ontario

Received

See also Items PW-E2 and PW-E4

PW-E4. Ron Madill, Co-ordinator Vehicle Weights and Dimensions, Ontario Ministry of Transportation, Email dated November 9, 2009, Providing October Trip Reports from Participants in the Long Combination Vehicle Pilot Program

Received

See also Items PW-E2 and PW-E3

HE-A. INTERDEPARTMENTAL

HE-A1. International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

RECOMMENDATION GC-209-2009:

That November 25, 2009 be proclaimed “The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women” in the Regional Municipality of Peel;

And further, that December 6, 2009, be proclaimed “National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women” in the Regional Municipality of Peel.

See also Delegations/Presentations - Item D2

HE-B. LONG-TERM CARE

HE-B1. National Collaborative on the Prevention of Falls in Long Term Care

Received

HE-C. PUBLIC HEALTH

HE-C1. Lay Health Educator Breast Screening Program Evaluation

Received

HE-C2. Provincial Funding Cuts for Tobacco Prevention and Enforcement Programs

Received

HE-C3. Role of the Medical Officer of Health in Commenting on Applications for Certificate of Approval

Received

Councillor Iannicca departed at 11:37 a.m.

Councillor Morrison noted that the Medical Officer of Health (MOH) has the opportunity to comment on certificates of approval related to emissions from industrial facilities and asked if Dr. Mowat provides input on applications for certificates of approval for sewage treatment plants. Dr. Mowat responded that he has been consulted in an advisory capacity on certificates of approval for sewage treatment plants.

Councillor Morrison reported that the Town of Orangeville has contacted the Ministry of Environment in order to obtain a certificate to expand their sewage treatment facilities. She stated that the Region should be involved in this issue, as there is a need to improve the quality of the headwaters at the top of the Credit River. Councillor Morrison advised that the residents of Caledon will be impacted should the Town of Orangeville expand their sewage treatment facilities. Councillor Morrison requested that the Region of Peel, through the Medical Officer of Health, or Commissioner of Public Works, take an active role to protect the quality of the water in the Credit River.

Councillor Sanderson enquired if Peel Health staff participate on the technical review committee for certificates of approval for emissions. Paul Callahan, Director, Environmental Health, responded that Peel Health staff participates on the technical review committee, however, most of the applications that come before the technical review committee are related to waste issues as opposed to air emissions.

HE-D. COMMUNICATIONS

HE-D1. Henry Clarke, Chair, Board of Health for the Peterborough County-City Health Unit, Letter dated September 30, 2009 to John Gerretsen, Minister of the Environment, Advising that the Board of Health for the Peterborough County-City Health Unit Considered the Staff Report on the Air Quality Health Index and Passed a Motion at its September 9, 2009 Meeting

Received

HE-D2. David Caplan, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, Letter dated October 1, 2009 in Response to a Letter from Regional Chair Emil Kolb dated July 16, 2009 Supporting the Approval of the Appointment of Dr. Kathleen Dooling as Associate Medical Officer of Health for Peel Public Health

Received

HE-D3. David Caplan, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, Letter dated October 5, 2009 to Regional Chair Emil Kolb Expressing Appreciation for Peel Region’s Ongoing Work to Meet the Pandemic H1N1 Influenza (pH1N1) Challenge, and Advising that the Ministry has Provided a One-time Funding for 2009 to Support the Purchase of IT Equipment for Mass Vaccination Clinics

Received

See also Item HE-D4

HE-D4. Allison Stuart, Assistant Deputy Minister (A), Public Health Division, Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, Letter dated October 7, 2009 to Dr. David Mowat, Medical Officer of Health, Confirming a One-time Funding in 2009 for the Acquisition of IT Equipment for Mass Vaccination Clinics and Specifying the Ministry’s Terms, Conditions and Expectations

Received

See also Item HE-D3

HE-D5. Hazel McCallion, Mayor, City of Mississauga, Letter dated October 15, 2009 to Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario, Informing Him that the City of Mississauga, at its Meeting on October 14, 2009, Adopted Resolution 0230 2009 Regarding Concerns over the Clarkson Airshed Study

Received

RECOMMENDATION GC-210-2009:

That the letter from Hazel McCallion, Mayor, City of Mississauga to Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario dated October 15, 2009 and related resolution 0230-2009 adopted by the City of Mississauga Council at its meeting held on October 14, 2009 regarding concerns related to the Clarkson Airshed study, be endorsed.

HE-D6. Amanda Rawecki, Legislative Coordinator, City of Brampton, Letter dated October 26, 2009 Attaching a Report titled “Greater Toronto Area Clean Air Council: 2008-2010 Intergovernmental Declaration on Clean Air“ and Advising that the City of Brampton Passed Resolution C247-2009 at its Meeting on October 7, 2009 in Support of the Declaration

Received

F. OTHER BUSINESS

Additional Item – Item F1:

F1. Update on Funding for Dental Programs (Oral)

Received

Councillor McFadden departed at 11:50 a.m.

Dr. David Mowat, Medical Officer of Health, stated that the Provincial government has announced that additional funds are being made available until November 30, 2009, for a basic children’s dental program that includes non-urgent but necessary dental care. The additional funding may not be used for the seniors’ dental program currently being operated by the Region. The funding announced by the province will provide capital to establish dental clinics in a model similar to the one currently operating in the City of Toronto. Dr. Mowat noted that the Region of Peel opted to utilize a fee for service model that does not involve building, equipping and staffing dental clinics. Regional staff can attempt to access the new funding in order to enhance dental screening and preventive treatments. Dr. Mowat requested feedback from Council Members on how to respond to the funding announcement, bearing in mind the deadline to respond is November 30, 2009.

Councillor Parrish stated that the Region of Peel studied the City of Toronto dental system and concluded that the cost of establishing dental clinics and the overhead involved with operating them were prohibitive. She stated that every attempt should be made to access the additional funding from the Provincial government, without the need to reconfigure the current program model.

Janette Smith, Commissioner of Health Services, responded that the Region has continued to urge the Provincial government to provide funding for a seniors’ dental plan and staff were not expecting an announcement regarding funding for a children’s program. The cost of the senior’s dental plan has increased to a point where it is difficult to sustain the program.

Regional Chair Kolb enquired if the Region should decide to adopt a dental treatment model that requires the establishment of clinics, would there be funding available from the Provincial government for the related staffing requirements. Dr. Mowat responded that the funding announced by the Province would provide for staffing on a fee for service basis for dentists, much like the current agreement in place with local dentists.

Councillor Saito suggested that the dental program issue should be the topic of discussion at the next Intergovernmental Relations Advisory Committee (IRAC) meeting and suggested that the committee could coordinate with local seniors’ organizations and encourage them to lobby local MPPs to pressure the government to provide funding for a seniors’ dental program.

G. IN CAMERA MATTERS
Chaired by Regional Chair E. Kolb

Council opted not to move into closed session to consider the following items:

G1. Proposed Amendment to Sublease Agreement (A proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board)

G2. In Camera Report of the Greenlands Securement Subcommittee (GSSC-2009-4) meeting held on October 29, 2009

RECOMMENDATION GC-211-2009:

That the recommendations contained within the confidential reports related to Items G1 and G2, be forwarded to the November 19, 2009 meeting of Regional Council for approval.

ADJOURNMENT

The meeting adjourned at 11:56 a.m.