Local News

Fall

Council Highlights November 9, 2009 Meeting

Town’s Snow Storage Facility First In Canada

Council received the findings concerning the unique partnership between the Town and Environment Canada’s National Water Research Institute. Through Environment Canada’s Technical Report “Assessment of Operation of the Town of Richmond Hill’s Snow Storage Facility: Interim Report” it was documented that the Town’s snow management facility has been successful in reducing contaminants being released into the environment. The Town is the first municipality in Canada to undertake such a partnership to evaluate the effectiveness of management techniques in reducing pollution arising from snow disposal site runoff. The Town’s snow management facility represents state-of–the-art environmental protection and demonstrates opportunities for road salt management. The facility has been nationally recognized as a leading innovative technology and has been awarded the Ontario Public Works Association 2007 Technical Innovation Award and was also featured on the Discovery’s Channel’s Daily Planet. For more information, contact John Nemeth, Manager of Water Resources, at (905) 771-5495 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, November 2, 2009; Staff Report SREPW.09.093, Agenda Item No. 10).

Town’s Snow Removal Program 2009-2010 Winter

Council approved the continuation of the cooperative winter maintenance service between the Town and the Region of York. In 2008, the Town received 290 cm of snow fall, more than the usual average of 120 cm. Despite the heavy accumulation, the Town’s winter maintenance team sanded 55,000 km of roads, ploughed 54,000 km of roads, 49,000 km of sidewalks and 15,000 seniors’ driveways. In addition, the Town offers a snow windrow removal service for people who are 65 years of age and older, as well as those who are physically challenged. Application forms are available on the Town’s Website or by calling (905) 884-8013. Even though winter still seems far away, the Town is busy getting ready for the season ahead. For more information, contact John Armstrong, Director of Maintenance & Operations at (905) 780-2966 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, November 2, 2009; Staff Reports SREPW.09.092 and SREPW.09.100; Agenda Items No. 9 and 13).

Pan Am Games 2015 Athletes To Practice in Richmond Hill

Council announced that the Town’s Richmond Green Park is expected to be used as a practice site for baseball teams for Pan Am Games 2015. Toronto was selected as the successful candidate to host the 2015 Pan Am Games, a major international multi-sport event held every four years for athletes from all nations of the 42 countries of the Americas. The Town is one of the municipalities in the GTA who will be involved in the Games that will host more than 5,000 athletes over two weeks. Participating in the Games will give all participating municipalities exposure to people from all over the world and bring positive economic returns. For more information about Toronto Pan Am Games visit www.toronto2015.org. For more information about Richmond Hill’s involvement, please contact Darlene Joslin, Director of Recreation & Culture at (905) 771-2423 (from Council Meeting held on Monday, November 9, 2009; New Business).

The Fall Winter 2009 Newletter is available

Get it here!

Proud Air Cadet Squadron Turns 40
November 9, 2009
By Vito Spatafora

This year the 778 Banshee Squadron Royal Canadian Air Cadets celebrate their 40th Anniversary of service in Richmond Hill. This highly decorated Squadron has become an icon that builds character and trust in our youth.

The 778 Banshee Squadron is a not-for-profit volunteer organization dedicated to teach and train the youth of Richmond Hill essential life skills. This year, the 778 Banshee Squadron is operating at full capacity with over 200 members between the ages of 12 to 19 years, making it one of the largest squadron in Ontario.

The goals of the Air Cadet Program are to teach the youth good citizenship and leadership; promote physical fitness; and, stimulate interest in the field of aeronautics and aviation. The young men and women who complete the program also learn discipline, respect and responsibility. Those that excel in the program earn their flight wings and a scholarship to university.

There are no fees to become an air cadet. The basic operating costs for the Squadron are funded by the Department of National Defense and the Civilian Air Cadet League of Canada. The Squadron also relies on fund raising efforts, the generosity of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 375, community sponsors and volunteers to deliver a high caliber of programs to the cadets.

In its 40th year, the Banshees can proudly boast at being the Number One Squadron in Ontario after winning the coveted George Westman Award. To qualify, the Banshees gained top marks in every military training category including top military band, best sports team and the Toronto Air Group Ceremonial Sword given to the most outstanding cadet squadron in the GTA.

Congratulations to the men and women who volunteer their time, money and energy to teach our cadets and best wishes and thanks to all the cadets for the honor you have brought to our community. To get more information on the Banshee Squadron go to: www.778banshee.com.

If you have any questions or issues you wish to discuss, please do not hesitate to contact me at 905-771-2517 or email vspatafora@richmondhill.ca. With the holidays well underway, I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Safe and Healthy New Year.

2008

Council HighlightsCouncil Highlights
November 17, 2008 Meeting

Tastes From Around The World Benefit Local Charities

Along with Council, Deputy Mayor Brenda Hogg and Regional and Local Councillor Vito Spatafora, Tastes of the Hill Chair, presented net proceeds from the Tastes of the Hill Multicultural Food Festival to Autism Ontario – York Region Chapter and York Central Hospital Foundation. Autism Ontario received a cheque in the amount of $23,000 to help them provide camping programs to children and youth living with autism. Autism is a complex developmental disability that impacts verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. The York Central Hospital Foundation received $37,000 (including a single donation from Inspiration Developments) which will be used to purchase a ventilator for the hospital’s new Intensive Care Unit. Now in its third year, the Tastes of the Hill Multicultural Food Festival took place at Richmond Green in October and welcomed 1,400 food lovers of all ages. A sensational variety of foods from over 40 Richmond Hill restaurants representing tastes from around the world, including Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Indian, Thai and Greek was served. For more information, contact Regional & Local Councillor Vito Spatafora, Tastes of the Hill Chair at (905) 771-2517 (From Council Meeting held on Monday, November 17, 2008; Presentations). Photos of the presentation are available upon request.

Council Looks Forward To Subway Extension To Richmond Hill

Council reaffirmed their support for the proposed TTC subway expansion up to Yonge Street subway extension as presented by the York Region Rapid Transit Corporation (YRRTC). Staff continue to work with YRRTC during the EA process to help determine the most appropriate alignment for the Yonge Street subway extension into Richmond Hill Centre. A public meeting is scheduled for November 26 at the Premiere Ballroom at 9019 Leslie Street, which will provide the public with another opportunity to express their views about the subway extension project. It is expected that the expanded subway line will bring jobs and commerce to the Town as well as improve public transportation access to and from York Region. For more information, contact Ana Bassios, Commissioner of Planning & Development, at (905) 771-2417 (From Council Meeting held on Monday, November 17, 2008; Presentations).

This document was produced by the Communication Services Division staff at the Town of Richmond Hill. The contents of this summary are intended to be for information purposes only. The actual text of Council resolutions can be found on the Town's Website, www.richmondhill.ca. Copies of staff reports and other correspondence can be obtained from the Council Support Services/Town Clerk Division.

Council Highlights
September 22, 2008 Meeting

Town Teams up with Markham and the Region to Improve Transportation

Council reiterated its commitment to improving the transportation system in Richmond Hill by approving staff’s recommendation to participate in a feasibility study to assess the viability of a Highway 404 flyover between 16th Avenue and Major Mackenzie Drive East. Development of the lands on both sides of this section of Highway 404 (Leslie Street to Woodbine Avenue) is proceeding rapidly. As such, the Town, in cooperation with the Region of York and the Town of Markham will undertake a feasibility study to determine if a suitable opportunity for a flyover exists. For more information, contact Marcel Lanteigne, Manager of Transportation, Traffic and Site Plans at (905) 771-2456 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, September 15, 2008; Staff Report SREPW.08.081, Agenda Item No. 7).

2009 Accessibility Plan Approved

Council approved the Town’s Accessibility Plan for the period of January 2009 to December 2009. Richmond Hill’s Accessibility Plan, endorsed by the Town’s Accessibility Advisory Committee, outlines issues that could potentially affect residents and their ability to access services and information. It also summarizes measures that the Town has taken in the past year and will take in 2009 to identify and remove barriers for people with disabilities who use the Town’s facilities and services. Next year, the Town will continue to undertake improvements and expansion to facilities and parks that include full accessibility. The most significant undertaking will be the completion of an accessibility audit that will include an audit of all Town parks, trails and facilities. The 2009 Accessibility Plan will be available for public review at the end of September on the Town’s Website at www.richmondhill.ca/accessibility. For more information, contact George Flint, Acting Project Manager, Transportation, Environmental & Development Engineering at (905) 771-2455 (from Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, September 15, 2008; Staff Report SREPW.08.079, Agenda Item No. 6).

Town Measures Up Well With MPMP Report

Council received a report from staff on the 2007 Municipal Performance Measures Program (MPMP) results for the Town. The MPMP is an Ontario government initiative, led by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. MPMP requires all municipalities (upper and lower-tier) to measure their performance in 12 core municipal service areas. Every municipality in Ontario is required to report efficiency and effectiveness measures to their taxpayers. The goals of the program are to give taxpayers a greater understanding of what services they receive for their tax dollars and to promote open accountable local governments. The program is not intended to be an exercise in comparison between municipalities because there are a number of factors that will influence a municipality's measure including type of services, service levels, accounting practices, etc. The program is intended to provide municipalities with a standard tool to share with its ratepayers, through which the municipality is to be accountable for year over year trends in the measures reported. If you require further information on the program, visit the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Website. For the Town's most current MPMP report, visit the Town’s Website. For more information, contact David Dexter, Acting Commissioner of Finance and Treasurer at (905) 771-9996, ext. 3656 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, September 15, 2008; Staff Report SRFIN.08.063, Agenda Item No. 8).

Town to Move Forward with Off Leash Dog Area Pilot Project

After much deliberation and consideration, as well as expressed commitment by many local dog owners, Council approved a one-year pilot project for the establishment of an off leash dog area in Richmond Hill. Subject to funding approval in the 2009 budget, the pilot off leash dog park is to be located in Ward 4 or the Corridor Park area of Oak Ridges. Prior to its creation, a number of issues will need to be addressed, including public consultation with those living near the pilot project park and a recommendation for the site of choice. Council further directed staff to work with local community groups, such as the Richmond Hill K9 Klub, to implement and oversee this project. For more information, contact Audrey Hollasch, Director of Parks Development & Design at (905) 771-2424 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, September 15, 2008; Staff Report SRPRC.08.44, Agenda Item No. 10).

Town Council Approves Holiday Closure

Council approved the hours of operation for nonessential services for the 2008 holiday season. The Town of Richmond Hill will observe a holiday shutdown from Wednesday, December 24 at noon through Friday, January 2. Staff will return to work on Monday, January 5. The Town will continue to provide essential and emergency services during this time (such as fire, water and sewer and road clearing), as well as some nonessential services, like the Wave Pool, fitness studios and libraries (information about facility holiday schedules is posted on the Town’s Website and is available by calling the facility directly). In order to prepare for this closure, participating staff must make up the four days by using vacation time, lieu time, working overtime or by taking unpaid leave. Council has approved three or four-day shutdowns since 1998, as have some surrounding municipalities. Information about the holiday shutdown will be posted throughout Town facilities, on the Town’s Website, as well as in the Town’s Bulletin Board Pages in The Liberal newspaper. For more information, contact Merv Johnston, Director, Human Resources, at (905) 771-2521 (from Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, September 15, 2008; Staff Report SRCAO.08.37, Agenda Item No. 4).

The next Committee of the Whole meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 6, 2008 at 4:30 p.m. and the next Council meeting is Thursday, October 16, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Both meetings will be held in Council Chambers.

This document was produced by the Communication Services Division staff at the Town of Richmond Hill. The contents of this summary are intended to be for information purposes only. The actual text of Council resolutions can be found on the Town's Website, www.richmondhill.ca. Copies of staff reports and other correspondence can be obtained from the Council Support Services/Town Clerk Division.

Lots on menu at Taste of Hill

STAFF PHOTO/STEVE SOMERVILLE Taste of the Hill chairperson Vito Spatafora (far right) is eager to dig into some Italian ice cream served up by Mayor David Barrow. Helping out is Ti Amo Gelato manager Tracy Kao, one of the many participating restaurants in this year’s Taste of the Hill.

September 23, 2008
By: Adam Mc Lean

Gluttony.

One of the seven deadly sins, defined as extravagant indulgence of the appetite for food.

And Oct. 5, Richmond Hill residents with watering mouths and groaning stomachs will be sinning by the hundreds as they indulge in the second annual Taste of the Hill multicultural food festival at Richmond Green Sports Centre.

“Japanese, Thai, Chinese, Hungarian, pub fare, we have it all,” Richmond Hill special events assistant Shannon Walter said.

“We can almost guarantee that there will be something for everyone to enjoy,” she added.

Considering there will be close to 50 of Richmond Hill’s restaurants, bakeries and everything in between dishing up some delectable samplings from their menus, patrons will be hard pressed to prove Ms Walter wrong.

Mayor Dave Barrow said the festival is a perfect illustration of the many cultures living in Richmond Hill.

“We are a town rich with diversity and culture and we all gravitate around food and Taste of the Hill goes a long way to us learning more about each other,” he said before serving some gelato at Ti Amo Gelato yesterday afternoon to promote the upcoming festival.

Regional Councillor Vito Spatafora echoes Mr. Barrow’s view and calls the festival a celebration, rather than simply an event.

“Close to 200 countries are represented by our town’s residents. This is like a big party where families from all cultures can come together and connect,” he said.

Ti Amo Gelatto is just one of the vendors taking part in Taste of the Hill and store manager Tracy Kao said joining in on the fun was a must.

“We were asked to be a part of it last year.

“I was in from the beginning all the way.

“We were a new store and it was an opportunity for people to see what we are all about,” Ms Kao said.

The popularity of last year’s festival drew close to 1,500 hungry souls, which resulted in organizers closing the doors and some vendors being eaten out of house and home.

To prevent a repeat “ransacking” this year, things will be run differently.

Each patron will be given a passport.

The passport will be stamped by each vendor after you visit his table, with visits limited to one stop at each individual station.

So, sorry, no seconds.

You’ll have to move on to the next table, but you can visit as many stations as you like.

“Last year, some of the more popular vendors didn’t stand a chance. We had some people going to the same table three or four times. Some people were taking entire pizzas,” Ms Walter said.

This year, portion sizes will be equivalent to a few bites and the length of this mass taste test has been shortened from four to two and-a-half hours, hopefully ensuring everyone can enjoy any selection.

With the success of last year’s event and strong interest in the upcoming festival, the question of a more frequent festival has been asked.

Ms Walter said more could actually mean less for patrons and businesses alike.

“Though initially it sounds like a great idea. If we were to do Taste of the Hill two or three times a year, it wouldn’t be fair to the smaller businesses,” she said.

“It is a lot of effort and resources for them to participate.

“Many of the family-owned bakeries or restaurants are only able to take part in something like this once a year,” she added.

All money collected is going to local charities, so you can feel good in the knowledge not only are your taste buds getting a workout, but you are making a contribution to the York Central Hospital Fund and Autism Ontario York Region Chapter.

Mr. Spatafora said they hope to raise $50,000 from the event, $25,000 going to each charity.

Tickets to Tastes of the Hill are going for $15 and children under six are admitted for free.

Vendors will served from 1 to 3:30 p.m. and the Richmond Green Sports Centre is at 1300 Elgin Mills Rd. East.

You can purchase tickets at the door the day of, but are encouraged to purchase them in advance so you don’t miss out.

Taste of things to come

• Tickets: $15 for anyone age 7 and older.
• Date: Oct. 5 at Richmond Green.
• Order your tickets: Phone 905-787-8811 or go to richmondhill.ca

2007

Council Highlights
November 12, 2007 Meeting

Tastes of the Hill Cheque Presentations

Regional & Local Councillor Vito Spatafora presented cheques to the Mayor’s Endowment Fund for the Arts and the Richmond Hill Food Bank from the proceeds of the recently held Tastes of the Hill Multicultural Food Festival. Each group was presented $18,500, making it the largest single cash donation ever to the Food Bank. The Tastes of the Hill event was held on October 14 at the Richmond Green Sports Centre. Festival-goers were able to enjoy a sensational variety of foods from over 40 vendors from Richmond Hill's finest dining establishments. Main event sponsors included Fieldgate Developments, Forest Hill Homes, Madison Homes, Arista Homes and Four-Valley Excavating & Grading Limited. Plans will soon be underway for next year’s event. For more information, contact Regional & Local Councillor Vito Spatafora at (905) 771-2517 (From Council Meeting held on Monday, November 12, 2007; Presentation).

Oak Ridges Community Centre & Park Project Moving Forward

Council granted approval for staff to issue a Request For Proposal (RFP) for the selection of architectural services for the Oak Ridges Community Centre Project. Oak Ridges Community Centre & Park is to be located at Bayview Avenue and Bethesda Sideroad, near the shore of Lake Wilcox. This project is of significance as the Town is taking special consideration in maintaining many of the natural features in the area. To ensure an optimal balance between the park and nature, plans for the community centre and water-front park will incorporate Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) initiatives, working towards a Silver LEED Certification. Other projects that are indirectly related to the Oak Ridges Community Centre & Park project also include the Bayview Park Lane and Sandbanks Road extensions and a hypolimnetic withdrawal project to treat the bottom waters of Lake Wilcox to eliminate the phosphorus accumulation and improve the habitat potential. Construction in the area is expected to begin in summer 2008 and will provide recreational opportunities for the growing area of Oak Ridges. For more information, contact Lynton Friedberg, Commissioner of Parks, Recreation & Culture, at (905) 771-2422 (From Oak Ridges Community Centre & Park Project Steering Committee Meeting held on Monday, October 29, 2007; Agenda Item No. 1).

Swim To Survive Program Continues Success

Council received a report on the Lifesaving Society’s Swim To Survive program, a collaboration between the Town, Region of York, local area municipal recreation departments, York Region District School Board and York Catholic School Board. Swim To Survive is a program that teaches the basic skills needed to survive an unexpected fall into deep water: ROLL into deep water, TREAD water for one minute, and SWIM for 50 m. The program, an important first step to being safe around water, has completed two successful years with the third already underway, involving 19 different schools with 833 students. The previous two years have seen 29 schools participate, teaching a total of 1,350 students how to swim to prevent accidental drowning. The program teaches children in our communities how to stay safe when around pools, ponds and lakes. For more information, contact Darlene Joslin, Director of Recreation & Culture, at (905) 771-2423 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, November 5, 2007; SRPRC.07.61; Agenda Item No. 10).

World Peace Day Proclamation

Council proclaimed November 17-24, 2007 as YMCA World Peace Week in and for the Town of Richmond Hill. Each year during World Peace Week, the YMCA awards Peace Medallions to individuals or groups who have worked without special resources to improve the quality of life for people in our communities. They honour those working as volunteers to craft peaceful solutions to violence, poverty, injustice and discrimination. This is the 20^th year of the Peace Medallion recognizing the extraordinary commitment that community peacemakers have on the world. In Richmond Hill, residents are invited to the Peace Tree unveiling and YMCA Peace Medallion Award Ceremony on Thursday, November 22 at 6:30 p.m. at McConaghy Centre, 10100 Yonge Street. In addition to the Peace Medallion ceremonies, the YMCA also encourages the wearing of blue and white peace ribbons as a symbol of support for peace. (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, November 5, 2007; Agenda Item No. 13).

The next Committee of the Whole Meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 19, 2007 at 4:30 p.m. and the next Council Meeting is Monday, November 26, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. Both of these meetings will be held in Council Chambers.

This document was produced by the Communication Services Division staff at the Town of Richmond Hill. The contents of this summary are intended to be for information purposes only. The actual text of Council resolutions can be found on the Town's Website. Copies of staff reports and other correspondence can be obtained from the Council Support Services/Town Clerk Division.

Council Highlights
September 10, 2007 Meeting

Town Moves Forward with Yorkland/Elgin Mills Road Improvements

As part of the Town's ongoing commitment to provide a high quality road network, improvement projects continue to be identified and undertaken. In 2007, the Town invested approximately $2.2 million in road improvement projects in Richmond Hill. Based on staff recommendations, Council approved another $65,000 to cover the Town’s share of the costs to implement the southbound double left lane on Yorkland Street at Elgin Mills Road East. Over the past few years, traffic on Yorkland Street at Elgin Mills Road has continued to increase and now regularly blocks traffic exiting from Newmills Crescent onto Yorkland Street. Staff, Regional and Local Councillor Spatafora and ward Councillor Warner have received feedback about the traffic congestion at this intersection. With assistance from the Region of York, a southbound double left lane from Yorkland Street onto Elgin Mills Road will be constructed. With regard to the Town’s portion of costs, monies will be provided through the Town’s Development Charges (DC) Reserve Fund. The widening of Yorkland Street at Elgin Mills will meet the goal of improving Richmond Hill’s Transportation system by helping to develop the road network to improve flow and movement. Contact Marcel Lanteigne, Manager of Transportation, Traffic and Site Plans, at (905) 771-2456 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Tuesday, September 4, 2007; Staff Report SREPW.07.088, Agenda Item No. 15).

Town Receives Grant for Managing Parks Infrastructure

On behalf of the Town, Council received funding from the Canada-Ontario Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund (COMRIF) Asset Management Program in the amount of $45,662. As part of the agreement, the Town will also be contributing $22,831. This grant will go towards funding the Parks RECAPP project, a software system to better manage the life cycle of assets managed by the Department of Parks, Recreation & Culture. Maintained and updated outdoor recreational facilities such as pathways, playgrounds and other equipment provide children in the Town with a safe and conducive environment to play in. This demonstrates the Town’s commitment to innovative and responsible municipal management while enhancing the environment in which residents live, work and play. For more information, contact Dan Olding, Manager of Grants at (905) 771-8800, ext. 5505 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Tuesday, September 4, 2007; Staff Report SRCAO.07.032, Agenda Item No. 10).

Kids Day America/International

Council proclaimed September 22, 2007 as Kids Day America/International in the Town of Richmond Hill.

This is the 13th annual celebration of Kids Day America/International and is an International Health, Safety and Environmental Awareness Day that focuses on important issues to educate local families and communities. More than 3 million children and their families worldwide have enjoyed this day. They have also gained valuable information about health awareness, fire safety, bicycle safety, recycling, drug awareness and many other important topics that address keeping our children safe. Proceeds from the event in Richmond Hill will go to the S’port for Kids Foundation to assist their efforts in promoting active lifestyles for children through funding for organized sports. For more information, contact Donna McLarty, Deputy Clerk at (905) 771-8800, ext. 3676 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Tuesday, September 4, 2007; Proclamations, Agenda Item No. 8).

October is Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month

Thousands of children and youth in the GTA are affected by violence. To increase public awareness that child abuse is an increasing social phenomenon that needs to be addressed, Council proclaimed October 2007 to be Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month in the Town of Richmond Hill. To further encourage community involvement through educational and support programs, Council also declared October 1, 2007 to be Go Purple for Prevention Day. Citizens of Richmond Hill are encouraged to participate in activities to learn more about how to prevent child abuse and neglect. Children are important assets to our community and they deserve a safe and nurturing environment, free from abuse and neglect, in which to grow to their fullest potential. For more information, contact Donna McLarty, Deputy Clerk at (905) 771-8800, ext. 3676 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Tuesday, September 4, 2007; Proclamations, Agenda Item No. 22).

The next Committee of the Whole Meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 17, 2007 at 4:30 p.m. and the next Council Meeting is Monday, September 24, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. Both of these meetings will be held in Council Chambers.

The contents of this summary are intended to be for information purposes only.
The actual text of Council resolutions can be found on the Town's Website.
Copies of staff reports and other correspondence can be obtained from the Council Support Services/Town Clerk Division.

Summer

3^rd Annual Tastes of the Hill 2009 set to tantalize taste buds
By Vito Spatafora

Do you love sampling food from around the world?

Come tantalize your taste bud with delicious culinary delights prepared by local food vendors at the 3^rd Annual Tastes of the Hill on Sunday October 4, 2009 between 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm inside the Richmond Green Sports Centre located at 1300 Elgin Mills Road East. Once again, local restaurants, bakers and specialty food vendors will prepare authentic American, Asian, European and the Middle Eastern dishes for your enjoyment. You and your family will also be entertained by international performers and clowns to make it a fun day for people of all ages.

This popular event is presented by the Town of Richmond Hill to promote the rich cultural diversity in our community and support local businesses by exposing them to the public with their samples of authentic international foods.

Attention food vendors! There is still some room for you to participate! There is no cost to you, other than providing food samples. In turn, your business will be exposed to hundreds of people, receive free advertising and you will help support several worthy charities. For more information contact Suzanne Gaudet, Acting Manager, Special Events services at 905-771-5507.

Last year the event was a huge success that sold out quickly. Over 45 eateries served food samples to more than 1400 people. This year’s Tastes of the Hill will be bigger and better. Tickets are only $15.00 per person and for children 6 and under it’s free. Tickets are limited so buy your ticket early to avoid disappointment. For tickets call the Tastes of the Hill Hot Line at 905-771-5466 or visit our web site at www.richmondhill.ca

This year the main sponsors for Tastes of the Hill are Four Valley Excavating and Grading and the Town of Richmond Hill. The media sponsor is the Liberal Newspaper, and the platinum sponsors are Aspen Ridge Homes, Enbridge Gas, Snap Richmond Hill, Metrus Development Inc. and the Rice Commercial Group. Net proceeds from this year’s Tastes of the Hill will be donated to Mosaic Interfaith-Out of the Cold a not-for-profit organization that provides food and shelter for the homeless and Rose of Sharon, a charitable agency devoted to supporting young mothers with parenting and life skills.

Bring your family and friends. See you at Tastes of the Hill.

Richmond Hill – Let Us Entertain You!

Summers are more exciting than ever, so there is no excuse for being bored. The Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts is hosting Jazz in the Plaza and The Reel Thing Film Series. The Centre is promoting a series of multicultural performances that reflect the diverse cultural flavor of our community.

FREE, live Jazz in the Plaza outdoor concerts will be held every Tuesday evening starting at 7:30 pm. Listen to the sound of

July 7	Mike Cadio, guitar and sax	August 4	Jim Clayton
July 14	Peter Jazz Quartet	August 11	Theresa Marchione
July 21	Lester McLean	August 18	Shannon Butcher
July 28	Rob and Quincy the Quintessential	August 25	Eric St, Laurent

The Reel Thing Film Series will present a broad range of films from around the world including several new releases. Films will be viewed within the comforts of the new theatre every Wednesday evening starting at 7:00 p.m. Admission for the film will be only $5.00 per person, with the exception of the July 8 showing which is FREE. The film line up includes:

July 8	Act of God (Free-Canadian production by Daniel Iron)
July 15	Okuributo (Departure-Japanese)
July 22	C’est pas moi, je le jure! (It’s not me, I swear- French)
July 29	Waterlife (Great Lakes- Canadian)
August 5	Iron Road (New release-Chinese workers building the Canadian Railroad)
August 12	Cavaleria Rusticana and Pagliacci (Italian Opera with English subtitles)
August 18	Etz Limon (Lemon Tree-Jewish Holocaust)
August 26	The Leopard (creation of the Italian Republic with English subtitles)

For more information call the Box Office at 905-787-8811.

And don’t forget the Thursday Evening Concerts  presented by Richmond Hill Parks Recreation and Culture at Mill Pond Park that start at 7:00 p.m.

The fall season starts with the 2009 Tastes of the Hill – multicultural food festival which will be held on Sunday October 4^th from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm at the Richmond Green Sport Centre located at 1300 Elgin Mills Road East.

This annual food festival celebrates the cultural diversity in Richmond Hill by offering international food specialties prepared by local restaurants. More than 1400 guests enjoyed the entertainment and the delicious foods prepared by eateries at last year’s event. The net proceeds from the event will be donated to two charities-- Mosaic Interfaith – Out of the Cold a not-for-profit organization that provides food and shelter for the homeless and Rose of Sharon, a charitable agency devoted to supporting young mothers by providing parenting and life skills.

Mark the dates on your calendar and join us for a season of food fun and entertainment.

Olympic Fever Soon to Hit Richmond Hill

The Olympic Torch Relay begins its journey to Vancouver, British Columbia on October 22, 2009, with a lighting ceremony in Olympia, Greece – the site of the first Olympic Games. The Olympic Flame will then be handed over to Canada and begin its long journey through more than 1,000 communities across Canada, culminating with the Olympic Cauldron being lit in Vancouver on February 12, 2010, signaling the start of the Olympic Winter Games.

On December 17, 2009, you, along with your fellow Canadians, will have the once-in-a-lifetime chance to be part of the action as the Olympic Flame passes through our town on its way to Vancouver, as Richmond Hill has been selected as a Route Community for the 106-day Olympic Torch Relay! If you would like to carry the Olympic Flame, visit-- icoke.ca or rbc.com/carrythetorch. All Canadians over 13 years of age (by October 30, 2009) are eligible, regardless of physical ability.

For more information, visit www.richmondhill.ca/olympictorchrelay.

“CONCERTS IN THE PARK” SERIES IS A SURE SIGN SUMMER HAS ARRIVED!

RICHMOND HILL – If you “still like that old time rock and roll” then you won't want to miss seeing Katmandu – A Bob Seger Tribute kick off the 35th anniversary season of the Town of Richmond Hill's Concerts in the Park series this Thursday, July 9 at Mill Pond.

The Concerts in the Park series has been a summer time favourite in Richmond Hill, bringing together residents of all ages for a musical evening and a neighbourhood barbecue on Thursday evenings throughout July and August at Mill Pond Park. Also, not to be missed are the three Sunday concerts at Richmond Green Park with the first show also this week on July 12 with Houston MacPherson showcasing Celebrities – Vegas Revue.

“As long time residents know and our new ones are discovering, our Concerts in the Park series is a great way to spend a summer afternoon or evening relaxing and listening to some great music with family and friends,” said Mayor Dave Barrow. “This Richmond Hill summer tradition also showcases two of our most picturesque parks, beside the water at Mill Pond Park and at the amphitheatre overlooking Richmond Green Park.”

The free concerts commence on July 9 and begin at 7 p.m. on Thursday evenings in July and August at Mill Pond Park (north of Major Mackenzie Drive West on Mill Street). The series of three free Sunday afternoon concerts will be held at Richmond Green Park (at the northwest corner of Elgin Mills Road East and Leslie Street), beginning at 4 p.m. at the outdoor amphitheatre (north of the Sports Complex).

For a nominal fee Thursday evening concert goers can make it a picnic by enjoying a barbecue beginning at 6 p.m. (while quantities last) with all proceeds benefiting the concert series. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets or cushions to each concert for seating. Contributions for The Richmond Hill Food Bank are also welcome at each Thursday evening and Sunday afternoon concert.

In the case of inclement weather, a sign will be posted on the gazebo at Mill Pond Park at 7:30 p.m. that evening or at the Richmond Green Park front gate sign at 4:30 p.m. that afternoon notifying attendees of the concert's cancellation.

A full schedule of the concert series as well as details on the barbecue, parking and more can also be found on the Town's Website at www.richmondhill.ca/concerts.

Please see attached Backgrounder: “Concerts in the Park” Schedule & Musicians for a full concert schedule as well as descriptions of the performers.

Concert Date	Location	Entertainer	Music Genre	Presented by
Thurs., July 9	Mill Pond Park	Katmandu – A Bob Seger Tribute	Rock	Tim Hortons
Sun., July 12	Richmond Green Park	Celebrities – Vegas Revue	Las Vegas Tribute	Tim Hortons
Thurs., July 16	Mill Pond Park	Jack Grunsky (NOTE: This performance takes place from 7-8:15 p.m.)	Children’s	Tim Hortons
Thurs., July 23	Mill Pond Park	Dick Smith & Syncona	Caribbean	Tim Hortons
Sun., July 26	Richmond Green Park	Judy and David (NOTE: This performance takes place from 4-5:15 p.m.)	Children’s	Tim Hortons
Thurs., July 30	Mill Pond Park	Pauly & the Goodfellas	1970s Music	Tim Hortons
Thurs., August 6	Mill Pond Park	CF Toronto R & B Band and the Richmond Hill Centennial Pipe Band	Rhythm & Blues	Tim Hortons
Sun., August 9	Richmond Green Park	The Nomads	Variety	Tim Hortons
Thurs., August 13	Mill Pond Park	Dan the Music Man ( NOTE: This performance takes place from 7-8:15 p.m.)	Children’s	Tim Hortons
Thurs., August 20	Mill Pond Park	The Good Brothers	Country	The Liberal
Thurs., August 27	Mill Pond Park	Fleetwood Nicks – A Fleetwood Mac Tribute	Rock	Tim Hortons

The 35th Annual 2009 Concerts in the Park Series Musicians

Mill Pond Concerts:

July 9 – Katmandu – A Bob Seger Tribute:  North America’s Premiere Bob Seger tribute act, Katmandu has been bringing their amazing live show and their “…unique ability to convey songs the way they were meant to be heard, to audiences since 1988.”

July 16 – Jack Grunsky: Favourite children’s performer Jack Grunsky will pack the house with his Juno Award-winning performance.

July 23 – Dick Smith & Syncona:  It’s Caribana time! Kick back and spend a summer night with music from Dick Smith, lead drummer from Toronto’s Lion King, and Syncona.

July 30 – Pauly & the Goodfellas: Pauly & the Goodfellas will take you back to the 50s, 60s, 70 and early 80s, recreating the look and sound of the most memorable music and styles of these eras.

August 6 – CF Toronto R and B Band and the Richmond Hill Centennial Pipe Band:  Listen to great hits like “Tower of Power” and “Antonio Carlos Jobim” from Toronto Militia District Reserve Special Forces R and B Band!  The Richmond Hill Centennial Pipe Band will perform during intermission.

August 13 – Dan the Music Man:  Calling all kids and kids at heart!  Participate in a musical adventure that will stretch your imagination and tickle your funny bone!  You won’t want to miss Dan the Music Man!

August 20 - The Good Brothers:  Spend a summer night with home town favourites The Good Brothers as they sing and play their own brand of country rock.

August 27 – Fleetwood Nicks - A Fleetwood Mac Tribute: If you close your eyes, you’ll think you’re listening to the original group!  A great way to wrap up a terrific concert series!

Richmond Green Concerts:

July 12 – Celebrities – Vegas Review: Singing comic impressionist Houston MacPherson performs impressions of more than 60 celebrities and 30 singing legends. You won’t need to go to Vegas, because he brings it to you!

July 26 – Judy and David: Enjoy an afternoon of music and fun with Canada’s Juno Award-winning “Sing-A-Long Superstars!” of stage and TV fame.

August 9 – The Nomads: Come along for a musical journey with this adventurous and inspired five-member band as they explore many genres of music, like R and B, Classic Rock, Swing and Latin, with musical authenticity and integrity.

2008

Council Highlights
July 14, 2008 Meeting

Crosby Park Features Highlighted With Presentation

Council received a presentation regarding the Crosby Accessible Park features and fundraising initiatives from Crosby Accessible Park Project Steering Committee Chair, Councillor Arnie Warner. Also present was Barry Munro, representing the Richmond Hill Mobility Foundation, who thanked Council and staff for listening to the community in reconstructing the park into a place accessible to everyone. The presentation showed photos of the recently opened park, highlighting accessible features like one of the largest playground structures in Ontario that can be accessed in its entirety without steps, a fully accessible waterplay area, and gently sloping ramps to navigate all about. Crosby Park, situated amongst a woodland area with mature canopy trees, also has a rubberized play surface that resembles a forest floor, an elevated sandbox for those who are wheelchair bound, drum tables, a redesigned parking lot to allow more room for drop-off and accessibility, along with signage, seating and artwork throughout. The full presentation can be viewed on the Crosby Park section of the Town’s Website at www.richmondhill.ca/crosbypark. As part of the presentation, Ronald McDonald House Charities presented $20,000 to the Richmond Hill Mobility Foundation for the Crosby Park project. This brings the total community support for the project to $432,710. For more information, contact Crosby Accessible Park Project Steering Committee Chair, Councillor Arnie Warner, at (905) 771-2535 (From Council Meeting held on Monday, July 14, 2008; Presentation).

Honouring A Fallen Hero

Council approved the naming of a parkette on Kerrybrook Drive in Richmond Hill as Matthew Dinning Memorial Parkette in honour of Corporal Matthew Dinning who lost his life in April 2006 while on duty in Afghanistan. Born in Richmond Hill, Corporal Dinning served with the Canadian military out of Petawawa and was only 23 years old at the time of his death. Corporal Dinning and three other Canadian soldiers were killed when the light-armoured vehicle they were travelling in was hit by a roadside bomb. The site chosen to honour the soldier is the site of the former Dinning family home which was destroyed by a severe rain storm in 1986. A private dedication ceremony was held on July 12 at the parkette with members of the Dinning family in attendance. It is Council's hope that the parkette will serve to honour Corporal Dinning and all Canadian soldiers. The parkette is located at the north entrance to Pioneer Park - one of the largest forested recreation spaces in the Town and home to some of the oldest oak trees in Richmond Hill. The naming of the parkette is in line with the Town's park naming process which provides the opportunity to honour individuals and groups who have made a significant contribution to Ontario, Canada or internationally. For more information, contact Tracey Steele, Manager of Parks Planning and Natural Heritage, at (905) 771-2476 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, July 14, 2008; Staff Report SRPRC.08.49, Agenda Item #10).

Crosby Park Waterplay Facility Receives Green Grant

Council received a report officially notifying them of the successful grant funding for the Crosby Park Waterplay Recirculation project from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Green Municipal Fund. The Town will receive $85,300, which is expected to cover 50 per cent of the project costs. The Town’s Crosby Park project met the goals of the Green Municipal Fund as this innovative recirculating waterplay facility is expected to use only 10 per cent of the water used by a traditionally designed facility and it will also produce 90 per cent less discharge into the sewer system. As a result of this, the waterplay area will be available more to the public during water restriction periods in comparison to others using more water. This project shows how the Town is a leader in environmental initiatives and also gives a consistent message regarding the need for us all to conserve water. Crosby Park, Richmond Hill’s first fully accessible park, is now fully open to the public. More information on Crosby Park, including a list of features, location and photos, can be found on the Town’s Website at www.richmondhill.ca/crosbypark. For more information, contact Dan Olding, Manager of Grants, at (905) 771-5505 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, July 7, 2008; Staff Report SRCAO.08.033, Agenda Item #24).

Business Improvement Area Established For Downtown Village Core

Council approved a report to initiate the designation process to establish a Business Improvement Area (BIA) in the downtown core of Richmond Hill. The proposed area covers approximately one block deep along Yonge Street from Benson Avenue in the north to Major Mackenzie Drive in the south. The report included a proposal put together by downtown area merchants and property owners for the goals, budget, boundaries and areas of focus for a proposed BIA. The construction of the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts has been a motivating factor for businesses in the area and has also demonstrated the Town’s commitment to investing in the downtown core. Should a sufficient number of property owners and commercial tenants support the creation of a BIA and with Council’s approval, the group will be known as “Village of Richmond Hill BIA” after formal designation by a Town bylaw in November. A BIA will help make the downtown core more of a destination for residents and tourists, thereby increasing traffic and revenue for businesses as well as increase property values. Some of the activities that can be undertaken by a BIA include streetscape improvements, marketing initiatives, business recruitment, seasonal decorations and special events. The group of merchants and property owners seeking the creation of a BIA have a goal to make downtown Richmond Hill an area with a clear sense of place and identity, comprised of an exciting and attractive mix of uses and amenities by focusing on four key areas: Parking, Cleanliness/Beautification, Promotion/Marketing, and Street Activities/Festivities. For more information, contact Lise Conde, Project Manager, at (905) 771-9996, ext. 3819 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, July 7, 2008; Staff Report SRCAO.08.28, Agenda Item #22).

Spruce Hall One Step Closer To Becoming A Park

Council approved the contracting of a firm to demolish Spruce Hall, located at 31 Spruce Avenue and restore the site as parkland for recreation purposes. The facility, which was constructed in 1955, served the community for many years providing rental space for community groups to meet and hold functions. In May 2007, Council agreed with staff’s recommendation that the building had reached the end of its useful economic life as a municipal facility. As noted in a follow-up report by staff to Council in November, it was determined that significant investments for repair of the facility would need to be made in order to make its continued use viable. The property will be restored to include a grass area for passive recreation while the parking spots, bocce courts and playground equipment currently at this location will continue to be available. Demolition of the building is expected to begin in August 2008, with the full site open for use later in the fall. The long term plan for the site is to undertake a master plan and consider the needs of the community with possible further development of the site and naming of it as park. The facility has not been in use since September 1, 2007. Those groups who regularly used Spruce Hall were accommodated at other Town-owned and operated facilities. Contact J. Patrick Caron, Director of Asset Management, at (905) 771-2403 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, July 14, 2008; Staff Report SREPW.08.077, Agenda Item #34).

Town and Arena Association Working Together

Council approved a staff report and received a consultant’s report that included recommendations that will form the basis for negotiations of an agreement for the operation and maintenance of Town arenas. The report includes several recommendations on the future of the relationship between the Town and the Richmond Hill Arena Association (RHAA), including a reconstitution of the RHAA, adoption of a new financial model and a new contractual agreement. The undertaking and approval of this study demonstrates the Town’s commitment to responsible municipal management by accounting for the ever-evolving requirements and changes within the municipal arena operating environment while also respecting the Town’s strong history with the RHAA. For more information, contact Gwen Manderson, Director of Strategic Initiatives, at (905) 771-9996, ext. 3815 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, July 7, 2008; Staff Report SRCAO.08.30, Agenda Item #43).

Weather Station To Be Built In Richmond Hill

Council granted permission to the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) to install, operate and maintain a temporary weather station in the Doncrest/Beaver Creek Business Park area for the purposes of a climate change study. Over a five year period, the weather station will collect climatic data to help study the dynamics of wind currents within the two storey residential/commercial area. This research study, in collaboration with the University of Guelph, will serve as both a national and international demonstration project to better understand local climate, especially in Richmond Hill, and further encourage the stewardship of the Town’s air, water and land resources. The Open Space lands on which the weather station will sit are located directly behind Fire Station 8-3 on 16^th Avenue. After passing on several other locations in southern Ontario, the TRCA chose this site as it provided the greatest number of characteristics suitable for monitoring urban area climate. The station will consist of a hollow tower (similar to an older television tower) that will be roughly the same height as the residential buildings in the area (10 metres). The TRCA will be solely responsible for all project costs as well as the operation and maintenance of the tower. For more information, contact John Nemeth, Manager of Water Resources, at (905) 771-5495 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, July 7, 2008; Staff Report SREPW.08.073, Agenda Item #32).

Town Supports Subway Extension To Richmond Hill

Council received staff comments on Metrolinx Whitepapers 1 and 2 that outline the vision, preliminary directions and test concepts for the development of a Regional Transportation Plan for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. The plans include the possibility of extending the Yonge subway line to Richmond Hill for which Council expressed their strong support and encouraged residents to continue using public transit in their daily travels. The People Plan Richmond Hill consultation process also recently revealed that public transit and transportation were the top concerns for Town residents. Council also directed staff to request that Metrolinx consider the development of the Town’s portion of the Richmond Hill/Langstaff Regional Centre at Yonge and Highway 7 as a pilot or demonstration project in partnership with Metrolinx. Metrolinx was also present at the meeting to address the Town’s questions and concerns in a presentation. Rob MacIsaac, Metrolinx Chair, told Council that Richmond Hill is a big part of their plans, namely with the all-day, two-way GO Transit on the Richmond Hill line and giving serious consideration to extending the subway north to Richmond Hill Centre. The Metrolinx Board is scheduled to meet again in September at which time they plan to present its Draft Regional Transportation Plan and Investment Strategy. For more information, contact Paul Freeman, Manager of Policy, at (905) 771-2472 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, July 7, 2008; Staff Report SRPD.08.098, Agenda Item #20).

Town Partners With TRCA For Pioneer Park Wetland Projects

Pioneer Park will undergo construction of wetland projects thanks to Council’s agreement to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Toronto Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). Over the next few months, as part of the overall Pioneer Park Stormwater Management Rehabilitation, the TRCA will construct three instream erosion control works that will include a ground slope repair, a watercourse bank repair and a realignment of a watercourse around a sewer. The TRCA will also build an upstream wetland facility to be completed in the spring of 2010. This partnership will reduce Town costs by approximately $160,000 and the Town will also derive a significant benefit from the valuable expertise and restoration experience that the TRCA has. Pioneer Park, located just northwest of the intersection of Major Mackenzie Drive West and Trench Street (immediately west of and adjacent to York Central Hospital), is a 26-hectare open space parcel that receives stormwater discharge from the surrounding Don Head Village community. It provides erosion and flood control protection for approximately 700 hectares of land extending to points north of Gamble Road. Recently, the Town also received a $2.25 million grant for this project from the Province’s Municipal Infrastructure Investment Initiative through Infrastructure Ontario. For more information, contact John Nemeth, Manager of Water Resources, at (905) 771-5495 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, July 7, 2008; Staff Report SREPW.08.074, Agenda Item #33).

New Roads For Town Neighbourhoods

Council approved over $1 million worth of road reconstruction projects and over $500,000 for watermain replacements in Richmond Hill. The Town awarded a tender to Mar-King Construction Co. Ltd. for the reconstruction of Gells Road and Skopit Road in the area of Bayview Avenue and Elgin Mills Road East. Town records identified that the watermains are aging and require replacement and the roads have reached their optimum life cycle. Council also approved the reconstruction of Puccini Drive from Bathurst Street to Verdi Crescent to meet full urban standards. As Puccini Drive is currently a paved rural road without curbs, storm sewers and sidewalks, the subdivision’s developer developing the lands on the north side will reconstruct the road, add curbs, sidewalks and a new storm sewer system as part of their first phase of development. This project was initially planned to be done in 2012, however, the work will be done this year in conjunction with a submitted development proposal to take advantage of significant cost savings by having approximately half being borne by the developer. Also, there will be less disruption to the existing community by combining the projects into one. Temporary road closures will be necessary in completing the work at all sites and the Town asks for the public’s assistance and understanding during these times. For more information, contact Steve Fick, Director of Design, Construction & Water Resources, at (905) 771-9996, ext. 3501 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, July 7, 2008; Staff Reports SREPW.08.069& SREPW.08.072, Agenda Items #28 & 31).

Town Clarifies Height Of Privacy Screens On Decks

In an effort to provide clarity to the Fence Bylaw, Council approved an amendment to compensate for the height of privacy screens on raised decks. The Town’s Fence Bylaw regulates the heights, locations and other features of fences, swimming pool enclosures and privacy screens on all properties. Recently, there have been a number of questions raised by the public that specifically address the height of privacy screen when located on a raised deck. The previous bylaw stated that a privacy screen could not be more than 2.4 metres (8 feet) above grade regardless of it being on a deck or not. The new bylaw now allows for privacy screens to be not more than 1.9 metres (6 feet) from the floor of the deck provided the deck is more than 0.6 metres (2 feet) above grade. It is felt that this amendment will eliminate any confusion by staff and the public when interpreting the provision. For more information, contact Rick McGee, Manager of Licensing & Bylaw Enforcement, at (905) 771-2427 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, July 7, 2008; Staff Report SRPD.08.104, Agenda Item #18).

Lake Wilcox Shoreline Restoration Underway

Council approved execution of an agreement that will realize significant resource savings and improve ecology and water quality in Lake Wilcox. The agreement will authorize the Town to purchase shoreline restoration services from Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) under a partnership framework. The Town and the TRCA have been working together for over a decade to improve aquatic habitat in the Lake and the shoreline restoration work will build on past initiatives. The public is reminded that Sunset Beach is permanently closed to facilitate the restoration of the shoreline as Phase 1 of the new Oak Ridges Community Centre and Park. The planned waterplay facility at the new park will serve to replace some of the functions associated with the former beach. It is anticipated that the new waterplay will be operational for use by mid-summer of 2010. For more information, contact Tracey Steele, Manager of Parks Planning and Natural Heritage, at (905) 771-2476 (From Committee of the Whole meeting held on Monday, July 7, 2008, Staff Report SRPRC.08.27, Agenda Item #7).

Servicing Capacity To Be Allocated To New Developments

New residential developments totalling 3,000 units (approved by Council in May 2007) that have been waiting on the completion of the 19^th Avenue Interceptor Sewer and the Oak Ridges Elevated Storage Tank can now proceed with construction. Both pieces of infrastructure are critical to servicing these projects and it is expected that the sanitary sewer will be operational on time, by the end of July 2008 while the storage tank has been completed six weeks ahead of schedule. Council delegated the authority to allocate sanitary sewer capacity for projects ready to proceed during Council’s summer recess to the Commissioner of Engineering and Public Works. The completion of this infrastructure will also allow the Town to allocate servicing capacity to an additional 1,146 units from the residential reserve between now and 2010, subject to Council’s approval based on compliance with the recently adopted Interim Growth Management Strategy. For more information, contact Kelvin Kwan, Acting Director of Planning, at (905) 771-2410 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, July 7, 2008; Staff Report SRPD.08.114, Agenda Item #44).

“First Woman Of Golf’s” House Designated As Heritage Building

Council designated the Ada Mackenzie House at 86 Major Mackenzie Drive West as a property of historical and architectural value under the Ontario Heritage Act. The property is an early example of a “salt-box” farmhouse structure built in the early 1850s with surviving architectural details. In the 1940s, Ada Mackenzie (1891–1973) adapted the structure into a residential dwelling with the aid of a well-known Canadian architect, Charles E. Langley, without changing the farmhouse’s original form or footprint. Heritage attributes include historical window and door designs, an internal brick chimney and the original fireplace and mantelpiece. This highland cottage structure has since undergone several renovations, including a second storey and garage addition, but is still a rare example of yesteryear Richmond Hill and a direct link to the origins of the historical development of the area. The property is also of significance as Ada Mackenzie was Canada’s pre-eminent woman golfer from the 1920s through to the 1940s who founded the Ladies’ Golf Club of Toronto. Winning the Canadian Open five times and the Canadian Women’s Seniors’ Golf Championship eight times are just a few of Ada’s many achievements that earned her the title of the “First Woman of Canadian Golf.” The Town inducted her into the Richmond Hill Sports Hall of Fame in 2000. Ada also has a large, open space park named after her located off of 16^th Avenue, just east of Bayview Avenue. For more information, contact Donna McLarty, Town Clerk, at (905) 771-2529 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, July 7, 2008; Staff Report SRCSD.08.10, Agenda Item #41).

New Sign Bylaw A “Sign Of The Times”

To keep up with the evolving signage industry and constantly changing signage technologies, Council approved a Sign Bylaw Study to be conducted over the next five months. The purpose of the study will be to create a new and modernized Sign Bylaw to reflect what is needed in the Town, as the current Sign Bylaw was approved in 1990. With the hundreds of site specific amendments, the current bylaw has largely become obsolete in terms of anticipating and dealing with the different types of signage in Richmond Hill. Consultation will be a vital component of the study, with input expected to be received from Council, government agencies as well as the Sign Association of Canada and the Outdoor Advertising Association of Canada to formulate a bylaw that will outline the approved visual aspects of signs. The study will create a streamlined approval process for dealing with new signage schemes, as well as new or amending signs on existing buildings. Much of the background research has already been completed so it is expected that staff will report back to Council to enact a new Sign Bylaw in the fall. For more information, contact Salvatore Aiello, Acting Manager of Site Plans, at (905) 771-2471 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, July 7, 2008; Staff Report SRPD.08.099, Agenda Item #17).

Council will now break for summer recess from July 15, 2008 and resume in September. The next Committee of the Whole Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 2, 2008 at 4:30 p.m. and the next Council meeting is Monday, September 8, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Both of these meetings will be held in Council Chambers.

This document was produced by the Communication Services Division staff at the Town of Richmond Hill. The contents of this summary are intended to be for information purposes only. The actual text of Council resolutions can be found on the Town's Website. Copies of staff reports and other correspondence can be obtained from the Office of the Clerk.

2007

Council Highlights
June 12, 2007 Meeting

Graffiti Eradication By-law Enacted

Council endorsed a new Graffiti By-Law as part of the Town’s ongoing strategy to discourage and eradicate graffiti in the Town of Richmond Hill. This strategy comprises education, prevention, eradication and enforcement components, including Town staff and York Regional Police (YRP) working together on an education program for local businesses and the public, the Town’s By-law Enforcement Office working with YRP to develop initiatives and measures to deter and prevent graffiti as well as the new Graffiti Eradication By-law which will address graffiti removal from buildings, structures and objects, such as utility boxes; and Town staff and YRP continuing to investigate and research initiatives carried out by other municipalities that would benefit Richmond Hill. Council also approved hiring of contract staff to assist with enforcement and processing of complaints, files, correspondences and other administrative duties. Graffiti is a chronic problem experienced throughout the world, and the Town is taking steps to reduce the amount of graffiti in Richmond Hill where it can ensure that it is a safe and beautiful environment for its citizens. For more information, contact Rick McGee, Manager of By-law & Licensing Enforcement at (905) 771-2427

Town’s Parks, Recreation & Culture Department Receives Grant From York Support Services Network

Council approved a grant agreement between Parks, Recreation & Culture Department and York Support Services Network (YSSN) to ensure that children with disabilities continue to access recreation and culture programs of their choice. In recognition of the Parks, Recreation & Culture Department’s commitment to supporting children with special needs for many years, YSSN is providing a grant of $6,000 towards the cost associated with hiring a special needs integration staff person, for the Town’s summer day camp program from June 25 to August 31, 2007. Established in 1982, YSSN has a long history of supporting individuals and their families as they deal with the challenges of a developmental disability or serious mental illness. For more information, contact Darlene Joslin, Director of Recreation & Culture at (905) 771-2423

Commercial space soon to be available at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts

Council approved the process for leasing commercial space at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts that would create a business opportunity at the Centre when it opens in 2008. More than 800 square feet of commercial space on the Centre’s ground floor will soon be available for rent to a business who can fulfill criteria such as, leasing for retail use only and not a full-service restaurant. The selected business should also offer products that are related to the arts and respect the heritage design of the building it will occupy. A Request for Expressions of Interest (REOI) will soon be issued and be available for review. For more information, contact Michael Grit, Theatre Manager at (905) 771-5485

The next Committee of the Whole Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 19, 2007 at 4:30 p.m. and the next Council Meeting is Tuesday, June 26, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. Both of these meetings will be held in Council Chambers.

The contents of this summary are intended to be for information purposes only. The actual text of Council resolutions can be found on the Town's Website. Copies of staff reports and other correspondence can be obtained from the Council Support Services/Town Clerk Division.

Spring

Savour International Culinary Delights at Tastes Of The Hill

With the support of Mayor and members of Council, Regional & Local Councillor Vito Spatafora announced that the 3^rd Annual Tastes of the Hill will be held on Sunday, October 4, 2009 at Richmond Green Sports Centre (1300 Elgin Mills Road East). Tastes of the Hill is a celebration of food from Richmond Hill’s diverse multicultural community. This event not only promotes local food establishments by showcasing a variety of delicious fare, but also supports local charities. This year, net proceeds from the event will be donated to Mosaic Interfaith – Out of the Cold and Rose of Sharon. Mosaic Interfaith – Out of the Cold programs provide safe refuge, warm hospitality and emergency shelter in York Region to the homeless or those in need of food and clothing. Rose of Sharon provides support and educational services to pregnant and parenting young women under the age of 25 across York Region. Last year’s event attracted 1,400 food lovers of all ages who enjoyed food from more than 40 countries. The event also raised funds for Autism Ontario – York Region Chapter and York Central Hospital Foundation. For more information, please contact Regional & Local Councillor Vito Spatafora, Tastes of the Hill Chair, at (905) 771-2517 (From Council Meeting held on Tuesday, June 9, 2009; New Business).

2008

Council Highlights
June 11, 2008 Meeting

Reinvesting in Roads to Ensure Safety for the Community

Council reiterated its commitment to continuing a high level of maintenance for the Town’s road network to ensure Richmond Hill remains a safe and sustainable community in awarding tender for the reconstruction of Toscanini Road to Pentad Construction for nearly $1 million. Funding for the project is included in the Town’s capital budget, as well as through a specific Reserve Fund. Construction is expected to commence in late-June 2008 and conclude in September 2008. Some temporary road closures may be required to facilitate road improvements within the project limits. Those affected by the temporary closures, including emergency services, will be notified in advance. Temporary road closure information can also be found on the Town’s Website at www.richmondhill.ca/roadclosures. For more information, contact Grant Taylor, Manager of Construction at (905) 771-8800, ext. 3549. (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on June 4, 2008; Staff Report SREPW.08.056, Agenda Item No. 11)

This document was produced by the Communication Services Division staff at the Town of Richmond Hill. The contents of this summary are intended to be for information purposes only. The actual text of Council resolutions can be found on the Town's Website. Copies of staff reports and other correspondence can be obtained from the Council Support Services/Town Clerk Division.

Council Highlights
May 12, 2008 Meeting

Council Objects to Cell Tower

In support of concerns raised by residents, Council stated its objection to an application from Rogers Wireless to erect a 30-metre cell tower at the northeast corner of Bathurst Street and Elgin Mills Road West. More than 200 members of the community attended the Council meeting and spoke passionately about their concerns with regard to the application, as well as the approval process outlined by Industry Canada for cell tower placement. At the meeting, Council also passed a motion to place a moratorium on the processing of future applications for cell towers and/or cellular transmitting structures until such time that the Town can establish notification and consultation protocols. As required by Industry Canada, Council will forward all comments received from residents to them with regard to the application. A copy of the corresponding Staff Report and a resolution of Council to request that the application for the cell tower not be approved will also be sent. Council will also ask the Federal government to suspend any future approvals of cell towers and cellular transmitting devices until the Town adopts its new protocols for reviewing such proposals. In addition, Council is requesting the Federal Minister of Industry and the Federal Minister of Health respond to the concerns of the residents of Richmond Hill regarding the health and safety of radiocommunications and broadcasting antenna systems. The suggestions presented by a group of concerned residents called PACT (Precautionary Approach to Cell Towers), along with others, with regards to the Town's notification and consultation protocols will be considered as the Town develops a revised protocol for these types of applications (expected to be presented to Council at a meeting in October 2008). For more information, contact Ana Bassios, Commissioner, Planning & Development, at (905) 771-2417 (from Council Meeting held on Monday, May 12, 2008; SRPD.07.113, Agenda Item No. 5).

Council Provides Community Grants to Local Organizations

Almost $10,000 in community grants was allocated by Council in support of 13 local not-for-profit community groups that provide services to residents of Richmond Hill and York Region. Designed to provide funding for community-based groups and projects annually, funding may be applied for under two categories - project or special funding and operation funding - accompanied by a summary of the work the group or organization provides and why there is a need for monetary support. This year’s recipients include A Morning Out (a community support group for new moms), Cantabile Chorale (an adult choir) and the Oak Ridges Friends of the Environment (a volunteer group committed to protecting, enhancing and celebrating the area's natural spaces and cultural legacy), among others. Those wishing to apply for future funding grants should visit the Town’s Website. For more information, contact Dan Elliott, Commissioner, Finance/Treasurer, at (905) 771-2497 (from Budget Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Tuesday, May 6, 2008; Staff Report SRFIN.08.037, Agenda Item No. 1).

National Public Works Week Proclaimed

Council proclaimed the week of May 18 as National Public Works Week (NPWW) in and for the Town of Richmond Hill. From drinking water to waste disposal to facility use, public works ensures the quality of life of Richmond Hill’s business and residential communities in many ways. This week’s theme is The Future is Now and offers an opportunity to celebrate the work that is done on the community’s behalf, along with the dedication of those who deliver such services…the men and women who are devoted to helping create a safe and sustainable community. Marking its 11th year, the Town’s NPWW will host school tours (Tuesday, May 20 and Thursday, May 22) and the York Municipalities Public Works Challenge (Wednesday, May 21). The week also features a public Open House (Saturday, May 24) where residents have the chance to interact with Public Works staff and learn about the services they provide. The Open House will feature many displays from different sections of public works, as well as equipment demonstrations where attendees can climb aboard machines used to haul, pick up and excavate and see what it’s like to be in the driver’s seat! This event provides the Town and its partners the opportunity to inform residents about important environmental initiatives going on at the Town. National Public Works Week promotes awareness of these services and shows appreciation of how public works contributes to the Town of Richmond Hill. For more information, please refer to the Town’s Website (www.richmondhill.ca/publicworksweek) or contact Rosanne Fritzsche, Waste Reduction Coordinator, at (905) 884-8013, ext. 4431 (from Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, May 5, 2008; Staff Report SREPW.08.049, Staff Report No. 8).

Natural Heritage Gets a Nod of Approval

Council approved the establishment of a Natural Heritage Community Stewardship Program. The Program will bring together three existing Parks Planning and Natural Heritage programs and will help establish support in the hearts and minds of Council and the community for them. The new Natural Heritage Community Stewardship Program will also facilitate the ongoing partnerships with non-profit environmental organizations, like Evergreen, and will help formalize the Town's annual tree planting and community-based partnership programs with the creation of a dedicated source of funding. This program, along with a wide range of others, results in a number of environmental benefits, including increased tree cover, site clean-up and habitat improvements, along with community education and awareness. The staff report presented also highlighted the existing Tree and Restoration Planting, Lakes and Rivers Rehabilitation and Evergreen Community Stewardship Programs and provided rationale for bringing all of them together under one umbrella program. The new Stewardship Program will help to ensure funding is available through the Town's annual budget process and is considered as part of the 10-year Capital Budget plan. For more information, contact Tracey Steele, Manager, Parks Planning & Natural Heritage, at (905) 771-2476 (from Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, May 5, 2008; Staff Report SRPRC.08.29, Agenda Item No. 11).

Water Conservation a Top Priority

Council received a presentation from the Region of York regarding its 2008 Water Conservation Initiatives and the many programs it has in place to help residents conserve water, including rain barrel sales, free water efficient landscape visits, rebates for purchasing water efficient toilets and free gardening seminars. For its part, the Town of Richmond Hill recognizes the need for water conservation and has taken many steps to encourage its residents to upgrade fixtures and appliances (when necessary) to efficiency units, to check for leaks regularly and to change some consumption habits, thereby helping to reduce water usage by approximately 20 per cent. Council reminded residents of the Water Use Restriction By-law, which sets restrictions on outdoor water use and comes into effect each year on June 15. Doing one's part to reduce water usage saves money and will help to ensure an adequate supply of water in the future. On average, every resident in York Region uses approximately 260 litres of water a day – enough to fill two bathtubs. Therefore, it is important that we protect our environment by using available resources wisely. The goal is to see 1,500 efficiency toilets purchased and in-use, 5,000 rain barrels sold for rain water collection and to increase education regarding summer water conservation and municipal by-laws. The 10-year goal is an expected savings of 23.4 million litres on a regular day. For more information, visit the Town’s Website (from Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, May 5, 2008; Presentation).

Heritage Village Festival 2008

This year’s Heritage Village Festival is being held on Saturday, June 14, 2008 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. along Yonge Street. In support of the event, Council authorized the closure of Yonge Street north of Major Mackenzie Drive to south of Crosby Avenue, and to close Centre Street from the east side of Yonge Street to the west side of Church Street, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the event day. The Heritage Village Festival attracts more than 10,000 visitors annually and features many of Richmond Hill’s own arts and crafts artisans, community groups, music and dance groups, as well as participation from local street merchants. For more information, visit the Town’s Website or contact Maggie MacKenzie, Heritage Service Coordinator, at (905) 787-1441, ext. 223 (from Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, May 5, 2008; Staff Report SRPRC.08.33, Agenda Item No. 13).

This document was produced by the Communication Services Division staff at the Town of Richmond Hill. The contents of this summary are intended to be for information purposes only. The actual text of Council resolutions can be found on the Town's Website. Copies of staff reports and other correspondence can be obtained from the Council Support Services/Town Clerk Division.

Council Highlights
May 7, 2007 Meeting

Town Proclaims Emergency Preparedness Week

In celebration of Council proclaiming Emergency Preparedness Week (May 6 to 12) for the Town, Ontario’s Minister of Community Safety&Correctional Services, Honourable M.P.P. Monte Kwinter, joined Members of Council, and Deputy Fire Chief, Brian Ellsworth, to officially present the 6th Richmond Hill Girl Guides with their Emergency Preparedness Challenge badges. Emergency Preparedness Week is an annual, national event that aims to increase awareness about individual preparedness through public education activities. As such, the Town of Richmond Hill joined forces with Emergency Management Ontario in a new initiative called the Emergency Preparedness Challenge for the Girl Guides of Canada to teach Guiders how to “Be Prepared!” With the help of the Richmond Hill Fire Department, the Guides learned how to define an emergency, develop family emergency plans, create emergency survival kits, learn lifesaving skills, learn water and fire safety, and how to contact emergency services. In order to get their badges, the girls had to create a poster that included items that would go into a 72-hour emergency kit and be able to show what they would do if they were caught in certain emergencies (tornado, lightning storm, etc.). For more information on being prepared for emergencies, including how residents can build their own 72-hour emergency kit, check out the Town’s Website at www.richmondhill.ca. For more information, contact Deputy Chief – Support Services, Brian Ellsworth, at (905) 883-5444, ext. 230 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, April 30, 2007; Staff Report SRFD.07.05, Agenda Item No. 6).
*Please note that there are photos available from the badge ceremony with the Girl Guides, M.P.P. Monte Kwinter, Council and Town staff.

Town Awarded Youth Friendly Status

Certificates of Appreciation were presented to the Town’s Youth Action Committee members for their volunteer work and in recognition of the Youth Friendly Community Award received by the Town last week. On May 1 at Queen’s Park, as part of National Youth Week (May 1 to 7), the Town was awarded Youth Friendly status by Play Works, an independent group of organizations committed to helping youth by encouraging and promoting a greater investment in youth play. The Town was one of 14 Ontario communities acknowledged by the Play Works Youth Friendly Community Recognition Program for outstanding commitment in actively supporting and providing opportunities for the growth and development of youth (ages 13 to 19) through recreation, sport, arts, civic engagement, youth activism, volunteerism and leadership. The Town applied for Youth Friendly status last spring and was required to meet at least 10 of 16 youth friendly criteria, including providing opportunities for play, youth engagement, accessible programs and opportunities for youth activism. For more information, contact Darlene Joslin, Director of Recreation&Culture, at (905) 882-2423 (From Council Meeting held on Monday, May 7, 2007; Presentation).

Council Endorses Allocation Approach

Council was provided an update by staff on discussions with stakeholders regarding servicing capacity. The most common theme in the discussions was timeliness for processing of approvals and permits as applicants are anxious to proceed with construction as quickly as possible once the York-Durham Sewage System (YDSS) Interceptor/Lower Leslie Street Trunk (19th Avenue Sewer) is completed. To avoid potential conflict with potential home buyers, building permits will not be issued until the water and sewer infrastructure is completed. Because the timelines for construction of high-rise apartments are so much longer than for ground-related housing, the Town will consider issuing building permits for the two pre-approved high-rise projects prior to the regional infrastructure being completed (staged so that the completion and occupancy of the high-rises occurs after the regional infrastructure is constructed). Council endorsed the proposed approach to allocating servicing capacity which will become available once the YDSS Interceptor/Lower Leslie Street Trunk (19th Avenue Sewer) and Oak Ridges Elevated Storage Tank and watermains projects are completed. Council's intention is that a total of 2, 989 units will be allocated once these projects are completed. The scheduled completion of the YDSS Interceptor/Lower Leslie Street Trunk (19th Avenue Sewer) anticipated for the first quarter of 2008 and the Oak Ridges Elevated Storage Tank anticipated for the second quarter of 2008. For more information, contact Ana Bassios, Commissioner of Planning&Development, at (905) 771-2417 or Italo Brutto, Commissioner of Engineering&Public Works, at (905) 771-2527 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, April 30, 2007; Staff Report SRPD.07.034, Agenda Item No. 8).

Council Gives Over $10,000 In Grants To Community Groups

Council approved the allocation of funds in support of 19 local community groups and organizations. Grants are provided annually by the Town to assist local non-profit groups that provide services to residents of Richmond Hill and York Region. Organizations were selected by Council to receive funding after submitting an application to the Town outlining the work they do and their need for financial support. Funding for these grants is provided within the annual operating budget of the Town. Some of the groups that will receive funding this year are Air Cadets Squadron, Girl Guides of Canada (multiple local districts), Oak Ridges Friends of the Environment, Richmond Hill Centennial Pipe Band, Richmond Hill Lawn Bowling Club, Wilderness Life Skills for Youth Inc. and York Symphony Orchestra. For more information, contact Dan Elliott, Commissioner of Finance/Treasurer, at (905) 771-2497 (From Budget Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Tuesday, May 1, 2007; Staff Report SRFIN.07.026, Agenda Item No. 1).

The next Committee of the Whole Meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 14, 2007 at 4:30 p.m. and the next Council Meeting is Monday, May 28, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. Both of these meetings will be held in Council Chambers.

Council Highlights
April 11, 2007 Meeting

Revitalization of Richmond Hill’s Downtown Continues

Council approved a $10,000 grant in conjunction with the Village Core Façade Assistance Program for the restoration of St. Mary’s Anglican Church at 10030 Yonge Street. The Village Core Façade Assistance Program was first established in April 2000 to provide grants for Downtown building owners to improve the façades of their premises according to guidelines determined by the Town. Façade improvements are already underway at 10216, 10220 and 10220A Yonge Street, thanks to grants from the program. Council is pleased to support the program as it demonstrates the Town’s commitment to bringing thriving businesses and people to the Downtown area. The first grant was awarded in July 2001 and so far almost $88,000 has been committed to restoring ten building façades in the Downtown area. To continue with the success of the Village Core Façade Assistance Program, Council has approved another $45,000, to be transferred from the Yonge Street Revitalization Reserve, for future restorative projects. The Downtown Task Force was formed in April 2004 to identify the key issues and challenges facing Richmond Hill’s Downtown area as they relate to future development and redevelopment, transportation and economic viability. Residents and business owners can look forward to learning about and providing their feedback on the Town’s various Downtown revitalization initiatives at a public meeting expected to be held soon. The Village Core Façade Assistance Program supports the Strategic Plan by preserving, enhancing and developing the village core. For more information, contact Lise Conde, Downtown Facilitatator at (905) 771-8800, ext. 3819

10 Richmond Hill Residents Winners At Ontario Senior Games

On behalf of Council, Mayor Dave Barrow presented Certificates of Appreciation to the Richmond Hill winners of the Ontario Senior Games Winterfest 2007, held February 14-16 in Brockville, Ontario. These 10 winners are active members at McConaghy Seniors’ Centre. In badminton, Art Chepelsky and Birti Somayaji and Ricky Tai won Bronze; Armand Gradinetti and Monica Leung won Gold; and Roberta Simon and Sunny Somayaji won Silver. In table tennis, Ursula Lacock and Emilia Negulescu won Gold. More than 2000 seniors aged 55 and older competed at Winterfest in activities including alpine and Nordic skiing, badminton, curling, ice hockey, skating, volleyball, bowling, table tennis, snow shoeing and squash. Forty districts throughout Ontario were represented at Winterfest and participants were chosen through a series of regional qualification events. The games are designed to maintain and enhance the psychological and physiological well-being of seniors by encouraging them to stay involved in sports and recreational activities as participants or volunteers. Council also acknowledged staff from the McConaghy Seniors’ Centre for their roles in helping to coordinate the seniors’ participation in these games for the past 20 years. For more information, contact Darlene Joslin, Director of Recreation & Culture at (905) 771-2423

Town of Richmond Hill Wins 2006 David W. Pretty Cup

Council was notified by Parks, Recreation & Culture Department staff that the Town has won the 2006 David W. Pretty Cup. This is the second year in a row that the Town has won the award, which is presented annually by the Lifesaving Society to the municipality with the largest lifesaving program in a community with a population between 100,000 and 250,000. The Lifesaving Society is a charitable organization that works to prevent drowning and water-related injury through training programs, Water Smart public education and aquatic safety management services. Points are awarded to those affiliates who offer the Society’s training programs to the community, with point values reflecting the degree of difficulty and time required for training. The Town finished first with 57,754 points. For more information, contact Melanie Baker, Manager of Aquatics & Fitness, at (905) 508-5995, ext. 222

Town of Richmond Hill Awarded Youth Friendly Status

Council was notified by Parks, Recreation & Culture Department staff that the Town has been awarded Youth Friendly status by Play Works, an independent group of organizations committed to helping youth by encouraging and promoting a greater investment in youth play. The Town is one of 14 Ontario communities being acknowledged by the Play Works Youth Friendly Community Recognition Program for outstanding commitment in actively supporting and providing opportunities for the growth and development of youth (ages 13 to 19) through recreation, sport, arts, civic engagement, youth activism, volunteerism and leadership. The Town applied for Youth Friendly status last spring and was required to meet at least 10 of 16 youth friendly criteria, including providing opportunities for play, youth engagement, accessible programs and opportunities for youth activism. For more information, contact Gary Shropshire, Manager of General Programs, at (905) 882-4295, ext. 3155

Town Supports 2007 West Nile Virus Program

Council provided its support for the 2007 West Nile virus program in York Region and agreed to forward a letter of support for a regional larviciding permit application to the Ontario Ministry of the Environment. A letter of support is required from each municipality in York Region before implementing the program. Council recognizes the importance of protecting the community from West Nile virus, which that has become endemic in Ontario and, is unpredictable and has been detected in humans the past five summers. Once again this year, a Region-wide West Nile virus surveillance program will be carried out which includes contracting a pest control company to undertake the larviciding of all catch basins on municipal roads four times this mosquito season (once every 21 days). For more information, contact John Nemeth, Manager of Water Resources, at (905) 771-8800, ext. 4480

Richmond Hill Eateries Win 2007 Eat Smart! Awards

Mayor Dave Barrow, joined by Deputy Mayor Brenda Hogg and Regional Councillor Vito Spatafora, presented representatives from a number of Richmond Hill eateries with 2007 Eat Smart! Awards. Eat Smart! restaurants are nominated by York Region Public Health Inspectors because of excellent food safety records. The Eat Smart! Award program is Ontario’s Healthy Restaurant Program offered by York Region through the Health Services Department. The program recognizes restaurants and food premises that offer a variety of healthier food choices, on the menu or by request, have exceptional standards in food safety including kitchen staff certified in safe food handling and provide a 100 per cent smoke-free environment. The awards are granted on an annual basis. For more information, contact Robert Prowse, Director of Council Support Services/Town Clerk at (905) 771-2511

Richmond Hill Fire Department to Host 51st Annual Ontario Municipal Fire

Prevention Officers Association Education and Training Symposium Council congratulated the Richmond Hill Fire Department on being selected to host the 51st Annual Ontario Municipal Fire Prevention Officers Association (OMFPOA) Education and Training Symposium. Taking place in Richmond Hill from June 3 – 7, 2007, more than 200 dignitaries and delegates are expected to attend. Not only will the symposium give Richmond Hill Fire Prevention Officers an opportunity to share their knowledge and expertise, it will also support local businesses when delegates experience Richmond Hill first hand through related activities (shopping, dining, etc.). The OMFPOA is made up of more than 600 members from over 200 different fire departments and fire service related companies throughout Ontario. It plays a key role in promoting fire prevention, training and fire safety education initiatives on both Provincial and Federal levels. For more information, contact Randall K. Pyle, Chief of Fire Prevention at (905) 763-8778

Council Highlights
March 19, 2007 Meeting

Town Tree Preservation By-law

Council endorsed a new Tree Preservation By-law which will regulate and/or prohibit the injuring and destruction of trees on private property in the Town of Richmond Hill. After many months of study, including a public meeting and consultation with other municipalities, staff recommended the new By-law in hopes of protecting the Town's urban forest and sharing the importance of the contribution trees make to the community at large. Trees help clean the air by taking in carbon dioxide and producing much-needed oxygen for people to breathe. Trees also improve water quality and prevent erosion, save energy by providing shade, improve real estate values, create places of warmth and beauty and places for birds and wildlife to live. The By-law will require anyone who wishes to do work on a tree on their property with a trunk diameter of 20 cm or more (measuring the trunk diameter at breast height) to submit an application, an Arborist report and a processing fee to the Town prior to commencing work. Permit applications will be available at the Town's Main Municipal Offices as well as the Operations Centre and on the Town's Website. All applications will be reviewed to ensure that they are not subject to the York Region Forest Conservation By-Law. A Tree Preservation By-law Officer from the Town will then review the application to determine if granting a permit to undertake the work is acceptable. A fee will also be introduced in conjunction with the Tree Preservation By-law; including a $150 permit fee to destroy or injure a tree and $50 for each additional tree to be considered in the same application. The Town is also encouraging residents to report any incidences of damage or removal of trees on both private and public property as soon as they are witnessed. Council noted that it is everyone's responsibility to protect trees and encourages everyone to learn more about what they can do to ensure that native and mature trees are protected and preserved for future generations to enjoy. In order to assist with improving public awareness about the new Tree Preservation By-law the Town will also undertake a communication strategy and information about the By-law will soon be available via the Town's Website as well as through brochures, posters and advertisements. For more information, contact Tracey Steele, Manager of Parks Planning&Development, at (905) 771-2476

Richmond Hill to Participate in Pitch-In Canada’s Operation Clean Sweep

The Town is committed to protecting the natural environment and beautifying the community. Richmond Hill Council once again proclaimed the week of April 23 to 29, 2007 as “Pitch-In Canada Week”. Pitch-in Canada is a national, community-based organization comprised of eco-action and community volunteers, and believes that maintaining a quality environment and encouraging civic pride is everyone’s responsibility. In support of this year’s campaign, Council invited all staff, residents, businesses and community groups in Richmond Hill to participate in volunteer groups to clean up parks, boulevards and other public spaces throughout the Town. This is one of many initiatives the Town undertakes each year to ensure a clean, safe and beautiful community. For more information, contact Rosanne Fritzsche, Waste Reduction Coordinator, at (905) 884-8013, ext. 4431

Town Gets Even Greener With Wind Power Possibilities

Council commended Engineering&Public Works Department staff for their efforts and achievements in energy efficiency and clean air initiatives to reduce climate change impacts. Council also decided to investigate the potential of having a municipally-owned wind turbine installation. A report to Council stated that the Town is 80 per cent of the way towards meeting 2009 targets of decreasing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions from 2000 levels thanks to initiatives such as: a wind power study, use of green fuels in the vehicle fleet, hybrid vehicles, building automation systems, an anti-idling policy, Energy Efficiency Open House, Commute to Work Week and National Public Works Week. The report also investigated the possible purchasing of “green” power for Town facilities. However, Council decided that, although it does yield environmental benefits by encouraging renewable energy developers in Ontario, it has few direct benefits to Richmond Hill and would be close to an additional $1,000,000 per year in conversion costs. Instead, it was decided that investing in a wind generation project was a better use of funding to directly provide electricity to the Town. Staff will further investigate the potential for wind power in Richmond Hill. The Town has recognized that climate change and increasing GHG emissions are significant global issues of our time and has been actively working towards limiting both with programs for over 10 years. The energy efficiency and conservation measures taken to date have been effective in significantly reducing municipal GHG emissions and demonstrate the Town’s commitment to the environment. They have also resulted in significant financial savings for the Town through energy and fuel efficiency. For more information, contact Dan Olding, Manager of Environmental Programs, at (905) 771-5505

Town Requests Healthcare Funding for Growing Population

Council agreed to submit a request to the Province of Ontario for increased healthcare funding to meet the needs of Richmond Hill’s growing population. Richmond Hill is among the fastest growing municipalities in Ontario and is a key community in the Provincial Growth Plan for Ontario. However, provincial funding for Ontario’s hospitals does not take into account the increasing need for local hospital services in high growth regions such as Richmond Hill. Yet, York Region residents including Richmond Hill residents, contribute more than $170 million to the Province of Ontario in healthcare taxes. The Town will also request that the Province of Ontario commit to funding new Local Health Integration Networks (LHIN) for hospital and other healthcare services based on current population size and growth. In addition, the Town will request that the Province of Ontario develop a hospital and health services plan for Ontario’s high-growth regions to help build “complete communities” envisioned in the Places to Grow Act. This motion will be sent to the Premier of Ontario, the Minster of Health&Long-Term Care, the Minster of Finance and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario. For more information, please contact Regional Councillor Spatafora at (905) 771-2517

Town’s Water Continues To Be Safe

Council was presented with the Ministry of the Environment’s 2006 annual report of the Town’s water supply system with respect to distribution and water quality. The report confirmed that the Town’s water supply and delivery met all of the necessary levels above and beyond what is required by law. The Town conducted 1,878 tests for microbiological samples throughout the year, almost 600 more than required by the Safe Drinking Water Act. Although this report is dictated by Ontario’s Drinking Water Systems Regulation 170/03 under the Act, Council acknowledged the Engineering&Public Works Department for staff’s excellent work in maintaining the Town’s water, a precious commodity that is sometimes taken for granted. Richmond Hill receives its water from Lake Ontario by purchasing treated water from the Region of York who in turn purchases it from the City of Toronto. The water is tested throughout the process by the City of Toronto and Region of York before the Town even receives it. The Region of York is responsible for the production, treatment and storage of the Town’s water and for pumping it up from Toronto. The Town of Richmond Hill is responsible for distributing the water to the consumer through its 462 km of watermains. Town staff are certified and licensed to maintain and operate the Water Distribution System by performing a variety of tests on the watermains and samplings for disinfectant levels and bacteriological testing. The report is available for public viewing on the Town’s Website. For more information, contact George Pellarin, Acting Manager of Roads, Water&Wastewater, at (905) 771-8800, ext. 4426

Continuing Partnership for Seniors’ Programs

Council approved the continuation of the successful partnership between the Town, Carefirst Seniors and Community Services Association (Carefirst) and the Centre for Information and Community Services of Ontario (CICS) for the delivery of seniors’ programs at Bayview Hill Community Centre. The Town has been in partnership with Carefirst and CICS since January 2005 to develop and implement programs and services specifically for newcomer seniors within the community. Because of its success, the Bayview Hill Community Centre has added a new wing to house these programs, providing much-needed recreational space for seniors. The 4,000 square foot addition includes a large program room with a divider wall and an expanded lobby, both of which are wheelchair accessible. The Human Resources and Social Development Canada New Horizons Seniors’ Program is also showing its support by providing a $25,000 grant to offset operating expenses associated with the implementation of these activities. This is in addition to a two-year $137,000 grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation announced earlier this year. The Bayview Hill Community Centre was built in 1991 and already includes a gymnasium, pool, tot pool, fitness studio and several activity rooms. CICS is a charitable agency that strengthens communities by providing a wide range of cost-effective, culturally-sensitive and professional services empowering newcomers to settle and integrate into Canadian society. Carefirst is a charitable non-profit organization that has provided community support services for Chinese seniors across the Greater Toronto Area, including York Region, for 30 years. For more information, please contact Darlene Joslin, Director of Recreation&Culture, at (905) 771-2423

Winter

Council Highlights
February 17, 2009 Meeting

Town of Richmond Hill Wins United Way's Municipal Challenge Award

The Town of Richmond Hill’s annual staff United Way Fundraising Campaign was recently recognized by the United Way of York Region (UWYR) for the second consecutive year, with the 2008 Municipal Challenge Award in the large municipality category. On behalf of the UWYR, Commissioner of Engineering and Public Works and Richmond Hill United Way Committee Chair, Italo Brutto presented the award to Council and acknowledged staff’s ongoing commitment to the community. This award is presented to the municipality that accomplishes the highest percentage of participation in the category. In 2008, participation increased by 5.6 per cent over the previous campaign resulting in a total of $56,036 being raised for the UWYR. The United Way of York Region supports a network of 40 agencies, funding 100 vital social service programs. Due to the generousity and support of Town staff, as well as many other organizations, the UWYR's 2008 Fundraising Campaign raised a record-breaking total of $9,537,000. For more information, please contact Italo Brutto, Town of Richmond Hill United Way Committee Chair at (905) 771-2527 (from Council Meeting held on Tuesday, February 17, 2009; Presentations).
* Photos are available upon request.

And Roger Brown Trophy Goes To...

The success of the Town of Richmond Hill's 2008 National Public Works Week program was recognized by the Ontario Public Works Association (OPWA) with the Roger Brown Award for Public Works Week programs for municipalities with populations of 250,000 or less. On behalf of the OPWA, Commissioner of Engineering and Public Works, Italo Brutto presented the award to Council and acknowledged the work of the staff team responsible for organizing the activities for the week (May 17-23, 2008). National Public Works Week is an annual event celebrated throughout North America in support of Public Works professionals aimed at raising awareness and recognizing the impact that Public Works staff have on improving the quality of life in their community. The 2008 theme, The Future is NOW, recognized the work performed by public works staff through innovation, invention, and maintenance, helping to ensure a safe future for the community. Activities included elementary school tours, the York Municipalities Public Works Challenge and an Open House at the Operations Centre. This award is named in honour of Roger Brown, former Commissioner of Works for the former City of Scarborough and Director of Region 5 of the American Public Works Association, one of a handful of Canadians to have held the post. The Town has been participating in National Public Works Week since 1997 and was previously awarded the Bruce Brunton Award in both 1997 & 1998 for its outstanding National Public Works Week programs.  For more information, contact Italo Brutto, Commissioner of Engineering and Public Works at (905) 771-2527 (from Council Meeting held on Tuesday, February 17, 2009; Presentations).
* Photos are available upon request.

Richmond Hill BIA Gets Down to Business

Council approved the appointment of the 10 individuals elected to the Village of Richmond Hill Business Improvement Area (BIA) by its membership and amended Chapter 96 of the Municipal Code accordingly. The group includes merchants and property owners, as well as a resident representative and a Council member; the institutional representative position is currently vacant. The term will end on November 30, 2010 or until successors are appointed. With the Board of Management and executive now in place, the BIA can move forward with its 2009 Work Plan and Budget. Last November, Council designated the Village of Richmond Hill Business Improvement Area in response to a request for the designation of a business improvement area by a committee of downtown merchants and property owners. Since 2003, the Town’s Downtown Task Force has worked to facilitate the creation or reformation of a BIA for the Downtown Core area. One used to exist in Richmond Hill, but has not been active since 1995. Efforts to support the creation of a BIA for the area were renewed in 2007. Supporting linkages between merchants and property owners in downtown Richmond Hill through the creation of a business improvement area relates to the Town’s Strategic Plan by enhancing economic opportunities by preserving, enhancing and developing the Village Core. For more information, contact Gwen Manderson, Director, Strategic Initiatives Division, at (905) 771-2411 (from Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, February 9, 2009; Staff Report SRCAO.09.06; Agenda Item No. 14).

Bestseller Alias Grace to be Celebrated Through a Public Park Later This Year

Council approved the proposed design for Alias Grace Park and directed staff to proceed with the project, which will provide needed parkland services for residents of the surrounding community. The park, to be located between Ridgestone Drive and Aladdin Crescent, is named (with permission from the author and publisher), after Margaret Atwood’s novel Alias Grace, which is based on historical events linked to lands in the surrounding area. Some of the park’s features will include a children’s playground, botanical plantings, a grove of flowering trees and naturalization areas, seating, pathways and imagery from the novel in the form of sculpture, planting, pavements and site furnishings. The design of site elements (seating, fencing, light fixtures and entrance features) also provides historical cues to early settlement in Richmond Hill as detailed in the novel. Construction is expected to begin this spring and conclude in August 2009. To view the Alias Grace Park Concept Design Plan, please visit www.richmondhill.ca/parksprojects. For more information, contact Geoff Hunt, Manager of Parks, Design and Construction at (905) 771-5479 (from Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Monday, February 9, 2009; Staff Report SRPRC.09.09, Agenda Item No. 13.)

Town of Richmond Hill Celebrates International Women’s Day

Council proclaimed Sunday, March 8 as International Women’s Day (IWD) in and for the Town of Richmond Hill in recognition of the contributions of women to the community as entrepreneurs, decision-makers, employees and citizens. In Richmond Hill, the film Iron Jawed Angels will be screened at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts on Saturday, March 7 from 1 to 4 p.m. Tickets are $10 and proceeds will be donated to the Yellow Brick House, Sandgate Women’s Shelter and Pathways for Children, Youth and Families of York Region. IWD commemorates the deaths of 145 women who were killed in a fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Company in New York City in March 1911; recognizing and reflecting upon the progress made to advance women’s equality and the gains made by women in today’s society. In Canada, women make up more than half of our population. International Women's Day has been observed since in the early 1900s, a time of great expansion and turbulence in the industrialized world that saw booming population growth and the rise of radical ideologies; it’s now an official holiday recognized in many countries around the world. Annually on March 8, thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements. A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies, business conferences and government activities, along with networking events through to local women's craft markets, theatric performances, fashion parades and more. For more information about the Town’s International Women’s Day celebration, visit the Town’s Website and select the Events tab. To learn more about International Women’s Day, visit www.internationalwomensday.com. For more information, contact  Donna McLarty, Town Clerk, at (905) 771-2529 (from Council Meeting held on Tuesday, February 16, 2009; New Business).

This document was produced by the Communication Services Division staff at the Town of Richmond Hill. The contents of this summary are intended to be for information purposes only. The actual text of Council resolutions can be found on the Town's Website, www.richmondhill.ca. Copies of staff reports and other correspondence can be obtained from the Council Support Services/Town Clerk Division.

2008

Council Highlights
February 11, 2008 Meeting

Town Honoured With Snow Storage Facility Award

Council was presented with the 2007 Ontario Public Works Association (OPWA) Technical Innovation Award for the Town’s nationally-recognized Snow Storage Facility project. The Town’s Snow Storage Facility is a leading, innovative technology and the only one of its kind in Canada. The Snow Storage Facility earned the award for being an innovation of proven success of a significant advance in public works service. The project began last winter when the Town was chosen by Environment Canada for their pollution reduction study arising from snow disposal site runoff. Instead of allowing melt water to drain directly into storm sewers like most sites, the Town’s state-of-the-art snow storage disposal site includes an impervious deck to protect underlying ground water from the melt water and instead directs the collected runoff through a Stormceptor unit (oil/grit separator) and a water quality pond, eventually discharging as clean water into a tributary of the Rouge River. It is intended that once Environment Canada’s research is complete, Richmond Hill’s Snow Storage Facility will be promoted as the Canadian demonstration project for snow storage and road salt management. The award is annually presented by the OPWA to an individual, team or organization for the development, management and implementation of a creative idea, device, process or system that enhances the goals of public works in serving the public and protecting the environment. For more information, contact John Nemeth, Manager of Water Resources, at (905) 771-5495 (from Council Meeting held on Monday, February 11, 2008; Staff Report SREPW.08.024, Agenda Item No. 3).
Note: A photo of the presentation is available upon request.

Council Recognizes Community Volunteer For Heritage Achievements

Richmond Hill Council recognized local resident, Penny Parmenter, with an Ontario Heritage Trust recognition certificate and achievement pin as part of the 2007 Heritage Community Recognition Program. The program celebrates community volunteers for significant contributions to heritage conservation in their communities. Ms. Parmenter, who was nominated by the Town, was recognized for her passionate and tireless work in the community, preserving heritage and educating others. Ms. Parmenter is a founding member of the local group called the Society of Citizens for Old Richmond Hill (S.C.O.R.H.) that deals with general ratepayer issues and helps to enhance and beautify the environment. Most notably and recently, Ms. Parmenter helped take on the Front Door Program that replaces doors on Yonge Street businesses with heritage reproductions or restored originals. Penny’s work also extends to Heritage Village Day, held each year in June, where she coordinates the horse-drawn wagon ride and tends S.C.O.R.H.’s lemonade stand in a historical costume. Ms. Parmenter is also a recognized donor to the Town’s historical collection and shares her wisdom of vintage dolls with the public over afternoon teas, all as a volunteer. The Trust will recognize Ms. Parmenter province-wide with the other recipients in their Heritage Matters magazine, annual report, on their Website and in other media products. For more information, contact Maggie Mackenzie, Arts & Heritage Centre Coordinator, at (905) 787-1441, ext. 223 (From Council Meeting held on Monday, February 11, 2008, Presentation).
Note: A photo of the presentation is available upon request.

Town To Apply For Pioneer Park Stormwater Grant Of $2.25 Million

Council approved the Pioneer Park Stormwater Management Rehabilitation Project as a capital project and that the Town apply for a grant under the Ontario Government’s new Municipal Infrastructure Investment Initiative (MIII) in the amount of $2,250,000. The Pioneer Park Stormwater project is in the Town’s 10-year capital forecast and has been identified as the highest priority stormwater project. The Pioneer Park stormwater management facility was built in 1985 and is located in a 26-hectare open space parcel located north of Major Mackenzie Drive, immediately west of and adjacent to York Central Hospital. The facility needs to be replaced to meet modern stormwater treatment standards. The grant would cover costs of construction works associated with the rehabilitation of a flood control stormwater management facility to provide protection to downstream flood-vulnerable areas, enhance erosion control, treat water quality, protect existing infrastructure, and stabilize and rehabilitate the watercourse. This project will provide an example to other municipalities on how to adapt their stormwater infrastructure to reduce the likelihood of impacts from extreme weather events related to climate change. For more information, contact Dan Olding, Manager of Grants & Strategic Initiatives, at (905) 771-5505 or John Nemeth, Manager of Water Resources at (905) 771-5495 (From Committee of the Whole Meeting held on February 4, 2008, Staff Report SRCAO.08.012, Agenda Item No. 9).

Council Approves The Draft Water & Wastewater Budget

Council approved the 2008 Water and Wastewater Budget, which results in an 8.72 per cent combined retail rate increase to the 2007 rate. This increase is due to the 6.35 per cent rate increase from the Region of York for both water and wastewater services. The Region provides water and wastewater treatment services to the local municipalities and the Town then provides these services to the community through the water and sanitary sewer infrastructure system that connects each household and business. The change is due to increasing costs of providing the services, daily operational costs, replacement costs, new regulation requirements in testing and specialized training for staff as well as the increased wholesale rate being charged. Also of note is the fact that the Town is now required to ensure full cost recovery for providing water and wastewater services including provision for infrastructure replacement needs. The amended By-law, No. 10-08, reflects the new combined retail rate of $1.8518 per cubic metre and a water service only rate of $0.8682. The flat rate for properties that do not have a water meter installed has also been adjusted to $90 per quarter, to reflect average consumption and the new combined retail rate. If a bill is paid on or before the due date, a 1.25 per cent discount will be applied. Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Town is responsible for maintaining the water and wastewater infrastructure in good condition to ensure safe drinking water for the community. Council encourages all residents to be mindful of water use and efficiency now where possible. For information on water and wastewater as well as tips on water conservation, visit the Town's Website at www.richmondhill.ca/water. Contact Dan Elliott, Commissioner of Finance & Treasurer, at (905) 771-2497 (From Budget Committee of the Whole Meeting held on Tuesday, January 29, 2008, Staff Report SRFIN.08.010, Agenda Item No. 4.3).

This document was produced by the Communication Services Division staff at the Town of Richmond Hill. The contents of this summary are intended to be for information purposes only. The actual text of Council resolutions can be found on the Town's Website. Copies of staff reports and other correspondence can be obtained from the Council Support Services/Town Clerk Division.

COUNCIL MOVES TO PROTECT ADDITIONAL DUNLAP OBSERVATORY FEATURES

Cultural Landscape Heritage and Key Heritage Attributes Added to Designation

RICHMOND HILL - At its meeting on Monday, January 28, Richmond Hill Council stated that the Town will undertake any necessary process to amend the description of heritage attributes of the David Dunlap Observatory lands within the designation process to include additional heritage attributes. This means that, in addition to those already identified, more features of the property could be protected.

In October 2007, Richmond Hill Council passed a resolution that all historical buildings on the property be recommended for designation under the Ontario Heritage Act. The designation recognized the significance of the buildings and surrounding property and would provide the Town with the ability to protect them. At that time, Council also requested that a Cultural Heritage Landscape Assessment Study be prepared for the site. That report was completed by Cultural Heritage Consultant Andre Scheinman and recommends that, in addition to those features listed on the current designation, additional heritage attributes, including landscape features, be added.

Richmond Hill Mayor Dave Barrow said, “Council has been committed from day one to take whatever steps it can to protect the community's interest. The consultant’s report and comprehensive inventory will give the Town a stronger tool that it can use to provide guidance to how changes can be managed and what should be protected if the property is subject to development in the future.”

In order for the designation to come into effect, a process must be followed: including the Town publicly stating its intent to designate; a 30-day public notice period where objections can be filed with the Conservation Review Board; followed by a Conservation Review Board Hearing and recommendation; and a final decision made by Richmond Hill Council. Two objections to the notice of intent have been filed and the Town awaits notice by the Conservation Review Board of the Hearing.

This amendment would mean that even more features of the property could be preserved. It is important to note that the designation does not mean that there would be no future development on the property, however, it does enable the Town to better manage the process and protect the identified heritage resources, as well as apply a sensitive approach to development activity.

The Town has already expressed its intention to consider bidding on Parcel B (the portions of the property where the Elvis Stojko Arena and Observatory Park are located). “We continue to reach out to other levels of government and actively pursue partners to purchase the property, however, we cannot do it on our own,” added the Mayor.

A copy of the staff report and presentation presented at the January 28, 2008 meeting can be found on the Town's Website under the Meetings tab.

BACKGROUNDER: COUNCIL MOVES TO PROTECT DDO FEATURES

• The land where the David Dunlap Observatory is located was donated in the 1930’s as a gift to the University of Toronto by Jessie Dunlap as a memorial to her husband David Dunlap.
• Together with Mrs. Dunlap, the University of Toronto set three objectives for the project: astronomical research, the training of advanced students at the University of Toronto, and the fostering of public interest in astronomy.
• The David Dunlap Observatory Lands are currently owned by the University of Toronto. The Observatory has been a centre for astronomical research in Canada since its opening in 1935. The Black Hole was discovered by an astronomer working at the David Dunlap Observatory in 1972.
• In September 2007, the University of Toronto announced its intention to sell the David Dunlap Observatory lands.
• On September 14, 2007, Council issued a statement that expressed their commitment to ensure that future uses of the property will benefit the community as a whole
• At their meeting of September 24, 2007, Council passed a resolution and By-law (123-07) to recommend the David Dunlap Observatory at 123 Hillsview Drive, specifically the observatory, administration building, the outbuilding east of the administration building and the Alexander Marsh Residence (Elms Lea), for designation under the Ontario Heritage Act and to this end a notice of intent to designate was published in The Liberal (October 2007).
• In November 2007, Andre Scheinman, Cultural Heritage Consultant was hired to complete an assessment on the cultural heritage value of the landscape portion of the property. This report supplements the heritage attributes described in the by-law (identifying the Caretaker’s residence and the radio shack as well as the administrative buildings and Alexander Marsh residence).
• Those buildings on the property that are currently being considered for designation include the observatory, administration building and out building east of the observatory as well as the Alexander Marsh Residence for designation.
• Two objections in response to the notice of intent to designate have been filed with the Conservation Review Board by the University of Toronto and the Richmond Hill Naturalists.
• The Town is awaiting the Conservation Review Board Hearing.
• A final decision will be made by Council after the Conservation Review Board’s hearing.
• January 24, 2008, the Region of York endorsed the Town of Richmond Hill’s efforts to secure the culturally-significant David Dunlap Observatory, along with its land and buildings. York Region agreed with the Town’s assessment that the buildings have great cultural significance to the community, and the Region’s Significant Woodlands Study in 2005 identified 39 hectares of the property as significant woodlands and a natural heritage resource.
• At its January 28, 2008, Council passed a motion requesting the University delay the closing and awarding of the Request for Proposal to allow for time for the Town and its residents to determine future uses of the property. The motion, made by the Mayor at the January 21 Committee of the Whole meeting, will be forwarded to representatives of the Provincial and Federal governments.

Media Release:

Richmond Hill receives Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation Award

On February 12, 2007 the Town of Richmond Hill was honoured by the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation with the Moraine for Life Award under the category of Municipal Leadership. Richmond Hill Parks Department partnered with Evergreen Foundation to acquire funds for the five-year York Region Stewardship Program. Since 2003, over 3,000 native trees and shrubs and over 6,000 wildflowers were planted in the Briar Nine Park and Reserve located on Bloomington Road west of Yonge Street. Other moraine-focused projects include the Lake Wilcox Habitat Enhancement Project, habitat enhancement at the North Shore Parkette, the Healthy Yards Program and the Pesticide Reduction strategy. The Town plans to continue its work on the Moraine with programs such as the Hypolimnetic Withdrawal project in Lake Wilcox to restore the quality of water in Lake Wilcox.

“Recognizing the Town’s work to restore the natural environment on the moraine by the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation is a tremendous honour” said Vito Spatafora, Regional and Local Councillor for Richmond Hill. “The Parks Department strives to ensure an environment first approach with our parks and open spaces on the Oak Ridges Moraine. The award acknowledges the value of the Town’s efforts.”

Other award recipients were Dorothy Izzard, Michaela Halsey, Senator Homes and York Region for their innovative approach with the York Durham Sewer System.

For symposium details visit www.ormf.com/symposium

Regional News

Fall

Third Annual Diversity in Governance Awards

Call for Applications – Deadline: December 11, 2009

Has your organization made positive steps to embrace diversity in governance? Now is your chance to receive recognition for your efforts and inspire others to follow your lead!

The Diversity in Governance Awards honour not-for-profit and public agencies, boards and commissions in the GTA that have made tangible gains in promoting diversity on their boards.

For further information, please visit the Maytree website.
Questions? 416-944-2627 | diversecityonboard@maytree.com

2008

York Regional Council
November 20, 2008

New Deputy Clerk named for The Regional Municipality of York

York Regional Council approved the appointment of Christopher Raynor to the position of Deputy Clerk for The Regional Muncipality of York.

Before joining York Region, Mr. Raynor spent more than five years as Committee Clerk for the Town of Markham and worked in the telecommunications industry in England.

York Region United Way Campaign exceeds goal

York Region Chairman and CEO Bill Fisch joined members of Regional Council to congratulate York Region and York Regional Police staff for their recent achievement of raising more than $234,000 for the United Way of York Region.

The spirit and generosity of staff lead York Region to its most successful campaign result ever – achieving nearly $10,000 more than the campaign goal of $225,000.

York Region s staff campaign committee encouraged their peers to give to the United Way through payroll donations and participation in fundraising events.

York Region will be holding its 14^th Annual United Way Craft & Gift Sale on Thursday, November 27^th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the York Region Administrative Centre, located at 17250 Yonge Street in the Town of Newmarket. Members of the public are invited to attend.

The Regional Municipality of York wins gold sustainability award

The Regional Municipality of York won a gold “Whole City Award” at the 2008 International Awards for Liveable Communities presented in Dongguan, China earlier this month. The United Nations-endorsed LivCom awards recognize how a community is performing with respect to the cultural, political, economic, geographic and climatic environment in which they are situated.

York Region won first place in the population category of more than 750,000 residents. York Region s current population is estimated at more than 1 million residents.

A total of 17 countries and 43 delegate groups attended the event. Presentations by the contenders were assessed by an experienced panel of experts in the field of local government planning, the environment and sustainability. The judging criteria focused on six key areas: Enhancement of the Landscape, Heritage Management, Environmentally Sensitive Practices, Community Sustainability, Healthy Lifestyles and Planning for the Future.

For more information on the International Awards for Liveable Communities, please visit the website at www.livcomawards.com/media-2008/press-releases.htm

Highway 9 east to Highway 400 renamed Davis Drive West

York Regional Council has approved the renaming of Highway 9 between Highway 400 and Yonge Street to Davis Drive West. The name change will take effect January 1, 2009.

The name change to Davis Drive West is one of a number of changes recommended by York Regional Council in April as part of improved safety measures for the roadway and is consistent with the Council's objective of redefining this Regional road as a municipal street and not a highway.

York Region acquires new property in the Towns of East Gwillimbury and Whitchurch-Stouffville

York Regional Council approved the purchase of a 121-hectare (299-acre) property in the Towns of East Gwillimbury and Whitchurch-Stouffville to expand the Bendor and Graves tract of the York Regional Forest.

The land was acquired as part of the York Region Greening and Securement Strategy, whose goal is to secure environmentally-significant properties from development. Since the strategy began in 2001, York Region has secured 800 hectares (2,000 acres). This property acquisition is the largest to date.

The cost of the property securement is approximately $3.3 million.

Fact sheets on immigration, language and diversity point to complex ethno-cultural mix

The Regional Municipality of York, in partnership with the York Region Social Data Strategy Consortium and the Community Reference Group, has released the next series of Just the Facts About Your Community. The fact sheets provide the stories behind the numbers regarding York Region s population.

Based on the most recent Census data collected by Statistics Canada, three new fact sheets in the Just the Facts About Your Community series detail York Region s diversifying and changing population. The topics of the new fact sheets are:

• Immigration and Mobility
• Ethnic Origin and Visible Minorities
• Languages of Residents Living in York Region

Just the Facts About Your Community are distributed across York Region to residents, local municipalities, community agencies, the business community and other stakeholders. The fact sheets can be viewed on York Region s website at www.york.ca/yrcsd

York Region requests additional funding to support service gaps in addiction services

York Regional Council will request the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) allocate additional provincial funding to support service gaps and shortfalls for addiction services in The Regional Municipality of York, including development of a local residential withdrawal (detox) facility.

Although health care funding is based on a per capita spending formula, provincial funding to support local health care, including addiction services, does not match the Region s expansive growth and significant gaps have been identified.

York Region is the fastest growing Census division in Ontario and has experienced a 22-per cent growth in population between 2001 and 2006. It s estimated that 15 per cent of any population may have addiction problems.

C. difficile reporting will benefit public health and hospitals

York Regional Council approved a report detailing York Region public health s role in new mandatory provincial reporting for Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) introduced in September 2008.

Ontario hospitals are now required to report C. difficile information and associated disease outbreaks to local public health units. The decision follows an announcement from the Ministry of Long Term Care (MOHLTC) on May 28^th requiring all Ontario hospitals to report on eight different patient indicators, including C. difficile.

The goal of mandatory reporting is to keep local health units informed and prepared in the event of an outbreak, as well as assist hospitals to track and control C. difficile. As part of the new reporting program, public health responsibilities are increased, requiring the hiring of an additional public health nurse.

C. difficile is a bacterium that can cause symptoms ranging from diarrhea, fever and/or weight loss to severe, life threatening disease. C. difficile is the most common cause of infectious diarrhea in hospitals.

The C. difficile report will be circulated for information to the Central Local Health Integration Network (LHIN), Central Region Infection Control Network, Southlake Regional Health Centre, Markham-Stouffville Hospital and York Central Hospital.

York Region complying with Ontario Regulation regarding implementation of AODA standards for customer service

York Regional Council received an update on the obligations connected to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), 2005, specifically the Accessibility Standards for Customer Service (Ontario Regulation 429/07). This is the first regulation under the AODA.

The AODA applies to both the public and private sectors and covers every aspect of life except private homes. The goal of the AODA is to ensure that all Ontarians with disabilities have full and equal access to goods, services, facilities, accommodation, employment, buildings, structures and premises by January 1, 2025.

The purpose of the Customer Service Regulation is to make organizations customer service operations accessible for people with disabilities by identifying and removing barriers to customer services in operational practices, policies and procedures, communication and staff training.

With the input of the York Region Accessibility Advisory Committee, York Region will continue to integrate accessibility planning into business practices and processes across all departments.

Proposed Sites for Private Electric Power Generation

York Regional Council received a report outlining York Region s work to monitor the proceedings of the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) as it conducts a preferred site selection process for a 350-megawatt peaking plant in northern York Region.

As of October 1^st, proponents have identified eight potential sites within York Region for the proposed peaking plant.

All proposals are subject to the Environmental Assessment process. Regional Council resolved that all proponents responding to the OPA s Request for Proposal for a 350-megawatt peaking plant must conduct a human health and environmental risk assessment for each site, to be provided for public review and comment.

Council also requests the OPA extend the commenting period for Environmental Assessments until after it has made its decision on the preferred site, expected in January 2009.

Regional staff will monitor the Environmental Study Reports and, if necessary, provide comments to the MOE during the 30-day commenting timeframe to ensure any issues are identified and appropriately addressed by the MOE and/or the proponent.

New Agency Development Fund will expand York Region s investment in community-based services

York Regional Council approved the New Agency Development Fund (NADF) Strategy, which allocates $500,000 to help build the capacity of new and emerging community-based social services agencies in 2009.

York Region s growth and diversifying population has put pressure on community agencies to provide an increasing level of support. The NAFD funding helps overcome this by encouraging growth of new agencies to support growing needs. The new source of funds will assist agencies to be better organized and provide more service to those in need.

To maximize the success of this program, renewable funding may be offered to successful agencies for a total of three consecutive years, based on achieving annual objectives. The Region will also provide non-financial support to assist in developing the organizational structure of these agencies.

This Strategy is a result of extensive community and social service agency consultations, research on new agency funding strategies and discussions with other levels of government. Interested agencies will be invited to apply for funding through a community-wide call for proposals process in 2009.

Developing Opportunities for Ontario Renters (DOOR) - 90 Dew Street, Township of King

York Regional Council authorized staff to proceed with the development of a 40-unit addition to the existing 27 unit Housing York Inc. building at 90 Dew Street in the Township of King.

York Region will commit up to $300,000 from the Developing Opportunities for Ontario Renters (DOOR) fund to cover development-related costs that may be required until a financing mechanism is selected and approved by Regional Council.

A Request for Proposal for architectural services for this project will be issued. York Region will also investigate partnership opportunities with community service agencies to provide supportive housing for this project.

The development of this site meets several goals of the Region, including providing much needed affordable housing, improving accessibility for existing residents and intensification of an underutilized building site.

2009 International Investment Attraction Program

York Regional Council approved the 2009 work plan for the York Region International Investment Attraction Program and budget, subject to the approval of the 2009 Economic Development budget.

The International Investment Attraction Program focuses on attracting new investment opportunities from sustainable companies that are leaders in their industries.

As outlined in York Region s Sustainability Strategy, sustainability will make York Region more competitive in attracting a talented labour force in high value jobs with leading edge companies.

The program is a key component in achieving the Region s Growth Management plans that have identified the creation of 320,000 new jobs for a total of 780,000 jobs by 2031.

York Region encourages local businesses to become more sustainable through greening strategy

York Regional Council has adopted a number of sustainability initiatives for York Region businesses for implementation in 2009.

The initiatives are designed to strengthen entrepreneurship and encourage the development of networks, industry clusters and a highly-efficient workforce. They include the Guide to Greening Your Business, an information resource for local municipalities and their Economic Development Officers who assist local businesses with sustainable economic development.

In addition, sustainability workshops and a training initiative with Seneca College will strengthen the development and growth of the environmental sector in the local municipalities.

The initiatives will assist local businesses in adopting sustainability and will provide opportunities for sharing information and ideas and forming new linkages and networks within the business community. These linkages will be essential to foster sustainable procurement and foster conditions where environmental innovation can thrive.

2008 York Region Business Directory released

York Regional Council today released the 2008 York Region Business Directory, a listing of approximately 26,800 businesses within The Regional Municipality of York.

The Directory supports business activities such as marketing and the sourcing of local trades and suppliers. It also assists residents when conducting job searches and locating specific products and services within York Region.

The online directory enables residents to search the data using a combination of criteria, including company name, product or service, city or town, postal code, industry classification and the number of employees.

To access the 2008 York Region Business Directory, please go to www.york.ca then follow the links for Business and Business Directory.

The CD-ROM version of the 2008 York Region Business Directory is $180, but is available free-of-charge to non-profit organizations, local libraries and area municipalities. To obtain a copy, please contact York Region Planning and Development Services Department at 905 830-4444, Ext. 1550.

York Regional Council
September 18, 2008

York Regional Council recognizes retiring managers for years of service

York Regional Council praised three retiring senior managers today for their long service to York Region and our residents.

Retirements included Shawn Turner, General Manager of Long Term Care, who served 24 years, Tom Appleby, Director of Supplies and Services, who served 13 years and Elizabeth Wagle, Director of Family and Children’s Services, who served 10 years.

York Region to recognize Character Community Week

York Region will recognize Character Community Week from October 27-31, 2008. The Character Community initiative is operated by the Character Community Foundation of York Region, whose philosophy emphasizes good character as the basis for a strong community.

York Region to recognize Toastmasters Month

York Region will recognize October 2008 as Toastmasters Month. Toastmasters is an international, nonprofit educational organization that operates clubs worldwide for the purpose of helping members improve their communication, public speaking and leadership skills.

Stouffville Water Supply Project update

York Regional Council today received an update on the Stouffville Water Supply Project to bring a blended groundwater/lake-based supply to service the community of Stouffville up to 2036.  Construction to connect the York Water System with the current groundwater system is underway and it is anticipated the blending of groundwater and lake-based water in the community of Stouffville may begin as early as March 2009.

York Region Receives award for 2008 Business Plan and Budget

The Regional Municipality of York has received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for the 2008 York Region Business Plan and Budget.

In order to receive the budget award, York Region had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for an effective budget presentation, including how well our budget serves as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide and a communications tool.

This is York Region’s fourth Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the GFOA.

York Region to help acquire Perryman property on Oak Ridges Moraine

York Regional Council has approved the allocation of $762,000 towards the purchase of the 33-hectare (83-acre) Perryman property on the Oak Ridges Moraine in the Town of Richmond Hill, subject to successful fundraising efforts by partner organizations.

The property, located at 11751 and 11825 Leslie Street, will be jointly purchased by York Region, the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), the Town of Richmond Hill and the Oak Ridges Moraine Foundation.

The TRCA will take ownership of the property contingent upon confirmation from the TRCA and the Town of Richmond Hill that the property will be reforested. Maintenance of the property will be the responsibility of the TRCA or the Town of Richmond Hill, pending future discussions between both parties.

While the property is protected from development as part of the Oak Ridges Moraine, this purchase will allow naturalization efforts to take place.

For more details concerning the Perryman property acquisition, please view the staff report.

YRT Bus Procurement

York Regional Council today approved the purchase of seven 30-foot York Region Transit (YRT) buses at a cost of $2.5 million, plus GST.

The new vehicles will be used as both replacement and new vehicles in the YRT fleet.  Currently, there are 307 YRT vehicles and 90 Viva vehicles in the York Region bus fleet.

YRT/Viva assists residents in need with discount transit fares pilot program

York Regional Council has approved a new YRT/Viva discounted fares pilot program to assist at-risk York Region residents. In partnership with local community assistance agencies focused on homelessness, York Region will provide discounted YRT/Viva tickets to enable travel for residents in need.

Discounted YRT/Viva tickets will be distributed to pre-selected community agencies through local municipal offices. Agencies will receive tickets at a 15 per cent discount, helping to affordably transport their clients and reduce the need for more expensive taxi travel.

Participating community agencies include Sandgate Women’s Shelter of Georgina, Yellow Brick House, Leeder Place Emergency Family Shelter, Inn from the Cold, Newmarket Youth Shelter and The Welcoming Arms Ministry.

Results of the one-year pilot program will be evaluated in fall 2009.

Central LHIN

York Regional Council has approved the participation of York Region Community and Health Services staff in a seniors falls prevention project with local community agencies.

This collaborative program is funded by the Central Local Integration Network in an effort to prevent the significant number of falls that are the leading cause of injury in those over 65 years old.

As part of the project, York Region staff will train service providers in the area of falls prevention and health promotion.

York Region receives up to $375,000 in provincial funding to help reduce Emergency Medical Services (EMS) off-load delays

York Regional Council today approved the use of up to $375,000 in provincial funding to hire dedicated emergency room (ER) nurses to address York Region Emergency Medical Services (EMS) patient off-loading delays at our hospitals.

As a result of the provincial funding, dedicated nurses will be staffed at Southlake Regional Health Centre, York Central Hospital and Markham-Stouffville Hospital during peak times of patient off-loading. They will treat, manage and care for patients with non-life threatening conditions. Nurses will take over patient care from EMS until the hospital ER is ready to accept the patients.

York Region has been working in partnership with all three York Region hospitals to ensure the successful implementation of dedicated ER nurses during the period of October 1, 2008 to March 31, 2009.

York Region sends four-sided pool fencing report to local municipalities for review

York Region will circulate a report to our local municipalities regarding the adoption of four-sided pool fencing for swimming pools. Currently municipal bylaws only include three-walled fencing, with a home serving as the fourth side.

The report states that four-sided pool fencing could prevent seven out of 10 drowning accidents in children under five years old. Drowning is the second leading cause of injury-related death in children between the ages of one and four in Canada.

For more information, please view the staff report.

York Region to improve efficiency of Material Recovery Facility

York Regional Council has approved $1,295,000 to increase the efficiency and capacity of the Waste Management Centre’s Material Recovery facility.

The funds will be used to make upgrades to the existing technology as well as phase in a third employee shift to manage increased volumes of recyclables. By making the Material Recovery Facility more efficient, the Region expects to see an increase of materials diverted from landfills, resulting in increased provincial funding for recycling efforts.

Alternative Blue Box container study continues

York Regional Council today received the findings of a two-month alternative Blue Box container study conducted in Township of King and the Town of Richmond Hill, which examined ways to increase the volume or Blue Box recyclables while reducing neighbourhood litter from open and overfilled recycling bins.

Over the months of February and March 2008, residents tested a large, reusable, wheeled container with a lid as a recycling bin, and then tested clear blue plastic bags.

Study results showed that less than three per cent of the reusable containers had litter beside or near them and no litter was found near any of the clear blue bags.

Other study data concluded that 65 per cent of residents in both King and Richmond Hill preferred the reusable container, while collection staff preferred the clear plastic bag.  Roughly half of all study participants reported a noticeable decrease in recycling related neighbourhood litter.

Proposed sites for power generation

York Regional Council reconfirmed the following principles to apply to a peaking power plant or any new electric power facilities that may be required in York Region:

• The legislative and regulatory authority for provision of electricity to York Region consumers rests with the Province and the local distribution companies
• The Ministry of the Environment must ensure proper environmental assessments are carried out to meet the highest standards set by the Ministry of the Environment for such facilities, and take into consideration, among other things:
• • Environmental, social and economic impacts on existing and future residential communities
  • Detailed analyses in respect to the Provincial Greenbelt Plan and Oak Ridges Moraine Plan, if applicable
  • Visual impact and assessment of the potential economic impact on affected homeowners

Staff from York Region will prepare a further report for presentation to a future Planning and Development Committee meeting in autumn 2008 that provides an update on applications received. In addition, staff will be asked to report on the issue of exporting power to the United States and the health and environmental risks related to air emissions from electric power generation

Planning for Tomorrow 2031 forecast and land budget

To meet growth requirements over the next 25 years, staff from York Region will propose a series of Regional Official Plan amendments to expand urban boundaries and designate additional lands to meet forecasted needs by 2031. Currently, there is an available region-wide employment land supply to meet growth for the next 8.5 years.

York Region holds public consultations on preferred growth scenario

The Regional Municipality of York is holding a third and final phase of consultations for Planning for Tomorrow, York Region’s growth management initiative, September 17^th to 25^th. A series of five open houses are being held to review a preferred growth scenario of 40 per cent intensification that was endorsed by York Regional Council in May as the basis for the Region’s growth management plan to 2031.

The provincial growth plan forecasts York Region's population to reach 1.5 million people by 2031, an increase of approximately 577,000 people.

To successfully implement the provincial growth plan, York Region must add 336,000 jobs for a total of approximately 800,000 jobs by 2031. In addition, York Region must add 234,000 households to our current stock of 276,000 households.

The findings from the Phase 3 Planning for Tomorrow open houses will be reported as part of the Region’s growth management review in late 2008 and be used to assist infrastructure planning.

Economic and Development Review - Mid Year 2008

The Economic and Development Review – Mid-Year 2008 is now available, providing local municipal economic development and planning officials with highlights of York Region’s economy.

Some highlights include:

• In the first half of 2008, York Region’s population grew by 14,500 people to reach 997,600.
• The Region’s unemployment rate in June 2008 was estimated at 5.8 per cent, lower than the GTA, provincial and national unemployment rates.
• With 4,669 permits, York Region was ranked 4th across Canada for the number of new residential units with permits issued during the first half of 2008.
• The Region’s total estimated value of construction totalled $1.5 billion by mid-year 2008, while ICI construction accounted for $439 million.
• By mid-year 2008, there were 3,389 of housing starts and 4,764 housing completions.

For a full analysis, please view the report online.

York Region to add 166 fee-assisted child care spaces

The Government of Ontario has increased Best Start funding to York Region effective April 1, 2008.

This program funding of $1.6 million will increase the number of child care fee assisted spaces by 166, from 3,043 to 3,209.

York Region accepted for a Local Immigration Partnership

The federal Department of Citizenship and Immigration Canada has appointed The Regional Municipality York to lead the development of a York Region settlement strategy.

Immigrants accounted for approximately 60 per cent of York Region’s growth between 2001 and 2006.  As of 2006 there were approximately 46,000 York Region residents who had immigrated to Canada within the last five years. This proportion is expected to increase.

A local settlement strategy will help new residents succeed at integrating both socially and economically.

York Region will work collaboratively with key community stakeholders to establish a “made in York Region” settlement strategy that is reflective of the unique needs of the Region and secure funding for settlement services.

Development of the strategy will be funded through the federal government’s Local Immigration Partnerships initiative.

York Regional Council approves $2.9 million expansion of the Community Development and Investment Fund

York Regional Council today approved the expansion of the Community Development and Investment Fund (CDIF) to enable The Regional Municipality of York to purchase important community services.

York Region will continue to purchase services through CDIF that provide results in one year. In addition, York Region will now fund core services for up to three years. The expansion will enable agencies to receive assistance with technical equipment, professional development and sustainability strategies.

The program enhancements are already included in the Region’s operating budget. In 2008, York Regional Council approved budget enhancements totalling $2.9 million for CDIF.

To be eligible for CDIF funding, community service agencies must address one or more of three priority areas:

• Child and family supports
• Homelessness services and homelessness prevention programs
• Employment supports

Community service agencies interested in submitting a proposal to receive CDIF funding in 2009 should obtain a Purchase of Service Request (PSR-08-01) package that contains further information. The package is available online at www.york.ca (click on the CDIF Purchase of Service banner), or by visiting the York Region Administrative Centre, Supplies and Services Branch, 1st Floor, located at 17250 Yonge Street in the Town of Newmarket.

An information session on the Purchase of Service Request package will be held on Friday, October 3^rd at 1:30 p.m. in the Seminar Room at the York Region Administrative Centre.

This Purchase of Service closes Thursday, October 23^rd at 1 p.m.

“What if York Region were a village of 100 people?”

The Regional Municipality of York, in partnership with the York Region Consortium, has prepared a brochure entitled, “What If York Region Were a Village of Just 100 People?”

This is the first in a series of six fact sheets that have been prepared to communicate the facts surrounding York Region’s diversifying and changing population.

The information will help York Region’s municipalities, community agencies and the business community to understand and assess community needs and improve services.

For a breakdown of the facts, please view the brochure.

Next meeting of York Regional Council

York Regional Council will meet on Thursday, October 23^rd at 9:30 a.m. at the York Region Administrative Centre Council Chambers, located at 17250 Yonge Street, Newmarket.

Council Highlights compiled by:
Michael Kemp, Corporate Communications, York Region
Phone: 905 830-4444, ext. 1232 or Cell 905 251-6419
Email: michael.kemp@york.ca

2007

York Regional Council Highlights

Meeting held on
Thursday, November 15, 2007

Just the Facts About Your Community reveals vital information about York Region residents

The Regional Municipality of York, in partnership with our Community Reference Group, has released Just the Facts About Your Community, a new series of fact sheets to help provide the stories behind the numbers regarding York Region’s population.

The first four fact sheets – based on Statistics Canada data – provide an analysis of the characteristics, opportunities and challenges of four segments of our communities: families, low income residents, seniors and youth.

Some examples that stand out:

• York Region has the highest proportion of married couples with children in Canada
• The median family income of $75,678 in York Region in 2001 was second highest in the GTA
• In 2006, 18 per cent of male seniors and seven per cent of female seniors were working or looking for work
• 97 per cent of youth aged 20 to 24 years in 2006 still lived in a family household
• 20 per cent of youth aged 15 to 19 years in 2001 were not attending school
• 10.5 per cent of youth aged 15 to 25 years in 2001 were unemployed compared to 4.5 per cent for the total population

Just the Facts About Your Community will be distributed across York Region, to the general public, area municipalities, community agencies, the business community and other stakeholders. Also available in Chinese, Farsi and Russian, the fact sheets can be found on York Region’s website at www.york.ca under Just the Facts About Your Community.

The Regional Municipality of York invests $1.7 million to assist working poor and other vulnerable residents

York Regional Council today invested nearly $1.7 million in community agencies under the Community Development and Investment Fund (CDIF) strategy. Regional Council will invest $458,000 for the last six months of 2008 and $917,000 annually beginning in 2009 to replace a provincial program, the National Child Benefit Reinvestment Strategy, which will be discontinued in July 2008.

Through CDIF, the Region will purchase 24 community service projects to be implemented in 2008. Projects range from employment supports such as skills testing to housing support services that help young parents and the homeless to secure and maintain affordable housing. Other projects are designed to give children and youth positive role models through projects that include mentoring, counselling and goal-setting to help develop important life skills.

Each year, about 35,000 York Region residents benefit from the services purchased and delivered through the CDIF strategy. CDIF projects diminish the need for more costly social and community services at a later point in time.

York Region demonstrates commitment to improving access for residents with disabilities

York Regional Council today received a progress report detailing the successful implementation of Towards Accessibility, York Region’s 2007 accessibility plan, which highlights how our departments and York Regional Police Services are working to identify, remove and prevent barriers to people with disabilities.

In the 2007 plan, 85 accessibility initiatives are included. Of these, 29 per cent are completed, 52 per cent are underway and 19 per cent are planned.

As part of this initiative, the York Region Administrative Centre’s north parking lot was recently reconstructed to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The project improved the number, size and proximity of accessible parking spaces and provided a safer crosswalk. A new building entrance features sub-surface heating coils to prevent ice build-up in the winter.

Planning for the 2008 plan is underway and will be integrated into the Region’s 2008 business planning and budget cycle.

York Region to apply for federal homelessness funding

York Regional Council today authorized Regional staff to apply for $1 million of funding under the federal Homelessness Partnering Initiative and any Homelessness Partnering Strategy. Funding has been conditionally allocated for the period April 1, 2007 to March 31, 2009.

York Region will contract out capital investments in shelter and transitional and supportive housing to facilities that help the homeless get off the street, and to community service providers in the Region.

Since April, York Region staff members have been working on a new Community Plan to Address Homelessness to provide vital services to the most vulnerable residents and strengthen the quality of life in all York Region communities. The plan is scheduled for completion by the end of the year and will be submitted to Regional Council for adoption early in 2008.

York Region Household Hazardous Waste Campaign Wins Awards

York Regional Council recognized the York Region Solid Waste Management department for winning a 2007 Gold Communications Award from the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) for our 2006 Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Campaign.

The campaign urged residents to keep hazardous waste out of the garbage and away from the drain. It also won the Silver Award for Promotion from the Recycling Council of Ontario (RCO). The successful campaign helped increase resident traffic to HHW Depots last year by 22 per cent.

2008 York Region Tourism program

York Regional Council today approved the 2008 York Region Tourism program. Highlights of the program include:

• Advertisements in popular newspapers, radio stations and print publications such as CAA magazine, Festival & Events Ontario, and The Tait Collins Great Toronto Getaway and Great Ontario Getaway
• Participation in a number of York Region trade shows, the Ontario Motorcoach Canada Association Show, and Incentive Works Trade Show
• The print and distribution of 400,000 copies of the York Region Visitors Guide, 200,000 copies of FestiFall, 10,000 copies of the Keynote Meeting Resource Guide and 1,000 copies of Meet Local – York Region Corporations
• Ongoing participation and partnership with tourism and hospitality industry memberships
• Continued promotion of local events on www.yorktourism.com

Funds for the 2008 York Region Tourism program are subject to York Regional Council approval of the 2008 Economic Development operation budget.

Bio-Diesel for Viva Fleet in 2008

York Regional Council today approved the use of a cleaner burning bio-diesel fuel blend to be used in all 90 Viva rapid transit vehicles in 2008. The integration of the biodegradable fuel will significantly reduce fuel emissions, making Viva an even greener alternative to driving a car.

A 2007 pilot project conducted by York Region Transit (YRT) and the Region’s contracted Viva operator Veolia Transportation demonstrated a significant decrease in emissions from using bio-diesel fuel in five Viva test vehicles. Pilot project results reported a minimal increase to operational cost; however, carbon monoxide emissions were significantly reduced by an average of 22 per cent.

Bio-diesel is a clean-burning alternative fuel produced from vegetable oils and/or animal fats. The bio-product contains no petroleum, but can be blended with petroleum diesel to create a bio-diesel blend. The 2008 Viva fleet will be fuelled with a 20 per cent bio-product to 80 per cent diesel blend from mid-spring to mid-fall, switching to a five per cent bio-product to 95 per cent diesel blend for the colder months.

The switch to bio-diesel blend fuel is pending final 2008 budget approval and is subject to continued successful operations and emissions tests. The cost to extend the program to the entire Viva fleet in 2008 is estimated at $200,000. Ongoing evaluation of the program will be used to assess the merit of expanding the use of bio-diesel fuel in the YRT fleet.

Economic analysis of human services costs

York Regional Council today received a report outlining costs for providing human services to residents. Human services are defined as services and programs that support a safe, health community, while maintaining and promoting its quality of life.

Among the key facts and findings of the report:

• Human services costs for a 12-month period between 2005 and 2006 were $2.7 billion
• Of the $2.7 billion, 13 per cent or $361.5 million were directly borne by The Regional Municipality of York through community services, health services, housing and GTA pooling costs
• Human services costs are expected to rise with the rapid pace of growth in the Region, with the population expected to reach 1.5 million by 2026
• With this pace of growth, human services costs are anticipated to reach as much as $3.4 billion by 2026, with York Region assuming as much as $789 million of those costs

Faced with the potential of rapidly rising costs, the report recommends a further analysis and projection of human services costs that include:

• An update of current human services spending
• A projection for human services spending through to 2031, based on changing demographics and variations in the consumer price index
• A set of policy recommendations on human services planning that reflect York Region’s growth management planning and Sustainability Strategy

The additional analysis is to be presented to York Regional Council in early 2008.

York Region receives building accolades for Administrative Centre

York Region has won a Masonry Masterpiece Award in recognition of the York Region Administrative Centre building in the Town of Newmarket.

The Administrative Centre was recognized in the innovation category for its extensive stone façade and as a building of architectural significance in the Region.

The York Region Administrative Centre was opened in late 1993 and designed by architect Douglas Cardinal, renown for his curvilinear building designs.

The Masonry Masterpiece Awards, sponsored by MasonryWorx in partnership with Construction Canada, recognizes excellence in building with masonry products and celebrates heritage and unique buildings.

MasonryWorx is an industry association representing Ontario’s masonry product manufacturers, suppliers and skilled professionals.

York Region Sustainability Strategy adopted by Regional Council

York Regional Council today adopted the final version of the York Region Sustainability Strategy, a new approach to decision-making that better integrates economic, community and environmental objectives.

The strategy includes more than 100 actions, with half already underway. The actions are organized under the themes: Corporate Culture of Sustainability, Healthy Communities, Economic Vitality, Sustainable Natural Environment, Education, Engagement and Partnerships, and Implementation and Monitoring.

York Region’s website – www.york.ca – provides information on the Region’s Sustainability initiative as well as opportunities to submit online feedback. Click on the “Planning for Tomorrow” link on the main page for more information, or email your comments or questions to futureyork@york.ca

York Regional Council supports City of Vaughan’s objection to Waste Excellence Corporation growth request

York Regional Council voted today to support the City of Vaughan in its objection to Waste Excellence Corporation’s request to increase the size and scope of its operation through an amendment of its Provisional Certificate of Approval from the Ministry of the Environment (MOE).

The Regional Municipality of York will send correspondence to the MOE requesting that the ministry enforce all conditions of the current Certificate of Approval before considering any amendments.

York Regional Council approves study of fiscal and economic implications of the Region’s Growth Management Strategy

York Regional Council approved a study of the fiscal and economic implications of the various growth options available to the Region as part of the Region’s Growth Management and Regional Official Plan update process.

The products of this study will be a series of reports and analyses, covering capital expenditures and revenues, tax levy impacts, reserve and reserve fund requirements, debt interest and principal payments, long term fiscal impacts, and funding requirements.

Council Highlights compiled by Michael Kemp, Corporate Communications, Office of the CAO
Phone: (905) 830-4444 ext. 1232 or toll free 1-877-464-9675
Cell: (905) 251-6419, Email: michael.kemp@york.ca

The next Regional Council meeting will be held Thursday, December 13, 2007 at 9:30 a.m.

The contents of this summary are for information purposes only. Actual text of Council resolutions and official copies of reports to Council can be obtained from the York Region website at www.york.ca under Regional Government

York Region Leader in Waste Diversion

To view the table, you can either view the web version here or you can download the PDF here.

The York Region Waste and Municipal Diversion Table compares waste diversion and disposal services provided by the nine area municipalities and the Region of York as of September 11, 2007.

The table shows that York Region and the nine area municipalities have collectively achieved 49 % waste diversion. Considering the northern six municipalities just began the source separated waste diversion (i.e, weekly green bin pick up) as of September 2007, the Region has been very successful with the program. York Region's objective to reach 65 % waste diversion should be achieved within the next year.

For further information contact Andy Campbell, Director York Region Waste Management at 905-764-6345 ext 5711

York Regional Council Highlights
September 27, 2007

Big Brothers Big Sisters of York recognize Mayors and Regional Councillors for supporting Bowl for Kids Sake 2007

Big Brothers Big Sisters of York officials – Executive Director Moragh Wolfe and Manager of Fund Development Maddy Nichol – made a presentation to Regional Council thanking them for their support and leadership to help make the Bowl for Kids Sake 2007 a successful fundraising event.

More than a 1,000 participants in every community across York Region helped to raise $221,000.

Richmond Hill Mayor David Barrow, East Gwillimbury Mayor James Young and City of Vaughan Regional Councillor Gino Rosati received plaques for their roles as Champions. Town of Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti received special recognition for his double role as Honourary Co-Chair and Champion. A key role of the Champions was to invite corporations to participate as sponsors.

Township of King Mayor Margaret Black, Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville Mayor Wayne Emmerson, Town of Georgina Mayor Rob Grossi, Town of Aurora Mayor Phyllis Morris and Town of Newmarket Mayor Tony Van Bynen were thanked for their participation and support of the event.

Yonge Street emergency sewer repair in Town of Aurora

York Regional Council has allocated $1.1 million in funds from the 2007 Roads Capital Program for emergency sewer repair work on Yonge Street north of Industrial Parkway South in the Town of Aurora.

In July of 2006, Regional Road Maintenance staff discovered a pavement depression on the roadway. Further investigation of nearby storm sewers with closed circuit television revealed areas of severe cracking and collapsing of the storm pipe.

As a dewatering permit is required to repair the sewer – which takes approximately three months – and the full extent of the damage had not been fully assessed, steel plates were temporarily installed in October 2006 to reinforce the road and re-open it to traffic.

Work is set to commence for the replacement of the storm sewer and pavement rehabilitation, and is expected to be completed by November 2007.

York Region to remove hazardous trees

York Regional Council has authorized the allocation of $80,000 from the Forest Operations Budget to implement the York Regional Forest Hazard Tree Management Strategy.

The strategy recommends inspecting and assessing the health of trees along high-use trails in the York Regional Forest every two years and low-use trails every four years to determine if they pose a threat to hikers and other forest users. Trees that pose a potential danger will be removed.

The decision follows an earlier recommendation from York Regional Council to implement a tree removal strategy following an outbreak of a root rotting fungus known as Red Pine Decline in the York Regional Forest. The fungus increases the potential threat of falling trees.

York Regional staff will explore an option to recuperate the cost of the program from the sale of removed trees.

Funders’ Alliance builds on organizational strengths

York Regional Council received a report informing members of the York Region Funders’ Alliance and its role in promoting the sustainability of York Region’s non-profit sector.

Established in 2002, the York Region Funders’ Alliance is a semi-formal network of funding organizations representing provincial and regional funding bodies. The focus of the Alliance is on building the organizational strength of the non-profit sector to increase its ability to serve the community. This is different from other coalitions, such as the Human Services Planning Coalition, which focuses on advocacy for investment in human services.

Alliance members work together to invest strategically in York Region’s non-profit sector, with a common goal of strengthening community capacity, avoiding duplication, filling gaps and investing in ways that best meet residents’ needs. It facilitates collaboration by members of the Region’s non-profit sector to find innovative ways to become more responsive to the growing and diverse needs of York Region’s residents.

Regional Council implements two per cent provincial increase for emergency shelters, domiciliary hostel operators and personal needs allowance

Regional Council approved a plan to implement the Province’s decision to increase the maximum per diems paid to emergency shelter and domiciliary hostel operators by two per cent.

The provincially cost shared (80:20) per diem paid to emergency shelter operators will increase from $39.95 to $40.75, effective December 1, 2007, and the per diem to domiciliary hostel operators will increase from $45.00 to $45.90, effective June 1, 2007.

The Province also increased the monthly personal needs allowance by two per cent, effective December 1, 2007.

Emergency shelters provide temporary lodging and meals to homeless individuals, families and youth. Domiciliary hostels provide long-term board and lodging for individuals requiring supervision with their daily living activities. The Region pays per diems to emergency shelter operators and domiciliary hostel operators, on behalf of eligible residents through purchase of service agreements with the Province cost shared 80:20. The Province pays 80 per cent of the cost under the Ontario Works Act and the Ministry of Community and Social Services Act, and the Region pays the remaining per cent of the cost.

These increases provide needed financial support to operators and clients and will have a positive impact on the level of care provided to vulnerable residents across York Region.

Province boosts Best Start program with another $3.5 million

The Province has increased its level of Best Start funding to York Region effective April 1, 2007. This $3.5 million increase includes $1.5 million in the 2007 budget and $2 million in 2008. These amounts are in addition to the increase that was previously reported at the June 2007 Council meeting.

The Best Start Initiative, which is being phased in over 10 years starting in November 2004, supports child care fee subsidies, child care special needs and wage improvements for child care operators.

The increase in Best Start funding provides York Region with a limited opportunity to address the wait list for child care fee assistance and to provide wage improvement funding for program staff in licensed child care centres.

According to York Region’s Economic Strategy, a skilled workforce is one of the key drivers to retain the Region’s competitiveness, attract investment and ensure future economic development. Access to quality child care is essential to allow parents across York Region to participate in the workforce and support York Region’s economic prosperity. Local municipalities and local businesses benefit from a stable, expanded, quality child care system.

Provincial grant of $70,000 to support two sports projects for youth

York Region has received a grant of $70,000 from the Ministry of Health Promotion’s Communities in Action Fund to support two sports projects for youth 13 to 18 years of age from June 2007 until March 2009.

The two programs, Play It Forward and PLAY 2, will give children of low income families in underserved social housing communities in York Region the opportunity to participate in sport and recreation programming.

Numerous studies have demonstrated that children and youth who are involved in regular sport and recreational activities have increased self-confidence, higher self-esteem and an improved self-image, which contributes to strengthening children, families and communities.

The two-year project budget is $120,000. PLAY 2 will be managed by local recreation departments through Purchase of Service Agreements with York Region. YMCA of Greater Toronto will deliver the Play It Forward Program and is contributing $35,000. York Region will contribute $15,000 through the Community Services and Housing Department’s approved budget.

The Communities in Action Fund supports the Province’s ACTIVE 2010, a sport and recreation strategy designed to increase physical activity in Ontario.

Life Saving Society sustains Swim to Survive

York Region received funding of $47,227 from the Life Saving Society to provide basic water survival lessons to Grade 3 students in York Region during 2007/2008. Swim to Survive provides children in Grade 3 with three basic skills: roll into deep water, tread water for one minute and swim 50 metres.

In November 2005, York Region, in collaboration with the nine local municipal recreation departments, local school boards, and the Lifesaving Society, launched the Swim to Survive pilot across York Region. The pilot was implemented in response to the high number of children that drowned in Ontario during the summer of 2005.

In 2006/2007, 98 schools with a total of 3,330 Grade 3 children participated in the program. In 2007/2008, 104 schools with a total of 4,746 Grade 3 children will participate.

The total project budget is $62,727 for the 2007/2008 school year. York Region’s contribution of $10,500 will be managed within the approved budget of the Department of Community Services and Housing. The remaining $5,000 will be contributed by the two school boards.

Regional Council endorses results of Phase 2 consultation on growth scenarios and forecasts

Regional Council endorsed a report on Phase 2 of the Planning for Tomorrow Public Engagement process and feedback. This phase of consultation involved the review and consideration of growth scenarios with stakeholders in York Region and the preliminary assignment of forecasts to the local municipalities.

In Phase 2, there were 6 Town Hall meetings (Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill, Aurora, East Gwillimbury and Newmarket) and an additional 22 consultation sessions with other stakeholders.

The key messages raised throughout the Town Hall meetings included the pace and impact of growth, ensuring quality employment for York Region residents, addressing sustainability, providing affordable housing and human services, locating and designing intensification, protecting natural heritage and agricultural resources, and ensuring infrastructure is efficient, well designed and keeps up with the pace of growth.

There are also a number of emerging implementation challenges; ensuring a supply of affordable housing, integrating the natural heritage system into new “whitebelt” communities, alternative approaches to transportation while addressing congestion, and the fiscal impacts of growth.

Following the Phase 2 consultation, Regional staff will be:

• Refining the growth management numbers (Fall 2007)
• Completing a 25-year fiscal impact analysis of growth scenarios (January 2008)
• Conducting an environmental analysis of growth scenarios (Fall 2007)
• Coordinating with the infrastructure master plans (water and wastewater and transportation) (ongoing through Fall 2007)
• Broadening the growth scenarios to include a 50 per cent intensification scenario (Fall 2007)

The overall public engagement and consultation work plan approved by Regional Council in 2005 includes a third phase of consultation on the preferred growth scenario selected by Regional Council and on implementing Regional Official Plan Amendment. This is anticipated to proceed in 2008 and will be coordinated with ongoing Master Plan work, including the Water and Wastewater Master Plan and the Transportation Master Plan.

The staff report will be circulated to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal (PIR), the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and local municipalities for information purposes.

Regional Council approves the 2006 Transportation Fact Book for distribution

The 2006 Transportation Fact Book provides general information and statistics about the transportation system in York Region and highlights the major aspects about the road and public transit infrastructure and commuter support services that are available in York Region.

This overview of the Region’s transportation system will help staff to monitor and plan for future transportation needs.

The Transportation Fact Book will be made available to local and adjacent municipalities, local Chambers of Commerce, stakeholder groups and public libraries for public distribution and may be downloaded from the corporate website.

Staff report outlines publicly-funded human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine

York Regional Council received a report regarding the new publicly-funded vaccine against human papilloma virus (HPV) that will be offered to young women in Grade 8 through a voluntary school-based program beginning this fall.

The Gardasil vaccine has been shown to be 99 to 100-per cent effective in preventing persistent HPV infection with types 6, 11, 16 and 18, particularly when given before females become sexually active and are exposed to the HPV infection.

The report notes that HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in Canada and a cause of cervical cancer. This vaccine is expected to decrease the incidence of cervical cancer.

Newmarket Health Centre continues to provide high quality care and service

Regional Council received a report detailing a spring 2007 Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) compliance review demonstrates that the Newmarket Health Centre continues to provide high quality care and services.

The Newmarket Health Centre is in substantial compliance with MOHLTC Standards and Guidelines for the provision of long-term care programs and services.

In the report, the Health Services Department acknowledged the efforts of staff and volunteers and commended them for the excellent quality of care they provide to their clients.

Regional Council approves 2008 diversion and solid waste management initiatives

Regional Council approved several pilot programs to advance the 2006 Joint Municipal Waste Diversion Strategy, subject to 2008 Solid Waste Management Branch budget approval. They include:

• The Town of Richmond Hill and the Township of King pilot projects to examine opportunities to optimize York Region’s Blue Box program in the first quarter of 2008
• The three-stream waste management pilot in the Town of Newmarket’s Tom Taylor Trail system and neighbouring parks during the summer of 2008

In addition, Council approved the introduction of a strategy to explore multi-residential waste management options through pilot projects within Housing York Inc., York Region’s social housing corporation.

Regional Council also received a summary of the promotion and education activities organized by York Region’s Solid Waste Management Branch for 2007. Activities included attendance at Region-wide events, hosting of public events and running advertising campaigns.

York Regional Council approves new organizational change

To ensure that York Region is best positioned to meet the needs of residents, York Regional Council has approved the following departmental changes:

• Joann Simmons was appointed Commissioner of the newly-formed Community and Health Services department
• Recruitment will begin for a Commissioner of a newly-formed Transportation Services department and for a Commissioner of a newly-formed Environmental Services department

The Community and Health Services department will combine the existing departments of Community Services and Housing with Health Services. Community Services and Housing Commissioner Joann Simmons has been acting as Commissioner of Health Services since February 2006.

The Transportation Services and Environmental Services departments will be formed from the existing Transportation and Works department. Currently, Transportation and Works comprises nearly 65 per cent of the Region’s program budget and will continue to grow in the future, making the formation of two departments a logical step forward.

Transportation Services will oversee the Roads Transportation branch and York Region Transit. Environmental Services will oversee the Water and Wastewater and the Solid Waste Management branches.

The departmental changes were made following a comprehensive and independent 3-½-month review process. As part of that process, the Region will continue to examine new and better ways of doing business over the coming months through a formal Continuous Improvement Initiative.

Winter

York Regional Council
February 19, 2009

York Regional Council approves 2009 Operating Budget

York Regional Council today approved a $1.35 billion Operating Budget as part of The Regional Municipality of York’s overall 2009 Business Plan. The Budget responds to increased demand for Regional services while renewing a commitment to financing hospital capital funding.

To meet York Region’s growth needs for more than one million residents, the Operating Budget will increase services across all Regional departments.

The Operating Budget includes a 2.2 per cent tax levy increase, which will have an impact of approximately $42 for the year for a York Region residential property assessed at $400,000.

The Budget increases York Region’s annual contribution to Hospital Capital Funding for the Region’s three existing hospitals and the planned hospital in the City of Vaughan to $12 million.

The Budget has been reviewed by Regional committees and staff. It features $21.5 million in growth and enhancements, including:

$4.7 million for Hospital capital funding

• Topping up York Region’s 2009 contribution to $12 million

$3.6 million for Community & Health Services

• New contact centre for Health Connection and front-line staffing
• New rent supplement program
• Increased staff for long term care day programs and child and family health programs
• Contribution to reserves for non profit housing provider capital repairs

$3.5 million for contributions for Capital Asset Replacement

• Replaces aging infrastructure including transit vehicles and supports the Region’s AAA credit rating

$2.3 million for York Regional Police

• 38 additional police officers and 14 civilians

$2 million for Transit (YRT/Viva)

• 24,660 additional service hours

$1.6 million for Solid Waste Management

• Accommodate increase tonnage for blue box recycling, green bin organics and residual waste
• Blue box bylaw enforcement, waste reduction advocacy and green bin promotion and education

$1.4 million for Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

• 12 paramedics and 168 additional ambulance hours

$1.1 million for Social Services and Social Housing reserves

• Social services long-term planning

$900,000 for Regional Roads

• Road maintenance for additional lane kilometres

March 2009 is Red Cross Month

York Regional Council has endorsed a request by the York Region branch of the Canadian Red Cross to recognize March 2009 as Red Cross Month.

The Red Cross is an international volunteer organization that provides relief to victims of disasters and helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.

Bicycle lanes confirmed for Highway 7

York Regional Council confirmed that bicycle lanes will be incorporated into Highway 7 from Highway 50 to Don Cousens Parkway, as outlined in the York Region Pedestrian and Cycling Master Plan.

The York Region Pedestrian and Cycling Master Plan recommends on-street bike lanes (lanes integrated with the road) along Highway 7, where dedicated rapid transit lanes will be established. In areas where transit will operate in mixed traffic, the master plan recommends boulevard paths (separate from the road).

Light Rail Transit study planned for Don Mills Road and Leslie Street

York Regional Council has authorized staff to proceed with the planning and design of Light Rail Transit (LRT) on Don Mills Road and Leslie Street from Steeles Avenue to Highway 7, as identified in the Metrolinx Regional Transportation Plan. The work will be conducted in conjunction with an Environmental Assessment.

York Region expands child dental program for low income families in need

York Regional Council today approved the expansion of the Children in Need of Treatment (CINOT) program for 2009. The program expansion is a result of a $1.38-million funding allocation from the Ministry of Health Promotion.

For more than 20 years, the CINOT program has been providing financial assistance to eligible children (up to age 14) who require preventative, urgent and essential dental treatment. Expansion of the program will increase access to dental services for eligible youth between the ages of 14 to 17 years old.

Beginning in 2010, the expanded CINOT program costs will move to the current 75/25 per cent cost-sharing formula between the province and York Region. Using 2008 data, this would cost the Region an extra $350,000 per year.

In 2008, more than 2,000 children under the age of 14 living in York Region benefited from the CINOT program. For more information, please view the report.

York Region appoints representative to Source Protection Committee

York Regional Council approved the appointment of Laura McDowell, Director, Environmental Promotion and Protection, as the municipal representative for York Region and our nine municipalities to the Credit Valley, Toronto Region and Central Lake Ontario Region Source Protection Committee.

The appointment of Laura McDowell to the committee ensures York Region continues to meet our legislative obligations under the Clean Water Act.

York Regional Council activates provincial funding initiative

York Regional Council continued its environmental leadership role by endorsing the Wellhead Protection Areas for York Region and Intake Protection Zones for Lake Simcoe. This endorsement allows homeowners and municipalities to pursue funding opportunities through the Ontario Drinking Water Stewardship Program.

This program is designed to protect our drinking water sources by providing funds for upgrading wells and septic systems to residents living in areas designated as being close to municipal wells or water intakes.

York Region monitors trends in labour force demand in 2008 versus 2007

York Regional Council received an update on the 2008 Job Hiring Index results which identify and analyze hiring trends in York Region in between 2007 and 2008.

Workforce development was identified as a strategic initiative in York Region’s 2005 Economic Strategy. One of the actions proposed for the Region was to facilitate better forecasting of industry requirements, skills shortages and deficiencies within the Region.

This report presents the job hiring data for the first two years of data collection in 2007 and 2008 and provides the first year-over-year comparisons.

• In 2008, there were 49,361 job postings across York Region, representing a six per cent decline versus the 52,491 jobs posted in 2007.
• During the first and second quarters of 2008, job postings increased by five per cent and 20 per cent, respectively. However, declines in job postings in the third quarter of 13 per cent and 32 per cent in the fourth quarter reflect the impact of the global economic situation on the hiring plans of employers in York Region.

York Region builds geospatial information

York Regional Council received five staff information reports outlining the activities and accomplishments of York Region’s Planning and Development Department in the area of geomatics information management over the past year.

The creation and maintenance of current and accurate geospatial information adds analytical capacity and quality that support a range of Regional responsibilities and decision-making processes. It is used by York Region and our partners and stakeholders in day-to-day operations, including:

• Police - custom tools and training to help fight crime
• Emergency response - current critical infrastructure essential to emergency management
• Fire services - run time analysis facilitates optimum station locations
• Health services - infectious disease analysis aids early detection and prevention
• Environmental monitoring - Lake Simcoe freshet flood mapping enabled proactive response
• Sustainable development - understanding complex growth management challenges such as the Yonge Street subway expansion business case
• Enriched communities through coordinated geospatial infrastructure - 3D models visualize current and future scenarios

York Regional Council endorses work plan to update the Regional Official Plan

Regional Council approved a work plan for updating the Regional Official Plan. Based on growth management consultation and analysis undertaken over the past two years, York Region will release a draft Regional Official Plan Update for public input and review in June 2009.

The goal is to submit the update for approval by Regional Council in late 2009, which would meet the Provincial requirements in the Places to Grow Plan and other initiatives.

Regional Council agreed to hold a Special Meeting of Council pursuant to Subsection 26 (4) of the Planning Act, on April 8^th at 1:30 p.m. during the Planning and Economic Development Committee meeting to hear submissions in regard to revisions that may be required to the Regional Official Plan.

York Regional Council adopts a Regional intensification strategy

York Regional Council has adopted the York Region 2031 Intensification Strategy, a plan for the Region to meet the requirements of Ontario’s Places to Grow Plan.

The Growth Plan stipulates that by 2015 and for each year thereafter, a minimum of 40 per cent of all residential development occurring annually within each upper and single-tier municipality will be within the built-up area.

In York Region, an estimated 90,700 new units are required to achieve the 40 per cent intensification target for residential development by 2031. It is expected that the Region will meet or exceed the 40 per cent target. The following table illustrates the breakdown of this figure by local municipality.

Required intensification units (2006-31)
to meet 40 per cent residential intensification

	Intensification Units
Aurora	3,200
East Gwillimbury	1,000
Georgina	2,700
King	920
Markham	31,500
Newmarket	5,300
Richmond Hill	14,700
Vaughan	29,300
Whitchurch Stouffville	2,100
Total for York Region	90,700

This includes row houses, mid and high-rise units, duplexes and secondary suites.

The strategy contains a list of nine elements that will be included in the Regional Official Plan Policy as well as a list of 10 York Region Principles of Intensification. For more information, please see the staff report and the York Region 2031 Intensification Strategy.

Council Highlights compiled by:
Tim Paleczny, Corporate Communications Specialist, York Region
Phone: 905 830-4444, ext. 1238, (416) 297-9696 or Toll free 1-877-464-9675
Email: tim.paleczny@york.ca

2008

York Regional Council Highlights

Meeting held on
Thursday, January 24, 2008

York Regional Council accepts energy-from-waste facility preferred site recommendation; Clarington site will move forward in Durham-York Environmental Assessment process

York Regional Council today accepted the consultants’ recommendation to select Clarington 01 as the preferred location for a proposed energy-from-waste facility as part of the Durham-York Residual Waste Environmental Assessment (EA) Study process.

The preferred site, Clarington 01, is a 12-hectare site located between Courtice Road and Osbourne Road in the Municipality of Clarington. This site, owned by the Regional Municipality of Durham, is located in the Clarington Energy Park (south of Highway 401) in an area that includes commercial/industrial properties, CN Rail tracks, the Courtice Water Pollution Control Plant and the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station.

Council also approved a short-list of technology vendors for the proposed energy-from-waste facility. A Request for Proposals will be issued to these vendors later this year.

York Region has partnered with Durham Region on the Durham-York Residual Waste Environmental Assessment Study to find a way to manage garbage remaining after diversion efforts, such as re-using, recycling and composting. York Regional Council is dedicated to increasing waste diversion and has committed to diverting 65 per cent of waste from landfill by 2010.

Earlier this month, the Study consulting team presented their final preferred site recommendation at meetings of the Joint Waste Management Group, Durham Region’s Works Committee and York Region’s Solid Waste Committee. The recommendation was endorsed by these three groups before advancing to Durham Regional Council for approval on January 23^rd and York Regional Council today.

York Region to participate in Earth Hour challenge

York Region will participate in the World Wildlife Fund’s Earth Hour challenge on March 29^th at 8 p.m. in an effort to raise awareness about climate change and our ability to combat global warming.

Sydney, Australia started the challenge last year by encouraging residents and businesses to turn off their lighting and all other non-essential appliances for one hour. Nearly 2.3 million Australians participated in the challenge, including 2,300 businesses, resulting in a 10-per cent reduction in electricity consumption. The savings in electricity saved 25,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide from being produced – the equivalent of taking 50,000 cars off the road.

York Region joins Markham, Newmarket, Mississauga and Brampton as communities that have indicated participation in 2008. The resolution will also be forwarded to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities with the request that a copy be made available to every municipality across Canada.

York Region supports Town of Richmond Hill’s efforts to secure David Dunlap Observatory and property

York Regional Council endorsed the Town of Richmond Hill’s efforts to secure the culturally-significant David Dunlap Observatory, along with its lands and buildings.

The David Dunlap Observatory, located on a largely forested 78-hectare (192-acre) property in the Town of Richmond Hill is home to Canada’s largest telescope. The observatory, adjacent buildings and surrounding lands were donated to the University of Toronto in 1932 by Jessie Donalda Dunlap, in memory of her husband, an amateur astronomer, on the condition that it be used for the study of astronomy.

In October 2007, the University of Toronto declared the buildings and property surplus, and initiated a process to sell the property.

York Region agreed with the Town of Richmond Hill’s assessment that the buildings have great cultural significance to the community, and the Region’s Significant Woodlands Study in 2005 identified 39 hectares (96 acres) of the property as significant woodlands and a natural heritage resource.

The Regional Municipality of York achieves highest Standard & Poor’s Credit Rating – AAA Stable

The Regional Municipality of York will continue to benefit from favourable borrowing rates after achieving a Standard & Poor’s AAA Stable credit rating.

Standard & Poor’s cited York Region’s strong economic outlook, operating revenue growth, high reserve levels and commitment to asset rehabilitation and replacement in its decision and accompanying analysis.

York Region uses debt financing as one of several finance tools to help pay for costs associated with major projects contained in our $10.1 billion, 10-Year Capital Plan. To reduce the reliance on debt financing, York Region introduced several measures, including the phased elimination of Development Charge discounting beginning spring 2007.

York Region has maintained a AAA credit rating with Standard & Poor’s since 2002.

The Region also possesses a AAA credit rating from Moody’s Investors Service, maintained since 2000.

Both Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s have taken into consideration York Region's rapid population growth, expanding assessment base and diversified economy as part of their rating.

2008 Draft Operating Business Plan and Budget tabled at York Regional Council

The Regional Municipality of York’s draft $1.3 billion Operating Business Plan and Budget for 2008 was tabled at York Regional Council and includes numerous growth and service enhancements, including for York Regional Police, Transit, Water/Wastewater and Solid Waste management.

Options for this year’s GTA Pooling savings of $13.3 million include reducing the tax levy increase by up to two per cent, spending on capital asset replacement, program spending or a combination of all.

The draft 2008 budget proposes a six per cent tax levy increase representing a $109 increase for taxpayers owning a home with an average assessed value of $371,000.

The proposed tax levy increase is a result of additional costs to pay for existing services. York Region’s budgetary pressures include the following:

$20.8 million for Base Budget:

• Salaries and Benefits
• Contracted Services

$1.4 million for Mandatory/Legislated Costs:

• GTA Pooling ($66.2 million in GTA Pooling payments to the Province of Ontario for 2008)
• Social/Non Profit Housing
• Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC)
• Staffing of Court Services

$9.2 million for Growth-Related Costs:

• Additional York Regional Police officers and support
• Transit (Viva/YRT) service expansion
• Additional Public Health staffing
• Additional Paramedics for York Region Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
• Additional Transit fare enforcement officers
• Growth of Solid Waste Management services

$7 million for Annualizations (full-year program costs from 2007):

• York Regional Police staffing
• Source Separated Organics (Green Bin) program

$19.4 million for Program Enhancements:

• Additional York Regional Police officers and support
• Contributions to capital and capital asset replacement
• Increased Community Development Investment funding
• Construction of a Community Environmental Centre in the City of Vaughan
• Additional Emergency 9-1-1 call takers

The 2008 Operating Business Plan and Budget will be forwarded for consideration to the Region’s Standing Committees in February.

Additionally, a workshop will be held Thursday, February 28^th to solicit input from the public on the draft Operating Budget and examine options for allocating the $13.3 million in GTA Pooling savings for 2008. The workshop will be held in the Seminar Room of the York Region Administrative Centre in the Town of Newmarket, and begins at 9:30 a.m.

Following consideration at Standing Committees and the public workshop, the draft 2008 Operating Business Plan and Budget will be forwarded to York Region’s Finance and Administration Committee on Thursday, March 6th, with anticipated approval by Regional Council on Thursday, March 27^th.

GTA Pooling is money collected by York, Peel and Halton Regions to assist the City of Toronto pay for its Social Housing and Social Assistance programs. GTA Pooling has cost The Regional Municipality of York more than $825 million since the Provincial Government began the program in 1998.

The Province has announced the program will be phased out completely by 2013 with the Region’s payments reduced by $13.3 million annually. This year, the Region is required to pay the Province approximately $66.2 million in GTA Pooling with $132.2 million in payments remaining until the program is fully phased out. By 2013, GTA Pooling will have cost York Region more than $1.02 billion in total.

York Regional Council approved a $682 million Capital Business Plan and Budget for 2008 in December 2007.

York Region to apply for grant for Source Separated Organics in Vessel Facility project

York Regional Council has approved a $10 million application under the Municipal Infrastructure Investment Initiative for a Source Separated Organics in Vessel Facility project.

The new facility – designed to provide a local solution to processing organic waste from the Green Bin program – has been proposed jointly by York Region and the County of Dufferin. It is in the process of receiving construction bids, with estimated costs of $20 million.

The Government of Ontario announced in 2007 that $300 million in infrastructure funding was available for priority projects in Ontario communities. The funding is a one-time commitment and will cover up to half of the project cost.

Should the construction bid process not yield any qualified solutions, York Region will apply for $7 million in funding for a social housing project at the Vaughan Civic Centre.

New Whitchurch-Stouffville Emergency Medical Services (EMS)/Fire Station on the way

York Regional Council has approved the construction and development of a new EMS Paramedic Response Station/Fire Headquarters in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville. The new facility will be constructed in partnership with Whitchurch-Stouffville on Weldon Road and will replace an existing EMS/Fire Station located on Main Street.

The EMS station, estimated at a cost of $650,000, will be approximately 1,900 square feet, including a one-bay ambulance garage. It will also contain a work space, lounge, kitchen, washrooms, locker rooms and utility areas.

York Region joins forces with the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario to take on sudden cardiac arrest

The Regional Municipality of York and its Emergency Medical Services (EMS) branch is working together with the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario to install additional Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in public places across York Region.

The Ministry of Health Promotion last spring announced a $3 million donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation for the placement of 1,000 life-saving AEDs in priority public sites across Ontario. To be eligible to receive AEDs, municipalities are responsible for submitting applications to the Heart & Stroke Foundation. York Region EMS was approached by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario to take the lead in rolling out this initiative to York Region municipalities.

To date, eight York Region municipalities have responded with applications for a total of 59 sites requiring 63 AEDs. Based on the current number of AEDs requested by the municipalities, it is estimated that York Region will receive approximately $220,500 in grant funding from the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario towards the purchase of AED equipment. If additional applications are submitted, additional grant funds may be available.

Since 2003, York Region EMS has been promoting heart-healthy communities through the Heart Alive public access defibrillator program. Heart Alive currently monitors and maintains 31 Regional Public Access Defibrillation sites with a total of 65 AEDs.

Approximately 40,000 cardiac arrests occur in Canada every year with 80 per cent occurring outside a hospital setting. Defibrillation improves survival rates by up to 30 per cent if delivered in the first few minutes.

Street Tree Inventory update

York Regional Council received a report detailing the status of York Region’s street trees. Management of these street trees involves planting and maintaining trees along Regional roadways to ensure a healthy urban forest.

Among the report’s findings:

• The current street tree population is 26,549, which includes trees planted by York Region or others on behalf of the Region
• There are 79 separate species of trees planted as part of the street tree program, with Norway Maple (16.4 per cent, Green Ash (12.4 per cent) and Ivory Silk Lilac (8 per cent) the most common
• Approximately 82 per cent of street trees are less than 12 years old
• The value or replacement cost of the current urban forest is approximately $12 million
• Using tree growth modelling, the value of the urban forest in 2027 will be approximately $50 million
• The urban tree canopy covers 1.82 hectares (4.5 acres), and is anticipated to cover 42 hectares (104 acres) by 2027 and 115 hectares (284 acres) by 2047
• The most recent survey found that 80 per cent of street trees were in satisfactory to good condition, showing a steady increase in tree health over the past four years

Viva Phase 2 vehicle procurement

York Regional Council authorized staff to release a Request for Proposal for the purchase of up to 51 Viva Phase 2 Rapid Transit Vehicles (RTVs), including an option to purchase further RTVs over the next five years.

The Region requires 51 buses over the next five years to service an anticipated growth in riders and the construction of Viva Phase 2. The total estimated cost is $63.75 million, which will be paid for through York Region’s Capital Budget, the federal government’s GTA transit infrastructure initiative, entitled FLOW and funds from the provincial government’s MoveOntario 2020 program.

Viva Proof-of-Payment Fare System works

York Regional Council today received two reports demonstrating the positive performance of the Viva Proof-of-Payment (POP) system and YRT/Viva Fare Enforcement staff. Audit results show that ticket and validation equipment are working well to keep transit riders moving, and the Fare Enforcement team is providing valuable support to the system and preparing to grow as ridership increases.

Viva rapid transit service operates on an honour fare payment system called Proof-of-Payment (POP). This system requires passengers to pre-purchase fares before boarding, validate tickets if applicable and retain fares as POP in the event of a random fare enforcement inspection. This increases the speed of service as customers can board at multiple doors, without any interaction with the bus driver.

A recent audit of Viva fare equipment revealed that ticket machines and validators, despite high traffic use and complex design, are working effectively more than 99 per cent of the time during Viva operations. Equipment difficulties encountered by such things as coin and ticket jams, coins being inserted in credit card slots, tickets being pulled while still printing or vandalism are quickly attended to and repaired by maintenance staff.

An audit of YRT/Viva Fare Enforcement strategies and practices shows they are effective. The current Fare Enforcement team of 17 staff provides seven-day-a-week, 20-hour-a-day service coverage. Additional growth over the next few years will help maintain a high level of customer service as Viva ridership increases. Pending budget approval, four additional fare enforcement staff will be hired in 2008 to assist in minimizing fare evasion and enhancing security and safety.

Passengers who fail to provide a valid fare upon inspection can receive a fine of $150 or a criminal charge. Repeat offenders are now subject to fines up to $5,000. Ongoing York Region Transit/Viva communication campaigns in 2008 will continue to educate the public on the POP system and Fare Enforcement. YRT/Viva Fare Enforcement blitzes are planned to improve areas of increased fare evasion.

YRT/Viva 2007 Marketing and Communication Update

York Regional Council received a report reviewing the 2007 YRT/Viva Marketing and Communication activities.

All facets of the 2007 Marketing and Communications Plan reflect three key principles: information, educating and engaging.

Highlights of the 2007 activities include:

Mall presence:
From May to September and November to December, YRT/Viva staff engaged the public at a number of malls throughout York Region. This allowed staff to meet with riders and potential riders, build brand awareness and enlist support through memorable and fun activities.

Business Benefits Program:
This program offers bulk monthly pass discount to businesses, lunch ‘n’ learn sessions on transit for their employees and electronic communication opportunities to register on the YRT website for automatic transit news and updates. More than 40 local businesses were approached with this program in 2007 and more than 10 have expressed interest in the program.

Youth On Board Program (YO!) Expanding for 2007/08:
This program recruits two students from participating high schools to act as transit ambassadors for YRT/Viva. This is a peer-to-peer transit education program. A pilot program between January and June proved to be successful and was appreciated by students, principals and teachers. A survey among students indicated that more than 90 per cent would like to see the program continue. Based on the pilot’s success, the program will be introduced on a staged basis into all 42 high schools in York Region by February 2008. Currently, 34 schools are already on board.

Public Engagement Events:
YRT/Viva staff have attended more than 100 community events to engage the public.

YRT/Viva was also the recipient of several marketing awards in 2007 for excellence in marketing and communications, including:

• The Summit Creative Awards, which recognize and celebrate creative accomplishments internationally. YRT/Viva won for its student campaign ‘Connect’ which messaged ways students can connect on public transit. This campaign won a total of five Summit Creative Awards in several categories.
• The AdWheel Award from the American Public Transit Association (APTA). This association awarded YRT/Viva first place in the 28^th Annual AdWheel Award competition recognizing YRT/Viva’s light pole banner outdoor advertising campaigns.

Ride your bike to YRT/Viva

York Regional Council today received a report determining that installed bike racks are being used throughout the YRT/Viva transit system. Council authorized the reallocation of under-used bike racks to areas of higher uses, and endorsed the use of vehicle-mounted bike racks.

The installation of vehicle-mounted bike racks on transit buses is included in the 2008 Draft Business Plan and Budget. If approved, YRT staff will proceed with an initial installation in spring 2008.

Smart Commute Initiative transferred to GTTA

York Regional Council today authorised the transfer of the Smart Commute Initiative to the Greater Toronto Transportation Authority (GTTA). Discussions with provincial staff suggested the objectives of the Smart Commute Initiative are a good fit with a number of provincial or GTTA programs, including transportation demand management and promoting the use of transit, carpooling, bicycling and other sustainable modes of travel.

The Smart Commute Initiative – a joint municipal project of the Regional Municipalities of York, Durham, Peel and Halton and the cities of Toronto, Hamilton and Mississauga – delivers transportation demand management (TDM) programs and services across the GTA and Hamilton. Three transportation management associations operate in York Region. They are Smart Commute 404-7 (Markham, Richmond Hill), Smart Commute Central York (Newmarket, Aurora) and Smart Commute North Toronto-Vaughan.

As part of the changeover, York Region will transfer the Smart Commute assets, liabilities and service contracts. The transfer is estimated to save York Region $180,000 per year in administrative costs, with similar savings for the other participating communities.

Status update of Green Lane

York Regional Council received a report outlining the Region’s intention to maintain Green Lane as a critical, high capacity, urban arterial road. Green Lane will continue to allow for a higher traffic capacity and faster movement of goods than standard arterial roads, while accommodating appropriately staged growth.

York Region will advocate also for the construction of the Bradford Bypass.

Approved discussion paper and workplan to restore and protect natural heritage

York Regional Council today endorsed the “Final Natural Heritage Strategic Directions Paper” and approved a workplan for actions to be taken on eight Natural Heritage Action Areas.

Protecting and restoring protected areas in the Oak Ridges Moraine and the Greenbelt is a priority. York Region’s existing Greenlands system needs to be incorporated into the provincial Greenbelt Plan and a linked system of green areas and corridors as well as a Regional trail network will be created.

The discussion paper identifies eight Action Areas to ensure a comprehensive strategy for protecting and enhancing York Region’s natural heritage.

Action 1:   Update our Natural Heritage System
Action 2:   Incorporate the Greenbelt Plan into the Regional Official Plan
Action 3:   Make Connections in New Communities
Action 4:   Restore and Strengthen the Natural Heritage System
Action 5:   Adopt a New Approach to Infrastructure
Action 6:   Establish a Regional Trail Network
Action 7:   Advance the Greening Strategy
Action 8:   Continued Awareness and Dialogue

Regional staff will work in consultation with Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority and local municipalities to update a draft natural heritage system for release in Spring 2008 for public review and comment.

How York Region can adapt or prepare for the potential effects of climate change

York Regional Council received a report regarding the upcoming Climate Change Workshop, including a summary discussion paper on the topic.

A Climate Change Workshop, planned for this spring, will bring together staff from departments across the Region, our partner area municipalities, conservation authorities, provincial representatives as well as our local utilities, emergency responders, hospital and school board representatives. The group will explore climate change issues, implications for York Region and actions we can take..

Over the last five to 10 years storms have become more frequent and intense, summer heat waves have lasted longer, smog days have increased, and periods of drought have affected water tables and lake levels. The effects of these storms, droughts and heat waves have affected us in a variety of ways. Many Ontario communities have experienced significant physical damage, economic loss and disruption as a result of violent storms.

The workshop will explore potential impacts of climate change on our:

• Water and wastewater systems
• Transportation systems
• Energy systems
• Public health and health care systems
• Emergency response capabilities

Feedback will also help identify adaptation strategies to help us become a more resilient Region. A follow-up report on what was heard at the workshop will be prepared for Council.

Province proposes boundaries for future development

York Regional Council received a report regarding the current status of the Government of Ontario’s initiative to establish a boundary for future development of more compact, vibrant, transit-supportive communities.

The Growth Plan calls for 40 per cent of all future residential development to occur within the built-up area by the year 2015. The built-up area is defined as “all land within the built boundary.”

Protocols for radiocommunication and broadcasting antenna installations to be revised

York Regional Council received a report outlining Industry Canada’s revised procedures for the installation of radiocommunication and broadcasting antenna systems. Proponents of new installations are required to consult with local municipalities, adjacent landowners and the general public.

Seven of York Region’s nine local municipalities have approval protocols modelled after the Region’s, which was adopted in 2002. Industry Canada has since revised its procedures twice, including the latest that came into effect on January 1^st.

Industry Canada’s procedures are generally more extensive than York Region’s protocol, which describes site selection criteria and the local approvals process in more detail. York Region will consult with Industry Canada and local municipalities and recommend revisions for Council’s approval.

Next meeting of York Regional Council

The next meeting of York Regional Council is scheduled for Thursday, February 21^st at 9:30 a.m. The meeting will take place in Council Chambers, located at 17250 Yonge Street, Newmarket.

Council Highlights compiled by Michael Kemp, Corporate Communications, Office of the CAO
Phone: 905 830-4444 ext. 1232 or toll free 1 877 464-9675
Cell: 905 251-6419, Email: michael.kemp@york.ca

The contents of this summary are for information purposes only. Actual text of Council resolutions and official copies of reports to Council can be obtained from the York Region website at www.york.ca under Regional Government.

Message from David Bannister re Board Appointment from York Regional Council

On behalf of David Bannister, I am pleased to advise you that the Regional Municipality of York has appointed Regional Councillor Vito Spatafora to the York Central Hospital Board. This appointment comes as a result of the recent vacancy created by the resignation of Regional Councillor Joyce Frustaglio. As per the hospital by-law 5.1 (b)(i)(2) "one member of the council of the Regional Municipality of York nominated by that council, in addition to the Mayors of Richmond Hill and Vaughan, and appointed by the Board as representatives to the Board" shall be an ex officio Trustee.

Please join me in welcoming Regional Councillor Spatafora to our Board.

To view Regional Councillor Spatafora's profile, please open the following link:
http://www.richmondhill.ca/subpage.asp?pageid=townhall_1_regional_local_councillor

Darlene Marando (for David Bannister, Chair, York Central Hospital)
Executive Assistant, Governance York Central Hospital 905-883-1212, ext.7406

The Burning Question

January 15, 2007

Letter to the Editor,

Richmond Hill Regional Councillor Vito Spatafora has been quoted as not liking what he hears about incineration and wanting to go through the process. The 'process' from the get go has been to sell us incineration. Period. The folks in East Gwillimbury must be happy as clams that a site in Clarington has been chosen, but there is a new phrase replacing NIMBY, it is NOPE – Not on planet Earth!

Instead of reducing garbage further, thereby obviating the need for an incinerator entirely by dealing with the waste from restaurants, shopping malls, grocery stores, businesses and multi-unit dwellings and banning Styrofoam and excess packaging, York and Durham Region instead are hell bent on incineration.

With everyone chanting the mantra of sustainability, including York Region, the triple bottom line approach should have been the 'process' by which the burning question went through. This would have included assessing the environmental and social impact of incineration and seriously exploring more environmentally sound solutions. The economic cost of health care and environmental degradation are too high a price to pay for an unacceptable, quick fix solution to waste management.

Dr. Paul Connett, a Professor of Chemistry, and a leading world expert on waste management published a paper entitled Municipal Waste Incineration: A poor solution for the 21^st century. The title says it all. His Zero Waste approach is not to seek ways of destroying garbage, but to stop making it in the first place. A pretty logical way of walking the talk of sustainability.

Even with the cleanest incineration technology there is no question that the toxic cocktail of emissions – lead, cadmium, arsenic, mercury and chromium as well as dioxins (75) and furans (135) produced during combustion will all contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and impact the health of people as far afield as Nunavut and Greenland, let alone those in our own backyards. There is also the issue of residues – 15,000 tonnes of toxic fly ash that will have to be buried as hazardous waste yearly. York and Durham Regional Councillors need to have a mind and conscience of their own and stop rubberstamping the hard sell of staff and consultants who lack vision and creative problem solving ability.

To find out more about visionary waste management solutions, please go to:
http://www.wastestudygroup.org/library/docs/PaulConnett_20070828.pdf
http://www.no-burn.org/resources/library/Poor_solution.pdf

Sincerely,
Gloria Marsh,
Chair, York Region Environmental Alliance
reducing our ecological footprint in York Region
http://www.yrea.org
T: 905-773-4028
E: toadhall@aci.on.ca

Summer

York Regional Council Highlights
June 11, 2007

York Region commits $3 million for preliminary planning of Yonge Street subway extension

York Regional Council has committed $3 million to begin preliminary planning for a TTC subway extension on Yonge Street to the Richmond Hill Centre.

The investment was made following the unveiling of the Province’s Move Ontario 2020 Plan last week, with the Ontario Government investment of $17.5 billion to expand rapid transit across the GTA. A bulk of that work will be within York Region.

The extension of the TTC Yonge Street subway into York Region is in addition to work proceeding on the TTC Spadina subway to the City of Vaughan Corporate Centre and expansion of the Region's award-winning Viva Rapid Transit as Regional Council continues its work to address traffic congestion affecting both residents and businesses.

The $3 million investment made today will be taken from capital reserves in the 2007 Business Plan and Budget. Staff will investigate ways to recover portions of the $3 million from the provincial and federal governments.

York Region staff will be working with the City of Toronto and the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) to develop an integrated and coordinated approach for the timely extension of the subway.

Council also directed staff to delay all expropriation plans in the City of Vaughan and the Town of Markham in conjunction with the development of Rapidways on Yonge Street for Viva Phase 2 until September’s Rapid Transit Committee meeting. At this time, Committee will discuss progress on the plans for the Yonge Street subway and decide how progression for Viva Phase 2 construction will proceed.

All progress on the project will be reported back to Council in Fall 2007 to ensure that the project is progressing as efficiently as possible.

York Region Council receives 2006 Annual Report

York Regional Council today received The Regional Municipality of York’s 2006 Annual Report, entitled Investing in our Region.

The 2006 Annual Report is a 65-page document that highlights information on York Regional Council and the goals and accomplishments of Regional Committees and staff. A report from the Regional Treasurer is included, in addition to financial statements, a statistical review and reports from auditors.

The report also includes a pullout section at the back of the publication that features the Housing York Inc. Annual Report, Building Strong Communities.

The 2006 Annual Report is available for pick-up at the Information Kiosk of the York Region Administrative Centre in the Town of Newmarket and other York Region facilities, including the South Services Centre at 50 High Tech Road in the Town of Richmond Hill and The Bales Drive Operations Centre at 90 Bales Drive East in the Town of East Gwillimbury. It will also be available online in July at York Region’s website www.york.ca under “Important Links”.

York Regional Council appoints Dr. Karim Kurji as Medical Officer of Health

York Regional Council has endorsed Dr. Karim Kurji’s appointment as the Medical Officer of Health for York Region.

Regional Council’s endorsement will be sent to the Ontario Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, urging the province to approve its recommendation, effective July 1, 2007.

Prior to joining York Region in January 2006, Dr. Kurji held senior positions with the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. Since 2003, he has been Ontario’s Associate Chief Medical Officer of Health, and from 1999 to 2003, he was Physician Manager, Population Health Services. During his time with the Province, he also served briefly as Chief Medical Officer of Health and Acting Assistant Deputy Minister of Health.

York Region looks forward to working with Dr. Kurji and are proud to have him represent the Region on Public Health matters.

YRT’s Dial-a-Ride pilot program approved by Council for Route 44 in Newmarket

York Regional Council today approved a Dial-a-Ride pilot program for York Region Transit Route 44 in the Town of Newmarket.

The Dial-a-Ride pilot program will be offered for one year and will replace evening service (7 p.m. to 11 p.m.) on Route 44 (Monday through Saturday), servicing the area bounded by Yonge Street to the west, Bristol Road to the North, Main Street North to the east, and Davis Drive to the south.

The Newmarket Dial-a-Ride program will operate with customers calling a central number and requesting a pick-up from their nearest conventional bus stop. Following the call, dispatchers will send out an accessible vehicle, within a specified time frame, to pick up the customer and take them to a common destination or bus stop where regular, conventional, fixed-route transit services are offered.

The Dial-a-Ride model is traditionally applied to routes where demand for transit is less than 10 passengers per hour and when destinations are common, such as a GO Station or a shopping mall.

The annual cost of operating conventional service on Route 44 during the evenings, from Monday through Saturday is currently $124,068 per year and it is estimated that the new Dial-a-Ride program will cost $40,548 each year, resulting in a potential savings close to $84,000 annually.

The pilot program, successfully awarded to Scarborough City Cab, is scheduled to launch in September 2007.

York Region recognizes Pride Week

York Regional Council has recognized September 3rd to 9th as York Region Pride Week.

The 7th annual celebration commemorates the contributions of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities living and working in York Region. The event is organized by the York Pride Fest Committee under the auspices of The York Region Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Community Outreach Project and is funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation.

York Region Park and Ride Strategy gets go ahead at Council

York Regional Council endorsed today the development of a comprehensive park and ride strategy and implementation plan for York Region.

The strategy and plan will be designed to support the growth and health of the rapid transit network that is quickly developing across the Region with programs such as Viva Rapid Transit, the Spadina Subway extension to Vaughan Corporate Centre and the proposed extension of the Yonge Street subway to the Richmond Hill Centre.

Staff will work on completing the strategy and forward for Council’s consideration in 2008.

Council approves purchase of new Viva vehicles

York Regional Council today approved the purchase of 11 new 18-metre articulated rapid transit buses to accommodate future ridership growth while enhancing current service levels on the Viva Rapid Transit system.

The new vehicles, which cost approximately $9.6 million, were approved for purchase in York Region’s 2007 Business Plan and Budget.

Delivery of the new vehicles is slated for July 2008.

YRT/Viva ridership grows more than 10 per cent in April 2007

York Regional Council received a report today outlining a 10.1 per cent increase in ridership growth for York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva during the month of April 2007. More than 1.4 million people chose to take transit during the month of April.

More than 5.9 million riders have travelled on YRT / Viva this year (January to April) compared to 5.4 million passengers for the same time period in 2006.

YRT’s Mobility Plus door-to-door service is also enjoying ridership gains in 2007 with more than 96,000 individuals using the service (January to April) – a 9.8 per cent increase over 2006.

YRT and Viva operate as a single system, with Viva operating rapid transit service in four key corridors along Yonge Street and Highway 7. YRT transports passengers throughout the Region and acts as a feeder service to Viva. YRT also operates the door-to-door Mobility Plus service for individuals with disabilities.

York Region Transit certified through National Quality Institute’s Excellence Program

York Regional Council today announced that York Region Transit (YRT) has achieved Level One Certification from the National Quality Institute’s Progressive Excellence Program. The National Quality Institute (NQI) is an independent, not-for-profit organization and is the leading authority in Canada on workplace excellence based on quality systems and healthy workplace criteria.

YRT submitted an application for the Excellence Program and was commended specifically for:

• Mission/Values statements and Strategic Planning Guide
• Client definition and orientation on customer service core competency
• Commitment to quality methods/practices

YRT is now working towards meeting criteria necessary in achieving Level Two in the Excellence Program.

York Regional Council receives Water for Tomorrow Master Plan draft

York Regional Council received a draft of the Water for Tomorrow Water Efficiency Master Plan, outlining a 10-year strategy to help conserve water. Among the recommendations of the draft plan are:

• Rebates for the purchase of water efficient toilets, washing machines, central air humidifiers, rain barrels and irrigation sensors
• A continuation of the free water efficient landscape assessments
• Water efficient home assessments to inspect for leaks
• The installation of kitchen faucet aerators

The Water for Tomorrow program has been very successful, saving approximately 20.3 million litres of water each day since 1998 – enough to supply a community of 77,000 people. The program has also been successful in cutting greenhouse gas emissions, including more than 3,800 tonnes of carbon particulates and 14,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year.

The draft Water Efficiency Master Plan will be forwarded to York Region’s local municipalities for comment and then brought back to York Regional Council for approval this fall. Once fully implemented, the 10-year plan will increase daily water savings from the current 20.3 million litres to 23.4 million litres each day.

The Regional Municipality of York conducts bio diesel pilot project for works vehicles

The Regional Municipality of York’s Fleet Services will conduct a six-month study beginning this summer to determine if using bio diesel in its vehicles will cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Under current fuel regulations set by the Government of Canada in October 2006, low-sulphur fuel is used in all of the Region’s fleet of vehicles. While this move has cut vehicle emissions, the bio diesel study is being conducted to determine if levels can be further reduced.

Bio diesel – a fuel that is produced by plants or animal renderings – has been identified as a cleaner substitute than low sulphur diesel; however, it is slightly more expensive, has been shown to produce higher nitrous oxide emissions, and has lower overall fuel economy.

The trial will run through the summer and conclude in October. York Region’s Roads Transportation branch will compare emission levels between the bio diesel and low sulphur diesel and report back to York Regional Council in late fall.

The six-month pilot study is one of a number of cleaner fuel initiatives that Fleet Services has undertaken over the past several years, including:

• The purchase of seven hybrid vehicles
• The implementation of an anti-idling policy
• A move to reduce vehicle size where possible
• Adding 10 per cent cleaner-burning ethanol to vehicles fuelled with unleaded gasoline

York Region employment growth matches population growth over the past eight years

York Regional Council today released the Employment and Industry Report 2006, which provides a detailed snapshot of economic and employment trends in York Region, including national and provincial overviews, an outlook for the economy in 2007, sector breakdowns and area municipal profiles.

Over the past eight years, York Region has maintained a level of employment growth that exceeds both national and provincial averages.

According to the report, York Region has succeeded in recent years in attracting a number of large corporations to the area while facilitating the growth of existing firms. There were approximately 29,000 businesses employing 460,000 people in York Region in 2006.

Strong employment growth was evident in a number of sectors, with the business services, retail trade, public administration, and health care and social assistance sectors each recording growth rates in excess of five per cent annually since 1998.

The manufacturing industry remained the primary employer in York Region (19.8 per cent of total employment) and grew at a healthy 24.1 per cent between 1998 and 2006.

For 2007, the business outlook appears positive for York Region. A number of projects are currently under construction across the Region, with industrial and commercial construction valued at $697 million in 2006. This project will provide local employment opportunities both in the construction phase and upon completion.

York Regional Council approves expansion of “Best Start” Child Care Service

York Regional Council announced it will expand child care services across the Region as a result of an increase in provincial Best Start funding of up to $1.6 million in 2007. This money does not require the usual 20 per cent municipal contribution.

In our role as the Consolidated Municipal Service Manager (CMSM), York Region will develop a plan for expanded services, allocate the funds to service providers for the expanded services and perform due diligence activities relating to the services and the expenditures.

York Region receives $9.7 million from the Government of Ontario under the Developing Opportunities for Ontario Renters (DOOR) initiative

York Regional Council today approved a set of principles to guide the use of $9.7 million in funding, recently received from the Government of Ontario, for Developing Opportunities for Ontario Renters (DOOR). These principles include:

• Increasing/extending affordable housing supply
• Using funds for housing-related purposes not allowed under other very proscriptive programs
• Distributing funds to extend and complement existing housing investments
• Using funding through use of Regionally-owned land and equity contributions
• Increasing access to those who are disabled, where possible

The provincial/federal DOOR initiative provides a unique opportunity to address a variety of affordable housing needs across the Region. Council directed staff to investigate potential initiatives for DOOR funding and report back to Committee and Regional Council with specific project budgets and program plans this fall.

York Regional Council releases Vision 2026 annual report on the indicators of progress for 2006

York Regional Council approved Vision 2026: Towards a Sustainable Region, Fifth Annual Report on Indicators of Progress for the Year 2006; the fifth in a series of annual reports that detail The Regional Municipality of York’s progress towards implementing Vision 2026.

Successes in 2006 include:

• Continued high quality of life rating by residents
• Acquisition of an additional 563 acres of Greenland through Greenlands Property Securement Strategy
• 460,000 jobs in York Region as of December 31, 2006
• 17.1 million transit trips provided by York Region Transit/Viva

In 2006, the Region was named one of the top 100 companies to work for in Canada, and one of the top 50 in the GTA. This achievement fulfills a Vision 2026 goal of “being responsive by building high-performance teams.”

Issues from residents include traffic congestion, growth management, public transit and the environment. Residents support the Region’s efforts in areas such as rapid transit and compact urban growth to address theses issues. York Region is further addressing resident’s concerns through:

• The York Region Draft Sustainability Strategy, which outlines 80 action items
• The Planning for Tomorrow growth management workplan
• The Transportation Master Plan update
• The Pedestrian and Cycling Master Plan study

Employers in York Region have noted that diversity, mix and affordability of housing are important for continued economic growth and employment.

The updated version of Vision 2026 is available at www.york.ca under Planning and Development Services.

York Region’s Maple Health Centre delivers excellent overall standards of care

A report to York Regional Council today provided the results of the 2006 Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care Compliance Review of the Maple Health Centre.

The overall standards of care were found to be excellent. The Maple Health Centre continues to provide high quality care and services that are in substantial compliance with MOHLTC Standards and Guidelines for the provision of Long Term Care programs and services.

The efforts of all Health Services staff and volunteers were commended for the excellent quality of care provided to their residents/clients.

Proposal for a three-year pilot dental treatment program for seniors approved by York Regional Council

York Regional Council endorsed a proposal for a three-year pilot dental treatment program for seniors in York Region, subject to 100 per cent funding by the Government of Ontario at an annual cost of $539,010. Staff was authorized to submit the proposal to the Ministry of Health Promotion and Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.

This program is for low-income seniors in York Region. It is a pilot program that could be expanded later to all health units in Ontario.

Lack of access to dental treatment, particularly by low-income and marginalized groups, is a growing concern in all communities in Ontario. Seniors exhibit a high level of dental needs and those with low income have the least access to care. Providing essential and emergency care to these seniors through a treatment program would assist in keeping them free of oral pain and infection. It may also result in other improved health outcomes and improvements in quality of life.

York Region releases proposed walking and cycling trail routes announcing $500,000 each year for local partners to build trails

York Regional Council today approved a Pedestrian and Cycling Municipal Partnership Program to assist local municipalities, conservation authorities and other agencies in the development of pedestrian and cycling infrastructure projects that match Regional priorities and goals. The program will be funded $500,000 each year.

In addition, Council approved a preliminary draft of the Pedestrian and Cycling Master Plan that includes proposed routes of pedestrian and cycling trails across York Region, and invited stakeholders and the public to review the draft and provide comments. Council also approved a study that will investigate the creation of a regional network of Natural Heritage trails.

The Pedestrian and Cycling Master Plan focuses primarily on the provision of sidewalks, bike lanes and trails to encourage commuter cycling and walking.

The Natural Heritage Trails study will explore opportunities for new trails to link protected green spaces and give residents and visitors more access to York Region’s natural heritage.

The preliminary draft Pedestrian and Cycling Master Plan also recommends:

• Integrating walking and cycling infrastructure with public transit by connecting trails with transit stops and stations and providing bike racks at key bus stops
• Enabling bikes to be carried on racks on transit vehicles that cross municipal boundaries, as provided for under new regulations of the Ontario Public Vehicles Act (PVA)

A shift to alternate forms of transportation, such as walking, bicycling, public transit and carpooling can greatly reduce vehicle greenhouse gas emissions that are a major source of poor air quality. Poor air quality adversely impacts our health and can cause illness in people with heart and lung conditions. Those at particular risk include young children, the elderly, asthmatics and those with existing respiratory or coronary conditions.

The Regional Municipality of York moves to protect areas of employment

York Regional Council today endorsed a report that re-affirms provincial policy and legislation that protects areas of employment from non-employment uses, and outlines steps at a Regional level to implement these policies.

Municipalities across the GTA have long identified the importance of maintaining a sufficient supply of employment lands, which are constantly under competing pressures to be converted to other uses that may be in greater immediate demand, such as residential land uses.

In response to this issue, the Government of Ontario has approved and legislated a number of policies and provisions in the form of provincial plans, bills and regulations to protect areas of employment from being converted to non-employment uses.

The Regional Municipality of York proposes a strategy to protect natural heritage and integrate it into communities

The Regional Municipality of York today proposed an eight-item action strategy to protect and enhance the Region’s natural heritage and integrate it into new and existing communities across the Region. The action areas were identified in the “Natural Heritage Discussion Paper,” a document that provides a complete context for natural heritage protection and planning in York Region.

The Natural Heritage Discussion Paper is an important component of Planning for Tomorrow, the Region’s growth management strategy, and complements the Region’s preliminary draft Sustainability Strategy, which outlines a new approach to decision-making to better integrate economic, community and environmental objectives.

The discussion paper provides background on the changing provincial and local policy context and focuses on current approaches to natural heritage planning and protection. It identifies eight potential natural heritage action areas, as follows:

• Update our Natural Heritage system
• Connect trail systems in new communities
• Incorporate the Greenbelt Plan into the Regional Official Plan
• Restore and strengthen the Natural Heritage system
• Adopt a new approach to infrastructure
• Establish a Regional trail network
• Advance the Greening Strategy
• Foster further awareness and dialogue around York Region’s natural heritage strategy

Members of the public and stakeholder groups are invited to provide their input. A report on the discussions will be presented to York Regional Council this fall.

Please contact York Region at futureyork@york.ca, call 905 895-1231, ext. 1532 or send your comments by mail to:

• The Regional Municipality of York
• Planning and Development Services Department
• 17250 Yonge Street, 4th Floor
• Newmarket, ON L3Y 6Z1

York Regional Council endorses framework to enhance transit implementation

York Regional Council today endorsed a framework to enhance the Region’s existing transit-related policies through a future Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA).

This framework will bring the Regional Official Plan into conformity with recent changes to Provincial legislation and provide a higher level of detail with respect to the approved plans for conventional and rapid transit improvements, including Viva Phase 2 and the extension of the Spadina subway into York Region.

This report introduces an approach to the proposed future ROPA, based on the following three principles:

• i) Employ new implementation tools under the Municipal Planning Act
• ii) Clarify the intent of Regional policies and related schedules
• iii) Implement the transit-focus of the Government of Ontario’s Growth Plan

Regional staff will draft the ROPA this summer in consultation with staff from the local municipalities, and staff from York Region Transit and Viva. The draft ROPA is subject to a statutory public meeting under the Planning Act and will be held as part of the September 2007 meeting of the Regional Planning and Economic Development Committee.

Vehicle traffic crossing into and from York Region continues to increase

York Regional Council today received a report, 2006 York Region Cordon Count Program - Travel Crossing Regional Boundaries, which provides information on the total traffic volume on an average weekday crossing municipal boundaries and highways (also known as cordons) and classified by type of vehicle and occupancy.

The report provides a strategic snapshot of travel behaviour and changes in travel patterns across the north/central part of the Greater Toronto Area, and is done in conjunction with the Regions of Durham and Peel and the City of Toronto.

Cordon counts are conducted every five years and timed to coincide with other programs such as the Transportation Tomorrow Survey (TTS) and the Federal Statistics Canada Census. The last full cordon count was conducted in 2001. Since the last full cordon count program in 2001, York Region has continued to experience rapid growth.

Among the 2006 report’s findings:

• Peak period traffic continues to increase despite high congestion levels at the York-Toronto boundary
• There have been 13,600 new northbound trips crossing the Toronto boundary during the morning rush period compared to an increase of a total 18,400 southbound morning peak period trips since 2001

York Regional Council receives an update on source protection committees under the proposed Clean Water Act, 2006

York Regional Council endorsed a report outlining the draft regulations posted by the Ministry of the Environment on the Environmental Bill of Rights registry. The report describes potential implications of the proposed regulations to York Region and represents York Region’s comments that were submitted by staff to the registry. Staff comments focused on four primary concerns:

• The need for adequate municipal representation on the Source Protection Committee
• The need for the Province to provide further detail regarding roles and responsibilities and funding obligations associated with the inclusion of non-municipal drinking water systems in the source protection planning process
• The need for sustainable funding
• The need to establish reasonable timelines for public consultation, with specific consideration of the municipal process

Considerable time and effort is required by Regional staff in order to participate fully with two Source Protection committees and several working groups. An internal multi-department steering committee has formed with Transportation and Works, Planning and Health to help disseminate information, knowledge, roles and responsibilities.

The Regional Municipality of York takes steps to encourage sustainable urbanization

York Regional Council received a report today that sets out principles to guide the formulation of a Regional policy regarding Sustainable Development through LEED™ and to provide the basis for consultation with the local municipalities and the development industry.

LEED™ is an acronym for Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design. It is a voluntary, consensus-based, market-driven building rating system that evaluates environmental performance from a whole building perspective over a building’s life-cycle, providing a definitive standard for what constitutes a green building.

This new policy will provide an incentive for high density residential development in Regional Centres and Corridors (areas identified for urban intensification along Highway 7 and Yonge Street) and promote more energy-efficient green buildings. It will also fulfil one of the actions of York Region’s draft Sustainability Strategy.

The benefits of this initiative include:

• Using key resources like energy, water, materials, and land much more efficiently
• Creating healthier work, learning, and living environments
• More natural light and cleaner air
• Contributing to improved health, comfort and productivity
• Long term cost savings

York Regional Council directed staff to consult with local municipalities and other stakeholders on a policy that would provide a 20-35 per cent increase in servicing allocation for development proposals that meet the following criteria:

• Greater water conservation
• Location is served by Viva rapid transit or other major YRT, GO and TTC operated transit routes
• Site is within a Regional Centre or Regional Corridor, or Local Centre
• Building meets Regional Transit Oriented Development guidelines
• Three stream waste reduction is incorporated into the building, and
• A minimum LEED™ Silver certification is achieved

York Region will meet with the local municipalities, the development community and other stakeholders to confirm a set of principles and implementation strategy for Council’s consideration this fall.

Findings of the new Job Hiring Index presented to York Regional Council

York Regional Council received the findings of the new Job Hiring Index, which identifies and analyzes trends in York Region’s employment market. This first report covers the first quarter of 2007.

The Index is a database of employment opportunities in the nine municipalities classified by criteria such as location, job classification, duration of employment and experience.

In the first quarter of 2007, 13,800 jobs were posted in published employment websites and corporate websites of major employers in the Region. The number of job postings in York Region for the first quarter was quite consistent, ranging from 4,725 in January to 4,565 in March.

Among the identified locations, Markham had the highest number of job postings in the first quarter of 2007 at 5,715, followed by Vaughan at 2,007, Richmond Hill at 1,299 and Newmarket at 1,257.

Approximately 24 per cent of the jobs posted were for permanent positions, while 14 per cent of the jobs were temporary positions. The remaining postings did not specify the duration of employment. Of the 13,800 jobs advertised, about 56 per cent were for full-time positions, and 8 per cent were part-time with the balance not specified.

The majority of postings in the first quarter of 2007 were for Administrative and Legal positions (15.88 per cent), followed by General Help Wanted (11.67 per cent); Business, Finance and Accounting (11 per cent); Management (9.78 per cent); and Engineers, Architects, IT, Natural Science (8.59 per cent).

Today’s economic growth is driven by knowledge, skills and innovation. The quality of the labour force is an essential element for sustained economic vitality to enable local firms to meet the challenges of global competition. Better forecasting of industry requirements, skills shortages and deficiencies within the Region has been identified as a key way to facilitate workforce development.

York Regional Council endorses a strategy to proceed with Environmental Assessment for the Donald Cousens Parkway link to Morningside Avenue in Toronto

York Regional Council endorsed a report on the progress of the Donald Cousens Parkway link to Morningside Avenue in the City of Toronto. The report presents a strategy to proceed with Environmental Assessment (EA) approval for the section of thecorridor that is common to both York and Toronto’s preferred alignment, while at the same time protecting the section where York Region’s and Toronto’s preferred alignments differ, until a final agreement can be reached.

Council endorsed recommendations to request:

• The Ministry of the Environment to expedite the approval of the section of the alignment from Highway 407 south to 9th Line, common to both York and Toronto’s preferred alternative
• The Ministry of the Environment, through the conditions of approval for the common section, also protect the corridor west of 9th Line and south to the existing terminus of Morningside Avenue for both York and Toronto’s preferred alignment until a final EA decision is rendered on the remainder of the corridor.

This road link remains a critical piece of the inter-regional transportation network in this York/Toronto/Durham boundary area and must be protected until a final EA decision is rendered on the remainder of the corridor. This road link is also a critical component for the management of sensitive conservation lands. The proposed road will keep traffic growth within the urban development areas, and reduce traffic growth through the Rouge Park, Bob Hunter Memorial Park and Greenbelt areas.

York Region Immigration Portal receives $300,000 from the province

York Regional Council endorsed a report outlining the York Region Immigration Portal (YRIP), an initiative that received $300,000 in funding from the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration under the Municipal Immigration Information Online program.

As the sponsor of YRIP, the Region becomes a partner to an ever-growing network of organizations that share a common goal of using the internet to promote inclusivity and sustainable development based on shared visions and values.

The funding application was generated from local and Regional governments, businesses, public and Catholic school boards, Seneca College, United Way of York Region, community groups and immigrant service providers, including the new Welcome Centre. Letters of support were garnered from all partners demonstrating collaboration and cross-sectoral partnerships.

The YRIP’s primary focus will include developing information and tools to provide social support, settlement information and other services to immigrants and support the integration of immigrants into the local labour force.

The secondary focus will promote municipalities in York Region to potential or recently arrived immigrants. This will be achieved mainly by translating and posting marketing materials developed by York Region, local municipalities and other community partners.

The top five languages spoken in the home for recent immigrants (1991-2001) in York Region are Cantonese, English, Chinese, Russian and Farsi.

York Region is Canada’s sixth largest metropolitan centre. As of March 2007, it was home to an estimated population of 957,741. York Region has grown at a rate of approximately 3,000 people per month for the past five years, and is expected to reach a total population of 1.5 million in 25 years. Based on the latest census data, recent immigrants have accounted for 42 per cent of the Region’s population growth. York Region has the highest proportion (11 per cent) of recent immigrants in the GTA who speak neither official language.

Meeting the needs of York Region’s population growth and large demographic change requires coordinated action on many fronts. For the purpose of establishing an online immigration portal, York Region’s Human Services Planning Coalition (HSPC) and its Inclusivity Action Plan (IAP) have successfully engaged human service organizations in York Region who serve immigrant communities. A key IAP objective has been to create a coordinated, integrated, user-oriented and system wide response for newcomers settling and integrating into York Region communities. A partnership of five agencies that serve newcomers in York Region will launch a Welcome Centre in Vaughan next week.

For more information call Ken Turriff, Corporate Communications, Office of the CAO
Phone: 905 830-4444 ext. 1226 or toll free 1-877-464-9675
Cell: 905 251-6415, email: ken.turriff@york.ca

The next Regional Council meeting will be held Thursday, September 27, 2007 at 9:30 a.m.

The contents of this summary are for information purposes only. Actual text of Council resolutions and official copies of reports to Council can be obtained from the York Region website at www.york.ca under Regional Government.

Spring

York Regional Council Highlights – June 19, 2008

York Region supports the implementation of a York University Medical School

York Regional Council has added its support to York University in implementing a new medical school to meet the demand for physicians in our growing communities.  The medical school will provide improved teaching opportunities at York Region’s three existing hospitals and to a fourth facility planned in the City of Vaughan.

Greening Strategy projects and property securement funding update

York Regional Council received a report detailing projects underway as part of the 2008 Greening Strategy. York Region allocates $1.4 million annually to the Greening Strategy, which has helped secure more than 525 hectares on 20 properties for protection and naturalization since 2001.

To assist with further property securement, the report recommends that the $1.4 million annual allocation continue next year, as part of the proposed 2009 Business Plan and Budget.

For more information on these securement projects, please view the staff report.

York Region acquires Wolske property in Town of Georgina

York Regional Council approved the purchase of a 4.5-hectare property in the Town of Georgina for $83,697, as part of the York Region Greening and Securement Strategy. The property, purchased from Mr. Helmut and Ms Georgina Wolske, sits adjacent to the Godfrey tract of the York Regional Forest.

York Region will use the Wolske property to expand the Godfrey tract, as well as provide more public access to the York Regional Forest.

York Region helps acquire Swan Lake property with TRCA in Town of Richmond Hill

York Regional Council has agreed to fund up to $1.2 million to help the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) purchase the 20-hectare Swan Lake property in the Town of Richmond Hill as part of the York Region Greening and Securement Strategy.

The TRCA has an Agreement of Purchase and Sale with the owners of Swan Lake, the Hollander family of Richmond Hill, to buy the property for $3.58 million. TRCA is asking York Region to fund $1.2 million or one third of the cost (whichever is lower) as part of its ongoing partnership with the Region to secure significant properties for preservation and naturalization.

The property sits adjacent to three TRCA-owned properties that were secured in partnership with York Region, which form part of a natural east-west corridor on the Oak Ridges Moraine.

Emerald Ash Borer

York Regional Council received a report detailing the impact that the Emerald Ash Borer will have on York Region’s forests over the next number of years. The report warned that the invasive insect species will enter York Region in the next two to five years, ultimately leading to the destruction of the 7,500 ash trees along Regional roads.

The cost to remove and replace these trees has been estimated at $7 million, with potentially higher costs if the Emerald Ash Borer kills ash trees in York Region’s forests.

York Region will formally request that the federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food provide financial assistance to communities affected by the Emerald Ash Borer for tree removal and replanting efforts.

For more information on the Emerald Ash Borer and York Region, please read the staff report.

Anti-whistling policy endorsed

York Regional Council has approved a policy to process requests from local municipalities who wish to enact bylaws prohibiting train whistling at railway crossings of Regional roads.

As part of the policy, York Region will share the costs with local municipalities to implement the required safety measures and public education that will be needed if train whistling is prohibited.

For more information, please read the staff report.

16^th Avenue Trunk Sewer, Phase II environmental enhancements

York Regional Council authorized staff to create formal agreements with the Rouge Park Alliance, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, Town of Markham and Ontario Streams to implement forest plantings, wetland creation and reforestation projects as part of the 16^th Avenue Trunk Sewer project.

York Region will spend more than $2 million over the next five years as part of these environmental enhancement projects.

Regional response to MOE discussion paper on the protection of Lake Simcoe

York Regional Council provided recommendations to the Ministry of the Environment on their Discussion Paper Protecting Lake Simcoe: Creating Ontario’s Strategy for Action.

Recommendations included:

• Identifying and acknowledging the need to provide adequate wastewater servicing for growth forecasts identified in Places to Grow
• Ensuring long-term funding
• Maintaining Conservation Authority leadership of a revitalized, adequately funded and staffed program with wider stakeholder representation

For further information on the Region’s recommendations on Protecting Lake Simcoe, please read the staff report.

Water For Tomorrow program continues partnership with Resource Management Strategies Inc.

York Region will continue to use Resource Management Strategies Inc. (RMSI) to provide the Region’s water efficiency programs as part of our award-winning Water for Tomorrow program.

Throughout 2009, RMSI will be working closely with York Region’s Environmental Services staff to administer instant rebate sales events, the summer water use reduction program and various educational programs, including the highly successful York Children’s Water Festival.

Membrane filtration equipment selected for Keswick WPCP phase one expansion

York Region will contract with Zenon Membrane Solutions, part of GE Water and Process Technologies Canada (GE Zenon), to use their patented filtration technology for the expansion of the Keswick Wastewater Pollution Control Plant (WPCP).

The Keswick WPCP currently uses the Zenon membrane technology to meet the stringent effluent compliance limits required by the Ministry of the Environment.

York Region receives national sustainability award

York Regional Council received the Sustainable Community Award for Transportation from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities for our work on the Smart Commute program. The Regional commuting program is best known for matching up carpoolers online, in partnership with other municipalities in the Greater Toronto Area and Hamilton (GTAH).

The award was presented jointly to York Region, the other GTAH municipalities and Metrolinx, the provincial agency responsible for developing seamless, integrated transit throughout the GTAH.

York Region awarded COSTI Corporate Citation

York Regional Council was recognized with a Corporate Citation by COSTI Immigrant Services for our outstanding efforts to assist newcomers in becoming successful and contributing members of our society.

York Region was recognized in particular for its work on the Welcome Centre Immigrant Services in the City of Vaughan, a one-stop information service to guide and support immigrants in York Region.

COSTI Immigrant Services has five offices in York Region and has provided employment services to newcomers for more than 20 years.

YRT/Viva Travel Training Pilot Program

York Regional Council received information on the York Region Transit (YRT) Travel Training pilot program launched in May 2008. The program provides instruction on a variety of transit topics, including buying tickets and passes, boarding and disembarking transit vehicles and planning a transit trip.

YRT is offering the training program to individual participants and groups, including the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB), Ontario March of Dimes and York South Community Living.

The Travel Training program raises awareness of the available transit services in York Region, while assisting some YRT Mobility Plus riders to make the transition to more conventional service.

Results of the pilot program will be assessed in early 2009.

New YRT/Viva bike rack program encourages passengers to bike and ride

York Regional Council approved a new York Region Transit (YRT)/Viva bike rack program that makes it easier to bike and ride. Beginning next year, new bike racks will be mounted on the front of Viva vehicles to allow riders to store their bikes safely while travelling on transit.

The bike racks will be introduced in stages, with all buses outfitted by 2010. YRT/Viva is also considering the installation of new bike parking lockers. The design and location of the lockers is under review, with installation expected in 2009.

Total cost for the new bike rack program and future bike parking lockers is approximately $694,000. Financial support for the program is being provided by Metrolinx through the BikeLinx Program.

York Region confirms its commitment to air quality improvement

York Regional Council approved the Corporate Air Quality Strategy, which outlines a series of Region-wide initiatives to improve air quality. The strategy identifies Regional activities and operations that contribute to air pollution and sets goals for reducing the Region’s environmental impact.

As part of this initiative, the Region will be developing department-specific actions to help improve air quality, including the formation of an employee Clean Air Committee.

To view the Corporate Clean Air Strategy, please click here.

The Regional Municipality of York wins APTA safety award

The Regional Municipality of York has won gold from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) for an excellent safety program on York Region Transit (YRT)/Viva buses.

In presenting the award, APTA cited York Region’s innovative use of performance-based contracts in dramatically increasing the safety program of our contracted drivers. Following the implementation of performance-based contracts in early 2006, York Region experienced a 138-per cent safety improvement in just two years.

For more information on the APTA safety award, please view the media release.

More YRT/Viva security cameras on the way

York Regional Council has approved the use of on-board security cameras on all YRT/Viva buses. The move builds on the fall 2007 program launch, when cameras were installed on 150 YRT/Viva buses.

Camera installation on remaining vehicles will begin this summer, and will include YRT Mobility Plus contracted sedans and taxis. The cost of the program is approximately $1.8 million.

York Region will also spend an additional $192,000 to integrate the cameras with our computer-aided dispatch and automatic vehicle location system to enable remote monitoring in the event of emergencies.

Metrolinx seeks York Region input on transportation plan

York Regional Council will support the efforts of Metrolinx to develop a Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area Regional Transportation Plan by working on travel demand modelling and program priorities.

As part of the process, the Region will advocate for critical highway projects and additional north-south Light Rail Transit (LRT) and/or Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridors in York Region into Metrolinx’s Test Network Concepts and ultimately into the draft Regional Transportation Plan.

More Viva vehicles for 2009

York Regional Council today authorized the purchase of six Viva rapid transit vehicles at a cost of $5,650,560 to meet vehicle demand up to the end of 2009.

Continuous growth in Viva ridership prompted the order of 11 Viva vehicles in 2007.  The additional order of six will bring the total Viva fleet to 107 vehicles.

York Region Council approved the investment of an additional $227,000 for the supply, installation, integration and testing of Computer Aided Dispatch and Automatic Vehicle Location systems for the new Viva vehicles.

York Region’s employment rate remains strong for ninth year

The York Region Employment and Industry Report 2007, which provides a detailed analysis of industry and employment in York Region, has been released.

The report found that:

• New job growth is matching our growing population
• There are an estimated 485,000 jobs in York Region
• The average annual employment growth rate was 3.5 per cent from 1998 to 2007
• Employment growth outpaced both the national and provincial growth rates over the past nine years

Copies of the report will be sent to area municipalities, chambers of commerce, boards of trade, other business groups and key stakeholders. The report will be available on York Region’s website at www.york.ca by June 30^th.

York Region responds to Ontario’s long-term employment discussion paper

York Region has responded to the Ontario Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal’s employment discussion paper, Planning for Employment in The Greater Golden Horseshoe: Background Paper, which was released on May 14, 2008.

The provincial paper examines long-term employment trends, strategic employment areas and planning beyond a 20-year horizon.

Among the Region’s recommendations was a need for the Province to invest further in public transit, highways, research facilities and post-secondary education.

Climate Change Workshop raised awareness of impacts and adaptation priorities

As part of our Sustainability Strategy, York Region hosted a Climate Change Workshop to better understand the impacts of climate change and consider strategies to adapt to this change.

York Region will be undertaking a number of Initiatives over the next year to adapt to climate change, including new emergency standards to assess climate change risk, air quality and West Nile virus awareness programs, wastewater modeling that anticipates more intense storms and planting of more resilient street trees.

Visualizing the look of urbanization in York Region

York Region will prepare a catalogue of photos depicting what the major centres in York Region could begin to look like over the next two decades. Also, the Region will highlight best practices used to identify the next generation of sustainable compact development opportunities.

The initiative will focus on intensification in the Regional Centres and Corridors served by rapid transit in the Town of Markham, the City of Vaughan, the Town of Richmond Hill and the Town of Newmarket.

The photos will show how more than 40 per cent of all new residential development will be built within the boundaries established in Ontario’s Places to Grow Plan.

York Regional Council approves Official Plan amendments initiated by the City of Vaughan

York Regional Council approved a series of City of Vaughan Official Plan Amendments (OPA) along the Highway 7 corridor in Vaughan.

The amendments add a new designation, "Prestige Area – Centres and Highway 7 Corridor". The new designation elevates the existing corridor to a more intense, dynamic, mixed-use, compact, pedestrian friendly, transit-supportive corridor.

York Regional Council marks Inclusivity Action Plan succes

York Regional Council congratulated the Human Services Planning Coalition (HSPC), the Inclusivity Action Plan Steering Committee and six working groups for their collective efforts and accomplishments in making The Regional Municipality of York a more ethno-culturally inclusive community.

Council also endorsed a sustained focus on ethno-cultural inclusivity and the continuation of the Inclusivity Action Plan (IAP), a collaborative community-based initiative of the HSPC that involved 88 individuals representing 47 organizations over the past 2½ years.

The HSPC will provide a business plan and budget for further ethno-cultural inclusivity projects in a follow-up report to Regional Council later this year.

York Region prepares to fund new, less established community agencies

York Regional Council approved a proposal to enhance the Community Development and Investment Fund (CDIF) and to create a New Agency Development Fund.

These changes will enable York Region to respond to increasing needs for community services resulting from the Region’s diverse and rapidly growing population. Supporting new and emerging agencies is considered vital to respond to the growing, complex service needs of the Region’s more demographically diverse community.

A staff report in September will outline how an expanded CDIF strategy and New Agency Development Fund Strategy may be implemented.

York Regional Council provides input to Ontario’s poverty strategy

York Regional Council has endorsed 10 key policy directions for inclusion in the Government of Ontario’s poverty reduction strategy, which will address the needs of residents who face economic hardship.

York Region is encouraging the provincial government to invest in more childcare services, affordable housing, skills development and employment assistance programs. Combined, these initiatives will enable people to improve their situation and experience a higher quality of life for themselves and their families.
For more information, please read the staff report.

York Regional Council seeks more input to guide growth management decisions

York Regional Council approved plans for a third and final phase of consultations for Planning for Tomorrow, York Region’s growth management initiative. The consultations will encourage public discussion on the issues and choices facing York Region, identify solutions and seek broad public consensus on the public policy decisions that need to be made about how to manage our future growth.

The provincial growth plan has forecast York Region's population to reach 1.5 million people by 2031. Adding 500,000 more people in 23 years is similar to adding the population of our two largest municipalities, the Town of Markham and the City of Vaughan, combined.

As of the 2006 Census, 42 per cent of York Region residents were newcomers to Canada.

To successfully implement the provincial growth plan, York Region must add 333,000 jobs for a total of 797,000 jobs by 2031. In addition, York Region must add 231,300 households to our current total of 275,500 households.

The consultations will feature town hall meetings in September to encourage public discussion on the choices facing York Region and will include discussions of the outcome of the initial phases of consultation.

To obtain copies of the staff report Planning for Tomorrow - Public Engagement Phase 3, please call York Region’s Planning and Development Services Department at 905 895-1231, Ext. 1550, or toll-free at 1-877-464-9675, or send your request via email to strategicplanning@york.ca

Terms of Reference in development for Source Protection Areas

York Regional Council approved Environmental Services staff to lead technical tasks and Planning staff to co-lead planning tasks for development of Terms of Reference in the preparation of the Assessment Report for the Toronto and Region and Lakes Simcoe and Couchiching/Black River Source Protection Areas.

Following Ministry of the Environment approval of the Terms of Reference, the development of the Assessment Report is expected to be completed next year. The process will conclude with the first Source Protection Plan by 2012.

1,000 Police Officers Partnership extended two years

York Regional Council approved a report from the York Regional Police Services Board recommending a two-year extension of the Provincial Safer Communities – 1,000 Officer Policing Partnership Grant Program.

The Government of Ontario program started in October 2003 with a commitment to provide funding for 1,000 new police officers across the province to enhance community safety by bolstering community policing.

The initiative focuses on six areas of policing: youth crime, guns and gangs, grow ops, Internet luring and enhancing the efficiency of the court system.

Under the program, York Regional Police received funding for 100 new officers in the following categories:

Organized Crime	45
Guns and Gangs	25
Community Policing	10
Protecting Children from Internet Luring and Child Pornography	10
Dangerous Offenders	3
Domestic Violence	3
Court Efficiencies	2
Youth Crime	2

Funding is provided on a 50-50 cost share between The Regional Municipality of York and the Government of Ontario for salary, benefits and related overtime costs to an annual maximum of $35,000 per officer.

Standardized Fortification Bylaw endorsed to combat organized crime

York Regional Council endorsed a presentation from York Regional Police and the Regional Solicitor encouraging all nine area municipalities to adopt a standardized bylaw to regulate excessive fortification and protection of properties in efforts to combat organized crime in the Region – particularly by outlaw motorcycle gangs.

Excessive fortification poses a serious risk to emergency responders – police, fire and paramedics – who may be required to enter the premises.  Fortified premises often allow for suspects to flee and pose a serious risk to adjacent properties.

Excessive fortification can include:

• Windows covered with steel plates, bars, bullet-proof shutter, mesh on windows
• Concrete or bricks blocking windows or doorways
• Walls reinforced by steel
• Break or bullet-resistant windows and doors
• Traffic barriers and observation posts
• Perimeter warning devices
• Electrified fencing
• Visual surveillance beyond the perimeter of the property

A standardized fortification bylaw would also assist in the fight against illegal drug labs and grow-ops operated by organized crime groups.

Georgina Mobility Transit Update

York Regional Council approved a report recommending the ongoing support of Georgina Mobility Transit as a low-cost transportation alternative for those without access to, or ineligible for York Region Transit (YRT) and YRT Mobility Plus services in the Town of Georgina. York Region will provide a grant of $50,000 to help support Georgina Mobility Transit operations in 2008.

Last year, Georgina Transit provided an average of 940 trips per month. Future financial support will be based on the demand for alternate transit service and the existing and planned expansion of conventional transit services.

Additional funding for roads capital programs

York Regional Council has approved $3.3 million in roads capital funding to complement the $4.6 million allocated by the Government of Ontario to York Region roads and bridge projects in the province’s 2008 Budget.

The $3.3 million from York Region was approved as part of the York Region Capital Budget in December 2007. The combined funds will go to the following projects:

Resurfacing:

• Warden Avenue from Vivian Road to Davis Drive
• Wellington Street from Yonge Street to Bercy Street
• King Road from Bathurst Street to Bond Crescent
• York-Durham Line from 16th Avenue to Major Mackenzie Drive
• Kennedy Road from Ravenshoe Road to Old Homestead Road
• Highway 7 from Jane Street to Keele Street
• Yonge Street from north of Oak Ridges to Bloomington Road

Intersection improvements:

• Woodbine Avenue at Hooper Road
• Ninth Line at Millard Avenue
• Keele Street at 17th Sideroad
• Keele Street at McNaughton Road
• Dufferin Street, Keele Street and Jane Street at King/Vaughan Line

Bridge maintenance:

• The Little Rouge Creek Bailey Bridge on 16th Avenue east of Reesor Road

Road reconstruction:

• Ravenshoe Road from Prout Road to Weirs Sideroad

2008 Roads Capital Plan

York Regional Council received a presentation outlining the Region’s 2008 Roads Capital Plan. The plan outlined all roadways under construction or maintenance in 2008. The plan includes:

Roads under construction to be completed this spring:

• Ninth Line from Rose Way to Donald Cousens Parkway, Town of Markham
• Bathurst Street from King Road to Wellington Street, Township of King/Town of Aurora
• Teston Road from Dufferin Street to Bathurst Street, City of Vaughan
• Warden Avenue from MacPherson Drive to Highway 407, Town of Markham
• Kennedy Road at Birchview Lane Intersection Improvement, Town of Markham
• Elgin Mills Road at Yorkland Street Intersection Improvement, Town of Richmond Hill
• Yonge Street sewer replacement and road rehabilitation, Town of Aurora

Ongoing construction projects expected to continue through 2008:

• Weston Road from Major Mackenzie Drive to Teston Road, City of Vaughan.
• Teston Road from Weston Road to Jane Street, City of Vaughan
• New interchange at Highway 400 and Teston Road, City of Vaughan
• Highway 427 Arterial Road Extension to Zenway Boulevard, City of Vaughan
• Major Mackenzie Drive from Woodbine Avenue to Kennedy Road, Town of Markham
• Ravenshoe Road from Prout Road to Weir’s Sideroad, Town of Georgina
• Bathurst Street from Wellington Street to Mulock Drive, Towns of Aurora and Newmarket and Township of King

Construction projects to be tendered and started later this year:

• Warden Avenue at Mount Albert Road Intersection Improvement, Town of East Gwillimbury
• Highway 7 bridge rehabilitation west of Kennedy Road, Town of Markham
• Highway 7 bridge rehabilitation west of McCowan Road, Town of Markham
• Ninth Line Highway 407 to Rose Way, Town of Markham
• Bathurst Street from Mulock Drive to Highway 9, Town of Newmarket and Township of King
• Dufferin Street from Steeles Avenue to Glen Shields Avenue, City of Vaughan
• Stouffville Road from McCowan Road to west of Highway 48, Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville
• Stouffville Road from Highway 404 to Warden Avenue
• Ninth Line from Don Cousens Parkway to north of Major Mackenzie Drive, Town of Markham
• Major Mackenzie Drive from Don Cousens Parkway to east of Ninth Line, Town of Markham
• Woodbine Avenue from Ravenshoe Road to Morton Avenue, Town of Georgina

Resurfacing and rehabilitation projects:

• Aurora Road from Highway 48 to York-Durham Line
• Baseline Road from McCowan Road to Dalton Road
• King Road from Yonge Street to Bond Crescent
• Keele Street from Major Mackenzie Drive to Teston Road
• Leslie Street from Green Lane to Mount Albert Road
• Metro Road from Kennedy Road to Salvation Army Road
• Mount Alert Road from Leslie Street to Colonel Wayling Boulevard
• Warden Avenue from Old Homestead Roads to Baseline Road
• Weston Road from King Road to 16th Avenue
• Old Yonge Street from Mount Albert Road to Queensville Sideroad
• York-Durham Line from Elgin Mills Road to 10th Line

Dial-a-Ride Update

York Regional Council approved the continuation and expansion of the York Region Transit (YRT) Dial-a-Ride program following a successful pilot project on Route 44 – Bristol London in the Town of Newmarket. Service will continue and expand on Route 44, as well as six additional routes in the Towns of Aurora, Richmond Hill and Markham.

Dial-a-Ride is an on-call contracted taxi service that replaces regular YRT/Viva vehicles during hours of low ridership. By calling a toll-free number 30 minutes in advance of a trip, customers can request to be picked up and dropped off at stops along a Dial-a-Ride route.

Results from the six-month Dial-a-Ride pilot project between September 2007 and February 2008 show

positive results in the areas of ridership, financial efficiency and customer satisfaction. Daily ridership has remained constant, cost to operate the service has improved by 61 per cent and customer feedback has been positive throughout the pilot project.

Expanding the Dial-a-Ride program has the potential to save York Region taxpayers $75,000 in 2008 and $227,000 over a one-year period, based on initial pilot project contractor rates.  A new Dial-a-Ride tender will be required, as the contract for the pilot project does not include a major expansion of the program.

York Region to seek cost-sharing agreement with Government of Canada to expand closed circuit camera sites on Regional roads

York Regional Council has agreed to partner with the Government of Canada for up to $250,000 to offset the costs of expanding closed circuit television network cameras sites on Regional roadways.

The funding is part of Transport Canada’s program to help fund 50 per cent of the cost of municipal Intelligent Transportation Systems to a maximum of $250,000.

York Region has allocated $2.1 million to expand its closed circuit camera coverage from seven locations to 20. The cameras monitor traffic to assist with signal timing in an effort to keep traffic moving efficiently. The technology may also be adapted in the future to allow updated traffic information to motorists via transit, media and the Internet.

York Regional Council receives update on Ontario Works Program

York Regional Council received an update regarding the Ontario Works Internal Review and Social Benefits Tribunal Appeal activity for 2006 and 2007.

While administering the Ontario Works Act, decisions on the initial and ongoing eligibility of applicants and participants are made daily. An applicant or participant may appeal any decision that would refuse, terminate or reduce an allowance or mandatory benefit.

The Internal Review process allows for decisions to be upheld, changed or modified. If an applicant or participant disagrees with an Internal Review decision, they may make a formal appeal to the Social Benefit Tribunal. They may also consider issues regarding human rights as they relate to the appeal.

In 2006 and 2007, 100 per cent of the Social Benefits Tribunal appeal findings supported York Region’s decisions.

Small drinking water systems

York Regional Council approved the receipt of $128,100 from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care to hire one additional, full-time public health inspector to conduct risk assessment of small drinking water systems across York Region. The funds will also be used to purchase water testing supplies and equipment.

Small drinking water systems include: churches, motels/hotels, gas stations, restaurants, community halls, arenas, trailer parks, campgrounds and industrial facilities.

The Advisory Council on Drinking Water Quality and Testing Standard recommended the transfer of responsibility for small drinking water systems serving non-residential systems and seasonal residential systems from the Ministry of the Environment to the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.

Risk assessments and inspections of small drinking water systems can only be done by public health inspectors.

York Region public health inspectors will carry out site-specific risk assessments of small drinking water systems over a two-year period.  Small drinking water systems identified as high risk will be inspected every two years and systems identified as medium and low risk will be inspected every four years.

The Government of Ontario will provide 100 per cent cost support for the program in 2008 and 2009.  After the two-year risk assessment period, funding for continuation for the program will be cost-shared, with local health units responsible for 25 per cent of human resource and other inspection costs.

York Regional Council updated on social assistance delivery

York Regional Council will request that the Government of Ontario reinstate 100 per cent funding for the Back-to-School and Winter Clothing allowance for 2008 that is currently being provided to families on social assistance, and annually review the Ontario Child Benefit to ensure it is meeting desired outcomes.

Families on social assistance receive a bi-annual clothing allowance for their children – at back-to-school time and for winter wear. When the new Ontario Child Benefit payments begin, the two clothing allowances will be incorporated into the monthly Child Benefit payments. This will require families to save a portion of the monthly payment to compensate for the loss of the lump-sum payment. The mid-year timing for the start of the program does not allow for sufficient funds to be saved for the 2008 year.

A number of municipalities across the province, plus the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, have expressed their concern regarding this decision.

Council also received an update of the changes in social assistance delivery, including the restructuring of benefits for families. The new Ontario Child Benefit will help families with lower income provide for their children by removing children’s benefits from social assistance and creating a separate child benefit. This ensures eligible families continue to receive children’s benefits when they leave social assistance for employment.

The Ontario Child Benefit has potential as a tool to reduce child and family poverty by reducing barriers to employment.

York Region to add emergency shelter units for families at Leeder Place

York Regional Council approved a design/build contract recommendation for the completion of 15 new emergency shelter units for families at Leeder Place in the Town of East Gwillimbury. Leeder Place is owned by Housing York Inc.

York Region will award a contract in the amount of $2.5 million to Monteith Building Group.

Council also authorized the 2008 capital budget for the Leeder Place Emergency Family Shelter Expansion to be increased by an additional $700,000 to a total of $2.9 million.

Council will commit $583,000 of the $9.665 million provided by the Province’s Developing Opportunities for Ontario Renters (DOOR) initiative towards the project, with the remaining $117,000 to be provided by federal homelessness funding.

The new beds will provide safe, decent emergency help for families in crisis.

York Region maintains economic growth; creating jobs to match population

The Regional Municipality of York released the Economic and Development Review 2007, which examines and reflects upon various demographic trends, economic indicators and building activity within York Region.

The total value of non-residential (industrial, commercial, institutional) construction in York Region increased by 23 per cent from last year’s report, which demonstrates the impact of a strong economy.

The report highlights numerous indicators that demonstrate the Region’s strong demographic and economic growth as well as construction activity during the past year:

• York Region’s total population increased 3.5 per cent from last year, to approximately 983,100 in December 2007
• Total construction for all sectors (residential, industrial, commercial and institutional) was valued at approximately $3.5 billion in 2007, a $380-million increase over 2006
• The number of jobs in York Region increased about 15,000 to approximately 485,000 in 2007
• York Region’s housing stock is becoming increasingly diversified, with 48 per cent of housing starts in 2007 comprised of multiple unit dwellings (semi-detached, row, condo and apartment)

Copies of this publication will be circulated to area municipalities, chambers of commerce, boards of trade, other business groups and key stakeholders. The report will also be available on the Region’s website by the end of the month at www.york.ca

To obtain copies of the Economic and Development Review 2007, please call York Region’s Planning and Development Services Department at 905 895-1231, Ext. 1550, or toll-free at 1-877-464-9675, or send your request via email to strategicplanning@york.ca

Province identifies four urban growth centres in York Region

York Regional Council received a staff report explaining the current status, size and location of local urban growth centres.

In York Region, urban growth centres have been identified in Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill and Vaughan, where the density of people and jobs per hectare was 20, 55, 15 and 15, respectively. The Provincial Growth Plan establishes a goal of 200 people and jobs per hectare within each urban growth centre.

Urban growth centres will feature high density, major employment uses and major transit infrastructure. They will be focal areas for investment in institutional and region-wide public services, as well as commercial, recreational, cultural and entertainment uses.

York Region will consult with the affected area municipalities in reviewing and commenting on the Provincial urban growth centre technical paper.

Comparative analysis of growth scenarios enables York Regional Council to adopt a 40 per cent intensification scenario for future development

York Regional Council endorsed a staff recommendation to adopt a preferred growth scenario of a minimum of 40 per cent intensification as the basis for York Region’s growth plan to 2031.

Staff conducted a comparative analysis of the impacts or implications of three scenarios (30 per cent, 40 per cent and 50 per cent intensification) on human services, the environment, water and wastewater, transportation and 25-year fiscal and economic impacts.

A 40 per cent scenario:

• Is in keeping with planned Regional urban structure
• Supports the significant investment York Region is making in transit
• Strengthens York Region’s economy by attracting more diverse businesses in vibrant centres, including major office employment
• Provides greater housing diversity and more affordable housing, thereby attracting a more diverse and skilled labour force
• Reduces traffic congestion and promotes a more balanced transportation network, including a greater reliance on transit
• Enables successful Regional centres to provide an improved Regional image through more amenities and cultural attractions
• Is consistent with Places to Grow and provincial legislation

Extensive public consultation on the preferred minimum 40 per cent intensification scenario will be undertaken as part of the Planning for Tomorrow consultations proposed for September.

York Regional Council takes steps to protect strategic employment corridors

York Regional Council confirmed the importance of protecting strategic employment lands located along existing and future 400-series Highways. Regional Council also agreed, in principle, to support a strategic and Regionally-significant employment area within the City of Vaughan, adjacent to Highway 400, as proposed under Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA) 52.

York Regional Council also endorsed a framework for identifying similar strategic areas and bringing them into service. This strategic approach provides a level of certainty and clarity for proceeding with the planning process for future employment areas.

The Highway 400-series corridors are strategic locations for economic development and are vital to the current and long-term competiveness of York Region’s economy. Identifying those segments of the Highway 400-series corridors outside of the current urban area and the Greenbelt as future employment areas will strengthen York Region’s employment structure, and reinforce on-going planning for employment areas by the local municipalities.

Opening Doors: York Region’s 2008 Accessibility Plan approved by York Regional Council

York Regional Council approved Opening Doors: York Region’s 2008 Accessibility Plan. This comprehensive document outlines the actions that The Regional Municipality of York will take to identify, remove and prevent barriers for people with disabilities in regional programs, services, facilities, bylaws, policies and procedures.

Opening Doors includes initiatives to improve accessibility in every regional department, including York Regional Police and York Region Transit/Viva. The plan was developed with advice from the York Region Accessibility Advisory Committee and builds on the work established in the Region’s four previous accessibility plans: Understanding Barriers (2004), Moving Forward (2005), Removing Barriers (2006) and Towards Accessibility (2007).

The plan includes 91 accessibility planning initiatives whereby 34 possible barriers will be identified and 57 barriers will be removed from across all Regional departments.  All municipalities, including York Region, must develop an annual accessibility plan under the requirements of the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001.

A copy of Opening Doors is available on the Region’s website at www.york.ca under “services/accessibility planning”. The plan will also be available in printed copy or in alternative formats such as large print and on CD, upon request.

York Regional Council receives an update of 2007 Rent Supplement Program

York Regional Council received a summary of the 2007 activity of the Rent Supplement Program, which provides rent subsidy to low income families and individuals for rental units primarily in the private sector housing market.

Eligible applicants/households are obtained from York Region’s waiting list and Housing Services staff determine their rent-geared-to-income amount. The household pays their rent-geared-to-income amount to the landlord and York Region pays the subsidy directly to the landlord on behalf of the tenant.

The Rent Supplement Programs are effective methods to increase the supply of affordable housing to low income households in the Region. Accordingly, the Strong Communities Rent Supplement Program enables the Region to secure more than $2.8 million of provincial funding annually to assist low income and supportive housing households in the Region.

As of December 2007, 370 households were receiving rent supplements under this program and, in accordance with provincial rules, approximately 20 per cent of the units are allocated to households receiving supports from provincially-funded social service agencies.

York Regional Council receives an update of 2007 program to assist children with developmental needs

York Regional Council received an update of the 2007 activities and initiatives of Early Intervention Services, a program York Region delivers directly to children with special needs from birth to school entry.

The children in the Early Intervention Services programs have, or are at risk of having delays in development due to established or biological risk factors. In 2007, 53.5 per cent of children enrolled had a diagnosed developmental special need. Of all children enrolled in Early Intervention Services, 16.3 per cent (301) had some form of autism, while 20.2 per cent (381) were born premature.

Once Early Intervention Services are accessed, children receive ongoing developmental assessments provided by multidisciplinary teams, including parents, early interventionists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists and physiotherapists.

In addition, family members of children enrolled in Early Intervention Services, child care operators, and community programs are supported to ensure their services continue to assist the children.

In 2007, it cost $7 million to deliver Early Intervention Services, including  $590,000 from York Region. In addition, another $2.8 million was spent on child care services provided through the Best Start program, which is funded 100 per cent by the Province.

The Family and Children’s Services Branch operates a toll free telephone line, 1-888-703-KIDS (5437) for referral and information to Early Intervention Services, as well as the Preschool Speech and Language Program and the Tri-Regional Infant Hearing Program delivered by Markham Stouffville Hospital.

Council Highlights compiled by Ken Turriff, Corporate Communications, Office of the CAO
Phone: 905 830-4444 ext. 1226 or toll free 1-877-464-9675
Cell: 905 251-6415, Email: ken.turriff@york.ca

The contents of this summary are for information purposes only. Actual text of Council resolutions and official copies of reports to Council can be obtained from the York Region website at www.york.ca under Regional Government.

Regional Newsletter Spring / Summer 2007

Richmond Hill 2007 Budget

Richmond Hill’s 2007 Budget includes capital expenditures of $17.7 million and operating expenditures of $100.4 million which results in a property tax rate increase of 5.9% as follows:

• Increase due to inflation 2.24%
• Increase due to new initiatives 3.66%
• Total Property Tax Increase 5.90% = $59 cost per year for the average household assessed at $384,000 (see below)

In addition to maintaining existing level of services such as fire, waste, recreation, roads, libraries, infrastructure and more; the budget includes the following new initiatives to better serve our community:

• the “green bin” program for the weekly recycling of organic waste
• building and staffing a “One Stop” Customer Service Centre to improve the level of service for residents’ inquiries
• producing a new official plan to protect environmental areas and plan for the people of Richmond Hill
• building and staffing the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts

The Town collects property taxes on behalf of the Region and the Province. Only about 25% of the residents’ property tax bill goes to the Town for services. Therefore on a property tax bill of $4000 per year about $1000 goes to the Town.

Recognizing that some seniors on fixed income may have difficulty with rising costs, Council approved a grant of $250 per year for qualified low income and disabled seniors. Low income seniors must apply each year for the grant.

The “pie charts” show that for every dollar of municipal taxes collected from residential home owners the Town receives 25 cents; and for every commercial dollar the Town receives almost 13 cents. For more information on the Town’s budget contact the Finance Department at 905-771-8800 or email: revenue@richmondhill.ca.

York Region’s 2007 Budget and Business Plan

York Region’s 2007 Budget includes an operating budget of $1.2 billion and about $565 million for capital expenditures for a total budget of $1.8 billion. The budget maintains service levels and invests in capital infrastructure. The $1.8 billion budget results in a 4.8% property tax rate increase. The impact on the average York Region home assessed at $371,000 is about $80 per year.

The following table illustrates how York Region spends your tax dollar.
How Your 2007 Regional Tax Dollar is Spent

• Police Services$0.28
• Transit – YRT and Viva$0.13
• GTA Pooling$0.12
• Regional Roads$0.11
• Special Purpose Bodies$0.07
• Housing$0.06
• Solid Waste$0.04
• Social Assistance$0.04
• Emergency Medical Services$0.03
• Asset Replacement$0.03
• Public Health$0.02
• Family & Children’s Services$0.02
• Administrative Support$0.02
• Long Term Care$0.02
• Regional Planning$0.01
• TOTAL$1.00

As noted, Police Services is by far the highest expenditure for the Region, accounting for 28% of the budget. York Region Transit and VIVA rapid transit services increased to second place at 13% of the budget. Investment in public transit will become increasingly more important as the Region attempts to attract more ridership to reduce the growing problems caused by traffic congestion. The Region, however, must also invest in improving the network of roads needed to move traffic. Together Transit and Roads account for 24% of the Region’s budget.

Although the Province announced it will eliminate the GTA pooling (taxes transferred to The City of Toronto for Social Services) by 2013, it remains the third largest budget item at $79.5 million or 12% of the budget.

For more information contact Ken Turriff, Corporate Communications at 1-877-464-9675 ext. 1226 or e-mail ken.turriff@york.ca.

Richmond Hill Tree Preservation By-law

The trees in our community are essential for our quality of life. They provide many benefits including:

• Producing oxygen
• Capturing pollution
• Absorbing water runoff and preventing erosion
• Providing shade to cool buildings, which saves energy
• Raise real estate values
• Provide habitat for wildlife

Richmond Hill Council passed a Tree Preservation By-law regulating the injury or destruction of trees on private lands. Property owners are required to obtain a Permit to Injure or Destroy a tree with a minimum diameter of 20 cm or greater. Permits are not required under the following circumstances:

• If the diameter of the tree trunk is less than 20 cm at a height of 1.4 meters from the ground
• For pruning trees away from buildings or structures as defined in the By-law
• For trees in a nursery , fruit trees or other cultivated operations
• If York Region Forestry requires a permit
• If the injury or destruction of a tree is undertaken by a municipality, government agency or utility company
• To remove a dead, diseased, hazardous or severely injured tree
• For emergency work to prevent injury.

Applications for a permit to Injure or Destroy a Tree may be obtained from The Parks Recreation&Culture Department or from the town’s website at www.richmondhill.ca. Complete the application and drop it off with a non-refundable cheque for $150 for the first tree and $50 for each additional tree.

Solid Waste Management

Solid Waste Management has come a long way from merely placing garbage in a bin or plastic bag for the city to pick up and dump in the nearest landfill site. Growing concern with the environmental impact of dumping waste in landfill sites has caused people and government to re-think how to get rid of waste. Local and regional municipalities are co-ordinating their efforts on the collection and disposal of waste.

Starting this fall, all nine area municipalities in the Region of York will collect organic waste (such as food and tissue paper) in the green bin and recyclable blue box materials (such as paper and plastics) weekly. Non recyclable products (e.g. plastic grocery bags and Styrofoam) will be picked up bi-weekly. Hazardous waste, including batteries, motor oil, detergents and paint should be delivered to the HHW depot at the following locations:

1. Rodrick Road located east of Woodbine Avenue south of Miller Avenue in Markham
2. The Vaughan Hazardous Waste Depot at 2840 Rutherford Rd. and east of Jane Street
3. 225 Garfield Wright Blvd., East Gwillimbury; east of Woodbine Avenue north of Davis Drive

Yard Waste is picked up bi-monthly from April to December. Yard waste must be placed in reusable containers, paper bags or boxes. Yard waste in plastic bags, grass clippings or sod will not be picked up.

For more information on waste collection please call…
York Region : 1-877-464-9675 or e-mail: info@york.ca
Richmond Hill : 905-773-2525 or e-mail: goinggreen@richmondhill.ca

Residual Waste

By year-end, York Region and the nine area municipalities will implement Source Separate Organics and Blue Box Recyclable and Yard Waste programs to divert up to 65% of household waste. Although improved recycling programs may increase the diversion of waste above 65%, the remaining 35% non recyclable waste (residual waste) must be disposed of either in landfill sites or alternatively by use of new technologies.

In 2006 York Region sent about 194,000 tonnes of residual waste to landfill sites in Ontario and Michigan. Although the Region’s objective is to reduce the volume of residual waste, the projected population growth in York Region of 1.5 million people by 2031 will increase the volume of residual waste.

York Region has proposed the following long term strategies to address the management of residual waste:

• Send up to 100,000 tonnes per year of residual waste to Dongara Limited to convert the waste to fuel pellets. The fuel pellets are sold to produce steam, electricity and replace coal in cement kilns. However York Region will still have residual to dispose of by some other method.
• York partnered with Durham to undertake an individual Environmental Assessment (EA) to construct an “energy from waste facility” (i.e. incinerator). To date five sites were identified for an incinerator, of which one is located in East Gwillimbury and four are located in Clarington. Over the next year both regions will continue to assess the merits of each site and investigate the types of incineration systems available.
• York will always need landfill capacity because there will always be some residual waste after processing blue box material, organic waste or bottom ash from an energy waste facility. The Region negotiated a long term landfill agreement with Green Lane Landfill in St. Thomas.

For more information contact York Region Waste Management at 1-877-464-9675 or go to www.york.ca

York Region Rapid Transit System

Traffic congestion and smog are choking our communities with longer travel times and increasing health problems. York Region partnered with a private consortium to develop a rapid transit system including bus-only lanes down the centre of Yonge Street. The bus-only lanes would be separated with landscaped barriers and mid point crossings on the road. Public discussions for the initial phase of the Yonge Street rapid-way from Steeles Ave to Highway 7 have started. Local business owners and residents have voiced strong objections to the proposed widening.

York Region spent $150 million to initiate the successful Quick Start rapid bus program on regional roads. The Region estimates the capital costs for Phase 2 of the VIVA System at $1.6 billion. York Region does not have the capital investment to build a region-wide transit system. It needs the financial support of senior government; but only a portion of the capital funds has been advanced by the Federal and Provincial governments.

Provincial policy projects that by 2031 York Region is expected to have a population of 1.5 million with 40 percent of the intensification along the Yonge Street and Highway 7 corridors. The need for an effective and efficient transit system is crucial. Richmond Hill’s population by the year 2021 is expected to increase to 228,200 persons with an employment base of 96,000 jobs. The result is an estimated 40% more traffic during morning rush hour. The Town’s Transportation Master Plan recommends the extension of the Yonge Street subway from Finch to Highway 7 to handle transit needs beyond the year 2021. The Region’s review also strongly supports the subway extension to Richmond Hill. This implies that the proposed express bus-only lane is an interim measure, which may serve the community needs for about 10 years. So why is the Region prepared to spend $1.6 billion on dedicated bus-only lanes dividing the center of Yonge Street when it may be replaced with the subway?

Several factors make the dedicated bus-only lanes on Yonge Street a short-sighted, short-term solution:

• Toronto is pursuing a light rail transit system that may not align with York Region’s bus-only lane
• the source of the capital funds to complete the project is uncertain; and
• the pressures of growth over the next 20 years support a subway system

It would be prudent for York Region to focus on developing a sustainable long-term rapid transit system that fulfills projected needs. The Provincial policy to intensify development along Yonge Street implies a growing need for rapid transit. Rather than spending $1.6 billion on a bus-only lane that may be replaced in ten years, the Region should improve the Quick Start Bus program without widening the existing roads. The funds could be set aside to build a sustainable long-term region-wide transit system that extends the subway north along Yonge Street and co-ordinates the transit network, and an expanded all day Go Train service. In fact, history shows that a sustainable subway transit system built in advance of development will become the driving force for land use intensification, such as the Sheppard Yonge centre.

Special Events Spring-Summer 2007

Listed are this summer’s special events for you and your family to enjoy.

• Saturday June 9, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm celebrate Richmond Hill Heritage Day. Yonge Street will be closed from Major Mackenzie Drive to Crosby Avenue.
• June 15 to 17, the Oak Ridges Lions Club will host the fourth Annual Family Fair&Home Show at the Oak Ridges Recreation Centre and Bond Lake Arena located on Old Colony east of Yonge Street.
• July 1 celebrate Canada Day at Richmond Green
• Concerts in the Park are held every Thursday evening at the Mill Pond north of York Central Hospital starting July 12 to August 30. Three concerts will also be performed at the Richmond Green Amphitheatre on Sunday afternoons on July 15, July 29 and August 12.

Enjoy a happy and safe summer!

York Region Media Release
Thursday, April 19, 2007

York Regional Council approves 2007 Business Plan and Budget

The Regional Municipality of York benefits from GTA pooling elimination, gas tax revenue

NEWMARKET – York Regional Council approved The Regional Municipality of York’s 2007 Business Plan and Budget which features a continued investment in York Region’s capital infrastructure including major roads construction, transit and rapid transit expansion, increased water/wastewater capacity and enhancements to Policing; a debt reduction strategy and a capital asset replacement program.

“The Provincial Government’s announcement to phase out GTA pooling and the continued commitment of senior levels of government to share gas tax revenue have factored significantly in York Region’s own budget process and final outcome,” saidYork Region Chairman and CEO Bill Fisch. “Added to this is York Region’s commitment to reducing the Regional debt and contingency planning for our infrastructure and assets. The end result is York Region’s2007 Business Plan and Budgetwill ensure that York Region taxpayers’ service needs are met both now and into the future.”

The $1.8 billion 2007 Business Plan and Budget – which factors in 3.3 per cent assessment growth – includes a 4.8-per cent tax levy.  The resulting impact for the average York Region home with an assessment value of $371,000 is approximately $80 for the year or 22 cents a day.

A 5.3-per cent tax levy was originally proposed when the Budget was tabled at Regional Council on January 25^th and was reduced following review by Regional committees and staff.

“This is a sensible budget which will ensure that York Region’s communities can meet growth-related challenges and continue to enhance the quality of life of all of our citizens,” said Town of Newmarket Mayor Tony Van Bynen, Chair of the Region’s Finance and Administration Committee. “Regional staff is to be commended for all of their hard work for bringing this budget to fruition and for helping to ensure that York Region taxpayers are receiving value-added services for their tax dollars.”

The Regional budget includes approximately $1.2 billion in operating costs required to maintain existing services and outlines $565 million for capital expenditures, including costs required for the ongoing maintenance and replacement of existing assets as well as growth and service improvements, including:

• Major road construction and improvement projects
• Expanded transit routes and new transit vehicles
• Additional police officers, vehicles and civilian support staff
• Expanded water/wastewater facilities and additional capacity
• Continued implementation of the Source Separated Organics program (Green bins)

Major factors in York Region’s 2007 Business Plan and Budget include:

Phased Elimination of GTA Pooling

• The 2007 Provincial Budget included an announcement of a phased elimination of the GTA Pooling program, commencing in 2007 and concluding in 2013. (GTA Pooling is the money collected from York, Peel and Halton Regions, remitted to the Ontario Government and then distributed the City of Toronto and Durham Region to assist with their Social Housing and Social Assistance costs.)
• York Region’s 2007 GTA pooling requirements are capped at the 2004 level of $79.5 million and further offset by the elimination of $9.5 million from the Province’s Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund (2006/2007) – representing a net GTA pooling reduction of $6.5 million.  Annual reductions of $13 million commence in 2008 and continue through 2013 inclusive.
• The $6.5 million will be allocated to debt reduction.

Gas Tax Revenues

• The Region continues to receive gas tax revenues in 2007 from the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario.
• These revenues are committed to fund investment in transit Capital and Operating programs.
• They remain at the 2006 level in the 2007 Operating budget in the amount of $11.3 million.
• The remaining gas tax revenues of $11.4 million for 2007 are allocated to the capital program to reduce the requirement for new debt and ease debt financing.

Debt Reduction and Capital Asset Replacement

• The 2007 budget includes provision for allocation to reserves of $6.1 million, or one per cent, for capital asset replacement to respond to needed rehabilitation and replacement as required.
• A further $6.1 million, or one per cent, is allocated in the budget to the capital pay-as-you-go program intended to reduce reliance on new debt and ease the burden on future tax levy related to debt service costs.

York Region is responsible for the delivery of 13 core services to residents and businesses:

• Arterial Roads
• Regional Transit (YRT/Viva)
• Water and Wastewater Treatment
• Social Assistance
• Solid Waste
• Public Health
• Police Services
• Long Term Care
• Social Housing
• Emergency Medical Services
• Planning and Economic Development
• Court Administration
• Family and Children’s Services

York Region follows a number of performance measurement activities for business planning and budgeting. York Region is a member of the Ontario Municipal CAO’s Benchmarking Initiative (OMBI), a partnership project with 15 municipalities which share performance statistics and best practices, and the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), which has established standardized reporting for budgets and financial statements.

Regional Staff will now commence work on revised budget forecasts for 2008-2010 and deliberate on allocation options for GTA Pooling dollars for future years.

For more information on The Regional Municipality of York, please visit www.york.ca

York Region’s 2007 Budget and Business Plan approved

York Regional Council approved The Regional Municipality of York’s 2007 Business Plan and Budget which features a continued investment in York Region’s capital infrastructure including major roads construction, transit and rapid transit expansion, increased water/wastewater capacity and enhancements to Policing; a debt reduction strategy and a capital asset replacement program.

The $1.8 billion 2007 Business Plan and Budget - which factors in 3.3 per cent assessment growth - includes a 4.8-per cent tax levy. The resulting impact for the average York Region home with an assessment value of $371,000 is approximately $80 for the year or 22 cents a day.

The Regional budget includes approximately $1.2 billion in operating costs required to maintain existing services and outlines $565 million for capital expenditures, including costs required for the ongoing maintenance and replacement of existing assets as well as growth and service improvements, including:

• Major road construction and improvement projects
• Expanded transit routes and new transit vehicles
• Additional police officers, vehicles and civilian support staff
• Expanded water/wastewater facilities and additional capacity
• Continued implementation of the Source Separated Organics program (Green bins)

Major factors in York Region’s 2007 Business Plan and Budget include:

• Phased Elimination of GTA Pooling
• Gas Tax Revenues
• Debt Reduction and Capital Asset Replacement

York Region approves the hiring of Bruce Macgregor as new York Region CAO

York Regional Council confirmed the hiring of Bruce Macgregor as new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for The Regional Municipality of York. Mr. Macgregor’s appointment, effective May 1^st, follows an extensive, four-month recruiting campaign.

Mr. Macgregor succeeds retiring CAO Michael Garrett, who assumed the post in 2002.

Mr. Macgregor assumes the post of CAO after nearly two years of outstanding service as Commissioner of Transportation and Works for York Region.  Mr. Macgregor assumed the Region’s Commissioner role after a very successful 4.5-year term as Commissioner of Engineering and Public Works for the Town of Richmond Hill.  Mr. Macgregor also served the Region as Director of Water and Wastewater Services from 1995-2000 and as Capital Projects Manager from 1991-1995.

Mr. Macgregor brings a wealth of public sector and private sector expertise to the CAO position with impeccable credentials in both engineering and administration.  He is an extremely highly regarded leader who is noted for his strong work ethic, management skill and commitment to working cooperatively.  He holds a Bachelor of Applied Science degree.

Mr. Macgregor will assume administrative responsibilities for a $1.8 billion corporation with a staff complement that exceeds 2,500 full-time employees in more than 40 offices.

More than 80 per cent of respondents give YRT/Viva top grade

York Regional Council received a report outlining the results of the 2006 York Region Transit/Viva and Mobility Plus customer satisfaction surveys indicating that more than 80 per cent of respondents were satisfied or very satisfied with YRT/Viva and between 70 to 80 per cent of respondents were satisfied or very satisfied with Mobility Plus.

Highlights of the survey results:

• 96 per cent of respondents gave Viva either a good, very good or excellent rating
• 81 per cent of respondents rated YRT conventional services as good, very good or excellent
• 75 per cent of respondents were satisfied or very satisfied with public transit as a whole in York Region, including YRT, Viva, GO Transit, TTC and Brampton services
• 70 to 80 per cent of Mobility Plus respondents gave the top rating of “very satisfied” for a variety of categories, including Call Centre staff friendliness, Call Centre staff knowledge, safe driving, courtesy of drivers and door-to-door assistance
• Customer satisfaction in all categories improved by 3 to 16 per cent when compared to results from the previous 2004 satisfaction survey

Two customer satisfaction surveys were administered by a third-party agency, Oxygen Research Group Inc., in November 2006, one survey for YRT/Viva and a second for Mobility Plus.  The YRT/Viva survey results are based on 6,027 rider responses, including a combination of interviewer-led questions and self-completed questionnaires.  The Mobility Plus survey results are based upon 401 telephone surveys that took approximately 15 minutes each.

Detailed survey results will be available next week on the York Region Transit website: www.yrt.ca

York Region outlines growth management options for discussion

York Regional Council endorsed five staff reports regarding Planning for Tomorrow, the Region’s growth management initiative.  The reports include:

• Population and employment forecasts
• 2031 land requirements
• Residential intensification strategy
• Residential area analysis – preliminary report
• Public engagement and consultation

Six open house meetings being held across York Region in early May will provide opportunities for the public to participate in the Planning for Tomorrow discussions.

Schedule of Planning for Tomorrow open houses

• City of Vaughan, CouncilTuesday, May 1^st
• Town of Markham, CanadaThursday, May 3^rd
• Town of Richmond Hill, OMB Hearing RoomTuesday, May 8^th
• Town of Aurora, Council ChambersWednesday, May 9^th
• Town of East Gwillimbury, Council ChambersThursday, May 10^th
• Town of Newmarket, Council ChambersTuesday, May 15^th

Time and format for these events

• 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. - Open house
• 7:00 to 7:30 p.m. - Presentation
• 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. - Facilitated Discussion

The findings from the Planning for Tomorrow open houses will be reported as part of the Region’s Growth Management Review. The open houses will help guide Regional staff in reviewing and updating the Regional Official Plan. They will also contribute directly into the Infrastructure Master Plan updates for water, wastewater, transit and transportation.

In addition to the information presented in these five staff reports, the Planning for Tomorrow open houses will include a summary of the issues received from public consultations last year during the first phase of the Growth Management Review.

York Region’s website: www.york.ca provides information on the Region’s Growth Management initiative as well as opportunities to submit online feedback.  Click on the “Planning for Tomorrow” icon on the main page for more information, or email comments or questions to futureyork@york.ca

New numbers paint picture of affordable housing imbalance in GTA regions compared to Toronto

York Regional Council received Housing by the Numbers, a study of affordable housing and homelessness in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) that provides statistical evidence of the affordable housing imbalance in York Region and the other GTA regions compared to Toronto.

Conducted by York, Durham, Peel and Halton Regions, Housing by the Numbers is a comparative statistical analysis of affordable housing and homelessness in each region and the City of Toronto (The City of Toronto did not participate in the analysis but confirmed the accuracy of their statistics).

Housing by the Numbers covers a wide range of housing and homelessness statistics in areas such as vacancy rates, average market rents, ability to afford rental housing, the number of affordable housing units on an absolute and per capita basis, the number of shelter and domiciliary hostel beds on an absolute and per capita basis and the average price of ownership.

Highlights of the study:

• York Region’s supply of rental accommodation is 30,580 units compared to 464,535 in the City of Toronto.
• York Region’s vacancy rate of 1.6 per cent is low when compared to 3.3 per cent in the City of Toronto.
• Rent on a one-bedroom apartment in York Region is on average 98.7 per cent of the cost of a similar unit in the City of Toronto.
• If present trends continue, rents in York Region could exceed average market rents in Toronto by 2008.
• York Region’s supply of social housing units is 6,385 units compared to 90,003 in Toronto.
• For every unit of available social housing in York Region, there are 10.55 households on the waiting list.  In Toronto, there are only 4.25 families, so the waiting time would be shorter there.
• York Region has 59 emergency shelter beds compared to Toronto’s 4,181.
• For every emergency shelter bed in York Region, there are 108.22 women who have annual incomes under $10,000, compared to 15.89 women per shelter bed in Toronto.

All but 194 of York Region’s 6,385 social housing units were built prior to 1993, when the population was significantly smaller.

Since GTA pooling was established in 1998, York Region has contributed nearly three-quarters of a billion dollars to the City of Toronto. GTA pooling is scheduled to be phased out over the next five years.

Grade 5 student named Police Chief for a Day

York Regional Police (YRP) Chief Armand LaBarge introduced Jared McNabb as winner of the “Police Chief for a Day” contest.  Donning his specially-made uniform, Jared, a 10-year old grade five student from Saint Paul Catholic School in the Town of Newmarket was sworn in for the day at York Regional Council.

The Chief for a Day contest involved the participation of 81 schools in the York Catholic District School Board and students taking part were asked to submit an essay. The contest is sponsored by the York Regional Police Appreciation Dinner Committee.

York Regional Council endorses National Research Centre Institute in Markham

York Regional Council endorsed a report outlining the Ontario Ministry of Research and Innovation’s Strategic Plan and a recommendation to express support for the establishment of the National Research Centre Institute in the Town of Markham.

The proposed National Research Centre Institute is an example of a partnership initiative that supports innovation and convergence technologies.  It will be the first National Research Centre facility to be established in the GTA and is the result of a collaborative effort between the federal and provincial governments, York University, the Town of Markham and other public and private sector partners.

The institute will serve as a catalyst for the convergence of life sciences and information technology to accelerate research, development, and commercialization.  The objective is to drive new transformative technologies that will readily attract capital for commercialization and which have exponential and multiplier effects in the economy.

York Region will send letters of support to the Premier of Ontario and the Prime Minister of Canada to request that funding approval for the National Research Centre institute be expedited.

Staff authorized to study the establishment of a York Region Industry Education Council

York Regional Council endorsed a staff report providing background research on industry/business education councils in other jurisdictions and provided authorization to conduct a feasibility study for the establishment of an Industry Education Council in York Region.

Staff will report back to Regional Council in the last quarter of 2007 with the findings of the feasibility study, including a work plan for the next phase.

The contents of this summary are for information purposes only. The actual text of Council resolutions and reports can be obtained from the York Web site at www.york.ca under Regional Government.

Thursday, April 19, 2007

How Your 2007 Regional Tax Dollar is Spent

• Police Services$0.28
• Transit – YRT and Viva$0.13
• GTA Pooling$0.12
• Regional Roads$0.11
• Special Purpose Bodies$0.07
• Housing$0.06
• Solid Waste$0.04
• Social Assistance$0.04
• Emergency Medical Services$0.03
• Asset Replacement$0.03
• Public Health$0.02
• Family & Children’s Services$0.02
• Administrative Support$0.02
• Long Term Care$0.02
• Regional Planning$0.01
• TOTAL$1.00

For more information on The Regional Municipality of York, please visit www.york.ca

Contact:
Ken Turriff, Corporate Communications, York Region
Phone: (905) 830-4444 / toll-free 1-877-464-9675, Ext. 1226
Cell: (905) 251-6415 / Email: ken.turriff@york.ca

York Region endorses building HOV lanes for road widening projects

In an effort to help improve traffic flow on Regional roads, York Regional Council endorsed, in principle, the design and construction of High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes for capital projects that involve a road widening from four to six lanes.

The concept of HOV lanes in York Region is not new. HOV lanes are currently in use along Yonge Street from Centre Street to Steeles Avenue, to help facilitate traffic to the Toronto Transit Commission’s (TTC) Finch subway station. These lanes are also in use on the provincially-governed Highway 404 between Beaver Creek and Highway 401.

Studies undertaken on Yonge Street, Highway 404 and other jurisdictions using HOV lanes suggest:

• HOV lanes carry fewer vehicles but more passengers than regular lanes
• HOV lanes increase carpooling by as much as 40 per cent
• HOV lanes reduce travel time
• HOV lanes increase bus ridership

York Region’s 2002 Transportation Master Plan (TMP) identified several areas where HOV lanes, or dedicated bus-only lanes, could be used to manage high levels of traffic congestion. These roadways – slated for widening from four to six lanes – suggested that HOV lanes would only be warranted where it could move 900 persons per hour.

These roadways include:

• Jane Street from Highway 7 to Steeles Avenue
• Keele Street from Highway 407 to Steeles Avenue
• Dufferin Street from Glen Shields Avenue North to Steeles Avenue
• Bathurst Street from Major Mackenzie Drive to Centre Street
• Bayview Avenue from Major Mackenzie Drive to Steeles Avenue
• Leslie Street from Highway 407 to Steeles Avenue
• Kennedy Road from Highway 7 to Highway 407
• McCowan Road from Highway 7 to 14th Avenue
• Rutherford Road/Carrville Road from Jane Street to Yonge Street
• 16th Avenue from Yonge Street to McCowan Road

With approval in principle by York Regional Council, Transportation and Works staff will incorporate HOV lanes into the detailed design of Dufferin Street. HOV lanes will also be presented, as part of the Environmental Assessment process, as options for Bayview Avenue, 16th Avenue, Keele Street, Leslie Street, Kennedy Road and McCowan Road.

Operating policies, including required numbers of people per vehicle, will be finalized prior to the implementation of HOV lanes along Dufferin Street.

York Regional Council accepts list of potential Energy-from-Waste facility sites

York Regional Council achieved another major milestone in the Durham/York Residual Waste Environmental Assessment Study by accepting a list of five potential sites – four in Durham Region and one in York Region – for an energy-from-waste facility to manage York and Durham Regions’ residual waste.

The four sites located in Durham Region are in the Town of Clarington and the single York Region site is located in the Town of East Gwillimbury on York Region-owned land near Davis Drive and Highway 404.

The five sites were recommended by the Study’s consultants and approved for public consultation at Durham Regional Council yesterday before being brought forward at today’s York Regional Council meeting.

A public consultation event will be taking place on Tuesday, April 10th, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Roman Palace Banquet Hall, 1096 Ringwell Road in the Town of Newmarket to allow residents an opportunity to receive more information on the project and share their comments. Residents are asked to pre-register by calling 1-866-398-4423. Two similar events will be held in Durham Region on Thursday, April 12th from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Clarington Beech Centre, 26 Beech Street, Bowmanville and on Saturday, April 14th from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Municipality of Clarington Municipal Office, 40 Temperance Street, Bowmanville.

Following public consultation, further studies on all five potential sites will occur throughout the spring and summer and a preferred site will be recommended to York and Durham Councils in September of this year.

Energy-from-waste plants, or thermal facilities, have been proven to operate safely around the world, including in Europe, Asia, the United States and in nearby Brampton.

The entire cost for this project, including planning, engineering and construction of the facility, is approximately $250 million. This amount will be shared by both York and Durham Regions.

York Region partnered with Durham Region in 2005 on the Durham/York Residual Waste Environmental Assessment Study to find a way to manage solid waste remaining after diversion efforts, such as re-using, recycling and composting.

In June 2006, thermal treatment with energy recovery was recommended as the preferred technology for managing residual waste (the waste left over after diversion efforts).

In Fall 2006, the Study team finalized the evaluation and screening criteria for potential sites for the facility and began searching in both Regions. This process also included a public call for willing sellers where any party interested in proposing a privately-owned site for a potential new facility could submit their proposal.

York Region to partner in Oak Ridges Moraine Corridor Park Management Plan

York Regional Council endorsed the Oak Ridges Moraine Corridor Park Management Plan, prepared by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) for the Government of Ontario.

The Oak Ridges Moraine Park is located between Leslie Street and Bathurst Street, north of Stouffville/Jefferson Road in the community of Oak Ridges and consists of approximately 428 hectares (1,057 acres) of land that will be transferred by private owners and developers to the Province of Ontario as part of the Pickering Land Exchange Agreement reached in 2004. The intent of the transfer is to provide a natural continuous east-west corridor that protects the headwaters of two major watersheds, the Humber and Rouge Rivers.

The park management plan will restore 180 hectares (445 acres) of the natural ecosystem and provide ongoing protection for the overall area. The plan also calls for the design and building of a five-kilometre pedestrian trail that will link to the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail.

York Region will provide expertise in reforestation and forest management to assist in the ongoing protection and rehabilitation and development measures along Regional roadways adjacent to the park to help prevent animal deaths.

Funding to rehabilitate the Oak Ridges Moraine Corridor Park will be approximately $3.5 million, provided by the current private owners and developers.

York Regional Council supports creation and development of new business

York Regional Council gave the nod of approval to a staff report presenting an update of the activities and a 2007 work plan for the York Region Small Business Enterprise Centre, which provides assistance in the creation of new enterprises and the development of early growth stage businesses.

The Centre responded to 6,373 general enquiries and provided 257 consultations. It held 12 seminars and workshops, a Bridges to Better Business Conference and partnered in an Enterprising Women’s Conference. It also processed 47 Summer Company applications resulting in 10 approvals, and 43 Business Plan Challenge submissions resulting in one that went to the Provincial finals.

As a result of the Centre’s efforts, 96 businesses were registered, 67 new businesses were started, 10 business expanded operations and 102 jobs were created.

The Centre will continue with the services it is currently providing to new entrepreneurs. At the same time, in view of the increasing demand for support to growth companies with less than 10 employees, the Centre will expand its services to companies with less than 10 employees through partnerships with community-based organizations such as the Chambers of Commerce and Board of Trade.

For more information about the 2007 activities of the Small Business Enterprise Centre, please contact James Nicholson, York Region Small Business Enterprise Centre, (905) 830-4444, Ext. 1517 or email james.nicholson@york.ca

York Region will receive Geoconnections funding for Internet mapping for sustainable development

The Federal Government has awarded York Region special funding to implement a collaborative Internet mapping project designed to assist planners across York Region with planning, growth management and sustainable development purposes.

York Regional Council authorized staff to enter into a project funding agreement on behalf of York Region with the GeoConnections Program, Natural Resources Canada.

GeoConnections funding in the amount of $182,000 will enable the Region to develop geospatial applications that will be useful to planners as they deal with intensification, sustainable development and the Places to Grow legislation. The proposed project will further advance geospatial infrastructure across the public sector in York Region.

Sustainability strategy integrates economic, community and environmental objectives

York Regional Council approved the preliminary draft of the York Region Sustainability Strategy, a plan that outlines a new approach to decision-making that better integrates economic, community and environmental objectives.

The framework consists of more than 80 action items obtained from public consultations that are organized under the themes of corporate culture of sustainability, healthy communities, economic vitality, sustainable natural environment, public engagement, education and partnerships, and implementation and monitoring.

Regional Council directed staff to refine the draft strategy with stakeholders, experts and local municipalities. The Region will now hold a series of stakeholder workshops and focus groups in the spring and bring forward a final strategy for Regional Council approval in June.

Along with the findings from York Region’s Growth Management public consultations, the Strategy will guide Regional staff in reviewing and updating the Regional Official Plan. It will also feed directly into the Infrastructure Master Plan updates for water, wastewater, transit and transportation.

York Region’s website – www.york.ca – provides information on the Region’s Sustainability initiative as well as opportunities to submit online feedback. Click on the “Planning for Tomorrow” icon on the main page for more information, or email your comments or questions to futureyork@york.ca

2007 Federal and Provincial Budgets

York Regional Council received for information a report which provided highlights of the recent 2007 Federal and Provincial Budgets. Some of the impacts and financial implications related to York Region commencing in the 2007 fiscal year with continuing benefits into 2008 and subsequent years include:

2007 Provincial Budget

• Phase out of GTA Pooling
• Support for Transit Initiatives
• Support for Individuals and Families
• Assessment and Property Tax Measures

2007 Federal Budget

• Federal Gas Tax Program
• Infrastructure Advantage – Building Canada Fund
• A national fund for public-private partnerships
• Creation of new child care spaces
• Social programs
• Public security
• National Water Strategy
• Fuel Efficiency Standards

Emergency Management Program: 2006 Annual Training Exercise Results

York Regional Council approved a report outlining the recommendations of “Operation FLU-READY” – York Region’s Annual training and exercises for Regional staff and first responders and stakeholders across the Region – including Police, Fire, EMS, Hospital and Public Health officials.

Report recommendations include that York Region:

• continue to develop business continuity programs to ensure the continued delivery of essential services and critical functions
• update and test the Region’s departmental emergency plans to ensure a coordinated and effective response
• develop appropriate human resources polices
• develop and test crisis communications plans to ensure timely, consistent and effective messaging between all stakeholders
• communicate Emergency Management’s personal preparedness message to staff and the community on an on-going basis

Growth in child population and increase in number of low-income families put pressure on 2006 funding for child care fee subsidies

In 2006, an average of 3,264 children were subsidized per month by York Region. There are 24,994 licensed centre-based and 640 home-based child care spaces in York Region.

While the number of spaces covered by Purchase of Service Agreements has increased, the percentage of all licensed spaces for which provincial child care fee subsidy is available has decreased from 17 per cent to 10.4 per cent between 1999 and 2006.

As a result of growth in the child population and an increase in the number of low-income families, the current level of provincial funding for fee subsidy does not meet the community need.

Council receives an overview of Growth Management strategy options

Today, staff provided York Regional Council with a report presenting an overview of growth management issues. The Growth Management strategy presents the theme of sustainability and incorporates the values of sustainable natural environment, economic vitality and healthy communities.

Growth management initiatives completed to date include:

• the vacant residential land inventory
• vacant employment land inventory
• preliminary intensification analysis
• initial public consultation
• the natural heritage and new communities workshop

Upcoming reports for 2007 include: Regional forecasts, land budget/GM options, residential and employment area analyses, residential intensification strategy, an update to the natural heritage system and growth management consultations.

There are a number of significant issues that will be explored including: the pace of growth, housing mix, area municipal shares and expansion into new greenfield areas.

For further information about this report, please contact John Waller, Director of Long Range and Strategic Planning at 905-830-4444 Ex. text. 1500.

York Region announces appointments to the 2007-2010 Accessibility Advisory Committee

York Regional Council announced the appointment of members to the 2007–2010 Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC), a committee that will advise Council on how to make it easier for people with disabilities to use Regional programs and services by identifying barriers and recommending action to remove and prevent them.

The committee is comprised of nine citizen members from across the Region and four members of Regional Council. The majority of the members have a disability. The appointees include:

• York Region Chairman and CEO Bill Fisch (ex-officio)
• Town of Richmond Hill Regional Councillor Vito Spatafora
• Town of Newmarket Regional Councillor John Taylor
• Town of Georgina Regional Councillor Danny Wheeler
• Janice Cameron
• Valerie Evans
• Margaret Gaukel
• Cindy Gorlewski
• Beverley Hall
• Kirsten Hill
• Diane Humeniuk
• Wilf Morley
• Trish Robichaud

A formal recruiting process opened on December 3, 2006 and closed on January 8, 2007. Close to 70 people in York Region applied to serve on the committee.

The York Region AAC was established to meet the requirements of the Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2001 (ODA) and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA). The purpose of the committee is to advise Regional Council on the implementation of the ODA, including the preparation, implementation and effectiveness of the Region’s annual accessibility plans and to advise on the Region’s compliance with the standards of the AODA.

Transaction will allow for construction of pedestrian bridge

York Regional Council accepted recommendations outlining the purchase of lands in the Town of Richmond Hill that will allow for the construction of a pedestrian bridge connecting the GO Station to the Viva Richmond Hill Centre Terminal (east side of Yonge Street, just north of Highway 7).

Construction is planned to commence in summer 2007.

Review of 2006 decisions regarding tenant eligibility shows system is working well

York Regional Council received a report providing information regarding internal reviews conducted in 2006 within the Social Housing Program. The Province, through the Social Housing Reform Act, 2000 (SHRA), requires that an internal review process be in place to review decisions which affect applicants’ eligibility for the centralized waiting list and tenants’ eligibility for rent-geared-to-income (RGI) assistance.

In 2006, the total number of internal reviews increased by 19 per cent from 364 received in 2005 to 432 received in 2006. Of these, 126 decisions (29 per cent) were upheld, 279 (65 per cent) were overturned and 27 (6 per cent) were amended.

Most of the decisions overturned were changed because additional information was submitted with the Internal Review request. There were 351 requests from social housing applicants and 81 were from RGI tenants (housing provider decisions).

The Internal Review Program allows applicants and tenants to have an objective review of decisions related to their eligibility for RGI assistance. The process is also an important quality control mechanism. Combined with regular audits of housing provider rent calculations, the internal review process helps regional staff ensure that RGI assistance is appropriately allocated, that our subsidy dollars are calculated accurately and that only eligible households receive subsidy.

In addition, the internal review process is the only mechanism under the legislation that allows RGI applicants to have a second chance to provide the information needed to retain their spot on the centralized waitlist. It is also the only way for RGI tenants to be able to supply the required information to prevent them from losing their subsidy after they have been given a notice of subsidy termination.

As the Internal Review Program has become more familiar to applicants, tenants and their advocates, the number of requests for internal reviews has risen each year. This trend is expected to continue.

Changes will increase disabled access to modified housing units

York Regional Council approved changes to allow people with disabilities who are 45 years of age and older to be eligible for modified units in seniors’ buildings. Council also approved modifications to the occupancy standards for the largest unit a person with disabilities, under the age of 45, can occupy.

These changes will enhance eligibility for modified units in the municipality where people with disabilities receive support from their family and/or community and to improve access to services that help people with disabilities live independently.

York Region administers 380 modified units that are designed for individuals with a physical disability in order to allow them to live independently. Of these units, there are 248 one-bedroom units, 96 two-bedroom units and 36 three-bedroom units.

As of January 4, 2007, there were 68 households on the modified unit waitlist. The waiting time for a household to be placed in a modified unit was approximately one and half years in 2005 and two years in 2006.

Rent supplement programs assist low income and special needs households in York Region

York Regional Council received a summary of the rent supplement activities for 2006. Currently, there are two types of Rent Supplement Programs in the Region: Commercial Rent Supplement (CRS) and the Strong Communities Rent Supplement (SCRS). Up to 506 rent supplement units are delivered under these two programs: 98 units under the CRS program and 408 units under the SCRS program. There are currently 26 landlords participating in the programs under 47 agreements.

The rental units are located primarily in buildings owned by private sector landlords. The units under agreement are made available to eligible households from the Centralized Waiting List (CWL). The household pays the rent-geared-to-income (RGI) and the Region pays the landlord the difference between the RGI amount and the market rent for the unit.

The Social Housing Reform Act, 2000 (SHRA) requires the Region to fund the 98 units allocated to the CRS program. The budgeted cost of this program for 2006 was $634,000. The SCRS program costs are fully funded by the province, up to $2,854,199.

The Rent Supplement Programs are an effective means of increasing the supply of affordable housing in the Region. In particular, the Strong Communities Rent Supplement Program enables the Region to secure more than $2.8 million of provincial funding annually to assist low income and special needs households in York Region.

York Region recognizes Peace Tree Day

York Regional Council is recognizing June 1, 2007 as Peace Tree Day. Peace Tree Day is an annual festival for people of every culture, race and religion to celebrate peace and diversity together. Plans are being made for a celebratory event on June 1, to mark the day.

The contents of this summary are for information purposes only. Actual text of Council resolutions and official copies of reports to Council can be obtained from the York Region Web site at www.york.ca under Regional Government.

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