Minutes

The Council of The Regional Municipality of York

-
Electronic and In-Person Meeting
Council Chambers
17250 Yonge Street, Newmarket
Members:
  • W. Emmerson, 
  • G. Chan, 
  • M. Chan, 
  • N. Davison, 
  • S. Del Duca, 
  • J. DiPaola, 
  • M. Ferri, 
  • V. Hackson, 
  • A. Ho, 
  • L. Jackson, 
  • J. Jones, 
  • J. Li, 
  • I. Lovatt, 
  • T. Mrakas, 
  • S. Pellegrini, 
  • M. Quirk, 
  • M. G. Racco, 
  • G. Rosati, 
  • F. Scarpitti, 
  • J. Taylor, 
  • T. Vegh, 
  • and D. West 
Staff:
  • B. Macgregor, 
  • D. Basso, 
  • J. DeGagne, 
  • P. Freeman, 
  • E. Hankins, 
  • D. Kuzmyk, 
  • E. Mahoney, 
  • and C. Raynor 

A.
Call to Order

 

Regional Chair Emmerson called the meeting to order at 9 a.m.

B.
Land Acknowledgement

 

Regional Chair Emmerson made the following remarks:

We acknowledge that York Region is located on the traditional territory of many Indigenous peoples including the Anishinaabeg, Haudenosaunee, Huron-Wendat and Métis peoples and the treaty territories of the Haudenosaunee, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and Williams Treaties First Nations.

Today this area is home to many diverse Indigenous Peoples, and we recognize their history, spirituality, culture and stewardship of this land.

We also acknowledge the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation as our closest First Nation community.

C.
Disclosures of Interest

 

None

D.
Minutes of Council

 

D.1
Council Meeting held on April 27, 2023

This item has attachments. 
1.Minutes_-_Regional_Council_-_April_27_2023.pdf
  • Moved byRegional Councillor Davison
    Seconded byMayor Del Duca

    Council confirm the Minutes of the Council meeting held on April 27, 2023.

    Carried

E.
Presentations

 

E.1
Yonge North Subway Extension Update

This item has attachments. 
1.Metrolinx_Presentation.pdf
  • Moved byMayor Mrakas
    Seconded byMayor Lovatt

    Council receive the presentation from Phil Verster, President and CEO, Metrolinx, Stephen Collins, Program Sponsor - Subways, Metrolinx, and Rajesh Khetarpal, Vice President, Community Engagement, Metrolinx.

    Carried

E.2
Mackenzie Health Update

This item has attachments. 
1.Mackenzie_Health_Presentation.pdf
  • Moved byMayor Del Duca
    Seconded byMayor West

    Council receive the presentation from Altaf Stationwala, President and Chief Executive Officer, Mackenzie Health.

    Carried

F.
Deputations

 

F.1
Deputations relating to Item H.1 (Committee of the Whole Item J.2.5) - Vacant Home Tax Status Update

 

F.1.1
Yvonne Kelly on behalf of Affordable Housing Coalition of York Region

This item has attachments. 
1.Yvonne_Kelly_re_Vacant_Home_Tax.pdf
  • Moved byMayor Pellegrini
    Seconded byMayor Hackson

    Council receive the deputation from Yvonne Kelly on behalf of Affordable Housing Coalition of York Region.

    Carried

F.1.2
Sean Meagher on behalf of Ontario for All

This item has attachments. 
1.Sean_Meagher_re_Vacant_Home_Tax.pdf
  • Moved byMayor Pellegrini
    Seconded byMayor Hackson

    Council receive the deputation from Sean Meagher on behalf of Ontario for All.

    Carried

F.1.3
Sheena Cooper, Affordable Housing Coalition of York Region

This item has attachments. 
1.Sheena_Cooper_re_Vacant__Home_Tax.pdf

Sheena Cooper was not in attendance.

G.
Communications

 

G.1
York Region Engagement in Yonge North Subway Extension - Update

This item has attachments. 
1.Metrolinx Letter re York Region Engagement in YNSE Update.pdf
  • Moved byMayor Del Duca
    Seconded byRegional Councillor M. Chan

    Council receive the correspondence from Andrew Hope, Chief Capital Officer, Rapid Transit, Metrolinx dated March 31, 2023.

    Carried

G.2
City of Pickering Council Resolution - Opposition to a Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources

This item has attachments. 
1.City of Pickering Resolution - Opposition to Pickering Airport and Utilization of Resources.pdf
  • Moved byMayor Lovatt
    Seconded byRegional Councillor Jones

    Council receive the correspondence from Susan Cassel, City Clerk, City of Pickering dated May 2, 2023.

    Carried

G.3
Communications relating to Bill 5 - Stopping Harassment and Abuse by Local Leaders Act

 
  • Moved byMayor Quirk
    Seconded byMayor Lovatt

    Council receive and endorse the following resolutions in support of Bill 5 - Stopping Harassment and Abuse by Local Leaders Act, 2022:

    Carried

G.4
World Sickle Cell Day - June 19, 2023

This item has attachments. 
1.RC_C05__Proclamation_Request_-_World_Sickle_Cell_Day.pdf
  • Moved byRegional Councillor Jackson
    Seconded byRegional Councillor Ho

    Council receive the correspondence from Ika Washington, Manager, Communications and Marking, Sickle Cell Awareness Group of Ontario dated May 10, 2023 and proclaim June 19, 2023 as World Sickle Cell Day in York Region.

    Carried

G.5
Response to Provincial Assessment Requirements for Municipal Infrastructure Projects

This item has attachments. 
1.Response_to_provincial_assessment_requirements_for_municipal_infrastructure_projects_-_ERO_019-6693.pdf
  • Moved byMayor Mrakas
    Seconded byMayor Lovatt

    Council receive the memorandum from Erin Mahoney, Commissioner of Public Works dated May 18, 2023.

    Carried

H.
Consideration and Adoption of Reports

 

H.1
Committee of the Whole Meeting - May 4, 2023

This item has attachments. 
1.Minutes_-_Committee_of_the_Whole_-_May_4_2023.pdf
  • Moved byMayor Pellegrini
    Seconded byRegional Councillor Rosati

    Council adopt the recommendations in the Minutes of the Committee of the Whole meeting held on May 4, 2023, except for Item J.2.5.

    Carried
  • Moved byMayor Pellegrini
    Seconded byMayor Hackson

    J.2.5 - Vacant Home Tax Status Update

    Council adopt the following recommendations, as amended, in the report dated April 19, 2023 from the Commissioner of Finance, the Commissioner of Community and Health Services and the Chief Planner:

    1. Further consideration of a Vacant Home Tax for York Region be deferred to ensure alignment with the Province’s Vacant Home Tax Policy Framework and the use of more updated cost and benefit estimates based on the current economic and legislative environment.
    2. Staff be directed to continue monitoring the program outcomes of other Ontario municipalities to identify best practices and potential opportunities to streamline administration and reduce costs through joint partnerships.
    3. Staff report back in the Fall of 2023 with an update on the recommendations above.
    4. The Regional Clerk forward this report to the local municipalities for information.
    Carried

H.2
Proposed Provincial Planning Statement

This item has attachments. 
1.Council Decision - Proposed Provincial Planning Statement.pdf
2.Proposed Provincial Planning Statement.pdf
  • Moved byRegional Councillor DiPaola
    Seconded byRegional Councillor Vegh

    Council adopt the following recommendations in the report dated April 13, 2023 from the Commissioner of Corporate Services and Chief Planner:

    1. Council approve this report, Appendix A and Appendix B for submission to the Provincial Land Use Plans Branch, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing in response to Environmental Registry of Ontario posting #019-6813.
    2. The Regional Clerk forward this report to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing and the Clerks of the local municipalities.

  • Motion to Refer

    Moved byMayor Lovatt
    Seconded byRegional Councillor Davison
    1. Council refer the report dated April 13, 2023 from the Commissioner of Corporate Services and Chief Planner to Committee of the Whole on June 15, 2023 to allow time to consider local municipal input.
    2. The Regional Chair write to the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing to request additional time to respond to Environmental Registry of Ontario posting #019-6813.
    Carried

H.3
Queen Street-Highway 7 Bus Rapid Transit Improvements between Kipling Avenue and East of Islington Avenue

This item has attachments. 
1.Council Decision - Queen Street Highway 7 Bus Rapid Transit Improvements.pdf
2.Queen Street Highway 7 Bus Rapid Transit Improvements.pdf
  • Moved byRegional Councillor Jackson
    Seconded byRegional Councillor Ferri

    Council adopt the following recommendations in the report dated May 5, 2023 from the Commissioner of Public Works:

    1. The Region enter into an agreement with Metrolinx to undertake a technical feasibility study to investigate widening the constrained section of Highway 7, from Kipling Avenue to east of Islington Avenue for an estimated value not to exceed $500,000 excluding HST, for the term of the agreement.
    2. The Commissioner of Public Works be authorized to execute the agreement on behalf of the Region.
    3. This report be circulated to Metrolinx and the City of Vaughan.
    Carried

I.
Introduction and Consideration of Bylaws

 
  • Moved byRegional Councillor Li
    Seconded byRegional Councillor G. Chan

    Council approve and enact the following bylaws:

    Carried

I.1
2023-31 - Delegation Bylaw

This item has attachments. 
1.2023-31_Delegation_Bylaw.pdf

A bylaw to delegate certain powers and duties

I.2
2023-32 - Delegation during Recess of Regional Council

This item has attachments. 
1.2023-32_Delegation_during_Recess_of_Regional_Council(1).pdf

A bylaw to delegate certain powers and duties during a recess of Regional Council

I.3
2023-34 - Parking Bylaw

This item has attachments. 
1.2023-34_Parking_Bylaw.pdf
2.ATT 1 - Parking Bylaw.pdf

A bylaw to prohibit or regulate parking and stopping on Regional roads

J.
Motions

 

None

K.
Notices of Motion to Reconsider

 

None

L.
Other Business

 

L.1
OPP Sgt. Eric Mueller

 

Regional Chair Emmerson noted that Ontario Provincial Police Sgt. Eric Mueller will be laid to rest today. The loss of a member of the police service is a loss to all, and over the past year the community has mourned the loss of far too many members of our local and provincial police services. 

On behalf of Council, Regional Chair Emmerson extended heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Sgt. Eric Mueller. He also extended best wishes to the two officers injured in this incident as they recover from this senseless act of violence.

Members of Council and all those present stood in a moment of silence in honour of OPP Sgt. Eric Mueller.

L.2
May Observances

 

Regional Chair Emmerson noted special awareness days and observances throughout the month of May:

  • May 15 - International Day of Families - celebrates families and increases awareness of the vital role families play in achieving the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals. 
  • May 17 - International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia - draws attention to the violence and discrimination experienced by people with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions. 
  • May 19 - Personal Support Workers Day - acknowledges the essential role of personal support workers in providing high-quality community and home-based care to vulnerable residents.
  • May 20 - World Bee Day - raises awareness on the importance of pollinators and their contribution to sustainable development. 
  • May 21 - International Day for Cultural Diversity, Dialogue and Development - supports peace, stability and development and acknowledges diverse and inclusive communities. 
  • May 31 - World No Tobacco Day - raises awareness of the harmful and deadly effects of tobacco use. 

L.3
National Public Works Week

 

Regional Chair Emmerson announced that May 20 to 27 marks National Public Works Week, and that York Region will acknowledge with both virtual and in-person events. Public Works staff play a critical role in the everyday lives of residents and communities. The work of these dedicated professionals can be seen through York Region's transportation network, water supply systems, Regional forests, and other essential facilities. 

On behalf of Council and York Region residents, Regional Chair Emmerson extended appreciation and thanks to public works staff for their dedication and commitment to York Region communities.

L.4
Paramedic Services Week

 

Regional Chair Emmerson announced that May 21 to 28 is Paramedic Services Week. This week provides the opportunity to celebrate the important role of paramedics in supporting the health and well-being of York Region communities. 

On behalf of Council and the residents of York Region, Regional Chair Emmerson extended thanks to York Region's dedicated and professional paramedic services staff that work tirelessly to support the health, safety and well-being of York Region communities.

L.5
Appointment to the Human Services Planning Board

 

Regional Chair Emmerson announced that Tyler Chalk, Vice President of Strategy, Analytics and Communications is the new representative for Southlake Regional Health Centre on the Human Services Planning Board.

L.6
Housing Affordability Task Force Meeting - September 7, 2023

 

Regional Chair Emmerson announced that a Housing Affordability Task Force meeting will be scheduled on September 7, 2023 at 1 p.m.

L.7
Special Meeting regarding the Seniors Plan - September 2023

 

Regional Chair Emmerson announced that a special meeting will be held regarding the Seniors Plan in September 2023. 

M.
Private Session

 

  • Motion to consider a deferred item sooner than originally decided

    Moved byMayor Taylor
    Seconded byMayor Lovatt

    Council consider the Men’s Emergency and Transitional Housing at 14452 Yonge Street in the Town of Aurora report dated April 18, 2023 at today’s Council meeting rather than at the meeting scheduled for June 29, 2023.

    Carried on a 2/3 majority

    Carried

    (See Item D.1 – Council Minutes Item L.1)


  • Moved byRegional Councillor DiPaola
    Seconded byRegional Councillor Vegh

    Council resolve into private session at 10:52 a.m. to consider the following items:

    M.1    Private Minutes - Council Meeting - April 27, 2023

    M.2    Men’s Emergency and Transitional Housing at 14452 Yonge Street in the Town of Aurora - Potential Litigation

    Carried

    Council resumed in public session at 11:53 a.m.


M.1
Private Minutes - Council Meeting - April 27, 2023

 
  • Moved byRegional Councillor DiPaola
    Seconded byRegional Councillor Vegh

    Council confirm the private minutes of the Council meeting held on April 27, 2023.

    Carried

M.2
Men’s Emergency and Transitional Housing at 14452 Yonge Street in the Town of Aurora - Potential Litigation

 
  • Moved byMayor Lovatt
    Seconded byMayor Del Duca

    Council does not support any action before the Ontario Land Tribunal regarding the Region’s Zoning Bylaw Amendment Application for the proposed men’s emergency and transitional housing building at 14452 Yonge Street in the Town of Aurora.

    Carried
  • Moved byMayor Taylor
    Seconded byMayor Lovatt

    Council direct the Commissioner of Community and Health Services, or delegate, to seek to reallocate Federal funding due to the planning timelines in the Town of Aurora.

    Carried
  • Moved byRegional Councillor Jackson
    Seconded byMayor Mrakas

    Council direct staff to seek Council direction prior to commenting and/or appearing before the Ontario Land Tribunal on any lower tier municipal Planning Act application.

     

  • Moved byMayor Taylor
    Seconded byRegional Councillor Davison

    The motion be referred to staff for a report back to Council.

    Defeated

    The original motion moved by Regional Councillor Jackson and seconded by Mayor Mrakas was Carried.


N.
Confirmatory Bylaw

This item has attachments. 
1.2023-33_Confirmatory_Bylaw_-_Regional_Council_-_May_18_2023.pdf
  • Moved byMayor Hackson
    Seconded byRegional Councillor Ho

    Council enact Bylaw No. 2023-33 to confirm the proceedings of this meeting of Council held on June 29, 2023.

    Carried

O.
Adjournment

 

  • Council adjourn the meeting at 12:06 p.m.

    Carried




                                                               
    Regional Clerk



    Minutes confirmed and adopted at the meeting of Council held on June 29, 2023.

     

                                                               
    Regional Chair


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