Council Meeting Minutes

Monday, June 23, 2025 at 7:00 P.m. - 10:00 P.m.

Council Chambers - Hybrid

City of Kitchener

200 King Street W, Kitchener, ON N2G 4G7

Present:

• Mayor B. Vrbanovic
• Councillor S. Davey
• Councillor D. Schnider
• Councillor J. Deneault
• Councillor C. Michaud (virtually)
• Councillor A. Owodunni
• Councillor P. Singh
• Councillor B. Ioannidis
• Councillor M. Johnston
• Councillor D. Chapman
• Councillor S. Stretch

Staff:

• D. Chapman, Chief Administrative Officer
• M. May, General Manager, Community Services and Deputy Chief Administrator
• V. Raab, General Manager, Corporate Services
• J. Readman, General Manager, Development Services
• J. Lautenbach, Chief Financial Officer, Financial Services
• D. McGoldrick, General Manager, Infrastructure Services
• L. MacDonald, City Solicitor
• B. Cronkite, Director, Transportation Services
• A. Fusco, Director Legislated Services / City Clerk
• J. Miller, Director, Corporate Customer Service
• R. Bustamante, Director Planning & Housing Policy/City Planner
• K. Hughes, Assistant City Solicitor
• K. VanDerGeld, Manager, Licensing
• N. Goss, Manager, Policy & Research
• D. Saunderson, Deputy Clerk

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1.

COMMENCEMENT

The meeting began with a Land Acknowledgement given by the Mayor and the singing of “O Canada.”

1.1

Canada Day

Mayor B. Vrbanovic acknowledged Canada Day on July 1, 2025, highlighting special events held to celebrate the occasion.

1.2

Ontario’s Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund - Funding Announcement

Mayor B. Vrbanovic advised the Province of Ontario announced in June 2025 that the City of Kitchener was a successful grant recipient through the Ontario’s Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund. Mayor Vrbanovic noted the City would receive $10 million to complete a multi-purpose quad-gymnasium as part of the Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex (KIRC). It was further noted that the final beam was installed at the KIRC on June 16, 2025, and the facility was anticipated to be open in August 2026.

2.

MINUTES FOR APPROVAL

On motion by Councillor S. Davey the minutes of the regular meeting held May 26, 2025, and special meetings held May 26, 2025, June 2, 2025, and June 16, 2025, as mailed to the Mayor and Councillors, were accepted.

3.

DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST AND THE GENERAL NATURE THEREOF

3.1

Councillor P. Singh - Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/001/K/EW, 924-944 King Street West, DSD-2025-035, listed as item 7.6.b

Councillor P. Singh declared a conflict with regards to Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/001/k/ew, 924-944 King Street West, DSD-2025-035, on the agenda this date, as he owns property within the vicinity, and did not participate in any voting or discussion on the matter.

3.2

Councillor P. Singh - Evictions due to Renovations, DSD-2025-248 and Addendum Report COR-2025-294, listed as Item 7.6.c

Councillor P. Singh declared a conflict with regards to Evictions due to Renovations, DSD-2025-248, on the agenda this date, due to ownership of rental properties, and did not participate in any voting or discussion on the matter.

3.3

Councillor S. Stretch - Evictions due to Renovations, DSD-2025-248 and Addendum Report COR-2025-294, listed as Item 7.6.c

Councillor S. Stretch declared a conflict with regards to Evictions due to Renovations, DSD-2025-248, on the agenda this date, due to ownership of rental properties, and did not participate in any voting or discussion on the matter.

4.

COMMUNICATIONS REFERRED TO FILE - NIL

5.

PRESENTATIONS

5.1

Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators (CAMA) - Willis Innovation Award - Kitchener City Hall Service Centre

Gary Kent, CAO, Peel Region, CAMA Board Member, was in attendance to present the award the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators (CAMA) - Willis Innovation Award for innovation related to the Kitchener City Hall Service Centre. A video and link related to the award can be found at LINK.

6.

DELEGATIONS

6.1

Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/001/K/EW, 924-944 King Street West, DSD-2025-035, listed as item 7.6.b

• Councillor P. Singh declared a conflict on this item. (Councillor P. Singh declared a conflict with regards to Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/001/k/ew, 924-944 King Street West, DSD-2025-035, on the agenda this date, as he owns property within the vicinity, and did not participate in any voting or discussion on the matter.)

Council considered Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/001/K/EW, 924-944 King Street West, DSD-2025-035, listed as item 7.6.b on the agenda this date. K

Councillor J. Deneault left and returned to the meeting at this time.

• Moved by Councillor D. Chapman
  Seconded by Councillor A. Owodunni

  "That Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/001/K/EW for 924-944 King Street West for 1000100206 Ontario Inc. and 1000187534 Ontario Inc. c/o Dez Capital Corporation be APPROVED in the form shown in the ‘Proposed By-law’, and ‘Map No. 1’ attached to Development Services Department report, DSD-2025-035, as Attachments ‘A1’ and ‘A2’ and further

  That Council adopt the Urban Design Brief for 924-944 King Street West attached to Development Services Department report, DSD-2025-035, prepared by GSP group, dated November 2024 as Appendix ‘I’."

  Carried

6.2

Prohibited Dog Designation Appeal - Edwards, COR-2025-296, listed as item 11.1.a

Council considered Prohibited Dog Designation Appeal - Edwards, COR-2025-296, listed as item 11.1.a on the agenda this date.

Marie Ellen Vezina addressed Council on behalf of Nicole Edwards, the Appellant, and requested Council requested that council reconsider their decision to maintain the prohibited dog designation and allow for the Appellant additional time to address the Order and maintain her dogs “Monster” and “Mulisha”.

• Moved by Councillor J. Deneault
  Seconded by Councillor A. Owodunni

  "That the decision of the Dog Designation Appeal Committee to designate “Monster” and “Mulisha” as prohibited as referred to Council from the Dog Designation Appeal Committee Appeal meeting held earlier this date, regarding an appeal filed by N. Edwards for the two dogs, be ratified and confirmed, as outlined on Corporate Services Department report COR-2025-296."

  Carried, as amended

6.3

Prohibited Dog Designation Appeal - McArthur and Shepherd, COR-2025-295, listed as item 11.1.b.

Council considered Prohibited Dog Designation Appeal - McArthur and Shepherd, COR-2025-295, listed as item 11.1.b. on the agenda this date.

Gage Simpson, Jason McArthur and Janine Shepherd addressed Council in opposition to the Dog Designation Appeal Committees decision to affirm the Prohibited Dog Designations applied to ‘Rocky’, ‘Axl’, ‘Malone’, and ‘Charlie’. G. Simpson read a statement from the most recent dog's veterinary visit and requested that Council reconsider the prohibited designation of the remaining three dogs noting that the dog that was involved in the incident was put down and the others are guilty by association. J. Shepard further advised that two of the dogs have been designated as mental health support dogs and reported that all three are scheduled for neuter next week.

• Moved by Councillor J. Deneault
  Seconded by Councillor A. Owodunni

  "That the decision of the Dog Designation Appeal Committee regarding an appeal filed by J. McArthur and J. Shepherd, wherein the Committee affirmed the Prohibited Dog Designations applied to ‘Rocky’, ‘Axl’, ‘Malone’, and ‘Charlie’ by the Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth, pursuant to By-law 2014-142, be ratified and confirmed, as outlined in Corporate Services Department report COR-2025-295."

  Carried

6.4

Evictions due to Renovations, DSD-2025-248 and Addendum Report COR-2025-294, listed as Item 7.6.c

• Councillor P. Singh declared a conflict on this item. (Councillor P. Singh declared a conflict with regards to Evictions due to Renovations, DSD-2025-248, on the agenda this date, due to ownership of rental properties, and did not participate in any voting or discussion on the matter.)
• Councillor S. Stretch declared a conflict on this item. (Councillor S. Stretch declared a conflict with regards to Evictions due to Renovations, DSD-2025-248, on the agenda this date, due to ownership of rental properties, and did not participate in any voting or discussion on the matter.)

Council considered Evictions due to Renovations, DSD-2025-248 and Addendum Report COR-2025-294, listed as Item 7.6.c on the agenda this date. It was noted since the Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee on Monday June 16, 2025, staff have provided follow up report COR-2025-294, including information about how to proceed with the development of an eviction as a result of renovation by-law. In addition, Council was in receipt of written submissions from Ryan Murdock, Chantel Stieler, Jacquie Wells and Meagan Snyder on this matter. Natalie Goss, Manager, Policy and Research, Rosa Bustamante, Director of Planning and Housing Policy and Kristin VanDerGeld, Manager, Licensing, were in attendance to respond to questions from Council. 

Councillor J. Deneault left and returned to the meeting at this time.

Councillor P. Singh left and returned the meeting at this time.

Jack Cooper, Laura Mosher, Cameron Walker, Acer Bonaparte, Sydney MacDonald, Jacara Droog, Melissa Bowman, Erin Cooper, Ryan Murdock, Jacquie Wells, Beatrice Kelly, Debbie Kuehn, Brendan Schafer, Barb Smith addressed Council in support of pursuing an eviction as a result of renovation by-law as soon as possible.

Mayor B. Vrbanovic left the meeting at this time and Councillor S Davey assumed the role of the Chair.

Councillor S. Stretch left the meeting at this time. 

Mayor B. Vrbanovic returned to the meeting at this time and resumed the Chair. 

Councillor A. Owodunni left and returned to the meeting at this time. 

Councillor P. Singh left and returned to the meeting at this time.

6.5

Recess and Reconvene

The Council meeting then recessed at 9:18 p.m. and reconvened at 9:29 p.m., chaired by Mayor B. Vrbanovic, with all members present. Councillor C. Michaud was participating virtually.

6.6

Evictions due to Renovations, DSD-2025-248 and Addendum Report COR-2025-294, listed as Item 7.6.c (Cont'd)

Council continued to consider Evictions due to Renovations, DSD-2025-248 and Addendum Report COR-2025-294, listed as Item 7.6.c on the agenda this date.

A motion was brought forward by Councillor D. Chapman, which was seconded by Councillor A. Owodunni to approve the resolution as listed as item 7.6.c on the Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee report for June 16, 2025.

It was suggested and agreed that Clause 4 of the resolution be amended to reflect "That staff be directed to report back on Path 3 prior to the end of Q1 2026, which will include a draft rental  renovation licensing by-law, the report back should include the financial impacts and staffing implications associated to implementation."

The following amended motion was then voted on, on a recorded vote.

• Moved by Councillor D. Chapman
  Seconded by Councillor A. Owodunni

  "That staff be directed to refer Path 2 initiatives to the Housing for All update for consideration and implementation, as outlined in Development Services Department report, DSD-2025-248; and,

  That staff be directed to apply for relevant new Federal and Provincial funding and support community partners to access, programs and funding sources that support the creation and maintenance of affordable rental housing; and further,

  That advocacy to the Province of Ontario include the proclamation and enactment of all regulations pertaining to bad faith evictions due to renovations in Bill 97, Helping Homebuyers, Protecting Tenants Act, 2023; and further,

  That staff be directed to report back on Path 3 prior to the end of Q1 2026, which will include a draft rental renovation licensing by-law, the report back should include the financial impacts and staffing implications associated to implementation."

  In Favour (6)	Mayor B. Vrbanovic, Councillor C. Michaud, Councillor M. Johnston, Councillor D. Chapman, Councillor A. Owodunni, and Councillor J. Deneault
  Contra (3)	Councillor S. Davey, Councillor D. Schnider, and Councillor B. Ioannidis
  Conflict (2)	Councillor P. Singh, and Councillor S. Stretch

  Carried, as amended, on a recorded vote (6 to 3)

6.7

Short-term Rental By-law, COR-2025-041, and Addendum Report COR-2025-288, listed as 7.2.b

Council considered Short-term Rental By-law, COR-2025-041, and Addendum Report COR-2025-288, listed as 7.2.b on the agenda this date. In addition, Council was in receipt of a written submission from Yaru Lin related to this matter. Amanda Fusco, Director Legislated Services/City Clerk and Kristin VanDerGeld, Manager, Licensing were in attendance to respond to questions from Council.

Anne Lavender addressed the Committee in opposition to the proposed short-term rental by-law, highlighting concerns over increased insurance costs due to the shift to commercial coverage and the City indemnification requirement.

• Moved by Councillor S. Davey
  Seconded by Councillor B. Ioannidis

  "That having considered the proposed by-law and submissions made by the delegates, Council take no action on the city licensing of short-term rentals as regulation by several short-term rental platforms, such as AirBnB® and VRBO®, already exists, and the significant financial and staffing resources required to support a City licensing program is fiscally unsustainable.  In addition, noise and other concerns proposed to be regulated through the proposed by-law are properly dealt with through enforcement of the City’s other by-laws, including the Noise By-law and Property Standards By-law."

  In Favour (8)	Mayor B. Vrbanovic, Councillor S. Davey, Councillor D. Schnider, Councillor C. Michaud, Councillor P. Singh, Councillor B. Ioannidis, Councillor A. Owodunni, and Councillor S. Stretch
  Contra (3)	Councillor M. Johnston, Councillor D. Chapman, and Councillor J. Deneault

  Carried, as amended, on a recorded vote (8 to 3)

7.

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

7.1

HERITAGE KITCHENER - JUNE 3, 2025

Councillor P. Singh left the meeting at this time.

• Moved by Councillor D. Chapman
  Seconded by Councillor C. Michaud

  "That the report of Heritage Kitchener, dated June 3, 2025, listed as items 7.1.a to 7.1.b on the agenda this date, be adopted."

  Carried

7.1.a

Notice of Intention to Designate 1865 Huron Road Under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, DSD-2025-240

• "That pursuant to Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act, the Clerk be directed to publish a Notice of Intention to Designate the property municipally addressed as 1865 Huron Road as being of cultural heritage value or interest, as outlined in Development Services Department report DSD-2025-240."

  Carried

7.1.b

Notice of Intention to Designate, 241-247 Duke Street West / 55 Victoria Street North Under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, DSD-2025-241

• "That pursuant to Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act, the Clerk be directed to publish a Notice of Intention to Designate the property municipally addressed as 241-247 Duke Street West / 55 Victoria Street North as being of cultural heritage value or interest, as outlined in Development Services Department report DSD-2025-241."

  Carried

7.2

FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE - JUNE 2, 2025

• Moved by Councillor S. Davey
  Seconded by Councillor B. Ioannidis

  "That the report of the Finance and Corporate Services Committee, dated June 2, 2025, listed as items 7.2.a to 7.2.b on the agenda this date, be adopted."

  Carried

7.2.a

2025 Artist in Residence Appointment and Doon Pioneer Park Community Centre Public Art Selection, DSD-2025-244

• "That Tara Cooper be appointed as the 2025 City of Kitchener Artist in Residence as recommended by the selection committee and the Arts & Culture Advisory Committee, as outlined in Development Services Department report, DSD-2025-244; and,

  That the commission and installation of Tara Cooper’s proposed artwork at Doon Pioneer Park Community Centre be approved, pending consultation and technical review by Facilities Management and Arts & Creative Industries staff; and further,

  That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute an agreement, satisfactory to the City Solicitor, with Tara Cooper, outlining the obligations of the Artist in Residence appointment and the public art commission design, fabrication and installation."

  Carried

7.2.b

Short-term Rental By-law, COR-2025-041, and Addendum Report COR-2025-288

• Carried, as amended, under Delegations

7.3

FINANCE AND CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE - JUNE 16, 2025

• Moved by Councillor S. Davey
  Seconded by Councillor B. Ioannidis

  "That the report of the Finance and Corporate Services Committee, dated June 16, 2025, listed as items 7.3.a to 7.3.g on the agenda this date, be adopted."

  Carried

7.3.a

Brownfield Remediation Program Application - 120 Victoria Street South, DSD-2025-276

• "That the Brownfield Remediation Program Application for 120 Victoria Street South, received from 114-120 Victoria Street South Inc. and Glovebox (2019) Inc. dated July 6, 2018, be approved; and,

  That in exchange for a completed and filed Record of Site Condition for the subject property, the owner will be provided a tax incremental grant on the redevelopment of the property in the form of a rebate issued on a proportionate basis, annually, on City taxes in an amount equal to 100% of the City of Kitchener Tax Increment; and,

  That the City Tax Increment be defined as the difference between the City of Kitchener portion of real property taxes for the 2018 taxation year and the new City of Kitchener portion of real property taxes levied as a result of a new assessment by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) following completion of the project as compensation for the remediation of the above subject lands; and,

  That the City property tax increment grant is not to exceed $346,552.00 based on today’s estimated City tax increment; payable over a 3-year period; and,

  That the Region of Waterloo Brownfield Coordinator be circulated a copy of any decision made by Kitchener City Council regarding this Application; and further,

  That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute an Agreement, subject to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor, with 114-120 Victoria Street South Inc. and Glovebox (2019) Inc., to implement the provisions of the Brownfield Financial Incentive Program Application for 120 Victoria Street South, as outlined in the Development Services Department report DSD-2025-276."

  Carried

7.3.b

Brownfield Remediation Program Application - 108 Garment Street, DSD-2025-275

• "That the Brownfield Remediation Program Application for 108 Garment St, received from 114-120 Victoria Street South Inc. dated November, 2018, be approved; and,

  That in exchange for a completed and filed Record of Site Condition for the subject property, the owner will be provided a tax incremental grant on the redevelopment of the property in the form of a rebate issued on a proportionate basis, annually for a period not to exceed 2 years, on City taxes in an amount equal to 100% of the City of Kitchener’s portion of the Tax Increment; and,

  That the City Tax Increment be defined as the difference between the City of Kitchener portion of real property taxes for the 2018 taxation year and the new City portion of real property taxes levied as a result of a new assessment by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) following completion of the project as compensation for the remediation of the above subject lands; and,

  That the City of Kitchener property tax grant is not to exceed $404,778.00 based on current estimated City tax increment; payable over a 2-year period and,

  That the Region of Waterloo Brownfield Coordinator be circulated a copy of any decision made by Kitchener City Council regarding this Application; and further,

  That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute an Agreement, subject to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor, with 114-120 Victoria Street South Inc., to implement the provisions of the Brownfield Financial Incentive Program Application for 108 Garment Street, as outlined in the Development Services Department report DSD-2025-275."

  Carried

7.3.c

Corporate Policy Update - Amended and Repealed Policies, COR-2025-269

• "That the corporate policies listed in Appendix 'A' to Corporate Services Department report COR-2025-269 be amended and repealed; and further,

  That the by-law attached as Appendix 'B' to Corporate Services Department report COR-2025-269, to amend Chapter 620 of The City of Kitchener Municipal Code with respect to Demolition Control, be enacted."

  Carried

7.3.d

Customer Service Software Implementation Vendor, CSD-2025-254

• "That MuniPaaS Corporation, King City, Ontario, be the sole source provider for licensing, implementation and support services for Salesforce Case Management as the City’s customer relationship management platform, at their quoted price of $327,000, plus H.S.T. of $42,510, for a total of $369,510, for a three (3) year term plus two (2) optional one (1) year terms, provided a satisfactory contract is executed, as outlined in Community Services Department report CSD-2025-254."

  Carried

7.3.e

Carson Drive Sanitary Pumping Station Purchase Order Increase, DSD-2025-278

• "That the Purchase Order issued to Sona Constructor be increased by $75,000.00 to account for additional construction costs related to the rehabilitation of the Carson Drive Sanitary Pumping Station, as outlined in Development Services Department report DSD-2025-278."

  Carried

7.3.f

Asset Management Plans (AMPs) - Proposed Levels of Service, FIN-2025-255

• "That the Asset Management Plans for all City of Kitchener assets as attached to Financial Services Department report FIN-2025-255, be approved."

  Carried

7.3.g

Fee for Paper Billing, FIN-2025-274

• "That staff be directed to enhance the City’s e-billing promotion efforts (Option #3) through targeted marketing campaigns to further increase the adoption of paperless billing, as outlined in Financial Services Department report FIN-2025-274; and further,

  That staff be directed to report back prior to the end of 2027 on the progress related to targeted marketing campaigns and the continued uptake on e-billing."

  Carried

7.4

COMMUNITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES COMMITTEE - JUNE 2, 2025

Councillor P. Singh returned to the meeting at this time.

• Moved by Councillor M. Johnston
  Seconded by Councillor D. Schnider

  "That the report of the Community and Infrastructure Services Committee, dated June 2, 2025, listed as items 7.4.a to 7.4.b on the agenda this date, be adopted."

  Carried

7.4.a

Administrative Monetary Penalty System - Increased Penalty fines for Parking Violations, CSD-2024-431

• "That Council approve Schedule "A" under the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS) to increase penalty fines for parking violations as outlined in Community Services Department report CSD-2024-431."

  Carried

7.4.b

Updates to the Public Tree By-law, INS-2025-190

• "That Chapter 690 (Public Tree Bylaw) (By-law 87-293) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code be repealed and replaced with the proposed Public Tree Bylaw, as outlined in Infrastructure Services Staff report INS-2025-190 Attachment "A"; and,

  That the Clerk be authorized to update Chapter 690 (Public Tree By-law) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code to reflect the proposed changes; and,

  That the Administrative Penalty By-law Fines for Public Tree Bylaw, as noted in Attachment "B" of staff report INS-2025-190, be approved; and further,

  That staff be directed to implement the new bylaw, including necessary education, enforcement, and monitoring measures, to ensure compliance and the long-term health of the City’s urban forest."

  Carried

7.5

COMMUNITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES COMMITTEE - JUNE 16, 2025

Councillor S. Davey requested item 7.5.f Rockway Centre Redevelopment Update, CSD-2025-246 be dealt with separately. 

• Moved by Councillor M. Johnston
  Seconded by Councillor D. Schnider

  "That the report of the Community and Infrastructure Services Committee, dated June 16, 2025, listed as items 7.5.a to 7.5.e on the agenda this date, be adopted."

  Carried

7.5.a

Noise Exemption - KW Oktoberfest - Various Locations, CSD-2025-197

• "That an exemption to Chapter 450 (Noise) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code be granted to K-W Oktoberfest Inc. for a series of events being held at various clubs between September 26 through October 18, 2025, as outlined in the letter from K-W Oktoberfest Inc., dated April 11, 2025, attached to Community Services Department report CSD-2025-197."

  Carried

7.5.b

Noise Exemption - Holy Trinity Serbian Church, 700 Fischer Hallman Road, CSD-2025-273

• "That an exemption to Chapter 450 (Noise) of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code be granted to the Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church at 700 Fischer Hallman Road, for their annual BBQ and Bull Roast to be held on August 30 and 31, 2025 between the hours of 11 a.m. and 10 p.m., as outlined in Community Services Department report CSD-2025-273."

  Carried

7.5.c

Reallocation of Capital Funding for Festival of Neighbourhoods, CSD-2025-261

• "That the City’s annual Capital Budget allocation of $40,000 for Festival of Neighbourhoods, be redirected to increase the City’s support of resident-led neighbourhood initiatives through the LoveMyHood Grant, as outlined in Community Services Department report CSD-2025-061."

  Carried

7.5.d

2025 Chapter 660 (Plumbing and Drainage) Update, INS-2025-070

• "That Chapter 660 of the Corporation of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code regarding Plumbing and Drainage be repealed and replaced with the updated By-law, attached to Infrastructure Services Department report INS-2025-070."

  Carried

7.5.e

Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex Operating Model, CSD-2025-250

• "That the service-focused operating model (staffing and financials) outlined in Community Services Department report CSD-2025-250 be approved for the Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex (KIRC) to ensure the facility is able to meet the City’s growing recreation needs, attract major tournament and events and, provide a positive experience for the facility users; and further,

  That the anticipated operating impacts of the KIRC operating model (staffing and financials) be incorporated into the 2026 and 2027 budgets."

  Carried

7.5.f

Rockway Centre Redevelopment Update, CSD-2025-246

Councillor S. Davey brought forward an amendment to the  resolution on the Community and Infrastructure Services Committee report for June 16, 2025 related to item 7.5.f Rockway Centre Redevelopment Update, CSD-2025-0246, which was seconded by Councillor D. Chapman, to revise the Request for Proposal (RFP) criteria to indicate: "a warming kitchen, a commercial kitchen, and/or a kitchen rough in to be priced out separately in the RFP for consideration" to allow greater flexibility pending the financial impacts of the proposed options. 

A motion to call the question was moved by Councillor M. Johnston, seconded by Councillor A. Owodunni which was then voted on and was LOST.

Councillor Davey's amendment was then voted on and was Carried.

The following motion as amended was then voted on.

• "That staff be directed to proceed with Phase 3 of the Rockway Redevelopment Strategy (as approved by City Council on April 22, 2024), and that the following deliverables for the development of the new older adult facility be included within the Request for Proposal (RFP) document, as outlined in Community Services Department report CSD-2025-246:

  1. 1. 21,000 – 26,000 square feet
     2. 1,200 – 1,600 square feet of outdoor space
     3. Minimum of 150 onsite surface parking spaces
     4. A specific area near the building entrance for drop-off and pick-up
     5. Close to LRT and/or bus routes
     6. A double sport gymnasium
     7. Dedicated multi-purpose space/rooms for fitness programming
     8. Dedicated multi-purpose space/rooms for creative/craft-base programming
     9. Dedicated billiards/games room
     10. One large multi-purpose room for programs and events
     11. One medium sized multi-purpose rooms for programs and meetings
     12. Large lobby space with café/light refreshments and lots of comfortable and accessible seating
     13. Staff workspace and welcoming service counter
     14. Universal & accessible washrooms, hallways and corridors (London Accessibility Standard)
     15. a warming kitchen, a commercial kitchen, and/or a kitchen rough in to be priced out separately in the RFP for consideration; and further,

  That, the RFP process consider proposals for developing the new older adult centre on properties that are located within 1.5 kilometres of the current Rockway Centre."

  Carried, as amended

7.6

PLANNING AND STRATEGIC INITIATIVES COMMITTEE - JUNE 16, 2025

Councillor J. Deneault left the meeting at this time.

• Moved by Councillor D. Chapman
  Seconded by Councillor A. Owodunni

  "That the report of the Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee, dated June 16, 2025, listed as items 7.6.a to 7.6.c on the agenda this date, be adopted."

  Carried

7.6.a

2025 School Safety Update to Accommodate Growth, DSD-2025-222

• "That the speed limit be set to 30 km/h within 150 metres of school frontages on:

  • Kinzie Avenue;
  • Burgetz Avenue;
  • Rosenberg Way;
  • Thomas Slee Drive; and,

  That the speed limit be set to 40 km/hr on River Road, from Old Chicopee Drive to Kinzie Avenue; and,

  That No Stopping be installed on:

  • The west side of River Road East from approximately 20m north of Kinzie Avenue to approximately 150m south of Old Chicopee Drive;
  • The north side of Kinzie Avenue from River Road East to Burgetz Avenue;
  • The east and north sides of Burgetz Avenue from Kinzie Avenue to Thaler Avenue;
  • The north side of Rosenberg Way for approximately 112m, east of the westerly parking area entrance;
  • The north side of Thomas Slee Drive from approximately 40m east of Monarch Woods Drive and approximately 35m west of Ian Ormston Drive; and,

  That No Stopping with Time Restrictions from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM be installed on:

  • The east side of River Road East from approximately 39m north of Kinzie Avenue to approximately, 150m south of Old Chicopee Drive;
  • The south side of Kinzie Avenue from River Road East to Burgetz Avenue;
  • The west and south sides of Burgetz Avenue from Kinzie Avenue to Thaler Avenue;
  • The south side of Rosenberg from approximately 30m east of Forestwalk Street for approximately 208m opposite the school’s frontage;
  • The north side of Rosenberg from approximately 30m east of Forestwalk Street for approximately 35m along the school’s frontage, west of the westerly parking area entrance;
  • The south side of Thomas Slee Drive from approximately 40m east of Monarch Woods Drive and approximately 35m west of Ian Ormston Drive;
  • The west side of Ian Ormston Drive approximately 108m along the west side, south of the proposed access;
  • The east side of Ian Ormston Drive for approximately 22m near the exit area; and,

  That a School Bus Loading Zone be installed near the approximately 88m of on-street school bus loading area on the north side of Rosenberg Way south of the school building; and,

  That Crossing Guards be installed at:

  • Kinzie Avenue and River Road East;
  • Kinzie Avenue and Thaler Road;
  • River Road East and Fairway Road North; and,

  That one of the two Crossing Guards be removed from the location of Fairway Road North and Lackner Boulevard; and further,

  That the Uniform Traffic By-law be amended accordingly, as outlined in Development Services Department report, DSD-2025-222."

  Carried

7.6.b

Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/001/K/EW, 924-944 King Street West, DSD-2025-035

• "That Zoning By-law Amendment Application ZBA25/001/K/EW for 924-944 King Street West for 1000100206 Ontario Inc. and 1000187534 Ontario Inc. c/o Dez Capital Corporation be APPROVED in the form shown in the ‘Proposed By-law’, and ‘Map No. 1’ attached to Development Services Department report, DSD-2025-035, as Attachments ‘A1’ and ‘A2’ and further

  That Council adopt the Urban Design Brief for 924-944 King Street West attached to Development Services Department report, DSD-2025-035, prepared by GSP group, dated November 2024 as Appendix ‘I’."

  Carried

7.6.c

Evictions due to Renovations, DSD-2025-248 and Addendum Report COR-2025-294

• Carried, as amended, under Delegations

8.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS - NIL

9.

NEW BUSINESS

9.1

- MAYORAL BUSINESS AND UPDATES - MAYOR B. VRBANOVIC

Councillor M Johnston left the meeting at this time.

Mayor B. Vrbanovic addressed the positive activities undertaken in the first half of 2025 and acknowledged the summer recess.

Councillor J. Deneault returned to the meeting at this time.

Councillor M. Johnston returned to the meeting at this time.

9.2

Notice of Motion - P. Singh - Communication and Prioritization of Streetlight Outages

• Moved by Councillor P. Singh
  Seconded by Councillor M. Johnston

  "WHEREAS streetlight outages greater than one faulty fixture negatively impact community safety, visibility, and overall quality of life for residents; and,

  WHEREAS effective communication between utility providers, municipal staff, and residents is essential to maintaining public confidence and service standards;

  THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Council of the City of Kitchener hereby directs staff to initiate discussions with Enova Power Corp. to strengthen communication protocols between Enova and municipal staff regarding streetlight outages, including timely updates on repair status and projected timelines;

  THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT staff request Enova Power Corp. to implement measures to provide residents in affected areas with timely, clear, and accessible information outlining the reason for the outage and the anticipated timeframe for repair; and,

  THEREFORE BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED THAT the City of Kitchener and Enova Power Corp. work to identify appropriate service levels to resolve streetlight outages."

  Carried

10.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Councillor P. Singh inquired about the ability to have the proposed new waste management carts for display at city facilities and events, solutions for residents on cart storage, garbage pick up in the downtown core, and received responses from Mayor B Vrbanovic and D. McGoldrick.

Councillor P. Singh inquired about the Tariff working group activities and received responses from Mayor B Vrbanovic.

11.

COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS TO CONTINUE BEYOND 11:00 p.m.

• Moved by Councillor B. Ioannidis
  Seconded by Councillor M. Johnston

  “That pursuant to Section 25.9.2 of Chapter 25 (Council Procedure) of the Municipal Code, the Council proceedings this date shall be allowed to continue beyond 11:00 p.m. to conclude matters as listed on the agenda.”

  Carried

12.

STAFF REPORTS

Councillor P. Singh left the meeting at this time. 

12.1

ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

12.1.a

Prohibited Dog Designation Appeal - Edwards, COR-2025-296

• Carried, under Delegations

12.1.b

Prohibited Dog Designation Appeal - McArthur and Shepherd, COR-2025-295

• Carried, under Delegations

12.1.c

Appointments to Advisory and Quasi-Judicial Committees, COR-2025-238

• Moved by Councillor S. Davey
  Seconded by Councillor B. Ioannidis

  "That the list of candidates recommended for appointment to the vacancies for the Advisory and Quasi-Judicial Committees, be approved as outlined in Attachment ‘A’ of this report, and that their appointments be approved for the balance of the Term ending November 14, 2026, as outlined in Corporate Services Department report COR-2025-238; and further,

  That Bill (William) McBay be appointed to the Centre in the Square (CITS) Board of Directors, to hold office for a term of 3 years, or until a successor is duly elected and qualified, in accordance with the regulations and bylaws of CITS, as outlined in Corporate Services Department report COR-2025-238."

  Carried

12.1.d

NSP25-120 Multiyear Non-Standard Procurement Suppliers, FIN-2025-298

• Moved by Councillor S. Davey
  Seconded by Councillor B. Ioannidis

  "That the City proceed with non-standard procurement and enter into agreements with the suppliers listed in Attachment 1 for a period of up to five (5) years, as outlined in Financial Services Department report FIN-2025-298."

  Carried

12.2

FOR INFORMATION

12.2.a

2024 Development Charge Reserve Fund, FIN-2025-290

12.2.b

2024 Grant Summary, FIN-2025-297

12.2.c

Ombudsman Report - Kitchener - Closed Meeting Investigation - August 14, 2023 Meeting - Final Report

13.

ITEMS ARISING FROM IN-CAMERA

13.1

Potential City Land Acquisition (Land Acquisition - Section 239 (2) (c), COR-2025-292

• Moved by Councillor B. Ioannidis
  Seconded by Councillor S. Stretch

  “That the Chief Administrative Officer be authorized to approve and execute the documents necessary for the acquisition of an easement interest over certain parts of the Sandrock Hydro Corridor from His Majesty The King in right of Ontario for the purposes of permitting underground City infrastructure, including storm sewers, in accordance with the particulars set out in Corporate Services Department report COR-2025-292 and as discussed at the June 23, 2025 in-camera meeting of Council; and further,

  That the Chief Administrative Officer be authorized to execute the necessary documentation to affect the transaction, and that said documentation be to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor”

  Carried

13.2

Potential Grant Funding Opportunity (Third-party Information Supplied in Confidence to the Municipality - Section 239 (2) (i)), FIN-2025-293

• Moved by Councillor J. Deneault
  Seconded by Councillor A. Owodunni

  “That the Chief Financial Officer (CFO)” be granted the authority to proceed with submitting all necessary information required to a Provincial Grant opportunity as discussed in closed session on June 23, 2025.”

  Carried

14.

BY-LAWS

At the request of A. Fusco, Director, Legislative Services and City Clerk, now that the Reports of the Committees have been formally approved, it was agreed to formally add the By-laws listed on the agenda under the heading of Late Starters, save and except for the by-law to provide for the Licensing and Regulation of Short-Term Rentals as a result of Council's decision earlier this date, to the agenda for Council’s consideration. 

14.1

THREE READINGS

• Moved by Councillor M. Johnston
  Seconded by Councillor A. Owodunni

  "That the by-laws be given third reading, namely:

14.1.a

Being a by-law to authorize the use of an alternative voting method - home visit program for home-bound electors in City of Kitchener municipal elections. 

(By-law 2025-069)

14.1.b

Being a by-law to amend By-law 2024-001 to replace Administrative Penalties pertaining to Chapter 690 and Chapter 739 of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code.

(By-law 2025-070)

14.1.c

To further amend By-law No. 2019-113, being a by-law to regulate traffic and parking on highways under the jurisdiction of the Corporation of the City of Kitchener.

(By-law 2025-071)

14.1.d

Being a by-law to designate the property municipally addressed as 79-81 St. George Street, in the City of Kitchener as being of historic and cultural heritage value or interest.

(By-law 2025-072)

14.1.e

Being a by-law to designate the property municipally addressed as 1434 Trussler Road, in the City of Kitchener as being of historic and cultural heritage value or interest.

(By-law 2025-073)

14.1.f

To further amend By-law No. 2010-190, being a by-law to prohibit unauthorized parking of motor vehicles on private property. 

(By-law 2025-074)

14.1.g

To further amend By-law No. 2008-117, being a by-law to authorize certain on-street and off-street parking of vehicles for use by persons with a disability, and the issuing of permits in respect thereof. 

(By-law 2025-075)

14.1.h

To further amend By-law No. 88-171, being a by-law to designate private roadways as fire routes and to prohibit parking thereon. 

(By-law 2025-076)

14.1.i

Being a by-law to amend Chapter 110 of The City of Kitchener Municipal Code regarding By-law Enforcement. 

(By-law 2025-077)

14.1.j

Being a by-law to amend By-law 2019-039 to replace all Administrative Penalties pertaining to City of Kitchener Parking by-laws.

(By-law 2025-078)

14.1.k

Being a by-law to amend By-law 2019-051, as amended, known as the Zoning By-law for the City of Kitchener - 1000100206 Ontario Inc. and 1000187534 Ontario Inc. – 924-944 King Street West.

(By-law 2025-079)

14.1.l

Being a bylaw to repeal and replace Chapter 690 of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code as it relates to public trees. 

(By-law 2025-081)

14.1.m

Being a by-law to repeal and replace Chapter 660 of the City of Kitchener Municipal Code with respect to Plumbing and Drainage.

(By-law 2025-082)

14.1.n

Being a by-law to amend Chapter 620 of The City of Kitchener Municipal Code with respect to Demolition Control.

(By-law 2025-083)

14.1.o

To confirm all actions and proceedings of the Council for June 23, 2025.

(By-law 2025-084)

Carried

15.

ADJOURNMENT

On motion, the meeting adjourned at 11:03 p.m.