CITY OF WINDSOR AGENDA 2/21/2018
Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee Meeting
Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Time: 4:30 p.m. Location: Council Chambers, 3rd Floor, Windsor City Hall
MEMBERS:
Ward 1 - Councillor Fred Francis
Ward 4 - Councillor Chris Holt
Ward 8 – Councillor Bill Marra (Chairperson)
Ward 9 - Councillor Hilary Payne
Ward 10 - Councillor Paul Borrelli
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 1 of 211 ORDER OF BUSINESS
Item # Item Description 1. CALL TO ORDER
2. DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST AND THE GENERAL NATURE THEREOF
3. ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES OF THE ETPS STANDING COMMITTEE
3.1. Minutes of the Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee meeting (excluding Transit matter items) held January 24, 2018 (SCM 35/2018)
Minutes of the Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee meeting (Transit matter items only) held January 24, 2018 (SCM 35/2018)
4. REQUEST FOR DEFERRALS, REFERRALS OR WITHDRAWALS
5. COMMUNICATIONS
6. PRESENTATIONS AND DELEGATIONS
7. COMMITTEE MATTERS
7.1. Minutes of the Windsor Essex County Environment Committee of its meeting held January 25, 2018 (SCM 42/2018)
8. ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS
8.1. CQ72-2015 (MTR2015) – Review of Fencing in the VIA Rail Corridor from Pillette to Lauzon (S 182/2017) Clerk’s Note: P & C memo enclosed for Members of Council.
8.2. Sewer and Water Line Warranty Coverage for Residential Property Owners (S 2/2018)
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 2 of 211 8.3. CQ 39-2017 - Front Yard Parking at 1850 Gladstone Avenue - Ward 4 (S 22/2018) Clerk’s Note: P & C memo enclosed for Members of Council.
8.4. Tabling of the 2017 draft Environmental Master Plan - City Wide (S 183/2017)
8.5. Climate Change Adaptation Plan Status and response to CQ34-2017 and CQ41-2017- City Wide (S 16/2018)
8.6. Updating the Climate Change Adaptation Plan and Changemakers Project - City Wide (S 17/2018)
8.7. Partnership with Partners for Action - City Wide (S 18/2018)
8.8. 3798-Howard Avenue - Permission for parking encroachment on Sandison Street right- of-way - Ward 9 (S 20/2018)
9. TRANSIT BOARD ITEMS
9.1. Transit Windsor - Ridership Statistics as of December 31, 2017 - City Wide (S 19/2018)
10. ADOPTION OF TRANSIT BOARD MINUTES
11. QUESTION PERIOD
12. ADJOURNMENT
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 3 of 211 Item No. 3.1
Committee Matters: SCM 35/2018
Subject: Minutes of the Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing
Committee meeting held January 24, 2018
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 4 of 211 CITY OF WINDSOR MINUTES 01/24/2018
Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee Meeting
Date: Wednesday, January 24, 2018 Time: 4:30 o’clock p.m.
Members Present:
Councillors Ward 1 - Councillor Francis Ward 4 - Councillor Holt Ward 9 - Councillor Payne (Vice Chairperson) Ward 10 - Councillor Borrelli
Members Absent Ward 8 – Councillor Marra (Chairperson)
Also present are the following from Administration:
Mark Winterton, Community Leader, City Engineer Jan Wilson, Corporate Leader Parks, Recreation, Culture & Facilities Dwayne Dawson, Executive Director Operations Pat Delmore, Executive Director Transit Windsor Josette Eugeni, Manager, Transportation Planning Anna Ciacelli, Supervisor of Council Services
1. CALL TO ORDER
The Vice Chairperson calls the meeting of the Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee to order at 4:30 o‘clock p.m.
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 5 of 211 Minutes Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee Wednesday, January 24, 2018 Page 2 of 7
2. DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST AND THE GENERAL NATURE THEREOF
None disclosed.
3. ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES OF THE ETPS STANDING COMMITTEE
3.1. ETPS Minutes December 20, 2017
Moved by: Councillor Francis Seconded by: Councillor Holt
THAT the Minutes of the Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee meeting held December 20, 2017 BE ADOPTED as presented. Carried.
Report Number: SCM 249/2017
4. REQUEST FOR DEFERRALS, REFERRALS OR WITHDRAWALS
None requested.
5. COMMUNICATIONS
None presented.
6. PRESENTATIONS AND DELEGATIONS
See Item 8.2.
7. COMMITTEE MATTERS
7.1. Transit Windsor Advisory Committee 2016/2017 Annual Report
Moved by: Councillor Francis Seconded by: Councillor Borrelli
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 6 of 211 Minutes Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee Wednesday, January 24, 2018 Page 3 of 7
Decision Number: ETPS 561 THAT the Transit Windsor Advisory Committee 2016/2017 Annual Report BE APPROVED as presented. Carried.
Report Number: SCM 234/2017 Clerk’s File: MB2017
7.2. Town and Gown Committee 2017 Annual Report
Moved by: Councillor Francis Seconded by: Councillor Borrelli
Decision Number: ETPS 562 THAT the Town and Gown Committee 2017 Annual Report BE APPROVED as presented. Carried.
Report Number: SCM 236/2017 Clerk’s File: MB2017
7.3. Windsor Essex County Environment Committee 2017 Annual Report
Moved by: Councillor Francis Seconded by: Councillor Borrelli
Decision Number: ETPS 563 THAT the Windsor Essex County Environment Committee 2017 Annual report BE APPROVED as presented. Carried.
Report Number: SCM 238/2017 Clerk’s File: MB2017
7.4. Windsor Bicycling Committee 2017 Annual Report
Moved by: Councillor Francis Seconded by: Councillor Borrelli
Decision Number: ETPS 564 THAT the Windsor Bicycling Committee 2017 Annual Report BE APPROVED as presented. Carried.
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 7 of 211 Minutes Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee Wednesday, January 24, 2018 Page 4 of 7
Report Number: SCM 239/2017 Clerk’s File: MB2017
8. ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS
8.1. CQ20-2017 - Tecumseh Road East/Forest Glade Drive Safety Review - WARD 7
Councillor Francis inquires as to whether this project was included in the 2018 Capital Budget deliberation that just occurred. Mark Winterton, City Engineer appears before the Environment, Transportation and Public Safety Standing Committee regarding the administrative report CQ20- 2017-Tecumseh Road East/Forest Glade Drive Safety Review indicating that this project was not included in the 2018 approved Capital Budget although the report was brought forward as warrants exist for this project.
Councillor Francis inquires whether this project will take the place of other projects in the 5 year Budget if the committee approves the report. Mr. Winterton indicates it wouldn’t displace other projects on the list. He explains that if funding became available Administration could move forward with the land acquisition, which would be beneficial should Provincial grants become available then the project would be ready.
Moved by: Councillor Francis Seconded by: Councillor Holt
Decision Number: ETPS 565 THAT the completion of the Tecumseh Road East approved design in the vicinity of Forest Glade Drive BE REFERRED to the 2019 capital budget process, with the aim of accelerating this work. Carried.
Report Number: S 107/2017 Clerk’s File: ST2018
8.2. Provincial and Municipal Plans for High-Speed Rail
Councillor Holt inquires as to a recommendation from administration on what can be done to advance this subject to the next level. Mr. Winterton indicates that administration has participated in open houses and the current government has spoken about the 1st phase completion and the 2nd phase completion which would involve Windsor. Currently only phase 1 is moving forward.
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 8 of 211 Minutes Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee Wednesday, January 24, 2018 Page 5 of 7
Councillor Holt inquires whether there has been discussion with partners in the United States to encourage international connections which may speed up a potential phase 2. Mr. Winterton indicates that there is recognition but that he is unaware of any commitments.
Councillor Holt inquires as to long term planning decisions that could be made as a municipality which would make connecting to Windsor more viable. Mr. Winterton indicates that the City of Windsor currently has a rail rationalization study, and perhaps a review of this study with a view to tie it to high speed rail may be an option.
Councillor Holt inquires about costing to undertake a review and would it be cost prohibitive. Mr. Winterton indicates that he estimates the cost would be significant and that the Councillor could ask a Council Question to determine what would be involved in a review and administration could provide a breakdown of what they anticipate would be involved.
Mr. Winterton indicates that all discussion is taking place at the Provincial/Federal levels as high- speed rail is a Provincial matter. They currently have a business case for London to Toronto but volumes from Windsor to London would not currently justify the expense.
Mr. Alan Robshaw, Windsor resident
Mr. Alan Robshaw, Windsor resident, appears before the Environment, Transportation and Public Safety Standing Committee regarding administrative report Provincial and Municipal Plans for High-Speed Rail and concludes by suggesting high speed rail would be beneficial to the community and attract many more visitors.
Moved by: Councillor Francis Seconded by: Councillor Holt
Decision Number: ETPS 566 THAT City Council RECEIVE the report of the City Engineer respecting High-Speed Rail in response to Council motion M436-2015. Carried.
Report Number: S 205/2017 Clerk’s File: GP2018
8.3. Teedie Crescent Proposed Parking Changes - Ward 8
Moved by: Councillor Francis Seconded by: Councillor Borrelli
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 9 of 211 Minutes Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee Wednesday, January 24, 2018 Page 6 of 7
Decision Number: ETPS 567 1. THAT Parking By law 9023 BE AMENDED as listed and attached in Appendix 1 of this report; and, 2. THAT the City Solicitor BE DIRECTED to prepare the necessary documents to amend the by law. Carried. Report Number: S 232/2017 Clerk’s File: ST2018
9. TRANSIT BOARD ITEMS
9.1. West End Transit Terminal Relocation
Councillor Francis inquires whether this was included in the recently approved 2018 Capital Budget deliberations. Administration indicates that it was included in the approved 2018 Capital Budget and that this report will allow for funding to be released.
Moved by: Councillor Francis Seconded by: Councillor Borrelli
Decision Number: ETPS 568 I. THAT Administration BE AUTHORIZED to negotiate a licensing agreement with Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare Hospital (Tayfour Campus) for a West End Transit Terminal and to engage in any resulting contract negotiations; and further, II. THAT the CAO and City Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to sign the resulting agreement subject to approval as to form and legal content by the City Solicitor, technical content by the City Engineer and to financial content by the City Treasurer. Carried.
Report Number: S 237/2017 Clerk’s File: MT/13046
9.2. Request for Proposal - Transit Windsor Uniforms
Councillor Francis confirms with Administration that uniforms are part of a contractual obligation with Transit Windsor employees.
Moved by: Councillor Francis Seconded by: Councillor Borrelli
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 10 of 211 Minutes Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee Wednesday, January 24, 2018 Page 7 of 7
Decision Number: ETPS 569 THAT the Transit Windsor Board of Directors and City Council AUTHORIZE the Purchasing Manager to issue a Contract purchase order To CINTAS CANADA LIMITED for the purpose of Transit Windsor employee uniforms, to an upset limit of $125,756 plus HST, satisfactory in financial content to the Chief Financial Officer & City Treasurer, and in technical content to the Executive Director of Transit Windsor; and,
THAT any overages to the approved uniform budget of $108,500, to an upset limit of $35,000, BE FUNDED by the Budget Stabilization Reserve for 2018 if not mitigated by the department; and,
THAT a 2019 budget issue BE BROUGHT FORWARD for City Council decision to fully fund the uniform budget. Carried.
Report Number: S 10/2018 Clerk’s File: MT/13048
10. ADOPTION OF TRANSIT BOARD MINUTES
None presented.
11. QUESTION PERIOD
None presented.
12. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee is adjourned at 5:03 o’clock p.m. The next meeting of the Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee will be held February 21, 2018.
______Ward 9—Councillor Hilary Payne Supervisor of Council Services (Vice Chairperson)
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 11 of 211 Item No. 7.1
Committee Matters: SCM 42/2018
Subject: Minutes of the Windsor Essex County Environment Committee of its meeting held January 25, 2018
Page 1 of 1
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 12 of 211
Windsor Essex County Environment Committee – Meeting held January 25, 2018
A meeting of the Windsor Essex County Environment Committee is held this day commencing at 5:30 o’clock p.m. at the Ojibway Nature Centre, there being present the following members:
Councillor Paul Borrelli, Chair Councillor Fred Francis Mayor Nelson Santos, Town of Kingsville Derek Coronado Debby Grant Mike Nelson Joe Passa (arrives at 5:40 p.m.) Dr. Edwin Tam
Regrets received from:
Mayor Aldo DiCarlo, Town of Amherstburg Radwan Tamr
Guest in attendance:
Michael Schneider
Also present are the following resource personnel:
Karina Richters, Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change Kelsey Williams, (A) Environmental & Sustainability Coordinator Karen Kadour, Committee Coordinator
1. Call to Order
The Chair calls the meeting to order at 5:33 o’clock p.m. and the Committee considers the Agenda being Schedule “A” attached hereto, matters which are dealt with as follows:
2. Additions to the Agenda
None
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 13 of 211 Windsor Essex County Environment Committee January 25, 2018 Meeting Minutes
3. Declaration of Conflict
None disclosed.
4. Minutes
Moved by D. Grant, seconded by M. Nelson, That the minutes of the Windsor Essex County Environment Committee of its meeting held October 26, 2017 BE ADOPTED as presented. Carried.
5. Business Items
5.1 Set 2018 Meeting Dates
It is generally agreed meetings of the Windsor Essex County Environment Committee will be held every other month on the last Thursday of the month.
5.2 Completion of City of Windsor Draft Environmental Master Plan Public Engagement
K. Williams advises eight public engagement sessions regarding the Draft Environmental Master Plan were recently held. On-line surveys were also conducted with great support received from the respondents.
Moved by D. Grant, seconded by M. Nelson, That the update regarding the City of Windsor Draft Environmental Master Plan provided by the (A) Environmental & Sustainability Coordinator BE RECEIVED. Carried.
6. Coordinator’s Report
K. Williams provides an overview of the January 2018 Coordinator’s Report. She requests members provide names of possible Green Speakers for the 2018 series.
J. Passa suggests inviting a planner from Toronto to speak to the topic zero emissions and green roofs.
D. Grant requests a list of previous green speakers be provided including the topics of discussion.
Page 2 of 5
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 14 of 211 Windsor Essex County Environment Committee January 25, 2018 Meeting Minutes
Moved by Councillor Francis, seconded by Mayor Santos, That the update relating to the January 2018 Coordinator’s Report provided by the (A) Environmental & Sustainability Coordinator BE RECEIVED. Carried.
7. Subcommittee Reports
7.1 Air
D. Coronado indicates the Province recently released an updated Nuclear Emergency Response Plan. The update makes the plan more transparent and accountable, increases alignment with national and international standards, and enhances emergency planning.
D. Coronado refers to the Environmental Registry and the Policy Proposal Notice entitled “Cumulative Effects Assessment in Air Approvals”. He notes the public comment period ends February 7, 2018.
Moved by Councillor Francis, seconded by J. Passa, That the WECEC Air Subcommittee update provided by D. Coronado BE RECEIVED. Carried.
7.2 Environmentally Sensitive Lands and Issues
D. Coronado states damage has been caused by all terrain and motorized vehicles in the Ojibway Shores area adjacent to the Black Oak Heritage Park.
Councillor Francis indicates there is evidence of tree stands and poaching of deer. He adds bike trails were built by mountain bikers without authority to do so.
K. Richters advises the mountain bikers have provided assistance in clean up events of the park in the past.
Moved by Councillor Francis, seconded by J. Passa, That the Environmentally Sensitive Lands and Issues Subcommittee update BE RECEIVED. Carried.
Page 3 of 5
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 15 of 211 Windsor Essex County Environment Committee January 25, 2018 Meeting Minutes
8. New Business
8.1 Update on City of Windsor Environmental Initiatives
In terms of the Active Transportation Master Plan and the Sewer Master Plan, K. Richters reports there will be opportunities for public engagement.
K. Richters states Earth Hour will be held on March 24, 2018 at 8:30 p.m. She adds Earth Day will be held on April 22, 2018.
Moved by Mayor Santos, seconded by Councillor Francis, That the update on City of Windsor Environmental Initiatives provided by the Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change BE RECEIVED. Carried.
8.2 Update on Essex County Environmental Initiatives
Mayor Santos advises CWATS plans on connecting the paths and trails throughout the Town of Kingsville in order to provide more active transportation options. The investment by CWATS in the amount of $7M will connect bike lanes between Leamington and Kingsville.
Mayor Santos indicates the Town of Leamington will proceed with the 2nd phase of the sewer separation program to Pointe Pelee at a cost of $17-20 M.
Moved by D. Grant, seconded by Councillor Francis, That the update on Essex County environmental initiatives provided by Mayor Santos BE RECEIVED. Carried.
8.3 2018 Goals: Objectives and Work Plan
K. Williams provides an overview of the WECEC Work Plan 2018 and some of the priorities noted in the document are reiterated and additional comments are provided as follows:
Greening the City – specifically more green roofs Walkability, complete streets, active transportation Right to Know by-law Sewer Use Master Plan Shift the focus to 50/50 City/County Ban plastic bags Group priorities into themes
Page 4 of 5
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 16 of 211 Windsor Essex County Environment Committee January 25, 2018 Meeting Minutes
In terms of the discussion relating to green roofs, Councillor Francis suggests a representative from Planning be invited to a future meeting of WECEC.
Moved by M. Nelson, seconded by Dr. Tan, That the list of priorities identified in the WECEC Work Plan 2018 BE AMENDED to add the issue of banning plastic bags, and to group the priorities into themes. Carried.
9. Communications
Moved by Councillor Francis, seconded by D. Grant, That the following communications BE RECEIVED:
9.1 Release of Ontario’s Long-Term Energy Plan 2017 9.2 Study Commencement: Class Environmental Assessment Combined Sewer Overflow Control in the Riverfront Area West of Caron Avenue 9.3 EBR Posting 013-2083 – Community Emissions Reduction Planning: A Guide for Municipalities 9.4 EBR Posting 012-5806 – Guide: Consideration of Climate Change in Environmental Assessment in Ontario 9.5 EBR Posting 013-1520 – Climate Change Adaptation (Ontario)
Carried.
10. Date of Next Meeting
The next meeting will be held on Thursday, March 29, 2018 at 5:30 p.m. at the Ojibway Nature Centre.
11. Adjourned
There being no further business, the meeting is adjourned at 6:35 o’clock p.m.
______CHAIR
______COMMITTEE COORDINATOR
Page 5 of 5
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 17 of 211 Item No. 8.1
Council Report: S 182/2017
Subject: CQ72-2015 (MTR2015) – Review of Fencing in the VIA Rail Corridor from Pillette to Lauzon
Reference: Date to Council: 02/21/2018 Author: Phong Nguy Manager, Contracts, Field Services & Maintenance (519) 255-6560 ext. 4253 [email protected] Ward 6 PW#7242 Public Works - Operations Report Date: 9/25/2017 Clerk’s File #: MTR2018
To: Mayor and Members of City Council
Recommendation: THAT in response to CQ72-2015, asked by Councillor Gignac, regarding a request for review of the VIA Rail corridor on the north side between Lauzon and Pillette to identify safety issues with regard to deteriorating fences, Administration BE DIRECTED to contact Transport Canada about the preparation of a technical safety audit along the said VIA Rail corridor to determine the need for fencing and the negotiation of an agreement with VIA Rail dealing with funding of any fencing along this corridor.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
N/A BACKGROUND:
On December 7, 2015, Councillor Gignac, asked the following of Administration:
“for a review of the VIA Rail corridor on the north side between Lauzon and Pillette to identify safety issues with regard to deteriorating fences and develop a go forward plan for addressing the gaps.”
This report is in response to the Councillor’s request for examination, MTR-2015.
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 18 of 211 Page 1 of 6
DISCUSSION:
A review of relevant legislation pertaining to this issue was undertaken. Prior to 1995 the federal Railway Safety Act (RSA) included fencing as a requirement. This pertained only to fencing sufficient to keep cattle and other animals off the railway property. As a result of various amendments to the RSA now provides as follows:
S. 24 (1) The Governor in Council may make regulations (f) respecting the restriction or prevention, including by means of fences or signs on the land on which a line of railway is situated or on land adjoining that land, of access to the land on which a line of railway is situated by persons — other than employees or agents or mandataries of the railway company concerned, or of the local railway company authorized to operate railway equipment on the railway — or by vehicles or animals, if their presence on that land would constitute a threat to safe railway operations; There are currently no regulations dealing with fences restricting or preventing access on to railway lands pursuant to this authority.
S. 25 (1) For the purpose of preventing a threat to safe railway operations on a line of railway or restoring safe railway operations on a line of railway, a railway company may enter onto any land adjoining the land on which the line of railway is situated (d) at any time between November 1 and March 31, in order to install or maintain a snow fence. (2) A railway company that installs a snow fence on any land shall cause that snow fence to be removed on or before April 1 next following the date of its installation.
This provision of the RSA deals only with snow fences for the purpose of preventing a threat to the safety of railway operations or restoring safe railway operations. This legislation deals with fencing only as it relates to preventing threats to the safety of railway operations and not for providing for the safety of people.
As noted above, there are no specific regulatory measures mandating rail companies to build or maintain fencing. However the RSA as a whole stands for the general proposition that railway operators are to undertake best practices to improve railway safety.
Specifically, section 3 of the RSA states:
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 19 of 211 Page 2 of 6 3 The objectives of this Act are to
(a) promote and provide for the safety and security of the public and personnel, and the protection of property and the environment, in railway operations;
(b) encourage the collaboration and participation of interested parties in improving railway safety and security;
(c) recognize the responsibility of companies to demonstrate, by using safety management systems and other means at their disposal, that they continuously manage risks related to safety matters; and
(d) facilitate a modern, flexible and efficient regulatory scheme that will ensure the continuing enhancement of railway safety and security.
Section 95(1) of the Canada Transportation Act (CTA) grants the authority to railway companies to build fences for the purpose of operating or constructing their railway tracks. This authority to build fencing only becomes an enforceable obligation when the Minister passes a regulation requiring railway companies to do so. However, there are no regulations made pursuant to this section to date, and there is therefore no obligation for erecting or maintaining fences under this statute.
Transport Canada is the federal department which oversees railway safety. It fulfills this role by undertaking safety reviews and audits to promote the safe operation of railways throughout Canada. These efforts included a safety audit for the City of Windsor in 2004. This resulted in the 2004 Transport Canada/Stakeholder Technical Safety Audit Report of Trespass Locations (Report). This Report identified major trespass locations and recommended trespass prevention strategies. In order to identify major trespass locations the report looked at various factors such as trespass occurrences, volume and speed of trains, volume, source and type of trespassers, current use of land adjoining and in the vicinity of the railway right of way. The Report also identified trespass prevention strategies such as community education, railway police enforcement and physical barriers such as fences, and the requirement for agreements dealing with the funding of the fencing.
The Report also proposed Transport Canada’s Railway Right of Way Access Control Regulations. These proposed regulations remain as a policy initiative, and no accompanying regulations reflecting this proposal have been made pursuant to either the CTA or RSA.
Based on the above it is our conclusion that the issue of fencing along railways is a matter of contract between the railways and municipalities. Agreements with various railway companies dealing with fencing at specific locations resulting from the Report are as follows.
1) Agreement with Canadian National Railway (CNR) dated May 25, 2004, was authorized by CR777/2003. This agreement indicates that the City will erect within the road right of way a 6 foot high chain link fence along South National St.
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 20 of 211 Page 3 of 6 between Jefferson Blvd. and Pillette Rd., George St along the south limit east to Tourangeau Rd and Wyandotte St E along the north limit east and west of Drouillard Rd. The costs are to be shared equally between the City and CNR. The agreement does not indicate the cost of the work.
2) Agreement with Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) dated December 8, 2003 also authorized by CR777/2003. This agreement indicates that the City will erect within the road right of way a 6 foot high chain link fence in the vicinity of Memorial Dr. between Gladstone Ave. and Walker Rd. The costs are to be shared equally between the City and CPR. The agreement indicates the cost of the work to be $21,829.50 plus tax.
3) Agreement with Essex Terminal Railway (ETR) dated January 27, 2010 was authorized by CR1116/2004. This agreement indicates that the City will erect within the railway right of way a 6 foot high chain link fence in the vicinity of the southern limit, west of Brock Street at St. Antoine Street and the south side of the railway from Brock Street to Private Road (approximately 125 metres); and the south side of the railway from Moy Avenue eastern limit to Hall Avenue (approximately 100 metres); and the south side of the railway from Lincoln to Gladstone (approximately 132 metres). The costs are to be shared equally between the City and ETR. The agreement indicates the cost of the work to be approximately $10,000.00 plus tax.
We are unable to locate such clear background information for any fences which may currently exist along the VIA Rail corridor on the north side between Lauzon and Pillette, and cannot find any existing fence agreement for the VIA Rail corridor on the north side between Lauzon and Pillette.
This corridor is comprised of both municipal and private properties abutting the rail corridor. The total length of the Corridor between Lauzon Road and George Avenue is 8.5km. The total length of City properties abutting the Via Rail corridor is 3.05km, and 0.81km of this total are currently fenced. An agreement to install and maintain the remaining 2.24km of fence abutting City property would be required between Via Rail and the City. The estimated cost to fence the 2.24km abutting City property is approximately $500,000.
The total length of the remaining private properties abutting this rail corridor is 5.45km. The cost of a 6 foot chain link fence for this would be $1,200,000. Generally the cost of installing the fencing between private property and the railway would be an issue between the property owners and Via Rail.
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 21 of 211 Page 4 of 6 Fencing Requirements Along Via Corridor – Lauzon Rd. to George Ave.
Total length of VIA Corridor 8.5 km
Total length of City Property abutting VIA corridor – fenced 0.81 km
Total length of City Property abutting VIA corridor – unfenced 2.24 km
Total length of City Property abutting VIA corridor 3.05 km
Total length of Private Property abutting VIA corridor 5.45 km
RISK ANALYSIS:
The risk of not erecting fencing along City property abutting railway property is discussed in the Private and Confidential memo from the City Solicitor.
FINANCIAL MATTERS:
The estimated cost to construct 2.24km of fence in the VIA rail corridor from Lauzon Road to George Avenue abutting City property is $500,000. Rail fencing is funded by the annual capital budget allotment. The 6-year capital funding plan for the years 2018 through 2023 approved by Council on January 16, 2018 includes a total annual City budget of $50,000 for 2018, 2019, 2022 and 2023 with an additional $50,000 revenue recovery budget per year from the rail companies for a total of $400,000 available over the 6 years. There are currently $0 budgeted for 2020 and 2021. Remaining capital funds in 2017 have already been committed to fencing work under existing agreements between the City and the 4 railway companies at the 74 rail crossings throughout the City.
CONSULTATIONS:
Cindy Becker, Financial Planning Administrator – PW Operations
Wira Vendrasco, Deputy City Solicitor
Dana Paladino, Manager of Risk and Insurance
Alena Sleziak, Manager 311/211 Call Centre
CONCLUSION:
There are lengthy areas of City property along the VIA rail corridor that do not have fencing. Transport Canada should be contacted about the preparation of a technical safety audit along the VIA Rail corridor on the north side between Lauzon and Pillette to
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 22 of 211 Page 5 of 6 determine the need for fencing and the negotiation of an agreement dealing with funding of any fencing along this corridor.
Gaps in the fencing along private property abutting the VIA rail corridor is generally a matter between the private property owners and the railway.
PLANNING ACT MATTERS:
N/A
APPROVALS:
Name Title
P. Nguy Manager, Contracts, Field Services & Maintenance
C. Becker Financial Planning Administrator
D. Dawson Executive Director of Operations
M. Winterton City Engineer
S. Askin Hager City Solicitor
D. Seguin On behalf of Chief Financial Officer/City Treasurer
O. Colucci Chief Administrative Officer
NOTIFICATIONS:
Name Address Email
Appendices: 1 P and C Memo
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 23 of 211 Page 6 of 6 Item No. 8.2
Council Report: S 2/2018
Subject: Sewer and Water Line Warranty Coverage for Residential Property Owners
Reference: Date to Council: 2/21/2018 Author: Andrew Lewis Research Analyst Coordinator (519) 255-6560 ext. 4229 [email protected] Public Works - Operations Report Date: 1/3/2018 Clerk’s File #: GM2018
To: Mayor and Members of City Council
Recommendation: THAT City Council: 1. ENDORSE the Local Authority Services (LAS) Sewer and Water Line Warranty Program offered to homeowners by Service Line Warranties of Canada (SLWC).
2. DIRECT Administration to promote the program through the City of Windsor’s various communication resources including the City’s website and social media sites.
3. AUTHORIZE the execution of an agreement with Service Line Warranties of Canada, satisfactory in form to the City Solicitor, in technical content to the City Engineer, and in financial content to the Chief Financial Officer and City Treasurer.
Executive Summary:
N/A
Background:
Local Authority Services (LAS) is a co-operative based municipal services organization owned by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario. Created in 1992, LAS is incorporated as a not-for-profit organization under the laws of Canada and is mandated to work with Ontario municipalities, as well as organizations from the broader public sector, to help realize lower costs, higher revenues, and enhanced staff capacity,
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 24 of 211 Page 1 of 7 through co-operative procurement efforts and innovative training, programs, and services.
LAS has endorsed a Sewer and Water Line Warranty Program operated by Service Line Warranties Canada (SLWC). The program offers to residential homeowners an ongoing warranty for their private sewer drain connection. When the sewer connection requires replacement, the warranty will absorb the costs.
Deterioration of aging underground infrastructure is typically undetected. Infrastructure that is used beyond its life expectancy begin to be subjected to problems that arise. These problems can range from blockages to partial failures. Remedial actions required to get the services back in working order can range from a isolated repair to total replacement. The Sewer and Water Line Warranty Program can cover these unforeseen expenses to an upper limit.
The program provides homeowners with an opportunity for a low cost warranty that will help with the cost of repairs or replacement of their PDC. The program also assists in educating home owners what their responsibility may be with respect to their private drain connection.
Service Line Warranties of Canada (SLWC) offer this warranty program to any Ontario municipality with a standard rate structure for its homeowners. Depending on what the homeowner would like to cover under their warranty, monthly premiums will vary with the chosen coverage.
Education is one of the key components to this program. It is a daily challenge for municipal staff when home owners are not aware of their responsibilities when it comes to their PDC.
City Council has mandated that property owners are responsible for the Private Drain Connection (PDC) that services their property from the main line sanitary sewer it discharges into (right of way), including the tee fitting or tap, to the exterior of the home (private property) that the PDC services, through By-Law No. 4921.
The program can cover both water and sewer services. Water supply is delivered by Enwin Utilities, with responsibility for the service terminating at property line (right of way), including the curb box valve. Beyond the property line, responsibility for the connection located on private property is owned by the homeowner.
Discussion:
Sewer and Water Line replacements are costly undertakings for homeowners. Work is typically performed on an emergency basis without warning or opportunity to plan. Some property owners cannot afford to have their sewer and water lines repaired or replaced when issues occur.
Many property owners are not aware of their individual responsibilities when it comes to their sewer and water lines. Ownership of the entire PDC to the main line sewer belongs to the homeowner, who is responsible to maintain and repair or replace when
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 25 of 211 Page 2 of 7 required. This includes the portion of the Private Drain Connection (PDC) located within the public right of way.
Home owner responsibility for the entire PDC to the main is confirmed by By-law 4921. Windsor’s practice is common to many municipalities throughout North America, but this does vary across municipalities. As a result there is a common misconception that when a PDC or water line fails, the home owner believes that it is the responsibility of the City of Windsor to make the required repairs.
When problems are found with an existing PDC or water line, it usually requires that the home owner take immediate remedial action. Delaying repair leaves the home uninhabitable for lack of sewer or water services, as potable water is not supplied or and waste water cannot be discharged into the main line sewer system. There is no viable choice but to repair.
Regular insurance policies will not typically cover failures to a PDC or water service line. The home owner is ultimately left responsible for the entire cost of the required remedial action to return the PDC or water line to working order. The cost of these required repairs can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the issue and remedial action.
Service line warranty programs to address this coverage have been in existence in the U.S.A. since the early 2000’s and in Europe since the early 1990’s.
The City of Edmonton was the first Canadian city to initiate a service line warranty program. Subsequently, Hamilton became the first Canadian city to hire SLWC in April 2014. Local Authority Services has since partnered with SLWC to administer the service line warranty program province-wide. 30 Ontario municipalities have now subscribed including the Regional Municipality of Peel and the County of Brant. Locally, the Town of Tecumseh has endorsed the SLWC program.
Statistical information for the program includes the following:
• 240+ Municipalities participating across North America
• 97% claims approval rating
• 95%+ Customer satisfaction rating
• 100,000+ North American home owners serviced
• $64+ million in sewer and water line repair costs
There is no cost incurred by the City of Windsor for this program, and home owner participation is completely voluntary.
The program includes the purchase of warranty protection for a monthly fee that covers repairs or replacement of the buried sewer and water line that services the property. The SLWC Service Line Warranty, as well as the In-Home Plumbing Repair Program, provides coverage for the home owner.
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 26 of 211 Page 3 of 7 Warranty program costs are proposed to be as follows:
External Water Line
• Monthly = $5.00
• Single Annual Payment = $55.00
• Upset Limit of Coverage = $5,000.00
External Sewer Line (Upper and Lower Lateral with coverage extending to the main)
• Monthly = $8.75
• Single Annual Payment = $97.00
• Upset Limit of Coverage = $8,000.00
Enrolled home owners can call Service Lines Warranty of Canada (SLWC) 24 hours a day by way of a toll free number when leaks, blockages (ex. tree roots) or breaks occur. SLWC will dispatch a plumber or drainage contractor to undertake the necessary repairs or replacement in a timely manner.
SLWC handles all aspects of the program including marketing, billing, customer service and contractor management. All repairs are undertaken by licensed, local contractors that are thoroughly vetted through a third-party compliance management vendor that perform extensive background checks. In addition, the City would certify all participating contractors in order to issue right-of-way street opening permits.
As part of the endorsement of the SLWC Service Line Warranty, the City of Windsor would be required to enter into an agreement with SLWC to use the City of Windsor name, logo and property information for marketing purposes and in return, SLWC would remit to the City of Windsor 5 (five) percent of the revenue from the warranty products collected.
The typical contract length for this partnership is for three years, however larger governments such as Hamilton and Peel secured 2 and 1 year contracts, respectively, with two 5 year renewals. Both have elected to renew their contracts.
The City of Hamilton initially received concerns and questions of local plumbing and drainage contractors regarding the program. Once an explanation of the program was described, contractors were willing to subscribe to the approved contractor list with SLWC.
In Hamilton, program marketing began in September 2014 and continues to the present day. There are now 12,200 enrolled residents in Hamilton and 2,471 claims (more than one per day). The program has paid to Hamilton home owners nearly $800,000 to date with no claim denials.
The Windsor program is proposed to include home owner notification by way of the monthly EnWin utility charges mail-out, independent advertising by SLWC, and
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 27 of 211 Page 4 of 7 promotion of the program on the City of Windsor website as well as the City of Windsor’s social media channels. These communications also carry an educational component that reinforces for the public that home owners are completely responsible for the sewer (PDC) and water service lines that service their home.
Marketing of the program also helps to affirm home owners’ responsibilities for their Private Drain Connection and water service lines servicing their homes. Allowing home owners to make educated decisions about their services before failure occurs can offer peace of mind that water and sewer services will have minimum interruption in case of a failure.
Risk Analysis:
There are no critical or significant risks associated with the recommendations in this report. The program assists homeowners in managing privately owned municipal service lines that may be aging and beginning to fail.
Consideration has been given to the appropriateness of having the municipality endorse a service delivered by a third party from the private sector, particularly in the absence of an open Request for Proposals and through established procurement methods. Insurance services (versus warranties) are available on the open market through homeowner policies. The Sewer Line Warranty of Canada program has been evaluated by and is marketed and endorsed by the Local Authority Services (LAS) branch of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario. The program is being subscribed to by 30 Ontario municipalities. Altogether, the program supplies access to new and beneficial coverage for residents while supplying a direct means to allow Administration to further educate residents regarding flood proofing and is being brought forward to Council for consideration on this basis.
Some minor resourcing risks may materialize as City staff are expected to be responsible for creating resource content relevant to the program for the City’s website and for the 311 Call Centre. Communications and Customer Service, Information Technology and Public Works would collaborate regarding this implementation. Calls for warranty assistance would be redirected to the toll-free SLWC Program phone number.
There may be possible reputational and liability risks to the City if it endorses this product and residents are dissatisfied with it. This risk is moderate as 30 Ontario municipalities have endorsed this program. Any reputational risks are mitigated by understanding the specific experiences that other municipalities have had with the product, and educating residents before they enroll. The liability risks are mitigated by the provisions that will be built into the agreement with SLWC – namely, requiring SLWC to indemnify the City in the event of a claim, and requiring them to carry liability insurance.
There is further reputational risk that could result from the content of materials supplied to residents. Some participating municipalities such as Niagara-On-The-Lake and Parry Sound have experienced challenges with respect to content of distributed materials.
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 28 of 211 Page 5 of 7 This risk would be mitigated by incorporating satisfactory language surrounding this content as part of any prospective agreement with Service Line Warranty of Canada.
There may be further reputational risk inherent with the five percent royalty collected by the municipality from warranty sales. A financial benefit is realized by the municipality under this program. It is the intent of Administration to reinvest any such funds into flood protection information education and to leverage the program for the municipality’s own flood protection education program. City Council retains control as to the assignment of any revenues raised through the program.
Finally, a contravention of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act has previously occurred in the carrying out of this program in the Township of McGarry. The Information and Privacy Commissioner ruled that the municipality contravened the Act in disclosing homeowner personal information to the third parties involved in delivering this program. This risk is mitigated by determining a satisfactory and compliant distribution method as part of any prospective agreement with Service Line Warranty of Canada.
Financial Matters:
There are no immediate financial impacts resulting from the recommendation. In time, the endorsement would generate revenue for the City. 5 (five) percent of the sale proceeds would be returned to the City of Windsor from SLWC. SLWC would be permitted to use the City of Windsor name, logo and property information. Revenue would range from $2.75 to $4.85 per subscribed household annually.
The cost to develop website content and train internal staff with requisite information, principally the front line Public Works clerical staff and the 311 Call Centre operators, would be one-time internal costs to the City absorbed by existing staff time. Once the program is up and running, minimum maintenance would be required to the website, and specific inquiries regarding the SLWC Program would be directed to the company.
Consultations:
Jeffery Olson, General Manager, Service Line Warranties of Canada
Dave Melnyk, Director – Water Distribution, EnWin Utilities Ltd.
Ross Whatley, Manager – Water Distribution, EnWin Utilities Ltd.
John Savoia, Senior Policy Advisor, City of Hamilton
Conclusion: Administration recommends executing an agreement with Service Line Warranties of Canada to develop a Sewer and Water Line Warranty Program for homeowners. The program would help mitigate homes and properties from the severe consequences of
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 29 of 211 Page 6 of 7 failed water and sewer lines servicing homes. The educational component of this program further benefits the community by reinforcing the responsibility and ownership of homeowners relating to the water and sewer lines servicing their properties.
Planning Act Matters: N/A
Approvals: Name Title
A. Lewis Research Analyst Coordinator
P. Nguy Manager, Contracts, Field Services & Maintenance
D. Dawson Executive Director of Operations
N. Couvillon Manager, Performance Measurement and Financial Administration
J. Mancina Chief Financial Officer/City Treasurer
S. Askin Hager City Solicitor
M. Winterton City Engineer
O. Colucci Chief Administrative Officer
Notifications: Name Address Email
David Melnyk 4545 Rhodes Drive [email protected]
Director, Water Distribution Windsor, ON
EnWin Utilities Ltd. N8W 5T7
Jeff Olson 11 Grandview Circle, Suite [email protected] 100 General Manager, Service Line Warranties of Canada Canonsburg, PA 15317
Appendices:
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 30 of 211 Page 7 of 7 Item No. 8.3
Council Report: S 22/2018
Subject: CQ 39-2017 - Front Yard Parking at 1850 Gladstone Avenue - Ward 4
Reference: Date to Council: February 21, 2018 Author: Rob Perissinotti Engineer II 519-255-6257 ext. 6615 [email protected] Development, Projects & Right-of-Way Report Date: 2/7/2018 Clerk’s File #: ST2018
To: Mayor and Members of City Council
Recommendation: THAT the response to CQ39-2017 BE RECEIVED for information.
Executive Summary:
N/A
Background:
On October 2, 2017 Councillor Holt asked the following council question:
CQ39-2017, “Asks that Administration report back to Council regarding waiving the front yard parking bylaw for 1850 Gladstone Avenue to allow the homeowner to install a driveway.”
This report is in response to CQ39-2017.
Discussion: The City has BY-LAW 9023, a Bylaw to regulate vehicular parking within the limits of the City of Windsor on Municipal Streets, Municipal parking lots and Private Properties. The front yard parking is governed through Part V – Private Property, item 42 (3) which was added to the existing By-law 9023 on December 12, 2016 to prevent motorist from parking their vehicle(s) on their front and/or side yard. Four major concerns as to why this By-law was put into place are as follows:
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 31 of 211 Page 1 of 4 1. Emergency Vehicles - Parking a vehicle where it may be a convenience for the motorist may be a hindrance to emergency personnel. 2. Public Safety - By parking a vehicle where it is not allowed, the vehicle may be the cause of sight line issues for pedestrians or other motorized vehicles 3. Unclear Knowledge as to what is below the surface. When parking outside of the allowable hard surfaces, the weight of the vehicle may cause damage to unseen utilities, e.g. Windsor Utilities water shut-offs, sewer clean-outs, etc. which may lead to backups into basements. 4. Neighbourhood Curb Appeal - Not only does a front lawn look cluttered with vehicles parked on it, but it looks unsightly for the neighbourhood. The damage left behind to lawns adds to the blight of the area.
Further to this Bylaw, Administration follows Engineering Best Practices (attached as Appendix A) to ensure consistency in applying policies/procedures and provides standards for work in the City right-of-way.
On September 8, 2017, the homeowner of the noted property applied for a driveway permit for permission to cut the curb fronting the property and to allow front yard parking. The application was complete and included a detailed drawing outlining the proposed driveway.
Through the initial discussion, the homeowner was informed that the application will be denied as the driveway did not meet the requirements of best practice BP2.2.2. Front yard parking is not permitted when a property has access from a paved alley at the rear of the property. It was then explained to the homeowner that if they wished to request an exemption from the requirements of the best practice they would need to write a letter to the department with supporting documentation (such as handicap parking permits and doctors’ notes) as to why a permit should be issued. The reasons for the exemption must be compelling, such as the applicant or a family member is in a wheelchair and a driveway is needed as a loading space for an accessible vehicle. Since the property in question has a two car garage with access from the rear alley, it was determined that the request to install another driveway at the front of the property would not be permitted.
Council has adopted policy CR185/2013 M356/2013 (On-Street Accessible Parking Policy - ENG-TP-AP-1) which outlines the requirements and processes for applying for on-street accessible parking spaces in residential areas (attached as Appendix B). The goal of this policy is to ensure that on-street accessible parking spaces are provided for residents with restricted mobility whose needs cannot be accommodated off-street. The applicant has been contacted and informed of this alternative application for on-street accessible parking which, if approved, may address the resident’s needs.
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 32 of 211 Page 2 of 4 Risk Analysis: If Council chooses to waive the requirements of Engineering Best Practice BP2.2.2 and allow this homeowner to construct front yard parking access, a precedent will be set for future similar applications. Inconsistencies will occur and limit Administration’s capacity to implement standard practices.
Allowing this driveway will also have a negative impact on the neighborhood characteristics. The introduction of front yard parking is counterintuitive to the neighborhood design, which favours front porches, open sight lines, tradition front door approaches and access through the alleys. Allowing a curb cut for the driveway also permanently removes one on-street parking space. Once installed, it will be difficult to remove the driveway.
Financial Matters:
N/A
Consultations: Planning – Adam Coats
Operations – Dwayne Dawson
Transportation Planning – Josette Eugeni
Manager of Risk and Insurance – Dana Paladino
Legal Council – Susan Hirota
Accessibility Officer – Gayle Jones Windsor Police Service – Barry Horrobin and Gary Williams
Conclusion: Administration maintains that the proposed application for front yard parking at 1850 Gladstone Avenue be denied, as it does not meet the requirement of the City’s Engineering Best Practices BP 2.2.2. Allowing the property owner to construct a front yard parking space will set a precedent for all future applications.
An alternative process has been recommended to the applicant for on-street accessible parking fronting 1850 Gladstone Avenue.
Planning Act Matters: N/A
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 33 of 211 Page 3 of 4 Approvals: Name Title
Robert Perissinotti Engineer II
France Isabelle-Tunks Senior Manager, Development, Projects & ROW/Deputy City Engineer
Mark Winterton City Engineer and Corporate Leader Environmental Protection and Transportation
Shelby Askin Hager City Solicitor and Corporate Leader Economic Development and Public Safety
Onorio Colucci Chief Financial Officer
Notifications: Name Address Email
Imad Aouli 1850 Gladstone Avenue [email protected]
Windsor, Ontario
Appendices: 1 Appendix A - BP2.2.2 POLICY - FRONT YARD PARKING POLICY 2 Appendix B - On-Street Accessible Parking Policy - ENG-TP-AP-1 3 P&C memo to the Mayor and members of City Council
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 34 of 211 Page 4 of 4
ENGINEERING BEST PRACTICE – BP2.2.2
1. SUBJECT FRONT YARD PARKING
2. DEFINITIONS
Front yard parking – Paved area that provides a single parking space located in the front yard of an existing dwelling.
3. DRAWINGS
AS-542-C – Front Yard Parking AS-542-A – Maximum Curb Cut for Residential Driveways with No Garage, Single & Double or More Car Garages AS-542-B – Maximum Curb Cut for Residential Driveways on Corner Lots AS-221 – Residential Drive – Asphalt AS-222 – Residential Drive – Concrete
4. BEST PRACTICE
The following residential driveway options are available: 1. A driveway for a front yard parking space shall not exceed a maximum curb cut or edge of pavement width of 4.5m (15’) (in accordance with AS-542-C). 2. A front yard parking space and driveway is required to be hard surfaced within twelve (12) months from the issuance of a driveway permit. 3. A minimum distance of 5.5m (18’) in length and 2.5m (8’) in width is required to create one parking space. Where insufficient area is available for the parking space to be entirely on private property, this space may extend into the right-of-way, however, shall commence at the front face of dwelling without any obstruction of the sidewalk. 4. Approval by the Building Department and compliance with the zoning by-law are required for front yard parking to be permitted. 5. Front yard parking is permitted where existing side yard widths are less than 2.5m (8’). 6. Front yard parking is permitted where no other parking is or may be made available on site. (for example from a paved alley)
5. RELATED BEST PRACTICES
Driveway Requirement Policies – BP2.2.1 Alley Access – BP2.3.2
6. RELATED CITY SPECIFICATIONS S-4 - Selected Granular Base Courses S-6 – Concrete Sidewalk and Driveway Approaches S-9 – Concrete S-10 – Hot Mix, Hot Laid Asphaltic Concrete S-14 – Sodding and Topsoil S-15 – Seeding Roadway Areas by Hydraulic Seeding and Mulch Cover Method
Mario Sonego January 2, 2014 City Engineer or Designate Date
Attachments – By-law 92-2003 information, AS-542-C
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 December 20, 2013/ls Page 35 of 211 Page 1 of 3
ENGINEERING BEST PRACTICE – BP2.2.2
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 December 20, 2013/ls Page 36 of 211 Page 2 of 3
ENGINEERING BEST PRACTICE – BP2.2.2
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 December 20, 2013/ls Page 37 of 211 Page 3 of 3 THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF WINDSOR POLICY
Service Area: Office of the City Engineer Policy No.: ENG-TP-AP-1 Department: Engineering Approval Date: September 23, 2013 Division: Transportation Planning Approved By: Council Effective Date: September 23, 2013 On-Street Accessible Parking Subject: Spaces – Residential Procedure Ref.: ENG-TP-AP-1A Pages: Replaces: Resolution M 83-87 Prepared By: Jeff Hagan 3 Date:
1. POLICY
1.1 This policy sets out the requirements and process for on-street accessible parking spaces in residential areas.
2. PURPOSE
2.1 The goal of this policy is to ensure that on-street accessible parking spaces are provided for residents of the City of Windsor with restricted mobility whose needs cannot be accommodated off-street while also accommodating the on-street parking needs of other residents.
3. SCOPE
3.1 This policy covers on-street accessible parking spaces in residential areas, including both new applications and renewals.
3.2 This policy does not cover the following types of accessible parking spaces, which are governed by separate by-laws, policies, procedures, or other documents:
3.2.1 on-street accessible parking spaces in Business Improvement Areas intended for the use of customers, 3.2.2 off-street accessible parking spaces on private property, and 3.2.3 on-street accessible parking spaces for commercial properties.
4. RESPONSIBILITY
4.1 Council is responsible for authorizing by-law changes required to facilitate installation and removal of on-street accessible parking spaces.
On-street Accessible Parking Spaces – Residential Page 1 of 3 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 38 of 211 4.2 Staff are responsible for carrying out this policy as follows:
4.2.1 The City Engineer is the corporate lead for all Transportation and associated Public Safety programs. 4.2.2 The Senior Manager of Infrastructure and Transportation Planning / Deputy City Engineer provides strategic oversight and approval authority for the program. 4.2.3 The Manager of Transportation Planning is responsible for recommending the installation and removal of on-street accessible parking spaces, and for recommending revisions to this policy to Council. 4.2.4 The Policy Analyst (Transportation Planning) is responsible for preparing revisions to this policy. 4.2.5 The Transportation Technologist (Transportation Planning) is responsible for reviewing new and renewal applications for on-street parking, for carrying out notifications of residents, for preparing the appropriate amendments to the Traffic By-law for the addition or removal of related parking restrictions, and for coordinating with Operations staff for the installation of on-street accessible parking signs. 4.2.6 The Traffic Operations division is responsible for installing and maintaining the signs for on-street accessible parking spaces.
5. GOVERNING RULES AND REGULATIONS
5.1 A residential on-street accessible parking space program has already been in effect before the date of this policy. The program shall continue in accordance with this policy and related procedures.
5.2 Accessible parking spaces provided under this program:
5.2.1 are intended to allow accessible parking for residents with restricted mobility (as evidenced by a permanent Accessible Parking Permit granted to them by the Government of Ontario) within a reasonable distance of their residence in cases where they do not have off-street parking available; 5.2.2 are intended to serve the parking needs of the resident, and therefore shall not be granted unless a vehicle is registered to the resident’s address; 5.2.3 shall not be provided to serve visitors to a property or other non-residents; and 5.2.4 shall not be provided to facilitate pick-up and drop-off (e.g. by Handi- Transit);
5.3 The needs of the community as a whole (including on-street parking needs for other residents) as well as engineering concerns and area parking restrictions shall be balanced against demand for on-street parking in the administration of the residential on-street accessible parking space program.
5.4 For each street section, comprising both sides of the street measured from intersection to intersection, no more than 20% (if not a whole number of spaces, then rounded up to the nearest whole number) of the available on-street spaces shall be designated as accessible. New applications will not be considered if they would increase the
On-street Accessible Parking Spaces – Residential Page 2 of 3 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 39 of 211 number of on-street accessible spaces for the street section above this maximum. In the case of streets with alternate side parking, the side with the lower number of available spaces shall be used for this calculation.
5.5 The residential on-street accessible parking space program, including new applications, renewals, and removal of spaces, will be administered in accordance with the procedure On-Street Accessible Parking Spaces – Residential, as amended.
5.6 Use of on-street accessible parking spaces is governed by Parking By-Law 9023. Nothing in this policy or related procedures shall be interpreted to supersede any provision of the Parking By-law.
6. RECORDS, FORMS AND ATTACHMENTS
6.1 Records for this policy shall be prepared and retained in accordance with Records Retention By-Law 21-2013, as amended. 6.2 Application forms for this policy shall be specified in the procedure On-Street Accessible Parking Spaces – Residential, as amended. 6.3 Attachments: 6.3.1 Procedure: On-Street Accessible Parking Spaces – Residential
On-street Accessible Parking Spaces – Residential Page 3 of 3 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 40 of 211 Item No. 8.4
Environment, Transportation & Public Safety Standing Committee Meeting Held October 18, 2017
Tabling of the 2017 Draft Environmental Master Plan - City Wide
Moved by: Councillor Francis Seconded by: Councillor Borrelli
Decision Number: ETPS 541 I. THAT the draft 2017 Environmental Master Plan (attached) BE TABLED for public feedback until January 1, 2018;
II. THAT the Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change BE DIRECTED to conduct public engagement for the purpose of soliciting public feedback on the draft Environmental Master Plan, and that a summary of the public comments be reported back to the Environment, Transportation and Public Safety Standing Committee on February 21, 2018; and,
III. THAT the Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change BE DIRECTED to bring the draft 2017 Environmental Master Plan back to Council for final approval. Carried.
Report No.: S 183/2017 Clerk File: SW/8523 (Administrative Report attached which was previously distributed as part of the Standing Committee Agenda)
Clerk’s Note: The recommendation of both the Standing Committee and Administration are the same.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 41 of 211
Pollution Control
MISSION STATEMENT “Our City is built on relationships – between citizens and their government, businesses and public institutions, city and region – all interconnected, mutually supportive, and focused on the brightest future we can create together”
REPORT #: S 183/2017 Report Date: 9/29/2017 Author’s Contact: Date to Council: 10/18/2017 Karina Richters Clerk’s File #: SW/8523 Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change 519-253-7111 x. 3226 [email protected]
To: Mayor and Members of City Council
Subject: Tabling of the 2017 draft Environmental Master Plan - City Wide
RECOMMENDATION:
I. THAT the draft 2017 Environmental Master Plan (attached) BE TABLED for public feedback until January 1, 2018; II. THAT the Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change BE DIRECTED to conduct public engagement for the purpose of soliciting public feedback on the draft Environmental Master Plan, and that a summary of the public comments be reported back to the Environment, Transportation and Public Safety Standing Committee on February 21, 2018; and III. THAT the Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change BE DIRECTED to bring the draft 2017 Environmental Master Plan back to Council for final approval.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: N/A
BACKGROUND:
The Environmental Master Plan (EMP) was adopted by City Council on July 24, 2006 (CR374/2006) to provide a guidance document for the City of Windsor to address environmental issues. The EMP’s strategic direction that “The City of Windsor is committed to being a leader through its daily actions and services to enhance the environment for present and future generations” continues to hold true today.
Page 2 of 6
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 42 of 211 The 2006 EMP was developed through extensive community engagement and a thorough understanding of local environmental issues. After 10 years of implementation, the EMP was due to be renewed.
DISCUSSION:
Keeping with the vision of the 2006 EMP, the City of Windsor continues to aspire to make Windsor cleaner, greener, healthier, and more sustainable. However, the updated plan does not stand on a pier of environmental performance alone, but incorporates economic and social aspects which are crucial to the overall health and quality of life of Windsorites.
Similar to the 2006 EMP, this draft plan was developed with extensive consultation with numerous City divisions including but not limited to Pollution Control, Operations, Infrastructure and Geomatics, Transit Windsor, Development Projects and Right of Way, Communications, By-law Enforcement, Human Resources, Planning and Building, Asset Planning and Social Services. Essex Windsor Solid Waste Authority, Essex Region Conservation Authority, Windsor Essex County Health Unit and Windsor Public Library were a few of the City agencies consulted during the process. Throughout the development of the plan, several opportunities presented themselves to engage the public as well. The 2017 EMP reflects the issues and concerns expressed from all the key stakeholders. This plan was developed in-house by the Environment Sustainability Coordinator and a summer student.
The 2017 EMP builds on the 2006 EMP with some notable changes and inclusions. The 2017 plan incorporates new environmental concerns such as microplastics, local food and invasive species. Another key component of the updated plan is the consideration of climate change and its impacts on the residents of Windsor. Impacts such as more extreme and unpredictable weather conditions and an increase in vector- borne diseases place the health and well-being of the community in jeopardy. The EMP does not replace the City of Windsor’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan or the Community Energy Plan but highlights the co-benefits of action on Climate Change and the environment.
One significant change to the 2017 EMP was an adjustment to the five goals. Goal A, Improve Our Air and Water Quality has been separated into 2 goals, one dealing with Air Quality and one Water Quality. This separation highlights the importance of Air Quality and Water Quality to the community. Goals B and C (Create Healthy Communities and Green Windsor) have been combined into the 2017 Goal C, Sustainable Land Use. The 2017 EMP is linked directly to Creating Healthy Communities and work on all five goals works towards that overall objective and having a separate goal was determined to be redundant. Goal D continues to address Page 3 of 6
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 43 of 211 resource concerns, however, the goal has been slightly reworded from Use Resources Efficiently to Increase Resources Efficiency. Goal E remains the same.
2006 EMP 2017 EMP proposed changes
Goal A – Improve Our Air and Water Goal A – Improve Our Air Quality Quality
To be proactive by partnering with To be proactive by partnering with community groups, industry and other community groups, industry and other levels of governments to improve levels of governments to improve Windsor’s air and water quality. Windsor’s air quality.
Goal B – Create Healthy Communities Goal B – Improve Our Water Quality
To enhance the environment of our To be proactive in managing wastewater, neighbourhoods by fostering healthy stormwater and potable water to improve lifestyles and integrating environmentally Windsor’s water quality. friendly transportation systems.
Goal C – Green Windsor Goal C – Sustainable Land Use
To protect and enhance the City’s To enhance our community through Greenway Systems. naturalization, reforestation, park and urban planning, densification and community initiatives.
Goal D – Use Resources Efficiently Goal D – Increase Resources Efficiency
To increase resource efficiency, conserve To increase resource efficiency, conserve water and energy and reduce waste. water and energy and reduce waste.
Goal E – Promote Awareness Same as 2006
To foster an engaged community and staff that appreciates and protects its local environment through active communication.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 44 of 211
At the August Windsor Essex County Environment Committee (WECEC) meeting, administration provided a short overview presentation of the draft 2017 Environmental Master Plan. At this meeting, a number of the committee members raised concerns with a 30 day comment period and as such a motion was made to extend the public comment period beyond 30 days.
WECEC motion from August 31, 2017:
Moved by D. Coronado, seconded by D. Grant,
That the public comment period for the City of Windsor Environmental Master Plan 2017 of thirty (30) days BE INCREASED.
Carried.
Administration agrees with the motion and is recommending an approximate 75 day comment period. This extension will provide administration with additional opportunities to engage with the public on the draft plan through various means including but not limited to public meetings, on-line information, and presentations.
A decade of implementation and lessons learned forged the path for the development of a more relevant and effective updated Environmental Master Plan. RISK ANALYSIS:
There are no significant risks involved with tabling this document for the Environment, Transportation, and Public Safety Standing Committee for review.
FINANCIAL MATTERS:
The 2017 Environmental Master Plan provides guidance on the actions suggested to achieve the objectives and goals of the plan. Individual actions requiring additional funding outside of operational budgets will be reported as required to City Council for further deliberation.
CONSULTATIONS:
Pollution Control Operations Infrastructure and Geomatics Transit Windsor Development Projects and Right of Way
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 45 of 211 Communications By-law Enforcement Human Resources Planning and Building Asset Planning Social Services Essex Windsor Solid Waste Authority Essex Region Conservation Authority Windsor Essex County Health Unit Windsor Public Library CONCLUSION:
The tabling of the draft Environmental Master Plan allows for extensive public consultation through the end of 2017. Comments may be directed to [email protected]. Any revisions to the draft plan based on the comments received during the public consultation will be reported to the Environment, Transportation and Public Safety Standing Committee in February 2018.
The draft 2017 EMP continues to provide direction to the City of Windsor on actions that will enhance the environment improving the quality of life for residents. PLANNING ACT MATTERS: N/A APPROVALS:
Name Title Karina Richters Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change Chris Manzon Senior Manager Pollution Control Mark Winterton City Engineer/Corporate Leader Environmental Protection and Infrastructure Services Mark Winterton for Onorio Colucci Chief Administrative Officer
NOTIFICATIONS:
Name Address Email
APPENDICES:
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 46 of 211
ENVIRONMENTAL MASTER PLAN
2017 1
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 47 of 211
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 48 of 211 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction and Background ...... 1 Ties to Human Health and the Economy ...... 3 Air Quality ...... 3 Water Quality ...... 4 The Urban Environment ...... 5 Resources ...... 7 Linkages to the 20-Year Strategic Vision...... 8 A Corporate Environmental Commitment ...... 10 Strategic Direction ...... 10 Guiding Principles...... 10 Goals...... 11 Goal A – Improve Our Air Quality ...... 12 Objective A1: Develop strategies to reduce cross-border air pollution ...... 12 Objective A2: Increase use of environmentally-friendly products in City facilities to improve indoor air quality ...... 12 Objective A3: Reduce the City’s contribution to poor air quality days ...... 13 Objective A4: Reduce and monitor community greenhouse gas emissions ...... 13 Objective A5: Implement and educate residents on the City of Windsor’s Anti-Idling By-law ...... 14 Objective A6: Improve the City’s traffic flow to reduce vehicular emissions ...... 14 Objective A7: Improve the City’s public transportation system to increase ridership ...... 15 Objective A8: Reduce the number of single-occupancy vehicle trips of staff and residents ...... 15 Objective A9: Develop, expand and maintain a connected network of safe bicycling and walking facilities ...... 16 Goal B – Improve Our Water Quality ...... 17 Objective B1: Invest in our sewers and wastewater treatment plant infrastructure ...... 18 Objective B2: Improve stormwater management to reduce the risk of flooding to residents ...... 18 Objective B3: Reduce water pollution from City Operations ...... 18 Objective B4: Improve the health of the Detroit River and Great Lakes Waters ...... 19 Objective B5: Reduce the per capita use of treated municipal water ...... 19
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 49 of 211 Goal C – Responsible Land Use ...... 21 Objective C1: Encourage in-fill and higher density in existing built areas ...... 21 Objective C2: Investigate the feasibility of a Regional Growth Plan ...... 22 Objective C3: Incorporate sustainable development into the design of neighbourhoods, homes and businesses ...... 22 Objective C4: Expand public understanding of the value of natural spaces and native plants ...... 23 Objective C5: Develop a coordinated approach to invasive species in parks, natural areas and the public right-of-way ...... 24 Objective C6: Acquire or transitional additional lands for integration into our parks, natural areas and natural heritage system ...... 24 Objective C7: Protect, enhance and expand the quality and condition of our natural areas and wetlands ...... 25 Objective C8: Protect and enhance the quality and condition of our urban forest canopy ...... 26 Objective C9: Increase connectivity within and between our parks and natural areas ...... 26 Objective C10: Support education, engagement and local food production ...... 27 Objective C11: Work with the Windsor Essex County Health Unity to develop a Food Strategy ...... 28 Objective C12: Incorporate cooling designs and features into public spaces to protect residents from extreme heat and ultraviolet radiation exposure ...... 28 Objective C13: Enhance and increase natural shade as a climate change adaptation measure ...... 29 Goal D – Use Resources Efficiently ...... 30 Objective D1: Decrease community energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions ...... 30 Objective D2: Decrease corporate energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions ...... 31 Objective D3: Consider environmental design in newly constructed or retrofitted municipal projects 31 Objective D4: Increase the diversion rate of recyclable material at all City facilities ...... 32 Objective D5: Increase community waste diversion through recycling and composting ...... 32 Objective D6: Integrate environmental sustainability and climate change into Asset Management ...... 33 Goal E – Promote Awareness ...... 34 Objective E1: Promote the link between environmental health and human health to Windsor residents ...... 34 Objective E2: Report on the progress of the implementation of the Environmental Master Plan ...... 34 Objective E3: Conduct a regular survey of environmental attitudes with residents and staff ...... 35 Objective E4: Develop a corporate environmental education strategy ...... 35 Objective E5: Maintain a web-based environmental information site ...... 36
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 50 of 211 Objective E6: Increase awareness among residents and stakeholder of the City’s environmental programs, policies and initiatives ...... 36 Objective E7: Continue to invest and develop partnerships ...... 37 Objective E8: Ensure involvement of residents and stakeholders in environmental decision making .. 38 Objective E9: Showcase Windsor’s Environmental Commitment outside the Region ...... 38 Implementation ...... 39 Reporting and Communication ...... 39 Funding...... 39 City of Windsor Environmental Canvas ...... 40 Stakeholders Support ...... 41
References ...... 42 Appendix A: Tentative Implementation Schedule
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 51 of 211 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
The Environmental Master Plan (EMP) was first developed in 2006 to provide a guidance document for the City of Windsor to address environmental issues. A simple vision led to a set of goals that formed the foundation for municipal action to improve the City’s environment. The Plan was unanimously approved at Windsor City Council on July 24th 2006. Through this Plan, we aspire to make Windsor cleaner, greener, healthier, and more sustainable. Most of the actions refer to the Corporation of the City of Windsor’s activities and operations, underpinning its intent of leading residents, industry, and stakeholders by example. The EMP reflects the city’s commitment to enhancing environmental performance and facilitating social well-being and economic prosperity. This update is the renewal of that perpetual commitment.
Designed for local leadership, the EMP utilises the influence and outreach of the municipality, and comprises community feedback to meet its goal of prioritizing community interests. The EMP incorporates valued public opinions, acquired through actively sought public engagement and participation. City staff, agencies, boards, and the general public were consulted during the development of this update. An increase in community awareness was successfully reached through active community engagement throughout the development process. This plan was developed in-house by the Environment Sustainability Coordinator and a summer student. A decade of implementation and lessons learned forged the path for the development of a more relevant and effective updated Environmental Master Plan. As suggested in the previous EMP, progress of environmental performance has been regularly tracked and documented in multiple “Report’s on the State of our Environment”.
A key component of the updated plan is the consideration of climate change and its impacts on the residents of Windsor. Impacts such as more extreme and unpredictable weather conditions and an increase in vector-borne diseases place the health and well-being of the community in jeopardy. Recognizing the changing climate and the consequent changes in social, economic, and environmental context is key to coping with and conquering the challenges posed by this adverse and undesirable phenomenon. The EMP is implemented alongside many other City of Windsor Plans including our Climate Change Adaptation Plan and Community Energy Plan.
Considering only environmental aspects in this Environmental Master Plan update would prohibit achieving overall community benefit. Instead, a comprehensive and integrated approach is essential to recognize the undeniable interconnectedness and interdependence of the environment, economy, and society. Therefore, the Plan does not stand on a pier of environmental performance alone, but also incorporates economic and social aspects which are crucial to the overall health and
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 52 of 211 quality of life of Windsorites. Continuous research, civic engagement, and community involvement will result in policies, strategies and actions that promote healthy, safe and sustainable communities within the city. The Plan models the concept of treating sustainability as a way of life rather than an environmental issue. The actions outlined depict what the city is considering over the short and long term to improve the City’s environment. However, just like in the planning and development process, cooperation of our residents is imperative to the success and progress of this ongoing initiative. After all, it is the collective actions of a community that bring about desired change.
“Those communities that manage to prosper in this century will be those that plan for change and make sustainable choices; not only to adapt to changing circumstances but also to seize new opportunities as they arise.” From A Plan for Sustainability and Resilience in Canada’s Capital Region
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 53 of 211 TIES TO HUMAN HEALTH AND THE ECONOMY
Human health is closely linked to the health of the environment. Factors such as air quality, water quality, land use and proximity to green space as well as access to resources determine the overall well-being of a community. The goal of creating healthier communities, through the implementation of the Environmental Master Plan, necessitates the consideration of economic and social factors as they affect the environment and human health. Health of the natural environment, social cohesion and economic vitality are also the foundation of sustainability, which is necessary to improve the quality of life for current and future generations.
Air Quality
Due to our location across from Detroit, as well as being a major hub for the automotive industry and a city heavily dependent on cars for commuting, Windsor’s air quality is a persistent matter of concern. Vehicle and industry emissions are two main sources of release for pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). These pollutants, along with carbon monoxide (CO) react with sunlight to create ground level ozone. Ozone pollution causes various respiratory illnesses, ranging from coughing and chest pain, to bronchitis and asthma, and even permanent damage to lung tissue (EPA, 2014).
Particulate matter (PM), another type of air pollutant, is most impactful on human health (World Health Organization, 2016). Inhalation can result in cardiovascular and lung diseases, and can lead to heart attacks and cancer (World Health Organization, 2016). It has been linked to premature death and lower birth weight as well (World Health Organization, 2016). Recent studies have indicated its link to cognitive impairment, especially among older adults (Blaszczak-Boxe, 2015), and increased mental health risks among children (Blaszczak-Boxe, 2016).
Estimates state air pollution costs more than $1 billion a year in hospital admissions, emergency room visits, and absenteeism (Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2012). A 10% decrease in ground level ozone and fine particulate matter can prevent hundreds of premature deaths, thousands of hospital room visits, and millions of activity days in Canada, saving hundreds of million dollars for the medical system (Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2012).
Indoor air quality is often not treated with the gravity it deserves. Household items such as furniture, carpets, candles, cleaning products, and building materials such as paint, solvents, and insulation can release VOCs into the air in your home (World Health Organization, 2016). Damp or leaky places in the house are excellent breeding ground for mould. Chronic exposure to mould can lead to
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 54 of 211 various health impacts, ranging from headaches, diarrhea, vomiting, trouble breathing, to depression, multiple sclerosis, hemorrhage, liver damage and low immunity and fertility (Mercola, 2011). Indoor air pollution and the build-up of indoor moisture which facilitates mould growth can be reduced by allowing good ventilation in the house.
Air quality has a direct impact on the agriculture, fishing, and tourism industries. Higher air quality means increased productivity in these industries (Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2012). Greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as carbon dioxide, methane and sulphur dioxide, all associated with air pollution, are also the biggest climate change contributors (Air Pollution, n.d.). Higher temperatures increase the occurrence and intensity of smog (Miller, 2017), thus establishing a two-way cause-and-effect relationship between air pollution and climate change. This combination is also associated with increased heart diseases and pollen allergies (Miller, 2017).
Water Quality
About three decades ago, the Detroit River was identified as an Area of Concern (AOC) due to poor water quality and environmental degradation (Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2017). In the past three decades, the release of pollutants into the river has decreased tenfold due to the investment in wastewater treatment and the enforcement of Provincial and Municipal regulations (Environment and Climate Change Canada, 2017).
The water quality of the Detroit River influences a considerate amount of economic activity. The river and the nearby banks and beaches are popular tourist spots which entertain various water sports and water-related activities. Many people fish the Detroit River, and the market for fishing equipment, canoes, and other water sport and safety gear, is heavily dependent on its health. Various events and seasonal markets by the river also generate considerable economic activity. Therefore, the river enhances employment and income generation, and promotes economic growth and activity in Windsor. It also fosters social connections by serving as a community space where people can get together and socialize, and encourages physical activity such as walking and biking.
It is important to remember that whatever goes into the river eventually flows into Lake Erie, which is a primary source for drinking water, fishing and recreation, and an essential part of the Essex Region’s ecosystem. Pollutants such as phosphorus cause the formation of blue-green algae in the lake, which contains toxins and causes oxygen deficiency in water, and can block sunlight that is necessary for other organisms to survive. While the toxins are detrimental to human, wildlife, and fish health, the oxygen deficiency can cause fish to suffocate (Bejankiwar and Bunch, 2016). Nutrient pollution, leading to algal blooms, can lead to beach closures and drinking water advisories, which is both inconvenient and undesirable for the economy. Climate change can worsen the situation by causing oxygen levels to
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 55 of 211 lower due to rising temperatures, and causing storms which churn up nutrients settled at the lake bed, providing algae with more phosphorus to feed on (Bejankiwar and Bunch, 2016).
Climate change induces erratic weather patterns and increases the frequency and severity of extreme weather conditions, such as storms and floods. In the flood that occurred in September, 2016 affecting Windsor and Tecumseh, nearly $108-million in insured damages were claimed (Taekema, 2016). This amount represents only the insured property, the actual total economic damage is estimated to be much higher (Taekema, 2016). Our susceptibility to climate change is a major indicator of our well- being as a community.
The Urban Environment
Efficient road design plays a major role in the enhancement of economic prosperity and health. Traffic calming techniques such as speed humps, bike lanes, and diagonal parking are known to reduce flow of traffic, encourage more responsible driving, increase pedestrian safety, and encourage walking and biking (Project for Public Spaces, 2009). They can benefit businesses as they allow people better opportunity to notice shops by the streets, instead of just speeding past them. Complete streets ensure safe, comfortable, and convenient travelling for people, regardless of their age, ability, or mode of transport, making the use of public transit and active transportation easier to adopt. Active transportation, or human-powered transportation, such as walking, cycling, skateboarding, etc., can contribute extensively to decreasing greenhouse gas emissions, and save people money on gas and parking (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2014). It can save hundreds of million dollars spent on healthcare due to heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes related to physical inactivity (Public Health and Emergency Services, n.d). It has also been linked to improved mental health, as the use of active transportation can prevent depression, and driving has been associated with higher amounts of stress and social isolation (Public Health and Emergency Services, n.d). Well-designed roads decrease the chances of traffic congestion, and consequent road rage (Town of Markham, 2011).
The presence or absence of nature in close vicinity has psychological effects on human beings. Being closer to nature reduces stress, a condition known to trigger various mental and physical health problems, both short-term, including fatigue, difficulty concentrating, acute insomnia, etc., and long- term, including weight gain, depression, heart disease, etc (House et al., 2017). Exposure to nature has been linked with healthier birth weight in babies, and reduced Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms in children (House et al., 2017). Studies have shown that patients heal much faster when their hospital room contains a window providing a scenic natural view (House et al., 2017). Green space and trees also reduce air pollution and the effects of extreme heat as they reduce land surface temperatures (Zupancic, Westmacott, & Bulthuis, 2015). Various plants species, especially trees, can capture and filter all the major air pollutants discussed above (Zupancic, Westmacott, & Bulthuis, 2015).
A neighborhood with more greenery, open spaces, and access to natural amenities is more in demand, and supports the housing market (House et al., 2017). Shops in central business districts that have a high-quality tree canopy can boost economic growth, as people are willing to spend 9-12% more
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 56 of 211 for goods and services in such areas, and are more likely to travel longer distances to shop in a greener atmosphere (House et al., 2017). Enhanced connection to nature facilitates productivity and increases job satisfaction, and a healthier work force means better business (House et al., 2017). Studies conducted in the USA indicate that investment in parks and natural spaces can save up to 36% of healthcare costs (Wolf, 2017).
Social cohesion and a sense of inclusiveness are often cited as reasons behind prevalence of good mental and physical health in a community, and accessible parks and recreational facilities offer community members with an ideal setting for socializing (House et al., 2017). Green spaces in neighborhoods can bring together a greater number and a more diverse group of people, implying that natural infrastructure enhances the opportunities for building social connections (Brinkley and Wolf, 2016). Youth in cohesive communities are also less likely to engage in disruptive behaviors, as close-knit communities are more likely to provide better guidance to the young adults, in a collective manner (House et al., 2017).
Complete communities, similar to complete streets, are a suitable solution to sprawling communities. Urban and sub-urban sprawling causes increased infrastructure costs, consumer expenditures, travel time, congestion delays, traffic accidents, pollution emissions, and obstructs the formation of complete streets (Gruel, 2015). High-density complete communities facilitate the development of complete streets and ensure that spaces and resources are being properly utilized through mixed use development, enabling residential, commercial, cultural, institutional, and industrial facilities to co-exist in the community and provide opportunities for the people to live and work in close proximity (Symbiotic Cities Network, n.d). Low density developments mean higher costs such as energy and water bills, and a higher property tax base (Gurin, 2003). Sprawling also results in air pollution as the communities are more automotive-dependent, and people burn a large amount of fuel commuting to places they need to go to (Gurin, 2003). Moreover, it reduces the natural environment around the city, reducing green spaces and also uses up more space than required.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 57 of 211 Resources
Using resources efficiently not only helps conserve valuable resources for current and future generations, but also helps preserve environmental quality. Less organic waste generated (i.e. food waste) results in less methane generation at landfills, and recycling decreases the stress on virgin resources (Recycling and Climate Change, 2014). Recycling uses less energy compared to making a product from scratch. For example, one ton of paper recycled can save 17 trees, 7,000 gallons of water, 380 gallons of oil, 3.3 cubic yards of landfill space and 4,000 kilowatts of energy – enough to power an average Canadian household for 4 months – and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by one metric ton (West, 2017).
Electricity production from non-renewable resources contributes heavily to climate change through methane and carbon dioxide emissions, while renewable energy sources produce little to no greenhouse gases. In addition, use of renewable energy puts much less stress on water resources and prevents water pollution caused by natural gas drilling. It boosts economic activity through job opportunities as the renewable energy industry is more labor-intensive than the non-renewable energy sector. Moreover, the cost of production is lower and more stable compared to other energy industries (Union of Concerned Scientists, 2013).
As we know from Windsor’s Community Energy Plan, in 2014 our community spent $842 million dollars on energy (electricity, natural gas, and transportation fuels). It is anticipated that energy costs will increase by 120% at the lower risk range and by 280% at the higher risk range by 2041. This would increase annual energy costs from $842 million per year to $1.8 billion and $3.1 billion per year respectively. This is a huge economic burden that can be mitigated through better energy management and resource conservation.
Environment is the aggregate of natural, social, and economic conditions that influence the lives of people. In a city, health and safety, local natural environment conditions, the economic situation and the quality of social interactions determine the quality of life of residents. A healthy and prosperous community grows in each sector by dealing with adversities such as pollution, resource consumption, city design and climate change. A good Environmental Master Plan incorporates all the aspects of sustainability, and sees the opportunity in challenging situations.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 58 of 211 LINKAGES TO THE 20-YEAR STRATEGIC VISION
The 20-Year Strategic Vision serves as a cornerstone for Council and City administration when making decisions with respect to programs, services, and infrastructure, and provide the community with an avenue for input on the future of the City. Through this vision, City Council identified jobs, reputation, and quality of life as Council themes. The EMP works in alignment with the 20-Year Strategic Vision.
20- Year Vision 2017 Environmental Master Plan
We will Change Our Future.
Jobs – Through a The EMP was developed with consideration of the triple bottom line: diversified economy, and environment, social and economy and many of the actions listed in the plan by supporting link closely with federal and provincial initiatives to grow and diversify the entrepreneurship and economy through green jobs. small business, Windsor will have jobs The federal government’s commitment to address climate change and grow the economy is outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change: “We will continue to grow our economy and create good jobs as we take ambitious action on climate change. We will work to ensure that the Pan-Canadian Framework opens new opportunities for Canadian businesses to not only maintain but also enhance their competitiveness”.
Similarly, the Province of Ontario’s Five-Year Climate Action Plan outlines a transition to a low-carbon economy. “Businesses and industry will benefit from programs and initiatives to help them thrive in a low carbon economy. The province will continue to build Ontario’s clean-tech sector. It will work to retain existing businesses, protect existing jobs and create new ones. It will support innovation and productivity, business certainty and stability.”
Reputation – Through The 2006 Environmental Master Plan was born out of City Council’s celebrating all successes, recognition that to improve Windsor’s reputation and quality of life emphasizing its fiscal addressing environmental concerns was required. In 2005, City of Windsor sustainability, and residents were surveyed about the overall quality of Windsor’s encouraging favourable environment, only 4.8 % believed that it was better than that of other conversation about the Ontario Cities. city, Windsor will be a positive place. Since the approval of the 2006 Environmental Master Plan, three Reports on the State of the Environment (ROSE) have been developed. These reports track environmental performance over time. As indicated in the 2017 ROSE report most environmental indicators are tracking in alignment with the goals of the EMP. However, more needs to be done to convey our successes to Windsor residents and across the country. Additional objectives have been added under Goal E: Promote Awareness to help
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 59 of 211 improve the reputation of Windsor’s environment.
The City of Windsor is already being acknowledged for their leadership on climate change issues. Health Canada and the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction (ICLR) have published a number of case studies highlighting work on extreme heat and the urban heat island undertaken by the City of Windsor. The City of Windsor has also received accolades for the innovative Retention Treatment Basin that reduces combined sewer overflows into the Detroit River.
Quality of Life – By The EMP reflects the City’s commitment to enhancing environmental strengthening the city as performance and facilitating social well-being and economic prosperity. a whole through supporting its The EMP’s 5 goals provide direction to improve the Quality of Life of neighbourhoods and Windsor residents: districts, encouraging Goal A: Improve Air Quality – To be proactive with community groups, convenient transit and industry and other levels of governments to improve Windsor’s air quality. transportation options, and excellent service Goal B: Improve Water Quality – To be proactive in managing wastewater, delivery, Windsor will stormwater and potable water to improve Windsor’s water quality. provide a high quality of life for all. Goal C: Responsible Land Use – To enhance our community through naturalization, reforestation, park and urban planning, densification and community initiatives.
Goal D: Increase Resource Efficiency – To increase resource efficiency, conserve water and energy and reduce waste.
Goal E: Promote Awareness – To foster an engaged community and staff that appreciates and protects its local environment through active communication.
The EMP was created with the understanding of the direct relation between the environment, to human health and the economy which is clearly articulated in the introduction section of the EMP. Progress is tracked through regular Reports on the State of the Environment (ROSE).
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 60 of 211 A CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT
The Environmental Master Plan will continue to be grouped with other City of Windsor Master Plans underneath our Community Strategic Plan and our Official Plan.
20-Year Strategic Vision
Official Plan
Climate Parks and Bicycle Greening Corporate Asset Other City Environmental Change Community Outdoor Use the Fleet Energy Management of Windsor Master Plan Adaptation Energy Plan Recreation Master Plan Plan Plan Plans Plan Master Plan Plan
Administered by Environmental
Sustainability & Climate Change Office
Strategic Direction The City of Windsor is committed to being a leader through its daily actions and services to enhance the environment for present and future generations.
Guiding Principles While implementing the Environmental Master Plan, the City of Windsor will: Form Partnerships: We will pursue partnerships between the City and the community, other governments, private and voluntary sectors to work towards solutions to environmental challenges and opportunities. Engage Residents: We will build awareness, actively involve stakeholders, and seek feedback on the Plan’s progress. Focus on Innovation and Balance: We will review and consider best practices while balancing economic, social and ecological considerations. Work Together: Internally, the Corporation and its agencies will collaborate and communicate about the Plan’s implementation. Lead By Example: We will act as leaders by providing responsible and proactive service to our residents. Track Our Progress: We will monitor, evaluate, and report on the Plan’s progress to Council and the community-at-large and implement follow-up actions. Achieve Realism: We will strive for a balance between ambitious and achievable planning.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 61 of 211 Goals The strategic direction, guiding principles and goals form the foundation for the Environmental Master Plan. The City is committed to a balanced and realistic approach for implementation of the Plan that provides due consideration for all five goals.
These goals differ slightly from the goals in the original EMP. Improving Air and Water quality are now separate goals, and Creating Healthy Communities and Greening Windsor have been combined into Goal C – Responsible Land Use.
Goal A – Improve Our Air Quality To be proactive by partnering with community groups, industry and other levels of governments to improve Windsor’s air quality.
Goal B – Improve Our Water Quality To be proactive in managing wastewater, stormwater and potable water to improve Windsor’s water quality.
Goal C – Responsible Land Use To enhance our community through naturalization, reforestation, park and urban planning, densification and community initiatives.
Goal D – Increase Resources Efficiency To increase resource efficiency, conserve water and energy and reduce waste.
Goal E – Promote Awareness To foster an engaged community and staff that appreciates and protects its local environment through active communication.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 62 of 211 Goal A – Improve Our Air Quality To be proactive by partnering with community groups, industry and other levels of governments to improve Windsor’s air quality.
Clean air improves human health and mitigates climate change. It is essential for the well-being of vulnerable populations, namely children and older adults, who make up more than one-third of Windsor’s population. Outdoor air pollution is mainly caused by emissions due to the combustion of fossil fuels for industry, transportation, space heating and power generation. Along with government actions, addressing the issue of air pollution will require cooperation from the local community. The actions below are intended to drive economic prosperity through the implementation of various air pollution reduction measures. Together, the municipal government and Windsorites can help address this trans-boundary issue, and contribute to mitigation of this global problem.
Objective A1: Develop strategies to reduce cross-border air pollution
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change Assist: Windsor Essex County Environment Committee, Windsor Essex County Health Unit
Actions: • Advocate for Windsor’s local air quality issues at the regional, provincial, and federal levels in the United States and Canada and with industry representatives. • Gather air quality baseline information for comparison purposes. Publish and track in the Report on the State of the Environment. • Identify partnerships with other agencies, governments and businesses. • Liaise with the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change to increase environmental testing and compliance within the City.
Indicators: • Number of Low Risk Air Quality Health Index Days • Number of Special Air Quality Statement Days and Smog and Air Health Advisory Days • Ground Level Ozone
Objective A2: Increase use of environmentally-friendly products in City facilities to improve indoor air quality
Lead: Facilities, Departmental staff who purchase products Assist: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Human Resources
Actions: • Implement and promote recommendations made in the Sustainable Purchasing Policy and Guide specifically related to general building maintenance (paint, sealants, adhesives and other building materials) janitorial cleaning products as well as furniture and office systems. • Continue to promote and advocate for the Scent Safe Workplace Procedure. • Test municipal buildings for Radon.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 63 of 211 Objective A3: Reduce the City’s contribution to poor air quality days
Lead: Operations, Fleet, Parks, Transit Windsor, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change
Actions: • Update the Greening the City Fleet Manual. • When purchasing for fleet replacement, continue to include wording in the tenders with respect to “lower emitting vehicle” options and automatic shut-off for idling vehicles. • Continue to implement the Fleet Winter Maintenance Policy. • Replace older maintenance equipment used by Parks staff with equipment that produces fewer emissions. • Develop a plan to further limit and monitor dust at constructions sites. • Develop a plan to modify City of Windsor operations on poor air quality days. • Implement recommendations in the Corporate Climate Action Plan (2017) such as increasing Transit ridership, advancing transit vehicle replacement and exploring alternative propulsion vehicles. • Develop a program to replace public transit buses regularly to improve efficiency. • Develop an electric charging strategy for electric vehicles. • Increase the tree canopy coverage of the City.
Indicators: • Corporate Fuel Consumption • New Greening of the City Fleet Plan • Transit Windsor Ridership • Tree Canopy Cover
Objective A4: Reduce and monitor community greenhouse gas emissions
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change Assist: Windsor Essex County Health Unit
Actions: • Work with various stakeholders and partners to implement the Community Energy Plan (2017) relating to local air quality including: o Encouraging a modal shift towards public transit; o Encouraging active transportation; o Fostering the adoption of electric vehicles; o Continuing to advance smart energy systems.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 64 of 211 • Continue to track corporate and community greenhouse gas emissions as part of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Partners for Climate Protection as well as the Compact of Mayors1, and publish in the Report on the State of the Environment.
Indicators: • Community Greenhouse Gas Emissions (targets to align with the Community Energy Plan, 2017) • Corporate Greenhouse Gas Emissions (targets to align with the Corporate Climate Action Plan, 2017)
Objective A5: Implement and educate residents on the City of Windsor’s Anti-Idling By-law
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, By-law Enforcement Assist: Windsor Essex County Health Unit
Actions: • Develop and implement a city-wide Idling Awareness Campaign to educate residents and businesses on the economic and environmental impacts of idling vehicles. • Work with school boards and individual schools to educate students, staff and parents about the effects of idling at schools. • Develop and implement a targeted enforcement plan at idling hot spots.
Indicators: • Idling Awareness Campaign
Objective A6: Improve the City’s traffic flow to reduce vehicular emissions
Lead: Traffic Operations, Transportation Planning Assist: Transit Windsor
Actions: • Reduce unnecessary and unwarranted all-way stops. Focus on transit and heavy trucking routes to reduce wait times. • Promote public transit priorities to reduce transit delay and promote schedule adherence and service reliability. • Invest in “road diets” where possible whereby the number of travel lanes and/or effective width of the road is reduced in order to reduce speeding, increase active transportation and improve safety. • Promote increased and smoother traffic flow, for all modes (public transit, cyclists and pedestrians) by using Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), e.g. to improve signal coordination, provide priorities for public transit and introduce electronic way-finding and transit route information. • Adjust signal timing to improve traffic flow due to construction projects. • Continue to upgrade existing and newly installed video detectors (video technology and induction loops) to reduce vehicular idling.
1 The Compact of Mayors is a global network of cities pledging to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance resilience to climate change, and track progress in a standardized and transparent manner
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 65 of 211 Objective A7: Improve the City’s public transportation system to increase ridership
Lead: Transit Windsor Assist: Infrastructure & Geomatics, Operations, Transportation Planning
Actions: • Complete the Transit Service Delivery Review. • Continue to explore and invest in Regional Transit. • Include Transit Windsor in road reconstruction projects and incorporate public transit needs into street design. • Complete a Route Assessment Study to improve efficiency. • Update the Transit Windsor Master Plan. • Continue to invest in smart technologies such as the Transit Windsor online app. • Direct promotional activities toward improved health and quality of life through increased physical activity walking to and from transit stops. Focus on recommended 30 minutes of physical activity per day in bouts of 10 minutes or more. • Use capital funding to build and invest in our transit system. • Investigate Bike Share options
Indicators: • Route Assessment Study • Updated Transit Windsor Master Plan
Objective A8: Reduce the number of single-occupancy vehicle trips of staff and residents
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Human Resources Assist: Transit Windsor, Windsor Essex County Health Unit, Transportation Planning
Actions: • Create education campaigns to: o Encourage staff and residents to get out of their cars for at least one week; o Promote “flex hours” to allow for carpooling to work; o Promote benefits of a car-free life-style: better health, lower cost. • Participate in Open Streets events to promote alternative methods of transportation. • Promote the Transit Windsor corporate pass. • Promote use of existing Active Transportation infrastructure and its expansion. • Direct promotional activities toward improved health and quality of life through increased physical activity. Promote recommended 30 minutes of physical activity per day in bouts of 10 minutes or more. • Recruit and identify sponsor funding to reinstitute free bus rides on poor air quality days.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 66 of 211 • Investigate partnerships with industry and surrounding municipalities for City car pool vans and parking (www.carpool.ca). • Continue to provide incentives to City staff to leave their cars at home such as discounted bus passes and end-of-use facilities. • Support alternative work styles such as telecommuting, or working from home one day per week to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Indicators: • Participant in Open Streets • Total vehicle kilometres travelled
Objective A9: Develop, expand and maintain a connected network of safe bicycling and walking facilities
Lead: Transportation Planning, Planning, Operations, Parks Assist: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Windsor Essex County Health Unit, Infrastructure and Geomatics, Operations, Right-of-Way and Development
Actions: • Develop and Implement an Active Transportation Master Plan including cycling, walking and public transit and associated policies, procedures, standards and best practices. • Develop a Complete Streets Policy • Continue to provide long-term committed funding to expand Windsor’s existing commuter and recreational cycling and walking networks. • Include cycling and walking facilities in road reconstruction projects and incorporate active transportation needs into street design. • Establish bike friendly design requirements for municipal roads, and at municipal buildings, public spaces, parks and transit stops. • Establish bike-friendly design requirements and bike parking policy for public, private and institutional facilities. • Improve the cycling-transit and walking-transit links. • Promote bicycling and walking as a healthy alternative for residents and staff. • Promote injury prevention messaging and education such as bike safety, wearing helmets, rules of the road for cyclists etc. • Ensure new developments include sidewalks and target existing neighbourhoods without sidewalks for expansion of walking facilities.
Indicators: • Length of cycling network • Active Transportation Plan • Percentage of roads with one or more sidewalks
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 67 of 211 Goal B– Improve Our Water Quality To be proactive in managing wastewater, stormwater and potable water to improve Windsor’s water quality.
Access to safe, clean and sufficient water is an undeniable determinant of human well-being. Water quality is a pressing issue as the Detroit River is a center of various economic and social activities, and has direct connection with the health of Windsorites. Water pollution and subsequent degradation of the environment and ecosystem has been a topic of concern for decades now, and although significant progress has been made there is much more that needs to be done. It is important for us to act responsibly, understanding the link between wastewater, the quality of water in our surface water bodies, and our drinking water supply. Healthy water bodies contribute to a healthy ecosystem and a healthy community.
Objective B1: Invest in our sewers and wastewater treatment plant infrastructure
Lead: Infrastructure & Geomatics, Pollution Control, Operations, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change
Actions: • Develop an education program on what causes sewer and treatment plant overflows and how they can be reduced (example downspout disconnection, fats, oils & grease, flushable wipes). • Develop a Sewer Use Master Plan that: o Provides an understanding of how the City’s sewer network will respond to various rainfall intensities; o Determine flooding risks across the City; o Determine appropriate changes to stormwater management practices to reduce risk to the sewer network. • Investigate the potential for a Retention Treatment Basin on the West side of Windsor. • Continue to implement the City’s soft separation program (i.e. replacement of combined sewers). • Continue to upgrade the City’s remaining “over/under” sewers. • Enhance and enforce Windsor’s current Sewer Use By-law.
Indicators: • Percent removal of total phosphorus, suspended solids, and the biological oxygen demand of treatment plant effluent • Wastewater treatment plant bypass • Sewer Use Master Plan • Combined sewer outfall volumes based on annual rainfall
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 68 of 211 Objective B2: Improve stormwater management to reduce the risk of flooding to residents
Lead: Essex Region Conservation Authority, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Infrastructure & Geomatics, Right-of-Way and Development, Operations, Parks, Pollution Control
Actions: • Develop Stormwater Guidelines that: o Reflect MOECC’s guidelines; o Addresses stormwater retrofits in developed areas; o Uses modeling and best practices to map and apply best stormwater management practices (e.g. source control, end of pipe, pollution prevention), and determine where cash-in-lieu can best be applied. • Continue to acquire data to inform the condition and functional performance of the network (i.e. fog testing, zoom camera). • Investigate funding mechanisms on a cost recovery basis for stormwater management. • Implement recommendations as outlined in the City’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan. • Undertake low impact development projects and strategies such as rain gardens, porous pavement, bioswales etc. as part of road or parking lot reconstruction projects. • Confirm funding to maintain and monitor low impact development features. • Continue to use our parks for temporary excess rainwater storage and low impact development features to deter basement flooding. • Protect, preserve and enhance our urban natural areas and wetlands which naturally provide flood control. • Encourage downspout disconnection and basement flooding subsidy program • Acquire lands to enhance flood protection. • Work with ERCA to acquire lands in the City under the Clean Water, Green Spaces Program.
Indicators: • Stormwater Guidelines • Amount of Wastewater Treated
Objective B3: Reduce water pollution discharges from City operations
Lead: Operations, Parks, Facilities, Departmental staff who purchase products
Actions: • Continue with the City’s salt management and snow management programs to include safer alternatives where appropriate. • Buy and use product alternatives with lower toxic levels (for example, natural fertilizers, such as compost or peat, environmentally friendly cleaning products). • Decrease pesticide use in City parks and where necessary, continue to use herbicidal vinegar where practical.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 69 of 211 • Increase recycling in order to reduce waste going to landfills or waterways. • Identify tree planting opportunities adjacent to water courses in an effort to improve the water quality before stormwater runoff enters the Detroit River Watershed.
Indicators: • Pesticide Use
Objective B4: Improve the health of the Detroit River Watershed and Great Lakes Waters
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Pollution Control Assist: Essex Region Conservation Authority, Detroit River Canadian Clean Up
Actions: • Work to protect and preserve all remaining natural shorelines. • Continue to educate residents on the hazards of flushable wipes, oil, litter and chemical disposal down drains and sewers. Promote awareness of: o The City’s Household Chemical Waste (HCW) Depot and Reuse Centre; o The importance of downspout disconnection; o The City’s two wastewater treatment plants. • Support the Essex Region Conservation Authorities’ ongoing watershed monitoring programs and their restoration program so that naturalization and tree planting in the Detroit River Watershed remains a priority. • Support the bi-national Remedial Action Plan (RAP) to restore the Detroit River. • Consider partnering with the following groups for source water protection and monitoring: o Environment and Climate Change Canada/Ontario Ministry of Environment and Climate Change; o Detroit River Canadian Cleanup (DRCC); o Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research (GLIER); o Little River Enhancement Group (Lil’Reg); o Friends of Turkey Creek. • Continue Windsor’s Involvement in the Yellow Fish Road program. • Advocate for Windsor’s local water quality issues at the regional, provincial, and federal levels in the United States and Canada.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 70 of 211 • Liaise with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change to increase environmental testing and compliance within the City. • Identify sources of plastics and microplastics into the Detroit River and identify strategies to reduce the sources • Implement the Source Water Protection Plan.
Indicators: • Detroit River Beneficial Use Impairments • Average total phosphorus concentrations in Little River and Turkey Creek
Objective B5: Reduce the per capita use of treated municipal water
Lead: Facilities, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Parks, Enwin Assist: Infrastructure and Geomatics,
Actions: • Develop water conservation strategies for new and existing City buildings and facilities including water re-use in outdoor and indoor recreation facilities. • Maintain existing water distribution system to reduce water loss. • Develop strategies to store stormwater for parks irrigation. • Continue to sell rain barrels at a discounted price to reduce the use of treated water for watering plants and lawn use.
Indicators: • Total Water Consumption
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 71 of 211 Goal C – Responsible Land Use To enhance our community through naturalization, reforestation, park and urban planning, densification and community initiatives.
Land use planning measures should be such that the full potential of available land is reached in a sustainable way. While it is essential to allot land to housing, industry and education, there needs to be sufficient green space and improved road connectivity for all road users. Use of unused or vacant land should enhance the quality of life for residents, for example, through urban farming, creation of green space, or by building developments to support the economy. This process of repurposing or redeveloping land is known as land recycling, and it facilitates social and economic vitality and sustainability. It helps address the issues of urban sprawl and climate change by increasing density, reducing dependence on automobiles and increasing green space. Efficient land use techniques help preserve natural heritage and enhance ecological diversity and service. Healthier natural systems provide ecological services such as purification of water and air, pollination of plants and increased recreational opportunities to the benefit of human health.
Objective C1: Encourage in-fill and higher density in existing built areas
Lead: Planning Assist: Windsor Essex County Health Unit, Windsor Essex Economic Development Corporation
Actions: • Promote concentration, encourage adaptive reuse of buildings, especially heritage buildings in core areas. These buildings already have infrastructure in place: streets, sewers, schools, transit. • Identify opportunities for higher density development to support alternatives to driving (transit, cycling, walking, etc). • Examine current policies and by-laws; provide incentives for infill/higher density; set minimum density requirements. • Design commercial and residential land use to maximize access to public transit. • Support the existing Brownfields Redevelopment Strategy and implement its work plan. • Continue the implementation of community improvement plans to encourage investment in older neighbourhoods. • Monitor the success of the Brownfield Redevelopment Community Improvement Plan. Focus on beautification and renewal of existing built areas.
Indicators: • Population Density in the core area of Windsor • Number of Records of Site Condition filed (indicator of how many brownfields are being repurposed)
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 72 of 211 Objective C2: Investigate the feasibility of a Regional Growth Plan
Lead: Planning & Building Assist: Windsor Essex County Health Unit, Essex Region Conservation Authority
Actions: • Based on the provincial context for well managed growth with regard to surrounding regions, continue to investigate a “Regional Approach to Managing Growth” in Windsor/Essex County. • The benefits of such a growth management plan can include: o Service and transportation efficiencies; o Coordinated approach to green space linkages; o Long term consideration of land use patterns; o Attenuating the adverse consequences of rapid growth on areas in the region that are rapidly expanding; o Managing population density. • Continue discussions and plans to develop a Regional Growth Plan that targets regional trends, green space allocations, transportation planning and growth management.
Indicators: • Regional Growth Plan • Shared public transit services
Objective C3: Incorporate sustainable development into the design of neighbourhoods, homes and businesses
Lead: Planning & Building, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change Assist: Windsor Essex County Environment Committee, Windsor Essex County Health Unit
Actions: • Develop a Green Building Standard for new development and retrofits. • Advertise the Green Building Standard to homeowners and developers, as legislation and building codes allow. The guide may include the consideration of: o Green roofs/cool roofs; o Low impact development (rain gardens, bioswales, permeable pavement etc.); o Rainwater retention; o Energy efficiency; o Active transportation facilities; o Underground parking; o Windows in office buildings which can be opened; o Improved temperature control systems; o Alternative energy sources; o Access to public transit.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 73 of 211 • Work with developers to encourage best practices and the integration of the ideas listed above. Create incentives for sustainable design by builders and demand for sustainable homes (and businesses) by residents (and business owners) through the development of an education campaign about the advantages of scoring high on the Green Building Standard (i.e., energy and cost savings). • Identify best practices to improve heat resilience in homes and businesses (ex. options for passive cooling, shading, etc.) • As part of the Official Plan review, work with small businesses to improve streetscapes and interactivity (encouraging local community development). • Identify and take advantage of provincial and federal programs for funding and best practices. • Create incentives for businesses and neighbourhood development which incorporate age-friendly facility design and accessible, safe routes to and from homes, schools and businesses. • Work with developers to maintain as many trees as possible. • Expand the public right-of-way to enhance the opportunities for tree plantings, stormwater management, active transportation options, and urban heat island mitigation.
Indicators: • Green Building Standard • Number of buildings participating in the Green Building Standard
Objective C4: Expand public understanding of the value of natural spaces and native plants
Lead: Parks, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change Assist: Essex Region Conservation Authority, Windsor Essex County Health Unit
Actions: • Undertake a Natural Capital Report to show the true value of natural space and trees. • Develop an engagement strategy to improve community acceptance of naturalization programs as well as using parks for short term rainwater storage. • Promote the health benefits of using green spaces for accessible and safe physical activity. • Promote the preservation and protection of our natural spaces including the Ojibway Prairie Complex, Peche Island, South Cameron Natural Area, Devonwood Conservation Area, etc. • Promote the use of native plants in our parks as well as to the public. • Cultivate native plants in our greenhouses for use in parks as well as for sale at the annual plant sale.
Indicators: • Natural Capital Report
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 74 of 211 Objective C5: Develop a coordinated approach to invasive species in parks, natural areas and the public right-of-way
Lead: Parks, Operations, Pollution Control, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Infrastructure and Geomatics Assist: Essex Region Conservation Authority
Actions: • Develop and implement a coordinated Phragmites Control Program across City departments. • Track and monitor the outcome of any approaches used to control Phragmites. • Continue to identify and track new invasive species and develop strategies to minimize their impact. • Develop strategies for other invasive species in parks and natural areas.
Indicators: • Phragmites Control Program
Objective C6: Acquire or transition additional lands for integration into our parks, natural areas and natural heritage system
Lead: Parks, Assist: Legal, Planning, Essex Region Conservation Authority
Actions: • Actively seek out opportunities to increase and protect parkland, natural areas and naturalize spaces especially in locations where there is a deficit in the amount of green space. • Work with the Essex Region Conservation Authority, community associations, school boards and residents to restore, expand and enhance natural heritage features and functions on public and private property. • Set acquisition targets for parks and natural areas, in particular the remaining unprotected natural areas within and around the Ojibway Prairie Complex and South Cameron Natural Area. • Increase the amount of naturalized areas within parks. • Source funding opportunities to secure lands.
Indicators: • Natural Areas Percent Coverage • Designated Natural Heritage Land • Amount of Maintained and Natural Parkland
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 75 of 211 Objective C7: Protect, enhance and expand the quality and condition of our natural areas and wetlands
Lead: Parks Assist: Planning, Essex Region Conservation Authority
Actions: • Develop management plans for our unique and rare ecosystems in Windsor: the Ojibway Prairie Complex, Peche Island and South Cameron Natural Area. • Prepare Management Plans for natural area components and individual sites: o Identify issues that are currently impairing the quality of the natural area (i.e. habitat fragmentation/degradation, invasive species, incompatible human uses, littering, vandalism, erosion, etc.); o Identify strategies & actions to address the various issues and enhance our natural areas. • Implement Management Plans & actions (i.e. actively managing tall grass prairie by prescribed burns). • Continue to implement Species at Risk protection measures in all areas of Windsor and develop strategies to improve their status. • Monitor the quality and condition of our natural area components (i.e. integrity, biodiversity, health, etc.). • Provide multi-use buffer zones around natural areas and wetlands. • In conjunction with the creation of an Urban Forest Management Plan, conduct a Canopy Cover study of the City and set a new goal to increase the City’s canopy cover
Indicators: • Natural Area Management Plans • Urban Forest Management Plan • Canopy Cover Study
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 76 of 211 Objective C8: Protect and enhance the quality and condition of our urban forest canopy
Lead: Parks
Actions: • Update the street tree inventory of all city owned trees along the right of way to better understand the health, structure and biodiversity of our Urban Forest. This will also help identify the gaps and open areas void of trees as well as high risk trees in order to reduce risk, personal injury and damage claims. • Assess our urban forest and canopy cover by developing a Strategic Urban Forest Management Plan to better understand the environmental goods and services that our urban forest provides. • Increase the tree canopy cover of the City by setting a new target for canopy cover through the planting and tending of newly planted trees. • Develop Official Plan policies for new development to require mitigation and compensation for the loss of urban forest vegetation. • Naturalize and expand our urban forest and canopy cover using native species where appropriate. • Create incentives for the planting of native tree species and the preservation of existing trees; for example: o Encourage species diversification and lead by example through our various tree planting events with local partners; o Launch a “tree drive” by encouraging companies to donate trees and celebrate the achievements we have made with other corporate sponsors; o Communicate with developers who approach the City in order to preserve trees; o Work with Forests Ontario’s Heritage Tree Program to identify large and historic trees. • Promote the planting of flowering trees, fruit trees, or pollinator tree species where appropriate. • Explore the potential for a private tree cutting by-law as well as the effectiveness of other Municipal tree cutting by-laws.
Indicators: • City owned trees planted and removed • Private tree cutting by-law
Objective C9: Increase connectivity within and between our parks and natural areas
Lead: Parks, Essex Region Conservation Authority Assist: Planning, Infrastructure & Geomatics, Transportation Planning, Legal
Actions: • Conduct an assessment of the current state of Windsor’s parks and natural areas linkages by performing a Landscape Analysis. Include the number of hectares of parks and natural areas that is “linked” to each other as a baseline. • Identify linkage improvement opportunities and reflect these in Official Plan updates.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 77 of 211 • Develop strategies for acquiring these strategic lands through the following mechanisms: o Development Applications; o Purchase; o Park Dedication; o Land Swap; o Conservation Easements; o Land Trust; o Voluntary property tax fund; o Land contribution by public agencies. • Work with surrounding municipalities to plan for and strengthen natural linkages across municipal boundaries. • Incorporate the use of eco-passages to support the movement of wildlife between natural areas. • Acquire properties through the development process. • Develop a natural heritage offsetting process.
Indicators: • Parks Landscape Analysis
Objective C10: Support education, engagement and local food production
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Parks Assist: Legal,
Actions: • Implement and expand upon the Community Garden on Municipal Property Policy. • Actively promote the use of underutilized, vacant City of Windsor property for the use of community gardens. • Encourage Windsor’s Farmers Markets. • Develop and promote local food system through education including programs for kids. • Explore the potential for an urban bee cooperative or a chicken cooperative on municipal property. • Promote the health benefits of drinking water over sugar-sweetened beverages for hydration. • Promote the use of Essex Windsor Solid Waste Authority’s compost.
Indicators: • Number of Community Gardens
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 78 of 211 Objective C11: Work with the Windsor Essex County Health Unit to develop a Food Strategy
Lead: Windsor Essex County Health Unit, Social Policy and Planning, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change
Actions: • Engage in a comprehensive community food assessment to inform a food strategy. • Build on the development of the Windsor Essex County Food Charter and the food system work of various organizations. • Assess the viability of a regional Food Council or Committee. • Include the need for data gathering to further understand the local food system and the opportunities for improvement.
Indicators: • Food Strategy • Regional Food Council
Objective C12: Incorporate cooling designs and features into public spaces to protect residents from extreme heat and ultraviolet radiation exposure
Lead: Parks, Facilities Assist: Planning, Windsor Essex County Health Unit
Actions: • Increase the number of artificial shade structures in public places.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 79 of 211 • Plan for shade (shadow casting) to fall where needed during peak ultraviolet radiation exposure intervals. • Improve access to drinking water facilities in public spaces. • Consider the environmental and health effects of plastic, rubber or other materials when designing and installing playgrounds, splash pads and road medians. • Increase the number of splash pads, cooling stations, water bottle re-fill stations and other water features in public places. • Work with Federal and Provincial governments to maximize funding opportunities.
Objective C13: Enhance and increase natural shade as a climate change adaptation measure
Lead: Parks, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change Assist: Windsor Essex County Health Unit
Actions: • Continue to research the urban heat island effect and its impact in Windsor. • Enhance tree coverage to reduce the human health risk of heat. • Promote additional health benefits of natural shade in reducing ultraviolet radiation exposure. • Plan for dense shade in parks, playgrounds, spectator areas of sports fields and other public spaces frequented by children and vulnerable populations. • Ensure active transportation routes are planned with natural shade. • Review tree species for viability under a changing climate and adjust tree planting practices accordingly. • Incorporate Best Management Practices for naturalization and tree planting. Use local seed for the propagation of trees and incorporate Assisted Migration studies and practices where applicable. • Undertake assisted migration of tree species to minimize the risk to canopy cover due to climate change.
Indicators: • Number of trees planted and removed
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 80 of 211 Goal D – Increase Resources Efficiency To increase resource efficiency, conserve water and energy and reduce waste.
Resources are finite - even renewable resources should only be used at a rate that is below their regenerative capacity. In addition, extraction and use of resources often causes pollution. The more resources we use, the more waste and wastewater is generated which needs to be treated. Solid and organic waste in landfills occupies a significant amount of space, is a threat to air quality due to greenhouse gas emissions, and pose a risk to ground water quality. Newer landfills such as those currently operated by the Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority employ new technologies to mitigate the historic risk posed by landfills (i.e. flaring of methane to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and leachate collection systems to reduce impacts on ground water quality). However, it is still necessary to use resources responsibly, carefully determining the necessity of using a resource, and following the “reduce, reuse, recycle” principle. In addition, energy generation is not only expensive, but is detrimental to air and water quality. Through building a resilient energy system and ensuring wise use of energy by the Corporation and by Windsorites, we can enhance our lifestyle and drive economic development.
Objective D1: Decrease community energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Planning and Building, Transportation Planning Assist: Windsor Essex County Health Unit, Asset Planning, Enwin
Actions: • Work with stakeholders to implement the Community Energy Plan. • Complete a business case for district energy expansion. • Complete detailed energy mapping of the city to support economic businesses cases and future policy decisions relating to energy. • Work to create an education campaign for residents (to create demand) and builders (to create supply) about the environmental and financial benefits of energy efficient homes and businesses. • Investigate the possibility of reducing development charges for developers of energy efficient homes and businesses. • Explore the potential for a deep energy retrofit program for homes and businesses.
Indicators: • District Energy Business Case • Detailed Energy Mapping • Deep Energy Retrofit Program • Community Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Goal A)
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 81 of 211 Objective D2: Decrease corporate energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions
Lead: Asset Planning, Operations, Facilities, Transit Windsor, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change Assist: Enwin
Actions: • Implement and update the Corporate Energy Management Plan and the Corporate Climate Action Plan. • Implement retrofits and energy saving mechanisms with a payback time and greenhouse gas reductions. • Consider energy consumption, lifecycle costing and greenhouse gas emissions when planning capital projects. • Develop an energy awareness campaign for municipal employees. • Assess current water usage across all municipal buildings.
Indicators: • Corporate Energy Consumption • Corporate Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Goal A)
Objective D3: Consider environmental design in newly constructed or retrofitted municipal buildings
Lead: Right-of-Way and Development, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Facilities
Actions: • Consider environmental design in all new buildings and retrofits. • Encourage the use of cool roofs for municipal buildings. • Continue the reuse of existing buildings (and materials) where it is environmentally-friendly and cost-effective. • Recycle building materials where possible. • Require partners to consider environmental design.
Indicators: • Municipal Green Building Standard • Cool Roof Policy
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 82 of 211 Objective D4: Increase the diversion rate of recyclable material at all City facilities
Lead: Facilities, Environmental Services Assist: Essex Windsor Solid Waste Authority
Actions: • Undertake a corporate waste audit program and develop a corporate waste baseline, reductions targets and monitoring strategy. • Publish waste audit results to city staff as part of a solid waste diversion education campaign. • Install composters or digesters at select city facilities as pilot projects and monitor their success. • Implement a standard recycling program for all city facilities that includes signage, containers and education. • Provide training for facilities staff with respect to any changes in recycling procedures. • Focus reminders and incentive programs on any problem areas. • Encourage contractors and suppliers to make recycled-content products available. • Use savings from waste prevention efforts to offset the costs of buying recycled products in those instances where they cost more. • Continue to promote the use of municipal water.
Indicators: • Corporate Waste Diversion Rate
Objective D5: Increase community waste diversion through recycling and composting
Lead: Essex Windsor Solid Waste Authority, Environmental Services, Facilities, Parks, Recreation
Actions: • Expand the use of recycling bins in public facilities and other spaces such as parks. • Conduct a study to determine the most appropriate composting program for the City of Windsor and implement at an appropriate time. • Investigate strategies for waste reduction such as, but not limited to, garbage bag limits. • Formalize a waste diversion plan for events at Festival Plaza and other special events – this could include mandatory use of the hydration station, use of recyclable food containers only, and mandatory waste stations with garbage, paper and plastic receptacles with proper labelling. • Identify strategies to reduce single use plastic items (ex. plastic straws, bags, etc.)
Indicators: • Community Diversion Rate • Total Waste Sent to Landfill • Waste Diversion Plan for Special Events
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 83 of 211 Objective D6: Integrate environmental sustainability and climate change into Asset Management
Lead: Asset Management Assist: Operations, Development Projects & Right of Way, Infrastructure & Geomatics, Pollution Control, Parks, Facilities, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Transit Windsor
Actions: • Build life-cycle cost into decision making. • Consider economic, social and environmental factors, also known as the “triple bottom line” when making decisions about capital or operating expenditures. • Consider the effects that capital projects will have on operating budgets and adjust operating budgets accordingly to ensure proper maintenance of assets.
Indicators: • Number of projects undergoing Triple Bottom Line assessments
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 84 of 211 Goal E – Promote Awareness To foster an engaged community and staff that appreciates and protects its local environment through active communication.
To enhance the quality of life for Windsorites, we all need to develop a deeper understanding and awareness about environmental issues and act accordingly. Acting to achieve a healthier environment would be impossible without appropriate knowledge generation among the people who live, work and visit here. Awareness and understanding enables people to become literate in why they need to protect and conserve the natural environment, and how to do it. Through our public education and outreach programs we seek to educate and involve staff, students, residents and visitors in environmental sustainability education, foster environmental stewardship and promote lifestyle practices beneficial to individual and community health. We are always seeking to develop better communication with our citizens, and the public is always encouraged to participate and provide input into decisions affecting their environment.
Objective E1: Promote the link between environmental health and human health to Windsor residents
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Transportation Planning, Windsor Essex County Health Unit
Actions: • Develop and promote a campaign to get staff and residents active and outdoors. This may include: o Encouraging students to discover healthy ways of getting to school every day; o Promoting walking and biking along trails as leisure activities for families and seniors. • Support and promote ongoing environmental health initiatives within the City. • Partner with the Windsor Essex County Health Unit to promote the link between environmental health and human health. This could include, but is not limited to the Air Quality Health Index, active transportation, sun protection, vector borne illnesses and extreme heat.
Objective E2: Report on the progress of the implementation of the Environmental Master Plan
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change
Actions: • Develop, every two years, a brief update to Council on the progress of Environmental Master Plan implementation.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 85 of 211 • Continue to produce a Report on the State of Our Environment to be presented every 4 years to City Council reporting on indicators used to monitor the implementation of the Environmental Master Plan.
Indicators: • Report on the State of the Environment
Objective E3: Conduct a regular survey of environmental attitudes with residents and staff
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Communications Assist: Windsor Essex County Health Unit
Actions: • Conduct an environmental attitudes survey once every four years. Coordinate questions and timing with any other City surveys. • Compare the results of the survey and integrate results into the Report on the State of the Environment.
Indicators: • Environmental Awareness Survey (Attitudes towards the environment questions)
Objective E4: Develop a corporate environmental education strategy
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change Assist: Human Resources, Communications, Asset Planning, Environmental Services
Actions: • Identify focus areas for an environmental education strategy – likely focus on individual actions that staff, council and contractors can take to improve the City’s environment. • Develop an environmental education strategy to: o Focus on individual actions that can be taken to improve the environment, including but not limited to solid waste management, recycling, sewer use, climate change and energy; o Develop training material for new staff to expose them to the EMP; o Develop incentives to encourage participation in environmental activities and events; o Use creative methods for information dissemination about environmental activities (i.e. weekly email, information sheets, awards, prizes, quarterly information sessions); o Develop ways to recognize environmental leaders and achievements across the Corporation.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 86 of 211 • Set up an Environmental Champion program for all City facilities where the champion is responsible for ensuring environmental measures in their facility are functioning properly. This could include recycling receptacles, energy saving measures, environmental information etc. • Establish a Green Team to generate new ideas and help develop and coordinate environmental activities within the corporation.
Indicators: • Environmental Champion Program • Green Team
Objective E5: Maintain a web-based environmental information site
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, IT, Communications
Actions: • Maintain the Environmental Master Plan website which includes: o Windsor’s current environmental initiatives, programs and policies; o Report on the State of the Environment indicators; o Contact information; o References; o Links to more information. Indicators: • Current Environmental Master Plan Website • Number of visits to the website
Objective E6: Increase awareness among residents and stakeholders of the City’s environmental programs, policies and initiatives
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Parks (Ojibway Nature Centre) Assist: Communications, Recreation & Culture, Windsor Public Library, Essex Windsor Solid Waste Authority, Transit Windsor, Windsor Essex County Health Unit, Transportation Planning
Actions: • Lead by example by showcasing ongoing environmental initiatives in local media. • Promote City of Windsor programs including but not limited to: o Hazardous waste drop-off (batteries, used oil, hazardous materials, old medicines, etc.); o Anti-idling by-law; o Waste water treatment plant processes; o Separate and combined sewers; o Climate change adaptation and mitigation;
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 87 of 211 o Transit Windsor; o Active Transportation. • Continue to provide environmental education at public events such as Earth Day, Open Streets, the Children’s Water Festival, Waste water treatment plant open houses etc. • Develop an education campaign that may include: o Social media; o Videos; o Newsletters or Targeted flyers; o Radio advertisements. • Incorporate environmental themes into art, culture and recreational programming. • Display environmental exhibits at Windsor’s museums and community centres. • Ensure City of Windsor environmental information is available to the public at community centres and libraries. • Continue to deliver environmental programming to elementary, secondary and post-secondary schools.
Indicators: • Awareness of Environmentally Related Programs (Environmental Attitudes Survey Question) • Number of public events attend • Number of school presentations
Objective E7: Continue to invest and develop partnerships
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Communications, Parks
Actions: • Maintain current partnerships and continue to share information, resources and lessons learned. • Actively seek out new partnerships moving forward. • Partner with corporate entities to encourage proper environmental practices through joint education. • Work with Corporate Partners to identify sponsorship opportunities. • Encourage involvement of Corporate Partners at environmental events.
Indicators: • Number of partnerships
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 88 of 211 Objective E8: Ensure involvement of residents and stakeholders in environmental decision-making
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Planning & Building, Transportation Planning, Parks, Communications
Actions: • Continue to create forums for stakeholders and residents input and dialogue (i.e. open houses, workshops, etc) when developing various environmental Plans and Policies. • Continue to advertise public sessions through local media and on the City’s website. • For specific environmental issues, develop specifically targeted communication strategies.
Objective E9: Showcase Windsor’s Environmental Commitment outside the Region
Lead: Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change, Communications Assist: Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island, Windsor Essex County Health Unit
Actions: • Work with outside groups (i.e. federal/provincial governments, agencies) to disseminate Windsor’s success. • Share lessons learned and successes with other municipalities through formal or informal networking opportunities (ex. Clean Air Partnership, Quest). • Attend and highlight Windsor’s accomplishments at conferences and workshops. • Develop study tours for appropriate conferences being held in Windsor highlighting our successes. • Apply for awards for environmental innovation
Indicators: • Number of presentations given • Number of case studies documented • Number of tours provided
“People always focus on the negative about Windsor...We need to change the story people tell”
20-Year Strategic Vision
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 89 of 211 IMPLEMENTATION
The Environmental Master Plan is meant to be a guiding document for the municipality on a range of environmental issues. The objectives and actions touch on issues that affect every department in the City, therefore it needs to be integrated into the existing management framework. This has been slowly occurring since the original EMP was adopted by Council in 2006.
The Environmental Master Plan will continue to be administered by Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change staff. This group also oversees implementation of our Climate Change Adaptation Plan and Community Energy Plan (includes a Corporate Climate Action Plan). Staff will continue to work with various departments to provide resources and expertise as these departments work towards implementing their EMP objectives and actions. In addition, Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change staff will continue to implement their own environmental education and projects, as well as work with external agencies and partners to share resources and implement various objectives and actions.
Reporting and Communication As recommended in the original Environmental Master Plan, an update to Council on implementation is completed every two years. In addition, a Report on the State of our Environment is completed every four years documenting our progress on Environmental Master Plan indicators and implementation. The Environmental Canvas (next page) is a living document showcasing environmental Plans, policies, and other documents adopted by the City of Windsor. The Environmental Master Plan web pages are maintained by Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change Staff to provide information to the public about EMP initiatives as well as environmental education.
Funding The Environmental Master Plan has a dedicated operating budget for its staff, education campaigns, small projects and other initiatives. In addition, many grant opportunities are available and are successfully awarded to Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change staff or various other administrative departments for EMP related programs and initiatives. Challenges exist when various administrative departments look to implement EMP objectives and actions though they have no additional funding in their budgets. Many environmental initiatives have upfront costs, however are financially sustainable over the long term. The City of Windsor’s Asset Management Plan seeks to build in lifecycle costing and climate change considerations which will strengthen the argument for sustainability projects.
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 92 of 211 REFERENCES
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Blaszczak-Boxe, A. (2016, June 13). Kids' Mental Health Risks Rise with Poor Air Quality. Retrieved June 23, 2017, from https://www.livescience.com/55054-kids-mental-health-linked-with-air-quality.html
Bunch, K., & Bejankiwar, R. (2016, November 03). Lake Erie's blue-green monster. Retrieved June 20, 2017, from http://windsorstar.com/opinion/columnists/lake-eries-scummy-blue-green-beast
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Hunt, A., et al. (2016), "Social Costs of Morbidity Impacts of Air Pollution", OECD Environment Working Papers, No. 99, OECD Publishing, Paris.
Mercola, J. M., Dr. (2011, September 10). Mold in Your Home May Be Making You Ill. Retrieved June 15, 2017, from http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2011/09/10/fungus-hiding-in-your-house- and-making-you-ill.aspx
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ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 95 of 211 Appendix A Tentative Implementation Schedule
Time Objective Action Lead Frame Goal A: Improve Our Air Quality
Objective A1: Develop strategies to reduce cross-border air pollution Advocate for Windsor's local air quality issues at the Environmental A1 regional, provincial, and federal levels in the United States OG Sustainability and Climate and Canada and with industry representatives Change Office Gather air quality baseline information for comparison Environmental A1 purposes. Publish and track in the Report on the State of OG Sustainability and Climate the Environment Change Office Environmental Identify partnerships with other agencies, governments and A1 OG Sustainability and Climate businesses Change Office Liaise with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Environmental A1 to increase environmental testing and compliance within the 0-4 Sustainability and Climate City. Change Office Objective A2: Increase use of environmentally-friendly products in City facilities to improve indoor air quality Implement and promote recommendations made in the Sustainable Purchasing Policy and Guide specifically A2 related to general building maintenance (paint, sealants, OG Facilities adhesives and other building materials), janitorial cleaning products as well as furniture and office systems. Continue to promote and advocate for the Scent Safe A2 OG Human Resources Workplace Procedure A2 Test municipal buildings for Radon 0-4 Human Resources Objective A3: Reduce the City's contribution to poor air quality days A3 Update the Greening the City Fleet Manual 0-4 Fleet When purchasing for fleet replacement, continue to include A3 wording in the tenders with respect to "lower emitting OG Fleet vehicles" options and automatic shut-off for idling vehicles
A3 Continue to implement the Fleet Winter Maintenance Policy OG Operations Replace older maintenance equipment used by Parks staff A3 OG Fleet with equipment that produces fewer emissions Develop a plan to limit and monitor dust at construction A3 0-4 Operations sites. Environmental Develop a plan to modify City of Windsor operations on A3 0-4 Sustainability and Climate poor air quality days Change Office Implement recommendations in the Corporate Climate Action Plan (2017) such as increasing transit ridership, A3 0-4 Transit Windsor advancing transit vehicle replacement and exploring alternative propulsion vehicles
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 96 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame Develop a program to replace public transit buses regularly A3 0-4 Transit Windsor to improve efficiency. A3 Develop an electric charging strategy for electric vehicles. 0-4 Fleet A3 Increase the tree canopy coverage of the City. OG Parks Objective A4: Reduce and monitor community greenhouse gas emissions Work with various stakeholders and partners to implement the Community Energy Plan (2017) relating local air quality Environmental including: Encouraging a modal shift towards public transit; A4 OG Sustainability and Climate Encouraging active transportation; Fostering the adoption of Change Office electric vehicles; Continuing to advance smart energy systems Continue to track corporate and community greenhouse gas emissions as part of the Federal of Canadian Municipalities Environmental A4 Partners for Climate Protection as well as the Compact of OG Sustainability and Climate Mayors, and publish in the Report on the State of the Change Office Environment Objective A5: Implement and educate residents on the City of Windsor's Anti-Idling By-law Develop and implement a city-wide idling awareness Environmental A5 campaign to educate residents and businesses on the 0-4 Sustainability and Climate economic and environmental impacts of idling vehicles Change Office Work with school boards and individual schools to educate Environmental A5 students, staff and parents about the effects of idling at OG Sustainability and Climate schools Change Office Develop and implement a targeted enforcement plan at A5 0-4 By-Law Enforcement idling hot spots. Objective A6: Improve the City's traffic flow to reduce vehicular emissions
Reduce unnecessary and unwarranted all way stops. Focus A6 OG Transportation Planning on transit and heavy trucking routes to reduce wait times. Promote public transit priorities to reduce transit delay and A6 OG Transit Windsor promote schedule adherence and service reliability Invest in "road diets" where possible whereby the number of travel lanes and/or effective width of the road is reduced in A6 0-4 Transportation Planning order to reduce speeding, increase active transportation and improve safety. Promote increased and smoother traffic flow, for all modes (including public Transit Windsor, cyclists and pedestrians) by using Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), e.g. To A6 OG Traffic Operations improve signal coordination provide priorities for public Transit Windsor and introduce electronic way-finding and Transit Windsor route information Adjust signal timing to improve traffic flows due to A6 OG Traffic Operations construction projects Continue to upgrade existing and newly installed video A6 detectors (video technology and induction loops) to reduce OG Traffic Operations vehicular idling.
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 97 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame Objective A7: Improve the City's public transportation system to increase ridership A7 Complete the transit Service Delivery Review OG Transit Windsor A7 Continue to explore and invest in Regional transit OG Transit Windsor Include Transit Windsor in road reconstruction projects and A7 OG Transportation Planning incorporate public transit needs into street design.
A7 Complete a Route Assessment Study to improve efficiency 0-4 Transit Windsor A7 Update the Transit Windsor Master Plan 0-4 Transit Windsor Continue to invest in smart technologies such as the Transit A7 OG Transit Windsor Windsor online app. Direct promotional activities toward improved health and quality of life through increased physical activity walking to A7 and from Transit Windsor stops. Focus on recommended 0-4 Transit Windsor 30 minutes of physical activity per day in bouts of 10 minutes or more. A7 Use capital funding to build and invest in our transit system. OG Transit Windsor A7 Investigate bike share options OG Transportation Planning Objective A8: Reduce the number of single-occupancy vehicle trips of staff and residents Create education campaigns to: Encourage staff and residents to get out of their cars for a least one week; A8 Promote "flex hours" to allow for carpooling to work; OG HR Promote benefits of a car-free life-style: better health, lower cost. Participate in Open Streets events to promote alternative A8 OG City-wide methods of transportation. A8 Promote the Transit Windsor corporate pass. OG Transit Windsor Promote existing Active Transportation infrastructure and its A8 OG Transportation Planning expansion Direct promotional activities toward improved health and quality of life through increased physical activity. Focus on A8 OG Recreation recommended 30 minutes of physical activity per day in bouts of 10 minutes or more. Recruit and identify sponsor funding to reinstitute free bus A8 4+ Transit Windsor rides on poor air quality days Investigate partnerships with industry and surrounding A8 4+ municipalities for City car pool vans and parking Continue to provide incentives to City staff to leave their A8 cars at home such as discounted bus passes and end-of- 4+ Human Resources use facilities Support alternative work styles such as telecommuting, or A8 working from home one day per week to reduce 4+ Human Resources greenhouse gas emissions. Objective A9: Develop, expand and maintain a connected network of safe bicycling and walking facilities Develop and implement an Active Transportation Master Plan including cycling, walking and public Transit Windsor A9 0-4 Transportation Planning and associated policies, procedures, standards and best practices.
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 98 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame A9 Develop a Complete Streets Policy 0-4 Transportation Planning Continue to provide long-term committed funding to expand A9 Windsor's existing commuter and recreational cycling and OG Transportation Planning walking networks Include cycling and walking facilities in road reconstruction A9 projects and incorporate active transportation needs into 0-4 Transportation Planning street design. Establish bike friendly design requirements for municipal A9 roads, and at municipal buildings, public spaces, parks and 0-4 Transportation Planning transit stops. Establish bike friendly design requirements and bike parking A9 0-4 Transportation Planning policy for public, private and institutional facilities. A9 Improve the cycling-transit and walking-transit links. OG Transportation Planning Promote bicycling and walking as a healthy alternative for A9 OG Transportation Planning residents and staff. Promote injury prevention messaging and education such A9 as bike safety wearing helmets, rules of the road for cyclists, OG Transportation Planning etc. Ensure new developments include sidewalks and target Right-of-Way and A9 existing neighbourhoods without sidewalks for expansion of OG Development walking facilities. Goal B: Improve Our Water Quality
Objective B1: Invest in our sewers and wastewater treatment plant infrastructure Develop an education program on what causes sewer and Environmental treatment plant overflows and how they can be reduced B1 0-4 Sustainability and Climate (e.g.: downspout disconnection, fats, oils and grease, Change Office flushable wipes) Develop a Sewer Use Master Plan that: provides an understanding of how the City's sewer network will respond to various rainfall intensities; -determine flooding risks Infrastructure and B1 0-4 across the City; -determine appropriate changes to storm Geomatics water management practices to reduce risk to the sewer network Investigate the potential for a Retention Treatment Basin on B1 OG Pollution Control the west side of Windsor Infrastructure and B1 Continue to implement the City's soft separation program OG Geomatics Continue to upgrade the City's remaining "over/under" Infrastructure and B1 OG sewers Geomatics B1 Enhance and enforce Windsor's current Sewer Use By-law OG Pollution Control
Objective B2: Improve stormwater management to reduce the risk of flooding to residents Develop Stormwater Guidelines that: reflect MOECC's guidelines; addresses stormwater retrofits in developed Infrastructure and B2 0-4 areas, uses modeling and best practices to map and apply Geomatics best management practices.
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 99 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame Continue to acquire data to inform the condition and B2 functional performance of the network (i.e. Fog testing, OG Operations zoom camera) Investigate funding mechanisms on a cost recovery basis B2 0-4 Pollution Control for stormwater management Environmental Implement recommendations as outlined in the City's B2 OG Sustainability and Climate Climate Change Adaptation Plan. Change Office Undertake low impact development projects and strategies Infrastructure and B2 such as rain gardens, porous pavement, bioswales etc. as 0-4 Geomatics part of road or parking lot reconstruction projects Confirm funding to maintain and monitor low impact B2 0-4 Operations development features Continue to use our parks for temporary excess rainwater B2 storage and low impact development features to deter OG Parks basement flooding. Protect, preserve and enhance our urban natural areas and B2 OG Parks wetlands which naturally provide flood control. Encourage downspout disconnection and basement Infrastructure and B2 OG flooding subsidy program Geomatics B2 Acquire lands to enhance flood protection 0-4 Parks Work with ERCA to acquire lands in the City under the B2 OG Parks Clean Water, Green Spaces Program Objective B3: Reduce water pollution discharges from City operations Continue with the City's salt management and snow B3 management programs to include safer alternatives where OG Operations appropriate. Buy and use alternatives with lower toxic levels (for B3 example, natural fertilizers, such as compost or peat, OG Parks environmentally friendly cleaning products). Decrease pesticide use in City parks and where necessary, B3 OG Parks continue to use herbicidal vinegar where practical. Increase recycling in order to reduce waste going to landfills B3 OG Environmental Services or waterways Identify tree planting opportunities adjacent to water courses B3 in an effort to improve the water quality before stormwater OG Parks runoff enters the Detroit River Watershed.
Objective B4: Improve the health of the Detroit River Watershed and Great Lakes Waters Work to protect and preserve all remaining natural B4 OG Parks shorelines Continue to educate residents on the hazards of flushable wipes, oil, litter and chemical disposal down drains and Environmental sewers. Promote awareness of: -City's Household Chemical B4 OG Sustainability and Climate Waste (HCW) Depot and Reuse Centre; -importance of Change Office downspout disconnection; -City's two wastewater treatment plants
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 100 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame Support the Essex Region Conservation Authorities' ongoing watershed monitoring programs and their B4 OG City-wide restoration program so that naturalization and tree planting in the Detroit River Watershed remains a priority Support the bi-national Remedial Action Plan (RAP) to B4 OG City-wide restore the Detroit River Consider partnering with the following groups for source water protection and monitoring; -Environment Canada/MOE; -Detroit River Canadian Cleanup (DRCC); - B4 OG Pollution Control Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research (GLIER); - Little River Enhancement Group (Lil'Reg); -Friends of Turkey Creek Environmental Continue Windsor's involvement in the Yellow Fish Road B4 OG Sustainability and Climate program Change Office Advocate for Windsor's local water quality issues at the Environmental B4 regional, provincial, and federal levels in the United States OG Sustainability and Climate and Canada Change Office Liaise with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change B4 to increase environmental testing and compliance within the 0-4 Pollution Control City Environmental Identify sources of plastics and microplastics into the Detroit B4 OG Sustainability and Climate River and identify strategies to reduce the sources Change Office B4 Implement the Source Water Protection Plan OG Pollution Control Objective B5: Reduce the per capita use of treated municipal water Develop water conservation strategies for new and existing B5 City buildings and facilities including water re-use in outdoor 0-4 Facilities and indoor recreation facilities Maintain existing water distribution system to reduce water B5 OG loss. B5 Develop strategies to store stormwater for parks irrigation 0-4 Parks Environmental Continue to sell rain barrels at a discounted price to reduce B5 OG Sustainability and Climate the use of treated water for watering plants and lawn use. Change Office Goal C: Responsible Land Use
Objective C1: Encourage in-fill and higher density in existing built areas Promote concentration, encourage adaptive reuse of buildings, especially heritage buildings in core areas. These C1 OG Planning and Building buildings already have infrastructure in place: streets, sewers, schools, transit Identify opportunities for higher density development to C1 OG Planning and Building support alternatives to driving (transit, cycling, walking, etc) Examine current policies and by-laws; provide incentives for C1 OG Planning and Building infill/higher density; set minimum density requirements Design commercial and residential land use to maximize C1 OG Planning and Building access to public transit
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 101 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame Support the existing Brownfields Redevelopment Strategy C1 OG Planning and Building and implement its work plan Continue the implementation of community improvement C1 OG Planning and Building plans to encourage investment in older neighbourhoods Monitor the success of the Brownfield Redevelopment C1 Community Improvement Plan. Focus on beautification and OG Planning and Building renewal of existing built areas Objective C2: Investigate the feasibility of a Regional Growth Plan Based on the provincial context for well managed growth with regard to surrounding regions, continue to investigate a C2 4+ Planning and Building "Regional Approach to Managing Growth" in Windsor/Essex County The benefits of such a growth management plan can include: -service and transportation efficiencies; - coordinated approach to green space linkages; -long term C2 OG Planning and Building consideration of land use patterns; -attenuating the adverse consequences of rapid growth on areas in the region that are rapidly expanding; -managing population density Continue discussions and plans to develop a Regional Growth Plan that targets regional trends, green space C2 0-4 Planning and Building allocations, transportation planning and growth management Objective C3: Incorporate sustainable development into the design of neighbourhoods, homes and businesses Develop a Green Building Standard for new development C3 0-4 Planning and Building and retrofits Advertise the Green Building Standard to homeowners and developers, as legislation and building codes allow. The guide may include the consideration of: -green roofs/cool roofs; -low impact development (rain gardens, bioswales, C3 permeable pavement, etc); -rainwater retention; -energy 0-4 Planning and Building efficiency; -active transportation facilities; -underground parking; -windows in office buildings which can be opened; - improved temperature control systems; -alternative energy sources; -access to public Transit Windsor
Work with developers to encourage best practices and the integration of the ideas listed above. Create incentives for sustainable design by builders and demand for sustainable C3 homes (and businesses) by residents (and business 0-4 Planning and Building owners) through the development of an education campaign about the advantages of scoring high on the Green Building Standard (i.e. energy and cost savings) Identify best practices to improve heat resilience in homes Environmental C3 and businesses (e.g.: options for passive cooling, shading, 0-4 Sustainability and Climate etc) Change Office As part of the Official Plan review, work with small C3 businesses to improve streetscapes and interactivity OG Planning and Building (encouraging local community development)
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 102 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame Identify and take advantage of provincial and federal C3 programs for funding and best practices for sustainable 0-4 Planning and Building development Create incentives for businesses and neighbourhood development which incorporate age-friendly facility design C3 0-4 Planning and Building and accessible, safe routes to and from homes, schools and businesses C3 Work with developers to maintain as many trees as possible 0-4 Planning and Building
Expand the public right-of-way to enhance the opportunities C3 for tree plantings, storm water management, active 0-4 Planning and Building transportation options, and urban heat island mitigation
Objective C4: Expand public understanding of the value of natural spaces and native plants Undertake a Natural Capital Report to show the true value C4 0-4 Parks of natural space and trees Develop an engagement strategy to improve community C4 acceptance of naturalization programs as well as using OG Parks parks for short term rainwater storage Promote the health benefits of using green spaces for C4 OG Parks accessible and safe physical activity Promote the preservation and protection of our natural spaces including the Ojibway Prairie Complex, Peche C4 OG Parks Island, South Cameron Natural Area, Devonwood Conservation Area, etc Promote the use of native plants in our parks as well as to C4 OG Parks the public Cultivate native plants in our greenhouses for use in parks C4 0-4 Parks as well as for sale at the annual plant sale Objective C5: Develop a coordinated approach to invasive species in parks, natural areas and the public right-of-way Develop and implement a coordinated Phragmites Control C5 0-4 Parks Program across City departments
Track and monitor the outcome of any approaches used to C5 OG Parks control Phragmites
Continue to identify and track new invasive species and C5 OG Parks develop strategies to minimize their impact Develop strategies for other invasive species in parks and C5 OG Parks natural areas Objective C6: Acquire or Transit Windsorion additional lands for integration into our parks, naturall areas and natural heritage system Actively seek out opportunities to increase and protect parkland, natural areas and naturalize spaces especially in C6 OG Parks locations where there is a deficit in the amount of green space Work with Essex Region Conservation Authority, community associations, school boards and residents to restore, C6 0-4 Parks expand and enhance natural heritage features and functions on public and private property
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 103 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame Set acquisition targets for parks and natural areas, in particular the remaining unprotected natural areas within C6 OG Parks and around the Ojibway Prairie Complex and South Cameron Natural Area C6 Increase the amount of naturalized areas within parks OG Parks C6 Source funding opportunities to secure lands 0-4 Parks Objective C7: Protect, enhance and expand the quality and condition of our natural areas and wetlands Develop management plans for our unique and rare C7 ecosystems in Windsor: the Ojibway Prairie Complex, 0-4 Parks Peche Island and South Cameron Natural Area Prepare Management plans for natural area components and individual sites: -identify issues that are currently impairing the equality of the natural area (i.e. Habitat C7 fragmentation/degradation, invasive species, incompatible OG Parks human uses, littering, vandalism, erosion, etc); -identify strategies and actions to address the various issues and enhance our natural areas Implement Management Plans and actions (i.e. actively C7 OG Parks managing tall grass prairie by prescribed burns) Continue to implement Species at Risk protection measures C7 in all areas of Windsor and develop strategies to improve OG Parks their status Monitor the quality and condition of our natural area C7 OG Parks components (i.e. Integrity, biodiversity, health, etc) Provide multi-use buffer zones around natural areas and C7 0-4 Planning and Building wetlands In conjunction with the creation of an Urban Forest C7 Management Plan, conduct a Canopy Cover study of the 0-4 Parks City and set a new goal to increase the City's canopy cover
Objective C8: Protect and enhance the quality and condition of our urban forest canopy Update the street tree inventory of all city owned trees along the right of way to better understand the health, structure and biodiversity of our Urban Forest. This will also help C8 0-4 Parks identify the gaps and open areas void of tree as well as high risk trees in order to reduce risk, personal injury and damage claims Assess our urban forest and canopy cover by developing a Strategic Urban Forest Management Plan to better C8 0-4 Parks understand the environmental goods and services our urban forest provides Increase the tree canopy cover of the City by setting a new C8 target for canopy cover through the planting and tending of 0-4 Parks newly planted trees Develop Official Plan policies for new development to C8 require mitigation and compensation for the loss of urban OG Planning and Building forest vegetation Naturalize and expand our urban forest and canopy cover C8 0- 4 Parks using native species where appropriate
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 104 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame Create incentives for the planting of native tree species and the preservation of existing trees; for example: -encourage species diversification and lead by example through our various tree planting events with local partners; -launch a "tree drive" by encouraging companies to donate trees and C8 0-4 Parks celebrate the achievements we have made with other corporate sponsors; -communicate with developers who approach the City in order to preserve trees; -work with Forests Ontario's Heritage Tree Program to identify large and historic trees Promote the planting of flowering trees, fruit trees or C8 4+ Parks pollinator tree species where appropriate Explore the potential for a private tree cutting by-law as well C8 0-4 Parks as the effectiveness of other Municipal tree cutting by-laws
Objective C9: Increase connectivity within and between our parks and natural areas Conduct an assessment of the current state of Windsor's parks and natural areas linkages by performing a C9 Landscape Analysis. Include the number of hectares of 0-4 Parks parks and natural areas that is "linked" to each other as a baseline Identify linkage improvement opportunities and reflect these C9 0-4 Planning and Building in Official Plan updates Develop strategies for acquiring these strategic lands through the following mechanisms: -development C9 applications; -purchase; -park dedication; -land swap; - 0-4 Planning and Building conservation easements; -land trust; -voluntary property tax fund; -land contribution by public agencies Work with surrounding municipalities to plan for and C9 0-4 Planning and Building strengthen linkages across municipal boundaries Incorporate the use of eco-passages to support the Infrastructure and C9 0-4 movement of wildlife between natural areas Geomatics C9 Acquire properties through the development process OG Planning and Building C9 Develop a natural heritage offsetting process. 0-4 Planning and Building Objective C10: Support education, engagement and local food production Environmental Implement and expand upon the Community Garden on C10 OG Sustainability and Climate Municipal Property Policy Change Office Environmental Actively promote the use of underutilized, vacant City of C10 OG Sustainability and Climate Windsor property for the use of community gardens Change Office C10 Encourage Windsor's Farmers Markets 0-4 City-wide Environmental Develop and promote local food system through education C10 0-4 Sustainability and Climate including programs for kids Change Office Environmental Explore the potential for an urban bee cooperative or a C10 0-4 Sustainability and Climate chicken cooperative on municipal property Change Office
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 105 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame Promote the health benefits of drinking water over sugar- C10 0-4 Recreation sweetened beverages for hydration Promote the use of Essex Windsor Solid Waste Authority’s Environmental C10 0-4 compost. Sustainability and Climate Objective C11: Work with the Windsor Essex County Health Unit to develop a Food Strategy Environmental Engage in a comprehensive community food assessment to C11 0-4 Sustainability and Climate inform a food strategy Change Office Build on the development of the Windsor Essex County Environmental C11 Food Charter and the food system work of various 0-4 Sustainability and Climate organizations Change Office Environmental C11 Assess the viability of a regional Food Council or Committee 0-4 Sustainability and Climate Change Office Environmental Include the need for data gathering to further understand C11 OG Sustainability and Climate the local food system and the opportunities for improvement Change Office Objective C12: Incorporate cooling designs and features into public spaces to protect residents from extreme heat and ultraviolet radiation exposure Increase the number of artificial shade structures in public C12 OG Parks places Plan for shade (shadow casting) to fall where needed during C12 OG Parks peak ultraviolet radiation exposure intervals C12 Improve access to drinking water facilities in public areas OG Parks Consider the environmental and health effects of plastic, C12 rubber or other materials when designing and installing OG Parks playgrounds, splash pads and road medians Increase the number of splash pads, cooling stations, water C12 bottle re-fill stations and other water features in public OG Parks places Environmental Work with federal and provincial governments to maximize C12 OG Sustainability and Climate funding opportunities for cooling features Change Office Objective C13: Enhance and increase natural shade as a climate change adaptation measure Environmental Continue to research the urban head island effect and its C13 OG Sustainability and Climate impact in Windsor Change Office Enhance tree coverage to reduce the human health risk of C13 OG Parks heat Environmental Promote additional health benefits of natural shade in C13 OG Sustainability and Climate reducing ultraviolet radiation exposure Change Office Plan for dense shade in parks, playgrounds, spectator areas C13 of sports fields and other public spaces frequented by 0-4 Parks children and vulnerable populations Ensure active transportation routes are planned with natural C13 OG Transportation Planning shade Review tree species for viability under a changing climate C13 OG Parks and adjust tree planting practices accordingly
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 106 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame Incorporate Best Management Practices for naturalization and tree planting. Use local seed for the propagation of C13 OG Parks trees and incorporate Assisted Migration studies and practices where applicable Undertake assisted migration of tree species to minimize C13 OG Parks the risk to canopy cover due to climate change Goal D: Increase Resource Efficiency
Objective D1: Decrease community energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions Environmental Work with stakeholders to implement the Community D1 0-4 Sustainability and Climate Energy Plan Change Office Environmental D1 Complete a business case for district energy expansion 0-4 Sustainability and Climate Change Office Complete detailed energy mapping of the city to support Environmental D1 economic business cases and future policy decisions 0-4 Sustainability and Climate relating to energy Change Office Work to create an education campaign for residents (to Environmental create demand) and builders (to create supply) about the D1 0-4 Sustainability and Climate environmental and financial benefits of energy efficient Change Office homes and businesses Investigate the possibility of reducing development charges D1 0-4 Planning and Building for developers of energy efficient homes and businesses Environmental Explore the potential for a deep energy retrofit program for D1 0-4 Sustainability and Climate homes and businesses Change Office Objective D2: Decrease corporate energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions
Implement and update the Corporate Energy Management D2 OG Asset Planning Plan and the Corporate Climate Action Plan Implement retrofits and energy saving mechanisms with a D2 OG Asset Planning payback time and greenhouse gas reductions Consider energy consumption, lifecycle costing and D2 0-4 Asset Planning greenhouse gas emissions when planning capital projects Environmental Develop an energy awareness campaign for municipal D2 OG Sustainability and Climate employees Change Office D2 Assess current water usage across all municipal buildings OG Asset Planning
Objective D3: Consider environmental design in newly constructed or retrofitted municipal buildings Consider environmental design in all new buildings and Right-of-Way and D3 OG retrofits Development
D3 Encourage the use of cool roofs for municipal buildings OG Facilities
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 107 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame Continue the reuse of existing buildings (and materials) D3 OG Facilities where it is environmentally-friendly and cost-effective D3 Recycle building materials where possible OG Facilities D3 Require partners to consider environmental design 0-4 Planning and Building Objective D4: Increase the diversion rate of recyclable material at all City facilities Undertake a corporate waste audit program and develop a D4 corporate waste baseline, reductions targets and monitoring 0-4 Facilities strategy Publish waste audit results to city staff as part of a solid D4 0-4 Environmental Services waste diversion education campaign Install composters or digester at select city facilities as pilot D4 0-4 Facilities projects and monitor their success Implement a standard recycling program for all city facilities D4 0-4 Facilities that includes signage, containers and education Provide training for facilities staff with respect to any D4 0-4 Facilities changes in recycling procedures Focus reminders and incentive programs on any problem D4 0-4 Facilities areas Encourage contractors and suppliers to make recycled- D4 0-4 City-wide content products available Use savings from waste prevention efforts to offset the D4 costs of buying recycled products in those instances where OG City-wide they cost more D4 Continue to promote the use of municipal water OG City-wide Objective D5: Increase community waste diversion through recycling and composting Expand the use of recycling bins in public facilities and other D5 0-4 Parks spaces such as parks Conduct a study to determine the most appropriate D5 composting program for the City of Windsor and implement OG Environmental Services at an appropriate time Investigate strategies for waste reduction such as, but not D5 0-4 Environmental Services limited to, garbage bag limits Formalize a waste diversion plan for events at Festival Plaza and other special events - this could include D5 mandatory use of the hydration station, use of recyclable 0-4 Recreation food containers only and mandatory waste stations with garbage, paper and plastic receptacles with proper labelling Environmental Identify strategies to reduce single use plastic items (ex. D5 0-4 Sustainability and Climate plastic straws, bags, etc.) Change Office Objective D6: Integrate environmental sustainability and climate change into Asset Management D6 Build life-cycle cost into decision making OG Asset Planning Consider economic, social and environmental factors, also D6 known as the "triple bottom line" when making decisions OG Asset Planning about capital or operating expenditures. Consider the effects that capital projects will have on D6 operating budgets and adjust operating budgets accordingly 0-4 Asset Planning to ensure proper maintenance of assets.
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 108 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame Goal E: Promote Awarenss
Objective E1: Promote the link between environmental health and human health to Windsor residents Develop and promote a campaign to get staff and residents active and outdoors. This may include: -encouraging E1 students to discover healthy ways of getting to school OG Recreation everyday; -promoting walking and biking along trails as leisure activities for families and seniors Environmental Support and promote ongoing environmental health E1 OG Sustainability and Climate initiatives within the City Change Office Partner with Windsor Essex County Health Unit to promote the link between environmental health and human health. Environmental E1 This could include, but is not limited to, the Air Quality OG Sustainability and Climate Health Index, Active transportation, sun protection, vector Change Office borne illnesses and extreme heat Objective E2: Report on the progress of the implementation of the Environmental Master Plan Environmental Develop, every two years, a brief update to Council on the E2 OG Sustainability and Climate progress of Environmental Master Plan implementation Change Office Continue to produce a Report on the State of Our Environmental Environment to be presented every 4 years to City Council E2 OG Sustainability and Climate reporting on indicators used to monitor the implementation Change Office of the Environmental Master Plan Objective E3: Conduct a regular survey of environmental attitudes with residents and staff Conduct an environmental attitudes survey once every four Environmental E3 years. Coordinate questions and timing with any other City OG Sustainability and Climate surveys Change Office Environmental Compare the results of the survey and integrate results into E3 OG Sustainability and Climate the Report on the State of the Environment Change Office Objective E4: Develop a corporate environmental education strategy
Identify focus areas for an environmental education strategy Environmental E4 - likely focus on individual actions that staff, council and OG Sustainability and Climate contractors can take to improve the City's environment Change Office Develop an environmental education strategy to: -focus on individual actions that can be taken to improve the environment, including but not limited to solid waste management, recycling, sewer use, climate change and energy; -develop training material for new staff to expose Environmental E4 them to the EMP; -develop incentives to encourage 0-4 Sustainability and Climate participation in environmental activities and events; -use Change Office creative methods for information dissemination about environmental activities (i.e. weekly email, information sheets, awards, prizes, quarterly information sessions); - develop ways to recognize environmental leaders and achievements across the Corporation
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 109 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame Set up an Environmental Champion program for all City facilities where the champion is responsible for ensuring Environmental E4 environmental measures in their facility are functioning 0-4 Sustainability and Climate properly. This could include recycling receptacles, energy Change Office saving measures, environmental information, etc Establish a Green Team to generate new ideas and help Environmental E4 develop and coordinate environmental activities within the OG Sustainability and Climate Corporation Change Office Objective E5: Maintain a web-based environmental information site Maintain the Environmental Master Plan website which includes: -Windsor's current environmental initiatives, Environmental E5 programs and policies; -report on the State of the OG Sustainability and Climate Environment indicators; -contact information; -references; - Change Office links to more information Objective E6: Increase awareness among residents and stakeholders of the City's environmental programs, policies and initiatives Lead by example by showcasing ongoing environmental E6 OG City-wide initiatives in local media Promote City of Windsor programs including but not limited to: -hazardous waste drop-off (batteries, used oil, hazardous Environmental materials, old medicines, etc); -anti-idling by-law; - E6 OG Sustainability and Climate wastewater treatment plant processes; -separate and Change Office combined sewers; -climate change adaptation and mitigation; -Transit Windsor Windsor Continue to provide environmental education at public Environmental events such as Earth Day, Open Streets, the Children's E6 OG Sustainability and Climate Water Festival, wastewater treatment plant open houses, Change Office etc Develop an education campaign that may include: -social Environmental E6 media; -videos; -newsletters or targeted flyers; -radio OG Sustainability and Climate advertisements Change Office Incorporate environmental themes into art, culture and E6 OG Culture recreational programming Display environmental exhibits at Windsor's museum and E6 OG Culture community centres Environmental Ensure City of Windsor environmental information is E6 OG Sustainability and Climate available to the public at community centres and libraries Change Office Environmental Continue to deliver environmental programming to E6 OG Sustainability and Climate elementary, secondary and post-secondary schools Change Office Objective E7: Continue to invest and develop partnerships Environmental Maintain current partnerships and continue to share E7 OG Sustainability and Climate information, resources and lessons learned Change Office E7 Actively seek out new partnerships moving forward OG City-wide Partner with corporate entities to encourage proper E7 OG City-wide environmental practices through joint education
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 110 of 211 Time Objective Action Lead Frame Work with Corporate Partners to identify sponsorship E7 OG Communications opportunities Encourage involvement of Corporate Partners at E7 OG City-wide environmental events Objective E8: Ensure involvement of residents and stakeholders in environmental decision-making
Continue to create forums for stakeholders and residents Environmental E8 input and dialogue (i.e. open houses, workshops, etc) when OG Sustainability and Climate developing various environmental plans and policies Change Office Environmental Continue to advertise public sessions through local media E8 OG Sustainability and Climate and on the City's website Change Office For specific environmental issues, develop specifically E8 OG Communications targeted communication strategies Objective E9: Showcase Windsor's Environmental Commitment outside the Region Environmental Work with outside groups (i.e. federal/provincial E9 OG Sustainability and Climate governments, agencies) to disseminate Windsor's success Change Office Share lessons learned and successes with other Environmental E9 municipalities through formal or informal networking OG Sustainability and Climate opportunities (e.g. Clean Air Partnership, Quest) Change Office Attend and highlight Windsor's accomplishments at E9 OG City-wide conferences and workshops E9 Apply for awards for environmental innovation OG City-wide
ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 111 of 211 THE CITY OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MEMO OMTAFtfO, CANADA
TO: Mayor and Members of Council
FROM: SUPERVISOR/ ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AND CLIMATE CHANGE
DATE: February 7, 2018
SUBJECT: TABLING OF WINDSOR'S ENVIRONMENTAL MASTER PLAN
The purpose of this memo is to provide follow-up on the public comments received on the draft Environmental Master Plan (EMP), as well as outlining any changes made to the draft Environmental Master
Plan.
Consultation Process
The draft EMP was tabled for public comment on November 1 / 2017 with the comment period closing on January 1 / 2018. The draft plan was posted on the City of Windsor's website. The Environmental Sustainabifity and Climate Change Office provided a number of opportunities for the public to review and comment on the draft EMP. To encourage public review and input, an online survey was created. In addition to the online survey/ staff coordinated a total of eight public pop-up engagement sessions (Ojibway Nature Centre, Optimist Community Centre/ WFCU Centre, University of Windsor/ Central Public Library, St. Ciair College/ Budimir Public Library/ and Riverside Public Library), to promote and answer questions regarding the draft EMP.
Public Pop-up Engagement Results
The eight public pop-up engagement sessions received over 118 visitors. These sessions provided an opportunity for the Windsor community to ask questions of City staff and learn about Windsor's environmental initiatives.
As part of the engagement sessions, participants were asked to rank their top three EMP goals by placing balls labelled with their priority ranking (i.e. 1,2, or 3) into buckets representing the five goals of the EMP. Responsible Land Use (89), Improving Our Water Quality (76) and Improving Our Air Quality (69) received the most overall votes/ however/ Improving Our Air Quality received the most Priority 1 votes (38)(see Table 1).
City of Windsor | 350 City Hall Square West | Windsor, ON | N9A 6S1 www.citywindsor.ca ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 112 of 211 THE C\TY OF WINDSOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MEMO ONTARIO, CANADA
Table 1: Goal Priorities
Environmental Master Plan Engagement Goal Priorities
50
40
I •38. 39 30 34 34 !.'j Priority 1
20 a Priority 2 21;i 21
'•...•.J m --".'~'' 10 16 ! 15 D Priority 3 ^^^ 13 Ibrr:-'..'i 13 :c';! 0 Improve Air Quality Improve Water Responsible Land Increase Resource Promote Awareness Quality Use Efficiency
In addition to ranking the goals, participants were asked to show their overall feeling of the environment on a map of the City of Windsor (see Appendix A). The 5 ranked feelings: excellent; good; fair; poor; and don't know are similar to those monitored in the Report on the State of the Environment (ROSE). The majority of responses indicated a poor' view of Windsor's environment (34.7%). The next highest feeling was a 'good' view of the environment (28.8%), however upon discussion with these respondents many of them indicated that even though the environment is good , there is still room for improvement.
Survey Purpose and Participation Rate
The survey provided the Windsor community an opportunity to review and comment on the proposed guiding principles, goals/ and objectives of the draft EMP. The City of Windsor received 109 responses to the public survey. City staff has reviewed all survey results to determine if changes are needed to the draft EMP. Upon review of the comments/ overall support for the plan was evident in the written responses.
Each of the questions/ except the first and the last/ allotted space for participants to expand on their answers, if needed. The survey consisted of 11 questions, 10 of which directly pertained to the EMP; the eleventh question asked participants how they are informed of City of Windsor events and public engagements. The purpose of the eleventh question is to help the Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change Office effectively engage the Windsor community in the future.
The results of the survey responses are summarized below.
City of Windsor | 350 City Hal! Square West | Windsor, ON | N9A 6S1 www.citywindsor.ca ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 113 of 211 THE CITY OF - - ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MEMO ONTARIO, CANADA
Question 1: How would you rate the overall quality of the Environment in the City of Windsor today? {108 Responses}
Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't Know
Question 2: Are you in agreement with the 5 goals of the Environmental Master Plan? [109 Responses]
20 40 60 80 100
Question 3: Do these objectives effectively aim to achieve Improved Air Quality? (206 Responses}
No
Yes
20 40 60 80 100
Question 4: Do these objectives effectively aim to achieve Improved Water Quality? {108 Responses}
No
Yes
20 40 60 80 100
City of Windsor | 350 City Hall Square West | Windsor, ON | N9A 6S1 www.citywindsor.ca ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 114 of 211 THE CjTV OF - ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MEMO ONTARIO, CANADA
Question 5: Do these objectives effectively aim to achieve Responsible Land Use? [108 Responses]
60 80 100
Question 6: Do these objectives effectively aim to Increase Resource Efficiency? {108 Responses)
Question 7: Do these objectives effectively aim to Promote Awareness? (107 Responses}
Question 8: What do you like about the Plan? (77 Responses)
This question provided words of encouragement to continue to strive towards environmental sustainability.
Question 9: Is there anything else you would like to see in the plan? (95 Responses)
No 27
Yes 'sm 68
J_ 0 20 40 60 80
City of Windsor | 350 City Hail Square West | Windsor, ON ] N9A 6S1 www.citywindsor.ca ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 115 of 211 THE CITY OF ;' ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MEMO ONTARIO. CANADA
Question 10: Does this plan adequately balance the environment, economic growth and social atmosphere? (102 Responses}
No
Yes
Questionll: Please specify how you hear of City of Windsor public events. (45 Responses]
City of City Website Radio Television Another E-mail Newspaper Other Windsor Social organization's Media social media
Other methods identified were:
• Windsor Public Library • A friend's Facebook • Word of Mouth • University of Windsor
Key Concerns or Trends in the Responses
Based on a review of all the comments received/ the majority of the public that responded to the survey are in support of the plan. The public suggested many detailed steps the City of Windsor can take to promote environmental sustainability. The public comments generally reinforced the direction and intent of the plan/ the vision and targets have not changed. Many of the comments built on the goals and objectives already
proposed.
City of Windsor | 350 City Hall Square West | Windsor, ON \ N9A 6S1 www.citywindsor.ca ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 116 of 211 THE CITY OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MEMO ONTARIO. CANADA
The following is a summary of the comments through the survey:
• When objectives are being implemented/ they need to have strong established indicators to measure progress. This progress should be made available to the public. • Establish more accountability and transparency in decision making for implementation and consideration of the EMP. , • Emphasize the importance of public and alternative transportation. There were many comments regarding the establishment of an efficient and effective cycling network. There was also strong encouragement for an improved public transit system. • There was major concern of urban sprawl and the comments encourage the densification of downtown
Windsor. • Encourage the greening of the City of Windsor, adding more natural areas and trees for the public to enjoy
Addressing Question 8: Is there anything else you would like to see in the plan.
We received many comments that built on already established goals and objectives and provided an emphasis on what people are hopeful for during the implementation of the EMP. These comments were often very specific steps that are required to complete an identified action under a specified goal. The EMP was not developed to be that prescriptive.
Summary of the Key Changes to the Draft EMP
There are no content related changes being made to the EMP as a result of the public engagement. We wilt use the information gathered through the engagement to help prioritize projects/ develop work plans and projects to achieve the goals and objectives; for example/ establishing strong indicators and measurable actions. The environmental indicators are updated annually on the City s website and every four years through the Report on the State of the Environment. The Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change Office continually looks to enhance the quality and number of the environmental indicators reported. This EMP update will require staff to review the current indicators and determine additional indicators to monitor to support the changes in the updated EMP.
City of Windsor j 350 City Hall Square West | Windsor, ON | N9A 6S1 www.citywindsor.ca ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 117 of 211 '//.-^ THE CITY OF'' i/ (y^l^WINDSOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MEMO ONTARIO. CANADA
The only changes to the draft 2017 EMP are grammatical and organizational which were identified through plan review.
'< ^' ^^^'/ >^-€^"/ / ""- ^ ^ "/.., Karina Richters Clrfis Manzon Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability & Senior Manager, Pollution Control Climate Change
Mark Winterton Onorio Colucd City Engineer Chief Administrative Officer Corporate Leader - Environmental Protection & Infrastructure Services
City of Windsor | 350 City Hall Square West | Windsor, ON | N9A 6S1 ETPS Standingwww.citywindsor.ca Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 118 of 211 INDSOR ADDITIONAL INFORWIATION MEMO ONTARIO, CANADA
Appendix A City of Windsor Resident Environmental Attitudes
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i^"S^'~...'\r i ds or /•.-o3 / l^rei:rail /^-tfc . \ inciscM-. ^ket^ille ,0 ' . DwofTAOod Resident Environmental •°t'/.,- Conservation ' Poor (41 Count) Data collected between Don't Know (2 Count) November 1, 2018 and January 1, 2018 II-A Sille ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 119 of 211 Item No. 8.5 Council Report: S 16/2018 Subject: Climate Change Adaptation Plan Status and response to CQ34- 2017 and CQ41-2017 - City Wide Reference: Date to Council: 2/21/2018 Author: Karina Richters Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change 519-253-7111 x 3226 [email protected] Pollution Control Report Date: 1/30/2018 Clerk’s File #: EI/10822 To: Mayor and Members of City Council Recommendation: I. THAT this Council Report responding to CQ34-2017 – status of the Climate Change Adaptation Plan and CQ41-2017 storm sewer design criteria under climate change BE RECEIVED FOR INFORMATION. Executive Summary: N/A Background: At the September 5, 2017 meeting of Council, Councillor Kusmierczyk asked the following Council Question: CQ34-2017: Asks that administration provide a progress report on the city’s climate change adaptation plan and confer with ERCA on the feasibility/process of moving forward with a regional climate adaptation plan. Following, at the October 16, 2017 meeting of Council, Councillor Payne asked the following Council Question: CQ40-2017: Asks for a report on the feasibility of revising storm sewer design criteria in light of climate change. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 120 of 211 Page 1 of 9 This report will address both questions as they relate to the City’s Climate Change Adaptation work. In November 2010, City Council approved participation in the ICLEI (“Local Governments for Sustainability”, formerly the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives) Canada Adaptation Initiative. The development of the ICLEI initiative was initially sponsored by Natural Resources Canada’s Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation Division. The ICLEI initiative provides a straightforward methodology to adaptation planning using a five milestone approach. The five milestones include; Milestone One – Initiate, Milestone Two – Research, Milestone Three – Plan, Milestone Four – Implement, and Milestone Five – Monitor. The City of Windsor’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan was developed by way of collaboration across City departments and agencies including the Essex Region Conservation Authority and the Windsor Essex County Health Unit. The City of Windsor’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan was approved in principle on November 19, 2012 (M498-2012). The most recent status report to City Council regarding the Climate Change Adaptation Plan was as part of Report #280 of the Environment, Transportation and Public Safety Report received on July 5, 2015 and approved by M262-2015.. Discussion: To provide this update to Council, a review was initiated to determine the status of the 22 proposed adaptation actions. To date 7 actions have been completed, 11 actions are progressing, and 4 actions are under review. Actions listed as “completed” are those that satisfy the intent of the adaptation action at the time the plan was finalized, however based on results and recommendations, additional work may be recommended. Those actions that are labelled as “progressing” indicate that work is underway and this work is continuing to meet the intentions of the plan. In most cases, “under review” indicates that some preliminary work is required prior to proceeding with the recommended adaptation action (i.e. in order to determine the best location for off- line storage of storm water the Sewer Master Plan must be completed). Appendix A provides details on the status and proposed next steps for each of the 22 adaptation actions. In September 2017, the City of Windsor received the final Milestone Award from ICLEI Canada which indicates that all 5 Milestones (Initiate, Research, Plan, Implement, and Monitor) have been completed. In addition to implementing the Climate Change Adaptation Plan, staff have identified further opportunities to expand on the current climate change work underway. ‘Climate Resilient Home’ In July 2016, the City of Windsor was selected to participate in the Province’s Great Lakes Climate Change Adaptation Project under the Collaborative Implementation Group: Working Together to Move from Planning to Action. The objective of this project ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 121 of 211 Page 2 of 9 was to collaborate among municipalities to collectively help overcome barriers and drive municipal action on adaptation. One of the challenges of the Climate Change Adaptation Plan has been public engagement and action. As noted in the attached status table, the City experiences only a 5 – 8% acceptance for the free downspout disconnection program and similarly, a relatively low response rate for the Basement Flooding Subsidy Program. In response, Administration developed a pilot project to retrofit an existing Windsor home towards climate resiliency. The Climate Resilient Home project provides an innovative opportunity to engage the public on ways to mitigate basement flooding and pilot low impact development (LID) features. The location of this pilot is a City of Windsor-owned 1920s era home on Pierre Avenue that is currently used by Horticulture staff. This house provided an opportunity for the City to complete the actions that residents are encouraged to complete including; downspout disconnection; backwater valve installation; and sump pump with overflow installation. Each of these improvements has been documented through a series of videos to better educate the public on how improvements are constructed and maintained. The videos were also promoted to residents following the August storm through the City’s website and local media. In addition, a rain garden and an infiltration trench were installed at the property. These LID features include water level monitors able to log water depths within these features. The availability of this information will aid the City in determining the feasibility of incorporating additional LID features throughout the City as one possibility to address stormwater concerns. By the spring of this year, Administration will host the public at an open house of the climate resilient home for residents to experience firsthand the actions to help reduce flood risk. As part of the engagement strategy, a website will be developed outlining the features of this home which will include the videos and further information that the public needs to make an informed decision. Educational signage has also been installed at the home. Leadership in Asset Management The City of Windsor has been developing its Corporate Asset Management Program since 2009. At the end of 2015, Windsor was one of 12 municipalities across Canada selected for FCM’s Leadership in Asset Management Program (LAMP). The objective of this program was to provide support to municipalities to integrate sustainability into municipal asset management plans. The City of Windsor expanded on this opportunity by also including climate change adaptation and mitigation measures into the City’s asset management policy and framework. Asset management provides a substantial opportunity to address a changing climate over the long-term. Using the best available science and proven innovation, along with provincial and federal guidance documents, the City will identify climate risks and determine how these risks may impact a community asset over its intended service life. Climate change and climate change activities or actions must, under this policy, be considered for managing both physical and natural assets, as well as ensuring (or improving) the level of service being delivered. The City’s next steps will include determining how a changing climate may affect the Triple Bottom Line (Environmental, Social and Economic considerations) or Life Cycle Costing of the City’s community assets. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 122 of 211 Page 3 of 9 The updated Asset Management Policy and Framework were approved by Council on October 16, 2017 (CR638/2017). Downtown Windsor Heat Island Study Building on the previous work undertaken to identify both Urban Heat Islands and thermal comfort issues in City of Windsor parks, Planning co-op students were tasked with studying these issues within the Downtown. The Downtown Heat Island Study is attached as Appendix B. Fourteen site assessments were completed in downtown Windsor that identify existing design characteristics where thermal comfort could be improved. The data from the fourteen sites was synthesized and used to create high- level policy recommendations on how to improve outdoor thermal comfort in public spaces in downtown Windsor. These studies have enhanced the knowledge of staff in regards to extreme heat, urban heat island and thermal comfort risk. These urban heat island studies are now being referenced as part of ongoing Requests for Proposals for engineering consultants undertaking Class Environmental Assessments for Road Improvement (i.e. University and Victoria Avenue EAs) so that the design stage identifies opportunities for improvements. Feasibility of Revising Storm Sewer design criteria (CQ41-2017) As a result of the recent flooding events, the City has accelerated the second phase of the Citywide Sewer Master Plan (SMP). This phase will see the further expansion and calibration the current InfoWorks ICM model (storm, sanitary and combined systems) completed as part of Phase 1. Phase 1 will also develop a major system network using a two-dimensional modelling approach to represent overland flood storage and conveyance. In conjunction with Phase 2, a Sanitary and Storm Sewer Master Plan Resiliency Study will be completed. This study will use the completed intensity, duration and frequency (IDF) projections completed for the Climate Change Adaptation Plan to run the sewer model. A vulnerability assessment of the current storm, sanitary and combined sewer networks, including pump stations and surface overflow routes, will be analyzed under various climate change considerations. The study will review the potential to reduce the vulnerability of impacts from climate change and identify alternative solutions to reduce the risk of surface and basement flooding, and improving the level of service of the systems. The results of the study should provide guidance on reducing the vulnerability to Climate Change Impacts through: Providing remedial surface and basement flooding solutions to increase flooding resiliency under current design storm IDF data conditions and climate change conditions using future IDF curves recently completed; Providing solutions to reduce inflow and infiltration (I&I) throughout the sanitary system to reduce the impacts of sanitary surcharging during both current IDF data rainfall conditions and climate change conditions; Evaluating and providing potential solutions for increased combined sewer overflow (CSO) under both current IDF data rainfall conditions and climate ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 123 of 211 Page 4 of 9 change conditions, which may include additional management and treatment, as per MOECC criteria; Enhancing the current level of service within the existing sewer systems and pump stations – reducing roadway surface flooding during major storm events; and Reducing the impact of severe rainfall events and lessening the extent of basement flooding associated with heavy rainfall events due to climate change. The results of this study will provide the needed information required to inform revisions to the storm sewer design criteria. City Council will receive quarterly status updates throughout the development of the Sewer Master Plan. Recognition The City’s work on Climate Change Adaptation has received recognition from senior levels of government. This work has been promoted through various case studies featured in the various publications including Health Canada’s Heat Alert and Response Systems to Protect Health: Best Practices Guidebook and Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction’s Cities Adapt to Extreme Heat. The Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change has also been recognized by FCM in their series Partners for Climate Protection’s (PCP) Local Climate Heroes and is often invited to present on the success of the City’s Climate Change Adaptation work. Weather Events The City of Windsor has had a number of weather related events in 2016 and 2017 including: 2 floods; a tornado and a wind storm. Though no direct ties can link any single weather event to climate change, all extreme events have various factors influencing the event, and one of the factors can be climate change. The Insurance Bureau of Canada reports amounts of $108 million and $124 million in insured damage as a result of the 2016 and 2017 floods respectively. Munich Re, one of the world’s leading reinsurers, estimates that the share of uninsured losses remained substantial at around 70% in 2016. Using this high end number, the actual losses due to these floods could be as high as $360 million and $413 million dollars, respectively. The City of Windsor incurred direct operational costs as follows: 2016 tornado ($98,372); 2016 flood ($305,096); 2017 wind storm ($62,188); and 2017 flood ($991,164 – preliminary, invoices still being reviewed). The 2016 tornado also caused insured losses of approximately $840,239 (with an additional deductible paid in the amount of $100,000) in damage to the Transit Windsor Facility and Photovoltaic (PV) solar system. In addition, the City experienced a $300,000 loss of solar revenue, of which insurance should cover $250,000 of these losses. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 124 of 211 Page 5 of 9 An independent study commissioned by the US Federal Emergency Management Agency, for example, found that the investment return in the United States was $4 in cost savings for every $1 spent on disaster mitigation (climate adaptation). Studies in Australia have found a return of 3:1 from similar investments, and in the United Kingdom, 5:1. These studies highlight one of the economic justifications to continue action on climate change. Ontario’s Climate Change Adaptation Strategy On November 22, 2017 the Province of Ontario posted to the Environmental Bill of Rights their proposed plan for adapting to climate change. The following is a summary of the proposed actions that will influence the City of Windsor future adaptation strategies. A New Climate Change Organization As a first step, the Province proposes to create a new climate change organization. This organization will be a one-window source for leading-edge climate projection data and adaptation information and services. The organization will work with decision- makers in communities, private businesses and government to facilitate adaptation learning, capacity building and initiatives across Ontario. It will partner and work with Ontario’s many climate change adaptation experts and existing service delivery agents to help build local adaptation capacity, enhance networks and take action. Raising Public Awareness The province also plans to share information regarding the effects of climate change with the public. It is important that Ontario residents gain a real understanding of how a changing climate will affect our homes, businesses, environment and communities, and what we can do to adapt. Natural Environment Through recent amendments to the Municipal Act, 2001, municipalities will be required to put a policy in place to protect and enhance their tree canopies and natural vegetation by March 1, 2019. This mandatory policy is an opportunity for municipalities to consider how climate change affects trees, as well as how protecting trees can help increase the climate resiliency of communities. Land Use Planning In 2014, the Province updated the Provincial Policy Statement to require municipalities to consider the effects of climate change in planning for resilient communities. This includes planning for new or expanded infrastructure and strengthening protection of natural areas, including wetlands. Infrastructure and buildings The Infrastructure for Jobs and Prosperity Act, (O. Reg 588/17), enshrines the principle that infrastructure planning and investment should be designed to be resilient to the effects of climate change. The Long Term Infrastructure Plan will build upon this ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 125 of 211 Page 6 of 9 principle and lay out our vision for evidence-based planning and investment decisions to build resilient infrastructure across Ontario. As noted in Report CM 46/2017 considered at the Budget Meeting of January 15, The Province of Ontario along with the City of Burlington has funded the Home Flood Protection Assessment program developed by the Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation at the University of Waterloo. The program is currently being rolled out to 4,000 homes in Burlington. The program helps homeowners reduce risk and minimize damage of flooding through free web-based check-lists, tips, how-to videos and information. For a fee, residents from Oakville, Hamilton, Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, and Milton (Toronto, Hamilton and London also eligible but includes an additional travel fee) can receive a 50-point visual assessment of potential sources of water entry into the home by a trained Assessor. A confidential, easy to read report identifies top ranked actions to: Reduce sewer back-up and overland flood risks Manage indoor humidity to reduce mold and mildew risks Reduce risk of damage to structure and contents Wisely manage water onsite Understand risks as they relate to insurance coverage This program is being assessed to inform a broader delivery across Ontario and is being investigated by the City of Windsor. Future Opportunities Administration is continually looking to further enhance climate change adaptation initiatives. Two accompanying reports address current opportunities to expand the City’s climate change adaptation work. The first is undertaking the redevelopment of the City’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan with support from ICLEI Canada (Report S17/2018) through ICLEI’s Changemaker project. The second is forming a partnership with the University of Waterloo’s Partners for Action and the Red Cross to better understand audiences and targeting messages to increase personal and community flood preparedness (Report S18/2018). The Essex Region Conservation Authority is currently looking to hire a Climate Change Specialist that will guide the development of a regional climate change adaptation strategy. The Regional Climate Change Strategy will look to improve resilience to climate variability; undertake modelling and assessment to update ERCA’s flood line mapping; and formalize monitoring protocols to investigate climate change impacts on watershed resources. Administration looks forward to working with ERCA on a regional climate change adaptation strategy. Participating in ICLEI’s Changemaker project the City of Windsor will be provided with climate science data reports that summarize and coalesce localized science for both historical and climate projection data including summaries of projected changes to temperature, precipitation, intensity-duration frequency curves, and extreme events. This information can be shared with ERCA. Also, as part of this project, localized ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 126 of 211 Page 7 of 9 workshops will be hosted with local stakeholders. As a key stakeholder in Windsor’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan, ERCA will be invited to participate. Risk Analysis: No risks were identified with this information report. Financial Matters: There are no financial matters related to this information report. Consultations: Engineering Operations Planning Transportation Planning Asset Planning Essex Region Conservation Authority Finance Conclusion: Implementation of the Climate Change Adaptation Plan has been a corporate-wide undertaking. Administration works to stay informed on the most recent climate science for the region and continually looks for opportunities to further enhance climate change adaptation initiatives to build a more resilient Windsor. Planning Act Matters: N/A Approvals: Name Title Karina Richters Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change Chris Manzon Senior Manager Pollution Control France Isabelle Tunks City Engineer (Acting) Onorio Colucci Chief Administrative Officer Notifications: Name Address Email ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 127 of 211 Page 8 of 9 Name Address Email Appendices: Appendix A: Implementation Status of Short-Term Climate Adaptation Actions Appendix B: Downtown Windsor Heat Island Study ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 128 of 211 Page 9 of 9 Appendix A: Status of Proposed short-term adaptation actions for the City of Windsor Adaptation Action Cost Status Comments Next Steps Reducing Risks Associated with Increased Precipitation 1. Mandatory 2013 - $2,000,000 Progressing There are currently two mandatory Discussions regarding making Downspout 2014 - $400,000 downspout disconnection areas (roughly downspout disconnection Disconnection 2015 - $0 bound by Tecumseh Rd. E (north), CPR mandatory are continuing. 2016 - $330,000 tracks/Grand Marais Road (south), Howard 2017 - $200,000 (west ) and Norman Rd. (east)). The 2018 - $1,000,000 engineering department has sent out letters 2019 - $0 to home owners systemically by postal code. 2020 - $0 Residents can take advantage of the free disconnection program by calling 311 to Capital Budget and register. To date, we’re able to disconnect Flooding Report an average of 5 – 8 % of homes that register (CR128/2012) and for the disconnection program. Capital Budget B22- 2015 Ads were placed in the Summer 2017 Activity Guide to encourage participation in the downspout disconnection program. 2. Mandatory 2011 - $500,000 Progressing Effective January 1, 2012, the Building Continue to work with Backwater valves 2012 - $250,000 Department's City-wide enforcement of the homeowners to encourage them 2012 - $500,000* Ontario Building Code by mandating to undertake improvements to 2013 - $250,000 backwater valves on all newly constructed mitigate risk of basement 2014 - $900,000 single family dwellings, semi-detached flooding. Additional educational 2014 - $150,000* dwellings and townhouse dwellings. resources are to be developed. 2015 - $250,000 (M357/2011) 2016 - $1,200,000 2017 - $1,200,000 The Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy 2017 - $3,500,000* Program was introduced in July of 2011 to 2018 - $420,000 encourage retrofits of existing homes. The 2019 - $540,000 Program also includes retrofits of sump pits 2020+ - $1,000,000 and pumps to existing homes with no pre- existing sump pit or pump. In the fall of ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 129 of 211 Capital Budget B22- 2017, the City of Windsor increased the 2015 subsidy from 80% to 100% of the cost incurred up to the maximum amounts Note: * indicates already in effect for the works undertaken. one time funding The maximum household subsidy of $2,800 remains in effect. The life-to-date subsidy payments total $5,892,910. This total amount is associated with payments to 2,849 subsidy applicants. The City has actively promoted the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program. In the spring of 2017, City of Windsor staff manned a booth at the Home & RV show to educate the public on the Program. Backwater valves, sump pumps and educational videos were all on display to assist with informing the public. 3. Enhance Sewer 2014 - $100,000 Progressing The current funding for CCTV inspections will The results from the CCTV and Maintenance & CCTV 2015 - $100,000 allow between 10 and 12 kilometers of Zoom Camera programs will be Program (camera 2016 - $100,000 sewers to be inspected. The results of the added to the City’s infrastructure inspections of 2017 - $100,000 CCTV inspections allow City staff to database allowing a more sewers) 2018 - $100,000 determine where repairs, rehabilitation or detailed assessment of the 2019 - $100,000 replacement is needed. These results are current conditions. This also needed to enhance the asset information is key to having a Capital Budget B22- management plan. Clean Water Waste robust asset management plan. 2015 Water Funding allowed PW to issue a tender to have the inspection of most of the sewer system that has not been reviewed using CCTV using Zoom Camera technology. This will greatly assist with our asset management plan. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 130 of 211 4. Consideration of Under review The sewer modeling and sewer use master The sewer use master plan will additional Off-Line plan currently underway will identify areas identify areas of concern within Storage for that may benefit from the addition of off- the sewer network and will Stormwater line storage. Off-line storage may also be propose various actions that may part of the solution to deal with extreme mitigate the risks. One of these rain fall events. actions may include off-line storage for stormwater. 5. Increase the Use of Progressing Flow restrictors on catch basins slow the Continue to investigate Flow Restrictors on flow of stormwater into the sewer system. alternative catchbasin restrictors. Catch basins The result can be ponding of stormwater on a roadway. Slowing the flow into the sewer Use the sewer use master plan can reduce the risk of basement flooding in once completed to identify combined sewer areas. Flow restrictors are additional areas that may benefit often used to control runoff from a parking from the installation of catch area and may have limited use on residential basin restrictors. streets where temporary flooding of a roadway is preferred over the risk of basement flooding. Catchbasins with goss gully traps were being piloted however, they were found to have operational challenges/constraints. The City of Windsor maintains a map of catchbasin restrictors. The majority of restrictors are currently located on combined sewers in areas prone to basement flooding. 6. Seal Manhole Covers Under Review Sealing manhole covers are best completed Identify a sanitary sewer area in low lying areas along sanitary sewers that is impacted by inflow of which are impacted by inflow of overland stormwater and locate any stormwater flows. The sewer master plan, manholes that are located in low flooding reports as well as a local knowledge areas of the road way. Seal of where stormwater ponds on manholes these manholes. Prior to ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 131 of 211 can be used to identify where manholes implementation, a pilot area should be sealed. To date, no manholes should be selected to determine have been sealed. the effectiveness of sealing manholes and identify any challenges with maintenance. 7. Update of the rainfall 2012 - $50,000 Progressing The Essex Region Conservation Authority on ERCA is now undertaking a intensity duration behalf of the City of Windsor and the regional stormwater guidelines frequency (IDF) Capital Budget and municipalities of Essex County worked with that is expected to be adopted Curves Flooding Report researchers to predict a range of future IDF by all county municipalities. A (CR128/2012) curves under a variety of climate change high level introduction into scenarios. climate change is expected. As part of the sewer master plan, the sewer network will be analyzed for resiliency by running the model with a range of climate change IDF curves. This will allow the City define a level of service for the sewer system and to identify vulnerabilities to the system under the specified climate projections. 8. Initiate flow 2012 to 2014 - Completed Initial flow monitoring is completed. The initial flow monitoring monitoring of priority $950,000 Pollution Control installed some flow results were used to develop a sewers 2015 - $700,000 monitors permanently to gather data to be baseline model of the City’s (engineering) used for long term planning; including sewer system. The sewer model 2012 - $300,000 completion of an infiltration/inflow analysis. is being expanded, and (plant) additional flow monitoring is being undertaken, for the sewer Capital Budget and master plan project. The results Flooding Report from the flow monitoring will (CR128/2012) also be used to support other adaptation actions listed (i.e. sealing manhole covers, flow ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 132 of 211 restrictors on catch basins, etc.) or recommendations to be made in the sewer master plan. 9. Undertake Public 2011 - $12,000 Completed The main goal of this action is to help ensure Pollution Control is continuously Education on Sewer 2012 - $15,000 that the sewers are operating under their looking for ways to enhance the Use, Waste Water design capacity. Improper use of the sewer public’s understanding of how Treatment Environmental system (i.e. disposal of materials not the sewer and waste water Master Plan intended in a sewer) can decrease capacity treatment system works (i.e. Operating Budgets along the sewer by creating blockages or additional marketing materials, contribute to pump failures at pump public open house). stations. Educating residents that toilets are not garbage cans is one way to help reduce The sewer use master plan is also these issues in the sewers. looking at public education and engagement to increase the In 2011, the City of Windsor partnered with understanding of how the sewer EWSWA to design an EnviroTips ‘It’s all system works and what actions Connected’ to help educate residents that may be required to enhance the toilets are not garbage cans and the impact resiliency of the system. of flushing materials in the toilet. In 2012 a video “Wastewater: Where Does It Go?” was developed in collaboration with the Detroit River Canadian Clean-Up. The video educates about the City’s sewer system (sanitary, storm and combined) and the wastewater treatment system. The video also tries to encourage individuals to take small actions (like downspout disconnection) to help alleviate flooding issues. The video has over 485,475 views between the City of Windsor and DRCC YouTube channels. The DVD has also been distributed as requested. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 133 of 211 Open houses have been hosted at both the Lou Romano Water Reclamation Plant (2015) and the Little River Pollution Control Plant (2016). Over 250 individuals toured the facilities. Tours are provided as requested at both wastewater treatment facilities. A toilet on wheels has also been constructed to help educate residents on the issues around ‘Flushable’ Wipes. This toilet is used at public events such as Earth Day and the Children’s Water Festival. In 2016, ERCA also used the toilet in their Earth Day road show. Additional advertising about the hazards of ‘Flushable’ Wipes have also been developed including ads in the Activity Guide, brochures and signage for public washrooms at City facilities. In 2016, the City of Windsor launched the F.O.G. Cups (Fat, Oil and Grease Cups) to educate to residents proper disposal of F.O.G. The cups have been distributed at various public events and as requested. Cups may also be delivered to areas in the City were fat blockages have been a problem. Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change staff have also developed programs to provide in schools to educate students on wastewater and climate change. 10. Targeted Education 2013 - $200,000 Completed 694 km of sewers have been smoke tested Residents with broken clean-outs towards homeowners (for smoke testing) under eleven tenders. These tests have as identified through the smoke ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 134 of 211 with suspected cross- 2015 - $20,000 identified more broken clean outs than testing receive new private drain connections to (replacement of actual cross-connections. Broken cleanouts clean-out caps. Cleanout cap sanitary sewer clean-out caps as allow for infiltration into the sewer. repairs continue from the 2016 identified in the tenders. smoke testing) The entire City except combined sewers in the core and over/under sections are Capital Budget and completed. Nothing further to be tested at Flooding Report this time. (CR128/2012) 11. Use Social Media and In-house Progressing YouTube videos have been created to help Enhance the use of social media other Communication raise awareness of how to mitigate to educate residents on how to tools to warn public basement flooding in the City (i.e. mitigate risks of basement of Risk of Basement Downspout disconnection). Social media flooding. Flooding should be used to continue the educational awareness of the City’s sewer system. In the long run, social media can also be used to notify residents of possible flooding risks and to take immediate action to avoid losses (similar to flooding advisories issued by ERCA). However, in order to provide advisories, there needs to be better understanding of how the system reacts under storm conditions. The current flow monitoring and stormwater master plan will help develop criteria of how to use social media to notify residents of possible adverse effects on the sewer system. 12. Enhanced Progressing Due to the freeze thaw cycles over the past The extreme temperature flux is Maintenance & few winters, deterioration of the roads has causing roads and sidewalks to Inspection of roads lead to a higher number of potholes. In succumb to frost heave and heat and sidewalks during response and to maintain a level of service stress, shortening the life span of snow or extreme additional staffing and budget resources road and sidewalk pavements. weather events have been required to maintain roads. In Through the asset management addition the City of Windsor has also process, a level of service and ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 135 of 211 undertook crack sealing and spray patching associated risks will be to maintain our roads. Sidewalks continue determined for City Roads and to be inspected on a priority basis every 1 – sidewalks. The process will aid 4 years. the City in determining the appropriate level of maintenance (operating budget) in addition to the capital budget. Reducing Risks associated with increasing precipitation and temperatures 13. Development of a In-house Progressing The City of Windsor currently has five garden Develop an internal green roof Green Roof Policy roofs and 2 reflective roofs on City facilities. policy to formalize the actions Current practices for roof replacements currently underway by Facilities. include consideration for ‘cool’ roofs (high albedo). Explore opportunities to develop green development standards for new development in Windsor. These standards may include features that build resiliency to climate change as well as reduce energy/greenhouse gas emissions (mitigate Climate Change). 14. Develop pilot projects Progressing Low Impact Development (LID) experts from for the use of Porous the Credit Valley Conservation Authority and Identify a candidate location to Pavement on City the Toronto Region Conservation Authority test porous pavement. The properties and were retained to provide on-site training to completion of this action items develop guidelines City Staff. The training included the benefits may require additional capital for development of LID (including porous pavement and other funding, grant funding may also technologies), design, inspection and be available. maintenance. It is recommended that a monitoring program be put in place to assess the effectiveness of porous pavement. 15. Installation of Rain 2014 - $5,000 Completed In the Fall of 2014, a demonstration Continue to monitor the ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 136 of 211 Gardens as a pilot raingarden was constructed at Ojibway effectiveness of these sites. project to determine Environmental Nature Centre. effectiveness Master Plan Find additional locations to Operating Budget In the summer of 2017, a raingarden and further test the ability for local infiltration trench were installed at a City soils to infiltrate stormwater. owned home on Pierre. Both of these features have dedicated monitoring equipment installed to monitor the infiltration of rainwater into the surrounding soil. These demonstration sites can be used as an educational tool encouraging people to include raingardens in their landscaping to reduce runoff from private properties. 16. Improvement and Under review Natural heritage and open space systems The Parks Master Plan approved Enhancement of present opportunities to enhance and in 2016 listed several Green Space to integrate stormwater management facilities. recommendations that support improve rain water Trees and forests reduce stormwater runoff the improvement and retention by capturing and storing rainfall in the enhancement of Green Space to canopy and releasing water into the improve rain water retention. atmosphere through evaportranspiration. In The following is a list of the addition, tree roots and leaf litter create soil recommendation numbers as conditions that promote the infiltration of provided in the Parks Master rainwater into the soil. The presence of Plan; 4.01, 4.02, 4.03, 4.04, 4.07, trees also helps to slow down and 4.09, 4.11 temporarily store runoff, which further promotes infiltration, and decreases flooding and erosion downstream. 17. Increase Tree Progressing In 2014, a report titled ‘Designing City of The Parks Master Plan approved Planting Windsor Parks to improve Thermal Comfort in 2016 listed recommendations in Summer’ was completed. A portion of (3.05 and 4.08) that support the this study reviewed the current canopy increase of tree plantings. (shade) coverage in City parks. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 137 of 211 In 2018, the City Forestry In previous years, steps have been taken to department will be undertaking a increase the survival rate of City trees. For tree inventory. Following its example, the introduction of tree root completion, an Urban Forestry systems to give trees in commercial areas a Management Plan will be better chance of surviving the stresses undertaken. The Urban Forestry related to road salts, significant amounts of Management Plan will serve as a impermeable surfaces, and heat as a result 20-year strategic document of adjacent concrete and asphalt surfaces. guiding urban forestry priorities. In addition, Forestry has introduced the use At this time a long list of of water gators for all newly planted trees to recommendations will be help with survival. considered ranging from canopy coverage, strategic planting During the public consultation process for initiatives and heritage tree the Parks Master Plan, groups identified the protection. need for shade. Health factors related to climate change and the adverse effects of excessive UV exposure are the driving forces behind this growing concern. Reducing Risks associated with increasing temperatures 18. Increase Capital for Completed In recent years, Parks Development has Through the Parks Master Plan Shade Structures added additional shade structures to City consultation phase, one of the Parks. main concerns for seniors and people with disabilities was the The following shade structures have been need for more trees or shelters added to City parks since 2013. for shade. 2013 - Captain John Wilson park. All regional parks shall provide 2015 - Mic Mac, Optimist, Wigle and Ford the same base amenities Test Track. including shade structures. 2016 – Jackson Park (west side) Shade structures however are not limited to regional parks and During the summer months, it is often should be considered during observed that a significant amount of park Parks redevelopment when ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 138 of 211 users are taking advantage of this built possible. shade. 19. Increase in Heat 2011-2014 $22,000 Completed The Stay Cool Windsor Campaign developed Continue to work with the Essex Education at in partnership with the Windsor Essex County Health Unit to build on Community Centres (Completed County Health Unit and Health Canada current successes of the and Pools through grant launched in 2011. The campaign continues education campaign and expand funding received to focus on heat health education messages the campaign to address from Health and each year expands it reach. Public vulnerable populations not Canada) education brochures are distributed to the already reached. City community centres and Ontario Early Years Centres. In 2013, signage was also developed to be used at all local outdoor pools. 20. Complete an Urban 2012 - $12,000 Completed In 2012, ‘The Urban Heat Island Effect in Recommendations from the Heat Island Study Windsor, ON: An Assessment of Vulnerability downtown urban heat island (Completed and Mitigation Strategies’ was completed study shall be incorporated into through grant with several recommendations. This report other planning policies including funding received looked at the Urban Heat Island over the full the Official Plan and the from Health City. A second report finalized in 2013 Environmental Assessments Canada) looked at the urban heat islands or micro- underway for University Avenue. climates created in our parks. This report entitled ‘Improving Thermal Comfort in Windsor, ON: Assessing Urban Parks and Playgrounds’ analyzed the thermal comfort in six different City Parks and include taking actual temperature measurements of various parks features. A follow-up study was completed in 2015 titled “Designing City of Windsor Parks to Improve Thermal Comfort in Summer”. Recommendations from these studies have been incorporated in the Parks Master Plan. In 2016, a further study was completed with ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 139 of 211 a focus on the downtown. The Downtown Windsor Heat Island Study has been conducted as a complementary study to assess the thermal comfort in public outdoor spaces in downtown Windsor. This report analyses the results of the Downtown Windsor Heat Island Study in order to provide policy and design recommendations to help reduce the urban heat island effect and improve thermal comfort in public outdoor spaces. These recommendations will help ensure that the downtown remains a comfortable and desirable place to work, visit and live. General 21. Develop Clear Policies In-house Progressing In 2011, the City of Windsor in partnership The City of Windsor will continue for Weather with the Essex County Health Unit launched to work with the Health Unit to Response the Stay Cool Windsor Essex Campaign. The enhance the HARP as more educational component to the Heat Alert evidence of extreme heat and Response Plan (HARP). impacts on health are realized. The Essex County Health Unit has also Investigate gaps in emergency launched an Extreme Cold Weather plan. response planning under climate change scenarios. 22. Creation of an Under review The City of Windsor had unplanned expenses In lieu of an extreme weather Extreme Weather of over $1,456,820 due to the 2016 tornado fund reserve, a corporate Fund Reserve and flood and the 2017 wind storm and policy/procedure may be flood. These expenses were financed developed to provide guidance through surplus operating funds or through to areas impacted by extreme deficits. weather events. 2016 Tornado - $98,372 2016 Flood - $305,096 2017 Wind Storm - $62,188 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 140 of 211 2017 Flood - $991,164** (invoices still being received) ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 141 of 211 ` ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 142 of 211 ` Executive Summary The urban heat island effect is a phenomenon in which the concentration of dark-coloured impermeable surfaces and a lack of vegetation causes air temperatures in urban areas to be several degrees hotter than those in surrounding rural areas. With increasing urban development, heat islands are projected to intensify in frequency and magnitude. The hotter temperatures in areas characterized by heat islands could negatively impact public health, the environment and quality of urban life. This report details the current state of the heat island effect in public outdoor spaces in downtown Windsor, Ontario. Fourteen site assessments were completed in downtown Windsor to identify design characteristics where thermal comfort could be improved. A review of heat island reduction measures implemented in other communities was conducted to identify best practices that could be applied in Windsor, particularly actions that could be integrated into the City of Windsor’s planned capital projects. The data from the fourteen site assessments was synthesized and used to make high-level policy recommendations on how to improve outdoor thermal comfort in public spaces in downtown Windsor. The study finds the following: . Heat islands are present in downtown Windsor. Areas with elevated surface temperatures exist throughout the city centre. . Cool spots are present in downtown Windsor. Sites with cool surface temperatures (e.g. parks and green spaces) also exist in the downtown, but these are infrequent and cover less surface area. . Certain conditions help increase surface temperatures. The hottest surfaces were found at sites with low shade coverage, little vegetation, and high proportions of dark, impermeable surfaces. . The difference between shaded and sun-exposed surfaces is significant. Surface temperatures varied dramatically within and across sites. The difference between shaded and sun-exposed surfaces on the same site was as high as 36.9°C. . Heat islands reduce thermal comfort and can deter outdoor activity in public space. Cool public spaces with natural and built shade coverage experienced higher activity levels and were preferred by residents. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 143 of 211 ` . The City of Windsor has yet to implement formalized policies targeting heat island reduction downtown. Windsor’s Official Plan encourages a healthy community and environment, but does not include policies that specifically address the heat island effect. . Heat island reduction is prioritized in other Canadian municipalities. Many municipalities across Canada have successfully implemented policies and programs targeting heat island reduction. Toronto and Montreal are among the leaders. The study recommends the following: . Integrate heat island reduction actions in city plans and policies. Amend the objectives and policies of Windsor’s Official Plan and other city plans and policies, as appropriate. . Implement heat mitigating design through cool streets design guidelines and a pilot project in the downtown. The pilot project should serve as a citywide model for cool design, with streetscaping, landscaping, and paving options that reduce the heat island effect and cool the urban microclimate. . Form an interdisciplinary team to review upcoming capital projects. Identify opportunities to implement heat island reduction during future planned road reconstruction and streetscape improvement projects. . Prioritize heat island reduction actions in the Urban Forestry Management Plan. Focus on preserving existing street trees and increasing canopy coverage. . Prioritize thermal comfort for public transit users. Prioritize shade provision when selecting the location of bus stops and designing bus shelters. . Develop design guidelines for thermal comfort. Develop design guidelines to assist homeowners and developers in designing cool outdoor spaces. . Engage public institutions and citizens. Promote a culture of sun-safety and increase public awareness of heat islands. . Develop a green/cool roof and living wall by-law and incentive program for private property. A green roof/cool roof and living wall by-law would require new developments to incorporate features that would reduce the heat island effect in downtown. By implementing locally appropriate policies and practices, the City of Windsor can help residents stay cool and comfortable on hot summer days. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 144 of 211 ` Table of Contents 1. Introduction ...... 1 2. Background ...... 3 Windsor’s Changing Climate ...... 3 The Urban Heat Island Effect ...... 3 Windsor’s Downtown Context ...... 7 Windsor Policy Context...... 8 3. Methodology ...... 11 4. Site Assessment ...... 13 5. Review of Municipal Heat Island Reduction Measures ...... 23 6. Capital Budget Review ...... 26 7. Recommendations ...... 27 Conclusion ...... 30 References ...... 31 Appendix 1: Site Assessment Template ...... 34 Appendix 2: Public Survey ...... 36 Appendix 3: Official Plan Review ...... 37 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 145 of 211 ` Acknowledgements The authors of this report would like to thank the following people and organizations for their support, guidance and contributions to this study. • The Corporation of the City of Windsor o Karina Richters, Supervisor Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change o Laura Diotte, Planner III, Special Projects o Greg Atkinson, Planner III, Economic Development o Derek Heinbuck, Planning Technician • Health Canada o Gregory Richardson, Policy Analyst, Climate Change and Innovation Bureau • Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington Public Health o Nancy VanStone, Research Associate o Brian Mosley, GIS Analyst • Windsor-Essex County Health Unit o Cindy Gignac, Health Promotion Specialist o Amandeep Hans, Health Promotion Specialist • Service de l'Aménagement et du Développement Urbain, Quebec City o Peter Murphy, Urban Design Consultant We acknowledge Health Canada's financial support for this project. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 146 of 211 1. Introduction As climate change progresses, many cities are experiencing the urban heat island effect – a phenomenon where urban areas have higher temperatures than their rural surroundings. Dense urban development can lead to high concentrations of dark-coloured, impermeable surfaces and loss of vegetation, causing cities to have increased air and surface temperatures. The hotter temperatures found in urban areas can have negative impacts on quality of life, public health, the natural environmental, energy and water use, and air quality. Several Canadian municipalities have begun to integrate strategies to reduce heat islands into their community planning processes. Heat island mitigation actions often requires solutions that span multiple city sectors, including planning, public health, transportation, public works, parks and forestry. Key actions to reduce urban heat islands include increasing vegetation cover and increasing the use of cool materials for buildings and infrastructure. Examples of heat island mitigation actions include planting shade trees along streets, constructing new parks, and installing light coloured pavement or roofs. Local governments can advance these actions by developing new or modifying existing plans and policies, regulations or financial incentives. Many actions to reduce heat islands – such as planting street trees – are associated with a number of environmental, economic and public health benefits and improved quality of life. Given that Windsor experiences some of Canada’s hottest summertime temperatures, it is important that the City take action to reduce the urban heat island effect. The City first addressed thermal comfort in a 2012 report, The Urban Heat Island Effect in Windsor, ON: An Assessment of Vulnerability and Mitigation Strategies. The City subsequently conducted two studies to assess thermal comfort in downtown Windsor and make policy and design recommendations to parks planners: e.g. Improving Thermal Comfort in Windsor, ON; Assessing Urban Parks and Playgrounds (2013) and Designing City Parks to Improve Thermal Comfort in Summer (2014). While the City has begun to integrate thermal comfort into the design of local parks and playgrounds (e.g. trees, shade structures, water fountains, splash pads), it has yet to implement formalized policies targeting heat island reduction in a downtown context. This report is a first step towards filling that gap. The purpose of this study is to assess the state of heat islands in the City Centre Planning District and to propose recommendations for improving thermal comfort in outdoor public spaces. The downtown area is highly susceptible to the heat island effect due to dense development and a lack of vegetation, creating hot microclimates which can discourage the use of outdoor public space. A special focus was placed on assessing thermal comfort in spaces where large numbers of people pass through or gather. This report analyzed the design characteristics that contribute to hot microclimates and subsequently made recommendations to integrate thermal comfort considerations into municipal policies, regulations and city capital and construction projects. 1 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 147 of 211 Integrating heat island reduction into citywide policies and plans can help protect the health of Windsor residents, enhance the character of the public realm, facilitate the implementation of the Provincial Policy Statement (Section 1.8), and encourage sustainable and resilient development throughout the city as a whole. 2 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 148 of 211 2. Background This section provides background information on the causes of urban heat islands and the associated risks to the environment, public health, and quality of life. The background also provides context on downtown Windsor and includes a review of the city’s existing plans and initiatives that address climate change and thermal comfort. Windsor’s Changing Climate The City of Windsor (population 210,891) is Canada’s southernmost city and has summertime temperatures that are among the highest in the country (Health Canada, 2015). According to Environment Canada, Windsor has the highest annual number of days with a humidex value above 35°C (Environment Canada, 2009). Climate change is predicted to increase the frequency, intensity, and duration of extreme heat events, exacerbating Windsor’s humid continental climate (Casati et al., 2013). It is projected that the number of days over 30°C in the City of Windsor could triple by 2100 (Berry et al., 2011). This change is cause for concern. The Urban Heat Island Effect Urban heat islands are defined as the occurrence of higher temperatures in urban areas compared to their rural surroundings (EPA, 2008). Dark-coloured, impermeable surfaces in urban areas absorb and hold solar radiation, causing elevated surface and air temperatures (Rizwan et al., 2008). Developed areas can experience air temperatures on average 1 to 3°C and as much as 12°C higher than rural areas (EPA, 2008). The main factors that contribute to the creation of urban heat islands are as follows: 1) Lack of vegetation in urban environments 2) Thermal properties of urban materials 3) Anthropogenic heat emission 4) Dense urban form 5) Local climate and weather patterns The heat island effect is most intense during the day, but urban air temperatures also remain warmer throughout the night as radiation absorbed by surfaces during the day is slowly released (EPA, 2008). Heat islands vary seasonally, and are most intense in the summer on clear days with low wind speeds (Rosenzweig et al., 2006). Contributing Factors A number of factors can exacerbate the heat island effect. Urban development typically results in a loss of vegetation and an increase in impervious surface cover such as roads, sidewalks, parking 3 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 149 of 211 lots and buildings. The materials traditionally used for urban infrastructure – concrete and asphalt – absorb more radiation than natural surfaces and hold higher temperatures (EPA, 2008). Additionally, dark coloured materials absorb more radiation than light coloured materials. These properties are referred to as Albedo, the amount of radiation a surface reflects, and Emissivity, the amount of heat radiated from a surface after it is absorbed (EPA, 2008). The surface temperatures of urban materials can be up to 27°C to 50°C warmer than the surrounding air temperature, due to absorbed radiation (EPA, 2008). Trees and vegetation, on the other hand, can reduce surface and air temperatures and help create cool microclimates. They provide shade and release moisture through the process of evapotranspiration, which reduces ambient air temperature. As a result, green spaces become small cool spots within their hot urban surroundings (Figure 1). The cooling effect of a park can be felt up to 100 metres beyond a park’s border (Slater, 2010). The urban heat island effect is often more pronounced in dense urban areas. Tall buildings can alter wind patterns, and while they create shade, they can also trap air in urban canyons. On a flat surface, solar radiation is either reflected directly back into the atmosphere, or absorbed and then emitted slowly overnight. Tall buildings can intercept the reflection and emission of radiation from surrounding infrastructure, prolonging the storage of heat in dense urban areas (EPA, 2008). Figure 1: Variation in surface and air temperature in relation to land use. Source: EPA, 2008. 4 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 150 of 211 Anthropogenic heat refers to waste heat produced by human energy use, such as heating and cooling of buildings, heat released by vehicles, and industrial activity. The amount of anthropogenic heat varies by land use, with more energy intensive buildings and transportation choices releasing more heat into urban canyons (EPA, 2009). Geographic location, climate and weather patterns also contribute to the formation of heat islands. Cloud cover and wind flow are influential in reducing the urban-rural temperature difference. Large bodies of water near cities can regulate urban temperatures (EPA, 2008). Impacts The heat island effect can have a number of impacts on a community’s natural environment, public health and quality of life. Although some impacts of higher urban temperatures are positive, such as a prolonged growing season, the majority are negative, including (EPA, 2008): • Increased risk of heat-related illness and mortality, especially among vulnerable populations, placing pressure on healthcare/emergency response systems • Reduced thermal comfort in public spaces leading to lower levels of physical activity. • Increased energy consumption for air conditioning, increasing air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions in jurisdictions that use fossil fuels to produce electricity • Increased energy consumption from air conditioning during extreme heat events can increase pressure on the energy grid, potentially leading to rolling blackouts or brownouts • Higher temperatures in urban areas can lead directly to higher rates of ground-level ozone formation. • Warmer storm-water runoff from paved surfaces can lead to reduced water quality in streams, rivers and lakes (EPA, 2008). The frequency and intensity of extreme heat events in Windsor is expected to increase as global temperatures continue to rise (Casati et al., 2013). Public Health & Vulnerability Prolonged periods of extreme heat have been correlated with the increased prevalence of heat- related illnesses and mortality. As air temperature increases, the body’s ability to adapt and stay cool decreases (Health Canada, 2011). Common heat-related illnesses include exhaustion, disorientation, heat rash, heat edema, fainting, and heat stroke (Health Canada, 2011). Severe heat-related illness can lead to mortality. It is estimated that there were at least 700 excess deaths during the 1995 Chicago heatwave, most of which were classified as heat-related (Semenza et al., 1996). 5 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 151 of 211 Within cities, individuals are not at equal risk to the effects of extreme heat due to differing social and demographic factors (Health Canada, 2011). The hot and prolonged summer temperatures in Windsor are a considerable health concern, particularly for vulnerable populations living in urban areas such as the elderly, young children, and people living in poverty (Figure 2). It is important to identify vulnerable groups in order to prioritize population-specific actions to reduce the health effects of extreme heat. Heat Vulnerable Groups Challenges Seniors (65+) • Reduced thirst sensation and sweating • Agility and mobility challenges Infants and young children • Increased body heat production during physical activity • Faster heat gain from the environment if air temperature is greater than skin temperature • Reduced sweating People with chronic illnesses • Medications that affect heat sensitivity by interfering with the body’s cooling functions Socially disadvantaged • Limited financial resources to take protective actions individuals: • Reduced access to air conditioning • Low income • Limited access to health care and social services • Homeless Newcomers to Canada • Language and literacy barriers for non-English or non- French speakers • Limited knowledge of local alert systems, health and social service programs Figure 2: Vulnerable groups and examples of challenges they may face during extreme heat events (Reprinted from Health Canada, 2011). Heat Island Reduction In light of the impacts discussed above, many municipalities have begun to prioritize actions to reduce heat islands and improve thermal comfort in community development plans. Vegetation and surface cover are the two factors communities can address most directly to reduce urban heat islands (EPA, 2008). The release of anthropogenic heat can be addressed through actions to increase energy efficiency and green technologies, while urban form can be influenced through long-term municipal plans and policies. 6 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 152 of 211 Most heat island reduction strategies aim to increase urban greenery and the use of cool materials in buildings and urban infrastructure. Cool building materials include light-coloured or reflective cool roofs, green roofs, and light-coloured or permeable pavement. These technologies effectively reduce the amount of radiation that is stored by the built environment and increase moisture and air circulation. These measures can be implemented through high-level policies, plans, design guidelines and regulations. The benefits of heat island reduction include but are not limited to: improved thermal comfort in public outdoor spaces; reduced public health effects of extreme heat; reduced environmental impacts of urban development; reduced air pollution and energy usage; and higher property values associated with streetscaping design improvements. Windsor’s Downtown Context As the most intensely developed area of the city, Windsor’s downtown core is susceptible to the heat island effect. Downtown areas typically have tall buildings, narrow streets and less space between buildings, making them more likely to retain heat than other areas of the city (Unger, 2004). While higher density mixed use neighbourhoods have many health and environmental benefits, if poorly designed, these urban spaces can retain heat, potentially discouraging pedestrians from using the public spaces. Windsor’s downtown is home to a number of residents and provides a major regional centre for entertainment, business, recreation, government services, employment and education. The area’s compact form and mixed-use development generate high levels of pedestrian traffic relative to the rest of the city. An international border crossing, the Windsor-Detroit Tunnel, also adds to the flow of traffic moving through the downtown. Downtown Windsor includes several outdoor amenities such as the recreation areas along the waterfront, public gathering spaces, and outdoor patios provided by private businesses. Many visitors arrive by transit or park their cars and walk between multiple destinations. As such, the downtown is likely to have many individuals outdoors and exposed to heat during the summer. The areas of focus for this study are spaces where large numbers of people pass through (i.e. major corridors, intersections and parking lots) or gather (i.e. popular destinations and activity centres). The City of Windsor is currently undertaking the Downtown Windsor Planning Study to re- assess the vision for the downtown core and guide development in the City Centre Planning District over the next 20 years. The area includes the Glengarry-Marentette and City Centre West Community Improvement Plans as well as the Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Area. The Downtown Windsor Heat Island Study has been conducted as a complementary study to assess thermal comfort in public outdoor spaces in downtown Windsor. This report provides policy and design recommendations to help reduce the heat island effect and improve thermal 7 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 153 of 211 comfort in public outdoor spaces. These recommendations will help ensure that the downtown remains a comfortable and desirable place to work, visit and live. Windsor Policy Context Various plans and supporting initiatives were reviewed to assess the extent to which heat island reduction measures and thermal comfort are included in Windsor’s current planning process. To date, there has been no implementation of formalized policy targeted towards reducing the heat island effect in downtown Windsor. Plans • Windsor’s Official Plan The City of Windsor’s Official Plan contains objectives and policies that guide future planning and physical development in the city. The Official Plan serves as a roadmap for long-range land use, growth management, and environmental protection. While the Plan does not include any policies directly addressing heat island reduction, many of the goals and objectives it sets out could support the implementation of reduction initiatives, particularly text in the Strategic Direction section: 4.2.1.4 To protect against climate change and its possible adverse effects on human health, the physical environment, economy and quality of life. • Environmental Master Plan (2006) The City of Windsor’s Environmental Master Plan sets out a series of short and long term actions to improve the City's environment. Most actions are related to City of Windsor activities and operations. There is no specific mention of urban heat island reduction. • Climate Change Adaptation Plan (2012) The City of Windsor’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan outlines actions to help Windsor reduce the risks associated with climate change and increased temperatures. The Plan called for the City to complete and urban heat island study to identify hotspots and their causes as well as the prioritization of actions to reduce them. • Parks Master Plan (2016) The recently approved Park Master Plan is a living document that guides the direction of the parks systems and its operational management for the next 20 years. This plan identifies the importance of Parks and Natural systems to counteract the effects of climate change, and specifically outlines actions required to mitigate the heat island effect and reduce the health risks associated with increasing temperatures. These actions include 8 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 154 of 211 enhancing access to drinking water, low impact design & green infrastructure, increasing the number of spray pads across the City and determining appropriate shade targets. • Urban Forestry Management Plan (Forthcoming) In 2016-2017, the City of Windsor will develop an Urban Forestry Management Plan. This Plan will serve as a 20-year strategic document guiding forestry priorities, including canopy coverage, strategic tree planting initiatives, and heritage tree protection. Reports • Assessment of Vulnerability to the Health Impacts of Extreme Heat in the City of Windsor (2011) This document assessed extreme heat and health vulnerability in the City of Windsor. A range of responses needed to reduce adverse health impacts of extreme heat were provided. • Urban Heat Island Effect in Windsor: An Assessment of Vulnerability and Reduction Strategies (2012) Health Canada partnered with the City of Windsor in 2012 to map the urban heat island effect and conduct an assessment of reduction measures. The report provided targeted recommendations for action at the local level to reduce the urban heat island effect. • Improving Thermal Comfort in Windsor Ontario: Assessing Urban Parks and Playgrounds (2013) In 2013, the City of Windsor in collaboration with Health Canada, initiated a second phase of the urban heat island study. The report analysed thermal comfort at six local urban parks in Windsor. Various actions, both design and policy specific, were recommended to improve thermal comfort in park and playground design. • Designing City of Windsor Parks to Improve Thermal Comfort in Summer (2014) This study was initiated in 2014 to further support actions taken by the City of Windsor to mitigate extreme heat. The report suggested various cooling options that can be used in urban park design to improve thermal comfort. As part of this report, a shade inventory was completed at all City parks. This information will be used to support the development of an Urban Forestry Plan, which is expected to include tree canopy targets. Programs • Stay Cool Windsor-Essex (2010) In 2009, Health Canada partnered with the City of Windsor to develop a Heat Alert and Response System to notify residents of extreme heat events. “Stay Cool Windsor-Essex” evolved from this collaboration in 2010, providing community members with information 9 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 155 of 211 about personal protection measures and emergency procedures to follow in the event of a heat wave. Other Actions • Installation of green and reflective roofs on municipal buildings The City of Windsor has installed five green roofs and two reflective roofs on municipal buildings (2007-present). In addition, when shingles are replaced, efforts have been made to replace dark shingles with lighter coloured alternatives (Health Canada, 2015). The new City Hall, currently under construction, will also have a green roof. • Integrating thermal comfort considerations into the retrofit of City parks The Parks and Recreation Department has integrated thermal comfort design features including shade structures, trees, lighter coloured artificial mats under playground equipment, and water features where appropriate into parks redevelopment (Health Canada, 2015). 10 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 156 of 211 3. Methodology This section outlines the process undertaken to complete the Downtown Windsor Heat Island Study. The purpose of this study was to identify design characteristics that contribute to urban heat island formation in outdoor spaces, and locations downtown where thermal comfort could be improved. The information collected through this study was analysed and used to propose recommendations for reducing the heat island effect in downtown Windsor. 1) Literature Review A literature review of municipal reports, best practice guides, and academic articles detailing the heat island effect was completed prior to investigating the current state of the downtown heat island. 2) Site Assessment The goal of the site assessments was to investigate the current state of heat islands in downtown Windsor and to identify design characteristics that contribute to or reduce heat island formation. I) Site Selection Internal discussion and preliminary site visits were conducted to identify areas of interest in the downtown, focusing on popular destinations and areas where large numbers of people pass through or gather that are also have elevated surface and air temperatures. Areas of high pedestrian traffic were identified using pedestrian counts collected by the City. Areas with high surface temperatures were identified using the Public Health Information Management System (PHIMS), a web-based mapping and modelling application provided by Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox & Addington Public Health. This application used satellite-derived surface temperature data to provide surface temperature maps for the City of Windsor. The above information was used to select fourteen sites in the downtown area. All of the sites fit one or more of the following criteria: • Area of high pedestrian traffic • Public gathering space • Proximity to activity centre (e.g. employment, entertainment, transit) • Location of future development/streetscaping • Identified as a hot or cool spot by PHIMS II) Site visits and analysis The authors of this report conducted on-site assessments at each of the 14 sites. Each site assessment included visual observations of the area and a range of surface temperature measurements. Sites were assessed on July days that surpassed 23°C, between 1:30- 11 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 157 of 211 3:30p.m., with sunny or mostly sunny conditions. Weather conditions were taken from Environment Canada’s current data. A template was used to record site characteristics affecting thermal comfort and site users’ behaviour. The full template is included in Appendix 1. Temperatures of sun-exposed and shaded surfaces were measured using a Mastercraft Temperature Reader. Ambient temperature measurements for the City of Windsor were taken from Environment Canada data collected at the Windsor Airport. Note that site specific air temperatures could not be measured. The methodology for the site assessments was based on information found in the Waterloo Region Shade Audit Information Guide and Tool and the Toronto Shade Guidelines. 3) Survey A survey was developed to gauge public attitudes towards thermal comfort in outdoor spaces. The survey was administered by interview to a small number of site users (i.e. seven people) while conducting site assessments. Participants were interviewed about their activity patterns downtown, personal protection against extreme heat, and how the City could improve thermal comfort in public outdoor spaces. The complete list of questions is available in Appendix 2. While small in number, the interviews provided useful information to support the study. However, a wider distribution of the survey would provide more representative feedback regarding thermal comfort and the use of public space downtown. 4) Review of Municipal Heat Island Reduction Measures A number of plans, policies, guidelines and regulations were reviewed to determine best practices for urban heat island reduction in Canadian cities and other countries. The purpose of this review was to identify heat island reduction strategies that could be applied in the Windsor context. 5) Review of City of Windsor’s Capital Budget The Capital Project Listing, a part of the 2016 Capital Budget 5-year Plan, was reviewed to identify opportunities to implement heat island reduction strategies into future reconstruction or development projects. 6) Recommendations The results of the above mentioned steps were analysed and used to develop recommendations for improving thermal comfort in outdoor public spaces in downtown Windsor. 12 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 158 of 211 4. Site Assessment The section discusses the results of the site assessment, which includes a summary of the 14 sites selected as well as the results of the site analysis and public survey. An analysis of this data was used to develop high-level policy recommendations for improving thermal comfort in downtown Windsor. Site Selection Fourteen sites were selected in downtown Windsor and divided into the following categories for analysis: activity centres (major centres for employment, entertainment, transit, etc.), intersections, parks, residential streets, and gathering spaces (Figure 3). Figure 3 – The fourteen selected sites within the downtown study area. 13 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 159 of 211 Category Site Photograph Activity Centre Caesars Windsor Major centres for The public walkways surrounding a large casino employment, and entertainment centre. entertainment, transit, etc. Windsor International Transit Terminal A public transit facility shared by Transit Windsor and Greyhound Canada. Intersection Chatham St. W. and Pelissier St. The intersection of two An intersection in the downtown core, roads. surrounded by mid-rise development. Ouellette Ave. and University Ave. A major intersection at the heart of the downtown core, surrounded by mid-rise development. Ouellette Ave. and Wyandotte St. A major intersection in the downtown core, surrounded by mid- and high- rise development. Dougall Ave. and Wyandotte St. W. An intersection in the downtown core, surrounded by low-rise development. Wyandotte St. E. and Goyeau St. An intersection in the downtown core near the entrance to the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. 14 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 160 of 211 Park Piazza Udine Park Urban green space used for A mid-sized urban park connecting to Windsor’s recreation riverfront trail. Senator Croll Park A large urban park spanning an entire city block. Charles Clark Square A paved and landscaped public square. Vision Corridor A mid-sized urban park adjacent to the Windsor International Aquatic and Training Centre. Gathering Space Maiden Lane W. An assembly or meeting A pedestrian-only alleyway lined with local place, especially a social or businesses. festive one Festival Plaza A large open space designed for special events and festivals. Residential Street Victoria Ave. A public road with private A residential street in a historic neighbourhood, houses and buildings on lined with mature trees. one or both sides 15 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 161 of 211 Site Analysis Each of the 14 sites were analysed to identify a) site-level design features that contribute to heat island formation, and b) site-specific measures that could be implemented to improved thermal comfort. The detailed results of each site assessment are provided in Appendix 4. The five sites types were also compared to analyse the state of thermal comfort in public outdoor spaces downtown. The site assessments confirmed the presence of hotspots with elevated surface temperatures in downtown Windsor. The hotspots shared the following characteristics: low shade coverage, little vegetation, and high proportions of dark coloured or impervious surfaces. Cool spots with surface temperatures lower than ambient temperatures were also present throughout the downtown, but these were infrequent and typically covered less surface area. Cool spots were characterized by heavy shade cover, high amounts of vegetation, and low proportions of dark coloured or impervious surfaces. Parks Parks had the coolest microclimates and highest activity levels relative to other downtown sites. They featured low proportions of built surfaces, high proportions of vegetative cover, and many mature trees. Three out of four parks (Piazza Udine, Senator Croll, and Charles Clark) had high activity levels, despite Piazza Udine and Charles Clark Square having overall light shade coverage. The shaded seating options were used more than sun-exposed seating. In Piazza Udine, benches in the sun were empty while every shaded bench was in use. Trees provided the majority of shade within the parks, especially Senator Croll Park. Charles Clark Square lacked natural shading but offered umbrellas and a shade structure. However, this shade structure did not appear to offer adequate shading and could be enhanced by additional trees. The fourth park, Vision Corridor, experienced very low activity levels and insufficient shading. There were large stretches of open, unshaded spaces and the park’s only seating options were two picnic tables. Additional trees, shade structures, and seating could be added to increase thermal comfort and activity levels at this park. 16 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 162 of 211 Intersections The downtown intersections were characterized by the following: mostly built environments with high proportions of dark and impermeable surfaces. These sites had warm and unshaded microclimates relative to other downtown destinations. The majority of street trees were not large enough to provide sufficient shade and private properties had little landscaping. The intersection of Wyandotte at Goyeau had no street trees. Very few people walked through or waited for transit. The bus stops at this intersection lacked shade provision and posed the greatest risk of heat exposure. The streetscape exhibited one of the hottest microclimates found in the downtown. Wyandotte at Dougall was also poorly designed for pedestrian use. The intersection had few street trees and was surrounded by vacant lots covered in gravel which contributed to a hot microclimate. Dark asphalt used to fill potholes was one of the hottest temperatures measured at this site. The intersection of Chatham and Pelissier provided more shade and seating options than the previous two, which corresponded with somewhat higher activity levels. The west side of Pelissier featured seating and shade trees installed during recent streetscaping, however Chatham Street and the east side of Pelissier were sun-exposed. The level of shading was still not ideal for a comfortable microclimate, and could be enhanced by adding street trees on the sun- exposed sidewalks. The intersections of Ouellette at University and Ouellette at Wyandotte had the greatest number of pedestrians. Ouellette at University was shaded by awnings, buildings and street trees, and featured a number of benches and planters added during recent streetscaping improvements. The provision of shade on private patios and public walkways is especially important here due to the many residents, employees and tourists that are drawn to the heart of the downtown. Thermal comfort should be prioritized to protect these users from sun exposure. Many users passed through Ouellette at Wyandotte, however very few remained for an extended period of time unless they were waiting for transit. Bus shelters and bus stops were areas of increased concern due to inadequate protection from heat and sunlight. Enclosed bus shelters 17 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 163 of 211 blocked the wind and very few street trees were positioned in proximity. Canopy coverage should be preserved along Ouellette Avenue and increased along Wyandotte Street. Residential Street Unlike any other downtown streetscape, Victoria Avenue was heavily shaded by mature trees. The street had a noticeably cooler microclimate than surrounding streets with fewer or younger trees. This site is not a prominent downtown destination because it is residential; however the cool microclimate created by the mature trees demonstrates an ideal level of shading for a comfortable pedestrian environment. Activity Centres Activity centres were among the hottest destinations in the downtown. Shading and vegetative cover was lacking, if not absent, around Caesar’s and the Windsor International Transit Terminal. Dark and impermeable materials dominated. The high level of activity at the Windsor International Transit Terminal exposed many users to excessive heat and sunlight. This is particularly concerning for vulnerable populations relying on public transit as their primary mode of transportation. The majority of bus stops were sun- exposed. Out of all the bus stops, only two provided shelters with shaded benches. The remaining bus stops had no sun protection and shade trees were entirely absent. The walkways surrounding Caesar’s were extremely hot and entirely paved. No street trees or landscaping were present and translucent awnings did not provide adequate shade for pedestrians. This site highlights the importance of encouraging private property owners to incorporate shade structures, trees and landscaping in the design of their buildings to cool the surrounding microclimate. 18 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 164 of 211 Gathering Spaces Downtown gathering spaces featured bursts of activity and site users. These gathering spaces were predominantly covered with impervious surfaces such as concrete, with little shade coverage or vegetation present. Festival Plaza hosts popular large-scale events, but is underutilized at other times. No shade or seating was provided for site users. Enhancing these features could make the site more comfortable and increase daily usage during the summer months. Public water fountains were present on site, and should be implemented in other public spaces downtown. Maiden Lane experienced a steady flow of pedestrians and business patrons. The site provided a variety of seating options, awnings and shade trees, although the canopy cover was relatively thin. A significant amount of shade was cast by the buildings themselves. This site demonstrates how a balance between public and private shade provision results in a comfortable public space. Materials Within each site, there was considerable variation in temperature between different materials. Surface temperature measurements showed that a dramatic range existed between sun-exposed and shaded surfaces. At Maiden Lane, the pedestrian walkway constructed of red brick measured 51.8°C under the sun, but only 37.2°C in the shade. Differences between shaded and unshaded surface temperatures occurred in all materials measured, including concrete, stone, asphalt, plastic, metal, rubber, wood, and grass. The hottest surface found throughout the sites was sun- exposed artificial mulch, constructed of rubber, measuring 63.8°C. In contrast, the coolest surface, measuring 15.8°C, was shaded grass. Figure 4 displays the range of temperatures between materials and between sites. 19 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 165 of 211 Average Surface Temperature of Materials in Shade vs Sun Sun Shade 60.0 50.0 52.9 52.7 49.9 47.5 C) 47.0 ° 40.0 38.8 38.3 35.8 36.6 30.0 33.0 32.1 31.1 26.8 25.6 20.0 Average Average Temperature ( 10.0 0.0 Light Asphalt Metal Brick Stone Wood Grass Concrete Materials Figure 4: Average temperature of materials in shaded and sun-exposed conditions. Discussion In summary, the coolest sites in the downtown were heavily shaded by mature trees. Many of the existing street trees were young and provided insufficient shade for pedestrians. Although sunlight was considered an attraction to some site users, people were drawn to public spaces that offered shade from trees, canopies, umbrellas, and overhangs. If natural sources of shade were insufficient, pedestrians sought constructed shade options or shadows cast by buildings, however, shade structures were uncommon at most of the sites. The most effective shade coverage consists of both natural shade and constructed shade sources. The need for thermal comfort was highlighted by transit users seeking protection from the sun. The majority of downtown transit stops failed to provide adequate shade for users. Enclosed bus shelters absorbed sunlight and blocked the wind, becoming uncomfortably hot. The surface temperature of a plastic seat located inside a bus shelter on Wyandotte and Ouellette measured 20 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 166 of 211 56.8°C, which is comparable to sun-exposed asphalt. The sign and post bus stops which are more common throughout the downtown offered no shade. The site assessment results indicate that comfortable microclimate conditions—temperature, sunlight, shade and wind—are important in supporting outdoor activity. If comfortable conditions are provided through site design, public outdoor spaces are more likely to remain enjoyable and engaging. Survey Results Seven surveys were administered to site users to gauge public attitudes towards thermal comfort in outdoor spaces. Participants were approached during site visits and interviewed regarding their activity patterns downtown, their preferred outdoor space downtown, their responses to extreme heat, and their opinions as to how outdoor public spaces could be made more comfortable during the summer. The full questionnaire sheet is available in Appendix 2. The majority of survey respondents emphasized that the sources of shade in downtown public spaces are insufficient. Respondents expressed their preference for outdoor destinations with a cool, comfortable and animated atmosphere. Many named the riverfront as a desirable destination due to the cooling 21 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 167 of 211 breeze and attractive scenery. The need for supplementary seating options and bus stops in the shade was also highlighted: • “Bus stops and transfer areas need more shade. People miss the bus because they are standing too far back under the shade of a tree and the drivers don’t see them”. • “Downtown Windsor needs more seating. It’s nice to sit down when hot, but there’s nowhere shady to sit. This is a big problem”. To enhance thermal comfort in public spaces, participants suggested cooling features such as water fountains and misting stations. Lastly, most survey respondents were unfamiliar with Stay- Cool Windsor-Essex and the Heat Alert and Response Plan (HARP), public programs dedicated to informing Windsor residents of extreme heat warnings and personal protection measures. The interviews provided useful information to support the study; however, a wider distribution of the survey would provide more representative feedback regarding thermal comfort and the use of public space downtown. 22 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 168 of 211 5. Review of Municipal Heat Island Reduction Measures This section presents an overview of heat island reduction measures that communities throughout Canada and the United States have implemented. The purpose of this review was to identify heat island mitigation actions that may be applicable in Windsor. Most of the heat island reduction measures reviewed fell under the following categories: 1) High level policies and action plans A growing number of Canadian cities now reference urban heat island reduction in their official plans, climate change adaptation plans or urban forestry plans (Richardson & Keizer, forthcoming). Heat island reduction policies are most common in larger metropolitan areas in the Quebec-City to Windsor corridor, the most urbanized and climate-sensitive area of Canada, with Montreal and Toronto taking a lead. However, a number of medium sized cities have also begun integrating heat island reduction into their policies (Richardson & Keizer, forthcoming).When integrating heat island reduction into high-level policies, it is important include specific directives and measures. The words “suggest” and “encourage” may not be strong enough to ensure that policy is translated into action. • Toronto’s Official Plan specifies the need to “create innovative green spaces such as green roofs and designs that reduce the urban heat island effect” (Toronto City Planning 2015). The city has also developed a Shade Policy and Shade Guidelines for development. • London’s Urban Forest Strategy prioritizes the need to enhance plantable spaces in hot spots. • Sherbrooke, QC, has included 15 actions targeted at reducing urban heat islands in its Adaptation Plan. 2) Pilot Projects Many cities choose to conduct pilot projects or demonstration projects before implementing heat island reduction actions on a larger scale. Pilot projects allow the city to test the feasibility of various reduction strategies, demonstrate the benefits, attract public interest and encourage community action. When moving from pilot projects to projects with a larger scope, lack of interdepartmental communication can be a major barrier for municipalities. Cross-departmental collaboration is important for advancing the design and implementation of projects. 23 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 169 of 211 • Québec City launched a street greening pilot project in the central borough of La Cité- Limoilou, to reduce the urban heat island effect on a residential street in a vulnerable neighbourhood. The city is in the process of developing a Complete Streets Policy, through which urban heat island reduction will be incorporated into a variety of city projects including active transportation, engineering, transit and public health projects. The policy will focus on improving quality of life in vulnerable neighbourhoods and will involve collaboration with neighbourhood groups. • Chicago’s Green Alleys Program started as a pilot project in 2006 to implement green design in commercial, industrial, and residential alleys during maintenance. This program ensures that the city now takes a more sustainable approach to alley maintenance and reconstruction, installing permeable and light-coloured pavement any time an alley is repaved. Since the program’s inception, over 100 Green Alleys have been installed, creating a network of cool islands and improving stormwater management. 3) Design Guidelines Design guidelines can provide instructions for city staff, private developers or homeowners, describing the best methods for implementing cool design techniques and building technologies. These documents guide the use of specific design elements such as natural shading, constructed shade structures, light coloured or porous pavement, cool roofs and green roofs when designing new developments or retrofitting. Design guidelines are useful for encouraging individuals and businesses to implement heat island reduction on private property. • Burlington’s Downtown Urban Design Guidelines include heat island reduction principles related to public realm design, site plans, parking lots, green roofs, and cool roofs. • The Region of Waterloo has published a shade audit tool and information guide for developers and designers in order to increase shade coverage in publically accessible spaces. • Toronto has published Design Guidelines for ‘Greening’ Surface Parking Lots. • The Downtown Phoenix Urban Form Project includes an entire chapter addressing heat island reduction through a form-based design code. 4) Regulations Regulations can set standards and minimum requirements for heat island reduction efforts on public and private property. They are a stronger tool for translating policy into action, but the city must ensure that it has the ability to enforce any regulations put in place. The most commonly used regulations for reducing heat islands are bylaws governing tree management, tree protection or landscaping in open space and parking lots. 24 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 170 of 211 • A number of Ontario cities have bylaws that govern the protection and conservation of trees on public and private property, including Toronto, London, Kingston, Guelph, Oakville and Mississauga. Some have set quantitative targets for increasing tree canopy coverage. • The American cities of Sacramento and Chicago have enacted ordinances that set minimum standard for shade in parking lots. • Toronto, Montreal, and Laval have also enacted regulations requiring green roofs or cool roofs on buildings above a specific size. 5) Incentive Programs Many cities have developed incentive programs to make heat island reduction strategies more feasible for private property owners and developers. These can include financial incentives, such as subsidies or grants, and non financial incentives, such as density bonusing. When promoting heat island reduction and cool design techniques to developers and homeowners, it is important to highlight the economic benefits such as higher property values or energy cost savings. • Toronto’s Eco-Roof Incentive Program provides grants for green and cool roofs, and has helped fund their installation on more than 100 buildings across the city. 6) Public Outreach/Awareness City councils and the general public are often unfamiliar with the concept of urban heat islands, and may therefore not prioritize actions to cool their cities. It is important to educate public stakeholders to increase awareness and encourage community action. Municipal action plans that emphasize the connection between heat mitigation and public health are more likely to gain support from decision-makers. Planners should seek public input during and after project implementation to ensure that community needs are met. 25 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 171 of 211 6. Capital Budget Review The City’s 2016 Capital Budget 5-year Plan was reviewed to identify opportunities to implement heat island reduction measures into upcoming reconstruction or development projects. To increase cost effectiveness, heat island reduction measures should be implemented in conjunction with capital projects that have already been scheduled and funded, such as: • ECP-014-07: City Centre Streetscaping Improvements Streetscaping improvements for University Avenue, from Victoria Avenue to Goyeau Street, are forecasted to begin in 2021 and involve road replacement, sidewalk work, and sewer repair. This project presents an opportunity to implement shade provision, light coloured materials, greening, and other cool technologies into the revitalization of the streetscape. • TRN-003-07: Customer Service – Bus Stops A citywide transportation infrastructure project aims to improve customer service at bus stops. This project entails the installation of bus shelters, signage, and other amenities to meet transit user needs. Thermal comfort should be prioritized throughout project design and implementation, specifically through increased shade provision and protection from solar radiation. • Road Rehabilitation Program Citywide road rehabilitation is another opportunity to integrate heat island reduction strategies into upcoming projects. The road rehabilitation program lists streets that will undergo mill and pave work, full reconstruction, or curb improvements. Although there are no proposed downtown locations on the 5-year Plan, there are a number of other opportunities citywide. 26 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 172 of 211 7. Recommendations This section provides high-level policy and design recommendations to reduce heat islands and improve thermal comfort in Windsor’s City Centre Planning District. These recommendations are based on the analysis of a number of reports, policies, and programs, in addition to the findings from site assessments and public consultation. Although this study focused on downtown Windsor, the recommendations are applicable in neighbourhoods throughout the city. This study focused on action that could be implemented by the public sector; however, action on private property is also necessary for effective heat island reduction. Integrate heat island reduction measures in city plans and policies. I. Integrate urban heat island reduction and thermal comfort into the objectives and policies of Windsor’s Official Plan, focusing on policies that pertain to the public realm and sustainable development. Include specific measures to ensure that policy language is translated into action. Make amendments to other city plans as appropriate (e.g. the Central Riverfront Implementation Plan). See Appendix 3 for areas of the Official Plan in which heat island policy could be integrated. II. Integrate report findings into the Downtown Windsor Planning Study and in the development of a new vision for the Downtown Planning Area. Develop cool street design guidelines and implement recommendations in a Downtown Pilot Project. Cool street guidelines can provide useful information to assist staff and consultants with designing streets that will reduce the heat islands in the downtown. A cool street design pilot project is intended to serve as a citywide model for cool design implementation, with streetscaping, landscaping, and paving options that reduce the heat island effect. The chosen area for the pilot project should be a central gathering space within the downtown business improvement area, featuring high pedestrian traffic. The project should focus on improving thermal comfort for the public, including vulnerable populations, and involve local residents in the design process. Cool street design policies or guidelines should include the following design features: o Repave roadways and sidewalks with light or porous materials o Redesign bus shelters to provide more shade o Plant new trees at bus stops and along sidewalk o Install seating under street trees o Narrow roadways, increase open space and vegetation, and develop ‘green boulevards’. 27 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 173 of 211 Suggested Pilot Projects Include: • University Avenue Street Redesign From Victoria Avenue to Goyeau Street, University Avenue is scheduled to undergo full road reconstruction in 2021. This street is also subject to an upcoming Environmental Assessment. Redesign of the public right-of-way could provide opportunities to implement heat island reduction measures and to improve thermal comfort. University Avenue is an important downtown artery and experiences high pedestrian traffic, which is likely to increase with the opening of the University of Windsor’s School of Creative Arts. Working groups involving business and property owners should be conducted to promote the use of cool technologies and greening on private property. The City should consider implementing cool street design features discussed above. • Alleyway Redesign Develop an alley greening program similar to the Chicago Green Alleys Program. Repave alleys using light-coloured or porous pavements, add shade structures and benches, and plant new trees to transform alleyways into cool microclimates. Take advantage of the opportunity to enhance and animate currently underused public space. Form an interdisciplinary team at the City of Windsor to integrate heat island reduction into upcoming capital projects. Roads and sidewalks are public space and could greatly benefit from the implementation of heat island reduction initiatives during future capital projects. An interdisciplinary team would allow relevant city departments, including Transportation, Planning, Engineering, Forestry, Public Works Operations, and the Environmental Master Plan Office to have input and share knowledge during project planning and design. The team would identify opportunities to integrate street greening, cool paving, and increased shade coverage into projects listed in the Capital Budget. The goal of this team is to create a comfortable, healthy urban environment in the most effective and impactful way. Prioritize heat island reduction in the forthcoming Urban Forestry Management Plan. Develop tools for preserving and increasing tree canopy coverage on both public and private property. Ensure that the Urban Forestry Management Plan addresses the need for street trees in the Downtown area, and emphasizes their importance in heat island reduction and improving thermal comfort. Consider setting minimum shade requirements for surface parking lots. Prioritize thermal comfort for public transit users. Collaborate with the Transportation Department to increase shade provision when placing bus stops and designing shelters. Include trees and landscaping when developing bus stop designs. Investigate measures that could be taken to improve outdoor thermal comfort at the Windsor International Transit Terminal. 28 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 174 of 211 Develop thermal comfort guidelines to assist homeowners and developers in designing cool spaces. Encourage the use of cool design elements—shade trees, shade structures, light coloured or porous pavement, cool roofs and green roofs—in new development and when retrofitting existing development. Consider implementing financial incentives to increase feasibility. Refer to The Urban Heat Island Effect in Windsor, ON: An Assessment of Vulnerability and Mitigation Strategies for further information on cool-design options. Promote a culture of sun safety and increase public awareness of the urban heat island effect. Using a health promotion approach, educate decision makers and members of the public on the prevalence of heat islands and their adverse health effects. Promote personal protection measures and programs such as Stay-Cool Windsor Essex, particularly to vulnerable populations. Explore opportunities to collaborate with the Windsor-Essex County Public Health Unit and District School Boards to encourage the development and implementation of healthy policies. Develop a green roof/cool roof and living wall by-law and/or incentive program for private property. A green roof/cool roof and living wall by-law would require new developments to incorporate features to reduce the heat island effect in downtown. This type of requirement is important specifically in the downtown area because of the density of buildings that contribute to the heat island effect. Additionally, incentives could be provided to new or existing developments that want to incorporate these features. 29 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 175 of 211 Conclusion There is a pressing need for heat island reduction action in the City of Windsor. Warmer urban temperatures are detracting from the comfort and usability of public space downtown. However, this issue can be addressed through changes to planning policy and development in the public realm. Hotspots are prevalent in downtown Windsor. The hottest surfaces were found at sites with low shade coverage, little vegetation, and high proportions of dark, impermeable surfaces. Although some efforts have been made to improve thermal comfort in city parks and playgrounds, additional action should be implemented at street level, building level, and on private property. Windsor can learn from other municipalities in Canada that have already implemented policies and regulations to reduce heat islands and cool cities. Going forward, it is recommended the City of Windsor prioritize heat island reduction in its public policy and plans. A collaborative approach between departments and with public stakeholders is recommended in order to implement heat island reductions strategies and create lasting change. To ensure that policy is translated into action, the City should take the lead by implementing pilot projects, with the lessons learned integrated into high level planning and regulatory measures. The City should also promote the use of cool design techniques and personal heat protection measures to the public. Further research should investigate the difference between neighbourhoods with mature streets trees and neighbourhoods where street trees are less established. The benefits of heat island reduction measures are numerous and provide clear justification for action. Above all, heat island reduction is supported by the Official Plan mandate: 4.2.1.4 To protect against climate change and its possible adverse effects on human health, the physical environment, economy and quality of life. It is clear that the urban heat island effect poses a serious risk to quality of life, not only in the downtown but in the City of Windsor as a whole—a risk that is expected to worsen as the climate changes. Integrating heat island reduction actions into citywide policies and plans will ensure Windsor’s continued development as a healthy, sustainable and livable community. 30 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 176 of 211 References Berry, P., Richters, K., Clarke, K.L., & Brisbois, M.C. 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Retrieved June 30 from http://chd.region.waterloo.on.ca/en/healthyLivingHealthProtection/resources/ShadeAudit_GuideTool.pdf 33 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 179 of 211 Appendix 1: Site Assessment Template Site Assessment # Location: Date: Description: Time Range: Environment Canada/PHIMS Predictions Temperature ( ) Condition Past 3 Days Humidity (%) ℃ Avg Temperature Humidex ( ) Wind Speed (km/hr) PHIMS Surface Temp ℃ Area Characteristics Ground Surface □ Mostly Built □ Mixed □ Mostly Natural Types of Pavement: Types of Vegetation: Shade Coverage □Heavy Shade □Medium Shade □Light Shade □Very Light □No Shade Natural Shade: Constructed Shade: MPAC Land Use Classification: Intensity of (Surrounding) □ Low Rise □ Mid Rise □ High Rise □ N/A Development: Building Materials: Other Notes: 34 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 180 of 211 Surface Temperatures Point Description Material Shade/ Surface Time Sun Temp (1) Shade □ Sun □ (2) Shade □ Sun □ (3) Shade □ Sun □ (4) Shade □ Sun □ (5) Shade □ Sun □ (6) Shade □ Sun □ (7) Shade □ Sun □ (8) Shade □ Sun □ (9) Shade □ Sun □ Surface Temperature Range: Distance (m) to: River Nearest Cooling Centre Nearest Park Activities on Site Activity Level □ High Use □ Medium Use □ Low Use □ No Users Activities Behaviour Other Notes: Pictures: Site Materials Behaviour Shade Features Other 35 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 181 of 211 Appendix 2: Public Survey Downtown Urban Heat Island Survey The purpose of this survey is to help the City of Windsor understand the downtown’s needs with regards to heat, shade, and thermal comfort. All results will remain anonymous. 1) Do you live in the Windsor downtown core i.e. 2) Are you familiar with Stay Cool Windsor- the area which borders within North Riverside, Essex or HARP? South Giles Blvd., East Glengary Ave, West-Janette Ave.? Yes No Yes Somewhat No 3) When you come downtown, do you usually have 1 stop (destination) or multiple stops? If multiple, do you walk, drive, or bike in between those places? 4) On average, how long is the duration of your trip downtown? (E.g. 30 minutes, 2 hrs, etc). ______ 5) What is your favourite outdoor space in downtown Windsor and why? (E.g. street, park, trail, market, gathering space, etc.) 6) Can you remember a time that you left a public outdoor space because it was too hot? Yes No 7) What do you do to cool down on hot summer days? (E.g. swim, stay inside where there is air conditioning, etc.) 8) What should the City of Windsor do to make public outdoor spaces more comfortable in the summer? 36 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 182 of 211 Appendix 3: Official Plan Review Urban heat island reduction should be integrated into the City of Windsor’s Official Plan to ensure its consideration in the planning process. In its current state, the plan does not include any policies directly addressing heat island reduction, however many of its existing objectives would support the implementation of reduction initiatives, particularly the Strategic Direction: 4.2.1.4 To protect against climate change and its possible adverse effects on human health, the physical environment, economy and quality of life. Amendments should focusing on policies that pertain to the public realm and sustainable development, and should include specific directives for action. The following is a list of sections of the Official Plan where heat island reduction could be integrated into existing policies or added as a new policy: 4.0 Healthy Community • 4.2.1 Healthy and Liveable City 5.0 Environment • 5.3.1 Objectives (Environmental Quality) • 5.3.6 Urban Forestry Policies 6.0 Land Use • 6.7.3.7 Design Guidelines (Public Open Space Policies) • 6.7.4.4 Design Guidelines (Private Open Space Policies) • 6.11.2.4 Urban Forest (City Centre Planning District) 7.0 Infrastructure • 7.2.5.2 Improve Public Transportation • 7.2.6.17 Guidelines for New Roads 8.0 Urban Design • 8.1 Goals • 8.5 Ecological Design • 8.5.1.2 Urban Forest 8.5.2.5 Landscaping 8.5.2.8. Energy Conservation • 8.6 Micro-climate • 8.6.1 Objectives 8.6.2 Policies 8. 11 Streetscapes • 8.11.2.5 Landscaping for Seasonal Conditions • 8.11.2.9 Paved Surfaces for Pedestrians • 8.11.2.11 Mainstreets • 8.11.2.17 Seating Provision 37 | ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 183 of 211 Item No. 8.6 Council Report: S 17/2018 Subject: Updating the Climate Change Adaptation Plan and Changemakers Project - City Wide Reference: Date to Council: 2/21/2018 Author: Karina Richters Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change 519 253 7111 x 3226 [email protected] Pollution Control Report Date: 1/30/2018 Clerk’s File #: EI/10822 To: Mayor and Members of City Council Recommendation: 1. THAT City Council APPROVE participation in ICLEI Canada’s Adaptation Changemakers Project; and, 2. THAT the Chief Administrative Officer and the City Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to take any such action required to effect the recommendation noted above and sign any required documentation for ICLEI Canada, satisfactory in legal form to the City Solicitor, in technical content to the City Engineer and in financial content to the City Treasurer; and, 3. THAT the Chief Administrative Officer DELEGATE signing of all claims and applicable schedules and other such documents required as part of the request for payment to the Senior Manager of Pollution Control or designate, subject to financial content approval from the area’s Financial Planning Administrator or their manager. Executive Summary: N/A Background: In November 2010, City Council approved the participation in the ICLEI Canada’s (“Local Governments for Sustainability”, formerly International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives) Canada Adaptation Initiative. The development of the ICLEI initiative was sponsored by Natural Resources Canada’s Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation Division. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 184 of 211 Page 1 of 4 The City of Windsor’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan was approved in principle on November 19, 2012 (M498-2012). The status of the Climate Change Adaptation Plan is presented in report S16/2018. Discussion: In the summer 2017, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Municipalities for Climate Innovation Program issued a call for Climate Adaptation Partner Grants. ICLEI Canada submitted a successful grant application to undertake the Adaptation Changemakers project. The purpose of the Adaptation Changemakers Project is: To build capacity in the selected municipalities for integrating adaptation across the wider community and municipality; To develop opportunities to collaborate with local stakeholders in carrying out vulnerability and risk assessments, prioritizing impacts, and developing a local community climate adaptation and action plan; and Create a network of adaptive communities located within Ontario, British Columbia and Newfoundland. Through this Project, ICLEI Canada commits to: Deliver a minimum of three national workshops on: o Climate Science and Vulnerability Assessment o Risk Assessment, Analysis and Prioritization o Developing and Implementing Adaptation Plans; Share all materials with the Partners; Provide assistance to the City of Windsor throughout the course of the project; and Work with the Project Participants to create a summary report of their localized outputs. The City of Windsor commits to: Identify two or more staff within the municipality to fill the following roles: project lead (Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change) and project support; Actively participate in all project-related conference calls, workshops, meetings, and webinars; Contribute to the development of targeted materials for their community; and Spearhead the process of setting up a local vulnerability and risk assessment workshop involving a broad range of internal and external stakeholders; Participate in the delivery of local workshops with stakeholders; and Report final results and lessons learned for broad scale dissemination. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 185 of 211 Page 2 of 4 The estimated time commitment is approximately 15 days over a 2-year period above that which is required to locally develop a complete and robust updated community climate change adaptation plan. Risk Analysis: There are no significant or critical risks associated with the partnership with ICLEI Canada for the Changemakers Adaptation Project. The redevelopment of the City’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan will include updating the vulnerability and risk assessments for potential climate change impacts using updated climate science and recent historical events. The intent of the plan redevelopment is to address these risks. Financial Matters: ICLEI Canada agrees to cover the travel costs of two participants from the City of Windsor (transport and accommodations) incurred as part of their participation in the three national workshops. The City of Windsor agrees to assume all costs associated with the conduct of its localized events (i.e. meeting room rentals, advertising, other business expenses, etc.). These expenses can be accomodated within the 2018/2019 Environmental Master Plan Operating budgets. Consultations: Asset Planning Finance Conclusion: Upon completion of this two year initiative, the City of Windsor will have an updated local community climate change adaptation plan. Through the process, City administration and City Council will acquire the expertise and knowledge that will further allow the City to manage the impacts of climate change and reduce vulnerabilities. This knowledge sharing and capacity building opportunity will help our region continue to be a leader on climate change adaptation. This initiative will also support the concurrent work for a regional climate change strategy being undertaken by the Essex Region Conservation Authority. Planning Act Matters: N/A Approvals: Name Title Karina Richters Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change Chris Manzon Senior Manager of Pollution Control ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 186 of 211 Page 3 of 4 Name Title Michael Dennis Financial Planning Administrator France Isabelle Tunks City Engineer (Acting) Joe Mancina Chief Financial Officer/City Treasurer and Corporate Leader Finance & Technology Onorio Colucci Chief Administrative Officer Notifications: Name Address Email Appendices: ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 187 of 211 Page 4 of 4 Item No. 8.7 Council Report: S 18/2018 Subject: Partnership with Partners for Action - City Wide Reference: Date to Council: 2/21/2018 Author: Karina Richters Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change 519 253 7111 x 3226 [email protected] Pollution Control Report Date: 1/30/2018 Clerk’s File #: EI/10822 To: Mayor and Members of City Council Recommendation: That City Council RECEIVE this report for information. Executive Summary: N/A Background: Partners for Action (P4A) are an applied research network, based out of the Faculty of Environment at the University of Waterloo, with founding support provided by The Co- operators Group Ltd. and Farm Mutual Reinsurance Plan. Their research focus is on advancing flood resiliency in Canada in the face of a changing climate and extreme weather. Their vision is a risk-aware Canada where homeowners take responsibility for protecting themselves and recovering from flood, and decision-makers consider flood risk in planning and preparing our communities. Their objectives are to better understand flood risk, and make sound decisions to reduce risk through: Facilitating collaboration between researchers, government, and non- governmental organizations towards making strategic decisions to improve flood resiliency in communities; Identifying innovative, practical research tied directly to flood resiliency in Canada, and leveraging relationships towards funding such research; Sharing results and best practices, including measurable activities to reduce risk of flood in municipalities; and, Educating Canadians about their flood risk, actions they can take to reduce this risk, and opportunities to transfer this risk. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 188 of 211 Page 1 of 4 Discussion: In December 2017, Partners for Action (P4A) approached the City of Windsor to determine interest in partnering on their research project, “Be FloodSmart: Understanding Audiences and Targeting Messages to Increase Personal and Community Flood Preparedness”. The 2018 workplan is attached for reference. The goal of this project is to identify personal and community-level influences on flood preparedness and develop messaging that will increase personal and community-level flood preparedness. As part of the FloodSmart work, P4A is partnering with the Canadian Red Cross to ask flood survivors how their experience has shaped their perceptions of flood risk in their community, and whether this experience has driven them to prepare for the next flood event. In order to do this the City of Windsor was approached to be a partner as our community has recently been impacted by two significant floods. P4A would like to survey between 500 and 1,000 Windsor residents, asking about their flood experience, what protective actions were taken before the flood, what actions have been taken since, and whether experiencing a flood has affected their perception of risk and their desire to act to protect their homes and families. The results from this survey will also help inform City of Windsor initiatives, including the update to the Climate Change Adaptation Plan, and the Sewer Master Plan which will both require significant community engagement. The City of Windsor will be able to review and provide suggestions for questions to the survey to support these initiatives. This will help ensure that we are not duplicating efforts. The work of P4A requires a review by the University of Waterloo’s Office of Research Ethics that considers the potential impacts to residents participating in the survey. The survey will be developed with the understanding that the recent floods are still impacting the lives of residents. The Canadian Red Cross has also provided a list of targeted ‘priority groups’ for the survey and focus groups, were possible – seniors, youth, Indigenous, newcomers, and disaster-impacted individuals. In addition to the residential survey, the P4A would also conduct interviews with emergency and community service providers about flood preparedness and what the community needs to drive action. P4A is also seeking a second southern Ontario community with no flood experience to participate in the project. This will allow a comparison between the perceived level of risk for residents between communities that have or have not experience a recent flood event. As part of this partnership, P4A and the Canadian Red Cross are requesting the following from the City of Windsor: Financial support of $5,000 for staff time to develop and administer surveys, analyze data and provide a report to the City of Windsor; and ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 189 of 211 Page 2 of 4 In kind support: o to help develop questions that will also meet the City’s needs, review of data and report; o to promote the survey through social and traditional media channels and the City’s website; o to provide copies of the survey to residents in social housing and at senior centres in flood-impacted neighbourhoods; o participate in interviews o provide a venue for hosting focus groups in mid-2018. Based on the experiences of survivors, expert interviews, and known barriers to preparedness, P4A will review current messages, co-develop new ones and develop materials that will focus on increasing personal and community-level flood preparedness. This material will contribute to a national pilot program. The final deliverable (summer 2018) will be a report that highlights key findings on what communities and individuals need to increase flood preparedness. The report will also provide recommendations to support next steps to move forward with community-level actions. Risk Analysis: There are no critical or significant risks. However, those partnering on this project are aware of the sensitivity for individuals that did experience flooding. P4A understands this and the questions in the survey will be vetted through the City of Windsor and the Red Cross as well as through the University of Waterloo’s Office of Research Ethics. Financial Matters: The Canadian Red Cross Society and P4A are financially supporting the Be FloodSmart 2018 Workplan. However, P4A is requesting a financial contribution of $5,000 to support the aspects of the workplan focusing on the City of Windsor as well as the development of the Windsor specific reports. The Environmental Master Plan has sufficient funds to support this project. Consultations: Communications Engineering Dillon Consulting Conclusion: The results of this project will inform the development of a national FloodSmart Canada campaign to increase risk awareness and flood mitigation action for homeowners. The results of this work will also support the update of the City’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan and the Sewer Master Plan. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 190 of 211 Page 3 of 4 Planning Act Matters: N/A Approvals: Name Title Karina Richters Supervisor, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change Chris Manzon Senior Manager Pollution Control France Isabelle Tunks City Engineer (Acting) Onorio Colucci Chief Administrative Officer Notifications: Name Address Email Shawna Peddle 200 University Ave. W., [email protected] Director, Partners for Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1 Action Appendices: Appendix A: Partners for Action/Red Cross Workplan 2018 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 191 of 211 Page 4 of 4 Be FloodSmart: Understanding Audiences and Targeting Messages to Increase Personal and Community Flood Preparedness 2018 Workplan Jan 25, 2018 Project Overview Goal: To identify personal and community-level influences on flood preparedness and develop messaging that will increase personal and community-level flood preparedness. Partners for Action (P4A) is a research and knowledge network based in the Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo. Our vision is a risk-aware Canada where homeowners take responsibility for protecting themselves and recovering from flood, and decision-makers consider flood risk in planning and preparing our communities. To meet this vision, our mandate is to facilitate increased risk awareness towards improved decision making to reduce risk. We provide information on what to do before, during and after a flood on our website, www.floodsmartcanada.ca. P4A’s current focus is FloodSmart Canada, a communication initiative involving partners from all levels of government, the non-governmental community, industry, and business associations to develop flood awareness to action messages to drive personal preparedness in Canadian communities. Based on our understanding of what Canadians know, what they need to know, and barriers to action, we are examining messages and delivery methods, and reworking these messages towards overcoming some of the barriers preventing action in Canada. As part of our FloodSmart Canada work, P4A is partnering with the Canadian Red Cross Society (CRCS) to ask flood survivors how their experience has shaped their perceptions of flood risk in their community, and whether this experience has driven them to prepare for the next flood event. We will rely on the advice and experiences of these flood survivors to develop new preparedness messages, and will test-drive these messages in focus groups. We welcome the City of Windsor as a municipal partner in this research, as your experiences in 2016 and 2017 are still very fresh, and personal responsibility for protecting homes and properties is of interest to the City. We believe flood survivors have a unique perspective on flood risk, and could offer advice to others on how to prepare to reduce risk to their families, homes, and communities. We propose talking to survivors in the City of Windsor, and using their experiences to guide our messages for Windsor and the rest of the country. We propose a survey of approximately 500 – 1,000 Windsor residents, asking about their flood experience, what protective actions were taken before the flood, what actions have been taken since, and whether experiencing a flood has affected their perception of risk and their desire to act to protect their homes and families. Our work would require Office of research Ethics approval form the University of Waterloo, requiring us to consider the potential impacts to residents of participating in the survey. We would also propose interviews with emergency and community service providers about flood preparedness and what the community needs to drive action. We will then use this information to develop preparedness messages that address personal barriers to flood protection, and will conduct focus groups with citizens to invite 1 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 192 of 211 comment on our approach. We anticipate targeting ‘priority groups’ identified by CRCS for the surveys and focus groups, where possible – seniors, youth, Indigenous, newcomers, and disaster-impacted individuals. Our survey can also help inform City of Windsor initiatives, including updates to the Climate Change Adaptation Plan, and the proposed Stormwater Management Plan/Resiliency Study, which will both require significant community engagement. Speaking with residents at this stage about their experiences and what advice they would give to others to improve preparedness could help inform engagement and generate support for personal responsibility for flood protection and support of future climate change and flood risk management initiatives. Under the current project with CRCS, we propose the following tasks: Part 1: Survivor Survey, Expert Interviews, Message Development and National Pilot 1. Expert Interviews Conduct interviews with Canadian flood and risk communication experts. Questions will focus on identifying barriers to preparedness and understanding beliefs about flood risk (preparing, responding and recovering from floods) in a Canadian context. 2. Flood Survivor Survey Conduct research on existing surveys regarding risk perception and barriers to personal preparedness. Develop survey questions and complete UWaterloo Ethics review. Administer survey to residents of the City of Windsor by Internet or mail (telephone if required) (N = 500 – 1,000) to address the following research question: “How has experiencing a flood event influenced your perception of risk and your level of personal preparedness?” 3. Adapt current messages Based on experiences of survivors, expert interviews, and known barriers to preparedness, work with partners to review current messages and co-develop new ones. Develop materials (messages and approaches) that will focus on increasing personal and community-level flood preparedness. 4. National pilot program Present proposed messages to focus groups to determine efficacy of sharing flood- related information with the goal of increasing personal preparedness. Messages will be revised, as needed. Pilot test messages (as part of the FloodSmart Canada campaign) Part 2: Community-Based Social Marketing Program (Ontario) 1. Select communities Select target audiences - residents in 2 Ontario communities with varying socio- demographic features and varying levels of risk. We propose Windsor as our community with flood experience, and another in southern Ontario with no flood experience (to be determined). Work with emergency managers, social services organizations, and others within these communities to better understand the risks they face, and barriers to action. 2 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 193 of 211 2. Focus groups Conduct focus groups with CRCS priority groups within each community, where possible (seniors, Indigenous, youth, disaster impacted, newcomers) to better understand the wants and needs of the target audiences, and barriers that prevent effective personal flood and emergency preparedness. Present messages from Part 1 to these focus groups to determine efficacy of sharing flood-related information with the goal of increasing preparedness actions. Messages will be revised as needed. 3. Report and recommendations Develop a report that highlights key findings on what communities and individuals need to increase flood preparedness. The report will also provide recommendations to support next steps to move forward with community-level actions. Evaluate the success of the program, and rework, as necessary, in advance of next flood season. Project Timeline Project Start: February 1, 2018 Project Completion: December 31, 2018 TASK COMPONENTS TIMEFRAME PART 1: Survivor Survey, Expert Interviews, Message Development and National Pilot 1 Expert interviews Complete Interviews with 8-10 Canadian flood risk/communication experts Questions will focus on identifying key messages and methods to promote flood preparedness for development of 2018 campaign Survivor survey preparation Jan - Mar 2018 Develop questions Identify participants UW Ethics review Run survivors survey (N=500 – 1,000) Apr 2018 Mail survey to flood survivors (regular mail or email) (confidential) Media drive to web survey Interim Report on Part 1 survey and expert interviews May 2018 (DELIVERABLE #1) Results of expert interviews Results of survivor survey Recommendations for crafting messages to drive change 2 Develop, produce and pilot messages nationally Message development prior to 2018 flood season Jan - Feb 2018 Focus groups for messages and methods Mar - Apr 2018 Pilot program May - Jun 2018 Refine and revise Jul - Sept 2018 3 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 194 of 211 TASK COMPONENTS TIMEFRAME PART 2: Community-Based Social Marketing Program (Ontario) 1 Identify communities and begin relationship-development Jan - Mar 2018 2 Interviews with municipal staff, emergency managers and service Apr - May 2018 providers, and community service providers Community-based focus groups (CBSM and messages and methods) June - Aug 2018 Develop questions Identify participants UW Ethics review Run focus groups 3 Interim Report on Part 2 interviews and focus groups Aug 2018 (DELIVERABLE #2) 4 Final Report on Parts 1 and 2, and recommendations for next steps Aug - Sep 2018 (DELIVERABLE #3) Budget As this is part of a larger initiative with the CRCS, we request the following from the City of Windsor: Financial support: $5,000 for staff time to develop and administer surveys, analyze data, and provide a report to the City of Windsor. In-kind support: o City of Windsor staff time to help develop questions that will also meet your needs, review of data, and report review. o City of Windsor staff time to promote the survey through social and traditional media channels, the City’s website, SNAP Magazine, and AM 800 o City of Windsor time to provide copies of the survey to residents in social housing and at seniors centres in flood-impacted neighbourhoods o City of Windsor staff time to participate in interviews (3-4) o Venue assistance for hosting focus groups in mid-2018 4 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 195 of 211 Item No. 8.8 Council Report: S 20/2018 Subject: 3798-Howard Avenue - Permission for parking encroachment on Sandison Street right-of-way - Ward 9 Reference: Date to Council: 2/21/2018 Author: Dan Durocher Technologist 1 (A) 519-255-6257 ex. 6555 [email protected] Development, Projects & Right-of-Way Report Date: 2/5/2018 Clerk’s File #: SE2018 To: Mayor and Members of City Council Recommendation: That the applicants request for the property at 3798 Howard Avenue, identified as PLAN 1259 PT LOT 54 & PT; CLOSED ALLEY; RP 12R1954 PART 2; RP 12R19265 PART 1; to permit a paved vehicle manoeuvring area encroachment on the Sandison Street right-of-way shown on drawing C-3419, BE DENIED; and, That a parking encroachment shown on drawing C-3419-A for this property, BE APPROVED, subject to the owner entering into and encroachment agreement, satisfactory in form to the City Solicitor, and in technical content to the City Engineer, to comply with the terms and conditions: a) Furnish a copy of the Registered Deed by which ownership to the property was acquired. b) Pay a $229.25 (includes 7% G.I.S. charge) encroachment application fee to the Engineering Department. (PAID) c) Indemnify the City of Windsor against all claims which may arise by reason of its occupying sections of the public right-of-way herein before listed and file with the City a Certificate of Insurance showing proof of General Liability insurance with a minimum amount of $2,000,000.00 per occurrence, a cross liability endorsement, The Corporation of the City of Windsor as an additional insured, and a 30 day notice of cancellation provision. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 196 of 211 Page 1 of 7 d) The Certificate of Insurance must be satisfactory in form to the Manager of Risk and Insurance, and provided to the City prior to the commencement of this encroachment and annually thereafter. e) Pay a $300.00 fee to the Engineering Department for the preparation of the agreement, to be signed by the property owner. (PAID) f) Pay a surcharge in the amount of $102.00 to the Engineering Department, as required by M67-2015. (PAID) g) Pay a one-time encroachment fee of $187.25, calculated according to M67-2015, and any and all applicable provincial and federal land taxes, etc. h) Remove the encroachment and restore the area within 60 days to the condition of the surrounding area upon receipt of written notice by the City Engineer. i) The applicant agrees to obtain a Street Opening Permit at a cost of $212.00 for the subject encroachment. j) The agreement shall be for 20 years from the agreement execution date or change of zoning or change in ownership, whichever comes first. k) And further, that the Chief Administrative Officer and City Clerk BE AUTHORIZED to sign the agreement, satisfactory in form to the City Solicitor and in technical content to the City Engineer, in accordance with Bylaw 208-2008 as the authority of encroachments. Executive Summary: N/A Background: A recent Site Plan Control SPC-002/17 was approved which required the developer to improve the current roadway on Sandison Street to City of Windsor Standards. During our review of SPC-002/17, the existing parking encroachment was noticed at 3798 Howard Avenue. A letter was sent to remove or apply for an encroachment agreement. The subject property had a permit from 2002 to pave the right-of-way to access parking on private property. However, the chiropractic office was illegal by parking in the right- of-way, contravening the 2002 permit. The owners have applied for an encroachment agreement to pave the boulevard to City Standards and park on private property. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 197 of 211 Page 2 of 7 Discussion: This encroachment was circulated to the other departments for comments on the proposed parking encroachment. The Transportation Department did not approve of this site requiring vehicles to reverse into the roadway in order to exit the site. This property had a valid permit for the paved access area since 2002. It is currently the only area for parking on this property. Sandison Street will be reconstructed in spring of 2018 as per Site Control Agreement SPC-002/17, which will include 8.0m wide pavement, curb and gutters and a municipal sidewalk. Transportation Comments: Due to the traffic increase along Sandison St generated by the proposed development of 47 residential units, transportation planning does not support the proposed parking layout for 3798 Howard. The parking layout shall be revised to meet the following requirements: The parking layout shall be adjusted so that vehicles are able to turn around within the property limits and without reversing into the right-of-way. All accesses shall conform to the TAC Geometric Design Guide for Canadian Roads and the City of Windsor Standard Engineering Drawings (AS-203 and AS- 204). A curb cut of 24.2 metres is not supported. On-street parking on the south side will eventually be provided. A parking by-law amendment is currently being processed. There is no parking on the south side as of now. Windsor Police Services: The Windsor Police Service, in consultation with City staff, strongly supports the recommended design solution (Administration’s request, drawing C-3419-A) which represents a very reasonable, fair, and best possible compromise solution to a unique situation. The Police Department has further comments on this encroachment in Appendix A. Operations Maintenance Comments: Operations had concerns about the municipal sidewalk as shown in drawing C-3419, which should be included in the encroachment agreement so the property owners would be responsible for any damage due to constant vehicle traffic over the sidewalk. The option recommended by the owners of 3798 Howard Avenue is represented in drawing C-3419. This shows their parking area on private property and the encroachment area that also covers the proposed municipal sidewalk for maintenance purposes. The distance between the property line and the proposed sidewalk is 3.35metres (11feet 0inches). Administration’s Recommendation is showed on drawing C-3419-A. This option shows their parking area reduced to four parking spots with a small encroachment into the right of way. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 198 of 211 Page 3 of 7 The Owner’s Request If the owners option of encroachment is approved, the attached drawing C-3419 and the following terms, conditions and financial matters will be used for the encroachment agreement. a) Furnish a copy of the Registered Deed by which ownership to the property was acquired. b) Pay a $229.25 (includes 7% G.I.S. charge) encroachment application fee to the Engineering Department. c) Indemnify the City of Windsor against all claims which may arise by reason of its occupying sections of the public right-of-way herein before listed and file with the City a Certificate of Insurance showing proof of General Liability insurance with a minimum amount of $2,000,000.00 per occurrence, a cross liability endorsement, The Corporation of the City of Windsor as an additional insured, and a 30 day notice of cancellation provision. d) The Certificate of Insurance must be satisfactory in form to the Manager of Risk and Insurance, and provided to the City prior to the commencement of this encroachment and annually thereafter. e) Pay a $300.00 fee to the Engineering Department for the preparation of the agreement, to be signed by the property owner. f) Pay a surcharge in the amount of $102.00 to the Engineering Department, as required by M67-2015. g) Pay a one-time encroachment fee of $1,085.00, calculated according to M67- 2015, and any and all applicable provincial and federal land taxes, etc. h) Remove the encroachment and restore the area within 60 days to the condition of the surrounding area upon receipt of written notice by the City Engineer to do so. i) The applicant agrees to obtain a Street Opening Permit at a cost of $212.00 for the subject encroachment. j) The agreement shall be for 20 years from the agreement execution date or change of zoning or change in ownership, whichever comes first. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 199 of 211 Page 4 of 7 k) The applicant agrees to maintain and repair the paved manoeuvring area and the adjacent municipal sidewalk to the satisfaction of the City Engineer. Paved Vehicle Manoeuvring Area (Drawing C-3419) (Parking Area / 200 square feet per space) x $350.00 per space = Encroachment Fee (620 sqft / 200 sqft per space) x $ 350.00 per space = $1,085.00 The status of fees and deposits are summarized in the table below: ITEM AMOUNT NOTE Application fee $229.25 Payable upon Application submission Legal agreement $300.00 Payable upon Application submission preparation Surcharge under M67-2015 $102.00 Payable upon Application submission One-Time Encroachment $1085.00 Payable upon CAO approval. fee (Parking) Permit fee $212.00 Payable upon CAO approval TOTAL FEES $1928.25 As indicated in the Background section, through SPC-002/17, the developer is paying for the improvements to Sandison Street. Anything over and above the service agreement will be the responsibility of the owner of 3798 Howard Avenue for this encroachment. Administration does not recommend the owner’s request stated above for the reasons set out in the Risk Analysis section of this report. Administration does recommend the parking layout and parking encroachment illustrated in drawing C-3419-A. Risk Analysis: The associated risks to the Corporation if the Owner’s Request is approved, will be as follows: The existing medical office generates higher vehicle attractions and frequency of parking use in comparison to a residential use. The parking duration is expected to be generally short and combined with the vehicle attraction volumes, the risks of conflict while reversing into the roadway is high. The new residential development of 47 units will generate larger pedestrian and cyclist movements along Sandison St towards Howard Avenue in order to access transit services and the bicycle network. The risk of a conflict is therefore higher, since the only pedestrian facility available would be a sidewalk on the north side ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 200 of 211 Page 5 of 7 of Sandison St, which will then cross travel paths with vehicles reversing from subject property into the roadway. The proposed wider than standard driveway would create a large paved area that poorly defines travel paths and creates a very long area of conflict between vehicles and pedestrians. The separation between pedestrian or young cyclist to parked vehicles and/or vehicles travelling in the roadway would be none and therefore would generate a higher risk of a conflict. The paved vehicle manoeuvring area and the municipal sidewalk adjacent to it will be covered under an encroachment agreement to indemnify the City and provide insurance. These areas will be maintained by the owners. For the Administration’s Recommendation, vehicles exiting this property driving forward will increase their ability to observe and react to hazards than reversing into the roadway. There are no significant and critical risks associated with this option. Liability risks are standard with any encroachment and are mitigated by transferring the risk to the property owner through insurance and indemnification requirements. Insurance, required permits and all other conditions related to the occupancy of the public right-of- way are managed in accordance with the Encroachment Agreement. Financial Matters: Administration’s Recommendation Parking Encroachment Area (Drawing C-3419-A) (Parking Area / 200 square feet per space) x $350.00 per space = Encroachment Fee (107 sqft / 200 sqft per space) x $ 350.00 per space = $187.25 The status of fees and deposits are summarized in the table below: ITEM AMOUNT NOTE Application fee $229.25 Payable upon Application submission Legal agreement $300.00 Payable upon Application submission preparation Surcharge under M67-2015 $102.00 Payable upon Application submission One-Time Encroachment $187.25 Payable upon CAO approval. fee (Parking) Permit fee $212.00 Payable upon CAO approval TOTAL FEES $1,030.50 Consultations: Consultation from the following departments/agencies was requested during the preparation of this report: Development – Patrick Winters Legal – Patrick Brode ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 201 of 211 Page 6 of 7 Risk Management – Dana Paladino Transportation– Juan Paramo Transportation – Jeff Hagan Operations – Roberta Harrison Police – Barry Horrobin Conclusion: Administration does not recommend the owners request of a Paved Vehicle Manoeuvring Area Encroachment at 3798 Howard Avenue shown on drawing C-3419, and recommends the Parking Encroachment shown on drawing C-3419-A. Planning Act Matters: N/A Approvals: Name Title France Isabelle-Tunks Senior Manager Development, Projects & Right of Way/Deputy City Engineer France Isabelle-Tunks City Engineer (Acting) Shelby Askin Hager City Solicitor and Corporate Leader Economic Development and Public Safety Jelena Payne For Chief Administrative Officer Notifications: Name Address Email Councillor - Hillary Payne [email protected] – Ward 9 Dr. Steven and Dr. Paula 3798 Howard Avenue [email protected] Radovich Windsor ON. N9E 3N7 [email protected] Appendices: C-3419; C-3419-A; Appendix A ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 202 of 211 Page 7 of 7 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 203 of 211 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 204 of 211 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 205 of 211 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 206 of 211 ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 207 of 211 Item No. 9.1 Council Report: S 19/2018 Subject: Transit Windsor - Ridership Statistics as of December 31, 2017 - City Wide Reference: Date to Council: 2/21/2018 Author: Patrick Delmore Executive Director Transit Windsor 519-944-4141 ext. 2232 [email protected] Transit Windsor Report Date: 2/2/2018 Clerk’s File #: MT2018 To: Mayor and Members of City Council Recommendation: That the Environment, Transportation and Public Safety Standing Committee and the Transit Windsor Board of Directors RECEIVE FOR INFORMATION the year to date ridership information as at December 31, 2017. Executive Summary: N/A. Background: Transit Windsor collects ridership data on a monthly basis from the electronic fareboxes. Administration continually monitors ridership trends for various purposes such as service changes and budgetary implications, as well as reporting statistics to the Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) and the Ministry of Ontario for Gas Tax funding. Discussion: The year to date ridership, as at December 31, 2017, is 6,732,272 compared to 6,512,338 for the year ending December 31, 2016. This represents an increase of 219,934 one-way rides or 3.38%. This percentage increase is above the industry trend, where many transit properties are seeing less than 2% increases in ridership. The chart below indicates ridership categories and the increases or decreases in each ridership group. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 208 of 211 Page 1 of 4 RIDERSHIP STATISTICS AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2017 COMBINED CASH AND % 2017 2016 Inc/(Dec) PASS Inc/(Dec) Adult 2,522,297 2,674,147 (151,850) (5.68%) Student 3,120,338 2,728,083 392,255 14.38% Senior 765,220 768,068 (2,848) (0.37%) Child <5 128,195 146,046 (17,851) (12.22%) Tunnel 196,222 195,994 228 0.12% Combined Total 6,732,272 6,512,338 219,934 3.38% The positive ridership numbers indicate the highest increase in the student category, which includes high school and post secondary students. With the implementation of the U-Pass in September 2016, increased ridership in that category was expected. In the 2016 report, the U-Pass program was only in place for 4 months. In the detailed 2017 reports, student passes increased by 30% for the year, with a decrease of 14.75% in the cash category. This shows the movement of students from using cash to using the U-Pass and an overall increase in ridership. The Organization of Part-time University Students (OPUS) at the University of Windsor also joined the U-Pass program in 2017 which adds to the changes in the student pass and cash categories. At the start of the September 2017 school year, Transit Windsor started experiencing a significant increase in student ridership for St. Clair College routes on the Dominion 5, Dougall 6, and South Windsor 7. In comparing the month of September 2016 and 2017 year to date ridership, increases ranged from 19.79%, 16.45%, and 22.74%, respectively. In October, the Province wide college strike had a negative effect on ridership on these three routes. With the new semester having started in January 2018, these routes are now seeing even more significant ridership gains. In comparing the month of January 2017 and 2018 year to date ridership, increases ranged from 43.69%, 49.49%, and 39.41%, respectively. There was also an increase in ridership for the senior category, which showed a positive move from cash to passes as well. Risk Analysis: It is important to monitor ridership numbers in the various categories, whether pass, ticket or cash fare, in order to establish patterns and target groups of riders. Further, monthly ridership reports allow Administration to forecast year end variances for budget purposes. ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 209 of 211 Page 2 of 4 Financial Matters: Any increase in ridership will ultimately provide increased gas tax revenues in future years as the gas tax funding is based partly on ridership numbers. Windsor received $3,521,320 in Provincial Gas Tax funding for the 2016/2017 year. The projected gas tax amount to be received for the 2017/2018 year is $3,778,471, which demonstrates the significant increases in gas tax when ridership increases. Transit Windsor expects an additional increase for the 2018/2019 Provincial Gas Tax Program based on our 2017 ridership increase of 3.38%. Consultations: Stephan Habrun, Planning Manager, Transit Windsor. Jason Scott, Planning Analyst, Transit Windsor. Rachel Chesterfield, Acting Financial Planning Administrator, City of Windsor. Conclusion: Administration is pleased with the positive swing in ridership numbers that were produced from the annual reports. Ridership numbers for U-Pass will continue to be monitored in order to determine service enhancement requirements in the coming years. In 2018, the benefits of this program will be used to provide service enhancements to the Transway 1C route. Currently, the frequency on this route is 15 minute service all day and 10 minute service in the AM/PM peak periods. The Transway 1C will now see an increase of frequency to 10 minute service all day from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. This change is expected to assist in reducing the amount of overloaded buses by providing a more frequent and consistent service throughout the day. Planning Act Matters: N/A. Approvals: Name Title Patrick Delmore Executive Director, Transit Windsor Mark Winterton City Engineer Corporate Leader, Environmental Protection and Infrastructure Services Joe Mancina Chief Financial Officer/City Treasurer Corporate Leader, Finance & Technology Onorio Colucci Chief Administrative Officer ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 210 of 211 Page 3 of 4 Notifications: Name Address Email Appendices: ETPS Standing Committee - February 21, 2018 Page 211 of 211 Page 4 of 4