AGENDA - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE

Thursday, January 30, 2020, 9:00 A.M. COUNCIL CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, 1 CENTENNIAL SQUARE The City of Victoria is located on the homelands of the Songhees and Esquimalt People Pages

A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

B. CONSENT AGENDA

C. READING OF MINUTES

C.1 Minutes from the Special Committee of the Whole meeting held January 17, 1 2020

C.2 Minutes from the Committee of the Whole meeting held January 16th, 2020 16

D. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

E. LAND USE MATTERS

F. STAFF REPORTS

F.1 2019 Annual Progress Report: Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan 28

A report providing Council with an overview of the actions completed and initiated in 2019 associated with the Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan.

F.2 Checkout Bag Regulation Bylaw 44

A report providing Council with an updated version of the previously adopted Checkout Bag Regulation Bylaw with a recommendation to give three readings at the following daytime Council meeting, forward the bylaw to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, and subsequently approve.

G. NOTICE OF MOTIONS

H. NEW BUSINESS

H.1 Council Member Motion - Endorsement of a Universal School Food Program for 51 BC

A Council Member Motion seeking Council support to endorse efforts to advocate for a universal, cost-shared healthy school food program.

H.2 Council Member Motion - Expansion of Youth Bus Pass Program 52 A Council Member Motion seeking Council support for an endorsement of a regional pilot program to provide fare-free public transit for youth, and requesting that the Victoria Regional Transit Commission reconsider the initiation of a fare-free public transit program for youth.

H.3 Council Member Motion - Advocacy for Partnerships for Fare-Free Public 54 Transit

A Council Member Motion seeking Council support for a resolution to be sent to AVICC advocating for the Province to introduce fare-free public transit services where communities support the elimination of user-fee barriers to public transit ridership.

I. ADJOURNMENT OF COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE

MINUTES – SPECIAL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE

January 17, 2020, 8:00 A.M. COUNCIL CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, 1 CENTENNIAL SQUARE The City of Victoria is located on the homelands of the Songhees and Esquimalt People

PRESENT: Mayor Helps in the Chair, Councillor Alto, Councillor Isitt, Councillor Loveday, Councillor Potts, Councillor Thornton-Joe, Councillor Dubow, Councillor Young

STAFF PRESENT: J. Jenkyns - City Manager, S. Thompson - Deputy City Manager / Director of Finance, C. Coates - City Clerk , P. Bruce - Fire Chief, T. Zworski - City Solicitor, F. Work - Director of Engineering & Public Works, T. Soulliere - Director of Parks, Recreation & Facilities, B. Eisenhauer - Head of Engagement, J. Jensen - Head of Human Resources, A. Meyer - Assistant Director of Development Services, A. Hudson - Acting Director of Sustainable Planning & Community Development, C. Havelka - Deputy City Clerk, J. O'Connor - Deputy Director of Finance, K. Moore - Head of Business and Community Relations, C. Mycroft - Manager of Executive Operations, J. Karakas - Senior Urban Designer, M. Sandhu - Head of Service Innovation & Improvement, P. Bellefontaine - Assistant Director, Transportation, J. O’Reilly – Heritage Planner, M. Heiser - Committee Secretary

A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Moved By Councillor Loveday Seconded By Councillor Dubow That the agenda be approved.

Amendment: Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Potts That item D.2 - Report_Host of UBCM 2020 Annual Convention be removed from the agenda. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

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On the main motion as amended: CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

D. UNFINISHED BUSINESS D.2 Proposed Adjustments to the Draft 2020-2024 Financial Plan Victoria Civic Heritage Trust Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Potts That Council direct staff to amend the financial plan bylaw to allocate the $500,000 of the new assessed revenue, directed to the building and infrastructure reserve, and provide a grant of $500,000 to the Victoria Civic Heritage Trust.

Motion to postpone: Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Young That this item be postponed to the bottom of the list. FOR (4): Mayor Helps, Councillor Dubow, Councillor Isitt, Councillor Young OPPOSED (4): Councillor Alto, Councillor Loveday, Councillor Potts and Councillor Thornton-Joe DEFEATED

Amendment: Moved By Councillor Isitt That Council direct staff to amend the financial plan bylaw to allocate the $250,000 500,000 of the new assessed revenue, directed to the building and infrastructure reserve, and provide a grant of $250,000 500,000 to the Victoria Civic Heritage Trust. Failed to proceed due to no seconder

Amendment: Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Thornton-Joe That Council request that the Victoria Civic Heritage Trust report publicly to Council each year. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

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Amendment: Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Potts That Council direct staff to engage the VCHT and report back to council on the feasibility of introducing accessibility requirements in relation to these grants. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

On the main motion as amended: That Council direct staff to amend the financial plan bylaw to allocate the $500,000 of the new assessed revenue, directed to the building and infrastructure reserve, and provide a grant of $500,000 to the Victoria Civic Heritage Trust. That Council request that the Victoria Civic Heritage Trust report publicly to Council each year. That Council direct staff to engage the VCHT and report back to council on the feasibility of introducing accessibility requirements in relation to these grants. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Pedestrian Improvements – Sidewalk on Topaz Road Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Loveday That this item be referred to the 2021 budget process.

Amendment: Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Young That this item be referred to the 2021 budget process, including consideration of traffic calming and/or traffic circles along Topaz.

Amendment to the amendment: Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Mayor Helps That this item be referred to the 2021 budget process, including consideration of traffic calming and/or traffic circles along Topaz. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

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On the amendment: CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

On the main motion as amended: That this item be referred to the 2021 budget process, including consideration of traffic calming along Topaz. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Moved By Councillor Dubow Seconded By Councillor Isitt That Council direct staff to come back with an assessment report not later Quarter 3 for traffic calming measure on Chamber Street.

Amendment: Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Dubow That Council direct staff to come back with an assessment report not later Quarter 3 for traffic calming measure on Chamber Street, including recommendation for possible funding. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

On the main motion as amended: That Council direct staff to come back with an assessment report not later Quarter 3 for traffic calming measure on Chamber Street, including recommendation for possible funding. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

The Mayor recalled the vote on the previous motion.

On the main motion as amended: That Council direct staff to come back with an assessment report not later Quarter 3 for traffic calming measure on Chamber Street, including recommendation for possible funding.

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Amendment: Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Dubow That Council direct staff to come back with an assessment report not later Quarter 3 for traffic calming measure on Chamber Street, and surrounding streets, including recommendation for possible funding. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

On the main motion as amended: That Council direct staff to come back with an assessment report not later Quarter 3 for traffic calming measure on Chamber Street, and surrounding streets, including recommendation for possible funding. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

The Mayor recalled the vote on the previous motion.

On the main motion as amended: That Council direct staff to come back with an assessment report not later Quarter 3 for traffic calming measure on Chamber Street, and surrounding streets, including recommendation for possible funding.

Amendment: Moved By Councillor Dubow Seconded By Councillor Isitt That Council direct staff to come back with an assessment report not later Quarter 2, 3 for traffic calming measure on Chamber Street, and surrounding streets, including recommendation for possible funding. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

On the main motion as amended: That Council direct staff to come back with an assessment report not later Quarter 2 for traffic calming measures on Chambers Street, and surrounding streets, including recommendations for possible funding. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

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Place-Making - Engagement Costs Moved By Councillor Loveday Seconded By Councillor Isitt That Council approve: Place-making – Engagement Costs – $8,000 one time. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Public Realm Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Thornton-Joe That Council approve: Public Realm – Government Street $73, 700 one-time expense to do the planning required.

Motion to postpone: Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Isitt That this item be postponed until after the Sustainable Mobility Items. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Service Delivery Improvement Including Equity Lens Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Young That Council reconsider Protocol Function ($60,000).

Amendment: Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Alto That Council reconsider Protocol Function to allocate $20,000 ($60,000). CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY Main motion as amended: That Council reconsider Protocol Function to allocate $20,000. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Alto

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That Council approve: Protocol Function allocation of $20,000. FOR (7): Mayor Helps, Councillor Alto, Councillor Dubow, Councillor Loveday, Councillor Potts, Councillor Thornton-Joe and Councillor Young OPPOSED (1): Councillor Isitt CARRIED (7 to 1)

The Mayor recalled the vote on the previous motion.

Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Alto That Council approve: Protocol Function allocation of $20,000.

Amendment: Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Alto That Council approve: protocol function allocation of $20,000 to celebrate anniversary with Morioka. (Decreased from $60,000) CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

On the main motion as amended: That Council approve: protocol function allocation of $20,000 to celebrate anniversary with Morioka. (Decreased from $60,000) CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Service Delivery Improvement Including Equity Lens Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Alto That Council authorize the following FTEs for 2020 and future years, as well as an one-time expenditure of $75,000 for contracted services, and direct staff to report back by the end of Q1 in Open and Closed Meetings on options for completing and implementing the Equity Framework using the following new staff resources and / or existing resources, including draft job descriptions:  Equity and Diversity Coordinator - 1 FTE – $107,900 (ongoing)  Accessibility and Inclusion Recreation Role - 1 FTE – $52,000 (ongoing)  Accessibility Coordinator – 1 FTE – $107,900 (ongoing)  Social Planner – 1 FTE - $125,111 (ongoing)  Contracted Services - $75,000 (one-time)

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Amendment: Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Isitt That Council authorize the following FTEs for 2020 and future years, as well as an one-time expenditure of $75,000 for contracted services, and direct staff to report back by the end of Q1 in Open and Closed Meetings on options for completing and implementing the Equity Framework, including the direction that priority of the Equity and Diversity Coordinator is the implementation of the Trans Inclusion work, using the following new staff resources and / or existing resources, including draft job descriptions:

Amendment to the amendment: Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Alto That Council authorize the following FTEs for 2020 and future years, as well as an one-time expenditure of $75,000 for contracted services, and direct staff to report back by the end of Q1 in Open and Closed Meetings on options for completing and implementing the Equity Framework, including the direction that initial priority of the Equity and Diversity Coordinator is the implementation of the Trans Inclusion work, using the following new staff resources and / or existing resources, including draft job descriptions: CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

On the amendment: CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

On the main motion as amended: That Council authorize the following FTEs for 2020 and future years, as well as an one-time expenditure of $75,000 for contracted services, and direct staff to report back by the end of Q1 in Open and Closed Meetings on options for completing and implementing the Equity Framework, including the direction that initial priority of the Equity and Diversity Coordinator is the implementation of the Trans Inclusion work, using the following new staff resources and / or existing resources, including draft job descriptions:  Equity and Diversity Coordinator - 1 FTE – $107,900 (ongoing)  Accessibility and Inclusion Recreation Role - 1 FTE – $52,000 (ongoing)  Accessibility Coordinator – 1 FTE – $107,900 (ongoing)  Social Planner – 1 FTE - $125,111 (ongoing)  Contracted Services - $75,000 (one-time)

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Councillor Potts withdrew from the meeting at 10:50 a.m. and returned at 10:52 p.m. Councillor Loveday withdrew from the meeting at 11:08 a.m.

Amendment: Moved By Councillor Potts Seconded By Councillor Isitt That Council defer the FTE for Fleet Energy Emissions Specialist ($108,000) to 2021. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Amendment: Moved By Councillor Potts Seconded By Councillor Isitt That Council authorize the following FTEs for 2020 and future years, as well as an one-time expenditure of $75,000 for contracted services, and direct staff to report back by the end of Q1 in Open and Closed Meetings on options for completing and implementing the Equity Framework, including the direction that initial priority of the Equity and Diversity Coordinator is the implementation of the Trans Inclusion work, using the following new staff resources and / or existing resources, including draft job descriptions:  Equity and Diversity Coordinator - 1 FTE – $107,900 (ongoing)  Accessibility and Inclusion Recreation Role - 1 FTE – $52,000 (ongoing)  Accessibility Coordinator – 1 FTE – $107,900 (ongoing)  Social Planner – 1 FTE - $125,111 (ongoing)  Contracted Services - $75,000 (one-time)  That Council add another FTE to focus on Equity and Inclusion. $108,000 FOR (6): Mayor Helps, Councillor Alto, Councillor Dubow, Councillor Isitt, Councillor Potts and Councillor Thornton-Joe OPPOSED (1): Councillor Young CARRIED (6 to 1)

Amendment: Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Alto That Council authorize the following FTEs for 2020 and future years, as well as an one-time expenditure of $75,000 for contracted services, and direct staff to report back by the end of Q1 in Open and Closed Meetings on options for completing and implementing the Equity Framework, including the direction that initial priority of the Equity and Inclusion Diversity Coordinator is the

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implementation of the Trans Inclusion work, using the following new staff resources and / or existing resources, including draft job descriptions:

Amendment to the amendment: Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Alto That Council authorize the following FTEs for 2020 and future years, as well as an one-time expenditure of $75,000 for contracted services, and direct staff to report back by the end of Q1 in Open and Closed Meetings on options for completing and implementing the Equity Framework taking an intersectional approach, including the direction that initial priority of the Equity and Inclusion Diversity Coordinator is the implementation of the Trans Inclusion work, using the following new staff resources and / or existing resources, including draft job descriptions: FOR (6): Mayor Helps, Councillor Alto, Councillor Dubow, Councillor Isitt, Councillor Potts and Councillor Thornton-Joe OPPOSED (1): Councillor Young CARRIED (6 to 1)

On the amendment: FOR (6): Mayor Helps, Councillor Alto, Councillor Dubow, Councillor Isitt, Councillor Potts and Councillor Thornton-Joe OPPOSED (1): Councillor Young CARRIED (6 to 1) On the main motion as amended: That Council authorize the following FTEs for 2020 and future years, as well as an one-time expenditure of $75,000 for contracted services, and direct staff to report back by the end of Q1 in Open and Closed Meetings on options for completing and implementing the Equity Framework taking an intersectional approach, including the direction that initial priority of the Equity and Inclusion Coordinator is the implementation of the Trans Inclusion work, using the following new staff resources and / or existing resources, including draft job descriptions:  Equity and Inclusion Coordinator - 1 FTE – $107,900 (ongoing)  Accessibility and Inclusion Recreation Role - 1 FTE – $52,000 (ongoing)  Accessibility Coordinator – 1 FTE – $107,900 (ongoing)  Social Planner – 1 FTE - $125,111 (ongoing)  Contracted Services - $75,000 (one-time)  That Council add another FTE to focus on Equity and Inclusion. $108,000

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FOR (6): Mayor Helps, Councillor Alto, Councillor Dubow, Councillor Isitt, Councillor Potts and Councillor Thornton-Joe OPPOSED (1): Councillor Young CARRIED (6 to 1)

Committee recessed at 11:25 a.m. and reconvened at 11:33 a.m.

Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Mayor Helps That the ongoing housing reserve allocation be revised to $400,000. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Sustainability Mobility Strategy Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Young That Council authorize the $500,000 expenditure on bike parking funded from the building and infrastructure reserve. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Mayor Helps That Council approve Transportation - 1 FTE - $142,600. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Isitt That the remaining FTEs under the heading of Sustainability Mobility Strategy be sent to 2021 Budget considerations. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

NeighbourHub – 709-711 Douglas Street Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Potts That Council approve funding for the NeighbourHub for $11,460 from on-going.

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FOR (6): Mayor Helps, Councillor Alto, Councillor Dubow, Councillor Isitt, Councillor Potts and Councillor Thornton-Joe OPPOSED (1): Councillor Young CARRIED (6 to 1)

Victoria Conference Centre Parkade Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Mayor Helps That staff be directed to report back at the next quarterly update regarding the financial implications to ensure that the employees of the VCC parkade receive a living wage. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Electrical Kiosk Beautification Program Moved By Councillor Thornton-Joe Seconded By Councillor Isitt That Council approve forwarding to the 2021 budget process: the Electrical Kiosk Beautification Program. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Banfield Park Swimming Dock Study Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Young That Council approve: one time allocation for Banfield Dock study $15,000.

Amendment: Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Mayor Helps That Council approve: one time allocation for Banfield Dock study $15,000 and report back to Council with funding options and other consideration for installing a larger dock in 2020. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

On the main motion as amended:

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That Council approve: one time allocation for Banfield Dock study $15,000 and report back to Council with funding options and other consideration for installing a larger dock in 2020. FOR (5): Mayor Helps, Councillor Dubow, Councillor Isitt, Councillor Potts and Councillor Young OPPOSED (2): Councillor Alto and Councillor Thornton-Joe CARRIED (5 to 2)

Capital Projects – Countercyclical Spending Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Young That this item be referred to the 2021 budget process CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Victoria Civic Heritage Trust Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Isitt That the remainder of the VCHT and grant for VHF be approved from on-going. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Animal Control Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Alto That staff report back what’s possible to accomplish within the funds already allocated in the animal control service contract. FOR (6): Mayor Helps, Councillor Alto, Councillor Dubow, Councillor Isitt, Councillor Potts and Councillor Thornton-Joe OPPOSED (1): Councillor Young CARRIED (6 to 1)

Our Place Funding Moved By Councillor Thornton-Joe Seconded By Councillor Dubow That Council approve funding $50,000 to Our Place for Operating costs for storage facilities from one-time. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

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Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Dubow That Council allocate $9,850 to the housing reserve from the one-time. FOR (2): Councillor Isitt and Councillor Potts OPPOSED (5): Mayor Helps, Councillor Alto, Councillor Dubow Councillor Thornton-Joe and Councillor Young DEFEATED

Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Isitt That Council allocate $9,850 to the aboriginal coalition to end homelessness from the one-time.

Councillor Thornton-Joe left the meeting at 12:40 p.m. due to a non-pecuniary conflict of interest as she sits on the Board of the Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness.

On the motion: FOR (2): Councillor Alto and Councillor Potts OPPOSED (4): Mayor Helps, Councillor Dubow, Councillor Isitt and Councillor Young DEFEATED

Councillor Thornton-Joe returned to the meeting at 12:42 p.m.

Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Thornton-Joe That Council approve that $10,000 be removed from the ongoing allocation to Council catering.

Councillor Loveday returned to the meeting at 12:47 p.m. On the motion: FOR (2): Councillor Alto and Councillor Thornton-Joe OPPOSED (6): Mayor Helps, Councillor Dubow, Councillor Isitt, Councillor Loveday, Councillor Potts and Councillor Young DEFEATED

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I. ADJOURNMENT OF COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Dubow That the Committee of the Whole Meeting be adjourned at 12:57 p.m. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

______CITY CLERK MAYOR

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MINUTES - COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE

January 16, 2020, 9:00 A.M. COUNCIL CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, 1 CENTENNIAL SQUARE The City of Victoria is located on the homelands of the Songhees and Esquimalt People

PRESENT: Mayor Helps in the Chair, Councillor Alto, Councillor Isitt, Councillor Loveday, Councillor Potts (arrived at 9:17 a.m.), Councillor Thornton-Joe, Councillor Dubow, Councillor Young

STAFF PRESENT: J. Jenkyns - City Manager, S. Thompson - Deputy City Manager / Director of Finance, C. Coates - City Clerk , P. Bruce - Fire Chief, T. Zworski - City Solicitor, F. Work - Director of Engineering & Public Works, T. Soulliere - Director of Parks, Recreation & Facilities, B. Eisenhauer - Head of Engagement, J. Jensen - Head of Human Resources, K. Hoese - Director of Sustainable Planning and Community Development, A. Meyer - Assistant Director of Development Services, A. Hudson - Acting Director of Sustainable Planning & Community Development, C. Havelka - Deputy City Clerk, J. O'Connor - Deputy Director of Finance, C. Mycroft - Manager of Executive Operations, M. Sandhu - Head of Service Innovation & Improvement, R. Morhart - Manager, Permits & Inspections, J. O’Reilly – Senior Heritage Planner, P. Angelblazer - Committee Secretary

GUESTS: C. Umland – Executive Director - Victoria Civic Heritage Trust, C. Townley – Chair – Victoria Civic Heritage Trust, J. Milne – President & CEO - GMC Projects Inc.,

A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Dubow That the agenda be approved. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

B. CONSENT AGENDA Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Thornton-Joe That the following items be approved without further debate. Committee of the Whole Minutes

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CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

G.5 Council Meeting Schedule Amendment Council received a report dated January 9th, 2020 from the City Clerk presenting Council with a recommendation to amend the current meeting schedule. Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Thornton-Joe That the meeting schedule be amended to reschedule the February 20, 2020 Town Hall meeting to February 4, 2020 to be held in the afternoon. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

G.6 Proclamation - International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Thornton-Joe That the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation Proclamation be forwarded to the January 23, 2020 Council meeting for Council's consideration. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

I.1 Council Member Motion - Attendance at the Crab Fest, Port Angeles, October 12th, 2019 Council received a report dated January 8, 2020 from Councillor Loveday regarding a retroactive request for attendance at the Crab Fest, Port Angeles, October 12th, 2019. Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Thornton-Joe That Council retroactively authorize the attendance and associated costs for Councillor Loveday who attended Crab Fest, lunch and a tour of the City with Mayor Dexter held in Port Angeles, October 12th, 2019. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

I.2 Council Member Motion - Attendance at Ottawa Ministerial Meetings Council received a report dated January 10th, 2020 from the Mayor regarding a request for attendance for meetings with Ministers in Ottawa. Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Thornton-Joe

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That Council authorize the attendance and associated costs for Mayor Lisa Helps to travel to Ottawa for meetings with Federal Ministers. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

D. PRESENTATIONS D.1 Downtown Heritage Buildings D.1.1 Victoria Civic Heritage Trust Council received a presentation from the president of the VCHT regarding a capital funding increase request which provided an overview of the organization and its activities, as well as planned activities moving forward. Committee discussed the following:  Community support for the Victoria Civic Heritage Trust.  Importance of preserving and maintaining heritage in response to possible earthquakes. Moved By Councillor Thornton-Joe Seconded By Councillor Loveday That Council receive this presentation for information. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

D.1.2 Downtown Heritage Buildings Seismic Upgrade Fund Council received a report dated January 2nd, 2020 from the Director of Sustainable Planning and Community Development presenting Council with recommendations for using the $150,411.00 in density bonus contributions accrued in the Downtown Heritage Seismic Upgrade Fund and a pending contribution of $67,668.94 from the rezoning of 930 Fort Street, which is due prior to the Building Permit being issued. Moved By Councillor Thornton-Joe Seconded By Councillor Isitt That Council authorize a grant from the Downtown Heritage Seismic Upgrade Fund to the Victoria Civic Heritage Trust (VCHT) equal to the current and pending amounts in the fund to support its Seismic Parapet Incentive Program subject to the VCHT entering into a grant agreement on the terms acceptable to the Director of Finance and in the form acceptable to the City Solicitor. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

E. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

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E.1 Council Member Motion - Advocacy to Increase Tipping Fees for International Solid Waste to Preserve Capacity of the Hartland Landfill Committee received a Council Member Motion dated January 7, 2020 from Councillor Isitt regarding the proposed request that the CRD amend the Hartland Landfill Tipping Fee and Regulation Bylaw to introduce a differential tipping fee for international solid waste from the cruise ship sector. Committee discussed the following:  Utility of revisiting the current fee in response to higher fees in other jurisdictions.  Economic incentives as a result of the current fee structure.  CRD's engagement with waste management.  Reception of the motion from the cruise ship industry. Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Loveday That Council: 1. Requests that the Capital Regional District amend the Hartland Landfill Tipping Fee and Regulation Bylaw to increase the tipping fee for disposal of international solid waste from cruise ships and other sources. 2. Directs staff to engage the CRD on this potential bylaw amendment. 3. Requests that the Mayor write to the CRD Board, copying Mayors and Councils of municipalities in the region, requesting favourable consideration of this request. FOR (7): Mayor Helps, Councillor Alto, Councillor Isitt, Councillor Loveday, Councillor Potts, Councillor Thornton-Joe, and Councillor Dubow OPPOSED (1): Councillor Young

CARRIED (7 to 1)

E.2 Proposed Adjustments to the 2020 Financial Plan - On-Going Funding for TNB2S+ Community Liaison Role Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Isitt That discussion on the item be moved until after item G.3. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

F. LAND USE MATTERS F.1 Application for a New Liquor Primary Licence Kwench Culture Club at 2031 Store Street

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Council received a report dated December 10, 2019 from the Acting Director of Sustainable Planning and Community Development seeking a Council resolution in accordance with the requirements of the Liquor Control and Licensing Act (the Act), regarding an application by Kwench Culture Club for a Liquor Primary licence. Committee discussed the following:  Concerns that should the application be approved, and Kwench Culture Club eventually vacates the premises that the next tenant could convert the building into a club.  Clustering of liquor establishments in the City. Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Loveday That Council direct staff to provide the following response to the Liquor Licensing Agency: 1. Council, after conducting a review with respect to noise and community impacts, does support the application of Kwench Culture Club located at 2031 Store Street having hours of operation from 9:00 am to 11 :00 pm daily with a total occupant load of 265 people. Providing the following comments on the prescribed considerations: a. The impact of noise on the community near the establishment was considered in relation to the request and noise impacts are expected to be proportional to existing licence capacity and associated noise levels in the vicinity. Kwench Culture Club's primary business focus is not the service of alcohol. The primary business focus is to provide a one-stop, multi-service work club that provides office space, fitness facilities, creative studio space and food services. Approval of the licence is not expected to result in unacceptable levels of noise in due to the primary focus of business and hours of operation. b. If the application is approved, the impact on the community is expected to be positive economically as the approval supports the business plan to provide a unique interpretation of large-scale office facilities available to small businesses oriented to towards this model of office environment. c. The views of residents were solicited via a mail out to neighbouring property owners and occupiers within 100 metres of the licensed location and a notice posted at the property. The City received two letters in response to the notification that went to 56 owners and occupants. One letter stated opposition and the other was from the Burnside Gorge Residents Association, and they have no objection to the application. d. Council recommends the license be approved. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

G. STAFF REPORTS

Committee of the Whole Minutes

January 16th, 2020 5 20

G.1 Setback Regulation for Retaining Walls and Other Structures on Waterfront Properties Council received a report dated January 2nd, 2020 from the Director of Sustainable Planning and Community Development presenting Council with information, analysis and recommendations regarding a Council directed amendment to the Zoning Regulation Bylaw which adds a regulation that applies building setbacks to retaining walls and other structures on waterfront properties with residential development including associated risks and implications. Committee discussed the following:  Preservation of ecosystems.  Freedom to roam, access to waterfront.  Waterfront signage.  Soil deposition concerns.  Delegation of Development Permits with Variance. Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Loveday 1. That staff bring forward, for first and second readings, the attached Zoning Regulation Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 20-002 to add a regulation that applies building setbacks to garden suites, accessory buildings, outdoor features and retaining walls on waterfront properties with residential development. 2. That, subject to Council approving the related 2020 Supplemental Budget request, Council direct staff to undertake a second phase of this work, including initiating work on the creation of an environmental protection Development Permit Area for residential shoreline properties, delegating authority for staff to review and approve Development Permit Applications that are consistent with design guidelines, as well as small variances within this area, and begin work on incorporating provisions of the Fence Bylaw into the Zoning Regulation Bylaw. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Committee recessed at 10:38 a.m., and reconvened at 10:46 a.m. G.2 Topaz Park Improvement Plan Construction Funding Council received a report dated January 3, 2020 from the Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities providing information to support the allocation of funding to complete the skate and bike parks, and the artificial turf field replacement at Topaz Park. Committee discussed the following:  Public support for the project.  Concerns about the high cost of the skate park.  Lighting for the skate park.  Health and environmental impacts of the plastic and natural turf fields. Committee of the Whole Minutes

January 16th, 2020 6 21

 The Climate Emergency in relation to City operations.  Safety issues with current field.  Concerns around displacement of existing users if a switch is made to natural turf. Moved By Councillor Loveday Seconded By Mayor Helps That Council approve the following investments for Topaz Park, in the 2020 Financial Plan: 1. Allocate $3.25 million from the Building Infrastructure Reserve Fund to complete the construction of a skateboard park, bike park, and related supporting infrastructure.

Amendment:

Moved By Councillor Isitt That this matter be referred to staff to undertake value engineering and report back to cost estimates for the project. Failed to proceed due to no seconder

Amendment:

Moved By Councillor Loveday Seconded By Councillor Isitt That Council approve the following investments for Topaz Park, in the 2020 Financial Plan: 1. Allocate up to $3.25 million from the Building Infrastructure Reserve Fund to complete the construction of a skateboard park, bike park, and related supporting infrastructure and direct staff to undertake value engineering as a part of the process. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

On the main motion as amended: That Council approve the following investments for Topaz Park, in the 2020 Financial Plan: 1. Allocate up to $3.25 million from the Building Infrastructure Reserve Fund to complete the construction of a skateboard park, bike park, and related supporting infrastructure and direct staff to undertake value engineering as a part of the process. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Committee of the Whole Minutes

January 16th, 2020 7 22

Moved By Councillor Young Seconded By Councillor Thornton-Joe 1. Allocate $3.02 million from the Building Infrastructure Reserve Fund, and $1.2 million from the Artificial Turf Field Reserve Fund, to complete the construction of the artificial turf field replacement project.

Motion to refer:

Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Dubow That the motion be referred to staff, to develop alternate recommendations including funding recommendations to rehabilitate the following sports field in the city using natural materials: 1. The field in the north-west corner of Topaz Park; 2. The fields in the south-west corner of Beacon Hill Park.

Mayor Helps ruled that the inclusion of Beacon Hill Park in the motion was out of order. Councillor Isitt appealed the ruling of the chair. Mayor Helps put the question as to whether the chair is to be sustained FOR (5): Councillor Alto, Councillor Young, Councillor Potts, Councillor Thornton-Joe, and Councillor Dubow OPPOSED (2): Councillor Loveday, Councillor Isitt

The ruling of the chair was sustained.

Motion to refer:

Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Dubow That the motion be referred to staff, to develop alternate recommendations including funding recommendations to rehabilitate the following sports field in the city using natural materials: 1. The field in the north-west corner of Topaz Park;

Amendment:

Moved By Councillor Alto Committee of the Whole Minutes

January 16th, 2020 8 23

Seconded By Councillor Dubow That the motion be referred to staff, to develop alternate recommendations including an environmental analysis and lifecycle costs of the pros and cons of the artificial and natural turf and funding recommendations to rehabilitate the following sports field in the city using natural materials: 1. The field in the north-west corner of Topaz Park; CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Amendment:

Moved By Councillor Young Seconded By Councillor Alto That the motion be referred to staff, to develop alternate recommendations including an environmental and equity lens analysis and lifecycle costs of the pros and cons of the artificial and natural turf and funding recommendations to rehabilitate the following sports field in the city using natural materials: 1. The field in the north-west corner of Topaz Park; CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

On the motion to refer as amended: That the motion be referred to staff, to develop alternate recommendations including an environmental and equity lens analysis and lifecycle costs of the pros and cons of the artificial and natural turf and funding recommendations to rehabilitate the following sports field in the city using natural materials: 1. The field in the north-west corner of Topaz Park; FOR (4): Councillor Alto, Councillor Isitt, Councillor Potts, and Councillor Dubow OPPOSED (4): Mayor Helps, Councillor Young, Councillor Thornton-Joe, and Councillor Loveday DEFEATED (4 to 4)

Committee recessed from 12:39 p.m. and reconvened at 12:56 p.m.

Motion to postpone:

Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Isitt That discussion on the item be postponed until the following Committee of the Whole meeting.

Committee of the Whole Minutes

January 16th, 2020 9 24

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

G.3 Community Equity Lens - Scope Options and Next Steps Council received a report dated January 10, 2019 from the Head of Service Innovation and Improvement providing a summary of the outcomes of the October 17, 2019 Council workshop on adopting a community equity lens and seek direction on options for scope and pace to further this work in 2020, including financial implications. Committee discussed the following:  Ways to reduce costs while maintaining the proposed outcome.  Scope of the Social Planner role.  Appropriate venues for discussing budget considerations.

Moved By Councillor Isitt Seconded By Councillor Young Direct staff to use the Council feedback from the equity workshop on equity values, guiding principles for framework development, equity considerations, and implementation considerations as a foundation for developing an equity lens.

Motion to refer:

Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Alto That this matter be referred to the January 17th, 2020 budget meeting. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

E.2 Proposed Adjustments to the 2020 Financial Plan - On-Going Funding for TNB2S+ Community Liaison Role Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Potts That this matter be referred to the January 17th, 2020 budget meeting. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

G.4 By-election

Committee of the Whole Minutes

January 16th, 2020 10 25

Council received a report dated January 8, 2020 from the City Clerk presenting Council with recommendations for the upcoming by-election including appointments to be filled, a budget, and a by-election date of April 4th, 2020. Committee discussed the following:  Accessibility of voting stations for voters with disabilities. Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Potts That the meeting time be extended until 2:45 p.m. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Moved By Mayor Helps Seconded By Councillor Isitt That Council: 1. Appoint Chris Coates as Chief Election Officer. 2. Appoint Christine Havelka, Monika Fedyczkowska, and Sonia Santarossa as Deputy Chief Election Officers. 3. Direct the Chief Election Officer to advise the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing of the by-election date of April 4, 2020. 4. Authorize forwarding the above motions to the daytime Council meeting of January 16, 2020. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

G.7 Animal Control Services Contract Council received a report dated January 10th, 2020 from the Manager of Bylaw and Licensing seeking Council approval to increase the 2020 Financial Plan by $134,771 funded from new property tax revenue from new development for animal control and pound services. Committee discussed the following:  Avenues to reduce the cost of the unanticipated expenditure.  Other clients to Victoria Animal Control Services. Moved By Councillor Thornton-Joe Seconded By Councillor Alto That this matter be referred to the January 17th, 2020 Special Committee of the Whole. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Committee of the Whole Minutes

January 16th, 2020 11 26

J. ADJOURNMENT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Moved By Councillor Alto Seconded By Councillor Dubow That the Committee of the Whole Meeting be adjourned at 2:28 p.m. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

______CITY CLERK MAYOR

Committee of the Whole Minutes

January 16th, 2020 12 27 ~ VICTORIA

Committee of the Whole Report For the Meeting of January 30, 2020

To: Committee of the Whole Date: January 23, 2020 From: Thomas Soulliere, Director, Parks and Recreation and Facilities

Subject: 2019 Annual Progress Report: Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan

RECOMMENDA TION

That Council approve an exemption for high-profile garden locations from the city-wide garden bed naturalization program, including the north west corner of Topaz Park, the planters along Government Street and Belleville Street, as well as at the cenotaph in Pioneer Square.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The purpose of this report is to provide an overview of progress made on implementation of the Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan.

Victoria's parks inventory includes dynamic, inclusive, and diverse public spaces, which support health and well ness, protects natural areas, and allows residents and visitors to connect with the unique ecosystems and character of the city.

This document provides direction to staff for the purposes of planning and managing the City's parks. The short-term and long-term actions are rooted in public engagement, ensuring that activities and investments align with community values and priorities.

The Parks and Open Spaces 2019 Annual Report (Appendix A) provides a comprehensive accounting of the progress made over the past year towards the goals approved by Council in the strategic document.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this report is to provide an overview of the actions completed and initiated in 2019 associated with the Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan.

BACKGROUND

Council approved the Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan (POSMP) in 2017 as a strategic roadmap to guide the planning, management and investment for the City's parks inventory over the next 25 years. Council has also directed staff to report on the "progress of implementation of priority

Committee of the Whole Report January 23, 2020 2019 Annual Progress Report: Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan Page 1 of 4 28 actions identified in the Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan, Urban Forest Master Plan and the Growing in the City initiative", on an annual basis.

In June 2019, staff provided Council with a progress update on the Growing in the City programs and recommended further actions to advance urban gardening priorities outlined in the 2019-2022 Strategic Plan. Council approved five recommendations focused on removing barriers to food production on private and public land. In addition, targets were set for the program that reflect input received from the Urban Food Table and align with the City's strategic priorities.

In December 2019, staff provided Council with a progress update on the implementation of the Urban forest Master Plan and received approval of funding for priority actions as well as amendments to the Urban Forest Master Plan to reflect updated tree canopy cover data.

ISSUES & ANALYSIS

The Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan guides not only the work of the Parks division, but also informs the consultation for projects led by other City departments, such as the neighbourhood planning process, transportation planning, and the review of private development proposals that impact trees and green spaces.

Staff have advanced work on approximately half of the 55 actions outlined in the POSM P. Some of the 2019 actions of note include:

• Relationship building with local Indigenous people and coordination on park projects • Acquisition of waterfront park land in James Bay • New amenities in the expansion to Cecelia Ravine Park • Renewal of the playground and pathways at Summit Park • Improvements in the Dallas Road and Clover Point park spaces • A comprehensive condition assessment of all amenities in parks • Renewal of five sport courts • Improved accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists in Beacon Hill Park • Recognition events acknowledging the contributions of former mayors Gretchen Brewin and Peter Pollen • Collaboration with stakeholders on sport and cultural events in City parks

Responding to the Climate Emergency

In 2019, the City joined leaders from the region and around the world in declaring a Climate Emergency. Parks and open spaces are being impacted by climate change, but natural assets can also help communities adapt to and mitigate these impacts. The City is taking action to identify risks and develop strategies to increase the community's resilience.

The City has adjusted its management of the planted environment. For example, staff have processed the Council direction to transition garden beds to native and adaptive plants that are drought tolerant, pest resistant, pollinator friendly and lower maintenance. Staff also modified operational practices including a shift to organic fertilizers, utilizing electric equipment, reducing single-use plastics and increasing the propagation and cultivation of native plants.

These actions are aligned with the City's Climate Leadership Plan and contribute to the advancement of Goal 2: Victoria's natural environment flourishes in a changing climate.

Committee of the Whole Report January 23, 2020 2019 Annual Progress Report: Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan Page 2 of 4 29 The 2019 Annual Report attached provides additional details on the progress made over the last year towards realizing the City's strategic goals.

OPTIONS & IMPACTS

That Council approve an exemption for high-profile garden locations from the city-wide garden bed naturalization program, including the north west corner of Topaz Park, the planters along Government Street and Belleville Street, as well as at the cenotaph in Pioneer Square.

In 2019, Council directed staff to "naturalize" all garden beds in the city, except for those in Beacon Hill Park and displays associated with the seasonal hanging basket program. Staff have identified an option, for Council consideration, which would provide for an exemption of three more high- profile garden locations. These sites include the prominent bed at the northwest corner of Topaz Park facing Blanshard Street, as well as the raised planters along Government and Belleville Streets, south of Humboldt Street, and the garden at the cenotaph in Pioneer Square. All of these locations are considered high-profile opportunities to showcase unique seasonal horticultural displays, and staff recommend that Council permit this longstanding practice to continue.

Accessibility Impact Statement

The Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan includes a guiding principle to increase the accessibility of the parks and open spaces system by considering a broad range of accessibility issues at the outset of all park planning and design projects.

The City has also taken actions to balance accessibility considerations with the management of the City's natural habitats including: • Planting lower allergen plants in proximity to high traffic or gathering areas. • Inquiring with neighbouring homes if any residents suffer from pollen allergies prior to tree selection when planting boulevard trees. • Published the Lower Allergen Landscape Planting Resource List and the Pollinator and Allergy-Friendly Gardening in the City of Victoria guide. Both documents are used by staff and shared with the public including new and existing community gardens.

2019 - 2022 Strategic Plan

Progress on the Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan, the Urban Forest Master Plan and Growing in the City initiative, helps the City advance towards strategic objectives:

• #5 Health, Well Being and a Welcoming City; and • #6 Climate Leadership and Environmental Stewardship.

Impacts to Financial Plan

There are no impacts to the 2020 Financial Plan with this report.

CONCLUSION

The Parks and Open Spaces 2019 Annual Report provides a summary of the progress made towards the City's strategic goals and objectives. Staff will continue to provide information on the

Committee of the Whole Report January 23, 2020 2019 Annual Progress Report: Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan Page 3 of 4 30 implementation of the Master Plan through the Quarterly Reports and the Annual Financial Report, in addition to the POSMP annual report.

Respectfully submitted,

Nav Sidhu Thomas Soulliere Assistant Director, Director, Parks and Recreation Parks, Recreation and Facilities

List of Attachments

Attachment A: Parks and Open Spaces 2019 Annual Report

Committee of the Whole Report January 23, 2020 2019 Annual Progress Report: Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan Page 4 of 4 31 Attachment A

City of Victoria Parks and Open Spaces 2019 Annual Report

32 Introduction

The City of Victoria is located on the homelands of the Songhees and Esquimalt People.

Parks and open spaces are a vital piece of the city’s character, culture, and vibrancy. Serving residents and visitors alike, they offer opportunities for socializing, relaxation, play, learning, and connect- ing with nature. They are an important contributor to quality of life, supporting the physical, social, ecological and eco- nomic health of the city and its residents.

Victoria’s parks and open spaces encompass 209 hectares (511 acres) of municipal parks and open spaces and approximately 132 hectares (326 acres) of other public open spaces. Included in this inventory is over 90 hectares (220 acres) of natural areas including Garry oak meadows, rocky outcrops and coastal bluffs and a variety of amenities including play spaces, sports fields and courts, fitness equipment, dog off-leash areas, lawn bowling greens, plazas, gardens and horticultural displays.

The management of parks and open spaces is guided by City policies and plans including the Official Community Plan, Climate Leadership Plan, the Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan and the Urban Forest Master Plan.

This report provides an overview of the progress made in 2019 towards implementing the commitments made in the City’s strategic documents.

33 2 VISION STATEMENT

Victoria’s parks and open spaces system is dynamic, vibrant, inclusive and diverse. Parks and Open It engages residents and visitors with the Spaces Master Plan unique ecosystems, culture and character The Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan was approved of the city, supports in 2017 and is a strategic roadmap to help guide the health and wellness planning and management of, and investment in the for all, and protects City’s parks system. natural areas as a vital resource. The Master Plan sets out a vision, goals and guiding principles in four key areas including: • Protecting the environment • Fostering engaging experiences for everyone • Celebrating Victoria • Strengthening partnerships

34 3 GOAL 1: Protect the Environment

PARKS AND OPEN SPACES PROTECT AND IMPROVE NATIVE ECOSYSTEMS AND HELP THE CITY ADAPT TO CLIMATE CHANGE.

Sensitive ecosystems and natural areas are an important part of the biodiversity of southern Vancouver Island, the City of Victoria, and the parks and open spaces system. They create a unique landscape character that residents and visitors recognize as distinct from any other place. Sensitive ecosystems and natural areas also provide numerous benefits such as climate regulation and stormwater management.

In March 2019, Council joined leaders from the region and around the world in declaring a Climate Emergency. Parks and open spaces are being impacted by climate change, but natural assets can help with adaptation as well. The City is taking action now to identify risks and develop strategies to mitigate negative impacts and boost the community’s resilience.

354 GOAL 1: PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT

There are 12 actions identified in the Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan associated with protecting the environment.

Highlights from 2019 include:

• 5,300 staff and 435 volunteer hours • Nurtured approximately 1,700 trees on the contributed to maintaining natural areas, City’s young tree maintenance program. including: managing and monitoring species at risk, removing invasive species, • Updated the Tree Preservation Bylaw and restoring with native species. to protect approximately 50% of the existing private tree population and • Naturalization of 62 locations in parks nine times more trees than under the and open spaces. previous bylaw.

• Developed a plant selection list that • Developed an implementation plan for includes adaptable plants that are the Urban Forest Master Plan to complete drought-tolerant, pest/disease resistant, high-priority recommendations over the pollinator-friendly, are native to the next five years. region, have aesthetic value, are lower maintenance and are low-allergen. • Installed 1,500 pollinator-friendly plants in boulevards along Esquimalt Road in • Adjusted operational practices to shift Vic West, adjacent to the Johnson organic fertilizers, use electric equipment, Street Bridge. reduce single-use plastics and increase the propagation and cultivation of • Added five new mason bee hive native plants. installations in Beacon Hill Park.

• Developed a concept design for Songhees Park with Garry Oak and Arbutus tree habitats in an ecological restoration of the land.

• Planted 425 new trees on public property, including 30 new trees downtown.

36 5 GOAL 2: Foster Engaging Experiences for Everyone

PARKS AND OPEN SPACES PROVIDE A RANGE OF DIFFERENT EXPERIENCES, ENCOURAGE ACTIVE LIVING, AND ARE MULTIFUNCTIONAL, INCLUSIVE AND ACCESSIBLE.

The parks and open spaces system must be adaptive to meet the changing needs of residents. Among the most critical factors are the increasing population; the aging population; the desire to attract families; the changes in demand and new activities; and the challenge of expanding the parks and open spaces system in a largely built-out and geographically constrained city.

37 6 GOAL 2: FOSTER ENGAGING EXPERIENCES FOR EVERYONE

There are 28 actions identified in the Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan relating to fostering engaging experiences for everyone.

Highlights from 2019 include:

• Acquired two acres of land located at • Upgraded an east/west connector Laurel Point, to expand City waterfront pathway in Beacon Hill Park to improve parkland in James Bay. accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.

• Added new community amenities, including • Published the Lower Allergen Plant List new playground, fitness equipment, multi- and the Allergy-Friendly Gardening use pathway and washroom at Cecelia Factsheet and posted on City website. Ravine Park in Burnside-Gorge. • Published a guide to encourage urban • Renewed the playground at Summit Park gardening and food production in mixed and constructed a new pathway, providing use, multi-unit residential developments. access into the park from McNair Street in Hillside-Quadra. • Completed the Parks Condition Assessment, which will help prioritize • Installed 28 new benches as a part of the improvements to park assets. Park Furnishing Dedication program. • Processed 4,000 park space bookings • Renewed 5 sport courts at Beacon Hill for sport tournaments and league games. Park and Hollywood Park. • Hosted 133 events special events in Parks. • Initiated significant park improvement projects for Peter Pollen Waterfront Park, • Hosted the 16th Annual Vic West (VeeDub) Songhees Park and Topaz Park. skateboard competition, a Skateboard Canada sanctioned event for athletes • Hosted boulevard gardening tours and qualifying for the National Team and the workshops for 250 people. Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

• Revised City grants to help reduce barriers and encourage community gardening activities in all neighbourhoods.

38 7 GOAL 3: Celebrate Victoria

SPECIAL PLACES AND AMENITIES IN THE PARKS AND OPEN SPACES SYSTEM ANIMATE THE CITY AND SUPPORT EVENTS FOR RESIDENTS AND VISITORS.

Outdoor festivals, celebrations, concerts, and performances enliven the parks and open spaces system, entice new park users, offer opportunities for social connection, and are naturally multigenerational. Tourists are increasingly travelling for specific events and are looking for unique local experiences.

39 8 GOAL 3: CELEBRATE VICTORIA

There are 8 actions identified in the Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan to celebrate Victoria.

Highlights from 2019 include:

• Honoured Gretchen Brewin, Victoria’s first • Opened seating on the new waterfront female mayor, by planting a new Garry plaza next to the Johnson Street Bridge Oak in Beacon Hill Park’s Mayor’s Grove. in Vic West.

• Unveiled murals • Celebrated the 14th annual Tree Appreciation Day with the community • Collaborated with local First Nation in Beacon Hill Park. representatives on educational, cultural, and art opportunities as part of the • Renamed waterfront Park in James Bay Songhees Park Expansion Project. in honour of former Mayor Peter Pollen.

40 9 GOAL 4: Strengthen Partnerships

COMMUNITY MEMBERS, STEWARDS AND PARTNERS HELP ENHANCE ALL PARKS AND OPEN SPACES IN THE CITY.

There is a significant number of residents and volunteer organizations that contribute to the improvement of open spaces across the city, from neighbourhood associations, and environmental stewardship groups, to other service providers and government organizations. The City will need to continue to play a proactive role to build partnerships, support volunteers, coordinate efforts, and maximize the use of parks and other open spaces.

4110 GOAL 4: STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIPS

There are 5 actions identified in the Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan associated with the goal of strengthening partnerships.

Highlights from 2019 include:

• Awarded the right to host the 55+ BC • Collaborated with the CRD Wastewater Games in collaboration with 12 regional Treatment Project team to deliver public municipalities, Tourism Victoria and the realm improvements along Dallas Greater Victoria Sport Tourism Commis- Road and Clover Point Park. sion. • Collaborated with Transport Canada • Collaborated with the Growing Young to improve the environmental health Farmers Society to host camps of public Waterfront Park in James Bay. encouraging and empowering kids • Engaged with community advocates to grow and eat healthy organic food to strengthen the stewardship of the in an urban setting. urban forest. • Working jointly with School District 61 on the planning and design of an artificial turf sport field at Victoria Highschool.

• Collaborating with the representatives of local First Nations to incorporate elements of Lekwungen culture into parks and open spaces.

4211 CLOSING STATEMENT

This report is a snapshot of progress on the goals and actions outlined in supporting parks and open spaces. For more information please visit www.victoria.ca/parks.

The City is located on the homelands of the Songhees and Esquimalt People.

City of Victoria 1 Centennial Square Victoria, BC V8W 1P6 Phone: (250) 361-0600 Email: [email protected] victoria.ca 43 ~ VICTORIA

Committee of the Whole Report For the Meeting of January 30, 2020

To: Committee of the Whole Date: January 24, 2020 Fraser Work, Director of Engineering & Public Works From: Tom Zworski, City Solicitor Subject: Checkout Bag Regulation Bylaw

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

1. Give three readings to Checkout Bag Regulation Bylaw No. 20-025 ("Bylaw") at the daytime meeting of Council on January 30, 2020; 2. Direct the City Clerk to forward the Bylaw to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy for approval in accordance with section 9 of the Community Charter, and 3. Adopt the Bylaw once it has received approval of the Minister.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

In 2018, the City adopted the Checkout Bag Regulation Bylaw No. 18-008, a business regulation bylaw enacted pursuant to municipal authority to regulate business, to regulate distribution of checkout bags by businesses in Victoria. The validity of this bylaw was challenged by a plastic industry lobby group. This challenge was initially dismissed by BC Supreme Court and the bylaw came into effect on July 1, 2018. However, in July 2019 the BC Court of Appeal overturned this decision and declared the bylaw invalid on the ground that it was an environmental measure rather than a business regulation. As such, the Court of Appeal ruled that it should have been enacted under the municipal power to pass bylaws for the protection of the natural environment and that it required provincial approval prior to adoption. On January 23, 2020, the Supreme Court of Canada declined to hear the City's appeal.

It is estimated that prior to the adoption of the bylaw in 2018, Victoria businesses distributed over 17 million plastic checkout bags to city residents each year. Many of these bags escape collection and present significant risks to municipal infrastructure and the environment. A significant portion of these bags also escape recycling systems and end up in the regional landfill. These risks can be avoided through the wholesale adoption of sustainable reusable bag alternatives.

The implementation of the 2018 bylaw has been considered highly successful due to its rapid adoption and compliance rate by local businesses, and the enthusiastic community responses. Even after the Court of Appeal ruling, the majority of local customers and businesses continued to adopt reusable bag alternatives, and acted as if the bylaw was still in effect. It has often been noted by community business and residents that single-use plastic checkout bags do not align with the values of Victorians.

Committee of the Whole Report January 24, 2020 Checkout Bag Regulation Bylaw Page 1 of 2 44 In light of the Supreme Court of Canada declining to hear the City's appeal, the only way for City to implement the regulations first introduced in the 2018 bylaw is to re-enact the bylaw under the authority to protect the natural environment and seek provincial approval for it. Therefore, it is recommended that Council give three readings of the revised bylaw, attached as Appendix A, and forward it to the minister for provincial approval.

The proposed new bylaw is generally the same as the 2018 bylaw with the following changes:

1. Preamble has been amended to expressly identify that the bylaw is being adopted for the protection of the natural environment;

2. The enactment clause has been amended to identify section 8(3)U) [protection of the natural environment] of the Community Charter as the authority for the bylaw in place of section 8(6) [regulation of business];

3. Section 4(1)(c) of the bylaw, which includes an exemption to allow for use of plastic bags for certain foods, has been amended to expressly include a reference to "seafood" to avoid any uncertainty as to the scope of the exemption;

4. Section 6 of the bylaw, which sets out the penalty for violation of the bylaw, has been amended to include a single fine provision (minimum $100 and maximum $10,000) to make it consistent with general practice, to provide flexibility for the courts to impose a fine that is truly appropriate to the circumstances, and to eliminate any legal uncertainty as to the validity of this provision; and

5. Transition provisions contained in the original bylaw have been removed as there is no need for gradual introduction of the new bylaw as its substantive provisions are the same as those of the 2018 bylaw, which was successfully introduced through a gradual process in 2018 and 2019.

aser ork Director of Engineering & Public Works

List of Attachments:

Appendix A - draft Checkout Bag Regulation Bylaw No. 20-025

Committee of the Whole Report January 24, 2020 Checkout Bag Regulation Bylaw Page 2 of2 45 NO. 20-025

CHECKOUT BAG REGULATION BYLAW A BYLAW OF THE CITY OF VICTORIA

The purpose of this Bylaw is to protect the natural environment, reduce the creation of waste and associated municipal costs, better steward municipal property, including sewers, streets and parks, and promote responsible and sustainable business practices that are consistent with the· values of the community by prohibiting, regulating, and imposing requirements on the use of checkout bags.

Contents

1 Title 2 Definitions 3 Checkout Bag Regulations 4 Exemptions 5 Offences 6 Penalties 7 Severability 8 Consequential Amendment to the Ticket Bylaw 9 Effective Date

Under its statutory powers, including sections 8(3)0) of the Community Charter, the Council of the Corporation of the City of Victoria, in an open meeting assembled, enacts the following provisions:

Title

1 This Bylaw may be cited as the "Checkout Bag Regulation Bylaw".

Definitions

2 In this Bylaw

"Checkout Bag" means:

(a) any bag intended to be used by a customer for the purpose of transporting items purchased or received by the customer from the business providing the bag; or

(b) bags used to package take-out or delivery of food;

(c) and includes Paper Bags, Plastic Bags, or Reusable Bags;

"Business" means any person, organization, or group engaged in a trade, business, profession, occupation, calling, employment or purpose that is regulated under the Business Licence Bylaw or the Cannabis Related Business Regulation Bylaw and, for the purposes of section 3, includes a person employed by, or operating on behalf of, a Business;

"Paper Bag" means a bag made out of paper and containing at least 40% of post- consumer recycled paper content, and displays the words "Recyclable" and "made from 40% post-consumer recycled content" or other applicable amount on the outside of the bag, but does not include a Small Paper Bag;

"Plastic Bag" means any bag made with plastic, including biodegradable plastic or compostable plastic, but does not include a Reusable Bag; 46 "Reusable Bag" means a bag with handles that is for the purpose of transporting items purchased by the customer from a Business and is

(a) designed and manufactured to be capable of at least 100 uses; and

(b) primarily made of cloth or other washable fabric;

"Small Paper Bag" means any bag made out of paper that is less than 15 centimetres by 20 centimetres when flat.

Checkout Bag Regulation

3 (1) Except as provided in this Bylaw, no Business shall provide a Checkout Bag to a customer.

(2) A Business may provide a Checkout Bag to a customer only if:

(a) the customer is first asked whether he or she needs a bag;

(b) the bag provided is a Paper Bag or a Reusable Bag; and

(c) the customer is charged a fee not less than

(i) 25 cents per Paper Bag; and

(ii) $2 per Reusable Bag.

(3) For certainty, no Business may:

(a) sell or provide to a customer a Plastic Bag; or

(b) provide a Checkout Bag to a customer free of charge.

(4) No Business shall deny or discourage the use by a customer of his or her own Reusable Bag for the purpose of transporting items purchased or received by the customer from the Business.

Exemptions

4 (1) Section 3 does not apply to Small Paper Bags or bags used to:

(a) package loose bulk items such as fruit, vegetables, nuts, grains, or candy;

(b) package loose small hardware items such as nails and bolts;

(c) contain or wrap frozen foods, meat, poultry, fish or seafood, whether pre- packaged or not;

(d) wrap flowers or potted plants;

(e) protect prepared foods or bakery goods that are not pre-packaged;

(f) contain prescription drugs received from a pharmacy;

(g) transport live fish; 47 (h) protect linens, bedding, or other similar large items that cannot easily fit in a Reusable Bag;

(i) protect newspapers or other printed material intended to be left at the customer's residence or place of business; or

U) protect clothes after professional laundering or dry cleaning.

(2) Section 3 does not limit or restrict the sale of bags, including Plastic Bags, intended for use at the customer's home or business, provided that they are sold in packages of multiple bags.

(3) Notwithstanding section 3(2)(c) and 3(3)(b), a Business may provide a Checkout Bag free of charge if:

(a) the Business meets the other requirements of section 3(2);

(b) the bag has already been used by a customer; and;

(c) the bag has been returned to the Business for the purpose of being re used by other customers.

Offence

5 (1) A person commits an offence and is subject to the penalties imposed by this Bylaw, the Ticket Bylaw and the Offence Act if that person:

(a) contravenes a provision of this Bylaw;

(b) consents to, allows, or permits an act or thing to be done contrary to this Bylaw; or

(c) neglects or refrains from doing anything required be a provision of this Bylaw.

(2) Each instance that a contravention of a provision of this Bylaw occurs and each day that a contravention continues shall constitute a separate offence.

Penalties

6 A person found guilty of an offence under this Bylaw is subject to a fine of not less than $100.00 and not more than $10,000.00 for every instance that an offence occurs or each day that it continues.

Severability

7 If any provision or part of this Bylaw is declared by any court or tribunal of competent jurisdiction to be illegal or inoperative, in whole or in part, or inoperative in particular circumstances, it shall be severed from the Bylaw and the balance of the Bylaw, or its application in any circumstances, shall not be affected and shall continue to be in full force and effect.

48 Consequential Amendment to the Ticket Bylaw

8 The Ticket Bylaw No. 10-071 is amended by inserting, immediately after Schedule Y, the Schedule 1 attached to this Bylaw as the new Schedule Z.

Effective Date

9 This Bylaw comes into force on adoption.

READ A FIRST TIME the day of 2020.

READ A SECOND TIME the day of 2020.

READ A THIRD TIME the day of 2020.

APPROVED BY THE MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE STRATEGY this day of 2020.

ADOPTED on the day of 2020.

CITY CLERK MAYOR

49 Schedule 1

Schedule Z Single Use Checkout Bag Regulation Bylaw Offences and Fines

Column 1 - Offence Column 2 - Section Column 3 - Set Fine Column 4 - Fine if paid within 30 days Providing a Checkout 3(1) $100.00 $75.00 Bag to a Customer except as provided in the bylaw Providing a Checkout 3(2)(a) $100.00 $75.00 Bag without asking whether a customer wants one Providing a Checkout 3(2)(b) $100.00 $75.00 Bag that is not a Paper BaQ or Reusable BaQ Charging less than a 3(2)(c) $100.00 $75.00 prescribed amount for a Checkout Bag Selling or providing a 3(3)(a) $100.00 $75.00 Plastic Bag

Providing Checkout Bag 3(3)(b) $100.00 $75.00 free of charQe Denying or 3(4) $100.00 $75.00 discouraging use of customer's own Reusable Bag

50

Council Member Motion For the Committee of the Whole Meeting of Jan. 23rd, 2020

To: Committee of the Whole Date: Jan. 16, 2020 From: Councillor Loveday and Councillor Isitt

Subject: Endorsement of a Universal School Food Program for BC

BACKGROUND

One of the key strategic priorities for the City of Victoria is to foster “health, wellbeing, and a welcoming City”. The Strategic plan includes an action to “Increase local food security with urban agriculture initiatives to foster food production on private land, support farmers markets and community gardens, food storage and distribution systems”.

The City of Victoria has previously endorsed a resolution and championed universal school food programs at the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities. The momentum towards a universal school food program is building and the Coalition for Healthy School Food’s campaign is seeking endorsements from supporting organizations, agencies and local governments.

Recommendation: That the City of Victoria endorse the efforts of the Coalition for Healthy School Food to advocate for a universal, cost-shared healthy school food program. This support is based on a shared belief that all children and youth in British Columbia should have daily access to healthy food at school.

Respectfully submitted,

Councillor Loveday Councillor Isitt

Committee of the Whole Report Jan. 16, 2020 Page 1 of 1 51

Council Member Motion For the Committee of the Whole Meeting of January 30, 2020

Date: January 24, 2020

From: Councillors Sharmarke Dubow, Ben Isitt, Jeremy Loveday and Sarah Potts

Subject: Expansion of Youth Bus Pass Program

Background:

In April 2019, Victoria City Council endorsed “a major expansion of public transit ridership in the Capital Region, focused on the phasing out of user fees and a substantial improvement in service levels and fleet electrification,” beginning with elimination of “user fees for people 18 years of age and younger.”

In August 2019, the Victoria Regional Transit Commission voted 4-4 on a proposed pilot program to provide fare-free public transit to youth in the Capital Region. Lacking a majority of votes, the pilot program was not initiated by the Regional Transit Commission at that time.

In December 2019, the City of Victoria initiated a Youth Bus Pass Program on its own initiative, removing user fee barriers for public transit ridership funded through a combination of general revenues and parking revenues.

The City of Victoria Youth Bus Pass program has been a big success, with more than 2,100 local youth accessing the program, resulting in substantial savings to families, at an approximate monthly cost to the city of $81,000.

Introduction of the City of Victoria program has also created a regional inequity in access to mobility for youth: while City of Victoria residents aged 18 years and younger now having access to fare-free public transit, youth who reside outside the city limits lack this access. This inequity exists within specific school communities, where catchment boundaries extend across municipal borders, and the inequity also exists within neighbourhoods straddling the borders of Victoria, Esquimalt, Saanich and Oak Bay.

It is therefore recommended that Council advocate to the Victoria Regional Transit Commission to reconsider the introduction of a pilot program to provide fare-free public transit for people 18 years and younger throughout the area served by the Commission.

Recommendation:

That Council endorses the following resolution and directs staff to forward a copy to Victoria Regional Transit Commission for consideration at its meeting of February 25, 2020:

______Council Member Motion Expansion of Youth Bus Pass Program January 24, 2020 52

The City of Victoria:

1. Endorses the initiation of a pilot program to provide fare-free public transit for youth across the Capital Region, to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions and promote transit ridership and sustainable mobility from an early age.

2. Requests that the Victoria Regional Transit Commission reconsider at its February 25, 2020 meeting the initiation of a pilot program beginning in 2020 to provide fare-free public transit to people 18 years and younger in the Capital Region.

Respectfully submitted,

Councillor Dubow Councillor Isitt Councillor Loveday Councillor Potts

______Council Member Motion Expansion of Youth Bus Pass Program January 24, 2020 53

Council Member Motion For the Committee of the Whole Meeting of January 30, 2020

Date: January 24, 2020

From: Councillor Sharmarke Dubow, Ben Isitt, Jeremy Loveday and Sarah Potts

Subject: Advocacy for Partnerships for Fare-Free Public Transit

Recommendation:

That Council endorse the following resolution and direct staff to forward copies to the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities, the Union of BC Municipalities and member local governments, requesting favourable consideration and resolutions of support:

Resolution: Partnerships for Fare-Free Public Transit

WHEREAS equitable access to mobility is fundamental to full and meaningful participation in local communities, including access to education, employment, services, recreation, culture and community life;

AND WHEREAS emissions from transportation generate a majority of community-based emissions in many communities, meaning that changes in transportation options have the potential to have a substantial impact in reducing green-house gas emissions;

AND WHEREAS forward-looking jurisdictions around the world from Kingston, Ontario to Kansas City, Missouri, to Luxembourg and Estonia are eliminating user-fee barriers to public transit ridership, with residents paying for transit services through the tax system rather than at the fare box;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Province of British Columbia work with local governments to introduce fare-free public transit services where communities support the elimination of user-fee barriers to public transit ridership.

Respectfully submitted,

Councillor Dubow Councillor Isitt Councillor Loveday Councillor Potts

______Council Member Motion Advocacy for Partnerships for Fare-Free Public Transit January 24, 2020 54