HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-19 _Minutes_Board_of_Directors_2019-02-22Toronto and Region
_ Conservation
Authority
Board of Directors Meeting #2/19 was held at TRCA Head Office, on Friday, February 22,
2019. The Chair, Jennifer Innis, called the meeting to order at 9:34 a.m.
PRESENT
Jennifer Innis
Chair
Jack Heath
Vice -Chair
David Barrow
Member
Ronald Chopowick
Member
Glenn De Baeremaeker
Member
Joanne Dies
Member
Jennifer Drake
Member
Chris Fonseca
Member
Gordon Highet
Member
Linda Jackson
Member
Jim Karygiannis (in: 10:02 a.m.)
Member
Mike Mattos
Member
Michael Palleschi
Member
Steve Pellegrini
Member
Anthony Perruzza (in 10:15 a.m.)
Member
Gino Rosati
Member
Rowena Santos
Member
ABSENT
Paul Ainslie
Member
Kevin Ashe
Member
Maria Augimeri
Member
Vincent Crisanti
Member
Dipika Damerla
Member
Paula Fletcher
Member
Michael Ford
Member
Maria Kelleher
Member
Giorgio Mammoliti
Member
Jennifer McKelvie
Member
Jason Runtas
Member
The Chair recited the Acknowledgement of Indigenous Territory.
RES.#A14/19 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
MINUTES
Michael Palleschi
Rowena Santos
THAT the TRCA Board of Directors approves the minutes of Meeting #1/19, the held on
January 25, 2019.
CARRIED
RES.#A15/19 - DELEGATIONS
Moved by: Michael Palleschi
Seconded by: Linda Jackson
THAT the delegations under agenda items 5.1 — 5.5 be received as detailed below:
5.1 TREVOR SWERDFAGER, SENIOR VP OPERATIONS, PARKS CANADA;
Re. Item 9.1. TORONTO ZOO: provide an update on Rouge National Urban Park and
the importance of TRCA in helping to complete the Park's establishment, including
remaining land transfers, choosing the location of the Park's future visitor centre, and
collaboration on service agreements to help Parks Canada implement the Park's
recently released management plan.
Presentation Link
5.2 LARRY NOONAN, CHAIR, ALTONA FOREST STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE;
Re. Item 9.1. TORONTO ZOO: update to the tripartite agreement; comments on the
location of the new Visitor Centre for the Rouge National Urban Park.
5.3 PAULINE BROWES, CHAIR, FRIENDS OF THE ROUGE NATIONAL URBAN PARK;
Re. Item 9.1. TORONTO ZOO: changes required to the tripartite agreement as a result
of the proposed location of the Visitor Centre for the Rouge National Urban Park.
5.4 JIM ROBB, GENERAL MANAGER, FRIENDS OF THE ROUGE WATERSHED;
Re. Item 9.1. TORONTO ZOO: discussion of tripartite agreement.
Written Submission Link
5.5 LARRY NOONAN, CHAIR, ALTONA FOREST STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE;
Re. Item 10.1.1. GREENLANDS ACQUISITION PROJECT FOR 2016-2020: questions
regarding TRCA plan for the donated lands.
CARRIED
Section I — Items for Board of Directors Action
RES.#A16/19 - CONSTRUCTION FACILITIES VENDOR OF RECORD EXTENSIONS
FOR 2019 RESTORATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS.
Contract Numbers: 10006471-10006477. Extension of seven (7)
construction facilities Vendor of Record (VOR) Agreements from 2018 to
December 31, 2019 and associated increases to the contract values, with a
recommended 2% increase to unit rates for service -related supplies.
Moved by: Ronald Chopowick
Seconded by: Linda Jackson
THAT Vendor of Record Contract #10006471 for Rental of Six Foot High Construction
Fence, executed in January 2018, is extended to December 31, 2019 as per Section 3 of the
agreement; and further that the value is increased by $95,000 for a total cost not to exceed
$190,000 plus HST;
THAT Vendor of Record Contract #10006472 for Dyed Diesel Fuel Supply and Delivery,
executed in January 2018, is extended to December 31, 2019 as per Section 3 of the
agreement; and further that the value is increased by $100,000 for a total cost not to
exceed $250,000 plus HST;
THAT Vendor of Record Contract #10006473 for Rental of Office Trailers and Storage
Containers, executed in January 2018, is extended to December 31, 2019 as per Section 3
of the agreement; and further that the value is increased by $40,000 for a total cost not to
exceed $110,000 plus HST;
THAT Vendor of Record Contract #10006474 for Rental of Steel Road Plates, executed in
January 2018, is extended to December 31, 2019 as per Section 3 of the agreement; and
further that the value is increased by $40,000 for a total cost not to exceed $105,000 plus
HST;
THAT Vendor of Record Contract #10006476 for Rental of Site Toilets, executed in January
2018, is extended to December 31, 2019 as per Section 3 of the agreement; and further that
the value is increased by $50,000 for a total cost not to exceed $130,000 plus HST;
THAT Vendor of Record Contract #10006475 for Street Sweeping and Flusher Truck
Services, executed in January 2018, is extended to December 31, 2019 as per Section 3 of
the agreement; and further that the value is increased by $110,000 for a total cost not to
exceed $200,000 plus HST;
THAT Vendor of Record Contract #10006477 for Woody Debris Disposal, executed in
January 2018, is extended to December 31, 2019 as per Section 3 of the agreement; and
further that the value is increased by $50,000 for a total cost not to exceed $140,000 plus
HST;
AND FURTHER THAT the extensions of Vendor of Record Contract #10006475 for Street
Sweeping and Flusher Truck Services, and Vendor of Record Contract #10006477 for
Woody Debris Disposal, include a 2% price increase to unit rates to address
increased labour rates;
AND FURTHER THAT authorized TRCA officials be directed to take all necessary actions
to implement the foregoing, including the signing and execution of any documents.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
TRCA implements numerous habitat restoration, engineering, and trail building projects
throughout TRCA's jurisdiction. The implementation of these projects regularly require the
provision of several construction -related supplies and services as outlined above.
In previous years, construction services staff would undertake multiple procurement processes
to source the supplies and deliveries required for its various projects. To work more efficiently,
TRCA established a Vendor of Record list for the seven contracts outlined below in 2018. As per
Section 3 of the agreements, TRCA has the right to extend the term for an additional year, which
is being recommended in this report.
Contract
Vendor
Contract# 10006471 Construction Fence
Modu-Loc
Sunbelt Rentals of Canada
Contract# 10006472 Supply and Delivery of Dyed Diesel
Alpha Oil
Canada Clean Fuels
Contract# 10006473 Storage Containers and Office Trailers
Mobile mini
ATCO Structures & Logistics
Contract# 10006474 Steel Road Plates
Cos Shore
Sunbelt Rentals of Canada
Superior Disposal
Contract# 10006475 Street Sweeping and Flusher Truck
Services
A&G The Road Cleaners
Durham Power Services
Centennial Construction and Equipment
Contract# 10006476 Portable Toilets
K. Winter Sanitation
Chantler's Env. Services ltd.
Am of Portable Toilets
Remediation Worx Env. Services Inc.
Contract# 10006477 Disposal of Woody Debris
Miller Waste Systems Inc.
Dra lam Waste
Kirby Waste Transfer Solutions
Public Disposal and Recycling Inc.
Superior Disposal
RATIONALE
Staff recommend extending the existing VOR contracts by one year under the original terms and
conditions of the agreements signed by each vendor. By doing so, TRCA holds the vendors to
their original competitive rates, with exception of the proposed 2% increase to service -related
supplies, which remain more competitively priced than procuring these services on a project
basis. The extension of the agreements will also continue to assist with timely project delivery.
Furthermore, extending the original contracts allows TRCA to maximize the benefit of the initial
effort of creating the VOR, while maintaining competitive rates. A new VOR is intended to be in
effect for January 1, 2020. This VOR refresh will be achieved through a competitive
procurement process that will give new and previously unsuccessful suppliers a chance to be a
partof the VOR. This approach to procurement will provide staff with stable pricing for these
commonly purchased construction supplies and services for a full calendar year.
Each vendor was notified of TRCA's decision to extend their contracts with at least 30 days prior
notice prior to the end of the original December 31, 2018 expiration date. All vendors agreed, with
the exception of Cos Shore and ATCO Structures and Logistics who did not acknowledge the
extension and will be removed from the 2019 VOR term. Vendors within each contract agreed to
the extension, with unit rate increase requests being received from vendors within the two
service-oriented contracts for street sweeping/flusher truck services and woody debris disposal
services due to rising labour costs. Following detailed consideration of these requests, staff
negotiated a 2% increase to the unit rates for these contracts, which staff feel is fair and
reasonable.
Relationship to Building the Living City, the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan
This report supports the following strategies set forth in the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan:
Strategy 2 — Manage our regional water resources for current and future generations
The supplies and services outlined in this report are used to work in and near watercourses to
mitigate flooding and erosion hazards, build waterfront parks as well as carry out a variety of
habitat restoration projects.
Strategy 7 — Build partnerships and new business models
Many of the facilities procured under the VOR are used for assisting our municipal partners with a
variety of environmentally sensitive projects.
FINANCIAL DETAILS
In order to continue to use these vendors which have agreed to the extended term, the contract
values must increase to allow for an additional year of construction supplies and services.
The following table illustrates the expenditures for each supply/service per annum from
2015-2018 and projected expenses for 2019. The values for 2019 have been estimated based on
previous year's expenditures with consideration of increases to rates for service contracts (street
sweeping/flusher truck and woody debris disposal) as well as known project specific needs for
2019.
Supplies/Services
2015
2016
Expenditures
2017 2018
VOR
2019
(Projected)
Rental of Six Foot High Construction Fence
$54,745
$52,565
$94,880
$70,863
$95,000
Dyed Diesel Supply and Delivery
$33,680
$17,092
$77,956
$154,901
$100,000
Rental of Steel Road Plates
$20,000
$19,977
$44,449
$7,323
$40,000
Street Sweeping and Flusher Truck Services
$15,216
$2,442
$31,342
$47,247
$110,000•
Rental of Site Toilets
$47,779
$39,988
$67,626
$27,408
$50,000
Woody Debris Disposal Services
1 $50,048
1 $54,214
1 $88,104
1 $47,086
1 $50,000
"Significant increase in expenditures for this contract expected in 2019 due to Lakeview Waterfront
Connection Project, which will require street sweeping services at least 3 days a week for a minimum duration
of 4 hours per day.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
Implementation of numerous habitat restoration, engineering, and trail building projects
throughout TRCA's jurisdiction throughout 2019, utilizing supplies and services contained within
the seven VOR lists detailed herein.
Report prepared by: Robyn Cox, extension 5530
Emails: robyn.cox&trca.on.ca
For Information contact: Moranne McDonnell, extension 5500
Emails: mmcdonnell(a)trca.on.ca
Date: January 22, 2019
RES.#A17/19 - DON RIVER WATERSHED HYDROLOGY STUDY
Approval to adopt the Don River Watershed Hydrology Study as prepared
by Toronto Region Conservation Authority Engineering Services staff and
AECOM Canada Limited.
Moved by: Glenn De Baeremaeker
Seconded by: Chris Fonseca
THAT the Don River Watershed Hydrology Study (December 2018) prepared by Toronto
and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) staff and AECOM Canada Limited be
approved;
THAT staff be directed to disseminate the final hydrology study results and
documentation to municipal staff, and stakeholders including the development industry;
THAT staff be directed to apply the results from the Don River Watershed Hydrology
Study to update floodline mapping for regulatory purposes;
AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to use the results of the Don River Watershed
Hydrology Study as a foundation for conducting technical hydrologic assessments of the
watershed as part of future watershed/subwatershed plans and flood remediation
studies.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
The hydrologic model for the Don River watershed was previously updated in 2004 by Marshall
Macklin Monaghan using the Visual OTTHYMO computer model. Results from the 2004
hydrology update have been used to conduct a number of high profile flood remediation
assessments including the Don Mouth Naturalization and Port Lands Flood Protection Project,
the Eastern and Broadview Flood Protection Environmental Assessment within the City of
Toronto and the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Flood Remediation Study Yonge
and Elgin Mills Road — Flood Vulnerable Area within the Town of Richmond Hill. In order to
ensure accurate and reliable flow data is used for the design component of these studies, TRCA
staff undertook a thorough assessment of the hydrologic processes of the Don River and
developed a new updated Hydrology model. The updated model leverages new data including
meteorological and stream flow information, LiDAR topography and state of the art modeling
techniques.
RATIONALE
As over 14 years have passed since the previous update to the Don River watershed hydrology
model, an updated hydrology model is needed to reflect new meteorological and monitoring
information and improved modelling approaches. The updated model will be used to inform the
development of flood remediation plans as well as land use, emergency and municipal
infrastructure planning within the watershed. Further, the results of the updated Don River
watershed hydrology model will be used to update floodline mapping and flood remedial plans.
In addition, the updated hydrology modeling represents the first step in assisting our municipal
partners and stakeholders through their planning process in response to the updates to the
2017 Provincial Plans, including the Growth Plan, Greenbelt Plan, and Oak Ridges Moraine
Conservation Plan. The Don River Watershed Hydrology Study and subsequent floodplain
mapping updates will provide a foundation for future watershed plans and studies that support
our partner municipalities with their ongoing watershed planning and Official Plan conformity
process, including the Municipal Comprehensive Reviews (MCR).
MODEL DEVELOPMENT
Consulting services to undertake the Don River Watershed Hydrology Study Update was
awarded to AECOM Canada Limited (AECOM). TRCA selected the PCSWMM computer
model for use in this study based on the urban nature of the Don River Watershed. PCSWMM,
or Personal Computer Stormwater Management Model, is a computer model used to calculate
the hydrologic characteristics of a watershed or subwatersheds, including peak flow rates and
runoff volume. The PCSWMM model represents a state-of-the-art computer modelling
software for hydrologic assessments, capable of long-term continuous simulation for erosion
assessments and flood forecasting and warning operations, or instantaneous design -storm
assessments for specific event calculation. Further, the foundation of the computer model,
EPA SWMM, is fully compatible with GIS software and is fully supported by the Province of
Ontario for establishing peak flow rates for Floodline Mapping.
Over 890 individual catchment areas were delineated, each with unique subcatchment
hydrology based on land use, imperviousness, soil conditions and physical catchment attributes,
like slope and shape. Catchment boundaries were based on a combination of LiDAR and
development drainage plans, which were reviewed in detail and confirmed by TRCA. Once the
catchment areas were reviewed and confirmed, the existing condition parameters, including
percent impervious and soils information were calculated, with impervious values based on
2015 high resolution aerial photographs. A total of 648 hydraulic elements have been
incorporated into the PCSWMM model to represent open watercourses, 128 hydraulic elements
have been incorporated into the model to represent water crossing structures, and 1 hydraulic
element incorporating the G. Ross Lord Dam. Finally, a total of 109 stormwater management
facilities were incorporated into the model to represent various stormwater management ponds
located throughout the watershed.
As per standard hydrologic modelling approach, the existing conditions model was calibrated to
match as closely as possible with flow monitoring information collected by TRCA and Water
Survey Canada for monitored storm events. Model calibration is a key process in developing a
hydrology model and assists in producing a reliable and representative model which accurately
represents watershed characteristics. The calibration process includes adjusting specific
parameters within acceptable tolerances in order for the model to match the existing instream
responses as best as possible. Calibration was conducted in order to:
• Match the volume of runoff generated by the watershed;
• Match the timing of the peak runoff within the system; and
• Match the peak flows within the watercourses.
After model calibration was completed, the calibrated model was further validated by comparing
the results against a different set of monitored storm events. The purpose of the model
validation process is to further confirm that the final set of model parameters and results are
within an acceptable range and meet standard engineering practice.
With the model calibrated and validated, peak flow values were generated to represent existing
development conditions for the 2 -year through 350 -year design storms, and the Regional Storm
event, based on Hurricane Hazel. Future land use peak flows were also generated. Given the
urban nature of the Don River watershed, the future land use scenario was based on the
existing condition land use scenario, with modifications made to represent Block 27 within the
City of Vaughan, which is the last remaining large scale proposed greenfield development area
within the watershed. The land use information for Block 27 was derived from the Secondary
Plan which was collected from the development group and further reviewed by TRCA's Planning
and Development division.
The final model was peer reviewed by Computational Hydraulics International (CHI) who is the
developer of the PCSWMM model and has extensive water resources engineering history in the
fields of hydrology and hydraulics. The peer review process included consultation between the
study team and CHI. All comments provided by the peer reviewer were addressed, and CHI
signed off on the updated model.
RESULTS
The Don River Watershed Hydrology Study Update ultimately produces peak flow rates for the
2 -year through 350 -year design storms and the Regional Storm event for existing and future
conditions as outlined in municipal Official Plans. Table 1 and Table 2 in Attachment 1
summarizes the percent difference in peak flow rates associated with the 100 -year design and
Regional storm from the PCSWMM model at key locations in the watershed and compared the
results to the 2004 Don River Watershed Hydrology Update. The majority of the flow node
locations are showing consistently lower values for the 2018 study for Future Conditions
scenario compared to the 2004 study. This is not unexpected and is consistent with past
hydrology updates undertaken by TRCA staff where improved model parameterization based on
physically derived parameter and improved model calibration lead to decreases in flows as
watershed characteristics are fully understood. Past practice has been to use conservative
estimates for model parameterization in lieu of insufficient watershed detail or physically based
parameters for model development.
As displayed on Table 1, the results from the 2018 Don River Hydrology Update indicate a
significant reduction in 100 -year design storm estimates over the 2004 model. The reduction in
peak flow estimates is attributed to a number of factors including: improved model calibration, a
reduction in percent impervious values due to the improved model parameterization based on
physically derived data, and the inclusion of stormwater management ponds as discrete
elements within the updated model. In order to validate the modelling results, AECOM
completed a flood frequency analysis based on monitored stream flow data and compared the
modelled design storm peak flow estimates with the flood frequency analysis. The conclusion of
the assessment was that the modelled peak flow values are well within the range of the values
calculated through the flood frequency analysis.
As noted on Table 2, the reduction in flow values associated with the Regional storm peak flow
estimates used for regulation are not as pronounced as the reduction in flows associated with
the 100 -year design storm. This is mainly attributed to the exclusion of stormwater management
ponds and water crossings in the Regional storm model (237 hydraulic elements from the
model), which is a hydrology modelling approach mandated by the Ministry of Natural
Resources and Forestry (MNRF). MNRF requires storage elements like ponds and water
crossings to be removed from the Regulatory model due to the fact that these structures were
not designed to the Regional storm standard and may not withstand a Regional storm type
event.
A good example of a water crossing that could not withstand a major storm is the Finch Avenue
West failure during the August 19, 2005 storm event. Further the removal of these storage
elements ensures Regional storm flow estimates are conservative and allows for modifications
and enhancements to transportation infrastructure.
A particular area of interest within the Don River Watershed is the Lower Don River through the
City of Toronto where the detailed design process for the Don Mouth Naturalization and Port
Lands Flood Protection Project (DMNPFP) is on-going. The Environmental Assessment and
Due Diligence process completed as part of the DMNPFP project utilized results from the 2004
Don River Watershed Hydrology Update which are approximately 11 % higher than the values
developed as part of the 2018 update. TRCA staff has been in constant communication with the
various stakeholders within the Lower Don area including the City of Toronto and Waterfront
Toronto throughout the hydrology update process and have provided the detailed design team
with the updated flows for use in the design process.
In order to accurately assess the impacts of updated flows on floodplain mapping, TRCA staff
plan to update river hydraulic models and floodplain mapping within the Don River Watershed.
The floodplain mapping updates will be completed by March 2020 utilizing secured funding from
the Federal National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP).
FINANCIAL DETAILS
Financial contributions for the Don River Hydrology Study were provided through TRCA's Flood
Line Mapping Program, account 127-90, TRCA's Flood Protection and Remedial Studies,
account 107-02, York Region Stormwater Management Fund, account 107-15 and Don Mouth —
TRCA DELFT Hydraulic Modelling Scenarios account, 191-22 at a cost of approximately
$195,237, which included staff time, consulting fees for the model development and the peer
review process.
RESOLUTIONS
TRCA staff will adopt the Don River Watershed Hydrology Study, using this model for all future
studies and hydrologic analysis, including updating floodline mapping, flood remedial plans,
emergency management and watershed studies. In addition, TRCA staff will begin to
disseminate the final modeling results and documentation to municipal staff and the
development industry. Further, TRCA staff will use the peak flow rates calculated as part of the
study to update floodline mapping for the entire Don River Watershed.
Report prepared by: Nick Lorrain, extension 5278, and Sameer Dhalla, extension 5350
Emails: nlorrain(&trca.on.ca, sdhalla(ZDtrca.on.ca
For Information contact: Nick Lorrain, extension 5278
Emails: nlorrain(&trca.on.ca
Date: February 22, 2019
Attachment 1
Table 1— Summary of Don River Peak Flow Rates at Specific Subwatersheds — 100 -year
Design Storm
Flow Node Location
2004
Future OP
Peak Flows
cros)
2018
Current
Peak Flows
(cms)
2018
Future OP
Peak Flows
(cros)
% Change,
2001 to
2018
Future OPs
West Don River
West Don @ Glen Shields Ave.
133.9
46.6
46.6
-65%
West Don @ Hoggs Hollow
119.9
101.3
101.3
-16%
West Don @ Confluence with East Don
489.9
388.9
388.9
-21%
German Mills Creek
German Mills @ Confluence with East
Don
287.8
134.8
134.8
53%
Taylor Massy Creek
Taylor Massy Creek @ Confluence
with East Don
165.2
53.3
53.3
-68%
East Don River
East Don River @ Duncan Mills
291.6
254.3
254.3
-13%
East Don River @ Confluence with
West Don
343.6
269.9
269.9
21%
Lower Don River
Lower Don @ Brickworks
466.2
389.9
389.9
-16%
Lower Don @ Dundas St.
524.9
408.6
408.5
-22%
Don River @ Lake Ontario
494.9
402.8
402.6
-19%
Table 2 — Summary of Don River Peak Flow Rates at Specific Subwatersheds — Regional
Storm
Flow Node Location
2004
Future OP
Peak Flows
cros)
2018
Current
Peak Flows
(cros)
2018
Future OP
Peak Flows
(cros)
% Change,
2001 to
2018
Future OPs
West Don River
West Don @ Glen Shields Ave.
402.3
366.6
365.4 -9%
West Don @ Hoggs Hollow
561.1
579.2
581.6 +4%
West Don @ Confluence with East Don
1860.1
1028.9
1029.1 -15%
German Mills Creek
German Mills @ Confluence with East
Don
782.7
670.3
670.3
14%
Taylor Massy Creek
Taylor Massy Creek @ Confluence
with East Don
293.3
235.6
235.6
-20%
East Don River
East Don River @ Duncan Mills
878.6
749.1
749.1
-15%
East Don River @ Confluence with
West Don
1146.0
1028.9
1029.1
10%
Lower Don River
Lower Don @ Brickworks
1681.5
1497.6
1498.7
-11%
Lower Don @ Dundas St.
1644.7
1513.5
1515.29
-8%
Don River @ Lake Ontario
1694.3
1504.5
1506.4
-11%
RES.#A18/19 - REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL FOR DON RIVER FLOODPLAIN
MAPPING UPDATE AND G. ROSS LORD DAM GATE OPERATION
RULE OPTIMIZATION AND RISK STUDY
Award of Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 10009146 for engineering
consulting services to update the Don River floodplain mapping and to
investigate G. Ross Lord Dam's gate operation rules in order to reduce
the risk of flooding along the West Don River.
Moved by: Michael Palleschi
Seconded by: Rowena Santos
WHEREAS Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) is engaged in a project
that requires engineering consulting services;
AND WHEREAS TRCA solicited proposals through a publicly advertised process and
evaluated the proposals based on the criteria;
THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT Request for Proposal (RFP) No. 10009146 for
the Don River Floodplain Mapping Update and G. Ross Lord Dam Gate Operation Rule
Optimization and Risk Study be awarded to KGS Group Inc. at a total cost not to exceed
$169,775, plus applicable taxes to be expended as authorized by Toronto and Region
Conservation Authority (TRCA) staff;
THAT TRCA staff be authorized to approve additional expenditures to a maximum of
$33,955 (20% of the project cost), plus applicable taxes, in excess of the contract cost as
a contingency allowance if deemed necessary;
THAT should TRCA staff be unable to negotiate a contract with the above-mentioned
proponent, staff be authorized to enter into and conclude contract negotiations with
other Proponents that submitted proposals, beginning with the next highest ranked
proposal meeting TRCA specifications;
AND FURTHER THAT authorized TRCA officials be directed to take whatever action may
be required to implement the contract, including the obtaining of necessary approvals
and the signing and execution of any documents.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
TRCA, through the Conservation Authorities Act, has the mandate of reducing risk to life and
property from flooding. Examples of undertakings that TRCA employs to achieve this mandate
include regulating development, operating flood control infrastructure such as dams, channels
and dykes and administering a flood forecasting and warning program.
The objective of this project is to update floodplain modeling and mapping for the Don River
Watershed in the City of Toronto and to enhance the operating procedures of the G. Ross Lord
Dam utilizing new climate information, updated hydrology modeling and new state of the art
modeling tools. This project is in line with TRCA's Strategic Plan, specifically Strategy 2;
manage our regional water resources for current and future generations and is comprised of two
phases of work. The first phase of work will focus on updating floodplain mapping for the Don
River Watershed and the second phase of work involves investigating the operating rules for the
G. Ross Lord Dam to see if there is a more effective way of reducing flood risk by controlling
flows from thunderstorm events and maintaining dam safety for extreme flood events. By
splitting this project into two phases, efficiencies in project management costs will be realized
and the development of the hydrologic and hydraulic models can be designed simultaneously
for both the floodplain mapping component and the optimization of the dam.
Phase I
TRCA has identified the need to update the hydraulic modelling and floodplain mapping for the
Don River watershed in the City of Toronto. The update is required for two reasons. The first
is that TRCA considers it best practice to update hydraulic models and floodplain mapping every
10-15 years. The existing mapping for the Don River was developed between 1977 and 2008.
Secondly, new hydrology data and digital mapping tools are available. The Don River
Hydrology Update, completed in 2018, established new Regulatory storm flow values using the
most up to date land use, meteorological and stream flow monitoring information. Additionally,
TRCA has recently acquired new LiDAR topographic mapping information that will allow for the
development of precise floodplain contours to delineate areas at risk.
The study area includes all watercourses within the Don River watershed south of Steeles
Avenue. Approximately 38 floodplain map sheets will be updated and stamped by a
professional engineer licensed to practice in Ontario. The project will involve developing a sub-
watershed scale hydraulic model utilizing the HEC-RAS (Hydrologic Engineering Center River
Analysis System) hydraulic modelling platform to determine flood elevation estimates for the 2
through 350 year and Regional design storms throughout the Don River watershed in the City of
Toronto. HEC-RAS is well suited for this assignment as it is the industry standard for hydraulic
modeling of river systems and is used broadly across Ontario. Once completed, the model will
be used to update TRCA's floodplain mapping, flood forecasting and warning systems and flood
emergency response plans.
Phase II
G. Ross Lord Dam was constructed in 1973 on the West Don River to provide flood protection
for downstream communities. The primary objective of G. Ross Lord Dam is to protect the
community of Hoggs Hollow near Yonge Street and Wilson Avenue. The dam is located at 700
Finch Avenue West, east of Dufferin Street in the City of Toronto.
The dam is approximately 20m high and 350m long. It consists of a zoned earthen embankment
with two concrete control structures. The first structure has two low level sluice gates (2mx2m)
for small flows that are referred to as the low level gates. The second structure, referred to as
the emergency gates, consists of two radial arm gates (10.3mx8.7m) for passing large flows.
The dam was designed strictly for flood control and therefore the reservoir is maintained at a low
level to create storage for flood events. The dam has a normal reservoir level of 172.3 MASL
(metres above sea level) which corresponds to a storage capacity of approximately 400,00Om3.
The maximum level of the reservoir is 181.4 MASL which corresponds to approximately
5,500'00Om3 of storage and has a crest elevation of 183.0 MASL.
The G. Ross Lord Dam has a Hazard Potential Classification of 'Very High' as defined in the
Classification and Inflow Design Flood Criteria Technical Bulletin under the Lakes and Rivers
Improvement Act (LRIA) that is administered by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry
(MNRF). A Dam Safety Review in 2013 determined that a dam failure under extreme flood
conditions would put approximately 3,000 persons at risk and cause approximately $1.03 billion
in property damage.
G. Ross Lord Dam has an Operations, Maintenance and Surveillance manual (OMS) that contains
the operational rules for opening gates during storm events. The operational rules are based on
the reservoir's rate of rise measured every 15 minutes. TRCA's current understanding of the
operational rules is that they were developed primarily for large, long duration hurricane events
with the objective of maximizing storage while preventing the dam from overtopping. The closer
the reservoir is to the maximum operating reservoir level the smaller the rate of rise threshold for
operating the gates.
The original 1975 OMS manual developed when the dam was constructed has a different
operation regime than the current OMS. The 1975 OMS is vague regarding how gates are
operated and it relied on an unspecified flood forecasting system. In 1982, TRCA initiated a
study to develop specific criteria for operating the dam's gates which has been part of the OMS
manual ever since. In 2008, TRCA undertook another review of G. Ross Lord Dam's OMS
manual and operating rules. The results of the study recommended not changing gate
operations; however, the study did not look specifically at optimization for thunderstorms.
TRCA's Engineering Services flood management staff are concerned that during high intensity,
short duration thunderstorm events (such as the July 8, 2013 flood event), the rate of rise
threshold could be reached and may cause flooding downstream without utilizing all the available
storage in the reservoir under the current operating procedure. The primary objective of Phase
11 is to investigate the operating rules for the dam to see if there is a more effective way of reducing
flood risk by controlling flows from thunderstorm events and maintaining dam safety for extreme
flood events. Any new operations developed during this study will be incorporated into the OMS
manual.
RATIONALE
RFP documentation was posted on the public procurement website www.biddingo.com on
October 24, 2018 and closed on December 4, 2018. Five (5) addend ums were issued to
respond to questions received. A total of twenty-seven (27) firms downloaded the documents
and six (6) proposals were received from the following Proponents:
• AECOM;
• AHYDTECH Geomorphic;
• Aquafor Beech Ltd.;
• Cole Engineering Group Ltd.;
• Golder Associates Inc.; and
• KGS Group Inc.
The proposal from AHYDTECH Geomorphic was disqualified because it was received after the
deadline of 12:OOpm on December 4'h, 2018.
An Evaluation Committee comprised of staff from Engineering Services reviewed the proposals.
The criteria used to evaluate and select the recommended Proponent included the following:
Criteria
Weight
Experience and Qualifications
20
Understanding of the Work
20
Proposed methodology
30
Proposed schedule
10
Sub -Total
80
Pricing
20
Sub -Total
20
otal Points
100
KGS Group Inc. was the lowest bidder and achieved the highest overall score based on the
evaluation criteria. Therefore, it is recommended that contract No. 10009146 be awarded to
KGS Group Inc. at a total cost not to exceed $169,775, plus 20% contingency, plus applicable
taxes, it being the highest ranked Proponent meeting TRCA specifications. Proponent's scores
and staff analysis of the evaluation results can be provided in an in -camera presentation, upon
request.
Relationship to Building the Living City, TRCA's 2013-2022 Strategic Plan
This report supports the following strategic priorities set forth in TRCA's Strategic Plan:
Strategy 7 — Build partnerships and new business models
Strategy 2 — Manage our regional water resources for current and future generations
FINANCIAL DETAILS
TRCA is funding 50% of this project through 107-03 (Dam and Flood Control Facilities Capital
Works) and 107-37 (Don River Floodplain Mapping Update). The remaining 50% is being
funded through a grant from the Federal National Disaster Mitigation Program (NDMP).
Report prepared by: Craig Mitchell, 647 212-2410
Emails: cmitchell@trca.on.ca
For Information contact: Craig Mitchell, 647 212-2410
Emails: cmitchell@trca.on.ca
Date: January 15, 2019
RES.#A19/19 - TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE BUILDING PROJECT UPDATE
Construction and Term Financing Update. Authorization of the finance
documents with respect to award of contract #10008935 for up to $54
million in construction and term financing to support the construction of
the new administrative office building for Toronto and Region
Conservation Authority.
Moved by: Michael Palleschi
Seconded by: Rowena Santos
THAT the entering into, execution and delivery by Toronto and Region Conservation
Authority ("TRCA") of (i) the credit agreement between TRCA and Canadian Imperial Bank
of Commerce ("CIBC") (the "Credit Agreement"), (ii) the promissory note to be issued by
TRCA in favour of CIBC (the "Promissory Note"), and (iii) the ISDA 2002 master agreement
(the "Master Agreement"), including the schedule thereto and forming part thereof (the
"Schedule") and the confirmation supplemental thereto (the "Subject Confirmation"), each
to be entered into between TRCA and CIBC (the Master Agreement, including the Schedule,
and the Subject Confirmation are collectively referred to herein as the "ISDA Agreement",
and together with the Credit Agreement and the Promissory Note, collectively, the
"Primary Finance Documents"), all substantially in the forms presented to the directors of
TRCA, with such changes therein as any Authorized Officer (as defined herein) executing
the same on behalf of TRCA may approve (such approval to be evidenced conclusively by
the signature of any such Authorized Officer thereon), together with each additional
agreement, instrument, certificate and other document from time to time required or
desirable to be entered into by TRCA in connection with, or in order to consummate the
transactions contemplated by the Primary Finance Documents (collectively, the "Ancillary
Documents", and together with the Primary Finance Documents, collectively, the
"Transaction Documents"), all actions taken in connection therewith and the performance
of TRCA's obligations under the Transaction Documents be and are hereby authorized,
approved, confirmed and adopted in all respects.
THAT any one director or officer of TRCA, including, without limitation, John MacKenzie,
the Chief Executive Officer of TRCA, Michael Tolensky, the Chief Financial and Operating
Officer of TRCA, and Jennifer Innis, Chair of the Board of Directors of TRCA (each, an
"Authorized Officer") is hereby authorized and directed, for and on behalf of TRCA to
execute and deliver the Transaction Documents, and any amendments, supplements and
restatements from time to time thereto on behalf of TRCA, and all such further agreements,
instruments, amendments and other documents and to do or cause to be done all such
other acts and things as such Authorized Officer shall determine to be necessary or
desirable in connection with or in order to effect the transactions that are contemplated in
the Transaction Documents and/or in order to carry out the intent of the foregoing
resolutions and the matters authorized thereby, such determination to be conclusively
evidenced by the execution and delivery by such Authorized Officer of such agreement,
instrument, amendment or other document or the doing of any such act or thing by such
Authorized Officer. Such authorization and direction shall be in addition to any authority
expressly granted by any other paragraph of these resolutions or by any other resolution
or by-law of TRCA.
AND FURTHER THAT the execution and delivery of any agreements or documents and any
and all actions heretofore taken by any officer or director of TRCA for, in the name and on
behalf of TRCA in connection with the Transaction Documents be, and the same hereby
are, ratified, approved, confirmed and adopted in all respects.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
The purpose of the Long Term Office Accommodation Project and the Long Term Office
Accommodation Working Group (LTOAWG), established on May 23, 2008 by Authority
Resolution #A126/08, was to determine the office accommodation needs of TRCA over the next
30 years and recommend a comprehensive, cost effective solution. This process began prior to
2003 with the creation of a task group on office accommodation created by TRCA Management
Committee. The task group's mandate was to research and report on options to serve TRCA
office needs in the long term, the result of which led to Authority Meeting #2/15, held on
February 27, 2015, in which Resolution #A23/15 was approved, selecting 5 Shoreham Drive as
the preferred site for the new headquarters - 5 Shoreham Drive was the site of TRCA's previous
head office, prior to moving to 101 Exchange Avenue. A more comprehensive background on
the project as a whole can be provided upon request, however, the purpose of this report is to
provide background primarily on the financing aspect of the project.
At Authority Meeting #5/15, held on June 24, 2016, Resolution #A85/16 was approved as
follows:
THAT the Project for the Construction of an Administrative Office Building for Toronto and
Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) (Project), at a cost of $70,000,000, be approved;
THAT the regional municipalities of Peel, York, Durham, the City of Toronto, the Town of Mono
and the Township of Adjala-Tosorontio be designated as the benefiting municipalities on the
basis as set out in the Project and that TRCA's member municipalities be requested to consider
this matter as part of the budget deliberations at the earliest opportunity;
THAT the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry be requested to approve the Project in
accordance with Section 24 of the Conservation Authorities Act (Act), and the application to the
Project of the provincial share of land disposition proceeds on the basis as set out in the Project,
THAT pursuant to Section 3(5) of the Conservation Authorities Act (Act), the Minister be
requested to approve an interest rate on funds borrowed to finance the Project not to exceed
3.75% for the life of the Project;
THAT pursuant to Section 24 of the Act, the Ontario Municipal Board be requested to approve
the Project, if required;
THAT staff be authorized and directed to take the necessary action to complete the Project,
including obtaining any additional approvals which may be deemed necessary and the
execution of any necessary documents;
THAT staff explore, in a rigorous nature, the pursuit of funding for the Project for the
Construction of an Administrative Office Building for TRCA from the federal and provincial
governments, and public-private partnerships;
THAT if TRCA staff is required to utilize funds from the existing City of Toronto erosion control
funding, then TRCA staff work with local TRCA board members to identify priority restoration
projects;
AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to report to the Authority upon response from the
Province of Ontario and the participating municipalities.
On February 25, 2017, at Authority Meeting #1/17, staff reported that all six of TRCA's
participating municipalities, by way of their respective Councils, approved the project and the
allocation of $60,000,000 in new and existing capital funding toward the project. This included
$10,500,000 of existing capital funding - $500,000/year over 21 years, commencing in 2015 and
ending 2035, in addition to $49,500,000 of new capital funding. For all municipalities excluding
Toronto, this cumulative annual payment of $540,0000/year over 33 years commencing in 2017
and ending in 2049. Toronto chose to reduce their number of payments to 27 and defer their
first payment until 2023, meaning that the City will be paying $1,173,333/year until 2049. The
total annual payments are as follows:
2015 — 2016: $500,000 Annually (2 Years)
2017 — 2022: $1,040,000 Annually (6 Years)
2023-2035: $2,213,333 Annually (13 Years)
2036-2049: $1,713,333 Annually (14 Years)
TOTAL: $60,000,000
In making the decision to defer payments, the City of Toronto also agreed to pay TRCA an
annual interest penalty payment, to account for the fact that TRCA will need to carry additional
unanticipated debt for the project, which is excluded in the table above.
On March 27, 2017, subsequent to budgetary conversations with our partner municipalities,
TRCA staff submitted a formal request to the Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry
(MNRF) for approval of the rate of interest and the project. Minister's approval, pursuant to the
requirements of Section 3(5) and 24 of the Conservation Authorities Act, was required in order
to satisfy the lending conditions of a financial institution for funds borrowed for the project and to
allocate approximately $10,000,000 to the project from existing and future land sale disposition
proceeds.
On September 22, 2017, TRCA staff reported at Authority Meeting #07/17, that an interest rate
not to exceed 3.75% on the funds to be borrowed to finance the construction of the building was
approved by the Chief Administrative Officer of MNRF on August 14, 2017. TRCA staff also
reported that TRCA received correspondence from MNRF on August 28, 2017 advising that it
was the Minister's decision to not grant an exemption to the Ministry's Generated Revenue
Policy to enable the use of funds from land dispositions in support of TRCA's project. Please
note that subsequent to this approval, Section 3(5) of the Conservation Authorities Act has been
amended, removing the need to receive Minister's approval for the rate of interest on
borrowings, in case a rate greater than 3.75% is required.
TRCA submitted an urgent financial appeal to the Minister on December 12, 2017. A response
from the Minister was received on February 15, 2018, indicating that Ministry staff had been
asked to explore enabling the use of existing land sale generated revenue conditional upon the
requirement that TRCA repay those funds from other revenue sources back into the reserve
within a determined timeframe.
On May 8, 2018, the Minister granted approval to use $3,538,000 in disposition proceeds from
land sales associated with provincial grants (as identified in TRCA 2016 audited financial
statement) with no required repayment and confirmed approval of the project under Section 24
of the Conservation Authorities Act — This was reported at Authority Meeting #4/18, held on May
25, 2018. These funds will be applied to the project to ensure that TRCA's future proofing,
sustainability and office modernization objectives are met as the design evolves or to reduce the
overall term of the required financing.
As a result of the funding reduction, TRCA staff challenged the integrated design team, to
realize a highly efficient, cost effective building that could be achieved within the available
$60,000,000 budget. This included taking measures to reduce the scope of the project, such as
the elimination of underground parking and an overall reduction in the size of the building based
on a refined building program. TRCA staff presented an updated budget at Authority Meeting
#6/18, held on July 20, 2018, which provided approval to modify the $70,000,000 project to
adhere to the available project funding.
As a result of this approval, Request for Proposal #10008935 to provide project financing from a
qualified financial institution for TRCA's New Administrative Office Building Project was publicly
advertised on the electronic procurement website Biddingo (www.biddingo.com) on August 8,
2018. The proposal from CIBC was the highest ranking proposal and best aligned with TRCA's
objectives and evaluation criteria and was selected as the lender for the new administration
office building project.
CIBC provided TRCA an analysis of the loan mechanics, loan options and a forecasting of
interest rates and outlined the advantages to using an Interest Rate Swap process, in order to:
• Offer interest rate certainty
• Offer the lowest cost option for required funding
• Customize quarterly payments to meet TRCA's requirements over along term
At Board of Directors Meeting #10/18, held on January 4, 2019, Resolution #A214/18 was
approved as follows (This resolution amended Resolution #A171/18, which was approved at
Board of Directors Meeting #8/18, held on October 26, 2018), in order to support the usage of
an interest rate swap:
THAT Contract #10008935 be awarded to Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce ("CIBC" or the
"Lender') to provide construction and term financing for Toronto and Region Conservation
Authority's (TRCA) New Administrative Office Building Project in the City of Toronto, it being the
highest ranked proposal that best meets TRCA's requirements as stipulated in the Request for
Proposal;
THAT authorized officials be directed to take the necessary action to execute International
Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) documentation, for the purpose of entering into
interest rate swap agreements, as necessary, for the construction and term financing. The term
financing swap facilities shall be for a period not to exceed 30 years from the conversion date
from construction financing to term financing with a mutual put at the ten-year mark and every 5
years thereafter, as per CIBC's standard credit practice. The stamping fee for these swap
facilities shall be 74 basis points per annum;
AND FURTHER THAT authorized officials be directed to take the necessary action to
implement credit agreements including the signing and execution of documents with the
Lender.
RATIONALE
As TRCA negotiated the agreements with CIBC, with the help of our lawyers (Fasken) and
financial advisors (KPMG), it was determined that a more robust resolution was required by the
Board of Directors, in order to support the approval of the financing — The new resolution is
included at the outset of this report.
In order to support such a resolution, TRCA staff have provided in -camera copies of the
confidential documents that the Board of Directors are being asked to approve and parties from
CIBC, Fasken and KPMG have been asked to attend the meeting to answer any questions that
the Board may have, prior to signing the documents.
FINANCIAL DETAILS
Although total funding available for the project totals $63,538,000, TRCA continues to work
towards a budget of $60,000,000. In order to determine how much money is required for the
term loan commencing in January 2022, TRCA calculated the following:
Anticipated Project Cost: $60,000,000
Less:
Ministry Funding ($3,538,000)
Municipal Funding (2015 — 2021) ($6,200,000)
Reserves ($ 262,000)
Anticipated Term Loan Amount: $50,000,000
TRCA staff anticipate that the organization will pay $262,000 out of reserves between 2015 -
2021, which will be recovered over the life of the partner municipality repayments.
TRCA and CIBC staff worked together to develop a quarterly amortization schedule for the
$50,000,000 term loan that best reflects the payment schedule from TRCA's partner
municipalities, commencing on January 4, 2022 and ending on January 2, 2047, a period of 25
years.
The quarterly principal payments are as follows:
Periods 1 — 4: $258,750 ($1,035,000 Annually for 1 Year)
Periods 5 — 60: $553,750 ($2,215,000 Annually for 14 Years)
Periods 61 — 100: $428,500 ($1,714,000 Annually for 10 Years)
After the 100th payment, the remaining debt will be $1,243,500. with the expectation that TRCA
will pay this balance out of cash on hand as of Jan 2, 2047, and will then receive the
outstanding balance from its partner municipalities later in the year, in accordance with the
payment schedule.
Although it is possible that the term loan actually required will exceed $50,000,000, TRCA is
being conservative in its calculation by reducing the project costs by the ministry funding, in
order to determine the anticipated term loan amount. If $60,000,000 of funding is not required
from TRCA's partner municipalities, then the amount/term of their obligations will be reduced
accordingly. Further to this point, TRCA staff continue to review and apply for provincial, federal
and other funding opportunities through various grants and programs.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
Upon approval of this resolution, TRCA staff will finalize the required documents. Our lawyers
will then issue legal opinions on both the credit and ISDA agreements to CIBC and TRCA staff
will sign an officer certificate to support the legal opinions. Further to signing these documents,
TRCA will complete supplementary CIBC forms to validate the financial relationship.
For the Board of Director's reference, the key remaining phases of the project are as follows:
Project Phases /Duration
Site Plan Approval June, 2018 — July, 2019
Building Permit February, 2018 — October, 2019
Tender Contract Documents July, 2018 — March, 2019
Award Construction Contract March, 2019 — July, 2019
Construction (assumes partial bldg. permits) April, 2019 — June, 2021
Occupancy March, 2021 — June, 2021
Report prepared by: Jed Braithwaite, extension 5345
Emails: jed.braithwaite@trca.on.ca
For Information contact: Michael Tolensky, extension 5965
Emails: mtolensky@trca.on.ca
Date: February 22, 2019
In Camera Attachments: 3
CONFIDENTIAL Attachment 1: Credit Agreement and Promissory Note (Schedule D)
CONFIDENTIAL Attachment 2: ISDA Master Agreement and Schedule
CONFIDENTIAL Attachment 3: Officer Certificate for agreements
RES.#A20119 - TRCA DRAFT COMMENTS TO ENVIRONMENTAL REGISTRY OF
ONTARIO (ERO). Proposed Amendment to the Growth Plan for the
Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2017 (#ERO 013-4504). Proposed
Modifications to O. Reg. 311/06 (Transitional Matters — Growth
Plans) made under the Places to Grow Act, 2005 to implement the
Proposed Amendment to the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden
Horseshoe, 2017 (ERO #013-4505). Proposed Framework for
Provincially Significant Employment Zones (ERO #013-4506).
Proposed Modifications to O. Reg. 525/97 (Exemption from Approval
— Official Plan Amendments) made under the Planning Act to
implement the Proposed Amendment to the Growth Plan for the
Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2017 (ERO #013-4507).
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority's draft comments on the
Government of Ontario's proposed amendments to the Growth Plan for
the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2017 and associated proposed
implementing framework and regulations.
Moved by: Rowena Santos
Seconded by: Gordon Highet
WHEREAS the Province of Ontario has posted the proposed amendments to the Growth
Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2017, for public comment on the Environmental
Registry of Ontario (ERO);
AND WHEREAS the ERO imposes a February 28, 2019 deadline for submission of
comments to the Province;
THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Toronto and Region Conservation
Authority (TRCA) staff report and draft comments on the Ontario government's proposed
amendments to the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2017, be received
and that any comments from the Board of Directors be considered in informing TRCA's
final ERO submission;
AND FURTHER THAT municipal partners and Conservation Ontario be so advised.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
On January 15, 2019, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing released a proposed
amendment to the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe for public comments on the
Environmental Registry of Ontario (ERO), due February 28, 2019. Conservation Ontario is
coordinating a response on behalf of all 36 conservation authorities in addition to the
submissions made by individual conservation authorities. The Ministry states that the
amendment is proposed to address, "policies seen as potential barriers to the development of
housing, job creation and business attraction." The Ministry states that the changes are
intended to streamline growth management in order to achieve the following outcomes:
More streamlined process (faster municipal implementation of the plan);
More land for housing (more flexibility for additional greenfield development);
More housing and jobs near transit (increase the supply of housing and jobs near transit
infrastructure);
• Greater flexibility for municipal implementation (municipal implementation to better
reflect local context).
The four items being circulated for comment concern amendments to the Growth Plan for the
Greater Golden Horseshoe (Growth Plan), modifications to transitional matters surrounding
growth plans, designation of provincially significant employment zones, and potential
exemptions from the need for the Minister's approval of official plan amendments to aid the
implementation of refinement policies for the Agricultural System and Natural Heritage System.
The Growth Plan amendment contains new and revised policies within the framework of the
existing Growth Plan across the following six general categories:
1. Employment Planning,
2. Settlement Area Boundary Expansions,
3. Rural Settlements,
4. Natural Heritage and Agricultural Systems,
5. Intensification and Density Targets, and
6. Major Transit Station Areas.
TRCA staff have reviewed the proposed amendments and drafted comments based on staff's
day-to-day work in support of our municipal partners to implement the Growth Plan. TRCA has
an ongoing interest in the amendments proposed given our roles as a resource management
agency, a regulator under Section 28 of the Conservation Authorities Act, and a public
commenting body under the Planning Act and the Environmental Assessment Act.
Some of the key changes to the Growth Plan policies being proposed through the amendments
and their associated potential implications for TRCA are as follows:
• Lower density and intensification targets — this may require additional land to
accommodate forecasted growth, which has implications for stormwater management
and puts pressure on allowing development and servicing into the natural heritage
system.
• Settlement area boundary expansions, of up to 40 hectares, outside of a Municipal
Comprehensive Review (MCR) — the amendments are silent on whether this is a one-
time exemption. Repeated, large scale, stand-alone approvals without early and
comprehensive planning risks impacts to natural hazards, natural heritage and water
resources.
• Employment land conversion outside of an MCR — employment lands could be
converted to other uses outside of an MCR, which risks over -conversion and a need for
more urban boundary expansions along with updates to environmental studies for any
lands that are converted.
• Major Transit Station Areas (MTSAs) delineation and expansion outside of an MCR
— a number of MTSAs in TRCA's jurisdiction are located within hazardous lands and
should be subject to criteria for managing natural hazards, natural heritage and water
resources.
Natural Heritage Systems mapping — allowing municipalities to refine the Province's
natural heritage system (NHS) mapping at the time of initial implementation in their
official plans, rather than only during an MCR, better acknowledges municipal and
conservation authority NHS mapping efforts.
• Removal of the explicit need for watershed planning to inform infrastructure
planning and settlement area boundary expansions — development and
infrastructure planning in the absence of watershed planning risks impacts to natural
heritage, natural hazards and water resources and may lengthen subsequent approval
processes.
RATIONALE
TRCA provides technical support to its municipal partners in growth planning and in
implementing the natural heritage, natural hazard and water resource policies of the Growth
Plan, the Provincial Policy Statement and other provincial plans. In working with approval
authorities, private and public proponents, TRCA supports comprehensive planning to ensure
that development and infrastructure are adequately set back and protected from natural hazards
and environmentally sensitive areas. We also collaborate with our provincial and municipal
partners to seek opportunities for remediation and restoration to reduce risk and increase
resiliency where comprehensive redevelopment/community revitalization is proposed that
includes areas of historical residential development within the flood hazard. In this way,
increased growth is facilitated while risk is reduced and provincial and municipal policies for
public safety and environmental protection are upheld.
TRCA is most successful at facilitating growth when the conservation authority, municipal
partners and the development industry take a comprehensive, creative and collaborative
approach early in the process. Amendments to the Growth Plan that add flexibility and
streamlining can be positive in order to recognize local contexts, but a number of issues of
interest to TRCA's mandate are better identified through a comprehensive planning exercise at
the early stages of the planning process. Repeated, large scale, stand-alone approvals that the
proposed Plan amendments contemplate could exacerbate natural hazards and create negative
impacts to natural heritage and water resources in areas where comprehensive planning has
not occurred. As such, TRCA has the following recommendations, as detailed in the attached
draft comments (Attachment 1):
1. Given that the stated intent of the Growth Plan is to make use of existing urban land
supply and to focus less on continuously expanding the urban area, TRCA recommends
that:
a) the standard for upper and single -tier municipalities in the inner ring be maintained
for minimum intensification targets and minimum density targets in designated
greenfield areas, and
b) additional policies be established to help facilitate removal of barriers to the
redevelopment of existing, underutilized properties within the urban boundary, to
achieve density and intensification targets. Such redevelopments should be
encouraged to undertake comprehensive planning up front for growth areas to help
fast-track site plan applications that follow, and to co -locate public services such as
stormwater management, low impact development facilities, recreation and open
space. Policies should be included to ensure an equitable approach to working with
landowners and other stakeholders, early in the development process, to achieve
more sustainable communities and include infrastructure upgrades to facilitate more
sustainable infill development.
2. Please confirm whether a revised land needs assessment methodology will be released
which nets out natural system lands, the requirements and implications for in -process or
completed land needs assessments and/or new or additional study requirements that will
be required for hamlets and rural areas that have not been subject to previous studies.
3. Given that the amended Plan's maintained intent speaks to the issue of unmanaged
growth and its adverse effects, TRCA recommends that the Province remove the
permission to expand settlement boundaries outside of an MCR. Should the exemption
remain, the Plan should specify a one-time exemption rule for a settlement area
expansion in advance of the MCR process.
4. TRCA recommends that the Province clarify that the criteria for urban boundary
expansions apply to expansions undertaken both inside and outside the MCR process, if
the direction to allow an expansion outside of the process is maintained.
5. The Province should define "significant amount of jobs" and introduce restrictions on
land use conversions outside an MCR, such as additional criteria on location and
requirement for comprehensive environmental studies (e.g., Master Environmental
Servicing Plans), "capping" the size of areas to be converted and placing a one-time
exemption limit on these conversions.
6. The Growth Plan policies protecting provincially significant employment zones should
have more defined mapping and criteria added for lands subject to natural hazards
and/or within the natural heritage system that must be set aside from development. The
employment policies should also encourage preparation of comprehensive stormwater
management plans, earlier in the process, to ensure protection of these features and
functions without creating new hazards or aggravating existing hazards and to facilitate
more timely reviews and approvals when site plans are submitted.
7. TRCA recommends that if the determination of MTSAs and their density targets are
excused from the MCR process, that the determination be subject to meeting criteria for
addressing natural hazard management, natural heritage, and water resources
protection.
8. While allowing upper -tier municipalities to undertake initial implementation separately for
each lower -tier municipality provides flexibility and could result in a more thorough initial
implementation (as lower -tiers would not be rushed to complete it on the upper -tiers'
schedule), TRCA suggests the Plan direct upper -tier municipalities to coordinate among
their lower -tier municipalities and conservation authority partners to ensure that areas
crossing jurisdictional boundaries are considered in an integrated way during refinement
and implementation of the NHS mapping.
9. As TRCA recommended to the Province in 2015, the Growth Plan should require
consideration of the threshold capacity of the watershed, including targets established in
watershed/subwatershed plans, when directing growth to ensure that additional servicing
capacity can be accommodated without compromising ecosystem function and the water
resources system. Therefore, the Province should maintain the requirement for
watershed planning in 3.2.1.2 to inform infrastructure planning.
10. TRCA recommends that the Province retain the original wording of 4.2.1.2 to require
municipalities to include the appropriate designations and policies for water resource
systems in their official plans and zoning by-laws.
11. TRCA recommends that the province retain "watershed planning or equivalent" in the
wording of 2.2.8.3 d) to ensure that municipalities understand the connections between
the Settlement Area Boundary Expansion policies and the Water Resource System
policies in section 4.2.1.
12. The Province should define any new terms or measures introduced through the
amendments, so that the requirements and objectives of the Plan are clearly set out for
approval authorities and proponents.
13. Overall, TRCA recommends as much clarity as possible in the Plan, at minimum,
through additional criteria to safeguard against the environmental risks associated with
proposed approvals outside of an MCR, if this approach is maintained.
Relationship to Building the Living City, the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan
This report supports the following strategies set forth in the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan:
Strategy 2 — Manage our regional water resources for current and future generations
Strategy 4 — Create complete communities that integrate nature and the built environment
Strategy 12 — Facilitate a region -wide approach to sustainability
FINANCIAL DETAILS
Staff are engaged in this policy analysis work per the normal course of duty. No additional
funding is proposed to support the policy analysis work associated with the preparation of these
comments.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
Upon endorsement by the Board of Directors, and recognizing any input received of the staff
comments, the attached draft comment letter will be updated and submitted as TRCA's official
comments to the ERO. Staff will continue to brief the Board on other legislative changes that
result from this circulation.
Report prepared by: Mary -Ann Burns, extension 5763; Daniel Brent, extension 5774;
Frances Woo, extension 5364
Emails: mary-ann.burns@trca.on.ca;daniel.brent@trca.on.ca; frances.woo@trca.on.ca
For Information contact: Mary -Ann Burns, extension 5763
Emails: mary-ann.burns@trca.on.ca
Date: February 19, 2019
Attachments: 1 "Draft TRCA Comments — Growth Plan 2019.pdf"
Toronto and Region
Conservation
Authority
February 21, 2019
BY E-MAIL ONLY (charles.o'hara(cDontario.ca)
Mr. Charles O'Hara
Ontario Growth Secretariat
Business Management Division
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
777 Bay St., 17h Floor
Toronto. ON M5G 2E5
Dear Mr. O'Hara:
Re: ERO #013-4504 - Proposed Amendment to the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden
Horseshoe, 2017
ERO #013-4505 - Proposed Modifications to O. Reg. 311/06 (Transitional Matters — Growth
Plans) made under the Places to Grow Act, 2005 to implement the Proposed Amendment to
the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2017
ERO #013-4506 - Proposed Framework for Provincially Significant Employment Zones
ERO #013-4507 - Proposed Modifications to O. Reg. 525/97 (Exemption from Approval —
Official Plan Amendments) made under the Planning Act to implement the Proposed
Amendment to the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2017
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing proposed
amendments to the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, 2017 and associated regulations.
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) has an ongoing interest in this process given our
experience and roles as:
• A regulator under Section 28 of the Conservation Authorities Act;
• A public commenting body under the Planning Act and the Environmental Assessment Act;
• A body with delegated authority in plan review to represent the provincial interest for natural hazards;
• A resource management agency operating on a local watershed basis;
• One of the largest landowners in the Toronto region; and
• A source protection authority under the Clean Water Act.
TRCA provides technical support to its municipal partners in implementing the natural heritage, natural
hazard and water resource policies of the Growth Plan, the Provincial Policy Statement and other
provincial plans. In working with approval authorities, private and public proponents, TRCA helps to
facilitate sustainable development and infrastructure and ensures that it is adequately set back and
protected from natural hazards and environmentally sensitive areas. We also collaborate with our
provincial and municipal partners to seek opportunities for remediation and restoration to reduce risk and
increase resiliency where comprehensive redevelopment/community revitalization is proposed that
includes areas of historical residential development within the flood hazard. In this way, increased growth
7:416..661,6600 I F:416.661.6898 I info@trca.on.ca 1 101 Exchange Avenue, Vaughan, ON L4K 5R6 I www.trca.ca
Mr. O'Hara Page 2 of 9 February 21. 2019
is facilitated while risk is reduced and provincial and municipal policies for public safety and environmental
protection are upheld.
TRCA understands that the proposed changes to the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (the
Plan) are meant to address implementation challenges that were identified by the municipal and
development sectors and other stakeholders. The changes are intended to provide greater flexibility and
address barriers to building homes, creating jobs, attracting investments, and putting in place the right
infrastructure while protecting the environment. The advisory and regulatory responsibilities of
conservation authorities in the growth planning process are not about slowing or preventing development
and all its attendant economic benefits. Conservation Authorities are most successful at facilitating growth
when the conservation authority and the development industry take a comprehensive, creative and
collaborative approach early in the process.
There are currently a number of examples where TRCA is working with municipal partners on various
growth planning exercises. For example, we are involved in:
• Peel Region and York Region as they undertake their Municipal Comprehensive Reviews (MCR),
• Durham Region on the Carruthers Creek Watershed Plan and their MCR,
• "Dundas Connects" Master Planning process in Mississauga
• Vaughan Metropolitan Centre and Black Creek revitalization
• Downtown Brampton revitalization
• Lower Don lands redevelopment and Don River Mouth revitalization
• All major secondary plan/settlement area processes in ourjurisdiction (e.g., Caledon, Markham,
Vaughan)
Also, in the City of Toronto, significant new housing and employment is being provided in a number of
redevelopment and infill scenarios with TRCA's direct participation. This work by TRCA and stakeholders
has resulted in considerable improvements to water quality and quantity and the natural heritage system,
while reducing risk due to natural hazards.
With TRCA's expertise and direct involvement in several growth planning processes, we offer the following
comments as the amendments to the Plan and the regulations are finalized.
Revised Density and Intensification Targets
We recommend that some of the proposed amendments be reconsidered in light of the Plan objectives.
For example, the current Plan states, "This Plan's emphasis on optimizing the use of the existing urban
land supply represents an intensification -first approach to development and city -building, one which
focuses on making better use of our existing infrastructure and public service facilities, and less on
continuously expanding the urban area." Many stakeholders support this emphasis given that
intensification helps to limit land consumption, supports transit, and curbs automobile use. Lower density
communities result in less efficient use of land, infrastructure and public services, and entail higher
commute times and automobile use, negatively affecting the health of people and likely increasing the
need for settlement area boundary expansions.
However, the current Plan amendment proposes lower minimum designated greenfield area density
targets — from 80 residents and jobs per hectare down to a minimum of 60, 50 and 40 residents and jobs
per hectare depending on the degree of urbanization of each municipality — and lower intensification
targets, from 60 percent down to 50 percent or lower for some municipalities. The amendments represent
a significant reduction from the current targets, and in some cases are lower than the targets set out in the
2006 Growth Plan.
The current Plan already permits municipalities that are not able to meet the Plan's minimums to apply for
alternative targets. Overall, the proposed Growth Plan amendments for lowered intensification and density
Mr. O'Hara Page 3 of 9 February 21. 2019
targets, if approved as proposed, could undermine the "intensification -first approach" of the Plan. Lesser
density could encourage lower -density greenfield development and more frequent settlement boundary
expansions which further alters drainage patterns, puts pressure on allowing development and servicing
into natural features and buffers. Increasing the number of single family dwellings and reducing the number
of townhomes, stacked townhomes and condominium units in low to mid -rise buildings, may limit more
sustainable housing options (more energy and water efficient forms of housing), which would otherwise be
pursued to meet the minimum density targets.
Alternatively, we suggest a greater policy focus and more amendments on removing barriers to intensifying
underutilized, previously developed properties within the existing urban boundary. A focus on policies to
enable greyfield and brownfield redevelopment would allow properties within urban growth centres and
intensification corridors to be more efficiently used for additional housing or employment, maximize the use
of existing services, and potentially improve water quality and quantity standards where infrastructure
requires refurbishment and upgrades to meet current standards. The Plan could also speak to more
efficient use of land by co -locating compatible public service facilities where feasible (e.g., stormwater
management in and around parks), in striving for compact development and complete communities.
Recommendation 1: Given that the stated intent of the Growth Plan is to make use of existing
urban land supply and to focus less on continuously expanding the urban area, TRCA
recommends that:
a) the standard for upper and single -tier municipalities in the inner ring be maintained for
minimum intensification targets and minimum density targets in designated greenfield
areas, and
b) additional policies be established to help facilitate removal of barriers to the redevelopment
of existing, underutilized properties within the urban boundary, to achieve density and
intensification targets. Such redevelopments should be encouraged to undertake
comprehensive planning up front for growth areas to help fast-track site plan applications
that follow, and to co -locate public services such as stormwater management, low impact
development facilities, recreation and open space. Policies should be included to ensure an
equitable approach to working with landowners and other stakeholders, early in the
development process, to achieve more sustainable communities and include infrastructure
upgrades to facilitate more sustainable infill development.
Land Needs Assessment Methodology (Transition Regulation)
Further to the above relating to land needs, TRCA understands one of the changes proposed as part of the
regulations to implement the amendments, is as follows:
• Delete the provisions that had been added to the regulation on May 4, 2018 to support implementation
of a standard method to calculate the amount of land needed for development to the horizon of the
Growth Plan, known as a land needs assessment.
Although the reasoning behind the amendment is not explained as part of the materials available on the
ERO posting page, TRCA understands that the Province is proposing to amend the transition regulation so
that designated greenfield areas' (DGAs) density requirements would apply to hamlets and rural
settlements in the Greenbelt and minor urban centres in the inner ring, for the purposes of land needs
assessment (instead of being treated as rural development, as is the case currently). This proposed
change seems to suggest that these areas are to be considered developable lands like any other DGA,
which could result in more development than has previously been considered or planned for in these
areas. In addition, these areas may require additional up front studies to facilitate any new major
development. Counting these areas as DGAs could also result in less additional land being determined to
be required through the land needs assessment.
TRCA submitted comments through the previous consultation on the existing land needs assessment
Mr. O'Hara Page 4 of 9 February 21. 2019
guidance document due to our interests in ensuring "net outs' of natural system lands. TRCA is already
undertaking work to support its municipal partners based on the current methodology. It is not clear
whether in-process/finished land needs assessments would need to be re -done to accommodate this
proposed change to the transition regulation.
Recommendation 2: Please confirm whether a revised land needs assessment methodology will be
released which nets out natural system lands, he requirements and implications for in -process or
completed land needs assessments and/or new or additional study requirements that will be
required for hamlets and rural areas that have not been subject to previous studies.
Allowing Key Planning Processes Outside a Municipal Comprehensive Review
The current Plan mandates municipalities to implement some key planning processes through a Municipal
Comprehensive Review (MCR). MCRs are defined in the Plan as, "a new official plan, or an official plan
amendment, initiated by an upper- or single -tier municipality under section 26 of the Planning Act that
comprehensively applies the policies and schedules of this Plan." The definition of an MCR is not proposed
to change under the amendments. As well, policy 2.2.1.3 e) remains unchanged, which requires upper and
single -tier municipalities to, "undertake integrated planning to manage forecasted growth to the horizon of
this Plan, implemented through a municipal comprehensive review." However, a number of significant
municipal planning processes for managing growth are proposed to be allowed to proceed in advance of
an MCR, including:
• Settlement area boundary expansions;
• Employment land conversions;
• Major Transit Station Areas (MTSAs) boundary and density target determinations; and,
• Agricultural and Natural Heritage Systems Mapping refinement.
Settlement Area Boundary Expansions
Policy 2.2.8.2 of the current Plan states that a settlement area boundary expansion may only occur through
an MCR. The proposed amendments to the Plan introduce policies 2.2.8.5 and 2.2.8.6, which state that
notwithstanding policy 2.2.8.2, a settlement area boundary expansion may occur in advance of an MCR,
provided the land to be added to the settlement area is no larger than 40 hectares. The Plan amendments
are silent on whether this is a one-time exemption but in discussions with Provincial officials this seems to
be the intent. TRCA is concerned, that if left unspecified, repeated expansions of up to 40 hectares each
time could occur, thereby leading to greater land consumption on an ad-hoc basis. Also, we note a number
of our partner municipalities have raised concerns with this approach and have recommended additional
policy details confirming a one-time only use.
These potentially multiple exemptions contrast with the Plan's greater overall intent to move from low
density development to a more compact built form. Moreover, the amended Plan lists "unmanaged growth"
as a challenge due to its potential to "degrade the region's air quality; water resources; natural heritage
resources, such as rivers, lakes, woodlands, and wetlands, and cultural heritage resources." TRCA
submits that approving single or multiple "one-off' settlement area expansions outside of an MCR could be
perceived by stakeholders as "facilitating unmanaged growth". TRCA recommends retaining the
requirement for an assessment of the comprehensive range of social, environmental and economic
interests that an MCR process is designed to address.
Recommendation 3: Given that the amended Plan's maintained intent speaks to the issue of
unmanaged growth and its adverse effects, TRCA recommends that the Province remove the
permission to expand settlement boundaries outside of an MCR. Should the exemption remain, the
Plan should specify a one-time exemption rule for a settlement area expansion in advance of the
MCR process.
Mr. O'Hara Page 5 of 9 February 21, 2019
It is important to note that there are criteria introduced through the amended Plan for settlement area
boundary expansions outside the MCR. The proposed policy 2.2.8.5 states that expansions in advance of
an MCR have to follow criteria set out in the current Plan policy 2.2.8.3 including that the expansion would
be informed by:
• Water management plans
• Avoidance or mitigation for the water resources system
• Avoidance of the Natural Heritage and Agricultural Systems
• Sections 2 and 3 of the Provincial Policy Statement
• Other Provincial Plans.
However, the preamble in 2.2.8.3 states that the criteria apply to expansions done through an MCR as in
2.2.8.2. Therefore, as written, the policies are unclear and should be revised to clarify that a settlement
area expansion needs to meet these criteria whether it is undertaken inside or outside of an MCR process.
Recommendation 4: TRCA recommends that the Province clarify that the criteria for urban
boundary expansions apply to expansions undertaken both inside and outside the MCR process,
the direction to allow an expansion outside of the process is maintained.
Employment Land Conversions
The proposed amendments to the Plan would allow a municipality to convert lands designated in their
official plan as employment to a designation that permits non -employment uses in advance of an MCR
(2.2.5.10) (except for those employment lands that fall within a Provincially Significant Employment Zone).
The amendments stipulate that conversion can only take place where the municipality demonstrates: a
need, no adverse effects on the viability of an employment area or achievement of minimum intensification
targets, there are existing or planned services in place, and a significant amount of jobs are maintained on
the lands (2.2.5.10 b)). We also note examples in our jurisdiction where comprehensive environmental
studies, if completed, were required to be updated to take into account the potential for impacts from a
change in use from employment to residential (e.g., stormwater management imperviousness factors).
Also, the term "significant" is not defined, and without a comprehensive understanding of employment land
capacity, the policy risks an over -conversion of employment lands. For example, the municipality might
discover in the next MCR that there are insufficient employment lands due to conversions occurring before
the MCR, and will require a settlement area boundary expansion to accommodate forecasted employment.
As noted in earlier sections, repeated settlement area expansions would subject sensitive habitats or
natural hazard zones, which have not yet been assessed, to development pressures.
Recommendation 5: The Province should define "significant amount of jobs" and introduce
restrictions on land use conversions outside an MCR, such as additional criteria on location and
requirements for comprehensive environmental studies (e.g., Master Environmental Servicing
Plans), "capping" the size of areas to be converted and placing a one-time exemption limit on these
conversions.
Provincially Significant Employment Zones
As mentioned above, the proposed policy 2.2.5.10 to convert employment lands to other uses is not
applicable to the 29 Provincially Significant Employment Zones identified through the proposed
amendments. Of these 29 zones, 12 fall within TRCA's jurisdiction. TRCA recognizes the importance of
maintaining employment lands and the Province's objective to protect them. A number of the 12 zones fall
within the natural heritage system which includes hazardous lands for flooding and erosion. Moreover,
employment lands are typically comprised of a high percentage of impervious surface of total site area
(e.g., parking lots, truck circulation areas, etc.), posing potential impacts for water quantity, quality, erosion
Mr. O'Hara Page 6 of 9 February 21. 2019
and water balance (for natural features and groundwater). TRCA has found that additional up front work to
achieve comprehensive stormwater management at a block plan level would help facilitate faster approvals
when site plans are received. The policies around employment zones should ensure that natural features
and areas are avoided and that stormwater management is addressed earlier in the development process
to effectively mitigate for these impacts and facilitate more timely approvals. The policies could promote
low impact development, among other best management practices, in accordance with section 1.6.6.7 of
the Provincial Policy Statement.
Recommendation 6: The Growth Plan policies protecting provincially significant employment
zones should have more defined mapping and criteria added for lands subject to natural hazards
and/or within the natural heritage system that must be set aside from development. The
employment policies should also encourage preparation of comprehensive stormwater
management plans, earlier in the process, to ensure protection of these features and functions
without creating new hazards or aggravating existing hazards and to facilitate more timely reviews
and approvals when site plans are submitted.
Delineation of Major Transit Station Areas
Major Transit Stations Areas (MTSAs) are areas including and around any existing or planned higher order
transit station or stop within a settlement area or a major bus depot in urban cores. The amendments to the
Plan will result in municipalities being allowed to delineate MTSAs and determine their density targets in
advance of an MCR. The amendment also revises the current maximum radius of an MTSA from 500
metres around a station to 800 metres. TRCA supports the intent of the radial increase in order to
encourage higher order transit usage. It should be cautioned, however, that numerous higher order transit
stops in TRCA's jurisdiction fall within areas subject to flooding, and similar to employment lands, typically
consist of a high proportion of impervious surfaces. As such, achieving density targets within MTSAs must
account for natural hazards, natural heritage, and stormwater management, whether identified outside or
inside of an MCR process. Amendments to the Growth Plan should specify policy requirements for natural
hazards, stormwater management and natural heritage more clearly, should delineation of MTSAs be
permitted outside an MCR as is proposed.
TRCA supports transit -oriented development (TOD). However, we feel that TOD should not come at the
expense of forgoing other provincial interests that are also in the public's interest, such as public safety
from managing natural hazards and achieving more resilient communities by protecting natural heritage
systems. This upfront policy requirement in the amended Growth Plan is especially important given that
MTSAs are restricted from Local Planning Appeal Tribunal appeals.
Recommendation 7: TRCA recommends that if the determination of MTSAs and their density
targets are excused from the MCR process, that the determination be subject to meeting criteria for
addressing natural hazard management, natural heritage, and water resources protection.
Agricultural and Natural Heritage Systems Mapping Implementation
It is proposed that two other processes can now occur outside an MCR. They are initial refinement of
provincial mapping of the Natural Heritage System for the Growth Plan, and initial refinement of provincial
mapping of the Agricultural Land Base.
TRCA supports the ability for municipalities to refine provincial mapping of the Natural Heritage System
(NHS) and Agricultural Land Base at the time of initial implementation of these systems in their official
plans, rather than only through an MCR. This amendment appears to be a positive move to address
stakeholder requests. Provincial mapping was done at a high level and, within TRCA's jurisdiction, and
does not capture many areas that municipalities have included in their own NHSs and in TRCA's NHS. The
amended policy would protect an existing NHS in an official plan under Growth Plan policies until the
Mr. O'Hara Page 7 of 9 February 21, 2019
municipality refines their mapping (based on local -level knowledge of the landscape) and implements the
provincial mapping.
The removal of the words "for greater precision" in policy 4.2.2.5 also represents a positive change, as it
eliminates some of the confusion regarding the extent of "refinements" TRCA had remarked on previously
during the consultation for the NHS and Agricultural System mapping in 2017. Nonetheless, the NHS and
the Agricultural System cross municipal boundaries warranting a coordinated approach across municipal
and conservation authority jurisdictions.
Recommendation 8: While allowing upper -tier municipalities to undertake initial
implementation separately for each lower -tier municipality provides flexibility and could result in a
more thorough initial implementation (as lower -tiers would not be rushed to complete it on the
upper -tiers' schedule), TRCA suggests the Plan direct upper -tier municipalities to coordinate
among their lower -tier municipalities and conservation authority partners to ensure that areas
crossing jurisdictional boundaries are considered in an integrated way during refinement and
implementation of the NHS mapping.
Removal of Watershed Planning for Infrastructure Planning
The amendments propose that the explicit requirement for watershed planning to support planning for new
and expanded infrastructure be removed from policy 3.2.1.2. In TRCA's previous comments on the Growth
Plan during the Coordinated Plan Review, it was stated that TRCA strongly supports "policies for
integrated planning for infrastructure that require: vulnerability risk assessments; developing stormwater
master plans informed by watershed planning, including examining the cumulative environmental impacts;
incorporating low impact development and green infrastructure; and considering the impacts of climate
change." TRCA is concerned that by reducing the list of plans and studies to "relevant studies', these
crucial components of infrastructure planning may be overlooked. Overlooking these studies early in the
process (official plan stage) may result in delays in the review of applications at the subdivision and site
plan stages.
Watershed planning can bring a solid foundation of science to inform many key community planning issues
relevant to infrastructure planning, such as:
• Identifying and enhancing natural heritage systems;
• Providing guidance to manage stormwater using green infrastructure and low impact development
techniques;
• Managing the risk to property and infrastructure from natural hazards; and
• Assessing the impact of potential future climate change, among others.
Recommendation 9: As TRCA recommended to the Province in 2015, the Growth Plan should
require consideration of the threshold capacity of the watershed, including targets established in
watershed/subwatershed plans, when directing growth to ensure that additional servicing capacity
can be accommodated without compromising ecosystem function and the water resources system.
Therefore, the Province should maintain the requirement for watershed planning in 3.2.1.2 to
inform infrastructure planning.
Water Resource System Policies
The proposed Plan policy 4.2.1.2 removes the requirement for water resource system designations and
policies to be applied in official plans. By requiring that water resource systems be identified without
specifying that they be incorporated in official plans, this amendment creates confusion regarding the
implementation of this policy. Municipal official plans and in some cases zoning by-laws should be the
mechanism for inclusion of the appropriate designations and policies, otherwise "the long-term protection
Mr. O'Hara Page 8 of 9 February 21. 2019
of key hydrologic features, key hydrologic areas, and their functions" may be undermined. This proposed
change of making inclusion of these water resource system designations optional, would also provide less
certainty to proponents who would have benefited from advance knowledge of where these features are
located. Furthermore, the original wording of 4.2.1.2 is identical to policy 3.2.3.3 in the Greenbelt Plan.
Changing it works against efforts to create a coordinated and more harmonized provincial planning
framework for the Greater Golden Horseshoe.
Recommendation 10: TRCA recommends that the Province retain the original wording of 4.2.1.2 to
require municipalities to include the appropriate designations and policies for water resource
systems in their official plans and zoning by-laws.
With regard to watershed planning, TRCA is pleased to see that policy 4.2.1 is being maintained as it
concerns municipalities partnering with lower -tier municipalities and conservation authorities to ensure,
"that watershed planning is undertaken to support a comprehensive, integrated, and long-term approach to
the protection, enhancement, or restoration of the quality and quantity of water within a watershed." As
mentioned earlier, municipalities rely on TRCA expertise in their watershed planning exercises to
implement the Growth Plan policies through their MCRs. However, the amendment also proposes that the
explicit link to "watershed planning or equivalent" in policy 2.2.8.3 be removed. While the policies under
4.2.1 make it clear that watershed planning should inform a variety of key exercises (e.g. allocating growth,
large scale development in DGAs) it is important to also link watershed planning to Settlement Area
Boundary Expansions, especially for those expansions taking place outside an MCR.
Recommendation 11: TRCA recommends that the province retain "watershed planning or
equivalent" in the wording of 2.2.8.3 d) to ensure that municipalities understand the connections
between the Settlement Area Boundary Expansion policies and the Water Resource System
policies in section 4.2.1.
New and Undefined Terms
Some new terms introduced through the amendment are broad and are not defined, including: "relevant
studies", "environmental planning", "significant number of jobs', and "environmentally sustainable
communities". By not being specific about these requirements or how these terms should be interpreted —
for example, the existing goals of "low carbon" and "net -zero" are specific and measurable, whereas
"environmentally sustainable" is not — it may have the effect of delaying, rather than expediting, approvals
for growth. If stakeholders and public agencies are unaware of what is relevant, or are inconsistent in their
interpretation of what is required, review processes could become mired in even greater uncertainty and
complexity. To achieve objectives of facilitating growth the objectives and policies should be as clear as
possible using specific defined terms.
Recommendation 12: The Province should define any new terms or measures introduced through
the amendments, so that the requirements and objectives of the Plan are clearly set out for
approval authorities and proponents.
In Summary
TRCA is looking forward to working closely with the Province and stakeholders to facilitate timely approvals
where upfront comprehensive studies have been conducted. We recommend additional changes to
provide clarity in order to help streamline municipal review processes. Adding flexibility and streamlining
can be positive in order to recognize local contexts, but a number of issues of interest to TRCA's mandate
are better identified through a comprehensive planning exercise at the early stages of the planning
process. Repeated, large scale, stand-alone approvals that the proposed Plan amendments contemplate
could exacerbate natural hazards and create negative impacts to natural heritage and water resources, in
Mr. O'Hara Page 9 of 9 February 21. 2019
areas where comprehensive planning has not occurred. Reduced targets have the potential of significantly
increasing the amount of land needed to accommodate forecasted growth, placing pressures on lands and
enhancing climate change risks.
Recommendation 13: Overall, TRCA recommends as much clarity as possible in the Plan, at
minimum, through additional criteria to safeguard against the environmental risks associated with
proposed approvals outside an MCR, if this approach is maintained.
Thank you once again for the opportunity to provide comments on this important initiative. Should you have
any questions, require clarification, or wish to meet to discuss any of the above remarks, please contact
the undersigned at 416-661-6290 or iohn.mackenzie(g trca.on.ca.
Sincerely,
John MacKenzie, M.Sc.(PI.), MCIP, RPP
Chief Executive Officer
BY E-MAIL
cc:
TRCA: Chandra Sharma, Director, Community Engagement and Outreach
Nick Saccone, Senior Director, Restoration and Infrastructure
Sameer Dhalla, Interim Director, Development and Engineering Services
Laurie Nelson, Interim Director, Policy Planning
Section III — Items for the Information of the Board
RES.#A21/19 - TORONTO ZOO
Update on discussions with the Toronto Zoo, City of Toronto and Parks
Canada relating to the tripartite agreement and the Parks Canada process
for determining the ultimate location of an orientation and education facility
for the Rouge National Urban Park in the City of Toronto.
Moved by: Glenn De Baeremaeker
Seconded by: Ronald Chopowick
THAT this staff report regarding an update on discussion with the Toronto Zoo, City of
Toronto and Parks Canada relating to the tripartite agreement and other Zoo related
matters be received.
THAT staff be directed to continue working with the Toronto Zoo, City of Toronto and
Parks Canada to finalize the tripartite agreement taking into account the updated Parks
Canada position on the Toronto `Gateway' and Learning and Welcome Facility and to
report back for any required direction to enter into a lease with the Toronto Zoo for
another more suitable site for browse purposes.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
At Authority Meeting #5/18, held on June 22, 2018, amended Resolution #A86/18 was approved
as follows:
WHEREAS Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) is the owner of certain
lands containing 182 hectares (449 acres), more or less and being Part of Lots 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
and Part of Road Allowance between Lots 6 and 7, Concession 3, Part of Lots 5 and 6
Concession 4, City of Toronto (TRCA Lands);
AND WHEREAS the TRCA Lands have been turned over to the City of Toronto for
management, in accordance with the terms of an agreement dated June 14, 1961;
AND WHEREAS City of Toronto and TRCA entered into a tripartite agreement with the
Board of Management of the Toronto Zoo (Board) dated April 28, 1978 for use of TRCA
Lands as part the Toronto Zoo;
AND WHEREAS TRCA is in receipt of a request from City of Toronto Council and the
Toronto Zoo Board to update the tripartite agreement and the boundaries of the Toronto
Zoo;
AND WHEREAS any TRCA land not included in the boundary to the Toronto Zoo will be
transferred to Parks Canada (PC) for Rouge National Urban Park (RNUP) purposes;
AND WHEREAS there is interest in ensuring that any transfer of lands for Toronto Zoo or
RNUP purposes be subject to certain conditions to ensure best management practices of
ecological integrity and restoration opportunities;
THEREFORE, LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT TRCA enter into an updated tripartite
agreement with City of Toronto and the Toronto Zoo Board for the use of the TRCA Lands
for Zoo purposes subject to the following amendments:
1. Removal of the Finch Meander from the lands to be added to the tripartite
agreement subject to Parks Canada entering into a lease with the Toronto Zoo for
the Finch Meander area south of Old Finch Avenue;
2. Removal of the browse garden use from the lands being added to the tripartite
agreement north of Finch Avenue with the understanding that the Zoo and PC
shall work together in partnership toward an agreement for a new browse location;
3. Any development proposed on the lands north of Finch Avenue be restricted to the
areas highlighted in blue on Attachment 2 with the access to the conservation
breeding facility highlighted in red on Attachment 2 and be subject to City of
Toronto approval processes;
4. That the tripartite agreement be amended so that the clause relating to TRCA and
PC staff being allowed access to the lands north of Finch Avenue as required in
order to undertake environmental monitoring and restoration activities also apply
to lands on the east side of Meadowvale Road;
5. That a clause be added to the tripartite agreement to ensure that Valley Halla is
restored and maintained in a condition that protects the heritage value of the
buildings subject to Toronto Zoo Board approval;
6. That a clause be added to the tripartite agreement that the parties may agree to
amend the boundary at a future date to accommodate the outcome of the PC lead
process for determining the ultimate location of an orientation and education
facility;
7. That a clause be added to the tripartite agreement to ensure cooperation on
requests to PC and other bodies to support the restoration and maintenance of
built heritage assets in the RNUP including but not limited to Valley Halla and the
Pearse House;
8. That the Zoo work with PC and community groups to provide periodic access to
Valley Halla allowing small groups the opportunity observe the rich historical
architecture and craftsmanship subject to Toronto Zoo Board approval, and report
back in two years on progress of implementation
THAT TRCA urge Parks Canada, the City of Toronto and the Toronto Zoo to develop, as
soon as possible, a long-term fencing and security agreement to protect the Zoo and
implement improvements as required,
THAT Parks Canada be requested to remove informal trails in Area #1 and develop a trail
system in that area on the table lands only;
THAT Parks Canada be requested to grant an easement over the mono — rail line to the
Zoo at a minimal cost and that, if the Zoo decides to reinstitute the service, that TRCA's
approval be required;
THAT Parks Canada be requested to remove informal trails in Area #2, -
THA T
2;THAT staff ensure that there are no fences on the outer perimeter of Area #3;
THAT TRCA staff, the Toronto Zoo and Parks Canada be requested to investigate
security fencing and monitoring options for the immediate Valley Halla property and report
back to the Authority as soon as possible;
THAT the City of Toronto be requested to transfer its lands along Meadowvale Road south
of the Zoo to Parks Canada;
THAT the City of Toronto be encouraged to apply for an infrastructure grant for Valley
Halla to restore the building in a reasonable timeframe;
THAT staff report back annually on the state of the tripartite agreement;
THAT staff report back to a future Executive Committee meeting within the next year on
the status of the tripartite agreement and the PC lead process for determining the ultimate
location of an orientation and education facility;
AND FURTHER THAT authorized TRCA officials be directed to take the necessary action
to finalize the tripartite agreement, including obtaining any necessary approvals and the
signing and execution of documents.
Tripartite Agreement — Update
The resolution from the Authority was circulated to the City of Toronto and the Zoo for review and
comment. Attached is a copy of City of Toronto and the Zoo's joint response (Attachment 1). Both
the City of Toronto and the Zoo supported the amendments proposed by TRCA, subject to a
number of conditions identified in the letter. The following is an update on discussions related to
these conditions:
1.1 Finch Meander (Area 2): The Zoo and PC are currently working on the terms and
conditions of a lease. This is an outstanding matter that requires further negotiation.
1.2 Browse: A site has been located in another location that is satisfactory to both the Zoo and
PC. The Toronto Zoo has agreed to the removal of the browse site from Zoo leased lands
north of Finch Avenue effective immediately. TRCA staff are also working with the Zoo
and Parks Canada on the alternative browse site to achieve lease wording that is
acceptable to all parties.
1.3 Development north of Finch (Area 3): The tripartite agreement has been amended to
restrict development north of Finch Avenue.
1.4 Written notice: The tripartite agreement has been amended to provide access to the lands
north of Finch (Area 3) and east of Meadowvale (Area 4 & Area 8) subject to providing the
Zoo with 48 hours written notice.
1.5 Protection of the Heritage Value of Valley Halla (Area 8): The tripartite agreement has
been amended to include a condition that the Zoo manage historically significant
buildings, structures and facilities in a manner that protects and promotes heritage value
and to actively facilitate appropriate levels of community access.
1.6 Future amendment to the Tripartite Agreement: A clause has been added to the tripartite
agreement allowing for future amendments to the boundary following final determination
of the location of the proposed RNUP orientation and education facility. On February 5,
2019 TRCA received a letter from Trevor Swerdfager Senior Vice President of Operations
of PC pertaining to the Toronto 'Gateway' Learning and Welcome Facility. The letter from
PC (attachment 3) states that PC would like to move ahead with pursuing a location on the
east side of Meadowvale Road in the vicinity of Toronto Zoo parking lot 3 on the lands
north of the Beare Road Sanitary Landfill road.
TRCA staff will be working with PC, City of Toronto and Toronto Zoo staff to define their land
requirements for the Gateway Learning and Welcome Facility. This effort will take into account
Toronto Zoo and City of Toronto operational needs and the potential negative financial and
operational impacts to the existing Zoo operations and facilities arising from the location of the
facility in this area currently leased to the Toronto Zoo. TRCA will also be reviewing the
proposed design of the PC facility to determine opportunities for the implementation of
restoration, accessibility improvements and sustainability measures. TRCA staff are also
interested in working with PC to determine if TRCA programming including education, training
and outreach could be incorporated into the design and operations of the future Gateway,
Learning and Welcome Facility.
TRCA is working with stakeholders to ensure a timely update of the tripartite agreement to
facilitate timely transfer of TRCA lands to PC for the RNUP at the earliest opportunity in 2019.
TRCA, the City of Toronto, and Toronto Zoo are currently working through title issues including
encumbrances requiring resolution to achieve the timely transfer of lands to PC.
Valley Halla Security
As a result of numerous discussions about security for Valley Halla and surrounding lands, the
Zoo and their Security & Safety staff agreed to take the lead on completing an assessment of
security measures that may be required in the vicinity of the Valley Halla buildings. The option of
fencing the area was assessed and deemed to be ineffective and too costly. Additional security
measures have been examined and accepted by the Zoo. These improvements include signage,
lighting, as well as other additional confidential security measures.
NEXT STEPS
TRCA Staff will continue to work with all parties to facilitate the timely transfer of lands to PC for
the RNUP currently subject to the tripartite agreement taking into account the issues outlined in
this report.
Report prepared by: Brandon Hester, extension 5767, Mike Fenning, extension 5223
Emails: bhester(a-)trca.on.ca, mfenning(ZDtrca.on.ca
For Information contact: Brandon Hester, extension 5767, Mike Fenning, extension 5223
Emails: bhester(&-trca.on.ca, mfennina0)trca.on.ca
Date: January 4, 2019
Attachments: 3
Attachment 1: City of Toronto and Toronto Zoo response to the Board of Directors resolution
#A86/18
Attachment 2: Toronto Zoo Land Transfer Study Map
Attachment 3: Letter to John MacKenzie, CEO, TRCA, from Trevor Swerdfager, Senior Vice
President Operations, Parks Canada, dated February 5, 2019, re. Rouge National
Urban Park and Tripartite Agreement.
Attachment 1
RI-TOR11WO
City 118 11
100 Clueen Street West
Hatt Tawer, 11" Hloor
=oranta, Cetamo MSH 2P 12
Augusl 30, 2CI18
Mn. John Malcli enzie
Chief Bxeautive Officer)
Toronto and Regicln Clonsemicition Authority
101 Bxct ange Avenue
Valtlghan, ON 1-0 5R6
John.Mackenzie C tnc a.orl .ca
Dean MII. Mach enzie:
Chris Murrey, MCIP HRP
City Me nage r
Mel: 416:192-3551
eanc 4164193-14211
a hnismurrav@ta ronhl .ca
www.tora nta.ea
Re: July :18, 2018 1citteul reiclaird incl ARCA Reacilu-licin tlAil6ill8 llTciricinlla Zcio — L plc aicid
llripartite Acpleeln elnlj
This letlen is the City of Tcrlonlo alnd llonunlo Zads joint response to yaull letlen dated July
25, 2018 negardincl Resolulicln 4A8EV18 adapted by the 7RCIFI al ils June 22. 2CI18 meeting
(the "Resaluiion"). Thene ane several kE1y issues identilied in the Rescllution )had extend
beycm d It EI Tripar ile Agreement (1he "Agnaement") and are nelalud to aao operatians or
It EI bncladen establishment al the Flauge Nacional L nban Pari (RNUP). pls such, our
response, which is summallized below and detailed in Atlachmenl 1 is being pllcivided in
Nlo sectians:
• 9ecticln 1.0 - 13suEIS nedated Wit a lenms all It a Agreement
• 9eclion 21A - Openaliclnail and olherl maters
Issuers 1e lalad Eci ENE AgiiE err1E n1
As you knave, negaliarlions have been underway fan sevenarl years between the City, Zocl,
anc TRCA slafl1 to update the terms of the Agneemenl is advance the slralegia visian of 1t e
Toronto aaa and facilitate eslablishment of the RN L R. Clity slaff have been wanking clasely
with the aaa, TRCA, and Fanks Canada to implement City Council's dineclion adopled at its
Febnuaryl 19, 20114 meeting: 2611,e.EX36.,e Ralugel Naltiarel Unklaln Pa1rk: TralrsilalranlLards
tai Parks Conalda.1 Ren Council's dineciian, linalizing the Agneemenl is a key aondltian pricer
Io the lransleu of TRCIFI-owned lands in the vicinity of the Zoo to Part s Canada fan
eslalblis hmenl o11he RNUP.
t ttp1 lapp.toronto.ca/trn rn Is/vie wPlgencialtera Histo ril.do?nen1=2a 1 iL Ex 38.4
The Clity and tha Zoa aan s uppor the amendments proposed by the ARCA, s ubjercl 1a the
candiliuns idenliiied in Attachment 'I . Ale wor Id be pleased to discuss these aanditions
wilh yawn iiepiiesentalives.
C pe ra ilia nal zinc OIFie it Matic irs
There ariei several al her items that were idenlilled in the Resalutian Ihal nelcrle 10 the
ongoing ,I daily openatians of 1he Aao and the RNUP, and as such are beyond the scope of
the Agreement. Howeveu, the City and It a Zocr would like to take this appcniunity la sties s
the importance placed on ensuring the t islcrriaal value all its ass els ane marintainerd to Clity
stanclands. We wank vuryl cicisely on defining thea a nequinemenls and will aonlin ue to
welcame thei pemspeatives of 7RCIAI and other stakeholders in ensuning the protection of
these assets.
As 1he process to establish It a RNUP pnaceeds, including the lransfen of lands to I'll
Canada, there will be several areas where fur heu cliscussian is required to moue clearly
define the relationship among the parlies to It is Agneemenl and miilh Parl s Canada. phis
will include issues such as clanificalian of security and fencing agneements, ars identified in
the Rescdulian. We look lorwand to ccinlinuing to wain closely on these vanious pieces to
ensune timely rescluiian of emeiiging nequinements and needs.
Our uesperose to other items idenlilied in tt a Resalulion is summarized in Section 2.0 of the
Alttachment.
Irrplenrantaliari sir dNleurt'Elrlepls
Rinalizing this Agreement is a key pnicrrity ion the City cin d'It a Zacr and one of Cliq Clouncil's
aanditions to be lullilled pnion la the tnari sten of TRCA-owned lands in the vicinit�j al the Zoo
to Parks Canaida ion the establishment cil the Rh l R. lki expeclile this pnocess, the Ciq's
Legal Seirviaes Division will update 11he dnaft terms to the Algneemeril to nellecl cwrjoinl
response 1a the Resolution. phis will be puavided 1a TRCA ion neview and approval.
Beyond settling the lemrs of the Algneernenl then are several olhen issues raised in the
Resalutian that will nequine lurihen cliscussian aind negolicitian between the Zacr and F arks
Canada, including:
Rinalizing teams of lecise aglneemenls Ion it ei Pinch Meianden south of Old Rinah Avenue
an( allennate Biiawse Clardein lacaiion; and
Ilelining the Parks Ccinacla and Zoo nelaiionship, including items such ais ownership
and ecisement nequinemenls crl zoo mcrnanail lin e, and security and fencing
nequinemeinls.
Lasily, we'd like to ihanl you and yaun staff tan line extensive wart to -date on advancing)
this impar ani pnojecl. Clomplelion crl this cigrreemant is a milerstane step lowands advancing
the Zoo's 91neilegic Ran, and aur mutual inlenests in eslablist ment of 11he RNIJ R.
..1.,1..11..........
We lack fammid 1a conlinuing this callabonalive uelalicinship.
Sincenely,
Chnis Munnay
City Managen
Rcibin Hale
Intenim Chief 9xecutive Officer
Twonlc aao
C. k achy 9tnanks, Clenk and Senian Manager, Conpcinate Reconds, ARCA
Mike Reinning, Asscaiale 0inecton, Rraperly and RisN Managemenl, TRCII
t3nandan F es -len, Senicm F ncpery Manager, Rnoperly Services, TRCA
Michael Tolensky, Ct lei Rinancial and Opeiialing Officer, TRCII
Attaluh melnl 'I — ail y2cia Resglar isel
1.2
1.4
1.6
1 2.1
2.2
L
4
'1.0-Tluipartfte A lgreemeni -Related Fequests
Removal of the Finch Meander from the lands to
be added to the tripartite agreement subject to
Parks Canada entering into a lease with the
Toronto Zoo for the Finch Meander area south of
Old Finch Avenue;
Removal of the browse garden use from tt e
lands being added to the trip a rite agreement
nortt of Finch Alvenis with tl a understanding
that the Zoo and PC shall v orb together in
partnership toward an agreement for a ne w
browse location;
Any development propose& on the lands north of
Finch Avenue be restricted to the areas
highlighted in blue on Attachment 2 with the
access to the conservation breeding facility
highlighted in red on Attachment 2 and be subject
to City of Toronto approval processes;
That the tripartite aglrae m ent be amended so that
the clause relating tc 7R(lAl and PCI staff being
aila wed access to ti a lands north of Finch
Mvenue as req wired in order to undertal e
environ rn a Mal monita ring and restoratia n
actiuitles also applll to lands on the east side of
Meadow%ale Road;
Cat a clause be added to the tripartit_e
agreement to ensure that % allei I Halla is restored
and maintained in a conditia n that protects the
heritag a value of tl a t uildingls subjeat to lloronto
coo Board approval
That a clause be added to the tripartite
agreement that the parties may agree to amend
the boundary at a future date to accommodate
the outcome of the Parks Canada -led process for
determining the ultimate location of an orientation
and education facility
>-.0- (Ipenallonal and Other N afters
That a clause be added to the tripartite
agreement to ensure cooperation on requests to
PC and other bodies to support the restoration
and maintenance of built heritage assets in the
RNUP including but not limited to Valley Halla
and the Pearse House
That tt a Za c work v ith PC a n d communitfl
g roups to provide periodic aacess to Valley Falla
alloviing small groups the opp c rtunity oboe n e the
rich historical and itecture and craftsmanship
subject taTarontaZac Board appra%ial,and
rope rt t a a k in No years an pra grass of
im Ip ementation
City and Zoo agree with this request, subject to
agreement that the terms of a lease with Parks
Canada and the Zoo for the Finch Meander be
confirmed prior to signing the tripartite
agreement.
City and Zoo agree with this request, subject to
agreement that the terms of a lease with Parks
Canada ansl the Zoo for the location of new
browse garsien be confirmed prior to signing
the tripartite agreement.
City and Zoo agree with this request.
City and Zoo agree with this request, subject t(
TRCA and PC staff providing the Zoo Board
with 48 hours written notice of intent to access
the lands.
City and Zoo agree to add clause to tripartite
agreement that reflects the importance of
historical City assets on Zoo Lands included in
the tripartite agreement and that the assets will
be managed accordingly.
Tripartite agreement may be amended at any
time subject to agreement of all three parties.
A clause will be added to this effect.
Response
City and Zoo agree to this, subject to approval
of Zoo Board.
Item
'CIA Requqfl
Jooo RaFpomid
2.3
THAT TRCA urge Parks Canada, the City of
Security/fencing is an operational matter,
Toronto and the Toronto Zoo to develop, as soon
delegated to Zoo Board. City suggests a
as possible, a long-term fencing and security
meeting between the Zoo, TRCA and Parks
agreement to protect the Zoo and implement
Canada be held to discuss these needs.
im rovements as required;
2.4
THAT Parks Canada be requested to remove
Defer to Parks Canada. These lands will not be
informal trails in Area #1 and develop a trail
within City or Zoo jurisdiction.
s stem in that area on the table lands only;
2.5
Th ATI Parks Clanada be reques to d to grant an
Parts of Zoo monorail lie in lands that are
eas em ent over the ni a n a ra it lin a to the Zoo at a
proposed to be transferred to Parks Canada.
ni inimal as a and that, if the Zoo decide s to
Further discussion is needed to identify the
reinstitute the se n ice, tl at TRCIA's approval t a
Zoo's rights to changes or development of
reqs Orad:
mono -rail lands. An easement over the subject
lands, being Parts 11, 13-14 on 66R-29657 is
one option.
2.6
THAT Parks Canada be requested to remove
Does not pertain to the City. The Zoo has
informal trails in Area #2;
agreed this is ok as lands will be leased to
them.
2.7
THAT staff ensure that there are no fences on
The Zoo has previously agreed to this.
the outer perimeter of Area #3;
2.8
IIF AT 7111wi staff, the Toronto Zoa a rid Pa rl s
Security fencing and monitoring options are an
Clanada be requested to investigate security
operational matter and will be identified by the
fa n a ing and ni on itoring option s for the i ni ra a diate
Zoo Board.
Valle 11 f alla property and I report t a n k to the
Authority as soon as possit le;
2.9
THAT the City of Toronto be requested to
City requires further information regarding this
transfer its lands along Meadowvale Road south
request.
of the Zoo to Parks Canada;
2.10
THAT the City of Toronto be encouraged to apply
City may investigate opportunities to apply for
for an infrastructure grant for Valley Halle to
appropriate federal heritage funds, providing
restore the building in a reasonable timeframe;
the funding/grant program is suitable and
Council has not already identified priority
projects for the program.
2.11
THAT staff report back annually on the state of
TRCA staff may report back to Authority when
the tripartite a reement;
requested.
2.12
THAT staff report back to a future Executive
The City and Zoo may also report back to
Committee meeting within the next year on the
respective Board and Committees as required.
status of the tripartite agreement and the PC lead
process for determining the ultimate location of
an orientation and education facility;
2.13
AND FURTHER THAT authorized TRCA officials
City and Zoo staff have the delegated
be directed to take the necessary action to
authorities to finalize tripartite agreement.
finalize the tripartite agreement, including
Once changes are made to reflect City and
obtaining any necessary approvals and the
Zoo responses in 1.1 to 1.6 above, agreement
sionina and execution of documents.
can be finalized and executed.
nnach—t z
Parks Paras
Canada Canada
February 5, 2019
John MacKenzie
Toronto and Region and Conservation Authority
101 Exchange Ave
Concord, ON 1.4K 5R6
Dear Mr. MacKenzie,
Further to our recent conversation, I am writing today to confirm our interests and
priorities in working with the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority to advance the
completion of the establishment of Rouge National Urban Park.
As a preliminary point however, I would like to express our deep and sincere appreciation
for the work that you and your team have done to help to make the vision for the Rouge
ever closer to reality. A clear commitment to getting the job done and a firm spirit of
collaboration have been the hallmark of the work of your team over the last eight years
and the Parks Canada Agency deeply appreciates it.
A key recent accomplishment has been the approval of the inaugural management plan
for the park. As you know, the Rouge National Urban Park Management Plan has now
been tabled in the House of Commons (https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-
np/on/rouge/info/gestion-management) and Parks Canada is keen to move forward with
the TRCA in completing land assembly for the park and in protecting and celebrating its
amazing natural, cultural, and agricultural heritage.
In this context, I would like to commend and thank the TRCA for the November 1, 2018
transfer of more than 190 hectares (47o acres) of land to Parks Canada in the Bob Hunter
Memorial Park area for inclusion in Rouge National Urban Park. With the management
plan now complete we are eager to build on the momentum this transfer creates. Our top
priority in the coming weeks is to finalize the park's remaining land transfers, with the
additional 2o6o hectares (5090 acres) of TRCA land being the highest priority on the list
for land transfer.
The TRCA lands remaining to transfer include approximately 166 individual parcels of
property (see attachment); 118 in the City of Toronto, 30 in the City of Pickering and 18 in
the City of Markham. Our teams continue to work with our respective legal counsels, and
surveyors from the Legal Surveys Branch of Natural Resources Canada, to secure the
requisite authorities, prepare legal descriptions and complete the documentation
required to effect the transfer. Given that completing the transfer of these lands is of the
greatest urgency to Parks Canada, my team is prepared to do whatever is necessary to
assist the TRCA in order for us to successfully complete the transfer of lands as soon as
possible. It is our strong hope that we can wrap these transactions up this spring and shift
gears to fully implementing the management plan. I look forward to working with you in
this regard and to identifying and resolving any issues that may be preventing our
achievement of this collective goal.
On a related note, I would like to update you regarding Parks Canada's plans for a
Toronto'Gateway' Learning and Welcome Facility in the Scarborough area of Rouge
National Urban Park, an initiative Parks Canada has publicly committed to in the recently
released park management plan. Parks Canada's intention is to ensure the facility's
location and design provide the greatest educational and interpretive value to the park, its
partners, and the public.
Canada
As you know, Parks Canada recently completed a feasibility assessment of nine locations
in the Toronto area of the park to determine the best location for a learning and
orientation facility to act as a gateway to discovering RNUP and as a community hub in
Scarborough. Parks Canada agreed to conduct this assessment based on feedback from
partners and stakeholders in the summer of 2018.
After careful analysis, which factored in technical environmental and cultural heritage
criteria along with Indigenous and stakeholder feedback, Parks Canada would like to
move ahead with pursuing a location on the east side of Meadowvale Road, which is also
the preferred location and recommendation of Mayor John Tory and the Friends of
Rouge National Urban Park. As Parks Canada's preferred location is currently part of the
Toronto Zoo's leasehold on land owned by the TRCA, a final location decision is subject to
further discussions with the TRCA, Toronto Zoo and City of Toronto.
In order for the facility to be viable and best serve the needs of the public, the park's
Indigenous partners, neighbouring Scarborough communities, and park visitors, the
lands in question would need to be transferred to Parks Canada for inclusion in RNUP.
This request is consistent with a TRCA Executive Board Tripartite resolution 2.2 ratified
at the June 2018 meeting, which stated:
That a clause be added to the Tripartite Agreement that the parties may agree to
amend the [Tripartite] boundary at a future date to accommodate the outcome of
the Parks Canada -led process for determining the ultimate location of an
orientation and education facility.
To this end, we appreciate that the Toronto Zoo has expressed an openness to negotiate a
mutually beneficial outcome and preliminary discussions are now underway. It is my
hope and expectation that, to avoid further delays in bringing Rouge National Urban Park
to full operations, we can collectively confirm the facility's final location by spring of
2019, at the latest, with public engagement to follow and construction phases occurring
from 2020 to 2022.
We look forward to working with the TRCA, Toronto Zoo, and City of Toronto to facilitate
a mutually beneficial outcome for all parties involved at the earliest opportunity.
To this end, Parks Canada has already committed to working with the TRCA to make
agricultural park lands available to the Zoo to sustainably grow browse foods for Zoo
wildlife as well as the provision of 41 acres of former `Rouge Park' land that Parks Canada
and the TRCA agreed to provide the Zoo to manage as conservation lands and a future
location for their species -at -risk breeding facilities.
In closing, I would like to reiterate our appreciation for TRCA's work as a central partner
in Rouge National Urban Park. I look forward to working with you and your team as we
move the land transfer process across the finish line this spring!
Senior Vice President Operations
RESMA22/19 - HUMBER BAY PARK MASTER PLAN UPDATE
City of Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation Capital Planning Team
have been supported by the TRCA in the recent development of an
updated Humber Bay Park Master Plan (2018).
Moved by: Ronald Chopowick
Seconded by: Jennifer Drake
WHEREAS as exemplified in the Waterfront Agreement of October 11, 1972 the City of
Toronto and TRCA are to create and develop waterfront lands which will enable public
access to water oriented recreational facilities.
AND WHEREAS TRCA staff worked with City of Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation
staff to prepare the Humber Bay Park Master Plan.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Humber Bay Master Plan 2019 be received by
TRCA Board of Directors for information;
AND FURTHER THAT staff be directed to work with the City of Toronto to advance and
initiate projects to implement Master Plan priorities.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
A Changing Waterfront
Opened in 1984, the 43 -hectare Humber Bay Park is owned by the Toronto and Region
Conservation Authority (TRCA) and operated by the City of Toronto Parks, Forestry &
Recreation Division. The park is located south west of the intersection of Parklawn Avenue,
Lake Shore Boulevard West and Marine Parade Drive. Humber Bay Park was created through
lakefilling during the 1970s and early 1980s. The landmass was gradually formed from
construction fill in the mid -to late 80's. Part of the Mimico Creek watershed, the park exists as
two large peninsulas that flank the mouth of Mimico Creek where it discharges into Lake
Ontario. Although the landmass of Humber Bay Park is entirely man-made, it has become a
naturalized green space that contains a diversity of vegetation communities that provide
important habitat for seasonal resident wildlife species and migrating species (e.g. stopover
habitat for birds).
The original master plan for this new land called for a highly programmed park space. However,
over time, the park has evolved into a natural and quiet refuge for both people and wildlife.
Located in close proximity to a well-established residential community and an evolving high rise
neighbourhood, the park and its infrastructure are under new pressure to meet the demands of
an increasing population, while maintaining their highly valued naturalized character.
The park has been the subject of a series of master plans for site specific areas in the vicinity
including Humber Bay Park East, Humber Bay Park West, Humber Bay Shores Park. This
updated master plan would be the first that consolidates all of the site specific plans and
addresses the park in its complete physical formation.
Ongoing Development
Currently, there is considerable development taking place adjacent to the park within the
existing community. The number of residents in this area has significantly increased over the
last 5 years with numerous towers being developed along Lake Shore Boulevard, Park Lawn
Road and Marine Parade Drive. The Humber Bay & Humber Bay Shores area is one of the
fastest growing new communities in Toronto, with approximately 12,000 current residents and
an anticipated 10,000 more residents by 2020. New development has attracted a new
demographic of residents to the area. As such, there has been keen interest in the
redevelopment of the public realm of this new high density node adjacent to Humber Bay Park.
The recent redevelopment of the public realm along Marine Parade Drive, directly adjacent to
Humber Bay Park is an important influencing factor. Previous implemented projects include the
redevelopment of Humber Bay Shores Park and the Butterfly Garden and Trail Improvements
which will be completed in 2018.
The Revitalized Master Plan
Humber Bay Park, with its system of trails, rugged shoreline and dramatic views, offers a unique
and rare waterfront experience within the larger metropolitan Toronto area. Defined by two
separate peninsulas, the park is comprised of a collection of spaces, each with its own distinct
character, function, form and sense of place. The park has been loved by the community for
decades and is now showing signs of wear and tear, deterioration and decay.
The vision for Humber Bay Park is one of greater integration. The Revitalized Master Plan
proposes a new comprehensive design approach that will enhance the valued naturalized
landscape, habitat and recreational uses in the park, while identifying new opportunities for
improvements that will respond to both the existing and future needs of the community. The
proposed plan is based on the following guiding principles:
The design will celebrate and enhance the existing natural beauty and sense of respite
from the urban city, while accommodating the growing number of park users and
addressing existing user conflicts.
The existing flora and fauna of value be protected, while providing opportunities for
interpretation and appreciation of the park's natural heritage attributes.
The park continues to be a local park for nearby residents while embracing its place in
the larger network of open spaces along Toronto's waterfront. The park should
accommodate a diversity of park users and needs.
The design capitalizes upon new opportunities for recreational activities and new
programmable social spaces while maintaining and protecting the natural and ecological
attributes of the park.
The design is flexible, resilient, adaptive and able to evolve and respond to the current
needs as well as the future needs of the community.
This Master Plan strives to provide a new perspective, one that will achieve a strong vision that
will balance the preservation and enhancement of while identifying areas for improvement,
establishing a larger framework that will unify and protect areas of the park. This vision is based
on the following objectives:
1. Improve overall connectivity, unifying the overall park, establishing a hierarchy of routes,
trails and pathways that meet AODA criteria. The design involves adjusting the existing
layout, eliminating areas of conflict between cyclists and pedestrians and creating new
connections with the goal of improving pedestrian and cyclist movement.
2. Improve parking and vehicular circulation in order to address existing and future parking
requirements, while reducing the extent of paved surfaces and the quantity of storm
water run-off.
3. Protect and enhance existing natural environment by creating new aquatic and terrestrial
habitat areas that enhance biodiversity and ecological functions.
4. Improve water quality and function of the ponds and water channel to support ecological
and recreational functions while reducing the resources required for maintenance and
operation.
5. Identify opportunities for improved park programming, including redefining existing
spaces and the introduction of new seating and lookouts, while protecting sensitive
habitats. Park programming is intended to be flexible, catering to the adjacent growing
community.
6. Integrate architectural improvements within Humber Bay Park with adjacent landscape,
to meet ecological, regulatory and overall site enhancement objectives.
7. Improve the lighting strategy, to ensure public safety, while achieving the highest
standard of habitat protection, the reduction of light pollution and enhanced energy
efficiency.
Public Consultation Process
Public Meetings:
As part of the master planning process, members of the public were invited to 3 public
meetings. The input from these informal sessions was used to establish immediate and long-
term objectives for the park.
Community Resource Group:
The Community Resource Group (CRG) was established to provide input, guidance and advice
during the design phase of the Project. The CRG met 5 times over the course of the project.
Additional Consultation Comments and suggestions about the content of the Master Plan were
welcomed throughout the process. Questionnaires were distributed at public meetings and
surveys were available on the City's project website, affording additional opportunities for input.
Architectural Community Resource Group Meetings:
The Architectural Community Resource Group (ACRG) was convened on 3 occasions and 2
public meetings were held for the Humber Bay Park East Building Project. The public
consultation for the new building in Humber Bay Park East was conducted in coordination with
the Master Plan.
Each of the public meetings was well attended and resulted in important discussions regarding
the park's assets, issues and opportunities. Various components of the Master Plan were
presented at each meeting and were all generally supported by the public. For a more fulsome
overview of the public consultation and the comments received from the public, see Attachment
1 to this report.
RATIONALE
The revitalization and update of the Humber Bay Park Master Plan exemplifies the partnership
and process set out in the 1972 Waterfront Agreement where: "In the course of implementing
the Metropolitan Toronto and Region Waterfront Plan the Authority has been and will be
acquiring, creating and developing waterfront lands which will enable public access to water
oriented recreational facilities. Metro will contribute to such acquisition, creation and
development. Metro is desirous of using the lands so acquired, created or developed within the
Municipality of Metropolitan Toronto for park and recreational purposes."
FINANCIAL DETAILS
At its meeting on February 17, 2016, City Council approved the 2016 Parks, Forestry and
Recreation Capital Budget which included a project budget of $7.0 million for a new building
located within Humber Bay Park East. TRCA staff participated throughout the Master Plan
process through funding provided through City of Toronto municipal levy. Cost estimates for the
build out of various components of the Master Plan will be undertaken in 2019 and will be
reported back to the Board of Directors.
Implementation of individual projects is contingent on TRCA and City priorities, approvals,
additional consultation process (if required), funding and budget approvals from the City and its
partners. Potential funding or implementation partners have been identified for each project.
These include TRCA, City departments, other public agencies and private or volunteer
organizations.
The Master Plan process identified a preferred location for this building located centrally within
the park, near the reconfigured ponds with direct access to parking and drop-off. Architectural
services for design of this building were retained and design development is in progress. A
Request for Proposals for detailed design of the associated pond reconfiguration has been
initiated by the City of Toronto. Specific timelines for final design and construction are being
discussed and will be coordinated with TRCA. It is proposed that the maintenance of any newly
created naturalized areas will be managed by TRCA.
DETAILS OF WORK TO BE DONE
Master Plan Implementation
The projects identified for implementation in the Master Plan are divided into three categories
small-scale or incremental projects, medium -scale projects and large-scale projects.
Small-scale or incremental projects -These are improvements that are not site specific and that
can be implemented strategically over time throughout the entire park. Some of these projects
have previously been identified by the TRCA and /or the City and could be funded through
Parks and Capital Projects annual Parks Plan and state of good repair budgets.
Medium -scale projects - These projects are those that will require project -specific funding as
well as some coordination to ensure that they are staged to have minimal impact on the
operation of the park. Cost sharing, partnership funding or resource sharing for implementation
of these projects may be required.
Large-scale projects - These improvements include most of the Master Plan's most significant
and substantial recommendations. These projects will go the furthest in defining the future
character of Humber Bay Park and include the implementation of the redefined West Market
Area, the Humber Bay Park East Building Project and the Ponds & Linear Wetland
Reconfiguration and Improvements, among others. These projects would require significant
funding and coordination.
TRCA will also continue to work with the City to identify the opportunities where implementation
can be performed by TRCA staff. This implementation work could be accomplished through our
existing Service Agreements with the City.
City of Toronto Parks Forestry and Recreation and TRCA will be working together to find where
economies of scale can be achieved, such as ensuring related projects are implemented in
close succession, reducing the duration of disturbance within the Park, and minimizing costs for
mobilization, materials and labour. The Master Plan identifies projects that could benefit from
concurrent implementation.
Report prepared by: Nancy Gaffney, extension 5313 and Jill Attwood, extension 5916
Emails: nancy.uaffney(a?trca.on.ca and iiII.attwood(d,)trca.on.ca
For Information contact: Jill Attwood, extension 5916
Emails: jill.attwood@trca.on.ca
Date: February 7, 2019
Attachments: 1
Attachment 1: Humber Bay Park Master Plan (attachment to be accessed via City of Toronto
website.)
RES.#A23/19 - TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY RESPONSE
TO ONTARIO'S CLIMATE CHANGE PLAN CONSULTATION
To provide the TRCA Board of Directors with a copy of staff comments on
the Made -in -Ontario Environment Plan, released by the Province of
Ontario which were submitted on January 28`h, 2019 to meet the province's
deadline for comment.
Moved by: Mike Mattos
Seconded by: Jack Heath
THAT the staff report, highlighting TRCA staff comments on Ontario's Made -in -Ontario
Environment Plan, be received.
CARRIED
BACKGROUND
On November 29, 2019 the Province of Ontario released a proposed Made -in -Ontario
Environment Plan with four areas of focus:
1. Protecting our Air, Lakes and Rivers
2. Addressing Climate Change
3. Reducing Litter and Waste in Our Communities & Keeping Our Land and Soil Clean
4. Conserving Land and Greenspace
This proposed plan was released following an initial online consultation process which was active
between October 24, 2018 and November 16, 2018. TRCA staff submitted comments in response
to this initial consultation, which were included in the Board of Directors Meeting #9/18 agenda,
held on November 30, 2018. At that meeting, Board of Directors requested that staff provide an
update once the proposed Environment Plan had been released.
This report provides a copy of comments submitted by TRCA staff via the Ontario Environmental
Registry on January 28`h, 2019.
RATIONALE
SUMMARY OF TRCA COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE PROVINCE
1. General Comments
The proposed Environment Plan sets out areas of potential action related to many of the
programs and services delivered by TRCA. In turn, TRCA and other CAs can play essential roles
in supporting the Province in implementing many objectives and actions of the Plan. Through
long-term partnerships with municipalities, numerous local community leaders and groups, TRCA
and other CAs are uniquely positioned to enable local networks to engage in collaborative action.
Recommendation 1.1: TRCA recommends that the MECP work with Conservation Ontario
and other CAs to:
• Take advantage of the success of Ontario's CA program and close to 70 years of
unique experience, technical expertise, and collaborative approach to engaging
diverse stakeholders and communities in dealing with the most pressing issue of
our times - climate change.
• Leverage the importance of watershed -based governance model that has enabled
innovation to develop practical solutions to current and emerging issues (e.g.,
flood management, drinking water and Great Lakes water quality, climate change,
rapid urbanization/growth); and
• Leverage CA programs to achieve multiple provincial priorities.
In its current form, the Environment Plan is focused on the MECP. However, many other
Ministries have responsibilities to ensure a healthy and sustainable environment. Many of the
actions identified in the Environment Plan will require support from other Ministries for
implementation success. While the Province has committed to make climate change a
cross -government priority, we recommend that this approach be extended to all other areas
identified in the Environment Plan. A whole -of -government approach is necessary to effectively
address our pressing environmental challenges and move communities towards sustainability
and long-term prosperity.
Recommendation 1.2: TRCA recommends that a cross -government approach be extended
to all areas of the Environment Plan to bring environmental protection and climate change
to the forefront of all government decisions and contribute to the effective implementation
of the Plan.
2. Protecting our Air, Lakes, and Rivers
Great Lakes Health
The Great Lakes are the primary source of drinking water to millions of Ontarians. As indicated in
the most recent Minister's Annual Drinking Water Report, Ontario has a comprehensive Drinking
Water Source Protection (DWSP) Program to protect municipal sources of drinking water,
including the Great Lakes. Continued improvement to the initial technical work that was
completed to prepare source protection plans will be necessary as more information becomes
known about the impact of emerging influences such as blue-green algae and Cladophora, road
salt, increased development, and flooding caused by severe weather events.
Through the DWSP, the Credit Valley — Toronto and Region — Central Lake Ontario (CTC) Source
Protection Committee (SPC) investigated the impact of spills on municipal drinking water systems
drawing water from Lake Ontario. A number of policies are set out in the Approved CTC Source
Protection Plan (SPP), addressing spill prevention, contingency planning, and emergency
response. The proposed online platform for reporting incidents, commitment to improve the
complaint response system, and a goal to improve transparency between stakeholders will all
lead to collaborative and consistent emergency response.
Recommendation 2.1: TRCA recommends that the MECP continue to support the Drinking
Water Source Protection Program and continue to build on the technical studies and
analyses completed for source protection planning to protect water quality and the Great
Lakes ecosystem.
As the lead for the Toronto and Region Remedial Action Plan (RAP), TRCA plays a key role in
leading collaborations for Lake Ontario initiatives. The Toronto and Region RAP recognizes the
influence of watersheds on nearshore lake health. Any updates to the Great Lakes Strategy will
need to continue to recognize the significant influence local watersheds have on nearshore lake
health. Integrated watershed management is critical to managing pollutant loads and protecting
spawning habitats. A more explicit link between watershed planning and management and
nearshore lake health should be established in the proposed Environment Plan.
Recommendation 2.2: TRCA recommends that the Environment Plan be strengthened to
establish a stronger, more explicit connection between watershed planning and
management and nearshore lake health.
TRCA is pleased to see the Province's continued commitment to restoring the Great Lakes.
Executing on -the -ground restoration projects will be critical to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of
climate change. In order to deliver on resiliency objectives and achieve measurable impact in a
cost-effective manner, it is important to deliver restoration at a large scale and in strategic areas
where multiple objectives can be realized (e.g., water quality, water quantity, erosion and
sedimentation remediation, natural cover, and connectivity, etc.) to maximize the value on
investment. For example, TRCA has completed a jurisdiction -wide Integrated Restoration
Prioritization (IRP) process, which directs site selection to provide the maximum benefit to natural
system function on a watershed basis.
Recommendation 2.3: TRCA strongly encourages that the MECP adopt a strategic
approach to restoration and focus available resources on areas where multiple objectives
can be achieved, based on the latest science and real monitoring data pertaining to
ecosystem health and integration of climate resilience measures to address vulnerability
and risk to ecosystems and communities.
Vulnerable Waterways and Inland Waters
TRCA agrees with the importance of protecting Ontario's water resources, which are essential to
long-term sustainability of our environment, economy and communities. Monitoring the quality of
our lakes, rivers, and aquifers is necessary to understand the impact of our everyday activities on
these dynamic systems. Although we agree that increasing sodium and chloride from the
application of road salt is a stressor to our source water, monitoring efforts should not be
restricted to this activity. The Province must work with its stakeholders and partners to promote
best management practices to reduce the impact of all land use activities on all sources of
drinking water. Effective watershed management and continued water quality monitoring of lakes,
rivers, and aquifers will allow us to evaluate the implementation success of initiatives such as
source protection planning which employ best management practices. Conservation Authorities
and municipalities can be essential partners in protecting additional vulnerable waterways and
inland waters through effective implementation of the provincial planning and water policy
framework (e.g., the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, and Clean Water Act, etc.).
Recommendation 2.4: TRCA welcomes the MECP's commitment to supporting effective
watershed management and recommends continued support for water quality and
quantity monitoring of lakes, rivers, and aquifers conducted by Conservation Authorities
and municipalities.
TRCA can also provide support in understanding vulnerabilities of waterways and inland waters
based on a watershed perspective. TRCA has been piloting a "next generation" approach to
watershed planning in the development of an updated watershed plan for Carruthers Creek in
partnership with the Region of Durham. This "next generation" approach will help to better
consider climate change vulnerabilities and ecological connectivity, and green infrastructure
planning for improved community resilience, among other benefits. Watershed planning can bring
a solid foundation of science to inform many key community planning issues such as: identifying
and enhancing natural heritage systems; providing guidance to manage stormwater using green
infrastructure and low -impact development (LID) techniques; managing the risk to property and
infrastructure from natural hazards, and assessing the impact of potential future climate change,
among others.
Recommendation 2.5: TRCA recommends that the MECP provide clear direction on how
the goals of watershed and subwatershed planning should relate to existing provincial or
other legislation, policies and guidelines for watershed and environmental protection.
Water Use, Conservation and Security
The understanding of how water cycles through watersheds in southern Ontario, obtained
through the DWSP Program, was a strategic investment by the Province. This knowledge can
inform water management decisions being made by the Province in the issuance of
Permits -To -Take -Water and Environment Compliance Approvals. TRCA strongly supports the
Province's goal of ensuring that the knowledge gained through the DWSP Program is applied to
other provincial program areas.
The proposed Environment Plan identifies the need to manage water takings to ensure we have
sustainable water resources in the face of a changing climate and continued population growth.
The premise of evaluating cumulative water takings in the context of overall water management is
vital to ensuring that water resources are adequately protected and used sustainably. Therefore,
TRCA supports the review of current water taking policies, programs and science tools. The
extensive technical work which has been completed, peer-reviewed, and approved by the
Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks through the DWSP Program will be
invaluable in completing this review.
The tiered water budget studies completed under the Clean Water Act have identified current and
projected future water takings in each watershed or subwatershed in Ontario in an effort to
evaluate the vulnerability to municipal drinking water supplies. Where the potential for stress to a
particular drinking water system was identified during these assessments, more elaborate
drought and climate change scenarios were considered in an effort to ensure the sustainability of
the water resource over the long-term. This technical work provides a solid foundation for
identifying sustainable approaches to managing our water for the future, including the adoption of
water conservation practices and technologies.
Effective water management requires strong coordination and collaboration across multiple
stakeholders. Watershed Plans are prime examples of a collaborative process that brings
together a comprehensive understanding of water (quantity, quality, uses, etc.) under present and
future timeframes, as the basis for developing management strategies that may include allocation
guidelines. It is important that the Province continues to support and enable these and other forms
of collaborative water management.
Recommendation 2.6: TRCA recommends that the MECP establish a stronger, more
explicit commitment to enabling collaboration across various agencies responsible for
aspects of water management.
Municipal Wastewater and Stormwater Management and Reporting
TRCA supports efforts to improve municipal wastewater and stormwater management and
reporting, which if properly managed can significantly benefit the health of our watersheds. TRCA
leads watershed hydrology studies and integrated watershed plans which provide the basis for
effective stormwater management criteria and inform municipal decision-making regarding new
development and priorities for urban retrofits. TRCA also plays a role in the implementation of
these projects. With additional resources, we could assist in strategic planning and
implementation of green infrastructure designed to reduce flood risk, improve stormwater
management and achieve numerous social and economic co -benefits for communities. Policies
established at the Provincial level are important to guide science -based wastewater and
stormwater management at the municipal level, with priority given to LID and green infrastructure.
Provincial support for incentive programs related to Stormwater innovation and infrastructure
grants for green infrastructure could also be used to leverage municipal wastewater and
stormwater management initiatives.
Recommendation 2.7: TRCA recommends that the MECP support incentive programs
related to stormwater, implementation of LID and green infrastructure.
3. Addressing Climate Change
Understanding Climate Change Impacts
TRCA recognizes that adapting to climate change impacts is a critical natural resource
management issue. Through the Ontario Climate Consortium (OCC), TRCA has developed
expertise to respond to issues of climate adaptation and mitigation across both technical and
policy fronts. OCC also commonly partners with municipalities in TRCA's jurisdiction on climate
change initiatives such as vulnerability assessments, workshops on climate risks, and various
research projects. TRCA offers a range of expertise in climate change mitigation and adaptation
that could be used to help the Province develop and deliver policies and actions to achieve its
goals in addressing climate change.
While TRCA supports the commitment to undertake a provincial climate change impact
assessment, we suggest that any such impact assessment must inform local and regional
decision-making. For example, balance between a high-level, broad -scale approach and a
regional -scale assessment that considers spatial detail (e.g., the Great Lakes), local land use and
sector interdependencies will be key to addressing local risks.
Further, while provincial and municipal scale sector -based vulnerability assessments are
important, certain aspects of their implementation ultimately happens at the ground level by
residents, businesses and other groups. TRCA's Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Program
(SNAP) is piloting a neighbourhood -based vulnerability assessment and adaption planning
process in the City of Brampton, which is bringing different levels of information together with local
knowledge to develop a shared action plan. The process is building capacity in local stakeholders
to lead implementation actions that will address multiple urban renewal objectives and deliver
greater impact. This model is expected to be transferable to other communities and could harness
additional local resources for action.
Recommendation 3.1: TRCA recommends that the provincial -level climate change impact
assessment must inform local or regional decision-making in the Greater Toronto Area, to
inform Great Lakes concerns or sector -based risks. This can be achieved by scaling some
systems or sectors down to a more local or regional level where more detailed research
and engagement work is conducted;
As the largest conservation authority in Ontario serving the most urbanized region, TRCA has
played a critical role in addressing climate change risks and the impacts of rapid growth and
urbanization within our area of jurisdiction, which supports the Province's and municipalities'
efforts to address pressing environmental issues such as Lake Ontario water quality, flood and
erosion hazard management, stormwater, natural heritage systems planning, and source water
protection. An important component of this work has been collecting climate and other
environmental data while undertaking various types of vulnerability and risk assessments,
including:
• Hydrologic modeling (2D, LiDar) for enhanced riverine flood risk assessment and
floodplain mapping delineation;
• Dual drainage modeling in case study areas to estimate and consider the interactions and
extent of urban and riverine flooding;
• Stream erosion assessments and prioritization for erosion control works, monitoring and
reporting through key performance indicators;
• Vulnerability and risk assessment of TRCA flood control infrastructure;
• Natural system vulnerability assessment to climate change in Peel Region.
Recommendation 3.2: TRCA recommends that the proposed provincial impact
assessment incorporate existing information from CAs and other organizations at the
local and regional scales; and include case studies of small, medium, and large
municipalities where growth pressures are expected, under both greenfield and
redevelopment / intensification scenarios, and may exacerbate climate change impacts.
Recommendation 3.3: TRCA recommends that where climate change vulnerabilities and
risks are already well known, funding for adaptation actions should be applied in high
priority areas regardless of province -wide impact assessment processes occurring in the
coming years.
Government Policies Update
TRCA strongly agrees with the Province that a cross -government approach to addressing climate
change is essential for Ontario to successfully respond to the all-encompassing nature of climate
change. Coordination and partnership building are extremely important to managing climate
change risks and developing policies, programs, and services. Municipalities, utilities and other
broader public sector organizations need to be included in cross -governmental coordination
efforts, particularly at the local and regional scale where expertise and resources can be shared to
help build joint -capacity for effective decision-making. Conservation Authorities, as regional
environmental agencies, can play a critical role in regional coordination and providing guidance to
local government and other public agencies operating on -the -ground. CAs can also play a critical
role in encouraging local environmental leadership through partnerships with community groups
and business associations. As the Province moves forward with updating government policies to
update policy direction on climate resilience, TRCA would welcome the opportunity to support the
government with technical expertise and insights gathered through decades of climate change
work at the local level.
Recommendation 3.4: TRCA recommends that the Province work with CAs to enhance
regional coordination and provide guidance to municipalities on climate action, while also
encouraging local leadership through partnerships with community groups and local
businesses.
Local Climate Resilience
TRCA is pleased to see the commitment to empower effective local leadership on climate change
and improve local climate resilience. We know that left unaddressed, climate risks pose
significant threats to population health and economic prosperity in the future. Community -led
initiatives and programs, which use innovative means of engaging citizens in personalizing their
connection with the future climate, are more effective in raising awareness and helping individuals
determine the actions they need to take. TRCA has been very active in this area with sector
specific on -the -ground mobilization through initiatives around climate change mitigation and
adaptation such as our Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Program (SNAP), Ontario Climate
Consortium (OCC), and Partners in Project Green (PPG): a Pearson Eco -Business Zone. TRCA
will continue to support efforts by member municipalities and senior levels of government to
respond to climate risks by helping to build infrastructure that is more resilient to flood and erosion
hazards, providing expertise in predicting the effects of climate on watersheds and communities,
and connecting stakeholders with the knowledge and technologies that they require.
Recommendation 3.5: TRCA recommends that the MECP identify the essential role of
community -led actions, and role of regional organizations such as TRCA in providing the
necessary support and guidance to local communities, business, and municipalities in
building local climate resilience.
Green Infrastructure
Watershed planning assists municipalities and their partners and stakeholders in integrating
greenspace and green infrastructure into new and existing communities. TRCA has supported
initiatives such as retrofitting existing stormwater management ponds, terrestrial natural heritage
system design, urban forest management and facilitating LID. TRCA has expertise in LID and
urban forest strategies, and experience in engaging private and public landowners and
municipalities in the planning, design and implementation of green infrastructure plans on public
and private property. There are significant environmental benefits that accrue from this work, as
well as numerous social and economic co -benefits. TRCA's integrated planning processes bring a
multi -objective lens to the design of green infrastructure systems, which is necessary to optimize
designs for greatest impact. These multi -objective projects are low -regret actions that offer the
opportunity to leverage planned infrastructure renewal to achieve cost-sharing opportunities and
the basis for innovative funding sources. This work should be a priority implementation program
due to its multiple benefits. TRCA is well positioned with completed plans and established
partnerships available to advance implementation quickly.
Recommendation 3.6: TRCA recommends that the MECP make multi -objective green
infrastructure projects a priority implementation program of the Environment Plan.
4. Reduce Litter and Waste and Keep our Land and Soil Clean
Waste Reduction
TRCA supports the focus on food and organic waste, which represents 6% of Ontario's
greenhouse gas emissions. TRCA also supports efforts to reduce plastic waste that ends up in
our lakes and rivers, which support clean watersheds and conservation areas. Efforts to prevent
waste from entering these areas is consistent with the mandate of CAs.
Since its inception, TRCA's Partners in Project Green has supported thousands of businesses
and facilitated the completion of hundreds of green projects in Canada's two largest employment
areas, the Pearson Eco -Business Zone and the City of Toronto. As an example, business in these
employment areas diverted more than 4,000 tonnes of materials away from landfill using circular
economy principles. TRCA commonly engages community members to participate in a variety of
education, training and outreach initiatives such as cleanups, including shoreline cleanup events
along Lake Ontario to raise awareness of the waste we generate, get people outside to appreciate
nature, and save our wildlife.
Excess Soil Management and Brownfield Redevelopment
TRCA is a commenting agency under both the Planning Act and the Environmental Assessment
Act, and a regulatory agency under the CA Act. We work to ensure that new development or
redevelopment is not at risk from flooding or erosion, as well as encourage the conservation and
restoration of natural resources. While we welcome the clean-up of contaminated lands in
Ontario, we would like to be further engaged as the Province sets out to revise the brownfields
regulation and record of site condition guide to ensure that proper protections are in place to
facilitate brownfield redevelopment while protecting the public and the environment.
Recommendation 4.1: TRCA would like to recommend that MECP engage CA's to support
the revision of brownfield regulations and the record of site condition to ensure that the
environment and the public is protected while reducing barriers to the redevelopment of
brownfield sites.
TRCA supports the Province's intention to set clear rules to support the beneficial reuse of safe
soils and work with stakeholders to increase enforcement on illegal dumping of excess soil. TRCA
has developed a number of guidelines to protect soils, including "Preserving and Restoring
Healthy Soil: Best Practices for Urban Construction" (2012). TRCA could provide support to the
Province in setting clear rules to allow industry to reuse excess soils.
Recommendation 4.2: TRCA would like to engage with the MECP to support the
establishment of clear rules to support the beneficial reuse of safe soils and enable strong
enforcement on illegal dumping.
Manaaement of Hauled Sewaae
TRCA supports the consideration of approaches for the management and spreading of hauled
sewage. It is our understanding that the Source Protection Programs Branch is reviewing current
circumstances under which this activity could be a significant drinking water threat to municipal
sources of drinking water. We agree that there is still much to understand with respect to how
these materials could impact the environment. Therefore, a more comprehensive understanding
of their behaviour and management is warranted.
5. Conserving Land and Greenspace
Natural Ecosystems
Conservation Authorities play a central role in improving the resilience of natural ecosystems,
which in turn help to increase the resilience of communities within the province to flooding,
erosion, and climate change. For example, TRCA and partners developed the targeted terrestrial
natural heritage system, which is necessary to support regional biodiversity and contributes
significantly to water management as well as other social and economic co -benefits within the
region. We also play a key role in restoring natural ecosystems (e.g. wetlands, woodlands, and
streams) and supporting habitat quantity as well as quality. We welcome provincial support on the
accelerated securement, protection and restoration of the natural heritage system. TRCA and
other CAs can be essential partners in land and water conservation to preserve areas of
significant environmental and ecological importance. Further, CAs are provincially mandated to
be able to enter into agreements for land conservation.
Recommendation 5.1: TRCA recommends provincial investment to accelerate and
scale -up the securement, protection and restoration of the natural heritage system.
Recommendation 5.2: TRCA recommends that the Province identify specific targets or
thresholds for protecting and restoring natural ecosystems based on the latest science
provided through watershed and subwatershed planning, to enhance the ability for
municipalities and CAs to implement actions to meet ecological targets.
Conservation and Environmental Planning
TRCA appreciates the Province's support for conservation and environmental planning and the
Province's intention to work with municipalities and stakeholders to improve the delivery of the
mandate of CAs. As indicated above, TRCA delivers a broad range of programs and services in
fulfilling our mandate under the CA Act, which contribute to many of the objectives and actions
identified in the Plan. We would highly welcome the opportunity to remain engaged and work
collaboratively with the Province and other stakeholders to continuously improve our programs
and services, and ensure that an appropriate level of funding and resources is in place to sustain
them moving forward.
TRCA would also like to be engaged as the Province looks to modernize Ontario's environmental
assessment process as the review of environmental assessments is an integral part of our work at
the TRCA.
Recommendation 5.3: TRCA would like to engage further to support the Province in
delivering the mandate and objectives of CAs as set out in the Conservation Authorities
Act and in modernizing Ontario's Environmental Assessment processes.
Parks and Forests
TRCA is improving and expanding trail systems across our area of jurisdiction. We have improved
public access to greenspace by acquiring nearly 700 acres of new public greenspace and
partnered with government agencies, municipalities and NGOs to formalize over 800 km of the
regional trail system throughout our jurisdiction. In addition, TRCA has developed a Regional Trail
Strategy to guide our work with partners to develop a 1,100 -km network of regional trails that will
create opportunities for people throughout the Greater Toronto region to explore and enjoy
natural greenspace. In 2017, TRCA Parks and Culture facilities attracted over 1 million visitors to
experience nature and cultural heritage. Conservation Authority operated
recreation infrastructure adds immense economic (tourism) and public health value to the
residents of Ontario. Currently with population growth in the Greater Golden Horseshoe, these
important assets are facing pressures and challenges. Provincial investment in these assets is
critical.
Recommendation 5.4: TRCA would like to work with the Province and other partners to
explore innovative investment opportunities to support the continued growth of and
enhanced access to the parks and trails infrastructure network in the Greater Golden
Horseshoe Region;
Species Protection
TRCA will soon complete our invasive species strategy to strategically address the growing threat
of invasive species in urban and near -urban areas. A regionally coordinated approach to invasive
species detection and management will be the most efficient and cost-effective way to achieve
meaningful gains. Similarly, a coordinated approach to species -at -risk that includes a holistic view
of the natural system will achieve greater benefits to ecological communities and wildlife,
including species -at -risk. We would welcome the strengthening of this action area to include
commitment to the timely completion of Species Recovery Plans.
Recommendation 5.5: TRCA recommends that this area of the Environment Plan be
strengthened to include a commitment to the timely completion of Species Recovery
Plans.
6. Next Steps Implementation
TRCA would like to be further engaged with the Province as the proposed Environment Plan is
finalized and implemented. CAs already work in many areas of the Plan and are uniquely
positioned to enable local networks to enrich the engagement and coordination of environmental
protection and stewardship. Additionally, TRCA offers a range of climate change expertise which
can be leveraged through the proposed advisory panel on climate change to support
implementation and further development of climate change actions.
Relationship to Building the Living City, the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan
This report supports the following strategies set forth in the TRCA 2013-2022 Strategic Plan:
Strategy 2 — Manage our regional water resources for current and future generations
Strategy 8 — Gather and share the best sustainability knowledge
Strategy 12 — Facilitate a region -wide approach to sustainability
FINANCIAL DETAILS
Staff is engaged in this policy analysis work as per the normal course of their duties. No
additional funding is proposed.
Report prepared by: Ian McVey, 416-451-1420
Emails: imcvey@trca.on.ca
For Information contact: Ian McVey, 416-451-1420
Date: January 28, 2019
MATERIAL FROM EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING #1119, HELD ON FEBRUARY 8,
2019
Section I — Items for Board of Directors Action
RES.#A24/19 - GREENLANDS ACQUISITION PROJECT FOR 2016-2020
Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Petticoat Creek Watershed
1815 Altona Road, Pickering. Rosemary Speirs Property Donation —
Ecological Gift Program (CFN 55448). Donation of a parcel of land
situated to the east of Altona Road and north of Sheppard Avenue, 1815
Altona Road, in the City of Pickering, Regional Municipality of Durham,
under the "Greenlands Acquisition Project for 2016-2020," Flood Plain
and Conservation Component, Petticoat Creek Watershed.
(Executive RES. #B2119)
Moved by: Chris Fonseca
Seconded by: Steve Pellegrini
THAT TRCA accept title to the lands to be donated by Rosemary Speirs, containing 1.27
hectares (3.02 acres), more or less, improved with a residence, detached garage and
guest house, situated to the east of Altona Road and north of Sheppard Avenue, said
land being Part of Lot 32, Concession 1, municipally known as 1815 Altona Road, in the
City of Pickering, Regional Municipality of Durham;
THAT the donation is to be on the following basis:
a) The purchase price be $2.00;
b) An income tax receipt to be made available to Rosemary Speirs for the final
appraisal value, in accordance with the guidelines set out by the Canada Revenue
Agency and terms of reference as required by the Ecological Gifts Program;
c) TRCA be responsible for appraisal, environmental audit and vendor's reasonable
legal fees associated with completion of the transaction;
THAT TRCA extend its appreciation and thanks to Rosemary Speirs for her generous
donation;
THAT TRCA receive conveyance of the land free from encumbrance, subject to existing
service easements;
THAT the firm Gardiner Roberts LLP, be instructed to complete the transaction at the
earliest possible date. All reasonable expenses incurred incidental to the closing for land
transfer tax, legal costs, and disbursements are to be paid by TRCA;
AND FURTHER THAT authorized TRCA officials be directed to take the necessary action
to finalize the transaction, including obtaining any necessary approvals and the signing
and execution of documents.
CARRIED
RES.#A25/19 - EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE SECTION I ITEMS
Moved by: Jack Heath
Seconded by: Gordon Highet
10.1.2. GREENLANDS ACQUISITION PROJECT FOR 2016-2020
Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Humber River Watershed. Ravines of Islington
Encore Inc. (CFN 60967). Acquisition of a portion of a property located on the east side of
Islington Avenue and south of Langstaff Road, municipally known as 8451 and 8457 Islington
Avenue, in the City of Vaughan, Regional Municipality of York, under the "Greenlands
Acquisition Project for 2016-2020," Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Humber River
watershed.
(Executive RES.#85/19)
THAT 0.18 hectares (0.46 acres), more or less, of vacant land, located on the east side
of Islington Avenue and south of Langstaff Road, said land being Lots 8-12 (inclusive),
Plan M-1113, designated as Parts 65 and 66 on draft M -Plan, municipally known as
8451 and 8457 Islington Avenue, in the City of Vaughan, Regional Municipality of York,
be purchased from Ravines of Islington Encore Inc.;
THAT the purchase price be $2.00;
THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) receive conveyance of the
land free from encumbrance, subject to existing service easements;
THAT the firm Gowling WLG, be instructed to complete the transaction at the earliest
possible date and all reasonable expenses incurred incidental to the closing for land
transfer tax, legal costs, and disbursements are to be paid by TRCA;
AND FURTHER THAT authorized TRCA officials be directed to take the necessary
action to finalize the transaction, including obtaining any necessary approvals and the
signing and execution of documents.
10.1.3. GREENLANDS ACQUISITION PROJECT FOR 2016-2020
Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Humber River Watershed Country Wide Homes
(Caledon) Inc. (formerly Villas Caledon Corporation) (CFN 60531). Acquisition of property
located east of Innis Lake Road and north of Old Church Road, in the Town of Caledon,
Regional Municipality of Peel, under the "Greenlands Acquisition Project for 2016-2020,"
Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Humber River watershed.
(Executive RES. #B4119)
THAT 3.05 hectares (7.53 acres), more or less, of vacant land, located east of Innis
Lake Road and north of Old Church Road, said land being Part of West Half Lot 21,
Concession 2, designated as Block 167 on draft
M -Plan, in the Town of Caledon, Regional Municipality of Peel, be purchased from
Country Wide Homes (Caledon) Inc. (formerly Villas Caledon Corporation);
THAT the purchase price be $2.00;
THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) receive conveyance of the
land free from encumbrance, subject to existing service easements;
THAT the firm Gowling WLG, be instructed to complete the transaction at the earliest
possible date and all reasonable expenses incurred incidental to the closing for land
transfer tax, legal costs, and disbursements are to be paid by TRCA;
AND FURTHER THAT authorized TRCA officials be directed to take the necessary
action to finalize the transaction, including obtaining any necessary approvals and the
signing and execution of documents.
10.1.4. GREENLANDS ACQUISITION PROJECT FOR 2016-2020
Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Humber River Watershed
Natalie Petrella (CFN 60737). Acquisition of a portion of a property located east of Regional
Road 27 and south of Rutherford Road, municipally known as 23 Isa Court, in the City of
Vaughan, Regional Municipality of York, under the "Greenlands Acquisition Project for 2016-
2020," Flood Plain and Conservation Component, Humber River watershed.
(Executive RES.#83/19)
THAT 0.02754 hectares (0.06805 acres), more or less, of vacant land, located east of
Regional Road 27 and south of Rutherford Road, said land being Part of Lot 15 on
65M3120, designated as Part 1 on draft Registered Plan Drawing Name. 17-236RP01
dated July 17, 2018 prepared by KRCMAR, municipally known as 23 Isa Court, in the
City of Vaughan, Regional Municipality of York, be purchased from Natalie Petrella;
THAT the purchase price be $2.00;
THAT Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) receive conveyance of the
land free from encumbrance, subject to existing service easements;
THAT the firm Gowling WLG, be instructed to complete the transaction at the earliest
possible date and all reasonable expenses incurred incidental to the closing for land
transfer tax, legal costs, and disbursements are to be paid by TRCA;
AND FURTHER THAT authorized TRCA officials be directed to take the necessary
action to finalize the transaction, including obtaining any necessary approvals and the
signing and execution of documents.
10.1.5. ENBRIDGE GAS DISTRIBUTION
Request for Permanent Easement Required for Don River 30 Inch Natural Gas Pipeline
Replacement Project. City of Toronto, Don River Watershed (CFN 60729). Receipt of a
request from Enbridge Gas Distribution, for a permanent easement required for the Don
River 30 Inch Natural Gas Pipeline Replacement Project, located south of Adelaide Street
East and west of the Don River, municipally known as 155 Bayview Avenue, in the City of
Toronto, Don River watershed.
(Executive RES.#86/19)
WHEREAS the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) is in receipt of a
request from Enbridge Gas Distribution for a permanent easement required for Don
River 30 Inch Natural Gas Pipeline Replacement Project located south of Adelaide
Street East and west of the Don River, municipally known as 155 Bayview Avenue, in
the City of Toronto, Don River watershed;
AND WHEREAS it is in the best interest of TRCA in furthering its objectives as set out
in Section 20 of the Conservation Authorities Act to cooperate with Enbridge Gas
Distribution in this instance;
THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT a permanent easement containing 0.0055
hectares (0.0316 acres), more or less, of vacant land, required for Don River 30 inch
Natural Gas Pipeline Replacement Project, said land being part of Block 9, Plan 66M-
2473 designated as Parts 1-5 (inclusively) on draft R -Plan, in the City of Toronto, be
conveyed to Enbridge Gas Distribution;
THAT consideration be $775,125; all legal, appraisal, survey and other costs to be paid
by Enbridge Gas Distribution;
THAT Enbridge Gas Distribution fully indemnify TRCA from any and all claims from
injuries, damages or costs of any nature resulting in any way, either directly or
indirectly, from this conveyance or the carrying out of construction;
THAT an archaeological investigation be completed, with any mitigation measures
being carried out to the satisfaction of TRCA staff, at the expense of Enbridge Gas
Distribution;
THAT a permit pursuant to Ontario Regulation 166/06, as amended, be obtained by
Enbridge Gas Distribution prior to the commencement of construction;
THAT all TRCA lands disturbed by the proposed works be revegetated/stabilized
following construction and where deemed appropriate by TRCA staff, a landscape plan
be prepared for TRCA staff review and approval in accordance with existing TRCA
landscaping guidelines, at the expense of Enbridge Gas Distribution;
AND FURTHER THAT authorized TRCA officials be directed to take the necessary
action to finalize the transaction, including obtaining any necessary approvals and the
signing and execution of documents.
10.1.6. VOLUNTARY PROJECT REVIEW
Works Undertaken by Organizations Exempt from Ontario Regulation 166/06, As Amended.
Summary report on the Voluntary Project Review of works undertaken by organizations
exempt from Ontario Regulation 166/06, as amended — Regulation of Development,
Interference with Wetlands and Alteration to Shorelines and Watercourses, through Voluntary
Project Review letters issued during 2018.
(Executive RES. #87/19)
THAT the summary information in this report be received and that Toronto and Region
Conservation Authority (TRCA) staff be directed to continue to work with Crown
corporations undertaking environmental assessments for infrastructure projects who
are exempt from permits under Section 28 of the Conservation Authorities Act to
ensure that the five tests of Ontario Regulation 166/06, as amended, control of
flooding, erosion, pollution, conservation of land and dynamic beaches, are addressed
during the detailed design stage of these projects in 2018.
CARRIED
RES.#A26/19 - EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE SECTION IV ITEMS
Moved by: Chris Fonseca
Seconded by: Michael Palleschi
THAT Section IV items 11.1 - 11.3, Applications for Permits Pursuant to Ontario
Regulation 166/06, As Amended, contained in Executive Committee Minutes #1/19, held
on February 8, 2019, be received.
CARRIED
RES.#A27/19 - CLOSED SESSION
Moved by: Jack Heath
Seconded by: David Barrow
THAT the Board of Directors moves into closed session at 10:34 a.m., pursuant to
Section C. 4. of the TRCA Board of Directors Administrative By-law, as the subject matter
being considered consists of:
(1) a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any
negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of TRCA
(being to receive a procurement report from staff pertaining to item 8.3 and
confidential financial documents pertaining to agenda item 8.4.)
CARRIED
RES.#A28/19 -
Moved by:
Seconded by:
RECONVENE
Ronald Chopowick
Jack Heath
THAT the Board of Directors reconvenes the open session at 11:27 a.m.;
AND FURTHER THAT the Board of Directors receives the confidential information
provided by staff in closed session pertaining to items 8.3 and 8.4.
CARRIED
TERMINATION
ON MOTION from Ronald Chopowick, the meeting terminated at 11:29 a.m., on Friday
February 22, 2019.
Jennifer Innis
Chair
/af
John MacKenzie
Secretary -Treasurer