HomeMy WebLinkAboutAuthority Appendices 1991
~.I
THE METROPOLITAN TORONTO AND REGION CONs2RVATION AUTHORITY
LIST OF MEMBERS BY MUNICIPALITY
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND ADVISORY BOARD APPOINTMENTS
1991
Authority Meeting #1/91
February 22, 1991
AM. "
APPOINTMENTS
TO
THE METROPOLITAN TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
February, 1991 - February 1992
ADJALA/MONO Donna Patterson
DURHAM Don Jackson
Kip Van Kempen
Jim Witty
METROPOLITAN TORONTO Patrick Abtan
Maria Augimeri
IIa Bossons
William Granger
Lois Griffin
Brian Harrison
Roger Hollander
Blake Kinahan
Howard Moscoe
Marie Muir
Richard O'Brien
Peter Oyler
Bev Salmon
Joyce Trimmer
PEEL Frank Andrews
Emil Kolb
Frank McKechnie
Nancy Porteous-Koehle
Maja Prentice
YOlUt Margaret Britnell
Lois Hancey
Lorna Jackson
Eldred King
Ron Moran
PROVINCE OF ONTARIO John A McGinnis, Chairman
Al Ruggero
Vacancy
AM.3
THE METROPOLITAN TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE & ADVISORY BOARDS - 1991
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Chairman John A. McGinnis
Vice-Chairman Lois Hancey
Members William Granger
Brian Harrison
Don Jackson
Emil Kolb
Ron Moran
Richard O'Brien
,
FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION ADVISORY BOARD
Chairman Richard O'Brien
Vice-Chairman Jim Witty
Members Patrick Abtan
Maria Augimeri
Brian Harrison
Eldred King
Frank McKechnie
Peter Oyler
WATER & RELATED LAND MANAGEMENT ADVISORY BOARD
Chairman Don Jackson
Vice-Chairman Lois Griffin
Members Ila Bossons
Lois Hancey
Roger Hollander
Blake Kinahan
Ron Moran
Maja Prentice
Bev Salmon
Joyce Trimmer
Kip Van Kempen
CONSERVATION & RELATED LAND MANAGEMENT ADVISORY BOARD
Chairman Emil Kolb
Vice-Chairman Frank Andrews
Margaret Britnell
William Granger
Lorna Jackson
Howard Moscoe
Marie Muir
Donna Patterson
Nancy Porteous-Koehle
Al Ruggero
AM. i.(
THE METROPOLITAN TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
Letter from Mr. Richard Peddie
General Manager, Land Development
City of Toronto Housing Department
dated May 1, 1991
Re: Ataratiri
Authority Meeting #3/91
May 3, 1991
,
City of Torontn
I Housing Department AM.S
20 AdeUllde Street East Toronto. Ontario MSC 2T6
-Jnni~l 13urn.c;, Commissioner
'.
Reg. No'
Rle No SLS 6.9
Reply To Ross Winter
Telephone. 392-6614
May 1. 1991
Mr John A. McGinnis
Chairman
Metropolitan Toronto & Region Conservation Authority
5 Shoreham Drive
Downsview, Ontario M3N 154
Dear Sir'
Re: May 3rd Meeting of the Authority . Agenda Item 10
Report ~nd Addendum from Water and Related Land Management Advisory
Board . Ataratlrl
On April 24th I wrote to you requesting that Councillor Barbara Hall be permitted to make a deputation
on the above Item at your May 3rd meeting We have subsequently received a staff Addendum to
the report adopted by the Water and Related Land Management Advisory Board. As a result. written
comments are being provided instead (see accompanying letter- from the Commissioners of Housing
and of Planning and Development) I and Councillor Hall will not present a deputation on this Item.
Thank you for your consideration on this matter.
.
~ger, Land Development -- -.-
RW/eev
Encl.
cc: Mr McLean, General Manager ---------------------
, *
FlU:: li9'},.OS60 TOO. 39'J..0091
. City of ToCODto
, ~ . ,', ' Housing Department
I ~:.I 20 .ArlehUde Street East Toronto, Ontario MSC 2T6
Daniel Burn." Commismoner
fW\,lJ, Reg. No
File No SLS 6 9
Reply To Ross Winter
Telephone 392~6614
May 1. 1991
Mr John A. McGinnis
Chairman
Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
5 Shoreham Drive
Downsview I Ontario
M3N 184
Dear Sir.
Re: May 3rd Meeting of the Authority . Agenda Item 10
Report from Water & Related Land Management Advisory Board on
Ataratirl . Qrlft Environmental Evaluation Study Report, and April 24th
Addendum
The City of Toronto is in receipt of the April 24th Addendum regarding Item 10 on your May 3r[
Agenda. The recommendations contained In the Addendum and Schedule 1 thereto have benefiie[_
from discussions among SPA Technical Committee members which have occurred since the earll.:
report to the Water and Related Land Management Advisory Board was prepared Consequently, th~
City would like to withdraw Its earlier request that this. matter be deferred.
To address the specific recommendations, and the changes that have been made from those th~
were presented to the Water and Related Land Management Advisory board, we have the followin,
comments
.
Recommendation 2: It is our understanding that the intent here is that work undertaken within a or
to five year time frame should not inhibit the possibility of taking more comprehensive steps in tr
longer term future to benefit a larger area.
Recommendation 3: In regard to the Identified need to dredge the Keating Channel to maintain ~
Fax: 39'J,.().'i6Q TOn. ;*,2-0001
2 AM, 1
effective level of flood-protection, there are a number of considerations The question is broader than
simply, 'the beneficiary pays' The sources of the sedimentation need to be addressed. Other
jurisdictions and agencies should be required to institute appropriate erosion control measures It is
Important for financial reasons to maintain, not reduce, the capacity of the existing containment cells
created under the authority of the approved Environmental Assessment, at least until it is determined
that the quality of the dredged material has improved to the extent that It can be disposed of
elsewhere
Recommendation 5: We believe the intent here might be better expressed as follows, "Any lands
within the lower Don flood plain identified by the SPA Working Group as being required for future flood
mitigation works will be reserved for this purpose II
Recommendation 6: The text which accompanies this recommendation refers to the need to raise
the issue of the anticipated bridge widening wlth the CNR. While we agree that it Is reasonable to try
to assess the feasibility/acceptability of such a widening. the City of Toronto may not be the best party
to make this approach at the present time Your Authority may be better placed to raise this issue
with the Railroad Company from the perspective of its regional context, and the regional benefits which
wlll accrue.
The City of Toronto concurs with the need for interim procedures to address development approvals
in areas of the lower Don floodplaIn outside Ataratiri The City is prepared to work with other agencies
concerned to find appropriate mechanisms to permit the parties to achieve their desired goals
r ]rt Millward
[ -
Commissioner of R annin9 & Development
cc Mr McLean, General Manager
At-\. g
THE METROPOLITAN TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
ATARATIRI - DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL
Evaluation study Report
A D 0 END 0 M
April 24, 1991
Authority Meeting #3/91
May 3, 1991
AH.q
BACKGROUND
At Meeting #2/91, of the Water and Related Land Management Advisory Board,
two reports associated with the Lower Don River Floodplain, City of Toronto
were considered for Authority approval
1 Ataratiri - Draft Environmental Evaluation study Report
2 Lower Don River Flood Plain - Interim Flood Plain Planning Procedures
Correspondence was received from staff of the City of Toronto which
requested deferral of the two reports for reasons cited therein A
delegation from the City of Toronto was heard in this regard
To this end, the Water and Related Land Management Advisory Board resolved
the following
RES. #29
"THAT the written submission of Mr Petty, a letter dated April 11,
1991 addressed to the Chairman and Members of the Water and Related
Land Management Advisory Board, be received, Appendix WR 137
herewith, and referred to staff for comment to the next Authority
meeting scheduled for May 3, 1991;
CARRIED"
The Water and Related Land Management Advisory Board subsequently resolved
to defer the report entitled "Lower Don River Flood Plain - Interim Flood
Plain Planning Procedures" and to forward the report entitled "Ataratiri -
Draft Environmental Evaluation Study Report" for Authority consideration at
Meeting #3/91, May 3, 1991
MTRCA COMMENTS
1 0 ATARATIRI - DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION STUDY REPORT
Refer to pages 2 - 4
City of Toronto correspondence
April 11, 1991
GENERAL
In their correspondence of April 11/91, staff of the City of Toronto have
concluded that "It would be premature for the Authority to adopt a policy
position with respect to the lower Don flood Plain at this time " They
have indicated that the Special Policy Area process is the appropriate
forum for policy development and that the specific issues raised in their
letter of April 11/91 can be largely resolved by the Special Policy Area
Technical Committee
COMMENTS
It is important to note that the recommended comments regarding the
Ataratiri - Draft Environmental Evaluation study Report (EES Report)
recognize the need for further discussion and refinement by the agencies
involved in the special Policy Area (SPA) process At the same time, it is
important to determine and communicate the Authority's position with
respect to flood control and other related issues as soon as possible in
order to provide direction to these discussions.
There are several approval processes affecting the Ataratiri proposal which
are occurring in parallel The six background studies of the draft EES
Report link this approval process with that of the SPA MOE has requested
comments on the Ataratiri - Draft EES Report by mid-April 1991
In addition, the City plans to submit the Official Plan Amendment (OPA) for
Ataratiri to Council in September 1991 SPA policies will form part of the
OPA submission To this end, the flood control issues must be resolved as
soon as possible Deferral of this report will delay Authority
consideration of the flood control issues in advance of a final strategy
being forwarded for Authority cons~deration
~M .10
- 2 -
MTRCA staff had several discussions with staff from the City of Toronto,
Metropolitan Toronto, MMA, MNR, and MOE prior to the preparation of
comments on the Ataratiri - Draft EES Report MMA and MNR, the Ministries
responsible for flood plain planning, concurred with the recommendations of
the MTRCA report
MTRCA staff has subsequently met with the Ataratiri SPA Technical Committee
to review the City of Toronto correspondence dated April 11/91 The
proposed amendments to staff's previous recommendations are based on these
discussions
SPECIFIC AMENDMENTS - Refer to Schedule 1
1 0 "Ataratiri - Draft Environmental Evaluation Study Report"
RECOMMENDATION 1 has been amended to reflect the information provided by
the land use survey prepared by the city of Toronto and to recognize that
this information may affect the apportionment of cost associated with the
minimum flood protection package ($15 3 million) to the Ataratiri project
RECOMMENDATION 2 has not been amended and is acceptable in principle to the
Ataratiri SPA Committee
RECOMMENDATION 3 has not been amended and is acceptable in principle to the
Ataratiri SPA Committee
RECOMMENDATION 4 has been amended to allow for further discussion and final
resolution of the timing of the permanent flood protection strategy
(Ataratiri fill) and the phasing of development and soil rlecommissioning
RECOMMENDATION 5 has been amended to allow for greater flexibility in the
implementation mechanisms required to maintain the future flood control
options for the lower Don River flood plain
The SPA Technical Committee agrees with the principle embodied in this
recommendation and each agency has agreed to identify and implement the
mechanisms and processes necessary to achieve this objective
RECOMMENDATION 6 has been amended to identify a formal reporting process
and approval process should an extension to the proposed 5 year window be
required
In addition, staff has questioned the City of Toronto several times
regarding the feasibility of improvements to the CNR bridge vis a vis
discussions with CNR representatives The "Flood Control Options"
background study puts forward CNR improvements as a viable option with no
indication of any potential problems
If improvements to the CNR are not viable, the recommended flood control
option for Ataratiri may require revision The city should clarify this
issue as soon as possible and submit a follow-up report for consideration
by the SPA Technical Committee
RECOMMENDATION 7 has been amended in accordance with the changes noted in
Recommendation 1, above
The City of Toronto has stated that any discussion of funding arrangements
is premature
MTRCA staff has identified funding arrangements as an issue that needs
further discussion and resolution It is an issue that is directly
associated with the flood control option for Ataratiri as well as those for
the lower Don as a whole This issue should be identified now
RECOMMENDATION 8 has not been amended and has been agreed to in principle
by the SPA Technical Committee
AM. "
- 3 -
The Authority acts as project manager for most flood control remedial works
projects within its jurisdiction Projects are developed in cooperation
with all funding partners There is also support by Provincial agencies in
this regard
RECOMMENDATION 9 regarding the requirements for environmental assessment
for flood control works beyond the Ataratiri site has not been amended
RECOMMENDATIONS with respect to soils, groundwater, transportation and
fixed facilities risk have not been amended
2 0 LOWER DON FLOOD PLAIN - Interim Flood Plain Planning Procedures
Interim flood plain planning procedures were recommended by Authority staff
to allow for controlled development pending the resolution of the SPA for
the lower Don
This report has been deferred; therefore, staff has not responded to the
City of Toronto's specific concerns (refer to pages 1 and 2, correspondence
dated April 11/91)
Staff of the City of Toronto concur with the need for establishing interim
procedures We are confident that the technical issues raised in their
correspondence of April 11/91 can be resolved prior to the Authority's
future consideration of this report
RJ jb
APR 24/91
AM 112.
SCHEDULE 1
The RECOMMENDATIONS of the "Ataratiri - Draft Environmental Evaluation
Study Report", April 12, 1991 (Agenda Item 10) are amended as follows
FLOOD PROTECTION OPTIONS
The following approach to flood protection within the lower Don River flood
plain is recommended These principles will provide the basis for further
discussion with the City of Toronto, Metropolitan Toronto and other
affected agencies The following points will need to be refined and
adjusted as detailed implementation policies are formulated
1 The option identified on Figure 4 6 in the "Flood Protection options"
report (January 1991) will be the minimum flood protection package for
the lower Don River This package includes filling part of the
Ataratiri site, widening of the CNR bridge plus various floodway works
all totalling an estimated $15 3 million
Based on a land survey provided by the city of Toronto, April 11/91,
it appears that the Ataratiri fill only option will provide a
significant flood control benefit to development west of the Don
River; however, will result in an unacceptable increase in flood risk
to development east of the Don River
Details of the land use survey are being reviewed and should determine
the apportionment of the estimated $15 3 million flood protection
package to be assessed to the Ataratiri project (Refer to Point 7)
2 The above noted minimum flood protection package shall not preclude
the possibility of opting for any of the more extensive protection
packages if deemed necessary to provide a higher level of protection
for other parts of the lower Don (ie packages $15 9 to $60 0
million)
3 Any solution for the lower Don must include perpetual dredging of the
Keating Channel as long as required The total cost to all parties of
this dredging is currently estimated to be $500-600,000 per year The
existing dredging agreement between the Federal Government, THC, and
MTRCA will expire in 1991 Additional requirements related to
"capping" of the dredged material, following placement in the disposal
cells at Tommy Thompson Park, could increase this cost substantially
A new long term agreement must be negotiated which will include the
identification of new funding partners including the City of Toronto
4 Ataratiri fill (ie flood protection) will be in place prior to the
issuance of any occupancy permits on the site The placement of this
fill must be coordinated with the soils decommissioning strategy to
the satisfaction of MNR, MMA, MOE and MTRCA
The City of Toronto has identified an alternative phasing and
implementation strategy (April 11, 1991) This includes the
construction of a temporary flood control dyke along the eastern limit
of the Ataratiri development Permanent backfill will occur as
development proceeds eastward across the site This proposal is
currently under review
A final phasing and implementation strategy will need to be approved
by MNR, MMA, MOE, MTRCA and other affected agencies prior to final
approval of an SPA designation for the Ataratiri site
5 Any lands within the lower Don flood plain required for potential
flood mitigation works will be reserved for this purpose
All affected agencies responsible for flood plain planning and land
use planning shall identify and agree to implement the development
control mechanisms required to achieve this objective
A~. 13
6 The minimum flood protection package (15 3 million) will be
constructed within 5 years of the placement of the Ataratiri fill or
comparable temporary measures, if applicable Within this timeframe
participating partners may opt for a more extensive protection package
which may be more suitable for the long range land use scheme selected
for the lower Don area The higher level of flood risk, particularly
east of the Don River associated with this 5 year window, is
acceptable to the approving authorities
Annual progress reports shall be submitted by the SPA Technical
Committee for the lower Don to the participating partners
An extension to this 5 year window, if identified as being required,
shall be subject to the approval of the participating partners
7 It is suggested that the Ataratiri project be responsible for the full
costs of the minimum protection scheme estimated to be $15 3 million
This cost estimate is subject to further review and may increase An
alternative funding scheme, determined on the basis of the City of
Toronto land use survey, April 11/91, and entered into by benefiting
parties, may be possible.
Any financial agreement must include a Keating Channel agreement which
includes the City of Toronto
If a more extensive mitigation package is deemed more appropriate, an
appropriate beneficiary pays mechanism should be employed This may
involve front end financing by a public body
8 The project manager for the flood protection scheme excluding the
Ataratiri fill should be the MTRCA
9 Any flood works on the Ataratiri site already have an Environmental
Assessment exemption The estimated $15 3 million package, or any
more extensive package, will require an EA exemption or an expedited
process in order to limit the risk window
SOIL AND GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT AND HEALTH RISK ISSUES
The Authority will continue to monitor the progress of these two reports
as the conclusions and recommendations are finalized
staging of the clean-up and the disposal and/or on-site storage of
contaminated soils will need to be coordinated with the recommended Flood
Protection option strategy and have regard for Provincial Flood Plain
Planning Policy Guidelines, MTRCA Flood Plain Planning Guidelines and the
Authority's Improved Lake Fill Quality Program
TRANSPORTATION AND FIXED FACILITIES RISK
A risk assessment of existing utilities that cross the Don River, if
damaged in the event of a flood, should be carried out and the recommended
flood protection option strategy be revised accordingly
And that the recommendations of the six background studies be reviewed to
ensure consistency and compatibility
RJ jb
APR 24/91
1-\ t1 1'1
THE METROPOLITAN TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
ATARATIRI
DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION STUDY REPORT
APPROVED BY RESOLUTION #124
AUTHORITY MEETING #4/91
HELD JUNE 14, 1991
AM \5
SCHEDULE 1
The RECOMMENDATIONS of the "Ataratiri - Draft Environmental Evaluation
study Report", April 12, 1991 (Agenda Item 10) are amended as follows
FLOOD PROTECTION OPTIONS
The following approach to flood protection within the lower Don River flood
plain is recommended These principles will provide the basis for further
discussion with the City of Toronto, Metropolitan Toronto and other
affected agencies The following points will need to be refined and
adjusted as detailed implementation policies are formulated
1 The fill only option, totalling an estimated $2 8 million, identified
on Figure 4 5 in the "Flood Protection options" report (January 1991),
and recommended as the preferred option within the Ataratiri Draft
Environmental Evaluation Study Report, is not acceptable as it results
in an unacceptable increase in flood risk to development east of the
Don River
option 4 6, totalling an estimated $15 3 million, will be the minimum
flood protection package for the lower Don This package includes
filling part of the Ataratiri site, widening of the CNR bridge plus
various floodway works This package must be implemented as a
requirement of the Ataratiri Project
Based on the land survey provided by the City of Toronto April 11,
1991, it appears that the fill only option will provide a significant
flood control benefit to development west of the Don River Details
of the land use survey are being reviewed and should determine the
apportionment of the cost of the off-site works to be assessed to the
Ataratiri Project (Refer to Point 7)
2 The above noted minimum flood protection package shall not preclude
the possibility of opting for any of the more extensive protection
packages if deemed necessary to provide a higher level of protection
for other parts of the lower Don (ie packages $15 9 to $60 0
million)
3 Any solution for the lower Don must include perpetual dredging of the
Keating Channel as long as required The total cost to all parties of
this dredging is currently estimated to be $500-600,000 per year The
existing dredging agreement between the Federal Government, THC, and
MTRCA will expire in 1991 Additional requirements related to
"capping" of the dredged material, following placement in the disposal
cells at Tommy Thompson Park, could increase this cost substantially
A new long term agreement must be negotiated which will include the
identification of new funding partners including the City of Toronto
4 Ataratiri fill (ie flood protection) will be in place prior to the
issuance of any occupancy permits on the site. The placement of this
fill must be coordinated with the soils decommissioning strategy to
the satisfaction of MNR, MMA, MOE and MTRCA
The City of Toronto has identified an alternative phasing and
implementation strategy (April 11, 1991) This includes the
construction of a temporary flood control dyke along the eastern limit
of the Ataratiri development Permanent backfill will occur as
development proceeds eastward across the site This proposal is
currently under review
A final phasing and implementation strategy will need to be approved
by MNR, MMA, MOE, MTRCA and other affected agencies prior to final
approval of an SPA designation for the Ataratiri site.
5 Any lands within the lower Don flood plain required for potential
flood mitigation works will be reserved for this purpose
A H (<0
All affected agencies responsible for flood plain planning and land
use planning shall identify and agree to implement the development
control mechanisms required to achieve this objective
6 The minimum flood protection package (15 3 million) will be
constructed within 5 years of the placement of the Ataratiri fill or
comparable temporary measures, if applicable within this timeframe
participating partners may opt for a more extensive protection package
which may be more suitable for the long range land use scheme selected
for the lower Don area The higher level of flood risk, particularly
east of the Don River associated with this 5 year window, is
acceptable to the approving authorities
Annual progress reports shall be submitted by the SPA Technical
Committee for the lower Don to the participating partners
An extension to this 5 year window, if identified as being required,
shall be subject to the approval of the participating partners
7 It is suggested that the Ataratiri project be responsible for the full
costs of the minimum protection scheme estimated to be $15 3 million
This cost estimate is subject to further review and may increase An
alternative funding scheme, determined on the basis of the City of
Toronto land use survey, April 11/91, and entered into by benefiting
parties, may be possible
Any financial agreement must include a Keating Channel agreement which
includes the City of Toronto
If a more extensive mitigation package is deemed more appropriate, an
appropriate beneficiary pays mechanism should be employed This may
involve front end financing by a public body
8 The project manager for the flood protection scheme excluding the
Ataratiri fill should be the MTRCA
9 Any flood works on the Ataratiri site already have an Environmental
Assessment exemption The estimated $15 3 million package, or any
more extensive package, will require an EA exemption or an expedited
process in order to limit the risk window
SOIL AND GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT AND HEALTH RISK ISSUES
The Authority will continue to monitor the progress of these two reports
as the conclusions and recommendations are finalized
staging of the Clean-up and the disposal and/or on-site storage of
contaminated soils will need to be coordinated with the recommended Flood
Protection Option strategy and have regard for provincial Flood Plain
Planning Policy Guidelines, MTRCA Flood Plain Planning Guidelines and the
Authority's Improved Lake Fill Quality Program
TRANSPORTATION AND FIXED FACILITIES RISK
A risk assessment of existing utilities that cross the Don River, if
damaged in the event of a flood, should be carried out and the recommended
flood protection option strategy be revised accordingly
And that the recommendations of the six background studies be reviewed to
ensure consistency and compatibility
RJ jb
JUNE 14, 1991
AM, 17
THE METROPOLITAN TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
CORRESPONDENCE FROM THE CITY OF SCARBOROUGH
MR. J. W. NIGH, CITY CLERK
RE: BRIMLEY ROAD LANDSLIDE FUNDING
Executive Committee Meeting #6/91
June 21, 1991
.
, CITY OF SCARBOROUGH
AM.le
J.W. Nigh A.M.C.T., C.M.C.
City Clerk
150 Borough Drive
S.F Brickell, A.M.C.T. Scarborough, Ontario
Deputy City Clerk Canada MIP 4N7
Refer: Mrs. M. O'Neil, 396-7288
~
June 12, 1991
Mr. W. A. McLean
Secretary-Treasurer and General Manager
Metropolitan Toronto and Region COnservation Authority
5 Shoreham Drive
Downsview, Ontario M3N 1S4
Dear Sir:
Re: Brimlev Road Landslide Pundina
I attach for your information, Clause 4, Report No. 11 of the Budget
Committee of the City of Scarborough, adopted by COuncil on June 10, 1991,
with regard to the funding of the Brimley Road Landslide clean-up.
Please draw to the attention of the Authority, COuncil's request that
because the sole function of the section of roadway on which the landslide
occurred ia to provide accesa to a Metropolitan Toronto facility, the
Municipality of Metropolitan Toronto and the M.T.R.C.A. share equally, 50'
of the net coat of $1,055,000.
t=lyL
. "1
RECEIVED
_17 691
M.T.R.C.A. ~.
PRI'-n:D 0'1 PAPER CO'iTAINL"G POST .coNSUMER RECYCLED FIBRES
AH.1'l CITY OF SCARBOROUGH
,
Clerk's Department
RECOMMENDATION EMBODIED IN REPORT NO. 11 OF THE BUDGET COMMITIEE
ADOPTED BY COUNCIL AT ITS Ml:lliTING HHT .n ON JUNE 10, 1991
4 CLEAN-UP OF BRIMLEY ROAD LANDSLIDE
STATUS REPORT AND FUNDING PROPOSAlS
Committee Reports having received extract of the minutes of the Works and TranspoI1atioo
Committee meeting held on June 5, 1991, recommending approval of the following report, subject
to adding the following:
-'That, because the sole function of the section of roadway on which the landslide occurred is to
provide access to a Metropolitan Toronto facility, that Council request the Municipality of
Metropolitan Toronto and the Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservatioo Authority to share
equally, 50% of the net cost of $1,055,000..
COMMl'ITEE RECOMMENDATION
Committee Recommends adoption of the recommendation contained in the following report, as
amended by Works and Transportation Committee:
June 4, 1991
EXECUI1VE SUMMARY
On April 15th 1991, several thousand tonnes of wet landfill material poured onto Brimley Road
and completely blocked access to and from Bluffers Park.. The Works & Environment Department
spent five weeks removing material from Brimley Road and making the area safe for pedestrian
and vehicular traffic. This first phase of the work was carried out under emergency conditions,
with no formal tender procedures. The second phase of the work, the bank re-shaping and landslip
underdrainage was tendered for bids from selected, qualified contractors. The final phase of the
remediation work will be reported on when we receive the results of the current soil investigations.
RECOMMENDATION
That a 1991 Capital Budget Project be approved at a net cost of $1,055,000 and be funded from
the surplus identified in 1988/1990 Capital Projects 2816, 2831 and 2756 Kingston Road/Ellesmere
Road sewers. .
REPORT
On Monday, April 15th 1991, at around 400 p.m , a major landslide occurred that covered
Brimley Road with thousands of tonnes of material that was a mixture of soil and landfill. After
the emergency services had secured the area and detennined that no persons or property were
damaged as a direct result of the landslide, the Works & Environment Department commenced the
emergency clean-up operation.
I
.
.
- 2 - AM 20
Work on the site involved the following:
.
- providing temporary storm drainage
- ensuring th~ area was safe for workers
- removing unstable soil from the top of the ravine
- removing the wet landslide material from the site
- site security
- construction of three temporary access roads
- investigating the condition of underground services
- soil investigations
- providing standby power to the sanitary pumping station
In order to keep track of all the expenditures on this project, we set up a special Work Order and
all costs have been charged to this account.
To date the summary of costs is as follows:
General contracting companies $340,583.82
Trucking companies 180,604.75
City equipment and crews 120,723.14
Miscellaneous 52,260.70
Sub-total $694,172.41
Say $695,000 00
The soil consultants and their sub-contractors have been extremely busy on the site testing material,
checking air quality, advising on site safety, recommending remedial work and , most importantly,
investigating the whole west embankment in order to advise on appropriate remediation work.
To date their costs are $228,980.00 ($230,000).
Once the worst of the wet landslide material had been removed and Brimley Road itself was open
to normal traffic, we stopped using contractors on a time and material basis. We have, in
conjunction with our soil consultant and the purchasing division of the City, put together a tender
package and have received bids from five selected contractors for the next phase of the work. This
phase is for the reinstatement of the embankment in the area of the landslide and involves, in
general, the following:
- removal of any remaining wet landfill ,
- placeplent of underdrainage
- placement of dry material currently stockpiled on the tableland
- covering the embankment
This work has to be proceeded with as fast as possible as we still have exposed landfill material
at the site and a vertical face of material that must be stabilized before it becomes unsafe.
Up to this point in time we have proceeded to carry out the work as an emergency. The
Purchasing By-law 2273 states that -in a situation where the immediate purchase of goods is
essential to prevent serious delays, further damage, threat to life or restore minimum service, the
Director shall, on the approval of the appropriate Department Head, obtain such goods and services
.
.
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. 'at the lowest obtainable prices given the emergent nature of the situation. In the event that the
purchase exceeds the limits for award of contract, a report of the incident shall be submitted to the
appropriate Committee at the earliest time."
The award of the second phase of the work was reported to the Administrative Committee on
Tuesday, June 4th. The gross cost will be $450,000 with net of $250,000
A third phase of the work will be tendered in a similar fashion and this involves storm drainage
and leachate drainage works. The estimated gross cost is $450,000.
Once we receive the report from our soil consultant on the condition of the west embankment of
the ravine, we will be in a position to report whether further investigations and/or remediation work
is required.
In summary the estimated cost for the first three phases of the emergency operation is $1 825
million.
This work is subsidizable by the Ministry of Transportation, and the subsidy is estimated at
$770,000
We have applied for a supplementary subsidy on this emergency operation and have not been
advised yet whether it is approved.
In order to cover the net City funds we need to provide $1.055 million.
Tbe following table indicates the costs for work for Phases I, II and ill. The utilization of savings
from our 1988/1990 Capital programs will more than cover the net cost of Phases I, II and ill.
Phase I Phase II Phase ill Total
Work to date 695,000 695,000
Soils Consultant 230,000 230,000
Phases II & ill 450,000 450,000 900,000
Total Cost 925,000 450,000 450,000 1 ,825,000
MTO 370,000 200,000 200,000 770,000
Net Cost 555,000 250,000 250,000 1,055,000
FUNDING
As indicated in the Recommendation, funding is available in the Capital program surplus.
.
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.
Respectfully Submitted Concurred in by
Thomas A. Galley Michael A. Price, P. Eng.
Director of Administration Commissioner,
Works & Environment
Concurred in financial matters Concurred in by
David R. Creech Donald W. Roughley, P Bog.
Treasurer & Commissioner City Manager
Finance & Management Services
.
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THEM METROPOLITAN TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
GENERAL MANAGER'S PROGRESS REPORT
January to June, 1991 '.
AppencSix AM.23
AGENDA ITEM #1 OF AUTHORITY MEETING #6/91
September 6, 1991
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PROGRESS REPORT - JANUARY TO JUNE. 1991
FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION DIVISION
PROPERTY
Attached is a summary of major property transactions completed by the
Property and Administration section during the 1st half of 1991 Please see
Don Prince if you require additional detail with respect to these activities
Also, as part of the Property and Administration activity the annual review
of property and liability insurance was completed and it appears that the
Authority has succeeded in reducing it's annual premiums in many areas A
new printing press was acquired for the Print and Mail Room which should
improve efficiency and quality of printed product As well, the Property
Section completed a review of all rental properties
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION
The Authority has received seven Freedom of Information Requests in the 1st
half of 1991 Four have been dealt with Two are still under review and one
is on appeal to the Freedom of Information Commission
PERSONNEL
A revised Pay Equity Plan was prepared and posted as requested by Pay Equity
Commission
The Personnel Manual was reviewed, revised, and redesigned and prepared for
publication in September
The Authority began an Employment Equity program including a first round of
staff surveys
Training and development included computer upgrading training for 45 staff
and d writing skills program for 15 technical staff
INFORMATION SYSTEMS
The Authority completed installation of the new telephone system at Head
Office and is proceeding to introduce all of the improvements such as Voice
Mail and Auto Attendant features The system will eventually link Black
Creek Pioneer Village and provide staff at Black Creek with all of the same
features At the insistence of the Authority, Bell Canada has provided new
cable and made changes to their equipment to enable the Authority to make the
best use of its new computerized telephone system
As a continuing measure to improve records management input of some 20,000
Authority records was begun which will result eventually in a Central Filing
Records System The 1991 Computer systems Needs study was completed and
ground work laid for acquisition of hardware and software in the balance of
the year
BUDGET AND ACCOUNTING
The 1991 final budget was completed and approved by the Authority Staff
have begun coordination of a 10 year forecast to be available as part of the
1992 Preliminary Estimates process Staff are preparing documentation to
assist the Ministry of Natural Resources in a management board request for
new funding for Conservation Authorities
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The 1990 Financial statements were completed and approved by the Authority
The Budget and Accounting group have continued implementation of the new
computerized accounting system, fine tuning various modules, adding various
new features available with the system
A great deal of staff time has been devoted to implementation of the Goods
and Services Tax including advice to staff on how to deal with various
matters and obtaining various rulings from the Ministry of Revenue
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Former polvresins Inc. Propertv. Don River Watershed
in the Borouqh of East York
Arrangements have been made with Greenspoon Bros for disposal of equipment
and demolition of the production and warehouse buildings located on this site
at no cost to the Authority The demolition and disposal of equipment is
scheduled to be completed by August 15, 1991
Walker Propertv
All approvals are now in hand for purchase of the 1060 acre Walker Property
in the Glen Major area of the Township of uxbridge The majority of funding
for this purchase will be from land sale revenue Donations for this
purchase have also been received from the private sector This transaction
is scheduled for completion on July 25, 1991
Authoritv Lands - North East Corner of
Jane street and Steeles Avenue
Public Open Houses have been held to obtain input regarding the possible
disposal of 1 74 hectares of Authority land at the north east corner of Jane
street and Steeles Avenue as set out in a policy adopted by the members of
the Authority in February of this year A recommendation is before the
Authority for the disposal of the property through sale, lease or joint
venture
Canada Post Propertv (Canadian Arsenals)
Negotiations are in progress to attempt to reach a suitable agreement to
purchase the Canada Post Property situated on the south side of Lakeshore
Blvd on the west side of Marie curtis Park in the City of Mississauga
Former Ambas Property
The purchase of the former Ambas Property located on Fishleigh Drive in the
city of Scarborough has been completed This property is in a very erosion
prone location on the Scarborough bluffs
Charles sauriol Reserve
Negotiations are in progress with officials of the City of North York and the
Municipality of Metropolitan Toronto to transfer all lands in the Charles
Sauriol Reserve into Authority ownership
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Former Martin Prooertv
The purchase of the former Martin Property located on the west side of
Highway #50 north of Palgrave has been completed This property is in a
flood prone location on the Humber River
Former Mackie Prooertv
The purchase of the former Mackie Property in the Chesterton Shore area of
the city of Scarborough has been completed
Former ontario Hydro Prooertv
The purchase of 13 94 acres of flood plain and valley lands from Ontar io
Hydro located north of Finch Avenue, west of Valley Farm Road, Town of
Pickering in the Duffin Creek Watershed has been completed
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WATER RESOURCE DIVISION
ENGINEERING AND DEVELOPMENT
A priority in the erosion control program for 1991 has been a review of
design and monitoring practices to ensure that the widest possible range of
benefits is achieved from erosion control works A renewed emphasis on
terrestrial and aquatic habitat restoration will produce more sensitive
approaches to design and construction of erosion control works
Erosion control projects were undertaken at various sites along the Lake
Ontario shoreline and several water courses The next stage of construction
of the shoreline protection for Guildwood Parkway commenced Grading of the
bank stabilization works along South Marine continued Channel erosion
control works were undertaken on Etobicoke Creek on behalf of the City of
Mississauga and Metropolitan Toronto A project for ontario Hydro to
stabilize a section of the East Don River also commenced A project was also
undertaken to protect a commercial property on Little Etobicoke Creek for the
City of Mississauga
Slope drainage, grading and planting on the upper slopes within Bellamy
Ravine continued as part of the final stage of this restoration project
A new 5-year capital project 1992-1996 was prepared and approved by the
Authority which proposes to continue the work of valley and shoreline erosion
control with an emphasis on regeneration of degraded habitats
Waterfront planning and development activity continued at many sites
ongoing negotiations to acquire the Canada Post Property in Mississauga were
expanded to include detailed evaluations of the environmental condition of
the property A planning study including extensive public consultation was
completed in the Frenchman's Bay area The East Point Park E A was expanded
to include an evaluation of currents in Lake ontario in the vicinity of the
project Field work for the study commenced in June
Colonel Samuel smith Park was the site of continuing shoreline protection
both on the exterior shoreline and the interior edges of the boat harbour
The storm water treatment facility which is designed to capture floating oil
and debris as well as coarse sediment was completed A treatment system to
dispose of oil and grease is being developed Negotiations with the
Lakeshore Yacht club continued and a submission was made to the City of
EtobLcoke to establish appropriate zoning to allow the club facilities
Liaison with the waterfront committees of the area municipalities and Metro
continued as well as liaison with the Royal Commission on the Future of the
Toronto Waterfront The Lakefill Quality Control Program continued; however,
the extremely low level of construction activity resulted in very low volumes
of fill at all locations Discussions continued with regard to expanding the
fill quality control program to inland locations
Upgrading of the electrical system at Bluffers Park continued and staff also
assisted Scarborough with the clean up and restoration of the land slide in
Brimley Road Ravine
On the Ajax waterfront, the next phase of tree and shrub planting was
completed
A new three-year capital project 1992-1994 was approved by the Authority to
continue waterfront regeneration activities
Water management activities include a wide variety of capital works, studies,
development review, flood warning and maintenance Dredging of Keating
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Channel continued and a proposal for capping the dredged material at the
disposal location in Tommy Thompson Park was prepared Work on the flood
control channel on Little Etobicoke Creek at Dixie Road continued in the city
of Hississauga A study to set criteria for estimating flood flows in
headwater areas was completed A computer based communication system was set
up to access weather and stream flow data from MNR to assist in flood
forecasting and warning Major maintenance on Claireville Dam was initiated
and regular maintenance of the other flood and erosion control structures
continued
Technical review of slope stability issues, storm water management proposals
and master drainage plans continued for projects throughout the Authority's
area of jurisdiction staff were also involved with HNR and MOE in the
development of guidelines for storm water management and master drainage
plans
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT SECTION
Rouqe River Implementation
The start of 1991 initiated the work of the Rouge River strategy -
Implementation Committee This Committee was formed to assist the assigned
lead agency(s) in implementing the strategy's recommendations Three working
groups (Planning, Technical and Environmental) were developed from the
Committee representatives and staff from other provincial and municipal
agencies were invited to provide further assistance for the Implementation
Committee by focusing on specific recommendations The Committee will be
preparing an annual report, early in 1992, documenting the progress they have
made and which recommendations have been implemented
The committee has been focusing on the following items
. Sub-watershed Master Plans (to replace existing Master Drainage
Plan)
- technical guideline document
- implementation process;
. Water Quality Measures - pilot Projects;
. Rouge River Fish Management Plan;
. Rouge River Farm Remedial Program
Valley Conservation policv
A recommendation of the Rouge River strategy indicated the need for a valley
protection policy from any adjacent land development to a valley system
Staff is in the progress of completing the Valley/Stream Corridor Policy
Guideiines, which is intended to
. Update erosion impact zone policy guidelines;
. Enable the application of selected "generic" Rouge CBMS
recommendations to other watersheds;
. Consolidate Authority policy guidelines with respect to valley and
stream corridors;
. Establish a vision of the valley and stream corridors for
Authority's jurisdiction;
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. Provide specific guidance to area municipalities for inclusion in
planning documents;
Don River strateav
To continue the Authority's work in the development of watershed management
strategies, Authority staff has begun discussions on undertaking the Don
River strategy with the following agencies
. City of Toronto
. Lower Don Task Force
. Metropolitan Toronto
. Ministries of the Environment and Natural Resources
. Regional and local municipalities within the Don watershed
. The Royal Commission on the Future of the Toronto Waterfront
staff is proposing to carry out the following items by year end
. The establishment of the Don River Watershed Task Force (to report
to the Authority);
. The undertaking of a Don Watershed Ecosystem Report;
. The undertaking of a detailed investigation of the greenspace
resources of the Don Watershed; and
. The testing of the transferability of the stormwater management
conclusions of the Rouge River strategy to the Don Watershed
The Don River strategy would focus on an ecosystem approach to watershed
planning and will develop, in consultation with stakeholders, a vision for
the Don and the necessary actions to achieve the vision
Reforestation
The Authority planted 167,005 trees on Private, Authority and Public lands in
the spring of 1991
Private Lands 54,440
Authority Lands 109,565
Public Lands 3,000
Resource Manaqement Tracts
Firebreaks, signage and routine patrolling is being maintained at the major
resource management tracts including Glen Major, Goodwood, Bolton and
Nashville
Forestrv
Authority staff carried out selection cutting at the Glen Haffy Forest and
wildlife Area and Heart Lake Conservation Area A total of II hectares were
managed and 175 cords of wood products were produced staff has established
a gypsy moth monitoring program to be undertaken on MTRCA property in the
fall
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Tree & Shrub Proqram
In the spring, the Authority planted 265 trees and 950 shrubs for 8 pr~vate
landowners
Hvdroseedinq
In the spring, 5 hydroseeding projects were completed on Authority lands
Waterfront Plantinqs
In the spring, the Authority
_ supplied and planted 243 trees and 900 at shrubs the Ajax
waterfront;
_ supplied and planted 15 trees and 1,375 shrubs on 3 Authority
waterfront erosion control projects in Scarborough;
_ supplied technical advice, supplied and planted 15 trees and 475
shrubs for 6 landowners along the Scarborough waterfront
other Plantinq proiects
The Resource Management Section assisted in completing the following planting
projects by supplying and installing plant material
Arbor Day - visitor Centre - Black Creek Pioneer Village
- 5 specimen trees
Russ Cooper ceremonial tree at Black Creek Pioneer village
- 1 specimen Red Oak tree
Tree Donation Program
- 86 trees and 52 shrubs
Paul Flood Memorial Planting - Greenwood CA
- 10 trees and 50 shrubs
city of Mississauga - Willowcreek Park
- 99 trees and 932 shrubs
City of Brampton - Rathcliffe Estates
- 15 trees and 45 shrubs
City of Markham - John Button Waterway - Phase 1
- 106 trees and 365 shrubs
Hazard Tree Removals
Authority staff carried out numerous requests about potential hazard trees
and completed six hazard tree projects on Authority lands
Sediment Control
Staff has been involved in the planning and project development activities to
prepare for summer implementation of streambank stabilization works and fall
planting/site revegetation projects
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Projects have been confirmed at
Town of Markham Austin Park - Rouge River
city of Vaughan Woodbridge OSl - Robinson Creek
Town of Caledon Dick's Dam Park - Humber River
, RiDarian Habitat Proaram
This spring, riparian planting projects were initiated and completed on
Authority lands in co-operation with municipal partners
Town of Markham Mount Joy Lake - Rouge River
Almond Avenue - East Don River
Milne Park - Rouge River
Town of Richmond Hill Richvale Greenway - East Don River
city of Brampton Knoch Valleyland - Etobicoke Creek
stouffville Reservoir
Authority staff has been working in co-operation with the Town of Whitchurch-
stouffville on the following activities
- siting and initial clearing of two trail loops to establish hiking
trails encircling the Reservoir and providing exposure to the forested
portion the property;
- repair of existing boundary fencing and installation of approximately
520 metres of new fencing to control access and encroachment;
- construction and installation of footbridges to link trails across the
stouffville Creek;
- hazard tree removals in association with trail areas;
- work continues to improve the trail base conditions, improve wildlife
habitat, provide signage and directional trail markers, etc ; and
- planting planned for the fall to buffer property boundaries and adjacent
landowners
uxbridae Gravel Pit
The Authority is working in co-operation with the Town of Uxbridge and has
completed the planned rehabilitation planting for a 2 hectares area including
the 50 trees, 3,000 reforestation seedlings and 800 shrubs
Nurserv
In the spring, the Authority's nursery handled 76 orders for plant material
The nursery supplied 6,425 trees and 13,161 shrubs for the various vegetation
programs of the Authority, municipalities and landowners One staff tour of
the nursery was conducted
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SPECJAL PROJECTS
Charles Sauriol Conservation Reserve
The Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto received $100,000 from the
Provi ncial Economic stimulus program and $100,000 from the Environmental
Partners Fund to carry out resource management projects in the Charles
Sauriol Conservation Reserve The Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto
will raise an additional $200,000 to contribute to this project Bank
stabilization and revegetation projects are being finalized to be implemented
by the Resource Management Section
Completed planting at Linkwood Avenue site for Ernie and Zo Baltz A total
of 109 trees and 270 were planted
Planted eight caliper size trees for the Toronto Public Library in memory of
Sue O'Neal at Pottery Road site
Carr led out first phase of planting at the Donlands Avenue site for the City
of Toronto Rotary Club A total of 375 bare root trees were planted
Boyd Gravel pit Rehabilitation
A jOLnt project between the Aggregate Producers Association of ontario, the
Mini:;try of Natural Resources and the Authority was announced Specific
detaLls regarding the grading plan, planting and wetland creation are being
finalized
CURB
The Clean Up Rural Beaches Plan was completed and presented to the Ministry
of the Environment A proposal for implementing the CURB plan
recommendations has also been submltted to MOE The Authority will be
ini t Lating the CURB implementation plan to improve water quaE ty in the
Humber and Rouge River watersheds
,
Environmental Youth Corp
Thlrteen summer employees have been hired to clean up Metro area
watercourses To date 3 83 tonnes of garbage, 4,285 kg recyclable - 21 km of
stre3.m cleaned
The Black Creek Project began working out of the MTRCA head office A total
of eight people were hired, seven of them are supported by the Environmental
Youth Corps, Ministry of Natural Resources As of June 11, the project
planted 15,000 trees and shrubs, and 340 wildflowers Erosion control work
began in June, with 56 metres of bank stabilization to date Crew members
have collected physical data on the creek, including types of
macroinvertebrates and fish habitat
Rouqe River Fisheries Manaqement Plan
An initial management strategy has been presented to the Plans Advisory
Committee, the Rouge Valley Park Advisory Committee, the Rouge strategy
Implementation Committee and the Scarborough Fishing Task Force To date
there is general acceptance of the Plans direction Data collection has
continued with habitat assessment, temperature monitoring and fish
collections as priorities
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Trout unlimited
The Authority entered into an agreement with Trout unlimited (Canada) to
assist them with a stream rehabilitation project in the Upper Humber River
To dete the six-person Environmental Youth Corp crew has
. removed debris from Hopeful Creek (a significant cold water
tributary);
. removed two major log jams that were impeding flows in the Humber and
stabilized a significant eroding stream bank
Natural Channel Desiqn
In Hay Dr Robert Newbury made a presentation on stream geometry
rela1:ionships to a group of 80 persons including staff, municipal employees,
non-government organizations and consultants The talk was well received by
all qroups and staff is now looking for avenues through which implement Dr
Newbury's ideas on natural channel design
Root Jl,ction
This special interest group planted 5,000 seedling trees at the Boyd
Conservation Area
Tree:; For Todav and Tomorrow
Conducted a tour of rehabilitation sites funded by TTT and the Environmental
Partners Fund for staff of both organizations A total of 77,840 seedling
were planted in the Bolton Resource Management Tract in April
Completed approximately 500 metres of fencing at Triad Farms, funded by the
Land Stewardship II Program and Trees for Today and Tomorrow In addition,
95,000 seedlings were planted
Attended meeting at Halton Region C A regarding "Planting the Christmas
woods" MTRCA offered support and now awaits confirmation from Environ-Plan
Can~ja of the schools in our jurisdiction who will participate Once schools
are confirmed, we will select a site or sites for the replanting of the trees
in the spring of 1992
Oak Ridqes Maooinq
Received mapping information from Paragon Engineering to complete Phase I of
the Oak Ridges Moraine Resource Mapping exercise Information will be
checked for accuracy before initiating Phase II
MOE Fundinq
As in recent years, the Authority has entered into an agreement with the
Ministry of Environment - Watershed Management section to undertake joint
studies/projects that assist in the coordination of various Toronto Area
Watershed Management Study (TAWMS) and Water Quality Improvement initiatives
across the Greater Toronto Area
Currently, two projects have been initiated and are detailed below
,
. Construction Practices studv - The objective of this project is to
demonstrate the availability and ability of effective technology and
planning review procedures to improve construction practices
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. Guidance Document for the Preparation of Sub-watershed Master Plans -
This document will be prepared by an inter-agencies committee
comprised of staff from the Ministries of the Environment and Natural
Resources, MTRCA, Grand River and Credit River Conservation
Authorities and selected municipalities The intent of this committee
is to deliver a guidance document for the preparation of sub-watershed
master plans
In addition to this funding, Authority staff is working with MOE on a Pond
Mon~1.0r-ing Study This study will monitor the effectiveness of existing
stor-Dlwater management ponds in improving water quality
Class Environmental Assessment for Water Manaqement Structures
The Association of Conservation Authorities (ACAO) has requested the
Authority to coordinate the preparation of the new Class Environmental
Assessment for Water Management structures The need for document has arisen
from the review of the current Class EA by the Minister of the Environment
and the Minister's decision to require a new Class EA document to ensure
improvements in specified areas of the document To assist with this
endeavour, a consultant has been hired to provide advice on appropriate
planning process and public involvement and a steering committee, composed of
representatives of Conservation Authorities, ,MNR, MOE and the Association of
Municipalities of ontario has been established The document has to be
completed and submitted to the Minister by March 1, 1992
Waterfront Monitorinq
The 1991 field season for waterfront monitoring programs started April 8th
with the launching of the "Aqualab" for its second season It is anticipated
that this year, the "Aqualab" will be registered with the Toronto Coast Guard
as an emergency rescue vessel and will take part in some of the rescue
training sessions
The waterfront fish survey and tagging program, initiated in 1989, and is
continuing into its third year The intent of this survey is to evaluate the
various habitats and fish communities associated with the waterfront parks
and other areas along the Toronto shoreline, and to record the extent of fish
movements along the waterfront As previously reported, waterfront parks
continue to provide significant habitat for well-established and diverse fish
communities, second only to the remaining coastal marshes and the Toronto
Islands To date, approximately 3,000 fish have been tagged and released
Having completed the spring survey (April 15-19), the 1991 summer survey is
pres~ntly underway (July 15-July 28) with a great deal of interest
(demonstrated by volunteer participation) from the MOE, RAP public advisory
committee, Royal ontario Museum, private consultants, and MTRCA staff and
summer students A fall survey is planned for October 7-11, and an even
greater interest is anticipated
Information obtained through the fish survey has provided for a number of
opportunities for habitat creation and restoration
projects Presently, a proposal and application has been submitted to MNR to
create a brown trout spawning shoal at Bluffers Park in an area where large
numb~s were congregated in spawn condition Enhancement of the habitat off
the outer break wall at Bluffers may be considered to facilitate natural
reproduction by returning lake trout
Environmental monitoring of the Keating Channel disposal operation continues
in 1991 Monitoring consists of sediment, dredgeate, water, benthic
invertebrate collections, bioaccumulation studies and sediment
transport/deposition monitoring Also, water temperatures in the TTP area
are monitored and extensive fish collections are made during the annual fish
13
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surv~y Results to date indicate that dredgeate material is confined to the
disposal cells Water temperatures within the cells are more stable than in
open waters and as a result provide a valuable and much used habitat and
refuge for local fish populations
Lakefill Quality Environmental Monitoring projects are continuing in 1991
Water samples are collected throughout the field season (April to November)
from Humber Bay, Ashbridge's Bay and Bluffer Park, Tommy Thompson Park and
the outer Harbour Marina Sediment quality and benthic invertebrate
communities are investigated in the fall The fish communities in these area
are also evaluated as part of the fish survey program A summary report of
the data accumulated to date is in progress
As required under the Environmental Assessment Approval, data collections
contl.nue at Colonel Sam Smith Park, including water quality, sediment quality
and henthic invertebrate community monitoring
At the proposed East Point Waterfront Park area, the "Aqualab" crew has been
working, in cooperation with consultants, in the deployment of current
meters Water quality sampling is also occurring at this site in conjunction
with the meters Other monitoring at this site is on hold as a result of the
present state of concern regarding shoreline regeneration
An environmental inventory of Frenchman's Bay was conducted in May-June 1991
as part of the Conservation and sustainable Development Study (Prof Gord
Nelson) commissioned by Duncan Allan (Premier's Advisor - Toronto Waterfront
Development) The MTRCA conducted surveys of the bird and fish communities
in the area, collected water and sediments for quality analyses from the bay
itself, its major tributaries and storm sewers The objective of this
inventory was to provide a glimpse of existing "point in time" conditions in
and adjacent to Frenchman's Bay This information is presently being
revi(~wed by appropriate agencies including the Town of Pickering, and will
assi~;t in the development of an environmental strategy for the area
At the present time, the final report ~ TTP Cell 1 capping Proposal/Wetland
Creation is being prepared, to be submitted to MNR in August Construction
will commence upon approval The MTRCA has received $32,000 in MOE "Clean
Sweep" funding for wetland creation
Tour:; of the waterfront, focusing on key issues of special interest to the
various groups, have taken place upon the "Aqualab" The groups include the
TTP Natural Areas Advisory Committee, Scarborough Waterfront Committee,
MOE/I'lNR, RAP-Public Advisory Committee (upcoming), The Royal Commission on
the Future off the Toronto Waterfront - Shoreline Regeneration working Group
and reporters for the Toronto Star and the Bluffs Monitor
A wetland/habitat creation project is underway at South Marine Drive site
grading has created two "wet" areas and a number of rolling hills and
protective berms A strategy for vegetation establishment is being developed
with the intent of creating a "natural landscape"
Waterfront Monitoring staff will be taking part in a public education program
organized by the Lower Don Task Force which will include an
electrofishing/stream assessment demonstration Staff also had a display at
the Toronto Sportsmen's Show promoting our work in fisheries, and also
participated in an education day organized by Metro Planning Department with
a display and talk to 500 Metro school children Waterfront monitoring staff
also assisted with an on-going investigation into environmental conditions at
Heart Lake which, to date, has consisted of a fish community assessment and
echo sounding to contour map the lake
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Environmental investigations at the sites of proposed erosion control works
started May 13 for the 1991 season This year, the program has been expanded
to include environmental assessments of existing structures of various
construction techniques to provide information on the impacts of these
structures locally in terms of the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems
associated with them The objective IS to provide recommendations for
habitat enhancement, based on past experience and new ideas, within the range
of eng~neering options for erosion control A report will be prepared by the
end of 1991, documenting findings and making recommendations for
enhancement/streamlining of the environmental investigative process and
habitat creation/enhancement techniques
Inte~im Manaqement Proqram - Tommy Thompson Park
Publi c Access
Public access has been maintained on weekends and holidays from January 5th
to present To date, a total of 25,399 visits have been recorded at the
parf~ This number is up substantially from the 1990 attendance at this time
because of the number of cyclists entering the park during the Manulife Ride
for Heart
Interpretive Proqram
Once again, a summer interpretive program is being offered at Tommy Thompson
Park to promote nature appreciation A total of 200 visitors have
partlcipated to date Promotion has included Authority news releases, and an
information pamphlet on the interpretive program and a display at the
International Sportsmen's Show
Transportation Service
As in 1990, transportation service consisting of a TTC bus and two passenger
vehicles has been maintained free of charge to the public The total usage
for the program to date is as follows
- 795 visitors have used the bus
- 677 visitors have used the spring passenger vehicles
Wi]<i!ife Manaqement Proqrams
The Gull Control Program was again successful in restricting gulls from
nesting in the control areas
A join MTRCA/Canadian wildlife service program to provide artificial tern
nesting habitat on floating rafts was again undertaken in 1991 and has been
very successful This project is being funded under Environment Canada's
Great Lakes Cleanup Fund
Aquatic Park Sailinq Club
The A P S C licence agreement was renewed in 1991 to provide on-site sailing
activi ties for the existing club The 12 month agreement will provide
$4,900 00 in revenue for the park, while maintenance costs to the Authority
for this operation will be minimal for the 1991 season
T.r.p. Newsletter
The Tommy Thompson Park Newsletter was changed to a quarterly distribution in
1991 In addition, a new letterhead and format was created for the
nev,sletter
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Other-Activities
In addition to the regular park programs, other special events and activities
have taken place at TTP during the spring and early summer of 1991 The
following is an outline of these various events
- variety Club of ontario Bike-a-Thon - April l8
- Manulife Ride for Heart - June 9
- Tour for Metro Zoo Behavioral Workshop - June 13
Environmental Comments
The Resource Management section has increased its efforts in providing
environmental comments on various planning documents and reports To date,
there have been over 75 request for comments, mainly from the Plan Review
section, but also from other sections and divisions within the Authority
stream Improved proiect - Environmental Youth CorDS Proaram
Over the summer the Stream Improvement Project (SIP/91) has received broad
media coverage including newspaper, radio and television
The crew has removed debris from sections of the Humber and Don Rivers;
Highland Carruthers, Petticoat, Mimico, Duffin, and
BlacJ~ Creeks; and Frenchman's Bay The 13 students have covered over 37
kilonetres, and collected over 15,000 kilograms of man-made debris
SIP/91 has received television coverage on CITY TV, CFTO, Rogers Cable 10 and
an interview with Anne Rohmer on CITY TV's Breakfast Television On AUgust
27, TVO will be filming a regular clean up day at Mimico Creek The
coordinator, Todd Kuiack has given interviews to three local radio stations,
CHAY, CFRB AND CBC
Newspaper articles have been printed in the Toronto Star, Globe and Mail,
Brampton Guardian, Scarborough Mirror, Etobicoke Guardian, and the Pickering
News Advertiser
,
16
~ t\?Ji
"
FIELD OPERATIONS DIVISION
CONSI:RVATION AREAS SECTION
Cons€'rvation Areas were open as usual during the winter period with
reasonable although not exceptional snow cover As a result of this,
attendance was up by approximately 3600 visitors at Albion Hills over the
previous year This more than offset reduced winter attendance elsewhere
related to the closure of Boyd, Greenwood, and Cold Creek during the winter
months The operational modifications to the Albion Hills and Bruce's Mill
ski programs implemented this year were successful in reducing fixed costs
The maple syrup demonstration at Bruce's Mill experienced another successful
year, with attendance up by about 2700 visitors due to favourable weather
Revenue for the maple syrup season was up slightly This was attributed to
increased syrup sales
A major operational change this year involved the scaling down of maintenance
and nervices provided at Cold Creek Rimfire rifle shooting and archery are
the only target activities now offered These activities have been
supplemented by a wider range of educational workshops and an increased
number of hunter safety courses In order to offset reduced revenues at the
Area, costs have been reduced through the use of volunteers as range officers
and the carrying of one full time staff vacancy This has allowed the
Conservation Areas Section to operate within municipal provisions for levy
support, while maintaining service levels at other locations
Scaling down of operations at Cold Creek has accompanied a general
stredmlining of Conservation Area operations staff vacancies have not been
fill,~d in order to reduce operating costs, operating hours have been reduced
to concentrate service during peak periods; staff have been transferred
temporarily between locations to ensure optimum use of personnel; and field
staff have developed numerous measures to reduce material and seasonal labour
cost.;
site improvements and major maintenance projects carried out at the
Cons~rvatjon Areas during the first part of the year included
- Replacement of the gatehouse at Boyd;
- Purchase of new picnic tables for Conservation Areas;
- Road refinishing at Glen Haffy;
- Installation of new commercial water heaters in the north washroom at
Indian Line Campground;
- Renovation of the Indian Line washrooms, installation of new eaves
troughs, and winterization of the Campground workshop;
- Replacement of chlorination equipment and installation of a backup
pump at the Petticoat Creek pool;
- Replacement of a picnic shelter roof, previously destroyed by fire at
Petticoat Creek;
- Reshingling of the Beach Centre roof at Bruce's Mill;
Author i ty staff participated in this year's sportsmen's Show promoting
activities and programs at Cold Creek, Heart Lake and Glen Haffy other
promotional activities included displays at Harbourfront and the Richmond
Hill Hinter Carnival promoting Bruce's Mill maple syrup in February, and a
fishlng derby at Heart Lake in June
All ~lthority swimming areas were in operation by mid-June Prior to the
start of the season the repaving of the Petticoat Creek pool begun last Fall
was completed and the pool was repainted
17
t\ H 40
The following table shows attendance at the Conservation Areas for the period
of ,ranuary 1st to June 30th
1990 1991 91-90
Albion Hills 28.828 34.272 5,444
Boyd 25.257 26.204 947
Bruce's Mill 39,406 37,790 (1,616)
Clalreville 504 0 (504)
Cold Creek 1,879 1.617 (262)
Glen Hatty 17,348 13.204 (4144)
Greenwood 12,311 7.564 (4.747)
Heart Lake 22,647 28,283 5,636
Indian line 8,416 7,861 (555)
, Pal grave 301 1,527 1,226
Petticoat Creek 18,059 25,501 7,442
Total YTD 174,956 183,823 8,867
*As of Apr i1 1990, Claireville was open for pedestrian access and was no
longer charging admission Therefore attendance is not available from this
tlme
Attendance is down by 1149 or 1 2%
Vehlcle and Eauioment proaram
Under the vehicle acquisition program, the six replacement vehicles approved
for acquisition have been received $117,000 was budgeted for these
replacements, however vehicles were acquired for $90,428 There were no new
vehicles budgeted for in 1991
Seven of the nine new equipment items budgeted for have been received to
date The two outstanding items yet to be acquired are a winter salt/sand
spreader and hydraulic lift gates for one ton trucks
Fifteen equipment items were approved for replacement in 1991 at a cost of
$148,000 Fourteen items have been received to date and the final item has
been tendered
The :;pring auction of replacement and surplus items generated approximately
$20,000 in revenue to the equipment reserve and certain field locations The
auction was deemed to be very successful for the third year in a row
Ce~~al Services and stores
Central Services continued to provide technical support and repair services
to a variety of Authority facilities Conversion of the stores inventory to
a computerized system continued, and slow moving or obsolete items were
removed from stock completion of this process will allow for better tracking
of product use and will permit reduction of inventory and concurrent
reduction of costs
18
I
f\t\ l\ I
,
Black Creek pioneer Villaqe
Sped a 1 proj ects
BCPV has been awarded grant funding of $22,500 to assist with three
special projects Total project cost is $45,000
These projects are
. Acquisition of a significant collection of 19th
century kerosene lamps;
. Purchase of two computer work stations and special
software to computerize the museum's collections
r-ecords;
. Hire one summer student (Experience '91)
BCPV has supervised two special student work teams which have
contr-ibuted to the operation of the village and to the
education and knowledge of the two students One new Canadian has
p~rtlcipated through a Co-op Program for 8 weeks in the
Gardening pr-ogram, and the other student has undertaken a 12
~eek internship on an exhibition project as part of her
Master of Museum Studies program r-equirements
Exhlbition
The installation of the 1991 exhibit "To Keep and To Carry" was
completed in May This exhibit, which highlights the history and
evolution of packaging, will be on display through the 1991 year in the
McNair Gallery This show will be highlighted in an upcoming issue of
Marketing Magazine
Program
A pilot winter weekend program was offered during January and February
The village was opened on a limited basis to visitors for 8 weekends,
with visitor Centre, sleigh/wagon rides and Half Way House open The
program attracted 3,300 visitors as compared to 2,300 in 1990, and
yielded a small net return for BCPV operation
Most special events have continued to attract similar numbers of
visitors as compared to 1990 These include March Break, Easter Hunt,
spring Fair, Military Encampment, and Canada Day
Building Maintenance:
Building maintenance has been a high priority in the first
six months of 1991 Completed projects include
interior painting of Burwick House and 1st floor of Half Way House;
repairs to the Mill;
replacement of Laskay Emporium verandah, including verandah roof;
roof repairs to Dominion Carriage Works;
replacement of board walk sections;
stabilization of Half Way House verandah
picket fence replacement at Half Way House, vegetable garden, and
Doctor's House
A building assessment program has been initiated to identify
long and short term building maintenance and restoration
priorities for the entire complex
19
"M l{A.
Attendance / Revenues:
. Attendance for the period overall is down by 9 7% due largely to
the decline of school tour attendance village general attendance is
down 2 6% compared to the same period in 1990
. Revenues for admission is up slightly with gift shop revenue
down village sales outlets are marginally ahead of last
year
0
20
A t1 4~)
CONSERVATION EDUCTION
Albicn Hills
. The Albion Hills staff and the students from Derry Down P S (North
York) took part in a photo session for the production: "We All Belong to
the Earth" which photographically depicted conservation education in the
out-of-doors
. Field Centre staff began to transplant maple whips into arboretum south
of the centre
May _J:Q. June
. 4 special needs - physically and mentally challenged youngsters visited
the Centre for 3 days at a time
. Introduced a new program - Recreational Camping - which was set up to
introduce students to the environmental and safety aspects involving
camping, by having students and teachers pitch tents and sleep outside
for one night
Alblon Hills Farm
. continued to improve water quality through manure storage improvements
funded by the Ministry of Energy and the 0 M A F
. Hosted two international tours - one from Portugal and one from China
Both interested in feeds and relationship to herd quality
Blac)~ Creek pioneer Villaqe
. Orientation day with all Black Creek staff was held in March The
program focused on Health and Safety as well as Multi-culturalism
. Student attendance was down by 23% over last year Bookings for the
Fall are very encouraging
. Changes have been made in reservation procedures which will be
implemented during the school year 1991-1992
. A new program - "To Keep and To Carry" - which utilizes the present
exhibit in the McNair Gallery has been planned and will be implemented
September 1991
Boyg
Between January 1 and June 30, 1991 thirty-nine groups visited the Boyd
Conservation Field Centre They represented a wide cross-section of the
Metro' Region population
The Ivhite Oaks Choral society brought music to Boyd during March March also
saw a visit from the Etobicoke Board's multi-cultural and race relations
group Here was a chance for 40 students from diverse backgrounds to mix,
discuss, and hear from expert speakers
As always, the Metro Toronto Board's group for the Trainable Retarded was a
high point for the Boyd staff A truly great bunch of kids, eager to please,
anxiJus to achieve, polite and responsive - a real pleasure to work with
Don Bosco Secondary School returned in June for their end-of-the-year
professional development workshop
21
PtH4~
Over 200 trees were planted on April 22 to celebrate Earth Day Students
from the Ellesmere/statton School in scarborough planted White Ash, White
pine and Red pine Many of the youngsters were determined to come back, in
25 or 30 years, with their own kids to see the fruits of their labour
Cla rI:!]lont
DurIng the week (Monday-Friday) the Field Centre continued to provide
Conservation Education programs for students of all grades from schools
throughout Metropolitan Toronto, Durham Region and York Region The most
popular programs continue to be Forest Management, Trout Stream Management,
Sugar Bush Management, Ecology, Environmental Awareness, pioneer Life Skills
and Dairy Farm visits
Durl.ng this time, the Centre also provided special programming in French for
5 different French Immersion groups, and a program of Environmental Awareness
for adult students from the City Adult Learning Centre
On weekends, the Centre hosted a variety of interest groups including several
Girl Guide and Brownie groups working on their conservationist badges -
Montessori schools, Rotarians, Kinsmen and Teachers' Professional
Development
During this period, the interior of the Field Centre was remodelled to
increase the residential capacity, and as of September of this year the
Centre will accommodate 60 students per visit
Lake st. Georqe
Both during the week and on weekends, the Field Centre continued to provide
Consl~rvation Education programs for students of all grades from schools
throughout Metropolitan Toronto and York Region The most popular programs
contlnue to be Lake Research, Water Quality, Sugar Bush Management, Ecology,
Environmental Issues, Winter Bird Studies, Fish and wildlife Management and
hand-on programs such as tree planting and bird box maintenance
During this time, a major focus was placed on the development of new programs
designed to emphasize the value and delicate nature of the Oak Ridges
Moralne Groups wishing to study this local issue may choose a half-day,
full clay or a full week program which would include speakers from local
interest groups such as S TOR M and the M T R C A
Another area of interest proved to be our programs in Waste Management where
we pri,ictice what we preach and provide practical demonstrations in recycling
with an opportunity to actively compost table scraps and apply finished
compost to our extensive vegetable garden which supplements our kitchen
Our newest evening program is a study of the Brown Bat colony that has taken
up t:".:!sidence in our Barn The study which is designed to develop a better
understanding and appreciation for bats, includes listening to the bats'
"radar" system with a special electronic bat detector
The Field Centre was pleased to host the Minister of Natural Resources, who
held a press conference at Lake st George in late June to announce sweeping
new guidelines to protect and preserve the Oak Ridges Moraine
Col (L~reek
All ~he remaining Board environmental programs have been transferred to the
Boyd and Claremont centres, respectively, effective september 1, 1991
22
AM \..\5
Kortriqht
1 vLsit on June 1, 1991 by Provincial Minister of Energy, Jenny Carter,
when Kortright hosted the "Great Canadian Solar Race"
2 Kortright had their biggest weekend attendance ever, during the annual
"Kite Festival" held on May 4 & 5, 1991 with an attendance of 4,153
3 We produced a major video on solar power for the Ministry of Energy
using our new multi-media computer system
4 We relocated the Marsh viewing Tower to offer more spectacular wildlife
views
5 Public attendance is up by almost 10%
6 The winter wildlife at KCC was the focus of a new David Suzuki special
on Nature This is one of a new series on Nature shows for children
Dan Stuckey acted as interpreter of the various wildlife and nature
features of the Centre's grounds
7 We began radio advertising for the first time in order to attract a
wider audience
ENFOHCEMENT SAFETY SECURITY
Enforcement Officers issued 88 violation Notices under ontario Regulation
293/fi6 for illegal placement of fill and construction activities They also
issued 61 offence notices for illegal activities on Authority lands The
reason for the significant increase in Offence Notices was a result of
speclal evening and weekend patrols
The Authority Enforcement Training for selected area staff resulted in
tra lning of 4 new staff and the issuance of 9 offence notices for illegal
actL/~ties on Authority lands
In May of 1991, the Safety Officer for the past 14 years retired and a new
Safety Officer with a strong Health and Safety background was hired
Staff were trained and upgraded in WHMIS, First Aid, CPR , and Driver
Certlfication
Fire suppression Training continued in 5 Conservation Areas to update staff
in Forest Fire suppression
Parking Control was introduced to Head Office and Black Creek pioneer Village
with ]50 Parking Infraction Notices being issued
23
A H lfb
PROGRAM SERVICES
COMMUNITY RELATIONS HIGHLIGHTS
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
program arrangements and details for:
- 35th Annual Meeting - Friday, February 22;
- Maple Syrup Day - Saturday, March 23;
- 18th Annual Honour Roll Awards - Friday, May 3; and
- 15th Annual Garden Party and Presentation of Service Recognition Awards
- Friday, June 14
production of:
- twelve general information and Resource Management news releases and
photo captions, and assisted with a brochure on Theme Hikes and a
newsletter for Tommy Thompson Park;
- 2,500 copies of the 1990 Annual Report;
- the 1991-92 Authority Directory;
- new design and artwork for corporate business cards and stationery;
- general photography to cover and record all Authority projects and
events, including three flights over the watershed for aerial
photography;
_ printing and distribution of one issue of Focus on Greenspace and
preliminary research and writing for two issues to be printed and
circulated later this year;
- six flyers, a brochure, a news release, and a photo caption to promote
the Urban Fisheries Festival, as well as buttons, ribbons, and T-shirts;
_ graphic design for covers and illustrations for six special Water
Resource projects; and
- distribution of the Authority's Corporate Watershed Brochure
CORPORATE AND GREENSPACE CONSERVATION INFORMATION PROGRAM
Production of:
- concept and final layout for a major new exhibit promoting the
Greenspace Strategy, including pricing and samples of materials; and
- continued distribution of the Greenspace Strategy tabloid, re-stocking
Municipal Offices and MPP offices
MARKETING RESEARCH
Visitor Research:
Visitor surveys are being conducted at the Authority's public-use facilities
The purposes of the program are to provide visitor origin data essential for
determining apportionment of municipal levy, assessing campaign impact,
aiding future promotional and developmental efforts, and measuring visitor
satisfaction with our programs and services; and to provide a forum for
public input
Two full years of data were collected by December 31, 1990. By the end of
thIS year, three years of data will be accumulated, and visitor origin
frequencies based on the average of 1989, 1990, and 1991 findings will be
calculated
24
Art l\1
FACILITIES MARKETING
program arrangements and details for:
- coordination of the camping Plus program for Indian Line Tourist
Campground, featuring discount coupons to 15 Metro attractions (also
sent out a new release); and
- a major radio advertising promotion on CFRB and CKFM for Black Creek
pioneer Village and the Kortright Centre for Conservation
Production of:
- 70 news releases, photo captions, and synopses of weekend events on the
Authority's public-use facilities, to newspapers, radios, televisions,
and magazines;
- Kortright Tabloid - 1991 (100,000 copies);
- major research and writing for a Black Creek pioneer Village Media Kit,
designed to tell media and business sectors practically everything about
the village, its role as a community museum, and its marketing
potential;
- set up an exhibit on the Conservation Areas, featuring Heart Lake, at
the opening of the new Brampton city Hall, June 15;
- 12 special flyers on programs at the Village and Kortright, as well as
a poster promoting the Kite Festival at Kortright;
- numerous ads on all of the Authority's facilities in many publications
throughout the region;
- eommunications and Sales Plan for Public-Use sites, 1991-92;
- ads in The Toronto star newspaper for consumer awareness;
- Calendar of Events and Visitors Guide Map for the Village; and
- distribution of Black Creek pioneer Village, Conservation Areas, and
Kortright brochures
Travol Trade and Group Sales:
In the last six-month period, Group Sales activities have focused on
servlcing increased customer inquiries among all group markets, particularly
amonq prospective corporate/convention customers In addition to regular
Trav(~l Trade/Group Sales activities, Group Sales has handled, to date, in
excess of 30 corporate/convention group inquiries for the purpose of
organizing special functions at Black Creek pioneer Village
To meet increasing demand and to facilitate an ambitious proactive selling
campaign, Group Sales has worked closely with village servicing departments
through regular coordinating meetings, in order to determine objectives,
sale:; strategies, create effective programs and packaging, and to communicate
our message through comprehensive new sales materials The end result will
be an attractive new Village sales kit, to be released in mid-August/91
It is estimated that direct and indirect gross revenues to the Village
through Group Sales activities will exceed $250,000 in 1991
SPECIAL PROJECTS
- participated in programs and activities of the Metropolitan Toronto
Convention and visitors Association and, in particular, the Attractions
council, a committee of the MTCVA,
- t:roduced two news releases and a photo caption for The Conservation
Foundation of Greater Toronto,
- assisted with the production of the Foundation's Annual Report,
including design of cover and sizing of photos; and
- E'xtensive creative and design work for a corporate presentation
folder/brochure, stationery, and newsletter for the Canadian Water
Resources Association
25
AK4~
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
proqress Report - January to June 1991
. Design of building, site plan and agreement prepared for a Conservation
Field studies Centre in the Claireville Conservation Area in conjunction
with the Etobicoke Board of Education
. Interregional Trail - planning progressing for Humber, Oak Ridges and
Duffin Creek interregional trails
. General Development - awaiting M N R approval of Conservation Area
Development Project 1991-1995
. Boyd Water Play Complex on hold until Conservation Area Development
Project 1991-1995 is approved by Province
. william T Foster Woods Project - planning of project and fundraising
are well under way - awaiting transfer of land from the city of Vaughan
. Public Recreation study - proposals received
. Conservation Foundation - provided financial assistance and assistance
with projects - Tree Donation Program and Charles Sauriol Reserve
. Black Creek Plan - preliminary draft plan prepared for staff input
. Cold Creek Plan - preliminary draft plan prepared for staff input
. McMichael Trail - contracted with McMichael Canadian Collection to plan
and develop a walking trail loop into the Humber Valley, funded under
the Economic stimulus Program - to become an access point to Humber
Trail
26
A~1 lt9
,
POTENTIAL DISPOSAL OF SURPLUS AUTHORITY LAND
NORTH EAST CORNER OF JANE STREET AND STEELES AVENUE CITY OF VAUGHAN
Staff Report
Dated 1991 08.29
Authority Meeting #6/91
september 6, 1991
A t-J\ 50
POTENTIAL DISPOSAL OF SURPLUS AUTHORITY LAND
NORTH EAST CORNER OF JANE STREET AND STEELES AVENUE CITY OF VAUGHAN
KEY ISSUE
To provide additional information to the Members of the Authority as
requested under Resolution #151, adopted at Meeting #5/91 held on July 26,
1991 which read as follows:
Res #151 THAT the sale of the 4 3 acre parcel of Authority owned table
land, situated on the existing north east corner of Jane
street and Steeles Avenue, being part of Lot 1, Concession 5
and part of the road allowance between Concessions 4 and 5,
City of Vaughan, Regional Municipality of York, be deferred
and that staff be directed to report to the Authorlty on
market value and alternatives which could be included on
proposal calls that would include the relocation of existing
Authority offices making the present site available for other
uses
(A) RECOHMENDATION
THAT the staff report, dated 1991 08 29, be received and appended as AM 49
(a) WHEREAS the approved 1991 budget of the Authority, included provision for
funding for additional office space for the Authority's Administration
Headquarters;
AND WHEREAS the Provincial Government has previously allowed Conservation
Authorities to utilize Revenue sharing Funds to carry out provision of
administration headquarters facilities;
THAT the Authority attempt to secure sufficient funding for an upgraulng of
the Authority's administrative headquarters to meet the Authority's
requirements through the use of Revenue Sharing Funds
(b) RECOMMENDATION
THAT the 4 3 acre parcel of Authority owned table land, situated on the
existing north east corner of Jane Street and Steeles Avenue, being Part of
Lot 1, Concession 5 and Part of the road allowance between Concessions 4 and
5, City of Vaughan, Regional Municipality of York, be declared as surplus to
the requirements of the Authority;
THAT along with all existing municipal and provincial controls on the future
utilization of this property for development, the Authority impose the
following restrictions on the use and development of the property
(a) A height restriction to provide that no buildings in excess of six
floors be allowed;
(b) No gas stations, or obnoxious industrial or commercial uses are to be
permitted on the property;
(e) Mitigative measures for vegetation preservation during development of
the site are to be carried out to the satisfaction of the Authority;
(d) Surface water quality and quantity leaving the site to be dealt with in
a manner acceptable to the Authority, and
1
AHSl
(el The Authority is to have the right to review and approve all development
plans to ensure that the ultimate development is compatible to Black
Creek pioneer Village
THAT the availability of the subject site be advertised publicly \vith
proposals being invited for long-term leases, joint ventures or sale
submissions;
AND FURTHER THAT an effort be made to have submissions available at. the
earliest poss~ble date
BACKGROUND
(11 GENERAL
While the report dated June 7, 1991, which was presented to the Member~ of
the Executive Committee at the meeting held on June 21, 1991, include,:! the
recommendation cons~dered at the Authority meeting held on July 26, 1991,
dealt mainly with the recent history of this property, substantial preViOUS
work and investigation had been carried out by staff with respect to
assembling the land and dealing with the best method of resolving the
Authority's urgent space requirements at 5 Shoreham Drive Refer to staff
reports dated May 1, 1991, and June 7, 1991, dealing with the recent public
process and earlier Resolutions #76 and #77 adopted by the Members of the
Executive Committee at a Meeting held on May 10, 1991 and Resolutions #113
and #114 adopted by the Members of the Executive Committee on June 21, 1991
concerning this matter
(21 HISTORY OF EXISTING LOCATION AND FACILITY AT 5 SHOREHAM DRIVE
In 1970, after extensive research as to the most suitable location and extent
of facility required, the first phase of construction of the Authority's
Admin~strative Headquarters Building was carried out at 5 Shoreham Drive
The initial building wh~ch was required to be scaled down from the size
originally deemed necessary cons~sted of approxlmately 14,400 square feet
In 1976 an extension on the eastern side of the original building was added
The 5,600 square foot add~tlon was agaln required to be scaled down from the
Slze originally deemed necessary because of funding limitations
In 1980 extensive discussion took place inVOlving Authority Members and staff
regarding the possibility of proceeding with an additional expansion of the
existing building The proposed two storey addition was projected to provide
an additional 16,800 square feet of floor space The proposed extension 60'
x 140', with two levels on the south side provided for the upper floor to be
open-concept office space reached from the existing floor level by two sets
of stairs Likewise, the lower level would be reached using the same
stairwells, in other words, the proposed addition was to be split-level in
its relation to the existing building The lower level was to provide for
cafeteria facilities, board meeting room facilities, small meeting rooms,
washrooms and storage facil~ties This level was proposed to be sealed off
from the existing building by locked doors and was to be available for use in
the evening by the outside entrance without any access to the offices Also
included in the lower level, was to be space for a concrete storage vault and
a large room for central filing
The inltiative for proceeding with the 1980 expanslon dissipated because of
the lack of a defin~te funding source The estimated cost of proceedinq with
the expansion at that time was 1 mllllon dollars wh~ch included furnishing
the board and meeting rooms, cafeteria equipment as well as equipment ln the
2
t\M5J.
central filing area The prime funding source considered at that time was
Land Sale Revenue Indications from the Province at the time however, were
that the Authority would not be allowed to use the provincial share of land
sale revenue because of the lack of an approved Revenue Sharing Policy
Management Board of Cabinet on December 13, 1983 approved a Revenue Sharing
Policy allowing Conservation Authorities to request approval to utilize the
Provincial share of revenue obtained from the sale of property or non
renewable resources for high priority projects
During the years 1986, 1987 and 1988, the Authority carried out substantial
work inVOlving provision of work stations, installation of Central Filing,
utilization of former school portables, use of off site storage facilities
and other stop gap measures to attempt to cope with day to day administrative
space requirements
During early 1989, the space situation again began to reach the urgent stage
staff has been attempting since early 1989 to secure a firm funding source to
allow this issue to be satisfactorily dealt with
The Authority currently has an application before the North York Building
Inspector requesting another trailer to be moved to the office site to
provide for accommodation of staff
The existing building is now in need of major maintenance items in the
immediate or very near future such as roof replacement, heating and air
conditioning replacements as well as other essential items for carrying on
operations
The following extract from the General Manager's comments contained in the
1991 approved budget of the Authority reads as follows
"Over the last ten years, the Authority has seen its head office operatlons
grow and has employed a number of techniques to support the space and working
area requirements of its staff The head office was refurbished and the use
of more efficient work stations allowed the office to accommodate about 100
people in an area originally designed for no more than 80 In addition, the
Authority has two portables, one for storage and one housing up to fifteen
temporary staff who come to work for the Authority on various programs
Central filing and other storage requirements are now taxed to the limit In
addition, the Authority has a very inadequate permanent records s'torage
facility, being an old garage in Bolton, that must soon be replaced
All of the foregoing has led to the creation of a project to support an
addition to the head office building This $3 million dollar addition will
facilitate consolidation of staff at head office and provide for retrofitting
of the existing Authority building which does not meet current building code
and energy conservation standards Although $500,000 is included in the 1991
Budget, a source of funding has not been identified "
C3l REVIEW OF OPTIONS AVAILABLE FOR PROVISION OF SUITABLE OFFICE SPACE
options open to the Authority with respect to the provision of adequate
office space have been explored as follows
Locations and options Considered
\
1) A location on other Authority-owned lands removed from the Jane Street-
Shoreham Drive area;
2) The rental or purchase of office space or an office building owned by
others;
3) The north east corner of Jane Street and Steeles Avenue;
3
P\ t-'\ S ~
4) The north side of Shoreham Drive on the Black Creek pioneer Vi 11 age
property;
5) An addition to the existing building on the south side of Shoreham
Drive
Salient Items Considered
1) The extensive review carried out prior to construction of the initIal
phase of construction in 1970 at the existing location determined that
the Jane-Shoreham area was an ideal central accessible location for the
Authority's Administrative Headquarters,
2) Public perception and public acceptability,
3) Ability to secure an early and sufficient source of funding,
4) Likelihood of obtaining approvals necessary for use of Revenue Sharing
Funds;
5) The existing buildings at the current site are not subject to taxes;
6) A location and building to provide an atmosphere conducive to activities
of a Conservation Authority;
7) A location to allow sufficient parking facilities;
8) Accessability to major highways and roads to all parts of our region;
9) The Ceremonial trees planted at the Shoreham location over the past
several years;
10) Availability of public transit;
11) Ability to share use of other Authority's facilities;
Upon carrying out an extensive review of the options at hand and the salIent
items to be considered, it would appear that an addition to the eXIsting
building similar to the extension proposed in 1980, would be the most likely
option open to the Authority at this time with a reasonable chance of being
able to successfully complete the project
Review of Salient Items
1 The existing site location was chosen as a part of an extensive study in
1970
2 The existing site has been in existence since 1970 It is well known
and well accepted by the general public
The Authority generally receives substantial public criticism for the
sale or disposal of Authority-owned land The disposal of the Head
Office site for other than conservation purposes, would likely receive
substantial negative public impact, particularly in regard to its
proximity to a regulated valley
3 The construction of an extension to the existing building, would appear
to require substantially less funding than that required to purchase or
build a new facility
The disposal of the parcel at the north east corner of Jane Street and
Steeles Avenue, is projected to provide sufficient funds within the time
frame required to carry out the work required
4
J~ H 5 't
4 The Authority has during the past five years, received approval of the
Province of Ontario to use substantial amounts of Revenue Sharing Funds
for the acquisition of high priority properties
While it is anticipated that substantial effort would be required to
obtain approval of The Province of Ontario to utilize Revenue Sharing
Funds for the extension, it is felt that disposition of the Jane Street
and Steeles Avenue parcel, which has already been discussed with
officials of The Province of Ontario for the past two years, would
provide the most successful option
5 Under the provisions of the Conservation Authorities Act, land owned by
an Authority is taxable while works erected by an Authority for the
purposes of a project, are not taxable The current Head Office
building is not taxable resulting from a decision of the Ontario
Municipal Board There is no assurance that the Authority would be able
to enjoy this financial benefit at another location
6. The current location abutting the Black Creek Valley and the Cedar Wood
siding of the current building continues to be received by the public as
a reflection of the conservation image and mission statement of the
Authority The new proposed North York Park to be built on the York
University lands, immediately to the east of the current Authority
holding, will ensure that Greenbelt and open space uses will continue to
abut the existing site on all sides for the foreseeable future
7 The existing site allows unlimited parking with the joint use of the
Black Creek pioneer village lands situate on the north side of Sho~eham
during regular working hours
The parking area at the current Administration Headquarters, is also
able to be utilized by Black Creek Pioneer village at peak weekend
and holiday periods .
8 The existing location is virtually equidistant in travelling time from
the furthest corners of the Authority area of jurisdiction Access to
major highways and arterial roads to all parts of our region are very
easily obtainable
The construction of Hwy #407, which will in the near future have an
access from Jane Street, just north of Steeles Avenue, will further
improve the access, from the area of the existing site
9 The ceremonial trees at Shoreham would be extremely difficult, if not
impossible to successfully relocate
10 The current location is easily accessibly to public transit with two bus
stops being located in the immediate vicinity of the site
11 The current location in the immediate vicinity of Black Creek Pioneer
Village allows for shared uses of certain services such as security,
telephone system, etc and allows for shared use of building facilities
when required
5
,
AMS5
(4) RATIONALE FOR MARKETING THE NORTH EAST CORNER OF JANE STREET AND
STEELES AVENUE AT THIS TIME
The disposition of the parcel at the north east corner of Jane Street and
Steeles Avenue which has already received extensive public input would appear
to be the most likely funding option open to the Authorlty at this time The
Province of Ontario, since the inception of the current revenue sharlng
policy, has on at least two occasions allowed other Conservation Authorities
to utilize Revenue Sharing Funds to be used for provision of administrative
headquarters facilities
Since the Authority meeting held on July 26, 1991, staff have updated
discussions with officials of York University and The city of North
York These discussions, similar to the discussions carried out over
the past two years, indicate that while both York and The City are
supportive of the Authority's need for funding to secure additional
office space, they are not interested in the acquisition of the Authority's
existing land at 5 Shoreham Drive at market value Staff of York and the
City also agree that proceeding with a proposal call on the Jane and steeles
lands appears to be a reasonable course of action
During the notification for the public consultation process carrled
out earlier this year, staff received numerous enqulries from
interested potential purchasers of the site The Authority prior to
this latest initiative, has also received a number of unsolicited
offers to purchase as well as proposals for acquisition and
development from potential developers
The Authority has spent the past several months gOlng through a publlC
consultation process regarding the potential disposal of this parcel
and no major public objections have been raised
The Authority has spent the past two years dealing with the potentlal
disposal of this land with the City of Vaughan, The Regional Municipality of
York and the Province of ontario, including potential use of the site for
affordable housing While extensive discussions have been held with all
parties regarding the potential purchase of the property, no objections have
been raised by any of the levels of Government to disposal of the property
The subject property was fully serviced without cost to the Authorlty
when the adjoining properties were developed
While the major portion of the parcells in the Parkway Belt designation, it
is in the midst of a developing industrial area in the City of Vaughan It
is subject to a Service Commercial Designation under City of Vaughan
Official Plan Amendment 239 Amendment 239 provides that Service Commercial
Uses be located at specific nodes at intersections of major arterlal and
collector roads
While real estate activity in the greater Toronto area is below levels of the
earlier boom years, there is no way of predicting when the prices of the boom
years will return The requirement of the Authority to secure funding to
carry out construction is also subject to the same market fluctuations The
present worth of money today as opposed to the value of funds receivable in
the future also needs to be considered
The Authority has ongoing maintenance problems with preventing
truckers dumping rubbish on this parcel Money is continually being
spent on removing garbage and engaging Enforcement Officers to attempt
to deal with offenders
The uniqueness of the subject parcel, the prime corner
location and the restrictions being placed on development by the
Authority substantially negate the impact of market fluctuations
6
AHSb
(5) DRAFT PROPOSAL CALL ON AUTHORITY OWNED LAND AT THE NORTH EAST CORNER OF
JANE STREET AND STEELES AVENUE
It is proposed that the proposal call be prepared in a manner to soLicit
Expressions of Interest including long term lease, joint venture or, if
necessary, sale of the property for a development compatible with Black Creek
pioneer village
The document will also be prepared in a manner to bring to the attention of
the proponents, the Authority's objective of aChieving adequate office space
as well as the current Authority holdings at Black Creek Pioneer village and
5 Shoreham Drive in an attempt to solicit any potentially innovative
suggestion that may be of interest to the Authority
It is proposed that the following conditions be included
1) The Proponents shall be required, at their own expense, to obtain all
approvals including zoning, permits, consents, agreements and
authorizations required from all municipal, regional and other '
government bodies having jurisdiction to permit the construction of the
full scheme proposed for the site The Proponents shall provide the
Authority with safeguards from liability and "save harmless"
provisions as the Authority requires in its absolute discretion
2) No building height shall exceed six stories
3) No gasoline filling stations or automotive related uses shall be
permitted
4) The development concept and details must be compatible with surrounding
Authority resources, specifically Black Creek pioneer Village
5) The development approval shall include a mitigation plan for vegetation
preservation which is acceptable to the Authority
6) The proponents shall control the quantity and quality of the storm water
emanating from this site in a manner acceptable to the Authority
7) The Authority is bound, under the Conservation Authorities Act, to seek
approval of the Government of ontario prior to finalizing the
transaction
Any submission which includes provision of office accommodation for the
Authority, either on this site or elsewhere, should outline general
conditions of the proposal including lease arrangements and parking,
leasehold improvements, allowances for relocation and fit up of the new
space, renewal conditions and assumptions regarding timing and scheduling
The Authority will not expect, during the term of such. lease, to make
payments on account of operating costs, realty taxes, goods and services tax,
capital tax of any kind, or commercial concentration levy relating to the
premises it may occupy or the land and buildings within which such premises
are situated It will also expect competent, experienced property managers
who will not be changed without their express consent
All submissions shall clearly indicate the type of the proposed arrangement -
land lease, joint venture, or sale
All submissions shall indicate the financial consideration to the Authority,
anticipated staging of the return and the present value of the consideration
All submissions should include a Proposed Concept and Site Plan SUfficiently
detailed and at a reasonable scale to give a realistic impression of the type
and scope of the development concept
7
AH51
The plan shall include proposed density, orientation, height, architectural
texture, site organization and layout, landscaping and access Models and
artist renderings are not required at this time
Two perspective sketches should be included to give an impression of what the
development would look like when viewed from the south and the west (adjacent
Authority holdings) so as to see the impact from Black Creek Pioneer V~llage
Proponents must identify the legal entity or entities with which The
Authority would be dealing and the name of all officers, shareholders and
principals of each entity with which the Authority would be dealing
Proponents must supply information regarding their development
experience in comparable projects, outlining the project location,
size, construction time, project value and development costs
Each proponent must submit with its proposal a letter of confirmation from an
established financial institution that the proponent has, or is able to
obtain the financial capability to successfully complete such an undertaking
The Authority accepts no responsibility for project costs, all of which costs
shall be the responsibility of the proponents
DJP dc
1991 08 29
8
AM S5
DISCUSSION PAPER
REVIEW OF SIZE, STRUCTURE AND MEMBERSHIP
OF TIlE METROPOLITAN TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
May, 1991
AM5i
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Purpose
It has been more than five years since the size, structure and
membership of the Authority was last considered. The Review of the
Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority dated
February, 1984 conducted by the Chairmen of the three Regions and
Metropolitan Toronto and representatives of the Province made a
number of significant recommendations which resulted in changes to
the Authority.
In 1990, the Minister of Natural Resources requested that
Conservation Authorities review their size and structure with a
view to improving decision-making effectiveness. The Executive
Commi ttee directed the General Manager to prepare a report for
consideration of the Evaluation and Review Committee. This report
reviews and draws conclusions with respect to possible changes to
the size of the Authority, its membership and the functional
relationships of the Authority, the Executive Committee and the
Advisory Boards.
Background
To assist in understanding some of the work already done with
respect to size, structure and membership of Conservation
Authorities, attached are the relevant sections of the following:
- The Conservation Authorities Act:
- A Review of the Conservation Authorities Program (MNR -
December 1987): and
- Review of The Metropolitan Toronto and Region
Conservation Authority (Kruger Report - February 1984).
Guiding Principles
In consideration of changes to the size, membership and structure
of the Authority, assumptions were made regarding principles which
must be reflected in any changes. First of all there is a need for
accountability to the Province, member municipalities, the public
and organized groups with whom the Authority has regular contact.
Second, any structure must ensure that there is administrative
effectiveness and efficiency in terms of policy implementation, use
of resources and program delivery. Both of these attributes must
be present for the organization to function effectively.
1"1.05.27
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- 2 -
Authority Size
There have been numerous discussions in the past regarding the
appropriate number of members for the Authority. As the number of
members increases, accountability, particularly on the local level
is enhanced. On the other hand, as membership grows, the logistics
of holding meetings and keeping members informed become problematic
and costly, and the individual voice and influence of each member
deteriorates.
The current membership size of the Authority is dictated by Section
2, 8 and 17 of the Conservation Authorities Act. Section 5(5)
states, that the membership from Metropolitan Toronto must be equal
in size to that of the regional municipalities. The current size
and membership composition is essentially that recommended in the
Kruger Report except that the member from Mono and Adjala has been
retained.
While formally recognizing the Regions, Metro and the Province, the
membership size allows for representation from each of the local
municipalities within the Authority's area of jurisdiction. This
serves to improve the accountability of members and accessibility
to the Authority's decision-making process for citizens with a
local concern.
Any reduction in the size of the Authority's membership would
reduce accountability and accessibility. This would run counter to
the current political climate wherein accountability, at both the
local and provincial level, is highly valued by the electorate and
interest groups and elected officials.
While the recent provincial review of Conservation Authorities took
a position in favour of reduced Authority membership, it also
recommended that "the number of members appointed per the
population figures in Section 2(2) of the C.A. Act would remain
unchanged" (p.56). This recommendation would leave the Authority's
membership size as at present, a situation which would seem to meet
the needs of the municipalities, both local and second tier, and to
have the implicit approval of the Province.
1"1.05.37
AH0J
- 3 -
The 1984 Review of the Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation
Authority reduced the membership of the Authority from 53 to 31.
One result was that the Authority could debate issues more
effectively as a smaller body. This created an opportunity to
reduce the number of advisory boards and to clarify the role of the
Executive Committee. The number of meetings increased and all 31
members were able to participate more actively.
The changes made as a result of the 1984 Kruger Report have worked
successfully for the Authority. While further review of the
Authority's membership and the structure of its representation may
be appropriate in future years, at this time no additional changes
appear to be required.
Conclusion 1:
That the size of the Authority's membership and the structure of
its representation remain unchanged.
Issue Manage.ent
A major concern for the Conservation Authority is to ensure that
issues of importance to the Authority and its mandate regularly
appear before the public, provincial and municipal decision-makers.
The recent "Crisis in Confidence" report adopted by the Authority
illustrates some of the problems the Authority had in ensuring that
its mandate and the isues with which it deals are properly
reflected in the greater debate.
Changes to the structure and reporting relationships of the
Authority can ensure that this public awareness is enhanced. More
frequent meetings of the full Authority dealing with major issues
with immediate and appropriate decisions following serve not only
to ensure that these pOlicies are implemented expeditiously but
focuses public attention on the actions being taken.
The concerns expressed in the "Crisis in Confidence" report can
best be dealt with by an Authority which is knowledgeable,
responsive and able to make decisions in an efficient and effective
manner.
1"1.05.37
.
AMbdv
- 4 -
Advisory Boards
The Authority's three Advisory Boards were created to provide an
opportunity for intense scrutiny and review of policy and issue
before they are passed to the general membership for approval. The
boards provide the opportunity for a portion of the membership to
develop familiarity with and understanding of a narrower group of
issues. In addition, the members of the Advisory Board may bring
technical expertise and/or at least a particular interest to the
subject area.
However, in many instances, Advisory Boards have become a redundant
step in gaining approval for policy. The recommendations of boards
have been debated at length in the more public forum of the full
Authority meeting, amended and sometimes overturned. While Advisory
Board members may bring a special interest or expertise to the
Board agenda, the value of this may be lost because repetitive
debate occurs again at the Authority.
The current Advisory Board structure creates the necessity for a
large number of meetings, all of which must be prepared for by
staff. A case in point is the Authority's preliminary estimates
which are presented and reviewed four times before being addressed
by the Authority. Also, this plethora of meetings may create
hardship and confusion for delegations in that they frequently
present to Advisory Boards, only to find they must return and make
their case to the full Authority to ensure that action is taken.
The Kruger Report also recommended that the Advisory Boards should
hear delegations which would have a final right of appeal to the
full Authority, presumably on an "exception only" basis.
The Advisory Boards were to have a significant decision making role
in that their recommendations would be accorded considerable weight
when presented to the full Authority and would only be changed,
amended or otherwise referred back in exceptional circumstances.
Further, where delegations appeared before an Advisory Board and
received a favourable response in terms of the recommendations of
the Advisory Board, the necessity of the same delegation appearing
before the Authority would be eliminated. As we have now seen,
with respect to many of the issues coming before the Authority, the
debate at Advisory Boards has been repeated in almost its entirety
at meetings of the Authority, thus negating the purpose of the
Advisory Board function.
1''1.05.27
AM6~
- 5 -
In particular, the role played by the Finance and Administration
Advisory Board creates a double redundancy in that most of the work
of the Finance Board must be reviewed by the Executive Committee
prior to its approval or referral to the full Authority. This
occurs because the Executive Committee functions largely as the
Authority's Finance, Personnel and Management Committee. The
Executive is a legally constituted body with delegated
responsibilities from the full Authority. Accordingly, personnel
matters, finance, budgets, accounting matters and general policies
flow through the Executive Committee from the Finance Board and
eventually to the full Authority.
Options
To ensure continued decision-making effectiveness and
responsiveness, the Authority may wish to consider a number of
options.
A. status Quo
No change to the existing size structure and reporting
relationships.
B. No Advisory Boards
This option has all issues and reports going directly to
the full Authority. The Authority would meet once a
month (e.g., every 4th Friday). Meetings will be longer,
possibly starting at 9:30 a.m. and going through lunch -
perhaps to 1:30 p.m.
The Executive would continue as at present in terms of
responsibilities and would meet the second Friday of the
month with an optional meeting before the Authority on
the 4th Friday. The composition of the Executive
Committee would be the same but a different electorial
process would be needed to ensure balanced
representation.
1191.05.37
A H ~L\
- 6 -
c. Committee-of-tbe-Whole
This option would have the Advisory Boards eliminated and
replaced by a Committee-of-the Whole which would meet
immediately after the meetings of the Authority which
could begin at 9:30 a.m. Delegations and discussion at
Committee-of-the-Whole would allow for ample evaluation
of policies by all interested Authority members.
Reports of the Committee-of-the-Whole would go to the
next scheduled Authority meeting. This would provide
opportunity for staff to assemble any additional
information prior to Authority approval.
The Executive Committee would continue with required
changes in election to ensure balanced representation.
At Committee-of-the-Whole, it may be desirable to have
individuals elected to "Chair" issue areas; e.g., water
resource related issues, finance issues, conservation and
related issues, etc. The Chair of the meeting could be
rotated as such sets of issues came up. The "Chair" for
these issues could form the Executive Committee as the
Advisory Board Chairs (with provision for a
representative balance).
D. Direct Advisory Boards
This option would have all reports and recommendations of
all three Advisory Boards going directly to the
Authority. Composition and structure would otherwise not
change.
The Finance and Administration Advisory Board would have
its responsibilities narrowed to financial issues such as
budgets, accounting policies, financial statements,
progress reports, etc. The Executive Commi ttee would
continue to deal with regulations, purchasing, personnel
matters, legal services and property. The Finance
Advisory Board would report directly to the Authority.
The Advisory Boards would meet as they do now. Only the
Executive Committee would have delegated decision-making
responsibilities. Advisory Board reports would not have
to go through Executive Committee to get to the
Authority.
1"1.05.37
~M"'5
- 7 -
Conclusion 2:
The Evaluation and Review Co..ittee consider and recommend to the
Authority one of Options WAW through wOw.
Increased citizen Participation
As a result of the 1984 Kruger Report, the size of the Authority
shrunk from 53 members to 31. Many of the members eliminated as a
result of that change were citizen appointees of the member
municipalities. These citizen appointees brought to the Authority
a wealth of expertise and experience that was shared with staff of
the Authority and which created many new opportunities for the
Authority to take initiatives in a variety of areas.
Concurrent with the reduction in membership, member municipalities,
particularly Metropolitan Toronto, took the opportunity to appoint
more elected officials to fill the available appointments.
Metropolitan Toronto now appoints Metro Councillors to 11 of 14
positions with three citizen appointees (Peel Region appoints four
of five).
It would be in the interest of the Authority to consider appointing
committees of interested citizens to advise it on specific issues.
The mandate of such committees could be very specific and their
lifetime limited to that which is necessary to deal with a
particular problem or to produce a needed report. All such
committees would report to the Authority or, if Option 'C' is
adopted, to Committee-of-the-Whole. The use of interested citizens
or those with particular expertise is similar to the model for
Advisory Boards used by other Conservation Authorities and most
recently the committee constituted to look at issues on the Oak
Ridges Moraine.
Conclusion 3:
That the Authority expand the practice of appointing coJllli. ttees of
interested citizens to advise on specific issues; said co..tttee to
include at least one .eaber of the Authority and to report to and
take direction fro. the Authority.
1"1.05.27
A H ro~
- 8 -
The Executive
The current role of the Executive Committee as a body which meets
more frequently than the Authority to deal with routine or urgent
issues, appears to work well. This function promotes
administrative efficiency yet provides accountability through
regional representation and the presence of all Advisory Board
chairpersons on the committee. With the elimination of the
advisory boards, persons might be elected in the capacity as
"chairs" or advisors in the issue areas of Finance, Water, or
Conservation related activities. Changes to the responsibilities
of the Executive are noted in Option D. above.
Conclusion 4:
That the function and powers of the Executive Co..ittee continue
and that the structure of the co.-ittee be constituted so as to
provide appropriate representation by the .Ember .unicipali ties and
the Province.
1991.05.27
~t--\ fa1
1990 PROGRAM PERFORMANCE REVIEW
The Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
August 1991
AfoB
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Summary of 1990 Recommendations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1. INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.1 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . 6
1. 2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . . 8
2 . FLOOD AND EROSION HAZARD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS: . . . . . 10
2.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: . . . . . . 11
2.2.1. Remedial Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.2.2. Maintenance of Completed Works . . . .. . 12
2.3. Preventative Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2.3.1. Flood Warning and Forecasting . . . . . . 12
2 . 3 .2. Mapping Extension . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
2 . 3 . 3 . Plan Input and Review . . . . . . . . . . 13
3. CONSERVATION LAND MANAGEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
3.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS: . . . . 16
3.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . . 17
4. LAND ACQUISITION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
4.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . 19
4.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . . 24
5. WATERSHED RECREATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
5.1. Planning and Development . . . . . . . . . . . 25
5.1.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATION . . . 25
5.1.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . 25
5.2. Conservation Area Operations . . . . . . . . . 26
5.2.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS . . . 26
5.2.2. Facility Operation . . . . . . . . . . . 26
5.3. Enforcement, Safety and Security . . . . . . . 28
5.3.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS . . . 28
5.3.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . 29
6. LARE ONTARIO WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT . . . . . . . . . . 32
6.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . 32
6.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . . 32
1
AMb9
7. BLACK CREEK PIONEER VILLAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
7.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . 33
7.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: . . . . . . 33
(A) Special Events and Programs . . . . . . . . . 34
(B) Citizenship Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
(C) Operations Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
(D) "Breeds and Seeds" Program . . . . . . . . . . 34
8. CONSERVATION EDUCATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
8.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . 35
8.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . . 37
9. COMMUNITY RELATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 39
9.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATION . . . . . . 39
9.2. 1990 COMMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS: . . . . . . 39
9.2.1. Revenue-Producing Facilities . . . . . . 39
9.2.2. Water and Land Management Programs . . . 40
9.2.3. Corporate Communications . . . . . . . . 40
10. FOOD SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
10.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . 41
10.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . . 41
10.2.1. visitor Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
10.2.2. Cost Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
10.3 Special Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
2
Pc. M 10
SUMMARY OF 1990 RECOMMENDATIONS
1. THAT the Authority use the CRISIS IN CONFIDENCE? paper as a
basis for discussion with the Provincial ministries and the
member and local municipalities to establish a clear role
for the futurej
THAT discussions continue with the member municipalities and
the province with respect to the Authority'S role in
greenspace conservation and the provision of legislative,
regulatory and financial requirements to achieve the agreed
to rolej and
THAT, where required to accomplish its role, new partnership
agreements be developed.
2. THAT the importance of up-to-date mapping for plan review
and watershed strategy initiatives continue to be recognized
and reflected in the annual budget process.
3. THAT the Authority urge the Province of ontario to affirm
the recommendations of the SPACE FOR ALL reportj to put in
place the planning guidelines for the Oak Ridges Morainej to
adopt terms of reference for, and commence, the two year
Land Use Planning Study of the Morainej and address the
comprehensive implementation of the remainder of the
report's recommendations to ensure an ecosystem approach to
the planning the GTA rather than focusing attention on
individual components of the system.
4. THAT the organization, structure and responsibilities of the
Water Resource Division and its requirements related to the
expanded role of the Authority as a project manager and
adviser on environmental matters, be reviewedj and
THAT a staffing and organization plan be developed to
respond to the Greenspace initiatives.
5. THAT a comprehensive Greenspace Protection and Acquisition
Project be prepared.
6. THAT the review of the Cold Creek Concept Plan be given a
high priority and completed prior to the finalization of the
1992 Budget.
7. THAT the review of Conservation Area facilities continue to
involve staff from Field Operations and include
consideration of individual small scale improvements to each
area, in keeping with the character of the area and the
concern of the public for a "greener" approach to recreation
land management.
3
~~1)
8. THAT the coordination of the permit review process and the
field enforcement of Ontario Regulation 293/86 be improved
by:
a) ensuring that enforcement staff are kept advised
and involved in the development of guidelines and
procedures related to the Authority's administration of
its regulation through the permit process.
b) ensuring consistency in the interpretation of the
legislation and regulation by Plan Review and
Enforcement staff.
c) establishing procedures for coordination between
enforcement and permit review for works already in
progress.
d) ensuring regular field inspections for approved
permits and fill violation sites.
9. THAT Enforcement staff continue to provide direction and
training to Conservation Area staff in order to improve
security on Authority lands, and,
THAT weekend and evening patrols continue, as necessary, to
achieve this objective.
10. THAT the Authority continue to work with all parties
involved across the Waterfront to address the issues
identified in the Greenspace strategy and to work toward the
partnership agreements necessary to achieve its Waterfront
objectives.
1I. THAT the 1991 Program Performance Review include an update
on the review of the Black Creek Pioneer Village operation
planned for 1991.
12. THAT the interests of the Education Section in promoting its
facilities be identified to the Community Relations section
and the Marketing Committee for consideration in 1991.
13. THAT Conservation Education and Planning and Development
staff review the existing education facilities and develop a
5 Year Plan for maintenance and program improvements.
4
^H7~
14. THAT the issues raised in the 1989 Program Performance
Review with respect to the Community Relations function be
reviewed and objectives established prior to the hiring of a
new Manager for the section and include the sections
requirements with respect to:
a) internal organization and corporate reporting
relationships
b) information access and management
c) program development, and
d) service delivery
15. THAT discussions with respect to short and long term
Conservation Area improvements include representation from
the Community Relations section.
16. THAT the Water Resource Division and the Community Relations
Section jointly develop a long range plan for communicating
the Authority's water and land management programs.
17. THAT the Corporate Communications strategy be used as a
basis to develop and implement a Communications Plan and
specific actions, in conjunction with program staff and
Management Committee.
18. That the measures implemented in late 1990 with respect to
cost control in the Food Services operation be reviewed and
evaluated in 1991.
19. THAT the Special functions component continue to be
monitored in 1991 and the impact of improved system
management be evaluated.
--------
5
1\t113
1. INTRODUCTION
Since 1982, an annual review of the Authority's programs has been
undertaken to:
. determine progress in achieving adopted goals and
objectives;
. identify obstacles to program achievement;
. recommend organizational, staffing or other
improvements to assist in program achievement.
In order to view each year's progress in the context of external
issues and climate, this introductory section is intended to
provide an overview of the external environment affecting the
Authority during 1990.
The advocacy of the 1988/89 Greenspace Strategy resulted in, or
influenced, a number of external initiatives during 1990.
Included are the reports, SPACE FOR ALL - OPTIONS FOR A GREATER
TORONTO GREENLANDS STRATEGY; WATERSHED, the Interim Report of the
Royal Commission on the Future of Toronto Waterfront; the URBAN
CONCEPTS STUDY of the Greater Toronto Coordinating Committee; and
a number of Official Plans and municipal planning background
studies.
The prominence of environmental considerations in these documents
owes much to the earlier work of the Authority in directing
public attention to the watershed units as the basis for an
ecosystem approach to planning the future of the area. These
documents have taken the Authority'S position forward and have
affirmed the need for this approach. They have also, however,
raised a number of issues related to the role of the Authority
and its lack of regulatory controls to deal with the broad range
of environmental issues. In response to this criticism, the
Authority, late in 1990, prepared and, early in 1991, circulated
a discussion paper, CRISIS IN CONFIDENCE?, which is intended to
focus discussion on the role of the Authority and to result in
the legislative and regulatory amendments, or partnership
agreements, necessary to give effect to the environmental
resource management demands of the community.
1.1 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS
1.1.1 THAT Management Committee discuss ways and means of
carrying out a more detailed unit operational audit to assist
managers/directors in improving day-to-day operations.
6
" n 1,\
ACTION: No progress was made with respect to this
recommendation due to the limitations of staff and time. It
should continue to be an objective, particularly with
respect to the effectiveness and efficiency of internal
information transfer, staffing needs and program
development.
1.1.2. THAT the Authority continue to advocate the need to
address the conservation of Greenspace resources across its
watershed and the immediate requirement for action to ensure the
maintenance of past achievements and the extension/retention of
these benefits throughout the Greater Toronto Area.
ACTION: This was the theme of all Authority presentations
to the various committees and councils considering policy
development during 1990. It formed the basis of the
responses and requests for input to the numerous studies
underway for the GTA.
1.1.3. THAT the identification of opportunities and methods of
funding the necessary programs continue to be a high priority.
ACTION: During 1990, the Authority reviewed the
opportunities for the use of the Development Changes Act as
a potential means of assuring Greenspace objectives through
the development process. Discussions continued with the
Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto toward their
increased initiatives for funding conservation work and
acquisition.
1.1.4. THAT the Authority continue to stress the need for an
integrated approach to resource management throughout its
watersheds and for a broader view of the provincial side of the
cost-sharing arrangements necessary to develop and implement a
program to address this need than is available through the
Ministry of Natural Resources' definition of eligible
conservation authorities' programs.
ACTION: The watershed was stressed as a reasonable unit for
an ecosystem-based approach to planning for the conservation
of Greenspace resources throughout the GTA. This was,
generally, supported in mid-1990 by the recommendations of
the SPACE FOR ALL and the WATERSHED reports.
The Authority continued to seek opportunities to discuss
with Ministries of Natural Resources and the Environment
ways in which funding could be made available to carry out
conservation programs.
7
AM1S
1.1.5. THAT the benefits and opportunities of supportinq a
more flexible approach to ensurinq an inteqrated renewable
resource manaqement program be identified and communicated to the
member municipalities and to the relevant provincial ministers
and Cabinet.
ACTION: The Authority met with Ministers of the former and
present Provincial governments to discuss the Greenspace
strategy and the future role of the Authority in greenspace
conservation. While the strategy advocated a range of
conservation actions, progress to initiate new initiatives
has been slowed by the lack of additional funds and the
variety of interested and interrelated ministries and
agencies areas of responsibility.
1.1.6. THAT a comprehensive update of the Watershed plan,
incorporatinq the initiatives of the Greenspace strategy, be
prepared durinq 1990.
ACTION: This was not accomplished during 1990 due to lack
of staff time and the number of new initiatives coming
forward from other sources which affect the future direction
of Authority programs. A number of individual program
reviews are underway by Authority staff to develop
guidelines and update operational criteria for inclusion in
the comprehensive statement. These are continuing in 1991
and will become a part of this document.
1. 2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The preparation of the GREENSPACE STRATEGY was the result of work
begun in 1986 to clarify the resource management needs of the
future; to advocate action for previously unprogrammed
areas/issues; and to identify the Authority's role in the
solution of specific issues. The timeliness of this effort is
affirmed by the numerous similar efforts now underway and by the
number of ministries and agencies now proposing to assume a role
in these issues.
While a resorting of demands, resources and responsibilities is
important, the GREENSPACE STRATEGY was not intended to create
another round of interagency "turf wars", but to get on with the
conservation of watershed resources in the face of potential
growth within the Greater Toronto Area. During 1991, the
Authority, through discussion of CRISIS IN CONFIDENCE?, must
clearly develop its future role and work to establish the new
partnerships necessary to accomplish this role.
8
"H -'Co
RECOMMENDATION: THAT the Authority use the CRISIS IN
CONFIDENCE? paper as a basis for discussion with the
Provincial ministries and the member and local
municipalities to establish a clear role for the future;
THAT discussions continue with the member municipalities and
the province with respect to the Authority's role in
greenspace conservation and the provision of legislative,
regulatory and financial requirements to achieve the agreed
to role; and
THAT, where required to accomplish its role, new partnership
agreements be developed.
9
1\11 77
2. FLOOD AND EROSION HAZARD
2.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS:
2.1.1. THAT the up-date of the Watershed Plan to incorporate
Greenspace objectives and the communication of the Authority's
corporate message clarify the goals and objectives related to
public safety and the exceptions which permit use of a special
policy Area designation.
ACTION: This will be one of the issues addressed in the
updated statement during 1991.
2.1.2. THAT the technical sections achieving program
objectives through the Plan Input and Review process review and
update/prepare the necessary guidelines/operational criteria and,
where appropriate, resource area mapping, to enable planning
staff to effectively implement the Watershed Plan and
supplementary Greenspace initiatives.
ACTION: Guidelines and resource mapping were started in
1990 and are continuing in preparation as a part of better
defining Authority operational criteria to the public, the
municipalities and for use by Plan Input and Review staff.
Progress has been slow due to limited staff resources.
2.1.3. THAT a non-engineered approach to erosion control,
requiring the establishment of setbacks as the preferred means of
ensuring erosion protection, be given further consideration.
ACTION: During 1990, Authority staff conducted considerable
research and concluded that the management of the entire
valley system was a significant component in an ecosystem
approach to planning. The rationale for this will be a part
of valley and stream conservation policies, being prepared
for circulation in 1991.
2.1.4. THAT the Authority continue to advocate the retention
of the interrelated Greenspace resources of the region and seek
opportunities to recommend specific mechanisms by which they can
be conserved.
ACTION: This was the argument put forward during 1990 with
respect to the future of Greenspace resources in the GTA.
It was also critical in commenting on the background papers
and policy initiatives of those municipalities updating
their Official Plans. It forms the basis for the
development of valley and stream conservation policies.
10
}\M 18
2.1.5. THAT the revised operational criteria for storm water
management, developed as a part of the Rouge Watershed Management
strateqy, be tested on the Authority's remaining watersheds to
ensure that effective systems are being required as a part of the
development process.
ACTION: During the first half of 1990, Authority staff
commenced the Duffin Watershed Management strategy, in
conjunction with the Ministry of Housing, for the portion of
the watershed affected by the Provincial Seaton Project.
The work and experience of preparing the Rouge Strategy
provide a base for this second watershed planning exercise.
The change in government during 1990 delayed the Seaton
Project and the new government has yet to establish a
position and timetable for the future of this site.
Staff changes and higher priorities within the Authority
affected the continuation of this second watershed strategy.
other related studies and background information were given
priority in the latter part of 1990.
2.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
2.2.1. Remedial Measures
The sites under active work for flood control remediation in 1990
were on the Little Etobicoke Creek, in Mississauga, and the
German Mills Creek, in Richmond Hill. Dredging of the Keating
Channel continued as did the design of the final covering of the
dredged material at Tommy Thompson Park.
Erosion control works on the main channel at the Bellamy Road
ravine, in Scarborough, were completed. The project will be
fin-:ized in 1991. Other projects were undertaken at 6-10
Sad:letree Court on the German Mills Creek, North York; McMichael
Gal.ery on the Humber, City of Vaughan; the CNR on the Etobicoke
Creek, City of Mississauga; and at Humberwood on the Humber
River, Etobicoke.
Shoreline erosion control projects continued at:
Location Estimated project duration
Fishleigh Drive (Scarborough) 1987-94
Guildwood Parkway (Scarborough) 1987-94
Kingsbury Crescent (Scarborough) 1981-93
Kingsbury Slope Stabilization 1988-93
South Marine Drive (Scarborough) 1983-92
Sylvan Drive, Phase 1 (Scarborough) 1987-90
Sylvan Drive, Phase 2 1988-96
Wynview Court (Scarborough) 1986-90
11
AN'I'1
All projects are proceeding at the rate permitted by the current
level of funding and the availability of fill material.
An additional concern during 1990 was the request of the
Environmental Assessment Advisory Committee (EAAC) for a review
of the Authority's Class Environmental Assessment of Water
Management structures. This document established a "class" of
projects for which the environmental concerns were deemed
similar, of minimal impact and using standard remedial
techniques. The Authority was able to prepare an Environmental
study report outlining its methods and remedial techniques rather
that be required to prepare a separate and full Environmental
Assessment for each individual project. The Class EA applies to
similar work by all authorities and, as well, is used by
municipalities when they undertake similar projects.
While projects in progress during 1990 were not suspended, the
impact of this action could be felt in 1991. Authority staff has
been working in conjunction with the Association of Conservation
Authorities, and independently, to resolve this issue by writing
an addendum to the Class EA to address the concerns of the EAAC.
It is hoped that this issue can be resolved early in 1991.
2.2.2. Maintenance of Completed Works
Major maintenance in 1990 included a general inspection of all
completed works. Repairs were made to stream gauges on the
Humber River, City of York. Other scheduled maintenance was not
carried out due to limited funding.
2 . 3 . Preventative Measures
2.3.1- Flood Warning and Forecasting
Nine flood advisories were issued in 1990:
January 17 - 19 Rain + snowmelt
January 25 Rain + snowmelt
February 22 - 23 Rain + snowmelt
March 12 - 18 Rain + snowmelt
May 15 -18 Heavy rain
August 13 -14 Heavy rain
October 9 - 14 Tropical storms
October 14 - 17 Tropical storms
November 5 Heavy rain
Of the above, only the event on March 12 - 18 resulted in
measurable flooding to property, largely as a result of
associated ice jams, and was located at:
. Willis Road, Woodbridge, East Humber, and
. Old King Road, Albion-King area, Humber River
12
1\ M ~O
2.3.2. Mapping Extension
Since the late 1970's, the Authority has attempted to maintain,
update and extend it's mapping of the waterfront and river
valleys on an annual basis. The progress of the work has been
affected by available funding but has proceeded. Base mapping is
now available for all of the waterfront and for all watercourses
draining in excess of 130 ha (1/2 sq. mi.). Hydrology studies
have been undertaken on a number of the areas draining less than
1300 ha (5 sq. mi.) Areas draining greater than 1300 ha were
subject to earlier studies and the floodplain had been mapped by
1980. As floodlines are calculated, they are used for regulatory
purposes. Identification can be either by the Authority or,
where a proposal for development comes forward in advance of
Authority mapping, by the proponent as a requirement of plan
review. The Authority's past experience, of not being able to
maintain up-to-date mapping, proved how important this data base
is to effective watershed management.
RECOMMENDATION: THAT the importance of up-to-date mapping
for plan review and watershed strategy initiatives continue
to be recognized and reflected in the annual budget process.
2.3.3. Plan Input and Review
A downturn in the economy in 1990 was expected to have an impact
on the volume of reviews carried out within this function.
Type of document 1987 1989 % Chanqe 1990 % Chanqe
Permit application 376 249 -34 245 -2
Official Plan & OPA 418 100 -76 129 +29
Land Division 4126 950 -77 644 -32
Rezoning 1326 800 -40 200 -75
Subdivisions 528 275 -48 174 -37
Solicitor/Realtor 2800 3000 +7 1800 -40
Site Plan 60 240 +300 257 +7
While there has been a significant decline in certain areas,
these have been offset by the initiation of Official Plan
reviews; internal staff turn over; the impact of the Authority's
and the Province's interest in the Oak Ridges Moraine; and the
use of the Plan Review section to implement components of the
Rouge Strategy.
The adoption of the Rouge Strategy and the work on the DUffin, in
1990, influenced the input and comments of staff with respect to
municipal and other planning applications. The largest impacts
have been on those municipalities within the Rouge watershed,
particularly Markham and Scarborough, where there is considerable
support for the strategy and the controls on development required
to make it successful. The findings of these studies, while not
13
AH8J
completely tested across all watersheds, are providing
significant input into the preparation of the various planning
guidelines which will be circulated in 1991.
Given the interests of its municipalities and the direction of
the Province early in 1990, the Authority prepared and circulated
Interim Environmental Planning Guidelines for the Oak Ridges
Moraine in March. These guidelines were to be interim until the
release of the SPACE FOR ALL report and the development of
provincial guidelines which would address the complete Oak Ridges
Moraine Complex. The July release of SPACE FOR ALL assigned
responsibility to the Ministry of Natural Resources for the
preparation of a Land Use Planning study of the Moraine and for
the development of planning guidelines to ensure that this area
was dealt with as an area of Provincial interest, in advance of
the completion of the planning study. Again, the change in
government slowed this process and neither terms of reference for
the planning study nor the provincial interim planning guidelines
were completed by the end of 1990. (Released June, 1991. )
This left the Authority with two issues. First, the status of
the March 1990 Interim Guidelines vis a vis the province's
general expression of interest and anticipated release of
guidelines by the Ministry. The Authority's work has been
provided to the Ministry as input into the preparation of the
Provincial guidelines. The uncertainly of the release of these
guidelines and their final content, continues to create
complications in dealing with specific applications.
The second issue relates to the impact of the provincial
expression of interest on the process of plan review. At the
time of the declaration, all unapproved planning proposals were
declared subject to it. This included not only applications
currently under review, but also any which had been reviewed but
which had not, for various reasons, received approval. In order
to ensure the "provincial interest", it was determined that these
documents should be reviewed. As a result, the Authority
received back 100+ proposals to reconsider. Given that there
were no provincial guidelines on which to base this new review,
there was a considerable additional staff time and effort
required to work out how the intent of the province's interest
could be achieved. There was also a considerable external
pressure from the proponents of these projects, given the
previous resolution of specific issues.
RECOMMENDATION: THAT the Authority urge the Province of
Ontario to affirm the recommendations of the SPACE FOR ALL
report; to put in place the planning guidelines for the Oak
Ridges Moraine; to adopt terms of reference for, and
commence, the two year Land Use Planning study of the
Moraine; and address the comprehensive implementation of the
14
~M~~
remainder of the report's recommendations to ensure an
ecosystem approach to the planning the GTA rather than
focusing attention on individual components ot the system.
(Note: the ORM Guidelines and Land Use Planning study terms
released in June, 1991)
15
,
A.MCS!>
3. CONSERVATION LAND MANAGEMENT
3.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS:
3.1.1. THAT a draft Private Land stewardship Program be
developed to determine staffing and other requirements to
implement the recommendations of the Oak Ridges Moraine and Rouge
River strategies.
ACTION: A draft a Private Land Stewardship program was
prepared. A long-term funding commitment is required, prior
to initiating such a program, and opportunities for
aChieving this, in conjunction with existing efforts are
being investigated. A report was forwarded to the Advisory
Boards in early 1991 and was then circulated to affected
municipalities and adjacent authorities for consideration.
3.1.2. THAT Authority staff undertake to resolve the issue of
fisheries management with staff of the Ministry of Natural
Resources early in 1990.
ACTION: Authority and Ministry staff have, generally,
resolved this issue. The Ministry is the lead agency under
its delegated responsibility for the Federal Fisheries Act.
The Authority acts as the Ministry's agent with respect to
fishing licenses and is responsible for fisheries programs
on its own lands. There has, further, been discussion
toward the development of a Memorandum of Agreement under
which the Authority would assume responsibility for ensuring
the Ministry's interests through the planning process. This
will be subject to further discussion during 1991.
3.1.3. THAT the Authority continue to advocate an integrated,
co-operative approach to both the development and implementation
of watershed management strategies; seek the continued co-
operation of the various agencies by facilitating improved
working relationships; and use the Rouge River Strategy
Implementation Committee as a forum to identify and address areas
where implementation is not proceeding.
ACTION: The work toward the implementation of the Rouge
strategy in 1990 and the commencement of the Duffin Strategy
both pursued this objective. The timing and progress of the
latter has been affected by external priorities, but still
continues slowly.
The attention of a number of interest and special purpose groups,
politicians and the public has recently focused on the Don River
and on the need to make efforts to improve the current quality of
the watercourse. There have been a broad range of studies by
numerous groups, but no single effort to bring these products
together or to look at the watershed in a comprehensive way.
16
A t-'\ <6"\
This watershed approach is the Authority's basis for developing
its strategies. Late in 1990, given the slowdown in the progress
on the Duffin strategy, it was proposed to pull together the
various interests and existing efforts related to the Don
Watershed and to attempt to develop a plan to address the
resource management issue which have been identified. This work
will commence in 1991.
3 . 2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
This area continues to be the focus for the development of land
management guidelines to implement the recommendations of the
Greenspace Strategy for an improved approach to managing both
Authority lands and to providing assistance to other public land
managers and to the community.
A draft Framework for Ecosystem Planning was prepared in 1990 as
a part of the Duffin Watershed Management Strategy. This will be
finalized in 1991 to reflect the comments received on the draft.
It is intended to clarify the Authority's role in the ecosystem
planning process.
Numerous other "guideline" proposals were started in 1990 to be
completed in 1991, including Interim Watershed Management
Guidelines and Valley and Stream Conservation Policies. These
efforts involved both full-time and contract staff and have
stretched available staffing across the Water Resource Division.
In the past, the land management staff focused their activities
on providing technical assistance and field services specific to
reforestation, fisheries and habitat enhancement and
environmental input into the planning process through information
in the 1982 E.S.A. Study. Subsequently, responsibility for the
Interim Management Program at Tommy Thompson Park was added,
along with responsibility for the waterfront monitoring and
Lakefill Quality Control Program, and management of the Watershed
Management Strategy process. As the Authority's "environmental"
unit, this group is also called upon for assistance in the
Authority's response to the various external initiatives which
have resulted from an increase in public awareness and interest
in environmental issues.
In 1990, funding for these efforts were:
Resource Management $707,191
Watershed Management studies 194,717
Waterfront 316,926
Other MTRCA lands 6.858
$1,225,692
17
AHgS
In addition special project finding through other Federal and
Provincial programs provided $414,336; municipal projects
$56,761; and private projects $45,197. In all, another $516,294
for a total of $1,741,986.
While carrying out worthwhile works, the many small and diverse
projects represent a significant amount of staff time and
responsibility for projects management. Tasks and
responsibilities are also frequently reassigned on the basis of
the flow of project funding. Further, the need to identify
better land management practices and translate these into written
guidelines for external recommendation and implementation, has
required a different type of staff expertise.
While the internal lead role in environmental matters has been
assigned to the land management section, their development of
guidelines/policies actively involves division staff from plan
review and engineering and development. The initiatives of the
Greenspace strategy and the stronger advocacy of environmental
issues has impacted all areas of the division.
RECOMMENDATION: THAT the organization, structure and
responsibilities of the Water Resource Division and its
requirements related to the expanded role of the Authority
as a project manager and adviser on environmental matters,
be reviewed; and
THAT a staffing and organization plan be developed to
respond to the Greenspace initiatives.
18
A~ ~~
4. LAND ACQUISITION
4.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS
4.1.1. THAT the 1990 program performance review include an
update of the progress of The Conservation Foundation of Greater
Toronto to develop a program for the acquisition of conservation
land.
ACTION: The Conservation Foundation of Greater Toronto
(formerly MTRCF) is continuing to work toward an initiative
to raise funds for the acquisition of greenspace. There
have already been inquiries and donations regarding this
long-term objective. At present, the Foundation is
concentrating on its first major fund raising drive and will
not actively pursue acquisition until 1991.
4.1.2. THAT the cost and methods of mapping areas suitable for
acquisition across the Oak Ridges Moraine Complex be determined
and the 1990 funding allocations be reviewed to determine
possible sources/re-allocation.
Action: Funding to initiate a mapping of natural areas and
resource interests across the Moraine was provided within
the Resource Management Section budget in 1990, in
conjunction with that section's effort to prepare land use
planning and management guidelines for this area. The
mapping program will be completed in 1991.
4.1.3. THAT the Authority identify to the province and its
member and local municipalities its concerns with regard to the
use of Authority and other valley lands as the routes/locations
for public services/facilities and the need to give greater
consideration to maintaining greenspace.
ACTION: This recommendation was implemented through the
Authority's participation in the municipal planning process
and in connection with public proposals subject to the
requirements of the Environmental Assessment Act.
4.1.4. THAT the Authority consider the feasibility of long-
term leases of its lands, for specific parcels which by the size,
location and current/potential zoning lend themselves to this
form of management, as an alternative to sale, to ensure use of
the revenues from the property and control over future uses.
ACTION: During 1990, the Authority adopted a policy and
procedure with respect to the sale of its lands, including
provision for a public participation component.
19
,
PRO PER TIE S A C Q (J IRE D I N 1990 I
r
CODE
~ PROJECT FILE NO. FORMER OWNER MUNICIPALITY ACREAGE
1 P.6.A. 43 Heart Lake Developments Company Limited Brampton 0.l94
and First City Developments Corp. Ltd I
2 P.8.A. 458 The Corporation of the Town of Vaughan vaughan o 083 I
I
,
3 P.8.A. 459 Johil Developments Limited Caledon 1 590
4 P 8.A. 460 Lothar and Jane Schlecther Caledon o 780
5 P 8 A 461 The Corporation of the City of Etobicoke Etobicoke o l30
I\J
06 P. 8 .A. 462 Woodbridge Highland Corporation Vaughan 19 339
7 P.8.A 463 Humber Green Estates Ltd. Vaughan 3 484
8 P 9 A. 164 Art Kovari East York o 840
9 P.9 A. 165 Polyresins Inc. East York 6.119
10 P.lO.A. 64 The Corporation of the City of Scarborough Scarborough 0.143
11 P.IO A. 65 The Corporation of the City of Scarborough Scarborough 1 218
12 P.ll-A. 120- D'Andrea, Guido & Luciana Whitchurchl 2 906
(Fawnridge Estates) stouffville -
13 P.12.A. 104 Security-Benron Developments Inc. Pickering o 700
14..- P.l2.A. 105 Reemark East Hamptons Limited Ajax o 088
. 12
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l5 P l2 A 106 771380 Ontar~o L~m~ted P~cker~ng o l50
l6 W F -1 16 The Munic~~al~ty of Metropol~tan Toronto Etobicoke 4 840 .
17 W F -3A 188 Griff~ths, Stanley & Jud~th P~cker~ng o 177
l8 W F -3A l89 Boehme, Fr~edr~ch P~cker~ng 1 197
19 W F -4 186 F~sher, Ralph and Ela~ne Scarborough o l39
20 ~~ F -4 l87 Kad~kar, Anil Scarborough 1 246
21 W F -4 l88 H~ll~ard, Irw~n & Agnes Scarborough o 360
tv
....... 22 W F -4 189 McNeel, Burdett Scarborough o 390
23 W F -4 190 Wyhe, Ernest Scarborough o 330
.
24 W F -4 191 Merkel, E~leen Scarborough o 340
25 W F -4 192 Carr, Florence Scarborough o 400
26 W F -4 193 Huang, Kno-Hong & L~ll~an Scarborough o 310
27 W F -4 194 Mun~c~pal~ty of Metropol~tan Toronto Scarborough o 063
(Permanent Easement)
28 W F -4 195 Hume, Duncan & Kathleen Scarborough 0.390
TOTAL ACREAGE ACQUIRED 47 946
~
.'
PRO PER TIE S SOL D IN 1990
CODE SALE
~ PROJECT FILE NO. SOlJ) TO MUNICIPALITY ACREAGE
1 F.l A 256 The Min1stry of Transportation and Brampton 42 745
Ministry of Government Services
2 F 2 A 275 Ontario Hydro Brampton l4 999
3 F 7 A 204 The Municipality of Metropolitan Toronto North York o 271
4 F 11 A 211 The Corporation of the Town of Vaughan Vaughan o 138
5 P 9 A 255 The Corporation of the Borough of East York East York 2 174
6 P lO A 258 M1nistry of Transporation Scarborough o 012
7 P l2 A 271 Audrey and Herbert Moodie Ajax o 455
IV
IV 8 W F 4 273 Mungal, Linda & Strathdee, Myrtle Scarborough o 762
9 W F 4 272 Tong, Osw1n Scarborough 0.458
TOTAL ACREAGE SOLD 62.014
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I -
~ the mo"opol"on 1<>ron'O ond 'OlloOn M.T.R.c.A. WATERSHED BOUNDARY ------ "" --....nt_ .",.. WATERSHED PLAN 1990 ACQUISITION SITE
I COttMrvauon authonty . I . . . . . , LAND ACQUISITION PROGRAM
At,.."
4.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
A summary of property transactions and a location map is
included, for information, in this section.
During 1990, there was discussion on the development of the next
multi-year projects for land acquisition, given that the current
projects end in 1991. There are a number of projects which
reflect the sources and levels of funding available. These
projects fail to provide a comprehensive overview of the
Authority's long-term plans. The need to combine all projects,
while providing for special funding arrangements (eg. Niagara
Escarpment Parks purchases at 100% funding by the Ontario
Heritage Foundation), was considered and agreed upon.
During 1990, the Authority was requested to clarify its future
acquisition plans by both its municipal funding partners and
certain special interest groups.
The municipalities are concerned that the cost of acquisition in
the GTA has increased considerably and that a project to acquire
all resource lands would create a significant financial burden.
The need for acquisition has also been questioned by certain
special interest groups who feel that other measures of
protecting greens pace should be employed. Both of these concerns
are valid. The project for greenspace protection and acquisition
being prepared for 1991 has been developed to recognize and
address these issues.
The Authority has used land acquisition as an important measure
in its programs for flood and erosion hazard protection and for
the conservation of significant land resources. There are other
measures which can be used for green space protection and
conservation. The project will address these measures, their use
and limitations.
RECOMMENDATION: THAT a comprehensive Greenspace Protection
and Acquisition project be prepared.
(NOTE: Completed, spring 1991)
24
"Mq?-
5. WATERSHED RECREATION
5 .1. Planning and Development
5.1.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATION
THAT further details for implementation of the Five-Year project
for the Development of Public Use opportunities on Authority
Lands identify ways and means of establishinq a sound tundinq
base tor the planninq and development of recreational
opportunities in conservation areas.
THAT the project, and its communication component, clearly
confirm that the Authority's priorities for qood land manaqement
are the basis for its public use proposals and that public use is
a valid conservation manaqement activity.
THAT those components of the strategy for Public Use which
propose active recreation facilities and/or private, commercial
operations be reviewed to determine their continuinq viability.
ACTION: During 1990, the Authority adopted a five year
project and there was continued discussion regarding the
funding and implementation of the development components of
the Public Use strategy. The release of SPACE FOR ALL and
WATERSHED identified some concern with respect to the use of
"conservation lands" and questioned the compatibility of
"green" uses with the development of recreational
facilities. The Authority raised this overall issue in
CRISIS IN CONFIDENCE? and recommended a public review of its
strategy for the recreational use of Authority-owned land.
Consultants will undertake this review in 1991.
5.1.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
During 1990, progress was made on the Concept Plans for Cold
Creek and Kortright. The Cold Creek plan was to be finalized
early in 1991, while the Kortright Plan has been set aside
pending further direction on the land area and priorities to be
incorporated. Staff also worked with the Durham Board of
Education in their development of a day use facility on the west
side of Claremont and with the Etobicoke Board on the relocation
of the Field Centre at Claireville, required to accommodate the
Highway 407 construction.
The Environmental Assessment study for the Boyd waterplay
proposal was continued as part of the 1990 work program and a
study of swimming at the Heart Lake area undertaken. A trail
planning and design study was prepared, for presentation early in
1991, to address design and construction techniques.
25
AM~~
Approximately 10% of staff time in 1990 was directed to support
for the projects of the Conservation Foundation, specifically,
the Charles Sauriol Reserve, the Foster Woods and the Tree
Donation Program.
As noted in section 5.1.1, the critical issue in this area is the
Authority's future direction for the use of its lands. For the
time being, significant progress toward the development of major
new facilities is unlikely. Given the public support for trail
use, this should be one component given priority. An evaluation
of existing facilities at the Conservation Areas and
identification of their need for improvement, as well as possible
additions, if they were to function as nodes in the trail system
should be a part of this process.
Recommendations regarding future directions in this section will
be the outcome of the recreation review.
5.2. Conservation Area Operations
5.2.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS
THAT the relationship between the development proposals of the
Public Use strategy and the day-to-day operation of the
conservation areas be reviewed and clarified, and further
THAT both staff units be involved in establishing annual funding
priorities for development or redevelopment. .
ACTION: During 1990, there was an improvement in the
sharing of information and the opportunities for operations
to provide input into the planning and development
component. The focus of these discussion has, however, been
toward long-term capital improvements. This issue is
addressed in sections 5.2 2. and 9.2.1.
5.2.2. Facility Operation
Conservation Area
Year Attendance % Change
1988 742,659
1989 659,466 -11
1990 605,449 - 8
The most significant impacts were at Claireville and Cold Creek.
The reduction in operations at Claireville was undertaken to
reduce the overall cost of area operations. In 1989, the
combined cost of operating Claireville and the Indian Line
Campground was $472,623 with revenues totalling $272,668. The
reduced operation in 1990 cost $293,170 while aChieving revenues
of $235,032. The net cost per visitor was reduced from $2.31 and
$1.21.
26
J:>
>
I ~
~
Expenditure I Revenues Per Visitor - Conservation Areas 1990
Expenditures Revenues Net
Attendance Expenditures per VIsitor Revenues per. visitor Net revenue per visitor Net 1989
Albion Hills 87,880 $549,152 $6.25 $167,343 $1.90 ($381,809) ($4.34) ($3.89) Albion Hills
Palgrave 301 16,534 54.93 1,732 5.75 (14,802) (49.18) (82.34) Palgrave
Boyd 79,498 305.062 3.84 99.964 1.26 (205,098) (2.58) (2.69) Boyd
Bruce's Mill 130,364 417,393 3.20 229,168 176 (188,225) (1 44) (1.50) Bruce's Mill
Clalrevllle 7,079 Clalrevllle
I\.) Indian Line 40,991 293,170 6.10 235.032 4.89 (58,138) (1.21 ) (2.31) Indian Une
-....J Cold Creek 2,758 245,769 89.11 37,288 13.52 (208,481 ) (75.59) (12.48) Cold Creek
Glen Hatty 37,314 231.n8 6.21 67.835 1.82 (163.943) (4.39) (3.16) Glen Hatty
Greenwood 44,569 224,431 5.04 51 ,487 1 16 (172,944) (3.88) (3.73) Greenwood
Heart Lake 64.319 314,375 4.89 103,251 1.61 (211,124) (3.28) (2.71 ) Heart Lake
Petticoat Creek 110.376 350,611 3.18 192,039 1 74 (158,572) (1 44) (1.34) Petticoat Creek
1990 605,449 $2,948,275 $4.87 $1,185,139 $1.96 ($1,763,136) ($2.91)
1989 659.466 $3.038,811 $4.61 $1,275,458 $1.93 ($1,763,353) ($2.67)
+/- (54,017) ($90,536) $0.26 ($90,319) $0.03 $217.00 ($0.24)
AI1'tS
The decline in visitation at Cold Creek from 13,864 in 1989 to
2,758 in 1990 was the direct result of the reduction in range
operation resulting from the restriction imposed by the Township
of King noise bylaw. While operations were reduced to reflect
the limitations of use, the area was kept open and the net cost
per visitor rose from $12.48 to $75.59. In preparing the budget
for 1990,,, consideration was given to a further reduction in
operations at the Area, however, this was not supported by the
Authority members. Cost reductions were made through full time
staff reductions and the use of volunteers; however, the current
situation cannot continue.
RECOMMENDATION: THAT the review of the Cold Creek Concept
Plan be qiven a hiqh priority and completed prior to the
finalization of the 1992 Budqet.
The conservation of greenspace areas within the GTA has been, and
continues to be, an objective of the Authority. The management
of these lands has aimed at protecting the resource base,
providing opportunities for public recreation, and charging fees
to assist in the cost of maintenance and management. The
proposals in the Greenspace strategy to provide major facilities,
to create more attractive opportunities and to increase revenues
to assist in the cost of operations have not been realized and
are under review. While this has delayed these initiatives, it
has also had a impact on the smaller scale ongoing improvements
that were previously a part of the development program. The
result has been that some of the individual progress that might
have occurred at Conservation Areas is no longer being
considered.
RECOMMENDATION: THAT the review of Conservation Area
facilities continue to involve staff from Field Operations
and include consideration of individual small scale
improvements to each area, in keepinq with the character of
the area and the concern of the public for a "qreener"
approach to recreation land manaqement.
5.3. Enforcement, Safety and Security
5.3.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS
5.3.1.1. THAT the update of the Watershed Plan to reflect the
inclusion of Greenspace initiatives incorporate qoals and
objectives specific to the Authority'S enforcement, safety and
security activities.
ACTION: This will be followed-up in the 1991 review of the
Watershed Plan/Greenspace Strategy.
5.3.1.2. THAT the Authority discuss with its local
municipalities the merit of requirinq private developers to fund
28
AMq~
the cost of ongoing site inspection, by a qualified engineer to
be selected by the municipality, as a part of the approval of a
development proposal, to ensure the implementation of all
municipal and agency requirements.
ACTION: Discussion with municipal staff indicates this
would be an additional cost and responsibility in an area in
which the technical expertise for determining compliance
with permits rests with Authority staff. Enforcement of
permit compliance and the identification of projects
undertaken without proper permits has increased and become
more costly. Legislation to give municipalities the power
to control fill quality has been applied for by the Town of
Richmond Hill and will apply to areas not covered by
Authority regulations.
5.3.1.3. THAT notification of accidents be filed with the
Director, Field Operations, and that the program manager be
required to ensure, and file a follow-up report confirming, that
corrections have been taken to prevent reoccurrenc~s.
ACTION: This is in place in connection with employee
safety. A similar effort has not formally been instituted
for visitor accidents. During 1991, it is proposed to carry
out a "safety audit" of Authority facilities. Past records
of employee and visitor accidents will be an important part
of the input into this work and should result in further
improvements to procedures.
5.3.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Two areas of regulation enforcement are carried out:
A) Fill, construction & Alteration to Waterways
B) Conservation Areas
The enforcement of (A) is carried out as a field operation of the
Water Resource division's interests in the protection of
greenspace lands from interference by private/other public
projects. As such, it needs to work closely with the Plan Input
and Review and Engineering and Development sections. Two
situations arise where enforcement staff become involved:
i) a permit application has been submitted but not approved
and the proponent has commenced work
ii) no permit has been applied for and work has started.
In either case a violation notice is issued.
When the permit is submitted, it is reviewed by Plan Input and
Review staff, based on the Authority's regular requirements.
Where work has commenced, this can result in situations where:
29
^ H GJ7
a) damage has been done in an area where, if a permit had
been applied for, it would have been refused.
b) the design of the project is not acceptable, however,
with modifications, a permit could have been issued.
In both situations, consideration of the pro~ect under the permit
process is compromised by the work being in progress. The permit
process can take protective and restrictive action. The
enforcement process, in dealing with violations, has two courses,
removal or remediation. In transferring enforcement staff to
Field Operations, a caution was noted that they should continue
to be integrated with the Water Resource Division on this
function to ensure communication and cooperation between these
two aspects of Regulation Enforcement. The coordination of these
two procedures needs to be improved and a more satisfactory way
of dealing with violations established. There needs to be a
clearer connection between the goals and objectives of regulation
administration as a method of greenspace protection and the
enforcement of the regulation in the field.
RECOMMENDATION: THAT the coordination of the permit review
process and the field enforcement of ontario Regulation
293/86 be improved by:
a) ensuring that enforcement staff are kept advised and
involved in the development of guidelines and procedures
related to the Authority'S administration of its regulation
through the permit process.
b) ensuring consistency in the interpretation of the
legislation and regulation by Plan Review and Enforcement
staff.
c) establishing procedures for coordination between
enforcement and permit review for works already in progress.
d) ensuring regular field inspections for approved permits
and fill violation sites.
The enforcement of Conservation Area Regulations involves staff
in regularly scheduled daily and weekend patrols of Authority
owned lands. Area staff are also a part of this patrol effort
and are empowered to act with some of the powers of the
enforcement staff. The enforcement of these regulations has been
a focus in 1990 given the criticism that the Authority has
received with regard to unauthorized access and use of some of
its resource management lands. Given the area required to be
patrolled and their decreasing separation from the developed
areas of the GTA, this will continue to be an important function.
30
~M9~
RECOMMENDATION: THAT Enforcement staff continue to provide
direction and traininq to Conservation Area staff in order
to improve security on Authority lands, and,
THAT weekend and eveninq patrols continue, as necessary, to
achieve this objective.
31
AM~
6. LARE ONTARIO WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT
6.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS
6.1.1. THAT the Authority continue to seek solutions to the
issue of fill disposal and to designate sites where suitable
material can be placed.
ACTION: During 1990, the Authority continued discussions
with its members and local municipalities to address the
issue of fill disposal across its watersheds. There was
strong support for a comprehensive approach to this problem
and to the Authority assuming a role in the disposition of
fill in inland areas. The Ministry of the Environment was
also involved in these considerations. A staff report and
recommendations was presented to the Water and Related Land
Management Advisory Board at its first meeting in 1991.
6.1.2. THAT the Authority continue to pursue the initiatives
of the Greenspace strateqy with respect to the Lake Ontario
Waterfront and to seek ways to provide a forum for the resolution
of interjurisdictional interests.
ACTION: This continued to be the major issue in 1990. The
current reviews of official plans, underway across the
waterfront area; the work and Watershed report of the Royal
Commission on the Future of the Toronto Waterfront; and
numerous other interests and initiatives related to the Lake
ontario Shorelands, has brought forward many ideas and
potential implementation scenarios. The Authority continues
to see an important role in continuing its twenty years of
work across the waterfront. The discussion of specific
issues will continue through 1991.
6.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The issues raised along the waterfront were discussed in the
Crisis in Confidence? report and have been circulated for
comment.
RECOMMENDATION: THAT the Authority continue to work with
all parties involved across the Waterfront to address the
issues identified in the Greenspace strateqy and to work
toward the partnership aqreements necessary to achieve its
Waterfront objectives.
32
~~ \c>O
7. BLACK CREEK PIONEER VILLAGE
7.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS
7.1.1. THAT the reporting relationship and organization of the
operation at Black Creek Pioneer Village continue to be monitored
over the transitional years 1990-91, to ensure that the
alterations made are achieving the objectives established.
ACTIONS: The transfer of responsibility for the operation
of Black Creek to the Director of Field Operations has
improved the coordination and integration of this operation
with the other operations activities of the Authority.
Opportunities for further integration of operations, under
the new manager, are anticipated in 1991.
7.1.2. THAT the Black Creek Business Plan be reviewed and
projected for the period 1991-2001, and include a review of all
capital improvements proposed in order to determine their
continuing viability; their current costs; and alternate means of
accomplishing the projected benefits, and further
THAT a revised application for special funding be prepared and
submitted to the Minister of Culture and Communications.
ACTION: The update of the Business Plan was delayed into
1991, to permit the new manager to become familiar with the
operation and to enable her participation in the review of
operational and capital proposals for the future. This is
on the work program for the latter part of 1991. A review
of the submission for special funding and the revisions to
reflect any amendments in the Business Plan will be a part
of this process.
7.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
Attendance continued to decrease in 1990.
1986 1987 1988 1989 1990
TOTAL 309,765 299,911 318,650 305,150 254,948
This reflects an 8 - 9% drop in tourism throughout the
Metropolitan area as noted by the Convention and Visitors'
Association, and the relocation of the North York winter
Carnival, which accounted for +/- 34,000.
The Village continues to support 50% of its operations from its
revenues. This is unique in the area of museums in the Province,
which are generally only able to generate approximately 20% of
the operating costs from this source.
33
AMID I
Four specific areas, in addition to the Business plan, were
discussed with the Manager as areas for review and consideration
in 1991.
(A) Special Events and Programs
The seasonal and special events for the Village have been
evaluated from time to time to ensure they are offering
opportunities which will attract the public and generate media
coverage. A more specific and individual evaluation of each
program and event will be undertaken in 1991 to determine its
contribution to these objectives. This review will also take
into consideration current operating practices, their costs and
any potential modifications which could assist in achieving
revenue/cost objectives.
(B) Citizenship Program
This program has been in place for some time, however, needs to
be reviewed to determine opportunities for expansion and the
costs related to servicing a larger group of "patrons". A more
active development program will be considered to promote
citizenship in the Village.
(C) Operations Plan
While there have been separate plans for maintenance and
curatorial areas, in the past, a comprehensive 5 year plan which
addresses both operating areas has not been prepared. The
development of such a plan should take into account regular and
major maintenance requirements; collection management and
acquisition requirements; interpretive programs and staffing; and
administrative matters.
(D) "Breeds and Seeds" Program
The village has developed this program to ensure the authenticity
of the plants and animals used to interpret the past at Pioneer
village. The program is well know amongst the museum community,
but, could be promoted as a part of the attraction of the Village
given the current level of public interest in environmental
issues. A focus on the adaptation of pioneer life to the
environment would also provide a clearer link between the
historical and renewable resource management conservation
programs of the Authority.
RECOMMENDATION: THAT the 1991 Program Performance Review
include an update on the review of the Black Creek pioneer
village operation planned for 1991.
34
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8. CONSERVATION EDUCATION
8.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS
8.1.1. THAT the need of the Authority's Conservation Education
staff, as well as other units working with the public, to be kept
current of policy and program initiatives be recognized and that
education staff determine a format/forum for the communication of
such information in a timely manner.
ACTION: During 1990, the Education Section instituted a
Manager of the Month program and invited program managers
from other sections to attend a session to present and
discuss with education staff their work. The need to
address this issue on a broader internal basis was discussed
by Management Committee and, during 1991, the Manager of
Corporate Planning and Analysis will be responsible for
chairing a regular program forum for the exchange of
information and discussion of program and planning
initiatives.
8.1.2. THAT the visitors' survey being used to monitor public
use at the Kortright Centre for Conservation be reviewed to
determine whether there are opportunities to incorporate
questions related to the communication of program and policy
information and public opinion respecting the conservation
projects of the Authority.
ACTION: The visitors' survey is a factual, statistical
format and was not considered the proper vehicle for such a
use.
8.1.3. THAT the internal sharing of specific job skills as a
part of the Authority's internal staff development and training
opportunities be investigated as both a means of skills
development and as a method of improving staff interaction and
information transfer.
ACTION: The program for internal training and development
of staff is the responsibility of the Personnel Officer and
generally relates to training opportunities in areas such as
report writing, presentation skills, supervision, etc. In
order to effectively utilize specialized in-house abilities,
there would need to be an employee skills inventory created
and a mechanism for identifying staff interests. The annual
process of Employee Performance Review offers an opportunity
for these areas to be discussed and should be considered and
coordinated with the Personnel Officer in 1991.
35
-- - ~- -- -
"tAt 10"3
CONSERVATION EDUCATION
PROGRAM ATTENDANCE - 1990
A. RESIDENTIAL INDIVIDUALS LEADERS COMBINED
Albion Hills 2,530 233 2,763
Boyd 2,264 269 2,533
Claremont 3,240 265 3,505
Lake st.George 4,432 411 4,843
Etobicoke Centre 2,560 2,560
(Albion Hills) ------- ----- -------
SUBTOTAL "A" 15,026 1,178 16,204
B. DAY USE
Cold Creek 3,579 277 3,856
*Kortright 61,609 5,913 67,522
B.C.P.V.
Tours 55,883
pioneer Life 11,964 7,544 75,391
------ ------ -------
SUBTOTAL "B" 133,035 13,734 146,769
c. SPECIAL PROGRAMS
Maple Syrup at
Bruce's Mill 6,422 720 7,142
Albion Hills Farm 120 6 126
------ ----- ------
SUBTOTAL "C" 6,542 726 7,268
GRAND TOTAL: (itA" + "B" + "CIt) = 170,241
* TOTAL KORTRIGHT CENTRE GATE ATTENDANCE = 110,668
36
1\ M \C,-\
8.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Program attendance figures for 1990 are included as a table in
this section. Generally, there has been a decrease in all areas
between 1989 and 1990, following a general rise in 1989 over
1988.
1987 1988 1989 1990
A. Residential Individuals 13,334 15,518 15,491 15,026
Leaders 1.269 1.260 1.453 1.178
Sub-total A 14,603 16,778 16,944 16,204
B. Day Use Individuals 105,335 123,581 136,115 133,035
Leaders 12.090 13.554 14.548 13.734
Sub-total B 117,425 137,135 150,663 146,769
C. Special Programs 7,691 5,921 5,726 7,268
TOTAL A + B + C 139,629 159,834 173,333 170,241
% Change +1.1 +14.5 +8.6 -1.8
Decreases in the residential and day use programs relate to
general cut-backs in spending by Boards of Education related to
the current economic recession.
The program bookings for the Kortright Centre of Conservation are
included in the day use statistics above.
Program Bookings 70,673 67,522
Public Attendance 38,638 44,609 43,146
Kortright Total 105,436 115,282 110,668
% Change to Total +10.0 +9.3 -4.0
The most significant decrease at Kortright is in the booked
programs with a slight decrease in public attendance.
There is an interest in more widely promoting the use of
educational facilities to a broader market. At present, there is
not a marketing strategy or implementation process in place to
facilitate this effort.
RECOMMENDATION: THAT the interests of the Education Section
in promoting its facilities be identified to the Community
Relations section and the Marketing Committee for
consideration in 1991.
As with other public use facilities, the Authority's education
facilities are aging and require ongoing maintenance. The focus
in the Greenspace Strategy on the development of new, revenue
producing facilities has also overshadowed some of these needs.
37
AM/oS
RECOMMENDATION: THAT conservation Education and Planning
and Development staff review the existing education
facilities and develop a 5 Year Plan for maintenance and
program improvements.
38
P\M \06
9. COMMUNITY RELATIONS
9.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATION
THAT Management Committee address the urgent need to effectively
communicate the corporate message and to address those areas
affecting a positive corporate image.
THAT the Community Relations function be the first area to be
reviewed under the recommended operational audit procedure, in
order to determine potential requirements with respect to:
a) internal organization and corporate reporting
relationships,
b) information management,
c) program development, and
d) service delivery.
ACTION: During 1990 a full review of this function was not
possible given the existing staff resources and financial
priorities. Management Committee did address certain
components of the recommendation through discussion of
specific communications proposals and determining general
corporate priories for the 1990 work program. The
opportunity for a complete review of this function and its
requirements will be provided in 1991 as a result of staff
change in this section.
** RECOMMENDATION FOR 1991: THAT the issues raised in the 1989
Program Performance Review with respect to the Community
Relations function be reviewed and objectives established
prior to the hiring of a new Manager for the section and
include the sections requirements with respect to:
a) internal organization and corporate reporting
relationships
b) information access and management
c) program development, and
d) service delivery
** (NOTE: This process is in progress and specific issues have
already been resolved.)
9.2. 1990 COMMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
9.2.1. Revenue-Producing Facilities
The promotion of these facilities is coordinated through the
Marketing Committee and uses annual visitor survey data as one
source of input and comment on its efforts. As noted earlier in
conjunction with Conservation Area Operations, the focus of
Planning and Development projects on initiatives for new
facilities has resulted in a lack of recent improvements to
39
~M'07
existing facilities. A decrease in promotion further erodes area
attendance and related revenues, creating a greater burden on the
operations budget with respect to maintenance.
RECOMMENDATION: THAT discussions with respect to short and
long term conservation Area improvements include
representation from the Community Relations section.
9.2.2. Water and Land Management Programs
The concentration in this area during 1990 was in the production
of series of FOCUS ON GREENSPACE publications, as in 1989. This
continues to be well received. Further initiatives respecting
the Authority's Water Resource activities should be investigated
as a part of reviewing the role, responsibilities and tasks of
this section in 1991.
RECOMMENDATION: THAT the Water Resource Division and the
Community Relations section jointly develop a long range
plan for communicating the Authority's water and land
management programs.
9.2.3. Corporate Communications
The significant accomplishment of 1990 was the compilation of
information by consultants, to provide a Communications strategy.
This document confirmed and articulated a process for the
operation of specific components of the Community Relations
Program and attempted to build on the well-established base of
the revenue-producing component, preliminary steps to achieve the
program specific and corporate objectives.
RECOMMENDATION: THAT the corporate Communications strategy
be used as a basis to develop and implement a Communications
Plan and specific actions, in conjunction with program staff
and Management Committee.
40
1\ t\ \ 0<6
10. FOOD SERVICE
10.1. 1990 ACTION ON 1989 RECOMMENDATIONS
10.1.1. THAT, during 1990, staff review and recommend
priorities in terms of the provision of Visitor Food service,
based on an analysis of visitor demand, attendance patterns and
actual costs.
ACTION: The change in section manager in mid-1990 resulted
in a rigorous review of costs and expenditures in the food
service area, across all components of the operation. Unit
cost and pricing and staffing needs have been quantified in
order to ensure greater efficiency in the operation.
10.1.2. THAT the 1990 Visitor Survey follow up on any
indications of unsatisfactory food service by providing an
opportunity for the visitor to give a reason for this response.
THAT Food Services consider implementing a system to gain visitor
comments, such as table cards at Half Way House.
THAT a review of the opportunities and constraints related to
generating increased revenues within the Special Functions
component of the Food Services section be undertaken and include
comparisons with similar facilities.
ACTION: These concerns are being reviewed by the new
manager for 1991. Food Service clients at Black Creek did
receive comment cards during 1991. These were reviewed by
the Manager and any negative situations corrected. Positive
comments noted to staff.
10.2. 1990 COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
10.2.1. Visitor Service
The following comparison is provided as background:
VISITOR SERVICE
1988 1989 1990
BCPV: Attendance 318,650 305,150 254,948
Revenue 437,526 422,777 382,402
Sales/Person 1. 37 1. 39 1. 50
Expenses* 477,594 505,979 479,661
Net Revenue (Loss) (40,068) (83,202) ( 97,259)
41
t\H (er
1988 1989 1990
Areas: Attendance 742,659 659,466 605,449
Revenue 171,079 144,236 115,504
Sales/Person 0.33 0.22 0.19
Expenses* 166,577 155,545 127,457
Net Revenue (Loss) 4,502 (11,309) ( 11,953)
KCC: Attendance 105,436 115,282 110,668
Revenue 58,581 63,834 48,152
Sales/Person .56 .55 0.44
Expenses* 64,223 73,990 70,352
Net Revenue (Loss) (5,642) (10,156) ( 22,200)
*Includes maintenance, utilities, reserve contribution,
and administration fee. These totalled $286,226 in
1988, $280,136 in 1989 and $275,005 in 1990.
By mid-1990, the result of decreased attendance at the public use
facilities was becoming evident in its related impacts on this
component of the Food Service operation. Staff change permitted
the opportunity to clarify Authority expectations and to seek
expertise to initiate new controls in this area. A full review
of staffing, food and other costs was undertaken as well as a
review of the product sales and pricing. Staff training was also
emphasized.
RECOMMENDATION: That the measures implemented in late 1990
with respect to cost control in the Food Services operation
be reviewed and evaluated in 1991.
10.2.2. Cost Recovery
CONSERVATION FIELD CENTRES
1988 1989 1990
Attendance 16,778 16,944 16,204
Food Cost/Revenue $460,768 $472,978 $503,934
Cost/Meal $2.69 $2.85 $3.11
There was a consideration in 1990 of whether the effort to be
cost conscious had resulted in a decrease in the quality of food
service at the residential centres. Since many elements of the
food operation can be controlled and costs are covered by the
fees, there has been discussion between education and food staff
with respect to establishing a standard of food service to ensure
all Centres are performing to standards; establishing meal costs
which recognize all expenses related to the food preparation; and
a standardization of menus and recipes to ensure menu quality and
variety.
42
~~\\b
10.3 Special Functions
The influence of the slower economy was not as evident in this
area in 1990 as in visitor Services;
SPECIAL FUNCTIONS
1988 1989 1990
Revenue $627,923 $590,965 $638,415
Expenses* 573,737 557,853 624,380
Net Revenue (Loss) 54,186 33,112 14,035
*See note under visitor Services.
A review of the figures for the last quarter of 1990, showed an
improvement in both the special functions and in visitor services
at Black Creek.
RECOMMENDATION: THAT the special functions component
continue to be monitored in 1991 and the impact of improved
system management be evaluated.
43
A~ \\\
THE METROPOLITAN TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
-.
WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS AND CORRESPONDENCE PRESENTED TO
AUTHORITY MEETING #9/91
RE 1TOMMY THOMPSON PARK - PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SERVICE
John Robert Carley, Co-Chair, Friends of the Spit
Verna J Higgins, Department of Botany, University of T~ronto
Jean Macdonald, Toronto Field Naturalists
Larry Whatmore, Commodore, Outer Harbour sailing Federation
Authority Meeting #9/91
January 10, 1992
,
November 21, 1991
AM ,,~
TORONTO FIELD NATURALISTS
20 COLLEGE ST, UNIT 4, TORONTO, ONTARIO MSG lK2
TELEPHONE. (416) 968-625S
Rep17 to I 88 Partlea Driv.
last York, Ontario
M4G2J8
Janu&r7 8, 1992
Chail'llan and Member. of the Authori t,
MetrOlblitan Toronto aDd. Jle~on Conservation Authority
Jle lUblic TraD8lbrtaUon Service, TOIIIIT Th.-PlOD Part
1 all representinc the Toronto lield Ilaturaliata
B.ealbnding to the inforaat1on provided in the Staff Report of December
23, 1991, we would &&ree with the conclulions aDd recommendation. aade.
lor aeveral year. we have uraed a POlic, of no pri Tate car. in the !ark.
The Staft Report aPll'oach.. trom the other .1de, that bu .ernc. ProTide.
needed tr8D.portati~, but it doe. not .pecitlcally .tat. that a ~bllc
tranalbrtation .ervlce wl11 eliminate the need aDd deaaD4 tor entry tor
Private car.. I. contlnue to oPPO.e tacl1Iiii. and Park1D& lot. half w&7
in\o the Park. The Report .tat.., correctly. a. thinp .tend to-claT, that lIO.t
ot the natural and Ti.ible ..enitie. are found at lealt half V87 in. Ve would
hope that onc. the conltruction aDd laDd. till 1. cOIlPleted, the DOrth end ot
the Park wll1 dev.lop naturallT into an equally lntere.tiD& and beautlful area.
Baving a ~blic traDaPortation .y.tem in Place will aat. .1mpler the cu1m!natlon
ot thb Jl'oce...
A que8tion b rai.ed b7 the riderlhip f1pre. for 1982 aDd 198' which are
alllO.t dou.ble thOle of the year. after 1985. Bav. you trled to dl.cover the
coDdi tionl that encouraged 10 II8D1 peoPle to ule the bul lerv1c. In thOle year.'
It 11 cl.ar that it will be .everal ,ear. betore the IIatter of Private VaD
verbl !TC, aDd a TfC rout. to .ene the lUb1ic 0I1t11de the Perk will be
..Uled. Vonld a Park TaD which ran trc:. Q;I1een and Le.Ue be feulbl.' Thh
vehicle would be Ule4 OD we.t-.adl and holidq. when !TC .ervloe 1. curtailed,
and bUllne.. traffic 1. lipter. There aq b. ll"oblem. of road u.e, ln8U1'anc.
01' other re.trlctiou - perbaPl allo exce..lft co.te - but 1. it an optlon YOl1
hav. con.ldered'
W. are Plea..d to be Part of the plannlag Proce.. and will look forward
to turther Jartic1Pation ln the 1992 Interl. eunt Procraa.
/'
i ~ huc~
\
Jean Macdonald
Representativ.
~ " !>
botany
UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO . DEPARTMENT OF BOTANY . 25 WILLCOCKS ST TORONTO CANADA M5S3B2 . FAX (416) 978-
January 10, 1992
IQ' The Metropolitan Toronto and RegIOn Conservation Authonty
5 Shoreham Drive
Down SVIew , Ontario
M3N IS4
FROM. Verna J Higgins
Botany Conservation Group
University of Toronto
RE. Public Transportation Service at Tommy Thompson Park (The Spit)
Our reasons for consIdenng a pubhc transportation system CruCIal to the summer program
on the Spit are outhned in the attached letter previously sent to the MTRCA staff These
reasons can be summarized briefly as allowing accessibIhty to those persons physically
unable to walk the distances required to see the best areas of the park, to allow the members
of the Aquatic Park Sailing Club easy access to the club during public hours, and to give all
park users an enhanced sense of security
In considenng the form of pubhc transportation requIred, we have no preference whether
there is continued use of a TIC bus or use of MTRCA vans. In the event that MTRCA vans
are used, some hnk with the TIC system would need to be established to allow people to
reach the park with a minimum of walking This could take several forms such as the route
the TIC bus used or, perhaps, a pICkup at the closest subway station at set times such as
10'00 a.m and 2 00 P m Whatever system is adopted, It IS Important to publi(.lz.~ (t
appropriately
Information on park hours, activities, and accessibility is probably not readily seen by the
average Metro CItizen All of us are at fault for thIS problem, the interim summer program
has remained unchanged for so long that many of us have become complacent and may
forget to ensure that each spnng we include the 1Oformation in our group newsletters. We
can rectify that but how does a visitor or a new resident Qf Metro find out about the park?
Those who join a natural history group or use the Martin Goodman Trail will find out about
it eventually but what about the others? I think that this is a question that both MTRCA staff
and our clubs should consider
The final point I would like to make is about the entrance to the park off Leslie Street.
Since the security fence was put up several years ago, the entrance and parking area are
decidedly "uninviting" 10 appearance. If I did not know the jewel that lies beyond, I would
never stop there. Could I ask MTRCA staff to dISCUSS WIth the THC the possibility of
malang the area look a httle more 1OVIt1Og and to relook at the signage from the viewpoint of
someone who had never been there before.
Thank you
Lg Ifu~ P-I"ted on 'CC" Recye-ee ;:'........
AM "'1
botany
UNIVERSIlY OF TORONTO . DEPARTMENT OF BOTANY . 25 WILLCOCKS ST TORONTO CANADA M5S 3B2 . FAX (416) 978-5878
January 2, 1992
J. Craig Mather
Director
Water Resource Division
The Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
5 Shore ham Drive
Downsview, ontario
M3N 1S4
Dear Craig:
RE: Public Transportation Service at Tommy Thompson Park (The
Spi t)
Although I have not yet seen the agenda material on this item
scheduled for the January 10, 1992 MTRCA Board meeting, I am
sending the following general comments. If possible, I will also
be attending the meeting.
We are amazed that the MTRCA Board would question the need and
value of the public transportation service which has operated so
successfully for many years. It is our opinion that such
transportation is necessary to make the Spit both accessible to
most of the public and for the safety of all users. Furthermore,
a public transportation system is c~ucial for the members of the
Aquatic Park Sailing Club, if their tenure on the Spit is to
continue for the 1992 season. Let me elaborate on these issues.
The public transportation, be it a TTC bus or a MTRCA van, allows
any person still capable of boarding a bus to see some of the
best areas of the Spit. Please note that whether by design, or
neglect, the Toronto Harbour Commission has chosen to make the
base of the Spit, particularly the parking area, look highly
undesirable; thus anyone with limited stamina for walking really
should be able to get away from this area. These people usually
take the van or bus to the turning point and walk in that area,
or participate in the interpretive program, before taking a
return bus. Those people capable of walking longer distances, or
with children in tow, often walk out as far as the "cut" and then
take the bus back. This allows them to get further into "the
wilderness experience" of the Spit then if they had to walk both
ways.
Pr.-ced 0" 1~ Aecyc<<J "ace" (j
AM ,\S
-2-
For those of us who think we have the stamina to walk both ways,
the bus is the insurance that if we get too tired or develop a
blister, etc. that we can get a ride back to the base. The bus is
certainly an insurance factor that I miss in the winter months
and I am particularly conscious of which friends I should or
should not invite to walk the Spit in winter (everyone gets
invitations in the summer). I have no doubt that if there was no
public transportation in summer, many eager older people,
physically challenged persons, and children would never see the
best areas of the Spit.
There is also the question of personal safety; for many people,
the fact that there is a public transportation system gives them
that added sense of security that now seems to be needed by many
Torontonians.
with regard to the Aquatic Sailing Club, the practice of allowing
the club vehicle access primarily during the periods when the
Spit is closed to the public has worked reasonably well. Except
for those weekends at the beginning and the end of the sailing
season when club member's vehicles are allowed, this has meant
little conflict between hikers, cyclists and cars. If public
transport were not available, there would be an immediate request
for continuous vehicle access to the club. This is obviously not
an acceptable alternative.
From the above, it is clear that we think that public tranport is
essential to the seasonal interim program on the Spit. I will
defer any comments about the possible alternative forms of
transport until I have seen the agenda material.
YZinCer~lY'
ve:::8 iti::
Botany Conservation Group
..
I- A H' '"
~
. :~.
. . .0. ___
. ................
~.-.....
OUTER HARBOUR SAILING FEDERATION OHSF
El~ 13f.es!~fiIft'iYi.f~t-1ft~erJ T MSS 2d-4
Toronto, Ontario
M4C 5L8
~~~~n~7~ifll
January 6, 1992 i jJ~ - - Ud)
JAM 7/~2.. .
Metro Toronto and Region Conservation Authority !
I
5 Shoreham Drive I
M. T. R. C. A. I
Downsview, Ontario !
M3N 1S4
Attention: Craig Mather
Director. Water Resource Division
Dear Mr. Mather'
Thank yoU for your letter of December 20, 1991 poncerning public transportation
service at Tommy Thompson Park.
HTRCA has been an active supporter of our community over many years and
those of Aquatic Park Sailing Club (APSC) in particular. In this regard, we are
pleased to note the resolution authorizing staff to renew the- le-ase of APSC for
th~ 1992 ~eason.
A discontinuation of public transit service would be a serious problem for the
many members of APSC which rely .on public transit during park hours when
private vehicle access is not permitted. It would also adversely effect the many
users of the park who are unable to walk or cycle the full length of the spit __
the elderly, families with young children, and the disabled -- many of whom visit
APSC to take advantage of the unique setting that it offers to park visitors.
Public transit at Tommy Thompson Park is an integral part of making the park
accessible and enjoyable to as broad a range of users as possible, while
respecting its environmental sensitivity.
A representative of APSC, will be deputing at the January 10 meeting of the
Authority and we support the position of APSC on this issue.
Sincerely,
cc. Ralph Brown
Commodore
Aquatic Park Sailing Club
lVED
1992
J>_ .~
'\ t1 \i;lnds of the Spit lr ~
EO Box 467, Station J
Toronto, OntarIo M4J 422
January 10, 1992
TEXT OF ADDRESS TO THE MTRCA
The Metropolitan Toronto and Region
Conservation Authority
5 Shoreham Drive
Downsview, Ontario
M3N 1S4
Dear Authority Members:
My Name is John Carley, I am Co-chair of Friends of the Spit. Our
1,200 member organization speaks for all those who wish the entire
Spit to be a car-free public urban wilderness, with no development
and no marinas.
It's a pleasure to address you once again. For a time now our
paths - the Authority and Friends of the Spit - have not crossed:
in part, this is due to the activities of the Royal Commission, and
with specific regard to the Interim Program, to the fact that the
program seems to be working reasonably.
At this time, the Authority is examining the role and nature of the
public transportation service at the Spit.
First, Friends of the Spit strongly support a public transportation
service, whose prime aim is to assist the disabled, the elderly,
and those who require assistance. Primarily, the Spit is a spot
where movement should generally be self-propelled, Le. pedestrian,
or cyclist. To our organization, the use of the vans as sailors'
gear carry-aIls is not an issue, since we feel that the permanent
park will not include this use, especially now that other areas in
the immediate waterfront area have opened-up to accept these clubs.
We understand that for the 2 main summer months, the use of rented
vans saves $3,000 as opposed to using a TTC Bus. The van service,
running at half hour intervals, not a continuous shuttle, would
probably be a less obtrusive influence on the spit. Also, the van
service should not become too frequent or else the vans themselves
could become intrusi ve and present a safety hazard on crowded
weekends. Further, any change of van service must not increase the
number of car days that the temporary renter A.P.S.C. has.
J-\ !~~ '1 ~~
We support all actions to keep this public transportation service
free for those who need assistance to enjoy this Public Urban
Wilderness.
.
Of concern to us it the fact that the van service and the TTC Jones
Ave. service will not link. Negotiations should be undertaken to
attempt to move the TTC terminus to Unwin Ave. as opposed to
Commissioners' Ave. If the TTC will not come south, then the MTRCA
Van Service should connect up to the TTC Terminus. Although your
statistics show only 15% of the ridership is TTC connected, this
is still a significant percentage, and should be encouraged by
direct link.
The van service will only be successful though, if the following
items are undertaken:
1. Explicit signage at the base at Unwin Ave. should be erected
describing the bus times and availability.
2. The base area parking and entry area should be better
organized, both for parking regulation, and to prevent
vehicles driving south to the second set of gates (a practise
which frequently happens).
Provided that a direct connection can be made with the TTC service,
we support the change to a van service in order to save money, and
to provide a less obtrusive and more appropriately scaled vehicle
presence on the Spit.
Further, we note that while the MTRCA is in this cost-saving mode,
this Board could save at least the budgeted $4.5 Million by
rejecting the Master Plan, and changing instead to the maintenance
of the Spit as a car-free public urban wilderness. Now that the
Province's Environmental Assessment Branch has returned the Master
Plan to you without comment, and instructed you to resubmit only
when all waterfront issues are worked out, it would seem a natural
time to reevaluate the Master Plan (which was an outdated concept
anyways) and come to a proposal in concert with our platform.
In this light then, the public transportation system can be seen
as an integral long-range "player" in the park, for the
accessibility of and enjoyment of the elderly, the very young, and
the disabled, both now for the many hundreds of users, and the
future.
Yours sincerely,
OF THE SPIT
CARLEY
, JAN f) 19'-32
rt~aTnr .~"A.