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HomeMy WebLinkAboutRouge Park Alliance 2007THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES OF MEETING #1/07 AUTHORITY MEETING #4/07 MAY 25, 2007 et•r Rouge Park ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES FROM MEETING #1/07, JANUARY 12, 2007 (NO QUORUM) RESOLUTION #1/07-RESOLUTION #6/07 COMPLETED BY E -MAIL, JANUARY 24, 2007 At 9:30 a.m., January 12, 2007, Rouge Park Alliance Meeting #1/07, Gord Weeden, Chair, welcomed everyone and acknowledged that we were one representative short of quorum. The Chair suggested, as has been done in the past, that the agenda items could be discussed, and then formally approved after receiving the responses of members absent from the meeting. A poll was taken and all members present were in support of the procedure. Staff was directed to communicate by electronic mail to members absent and request a response by Wednesday, January 24, 2007. On behalf of the Rouge Park Alliance Chair, Gord Weeden, staff communicated, via e-mail on January 18, 2007, with Rouge Park Alliance members who were not present at the meeting. Members were asked to respond byJanuary 24, 2007, indicating whether they approved of the recommendations of Agenda Items 1, 2, 4, and 5. Agenda Item #3 was referred back to staff for more detailed analysis, and to be brought back to the Alliance. The Alliance members who were present at the meeting were in unanimous agreement to these recommendations. RESPONSES RECEIVED BY E -MAIL IN AGREEMENT TO THE RECOMMENDATIONS Members: Alternates: Councillor Glenn De Baeremaeker, City of Toronto Derek Lee, Government of Canada Councillor Clyde Smith, Town of Whitchurch- Stouffville PRESENT AT THE MEETING ON JANUARY 12, 2007 Members: Gord Weeden, Chair Councillor Raymond Cho, City of Toronto Regional Councillor Jack Heath, Town of Markham Calvin White, onto Zoo ABSENT Members: Hon. Pauline Browes, Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corp. Councillor David Cohen, Town of Richmond Hill Andre Flys, Save the Rouge Valley System, Inc. (SRVS) Regional Councillor Bonnie Littley, Region of Durham Dick O'Brien, Toronto & Region Conservation Authority Councillor Jennifer O'Connell, City of Pickering Staff: Bob Clay, Manager, Natural Heritage Vicki MacDonald, Biologist Ian Buchanan, Region of York Alternates: Nestor Chornobay, Region of Durham Brian Denney, Toronto & Region Conservation Authority Ron Dewell, Toronto & Region Conservation Authority Tom Melymuk, City of Pickering Tracy Smith, Province of Ontario Alternates: Tom Farrell, MNR, Province of Ontario Mark Graham, SRVS Sue Gunton, Toronto Zoo Keith Laushway, Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corp. Hon. Dan McTeague, Government of Canada Councillor Erin Shapero, Town of Markham Staff - Continued ... Doreen McCarty, Administrative Coordinator Maryam Nassar, Manager, Interpretation & Culture Lewis Yeager, General Manager RZ0 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Minutes of Meeting #1/07, January 12, 2007 Res. #1/07 - Res. #6/07 Completed by E -Mail, January 24, 2007 Page 2 of 6 Observers: Mike Adler, Scarborough Mirror C. Beattie, Local Resident Dr. Sheila Birse, Local Resident Ann Forest, Local Resident Colin Lathe, Local Resident Andy McKinnon, Toronto Resident MINUTES OF MEETING #6/06, September 22, 2006 Observers - Continued... Donald McKinnon, Toronto Resident John O'Gorman, MEA Colin O'Neill, Friends of the Rouge Watershed Stan Poulton, Local Resident Jim Robb, Friends of the Rouge Watershed Patricia Short GaIId, Transport Canada Gerald Williams, Toronto Parks -Glen Rouge Campground MOTION: Moved by: Nestor Chornobay Res. #1107 Seconded by: Tom Melymuk THAT the Rouge Park Alliance approve the Minutes of Meeting #6106, held on September 22, 2006. CARRIED BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES None DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST None PRESENTATIONS /DELEGATIONS Andy McKinnon Andy McKinnon is a freelance photographer and a Toronto resident. He presented his observations from his walks in the Park of several tree stands, illegal poachers, and the regular widespread dumping of garbage. He is concerned about the safety of hikers, the destruction of the habitat of plants and animals, and the ongoing illegal activities in the Park. He expressed some of the difficulties encountered in reporting these violations to the various authorities, and his frustration in their inability to resolve the problems. He would like to see more enforcement by the proper authorities, and suggested also a "Rouge Watch ", foot patrol or a Rouge Park warden. Vicki MacDonald, Biologist Vicki MacDonald gave a brief update on Rouge Park's annual Winter Bird Count, which started in January 2004. The fourth annual Rouge Park Winter Bird Count event was held on January 7, 2007, and consisted of 45 volunteers recording bird species seen throughout the Park and in their own backyards. This year 52 species were recorded and over 3,000 individual birds; highlights included Horned Grebe, Trumpeter Swan, Red - bellied Woodpecker, Eastern Bluebird, and Hermit Thrush. This initiative provides for an ongoing record of biodiversity and restoration success in Rouge Park. Bob Clay, Manager, Natural Heritage Bob Clay introduced himself to the Alliance and briefly outlined his professional background, experiences and qualifications as they relate to his new position as Manager, Natural Heritage, Rouge Park, while Barb Davies is on maternity leave. R5 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Minutes of Meeting #1/07, January 12, 2007 Res. #1/07 - Res. #6/07 Completed by E -Mail, January 24, 2007 Page 3 of 6 1. Park Improvement & Heritage Committee Report & Minutes KEY ISSUE Present the actions, recommendations and outcomes from the Park Improvement & Heritage Committee meeting on November 23, 2006 MOTION: Res. #2107 Moved by: Brian Denney Seconded by: Raymond Cho THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the minutes from the November 23, 2006 Park Improvement & Heritage Committee meeting. 2. Rouge Park Funding Programme - 2007 Recommended Allocations CARRIED KEY ISSUE The Park Improvement & Heritage Committee has reviewed the proposals for Year 2007 and provides recommendations for the allocation of funds. MOTION: Res. #3107 Moved by: Raymond Cho Seconded by: Tom Melymuk THAT the Rouge Park Alliance approve the allocation of project funding as recommended by the Park Improvement & Heritage Committee in Table 1; AND THAT Rouge Park staff be directed to release the letters of confirmation of funding to the organizations whose projects have been approved for the 2007 Natural & Cultural Heritage Funds; AND THAT projects approved for funding at the January 12, 2007 Rouge Park Alliance meeting be eligible for release of the initial funding; AND THAT Rouge Park staff be directed to maintain contact with organizations which are not recommended for funding to assist with improving their proposals so that they may resubmit for funding; AND FURTHER THAT Rouge Park Alliance funding for each project be subject to the Natural and Cultural Heritage Funding Policies and Reporting Requirements; the submission of proof of liability insurance; and, any conditions as required by the Park Improvement and Heritage Committee. ACTION - Rouge Park staff to take appropriate action. CARRIED BACKGROUND A Subcommittee of the Park Improvement & Heritage Committee met on November 29, 2006 to review fourteen proposals for the Rouge River watershed. Review Subcommittee members which either forwarded their comments or were in attendance represented technical staff from: MNR, City of Toronto, Rouge Park,TorontoZoo, Town of Markham, Rouge Park Alliance, Hydro One, Toronto & Region Conservation Authority, Transport Canada Green Space Outreach, Friends of the Rouge Watershed and York Region. During the day, each applicant is invited 101 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Minutes of Meeting #1/07, January 12, 2007 Res. #1/07 - Res. #6/07 Completed by E -Mail, January 24, 2007 Page 4 of 6 to attend for a brief questioning period regarding their proposal. Following each question and answer period, Review Subcommittee members rate the proposal on technical merit. After all proposals have been individually rated, they are ranked in descending order and funding recommendations are determined starting with the highest ranked proposal. All projects are reviewed and rated using the Natural and Cultural Heritage Project Criteria and were screened using the Cost /Quality Control report (approved by the Alliance in 1998 and updated annually by Rouge Park staff). The Subcommittee found that nine of the fourteen projects fit our criteria, were located on appropriate sites, worked toward the Rouge Park Management Plan (1994) goal and objectives, and the Rouge Park Action Plan targets, as approved by the Alliance in 1999. The list of prioritized projects was discussed and verified by the Park Improvement & Heritage Committee on December 6, 2006. Recommendation for allocation of these funds is now before the Rouge Park Alliance for approval. TABLE 1: 2007 RECOMMENDED PROJECTS Rank Total score Project name Group Recommended 2007 allocations 2007 $ requested 2006 $ approved 2005 $ approved 1 283.3 Critical Habitat Use by Turtles in Rouge Park Zoo $15,000 $15,000 $10,000 $7,000 2 (tied) 2583 Restoration of Priority Sites FRW $50,000 $50,000 $20,000 $52,000 2 (tied) 258.3 Stream and Habitat Monitoring Project CSP $5,904 $5,904 $6,100 $4,200 3 250 Invasive Plant Inventory and Control - Phase III RVF $12,800 $12,800 $4,450 na 4 238.5 Richmond Hill Headwaters Rehabilitation Program O5 $12,500 $12,500 $12,500 $12,500 5 (tied) 2333 Walden Pond Austin Drive Park Project CRC $6,125 $6,125 $5,000 NA 5 (tied) 233.3 Native Seed Collection, Treatment and Dispersal FRW $10,000 $10,000 na na 6 207.6 North Berm Afforestation 10K $25,000 $25,000 $25,000 $20,000 7 200 Rouge watershed Wetland Creation Project OS $6,000 $30,000 $12,000 $10,000 TOTAL $143,329 , �,��' ,; �'' � - ,,� , �;' y ' ��i RS ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Minutes of Meeting #1/07, January 12, 2007 Res. #1/07 - Res. #6/07 Completed by E -Mail, January 24, 2007 Page S of 6 3. Deer Poaching in Rouge Park KEY ISSUE To provide information regarding deer poaching in Rouge Park. There is no legal hunting in Rouge Park. MOTION Res. #4/07 Moved by: Calvin White Seconded by: Raymond Cho THAT the Rouge Park Alliance refer the report back to staff for more comprehensive analysis, and then bring it back to the Alliance. ACTION CARRIED - Rouge Park staff to do more comprehensive analysis, and report back to the Alliance. 4. Schedule of Rouge Park Alliance Meetings for 2007/2008 KEY ISSUE Schedule of Rouge Park Alliance meetings for 2007/08. All Rouge Park Alliance meetings will commence at 9:00 a.m., at the locations indicated beside each date. MOTION Res. #5/07 Moved by: Nestor Chornobay Seconded by: Calvin White THAT the Rouge Park Alliance approve the following dates for meetings for 2007/2008: Friday, February 16, 2007 Main Boardroom, Toronto Zoo, 361 A Old Finch Ave., Scarborough Friday, March 23, 2007 Main Boardroom, Toronto Zoo, 361 A Old Finch Ave., Scarborough Friday, May 11, 2007 Main Boardroom, Toronto Zoo, 361 A Old Finch Ave., Scarborough Friday, June 15, 2007 Main Boardroom, Toronto Zoo, 361 A Old Finch Ave., Scarborough Friday, August 24, 2007 Canada Room, Town of Markham, 101 Town Centre Blvd., Markham Friday, October 5, 2007 Canada Room, Town of Markham, 101 Town Centre Blvd., Markham Friday, November 23, 2007 Main Boardroom, Toronto Zoo, 361 A Old Finch Ave., Scarborough Friday, February 15, 2008 Main Boardroom, Toronto Zoo, 361 A Old Finch Ave., Scarborough CARRIED 5. Correspondence MOTION: Res. #6/06: Moved by: Tom Melymuk Seconded by: Tracy Smith THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the following correspondence: 1. Copy of Letter dated September 26, 2006 to Adam Ciulini, Ministry of theEnvironment, from Lois Griffin, Humber Watershed Alliance, re: EBR #RAO6E0003. ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Minutes of Meeting #1 /07, January 12, 2007 Res. #1/07 - Res. #6/07 Completed by E -Mail, January 24, 2007 Page 6 of 6 2. Letter dated September 27, 2006 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from Sheila Birrell, Town Clerk, Town of Markham, re: Rouge Park Alliance Ad*ocacy Issues. 3. Letter dated September 27, 2006 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from Sheila Birrell, Town Clerk, Town of Markham, re: Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing - Request for Support for OPA 140. 4. Letter dated October 12, 2006 from Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, to the Hon. John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing, re: OMB Hearing re OPA 140, Town of Markham. 5. Copy of letter dated October 5, 2006 to Tom Boudreault, City of Toronto, from David "Grey Eagle" Sanford, Wapiti Alliance of the Rouge Watershed and the Oak Ridges Moraine, re: First Nations Educational Program for the Community. 6. Letter dated October 23, 2006 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from Mrs. Michele Kennedy, Town Clerk, Town of Whitchurch- Stouffville, re: OPA 140, Town of Markham. 7. Letter dated October 20, 2006 to Lewis Yeager, Rouge Park, from Denis Kelly, Regional Clerk, Region of York, re: Pedestrian and Cycling Master Plan Study, Municipal Partnership Program. 8. Copy of Letter dated October 20, 2006 to the Hon. John Gerretsen, Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing, from Denis Kelly, Regional Clerk, Region of York, re: OPA 140. 9. Letter dated October 25, 2006, to Mayor Don Cousens & Members of Council, from Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, re: OPA 140 - Rouge Park North. 10. Copy of Letter dated November 14, 2006 to Sonya Meek, TRCA, from Jim Baird, Commissioner of Development Services, Town of Markham, re: Rouge Watershed Plan. 11. Letter dated November 24, 2006 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from the Hon. David Ramsay, Minister of Natural Resources, re: Markham East Lands (in response to attached letter from Rouge Park dated October 23, 2006). 12. E -mail dated December 7, 2006 to Maryam Nassar, Rouge Park, from Bill and June Hill, re: Deer Crossing. 13. Letter dated December 19, 2006 to Lewis Yeager, Rouge Park, from Denis Kelly, Regional Clerk, Region of York, re: Appointment of Representatives to Rouge Park Alliance. 14. Letter dated December 28, 2006 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from Deborah Bowen, Deputy Clerk, Region of Durham, re: Appointment of Representatives to Rouge Park Alliance. 6. NEW BUSINESS None TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 11:15 a.m. on January 12, 2007. Gord Weeden Chair Lewis Yeager General Manager CARRIED THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES OF MEETING #2/07 AUTHORITY MEETING #4/07 MAY 25, 2007 Rouge Park ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES - MEETING #2107 - FEBRUARY 16, 2007 The Rouge Park Alliance met in the Main Boardroom of the Toronto Zoo. Gord Weeden, Chair, welcomed everyone and thanked Sue Gunton, Toronto Zoo, for hosting the meeting. The Chair called the meeting to order at 9:15 a.m. PRESENT Members: Gord Weeden, Chair Councillor David Cohen, Town of Richmond Hill Brad Duguid, MPP, Province of Ontario Regional Councillor Jack Heath, Region of York Derek Lee, MP, Government of Canada Regional Councillor Bonnie Littley, Region of Durham Councillor Ron Moeser, City of Toronto Councillor Jennifer O'Connell, City of Pickering Councillor Clyde Smith, Town of Whitchurch- Stouffville Staff: Bob Clay, Manager, Natural Heritage Doreen McCarty, Administrative Coordinator Observers: Ben Amanyangole, African Power Tom Boudreault, City of Toronto Parks Debra Lapp, Cedar Grove Community Centre Bernadette Manning, Cedar Grove Community Club ABSENT Members: Councillor Paul Ainslie, City of Toronto Hon. Pauline Browes, Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corp. Glenn De Baeremaeker, Save the Rouge Valley System Dick O'Brien, Toronto & Region Conservation Authority ' Councillor Erin Shapero, Town of Markham Calvin White, Toronto Zoo Alternates: Ian Buchanan, Region of York Councillor Raymond Cho, City of Toronto Nestor Chornobay, Region of Durham Brian Denney, Toronto & Region Conservation Authority Sue Gunton, Toronto Zoo Councillor-Logan Kanapathi, Town of Markham Councillor Chin Lee, City of Toronto Tracy Smith, Province of Ontario Maryam Nassar, Manager, Interpretation & Culture Lewis Yeager, General Manager Observers: (Continued...) Andy McKinnon, Toronto Resident John O'Gorman, Markham Environmental Alliance Jim Robb, Friends of the Rouge Watershed Alternates: Ron Dewell, TRCA Tom Farrell, Province of Ontario Adele Freeman, TRCA Mark Graham, Save the Rouge Valley System Inc. Audrey Hollasch, Town of Richmond Hill Keith Laushway, Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corp. Hon. Dan McTeague, Government of Canada Tom Melymuk, City of Pickering Mayor Wayne Emmerson, Town of Whitchurch - Stouffville Carolyn Woodland, TRCA ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 2 of 6 MINUTES of Meeting #2/07, February 16, 2007 CHAIR'S REMARKS Gord Weeden, Chair, Rouge Park Alliance, introduced several new members on the Alliance and thanked past members who served on the Alliance for their services. He thanked the Province for its February 13, 2007 dedication of 600 more hectares (1,500 acres) of land to Rouge Park. He outlined his vision, goals and expected achievements of the Park in 2007; the responsibilities of the Alliance's partners, and local communities to continue to build Rouge Park (Attachment #1). MOTION: Res. #7/07 Moved by: Brian Denney Seconded by: Brad Duguid THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the Chair's remarks and report. MINUTES OF MEETING #1/07, January 12, 2007 MOTION: Res. #8/07 Moved by: Jack Heath Seconded by: Brian Denney CARRIED THAT the Rouge Park Alliance approve the minutes of Meeting #1 /07 held on January 12, 2007. CARRIED Bernadette Manning, Cedar Grove Community Club Ms Manning, a resident of Cedar Grove for over 16 years, expressed her strong support of Rouge Park and mentioned her involvement in community and environmental issues over the years. She would like the Rouge Park Alliance to consider adding her as a member on the Alliance. MOTION: Res. #9/07 Moved by: Jack Heath Seconded by: Bonnie Littley THAT the Rouge Park Alliance refer Bernadette Manning's request to be added as a member on the Alliance to the Rouge Park Policy and Administration Committee for consideration and report back to the Alliance. CARRIED ACTION - Staff to take appropriate action. Jim Robb, Friends of the Rouge Watershed (FRW) Mr. Robb gave a slide presentation on ongoing and past restoration projects he completed on behalf of Rouge Park, and outlined goals that FRW believes Rouge Park should achieve in forest, meadow, and wetland cover in the Rouge River watershed. He described the success of various Rouge Park projects that FRW has accomplished with the help of the Park and other partners and volunteer groups over the years. MOTION: Moved by: Ron Moeser Res. #10/07 Seconded by: Sue Gunton THAT the Rouge Park Alliance congratulate the Province of Ontario for its recent commitment of approximately 1,500 acres of land in the Rouge River, Petticoat Creek and Duffins Creek watersheds to Rouge Park; ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES of Meeting #2/07, February 16, 2007 Page 3 of AND THAT the Rouge Park Alliance direct its staff, partners and friends to continue their efforts to add additional public lands to Rouge Park; AND FURTHER THAT the Rouge Park Alliance direct its staff and partners to seek additional funds for the planning, implementation and promotion of our 11,500 -acre Park. ACTION - Staff to take appropriate action. BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES None DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST None 1. Rouge Park Heritage Appreciation Visitor Experience Plan Update KEY ISSUE Update on the Park's comprehensive visitor services and interpretation planning process. MOTION: Res. #11/07: Moved by: Clyde Smith Seconded by: Logan Kanapathi CARRIED THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the progress report on the Heritage Appreciation Visitor Experience Plan. 2. Rouge Watershed Plan KEY ISSUE Time table for the release and comments on the final draft Rouge Watershed Plan. MOTION: Res. #12/07 Moved by: Derek Lee Seconded by: Brian Denney CARRIED THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the report from the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority; AND FURTHER THAT the Rouge Park Alliance request a presentation on the final plan for its approval. ACTION - Staff to take appropriate action. - Councillor Moeser requested a presentation from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal re: Places to Grow at a Rouge Park Alliance meeting subsequent to TRCA's presentation. CARRIED R,.10 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 4 of 6 MINUTES of Meeting #2/07, February 16, 2007 3. Visioning Workshop - Working Committee KEY ISSUE In 2005, the Rouge Park Alliance hosted a Visioning Workshop. The report from that workshop recommended that an evaluation be completed of the need to create a foundation to support the ongoing needs of Rouge Park and recommended an organizational structure for Rouge Park itself with legal status to more effectively deliver Rouge Park's Vision and Objectives. MOTION: Res. #13/07: Moved by: Logan Kanapathi Seconded by: Jennifer O'Connell THAT a working committee be established to carry out this evaluation in a consultative manner; AND THAT this committee report back to the Alliance on recommendations for a legal entity for Rouge Park at the June 15, 2007 Rouge Park Alliance meeting; AND FURTHER THAT this committee will be comprised of the Chair of the Rouge Park Alliance, the General Manager of Rouge Park, and representatives of the Ministry of Natural Resources, and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, and others as needed. MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED ACTION - Staff to take appropriate action. Agenda item #6 was brought forward at the request of the Chair, and in agreement by members of the Alliance present. 6. Rouge Park Alliance Terms of Reference KEY ISSUE Present the Rouge Park Alliance Terms of Reference for formal adoption. MOTION: Res. #14/07: Moved by: Ron Moeser Seconded by: Derek Lee THAT the Rouge Park Alliance formally adopt the Terms of Reference. CARRIED ACTION - Councillor Heath requested that a package be developed and given to Alliance members indicating Alliance procedures and what is expected of member organizations. Staff to take appropriate action. 4. Memorandum of Agreement Among the Rouge Park Alliance, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, and the Ministry of Natural Resources KEY ISSUE The Rouge Park Alliance Policy and Administration Committee recommends approval of the Memorandum of Agreement among the Rouge Park Alliance, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, and Ministry of Natural Resources. ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES of Meeting #2/07, February 16, 2007 Page5of6 MOTION: Res. #15/07: Moved by: Brian Denney Seconded by: Sue Gunton THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the report on the Memorandum of Agreement among the Rouge Park Alliance, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, and the Ministry of Natural Resources; AND FURTHER THAT the Rouge Park Alliance authorize the Chair to sign the Memorandum of Agreement on behalf of the Alliance. ACTION - Chair to sign agreement. 5. Minutes of January 30, 2007 Meeting of Rouge Park Policy & Administration Committee KEY ISSUE Minutes of a meeting to review Rouge Park policy and administration issues. MOTION Res. #16/07 Moved by: Ron Moeser Seconded by: Sue Gunton THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the January 30, 2007 minutes of the Policy and Administration Committee; CARRIED AND FURTHER THAT tape recording of the Rouge Park Alliance meetings cease and that Alliance members be prepared to provide motions and amendments in clear written forms so that minutes can be effectively recorded. 7. Park Improvement and Heritage Committee Meeting Minutes - December 6, 2006 CARRIED KEY ISSUE Present the actions, recommendation and outcomes of the December 6, 2006 Park Improvement and Heritage Committee meeting. MOTION: Res. #17/07: Moved by: Clyde Smith Seconded by: Derek Lee THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the minutes of the December 6, 2006 Park Improvement and Heritage Committee meeting. 8. Natural Heritage Action Plan Progress Report CARRIED KEY ISSUE Park Improvement and Heritage Committee progress on the Natural Heritage'Action Plan Update. ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 6 of 6 MINUTES of Meeting #2/07, February 16, 2007 MOTION: Moved by: Bonnie Littley Res. #18/07: Seconded by: Derek Lee THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive this Natural Heritage Action Plan Progress Report as information. 9. Correspondence MOTION: Res. #19/07: Moved by: Derek Lee Seconded by: Logan Kanapathi CARRIED THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the following correspondence: 1. Letter dated January 9, 2007 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from Calvin J. White, Toronto Zoo, re: Appointment of Representatives to the Rouge Park Alliance. 2. Letter dated January 10, 2007 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from Dave Barrow, Town of Richmond Hill, re: Appointment of Representative to the Rouge Park Alliance. 3. Letter dated January 12, 2007 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from Michele Kennedy, Town of Whitchurch - Stouffville, re: Appointment of Representative to the Rouge Park Alliance. 4. Copy of the Town of Markham report to Development Services Committee on January 16, 2007 on the Environmental Policy Review and Consolidation Terms of Reference. 5. Copy of Letter dated January 12, 2007 to Lilli Duoba, Town of Markham, from A. Milliken Heisey, Papazian Heisey Myers, re: Markham Draft Terms of Reference - Environmental Policy Review and Consolidation Strategy (Revised). 6. E -mail dated January 26, 2007 from Judy Kee, Town of Markham, re: Appointment of Representatives to the Rouge Park Alliance. 7. Copy of Letter dated January 11, 2007 to Valerie Shuttleworth, Town of Markham, from A. Milliken Heisey, Papazian Heisey Myers, re: Proposed Designation of Property at 8359 Reesor Road in the Draft Cornell Secondary Plan. (Previous Correspondence also Attached.) 8. Copy of Letter dated February 5, 2007 to A. Milliken Heisey, Papazian, Heisey, Myers Barristers & Solicitors, from Valerie Shuttleworth, Town of Markham; re: Proposed Designation of Property at 8359 Reesor Road in the Draft Cornell Secondary Plan. 9. Letter dated February 15, 2007 to Rouge Park Alliance, from City Clerk, City of Toronto, re: Appointment of Representatives to the Rouge Park Alliance. 11. New Business ACTION CARRIED - Brian Denney requested that staff prepare a report for the Rouge Park Alliance regarding the Toronto Wildlife Centre. TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 11:00 a.m. on February 16, 2007. Gord Weeden Lewis Yeager Chair, Rouge Park Alliance General Manager, Rouge Park ATTACHMENT #1 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE 2007 ENGAGEMENT REPORT BY GORD WEEDEN, CHAIR WELCOME NEW MEMBERS: REGIONAL COUNCILLOR BONNIE LITTLEY, DURHAM REGION, COUNCILLOR JENNIFER O "CONNELL, PICKERING, COUNCILLOR DAVID COHEN, RICHMOND HILL, COUNCILLOR LOGAN KANAPATHI, MARICHAM, COUNCILLOR RON MOESER, COUNCILLOR PAUL AINSLIE, CITY OF TORONTO, IAN BUCHANAN, YORK REGION. THANK YOU TO MEMBERS WHO ARE NO LONGER' ON OUR BOARD: MAYOR FRANK SCARPITTI, MARKHAM • ELIO DI IORIO, RICHMOND HILL REGIONAL COUNCILLOR RICK JOHNSON, DURHAM SUE SHERBAN, WHITCHURCH STOUFFVILLE REGIONAL CHAIR ROGER ANDERSON, DURHAM HRATCH AYNEDJIAN, TORONTO 2007 WILL BE A BANNER YEAR FOR ROUGE PARK AND A CHALLENGING AND REWARDING YEAR FOR THE ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE. WE WELCOME OUR NEW MEMBERS TO THE ALLIANCE AND ENCOURAGE THEM TO GET EXCITED ABOUT ROUGE PARK. ROUGE PARK IS AN ASSET TO ALL OF OUR PARTNERS, THEIR CONSTITUENTS AND THEIR FUTURE CONSTITUENTS. ROUGE PARK SHOULD NOT BE SEEN AS AN ALBATROSS, OUT THERE, OVER THERE, THAT IS SOMEONE ELSE'S RESPONSIBILITY. IT IS EVERYONE'S RESPONSIBILITY AND IT IS THE CHALLENGE OF THIS ALLIANCE TO BRING TOGETHER ALL OUR PARTNERS AND OUR COMMUNITIES, TO CONTINUE TO BUILD THIS MAGNIFICENT WORLD RENOWNED PARK. IT WILL TAKE INGENUITY, CREATIVITY, COMMITMENT AND ENTHUSIASM TO REALIZE THE POTENTIALS OF THIS ENVIRONMENTAL LEGACY. IN 2007, WE WILL, WITH YOUR SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE, BUILD AND STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIPS WITH ALLIANCE MEMBERS THAT WILL PROVIDE FINANCIAL STABILITY AND THE INCENTIVES TO BUILD THIS PARK AS OUTLINED IN OUR MANAGEMENT PLANS. TO ACHIEVE THESE GOALS, WE WILL: APPROVE AND IMPLEMENT THE ACTION PLAN WHICH WILL PROVIDE THE DIRECTION FOR LEASE MANAGEMENT ON OUR LANDS AND PRESCRIPTIONS ON HOW THESE LANDS SHOULD BE UTILIZED TO IMPLEMENT OUR PLANS. ATTACHMENT #1 Page 2 of 2 APPROVE AND IMPLEMENT THE ROUGE PARK HERITAGE APPRECIATION VISITOR EXPERIENCE PLAN THAT WILL OUTLINE INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL MEANS TO GET OUR MESSAGE TO THE PUBLIC, SET GUIDELINES FOR INTERPRETATION TO ALL USERS, SCHOOL GROUPS AND PUBLIC FROM AROUND THE WORLD. APPROVE AND IMPLEMENT THE BOB HUNTER ENVIRONMENTAL AREA PLAN AS AN INTEGRAL PART OF ROUGE PARK. DEVELOP, APPROVE AND IMPLEMENT A MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NEW PROVINCIAL LANDS EAST OF THE LITTLE ROUGE CORRIDOR THAT IS COMPLEMENTARY TO THE BOB HUNTER MEMORIAL PARK, AND THE LITTLE ROUGE CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT PLANS. DEVELOP A LONG TERM FINANCIAL STRATEGY THAT WILL PROVIDE STABILITY FOR OUR PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS ANDALSO DEVELOP MECHANISMS THAT CAN INCREASE OUR BUDGETS TO MEET EVER INCREASING DEMANDS. WE THANK. THE WRT FOR PROVIDING SIGNIFICANT FUNDING BUT WE NEED MORE TO MATCH THIS FUNDING. DEVELOP A PLAN TO ENGAGE PARTNERS IN DEVELOPMENT AND OPERATION OF THE PARK THROUGH MOU'S, AS THE ALLIANCE HAS DONE WITH THE CITY OF TORONTO AND AS OUTLINED IN OUR TERMS OF REFERENCE. PARTNER MUNICIPALITIES COULD PROVIDE SERVICES WITHIN THE PARK AS THEY DO IN THEIR MUNICIPALITIES. SUPPORT THE PROVINCE IN THE GREENBELT PLAN, THE PLACES TO GROW PLAN AND THE GTA AGRICULTURE STRATEGY. THE PROVINCE HAS SO GRACIOUSLY DEDICATED SOME 46 SQ. KM FOR ROUGE PARK AND PROTECTED THIS JEWEL IN THE GREENBELT ACT. OUR MANAGEMENT PLANS AS WE DEVELOP THEM AND IMPLEMENT THEM WILL SUPPORT THE PROVINCIAL GREENBELT AND WILL INTRODUCE STRATEGIES TO SUPPORT LOCAL AGRICULTURE IN THE GTA. DEVELOP A PLAN FOR ROAD, INFRASTRUCTURE INTERACTION WITHIN ROUGE PARK IN CONSULTATION WITH PARTNERS AND WITH THE GUIDANCE OF THE ALLIANCE AND OUR ROUGE PARK PLANS. HUMAN ACTIVITIES WILL EXIST IN HARMONY WITH ROUGE PARK VALUES. WORK WITH OUR PARTNERS TO EXPAND ROUGE PARK TO THE OAK RIDGES MORAINE, AND PROVIDE SOLID CONNECTIONS TO OTHER WATERSHEDS BY SECURING ADDITIONAL SIGNIFICANT LANDS. THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES OF MEETING #3/07 AUTHORITY MEETING #7/07 SEPTEMBER 28, 2007 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES - MEETING #3107 - MARCH 23, 2007 Rouge Park R15 The Rouge Park Alliance met in the Main Boardroom of the Toronto Zoo. Gord Weeden, Chair, welcomed everyone and thanked Sue Gunton, Toronto Zoo, for hosting the meeting. The Chair called the meeting to order at 9:10 a.m. PRESENT Members: Gord Weeden, Chair Councillor Paul Ainslie, City of Toronto Hon. Pauline Browes, Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corp Glenn De Baeremaeker, Save the Rouge Valley System Brad Duguid, MPP, Province of Ontario Regional Councillor Jack Heath, Region of York Derek Lee, MP, Government of Canada Councillor Ron Moeser, City of Toronto Gerri Lynn O'Connor, TRCA Councillor Erin Shapero, Town of Markham Councillor Clyde Smith, Town of Whitchurch- Stouffville Staff: Bob Clay, Manager, Natural Heritage Michelle Holmes, Communications Specialist Doreen McCarty, Administrative Coordinator Observers: Tom Boudreault, City of Toronto Parks Mike Fenning, TRCA Brent Mersey, Markham Conservation Committee ABSENT Members: Councillor David Cohen, Town of Richmond Hill Regional Councillor Bonnie Littley, Region of Durham Councillor Jennifer O'Connell, City of Pickering Calvin White, Toronto Zoo Alternates: Nestor Chornobay, Region of Durham Brian Denney, Toronto & Region Conservation Authority • Ron Dewell, TRCA Adele Freeman, TRCA Sue Gunton, Toronto Zoo Audrey Hollasch, Town of Richmond Hill Councillor Logan Kanapathi, Town of Markham Tom Melymuk, City of Pickering Vicki MacDonald, Biologist Maryam Nassar, Manager, Interpretation & Culture Lewis Yeager, General Manager Observers: (Continued...) Andy McKinnon, Toronto Resident Colin O'Neill, Friends of the Rouge Watershed Jim Robb, Friends of the Rouge Watershed Patricia Short Galle, Transport Canada Alternates: Ian Buchanan, Region of York Councillor Raymond Cho, City of Toronto Mayor Wayne Emmerson, Town of Whitchurch - Stouffville Tom Farrell, Province of Ontario Mark Graham, Save the Rouge Valley System Inc. Keith Laushway, Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corp. Councillor Chin Lee, City of Toronto Hon. Dan McTeague, Government of Canada Tracy Smith, Province of Ontario Carolyn Woodland, TRCA Ri` ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 2 of 8 MINUTES of Meeting #3/07, March 23, 2007 CHAIR'S REMARKS Gord Weeden, Chair, Rouge Park Alliance, introduced several new members on the Alliance, who were attending for the first time. MINUTES OF MEETING #21/07, February 16, 2007 MOTION: Res. #20/07 Moved by: Derek Lee Seconded by: Jack Heath THAT the Rouge Park Alliance approve the minutes of Meeting #2/07 held on February 16, 2007. CARRIED BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES None DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST None PRESENTATION /DELEGATION None ACTION - Councillor Paul Ainslie requested that e-mail addresses be included in the contact information on all Rouge Park Alliance agenda reports. At the request of the Chair, and in agreement of Alliance members present, Agenda Item #11, Bob Hunter Memorial Park - TRCA Report, was brought forward as the first item on the agenda. 11. Bob Hunter Memorial Park - TRCA Report KEY ISSUE Acquisition of lands from the Ontario Realty Corporation (ORC) within the Rouge River watershed, in the Town of Markham, Regional Municipality of York, for Bob Hunter Memorial Park, for Rouge Park purposes. MOTION: Res. #21/07 Moved by: Gerri Lynn O'Connor Seconded by: Ron Moeser THAT the Rouge Park Alliance support the transfer to Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), for Rouge Park purposes, of 192.678 hectares (476.119 acres) more or less, consisting of five parcels of land including residential, commercial and farm rentals, said lands being Part of Lots 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, Concession 9 and Part of Lots 5, 6 and 7, Concession 10, Town of Markham, Regional Municipality of York, designated as Parts 1 and 2 on Plan 65R- 29431, Part 1 on Plan 65R -29592 and Parts 1 -8 inclusive on Plan 65R- 29593, by the Ontario Realty Corporation (ORC) for Bob Hunter Memorial Park on the following basis: a) THAT the purchase price be $2.00 with the Ontario Realty Corporation being responsible for all costs associated with the transfer; Rl ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES of Meeting #3/07, March 23, 2007 Page3of8 b) THAT the transfer be subject to Ontario Realty Corporation providing to TRCA a commitment and funding to ensure the lands and rental properties are in a good state of repair that is satisfactory to TRCA. AND FURTHER THAT the TRCA and Ontario Realty Corporation be so advised. AMENDMENT Res. #21A/07 Moved by: Ron Moeser Seconded by: Erin Shapero THAT the Rouge Park Alliance request Toronto and Region Conservation Authority to report back to the Alliance on issues related to Ontario Realty Corporation's responsibilities regarding the transfer, and the commitment of funding, to ensure the land and rental properties are in a satisfactory state according to TRCA's standards. AMENDMENT CARRIED MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED ACTION - Staff to work with TRCA and take appropriate action. Brad Duguid, MPP, the Province of Ontario's representative on the Rouge Park Alliance, informed everyone of the Province's grant of $2 Million for Rouge Park programmes, which was included in the Provincial budget on March 22, 2007. ACTION - Glenn De Baeremaeker requested that staff write to the Premier and thank him for this funding for Rouge Park. 1. Growth of Rouge Park KEY ISSUE Rouge Park has grown to over 47 square kilometres (over 10,000 acres) in three Greater Toronto Area (GTA) watersheds. At the last Rouge Park Alliance meeting, some members asked for an overview of the Park's growth. MOTION: Res. #22/07 Moved by: Derek Lee Seconded by: Gerri Lynn O'Connor THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive this report and presentation. CARRIED 2. Signs for Glen Eagles Vista KEY ISSUE Glen Eagles Vista is a key public use area for Rouge Park in Toronto. Our first interpretive signs have been completed for this site and are to be installed shortly. ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES of Meeting #3/07, March 23, 2007 Page 4 of 8 MOTION: Res. #23/07 Moved by: Sue Gunton Seconded by: Tom Melymuk THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive this report and presentation. MOTION: Res. #24/07 Moved by: Glenn De Baeremaeker Seconded by: Clyde Smith CARRIED THAT the Rouge Park Alliance direct staff to create a separate sign recognizing the three levels of government who contributed to the purchase of the Glen Eagles property, that is, the Federal government, the Provincial government, and the City of Toronto. CARRIED ACTION - Staff to take appropriate action. 3. Heritage Appreciation & Visitor Experience (HAVE) Plan Report - Selected Consultant KEY ISSUE Update on the Park's comprehensive visitor services and interpretation planning process. MOTION: Res. #25/07 Moved by: Paul Ainslie Seconded by: Ron Moeser THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the report on the Heritage Appreciation Visitor Experience Plan consultant selection; AMENDMENT Moved by: Paul Ainslie Seconded by: Ron Moeser AND FURTHER THAT the Rouge Park Alliance approve the selection of EcoLeaders as the consultant to carry out the contract at a cost of $45,005. AMENDMENT CARRIED MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED ACTION - As requested, staff to send Pauline Browes a copy of the RFP for the HAVE Plan. 4. Update on Rouge Park Website Development KEY ISSUE Update on website progress with focus on visitor research, and configuration of new website. MOTION: Res. #26/07 Moved by: Clyde Smith Seconded by: Tom Melymuk THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the report and presentation for the new website, and the web visitor statistics. CARRIED ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES of Meeting #3/07, March 23, 2007 Page 5 of 8 ACTION - Staff to take appropriate action to investigate feasibility of incorporating suggestions discussed at meeting re: donations, educators and speakers, etc.). 5. General Manager's Report KEY ISSUE An update of recent Rouge Park initiatives and activities. MOTION: Res. #27107 Moved by: Derek Lee Seconded by: Erin Shapero THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the report entitled "Building Our Park - Progress Report on Rouge Park Initiatives" and the presentation. 6. Markham SmaII Streams Study KEY ISSUE To express support for Markham's SmaII Streams Study. MOTION: Res. #28/07 Moved by: Nestor Chornobay Seconded by: Clyde Smith CARRIED THAT the Rouge Park Alliance endorse in principle the Markham Small Streams Study recommendations and guidelines for the protection and management of small stream features. AMENDMENT #1 Moved by: Tom Melymuk Res. #29107 Seconded by: Glenn De Baeremaeker AND THAT the Rouge Park Alliance, in cooperation with other Alliance partners, circulate the Markham SmaII Streams Study to consider similar studies within their organizations for the protection and management of small streams features. AMENDMENT #2 Moved by: Glenn De Baeremaeker Res. #30/07 Seconded by: Erin Shapero AND FURTHER THAT the Rouge Park Alliance request the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing to consider in their planning initiatives a process to protect small streams province -wide. AMENDMENT #1 CARRIED AMENDMENT #2 CARRIED MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED ACTION - Staff to circulate report, write to MMAH, and report back to the Alliance on the progress. R�9 d D ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 6 of 8 MINUTES of Meeting #3/07, March 23, 2007 7. 8359 Reesor Road Property Report KEY ISSUE Provincially -owned (ORC) lands at 8359 Reesor Road, Markham, should be added to Rouge Park, rather than be developed as employment lands in the Cornell Secondary Plan. Note: Regional Councillor Jack Heath requested that the last two motions be split, and a recorded vote. MOTION: Res. #31/07 Moved by: Sue Gunton Seconded by: Derek Lee THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive this report. MOTION: Res. #32/07 Moved by: Sue Gunton Seconded by: Derek Lee CARRIED THAT the Rouge Park Alliance again ask the Province of Ontario to dedicate 8359 Reesor Road, Markham, for Rouge Park purposes. Recorded vote: YEA NAY Government of Canada, Derek Lee X Province of Ontario, Brad Duguid X Region of York, Regional Councillor Jack Heath X Town of Markham, Councillor Erin Shapero X City of Pickering, Tom Melymuk X Town of Richmond Hill, Audrey Hollasch X SRVS, Glenn De Baeremaeker X Toronto Zoo, Sue Gunton X TRCA, Adele Freeman X Waterfront Regeneration Trust, Hon. Pauline Browes X Town of Whitchurch - Stouffville, Councillor Clyde Smith X 10 1 10 YEAs and 1 NAY - Motion is Carried. MOTION: Res. #33/07 Moved by: Sue Gunton Seconded by: Derek Lee CARRIED THAT the Rouge Park Alliance, the Town of Markham, and the Ontario Realty Corporation meet to identify other Provincial lands which could be made available to Markham for employment lands. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY Rzi ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES of Meeting #3/07, March 23, 2007 Page 7 of 8 Recorded vote: YEA NAY Government of Canada, Derek Lee X Province of Ontario, Brad Duguid X Region of York, Regional Councillor Jack Heath X Town of Markham, Councillor Erin Shapero X City of Pickering, Tom Melymuk X Town of Richmond Hill, Audrey Hollasch X SRVS, Glenn De Baeremaeker X Toronto Zoo, Sue Gunton X TRCA, Adele Freeman X Waterfront Regeneration Trust, Hon. Pauline Browes X Town of Whitchurch - Stouffville, Councillor Clyde Smith X 11 YEAs and 0 NAY - Motion is Carried Unanimously. ACTION - Staff to take appropriate action. 11 0 8. Rental Portfolio Properties' Potential for Rouge Park Administrative Office KEY ISSUE Senior Rouge Park Staff and the Chair of the Rouge Park Alliance visited three historic properties to determine their suitability as a Rouge Park administrative office. MOTION: Moved by: Jack Heath Res. #34/07 Seconded by: Sue Gunton THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive this report; AND THAT the Rouge Park Alliance thank the Property staff of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority for highlighting these properties and providing a tour; AMENDMENT Moved by: Jack Heath Seconded by: Sue Gunton AND FURTHER THAT the Rouge Park Alliance be advised that none of the three properties investigated are suitable for an administrative office. AMENDMENT CARRIED MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED 9. Park Improvement and Heritage Committee Report and Minutes KEY ISSUE Present the actions, recommendation and outcomes of the January 24, 2007 Park Improvement and Heritage Committee meeting. R22 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 8 of 8 MINUTES of Meeting #3/07, March 23, 2007 MOTION: Res. #35/07: Moved by: Clyde Smith Seconded by: Derek Lee THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the minutes of the January 24, 2007 Park Improvement and Heritage Committee meeting. 10. Correspondence MOTION: Res. #36/07: Moved by: Derek Lee Seconded by: Sue Gunton THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the following correspondence: CARRIED 1. Letter dated February 15, 2007 to David "Grey Eagle" Sanford, Wapiti Alliance, from Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, re: First Nations Place in Rouge Park. 2. Letter dated February 15, 2007 to The Hon. John Baird, Minister of the Environment, from Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, re: Urgent Need for Rouge Park Expansion. 3. Letter dated February 23, 2007 to Brad Duguid, Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing, from Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, re: Request for Funding for Rouge Park. 4. Letter dated February 28, 2007 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from Sheila Birrell, Town of Markham, re: Proposed Demolition of Heritage Buildings - Federal Airport Lands (Pickering Lands Site). 5. Letter dated March 6, 2007 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from Premier Dalton McGuinty, re: Provincial Dedication of 600 Hectares of New Lands to Rouge Park. 6. Letter dated March 6, 2007 to Ralph Eades, Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal, from Lewis Yeager, Rouge Park, re: Meeting with Ontario Realty Corporation, Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority and Rouge Park - Management of New Lands and Request for Funding. 7. Letter dated March 6, 2007 to Bill Harding, City of Toronto Parks, from Lewis Yeager, Rouge Park, re: Rouge Park Projects and Programs in the City of Toronto. 8. E -mail dated March 8, 2007 to The Hon. Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, from Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, re: Pickering Federal Airport Land - Rouge Park (Urgent Need for Rouge Park Expansion). ACTION 11. New Business ACTION CARRIED - Re: Correspondence 10.4 - Regional Councillor Jack Heath requested that the Rouge Park Alliance Alliance write to the Federal government regarding the demolition of heritage buildings on the Federal Airport Lands in Pickering. - Councillor Glenn De Baeremaeker informed the Alliance that the City of Toronto has $1.5 Million in its Source Water Protection Fund, which is available for purchasing significant properties in or outside of the City of Toronto. TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 1:05 p.m. on March 23, 2007. Gord Weeden Lewis Yeager Chair, Rouge Park Alliance General Manager, Rouge Park THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES OF MEETING #4/07 nip. Rouge Park ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES - MEETING #4107 - JUNE 15, 2007 The Rouge Park Alliance met in the Main Boardroom of the Toronto Zoo. Gord Weeden, Chair, welcomed everyone and thanked Cal White and Sue Gunton, Toronto Zoo, for hosting the meeting. The Chair called the meeting to order at 9:15 a.m. PRESENT Members: Gord Weeden, Chair Councillor Paul Ainslie, City of Toronto Hon. Pauline Browes, Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corp Councillor David Cohen, Town of Richmond Hill Glenn De Baeremaeker, Save the Rouge Valley System Brad Duguid, MPP, Province of Ontario Regional Councillor Jack Heath, Region of York Derek Lee, MP, Government of Canada Regional Councillor Bonnie Littley, Region of Durham Gerri Lynn O'Connor,TRCA Councillor Erin Shapero, Town of Markham Councillor Clyde Smith, Town of Whitchurch - Stouffville Calvin White, Toronto Zoo ABSENT Members: Councillor Ron Moeser, City of Toronto Councillor Jennifer O'Connell, City of Pickering Staff: Bob Clay, Manager, Natural Heritage Michelle Holmes, Communications Specialist Doreen McCarty, Administrative Coordinator Observers: Kritee Ahmed, Friends of the Rouge Watershed Cat Beattie, Toronto Resident Alternates: Ian Buchanan, Region of York Councillor Raymond Cho, City of Toronto • Ron Dewell, TRCA Sue Gunton, Toronto Zoo Tom Melymuk, City of Pickering Jim Robb, Save the Rouge Valley System Tracy Smith, Province of Ontario Alternates: Nestor Chornobay, Region of Durham Brian Denney, Toronto & Region Conservation Authority Mayor Wayne Emmerson, Town of Whitchurch - Stouffville Tom Farrell, Province of Ontario Adele Freeman, TRCA Mark Graham, Save the Rouge Valley System Inc. Audrey Hollasch, Town of Richmond Hill Councillor Logan Kanapathi, Town of Markham Keith Laushway, Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corp. Councillor Chin Lee, City of Toronto Hon. Dan McTeague, Government of Canada Carolyn Woodland, TRCA Vicki MacDonald, Biologist Maryam Nassar, Manager, Interpretation & Culture Lewis Yeager, General Manager Observers: (Continued...) Ann Forrest, Kirkham's Road Larry Holder, Kirkham's Road Rz3 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 2 of 8 MINUTES of Meeting #4/07, June 15, 2007 Observers: (Continued...) Lois James, Rouge Valley Foundation Colin Lathe, Kirkham's Road Andy McKinnon, Toronto Resident John O'Gorman, Markham Environmental Alliance Colin O'Neill, Friends of the Rouge Watershed Stan Poulton, Kirkham's Road Observers: (Continued...) Patricia Short- GaIIe, Transport Canada Donald B. Smith, Scarborough Resident Elbert van Donkersgoed, GTA Agr. Action Committee Susan Wilson, Kirkham's Road Ken Wright, Kirkham's Road Myrtle Wright, Kirkham's Road R5 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 3 of 8 MINUTES of Meeting #4/07, June 15, 2007 CHAIR'S REMARKS Gord Weeden, Chair, Rouge Park Alliance, introduced Jim Robb as an alternate representative on the Rouge Park Alliance for Save the Rouge Valley System. MINUTES OF MEETING #3/07, March 23, 2007 MOTION: Res. #37/07 Moved by: Gerri Lynn O'Connor Seconded by: Tom Melymuk THAT the Rouge Park Alliance adopt the minutes of Meeting #3107 held on March 23, 2007. BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES None DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST None PRESENTATION /DELEGATION CARRIED Colin Lathe - Re: Kirkham's Road Bridge, City of Toronto Colin Lathe informed the Alliance that the City of Toronto was proposing removal of the bridge on Kirkham's Road. Mr. Lathe referred to a letter from Rouge Park that indicated the Park did not see any strategic advantage of the bridge to the Park, and Rouge Park staff supported the preferred removal option in the Environmental Assessment. Mr. Lathe made a presentation that asked the Alliance to consider changing their position to support reconstruction of the bridge. MOTION: Res. #38/07 Moved by: Sue Gunton Seconded by: Bonnie Littley THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive Mr. Lathe's presentation and refer the matter back to staff to address the issues discussed in the presentation on the Kirkham's Road Bridge, and report back to the Alliance. ACTION - Staff to report back to the Alliance. CARRIED 1. Presentation by Elbert van Donkersgoed - Redefining Agriculture: Local Food & Environmental Services Elbert van Donkersgoed, Executive Director, GTA Agricultural Action Committee (GTAAAC) Elbert van Donkersgoed presented to the Alliance an innovative vision of agriculture that is consistent with the GTA Agricultural Action Plan and suggested it be considered for Rouge Park. Some of its ideas include near -urban agriculture, ( challenges /opportunities /advantages); approach to environmental stewardship, (cost share programs, environmental farm plans, legislation /regulations); and the importance of the food sector to the economy. R 26 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES of Meeting #4/07, June 15, 2007 Page 4 of 8 MOTION: Res. #39/07 Moved by: Brad Duguid Seconded by: Erin Shapero THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive Mr. van Donkersgoed's presentation and refer the issue on near - urban agriculture in the Park to the Rouge Park Policy and Administration Committee and the Markham East Management Plan Team, and report back to the Alliance. CARRIED ACTION - Staff to take appropriate action, and report back to the Alliance. 2. Audited 2006 Financial Statements KEY ISSUE Present the draft audited 2006 Financial Statements. MOTION: Res. #40/07 Moved by: Sue Gunton Seconded by: Pauline Browes THAT the Rouge Park Alliance adopt the audited Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2006. CARRIED 3. Proposed 2007 Budget and Work Plan KEY ISSUE The Rouge Park Finance Committee met on April 30 and June 6, 2007 to review and endorse the proposed work plan and budget for 2007. MOTION: Res. #41 /07 Moved by: Sue Gunton Seconded by: David Cohen THAT the Rouge Park Alliance approve the proposed 2007 work plan and budget; AND FURTHER THAT the Rouge Park Finance Committee meet to develop a 10 -year sustainable strategy for core funding of the Park's programmes and staffing needs in light of rapidly expanding restoration activities. MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED 4. Rouge Park 2006 Annual Report KEY ISSUE Rouge Park 2006 Annual Report, including abridged version of audited financial statements. ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 5 of 8 MINUTES of Meeting #4/07, June 15, 2007 MOTION: Res. #42/07 Moved by: Gerri Lynn O'Connor Seconded by: David Cohen THAT the Rouge Park Alliance approve the 2006 Annual Report. CARRIED 5. Initiating the Heritage Appreciation Visitor Experience (HAVE) Plan Process KEY ISSUE Report of the first meeting for the Technical Advisory Group which will be contributing to the development of our Heritage Appreciation Visitor Experience (HAVE) Plan. MOTION: Res. #43/07 Moved by: Derek Lee Seconded by: Bonnie Littley THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the notes from the first Technical Advisory Group meeting for the Heritage Appreciation Visitor Experience Plan. CARRIED 6. Rouge Park Habitat Restoration Action Plan and 2008 Sites KEY ISSUE 1. Provide update on the development of a long term restoration Action Plan 2. Present and approve project restoration sites for 2008 3. Present and approve a strategy to inform tenants and the community about the development of the Action Plan and potential restoration on currently farmed lands RECOMMENDATION THAT the Rouge Park Alliance support the Park Improvement and Heritage Committee (Heritage Committee) and staff in the development of an Action Plan and agree with the recommended course of action to develop those plans; AND THAT the Rouge Park Alliance approve of the restoration sites for 2008 projects and direct the Heritage Committee and staff to inform delivery partners, arrange for approvals, make site preparations, and solicit project proposals for delivery in 2008; AND FURTHER THAT the Rouge Park Alliance endorse the communications strategy proposed and direct staff and all partners to pursue that strategy. Note: Ian Buchanan, Chair, Park Improvement and Heritage Committee, requested that each recommendation be voted on separately. (t 28 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 6 of 8 MINUTES of Meeting #4/07, June 15, 2007 MOTION: Res. #44/07 Moved by: Sue Gunton Seconded by: Gerri Lynn O'Connor THAT the Rouge Park Alliance support the Park Improvement and Heritage Committee (Heritage Committee) and staff in the development of an Action Plan and agree with the recommended course of action to develop those plans. MOTION: Res. #45/07 Moved by: Derek Lee Seconded by: Tracy Smith CARRIED THAT the Rouge Park Alliance approve of the restoration sites for 2008 projects and direct the Heritage Committee and staff to inform delivery partners, arrange for approvals, make site preparations, and solicit project proposals for delivery in 2008. AMENDMENT MOTION: Res. #46/07 Moved by: Clyde Smith Seconded by: Erin Shapero CARRIED AND FURTHER THAT the Rouge Park Alliance direct staff to circulate by e-mail the draft letter to tenants to the Alliance members for review, and bring back the long -term communications strategy proposed to the Rouge Park Alliance for approval. AMENDMENT CARRIED ACTION - Staff to circulate by e-mail draft letter to tenants to Alliance members for review, and bring back communications strategy to the Alliance for approval. 7. Park Improvement & Heritage Committee Meeting Minutes - March 28 and April 25, 2007 KEY ISSUE Present the actions, recommendations and outcomes of the Park Improvement & Heritage Committee meetings held on March 28 and April 25, 2007. MOTION: Res. #47/07 Moved by: Ian Buchanan Seconded by: Bonnie Littley THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the minutes of the March 28 and April 25, 2007 Park Improvement and Heritage Committee meetings. 8. Provincial Grant of $2 Million CARRIED KEY ISSUE The Ontario Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal, in response to Rouge Park's proposal, has provided the Rouge Park Alliance with a grant of $2 million for specific Park initiatives. Rz1 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 7 of 8 MINUTES of Meeting #4/07, June 15, 2007 MOTION: Res. #48/07 Moved by: Erin Shapero Seconded by: Sue Gunton THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive this report; AND FURTHER THAT the Rouge Park Alliance recognize the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Renewal and the Government of Ontario for their financial contribution to ensure the implementation of the newly - enlarged Rouge Park proceeds in an effective manner. 9. Retention of Consultants to Extend the Draft Little Rouge Corridor Management Plan to the Markham East Lands Dedicated for Rouge Park Purposes CARRIED KEY ISSUE In 2007, the Province of Ontario dedicated an additional 600 hectares of land between the Little Rouge Corridor and York /Durham Townline for Rouge Park purposes. The Park needs to prepare a management plan for this area consistent with the principles used in preparing the draft Little Rouge Corridor Management Plan and the draft Bob Hunter Memorial Park Master Plan. MOTION: Res. #49/07: Moved by: Gerri Lynn O'Connor Seconded by: Tom Melymuk THAT the Rouge Park Alliance endorse the Terms of Reference for the planning study as discussed by Rouge Park and Toronto and Region Conservation Authority staff and the Chair of the Rouge Park Alliance and presented in the attached proposal invited from ENVision The Hough Group; AND FURTHER THAT ENVision The Hough Group be awarded the contract to undertake this work on the basis of the attached proposal. 10. Correspondence MOTION: Res. #50/07: Moved by: Bonnie Littley Seconded by: Tracy Smith CARRIED THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the following correspondence: 1. Letter dated March 23, 2007 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from Hon. David Caplan, Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal, re: Grant of $2 Million for Rouge Park Purposes. 2. Letter dated March 28, 2007 to Hon. Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario, from Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, re: Funding for Rouge Park and Bob Hunter Memorial Park. 3. Letter dated March 29, 2007 to John MacKenzie, Ontario Realty Corporation, from Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, re: Property - 8359 Reesor Road, Markham. 4. Letter dated April 18, 2007 to Hon. Michael Chan, Minister of Revenue, from Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, re: Rouge Park. 5. Letter dated April 19, 2007 to Hon. David Caplan, Minister of Public Infrastructure Renewal, from Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, re: Rouge Park Funding. 6. Letter dated April 19, 2007 to Chairman Bill Fisch, Region of York, from Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, re: Rouge Park. ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 8 of 8 MINUTES of Meeting #4/07, June 15, 2007 7. Letter dated May 28, 2007 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from Kathy Stranks, Toronto & Region Conservation Authority, re: Appointment of Representatives to the Rouge Park Alliance. 8. Letter dated May 28, 2007 to Lewis Yeager, Rouge Park, from Dave Beattie, Earth Tech, re: Upcoming Investigation Work: Geotechnical Subsurface Investigation - York - Durham Southeast Collector Trunk Sewer Individual Environmental Assessment. 9. Letter dated May 30, 2007 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from City Clerk, City of Toronto, re: Village Securities Site Acquisition. 10. Letter dated June 4, 2007 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from Calvin White, Toronto Zoo, re: Future Use of Valley Halla. CARRIED 11. New Business Note dated June 15, 2007 regarding "Big Pipe Concerns" handed out by Jim Robb and presented by Councillor Erin Shapero. MOTION: Res. #51 /07: Moved by: Erin Shapero Seconded by: Bonnie Littley THAT the Rouge Park Alliance request the Region of York to provide the Alliance with any information regarding its water levels monitoring program for the York - Durham Sanitary Sewer Project for 16t Avenue, and the Southeast Collector Trunk Sewer. MOTION: Moved by: Gerri Lynn O'Connor Res. #52/07: Seconded by: Erin Shapero CARRIED THAT the Rouge Park Alliance direct staff to arrange a meeting with Alliance members, Garry Hunter, York Region and other agencies involved in the Southeast Collector and the 16t Avenue portion of the York - Durham Sanitary Sewer (YDSS) Project to discuss water monitoring and concerns as outlined in a handout (Attachment #1) presented by Councillor Erin Shapero on behalf of Jim Robb. CARRIED ACTION - Staff to request information from York Region and set up meeting with Garry Hunter and involved parties to the YDSS Project and invite Rouge Park Alliance members. TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 1:00 p.m. on June 15, 2007. Gord Weeden Lewis Yeager Chair, Rouge Park Alliance General Manager, Rouge Park THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES OF MEETING #5/07 flaw, Rouge Park ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES - MEETING #5/07 - OCTOBER 5, 2007 The Rouge Park Alliance met in the Canada Room, Town of Markham. Gord Weeden, Chair, welcomed everyone and called the meeting to order at 9:05 a.m. PRESENT Members: Gord Weeden, Chair Hon. Pauline Browes, Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corp Councillor David Cohen, Town of Richmond Hill Regional Councillor Jack Heath, Region of York Regional Councillor Bonnie Littley, Region of Durham Councillor Ron Moeser, City of Toronto Councillor Jennifer O'Connell, City of Pickering Gerri Lynn O'Connor, TRCA Councillor Erin Shapero, Town of Markham Councillor Clyde Smith, Town of Whitchurch - Stouffville ABSENT Members: Councillor Paul Ainslie, City of Toronto Glenn De Baeremaeker, Save the Rouge Valley System Brad Duguid, MPP, Province of Ontario Derek Lee, MP, Government of Canada Calvin White, Toronto Zoo Staff: Doreen McCarty, Administrative Coordinator Maryam Nassar, Manager, Interpretation & Culture Lewis Yeager, General Manager Observers: Chris Barber, TRCA John Connolly, Transport Canada Steve Dale, Friends of the Rouge Watershed Lilli Duoba, Town of Markham Alternates: Sue Gunton, Toronto Zoo • Audrey Hollasch, Town of Richmond Hill Councillor Chin Lee, City of Toronto Tom Melymuk, City of Pickering Jim Robb, Save the Rouge Valley System Tracy Smith, Province of Ontario Carolyn Woodland, TRCA Alternates: Ian Buchanan, Region of York Councillor Raymond Cho, City of Toronto Nestor Chornobay, Region of Durham Brian Denney, Toronto & Region Conservation Authority Ron Dewell, TRCA Mayor Wayne Emmerson, Town of Whitchurch - Stouffville Tom Farrell, Province of Ontario Adele Freeman, TRCA Mark Graham, Save the Rouge Valley System Inc. Councillor Logan Kanapathi, Town of Markham Keith Laushway, Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corp. Hon. Dan McTeague, Government of Canada Observers: (Continued...) Greg Ferris, Gartner Lee Ltd. Don Ford, TRCA Dennis Gregor, Gartner Lee Ltd. Tom Hrkac, York Region R31 R32 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 2 of 8 MINUTES of Meeting #5/07, October 5, 2007 Observers: (Continued...) Lois James, Rouge Valley Foundation Colin Lathe, Public Sheila H. Lathe, Kirkhams Road Homeowner Laura McDowell, York Region Andy McKinnon, Toronto Resident Brent Mersey, Markham Conservation Committee Observers: (Continued...) Terry O'Connor, York Foodgrain Project John O'Gorman, Markham Environmental Alliance Colin O'Neill, Friends of the Rouge Watershed Renato Pasqualoni, Public Donald Smith, Scarborough Ray Stukas, City of Toronto Parks R33 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 3 of 8 MINUTES of Meeting #5/07, October 5, 2007 MINUTES OF MEETING #4/07, June 15, 2007 MOTION: Res. #53/07 Moved by: Erin Shapero Seconded by: Bonnie Littley THAT the Rouge Park Alliance adopt the minutes of Meeting #4107 held on June 15, 2007. BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES None DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST None PRESENTATION /DELEGATION None 1. YDSS, 9`h Line & 16`h Avenue Dewatering Influences CARRIED KEY ISSUE An assessment of groundwater levels and stream flows within the Rouge River watershed and the potential ongoing influence of dewatering undertaken for the 9th Line and 16`h Avenue sewer construction requiring further mitigation. MOTION: Moved by: Gerri Lynn O'Connor Res. #54/07 Seconded by: Jennifer O'Connell WHEREAS Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) technical staff advise that they have found no evidence that the York - Durham Sanitary Sewer (YDSS) 16th Avenue or 9th Line projects are currently affecting surface water flows beyond the current area of surface flow supplementation; and WHEREAS TRCA technical staff advise the Rouge Park Alliance that they do not support the use of groundwater to supplement flow beyond the currently approved areas in the existing Permits to Take Water issued to York Region; and WHEREAS TRCA technical staff advise the Rouge Park Alliance that a Tier 1 Water Budget Analysis for all of TRCA's jurisdiction is currently underway, and that there is evidence of potential hydrogeologic stress in the vicinity of the municipal groundwater wells in Stouffville (PW -1 and PW -2) which is expected to lead into a more detailed, Tier 2 Water Budget Analysis for this area; THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT Rouge Park Alliance request TRCA staff to report on the findings of the Tier 1 and Tier 2 (if any) Water Budget Analyses in 2008; AMENDMENT AND FURTHER THAT Rouge Park Alliance recommend to York Region that lake -based water supplies be used for urban centres that are taking groundwater in the Rouge River watershed and that are or will be connected to the YDSS. MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED R 3 L1 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES of Meeting #5/07, October 5, 2007 Page 4 of 8 ACTION MOTION: Res. #55/07 - Rouge Park/TRCA staff to take appropriate action and report back to the Alliance. Moved by: Erin Shapero Seconded by: Bonnie Littley THAT the Rouge Park Alliance direct Rouge Park and Toronto and Region Conservation Authority staff to bring forward a detailed report, including information from Hunter & Associates, Jim Robb, and York Region, with regards to the direct and indirect impacts of the York - Durham Sanitary Sewer 9th Line and 16t Avenue dewatering, outlining the areas of agreement /disagreement at the next Rouge Park Alliance meeting. CARRIED ACTION MOTION: Res. #56/07 - Rouge Park/TRCA staff to take appropriate action, and report back to the Alliance. Moved by: Clyde Smith Seconded by: Jack Heath THAT the Rouge Park Alliance request the Region of York, as part of their upcoming capital budget process, to look at a 3 -year or 4 -year plan to increase the lake -based water supply to the Town of Stouffville with an objective to take the urban area of Stouffville off municipal wells. CARRIED ACTION MOTION: Res. #57/07 - Staff to take appropriate action. Moved by: Clyde Smith Seconded by: Erin Shapero WHEREAS there may be potential long -term negative surface water and /or groundwater impacts occurring within the Rouge River watershed; LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Rouge Park Alliance write a letter to all involved agencies (i.e., Ministry of the Environment, Ministry of Natural Resources, City of Toronto and Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, CTC Watershed Region Source Protection Committee) requesting that the water budget analysis within the Rouge River watershed be given the highest priority and accelerated wherever possible. CARRIED ACTION - Staff to take appropriate action, and report back to the Alliance. 2. Presentation - Town of Richmond Hill Initiatives in the Rouge River Watershed - Audrey Hollasch Presentation postponed to the next Alliance meeting. R35 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 5 of 8 MINUTES of Meeting #5/07, October 5, 2007 3. Natural Heritage Projects & Action Plan Progress Report KEY ISSUE Progress made on the 2007 and 2008 natural heritage projects and Action Plan. MOTION: Moved by: Ron Moeser Res. #58/07 Seconded by: Sue Gunton THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive this progress report on the 2007 and 2008 natural heritage projects and Action Plan. CARRIED PROGRESS REPORT Projects: All 2007 habitat restoration projects funded by Rouge Park have been completed or are underway with expected completions as proposed. Groups are expected to provide final reports on time. Major restoration groups (Rouge Valley Foundation, 10,000 Trees, and Friends of the Rouge Watershed) have all been provided with planting sites for 2008 and are presently preparing plans for submission in the fall round of project approvals. Rouge Park staff have ensured archaeological clearances for Rouge Valley Foundation and 10,000 Trees 2008 areas, although some work remains to be completed once current crops are removed by tenants on areas assigned to Friends of the Rouge Watershed. Minor changes in the project application process have been made and the Park Improvement & Heritage Committee will be reviewing the entire process as part of the Action Plan development this fall. Staff continue to work with delivery partners to smooth the project development and proposal preparations. In addition, Rouge Park staff consulted with the major delivery groups and now all groups have been assigned planting areas that will be available for them to plant from 2009 -201 1. Rouge Park staff have been negotiating access with tenants and have arranged archaeology clearances where appropriate. In some cases, archaeology remains to be completed after crops are harvested. Preliminary negotiations for a similar long term planting area have begun with the City of Toronto's Urban Forestry group that undertakes community involved plantings. A second section of that group has expressed interest in helping Rouge Park plant signature trees along Park roads. Action Plan: Rouge Park staff, with significant field support of TRCA Restoration Services, have prepared site specific habitat prescription plans for all remaining restoration lands south of Steeles Avenue, new restoration lands in the Little Rouge Corridor (LRC) and for sites in the Little Rouge Creek. The drainage, soil map, existing surrounding vegetation, flora /fauna, of each field has been analyzed and verified through field visits. From these, a site capability plan and information sheet for each field has been developed that shows the places in the field that are appropriate to forest, wetland, meadow and riparian habitats. Staff have developed preliminary restoration approaches (management prescriptions) for each of these habitat types through consultation with literature and experiences of habitat delivery groups. Staff have rolled all this information up into an overall Park perspective and from these, staff have proposed preliminary priority areas, very preliminary cost estimates and policy /administrative recommendations that the Park Improvement & Heritage Committee will be deliberating and approving in the next few months. R34 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES of Meeting #5/07, October 5, 2007 Page 6 of 8 Staff, supported by the Alliance Chair, have met with all major tenants in the LRC and Bob Hunter Memorial Park areas of Rouge Park to inform them of the development of this Action Plan as well as seek their input into what areas of their tenancy might be least disruptive to restore first. 4. Park Improvement & Heritage Committee Report KEY ISSUE Present the actions, recommendations and outcomes of the Park Improvement & Heritage Committee meetings held on May 30 and June 20, 2007. MOTION: Res. #59/07 Moved by: Bonnie Littley Seconded by: Jim Robb THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the minutes of the May 30 and June 20, 2007 Park Improvement and Heritage Committee meetings. CARRIED ACTION -Staff to look at tree stock (least or no pesticides); coordinate with Markham Bylaw on pesticides in parks; prepare report on pesticides on invasive species, and report back to the Alliance. 5. Canadian Foodgrains Bank Project KEY ISSUE Support of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank Project in Rouge Park. MOTION: Res. #60/07 Moved by: Erin Shapero Seconded by: Clyde Smith THAT the Rouge Park Alliance support the Canadian Foodgrains Bank Project in Rouge Park; AND FURTHER THAT the Rouge Park Alliance waive the lease fee for the project up to 10 acres annually at an approximate cost of $400.00. AMENDMENT AND FURTHER THAT the Rouge Park Alliance direct staff to discuss opportunities for organic farming practices with the Canadian Foodgrains Bank and for projects within Rouge Park and report back to the Alliance. MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED ACTION - Staff to meet with Canadian Foodgrains Bank to discuss the potential for organic farming and report back to the Alliance. 837- ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES of Meeting #5/07, October 5, 2007 Page 7of8 6. Update - Rouge Park Planning Initiatives KEY ISSUE An update on key Rouge Park planning initiatives. MOTION: Moved by: Gerri Lynn O'Connor Res. #61 /07 Seconded by: Sue Gunton THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the verbal report of the General Manager on the status of current Rouge Park planning initiatives. CARRIED ACTION - Staff to bring draft reports to the next Alliance meeting regarding the Little Rouge Corridor Management Plan and the Bob Hunter Memorial Park Area Master Plan. 7. Rouge Park Alliance Annual General Meeting KEY ISSUE Proposed first Annual General Meeting for the Rouge Park Alliance. MOTION: Res. #62/07 Moved by: Bonnie Littley Seconded by: Sue Gunton THAT the Alliance approve hosting the Rouge Park Alliance Annual General Meeting; AND FURTHER THAT the Rouge Park Alliance direct staff to work with the Chair on the details and report back to the Alliance. CARRIED ACTION - Staff to report back to the Alliance. 8. Kirkhams Road Bridge KEY ISSUE Support for Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (EA) Draft Environmental Study Report: recommendation to remove the derelict Kirkhams Road bridge and restore the site to a natural condition. MOTION: Res. #63/07 THAT this issue be deferred. Moved by: Jennifer O'Connell Seconded by: Erin Shapero MOTION TO DEFER CARRIED R38 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 8 of 8 MINUTES of Meeting #5/07, October 5, 2007 9. Correspondence MOTION: Res. #64/07: Moved by: Jennifer O'Connell Seconded by: Erin Shapero THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the following correspondence: 1. Copy of Letter dated June 28, 2007 to Brad Duguid, MPP, Scarborough Centre, from Hon. David Ramsay, Minister of Natural Resources, re: Recent discharge of toxic chemical into the Rouge River system near Stouffville. 2. Letter dated July 4, 2007 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, from John O'Gorman, re: Agriculture in Rouge Park. 3. Copy of Letter dated August 17, 2007 to Valerie Shuttleworth, Town of Markham, from Carolyn Woodland, TRCA, re: Revised Draft Secondary Plan, Cornell Planning District, Town of Markham, York Region. (Copy of TRCA letter dated September 22, 2006 included). CARRIED 10. New Business MOTION: Res. #65/07: Moved by: Clyde Smith Seconded by: Jim Robb THAT the Rouge Park Alliance write to the Ministry of the Environment and express its concerns about the process of issuing Permits to Take Water and their cumulative effects. ACTION - Staff to write letter to MOE. TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 12:30 p.m. on October 5, 2007. Gord Weeden Lewis Yeager Chair, Rouge Park Alliance General Manager, Rouge Park CARRIED THE TORONTO AND REGION CONSERVATION AUTHORITY ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES OF MEETING #6/07 r-46/ Rouge Park ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES - MEETING #6/07 - NOVEMBER 23, 2007 R39 The Rouge Park Alliance met in the Main Boardroom of the Toronto Zoo. Gord Weeden, Chair, welcomed everyone and thanked Sue Gunton, Toronto Zoo, for hosting the meeting. The Chair called the meeting to order at 9:15 a.m. PRESENT Members: Gord Weeden, Chair Councillor Paul Ainslie, City of Toronto Councillor David Cohen, Town of Richmond Hill Glenn De Baeremaeker, Save the Rouge Valley System Brad Duguid, MPP, Province of Ontario Regional Councillor Jack Heath, Region of York Derek Lee, MP, Government of Canada Councillor Ron Moeser, City of Toronto Councillor Councillor Jennifer O'Connell, City of Pickering Councillor Clyde Smith, Town of Whitchurch- Stouffville ABSENT Members: Hon. Pauline Browes, Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corp. Regional Councillor Bonnie Littley, Region of Durham Gerri Lynn O'Connor, TRCA Councillor Erin Shapero, Town of Markham Calvin White, Toronto Zoo Staff: Bob Clay, Manager, Natural Heritage Michelle Holmes, Communications Specialist Doreen McCarty, Administrative Coordinator Observers: Cat Beattie, Public Participant Tom Boudreault, City of Toronto Parks John Connolly, Transport Canada Colin Lathe, Public Participant Caroline Marshall, ENVision The Hough Group Andy McKinnon, Public Participant Alternates: Ian Buchanan, Region of York Brian Denney, Toronto & Region Conservation Authority Ron Dewell, TRCA Sue Gunton, Toronto Zoo Audrey Hollasch, Town of Richmond Hill Councillor Chin Lee, City of Toronto Jim Robb, Save the Rouge Valley System Tracy Smith, Province of Ontario Carolyn Woodland, TRCA Alternates: Councillor Raymond Cho, City of Toronto Nestor Chornobay, Region of Durham Mayor Wayne Emmerson, Town of Whitchurch - Stouffville Tom Farrell, Province of Ontario Adele Freeman, TRCA Councillor Logan Kanapathi, Town of Markham Keith Laushway, Waterfront Regeneration Trust Corp. Hon. Dan McTeague, Government of Canada Tom Melymuk, City of Pickering Vicki MacDonald, Biologist Maryam Nassar, Manager, Interpretation & Culture Lewis Yeager, General Manager Observers: (Continued...) Eha Naylor, ENVision The Hough Group Colin O'Neill, Friends of the Rouge Watershed Nicole Richards, Student Donald Smith, Scarborough Preservation Panel Alan Wells, Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust R go ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE Page 2 of 5 MINUTES of Meeting #6/07, November 23, 2007 CHAIR'S REMARKS Gord Weeden, Chair, Rouge Park Alliance, congratulated Hon. Brad Duguid on his new position as Minister of Labour for Ontario, and Hon. Pauline Browes, for receiving the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority 2007 Honour Roll Award for her environmental conservation work. He also introduced Alan Wells from the Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust. Councillor Glenn De Baeremaeker informed the Alliance of the City of Toronto recent announcement of the availability of $3 million towards Source Water Protection initiatives. The City will donate up to one -third of the cost of acquiring land in or outside of Toronto for source water protection purposes. MINUTES OF MEETING #5/07, October 5, 2007 MOTION: Moved by: Clyde Smith Res. #66 07 Seconded by: Jennifer O'Connell THAT the Rouge Park Alliance adopt the minutes of Meeting #5/07 held on October 5, 2007. BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES None CARRIED DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST None PRESENTATION /DELEGATION 1. Presentation by Audrey Hollasch, Director, Parks Development and Design, Richmond Hill Audrey Hollasch presented to the Alliance some of the Town of Richmond Hill's Parks, Recreation and Culture initiatives and programs in the Rouge River watershed. She elaborated on some key issues, such as the Town's population growth, cultural diversity, parks and open space acquisitions, natural heritage system, significant flora and fauna, leisure trends, natural heritage strategy, open space operations and maintenance plan, pesticide reduction strategy, tree preservation strategy, healthy yards program, recreation programs, linkages /trail systems for recreation and transportation, signage and restoration, etc. MOTION: Moved by: Glenn De Baeremaeker Res. #67/07 Seconded by: Paul Ainslie THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the presentation by the Town of Richmond Hill on its initiatives and programs in the Rouge River watershed. CARRIED 2. Presentation by Eha Naylor, ENVision The Hough Group - Draft Final Little Rouge Corridor Management Plan and Draft Bob Hunter Memorial Park Area Master Plan Eha Naylor gave a presentation on the Little Rouge Corridor Management Plan and Bob Hunter Memorial Park Area Master Plan. She also updated the Alliance on the work underway for the Little Rouge East Management Plan. R 4,�_ ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES of Meeting #6/07, November 23, 2007 Page 3 of 5 MOTION: Res. #68/07 Moved by: Carolyn Woodland Seconded by: Tracy Smith THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the presentation on the Little Rouge Corridor Management Plan, the Bob Hunter Memorial Park Area Master Plan, and the ongoing Little Rouge East Management Plan; AND THAT the Rouge Park Alliance release the draft final Little Rouge Corridor Management Plan and Bob Hunter Memorial Park Area Master Plan to its member organizations for review and their endorsement by March 31, 2008; AND FURTHER THAT the Little Rouge Corridor Steering Committee be continued and given the task of overseeing the preparation of the Little Rouge East Management Plan. MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED ACTION MOTION: Res. #69/07 - Staff to coordinate responses and report back to the Alliance. Moved by: Glenn De Baeremaeker Seconded by: Jennifer O'Connell THAT the Rouge Park Alliance direct the Chair to write thank -you letters to the Provincial Ministers and appropriate agencies for their contribution to Rouge Park. ACTION MOTION: Res. #70/07 - Staff to write letters. Moved by: Ron Moeser Seconded by: Audrey Hollasch CARRIED THAT the Rouge Park Alliance direct staff to ensure that the process to extend the trail system for Rouge Park includes public consultation and report back to the Alliance. ACTION - Staff to report back to the Alliance. 3. Redevelopment of Rouge Park Corporate Web Site KEY ISSUE Redevelopment of Rouge Park corporate web site: www.rougepark.com. MOTION: Moved by: Clyde Smith Res. #71/07 Seconded by: Jennifer O'Connell CARRIED THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the report on the redevelopment of our corporate web site. CARRIED ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES of Meeting #6/07, November 23, 2007 4. Park Improvement & Heritage Committee Meeting Minutes - September 19, 2007 KEY ISSUE Present the actions, recommendations and outcomes of the Park Improvement & Heritage Committee meeting held on September 19, 2007. Page 4 of 5 NOTE: Jim Robb, alternate for Save the Rouge Valley System Inc., was not a part of this discussion. MOTION: Moved by: Ian Buchanan Res. #72/07 Seconded by: Sue Gunton THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the minutes of the September 19, 2007 Park Improvement and Heritage Committee meeting. CARRIED Note: Ian Buchanan thanked the City of Toronto representatives and informed the Alliance that the City of Toronto, at their own expense, undertook the planting of an area of the Glen Eagles Vista. 5. Correspondence MOTION: Res. #73/07: Moved by: Clyde Smith Seconded by: Ron Moeser THAT the Rouge Park Alliance receive the following correspondence: 1. Letter dated October 2, 2007 to Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance /Lewis Yeager, Rouge Park, from Beth Williston, TRCA, re: YDSS - 9th Line and 16`h Avenue Sewer Construction - Dewatering Influences. 2. Letter dated October 9, 2007 to Erwin Massiah, ORC, from Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance /Brian Denney, TRCA, re: Rouge Park - Markham East Lands. 3. Copy of Letter dated October 17, 2007 to George Kelava, from Gerri Lynn O'Connor, TRCA, re: Former ORC Property, 7833 Reesor Road, Markham. 4. Letter dated October 19, 2007 to Lewis Yeager, Rouge Park, from Denis Kelly, York Region, re: Draft Pedestrian and Cycling Master Plan for Public Review. 5. Letter dated October 19, 2007 to Lewis Yeager, Rouge Park, from Denis Kelly, York Region, re: Pedestrian and Cycling Municipal Partnership Program, Selection of 2007 and 2008 Projects. 6. Copy of Letter dated October 29, 2007 to Catherine Riggall, University of Toronto, from Phil Goodwin, Don Watershed Regeneration Council, re: David Dunlap Observatory Property, Town of Richmond Hill. 7. Letter dated November 15, 2007 to Hon. John Gerretsen, Minister of the Environment, from Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, re: Rouge Park and Watershed Ground Water Protection and Permits to Take Water. 8. Letter dated November 15, 2007 to Mr. Bill Fisch, Region of York, from Gord Weeden, Rouge Park Alliance, re: Capital Budget Process - Lake -based Water Supply to the Town of Whitchurch- Stouffville. ACTION CARRIED - Tracy Smith requested that the issue of Permit to Take Water, in relation with other partners' roles in dealing with this, be brought back to the Alliance for discussion. Rq3 ROUGE PARK ALLIANCE MINUTES of Meeting #6/07, November 23, 2007 Page 5 of 5 6. New Business None TERMINATION ON MOTION, the meeting terminated at 12:20 p.m. on November 23, 2007. Gord Weeden Lewis Yeager Chair, Rouge Park Alliance General Manager, Rouge Park