MINUTES - Council - 20101123 TOWN OF AURORA
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
NO. 10-26
Council Chambers
Aurora Town Hall
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
ATTENDANCE
COUNCIL MEMBERS Mayor Morris in the Chair; Councillors Buck (arrived
at 7:07 p.m.), Collins-Mrakas, Gaertner, Gallo,
Granger, McRoberts and Wilson
MEMBERS ABSENT Councillor MacEachern
OTHER ATTENDEES Chief Administrative Officer, Director of Customer and
Legislative Services/Town Clerk, Director of Legal
Services/Town Solicitor, Director of Building and By-
law Services, Director of Parks and Recreation
Services, Director of Planning and Development
Services, Director of Infrastructure and Environmental
Services, Director of Corporate and Financial
Services/Treasurer, and Council/Committee Secretary
Mayor Morris called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
I DECLARATIONS OF PECUNIARY INTEREST
Councillor Collins-Mrakas declared an interest in Item 7(6) as a family member is
employed at Magna.
II APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Moved by Councillor McRoberts Seconded by Councillor Gallo
THAT the agenda as circulated by the Customer and Legislative Services
Department be approved with the following additions:
Delegation (a) and PowerPoint Presentation from Isobel M. Ralston
& Jan Oudenes
Re: Tree Removal in Aurora
Correspondence from Dan and Kate Revington
Re: Item 6 – Memorandum from Mayor Morris
Letter from the York Region District School Board
CARRIED
III OPEN FORUM
Sher St. Kitts expressed great respect for Council and thanked them for all of
their support over the last four years. She noted that the Canada Day Parade has
grown along with many other wonderful events and activities in Aurora.
Charles Sequeira, President, and Ruth Church, Treasurer, both of the Aurora
Seniors Association, presented the Director of Corporate and Financial
Minutes of Council Meeting
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Page 2 of 8
Services/Treasurer with a cheque in the amount of $8,632 representing the final
payment remaining from the Association’s loan in 2004. Mr. Sequeira thanked
the Mayor and Council for their support and co-operation during the past four
years. Ron Coe, Director of the Seniors Woodshop, presented Mayor Morris with
a hand-crafted pen in appreciation of her support in the past events at the
Seniors Centre.
IV ADOPTION OF MINUTES
Council Minutes of Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Granger
THAT the Council Minutes of Tuesday, September 28, 2010 be adopted
as printed and circulated.
CARRIED
Special Council Minutes of Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Granger
THAT the Special Council Minutes of Tuesday, November 2, 2010 be
adopted as printed and circulated.
CARRIED
V PRESENTATIONS
(a) Recognition of Members of Council 2006-2010
The Chief Administrative Officer, Neil Garbe, thanked all of the members of
Council for their dedicated service to the Town of Aurora and extended his high
regard for the office they held. He noted that as a public servant he felt it was a
privilege and honour to participate in the democratic process that many people
sacrificed their lives to uphold. Mr. Garbe thanked the veterans for fighting to
preserve the freedoms that we have today and thanked Council for their
willingness to participate in this living representation of the liberty we all enjoy.
Mr. Garbe presented tokens of appreciation to the Mayor and outgoing Council
members and noted their individual accomplishments throughout their term of
Council.
He stated that Councillor Wilson has served the residents of Aurora as a member
of the Aurora Public Library Board and Economic Development Advisory
Committee, and as Chair of the Joint Council Committee – Central York Fire
Services, and that Councillor Wilson’s leadership role as the Chair of the Joint
Council Committee enhanced the partnership with the Town of Newmarket.
Mr. Garbe then noted the formal involvement of Councillor Granger with the
Town including membership on the Economic Advisory Committee, Leisure
Services Advisory Committee, Traffic Safety Advisory Committee, and the Ad
Hoc Arts and Culture Advisory Committee, and his role as Council’s appointed
Liaison to the Aurora Farmers’ Market. He also noted that Councillor Granger
was a tireless contributor to the life of this community.
Mr. Garbe recognized Councillor MacEachern‘s passion for the environment
which was reflected in her formal capacities with the Town of Aurora and beyond.
He said that she had faithfully served on the Economic Development Advisory
Minutes of Council Meeting
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Page 3 of 8
Committee, Environmental Advisory Committee, Leisure Services Advisory
Committee, Official Plan Review Steering Committee, the 2C Secondary Plan
Steering Committee, and Ad-Hoc Master Recreation Plan task force. Mr. Garbe
noted that in addition to this impressive list, she also served as York Region’s
appointee to the Lake Simcoe Conservation Authority where she held the
position of Chair of the Ad-Hoc Sheppard’s Bush Steering Committee.
Mr. Garbe commented that Councillor Collins-Mrakas had served the residents of
Aurora in her official capacities on the Aurora Public Library Board, the Heritage
Advisory Committee, and the Graffiti Abatement Committee. He also spoke of
her contributions to this community through her work with Warm Hands, Warm
Heart, making mittens for children who don’t have this basic item of clothing,
demonstrating Councillor Collins-Mrakas kind heart and desire to make a
tangible impact on the lives of those less fortunate.
Mr. Garbe next acknowledged Councillor and Deputy Mayor McRoberts as a
thoughtful, patient and caring man. He noted that these attributes carried forward
in his roles on the Accessibility Advisory Committee, Heritage Advisory
Committee, and the Leisure Services Advisory Committee. Mr. Garbe noted that
Councillor and Deputy Mayor McRoberts showed his caring nature in the
leadership role that he played in the annual Salvation Army Kettle Drive.
Lastly, Mr. Garbe recognized Mayor Morris’ passion to this community since
1994. He noted that as an ex-officio on all of the Town Advisory Committees,
Mayor Morris showed up at most of the meetings as well. Mr. Garbe stated that
additionally, as the Mayor and Aurora’s representative on York Region Council,
she was also active as Vice Chair on the Region’s Audit Committee as well as
having membership on the Region’s Finance and Administration, Health and
Emergency Medical Services, Planning and Economic Development, and the
Solid Waste Committees. Mr. Garbe noted that Mayor Morris accepted the
Minister’s appointment to the Lake Simcoe Stakeholders Advisory Committee
which looked at restoring and creating a sustainable future for that treasure in
York Region. He noted that Mayor Morris also chaired the Official Plan Review
Committee, the 2C Secondary Plan Steering Committee, and the Yonge
Wellington–Aurora Promenade Committee. Mr. Garbe remarked on Mayor
Morris’ love for the Town of Aurora and that she was one of its biggest boosters!
(b) Nicole Williams, Sponsorship/Special Events Asst.
Re: Platinum Sponsor Recognition
Nicole Williams, Sponsorship/Special Events Assistant, thanked the Town of
Aurora’s 2010 Platinum level event sponsors. She noted that each Platinum
sponsor has made an invaluable contribution to the overall success of the Town
of Aurora’s Special Events in 2010. Ms Williams stated that the exceptional
attendance levels were achieved by the investments made by the Platinum
sponsors and that each year, tens of thousands of residents participated in the
Town of Aurora’s menu of events.
Mayor Morris advised that it is partly due to the generous contributions each of
these sponsors that has enabled the Town of Aurora the opportunity to provide
events that created quality time and lasting memories shared with family and new
friends.
Ms Williams and Mayor Morris noted that Bell Canada has supported events
within the Town of Aurora since 2003, with over $25,000 in contributions;
Cineplex Odeon Aurora Cinemas has been a sponsorship partner since 2004
and through their continued support have helped to enhance and provide
entertainment opportunities for this community at no cost; and Aurora Home
Hardware Building Centre was recognized for contributing over $30,000 in the
past eight years that has enabled families to enjoy events throughout the year.
Minutes of Council Meeting
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Page 4 of 8
Ms Williams noted that some of these Patinum-sponsored events include
Canada Day, Concerts and Movies in the Park, Ribfest, Haunted Forest, Tree
Lighting and Santa Under the Stars Parade. She thanked the Platinum sponsors
and recognized their invaluable contributions to the Town of Aurora.
(c) Mr. Lorne Merkur
Re: Arts and Culture Grant Presentations
Mr. Lorne Merkur and Mayor Morris presented the 2010 Arts and Culture Grants
to the following recipients;
• Mary Frances Turner on behalf of the Aurora Scottish Country
Dancers
• Flo Murray on behalf of the Aurora Seniors Book Club
• Sheila Ghazarian on behalf of the Aurora Seniors Art Group
• Bud Switzer on behalf of the Auroa Seniors Evergreen Choir
• Bud Switzer on behalf of the Aurora Seniors Silver Start Drama
Club
• Agnes Ballejo on behalf of the Aurora St. Andrews Scottish Country
Dance Group
• Susan Walmer on behalf of the Aurora Community Heritage Fair
• Catherine Richards and Suzanne Reiner on behalf of the Aurora
Historical Society
• Marco Ramunno on behalf of Doors Open Aurora
• Marco Ramunno on behalf of the Heritage Advisory Committee
Wooden Interpretive Plaque Program for Heritage Buildings
• Rand Houghton on behalf of Writers Springboard
• Herbert Pryke on behalf of Artcures Inc.
• Deborah Campo – Artist
• Tahmineh Farbod on behalf of the Aurora Iranian-Canadian Seniors
Group
• Sheena Griffith on behalf of Pine Tree Potters Guild Empty Bowls
Project
• Katherine Toksoy on behalf of Pandora’s Box Salon
• Anne Currie O’Brien on behalf of Theatre Aurora
• Jaime Leigh Gianopolous on behalf of Wake Up 2 Life
• Bill Vetch on behalf of White Heather Pipes and Drums
The York Region Media Group Celebration of the Arts and the Aurora Writers
Group representatives were unable to attend but will be receiving their grants in
the mail.
One of the recipients noted that the late Mr. David Merkur established this fund
that has provided many citizens and organizations invaluable financial assistance
to promote and enrich cultural and artistic activities within the Town of Aurora.
(d) Welcome Wagon Presentation
Re: 2009 Community of the Year
Mary Jo Williams, a representative of the Welcome Wagon along with other team
members, presented Mayor Morris with a plaque commemorating the Town of
Aurora as the 2009 Welcome Wagon Community of the Year for the 35,000 to
60,000 residents division. She noted that the Town of Aurora had been awarded
this honour in years past as well.
Minutes of Council Meeting
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Page 5 of 8
VI PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mayor Morris advised that Mr. Ben Kestein has donated a painting entitled, “It’s
For the Birds”, to be displayed at Town Hall as a silent auction item. Residents
are encouraged to bid on this painting and proceeds will be used to help anyone
in need within the community. Mayor Morris thanked Mr. Kestein for his
generosity.
Mayor Morris noted that the Santa Claus parade is being held this Saturday. The
Director of Parks and Recreation Services informed Council and those in
attendance that Santa Claus is coming to Town this Saturday, November 27
commencing at 6:00 p.m. at Orchard Heights Drive and is moving south along
Yonge Street. He stated that public notices have been issued regarding some
road closures to accommodate the parade and invited one and all to come out
and celebrate the holiday season.
Mayor Morris stated that the Aurora Farmers’ Market & Artisan Fair Holiday
Edition is being held this Saturday, November 27, at the Aurora Cultural Centre
from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. She also noted there would be an Art Show and
Sale called “Facets of Nature” by Marianne Broome at the Aurora Cultural Centre
commencing November 26 until December 22, Tuesdays through Saturdays,
from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.
VII DETERMINATION OF ITEMS REQUIRING SEPARATE DISCUSSION
Items 5, 6, and 7 were identified for discussion.
VIII ADOPTION OF ITEMS NOT REQUIRING SEPARATE DISCUSSION
Items 1, 2, 3, and 4 were identified as items not requiring separate discussion.
Moved by Councillor Gaertner Seconded by Councillor Granger
THAT the following recommendations respecting the matters listed as
“Items Not Requiring Separate Discussion” be adopted as submitted to
Council and staff be authorized to take all necessary action required to
give effect to same:
1. BBS10-013 – Request for Sign Variance to Sign By-law No. 4898-07.P
THAT Council approve a request for sign variance to increase the
maximum permitted sign area from 10 square metres to 14.6 square
metres for the Wellington St. entry sign located at 650-676 Wellington St.
East.
2. CFS10-032 – Cancellation, Reduction or Refund of Property Taxes
Under Section 354, 357 and 358 of the Municipal Act
THAT a meeting in accordance with Sections 354, 357 and 358 of the
Municipal Act, 2001 be held in respect of the application made by the
Treasurer and the owners listed in this report at which applicants may
make representations to Council; and
THAT property taxes in the amount of $19,896.15 be adjusted pursuant to
Section 354 of the Municipal Act, 2001; and
THAT property taxes in the amount of $36,032.42 be adjusted pursuant to
Section 357 of the Municipal Act, 2001; and
Minutes of Council Meeting
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Page 6 of 8
THAT property taxes in the amount of $10,016.38 be adjusted pursuant to
Section 358 of the Municipal Act, 2001; and
THAT the associated interest if applicable be cancelled in proportion to the
Property Taxes adjusted; and
THAT the Director of Corporate & Finance Services, Treasurer be directed
to remove said property taxes from the Collector’s Roll to reflect these
Property Tax Adjustments.
3. CFS10-039 – Authorization to Execute Banking Agreement – Safety Deposit
Box
THAT the Corporation lease a safety deposit box from TD Canada Trust;
and
THAT the Treasurer is hereby authorized to sign and execute on behalf of
the Town such contracts, agreements and documents for such purpose,
upon such terms and conditions and for such rental, all as may be
required by the bank; and
THAT TD Canada Trust is authorized to allow the Treasurer, or those
employees so delegated in writing by the Treasurer, to have access to and
control of the safety deposit box rented by the Town from the bank.
4. CFS10-040 – Capital Projects Financial Position Report as of August 31,
2010
THAT report CFS10-040 be received from management; and
THAT the project closures and capital funding adjustments outlined in
Attachments #1 and #2, as summarized in Attachment #3 be approved.
CARRIED
IX DELEGATIONS
(a) Isobel M. Ralston and Jan Oudenes
Re: Tree Removal in Aurora
Mr. Jan Oudenes stated that he and Ms Isobel Ralston have been residents of
Aurora since 1993 and that they have become concerned over the sustained tree
cutting at the Beacon Hall Golf Club. He noted that the current tree permit
process lacks transparency and that there is no public notification or long-term
assessment plan due to the exclusion of golf courses from the tree permit
process. Mr. Oudenes presented photographs of the trees currently designated
to be cut and requested that Council consider strengthening the by-law and
public information process to save the destruction of more trees in the future. He
also noted that he and Ms Ralston would be meeting with Ian Buchanan of York
Region on November 24, 2010.
Moved by Councillor Buck Seconded by Councillor Gaertner
THAT Council receive and refer the delegation to staff.
CARRIED
Minutes of Council Meeting
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Page 7 of 8
X CONSIDERATION OF ITEMS REQUIRING SEPARATE DISCUSSION
Mayor Morris relinquished the Chair to Deputy Mayor McRoberts at 8:32 p.m.
5. CLS10-027 – Amendment to the September 14, 2010 Council Minutes
Moved by Councillor Granger Seconded by Councillor Gaertner
THAT the Council minutes of the September 14, 2010 meeting be
amended to reflect that Mayor Morris left the meeting at 1:10 a.m. and that
Deputy Mayor McRoberts was in the Chair when open session
reconvened at 1:11 a.m.
CARRIED
Mayor Morris resumed the Chair at 8:43 p.m.
6. Memorandum from Mayor Morris
Re: Wells Street Public School
Letter from the York Region District School Board
Moved by Councillor Gaertner Seconded by Councillor Granger
THAT Council receive the memorandum from Mayor Morris regarding the
Wells Street Public School; and
THAT Council refer the matter to the incoming Council for
consideration.
CARRIED
Moved by Councillor McRoberts Seconded by Councillor Wilson
THAT Council receive and refer the correspondence from Dan and Kate
Revington to the incoming Council for consideration.
CARRIED
7. Memorandum from the Chief Administrative Officer
Re: Status Update
Moved by Councillor McRoberts Seconded by Councillor Wilson
THAT Council receive the Status Update memorandum from the Chief
Administrative Officer.
CARRIED
XI REGIONAL REPORT
None
XII NEW BUSINESS/GENERAL INFORMATION – COUNCILLORS
None
Minutes of Council Meeting
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Page 8 of 8
XIII CLOSED SESSION AGENDA
None
XIV READING OF BY-LAWS
Moved by Councillor Wilson Seconded by Councillor Granger
THAT the following listed by-laws be given 1st, 2nd and 3rd readings, and
enacted:
5290-10 BEING A BY-LAW to amend By-law
Numbers 5108-09.H and 5216-10 to
appoint a Building Inspector, a Municipal
By-law Enforcement Officer, and a Property
Standards Officer.
5291-10 BEING A BY-LAW to Confirm Actions by
Council Resulting from Council Meeting
10-26 on November 23, 2010
CARRIED
Mayor Morris relinquished the Chair to Deputy Mayor McRoberts at 8:47 p.m.
XV ADJOURNMENT
Moved by Mayor Morris
THAT the meeting be adjourned at 8:48 p.m.
CARRIED
THE MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETING 10-26 WERE APPROVED AT COUNCIL ON
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2010.
_______________________________ ________________________________
GEOFFREY DAWE, MAYOR JOHN D. LEACH, TOWN CLERK