MINUTES - Council - 20200623
Town of Aurora
Council Meeting Minutes
Video Conference
Tuesday, June 23, 2020
Attendance
Council Members Mayor Mrakas in the Chair; Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson
Members Absent None
Other Attendees Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer, Robin McDougall,
Director of Community Services, Techa van Leeuwen, Director of
Corporate Services, Rachel Wainwright-van Kessel, Director of
Finance, Allan Downey, Director of Operations, David Waters,
Director of Planning and Development Services, Michelle Outar,
Acting Manager of Corporate Communications, Patricia De Sario,
Town Solicitor, Michael de Rond, Town Clerk, Ishita Soneji,
Council/Committee Coordinator
This meeting was held electronically as per Section 20.1 of the Town's Procedure By-
law No. 6228-19, as amended, due to the COVID-19 State of Emergency.
The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.
Council consented to recess the meeting at 9:01 p.m. and resumed the meeting at 9:08
p.m.
1. Approval of the Agenda
Moved by Councillor Humfryes
Seconded by Councillor Thompson
That the agenda as circulated by Legislative Services, including Delegation (c) and
the additional item, be approved:
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 2 of 23
• Delegation (c) Suzanne Lytle, Crossing Guard at Aurora Heights Public School
(written delegation); Re: Item R1 – PDS20-049 – Capital Project No. 34626 –
Sidewalk Construction on Kitimat Crescent Proposed Capital Budget Increase
• Item R4 – CMS20-018 – Pandemic Recovery Planning – Update
On a two-thirds majority vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 6 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gallo, Gilliland, Humfryes, Kim,
and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: None
Absent: Councillor Gaertner
2. Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
There were no declarations of pecuniary interest under the Municipal Conflict of
Interest Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. M.50.
3. Community Presentations
None
4. Delegations
(a) Rebecca Beaton, Resident
Re: Item S2(R2) – CS20-014 – Electoral System Review – Final Report
Ms. Beaton spoke in opposition to the ward options noting that more people
voted against the question on the ballot during the 2014 Municipal Election
regarding the ward system and inquired if the question could be put back on
the ballot during the 2022 Municipal Election before considering a ward
system.
Moved by Councillor Thompson
Seconded by Councillor Humfryes
That the comments of the delegation be received.
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
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Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 3 of 23
Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: None
Absent: None
(b) Klaus Wehrenberg, Resident
Re: Motion (a) Councillor Gallo, Re: Trail Crossings
Mr. Wehrenberg spoke in support of Motion (a) and emphasized the
importance of maintaining walkability and access to trails and noted the
impacts caused by the Metrolinx rail expansion project. He requested that the
Town emphasize the priority crossings as outlined in the Town’s Trails Master
Plan to Metrolinx.
Moved by Councillor Humfryes
Seconded by Councillor Gaertner
That the comments of the delegation be received and referred to Motion (a).
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: None
Absent: None
(c) Suzanne Lytle, Resident (written delegation)
Re: Item R1 – PDS20-049 – Capital Project No. 34626 – Sidewalk
Construction on Kitimat Crescent Proposed Budget Increase
Ms. Lytle submitted a written delegation in support of the staff
recommendation requesting that the sidewalk construction budget increase
be approved.
Moved by Councillor Thompson
Seconded by Councillor Gilliland
That the comments of the written delegation be received and be referred to
Item R1.
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 4 of 23
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: None
Absent: None
5. Consent Agenda
Moved by Councillor Gaertner
Seconded by Councillor Kim
That the following Consent Agenda items, C1 to C3 inclusive, be approved:
C1. Council Meeting Minutes of May 26 , 2020
1. That the Council meeting minutes of May 26, 2020, be adopted as
circulated.
C2. Council Public Planning Meeting Minutes of June 9, 2020
1. That the Council Public Planning meeting minutes of June 9, 2020, be
adopted as circulated.
C3. Memorandum from Councillor Gaertner
Re: Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority Board Meeting
Highlights of April 24, 2020
1. That the memorandum regarding Lake Simcoe Region Conservation
Authority Board Meeting Highlights of April 24, 2020, be received for
information.
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: None
Absent: None
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 5 of 23
6. Standing Committee Reports
Moved by Councillor Humfryes
Seconded by Councillor Thompson
1. That the Standing Committee meeting reports, S1 to S3, be received and the
recommendations carried by the Committee approved, with the exception of
sub-items S2(R1 & R2), S2(R4) and S2(R9), which were discussed and voted
on separately as recorded below.
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: None
Absent: None
S1. General Committee Meeting Report of June 2, 2020
(C1) Memorandum from Councillor Gaertner
Re: Resolution from City of Kitchener, Re: Universal Basic Income
1. That the memorandum regarding Resolution from City of Kitchener
regarding Universal Basic Income be received for information.
Carried
(R1) CS20-001 – Fence By-law Exemption Request – 203 St. John’s
Sideroad West
1. That Report No. CS20-001 be received; and
2. That an exemption to the Town’s Fence By-law No. 4753-05.P to
permit a non-compliant fence in the front and side yard at 203 St.
John’s Sideroad West, be refused; and
3. That an exemption to the Town’s Fence By-law No. 4753-05.P to
permit the non-compliant wrought iron gate with a height exceeding
2.0 metres, be approved, and the amending by-law be brought
forward at a future date for enactment.
Carried
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 6 of 23
(R2) PDS20-005 – Aurora Heights Public School Student Safety Plan
1. That Report No. PDS20-005 be received; and
2. That the student safety plan for Aurora Heights Public School
comprise of the following elements:
(a) A layby lane on the east side of Tecumseh Drive along the
frontage of the school, subject to the York Region District School
Board transferring property and/or easements at no cost to the
Town; and
(b) Prohibit parking at all times on the south and east sides of
Kitimat Crescent from a point nine metres south of the beginning
of the curb return to a point nine metres east of the end of the
curb return adjacent to 25 Kitimat Crescent; and
3. That prior to the project being included in the 2021 Capital Budget,
the York Region District School Board be asked to pay for the design
and construction in the amount of $125,000, subject to
recommendation 2(a); and
4. That the following be referred to staff for consideration, subject to the
approval of layby lane on Tecumseh Drive:
(a) Temporarily make Kitimat Crescent a one-way west/south bound
street until the completion of the layby lane, and the necessary
signage be installed from the project budget; and
(b) Upon completion of the Tecumseh layby project, a traffic study
be undertaken in the area during peak school drop-off/pick-up
times to determine if the temporary one-way street restriction on
Kitimat should remain long term or be lifted, and that such traffic
study include a period of at least two weeks of two-way traffic on
Kitimat for purposes of the study; and
5. That staff and the working group ask the York Region District School
Board to consider rearranging the school bus and parent pick-up and
drop-off points (Option C), should the layby lane be approved.
Carried
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Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 7 of 23
(R3) PDS20-034 – Assessment on Various Options to Support Existing
Traffic Calming Measures on Centre Street
1. That Report No. PDS20-034 be received; and
2. That Option ‘C’ be implemented by installing signage on Centre
Street at Yonge Street advising that Centre Street is not a through
street.
Carried
(R4) CS20-012 – Transfer of Part III Prosecutions from the Province
1. That Report No. CS20-012 be received; and
2. That the attached resolution be approved to delegate authority to The
Regional Municipality of York to enter into agreements with the
Province, on behalf of the Town, that will amend the Memorandum of
Understanding and the Local Side Agreement and transfer
prosecutions of certain Part III offences under the Provincial Offences
Act to the Region.
Carried
(R5) PDS20-035 – Approval for Capital Project No. 42810 – Climate
Change Adaptation Plan
1. That Report No. PDS20-035 be received; and
2. That this report satisfy Council’s conditional budget approval for
Capital Project No. 42810 – Climate Change Adaptation Plan, in the
amount of $100,000.
Carried
S2. General Committee Meeting Report of June 16, 2020
(C1) Memorandum from Mayor Mrakas
Re: Letter from Canadian Wireless Telecommunications
Association (CWTA), Re: The Benefits and Safety of 5G
1. That the memorandum regarding Letter from Canadian Wireless
Telecommunications Association (CWTA) regarding the Benefits and
Safety of 5G, be received for information.
Carried
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 8 of 23
(A1) Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of June 1, 2020
1. That the Heritage Advisory Committee meeting minutes of June 1,
2020, be received for information.
Carried
(R1) CS20-013 – Pros and Cons of Ward and At-large Electoral Systems
(R2) CS20-014 – Electoral System Review – Final Report
Moved by Councillor Thompson
Seconded by Councillor Humfryes
1. That Report Nos. CS20-013 and CS20-014 be received; and
2. That the six (6) ward option presented by the Consultant be adopted
and implemented for the 2022 Municipal Election; and
3. That a by-law be brought forward to a future Council meeting to enact
the ward system.
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 4 Nays: 3
Voting Yeas: Councillors Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson,
Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: Councillors Gaertner, Gilliland, and Gallo
Absent: None
(R3) CMS20-012 – Library Square – Governance Review
1. That Report No. CMS20-012 be received; and
2. That the Not-for-Profit/Municipal Hybrid Model be approved as the
governance model for the future operation of Library Square; and
3. That staff work with stakeholders to develop a fees and charges
schedule for Library Square and report back to Council at a later
date; and
4. That the Director of Community Services form a Space Allocation
Working Group comprised of Town staff and key stakeholders that
will provide recommendations regarding rental and booking
responsibilities for Library Square, including all spaces at 22 Church
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 9 of 23
St. School, the New Addition, Outdoor Square, Bridge and Aurora
Public Library; and
5. That the Director of Community Services form a Collaborative
Programming Working Group comprised of Town staff and key
stakeholders that will provide recommendations regarding program
delivery strategies and create a programming and performance
schedule for Year 1 and Year 2 of Library Square operations; and
6. That the Director of Community Services form an Information
Technology Working Group comprised of Town staff and key
stakeholders that will provide recommendations regarding the
delivery of IT Services for Library Square, including all spaces at 22
Church Street School, the New Addition, Outdoor Square, Bridge and
Aurora Public Library.
Carried
(R4) CMS20-014 – Hallmark Lands: Request for Information and User
Group Survey Results
Moved by Councillor Gilliland
Seconded by Councillor Humfryes
1. That Report No. CMS20-014 be received; and
2. That the Director of Operational Services be authorized to commence
the tendering process for 100 Vandorf Sideroad and proceed with
Capital Project No. 73287 as previously presented; and
3. That staff report back to Council with an updated budget request prior
to awarding the contract, if required.
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 5 Nays: 2
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gilliland, Humfryes, Kim, and
Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: Councillors Gaertner and Gallo
Absent: None
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 10 of 23
(R5) FIN20-017 – 2020 User Rate Funded Operations Forecast Update –
as of April 30, 2020
1. That Report No. FIN20-017 be received; and
2. That the Town’s present ‘break-even’ water, wastewater and storm
water rates be maintained for the remainder of the year; and
3. That a by-law to extend the Town’s ‘break-even’ water, wastewater
and storm water rates be brought to the June 23, 2020 Council
meeting for approval.
Carried
(R6) OPS20-010 – Award of Tender for Supply and Delivery of One (1)
2021 Combination Dump, Sander and Plow Truck
1. That Report No. OPS20-010 be received; and
2. That the total approved budget for Capital Project No. 34440 be
increased to $263,900, representing an increase of $23,900 to be
funded from the Fleet Repair and Replacement Reserve.
Carried
(R7) PDS20-032 – Revoking Servicing Allocation
1. That Report No. PDS20-032 be received; and
2. That water and sewage capacity previously allocated to the following
Site Plan Application be extended for one year:
(i) Site Plan Application File SP-2018-03 at 15086-15106 Yonge
Street; and
3. That water and sewage capacity previously allocated to the following
Site Plan Applications, be revoked:
(i) Site Plan Application File SP-2006-13 (formerly D11-13-06) at
15356 Yonge Street; and
(ii) Site Plan Application File SP-2013-05 at 15132-15136 Yonge
Street.
Carried
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 11 of 23
(R8) PDS20-037 – Capital Project No. 34527 – Yonge Street at Wellington
Street Right Turn Lane Intersection Improvement
Proposed Capital Budget Increase
1. That Report No. PDS20-037 be received; and
2. That the total approved budget for Capital Project No. 34527 be
increased from $75,000 to $94,100, representing an increase of
$19,100, to be funded from the Roads Repair and Replacement
Reserve.
Carried
(R9) PDS20-045 – Application for Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-
law Amendment, and Draft Plan of Subdivision,
Shining Hill Estate Collections Inc., 306, 370, 434 and
488 St John’s Sideroad, File Numbers: OPA-2018-01,
ZBA-2018-02 & SUB2018-02
Main motion
Moved by Councillor Thompson
Seconded by Councillor Gaertner
1. That Report No. PDS20-045 be received; and
2. That Official Plan Amendment application OPA-2018-01 (Shining
Hills Collections Inc.) be approved to:
a) Amend Schedule AA of OPA 37 to re-designate the subject lands
from ‘Suburban Residential (SR)’, ‘Suburban Residential (SR-1)’,
‘Core Area Open Space’ and ‘Supporting Area Open Space’ to
‘Suburban Residential (SR-2)’ and ‘Core Area Open Space
(COS- 1); and
b) Amend Section 2.0 of OPA 37 to add the following new Section
2.5 ‘Suburban Residential (SR-2)’ and the following policy:
“Suburban Residential permits fully serviced single-detached lots
with frontages generally greater than 15 metres and areas
generally greater than 460 square metres. Accessory uses and
home occupations which are accessory to the residential use
and compatible with the residential character may also be
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 12 of 23
permitted. Neighbourhood oriented community services such as
schools and parks shall also be permitted”; and
c) Amend Section 2.0 of OPA 37 to add the following new Section
2.6, ‘Core Area Open Space (COS-1)’ and the following policy:
“The Core Area Open Space designation permits lands that are
open space, approved stormwater management ponds, and
approved road and municipal service crossings. Other than the
above permitted services this area shall remain in its natural
state with only passive recreation uses permitted; and
3. That Zoning By-law Amendment application ZBA-2018-02 (Shinning
Hills Collections Inc.) be approved to rezone the subject lands from
‘Oak Ridges Moraine Rural General (RU-ORM)’ to ‘Detached Third
Density Residential Exception Zone (R3-XX)’, Private Open Space
(O2-XX), ‘Oak Ridges Moraine Environmental Protection (EP-ORM)’;
and
4. That the Draft Plan of Subdivision application SUB-2018-02
(Shinning Hills Collections Inc.) to create eight blocks be approved,
subject to the conditions listed in Schedule ‘A’ to this report; and
5. That Council grant an allocation of 291 persons from the reserve to
service the development of 90 single-detached dwellings on the
approved Draft Plan of Subdivision; and
6. That the implementing Official Plan Amendment be forwarded to the
Region of York for approval; and
7. That the Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-2018-02 be brought
forward to a future Council Meeting, after the implementing Official
Plan Amendment is approved by the Region of York.
Amendment No. 1
Moved by Councillor Gaertner
Seconded by Councillor Humfryes
That the main motion be amended by adding the following clause:
“That the buffer area to the Oak Ridges Moraine for the proposed
development be changed from 10 metres to 30 metres.”
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 13 of 23
On a recorded vote the motion was
Defeated
Yeas: 2 Nays: 5
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner and Humfryes
Voting Nays: Councillors Gallo, Gilliland, Kim, and
Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Absent: None
Amendment No. 2
Moved by Councillor Gaertner
Seconded by Councillor Humfryes
That the main motion be amended by adding the following clause:
“That the maximum roof height for the proposed dwellings be 10
metres.”
On a recorded vote the motion was
Defeated
Yeas: 2 Nays: 5
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner and Humfryes
Voting Nays: Councillors Gallo, Gilliland, Kim, and
Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Absent: None
Amendment No. 3
Moved by Councillor Gaertner
Seconded by Councillor Humfryes
That the main motion be amended by adding the following clause:
“That the existing two homes and the barn on the subject property
be evaluated for heritage value by the Heritage Advisory
Committee.”
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 4 Nays: 3
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland and
Humfryes
Voting Nays: Councillors Kim and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Absent: None
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 14 of 23
Main motion as amended
Moved by Councillor Thompson
Seconded by Councillor Gaertner
1. That Report No. PDS20-045 be received; and
2. That Official Plan Amendment application OPA-2018-01 (Shining
Hills Collections Inc.) be approved to:
a) Amend Schedule AA of OPA 37 to re-designate the subject lands
from ‘Suburban Residential (SR)’, ‘Suburban Residential (SR-1)’,
‘Core Area Open Space’ and ‘Supporting Area Open Space’ to
‘Suburban Residential (SR-2)’ and ‘Core Area Open Space
(COS- 1); and
b) Amend Section 2.0 of OPA 37 to add the following new Section
2.5 ‘Suburban Residential (SR-2)’ and the following policy:
“Suburban Residential permits fully serviced single-detached lots
with frontages generally greater than 15 metres and areas
generally greater than 460 square metres. Accessory uses and
home occupations which are accessory to the residential use
and compatible with the residential character may also be
permitted. Neighbourhood oriented community services such as
schools and parks shall also be permitted”; and
c) Amend Section 2.0 of OPA 37 to add the following new Section
2.6, ‘Core Area Open Space (COS-1)’ and the following policy:
“The Core Area Open Space designation permits lands that are
open space, approved stormwater management ponds, and
approved road and municipal service crossings. Other than the
above permitted services this area shall remain in its natural
state with only passive recreation uses permitted; and
3. That Zoning By-law Amendment application ZBA-2018-02 (Shinning
Hills Collections Inc.) be approved to rezone the subject lands from
‘Oak Ridges Moraine Rural General (RU-ORM)’ to ‘Detached Third
Density Residential Exception Zone (R3-XX)’, Private Open Space
(O2-XX), ‘Oak Ridges Moraine Environmental Protection (EP-ORM)’;
and
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 15 of 23
4.That the Draft Plan of Subdivision application SUB-2018-02
(Shinning Hills Collections Inc.) to create eight blocks be approved,
subject to the conditions listed in Schedule ‘A’ to this report; and
5.That Council grant an allocation of 291 persons from the reserve to
service the development of 90 single-detached dwellings on the
approved Draft Plan of Subdivision; and
6.That the implementing Official Plan Amendment be forwarded to the
Region of York for approval; and
7.That the Zoning By-law Amendment ZBA-2018-02 be brought
forward to a future Council Meeting, after the implementing Official
Plan Amendment is approved by the Region of York; and
8.That the existing two homes and the barn on the subject
property be evaluated for heritage value by the Heritage
Advisory Committee.
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 6 Nays: 1
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gallo, Gilliland, Humfryes, Kim,
and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: Councillor Gaertner
Absent: None
S3. Budget Committee Meeting Report of June 2, 2020
1.That the Budget Committee meeting report of June 2, 2020 be received.
Carried
7.Consideration of Items Requiring Discussion (Regular Agenda)
R1. PDS20-049 – Capital Project No. 34626 – Sidewalk Construction on
Kitimat Crescent Proposed Capital Budget Increase
Moved by Councillor Thompson
Seconded by Councillor Kim
1.That Report No. PDS20-049 be received; and
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 16 of 23
2. That the total approved budget for Capital Project No. 34626 be increased
from $100,000 to $192,700, representing an increase of $92,700 to be
funded from the Roads Repair and Replacement Reserve.
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: None
Absent: None
R2. FIN20-015 – 2019 Year End Budget Report – as at December 31, 2019
Motion to defer
Moved by Councillor Gallo
Seconded by Councillor Thompson
1. That Report No. FIN20-015 be deferred to a future General Committee
meeting.
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: None
Absent: None
R3. FIN20-018 – 2020 Tax Levy Funded Operations Forecast Update – as of
May 31, 2020
Moved by Councillor Thompson
Seconded by Councillor Kim
1. That Report No. FIN20-018 be received for information.
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 17 of 23
Voting Nays: None
Absent: None
R4. CMS20-018 – Pandemic Recovery Planning – Update
Moved by Councillor Gaertner
Seconded by Councillor Thompson
1. That Report No. CMS20-018 be received for information.
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: None
Absent: None
8. Motions
(a) Councillor Gallo
Re: Trail Crossings
Moved by Councillor Gallo
Seconded by Councillor Gaertner
Whereas since the 1970’s, Aurora’s planners have been urged to include off-
road trails in natural environments for non- motorized traffic; and
Whereas in 2011 with the assistance of Town staff and MMM Group the Trails
Sub-Committee developed the Town of Aurora Trails Master Plan; and
Whereas during these unpresented times, Aurora’s trails have been used and
appreciated more than ever; and
Whereas Aurora trails serve “the dual function of the trails network; as
community infrastructure for non-motorized and self-propelled traffic, for
utilitarian as well as recreational purposes”; and
Whereas key goals to the development of the Trails Master Plan are “Improve
connections between existing trails, and to provide new trails and connections
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 18 of 23
between residential areas, schools, commercial, industrial and institutional
establishments, and parks, greenspace and natural areas” and “Create a
connected network of trails which provide Aurora's residents with active,
healthy lifestyle opportunities, the ability to travel easily throughout Town with
opportunities to experience nature without having to rely on a car”; and
Whereas the Trails Master Plan has identified difficulties in trail development
such as “challenging or non-existent road or rail crossings” and “a lack of trail
continuity”; and
Whereas the Trails Master Plan has identified that the “implementation of the
plan can only be accomplished through short, medium and long term actions
under the leadership and guidance of Council”; and
Whereas Section 11.10 (d) Policies for Public Open Space of the Town of
Aurora Official Plan states “This Plan aims to encourage retention,
enhancement, and full utilization of the existing public parks, including
enhancements to improve the visual and physical linkages with the parks and
associated trails with, for example, wayfinding signage, improved streetscape
links and crosswalks”, and Section 12 (d) states “Enhance the Greenlands
System through a comprehensive network of trails, in accordance with the
Town’s Trails Master Plan”; and
Whereas in addition, section 12.2 (a) The Greenlands System of the Town of
Aurora Official Plan clearly states “It is a fundamental principle of this Plan
that the Town promote an active, healthy lifestyle for its residents. The
provision of a highly integrated system of environmentally protected lands,
parks, trails and recreation facilities that are well distributed, strategically
located, well maintained and diverse plays an important role in encouraging
community members to have active and healthy lifestyles”; and
Whereas Council has passed the following resolution “Now Therefore Be It
Hereby Resolved That staff work with our local MPPs for their support and to
advocate for Aurora to Metrolinx for re-opening the Cousins Drive Crossing
and that staff provide an update report to a future General Committee
meeting including an estimate of the costs of all possible options should the
Town undertake the project”; and
Whereas the Mayor has sent a letter to Mr. Verster (CEO of Metrolinx) on
May 13, 2020 regarding Cousins Drive; and
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Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 19 of 23
Whereas it is fundamentally clear the Town of Aurora is bisected by train
tracks and in order to properly implement the Trails Master Plan and parts of
the Town of Aurora Official Plan frequent and safe east west crossing for non-
motorized traffic must be established; and
Whereas should the Town be interested in multiple non-motorized crossings
along the train track, designs must be included in the tender documents
during the track reconstruction by Metrolinx;
1. Now Therefore Be It Hereby Resolved That staff provide a status report on
all potential pedestrian crossings for non-motorized traffic along the train
corridor to a General Committee meeting by the end of October; and
2. Be It Further Resolved That staff include in that report the priority
crossings as identified in the Trails Master Plan and costing of detailed
designs so that they may be included in the tender documents during the
reconstruction by Metrolinx.
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: None
Absent: None
(b) Councillor Gaertner
Re: Aurora Community Tennis Club (ACTC)
Moved by Councillor Gaertner
Seconded by Councillor Gilliland
Whereas the Aurora Community Tennis Club was allowed to open in mid-May
as per an update to the Provincial Orders; and
Whereas the restrictions and measures required to operate the club in an
effective and safe way have impacted the club’s continued ability to resume
operations for the 2020 season; and
Whereas a large part of their programming is tennis lessons taught by their
Club Pro; and
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 20 of 23
Whereas the Club is asking permission for their Club Pro to permit one court
at McMahon Park for tennis lessons in this 2020 season; and
Whereas this will hopefully enable the ACTC to maintain some level of
service/connection with their members as they try to manage through a year
of significant transition and the difficulties imposed by COVID-19; and
Whereas the recent Council decision anticipated that typical demand would
be satisfied with the permitting of two courts at Fleury Park; and
Whereas, as a result of the pandemic, tennis is one of the few allowed sports
and increased demand for permits has superseded supply; and
Whereas the permitting of one court at McMahon Park should have no impact
on public availability as these courts are mostly reserved for the ACTC;
1. Now Therefore Be It Resolved That staff be authorized to issue Tennis
Court rental permits for one court only, at McMahon Park, for the
exclusive use of the Aurora Community Tennis Club Pro, for the
remainder of the 2020 calendar year.
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: None
Absent: None
9. Regional Report
York Regional Council Highlights – May 28 , 2020
Moved by Councillor Thompson
Seconded by Councillor Kim
That the Regional Report of May 28, 2020, be received for information.
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 21 of 23
Voting Nays: None
Absent: None
10. New Business
Councillor Thompson noted that the ground breaking ceremony for the new fire
station was held earlier in the day.
Councillor Gilliland inquired about the possibility of organizing a community
cleanup within the Town, and staff noted that they are working towards the
possibility and more information is forthcoming.
Councillor Gilliland extended a reminder that the Aurora Outdoor Patio Program
has been developed for local businesses to ensure adequate expansion of patio
areas noting that more information regarding the guidelines is available on the
Town’s website.
Councillor Humfryes expressed her appreciation to staff for their efforts in
conducting a successful Aurora Famers Market and Artisans Fair and ensuring that
social distancing and public health guidelines were maintained.
Councillor Humfryes inquired about an adequate way of accessing splash pads
during the ongoing pandemic whilst maintaining social distance, and staff provided
a response noting that signage with standard guidelines and regulations will be
posted at all locations.
Councillor Gaertner referred to a resident’s concern regarding an unkempt creek
along the Highland Gate development area, and staff agreed to follow up.
Councillor Gaertner referred to residents’ inquiries about the York Region Police
budget and their functions and discussions regarding this at the Regional Council,
and Mayor Mrakas provided a response.
Mayor Mrakas announced that the Magna Golf Course property was recently sold,
and noted that the new owner intends to maintain the golf club and the course.
Mayor Mrakas extended his appreciation to staff for their prompt response to a
recent incident regarding damage to a heritage tree.
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 22 of 23
11. By-laws
Moved by Councillor Kim
Seconded by Councillor Thompson
That the following by-laws be enacted:
(a) By-law Number 6263-20 Being a By-law to amend Municipal Waterworks
Distribution By-law Number 3305-91, as amended.
(b) By-law Number 6264-20 Being a By-law to set and levy the rates of Taxation
for the taxation year 2020.
(c) By-law Number 6265-20 Being a By-law to amend By-law Number 5285-10,
as amended, to adopt Official Plan Amendment No. 19.
(d) By-law Number 6266-20 Being a By-law to amend By-law Number 5285-10,
as amended, to adopt Official Plan Amendment No. 20
(e) By-law Number 6267-20 Being a By-law to amend By-law Number 6000-17,
as amended respecting the lands municipally known as 132, 148, 166, 178,
186, 192, and 198 Old Bloomington Road.
(f) By-law Number 6268-20 Being a By-law to amend By-law Number 6219-19,
as amended, to establish a schedule of fees and charges for municipal
services, activities and the use of property within the Town of Aurora (Fees
and Charges By-law).
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: None
Absent: None
12. Closed Session
None
Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 Page 23 of 23
13. Confirming By-law
Moved by Councillor Kim
Seconded by Councillor Gaertner
That the following confirming by-law be enacted:
By-law Number 6269-20 Being a By-law to Confirm Actions by Council
Resulting from a Council Meeting on June 23, 2020.
On a recorded vote the motion
Carried
Yeas: 7 Nays: 0
Voting Yeas: Councillors Gaertner, Gallo, Gilliland,
Humfryes, Kim, and Thompson, Mayor Mrakas
Voting Nays: None
Absent: None
14. Adjournment
Moved by Councillor Thompson
Seconded by Councillor Kim
That the meeting be adjourned at 9:55 p.m.
Carried
_________________________________ _________________________________
Tom Mrakas, Mayor Michael de Rond, Town Clerk