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AGENDA - General Committee - 20210112Town of Aurora General Committee Meeting Revised Agenda Date:Tuesday, January 12, 2021 Time:7 p.m. Location:Video Conference Pages 1.Procedural Notes This meeting will be held electronically as per Section 19. i) of the Town's Procedure By-law No. 6228-19, as amended, due to the COVID-19 situation. Mayor Mrakas in the Chair. Additional Items are marked by an asterisk (*). 2.Approval of the Agenda 3.Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof 4.Community Presentations 5.Delegations Note: At this time, the Municipal Offices are closed. This meeting will be live streamed at https://www.youtube.com/user/Townofaurora2012/videos. Anyone wishing to provide comment on an agenda item is encouraged to visit www.aurora.ca/participation for guidelines on electronic delegation. *5.1.Alexandra L., Elementary School Student; Re: Item 8.2 - PDS21-005 - Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 1 *5.2.Valerie S. and Sumaya C., Elementary School Students; Re: Item 8.2 - PDS21-005 - Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 2 *5.3.Darryl Moore, Resident; Re: Backyard Hens 3 6.Consent Agenda 6.1.CS20-024 - Public Disclosure of Previous Closed Session Items 4 (Information Report dated December 1, 2020, included on agenda per request of Member of Council) That Report No. CS20-024 be received for information.1. 6.2.PDS20-072 - Delegated Development Agreements Quarterly Report 9 (Information Report dated December 1, 2020, included on agenda per request of Member of Council) That Report No. PDS20-072 be received for information.1. 7.Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes 7.1.Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force Meeting Minutes of November 25, 2020 15 That the Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force meeting minutes of November 25, 2020, be received for information. 1. 7.2.Finance Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of December 8, 2020 18 That the Finance Advisory Committee meeting minutes of December 8, 2020, be received for information. 1. *7.3.Accessibility Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of December 9, 2020 21 That the Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting minutes of December 9, 2020, be received for information. 1. 8.Consideration of Items Requiring Discussion (Regular Agenda) 8.1.CS21-001 - Annual Report from the Integrity Commissioner 26 (Presentation to be provided by Principles Integrity, Town's Integrity Commissioner) That Report No. CS21-001 be received for information.1. 8.2.PDS21-005 - Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 35 (Presentation to be provided by Susan Hall, Partner & Project Lead, LURA Consulting) That Report No. PDS21-005 be received;1. That Council endorse the attached Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan; and 2. That the future capital and operating budget requests listed in Table 6 of the Energy Plan be considered as part of the Town’s 3. ten-year capital plan and funding be considered as part of the budget process. 8.3.OPS21-001- Hartwell Way Non-Programmed Park - Public Consultation 155 That Report No. OPS21-001 be received; and1. That the revised Concept Plan be approved by Council; and2. That staff proceed to detailed design and tendering for construction of the project; and 3. That Council rescind the standing direction to incorporate a leash-free area in all new park designs. 4. 8.4.PDS21-004 - Request for Parking By-law Amendment on Tyler Street 162 That Report No. PDS21-004 be received; and,1. That a by-law to amend Parking By-law No. 4574-04.T be enacted to prohibit parking at any time on the north side of Tyler Street between George Street and Harriman Road. 2. 8.5.CS21-002 - Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force Terms of Reference 168 That Report No. CS21-002 be received; and1. That the Terms of Reference (Attachment 1) for the Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force be adopted. 2. 8.6.PDS21-001 - Application for Draft Plan of Condominium - Cedartrail Developments Inc. - 14288 Yonge Street 173 Part of Lot 74, Concession 1, File Number: CDM-2018-02, Related File Numbers: ZBA-2014-09 and SUB-2014-04 That Report No. PDS21-001 be received; and,1. That the Draft Plan of Condominium (Common Elements Condominium) File No. CDM-2018-02 to establish a condominium road within Block 1 of the Cedartrail Developments Inc. Draft Plan of Subdivision (File No. SUB-2014- 04) be approved, subject to the conditions attached hereto as Schedule ‘A’. 2. 9.Notices of Motion 10.New Business 11.Public Service Announcements 12.Closed Session There are no Closed Session items for this meeting. 13.Adjournment 100 John West Way Aurora, Ontario L4G 6J1 (905) 727-3123 aurora.ca Town of Aurora Delegation Request Legislative Services This Delegation Request form and any written submissions or background information for consideration by either Council or Committees of Council must be submitted to Legislative Services. Council or Committee Meeting Date: Subject: Name of Spokesperson and Name of Group or Person(s) being Represented (if applicable): Brief Summary of Issue or Purpose of Delegation: Have you been in contact with a Town staff or Council member regarding your matter of interest?Yes տտ No տտ If yes, with whom? Date: տ I acknowledge that the Procedure By-law permits five (5) minutes for Delegations. I wish to submit my delegation by (select one): տ Video/audio* տ Phone*܈ In Writing տ In Person** *Must attend electronic meeting.Please click here for more information. **Subject to meeting format and submission of Screening Registration Form Tuesday, January 12, 2021 Community Energy Plan Alexandra L., elementary school student To present to Council views on the Community Energy Plan Samantha Yew Jan 5, 2021 ✔ ✔ ✔ Page 1 of 189 100 John West Way Aurora, Ontario L4G 6J1 (905) 727-3123 aurora.ca Town of Aurora Delegation Request Legislative Services This Delegation Request form and any written submissions or background information for consideration by either Council or Committees of Council must be submitted to Legislative Services. Council or Committee Meeting Date: Subject: Name of Spokesperson and Name of Group or Person(s) being Represented (if applicable): Brief Summary of Issue or Purpose of Delegation: Have you been in contact with a Town staff or Council member regarding your matter of interest?Yes տ No տ If yes, with whom?Date: տ I acknowledge that the Procedure By-law permits five (5) minutes for Delegations. I wish to submit my delegation by (select one): տ Video/audio* տ Phone*܈ In Writing տ In Person** *Must attend electronic meeting.Please click here for more information. **Subject to meeting format and submission of Screening Registration Form Council or Committee Meeting Date: Subject: Name of Spokesperson and Name of Group or Person(s) being Represented (if pplicable): Brief Summary of Issue or Purpose of Delegation: Have you been in contact with a Town staff or Council member regarding your matter of interest?Yes տ No տ If yes, with whom?Date: տ I acknowledge that the Procedure By-law permits five (5) minutes for Delegations. I wish to submit my delegation by (select one): տ Video/audio*տ Phone*܈ In Writing տ In Person** Page 2 of 189 100 John West Way Aurora, Ontario L4G 6J1 (905) 727-3123 aurora.ca Town of Aurora Delegation Request Legislative Services This Delegation Request form and any written submissions or background information for consideration by either Council or Committees of Council must be submitted to Legislative Services. Council or Committee Meeting Date: Subject: Name of Spokesperson and Name of Group or Person(s) being Represented (if applicable): Brief Summary of Issue or Purpose of Delegation: Have you been in contact with a Town staff or Council member regarding your matter of interest?Yes տտ No տտ If yes, with whom? Date: տ I acknowledge that the Procedure By-law permits five (5) minutes for Delegations. I wish to submit my delegation by (select one): տ Video/audio* տ Phone*܈ In Writing տ In Person** *Must attend electronic meeting.Please click here for more information. **Subject to meeting format and submission of Screening Registration Form Tuesday January 12 backyard hens Darryl Moore I, with a group of a dozen other residents, would like the town to initiate a pilot project permitting the keeping of uban hens. Preferably with a start date no later than the end of July. This is a bylaw change which is happening with more and more municipalities recently and with few or no negative effects on the community. There are obvious benefits to the environment and animal welfare. Both Newmarket and Toronto are having good success with their programs. Harold Kim Rachel Gilliland Dec 2020 and Jan 2021 via email ✔ ✔ ✔ Page 3 of 189 100 John West Way Aurora, Ontario L4G 6J1 (905) 727-3123 aurora.ca Town of Aurora Information Report No. CS20-0 24 Subject: Public Disclosure of Previous Closed Session Items Prepared by: Michael de Rond, Town Clerk Department: Corporate Services Date: December 1, 2020 In accordance with the Procedure By-law, any Member of Council may request that this Information Report be placed on an upcoming General Committee or Council meeting agenda for discussion. Executive Summary This report provides information to Council regarding the Procedure By-law section requiring staff to release closed session items to the public, should it be determined that the item no longer requires confidentiality. The following are important considerations of the report; • The Procedure By-law requires that ‘items’ be identified to be released publicly. • There have not been any items from this Council term identified by staff that meet the criteria to be released through the routine disclosure process • Staff currently do release decisions from closed session through more informal means • Staff have identified various ways to solve the issue of the narrow scope of the Procedure By-Law section Background Section 21(g) of the Town’s Procedure By-law states the following; The Clerk shall maintain an annual log of all reports and Resolutions considered in Closed Session, conduct an annual review with the CAO and staff to determine which items are no longer sensitive and/or confidential. The Clerk shall prepare an Annual Report of all Closed Session items approved for public release, and shall post the report Page 4 of 189 December 1, 2020 2 of 5 Report No. CS20-024 on the Town website. Items identified for release shall qualify for ‘routine disclosure’ in accordance with the Town’s freedom of information practices. Analysis The Procedure By-law requires that ‘items’ be identified to be released publicly. Staff’s interpretation of the above section of the Procedure By-law is that a closed session item only qualifies to be released publicly if the entire item, including the report and extract from the minutes, is able to be released publicly. Further to this, being available for routine disclosure means that no redactions would be applied to either the report or the minutes extract. Generally, when a document requires redactions to be released publicly, the document goes through the Freedom of Information process so that staff’s preparation time can be recuperated. There have not been any items from this Council term identified by staff that meet the criteria to be released through the routine disclosure process The restrictiveness of the clause has left staff with no items to publicly disclose since the clause was included in the Procedure By-law in 2016. Even items such as appointments to Committees do not meet the criteria due to the personal information contained in the application form. Staff currently do release decisions from closed session through more informal means When a new committee is appointed, and staff have confirmed with the appointed members that they are still interested in being on the Committee, the Mayor announces the members at a meeting and the Communications Division issues a press release and/or posts on social media. When staff seek closed session direction from Council regarding a Planning appeal, these directions are often made public during the appeal hearing. As residents interested in a particular appeal often attend the hearing, this is an effective way of making them aware of Council’s position with respect to an appeal. The Town also has a page on the website where any acquisition or disposition of property is made public. Staff have identified various ways to solve the issue of the narrow scope of the Procedure By-Law section Page 5 of 189 December 1, 2020 3 of 5 Report No. CS20-024 Remove the section from the By-law The only other municipality staff are aware of with this type of clause in their Procedure By-law is the Town of Ajax. In speaking with their Clerk’s staff, they note the same issues with having no items to disclose. At last check, their staff were planning to recommend to Council that the section be removed from the Procedure By-law. If this report is not placed on an upcoming General Committee agenda, or a Notice of Motion is not submitted to remove this section, staff would recommend this path forward the next time the Procedure By-law is reviewed. In the meantime, staff will continue to review all closed session items to see if they could be released publicly. Amend the Procedure By-law For various reasons, staff reports going to closed session will be the reason why items can not be released under the current section. The extracts from items are far more likely to be able to be released. The following could be brought forward as a Notice of Motion, or moved as amendment to this report if it is requested to be on the January 2021 General Committee Meeting agenda; That section 21(g) of the Procedure By-law be amended to require the Clerk to complete an annual review of the minutes of each closed session item to see which, if any, can be released publicly and posted to the Town’s website; and That a by-law be enacted as a future Council meeting to confirm this change. This would allow for minutes such as committee appointments, or planning appeals to be released, in full and when deemed appropriate by staff, to the public. Importantly, the minutes do not contain note or comment, and only speak to discussion topics. Advisory Committee Review None Legal Considerations In accordance with the Municipal Act, 2001, Council may hold meetings closed to the public for select reasons. Reports are typically presented at those meetings and therefore, as a record of the municipality, the release of closed session reports, whether in whole or in part, are subject to disclosure in accordance with the Municipal Freedom Page 6 of 189 December 1, 2020 4 of 5 Report No. CS20-024 of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Routine disclosure of the full report is not permitted due to redactions which would be required for all closed session reports. In addition, closed session reports that are subject to solicitor-client privilege should not be released, except upon Council, as a whole, waiving the privilege. The Town Clerk does not have any authority to release these reports. Financial Implications Routine disclosure is a simple way for staff to provide public access to documents at no cost. When documents require redactions, this can be a costly process depending on the nature of the redactions. Documents requiring redactions are put through the Freedom of Information process to ensure staff preparation time is passed on to the requestor. Communications Considerations None Link to Strategic Plan Identifying items from closed session meetings that could be released publicly promotes progressive corporate excellence and continuous improvement by implementing policy and processes that reflect sound and accountable governance. Alternative(s) to the Recommendation Council options identified in the report Conclusions The current clause regarding the public release of closed session items is restrictive due to the entire item needing to be released, without redactions. Staff have proposed options that Council may want to consider to rectify the situation. Attachments None Page 7 of 189 December 1, 2020 5 of 5 Report No. CS20-024 Previous Reports None Pre-submission Review Agenda Management Team review on November 12, 2020 Approvals Approved by Techa van Leeuwen, Director, Corporate Services Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer Page 8 of 189 100 John West Way Aurora, Ontario L4G 6J1 (905) 727-3123 aurora.ca Town of Aurora Information Report No. PDS20-072 Subject: Delegated Development Agreements Quarterly Report Prepared by: Brashanthe Manoharan, Assistant Planner Department: Planning and Development Services Date: December 1, 2020 In accordance with the Procedure By-law, any Member of Council may request that this Information Report be placed on an upcoming General Committee or Council meeting agenda for discussion. Executive Summary The purpose of this report is to provide Council with a summary of Development Agreements that have been processed by the Planning Division since June 2020 based on the delegated authority to approve agreements that result from certain planning applications. • Since June 2020, four (4) development agreements have been approved in accordance with the Town’s Delegated Authority By-Law. Background On October 22, 2019, Council adopted By-law 6212-19 granting Delegated Approval Authority to the Director of Planning and Development Services to approve the following applications and execute any related agreements: • Stable Neighbourhoods Agreements; • Site Plan Agreements (minor and major); • Agreements required as a condition of approval by Committee of Adjustment; • Agreements to implement Ontario Municipal Board or Local Planning Appeal Tribunal decisions; • Heritage Easement Agreements; • Simplified Development Agreements; • Oak Ridges Moraine Agreements; and, Page 9 of 189 December 1, 2020 2 of 4 Report No. PDS20-072 • Other minor development agreements. The Director of Planning and Development Services has the delegated authority to execute the following agreements where the application has been approved by Council: • Subdivision Agreements; • Condominium Agreements; and, • Major Site Plan Agreements; To streamline processing timelines and approvals, Staff have introduced Letters of Undertaking to replace Simplified Development Agreements where considered appropriate. Planning and Development Services report to General Committee advising of the number of development agreements processed on a quarterly basis. Analysis Since June 2020, four (4) development agreements have been approved in accordance with the Town’s Delegated Authority By-Law. Three (3) Minor Site Plan Agreements and one (1) Pre-Servicing Agreement have been processed and signed since Planning and Development Services last reported to Council in June 2020 (see Figure 1 for Location Map and Figure 2 for Development Agreements Table). • A Minor Site Plan Agreement for 94 Connaught Avenue to allow a second-storey addition, executed on July 15, 2020 (Stable Neighbourhoods); • A Minor Site Plan Agreement for 70 Collins Crescent to allow a second-storey addition, executed on May 14, 2020 (Stable Neighbourhoods); • A Minor Site Plan Agreement for 64 Cousins Drive to allow a one-storey addition, executed on May 19, 2020 (Stable Neighbourhoods); and, • A Pre-Servicing Agreement for 1623 Wellington Street East for the construction of Goulding Avenue and creating two (2) lots, executed on October 21, 2020 In accordance with the Town’s Delegation By-law 6212-19, authority was granted to the Director of Planning to execute certain agreements such as Subdivision Agreements, Page 10 of 189 December 1, 2020 3 of 4 Report No. PDS20-072 Condominium Agreements, etc., only after Council recommends approval of the applications. These executed agreements are not included in this report. Executed agreements associated with applications approved by Staff under delegated authority are included in this report. For these applications, Planning was satisfied with each of the proposed development’s scale, massing, design and materials to be used as well as conforming to the Town’s Comprehensive Zoning By-law and Official Plan. Therefore, each application was advanced to the building permit stage. Advisory Committee Review Not applicable. Legal Considerations None. Financial Implications There are no direct financial implications arising to the Town as a result of this report. Communications Considerations The Town of Aurora will use ‘Inform’ as the level of engagement for this project. There are five different levels of community engagement to consider, with each level providing the community more involvement in the decision-making process. These levels are: Inform, Consult, Involve, Collaborate and Empower. Examples of each can be found in the Community Engagement Policy. These options are based on the International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) Spectrum and assist in establishing guidelines for clearly communicating with our public and managing community engagement. In order to inform the public, this report will be posted to the Town’s website. Link to Strategic Plan The proposed applications supports the Strategic Plan by: • Providing employment and housing opportunities for Aurora residents; • Strengthening the fabric of our community. Page 11 of 189 December 1, 2020 4 of 4 Report No. PDS20-072 Alternative(s) to the Recommendation None. Conclusions Pursuant to the delegated authority to approve agreements, this report summarizes since June 2020 the approvals issued by the Planning Department of the following four (4) development agreements: three (3) Minor Site Plan Agreements and one (1) Pre- Servicing Agreement. Attachments Figure 1: Location Map Figure 2: Summary of Development Agreements Previous Reports General Committee Report No. PDS20-041, dated June 2, 2020. Pre-submission Review Agenda Management Team review on November 12, 2020 Approvals Approved by David Waters, Director, Planning and Development Services Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer Page 12 of 189 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!! !!! ^ ^ ^TOWNSHIP OF KINGTOWN OF WHITCHURCH-STOUFFVILLETOWN OF NEWMARKET Tw e l v e O a k s D r i v eOld Yo nge StreetAttr idge Drive Tar a H i l l Circle Hydro Co r r ido r 70 CollinsCrescent 94 ConnaughtAvenue 64 CousinsDrive Map created by the Town of Aurora Planning and Building Services Department, November 3, 2020. Base data provided by York Region & the Town of Aurora. ¯0 0.5 1 1.5 2 Kilometers LOCATION MAPReport Name: Delegated Approval Authority Report Report No.: PDS20-072 FIGURE 1 SUBJECT LANDS^ ^ 1623 Wellington Street East Page 13 of 189 Report Name: Delegated Approval Authority Report Report No.: PDS20-072 Figure 2 for Development Agreements Table File #/ Address Proposal Status 94 Connaught Avenue SPR-2020-08 To allow a second- storey addition to an existing single storey residential dwelling in accordance with Minor Variance approval MV- 2020-04 Minor Site Plan Agreement executed on July 15, 2020 70 Collins Crescent SPR-2020-06 To allow a second-storey addition to an existing single storey residential dwelling Minor Site Agreement executed on May 14, 2020 64 Cousins Drive SPR-2020-07 To allow a one storey addition to the rear of the residential dwelling, in accordance with Minor Variance approval MV-2020-17 Minor Site Plan Agreement executed on May 19, 2020 1623 Wellington Street East C-2020-01 & C- 2020-04 To create two (2) new lots Pre-Servicing Agreement executed on October 21, 2020 *All SPR file numbers noted above are Stable Neighbourhood applications Page 14 of 189 1 Town of Aurora Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force Meeting Minutes Date: Time: Location: Wednesday, November 25, 2020 7:00 p.m. Video Conference Committee Members: Noor El-Dassouki (Chair) Mark Lewis (Vice Chair) Mae Khamissa Phiona Durrant Tricia Wright Councillor Harold Kim Other Attendees: Michael de Rond, Town Clerk Techa Van Leeuwen, Director of Corporate Services _____________________________________________________________________ 1. Procedural Notes This meeting was held electronically as per Section 19. i) of the Town's Procedure By-law No. 6228-19, as amended, due to the COVID-19 situation. The Town Clerk called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. 2. Appointment of Chair and Vice Chair Moved by Mae Khamissa Seconded by Councillor Kim That Noor El-Dassouki be appointed Chair of the Anti-Black Racism and Anti- Racism Task Force Carried Page 15 of 189 2 Moved by Mae Khamissa Seconded by Keenan Hull That Mark Lewis be appointed Vice-Chair of the Anti-Black Racism and Anti- Racism Task Force Carried Noor El-Dassouki assumed Chair at 7:05 p.m. 3. Approval of the Agenda Moved by Mae Khamissa Seconded by Councillor Kim That the agenda, as circulated by Legislative Services, be approved. Carried 4. Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof None. 5. Receipt of the Minutes None. 6. Delegations 6.1 Michael de Rond, Town Clerk, Re: Orientation The Town Clerk provided an overview of the Task Force to educate and train members of the Task Force on roles and responsibilities, procedural matters, accountability and transparency. During the presentation, Mr. de Rond discussed the Town’s Procedure By- law respecting the proceedings of meetings, and changes made to the local accountability and transparency framework with the Town’s Code of Conduct for Local Boards. Moved by Mae Khamissa Seconded by Phiona Durrant Page 16 of 189 3 That the presentation from the Town Clerk be received for information. Carried 7. Matters for Consideration 7.1 Memorandum from Town Clerk, Re: Proposed Anti-Black Racism and Anti- Racism Task Force Terms of Reference The Task Force discussed the draft Terms of Reference and each provided thoughts about how they see the Task Force making a difference in the community. They noted the importance of creating more education and awareness of systematic racism in Aurora, but also agreed that it would be more important for real, actionable change to be achieved. The Task Force agreed to send ideas for real, actionable change to the Town Clerk to be discussed at the next meeting, likely in mid-late January. Moved by Mae Khamissa Seconded by Tricia Wright 1. That the memorandum regarding Proposed Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force Terms of Reference be received; and 2. That the Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force comments regarding Proposed Terms of Reference be received and referred to staff for consideration and action as appropriate. Carried 8. Informational Items None. 9. Adjournment Moved by Mark Lewis Seconded by Councillor Kim That the meeting be adjourned at 8:30 p.m. Carried Page 17 of 189 1 Town of Aurora Finance Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes Date: Time: Location: Tuesday, December 8, 2020 6:00 p.m. Video Conference Committee Members: Councillor John Gallo (Chair) Mayor Tom Mrakas Councillor Michael Thompson Other Attendees: Councillor Wendy Gaertner Rachel Wainwright-van Kessel Jason Gaertner, Manager, Financial Management Tracy Evans, Advisor, Financial Management Laura Sheardown, Advisor, Financial Management Ishita Soneji, Council/Committee Coordinator _____________________________________________________________________ 1. Procedural Notes This meeting was held electronically as per Section 19. i) of the Town's Procedure By-law No. 6228-19, as amended, due to the COVID-19 situation. The meeting time was changed to 6 p.m. The Chair called the meeting to order at 6 p.m. 2. Approval of the Agenda Moved by Councillor Thompson Seconded by Mayor Mrakas That the agenda as circulated by Legislative Services, be approved. Carried Page 18 of 189 2 3. 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. 4. Receipt of the Minutes 4.1 Finance Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of November 26, 2020 Moved by Mayor Mrakas Seconded by Councillor Thompson 1. That the Finance Advisory Committee meeting minutes of November 26, 2020, be received for information. Carried 5. Delegations None. 6. Matters for Consideration 6.1 Memorandum from Manager, Financial Management; Re: Department of Finance Budget Materials The Committee referred to the variances and loss of revenue in water to taxes transfer fees and tax reminder notice fees due to the COVID-19 pandemic and inquired if similar losses are expected in 2021. Staff provided a response noting that at this time there is no loss of revenue forecasted for the upcoming year as it is assumed that all operations in these areas will return to their normal practices. The Committee further sought clarification regarding variance in year-end accruals and staff provided clarification. Moved by Mayor Mrakas Seconded by Councillor Thompson 1. That the memorandum regarding the Department of Finance Budget Materials be received; and Page 19 of 189 3 2. That the comments and suggestions of the review of the detailed financial information for the Department of Finance be received and referred to staff for consideration and action as appropriate. Carried 6.2 Memorandum from Manager, Financial Management; Re: Council Administration and the Office of the CAO Budget Materials Moved by Councillor Thompson Seconded by Mayor Mrakas 1. That the memorandum regarding the Council Administration and the Office of the CAO Budget Materials be received; and 2. That the detailed financial information for Council Administration and the Office of the CAO be received and deferred for discussion and detailed review at the next meeting of the Finance Advisory Committee. Carried 7. New Business None. 8. Adjournment Moved by Councillor Thompson Seconded by Mayor Mrakas That the meeting be adjourned at 6:08 p.m. Carried Page 20 of 189 1 Town of Aurora Accessibility Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes Date: Time: Location: Wednesday, December 9, 2020 7:00 p.m. Video Conference Committee Members: John Lenchak (Chair) Hailey Reiss (Vice Chair) Matthew Abas Max Le Moine Rachelle Stinson Councillor Rachel Gilliland Members Absent: Jo-anne Spitzer Other Attendees: Tom Mrakas, Mayor (ex-officio) Mat Zawada, Accessibility Advisor Linda Bottos, Council/Committee Coordinator _____________________________________________________________________ 1. Procedural Notes This meeting was held electronically as per Section 19. i) of the Town's Procedure By-law No. 6228-19, as amended, due to the COVID-19 situation. The Chair called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. 2. Approval of the Agenda Moved by Matthew Abas Seconded by Hailey Reiss That the revised agenda as circulated by Legislative Services, including the following item, be approved: Page 21 of 189 2  Item 7.1 – Verbal Update from Accessibility Advisor; Re: Library Square Construction - Parking Update Carried 3. 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. 4. Receipt of the Minutes 4.1 Accessibility Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of November 11, 2020 Moved by Matthew Abas Seconded by Hailey Reiss That the Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting minutes of November 11, 2020, be received for information. Carried 5. Delegations None. 6. Matters for Consideration 6.1 Memorandum from Accessibility Advisor; Re: Accessibility Advisory Committee Input and Comments for Site Plan Application SP(EX)-2020-28, 77 Wellington Street East Staff provided an overview of the comments submitted to the Planner by the Accessibility Advisor on behalf of the Committee, noting the developer's response to the Committee's previous comments and that no permanent physical features would be implemented on the site plan. The Committee reviewed the memorandum and had no further comments. Moved by Matthew Abas Seconded by Max Le Moine 1. That the memorandum regarding Accessibility Advisory Committee Input and Comments for Site Plan Application SP(EX)-2020-28, 77 Wellington Street East be received for information. Page 22 of 189 3 Carried 6.2 Memorandum from Accessibility Advisor; Re: Accessibility Advisory Committee Input and Comments for Site Plan Application SP-2020-11 (Submission #1), 130 Addison Hall Circle Staff provided an overview of the comments submitted to the Planner by the Accessibility Advisor on behalf of the Committee. The Committee reviewed the drawings and site plan and had no further comments. Moved by Matthew Abas Seconded by Hailey Reiss 1. That the memorandum regarding Accessibility Advisory Committee Input and Comments for Site Plan Application SP-2020-11 (Submission #1), 130 Addison Hall Circle be received for information. Carried 6.3 Round Table Discussion; Re: Town of Aurora Accessibility Plan 2018 to 2024 Staff provided a status update on the 2020 operating budget projects including: accessible lifejackets; counter signage and testing devices for induction hearing loops in Town facilities; AbleDocs website report on status of Town's compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG); sensory tent project; automatic wave door operators for changerooms at Aurora Family Leisure Complex (AFLC); AFLC spa railing installation; Seniors' Centre Without Walls (SCWW) community outreach program; evacuation chair; and low profile channel cable covers. The Committee inquired about the SCWW program and staff provided further details noting the success of the program. Staff provided a status update on the 2020 capital budget projects including: installation of change tables at the AFLC and Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex (SARC); and the Facility Accessibility Design Standards (FADS) project noting that the Committee can expect to see a first draft of the guidelines for review in early 2021. Staff provided an update on the Information and Communications Standard project, to be implemented in early 2021, and advised on staff's efforts to date toward achieving WCAG compliance through maintenance of accessible webpages and documents on the Town's website. Staff Page 23 of 189 4 noted that many municipalities and organizations are struggling to maintain compliance and letters of concern have been sent to the province. Staff advised that the Town has received a compliance extension to June 2021, and agreed to provide a copy of the Town's correspondence to the province. The Committee inquired about website document retention and availability, and whether social media would also be impacted, and staff provided clarification. Staff invited the Committee's feedback on the recent AFLC and Town Hall facility tours shared by video. The Committee expressed its appreciation of the virtual tours and gave feedback on the following matters: lack of accessible counter depth at service counters and washrooms at both facilities; lack of leg room for wheelchair accessibility under washroom counters; unsuitable location of grab rails next to toilets at both facilities; lack of automatic door openers at some rooms of AFLC; lack of true universal washroom at both facilities; and lack of accessibility checklist for the facility review. In response, staff provided clarification, agreed to resend the facility review checklist to the members, and prepare a priority list of items to be addressed, including costs and timelines, for the Committee's consideration. Moved by Hailey Reiss Seconded by Matthew Abas 1. That the Accessibility Advisory Committee comments regarding the Town of Aurora Accessibility Plan 2018 to 2024 be received and referred to staff for consideration and action as appropriate. Carried 7. Informational Items 7.1 Verbal Update from Accessibility Advisor; Re: Library Square Construction - Parking Update Staff gave a verbal update regarding the accessible parking situation, noting that the current temporary parking would be closed due to the construction work on Church Street. Staff advised that the current pick- up/drop-off program at the Library's Yonge Street entrance for patrons with accessible parking permits would continue, and that two new barrier- free parking spots would be designated in the plaza adjacent to the construction site off of Yonge Street, with an accessible path and entrance Page 24 of 189 5 on the north side of the Library. In response to Committee inquiries, staff provided clarification regarding the pathway snow removal, possible limitations of the temporary barrier-free entrance, and the potential for a temporary ramp. The Committee further inquired about any additional accessibility limitations that may occur during the construction process, and staff agreed to obtain a timeline of any potential limitations in order to address the expectations in advance. Moved by Matthew Abas Seconded by Rachelle Stinson 1. That the Verbal Update regarding Library Square Construction - Parking Update be received for information. Carried 8. Adjournment Councillor Gilliland noted that she would no longer be the Council representative for the Committee as of the new year and expressed appreciation to staff and Committee members for their efforts and community involvement. The Committee and staff thanked Councillor Gilliland for her contributions during the past two years. Moved by Hailey Reiss Seconded by Max Le Moine That the meeting be adjourned at 8:41 p.m. Carried Page 25 of 189 100 John West Way Aurora, Ontario L4G 6J1 (905) 727-3123 aurora.ca Town of Aurora General Committee Report No. CS21-0 01 _______________________________________________________________________________________ Subject: Annual Report from the Integrity Commissioner Prepared by: Michael de Rond, Town Clerk Department: Corporate Services Date: January 12, 2021 _______________________________________________________________________________________ Recommendation 1. That Report No. CS21-001 be received for information. Executive Summary This report and attachment provides information to Council regarding the work of the Town’s Integrity Commissioner since they were appointed. Background Council appointed Principles Integrity on December 18, 2018. The attached report provides information regarding their role and the activity as it relates to the Town between January 2019 and October 2020. Analysis See attached report. Advisory Committee Review None Legal Considerations The terms of the agreement entered into with the Town’s Integrity Commissioner requires the Integrity Commissioner to provide an annual report to Council. Page 26 of 189 January 12, 2021 2 of 2 Report No. CS21-001 Financial Implications A total of $20,000 has been approved by Council as part of the Town’s 2021 budget in support of its Integrity Commissioner’s activities. Communications Considerations Enter text Link to Strategic Plan By appointing an Integrity Commissioner, the Town is working to ensure high ethical standards are being followed which promotes good governance. Alternative(s) to the Recommendation 1. Council provide direction. Conclusions Staff recommend this report be received for information. The Annual report from the Integrity Commissioner will be posted on the webpage dedicated to the Integrity Commissioner and their role. Attachments Attachment 1 – Annual Report from the Integrity Commissioner Previous Reports None Pre-submission Review Agenda Management Team review on December 17, 2020 Approvals Approved by Techa van Leeuwen, Director, Corporate Services Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer Page 27 of 189 Principles Integrity Fall 2020 Integrity Commissioner’s Annual Report Town of Aurora Principles Integrity is pleased to submit this annual report, covering the period from its appointment starting in January 2019 to the end of October 2020. The purpose of an integrity commissioner’s annual report is to provide the public with the opportunity to understand the ethical well-being of the Town’s elected and appointed officials through the lens of our activities. This being our first annual report to Council, we also take the opportunity to re-introduce ourselves and state our perspective on our role. About Us: In 2017 we formed Principles Integrity, a partnership focused on accountability and governance matters for municipalities. Since its formation, Principles Integrity has been appointed as integrity commissioner (and occasionally as lobbyist registrar and closed meeting investigator) in over 40 Ontario municipalities. Principles Integrity is an active member of the Municipal Integrity Commissioner of Ontario (MICO). The Role of Integrity Commissioner, Generally: Recent amendments to the Municipal Act, 2001 mandated that all municipalities have codes of conduct and integrity commissioners for elected and appointed (local board) officials as of March 1, 2019. The integrity commissioner’s statutory role is to carry out the following functions in an independent manner. Put succinctly, the role is to: •Advise on ethical policy development •Educate on matters relating to ethical behaviour •Provide, on request, advice and opinions to members of Council and Local Boards •Provide, on request, advice and opinions to Council •Provide a mechanism to receive inquiries (often referred to as ‘complaints’) which allege a breach of ethical responsibilities •Resolve complaints •And where it is in the public interest to do so, investigate, report and make recommendations to council within the statutory framework, while guided by Council’s codes, policies and protocols. This might contrast with the popular yet incorrect view that the role of the integrity Attachment 1 Page 28 of 189 Principles Integrity commissioner is primarily to hold elected officials to account; to investigate alleged transgressions and to recommend ‘punishment’. The better view is that integrity commissioners serve as an independent resource, coach and guide focused on enhancing the municipality’s ethical culture. The operating philosophy of Principles Integrity recites this perspective. We believe there is one overarching objective for a municipality in appointing an Integrity Commissioner, and that is to raise the public’s perception that its elected and appointed officials conduct themselves with integrity: The perception that a community’s elected representatives are operating with integrity is the glue which sustains local democracy. We live in a time when citizens are skeptical of their elected representatives at all levels. The overarching objective in appointing an Integrity Commissioner is to ensure the existence of robust and effective policies, procedures, and mechanisms that enhance the citizen’s perception that their Council (and local boards) meet established ethical standards and where they do not, there exists a review mechanism that serves the public interest. In carrying out our broad functions, the role falls into two principle areas. ‘Municipal Act’ functions, focused on codes of conduct and other policies relating to ethical behaviour, and ‘MCIA’ or Municipal Conflict of Interest Act functions, set out graphically in the following two charts: The broad role of an Integrity Commissioner: Municipal Act Functions Assist in adopting Conduct Codes and other ethical polices, rules and procedures Assist in interpreting these ethical polices and how they are applied to Council and Local Boards: Education and Training to Members of Council and Local Boards, to the Municipality, and the Public Upon Written Request, provide advice to members of Council and Local Boards respecting their ethical behaviour polices, rules, procedures 7 Receive Complaint [Resolve] Investigate Report Recommend Sanction as appropriate Principles Integrity Page 29 of 189 Principles Integrity In each of the charts above the primary functions of the integrity commissioner are summarized in the horizontal boxes to the left, and the review mechanism (or inquiry function) appears in the vertical box on the right. The emphasis of Principles Integrity is to help municipalities enhance their ethical foundations and reputations through the drafting of effective codes of conduct and other policies governing ethical behaviour, to provide meaningful education related to such policies, and to provide pragmatic binding advice to Members seeking clarification on ethical issues. As noted in the Toronto Computer Leasing Inquiry report authored by the Honourable Madam Justice Bellamy (the “Bellamy Report”, seen by many as the inspiration for the introduction of integrity commissioners and other accountability officers into the municipal landscape), “Busy councillors and staff cannot be expected to track with precision the development of ethical norms. The Integrity Commissioner can therefore serve as an important source of ethical expertise.” Because the development of policy and the provision of education and advice is not in every case a full solution, the broad role of the integrity commissioner includes the function of seeking and facilitating resolutions when allegations of ethical transgressions are made, and, where it is appropriate and in the public interest to do so, conducting and reporting on formal investigations. This in our view is best seen as a residual and not primary role. The broad role of an Integrity Commissioner: MCIA Functions Assist in interpreting the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act, particularly sections 5, 5.1 and 5.2, for Members of Council and Local Boards: Education and Training to Members of Council and Local Boards, to the Municipality, and the Public Upon Written Request, provide advice to members of Council and Local Boards respecting their obligations under the MCIA 8 Receive Application from elector or person in public interest Six weeks [Resolve] Investigate (public meeting) Complete within 180 days Decide whether to apply to judge Issue Reasons Principles Integrity Page 30 of 189 Principles Integrity Confidentiality: Much of the work of an integrity commissioner is done under a cloak of confidentiality. While in some cases secrecy is required by statute, the promise of confidentiality encourages full disclosure by the people who engage with us. We maintain the discretion to release confidential information when it is necessary to do so for the purposes of a public report, but those disclosures would be limited and rare. Our Activity on your behalf: Since starting our role with the Town of Aurora, we have been engaged in a moderate level of activity which subdivides roughly into three categories: 1. Policy Development and Education On January 12, 2019, following the Municipal Elections in the fall of 2018, we provided training to Council on the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act and Council Code of Conduct. Early in 2019, we worked with Administrative staff of the Town to review and provide with recommendations on the draft Council Code of Conduct, the Code of Conduct for Local Boards, and the Council-Staff Relations Policy. 2. Advice The advice function of the integrity commissioner is available to all Members of Council and where applicable their staff and Members of local boards on matters relating to the code of conduct, the Municipal Conflict of Interest Act and any other matter touching upon the ethical conduct of Members. Advice provided by the integrity commissioner is confidential and independent, and where all the relevant facts are disclosed, is binding upon the integrity commissioner. Our advice is typically provided in a short Advice Memorandum which confirms all relevant facts and provides with clarity our analysis and a recommended course of action. Though advice is confidential, we can advise that some of the issues we provided guidance on this year arose in the context of properly identifying and appropriately recognizing actual and perceived conflicts of interest. The clarifications and guidance provided to Members seemed to be readily understood and welcome. During the period covered by this report, we have responded to and provided Code and/or Conflict of Interest Advice on one such request. 3. Complaint Investigation and Resolution Our approach to reviewing complaints starts with a determination as to whether an inquiry to us is within our jurisdiction, is beyond a trifling matter, is not either frivolous or vexatious, and importantly, whether in its totality it is in the public interest to pursue. We Page 31 of 189 Principles Integrity always look to the possibility of informal resolution in favour of formal investigation and reporting. Once a formal investigation is commenced, the opportunity to seek informal resolution is not abandoned. Where we are able to resolve a matter without concluding a formal investigation, our practice is to provide a written explanation to the complainant to close the matter. Often the potentially respondent Member is involved in preliminary fact-finding and will also be provided with an explanation. Where formal investigations commence, they are conducted under the tenets of procedural fairness and Members are confidentially provided with the name of the Complainant and such information as is necessary to enable them to respond to the allegations raised. During the period covered by this report, four (4) complaints were received, which we were able to dispose of, without need for a recommendation report. Ethical Themes Around the Province: With due regard to our obligation to maintain confidentiality, this annual report enables us to identify learning opportunities from advice requests and investigations conducted in a variety of municipalities. Conflicts of Interest One area Members frequently require additional clarification on is recognizing and appropriately identifying conflicts of interest when they arise. These often include when members are part of another organization or club whose interests are impacted by a matter before Council, or when members are active professionally within the community and a matter before Council may potentially impact one of their current or past clients. The Municipal Conflict of Interest Act governs when elected officials are members of bodies (with the notion of ‘membership being fact dependent) that have a pecuniary interest before Council, resulting in an indirect interest for the elected official triggering obligations under the Act to declare their interest and refrain from participation. With respect to circumstances involving past clients, a waiting period in the order of one-year is typically used before a past client’s pecuniary interest is no longer an indirect interest. As always, obtaining clear and reliable advice can help avoid a costly and time-consuming investigation. Respect and Non-Disparagement Another area of prominence is the failure of some Members of Council to adhere to rules against disparagement. Members of Council are entitled, and indeed expected to disagree on all manner of issues. However, one of the cornerstones to democracy must be the recognition that different opinions and perspectives are to be respected, and Page 32 of 189 Principles Integrity disagreement should not devolve into disrespect, disparagement and name-calling. Some Members of Council hold a view was that they are entitled to freely express their opinion, even if that includes disparagement of others, and so long as they share it via personal email, and not on the municipal server, they are not constrained by any rules around decorum. This is incorrect. Members are bound by the Code provisions of respectful and non-disparaging communication, whether sharing views on their own email, social media, or elsewhere. Regardless of the medium, regardless of the intended audience, and regardless of motive, we have observed several instances where Members of Council in municipalities around the province have been found to have breached ethical standards by saying or recording things they have come to regret. Staying in Your Lane One area of concern that arises from time to time is members of Council overstepping their role, attempting to ‘take the reins’ to fix a constituent’s problem, or directing staff how to do their job. Members of Council serve an important role in putting constituents in touch with appropriate staff, but it is important to strike the correct balance between following the established processes and stepping in to fix the problem. Failing to recognize this may be perceived by staff as undermining staff or interfering with their duties, and may attract exposure for the Member and the municipality where the Member’s activities are not in compliance with the relevant regulatory scheme (such as using mandated personal protective equipment; following proper risk management processes; ensuring safety for the Member, their constituents, and the general public). Equally importantly, it interferes with the line-management routines properly established by the municipality so that its workers have clarity in who they are to take instructions from. Public Trust Recent events have ushered in a new era of electronic participation in meetings, and have challenged municipalities to respond quickly to ensure the health and safety of the municipality, provide social distancing for staff, and ensure public transparency. Public trust in local government rests on confidence that important decisions are subject to public debate and that there exists a strong ethical framework. While the rules around participation in electronic meetings have been adjusted, the safeguards around transparency, accountability and ethical conduct remain firmly in place. To the extent routines are changed out of necessity, municipalities should be able to explain why their substituted processes amount to reasonable restrictions on the normal democratic rights of their constituents and be prepared to return to regular practice as soon as practicable. Conclusion: We look forward to continuing to work with Members of Council and Local Boards to ensure a strong ethical framework. As always, we welcome Members’ questions and look Page 33 of 189 Principles Integrity forward to continuing to serve as Aurora’s Integrity Commissioner. We wish to recognize the Members of Council who are responsible for making decisions at the local level in the public interest. It has been a privilege to assist you in your work by providing advice about the Code of Conduct and resolving complaints. We recognize that public service is not easy and the ethical issues that arise can be challenging. The public rightly demands the highest standard from those who serve them, and we congratulate Council for its aspirational objective to strive to meet that standard. Finally, we wish to thank staff for their professionalism and assistance where required. Although an Integrity Commissioner is not part of the Aurora’s administrative hierarchy, the work of our office depends on the facilitation of access to information and policy in order to carry out the mandate. This was done willingly and efficiently by the staff of the Town. Page 34 of 189 100 John West Way Aurora, Ontario L4G 6J1 (905) 727-3123 aurora.ca Town of Aurora General Committee Report No. PDS21 -005 _______________________________________________________________________________________ Subject: Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan Prepared by: Natalie Kehle, Energy and Climate Change Analyst Department: Planning and Development Services Date: January 12, 2021 _______________________________________________________________________________________ Recommendation 1. That Report No. PDS21-005 be received; 2. That Council endorse the attached Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan; and, 3. That the future capital and operating budget requests listed in Table 6 of the Energy Plan be considered as part of the Town’s ten-year capital plan and funding be considered as part of the budget process. Executive Summary The purpose of this report is to seek Council endorsement of the attached Community Energy Plan (CEP). The Town retained LURA Consulting for the development of this plan, in collaboration with ICLEI Canada and Wood (consulting engineers), having considerable experience in developing other Municipal Energy Plans in Ontario. The CEP provides strategic direction to move towards a sustainable energy future. It takes a long-term view to 2050 and aims to improve energy efficiency, reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and to foster a culture of conservation for Aurora. It considers the impact of future growth and options for local clean energy generation. Supporting economic development by better meeting local energy needs is a key element within the Plan’s overall approach.  Reducing the amount of energy used by the Aurora community creates new economic growth, supports an active community, and supports a healthier atmosphere. Page 35 of 189 January 12, 2021 2 of 13 Report No. PDS21-005  The direction of the Plan has been informed by members of the public, Town staff and community stakeholders.  The Energy and Emissions Baseline analysis determined that over half of Aurora’s greenhouse gas emissions are generated from heating homes and other buildings (such as offices, stores, and schools) and from personal vehicle use.  The Community Energy Plan provides a pathway towards the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the Community by 80% from 2018 levels by 2050.  Fourteen Made-in-Aurora Strategies are developed to reduce Community greenhouse gas emissions and to achieve the Plan’s energy goals.  An Implementation Plan has been developed identifying Town roles and responsibilities, actions and budget implications. Background CEP Development A CEP represents an important tool for Aurora to ensure energy security, support local economic development, foster a culture of social responsibility and sustainability, and to identify ways to reduce the community’s energy consumption and GHG emissions. The CEP considers the environmental and economic benefits of how energy is consumed and generated in the community, as well as how this impacts the quality of life of Aurora’s residents. Developing a CEP is considered best practice for municipal strategic, long-term planning. LURA Consulting was retained to develop the plan, having considerable experience in developing other Energy Plans in the GTA for the City of Vaughan and the Town of Newmarket. Central to the Plan’s development was the Aurora CEP Stakeholder Working Group, comprised of key stakeholders from the surrounding community. The group was consulted throughout the Plan’s development, having met five times, while providing invaluable recommendations for the Plan’s goals, strategies and implementation. The following organizations formed the Stakeholder Working Group:  Alectra Utilities  Aurora Chamber of Commerce  Counterpoint Engineering Page 36 of 189 January 12, 2021 3 of 13 Report No. PDS21-005  Desjardins  Enbridge Gas  Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO)  Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA)  Toronto Region Conservation Authority (TRCA)  Town of Aurora Council  Town of Aurora Community Advisory Committee  Town of Aurora Staff – various divisions  Windfall Ecology Centre  York Catholic District School Board  York Region  York Region District School Board The Rising Cost of Climate Change The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) recently released a study to establish a credible estimate costs associated with climate change in Canada. Evidence of the growing cost of climate change in Canada can be demonstrated by the trend in government sponsored disaster relief payments. The rising severity of extreme weather events has led to a significant increase in provinces and territories seeking assistance under the Federal Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) program. The program helps provinces and territories recover from natural disasters. From 2009 to 2015, assistance program compensation to the provinces and territories was greater than the previous 39 fiscal years combined. The increase in assistance costs over the past 10 years is attributed to more extreme weather events with greater intensity. Between 2005 and 2014, total cumulative losses from extreme weather events were estimated to be $31 billion, of which 16% were covered by the assistance program and 47% were covered by insurance payments, leaving the remaining $11 billion in losses borne by households, businesses, and municipal and provincial governments. Town of Aurora Community energy planning helps to address Aurora’s role in the global climate crisis and is aligned with the Town’s 2019 Climate Emergency Declaration. By declaring a climate emergency, the Town deepened its commitment to reducing emissions and protecting the community from the impacts of climate change, in keeping with the Paris Accord. Page 37 of 189 January 12, 2021 4 of 13 Report No. PDS21-005 Aurora’s Official Plan directs the Town to develop policies and programs designed to reduce per-capita greenhouse gas emissions by two-thirds by 2031 and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the industrial, commercial and institutional sectors. The Official Plan also requires the development of Town-wide Community Energy Plan to detail energy use requirements, establish a plan to reduce energy demand, consider the use of alternative and renewable energy generation options, and ensure that communities are designed to optimize passive solar gains. Town of Aurora Corporate Emissions In 2019, the Town released its most recent five-year Corporate Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan (ECDM Plan 2019-2023). Under Ontario Regulation 507/18, public agencies, such as the Town of Aurora, are required to report on energy consumption and GHG emissions annually from Town operations (i.e. from buildings, fleet and water/wastewater facilities) and to develop and implement an energy reduction plan. The ECDM Plan must be reported on separately to the CEP and updated every 5 years. No such legislative requirement exists for the development of or reporting on community energy plans. Town facilities, corporate fleet and water/wastewater facilities emitted over 3,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2018 or 1% of the community’s 2018 greenhouse gas emissions. Corporately, the Town is an important member of the Aurora community and leads by example. This holds true to leading efforts in the community to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from Town operations. Moving forward, the ECDM Plan should be viewed as the Corporation’s contribution to the overall CEP. Updates to the Corporate ECDM Plan align with the goals of the CEP. York Region York Region recognizes the need to address climate mitigation and adaptation from a corporate and community perspective. This commitment is identified in Vision 2051 and the York Region Official Plan. Vision 2051 challenges York Region to achieve net- zero carbon by 2051. Provincial Government In November 2018, the provincial government released the Made-in-Ontario Environment Plan. The Plan aims to: protect air, land and water; reduce litter and waste; reduce Ontario’s share of GHG emissions; and help communities prepare for climate change. Ontario’s target for emissions reduction (30% below 2005 levels by 2030). Page 38 of 189 January 12, 2021 5 of 13 Report No. PDS21-005 Under the Provincial Growth Plan, upper and single-tier municipalities are required to develop policies in their Official Plans to identify actions that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address climate change adaptation goals, aligned with other Provincial plans and policies for environmental protection. Federal Government In 2016, Canada adopted the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (PCF). The PCF builds on four pillars – carbon pricing, emission reductions, adaptation and resilience, and clean technology and innovation – and aims to meet Canada’s emissions reduction target of 30% below 2005 levels by 2030 and 80% by 2050. A recent Federal Government announcement moved the target to net zero carbon emissions by 2050. International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) The Paris Agreement aims to keep the global average temperature rise well below two degrees Celsius and to drive efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. In 2018, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released a special report on the impacts of a 1.5-degree temperature rise – underscoring the need for “rapid and far-reaching” transitions in how we use our lands, energy, industry, buildings, transportation and design our cities. Analysis Reducing the amount of energy used by the Aurora community creates new economic growth, supports an active community and supports a healthier atmosphere Energy planning provides a benefit to the local community, ranging from environmental and climate to economic and health. These benefits are well-documented in research, which analyses the successful implementation of CEPs across Canada. The benefits of energy planning can be summarized in four main pillars: environmental, economic, social and health. The direction of the CEP has been informed by members of the public, Town staff and community stakeholders The public has been engaged throughout the plan’s development. Early on, LURA developed a public engagement strategy for the Plan, based on municipal best practices. Public engagement activities for the CEP included: Page 39 of 189 January 12, 2021 6 of 13 Report No. PDS21-005  the public was invited to share what was important to them about energy and emissions at the Aurora farmer’s market in the Summer of 2019;  an online survey was available through the Town’s engagement website, which invited residents to tell us their priorities for action on climate change and energy efficiency in the Summer of 2020  members of the public were invited to participate in a virtual public consultation. This self-guided experience included a YouTube video, background documents and opportunities for feedback in the Fall of 2020. At each touchpoint, feedback from the public was reviewed by the project team and considered within the CEP as appropriate. A Stakeholder Working Group was created and consulted five times throughout the project seeking expert feedback on the CEP’s development. The Energy and Emissions Baseline analysis determined that over half of Aurora’s greenhouse gas emissions are generated from heating homes and other buildings (such as offices, stores, and schools) and from personal vehicle use Some key findings from the Energy Baseline and Emissions analysis in 2018 for the Aurora community include:  consuming 6.8 million GJ of energy to heat and power homes and buildings and for transportation fuel;  spending $178 million on their energy needs; $2,900 per person annually; and,  producing over 326,000 tonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent. The following is a breakdown of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions originating in Aurora:  Homes are responsible for 45% of all energy use in Aurora and 37% of total emissions. On average, residents in Aurora are spending about $910 to heat and power their homes each year.  Businesses and institutions are responsible for 16% of all energy used in the community and 14% of emissions. Page 40 of 189 January 12, 2021 7 of 13 Report No. PDS21-005  Industrial buildings and facilities are responsible for 13% of total energy. This represents 3% of total emissions.  The transportation sector is responsible for 26% of the total energy used and 37% of total emissions. Most trips made by Aurora residents are completed in a car. Personal vehicle use is responsible for 99% of all transportation energy and emissions.  Waste emissions account for 9% of the total in 2018. The energy and GHG emissions for Aurora are anticipated to stay around the same level to 2050 despite future population growth. The minimal change in levels can be attributed to modest energy efficiency retrofits, energy performance of new buildings, the changing carbon content of electricity and natural gas, improved fuel economy as well as the Provincial and Federal efforts. The Community Energy Plan provides a pathway towards the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the Community by 80% from 2018 levels by 2050 The strategies outlined propose to reduce annual emissions in Aurora by 72,361 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2030 and 212,364 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2050. This is a 22 percent and 65 percent reduction in emissions, respectively, compared to 2018 levels. A significant transformational effort will be required to meet these reductions by the Town, agencies, homeowners and businesses. While the CEP strategies are significant, there remains a gap in achieving an 80% emissions reduction by 2050. An additional effort by federal and provincial governments as well as advances in technologies will be needed. The CEP’s planning horizon is thirty years (i.e. 2050) and the Town will continue to evaluate progress over time and identify ways to narrow the gap. This CEP is intended to guide the Town of Aurora and the wider community to reduce energy and greenhouse gas emissions. Fourteen Made-in-Aurora Strategies are developed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to achieve the Plan’s goals The plan includes a series of strategies, developed in collaboration with the Stakeholder Working Group. Overall, the strategies aim to: Page 41 of 189 January 12, 2021 8 of 13 Report No. PDS21-005  Reduce the amount of energy used in new and existing buildings - this includes homes, businesses, offices, apartments, Town facilities, schools, and industry;  Consider cleaner ways of powering our Town (through district energy systems and solar power);  Rely less on gasoline-powered cars and switch to electric vehicles, as such as the on going purchase of hybrid fleet vehicles by the Town;  Promote walking, cycling, rolling and transit use in Aurora;  Reduce the amount of waste generated in the Town, such as the enforcement of the Town’s three garbage bag limit; and,  Enable compact, mixed-use development. The full list of GHG reduction strategy categories are listed in the following table: GHG emission reduction Strategy Categories #1: Residential New Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency #2: Residential Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency #3: Commercial New Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency #4: Commercial Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency #5: Multi-Unit Residential Commercial and Institutional Buildings: Commissioning & Recommissioning #6: New & Existing Industrial Buildings: Energy Efficiency #7: District Energy System #8: Transportation: Mode Shift #9: Transportation: EV and Low Carbon Vehicle Adoption #10: Waste: Diversion and Reduction #11: Renewables: Solar Power #12 Land Use #13 Carbon Sequestration #14 Carbon Offsets An Implementation Plan is developed identifying Town roles and responsibilities, actions, and budget implications The CEP is intended to guide the Town of Aurora and the wider community to reduce energy and GHG emissions. A strong focus on implementation, governance and Page 42 of 189 January 12, 2021 9 of 13 Report No. PDS21-005 monitoring is essential to the Plan’s success. The implementation framework includes guidance for:  Governance  Financing  Engagement and Communications  Reporting and Renewal  Enabling Components  Potential Partners The CEP outlines the potential Town-led projects as important next steps to spur momentum in the early implementation of the CEP. Costs are estimated for those identified projects and listed in the plan, under Table 6 of the CEP (see Attachment 1). Should Council endorse the plan, the full scope of planned capital works will be considered as part of the Town’s ten-year capital investment plan. The final approval to proceed with each of these noted projects will be subject to internal and external funding availability. The following projects have been approved under previous capital budget requests and are identified as important first steps in the CEP:  development of a tiered code or green standards that encourages high energy efficiency for new development; and,  development of an Active Transportation Master Plan. Additional Town-led projects identified in the CEP would be included in future budget requests, and include:  development of a business case and program for the Energy Retrofit Program;  preparation of a business case for the development of district energy;  development of a pre-feasibility and feasibility study for a district energy system, based on results of the district energy business case; and,  development of a business case for a residential, commercial and institutional solar energy program. Advisory Committee Review The Community Advisory Committee (CAC) commented on the draft Community Energy Plan in October 2020. The Committee asked about the standards for the proposed residential retrofit programs and the effect of infill housing on CEP data. The Town’s Page 43 of 189 January 12, 2021 10 of 13 Report No. PDS21-005 consultants provided clarification noting that participation should not be limited by the age of a home and that the impact of infill housing is unknown at this time. The CAC asked about the achievability of the goals noted in the CEP and if there could be any COVID impacts such as a transportation greenhouse gas emission offsets from more people working from home. The Town’s consultants noted that there has been an increased sense of urgency to begin ramping up the implementation of these plans and that there is no COVID related modelling available at this time. The CAC further inquired about the carbon sequestration requirements for new developments and the Consultants noted that it is addressed in green development planning. The Committee expressed concerns regarding the active transportation component of the CEP including the required use of a car to get to certain areas of Town, winter weather and servicing and connections for bikeshare services. Staff noted that there is a proposal for the 2021 budget for a consultant to undertake an active transportation master plan. The Committee suggested encouraging the research and development of seasonal electric vehicles. Staff will be presenting the CEP to the newly created Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) on January 25, 2021 for review and comment following the January 12th General Committee meeting. The project completion date and funding deadline from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) is February 2021. Feedback from both the GC and EAC meetings will be addressed directly in the final version of the CEP that is submitted to FCM. Legal Considerations Staff are seeking endorsement of the proposed Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan, which will empower staff to take actions towards implementing the plan. Additional Council authorization may be required in the future to put certain components of the plan in place that are beyond staff’s delegated authority. Pursuant to the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 25, the Town is authorized to deal with and to pass by-laws with respect to the environmental well-being of the municipality, including respecting climate change and also respecting the protection or conservation of the environment that requires buildings to be constructed in accordance with provisions of the Building Code. Financial Implications The short to medium term (2020 to 2026) capital budget implications of the proposed community energy plan are estimated to be $560,000 to $635,000. Of this amount, Page 44 of 189 January 12, 2021 11 of 13 Report No. PDS21-005 Council previously approved $50,000 to retain a consultant to undertake a green development study for the Town. A further $150,000 in capital budget authority was approved as part of the Town’s 2021 capital budget relating to the development of an Active Transportation Master Plan. The remaining capital requirements will be integrated into the Town’s future ten-year capital plans for Council consideration upon approval of the proposed CEP. An estimated $22,000 to $40,000 in annual operating costs are proposed under the CEP in support of the Town’s expansion of its EV charging stations at Town facilities over the next five years. Should Council endorse the CEP, these requirements will be presented to Council for its consideration and approval as part of a future operating budget. The Town will strive minimize the impact of these noted costs on the property tax base by exploring all alternative sources of funding such as those from grant programs and user fees. Communications Considerations The Town will use “inform” as the level of engagement for this project to ensure that residents and businesses are aware of the plan. In follow-up to the public engagement activities that were undertaken, the Town will provide an update to participants in the process and will continue to provide information and engagement opportunities as the plan unfolds. Link to Strategic Plan The CEP is aligned with Aurora’s Strategic Plan, which is based on the three pillars of sustainability – environment, community, economy – and establishes a vision for Aurora as “an innovative and sustainable community where neighbours care and businesses thrive”. The CEP also aligns with the Strategic Plan’s objectives, including:  improving transportation, mobility, and connectivity,  promoting and advancing green initiatives; and  encouraging the stewardship of Aurora’s natural resources. The CEP also aligns with the Town’s Economic Development Strategic Plan (2019) includes several strategic actions, including:  working with the business community and York Region to examine and implement solutions aimed at providing transportation options to allow staff to Page 45 of 189 January 12, 2021 12 of 13 Report No. PDS21-005 easily commute to businesses located in employment areas currently not well serviced by public transit,  continuing to support residential intensification in the appropriate locations in the Aurora Promenade and Town wide; and  examining the feasibility of providing a bike share/e-bike program for downtown Aurora. Alternative(s) to the Recommendation 1. That Council provide direction. Conclusions This report seeks Council’s endorsement of the Community Energy Plan. The Plan presents a road map, which determined priorities, technologies, projects and opportunities for the Town and the broader community in order to meet energy and GHG emission targets for the next thirty years. In addition to alleviating some of the potential challenges arising from Aurora’s population growth, the energy, environmental and economic benefits of community energy planning include:  Fewer greenhouse gas emissions and avoided energy costs  Less strain on energy infrastructure  Improved resilience to power outages  Job creation and investment in the local economy The Plan also creates an implementation plan to ensure success, including a Town led working group, Town budget impacts, potential external partners and identifies roles and responsibilities. Attachments Attachment 1 – Community Energy Plan Previous Reports None. Page 46 of 189 January 12, 2021 13 of 13 Report No. PDS21-005 Pre-submission Review Agenda Management Team review on December 17, 2020 Approvals Approved by David Waters, Director, Planning & Development Services Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer Page 47 of 189 TOWN OF AURORA COMMUNITY ENERGY PLAN Page 48 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan © 2021, The Corporation of the Town of Aurora. All Rights Reserved. The preparation of this plan was carried out with assistance from the Government of Canada and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. Notwithstanding this support, the views expressed are the personal views of the authors, and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and the Government of Canada accept no responsibility for them. Project funding support provided by the Government of Ontario. DRAFT FOR COUNCIL REVIEW – January 2021 Page 49 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan i Message from Mayor Mrakas The Town of Aurora is a beautiful municipality in the heart of York Region. Not only is it rich in history and culture, but many amenities create wonderful opportunities to live, work and play in our vibrant community. The Town falls within the Lake Simcoe Watershed and a recent study by the Lake Simcoe Conservation Authority (LSRCA) found that climate change is already impacting aspects of our watershed and putting ecosystems, homes, businesses, and public infrastructure at risk. The Town is prioritizing reducing emissions and increasing resiliency both within its operations and at the community level as part of its commitment under the 2019 declaration of Climate Emergency. The Community Energy Plan (CEP) is a large step in the process to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the community. This Plan outlines how the Town intends to grow towards a sustainable energy future. It describes the steps to improve energy efficiency, reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, and foster a culture of conservation for our residents, businesses, and local institutions. The Plan allows us to keep energy dollars, estimated to be $178 million in 2018, in our community where we can put them towards our needs. Since 2018, the Town has committed to reducing greenhouse gas through the following initiatives: - Council endorsed the Aurora Corporate Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan, which set a target of reducing municipal emissions by 16% by 2023 from 2018 levels. - Council endorsed the Anti-Idling Policy, limiting unnecessary emissions. - The Town: o Joined the Partners for Climate Protection (PCP) program, which consists of a five-step Milestone Framework that guides action against climate change. The Community Energy Plan fulfills the first three PCP Milestones, including creating a baseline emissions inventory and forecast, setting emissions reduction targets, and developing a local action plan. o Purchased an energy management software to track energy use trends, support reduction strategies, help with Provincial energy reporting activities, and the first step in implementing a corporate-wide energy management system (EMS). o Replaced lighting at all the Town facilities to high efficiency LED. o Installed solar panels at four Town Facilities generated 652,700 kWh of solar power in 2019. o Designed the new Library Square Project to align with the LEED Gold standard and includes over 20 green design features. - Council approved funding for the Green Development Standard for sustainable community development guidelines that will be applied to the Town’s planning process. - Council approved funding for energy conservation measures at Town Facilities to be implemented in 2020-2021. The CEP adds strength to Aurora’s community culture of environmental and economic leadership. As a community, we can provide a sustainable future for our families and businesses. This Plan supports residents, business owners, institutions, and the Town to address climate change positively and effectively. Sincerely, Mayor Tom Mrakas Mayor Tom Mrakas Page 50 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan ii Stakeholder Working Group The Town of Aurora would like to thank the following organizations for their participation in the Stakeholder Working Group (SWG). The SWG was involved throughout the project and shaped the development of this Community Energy Plan. x Alectra Utilities x Aurora Chamber of Commerce x Counterpoint Engineering x Desjardins x Enbridge Gas x Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) x Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) x Toronto Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) x Town of Aurora Council x Town of Aurora Community Advisory Committee x Town of Aurora Staff – various divisions x Windfall Ecology Centre x York Catholic District School Board x York Region x York Region District School Board Page 51 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan iii Glossary of Terms Term Definition Air-source heat pump An air-source heat pump pulls heat from outdoor air to heat homes in the winter and releases heat into outdoor air to cool in summer. It functions similarly as an air conditioning unit but provides both cooling and heating for the home. It can be powered with electricity, natural gas, or renewable energy sources. Baseline Estimation of the current (2018) energy use, energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions. Business-as-Planned The Business-as-Planned (BAP) scenario is developed to understand future energy consumption, energy costs and emissions for the Town of Aurora-based on changes in population and employment. It considers the impacts of provincial and federal government commitments and assumes no action is taken locally to reduce energy or emissions. District Energy System (DES) District energy systems (DES) use pipes to supply heating, cooling and/or power to multiple connected buildings from a decentralized energy source. Buildings that produce excess energy (“anchor tenants”) can redistribute energy to nearby buildings. Gigajoule (GJ) A gigajoule (GJ) is a derived unit of energy in the International System of Units. It equals one billion Joules. The amount of energy represented by one GJ is equivalent to 278 kWh. Greenhouse gas emissions A greenhouse gas absorbs and radiates heat in the lower atmosphere that otherwise would be lost in space. The main greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), and nitrous oxide (N2O). The most abundant greenhouse gas is CO2 – carbon dioxide. Measured in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e). Ground-mounted solar Ground-mounted solar panels are anchored to the ground, rather than rooftop systems. They can be a single array or much larger to cover a field or parking lot. Kilowatt-hour (kWh) A kilowatt-hour is a unit of electrical energy used as the basic billing unit and equals the use of 1 thousand watts of electricity in one hour. Mode shift Encouraging individuals to use active transportation (walking, rolling, cycling) or public transit instead of gasoline-powered vehicles. Net-zero ready Net Zero Ready provides building owners with an achievable first step towards a Net Zero building. Buildings that are Net Zero Ready, are built to a high energy efficient standard. The building owner can incorporate renewable energy in the building later and at a lower cost due to a reduced requirement for energy. For example, a Passive House or Canadian Green Building Council Zero Carbon Building. Offset Through carbon offsetting, emission reductions are sold to the purchaser in the form of an “offset”. Offsets (measured in tonnes of CO2e) effectively reduce the purchaser’s net emissions. Sequestration Long-term storage of carbon (carbon dioxide) from the atmosphere. Solar thermal Solar thermal energy is a form of energy that harnesses solar energy to heat water, air or other fluids, for use in industry, and in the residential and commercial sectors. Solar thermal technology uses energy from the sun for domestic hot water heaters and can be used year-round in Canada. Stationary Energy Stationary energy sources are those used in buildings – including homes, stores, offices and schools. Stationary energy is one of the largest sources of GHG emissions in many communities. Page 52 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan iv Term Definition Traffic zone Sections of the Town are broken down into manageable sizes for analysis. These sections are known as traffic zones. Traffic zones align with other planning exercises at the Town level. Abbreviations Abbreviation Full reference BAP Business-as-Planned CEP Community Energy Plan DES District Energy System DYEC Durham York Energy Centre ECDM Energy and Conservation Demand Management EV Electric vehicle EWRB Energy and Water Reporting and Benchmarking FCM Federation of Canadian Municipalities FIT Feed-in-tariff GFA Gross floor area GHG Greenhouse gas GJ Gigajoule GPC Global Protocol for Community-Scale Greenhouse Gas Emission Inventories IESO Independent Electricity System Operator IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change IWG Implementation Working Group kW Kilowatt kWh Kilowatt-hour LEED Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design LIC Local Improvement Charge LSRCA Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority MEP Municipal Energy Plan MURB Multi-use residential building MW Megawatt NRCan Natural Resources Canada OBC Ontario Building Code PACE Property Assessed Clean Energy PCF Pan-Canadian Framework PCP Partners in Climate Protection PPS Provincial Policy Statement PV Photovoltaic SWG Stakeholder Working Group tCO2e Tonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent TGS Toronto Green Standard TMP Transportation Management Plan YRT York Region Transit Page 53 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan v Executive Summary Introduction Energy powers homes, schools and workplaces. Energy keeps the economy going, allows people to move around and supports resident quality of life. At the same time, energy use can have negative impacts on the natural environment and financial health. Aurora can create a low carbon future that benefits the environment, the local economy, and all who use energy. Reducing the amount of energy used by the Aurora community creates new economic growth, supports an active community, and supports a healthier atmosphere for people and the planet. The Community Energy Plan (CEP) provides strategic direction to move towards a sustainable energy future. It takes a long-term view to 2050 and aims to improve energy efficiency, reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, and foster a culture of conservation. It considers the impact of future growth and options for local clean energy generation. Supporting economic development by better meeting local energy needs is a key element within the Plan. The Community Energy Plan provides a pathway towards the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80% from 2018 levels by 2050. Aurora’s Energy Future to 2050 Energy and GHG emissions for Aurora are anticipated to stay around the same level until 2050 despite the expected population growth. Energy and GHG emissions stay around the same level because of reductions from modest energy efficiency retrofits, increased energy performance of new buildings, the changing carbon content of electricity and natural gas, improved fuel economy and provincial and federal efforts. However, these actions alone are not enough to achieve an 80% reduction from 2018 levels by 2050. Action is needed at the community level to further reduce emissions. Energy Vision Aurora is a leader in energy and emissions reduction, with a focus on improving quality of life in collaboration with residents, organizations and businesses. Energy Goals x Educate and communicate with the public about the impact of energy choices. x Encourage healthy and complete communities for residents to live, work and play through land-use planning. x Encourage homes and apartments to use energy consciously and increase efficiency. x Encourage local businesses and industries to use energy consciously and increase efficiency. x Increase access to clean and renewable energy in the community. x Integrate nature-based solutions in land use to capture carbon. x Support a range of low carbon transportation options that are accessible, including electric vehicles, public transit, walking and cycling. x Support the local economy. x Support waste reduction efforts at the local and regional level. Energy Target The Community Energy Plan outlines a series of strategies that achieve a 22% reduction by 2030 from 2018 levels and a 65% reduction by 2050. These put Aurora on a path towards an 80% emissions reduction by 2050. Page 54 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan vi Strategies to Reduce Emissions The plan includes a series of strategies, developed in collaboration with a Stakeholder Working Group – comprised of individuals from local utilities, businesses, residents and Town staff - and feedback from the public, to help reduce energy use and emissions in Aurora. Overall, the strategies aim to: x Reduce the amount of energy used in new and existing buildings, including homes, businesses, offices, apartments, Town facilities, schools, and industry x Consider cleaner ways of powering the Town (through district energy systems and solar power) x Rely less on gasoline-powered cars and switch to electric vehicles x Promote walking, cycling, rolling and transit use x Reduce the amount of waste generated in the Town and x Pursue compact, mixed-use development. Homes are responsible for 45% of all energy use in Aurora and 37% of total emissions. On average, residents in Aurora are spending about $910 to heat and power their homes each year. There are two strategies for homes. The first calls for the design and implementation of a tiered building code or green standard. Developers would be encouraged to meet higher levels of energy efficiency when building new homes. The second strategy outlines a voluntary deep energy retrofit program for existing homes. A deep energy retrofit looks at the entire home or building and aims for significant increases in energy efficiency. Saving energy means saving money to heat, cool and power homes. Businesses and institutions are responsible for 16% of all energy used in the community and 14% of emissions. Like homes, the CEP includes strategies for new and existing businesses and institutions. These include a tiered building code or green standard for new buildings and a voluntary deep retrofit program for existing buildings. The CEP includes a strategy for increasing efficiency in multi-unit buildings. In Aurora, industrial buildings and facilities are responsible for 13% of total energy and 3% of total emissions. Industries already have a vested interest in managing their energy consumption to the best of their abilities. The CEP reflects ongoing energy efficiency improvements in industrial buildings using energy management systems. Most trips made by residents of Aurora are completed in a car. The transportation sector is responsible for 26% of total energy and 37% of total emissions. Personal vehicle use is responsible for 99% of all transportation energy and emissions. The first strategy aims to reduce the impacts of travel through “mode shift”. This means encouraging other methods of travel (such as cycling, walking or taking transit) instead of driving. The second strategy aims to support the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) by developing a plan to increase EV charging infrastructure. Aurora’s Energy, Emissions & Costs (2018) x 6.8 million GJ of energy to heat and power homes and buildings and for transportation fuel within the Town x Cost the community $178 million; $2,900 per person annually x the community of Aurora produced over 326,000 tonnes of carbon- dioxide equivalent. x Over half of the emissions are produced from heating homes and other buildings (such as offices, stores, and schools). x Travel is also a large source of emissions – the majority of which comes from personal cars, trucks and SUVs. Page 55 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan vii Working with York Region, the Town of Aurora provides many programs and services to encourage waste reduction and diversion. Waste emissions were 9% of the total in 2018. The CEP calls for implementing programs to reduce waste generation and to increase waste diversion from landfills. District energy systems (DES) use pipes to supply heating, cooling and/or power to multiple connected buildings from a local, decentralized energy source. Buildings that produce excess energy (“anchor tenants”) can redistribute energy to other buildings nearby. While the opportunity for district energy exists, there is significant detailed planning involved in assessing district energy application for the Town. As a result, the CEP recommends conducting a feasibility study to further assess district energy solutions. The CEP attributes some GHG emissions and energy reduction potential through renewable energy. The plan recommends identifying specific locations and applications for solar energy on Town properties while encouraging uptake amongst homes, businesses and the industrial sector. Land use planning and carbon sequestration activities support these strategies. How land use is planned and developed has a long-term impact on the environment. The CEP recommends building compact, mixed- use communities where residents can live, work and play. The plan recommends continued efforts to protect tree canopy, and green spaces, and to work with partner agencies to quantify the impacts of carbon sequestration on the Town’s reduction target. The strategies outlined will reduce annual emissions in Aurora by 72,361 tonnes CO2e in 2030 and 212,364 tonnes CO2e in 2050. This is a 22 percent reduction in emissions from 2018 levels and a 65 percent reduction in emissions in 2050. A significant transformational effort will be required to meet these reductions by the Town, agencies, homeowners and businesses. While the CEP strategies are significant, there remains a gap in achieving an 80% emissions reduction by 2050. An additional effort by federal and provincial governments as well as advances in technologies will be needed. The plan intentionally sets a 30- year planning horizon, and the Town will continue to evaluate progress over time and identify ways to close the gap. The CEP will guide the Town of Aurora and the wider community to reduce energy and greenhouse gas emissions. A strong focus on implementation, governance and monitoring is essential to the Plan’s success. Page 56 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan viii Table of Contents Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................ 1 The Need for a Community Energy Plan ........................................................................................................ 1 Benefits of Energy Planning ........................................................................................................................... 3 International and Federal Direction ................................................................................................................ 3 Provincial Direction ........................................................................................................................................ 4 Aurora’s Environmental Commitment ............................................................................................................. 5 Vision, Goals and Targets ................................................................................................................................. 6 Vision ............................................................................................................................................................. 6 Goals ............................................................................................................................................................. 6 Targets .......................................................................................................................................................... 6 Energy and Emissions in Aurora ........................................................................................................................ 8 Baseline and Base Year ................................................................................................................................. 8 Energy Use .................................................................................................................................................... 8 Energy Costs ................................................................................................................................................. 9 GHG Emissions ........................................................................................................................................... 10 Town of Aurora Corporate Emissions ........................................................................................................... 11 Aurora’s Energy Future to 2050 ....................................................................................................................... 12 Energy and Greenhouse Gas Reduction Strategies ........................................................................................ 14 Homes ......................................................................................................................................................... 15 Businesses & Institutions ............................................................................................................................. 26 Industry ........................................................................................................................................................ 35 District Energy.............................................................................................................................................. 36 Travel ........................................................................................................................................................... 38 Waste .......................................................................................................................................................... 46 Renewable Energy Supply ........................................................................................................................... 48 Land Use ..................................................................................................................................................... 51 Carbon Sequestration & Offsets ................................................................................................................... 52 Impacts of Action in Aurora .............................................................................................................................. 53 Implementation ................................................................................................................................................ 56 Governance ................................................................................................................................................. 56 Enabling Components .................................................................................................................................. 61 Potential Partners ........................................................................................................................................ 61 Reporting & Renewal ................................................................................................................................... 62 Page 57 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 1 Introduction The Need for a Community Energy Plan Energy powers homes, schools and workplaces. Energy keeps the economy going, allows people to move around and supports resident quality of life. At the same time, energy use can have negative impacts on the natural environment and financial health. We can create a low carbon future that benefits the environment, the local economy, and all who use energy. Reducing the amount of energy used by the Aurora community creates new economic growth, supports an active community, and supports a healthier atmosphere for people and the planet. Today, towns and cities are experiencing the impacts of a changing climate. Greenhouse gas emissions – like carbon dioxide - are the primary cause of climate change. Greenhouse gas emissions (or GHGs) trap heat in the atmosphere, warming the surface of the earth. As we continue to produce GHGs, we are contributing to climate change. More severe storm events, flooding, and infrastructure damage are seen in local communities. As a result, scientists have declared an urgent need for action to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees. Based on findings from the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority’s Climate Change Adaptation Strategy1, as shown in Figure 1, by 2080, the Town will experience: x Annual temperatures increase up to 5.5°C x Increased daily temperatures in all seasons x Many more days over 30°C and fewer under -10°C x Increased intensity, duration, and frequency of heavy storms x Higher annual precipitation, with winter and spring significantly wetter x Longer grower season, more frost-free days The changes to climate, paired with the amount of energy consumed for the Town’s municipal operations have impacts on municipal infrastructure, assets and budget. The amount of energy used in homes, businesses, schools, industry, and transportation represents a significant amount of investment. Reducing energy use, reducing GHG emissions and reducing the dollars leaving the community presents a dynamic opportunity for Aurora. The Community Energy Plan (CEP) is Aurora’s response to addressing this opportunity. The CEP provides strategic direction to move towards a sustainable energy future. It takes a long-term view to 2050 and aims to improve energy efficiency, reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions, and foster a culture of conservation. It considers the impact of future growth and options for local clean energy generation. Supporting economic development by better meeting local energy needs is a key element within the overall Plan approach. The Community Energy Plan provides a pathway towards the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80% from 2018 levels by 2050. 1 LSRCA [Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority]. 2020. Climate Change Adaptation Strategy for the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority. 258pp. Retrieved from: https://www.lsrca.on.ca/Shared%20Documents/board/02- 20-BOD%20-%20Attachment%20-%20Climate%20Change%20Adaptation%20Strategy_Final%20Draft.pdf Page 58 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 2 Figure 1: Lake Simcoe Watershed Climate Projections (Attributed to Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority) Page 59 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 3 Benefits of Energy Planning Energy planning provides a myriad of benefits to the local community, ranging from environmental and climate benefits to economic and health benefits. These benefits are well-documented in research, which analyses the successful implementation of CEPs across the country2. There are four main pillars of energy planning benefits: environmental, economic, social and health3,4. First, reducing local energy use results in a reduction of GHG emissions. Community energy planning helps to address the community's role in the global climate crisis – inline with the Town’s 2019 climate emergency declaration5. By declaring a climate emergency, the Town deepened its commitment to reducing emissions and protecting the community from the impacts of climate change, per the Paris Accord. Energy is a significant cost in Aurora, much of which leaves the local community. Rather than contributing to the local economy, Aurora’s energy dollars go to producers and distributors elsewhere in Ontario, Canada, and the USA. Local decisions around energy planning can reduce energy costs and keep those dollars in the community. Progressive energy planning (and reduced energy costs) can also attract and retain local businesses, particularly amongst those with eco-friendly mandates. Improving energy efficiency and conservation leads to reduced utility bills for residents, businesses, and the Town as a whole. This is especially important for low and moderate-income households, which often spend a larger part of their income on energy costs – demonstrating that energy planning is a social equity issue6. Finally, energy planning has the potential to positively impact the health of residents. Reductions in energy use can lead to reduced local air pollution and improved air quality. A focus on active transportation (walking, rolling, cycling) promotes physical activity and exercise. International and Federal Direction The Paris Agreement –aims to keep the global average temperature rise well below two degrees Celsius and to drive efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius - entered into force in November 20167. In 2018, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released a special report on the impacts of a 2 QUEST – Quality Urban Energy Systems of Tomorrow (2016). Community Energy Planning: The Value Proposition. Retrieved from: www.gettingtoimplementation.ca 3 Ibid. 4 Federation of Canadian Municipalities (2020). GMF Municipal Energy Roadmap. Retrieved from: https://fcm.ca/en/resources/gmf/gmfs-municipal-energy-roadmap 5 Climate Emergency Declaration (2019). Town of Aurora. Retrieved from: https://www.aurora.ca/en/your- government/resources/Environment-and-Sustainability/2019-10-22-Council-Minutes.pdf 6 Federation of Canadian Municipalities (2020). GMF Municipal Energy Roadmap. Retrieved from: https://fcm.ca/en/resources/gmf/gmfs-municipal-energy-roadmap 7 The Paris Agreement (2016). Environment and Climate Change Canada. Retrieved 26 May 2020 from https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/climate-change/paris-agreement.html Environmental Economic Social Health Page 60 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 4 1.5-degree temperature rise – underscoring the need for “rapid and far-reaching” transitions in how lands, energy, industry, buildings, transportation are used and how cities are designed8. In 2016, Canada adopted the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (PCF). The PCF builds on four pillars – carbon pricing, emission reductions, adaptation and resilience, and clean technology and innovation – and aims to meet Canada’s emissions reduction target of 30% below 2005 levels by 20309. Beginning in 2019, the federal government places a regulatory charge on fuel10. About 90% of the proceeds from this charge are directed to individuals and families through the Climate Action Incentive. The purpose of the system is to raise awareness of the impacts and costs of pollution and incentivize consumers to pollute less11. Industries in Ontario originally fell under the federal carbon pricing system after the cancellation of the former cap and trade program in 2018. However, in September 2020, the federal government indicated that Ontario’s pollution pricing system for industrial facilities met the requirements outlined at the federal level. In the near future, industries in Ontario will no longer be subject to the federal system12. Provincial Direction In November 2018, the provincial government released the Made-in-Ontario Environment Plan. The Plan aims to: protect air, land, and water; reduce litter and waste; reduce Ontario’s share of GHG emissions; and help communities prepare for climate change13. Ontario’s target for emissions reduction (30% below 2005 levels by 2030) aligns with Canada’s 2030 target. Climate-related efforts in 2019 included: creating an advisory panel for the development and implementation of climate action; finalizing emission performance standards for large industrial emitters; and, issuing green bonds ($1.7 billion) for climate-related projects such as public transit, resilient infrastructure and energy efficiency14. 8 IPCC, 2018: Summary for Policymakers. In: Global Warming of 1.5°C. An IPCC Special Report on the impacts of global warming of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and related global greenhouse gas emission pathways, in the context of strengthening the global response to the threat of climate change, sustainable development, and efforts to eradicate poverty [Masson-Delmotte, V., P. Zhai, H.-O. Pörtner, D. Roberts, J. Skea, P.R. Shukla, A. Pirani, W. Moufouma-Okia, C. Péan, R. Pidcock, S. Connors, J.B.R. Matthews, Y. Chen, X. Zhou, M.I. Gomis, E. Lonnoy, T. Maycock, M. Tignor, and T. Waterfield (eds.)]. In Press. 9 Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (2019). Environment and Climate Change Canada. Retrieved from: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/climate-change/pan-canadian- framework-reports/second-annual-report/section-1.html 10 Ontario and Pollution Pricing (2019). Environment and Climate Change Canada. Retrieved from: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/climate-change/pricing-pollution-how-it-will- work/ontario.html 11 Ibid. 12 Output-Based Pricing System (2020). Environment and Climate Change Canada. Retrieved from: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/climate-change/pricing-pollution-how-it-will-work/output- based-pricing-system.html 13 Made-in-Ontario Environment Plan (2018). Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks. Retrieved from: https://www.ontario.ca/page/madein-ontario-environment-plan 14 Made-in-Ontario Environment Plan: Progress so far (2019). Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks. Retrieved from: http://files.news.ontario.ca.s3-website-us-east- 1.amazonaws.com/ene/en/learnmore/ontario_appoints_advisory_panel_on_climate_change/EnviroPlan_Report_EN.pdf Page 61 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 5 Aurora’s Environmental Commitment In the future, Aurora’s population will grow to about 70,200 by 203115. The Town needs to understand how to grow while reducing its environmental impact. Towns and cities have a role in meeting national and provincial GHG emissions reduction targets. Municipalities have direct or indirect control over 60% of Canada’s total emissions16. The CEP builds on the Town’s Strategic Plan17 (2011 – 2031). Aurora’s Strategic Plan is based on the three pillars of sustainability – environment, community, economy – and establishes a vision for Aurora as “an innovative and sustainable community where neighbours care and businesses thrive”. The Strategic Plan includes several objectives that align well with the goals of the CEP, including: x Improving transportation, mobility, and connectivity. x Promoting and advancing green initiatives. x Encouraging the stewardship of Aurora’s natural resources. Likewise, the Town’s Economic Development Strategic Plan18 (2019) includes several strategic actions that support the goals of the CEP, including: x Working with the business community and York Region to examine and implement solutions aimed at providing transportation options to allow staff to easily commute to businesses located in employment areas currently not well serviced by public transit. x Continuing to support residential intensification in the appropriate locations in the Aurora Promenade. x Examining the feasibility of providing a bike share/e-bike program to downtown Aurora. The Town of Aurora has taken several steps to promote positive environmental outcomes19, including: x Joining the Blue Dot Initiative (2016), a campaign that recognizes the right to a healthy environment20. x Developing a Corporate Environmental Action Plan (2018) and a series of progress reports, focusing on what the Town can do to protect and enhance the natural environment21. Action areas include water conservation, sustainable urban development, waste reduction and diversion, biodiversity and natural heritage, climate change and energy, and environmental awareness. x Developing an Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan (2019) to reduce energy and emissions from facilities and vehicles owned by the Town22; monitoring corporate energy and emissions 15 Forecasts to 2031 are provided by the Town of Aurora. Forecasts to 2041 were sourced from York Region’s 2041 Preferred Growth Scenario and were use in the Business as Planned analysis. York Region (2015). 2041 Preferred Growth Scenario. Retrieved: https://www.york.ca/wps/wcm/connect/yorkpublic/77c5e970-8020-4b89-a3d0- ff62c60403f1/nov+5+preferred+att+2.pdf?MOD=AJPERES 16 QUEST – Quality Urban Energy Systems of Tomorrow (2016). Community Energy Planning: The Value Proposition. Retrieved from: www.gettingtoimplementation.ca 17 2031 Strategic Plan (2012). Town of Aurora. Retrieved from: https://www.aurora.ca/en/business-and- development/resources/Policy-Planning/1AURORA---2017-TOA-REPORT-JULY_16_18.pdf 18 Town of Aurora (2019). Economic Development Strategic Plan. Retrieved from: https://investinaurora.ca/stratplan 19 Climate Change (2020). Town of Aurora. Retrieved from: https://www.aurora.ca/en/your-government/climate- change.aspx#Mayors-Energy-Challenge-Ontarios-Energy-and-Water-Reporting-and-Benchmarking-EWRB-for-Aurora- Businesses 20 About Us (2020). Blue Dot. Retrieved from: https://bluedot.ca/ 21 Corporate Environmental Action Plan (2018). Town of Aurora. Retrieved from: https://www.aurora.ca/en/your- government/resources/Environment-and-Sustainability/CEAP-Final-July-2018.pdf 22 Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan (2019). Town of Aurora. Retrieved from: https://www.aurora.ca/en/your-government/resources/Environment-and-Sustainability/Aurora_ECDM_Plan_2019- 2023_FINAL_with_Appendices.pdf Page 62 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 6 annually since 2011. The Town has a goal to reduce electricity usage in its operations by 10.5%, natural gas by 9.7% and total GHG emissions by 15.9% by 2023. x Committing to building all new Town-owned facilities to LEED® standard. Aurora’s Joint Operations Centre has achieved a LEED® Gold Standard23. x Joining the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and ICLEI Canada’s Partners for Climate Protection (PCP) program24. The Town will complete three of five community milestones through the CEP. x Declaring a climate emergency, the Town deepened its commitment to reducing emissions and protecting the community from the impacts of climate change. The CEP recognizes and builds upon the benefits associated with community energy planning, the higher-level direction from all levels of government and the progress seen in Aurora to date. Members of the public, Town staff, elected officials and community stakeholders informed the direction of the CEP. Vision, Goals and Targets Vision Aurora is a leader in energy and emissions reduction, with a focus on improving quality of life in collaboration with residents, organizations, and businesses. Goals x Educate and communicate with the public about the impact of energy choices. x Encourage healthy and complete communities for residents to live, work and play. x Encourage homes and apartments to use energy consciously and increase efficiency. x Encourage local businesses and industries to use energy consciously and increase efficiency. x Increase access to clean and renewable energy in the community. x Integrate nature-based solutions in land use to capture carbon. x Support a range of low carbon transportation options that are accessible, including electric vehicles, public transit, walking and cycling. x Support the local economy. x Support waste reduction efforts at the local and regional level. Targets The Community Energy Plan outlines a path towards 80% emissions reductions from 2018 levels by 2050 to align with the federal government’s target and support the climate emergency declaration. The strategies identified below achieve a 22% reduction by 2030 from 2018 levels and a 65% reduction by 2050. While the CEP strategies are significant, they do not fully reach the 80% emission reduction target for 2050. The Town, along with community partners, should look for ways to close the gap through activities such as 23 Joint Operations Centre. Town of Aurora (2020). Retrieved from: https://www.aurora.ca/en/business-and- development/joint-operations-centre.aspx 24 Partners for Climate Protection (2020). Federation of Canadian Municipalities. Retrieved from: https://fcm.ca/en/programs/partners-climate-protection Page 63 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 7 quantification of carbon sequestration in the natural environment and evaluating emerging technologies. Future changes in federal and provincial policies may help support energy and emissions reduction at the local level. Aurora, Ontario The Town of Aurora is a fast-growing centre within the Greater Toronto Area. It is located thirty minutes north of the City of Toronto. In 2018, the population was 61,845, and employment was 28,935. By 2031, Aurora is expected to be home to 70,200. The Town offers a mix of urban amenities while maintaining a small-town lifestyle. The southeastern portion of the Town includes the Oak Ridges Moraine, an environmentally significant area. The Oak Ridges Moraine provides residents with access to green space and nature. Reference: Population and employment data from the Town of Aurora’s 2018 mid-year estimates. Page 64 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 8 Energy and Emissions in Aurora Baseline and Base Year An energy and emissions baseline informs the Community Energy Plan. Please see Appendix 1 for a more detailed explanation of the methodology, data sources and CEP’s development. Energy use in homes, businesses, industries, waste management and travel in the Town was reviewed to create a baseline for 2018. The baseline estimates the total amount of energy used, energy costs and emissions produced within the boundaries of a community in a given year as a basis for comparison going forward. The year 2018 was the most recent year for which complete data was available. The analysis allows the Town to identify opportunities to reduce energy use. Moving forward, the baseline provides a benchmark to track overall progress on energy and emissions reduction. Energy Use In 2018, the Town of Aurora’s residents and businesses used 6.8 million GJ of energy to heat and power their homes and buildings and for transportation fuel within the Town. The energy per person was 80.7 GJ, which represents $2,900 per person in annual energy costs. This is lower than the provincial and national averages of 120 GJ and 168 GJ, respectively25. Most of the community’s energy use comes from natural gas, mostly from heating homes and businesses. Electricity, natural gas and gasoline together make up almost all fuel types used in Aurora. Electricity and gasoline represent the largest cost for consumers. Figure 2: Energy use by fuel type in Aurora in 2018. Calculated from data provided by Alectra Utilities Corp., Enbridge Gas Distribution, Kent Group Ltd. 25 Natural Resources Canada (2017). Comprehensive Energy Use Database, Residential Sector – Ontario. Retrieved from https://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/corporate/statistics/neud/dpa/showTable.cfm?type=CP&sector=res&juris=on&rn=2&page=0#footn otes Electricity 24% Natural Gas 43% Gasoline 24% Wood 4% Diesel 2% Propane 2%Fuel Oil 1% Energy Use by Fuel Type (2018) Electricity Natural Gas Gasoline Wood Diesel Propane Fuel Oil Page 65 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 9 Figure 3: Energy expenditures by fuel type in Aurora in 2018. Calculated from data provided by Alectra Utilities Corp., Enbridge Gas Distribution, Kent Group Ltd. Energy Costs In terms of energy dollars, the community of Aurora spent $178 million on energy in 2018 alone. On an individual basis, the average person each consumed 49 GJ of energy and spent $910 to heat and power their homes. Although residents and businesses spent $178 million on energy in 2018, most energy costs left the community. Over 80% of the money spent on energy left the local economy and ended up elsewhere in Ontario, Canada and in some cases in the United States (Figure 4). Electricity 40% Gasoline 35% Natural Gas 17% Diesel 3% Wood 2% Propane 2%Fuel Oil 1% Total Energy Cost by Fuel Type (2018) Electricity Gasoline Natural Gas Diesel Wood Propane Fuel Oil Page 66 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 10 Figure 4: Distribution of Aurora's energy dollars in 2018. Data obtained from the City of London’s Energy Expenditure Tool. For instance, 74% of electricity costs go to Ontario businesses outside of Aurora for energy generation and transmission. Likewise, 18% of natural gas costs go to Ontario businesses for distribution, while 34% go to Western Canada or the United States where it is mined and processed. 37% to 39% of prices for other petroleum fuels (gasoline, diesel, and fuel oil) go to the US for the same reason. Investing in locally generated sources of electricity, such as ground or roof-mounted solar arrays, provides an opportunity to keep energy dollars in Aurora through local employment and municipal tax revenue. GHG Emissions Overall, in 2018 the community produced over 326,000 tonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent. This represents over 5 tonnes of CO2e generated per person – enough to power 1.2 homes for one year or the same as using 2100 litres of gas. Homes and other buildings (such as offices, stores, and schools) produce over half of the emissions. Travel is also a large source of emissions – the majority of which comes from personal cars, trucks and SUVs. 3% 7% 12% 17% 18% 45% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% Where Aurora's Energy Costs End Up Ontario - Business Western Canada Aurora Ontario - Government Canada - Government United States Page 67 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 11 Figure 5: Greenhouse gas emissions by sector in 2018 in Aurora. Calculated from data provided by Alectra Utilities Corp., Enbridge Gas Distribution, Kent Group Ltd, and the Town of Aurora. Town of Aurora Corporate Emissions In 2019, the Town released its most recent five-year Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan (ECDM Plan 2019-2023). Under Ontario Regulation 507/18, public agencies, such as the Town of Aurora, are required to report on energy consumption and GHG emissions annually from Town operations (i.e., from facilities, fleet and water/ wastewater facilities) and to develop and implement an ECDM Plan. The ECDM Plan must be reported on separately to the CEP and updated every five years. No such legislative requirement exists for the development of or reporting on community energy plans. The baseline assessment completed for the CEP includes all energy uses in the Town, including those of the corporation. For consistency, both the CEP and ECDM plans use 2018 as the baseline year. The ECDM Plan includes a baseline of energy use and GHG emissions for corporate facilities. Town facilities, corporate fleet and water/wastewater facilities used 9.4 million kWh of electricity and 1.2 million cubic metres of natural gas in 201826. This represents over 3,000 tCO2e of GHG emissions per year or 1% of the community’s 2018 emissions. The largest emitters are indoor recreation facilities. The Town has a goal to reduce electricity use in its operations by 10.5%, natural gas by 9.7% and GHG emissions by 15.9% by 2023, representing a total investment of about $630,00027. The Town plans to complete energy audits, monitor electricity and natural gas use, implement energy conservation measures, implement a green fleet plan, anti-idling initiatives, and use energy management software. Moving forward, the ECDM should be viewed as the corporation’s contribution to the overall CEP. The community plan should reflect any progress made within the ECDM. 26 Town of Aurora (2019). Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan Update 2019-2023. Retrieved from https://www.aurora.ca/en/your-government/resources/Environment-and-Sustainability/Aurora_ECDM_Plan_2019- 2023_FINAL_with_Appendices.pdf 27 Ibid. Buildings 54% Transportation 37% Waste 9% GHG Emissions by Sector (2018) Buildings Transportation Waste Page 68 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 12 Aurora’s Energy Future to 2050 The Business-as-Planned (BAP) scenario is developed to understand future energy consumption, energy costs and emissions in Aurora, assuming no action is taken to reduce energy or emissions. Increased population and employment growth will mean more houses, more businesses, more cars on the road, and more waste, and therefore greater energy consumption and emissions28. However, changes that occur outside the influence of the municipality, such as actions from higher levels of government and technology changes will also influence the energy consumption and emissions of Aurora in the future. Energy and GHG emissions for Aurora are anticipated to stay around the same level until 2050 despite the expected population growth. Energy and GHG emissions stay around the same level because of reductions from modest energy efficiency retrofits, increased energy performance of new buildings, the changing carbon content of electricity and natural gas, improved fuel economy and provincial and federal efforts. However, these actions alone are not enough to achieve an 80% reduction from 2018 levels by 2050. Action is needed at the community level to further reduce emissions. Figure 6: Projected greenhouse gas emissions to 2050 under the Business-as-Planned scenario in Aurora. Calculated from data provided by the Town of Aurora for population and employment growth projections. The BAP also includes a forecast of energy expenditures by Aurora residents and businesses. The Canada Energy Regulator projects what the energy prices look like in the future, under two scenarios, a “high cost” future where energy prices increase considerably, and a “low cost” future where energy prices increase by a 28 Population and employment forecasts to 2031 were provided by the Town of Aurora and forecasts to 2041 were sourced from York Region’s 2041 Preferred Growth Scenario where utilized in the Business as Planned analysis, which were the most up-to-date at the time of analysis. York Region (2015). 2041 Preferred Growth Scenario. Retrieved: https://www.york.ca/wps/wcm/connect/yorkpublic/77c5e970-8020-4b89-a3d0- ff62c60403f1/nov+5+preferred+att+2.pdf?MOD=AJPERES 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 2018 2031 2041 2050Tonnes of CO2e (thousands) Projected GHGs in Aurora to 2050 Waste Transporation Stationary Energy Provincial/Federal Target Page 69 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 13 smaller amount or decrease, depending on the fuel type and sector. Energy costs for Aurora are expected to rise in the future, creating further motivation for action. Under the high-cost scenario, energy costs increase by 20%, 22% and 24% to 2031, 2041, and 2050, respectively, from the 2018 baseline (Figure 7, Table 1). Under the low-cost scenario, energy costs decrease by 1% by 2030 but then increase by 1% and 2% by 2041 and 2050, respectively. (Figure 7, Table 2). Cost projections are tied to the price of energy for each fuel source in the BAP analysis. Table 1: 2018 energy expenditures and projected expenditures in 2031, 2041, and 2050 under the Canada Energy Regulator’s high-cost scenario. Sector 2018 costs $ 2031 costs $ 2041 costs $ 2050 costs $ Stationary Energy $112,369,223 $149,298,432 $152,201,661 $150,461,916 Transportation $65,246,489 $62,511,646 $68,179,989 $75,418,401 Total $177,615,713 $211,810,078 $220,381,650 $225,880,317 Table 2: 2018 energy expenditures and projected expenditures in 2031, 2041, and 2050 under the Canada Energy Regulator’s low-cost scenario. Sector 2018 costs $ 2031 costs $ 2041 costs $ 2050 costs $ Stationary Energy $112,369,223 $132,368,298 $138,737,709 $137,204,618 Transportation $65,246,489 $40,329,738 $43,361,944 $47,965,518 Total $177,615,713 $172,698,036 $182,099,653 $185,170,136 Figure 7. Projection of energy expenditures under a business-as-planned scenario, under the Canada Energy Regulator’s low and high-cost scenario. Page 70 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 14 Energy and Greenhouse Gas Reduction Strategies The CEP identifies a series of strategies to reduce energy consumption across the Aurora community. There are strategies for homes, businesses and institutions, industry, district energy, travel, waste, renewable energy, land use and carbon sequestration. This section includes a snapshot of the current energy use, GHG emissions and costs, before defining the strategy. Each strategy includes: x a description of the strategy x a target participation rate to indicate the scale of implementation needed to achieve the emissions reductions x an estimate of the potential energy and GHG emissions reductions x an estimate of the energy cost savings x a relative scale cost29 to implement the strategy The relative scale values are organized under the following categories: o N/A - Cost is covered by existing Town staff capacity or operating budgets o Low Cost - $ ($0-$100,000) o Medium Cost - $$ ($100,000 - $500,000) o High Cost - $$$ ($500,000+) x the timeframe identified as short-, medium-, or long-term as follows: o short: 2 years o med: 2-5 years o long: 5+ years The following strategies focus on community emissions - those generated by homes, businesses, and transportation. Strategies to reduce emissions generated by the Town of Aurora’s municipal operations are in the Town’s Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan (ECDM). The Town is encouraged to align its ECDM goals with the Community Energy Plan. ECDM goals and progress will need to be accelerated to meet the targets set out in the CEP, despite a delayed start in implementation. 29 This provides a broad range of costs for implementation of the strategy in full. Detailed costing of the strategies has not been included at this time. Detailed costing for the strategies will occur during the business and budget planning processes of each strategy. Page 71 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 15 Homes Context As shown below, most (82%) homes in Aurora are single detached homes. New home construction continues to grow as the Town issued nearly 300 residential building permits in 201830. It is anticipated that new homes in 2019-2031 will be a mix of single and semi-detached homes (40%), townhouses and duplexes (22%) and apartments (38%). The proportion of higher density growth is projected to increase over time3132. Heating, cooling, and lighting of homes require significant energy use. The age and size of the home, the local climate, fuel costs, and the number of occupants all impact a household’s total energy use. Space heating (62%), water heating (20%) and appliances (12%) consume the most energy in homes33. According to Natural Resources Canada (NRCan)34, single detached homes and older homes use the most energy. Table 3 below shows the average energy use of typical homes in 2017. Table 3: Average energy use and energy intensity of homes by type in 2017 based on data from the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation. Housing type Average household energy use (GJ) 35 Average energy intensity (GJ/m2) 36 Single-detached homes 126 0.62 Single attached homes (townhouses, duplexes, etc.) 90 0.70 Apartments 57 0.56 In general, newer dwellings are more energy-efficient than older ones. According to Natural Resources Canada, homes built in 2017 used an average of 102 GJ (0.66 GJ/m2). Homes built during 1990 and 2000 used 145 GJ (1.11 GJ/m2) and 130 GJ (0.93 GJ/m2)37. Increases in energy efficiency are largely due to improved building practices and building codes, despite increases in the average size of homes38. The 2017 30 Growth and Development Review (2018). York Region. Retrieved from https://www.york.ca/wps/wcm/connect/yorkpublic/bd00aa9c-745d-4a54-86f6- 3a70d2298cea/19047_gdr2018accessible.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID=mLVOz4X 31 Watson & Associates Economists Ltd (2019). Development Charges Background Study: Town of Aurora. Retrieved from https://www.aurora.ca/TownHall/Documents/Building%20Division/Draft%202019%20Aurora%20DC%20Background%20S tudy%20and%20By-Law.pdf 32 Growth and Development Review (2018). York Region. Retrieved from https://www.york.ca/wps/wcm/connect/yorkpublic/bd00aa9c-745d-4a54-86f6- 3a70d2298cea/19047_gdr2018accessible.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID=mLVOz4X 33 Natural Resources Canada (2017). Comprehensive Energy Use Database, Residential Sector – Ontario. Retrieved from https://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/corporate/statistics/neud/dpa/showTable.cfm?type=CP&sector=res&juris=on&rn=2&page=0#footn otes 34 Ibid. 35 Ibid. 36 Ibid. 37 Ibid. 38 Statistics Canada (2011). Households and the Environment: Energy Use. Retrieved from https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/en/catalogue/11-526-S Page 72 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 16 Ontario Building Code update includes a 15% increase in energy efficiency over 2012 requirements39. Most of Aurora’s housing stock is relatively new, single-family homes, with over 80% of homes being built after 1980. Figure 8: Type of residential dwellings in 2018 based on data from the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC). Figure 9: Age of residential homes in 2018 based on data from the MPAC. 39 Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (2016). Supplementary Standard SB-12 “Energy Efficiency for Housing”. Retrieved from http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Page15256.aspx Single Family Dwelling 77% Duplex Row/Townhouse 6% Multi-Unit Residential Dwelling 17% Residential Building Types (2018) Single Family Dwelling Duplex Row/Townhouse Multi-Unit Residential Dwelling Pre 1960 9% 1960-1979 13% 1980-1999 42% 2000 and after 36% Age of Residential Buildings (2018) Pre 1960 1960-1979 1980-1999 2000 and after Page 73 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 17 Table 4: Housing types and sizes in Aurora 2018 based on data from MPAC. Construction Period Number of units Percent (%) of total units Average GFA (square metres) Average Number of Stories Pre 1960 1,606 9% 140 1.3 1960-1979 2,350 13% 160 1.6 1980-1999 7,529 42% 211 1.9 2000 and after 6,536 36% 222 1.9 Energy, Emissions and Costs Homes are responsible for 45% of all energy use and 37% of total emissions. Natural gas accounts for 67% of total energy consumed and 86% of emissions from homes in 2018. New homes (those built after 2018) are projected to account for 5% of energy and 4% of emissions by 2030 without local action. These values increase to 9% of energy and 7% of emissions by 2050. Existing homes are projected to account for 40% of energy and 35% of emissions by 2030. Existing buildings will account for 32% of energy and 27% of emissions by 2050. In 2018, residential energy costs were nearly $56.5 million. Figure 10: Total energy consumption by energy type in residential buildings in 2018 Calculated from data provided by Alectra Utilities Corp and Enbridge Gas Distribution. Electricity 21% Natural Gas 67% Propane 2% Fuel Oil 2% Wood 8% Energy Consumption by Energy Type in Residential Buildings (2018) Electricity Natural Gas Propane Fuel Oil Wood Page 74 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 18 Figure 11: Total greenhouse gas emissions by energy type in residential buildings in 2018 Calculated from data provided by Alectra Utilities Corp and Enbridge Gas Distribution. In 2018, the average resident consumed 49 GJ of energy and spent about $910 to heat and power their homes. This costs households – about $3,000 per year, which is slightly higher than other York Region municipalities. Energy costs tend to place the highest burden on those who can least afford it. Canada’s stock of social and rental housing tends to be less efficient and older40. Nationally, individuals living in older homes (built-in or before 2005) can spend about $300 more per year on utility bills41. As such, low and moderate- income households must often spend a larger proportion of their income on energy42. 40 Federation of Canadian Municipalities (2020). GMF Municipal Energy Roadmap. Retrieved from: https://fcm.ca/en/resources/gmf/gmfs-municipal-energy-roadmap 41 Ibid. 42 Ibid. Electricity 3% Natural Gas 86% Propane 3% Fuel Oil 4% Wood 4% GHG Emissions by Energy Type in Residential Buildings (2018) Electricity Natural Gas Propane Fuel Oil Wood Page 75 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 19 Energy Mapping: Homes Energy maps help to better understand the energy use patterns of Aurora’s homes. The residential energy maps help to identify areas where energy consumption can be reduced. The maps also show potential areas to target home energy efficiency programs. Appendix 1 provides more details on the energy mapping process. Figure 12 shows the total residential energy use at the traffic zone43 level. Darker shades of red indicate higher energy use in an area. Zones 2569 and 2553 have the highest total residential energy use. Zone 2569 is in the northeast of the Wellington Street East – Bayview Avenue intersection. It is primarily low-medium density residential with pockets of medium-high residential. The concentration of low-medium density residential in this area (likely single-family and semi-detached) may explain the high energy use in this area. Zone 2553 is in the west section of the Town between Henderson Drive and Wellington Street West. It is comprised of single- detached and estate homes (low-density residential areas). Again, the concentration of single-family and larger homes may explain the high energy use in this residential area. Figure 13 shows total GHG emissions by residential area. Zones 2569 and 2553 also have higher levels of GHG emissions than surrounding areas. 43 Sections of the Town are divided into manageable sizes for analysis. These sections are known as traffic zones. Traffic zones align with other planning exercises at the Town level. Page 76 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 20 Figure 12 Map displaying the total residential energy use at the traffic zone level Page 77 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 21 Figure 13 Map displaying the total GHG emissions by residential area Page 78 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 22 Strategy #1: New Residential Buildings: Energy & Thermal Efficiency Description: Design and implement a tiered code/green standard that encourages higher energy efficiency. x Consider adopting a regional ‘net-zero standard by 2030’ building code. A local example is the Toronto Green Standard (TGS) Version 3. The TGS outlines four tiers to near-zero energy and emissions in new construction by 2030 or sooner. The code includes absolute performance targets for Total Energy Use, Thermal Energy Demand, and GHG Intensity. It also includes prescriptive measures for MURBs (multi-use residential buildings) and commercial buildings. Other municipalities have adopted the TGS approach to residential buildings. x Require new residential buildings to be net-zero ready by 2036 (a five-year lag from the TGS). x Explore the passive house standard. x Include standards for the use of air-sourced heat pumps and/or other low-carbon technologies as they become available. x Include prescriptive measures to address the readiness for solar installation on roofs, connection to district energy (if applicable), and electric vehicle charging. x Encourage development design that maximizes solar access in the Official Plan. As part of the designing the green standard: x Consult with stakeholders (building inspectors, developers, builders, and building trades) to develop the standard. x Review building permit processing for potential areas to streamline. x Consider developing a points-based checklist for developers so they can show how they have included energy efficiency or sustainability measures in new buildings. Measures can include high-efficiency building envelope, heating and cooling, high-efficiency lighting, windows/doors, drain heat recovery, solar domestic hot water, efficient electrical equipment, solar-ready design, electric vehicle chargers, heat pumps, etc. x Determine financial and/or non-financial incentives that could include: o expedited permitting, reduced development charges, etc. for developers. o offering equity-based incentives to low and moderate-income households and small businesses so that they may access efficient building spaces. Following green building requirements (such as a tiered code) may result in higher construction costs. These higher development prices end up costing consumers. x Monitor updates in the provincial and national building and energy codes. These may guide the adoption of a tiered building code. Target Participation Rate x By 2036, all newly constructed buildings are net-zero ready. This equates to an improvement of 80% over the Ontario Building Code’s (OBC) 2017 energy efficiency requirements but is like planned updates of a 13% efficiency increase every five years44. x By 2050, buildings are net-zero and 90% better than the 2017 OBC. 44 Environmental Commissioner of Ontario. Conservation: Let ́s Get Serious Annual Energy Conservation Progress Report – 2015/2016. Retrieved from: http://docs.assets.eco.on.ca/reports/energy/2015- 2016/ECO_Conservation_Lets_Get_Serious.pdf Page 79 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 23 Heat Pumps x By 2030: heat pumps provide space heating to 20% of new homes. x By 2050: heat pumps provide space heating to 40% of new homes. x Equates to installing 228 heat pumps per year in new builds. Energy Use, Energy Cost, and GHG Emission Reduction Potential Energy Use 120,000 GJ reduced per year by 2030. 500,000 GJ is reduced per year by 2050. More efficient buildings and heating systems reduce energy use. There is an increase in efficiency over standard gas furnaces and electric baseboard heating when using heat pumps. Energy Cost $2.3 million saved per year by 2030. $10 million saved per year by 2050. Cost savings are associated with energy and thermal efficiency only and do not include heat pumps. Emissions 5,000 tCO2e reduced per year by 2030. 20,000 tCO2e reduced per year by 2050. More efficient buildings and heating systems reduce emissions. There is an increase in efficiency over standard gas furnaces and electric baseboard heating when using heat pumps. Relative Scale of Implementation Costs Low Timeframe to Implementation Short-term to develop a green standard. Strategy #2: Existing Residential Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency Description: Design a voluntary deep retrofit program that offers a holistic approach to energy efficiency for homes. x Design the retrofit program to address the most common high energy uses in the home. High energy uses include space heating, insulation, appliances, water heating, windows, etc. The program could include solar PV/thermal, use of air source heat pumps, where appropriate. x Apply for funding to develop the detailed business plan (such as recently announced the FCM’s Community Efficiency Financing). x Other neighbouring municipalities are exploring deep retrofit programs. Consider working with neighbouring municipalities, utilities or other partners to adapt, co-design or deliver the program. As part of developing the detailed business plan and program design: x Identify a lead department/team or partner to administer the program. x Identify financial model and funding sources for home retrofits. Funding could be from a third-party partner or the Town. x Identify auditing requirements (based on NRCan's EnerGuide Energy Efficiency Home Evaluation) and eligible retrofit activities. Page 80 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 24 x Identify targeted building types includes single-family homes, townhouses or row houses, and multi-unit residential buildings. The Toronto Atmospheric Fund has designed the Towerwise program to fund and retrofit high-rise MURBs. Towerwise works with Energy Savings Performance Agreements)45. x Identify target neighbourhoods to prioritize first, starting with older (e.g., built before 1980) and less efficient homes. Locations may also target retrofits for affordable housing to promote equity and reduced utility costs for residents. x Develop a financing package for home retrofits, that considers using Local Improvement Charges (LIC) also known as Property-Assessed Clean Energy (PACE). Under these models, the interested homeowner and Town would agree to apply the loan, via the LIC, to their property tax bill. They would pay it back over an agreed-upon period with a fixed interest rate. The balance is attached to the property rather than the individual since it is paid through the property tax bill. With the sale of the property, the new owner will continue to pay off the bill. These new owners would receive the benefits of energy-efficient retrofits. o LIC programs are not always accessible to low-income homeowners and low-income renters. The housing market often excludes marginalized populations46. The program design process should consider additional monetary incentives for low and moderate-income homeowners and residential landlords to participate47. x Consider creating a centralized location - ‘Retrofit Delivery Concierge’ - for buildings owners to access information about deep energy retrofits. The concierge offers guidance through stages of planning, financing, procurement, construction, quality assurance, and evaluation. The concierge supported access to available grants, incentives, and financing. This approach has been successful in other areas with a hub for sharing information and collaboration. Target Participation Rate x Retrofit approximately 3% of buildings, or 535 units, each year starting in 2023. x By 2030: Retrofit 45% of all residential buildings and multi-unit residential buildings built before 1980, and 20% of all residential buildings built between 1980 and 2000. o A 35% increase in efficiency for older, less efficient homes. Target older homes first. x Between 2031 and 2050, retrofit 80% of the remaining residential building stock that existed in 2018. o A 20-30% increase in efficiency for younger, more efficient buildings. x The average energy efficiency improvement across all retrofits is 30% from the 2018 baseline. 45 Energy performance agreements provide capital for energy improvement projects that are paid back through utility savings. 46 Clean Air Partnership (2020). Accelerating Home Energy Efficiency Retrofits through Local Improvement Charge Programs: A Toolkit for Municipalities. Retrieved from: https://www.cleanairpartnership.org/wp- content/uploads/2020/05/FINAL-LIC-TOOLKIT-Accelerating-Home-Energy-Efficiency-Retrofits-Through-LIC-Programs- 2020-1.pdf 47 Federation of Canadian Municipalities (2020). GMF Municipal Energy Roadmap. Retrieved from: https://fcm.ca/en/resources/gmf/gmfs-municipal-energy-roadmap Page 81 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 25 Heat Pumps x By 2030: heat pumps provide space heating to 20% of retrofitted buildings. x By 2050: heat pumps provide space heating to 40% of retrofitted buildings. x Equates to installing 552 heat pumps per year. Energy Use, Energy Cost, and GHG Emission Reduction Potential Energy Use 135,000 GJ reduced per year by 2030. 210,000 GJ reduced per year by 2050. More efficient buildings and heating systems reduce energy use. There is an increase in efficiency over standard gas furnaces and electric baseboard heating when using heat pumps. Energy Cost $2.6 million saved per year by 2030. $4.3 million saved per year by 2050. Cost savings are associated with energy and thermal efficiency only and do not include heat pumps. Emissions 18,900 tCO2e reduced per year by 2030. 25,500 tCO2e reduced per year by 2050. Emissions are reduced through more efficient buildings and heating systems. There is an increase in efficiency over standard gas furnaces and electric baseboard heating when using heat pumps. Relative Scale of Implementation Costs Medium to High Timeframe to Implementation Short-term to develop a business case, program design and funding model. Page 82 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 26 Businesses & Institutions Context Aurora is a growing community. It is home to over 1,700 businesses, including major industries and head offices. The Town is poised for economic growth with a supply of employment lands and a new business park. Two of York Region’s highest value commercial building permits were in Aurora48. Major private-sector employers include Desjardins Insurance, TC Transcontinental Printing, Magna and St. Andrew’s College. Major public sector employers include York Catholic District School Board, York Region District School Board, the Town of Aurora, and York Regional Police49. Small businesses of less than 20 people make up an important part of the local economy. According to the recent Economic Development Strategic Plan, emerging sectors include management, healthcare and social assistance, and professional, scientific, and technical services50. Research from the Canadian Green Business Council highlights several benefits of green buildings. Many of which may benefit building owners and developers, even though they may not be responsible for paying utility bills. Benefits may include higher overall return on investment, higher occupancy rates, higher rental rates and higher building value at the point of sale. Commercial tenants in “green” buildings report several benefits. Reported benefits include an improved corporate image, progress towards sustainability goals and improved employee satisfaction and engagement51. Energy, Emissions and Costs Businesses and institutions account for 16% of total energy and 14% of emissions. Between 2019 and 2031, commercial buildings are projected to grow by 25%. Institutional buildings are expected to grow by 7%52. New commercial and institutional buildings are projected to account for 1.7% of energy and 2% of emissions by 2030, and 3.3% of energy and 3% of emissions by 2050. Natural gas accounts for 76% of total energy consumed and 89% of emissions from commercial and institutional buildings in 2018. Existing commercial and institutional buildings are projected to account for 14% of energy and 13% of emissions by 2030, and 12% of energy and 11% of emissions by 2050. In 2018, commercial and institutional energy costs were over $18 million. 48 Growth and Development Review (2018). York Region. Retrieved from https://www.york.ca/wps/wcm/connect/yorkpublic/bd00aa9c-745d-4a54-86f6- 3a70d2298cea/19047_gdr2018accessible.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID=mLVOz4X 49 Invest in Aurora (2020). Town of Aurora. Retrieved from https://investinaurora.ca 50 Ibid. 51Canada Green Building Trends Report (2014). Canada Green Building Council. Retrieved from: https://www.cagbc.org/cagbcdocs/resources/CaGBC%20McGraw%20Hill%20Cdn%20Market%20Study.pdf 52 Watson & Associates Economists Ltd (2019). Development Charges Background Study. Town of Aurora. Retrieved from https://www.aurora.ca/TownHall/Documents/Building%20Division/Draft%202019%20Aurora%20DC%20Background%20S tudy%20and%20By-Law.pdf Page 83 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 27 Figure 14: Total energy consumption by energy type in commercial and institutional buildings in 2018 Calculated from data provided by Alectra Utilities Corp and Enbridge Gas Distribution. Figure 15: Total GHG emissions by energy type in commercial and institutional buildings in 2018 Calculated from data provided by Alectra Utilities Corp and Enbridge Gas Distribution. Electricity 19% Natural Gas 76% Propane 4% Light Fuel Oil 1% Energy Consumption by Energy Type in Commercial and Institutional Buildings (2018) Electricity Natural Gas Propane Electricity 2% Natural Gas 89% Propane 7% Light Fuel Oil 2% GHG Emissions by Energy Type in Commercial and Institutional Buildings (2018) Electricity Natural Gas Propane Light Fuel Oil Page 84 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 28 Business and institutional energy use per person in Aurora (17 GJ) is like the averages in Ontario (30 GJ) and Canada (28 GJ)53. Commercial and institutional buildings in Aurora use about the same level of energy on a per square metre basis, 1.5 GJ/m2 as the provincial and federal averages of 1.4 GJ/m2 and 1.3 GJ/m2 respectively54. Business and institutional buildings use most of their energy for space heating (58%), equipment (13%) and lighting (13%)55. Retail trade, educational services and finance and insurance (excluding manufacturing) sectors employ the largest number of people within the Town56. In general, energy use in these buildings is typical of other business and institutional buildings57. Energy Mapping: Businesses & Institutions Figure 16 shows the total energy use for non-residential buildings (commercial, institutional, and industrial) at the traffic zone level. Traffic zones 2562, 2559, 2571, 2572 and 2560 have the highest energy use. Lands to the west of Leslie Street and north of Eric T. Smith Way (2571, 2572) represent the Town’s Business Park. Lands located roughly between the GO Transit rail line, Industrial Parkway South and Bayview Avenue (2560, 2559, 2562, 2561) are comprised of industrial services, commercial and the Aurora Promenade (mixed-use downtown area). 53 Natural Resources Canada (2017). Comprehensive Energy Use Database, Commercial/Institutional Sector - Ontario. Retrieved from https://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/corporate/statistics/neud/dpa/menus/trends/comprehensive/trends_com_on.cfm 54 Ibid. 55 Ibid. 56 Watson & Associates Economists Ltd (2019). Development Charges Background Study. Town of Aurora. Retrieved from https://www.aurora.ca/TownHall/Documents/Building%20Division/Draft%202019%20Aurora%20DC%20Background%20S tudy%20and%20By-Law.pdf 57 Natural Resources Canada (2017). Comprehensive Energy Use Database, Commercial/Institutional Sector - Ontario. Retrieved from https://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/corporate/statistics/neud/dpa/menus/trends/comprehensive/trends_com_on.cfm Page 85 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 29 Figure 16 Map that displays total energy consumption for non-residential buildings (commercial, institutional, and industrial)Page 86 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 30 Strategy #3: New Commercial Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency Description: Design and implement a tiered code green standard that encourages higher energy efficiency in new businesses and institutional buildings. x Consider adapting regional ‘net-zero standard by 2030’ building code. A local example is the Toronto Green Standard Version 3 (TGS). The TGS presents four tiers to net-zero energy and emissions in new buildings by 2030. x Include in building step-code standards for the use of air-sourced heat pumps. Standards can include other low-carbon technologies as they become available. x Include measures for low-carbon heating and energy systems, such as air source heat pumps. As part of the designing the green standard: x Consult with stakeholders (building inspectors, developers, builders, and building trades). x Review building permit processing for potential areas to streamline. x Consider developing a points-based checklist for developers that outlines how they have included energy efficiency measures in new buildings. Measures might include efficient lighting, windows/doors, solar hot water, efficient electrical equipment, solar-ready design, electric vehicle chargers, etc. x Determine financial or non-financial incentives to increase participation, such as: o Offering expedited permitting or reduced development charges for developers. o Promoting existing incentive programs to encourage the adoption of high-efficiency appliances and equipment. x Offering equity-based incentives to small businesses so that they may access efficient commercial space58. Following green building requirements may result in higher construction costs. Higher development prices may be passed on to consumers. Target Participation Rate Adopt the City of Toronto’s energy efficiency building requirements from the TGS. Include a five-year lag, achieving net-zero buildings in 2036. The average energy use intensity, for mid-rise, office, retail and mixed- use buildings is: x 2022: 170 kWh/m2/year x 2026: 129 kWh/m2/year x 2030: 98 kWh/m2/year x 2036: 70 kWh/m2/year 58 Federation of Canadian Municipalities (2020). GMF Municipal Energy Roadmap. Retrieved from: https://fcm.ca/en/resources/gmf/gmfs-municipal-energy-roadmap Page 87 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 31 Heat Pumps x By 2030: heat pumps provide space heating to 20% of new commercial buildings. x By 2050: heat pumps provide space heating to 40% of new commercial buildings. x Equates to installing 50 heat pumps per year. Energy Use, Energy Cost, and GHG Emission Reduction Potential Energy Use 75,000 GJ reduced per year by 2030. 145,000 GJ reduced per year by 2050. Energy use is reduced through more efficient buildings and heating systems. There is an increase in efficiency over standard gas furnaces and electric baseboard heating when using heat pumps. Energy Cost $1.4 million saved per year by 2030. $2.8 million saved per year by 2050. Cost savings are associated with energy and thermal efficiency only and do not include heat pumps. Emissions 3,400 tCO2e reduced per year by 2030. 7,000 tCO2e reduced per year by 2050. Emissions are reduced through more efficient buildings and heating systems. There is an increase in efficiency over standard gas furnaces and electric baseboard heating when using heat pumps. Relative Scale of Implementation Costs See Strategy 1. Timeframe to Implementation Short-term to develop a green standard. Page 88 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 32 Strategy #4: Existing Commercial Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency Description: Design a voluntary deep retrofit program that offers a holistic approach to energy efficiency for businesses and institutions. x Design the retrofit program to address the most common high energy uses in businesses and institutions. High energy uses include space heating, insulation, water heating, windows, etc. The program could include solar PV/thermal, use of air source heat pumps, where appropriate. x As identified in the residential retrofit strategy (Strategy 2), consider working with neighbouring municipalities, utilities or other partners to co-design or deliver the program. x Continue to implement Ontario’s Energy and Water Reporting and Benchmarking (EWRB) initiative with ClimateWise. Encourage businesses to participate through the Mayor’s Energy Challenge59. As part of developing the detailed business plan and program design: x Identify a lead department/team or partner to administer the program. x Identify target areas to prioritize first. Start with existing commercial areas and business parks. x Identify financial model and funding sources for commercial retrofit loans. Funding could be from a third-party partner or the Town. x Develop a financing package for retrofits that considers using a LIC like the residential retrofit program. Small business owners may lack the capital, knowledge, and capacity to pursue building retrofits. Consider providing monetary incentives for small businesses (or their landlords) to participate in retrofit programs60. x Offer energy efficiency audits as part of the program. x Tailor the program to specific targeted building types (commercial, institutional) and different sectors (offices, retails, restaurants, etc.). Target Participation Rate x Retrofit approximately 3% of buildings each year. x By 2030: Retrofit 45% of all commercial, institutional, and multi-unit residential buildings built before 1980. Focus on older, least efficient buildings first. o Energy efficiency improves by 30% from the 2018 baseline, as older, less efficient buildings are retrofitted. x By 2050: Retrofit 80% of the remaining buildings that existed in 2018. Focus first on older, least efficient buildings. o Energy efficiency improves by 20-25% from the 2018 baseline, as younger, more efficient buildings are being retrofitted and improvements are less substantial. 59 Town of Aurora (2020). Mayor’s Energy Challenge. Retrieved from https://www.aurora.ca/en/your- government/mayor-s-energy-challenge.aspx 60 Federation of Canadian Municipalities (2020). GMF Municipal Energy Roadmap. Retrieved from: https://fcm.ca/en/resources/gmf/gmfs-municipal-energy-roadmap Page 89 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 33 x The average energy efficiency improvement across all commercial retrofits is 26% from the 2018 baseline. Heat Pumps x By 2030: heat pumps provide space heating to 20% of retrofitted buildings. x By 2050: heat pumps provide space heating to 40% of retrofitted buildings. x Equates to installing 120 heat pumps per year. Energy Use, Energy Cost, and GHG Emission Reduction Potential Energy Use 62,000 GJ reduced per year by 2030. 74,000 GJ reduced per year by 2050. More efficient buildings and heating systems reduce energy use. There is an increase in efficiency over standard gas furnaces and electric baseboard heating when using heat pumps. Energy Cost $1.1 million saved per year by 2030. $1.4 million saved per year by 2050. Cost savings are associated with energy and thermal efficiency only and do not include heat pumps. Emissions 8,500 tCO2e reduced per year by 2030. 11,500 tCO2e reduced per year by 2050. More efficient buildings and heating systems reduce emissions. There is an increase in efficiency over standard gas furnaces and electric baseboard heating when using heat pumps. Relative Scale of Implementation Costs See Strategy 2. Timeframe to Implementation Short-term to develop the retrofit program business case, design and financing model. Page 90 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 34 Strategy #5: Multi-Unit Residential, Commercial & Institutional Buildings: Commissioning & Recommissioning Description: Develop and implement a commissioning and recommissioning program for businesses, institutions and apartment buildings. x Recommissioning assesses a building’s equipment and operating/maintenance systems. This normally occurs after it has been operating for some time. Work is then completed to optimize performance. All buildings should aim to be recommissioned every three to five years. Encourage targeted technology upgrades at the end of the lifecycle. x Design or adopt a program that encourages recommissioning. x Consider requiring buildings to be commissioned/recommissioned before the time of sale. x Consider including commissioning/recommissioning in a voluntary deep retrofit program. x Consider requiring building owners to submit a commissioning/ recommissioning plan. The plan would be submitted with building permit applications and/or during the retrofit program. Target Participation Rate x Assume all new buildings are commissioned and reach peak performance levels. x Recommission roughly 5% of existing buildings each year. Reach energy savings of up to 16%. Energy Use, Energy Cost, and GHG Emission Reduction Potential Energy Use x 25,000 GJ reduced per year by 2030. 5,200 GJ reduced per year by 2050. Energy Cost x $575,000 saved per year by 2030. $160,000 saved per year by 2050. Emissions x 900 tCO2e avoided per year by 2030. 170 tCO2e avoided per year by 2050 Relative Scale of Implementation Costs x Low Timeframe to Implementation x Ongoing. Page 91 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 35 Industry Context Aurora is home to many industrial manufacturers. Examples include Magna International, Kirchhoff Automotive, Genpak LP, Axiom Group, Bunn-O-Matic and Sinclair Technologies. Several are involved in motor vehicle part manufacturing61. Between 2019 and 2031, industrial buildings are projected to grow by 68%.62 Energy, Emissions and Costs Industrial buildings and facilities are responsible for 13% of total energy and 3% of total emissions. Industry energy use accounts for 19% and 20% of energy consumption in 2030 and 2050, respectively. This represents 7% of emissions by both 2030 and 2050. On a per-person basis, industrial energy use in Aurora (14 GJ). This is less than the averages for Ontario (52 GJ) and Canada (97 GJ)63. In 2018, Aurora’s industrial energy costs were nearly $37.5 million. Strategy #6: New & Existing Industrial Buildings: Energy Efficiency Description: Facilitate energy efficiency improvements in industrial buildings. x Encourage the use of energy management systems to support energy savings. This includes promoting and leveraging existing programs and funding streams. Examples of energy management systems include: o ENERGY STAR: provides an approach to develop energy management programs. ENERGY STAR uses energy best practices and benchmarking tools. o ISO 50001: an internationally recognized standard. ISO 50001 provides a framework to implement energy management systems. It also provides a framework for continuous energy improvements for industry. x Superior Energy Performance: builds on the ISO 50001 standard. Requires improvement targets and third-party confirmation of results. x Encourage the adoption of combined heat and power systems at larger facilities. Promote and leverage existing capacity-building programs and funding streams. x Support knowledge exchange and capacity building through existing best practice networks for industry. Target Participation Rate x Annual improvement of 3% in energy efficiency across all industries in Aurora. This is a direct result of energy management systems. 61 Invest in Aurora (2020). Town of Aurora. Retrieved from https://investinaurora.ca 62 Watson & Associates Economists Ltd (2019). Development Charges Background Study. Town of Aurora. Retrieved from https://www.aurora.ca/TownHall/Documents/Building%20Division/Draft%202019%20Aurora%20DC%20Background%20S tudy%20and%20By-Law.pdf 63 Natural Resources Canada (2017). Comprehensive Energy Use Database, Industrial Sector - Ontario. Retrieved from https://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/corporate/statistics/neud/dpa/menus/trends/comprehensive/trends_agg_on.cfm Page 92 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 36 Energy Use, Energy Cost, and GHG Emission Reduction Potential Energy Use 185,000 GJ reduced per year by 2030. 600,000 GJ is reduced per year by 2050. Energy Cost $7.9 million saved per year by 2030. $27.4 million saved per year by 2050. Emissions 2,600 tCO2e avoided per year by 2030. 9,200 tCO2e avoided per year by 2050. Relative Scale of Implementation Costs Low Timeframe to Implementation Ongoing, beginning in the medium-term. District Energy Context District energy systems (DES) use pipes to supply heating, cooling and/or power to multiple connected buildings. Buildings that produce excess energy (“anchor tenants”) can redistribute the energy to nearby buildings. The use of a DES can lead to increased efficiencies and reliability. At the same time decrease operating costs and emissions. This is particularly true if a low-carbon (i.e., electricity) or renewable fuel is used64. The City of Markham has two DES within its borders. These are owned and operated by Markham District Energy - a City-owned utility. The first DES services seven million square feet of building space within Markham’s downtown core. The second services one million square feet surrounding the Markham Stouffville Hospital (as the anchor tenant)65. A district geothermal system is being proposed for a 300-home development in Markham66. According to Markham District Energy, the City’s efficient DES avoided the use of over 6.2 million cubic metres of natural gas in 2017. This is the same as the amount of natural gas used by 2,500 homes in Markham67. At present, no district energy infrastructure exists in the Town. 64 Natural Resources Canada (2003). Community Energy Systems. Retrieved from https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/sites/www.nrcan.gc.ca/files/canmetenergy/files/pubs/Community%2BEnergy%2BSystems.pdf 65 Markham District Energy (2020). Markham District Energy Facts. Retrieved from https://www.markhamdistrictenergy.com/ 66 Lee-Shanok, P. (2018). Markham community will use geothermal in all its homes, but some critics aren't hot on it. CBC News. Retrieved from https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/geothermal-community-planned-in-markham-first-of-kind- in-canada-1.4909905 67 Markham District Energy (2020). Markham District Energy Facts. Retrieved from https://www.markhamdistrictenergy.com/ Page 93 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 37 Strategy #7: District Energy System Feasibility (DES) Description: Conduct a feasibility study for implementing a low-carbon fuel district energy system. x Explore both new and existing developments. x Investigate Aurora’s Industrial Parkway area as a potential DES retrofit location. x In general, a DES is more favourable in areas with: o High development and heating needs. o A stable and reliable energy demand. o A mix of building types, including anchor client(s) which provide a consistent energy demand. The feasibility of district energy is improved by: x A favourable financial return on investment to the project owner. x A favourable cost-saving opportunity to end clients. x Policy support that actively encourages DES development and uptake. As part of the feasibility study: x Review zoning regulations to encourage density and energy requirements favourable to DES. x Consider mandating DES-readiness for buildings in new developments. x Examine the feasibility of including DES in future affordable housing developments with Housing York. Target Participation Rate x Greenfield developments: 10% of the residential sector ground floor area (GFA). 50% of the non- residential sector GFA by 2050. x Existing developments: 25% of non-residential sector GFA and multi-residential buildings by 2050. Energy Use, Energy Cost, and GHG Emission Reduction Potential Energy Use 91,000 GJ annual reduction from completion to 2050 (includes new builds). Emissions 4,600 tCO2e avoided per year from completion to 2050. Relative Scale of Implementation Costs High Timeframe to Implementation Short-term to conduct a feasibility study. Page 94 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 38 Travel Context Most trips made by residents of Aurora were in a car. Of all trips in 2016, 72% were made as a driver and 15% as a passenger. Local transit and GO Transit accounted for 3% each of the total trips. Walking and cycling accounted for 5% of overall trips68. Of Aurora’s 18,900 households in 2016, more than two-thirds had two or more vehicles. The average household made six trips per day69. It is estimated that, by 2021, there will be over 58,000 daily inter-regional trips between Aurora (and Newmarket). The majority of these will be to Richmond Hill, Markham, and Vaughan70. High demand for internal trips (within Aurora) is projected, presenting an opportunity for transit growth71. There is an opportunity to explore sustainable travel options and shifting away from single occupancy, gasoline-powered vehicles. 68 Malatest (2018). Transportation Tomorrow Survey 2016: Regional Municipality of York. http://dmg.utoronto.ca/transportation-tomorrow-survey/tts-reports 69 Ibid. 70 York Region Transit (2016). Moving to 2020: YRT/VIVA 2016-2020 Strategic Plan. Retrieved from https://www.yrt.ca/en/about-us/resources/YRT_5YSP_2016-2020-web.pdf 71 Ibid. Since the global outbreak of COVID-19, travel patterns have changed. Travel patterns have changed to accommodate for social distancing and in response to work-from-home directives. As municipalities re- open, it will be important to ensure safe public travel. This may include “rebalancing streets” to accommodate more space for active travel alongside cars. Providing additional space for these modes of travel will support Aurora’s emission targets. These forms of transportation also benefit the health and wellbeing of residents. Public transit has been impacted by the global pandemic. A report on public transit in Toronto showed that 25% of participants who used transit switched to single-occupancy vehicles. Another 8% switched to active travel. Based on the different stages of re-opening, only 5% of respondents said they would return to transit during stage 1. That number increased to 63% for stage 3. The current situation provides a unique chance for the Town of Aurora to invest in active travel infrastructure sooner. Municipalities across the country are doing this by increasing their cycling networks. References: FCM (2020). COVID-19 Street Rebalancing Guide. Retrieved from: https://fcm.ca/en/resources/covid-19-street- rebalancing-guide CBC News (2020). Public transit will be critical to Toronto's COVID-19 recovery, but will it be safe for riders? Retrieved from: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-transit-recovery-covid19-1.5578487 The Globe and Mail (2020). Coronavirus is reshaping the way we get around cities. Retrieved from: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/drive/mobility/article-coronavirus-is-reshaping-the-way-we-get-around-cities/ Page 95 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 39 In 2020, Town staff presented findings from the Transportation Master Plan (TMP)72. The TMP recommends developing policies and programs to encourage non-automobile travel within and surrounding the Town. The TMP recommends operational improvements to traffic signal timing, parking, and sidewalks. The TMP recommends the development of a separate Town-wide Active Transportation Master Plan. This is subject to funding in the 2021 capital budget process. Finally, the TMP recommends implementing the recommendations proposed within the 2011 Trails Master Plan73. Recommendations include new facilities, trail alignments, grade-separated trail crossings and new linkages. Aurora is also subject to York Region’s Transportation Master Plan. Last updated in 2016, the plan’s objectives include: improving the interconnectivity of the regional transit system, developing a road network that supports all transportation modes, integrating active transportation in urban areas, and addressing “last mile” challenges74. An update of the TMP has recently been initiated. The Town will need to work closely with regional partners to realize better transportation outcomes for the community. Using active modes of travel (such as cycling, walking or rolling) promotes physical activity, improved air quality and mental health. In 2013, Aurora was the first York Region municipality to introduce a School Travel Planning Policy. The policy encourages students to choose active travel methods75. Aurora is home to 62 kilometres of multi-purpose trails, which connect local parks, Town facilities and green space76. Aurora is serviced by York Region Transit (YRT/Viva) and GO Transit. There are proposed plans for the Aurora GO Station to provide two-way, all-day service77. Regional rapid transit is expected to connect Aurora to other York Region Municipalities to the north and south in the future. In 2019, On-Request Transit Service was implemented in Aurora as a pilot. Within the pilot, passengers can receive direct service between their 72 Town of Aurora 2020. General Committee Report No. PDS20-015: Master Transportation Study Update Final Report. Retrieved from https://www.aurora.ca/en/your-government/resources/Legislative-Services/Agendas-and-Minutes/2020- Council-and-GC-Documents/General-Committee-Agendas/2020-02-18-General-Committee-Agenda-att.pdf 73 Town of Aurora (2011). Trails Master Plan. Retrieved from https://www.aurora.ca/en/home-and- property/resources/Images/Waste-and-Recycling/Parks-and-Trails/trails-master-plan-november-2011---january-16-2012- compressed.pdf 74 Regional Municipality of York (2016). Transportation Master Plan. Retrieved from: https://www.york.ca/wps/portal/yorkhome/yorkregion/yr/plansreportsandstrategies/transportationmasterplan/!ut/p/z0/fY7B DoIwEES_xQNHsw0xwrXhIEIIV- iFNFqhAltoVyN_b8Ez3mZmJ28WBFQgUL51K0kblIP3tTg3V365pmnOsvIUJ4yzkmdhFLM4jyAD8b_gCaEtkqIFMUnqjhofB qppkOismowlJ_HuyEpSrVYOKi_RrYfth1E6UnatryT9nGfBQdwMkvoQVIttNo0UsMXY3htHml5b0JlR_WLr2QYDtjsbsN3Zq Rd17PjhC6KEmi0!/#.X9I6fdg3nIU 75 Town of Aurora (2020). School Travel Planning. Retrieved from https://www.aurora.ca/en/town-services/school-travel- planning.aspx#What-is-School-Travel-Planning-STP- 76 Town of Aurora (2020). Trail System. Retrieved from https://www.aurora.ca/en/recreation-arts-and-culture/trail- system.aspx#Respecting-Nature 77 York Region Transit (2016). Moving to 2020: YRT/VIVA 2016-2020 Strategic Plan. Retrieved from https://www.yrt.ca/en/about-us/resources/YRT_5YSP_2016-2020-web.pdf Page 96 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 40 home address and the Aurora GO Station and/or select locations within the service area7879. Mobility-On- Request is available for paratransit riders. Electric vehicles allow drivers to maintain the convenience of a personal vehicle. At the same time, emissions are reduced. The Bank of Canada predicted that 3.5% of vehicles will be electric by the year 2030. This number could be higher with increased charging infrastructure and improved battery capacity80. The Town currently provides two publicly accessible electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Drivers can charge their vehicles free of charge at the Town Hall and Aurora Community Centre81. Funding has been secured from the Federal Government under its Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program. Under the program, the Town plans to install additional charging stations for the public to use (fees applicable), located at Town facilities. Energy, Emissions and Costs The transportation sector is responsible for 26% of the total energy consumed in the community. This represents 37% of total emissions. Personal vehicle use is responsible for 99% of all transportation energy and emissions. The transportation sector is projected to account for 22% of energy and 31% of emissions by 2030. In 2050, this accounts for 27% of energy and 36% of emissions. In 2018, the average person in Aurora consumed 29 GJ of gasoline and diesel, spent $1,070 on transportation fuel. 78 York Region Transit (2020). Mobility On-Request. Retrieved from https://www.yrt.ca/en/our-services/mobility-on- request.aspx 79 York Region Transit (2019). 2020 Transit Initiatives. Retrieved from https://view.publitas.com/york-region-transportation- services/2020-transit-initiatives/page/106 80 Latulippe, E, Mo, K. (2019). Outlook for Electric Vehicles and Implications for the Oil Market. Bank of Canada. Retrieved from https://www.bankofcanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/san2019-19.pdf 81 Town of Aurora (2020). Electric Vehicle Charging Stations. Retrieved from https://www.aurora.ca/en/your- government/climate-change.aspx#Electric-vehicle-charging-stations Page 97 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 41 Figure 17: Transportation mode share in 2018 based on data from the Transportation of Tomorrow Survey. Figure 18: Share of greenhouse gas emissions by transportation mode in 2018 based on data from the Transportation of Tomorrow Survey Driver 76% Passenger 15% Walk & Cycle 5% GO Train 3%Transit 1% Distance Travelled by Mode (2018) Driver Passenger Walk & Cycle GO Train Transit Personal/Commercial Vehicles 98.5% Transit (YRT) 1.3%Transit (GO) 0.1% GHG Emissions by Transportation Mode (2018) Personal/Commercial Vehicles Transit (YRT) Transit (GO) Page 98 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 42 Strategy #8: Transportation: Mode Shift Description: Encourage a shift from traditional vehicles to active travel (cycling, walking, rolling) and public transit x Continue to implement Travel Demand Management policies and programs in the Town’s Transportation Master Plan 2020 Update. Such programs encourage non-automobile travel to and from key destinations within and surrounding the Town. o Implement the Sidewalk Priority Plan that outlines the best practices design guidelines identified for bike lanes and cycling infrastructure. o Develop an Active Transportation Master Plan, as recommended in the TMP Update. o Implement the recommendations of the 2011 Trails Master Plan. o Implement operational improvements beginning with high collision intersections. o Identify and address any challenges in implementing the recommended policies and programs outlined in the TMP 2020 Update. o Sustainable travel options should work for all members of the community. Transportation planning should account for the benefits and costs (e.g., road casualties, air quality) associated with decisions. From an equity lens, it is important to consider who gains benefits and who bears these costs82. Include diverse voices and perspectives in transportation planning initiatives to address financial and physical mobility barriers within the Town. ‘First and Last Mile’ x Design and implement program(s) to encourage the convenient integration of alternative modes of transportation with GO Transit and YRT/Viva routes and infrastructure. o Support initiatives undertaken by Metrolinx are outlined in the GO Rail Station Access Plan. Encourage GO Transit riders to walk, use transit, ride a bicycle, or carpool to GO stations. o Support and promote programs in place with YRT such as the Bike n’ Ride Program. Encourage the integration of cycling and transit in one trip. o Encourage YRT to promote carpooling and ride-sharing alongside their existing programs. x Expand on the Mobility On-Request Aurora micro transit pilot project. Add additional service areas and service during off-peak hours. x Align with York Region’s Transportation Master Plan Objective Number 5: ‘Make the Last Mile Work’. x Work with partner organizations and York Region to explore the feasibility of implementing a bike-share program. Such a program would connect commuters to transit hubs and urban centres. 82Federation of Canadian Municipalities (2020). GMF Municipal Energy Roadmap. Retrieved from: https://fcm.ca/en/resources/gmf/gmfs-municipal-energy-roadmap Page 99 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 43 Carpooling and ride-sharing x Work with major employers to promote or incentivize alternative forms of travel among employees. Incentives could include active travel, carpooling, telecommuting, work-from-home, and compressed workweeks (e.g., through preferred parking spaces, secure bicycle parking, etc.). x Promote existing ride-sharing programs, such as smartcommute.ca (for commuting to work and school). x Investigate the feasibility of a local car-share program as an alternative to vehicle ownership. Public Transit x Work with York Region to design and implement a program(s) to encourage public transit ridership. x Encourage and work with York Region to continue to enhance and expand public transit services. x Create a working group to develop innovative solutions to increase ridership on public transit and/or active travel. Such a group should include diverse representation from the community. x Leverage the forthcoming Active Transportation Master Plan to promote cycling to transit: o Connect cycling routes with bus stops. o Install bicycle racks at GO stations and public transit stops. o Advocate York Region to install bicycle racks on all buses. o Explore the potential for a community bicycle repair and re-use centre. x Implement a “Slow Street” pilot, which prioritizes walking and cycling on select neighbourhood streets. Page 100 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 44 Target Participation Rate x By 2030: 7% of distance travelled by on-road vehicles (from 2018 baseline) are replaced with other modes. Other modes include active travel, carpooling, and public and GO transit. x By 2050: 15% of distance travelled by on-road vehicles (from 2018 baseline) are replaced with other modes. Energy Use, Energy Cost, and GHG Emission Reduction Potential Energy Use 114,000 GJ reduced per year by 2030. 115,000 GJ reduced per year by 2050. Energy Cost $3.5 million saved per year by 2030. $5.5 million saved per year by 2050. Emissions 7,200 tCO2e avoided per year by 2030. 1,600 tCO2e avoided per year by 2050. Relative Scale of Implementation Costs Low Timeframe to Implementation Ongoing, beginning in the short-term. Page 101 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 45 Strategy #9: Transportation: EV and Low Carbon Vehicle Adoption Description: Develop and implement a plan to become an electric vehicle-ready Town and support low- carbon travel. x Provide adequate EV Charging Infrastructure to become an EV-ready municipality: o Expand charging infrastructure for public use at the Town’s facilities and municipal parking lots. Prioritize Level 2 fast-charging stations. o Require all new residential and non-residential buildings to be EV-ready. This includes parking stalls equipped with proper outlets to support vehicle charging. o Consider financial incentives (e.g., reduced development charges) and/or non-financial incentives (e.g., expedited permitting). o Encourage property owners and managers to install charging stations on their property. This could serve both public use (e.g., at shopping centres and other public areas) and private use (e.g., employee parking). o Continue to advocate for additional charging stations on major roadways and highways. x Promote existing incentives, rebates, cost comparison tools, maps of charging stations, and other EV and low emissions vehicle initiatives to citizens and businesses. Target Participation Rate x By 2030: 18% of vehicles are powered by electricity. This applies across all classes (cars, trucks, buses) and types (personal, commercial). x By 2050: 99% of vehicles are powered by electricity, across all classes and types. Energy Use, Energy Cost, and GHG Emission Reduction Potential Energy Use 130,000 GJ reduced per year by 2030. 1.2 million GJ reduced per year by 2050. Energy Cost $2.2 million saved per year by 2030. $19.0 million saved per year by 2050. Emissions 13,000 tCO2e avoided per year by 2030. 113,000 tCO2e avoided per year by 2050. Relative Scale of Implementation Costs Medium Timeframe to Implementation Ongoing, beginning in the medium-term. Page 102 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 46 Waste Overview The Town manages residential waste through curbside collection. Garbage, recyclables (blue bin), organics (green bin) and yard waste are all delivered to Regional facilities83. Working with the Region, the Town of Aurora provides many programs and services to encourage waste reduction and diversion. Waste reduction involves producing less garbage. Waste diversion is the reuse, composting, or recycling of materials that would typically be sent to a landfill. Waste diversion is often measured using a diversion rate. The higher the diversion rate, the more waste is recycled. Local programs include E-Waste Collection Days, Curbside Giveaway Days, a Textile Recycling Program, and a Community Garage Sale84. At the Provincial level, changes are being proposed to municipal recycling programs to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills (i.e., to increase diversion rates). Changes are also meant to encourage producers to consider product/package recycling in design. Traditionally, blue box programs are operated by Stewardship Ontario and overseen by local municipalities. Stewardship Ontario collects fees from “stewards” (brand owners, importers, franchisors) of packaging that ends up in the blue box. The municipality uses the fees to provide local recycling programs85. Under this model, the stewards and the municipality share the responsibility. As of 2025, the management of the blue box recycling program will be the sole responsibility of plastic and packaging producers 86. When municipal waste (garbage that cannot be reused, recycled, or composted) is disposed of, it is traditionally sent to landfills. As the waste decomposes, methane is produced - a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide87. York Region sends most of the collected waste to energy-from-waste facilities, such as the Durham York Energy Centre (DYEC) in Clarington. The DYEC generates enough electricity to power 10,000 homes and reduces the volume of garbage sent to landfills by up to 90%88. Emissions The waste sector includes emissions from solid waste, composted waste, and wastewater that is generated within Aurora. Waste emissions account for 9% of emissions in 2018. This equals 0.5 tonnes of GHGs per 83 York Region (2020). The York Region Waste Management Master Plan. Retrieved from https://www.york.ca/wps/wcm/connect/yorkpublic/6f3f1734-1d45-4322-8903- ca7354a2db50/The+York+Region+Waste+Management+Master+Plan+2020.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID=n50.7-p 84 Town of Aurora (2020). Garbage, Recycling and Composting. Retrieved from https://www.aurora.ca/en/town- services/garbage-recycling-and-composting.aspx#Yard-Waste 85 Stewardship Ontario (2020). About Us. Retrieved from https://stewardshipontario.ca/about-us/ 86 Government of Ontario (2019). Producer responsibility for Ontario’s waste diversion programs . Retrieved from https://www.ontario.ca/page/producer-responsibility-ontarios-waste-diversion-programs 87 Government of Canada (2017). Municipal solid waste and greenhouse gases. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/managing-reducing-waste/municipal-solid/greenhouse- gases.html 88 Durham York Energy Centre (2020). Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved from https://www.durhamyorkwaste.ca/FAQ/FAQ.aspx#howmuchenergy Page 103 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 47 capita. Landfilled solid waste is responsible for 2% of total emissions. The majority of the 9% is from wastewater emissions. Landfilled waste accounts for 3% of emissions by 2030 by 205089. In 2018, residents and businesses produced 18,059 tonnes of waste, or 0.3 tonnes of waste per person, 34% of which was sent to landfill or energy-from-waste facilities and 39% of which was composted (source- separated organics and yard waste). The remainder largely went to blue box recycling. This generated 6,978 tonnes of emissions from landfilled waste and 1,341 tonnes from composting. Note: Wastewater treatment falls under the jurisdiction of York Region, and therefore has not been included below. Strategy #10: Waste: Diversion & Reduction Description: Implement programs to reduce waste generation by residents and businesses and to increase waste diversion from landfills x Continue to implement existing measures to divert waste from landfills, such as E-Waste Collection Days, Curbside Giveaway Days, a Textile Recycling Program, and a Community Garage Sale. x Continue to implement existing measures that reduce the generation of solid waste from citizens and businesses. x Advocate for York Region to improve landfill gas capture, and the generation of renewable natural gas from waste streams. x Explore options to improve industrial, commercial and institutional waste collection. Target Participation Rate x By 2030: Reduce garbage generation by 5% (in line with York Region’s 2031 target). Divert 80% of all solid waste from landfills. x By 2050: Reduce per capita waste generation by 10%. Divert 90% of all solid waste from landfills. Energy Use, Energy Cost, and GHG Emission Reduction Potential Emissions x 4,500 tCO2e avoided per year by 2030. 8,200 tCO2e avoided per year by 2050. Relative Scale of Implementation Costs x N/A - Cost is covered by existing staff capacity or operating budgets. Timeframe to Implementation x Ongoing, beginning in the medium-term. 89 Standard practice in developing a GHG baseline includes emissions from the disposal of waste, rather than the energy used in that waste disposal. As a result, energy values for waste are not included in the energy use and expenditures Page 104 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 48 Renewable Energy Supply Context Renewable power is a cleaner way to power the economy. The sun (solar PV), wind, water (hydroelectric), the earth (geothermal), and plants (biomass) are sources of renewable energy. In 2018, renewable sources generated about 35% of Ontario’s electricity90. Ontario is home to 98% of Canada’s solar PV capacity. This is largely due to the former Feed-in Tariff (FIT) incentive program91. Currently, the Town has four rooftop solar installations located at the Public Library, Town Hall, Joint Operations Centre and Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex. Between 2014 and 2018, these sites generated over 1.5 million kilowatt-hours of electricity. The Public Library and Town Hall produce electricity, which is fed back into the grid, rather than being used on-site. This is part of the FIT program92. In recent years, Ontario has transitioned away from the FIT program to a “net metering” program (as in the Joint Operations Centre). Under the program, excess electricity generated from renewable sources helps to offset energy costs93. The roof of Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex, and related energy generation, is leased out to a third-party. Energy storage can further support the transition to renewables. Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) has been working to integrate energy storage in Ontario’s energy system. As part of the pilot program, 4 megawatts (MW) of storage capacity has been installed in Newmarket94. Through energy storage systems, excess electricity can be stored for use during times of high demand. This can increase the reliability of the local energy supply95. This is particularly beneficial, as renewable generation tends to be intermittent (i.e., produced when it is sunny or windy) and may not align with energy demand. Increased storage capacity allows communities to use renewable energy “as needed”, in place of higher cost or higher emission energy sources. Due to energy losses from using batteries and the added emissions from battery manufacturing, the strategy would have to be well planned to support low-carbon energy sources. Energy & Emissions In comparison to fossil fuels, renewable energy has a much lower impact on the environment. Most renewable energy generation does not emit pollutants or GHG emissions96. Renewable energy generation has upstream (e.g., emissions produced during construction) and downstream (e.g., recycling and disposal at end-of-life) 90 Ontario Energy Board (2019). Ontario’s System-Wide Electricity Supply Mix: 2018 Data. Retrieved from https://www.oeb.ca/sites/default/files/2018-supply-mix-data-update.pdf 91 Canada Energy Regulator (2019). Canada’s Adoption of Renewable Power Sources – Energy Market Analysis. Retrieved from https://www.cer-rec.gc.ca/nrg/sttstc/lctrct/rprt/2017cnddptnrnwblpwr/slr-eng.html 92 Town of Aurora (2019). Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan Update 2019-2023. Retrieved from https://www.aurora.ca/en/your-government/resources/Environment-and-Sustainability/Aurora_ECDM_Plan_2019- 2023_FINAL_with_Appendices.pdf 93 Alectra Utilities (2020). Connecting Generation. Retrieved from https://alectrautilities.com/connecting-generation 94 Newmarket Today (2019). Biggest battery energy storage facility in GTA now live in Newmarket. Retrieved from https://www.newmarkettoday.ca/local-news/biggest-battery-energy-storage-facility-in-gta-now-live-in-newmarket-1712059 95 http://www.ieso.ca/en/Sector-Participants/Energy-Procurement-Programs-and-Contracts/Energy-Storage 96 Canada Energy Regulator (2019). Canada’s Adoption of Renewable Power Sources – Energy Market Analysis. Retrieved from https://www.cer-rec.gc.ca/nrg/sttstc/lctrct/rprt/2017cnddptnrnwblpwr/slr-eng.html Page 105 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 49 impacts97. These impacts are not within the scope of the plan. Despite these impacts, renewable generation in Canada is generally considered favourable98. Strategy #11: Renewables: Solar Power99 Description: Develop a plan to increase the adoption of solar energy (rooftop solar PV systems, solar thermal systems, ground-mounted arrays). x Promote existing incentive programs to expand the adoption of solar systems. x Consider offering financial incentives or subsidies to expand solar adoption either directly or in partnership with York Region and/or other partners. x Provide additional support so that low and moderate-income households and small businesses can access renewable generation. x Consider bundling solar systems in building retrofit programs (Strategy 2 and 4). x Include solar-ready designs in the sustainability checklists for developers (see Strategies 1 and 3), and the Green Development Standards. This includes buildings that support the weight and connectivity requirements for rooftop solar so that construction costs to refurbish structures are avoided. x Work with Housing York to examine the feasibility of including solar installations in future affordable housing developments. x Build solar carports at municipal parking lots. Work with commercial facility owners/developers and public institutions to build solar carports. Minimize greenfield development. Target Participation Rate x Ground-mounted solar: Installation of 3 MW (7-10 acres) by 2030. Installation of 12 MW (30-40 acres) by 2050 of ground-mounted solar on municipal and private lands. Install 345 kW per year. x Rooftop solar, commercial/institutional (200 kW systems, includes municipal buildings): 18% by 2030 and 50% by 2050 of new and existing commercial and institutional buildings have rooftop solar PV. Installation of 26 solar systems per year across the town (municipal and private lands). x Rooftop solar, industrial (200 kW systems): 20% by 2030 and 60% by 2050 of new and existing commercial and institutional buildings have rooftop solar PV. Installation of 11 solar systems per year across the town (private lands). x Rooftop solar, residential (5 kW systems): 4.6% by 2030 and 15% by 2050 of homes have rooftop solar PV. Installation of 117 solar systems per year across the town (private lands). 97 Ibid. 98 Ibid. 99 Note: Solar energy is recommended above other forms of renewable energy as it is more suitable for the Town’s context. Though wind energy is as cost-competitive as solar, the functionality of wind energy is optimized in locations away from urban centres. Biomass energy requires either wood/wood by-products inputs or landfill gas capture which falls under York Region’s operational control. Geothermal energy should be considered in the pre -feasibility/feasibility analysis undertaken with the District Energy project. Page 106 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 50 x Solar thermal: 5% by 2030 and 15% by 2050 of homes have solar thermal systems. Install 117 solar thermal panels per year. x Rooftop solar, multi-unit residential (10 kW systems): 9% by 2030 and 40% by 2050 of multi-unit residential buildings have rooftop solar PV. Installation of 24 solar systems per year across the town. Energy Use, Energy Cost, and GHG Emission Reduction Potential Energy Cost $12.9 million saved per year by 2030. $47.9 million saved per year by 2050. Solar thermal (domestic water heaters): $80,400 saved per year by 2030. $185,000 saved per year by 2050. Rooftop solar, residential (5 kW systems): 630,000 saved per year by 2030. $2.7 million saved per year by 2050. Rooftop solar, commercial/institutional and multi-unit residential (10-200 kW systems): $8.7 million saved per year by 2030. $31 million saved per year by 2050. Rooftop solar, industrial (200 kW systems): $2.9 million saved per year by 2030. $11 million saved per year by 2050. Ground-mounted solar: $450,000 million saved per year by 2030. $2.1 million saved per year by 2050. Emissions 2,900 tCO2e avoided per year by 2030, 11,300 tCO2e avoided per year by 2050. Solar thermal (water heaters): 300 tCO2e avoided per year by 2030. 550 tCO2e avoided per year by 2050. Rooftop solar, residential (5-10 kW systems): 150 tCO2e avoided per year by 2030. 700 tCO2e avoided per year by 2050. Rooftop solar, commercial/institutional and multi-unit residential (10-200 kW systems): 1,800 tCO2e avoided per year by 2030. 6,900 tCO2e avoided per year by 2050. Rooftop solar, industrial (200 kW systems): 600 tCO2e avoided per year by 2030. 2,500 tCO2e per year by 2050. Ground-mounted solar: 110 tCO2e avoided per year by 2030. 540 tCO2e avoided per year by 2050. Relative Scale of Implementation Costs High Timeframe to Implementation Medium-term to develop a solar adoption plan. The preceding strategies are supported by land use planning that reduces GHG emissions, and carbon sequestration activities of natural habitats that have not been quantified. These activities are not currently included in the GPC BASIC level reporting as measurement continues to involve. Page 107 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 51 Land Use Context Long-term growth and development within the Town are governed by the Official Plan (2010); the Plan is being updated in 2020. The Official Plan includes several principles, the following are the most relevant to the CEP100. ● Promoting Responsible Growth Management: promoting higher density and intensification in appropriate areas ● Building a Greener Community: incorporating green building technologies and energy-efficient development approaches ● Protecting Stable Neighbourhoods: ensuring any infill is compatible with established community character ● Developing Vibrant New Neighbourhoods: ensuring sustainable residential neighbourhoods are developed in greenfield areas ● Providing Sustainable Infrastructure: supporting growth and sustainability through the provision of transportation and pedestrian networks, transit system, water and utilities The development of Aurora’s updated Official Plan will be governed by: ● A Place to Grow: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (2020): The Growth Plan (2020) is the Ontario government’s long-term plan to “promote economic growth, increase housing supply, create jobs and build communities that make life easier, healthier and more affordable for people of all ages”101. The Plan outlines many policies on how land is developed. Municipalities are required to incorporate these policies in their official plans. Examples include policies to reduce GHG emission (e.g., through complete communities, transit, active transportation); establish GHG inventories and reduction targets; conserve energy in existing buildings and new developments. ● Provincial Policy Statement (PPS, 2020): Under the Planning Act, the PPS provides direction on land use for municipalities. The PPS directs municipalities to “support energy conservation and efficiency, improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and preparing for the impacts of a changing climate through land use and development patterns”102. Examples of supportive land use and development patterns include those that: promote active transportation and transit; encourage transit- supportive development and intensification; and maximizes energy efficiency and conservation. ● Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (2017): The purpose of the Plan is to “provide land use and resource management planning direction… on how to protect the Moraine’s ecological and hydrological features and functions”103. The southern and western portions of the Town fall under the Plan. Most of these lands are designated as “settlement areas”, permitting urban development. Southeastern Aurora is designated as a mix of “countryside area” and “natural linkage area” with restrictions for 100 Town of Aurora (2020). Official Plan. Retrieved from https://www.aurora.ca/en/business-and-development/official- plan.aspx#Fundamental-Principles-of-the-Plan 101 Government of Ontario (2019). A Place to Grow: Growth plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe. Retrieved from https://www.ontario.ca/document/place-grow-growth-plan-greater-golden-horseshoe 102 Government of Ontario (2020). Provincial Policy Statement, 2020. Retrieved from https://www.ontario.ca/page/provincial-policy-statement-2020 103 Government of Ontario (2017). Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan. Retrieved from https://www.ontario.ca/page/oak-ridges-moraine-conservation-plan-2017 Page 108 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 52 development. The Plan specifies that development in settlement areas should support complete low- carbon communities. ● York Region Official Plan (2020): As a lower-tier municipality, the Town of Aurora’s Official Plan will need to conform with the Regional Plan (currently under review and subject to change). As part of the review, the Town is working with the Region to delineate lands surrounding the Aurora GO station and the Aurora Promenade as areas for intensification and higher-density mixed-use development, as required by the Growth Plan104. The Regional Plan will inform the Town’s planning of employment lands and environmental policies. This Plan fulfills York Region’s Official Plan requirement that local municipalities develop Community Energy Plans. Energy & Emissions How communities are planned and developed has a long-term impact on the environment. Building compact, mixed-use communities where residents can live, work and play has several positive benefits. First, it reduces the need for trips by car and promotes active travel and transit. This reduces emissions and commuting distances. Mixed-use communities retain services and jobs within the Town. Compact and infill development reduces the environmental impacts of urban sprawl, promoting the protection of green space. Finally, mixed- use communities help eliminate the need for personal vehicle ownership in favour of lower-cost travel options. This allows residents to access recreation, services and employment with a reduced financial burden. Policy direction at the municipal level can help advance the goals of the CEP. Suggested approaches include: x Reviewing and updating building design standards, development by-laws, and zoning. Implement supportive policies to encourage energy-efficient buildings, compact and mixed-use development. x Conduct a review of municipal codes, policies, and legislation to identify barriers to renewable energy and DES. Develop strategies to overcome these barriers. Carbon Sequestration & Offsets Context Natural spaces and the urban tree canopy have an important role in sequestering (or storing) carbon and offsetting GHG emissions. The plan recommends continued efforts to protect tree canopy, and green spaces, and to work with partners to quantify the impacts of sequestration on the overall carbon budget for the Town. Through carbon offsetting, emission reductions are sold to the purchaser in the form of an “offset”. Offsets (measured in tonnes of CO2e) effectively reduce the purchaser’s net emissions. Examples of offset projects include landfill gas capture, destruction of methane from coal mines and manure storage facilities 105. Within the Western Climate Initiative (active in Quebec and California) emissions reduced or avoided from these projects could be sold as carbon offsets. In 2019, the Government of Canada began developing a Federal GHG Offset 104 Town of Aurora (2019). General Committee Report No. PDS19-098: Official Plan Review. Retrieved from https://aurora.primegov.com/meeting/attachment/1923.pdf?name=Item%20R3-PDS19-098- Town%20of%20Aurora%20OP%20Review 105 Government of Quebec (2020). Offset Credits. Retrieved from http://www.environnement.gouv.qc.ca/changements/carbone/credits -compensatoires/index-en.htm#current-offset Page 109 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 53 System. The system aims to support the development of offset products and reduce emissions across the country106. Energy & Emissions Preliminary analysis from LSRCA indicates that current landcover sequestration (forests and wetlands) within the Town of Aurora equates to a very small percentage of the community’s annual emissions107. Enhancing forest cover and natural heritage is important for many environmental, social and health reasons, however, it alone will not close the gap in meeting Aurora’s emission reduction target. Purchasing carbon offsets should a final option to reduce net emissions. This should only be done once all other strategies have been implemented to their fullest potential. Offsetting should be an interim step to achieving Aurora’s long-term GHG reduction goals. It is important to note that most verifiable offset programs limit the amount an entity can buy to offset their emissions. As such, offsets cannot be used to make up the difference in achieving the targets. If the Town decides to reduce net emissions via purchased offset, purchasers should seek projects that have been registered by standards. Examples include the Clean Development Mechanism or the Gold Standard. Important factors to consider include additionality (reduction beyond business-as-usual), uniqueness (to avoid double-counting), accurate quantification and verification of reductions108. Impacts of Action in Aurora Figure 19 shows the total GHG emission reduction to 2050 for the strategies outlined in the CEP. Each strategy is represented on the graph by a coloured stacked area. Each colour shows the total annual reduction of a specific strategy. Overall, the graph shows the contribution that each of the strategies will make to the overall reduction in emissions. This assumes that each strategy is actioned to its fullest potential, within the timelines outlined above. The strategies will reduce annual emissions in Aurora by 72,361 tonnes CO2e in 2030 and 212,364 tonnes CO2e in 2050. This is a 22 percent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from 2018 level by 2030 and a 65 percent reduction in emissions from 2018 levels by 2050. The Canadian federal emission reduction target has been added to the graph as a point of reference. The federal target stipulates a reduction of emissions from 2005 levels of 30 percent by 2030 and 80 percent by 106 Government of Canada (2019). Carbon pollution pricing: options for a Federal Greenhouse Gas Offset System. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/climate-change/pricing-pollution-how-it- will-work/federal-offset-system.html 107 LSRCA [Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority]. 2020. Climate Change Mitigation Strategy for the Lake Simcoe Watershed. 55 pp. Retrieved from: https://www.lsrca.on.ca/Shared%20Documents/board/Climate%20Change%20Mitigation%20Strategy.pdf 108 Pembina Institute (2009). Purchasing Carbon Offsets. Retrieved from https://www.pembina.org/reports/offset- purchase-guide-v3.pdf Page 110 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 54 2050109. The emission reduction target recommended by the IPCC has also been applied to the graph. IPCC target stipulates a reduction below 2010 levels of 45 percent by 2030 and 95 percent by 2050110. A significant transformational effort will be required to achieve these reductions by the Town, agencies, homeowners and businesses. While the CEP strategies are significant, they do not fully reach the targets outlined above. There remains a gap of 48,296 tCO2e in achieving an 80% emissions reduction by 2050. The cumulative impacts of the strategies are shown in Table 5, below. Accelerated and ambitious action across the community and higher-level effort by federal and provincial governments, advances in technologies or novel approached to reduce emissions will be needed to meet the targets set out by the federal government, the Paris agreement and the Town’s emergency declaration. The CEP is on the path to a reduction of 80% from 2018 levels by 2050, acknowledging that there is a gap. Over time, the Town will look for ways to close the gap through activities such as quantification of carbon sequestration in the natural environment and evaluating emerging technologies. The CEP intentionally sets a 30-year planning horizon, and the Town will continue to evaluate progress and identify ways to close the gap. Table 5 Cumulative impacts of all strategies111 GHG emission reduction Strategy Cumulative Annual Reduction (tCO2e) in 2050 Annual Energy Cost Savings in 2050 #1: Residential New Buildings: Energy & Thermal Efficiency 20,129 $ 10,086,587 #2: Residential Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 25,505 $ 4,261,852 #3: Commercial New Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 7,070 $ 2,813,411 #4: Commercial Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 11,547 $ 1,436,807 #5: Multi-Unit Residential Commercial & Institutional Buildings: Commissioning & Recommissioning 171 $ 159,730 #6: New & Existing Industrial Buildings: Energy Efficiency 9,268 $ 27,404,467 #7: District Energy System 4,654 N/A #8: Transportation: Mode Shift 1,583 $ 5,509,419 #9: Transportation: EV & Low Carbon Vehicle Adoption 112,936 $19,084,347 #10: Waste: Diversion & Reduction 8,199 N/A #11: Renewables: Solar Power 11,301 $ 47,946,566 TOTAL 212,363 $118,703,186 109 The Government of Canada. (2020). Progress towards Canada's greenhouse gas emissions reduction target. Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/environmental-indicators/progress- towards-canada-greenhouse-gas-emissions-reduction-target.html 110 IPCC, 2018: Summary for Policymakers. In: Global Warming of 1.5°C. An IPCC Special Report on the impacts of global warming of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and related global greenhouse gas emission pathways, in the context of strengthening the global response to the threat of climate change, sustainable development, and efforts to eradicate poverty [Masson-Delmotte, V., P. Zhai, H.-O. Pörtner, D. Roberts, J. Skea, P.R. Shukla, A. Pirani, W. Moufouma-Okia, C. Péan, R. Pidcock, S. Connors, J.B.R. Matthews, Y. Chen, X. Zhou, M.I. Gomis, E. Lonnoy, T. Maycock, M. Tignor, and T. Waterfield (eds.)]. World Meteorological Organization, Geneva, Switzerland, 32 pp. 111 Note: values differ slightly from those presented above due to rounding. Page 111 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 55 Figure 19 Cumulative annual GHG reductions from all strategies to 2050 based on internal analysis.Page 112 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 56 Implementation The CEP is intended to guide the Town of Aurora and the wider community to reduce energy and GHG emissions. A strong focus on implementation, governance and monitoring is essential to the Plan’s success. The implementation framework includes guidance for: x Governance x Financing x Engagement & Communications x Reporting & Renewal x Enabling Components x Potential Partners Governance To support and guide the implementation of the CEP, the Town of Aurora will be developing an Implementation Working Group (IWG). The Town’s Energy and Climate Change Analyst will be the ultimate staff member responsible for plan implementation coordination. The Energy and Climate Change Analyst will be supported by the IWG. The IWG will be municipally led and housed within the Planning and Development Services Department. The IWG will be comprised of municipal staff from various departments, who will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of strategies related to their discipline. The IWG will meet regularly to discuss and report on implementation within their respective strategic areas. Internal and external partners will be brought into the process as needed for sector-specific implementation. A proposed governance structure is provided in Figure 20, below. Page 113 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 57 Figure 20: Implementation Working Group, proposed structure Investment Needs It is recommended that Town staff continue to monitor funding streams for implementation funding, directed at particular strategy areas. For example, the recently announced Community Efficiency Financing program offered through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities for residential energy projects. Potential funding opportunities may be made available as part of the federal government’s COVID-19 recovery program. Table 6 outlines the estimated costs for the Town and potential sources of funding associated with important next steps to spur momentum in the early implementation of the plan and the strategies identified in the CEP. Each strategy identifies a magnitude of scale cost for the full implementation of the strategy by all parties. Detailed implementation costing will be defined through a business plan and program design stages. The costs outlined below are subject to the Town’s regular capital budgeting process. Should Council endorse the Community Energy Plan, the full scope of planned capital works will be inserted in the Town’s next ten-year capital investment plan to ensure that the CEP is affordable. The final approval to proceed with each of these noted projects will be subject to funding availability. Page 114 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 58 Table 6: Near-term budget implications (Town action items only) CEP Strategy # CEP Strategy Name Town Action Item Action Description Lead Town Division / Staff Potential External Funding Opportunity Estimated Cost Timing (10 Year Capital Plan) Previously Requested Capital Budget Request - Approved 1 & 3 Residential & Commercial New Buildings: Energy & Thermal Efficiency Research and Design a tiered code/green standard that encourages high energy efficiency. Retain consultant for the research and design of a GDS, based on best practices. Policy Planning & Economic Development $50,000 2020 TOTAL $50,000 2021 Capital Budget Request - Awaiting Approval 8 Transportation Mode Shift Develop an Active Transportation Master Plan for Aurora. Retain a consultant for the Plan development. Aurora’s Transportation Master Plan recommends that an Active Transportation Master Plan be developed. Engineering (Traffic Transportation Analyst) Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Plan funding available through the Green Municipal Fund. $150,000 2021 TOTAL $150,000 Future Capital Budget Request 2 & 4 Residential & Commercial Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency Develop a Business Case and program for the Energy Retrofit Program. Retain a consultant for the development of a business case and investment-ready design for the deep-retrofit program. Program financing structures should be determined during the design phase. Engineering (Energy and Climate Change Analyst) Community Retrofit Projects Study funding available through the Green Municipal Fund $100,000 2022 - provided grant available, otherwise push to 2024 or beyond 7 District Energy System Prepare a business case for the development of district energy in Aurora. Retain a consultant for the development of a business plan that would identify an ownership structure, partnerships, and business analysis for a District Energy System. Engineering (Energy and Climate Change Analyst) District Energy pilot project though Green Municipal Fund $85,000 2026 7 District Energy System Develop a Pre-feasibility & Feasibility Study. Based on the outcomes of the District Energy System business case, retain a consultant for the development of a technical and economical feasibility study for a low carbon district energy system for Aurora. Engineering (Energy and Climate Change Analyst) District Energy study through Green Municipal Fund $75,000-$150,000 2028 - depending on recommendations of the business case 11 Renewables: Solar Power Develop a business case for a residential and a commercial/institutional solar energy program. Retain a consultant to develop a business case and investment-ready design for a residential and commercial solar program that identifies energy options, payback periods, ROI, and program implementation models for Aurora. Engineering (Energy and Climate Change Analyst) Brownfield Renewable Energy study through Green Municipal Fund $100,000 2024 - provided grant available, otherwise push to 2026 or beyond Page 115 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 59 CEP Strategy # CEP Strategy Name Town Action Item Action Description Lead Town Division / Staff Potential External Funding Opportunity Estimated Cost Timing (10 Year Capital Plan) TOTAL $360,000-$435,000 Potential Operating Budget Implications 9 Transportation: EV & Low Carbon Vehicle Adoption Install EV charging infrastructure at Town Facilities for public use. Expand EV charging station at Town facilities with a user-fee system. NRCAN funding is available for small municipalities through a service agreement with the Ivy Charging Network's (owned by Ontario Power Generation and Hydro One) “Charging-as-a-service” program. Estimated costs based on 20 stations installed, and a cost range of $1,100-$2,000 per station per year (as per initial OPG discussions). Excludes potential revenue from a user fee system. Facilities $22,000-40,000/year 2021 and beyond TOTAL $22,000-40,000/year Potential Current Staff Resources Implications 5 Multi-Unit Residential, Commercial & Institutional Buildings: Commissioning & Recommissioning Seek an external partner to lead a commissioning recommissioning program. Identify external partner to develop and implement a commissioning and recommissioning program for commercial, institutional, and multi-residential buildings Engineering (Energy and Climate Change Analyst) $0 2020 6 New & Existing Industrial Buildings: Energy Efficiency Promote Existing Programs Promote and leverage existing programs and funding streams to encourage increases in industrial energy efficiency Economic Development/ Communications $0 8 Transportation: Mode Shift Work with external partners to promote and expand existing programs and explore new partnerships to develop novel programs such as Bike Share and Ride Share, to encourage active transportation. Engineering (Energy and Climate Change Analyst and Traffic/Transportation Analyst) $0 10 Waste: Diversion & Reduction Expand existing waste reduction and waste diversion programs and research opportunities for new programs. Support the expansion of existing programs and advocacy with York Region. Waste $0 2021 TOTAL $0 Page 116 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 60 CEP Strategy # CEP Strategy Name Town Action Item Action Description Lead Town Division / Staff Potential External Funding Opportunity Estimated Cost Timing (10 Year Capital Plan) Potential Additional Consulting Resources 1 & 3 Residential & Commercial New Buildings: Energy & Thermal Efficiency Implementation of the Green Development Standard. Based on the outcomes of the green development standard, allocate staff hours for the implementation of the GDS, such as application reviews, site visits etc. Policy Planning & Economic Development/ Buildings TBD 2022 - provided grant available, otherwise push to 2024 or beyond 2 & 4 Residential & Commercial Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency Support the research and design for the program. Based on the outcomes of the business case and program development: there are potential administrative and promotional costs associated with the program implementation. Implementation could be executed via partners or third-party agencies. Policy Planning & Economic Development/ Engineering / Buildings TBD 2026 TOTAL TBD TOTAL CEP Implications (including previously approved requests and potential future requests): Operating Costs $22,000-40,000/year Capital Project Costs $560,000-$635,000 Consulting Resources Costs TBD Page 117 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 61 Enabling Components Each strategy has a series of enabling components (Appendix 2), while not quantifiable, support their successful implementation. Enabling components include: x Advocacy - To encourage higher levels of government to implement funding, programs and policies that support the goals and objectives of the CEP. x Capacity Building - To ensure that there is local expertise to support green building construction and retrofits. x Education and Awareness - To lead by example, demonstrating why and how the general public can support the goals of the CEP. x Enabling Technologies - To ensure that renewable energy sources and/or DES are compatible with the local energy system. x Energy Benchmarking - To encourage building managers and operators to implement standardized energy benchmarking programs. x Energy Labelling - To help occupants and building owners understand the relative energy efficiency of a building. x Integration with Other Programs - To build on the momentum that exists within Aurora and prevent the duplication of efforts. x Policy Framework and Tools - To enshrine the goals of the CEP in existing Town policies. x Planning for Accessibility and Equity - To ensure that all members of the community benefit from the CEP. x Training and Guidance - To ensure that residents, businesses, and industry can meaningfully participate in the implementation of the CEP. Engagement and Communications The Town’s Corporate Communications Division will conduct ongoing engagement and communications for the CEP. Specific campaigns will be required as specific actions and programs are implemented. For example, the development of a home retrofit program would require consultation and promotions. Potential Partners The CEP is a community plan and will require the support of partners across the Town. Appendix 3 identifies a list of potential partners by strategy. The governance structure above identifies the Town Divisions to lead each of the strategies. A key next step for the Town will be to confirm partnerships to ensure that implementation moves forward. Each potential partner will need to confirm their role before implementation. Partners can help support plan implementation through: x Sharing best practices, resources, and expertise. x Building support for implementation within their sectors and amongst the public. x Providing funding support for the implementation of strategies. x Aligning the strategies identified with their organization’s mandates, priorities, and targets. x Assisting with the implementation, monitoring, and reporting of strategies. x Participating in the Implementation Working Group, as needed. Page 118 of 189 Town of Aurora Community Energy Plan 62 Implementation of the CEP will require assistance from a wide range of stakeholders, including: x Local energy utilities & IESO - To provide expertise, support and funding opportunities for new and existing buildings, renewable energy and DES and ensure alignment with broader energy system planning. x Conservation authorities - To provide expertise and support in the quantification of carbon sequestration efforts and promote the protection of Aurora’s natural heritage. x Business and industry organizations - To educate their members/employees on the benefits of energy conservation. x Developers and builders - To provide the expertise and capacity to build and retrofit energy-efficient buildings. x Schools and institutions - To educate members of the public – particularly youth – on the benefits of energy conservation, leading by example. x Transportation agencies - To support an integrated, multi-modal transportation system in Aurora. x York Region - To support the goals of the CEP, particularly around waste and transit. x Other levels of government - To implement policies, programs and funding that support the goals of the CEP. Reporting & Renewal On an annual basis, the Town’s Energy and Climate Change Analyst will produce a progress report on actions and successes. This qualitative report will be presented to Town Council and shared publicly. Plan renewal, including updating the baseline, should occur every five (5) years. To align with the Town’s Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan, the next baseline year should be 2023. Page 119 of 189 Appendix 1: Developing the Plan 63 Developing the Plan This Plan was developed following the Ministry of Energy’s Municipal Energy Plan (MEP) Program Guidelines112. The development of the CEP began in 2019 and has followed a step-by-step process. The approach follows the Global Protocol for Community-Scale Greenhouse Gas Emission Inventories (GPC) BASIC level of reporting, considered the international best-in-class approach for quantifying emissions at the local level113. The first step was creating an energy and emissions baseline. Energy use in homes, businesses, industries and travel in the Town was reviewed to create a baseline for 2018. The “baseline” estimates the total amount of energy used and emissions produced within the community in a given year. 2018 was selected as the baseline year, as it is the most recent year with a complete dataset. Natural gas consumption data for the inventory year was provided by Enbridge Gas Distribution with data separated by residential, apartment and commercial, and industrial rate classes. For residential customers, the price of natural gas was sourced from the Ontario Energy Board and for non-residential prices from Union Gas, a subsidiary of Enbridge. Electricity consumption for 2018 was provided by Alectra Utilities Corporation and was separated by residential, commercial, industrial, and unmetered rate classes. The price of electricity was provided by Alectra Utilities and an average price across the year was utilized to estimate the total cost for 2018. Consumption data for other fuels were not available and so had to be modelled for the Town of Aurora, this was calculated based on the per capita consumption for Ontario. The GHG inventory includes carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), the three most common greenhouse gases. The report converted methane and nitrous oxide to carbon dioxide equivalents to compare and analyze the global warming potential (GWP) from sources emitting these gases. The conversion factors for GWP were sourced from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) 4th Assessment Report. Conversion of energy sources and fuel types to greenhouse gas intensity were calculated using 112 Municipal Energy Plan Program (2019). Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines. Retrieved from: https://www.ontario.ca/page/municipal-energy-plan-program#section-0 113 World Resources Institute, C40 Cities, ICLE. Global Protocol for Community-Scale Greenhouse Gas Emission Inventories https://ghgprotocol.org/sites/default/files/standards/GHGP_GPC_0.pdf Community Energy Plan Prepare Strategies to Address Energy & Emissions Define Community Targets Prepare a Business- as-Planned Scenario Establish Energy & GHG Emissions Baseline Stakeholder and Community Engagement Page 120 of 189 Appendix 1: Developing the Plan 64 emission factors from Environment and Climate Change Canada’s National Inventory Report: 1990-2017, the most recent federal report on Canadian emissions. Energy consumption for private vehicle use was calculated based on the fuel sales method as outlined in the GPC Protocol. Data was provided for the inventory year by Kent Group Ltd for gasoline and diesel. Based on the provincial requirements, gasoline was assumed to have 5% ethanol content and diesel 4% biodiesel content. The fuel sales were apportioned to the type of vehicle based on the National Inventory Report “Trends in Vehicle Populations” and the Natural Resources Comprehensive Energy Use Database. The emission factors based on fuel type and technology were then used to calculated emissions for private vehicle use. The energy analysis allowed the project team to identify ways to reduce energy use. Energy mapping was also completed to determine how energy use and emissions was distributed across the Town. Maps were produced for: home energy use and GHG emissions, and energy consumption for commercial, institutional and industrial buildings. Next, a Business-as Planned (BAP) Scenario was developed. The BAP tells us what Aurora’s energy use and GHG emissions will be like if no action is taken at the local level. The BAP was modelled based on population and employment projections from York Region’s 2041 Preferred Growth Scenario. After the BAP was developed, the project team began to set a GHG emissions reduction target. Through discussions with a Stakeholder Working Group – comprised of individuals from local utilities, businesses, residents and Town staff - an aspirational target was set to define a path towards 80% emissions reductions by 2050. Using the aspirational target as a guide, a series of strategies were developed. The SWG helped to refine and tailor the strategies to best suit the Aurora context. They provided advice and guidance on all components of the plan. In addition to significant input from SWG members, Town staff and Council have provided their insight and expertise to help shape the CEP. Energy Mapping The analysis used different approaches for residential and non-residential maps. For the creation of the residential maps, electricity and natural gas data were sorted based on where it was used using postal code information114. Data within each postal code was summed. Totals were converted to present energy consumption (in gigajoules, GJ) and emissions (in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent, CO2e). Next, data was rolled up to “Energy Planning Districts”, summing the data within the corresponding postal codes. Energy Planning Districts were identified within the Town, based on existing traffic zones using in planning. A different approach was used to create the non-residential maps. A different approach was required due to the nature of the available data. All businesses in Aurora were assigned energy consumption values based on their size (building footprint) and business type. Community Engagement The public has been engaged throughout the plan’s development. In the summer of 2019, the public was invited to share what was important to them about energy and emissions at the Aurora farmer’s market. 114 In order to protect privacy, only the first 5 digits of postal codes were used. Page 121 of 189 Appendix 1: Developing the Plan 65 In the summer of 2020, an online survey was available through the Town’s engagement website, which invited residents to tell us their priorities for action on climate change and energy efficiency. Finally, members of the public were invited to participate in a “virtual open house” during the fall of 2020. This self-guided experience included a slide show, a pre-recorded presentation, and opportunities for feedback. Participants were asked their opinion of the proposed strategies and suggestions to support the implementation of the CEP. In addition to receiving input from members of the general public, a class of Grade 8 students at Lester B. Pearson Public School viewed the open house video and completed the survey with their teacher. At each touchpoint, feedback from the public was reviewed by the project team and considered within the plan as appropriate. Page 122 of 189 Appendix 2: Enabling Components 66 Enabling Component Description Town External partners 1: Residential New Buildings: Energy & Thermal Efficiency 2: Residential Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 3: Commercial New Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 4: Commercial Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 5: Multi-Unit Residential, Commercial & Institutional Buildings: Commissioning & Recommissioning 6: New and Existing Industrial Buildings: Energy Efficiency 7: District Energy System 8: Transportation: Mode Shift 9: Transportation: EV & Low Carbon Vehicle Adoption 10: Waste: Diversion & Reduction 11: Renewables: Solar Power Advocacy Advocate for provincial and federal governments to offer funding, programs, and policies that support and advance smart energy solutions (i.e., deep energy retrofits) X X X X Advocacy Work with utilities and the province to provide an affordable model for public EV charging stations. Encourage the provincial government to offer a rebate program for EVs and charging stations. X X X Capacity Building Connect builders and contractors with capacity building programs, such as NRCan’s LEEP (Local Energy Efficiency Partnerships) program. LEEP facilitates workshops and forums where builders share in-depth expertise. Topics include the technical aspects of technologies, costs, and regional applicability of innovative energy efficiency technologies. X X Education and Awareness Use municipally owned solar panels to educate the public. X Education and Awareness Encourage the use of existing programs offered through utilities. X X X X X X X Education and Awareness Increase consumer awareness of heat pump technology, which has been identified as a gap in uptake. X X X Education and Awareness Direct building owners to existing resources, which guide commissioning and recommissioning. Resources also include benefits and “how-to's”. Encourage the use of existing programs offered through utilities. X X Education and Awareness Promote and leverage existing capacity-building programs and funding streams. X X Page 123 of 189 Appendix 2: Enabling Components 67 Enabling Component Description Town External partners 1: Residential New Buildings: Energy & Thermal Efficiency 2: Residential Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 3: Commercial New Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 4: Commercial Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 5: Multi-Unit Residential, Commercial & Institutional Buildings: Commissioning & Recommissioning 6: New and Existing Industrial Buildings: Energy Efficiency 7: District Energy System 8: Transportation: Mode Shift 9: Transportation: EV & Low Carbon Vehicle Adoption 10: Waste: Diversion & Reduction 11: Renewables: Solar Power Education and Awareness Educate residents on sustainable travel options and benefits. Educate residents about sharing the road and respecting all modes of travel. Leverage existing resources such as those from Share the Road and The Centre for Active Transportation. X X Education and Awareness Continue to provide guidance and resources to citizens, businesses and landlords/building operators to properly sort and divert waste (e.g., “Recycle Coach,” “Green Bin Usage Tips”, “Aurora’s Recycling Tips”, and others). Continue behaviour change campaigns, to encourage waste reduction and reuse. Educate on the importance of avoiding waste, rather than just recycling. X X X Education and Awareness Work with local groups to support education and awareness about waste reduction. Raising awareness might include information on the benefits of EVs, how to access rebates, and technical information related to batteries and charging. Events offering test drives and showcasing EV owners are popular. X X Enabling Technologies Work with local utilities and IESO to ensure the integration of technology. X X X – of DES. X- microgrids and other technologies required for distributed energy sources. Page 124 of 189 Appendix 2: Enabling Components 68 Enabling Component Description Town External partners 1: Residential New Buildings: Energy & Thermal Efficiency 2: Residential Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 3: Commercial New Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 4: Commercial Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 5: Multi-Unit Residential, Commercial & Institutional Buildings: Commissioning & Recommissioning 6: New and Existing Industrial Buildings: Energy Efficiency 7: District Energy System 8: Transportation: Mode Shift 9: Transportation: EV & Low Carbon Vehicle Adoption 10: Waste: Diversion & Reduction 11: Renewables: Solar Power Energy Benchmarking Encourage building managers and operators to use energy benchmarking programs. One example is the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager offered through Natural Resources Canada. X X X X Energy Labelling Encourage the adoption of a performance labelling program (i.e., NRCan EnerGuide Rating System). Energy labelling helps occupants and building owners understand the relative energy efficiency of the building before agreeing to buy or rent the property. X X X X X Integration with other programs Continuously monitor utility and government programs to integrate with CEP strategy design and implementation. X X X X X X X X X X X X Policy framework and tools Review and update building design standards, development by-laws, and zoning. X Based on the GDS to promote efficient new construction As part of the business plan to facilitate retrofits. Policy framework and tools Conduct a review of municipal codes, policies, and legislation to identify barriers. Develop strategies to overcome these barriers. X X – related to DE adoption X - related to renewable energy adoption Page 125 of 189 Appendix 2: Enabling Components 69 Enabling Component Description Town External partners 1: Residential New Buildings: Energy & Thermal Efficiency 2: Residential Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 3: Commercial New Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 4: Commercial Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 5: Multi-Unit Residential, Commercial & Institutional Buildings: Commissioning & Recommissioning 6: New and Existing Industrial Buildings: Energy Efficiency 7: District Energy System 8: Transportation: Mode Shift 9: Transportation: EV & Low Carbon Vehicle Adoption 10: Waste: Diversion & Reduction 11: Renewables: Solar Power Planning for Accessibility & Equity Sustainable travel options should work for all members of the community. Transportation planning should account for the benefits and costs (e.g., road casualties, air quality) associated with decisions. From an equity lens, it is important to consider who gains benefits and who bears these costs. Include diverse voices and perspectives in transportation planning initiatives to address financial and physical mobility barriers within the Town. X X Training and Guidance Provide guidance, resources and programs for builders, developers, inspectors, and contractors to increase capacity for energy-efficient development or for trades and sub-trades (e.g., inspectors) to increase capacity for energy-efficient retrofits. X X X X X Training and Guidance Provide programs and resources to homeowners and building owners/developers on the benefits of solar. Benefits include low maintenance, prolonged roof life, the effect on property value, cost savings, etc. Connect homeowners/building owners with financing options and solar leasing companies. X Training and Guidance Build the capacity of the local industry to reduce energy use. X X Page 126 of 189 Appendix 2: Enabling Components 70 Enabling Component Description Town External partners 1: Residential New Buildings: Energy & Thermal Efficiency 2: Residential Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 3: Commercial New Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 4: Commercial Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 5: Multi-Unit Residential, Commercial & Institutional Buildings: Commissioning & Recommissioning 6: New and Existing Industrial Buildings: Energy Efficiency 7: District Energy System 8: Transportation: Mode Shift 9: Transportation: EV & Low Carbon Vehicle Adoption 10: Waste: Diversion & Reduction 11: Renewables: Solar Power Training and Guidance Promote existing industry funding and programs including but not limited to: x Natural Resource Canada’s ecoENERGY Efficiency for Industry program x Natural Resource Canada’s Dollars to $ense workshops x Ontario’s SaveONEnergy Programs x IESO’s Industrial Accelerator Program x Enbridge's Industrial Energy Solutions x The Canadian Industry Program for Energy Conservation (CIPEC) X X X Page 127 of 189 Appendix 3: Potential Partners 71 Potential Partner 1: Residential New Buildings: Energy & Thermal Efficiency 2: Residential Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 3: Commercial New Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 4: Commercial Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 5: Multi-Unit Residential, Commercial & Institutional Buildings:6: New and Existing Industrial Buildings: Energy Efficiency 7: District Energy System 8: Transportation: Mode Shift 9: Transportation: EV & Low Caron Vehicle Adoption 10: Waste: Diversion & Reduction 11: Renewables: Solar Power 12. Land Use 13. Carbon Sequestration & Offsets Town of Aurora Planning and Development Division L P P P P P P P P Town of Aurora Engineering Division P L L L L L L L L P Town of Aurora Facilities Division L P Town of Aurora Parks Division P P P Town of Aurora Waste Division L Town of Aurora Communications Division P P P P P P P P P P P P P Alectra Utilities P P P P P P P Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) P P Canadian Industry Program for Energy Conservation (CIPEC) P Car share providers P Chamber of Commerce P P P P P P Clean Air Council P Contractor & Builders P P Developers P P P Economic Development Corporation P P P P P P Enbridge Gas Inc. P P P P P P P Enwave P Housing York P P IESO P P P P P P P Industry associations P P Institutional sector P P P Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority P P Local School Boards P P P P Major employers P P Metrolinx P Natural Resources Canada P Page 128 of 189 Appendix 3: Potential Partners 72 Potential Partner 1: Residential New Buildings: Energy & Thermal Efficiency 2: Residential Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 3: Commercial New Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 4: Commercial Existing Buildings: Energy and Thermal Efficiency 5: Multi-Unit Residential, Commercial & Institutional Buildings:6: New and Existing Industrial Buildings: Energy Efficiency 7: District Energy System 8: Transportation: Mode Shift 9: Transportation: EV & Low Caron Vehicle Adoption 10: Waste: Diversion & Reduction 11: Renewables: Solar Power 12. Land Use 13. Carbon Sequestration & Offsets New entity (retrofits) – potentially based on the business plan L L Ontario Home Builders Association P P P Ontario Waste Management Association P Plug’n Drive P Property owners & building managers P Province of Ontario P P Real estate industry P P P P P P Recycling Council of Ontario P Resource Productivity and Recovery Authority P SmartCommute Central York P Town of Newmarket P Toronto Region Conservation Authority P P P Windfall Ecology Centre P P L L P York Region P P P P P P P L York Region Transit P L= Lead Organization P= Potential Partner Page 129 of 189 Community Energy Plan General Committee MeetingTown of AuroraJanuary 12, 2021Page 130 of 189 AgendaClimate Change & Energy CostsAurora’s Community Energy PlanEnergy Use & EmissionsReduction StrategiesReduction Impacts & Cost SavingsImplementation PlanPage 131 of 189 The Local Climate is Changing•Annual temperatures are expected to increase by up to 5.5oC•Increased daily temperatures in all seasons•Many more days over 30°Cand fewer under -10°C•More intense, longer and heavier precipitation•Longer grower season, more frost-free daysPage 132 of 189 The Cost of EnergyIn 2018, the community of Aurora spent approx.$178 millionon energyPage 133 of 189 The Need for a Community Energy PlanLocal Climate ImpactsA Growing PopulationClimate EmergencyEconomic BenefitsAccess to Future FundingPage 134 of 189 Town of Aurora Corporate CDM Plan•Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan (ECDM Plan 2019-2023)•Identifies baseline of energy and emission used in 2018 as well as strategies for Town Facilities, Town Fleets, and Town Water and Wastewater Facilities•CEP baseline includes all energy uses in the Town, including those of the corporation.•Moving forward, the ECDM should be viewed as the corporation’s contribution to the overall CEP. Community Energy and EmissionsApprox.1% is CorporatePage 135 of 189 Plan Development ProcessStakeholder and Community Engagement•Funding for this project has been retained from:• Ministry of Energy’s (Ontario) Municipal Energy Program “MEP Program”• Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Municipalities for Climate Innovation Program “MCIP”Community Energy PlanPrepare Strategies to Address Energy & EmissionsDefine Community TargetsPrepare a Business-as-Planned ScenarioEstablish Energy & GHG Emissions BaselinePage 136 of 189 Collaborative Development•Alectra Utilities•Aurora Chamber of Commerce•Counterpoint Engineering•Desjardins•Enbridge Gas•Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO)•Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA)•Toronto Region Conservation Authority (TRCA)•Town of Aurora Staff –various divisions•Windfall Ecology Centre•York Catholic District School Board•York Region•York Region District School Board•Town of Aurora Council•Community Advisory Committee•Environmental Advisory CommitteePage 137 of 189 Energy Use by Sector in Aurora (2018)Total Energy~ 6.8 million GJAssociated Cost~ $178 millionGJ = gigajoulesResidential Buildings45%Commercial Buildings16%Industrial Buildings13%Private Vehicles26%Transit (Bus)0%Transit (GO Train)0%Page 138 of 189 Energy Use by Fuel Type in Aurora (2018)Electricity24%Natural Gas43%Propane2%Fuel Oil1%Wood4%Gasoline24%Diesel2%Total Energy~ 6.8 million GJAssociated Cost~ $178 millionGJ = gigajoulesPage 139 of 189 Buildings178,00054%Travel120,00037%Waste28,0009%GHG Emissions (tCO2e) by Sector in Aurora (2018)Total Emissions~ 326,000 tCO2ePer Person~ 5 tCO2etCO2e = Tonnes of Carbon-Dioxide EquivalentPage 140 of 189 Projected GHGs in Aurora to 20500501001502002503003504002018 2031 2041 2050Tonnes CO2eThousandsYearsWasteTransporationStationary EnergyProvincial/FederalTargetPage 141 of 189 Our VisionAurora is a leader in energy and emissions reduction, with a focus on improving quality of life in collaboration with residents, organizations and businesses.Page 142 of 189 Strategies to Reduce Energy & GHGHomesBusinessesIndustryDistrict Energy SystemsTravelWasteSolarLand UseSequestration & OffsetsThe Community Energy Plan strategies achieve 22% reduction by 2030 from 2018 levels and 65% by 2050. Page 143 of 189 Strategies for HomesDesign and implement a tiered code/green standard that encourages higher energy efficiency. New HomesDesign a voluntarydeep retrofit program that offers a holistic approach to energy efficiency for homes.Existing HomesPage 144 of 189 Strategies for Businesses, Institutions & IndustryDesign and implement a tiered code green standard that encourages higher energy efficiency in new businesses and institutional buildings.New BuildingsDesign a voluntary deep retrofit program that offers a holistic approach to energy efficiency for businesses and institutions.Existing BuildingsDevelop and implement a commissioning and recommissioning programfor businesses, institutions and apartment buildings. CommissioningFacilitate energy efficiency improvements in industrial buildings.New & Existing Industrial BuildingsPage 145 of 189 District Energy StrategyConduct a feasibility study for implementing a low-carbon fuel district energy system. District EnergyPage 146 of 189 Strategies for TravelEncourage a shift from traditional vehicles to active travel (cycling, walking, rolling) and transit.Mode ShiftDevelop and implement a plan to become an electric vehicle-ready Town and support low-carbon travel. Low Carbon TravelPage 147 of 189 Strategies for Waste and Renewable EnergyImplement programs to reduce waste generation by residents and businesses and to increase waste diversion from landfillsWaste reductionDevelop a plan to increase the adoption of solar energy (rooftop solar PV systems, solar thermal systems, ground-mounted arrays).RenewablesPage 148 of 189 Other Supporting StrategiesCompact, Mixed Use Land Use Carbon Sequestration (Storage)Carbon OffsetsPage 149 of 189 Cumulative Impact of StrategiesGHG Emission Reduction Strategy Cumulative Annual Reduction (tCO2e) in 2050#1: Residential New Buildings20,130#2: Residential Existing Buildings25,500#3: Commercial New Buildings7,070#4: Commercial Existing Buildings11,540#5: Multi-Unit Residential, Commercial & Institutional Buildings170#6: New & Existing Industrial Buildings9,270#7: District Energy System4,650#8: Transportation: Mode Shift1,580#9: Transportation: EV & Low Carbon Vehicles112,940#10: Waste: Diversion & Reduction8,200#11: Renewables: Solar Power11,300TOTAL212,350 Page 150 of 189 Plan ImplementationFinancingEngagement & CommunicationsReporting & RenewalEnabling Components Potential PartnersPage 151 of 189 Implementation Working GroupPage 152 of 189 Near-Term Budget Implications2020 Capital Budget2021 Capital Budget RequestFuture Capital Budget RequestOperating BudgetCurrent Staff ResourcesAdditional Consulting Resources#1: Residential New Buildings✓✓#2: Residential Existing Buildings✓✓#3: Commercial New Buildings✓✓#4: Commercial Existing Buildings✓✓#5: Multi-Unit Residential, Commercial & Institutional Buildings✓#6: New & Existing Industrial Buildings✓#7: District Energy System✓#8: Transportation: Mode Shift✓✓#9: Transportation: EV & Low Carbon Vehicles✓#10: Waste: Diversion & Reduction✓#11: Renewables: Solar Power✓Page 153 of 189 Thank You!Page 154 of 189 100 John West Way Aurora, Ontario L4G 6J1 (905) 727-3123 aurora.ca Town of Aurora General Committee Report No.OPS21 -001 _______________________________________________________________________________________ Subject: Hartwell Way Non-Programmed Park – Public Consultation Prepared by: Sara Tienkamp, Manager of Parks and Fleet Department: Operational Services Date: January 12, 2021 _______________________________________________________________________________________ Recommendation 1. That Report No. OPS21-001 be received; and 2. That the revised Concept Plan be approved by Council; and 3. That staff proceed to detailed design and tendering for construction of the project; and 4. That Council rescind the standing direction to incorporate a leash-free area in all new park designs. Executive Summary The purpose of the report is to provide Council with the public consultation information and recommendations associated with a proposed neighbourhood park on Hartwell Way:  Residents informed of the Public Consultation survey available through online platform. Town received a strong response from residents via this platform. .  The off-leash dog park component of the design received significant negative response and is not supported by many residents.  The respondents to the public consultation were very pleased with the natural aesthetic of the design and inclusion of a community garden with raised accessible plots for gardening. Page 155 of 189 January 12, 2021 2 of 6 Report No. OPS21-001  Several respondents requested active facilities in the park design; however, this does not complement the overall natural design aesthetic trying to be achieved. Background Through the development of the 2C lands, the Town of Aurora acquired .85 hectares of parkland from Brookfield Homes and another .75 hectares from the St. John’s Development Corporation. As part of the 2018 budget deliberations, Council approved Capital Project No: 73299 Non – Programmed Park 2C Lands to design, tender and construct the neighbourhood park in the amount of $1,500,000. On March 24, 2020, staff presented Report No. OPS20-006 “276 and 310 Hartwell Way Non-Programmed Park Design”. Staff included two (2) concept plans for review, in which Council passed the following Motion: 1. That Report No. OPS20-006 be received; and 2. That staff be directed to go out for public consultation on the two (2) proposed park concept plans prior to approval. A Request for Proposal (RFP) for park design was tendered and awarded in early August to landscape design firm Henry Kortekass & Associates Inc. and preliminary design work initiated. Analysis Residents informed of the Public Consultation survey available through online platform. Town received a strong response from residents via this platform. In late October 2020, approximately 720 letters were delivered to residents within a 400- 500 m radius of the park informing them of the consultation with instruction how to access the “Engage Aurora” site to provide comment on the park design. The site included concept park designs/ layouts, amenity information/photos, location map and a questionnaire, specific to the design amenities in order to assist staff/consultant in ascertaining the importance of what residents would like included in the park. Page 156 of 189 January 12, 2021 3 of 6 Report No. OPS21-001 The Town received a total of 178 responses to the survey. The overall concept design was well received, with residents very positive about the natural theme. The off-leash dog park component of the design received significant negative response and is not supported by many residents. The following question was posed, and feedback was received: Do you agree with the proposal to have a small, fenced dog run in this park? Agree: 40 Somewhat Agree: 11 Neither Agree nor Disagree: 6 Somewhat Disagree: 2 Disagree: 119 Residents were concerned about the potential for noise from barking, security of dogs, odours, and inappropriateness of an off-leash park in a residential area. As such, staff have removed the amenity from the design plans and the area will be programmed as an open space turf area for residents to utilize for recreation (Attachment 1). Staff have standing direction from Council to incorporate off-leash components in park design. Resident feedback on park design where off-leash parks have been included in design continues to be met with strong opposition. It is recommended that staff continue to pursue off-leash park opportunities but not as part of park design where lands are located within a residential neighbourhood with bordering homes. The respondents to the public consultation were very pleased with the natural aesthetic of the design and inclusion of a community garden with raised accessible plots for gardening. Community Gardens have been suggested in other new park design/retrofits and unfortunately have not been well received by the public; however, the respondents to the public consultation for this park were very pleased with the natural aesthetic of the design and inclusion of a community garden with raised accessible plots for gardening. In addition, residents expressed a strong interest in assisting with the administration of the community garden. As such, the community gardens will remain part of the park design Page 157 of 189 January 12, 2021 4 of 6 Report No. OPS21-001 and staff will work to engage a group to partner with for the governance of the plots, by creating an administration model similar to the York Region Food Networks management plan for the current Aurora Community Garden. Several respondents requested active facilities in the park design; however, this does not complement the overall natural design aesthetic trying to be achieved. Several respondents to the survey requested active facilities in the park design e.g. basketball, tennis and pickleball courts, fitness equipment, skateboard park and skating rink. The suggested amenities do not complement the overall natural aesthetic staff are trying to achieve with the park design. Located within a couple blocks of the non-programmed park is a community park Edward Coltham Park, inclusive of a parking lot, washroom facility, splash pad, playground, and a combination pickleball/basketball court. There is approximately .75 ha of open space available, sufficient to accommodate all the following features with a 30-40 metre buffer to residential yards:  Tennis Courts (set of 2)  Pickleball Courts (set of 2)  Small Skateboard Park Since the completion of the last Parks & Recreation Master Plan (PRMP) in 2016, multiple court surfaces have been constructed. The provision of two (2) tennis courts satisfied the recommendation of the PRMP through the construction of courts at Thomas Coates Park in 2018. Inclusion of tennis courts at Edward Coltham would be an increased level of service. While six (6) pickleball courts have been installed between 2017-2019, demand for this sport is on the rise and staff have seen an increase of demand for courts. The PRMP specifically recommends courts be installed in an area having a high concentration of older adults. Edward Coltham is near a seniors complex, currently under development south of the park at William Graham Drive/Leslie Street. As such, a four (4) court pickleball facility could be constructed in Edward Coltham Park and the current cross use pickleball/basketball court be converted to a full-size Page 158 of 189 January 12, 2021 5 of 6 Report No. OPS21-001 basketball court. Currently a parking lot for 15 vehicles exists but it would be recommended an additional lot be provided for the courts, which there is adequate space. The PRMP is to be updated in 2021 and based on recommendations in the document staff will include pickleball courts in the 10-year capital plan accordingly. Advisory Committee Review Upon completion of the detailed design package, staff will present the design to the Advisory Committee for comment. Legal Considerations None. Financial Implications A total of $1,500,000 in capital budget authority has been approved for Capital Project No. 73299 for the detailed design and construction of the Non-Programmed Park. Communications Considerations The Town will use “inform” as the level of engagement related to this project. In follow- up to the engagement process that was undertaken, the Town will provide an update to residents on the outcome of the process, and further updates will be provided as the project moves forward. Link to Strategic Plan The Non-Programmed Park Design supports the Strategic Plan Goal of Supporting an Exceptional Quality of Life for All, by encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle. Alternative(s) to the Recommendation 1. Council provide direction. Page 159 of 189 January 12, 2021 6 of 6 Report No. OPS21-001 Conclusions Staff completed a thorough public consultation process for the construction of the Non- Programmed Neighbourhood Park on Hartwell Way, resulting in valuable input from neighbouring residents on the proposed concept design. Most comments have been incorporated into the final revised concept plan. As such, it can be concluded that the project can now move to final design and the issuance of the tender to construct the park. Staff recommend that Council review and approve the attached final Park Concept Plan and direct staff to proceed with implementation of the park construction project. Attachments Attachment 1 - Revised Park Design Concept Plan Previous Reports OPS20-006, 276 and 310 Hartwell Way – Non-Programmed Park Design, March 24, 2020 Pre-submission Review Agenda Management Team review on December 17, 2020 Approvals Approved by Allan Downey, Director, Operational Services Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer Page 160 of 189 Page 161 of 189 100 John West Way Aurora, Ontario L4G 6J1 (905) 727-3123 aurora.ca Town of Aurora General Committee Report No. PDS 2 1 -0 0 4 _______________________________________________________________________________________ Subject: Request for Parking By-law Amendment on Tyler Street Prepared by: Michael Bat, Traffic/Transportation Analyst Department: Planning and Development Services Date: January 12, 2021 _______________________________________________________________________________________ Recommendation 1. That Report No. PDS21-004 be received; and, 2. That a by-law to amend Parking By-law No. 4574-04.T be enacted to prohibit parking at any time on the north side of Tyler Street between George Street and Harriman Road. Executive Summary A petition was submitted by area residents on November 20, 2020, with a request to implement on-street parking restrictions on one-side of Tyler Street between George Street and Harriman Road due to safety related concerns.  The existing road conditions of Tyler Street are generally consistent with the Town’s design standards for a local public road.  Pre-policy road conditions are grandfathered unless issues are identified.  The residents on the subject section of Tyler Street are generally in support of implementing on-street parking restrictions for one-side of the street.  On-street parking is currently permitted on both sides of Tyler Street between George Street and Harriman Road which reduces the pavement width required to accommodate two-way traffic and impacts winter maintenance. Page 162 of 189 January 12, 2021 2 of 5 Report No. PDS21-004 Background Under existing parking allowance conditions, vehicles are permitted to park on both sides of Tyler Street between George Street and Harriman Road. As a result, the following general concerns were raised by area residents:  Impact on two-way traffic flows particularly during the morning and afternoon peak hours;  Reduce maneuvering area particularly when exiting private property onto Tyler Street; and,  Concerns with accessibility for emergency vehicles. In response, Town staff investigated the subject section of Tyler Street with regards to potential conflicts, safety concerns and determining whether winter maintenance would be interfered with resulting from existing on-street parking conditions. The subject location is illustrated in Figure 1. Analysis The existing road conditions of Tyler Street are generally consistent with the Town’s design standards for a local public road Tyler Street: is a two-lane local road with single lane per travel direction. It has an urban cross-section with curbs on both sides of the road and sidewalk provided on the south side of the road. The existing pavement is measured 8 metres wide with an 18.5 metre ROW width. In accordance to the Town Parking By-law No. 4574-04.T the posted speed limit is 40 km/h. Pre-policy road conditions are grandfathered unless issues are identified The Town’s parking policy is applicable to any new roads that were in the approval process at the time or after the policy was adopted. Retroactive application is only considered when an issue is identified or raised by the community as is permitted by the policy. The received requests are sufficient to respond to the proposed amendments and is aligned with the policy. Page 163 of 189 January 12, 2021 3 of 5 Report No. PDS21-004 The residents on the subject section of Tyler Street are generally in support of implementing on-street parking restrictions for one-side of the street The Town received a signed petition on November 20, 2020 from residents on the subject section of Tyler Street requesting for the implementation of on-street parking restriction for one-side of the street. The results are summarized below:  There are 23 households on the subject section of Tyler Street; and,  19 households signed the petition. About 68% or 13 are in favour and 6 (or approximately 32 %) are opposed. On-street parking is currently permitted on both sides of Tyler Street between George Street and Harriman Road which reduces the pavement width required to accommodate two-way traffic and impacts winter maintenance Analysis was undertaken by Town staff to review the potential impact on two-way traffic flows resulting from parked vehicle(s) fronting both sides of Tyler Street. The existing pavement width on Tyler Street is measured at 8 metres wide. A standard passenger vehicle has an assumed width of 2 metres as per the ‘Geometric Design Guide for Canadian Roads’ published by the Transportation Association of Canada. Table 1 and Table 2 summarizes the impact of two-way traffic operations and snow plow accessibility under existing and recommended parking allowance conditions. Table 1: Tyler Street Two-Way Traffic Flow Review On-Street Parking Allowance Pavement Width Two-Way Traffic Available Effective Preferred Yes / No Single Side (Recommenced) 8 metres Approx. 6 metres Approx. 6 metres Yes Both Sides (Existing) Approx. 4 metres No Table 2: Tyler Street Snow Plow Accessibility Review On-Street Parking Allowance Pavement Width Snow Plow Passing Through Available Effective Preferred Yes / No Single Side (Recommended) 8 metres Approx. 6 metres Approx. 5 metres Yes Both Sides (Existing) Approx. 4 metres No Under existing parking allowance conditions (permitted on both sides), unimpeded two- way traffic flows cannot be achieved based on the current 8 metres of pavement width. Given the above, it is recommended that parking be restricted on the north side of Tyler Page 164 of 189 January 12, 2021 4 of 5 Report No. PDS21-004 Street in order to ensure unaffected two-way traffic flows, emergency vehicle access and winter maintenance considering existing road characteristics. As a result of the recommended parking restrictions, an estimated 19 existing on-street parking spaces will be eliminated. Two collisions were reported for the past five years within the subject section of Tyler Street. In addition, Town staff contacted CYFS for comment from an accessibility perspective, however, their input has not been received at the time of writing this report. Advisory Committee Review Not applicable. Legal Considerations None. Financial Implications The estimated cost for the installation of the “No Parking” signs is $1,200 to be funded from the Operations Services Department’s existing 2021 operating budget. Communications Considerations The Town of Aurora will use ‘Inform’ as the level of engagement for this project. There are five different levels of community engagement to consider, with each level providing the community more involvement in the decision-making process. These levels are: Inform, Consult, Involve, Collaborate and Empower. Examples of each can be found in the Community Engagement Policy. These options are based on the International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) Spectrum and assist in establishing guidelines for clearly communicating with our public and managing community engagement. In order to inform the public, this report will be posted to the Town’s website. The area residents were notified by mail on December 14, 2020 that this staff report is to be presented to the General Committee meeting of January 12, 2021. Page 165 of 189 January 12, 2021 5 of 5 Report No. PDS21-004 Link to Strategic Plan This report supports the Strategic Plan goal of Support an Exceptional Quality of Life for All by examining traffic patterns and identify potential solutions to improve movement and safety at key intersections in the community. Alternative(s) to the Recommendation 1. That Report No. PDS21-001 be received. Conclusions The Town received a signed petition on November 20, 2020 from residents on the subject section of Tyler Street requesting for the implementation of on-street parking restrictions for one-side of the street. Based on the analysis presented herein, vehicle accessibility is effectively impacted when vehicles are parked along both sides of Tyler Street. Therefore, staff are recommending that the Town’s Parking By-law be amended to prohibit parking at any time on the north side of Tyler Street between George Street and Harriman Road. As a result of the recommended parking restrictions, an estimated 19 on-street parking spaces will be eliminated. Attachments Figure 1: Location Map Previous Reports None. Pre-submission Review Agenda Management Team review on December 17, 2020 Approvals Approved by David Waters, MCIP, RPP, PLE, Planning and Development Services Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer Page 166 of 189 Tyler Street Tyler Street Temperance StreetYONGE STREETTyler Street George StreetTemperance StreetJasper Drive Hillview Road Machell AvenueMill StreetHawthorne Lane Collins Crescent Reuben StreetHaida DriveHarriman RoadCentre S t r e e t Irwin Avenue ChurchStreet MosleyStreetJames Henry Drive DunhamCrescent AlexGardnerCircle YONGE STREETWELLINGTON STREET WEST WELLINGTON STREET EAST Sunra y P l a c e Map created by the Town of Aurora Corporate Services Department, Novmber 26th, 2020.Base data provided by York Region and Aurora - GIS. This is not a legal survey. ¯0 40 80 Metres SUBJECT LOCATION MAPREQUEST FOR PARKING BY-LAW AMENDMENT ON TYLER STREET PDS21-004 Attachment #1 Subject Road - Tyler Street fromHarriman Road to George Street Subject Road Page 167 of 189 100 John West Way Aurora, Ontario L4G 6J1 (905) 727-3123 aurora.ca Town of Aurora General Committee Report No. CS21 -0 02 _______________________________________________________________________________________ Subject: Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force Terms of Reference Prepared by: Michael de Rond, Town Clerk Department: Corporate Services Date: January 12, 2021 _______________________________________________________________________________________ Recommendation 1. That Report No. CS21-002 be received; and 2. That the Terms of Reference (Attachment 1) for the Anti-Black Racism and Anti- Racism Task Force be adopted. Executive Summary This report seeks adoption of the Terms of Reference for the Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force and speaks to the following;  Staff modified the normal procedure regarding Terms of Reference to seek thoughts from the Task Force prior to Council adoption  The Members of the Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force believe strongly in real, actionable change being achieved in the community. Background Members of the Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force were appointed by Council on September 22, 2020. The first meeting of the Task Force was held on November 25, with an item on the agenda being the proposed Terms of Reference. After receiving the comments from members of the Task Force, the Terms of Reference are now being recommended for Council adoption. Page 168 of 189 January 12, 2021 2 of 3 Report No. CS21-002 Analysis Staff modified the normal procedure regarding Terms of Reference to seek thoughts from the Task Force prior to Council adoption Normally, when a new committee/task force is struck, Council provides the Terms of Reference and mandate for that committee/task force. In this instance, being the Anti- Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force is a new body dealing with subject matter that no Town advisory committee/task force has in the past, staff thought Council would benefit from the thoughts of the members, prior to adopting the Terms of Reference. Further, this reinforces staff’s approach to always be listening to Task Force members to learn what can be done to make Aurora a more welcoming community. The Members of the Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force believe strongly in real, actionable change being achieved in the community During its first meeting, the task force members engaged in a discussion regarding what they thought their mandate as a Task Force should be. While the members agreed that education and awareness are important elements of their mandate, much of the discussion surrounded on what real and actionable items could come from the task force to help remove systematic racism from the community and Municipal Corporation. Concrete items will be brought forward and discussed at future meetings. Advisory Committee Review The Terms of Reference that are attached to this report were shared with the Task Force prior to being recommended for adoption. Legal Considerations None. Financial Implications There are no direct financial implications from this report. Communications Considerations None. Page 169 of 189 January 12, 2021 3 of 3 Report No. CS21-002 Link to Strategic Plan The adopting of the Terms of Reference for the Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force promotes progressive corporate excellence and continuous improvement by implementing policy and processes that reflect sound and accountable governance. Alternative(s) to the Recommendation 1. Council provide direction Conclusions Staff support the terms of reference being provided to Council and are looking forward to working with the Task Force. Attachments Attachment 1 – Draft Terms of Reference Previous Reports None Pre-submission Review Agenda Management Team review on December 17, 2020 Approvals Approved by Techa van Leeuwen, Director, Corporate Services Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer Page 170 of 189 100 John West Way Aurora, Ontario L4G 6J1 (905) 727-3123 aurora.ca Town of Aurora Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force Terms of Reference Purpose The Anti-Black Racism and Anti-Racism Task Force is established to develop strategies to eliminate racism and promote anti-racism in our community and the Municipal Corporation. The task force will identify real and actionable change with the goal of helping to remove systematic racism from the Town of Aurora. Membership The Committee shall be comprised of up to eight (8) members, as follows: •One (1) member of Council; and •Up to seven (7) citizen members selected by Council. Members are encouraged to have relevant lived experience, allies and advocates, and a history of community action. Term The 2018-2022 Term of Council. Remuneration None. Duties and Functions •To work with community groups within Aurora and York Region to identify and develop priorities for the proposed task force •To identify opportunities to increase engagement with people of colour and ensure that diversity not only accepted in the Town, but recognized as crucial to moving forward as a community •To create education and foster an increased public awareness of anti-racism. •To identify real and actionable ways to improve the Town of Aurora through helping to remove systematic racism in the community and the Municipal Corporation. Attachment 1 Page 171 of 189 Reporting The Task Force report to Council at least annually on the progress made on diversity and inclusion in alignment with the Employment Equity Act and Bill C-25. Meeting Time and Location The Task Force will meet monthly as necessary, with the specific dates and times for meetings determined by the Task Force. Additional meetings may be called by the Chair. The Chair may cancel any meeting. Staff Support Staff Liaisons will consist of staff from the Corporate Services department. The Legislative Services division will provide administrative support services to the Committee. Page 172 of 189 100 John West Way Aurora, Ontario L4G 6J1 (905) 727-3123 aurora.ca Town of Aurora General Committee Report No. PDS21 -001 _______________________________________________________________________________________ Subject: Application for Draft Plan of Condominium Cedartrail Developments Inc. 14288 Yonge Street Part of Lot 74, Concession 1 File Number: CDM-2018-02 Related File Numbers: ZBA-2014-09 and SUB-2014-04 Prepared by Matthew Peverini, Planner Department: Planning and Development Services Date: January 12, 2021 _______________________________________________________________________________________ Recommendation 1. That Report No. PDS21-001 be received; and, 2. That the Draft Plan of Condominium (Common Elements Condominium) File No. CDM-2018-02 to establish a condominium road within Block 1 of the Cedartrail Developments Inc. Draft Plan of Subdivision (File No. SUB-2014-04) be approved, subject to the conditions attached hereto as Schedule ‘A’. Executive Summary This report seeks Council’s approval for the proposed Draft Plan of Condominium (common elements) application by Cedartrail Developments Inc. located at 14288 Yonge Street (the ‘subject lands’).  The applicant submitted a Draft Plan of Condominium application to establish a common elements condominium over the right-of-way within the development.  The proposed application is consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement and conforms with the Growth Plan.  The proposed application conforms to the Lake Simcoe Protection Plan.  The proposed application conforms to the York Region Official Plan. Page 173 of 189 January 12, 2021 2 of 8 Report No. PDS21-001  The proposed application conforms to the land use policies of OPA 34 and the Town’s Comprehensive Zoning By-law 6000-17, as amended.  The proposed application was circulated to internal staff and external agencies for review and comments. All circulated staff and agencies are satisfied with the revisions and have no objections, subject to conditions of approval attached hereto as Schedule ‘A.’ Background Application History In September 2019, Council approved applications for Draft Plan of Subdivision and Zoning By-law Amendment for the subject lands to permit the development of 11 single detached dwellings on a private road. Servicing allocation for the development was granted with the approval of the Draft Plan of Subdivision application (SUB-2014-04). Council adopted Zoning By-law, 6203-19 on September 24, 2019. The subject Draft Plan of Condominium application was submitted to the Town on December 14, 2018 and deemed complete on January 17, 2019. Location / Land Use The subject lands are municipally known as 14288 Yonge Street and are located on the west side of Yonge Street, east of Butternut Ridge Trail (see Figure 1). The subject lands are irregular in shape with an area of about 1.6 hectares (3.97 acres). The subject lands are currently vacant, with vegetation occupying the southwest quadrant of the property. Access is provided by a temporary private driveway from Yonge Street. This temporary access will be closed with permanent access from Butternut Ridge Trail. Surrounding Land Uses The surrounding land uses are as follows: North: mid rise seniors apartment under construction (Delmanor Aurora); South: Single detached dwellings; East: Yonge Street and the existing Aurora Cemetery; and, West: Butternut Ridge Trail, Environmental Protection lands, BG Properties and Ballymore subdivisions. Page 174 of 189 January 12, 2021 3 of 8 Report No. PDS21-001 Policy Context Provincial Policies Draft Plan of Condominium applications must have regard to matters of Provincial interest, consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement (‘PPS’), and must conform with provincial plans, regional and local municipal official plans as well as the local zoning by-law. Applications for Common Elements Condominium do not require notice or a statutory public planning meeting. The PPS policies support the development of strong communities through the promotion of efficient land use and development patterns. A Place to Grow: Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (‘The Growth Plan’) is a guiding document for growth management within the Greater Golden Horseshoe Area. The Growth Plan provides a framework which guides land-use planning. The Lake Simcoe Protection Plan (‘LSPP’) provides policies that address aquatic life, water quality and quantity, shorelines and natural heritage, other threats and activities (invasive species, climate change and recreational activities) and implementation. The subject lands are located within the Lake Simcoe watershed and are subject to the applicable policies of the LSPP. The Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (‘ORMCP’) provides land use and resource management planning direction on how to protect the Moraine’s ecological and hydrological features and functions. York Region Official Plan (‘YROP’) The subject lands are designated “Urban Area” within the YROP. The Region’s vision for the Urban Area is to strategically focus growth, while conserving resources and to create sustainable, lively communities. A primary goal of the YROP is to enhance the Region’s urban structure through city building, intensification and compact, complete vibrant communities. The subject lands are located within the Wellhead Protection Area D (WHPA-D) for the Yonge Street Aquifer, and within the boundaries of the Significant Recharge Area, Highly Vulnerable Aquifer and Wellhead Protection Area Q (WHPA-Q). The subject lands are located west of Yonge Street, which is under the jurisdiction of the Region of York. Page 175 of 189 January 12, 2021 4 of 8 Report No. PDS21-001 Yonge Street South Secondary Plan (‘OPA 34’) The subject lands are designated as “Cluster Residential”, “Environmental Protection Area”, “Ecological Buffer”, “Environmental Restoration Area” and “Building Setback” by OPA 34 (see Figure 2). Generally, the “Cluster Residential” policies permit a variety of grade related housing, provided development is adequately set back from environmental features and that the gross residential density averaged over the constrained and unconstrained lands subject to a development application do not exceed five units per gross hectare (2 units/acre). The “Building Setback” designation ensures adequate spatial separation from Yonge Street. The “Environmental Protection Area”, “Ecological Buffer” and “Environmental Restoration Area” designations intend to identify environmentally significant areas, and maintain or enhance wildlife movement corridors and habitat while ensuring adequate separation between environmental areas and lands designated for development. The subject lands are located within the ORMCP and are designated “Oak Ridges Moraine Settlement Area” in the Town’s Official Plan. These areas consist of a range of existing communities to reflect community needs and values, and permit development as set out in municipal Official Plans. The ORMCP also designates a portion of the subject lands as “Woodlands” and “Woodlands Minimum Vegetation Protection Zone (MVPZ)”. A further “Category 1 – Complex Landform” designation is identified on the subject lands. Zoning By-law 6000-17, as amended Council adopted Zoning By-law (By-law 6203-19) on September 24, 2019. The subject lands are zoned “Detached Third Density Residential Exception Zone (R3-517) Zone”, “Detached Fourth Density Residential Exception Zone (R4-515) Zone”, “Detached Fourth Density Residential Exception Zone (R4-516) Zone”, “Oak Ridges Moraine Environmental Protection (EP-ORM) Zone” and Public Open Space (O1) Zone” (See Figure 3). Reports and Studies Reports and Studies submitted as part of a complete application are listed in Appendix ‘A’ to this report. Page 176 of 189 January 12, 2021 5 of 8 Report No. PDS21-001 Proposed Applications The applicant submitted a Draft Plan of Condominium application to establish a common elements condominium over the right-of-way within the development. As shown on Figure 4, the applicant submitted a Draft Plan of Condominium application to establish a common elements condominium over the private road within the overall development. The interests in this private road will be tied to and service the future eleven (11) single detached dwellings within the subject lands. The existing temporary driveway access off Yonge Street will be closed upon buildout of the proposed development. Permanent access will be from Butternut Ridge Trail which is a private spine road that serves the community west of Yonge Street south of the Barrie GO rail corridor and north of Ridge Road. Analysis Planning Considerations The proposed application is consistent with the PPS and conforms with the Growth Plan The subject development achieves the objectives of intensification within settlement areas, capitalizes on existing infrastructure, contributes to a range of housing tenure within the Town and minimizes environmental impacts. The proposed application implements the approved development plan under planning applications ZBA-2014-09 and SUB-2014-04. Staff is satisfied that the proposed application is consistent with the PPS and conforms to the Growth Plan. The proposed application conforms to the LSPP The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (‘LSRCA’) has reviewed the proposed application and has no objection to its approval, subject to the applicant fulfilling conditions of the approved Draft Plan of Subdivision application (SUB-2014-04) for the subject lands. The proposed application conforms to the YROP The proposed application facilitates the development of single detached dwelling units with a freehold tenure, tied to common elements thereby contributing to a mix of housing stock and tenure within the Region. The proposed application conforms to the land use policies of OPA 34 and the Town’s Comprehensive Zoning By-law 6000-17, as amended Page 177 of 189 January 12, 2021 6 of 8 Report No. PDS21-001 The proposed residential uses are a permitted use in accordance with the “Cluster Residential” designation. In addition, Staff evaluated the proposed development and have determined the subject proposal meets the performance standards of the applicable zone categories. Details of the development’s conformity with the “Cluster Residential” designation were discussed in General Committee Report Number PDS19-072 which considered the approved Zoning By-law Amendment and Draft Plan of Subdivision applications. Department / Agency Comments The proposed application was circulated to all internal staff and external agencies for review and comments. All circulated staff and agencies are satisfied with the revisions and have no objections, subject to conditions of approval The recommended conditions of approval are presented as Schedule ‘A’ to this report. Final technical matters will be resolved prior to the registration of the Plans of Subdivision and Condominium. Below is a summary of the comments received from the circulation of the condominium application. Development Engineering The Owner has entered into a Pre-Servicing Agreement with the Town and may start construction. Heritage The Owner shall provide a security for installation of a heritage plaque commemorating the Cannon Farmhouse within the development which is a condition of draft plan approval. Parks The zoned EP-ORM lands located at the southwest area of the property will be conveyed to the Town as a condition of draft plan approval in accordance with Planning Application SUB-2014-04. The O1 zoned lands will be dedicated to the Town to accommodate a future trail in accordance with conditions of draft plan approval. York Region The Region has reviewed the subject application and has no objection, subject to the Owner satisfying conditions of draft approval as listed in Schedule ‘A’ to this report. Page 178 of 189 January 12, 2021 7 of 8 Report No. PDS21-001 LSRCA The LSRCA has no objection to the approval of the condominium application, subject to the Owner satisfying conditions of draft plan approval under file SUB-2014-04. Public Comments Planning Staff have received no comments from the public on the proposed condominium application. Advisory Committee Review No communication is required. Legal Considerations Section 9(2) of the Condominium Act, 1998 states that the requirements of the Planning Act that apply to a plan of subdivision apply to a plan of condominium with necessary modifications. Under the Planning Act, Council has 120 days to make a decision on subdivision applications before the Owner can appeal. Staff deemed the application complete on January 17, 2019; therefore, the applicant may appeal at any time. Financial Implications All applicable development fees and charges in this regard have been and will continue to be collected by the Town as required. Communications Considerations In accordance with the Planning Act, applications for Common Elements Condominium do not require notice or a statutory public meeting. Link to Strategic Plan The proposed application supports the Strategic Plan goal of supporting an exceptional quality of life for all, by strengthening the fabric of our community. Through the subject development, housing is provided in accordance with the objective to collaborate with the development community to ensure future growth includes housing opportunities for everyone. Page 179 of 189 January 12, 2021 8 of 8 Report No. PDS21-001 Alternative to the Recommendation 1. That Council provide direction. Conclusions Planning and Development Services reviewed the proposed Draft Plan of Condominium application against the relevant Provincial plans, Regional and Town Official Plans, the Comprehensive Zoning By-law and municipal development standards. The development is considered good planning and conforms to Provincial and Regional policies and is consistent with policies of the Town’s Official Plan. Therefore, Staff recommend approval of Draft Plan of Condominium File CDM-2018-02. Attachments Figure 1 – Location Map Figure 2 – Existing Official Plan Designation Figure 3 – Existing Zoning By-Law Figure 4 – Proposed Draft Plan of Condominium Appendix ‘A’ - Reports and Studies Submitted as Part of a Complete Application Schedule ‘A’ – Conditions of Draft Approval Previous Reports General Committee Report No. PDS20-072, dated September 3, 2019. Pre-submission Review Agenda Management Team review on December 17, 2020 Approvals Approved by David Waters, Director, Planning and Development Services Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer Page 180 of 189 Cannon Valley CourtButternutRidgeTrailWoodhavenAvenueB u tte rn u tRidgeTrailYonge StreetMap created by the Town of Aurora Planning and Building Services Department, August 15, 2019. Base data provided by York Region & the Town of Aurora. Air Photos taken Spring 2018, © First Base Solutions Inc., 2018 Orthophotography.¯St John's SdrdWellington St EVandorf SdrdHenderson Drive^Wellington St WUV404UV404Leslie StYonge StBathurst StBayview AveBloomington Rd0255075100Metres03'%8-321%4%440-'%28'IHEVXVEMP(IZIPSTQIRXW*-0)'(1*-+96)SUBJECT LANDSPage 181 of 189 SRANSIT LINEEmergency and Walkway Yonge StMap created by the Town of Aurora Planning & Development Services Department, August 15, 2019. Base data provided by York Region & the Town of Aurora.¯04080120160MetresOPA 34Major InstitutionPublic Open SpaceEnvironmental Function AreaEstate ResidentialElementary School ParkCluster ResidentialBuilding SetbackEcological BufferEnvironmental Restoration AreaMinor InstitutionEnvironmental Protection AreaPrivate Open SpaceSAccess Point=32+)786))87398,7)'32(%6=40%234% %440-'%28'IHEVXVEMP(IZIPSTQIRXW*-0)'(1 79&.)'80%2(7*-+96)Page 182 of 189 )<-78-2+>32-2+&=0%;%440-'%28'IHEVXVEMP(IZIPSTQIRXW*-0)'(1*-+96)Page 183 of 189 463437)((6%*840%23*'32(31-2-91%440-'%28'IHEVXVEMP(IZIPSTQIRXW*-0)'(1*-+96)Page 184 of 189 January 12, 2021 Appendix Page 1 of 1 General Committee Report No. PDS21-001 APPENDIX ‘A’ Reports and Studies Submitted as Part of a Complete Application Report/Plan Name Report Author Planning Justification Report Brutto Consulting Survey Guido Papa Surveying Draft M-Plan and Lot Schedule Guido Papa Surveying Draft Common Elements Condominium Plan Guido Papa Surveying Neighbourhood Plan Brutto Consulting Snow Storage Plan Brutto Consulting Arborist Report and Tree Protection Plan WSP Lake Simcoe Protection Plan Conformity Letter WSP Addendum Letter to Functional Servicing Study and Functional Stormwater Management Report Cole Engineering Group Ltd. Traffic Impact Study Addendum Cole Engineering Group Ltd. Page 185 of 189 Schedule “A” CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL Draft Plan of Common Elements Condominium CDM-2018-02 Cedartrail Developments Inc. (the “Owner”) 14288 Yonge Street, legally described as Part Lot 74, Con. 1, King, Parts 1 and 2, 65R-37835 (the “Lands”) THE CONDITIONS OF AURORA COUNCIL THAT SHALL BE SATISFIED BY THE OWNER OF THE LANDS (THE “OWNER”) PRIOR TO THE RELEASE FOR REGISTRATION OF ANY CONDOMINIUM PLAN OF THE LANDS (the “Plan”), ARE AS FOLLOWS: Planning Division Conditions 1. The final draft plan prepared by Guido Papa Surveying dated December 15, 2020, with respect to the creation of a condominium road on the Lands (the “Draft Plan”) and associated conditions of Draft Plan approval may be amended by the Town, if revisions are required to implement or integrate any recommendations resulting from studies required to be submitted as a condition of Draft Plan approval. Further, minor redline revisions to the Draft Plan may also be required to ensure property alignment with existing or proposed lots, blocks, units, streets, and/or facilities on lands adjacent to the Draft Plan. 2. Prior to the release for registration of the Plan, the Owner shall obtain approval from the Town of a Part Lot Control Exemption application with respect to the creation of eleven (11) parcels of land fronting onto the condominium road on the Draft Plan. 3. Prior to the release for registration of the Plan, the Owner shall satisfy the Conditions of Approval for the Draft Plan of Subdivision, Cedartrail, SUB-2014-04, as applicable, with respect to the Lands. Legal Services Division Conditions 4. Prior to release for registration of the Plan, the Owner shall submit to the Town for approval the Condominium Declaration and Description containing all the required provisions in accordance with the Condominium Act, 1998 and any other provision as may be required by the Town (the “Declaration”). If requested by the Town, the Owner shall incorporate into the Declaration any right(s)-of-way and easements for vehicular access, including access for fire and emergency services, to the satisfaction of the Town. Together with the final version of the Declaration, the Owner shall provide a solicitor’s undertaking indicating that: a. the Declaration provided to the Town is the final Declaration to be submitted for registration, subject only to changes requested by the Land Registrar; b. the Town will be notified of any required changes prior to registration; and c. immediately following registration of the Declaration, a copy will be provided to the Town. Page 186 of 189 Cedartrail Developments Inc. CDM-2018-02 Conditions of Approval Page 2 5. Prior to the release for registration of the Plan, the Owner shall submit the Plan to the Town for approval, as preapproved by the Registry Office. Engineering Division Conditions 6. Prior to the release for registration of the Plan for registration, the Owner shall submit to the satisfaction of the Town, a certificate from the Owner’s consultant stating that the buildings have been substantially completed in accordance with the Condominium Act, 1998, S.O. 1998, c. 19, as amended, and that they have been surveyed and built in accordance with the plans forming part of the Development Agreement to be entered into between the Town and the Owner with respect to the Lands. York Region 7. Prior to final approval, the Owner shall provide confirmation that all of the conditions of draft approval for the subject property under File No. SUB-2014-04 (SUBP.14.A.0025), have been satisfied. 8. Prior to final approval, the Owner shall execute Subdivision Agreements and obtain all of the necessary permits required as part of the draft plan approval for the subject property under File No. SUB-2014-04 (SUBP.14.A.0025). 9. Prior to final approval, the Owner shall confirm that all of the works within the Regional ROW have been completed to the satisfaction of the Region or that the Region holds sufficient securities to cover the cost of any outstanding works. Should there be insufficient security to cover the cost of the remaining works, the Owner shall arrange for the deposit of additional securities in the amount sufficient to cover the cost of all outstanding works. 10. Prior to final approval the Owner shall provide confirmation that all transfers of obligation have been completed where Subdivision Agreement require responsibility to change from the Owner to the Condominium Corporation. 11. The Owner shall agree to include the following paragraph in all Offers of Purchase and Sale, Condominium Agreement and Condominium Declaration: "THE OWNER SHALL CONVEY A VEHICULAR ACCESS EASEMENT ONTO THE PRIVATE ROAD TO THE ADJACENT LANDS TO THE EAST, MUNICIPALLY KNOWN AS 14264 YONGE STREET, AT THE TIME THE LANDS ARE REDEVELOPED. THE OWNER IS ADVISED AND ACKNOWLEDGES THAT TRAFFIC VOLUMES MAY INCREASE AS A RESULT OF THIS CONVEYANCE." Canada Post 12. Cedartrail Developments Inc. covenants and agrees to provide the Town of Aurora with evidence that satisfactory arrangements, financial and otherwise, have been made with Canada Post Corporation for the installation of concrete pads as required by Canada Post Corporation and as shown on the approved engineering design drawings/Draft Plan, at the time of sidewalk and/or curb installation. Cedartrail Developments Inc. further covenants and agrees to provide notice to prospective purchasers of the Page 187 of 189 Cedartrail Developments Inc. CDM-2018-02 Conditions of Approval Page 3 locations of Community Mail Boxes and that home/business mail delivery will be provided via Community Mail Boxes. 13. The developer agrees, prior to offering any units for sale, to display a map on the wall of the sales office in a place readily accessible to potential homeowners that indicates the location of all Community Mail Boxes or Lock Box Assemblies (Mail Room)., within the development, as approved by Canada Post. 14. The owner/developer will be responsible for officially notifying the purchasers of the exact Community Mailbox locations prior to the closing of any home sales with specific clauses in the Purchase offer, on which the homeowners do a sign off. 15. The Builder/Owner/Developer will confirm to Canada Post that the final secured permanent locations for the Community Mailboxes will not be in conflict with any other utility; including hydro transformers, bell pedestals, cable pedestals, flush to grade communication vaults, landscaping enhancements (tree planting) and bus pads. 16. The developer agrees to include in all offers of purchase and sale a statement which advises the purchaser that mail will be delivered via Community Mail Boxes or Lock Box Assemblies (Mail Room). The developer also agrees to note the locations of all Community Mail Boxes or Lock Box Assemblies (Mail Room), within the development, and to notify affected homeowners of any established easements granted to Canada Post to permit access to the Community Mail Boxes or Lock Box Assemblies (Mail Room). 17. The owner/developer will agree to prepare and maintain an area of compacted gravel to Canada Post’s specifications to serve as a temporary Community Mailbox location. This location will be in a safe area away from construction activity in order that Community Mailboxes may be installed to service addresses that have occupied prior to the pouring of the permanent mailbox pads. This area will be required to be prepared a minimum of 30 days prior to the date of first occupancy. 18. The owner/developer will install concrete pads at each of the Community Mailbox locations as well as any required walkways across the boulevard and any required curb depressions for wheelchair access as per Canada Post’s concrete pad specification drawings 19. The developer agrees to provide the following for each Community Mail Boxes or Lock Box Assemblies, and to include these requirements on the appropriate servicing plans: (if applicable) • Any required walkway across the boulevard, per municipal standards • If applicable, any required curb depression for wheelchair access, with an opening of at least two meters (consult Canada Post for detailed specifications) Alectra 20. The owner/developer shall complete a subdivision application form and enter into a legal binding Offer to Connect (OTC) agreement with Alectra Utilities which outline roles and responsibilities pertaining to the design, installation, energization and servicing of the Page 188 of 189 Cedartrail Developments Inc. CDM-2018-02 Conditions of Approval Page 4 Electrical Distribution System (EDS) for the subdivision. Design and Installation of the EDS can only commence once all monies, securities, easements and executed OTC have been received by Alectra Utilities. The owner/developer is responsible to provide proof of the executed OTC to the municipality to have this condition met. Clearances The Town’s Planning Division shall advise that Conditions 1 to 3 have been satisfied, stating briefly how each Condition has been met. The Town’s Legal Services Division shall advise that Conditions 4 and 5 have been satisfied, stating briefly how each Condition has been met. The Town’s Engineering Division shall advise that Condition 6 has been satisfied, stating briefly how each Condition has been met. York Region shall advise the Town of Aurora that Conditions 7 to 11 have been satisfied; the clearance letter shall include a brief statement detailing how each Condition has been met. Canada Post shall advise the Town of Aurora that Conditions 12 to 19 have been satisfied; the clearance letter shall include a brief statement detailing how each Condition has been met. Alectra Utilities shall advise the Town of Aurora that Condition 20 has been satisfied; the clearance letter shall include a brief statement detailing how each Condition has been met. Page 189 of 189