AGENDA - Environmental Advisory Committee - 20210428Town of Aurora
Environmental Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Date:Wednesday, April 28, 2021
Time:7:00 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.
2.Approval of the Agenda
3.Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
4.Receipt of the Minutes
4.1.Environmental Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of February 24,
2021
1
That the Environmental Advisory Committee meeting minutes of
February 24, 2021, be received for information.
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.
6.Matters for Consideration
6.1.Memorandum from Energy and Climate Change Analyst, Re: Corporate
Environmental Action Plan 2019 Progress Report
5
That the memorandum regarding Corporate Environmental
Action Plan 2019 Progress Report be received; and,
1.
That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments
regarding the Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2019
Progress Report be received and referred to staff for
2.
consideration and further action as appropriate.
7.Informational Items
8.Adjournment
1
Town of Aurora
Environmental Advisory Committee
Meeting Minutes
Date:
Time:
Location:
Wednesday, February 24, 2021
7:00 p.m.
Video Conference
Committee Members: Councillor Rachel Gilliland (Chair)
Councillor Wendy Gaertner (Vice Chair)
Margaret Baker
Barry Bridgeford
Colin Brown
Sam Cunningham
Ashley Gatto Cassagrande
Ryan Hamid
Sandy Hudson
Crystal Robertson
Other Attendees: Mayor Tom Mrakas (ex-officio)
Natalie Kehle, Analyst, Energy and Climate Change
Sara Tienkamp, Manager, Parks and Fleet
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 7:03 p.m.
2. Approval of the Agenda
Moved by Margaret Baker
Seconded by Sam Cunningham
Page 1 of 28
2
That the agenda as circulated by Legislative Services be approved.
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 Environmental Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of January 25, 2021
Moved by Councillor Gaertner
Seconded by Sandy Hudson
That the Environmental Advisory Committee meeting minutes of January
25, 2021, be received for information.
Carried
5. Delegations
None.
6. Matters for Consideration
6.1 Round Table Discussion; Re: Private Tree Protection By-law No. 5850-16
The Committee discussed the Private Tree Protection By-law with
particular reference to the definition of a “Heritage Tree” and suggested
changes, including that a Heritage Tree be determined by the preservation
measures of a Cultural Heritage Landscape, which would clearly define
the terms and conditions. It was noted that, further to a motion adopted by
Council in November 2016, no Cultural Heritage Landscapes have yet
been established by the Town and it was suggested that this matter be
addressed through the Town's current Official Plan review now underway
and that the process be connected with the Private Tree Protection By-
law. The Committee further discussed examples of the challenges faced
by property owners who seek to remove or relocate trees on properties
that are designated or listed as a property of cultural heritage value or
interest versus non-designated properties.
Page 2 of 28
3
Moved by Barry Bridgeford
Seconded by Margaret Baker
1. That Private Tree Protection By-law Number 5850-16 be received; and
2. That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments regarding
Private Tree Protection By-law Number 5850-16 be received and
referred to staff for consideration and action as appropriate.
Carried
6.2 Memorandum from Energy and Climate Change Analyst; Re: Electric Vehicle
Charging Station Policy and Process
Staff provided an overview of the memorandum and development of the
proposed electric vehicle (EV) charging station policy and process for
Town-owned properties.
The Committee inquired about the charging times and cost difference
between the various levels of EV charging stations and staff provided
clarification noting that the Level 3 (rapid charge) station is approximately
ten times more expensive than the Level 2 (fast charge) station. It was
further noted that the most practical level for Town facilities would be the
Level 2 "top-up" charging station. Opportunities for the installation of Level
3 charging stations were discussed for fleet vehicles and for the economic
benefit EV chargers may have in attracting visitors to the downtown core.
The Committee inquired about EV charging provisions for condominium
and apartment properties and staff noted that installation opportunities
for private developments would be considered within the upcoming review
of the Town's green design and development standards.
The Committee inquired about the proposed policy's alignment with the
Region and other municipalities and suggested that any additional EV
chargers should be provided on a cost-neutral basis to the Aurora
taxpayer. Staff confirmed that the proposed policy is based on the
Region's EV charging station policy and it would be difficult to make any
cost assumptions without first collecting data for a period of time. The
Committee inquired about the allocation of the Region's planned
installation of 70 EV chargers, and staff provided clarification on how the
locations were determined.
Page 3 of 28
4
The Committee inquired about whether the existing EV chargers would be
networked in order to collect data and determine needs. Staff advised the
older units would require upgrading in order to collect data and are being
considered for charging the Town's fleet vehicles in future.
Moved by Barry Bridgeford
Seconded by Margaret Baker
1. That the memorandum regarding Electric Vehicle Charging Station
Policy and Process be received; and
2. That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments regarding the
Electric Vehicle Charging Station Policy and Process documents be
received and referred to staff for consideration and further action as
appropriate.
Carried
7. Informational Items
None.
8. Adjournment
Moved by Barry Bridgeford
Seconded by Ashley Gatto Cassagrande
That the meeting be adjourned at 8:01 p.m.
Carried
Page 4 of 28
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Memorandum
Planning and Development Services
Re: Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2019 Progress Report
To: Environmental Advisory Committee
From: Natalie Kehle, Energy and Climate Change Analyst
Date: April 28, 2021
Recommendation
1. That the memorandum regarding Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2019
Progress Report be received; and,
2. That the Environmental Advisory Committee comments regarding the Corporate
Environmental Action Plan 2019 Progress Report be received and referred to staff for
consideration and further action as appropriate.
Background
The Corporate Environmental Action Plan (CEAP) is a five-year action plan that allows
the Corporation of the Town of Aurora to achieve its environmental goals for the period
2018 to 2023. The 2010 CEAP and the 2018 version received input from three Advisory
Committees, staff and senior management.
The purpose of the CAEP is to protect and enhance the natural environment, promote
environmental sustainability, integrity and conservation of resources and create a
practice of environmental stewardship within the community. The CEAP is intended to
provide corporate direction on key strategic environmental initiatives that will be
initiated over the next five years. The CAEP was developed to assist Council to plan for
and implement specific actions to improve the Town’s environmental performance and
sustainability for future generations. The success of the Plan requires a coordinated
approach to implementation that includes all of the Town’s departments.
The Progress Report consists of a summary document, highlighting the achievements
for 2019 (see Attachment 1), and a separate tracking document, used by staff to
monitor the progress of the action items (see Attachment 2).
Page 5 of 28
Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2019 Progress Report
April 28, 2021 Page 2 of 3
The CEAP is reported annually, presented to Council and EAC and then posted on the
Town’s website. Ideally, reports should be presented by mid-year for the previous
reporting year. This timeframe allows staff to collect, verify, input and analyze all the
utility data for the Town’s facilities. Utility bills often get adjusted or corrected and
require additional time to finalize the data.
The CEAP 2019 Progress Report was delayed as the historic energy data took six
months to receive from the utility companies for inputting into the new energy software.
During 2020, the utility data was entered into the software and each facility building
profile needed to be created and energy data analyzed. Now that the building profiles
have been completed and contain all the historic energy data, reporting on Corporate
energy use will be straightforward and timelier.
Highlights of the 2019 Progress Report
In 2019, the Town completed the following environmental initiatives:
Installed 600 residential meters and 200 commercial meters as part of its water
loss reduction strategy;
Received its LEED® Gold Standard certification for the JOC facility;
Received the Annual Smart Commute designation Award (Gold Standard);
Set 2018 as a base year for tracking Community-level waste diversion rates. In
2018, 65% of Community waste was diverted from landfills. In 2019, 65% was
also diverted, resulting in 12,217 tonnes of waste avoiding the landfill;
Added two adopt a park partnerships;
Successfully removed invasive species from Aurora Rotary Park;
The Arboretum Committee continued work on phragmites control and staff
continue working to control phragmites within Wildlife Park;
Planted 2,600 trees and shrubs on Aurora lands;
Council conditionally approved a climate change risk and vulnerability
assessment for Town Assets as part of the 2020 capital budget process;
Council approved $50,000 for the implementation of energy efficiency measures
at Town facilities under the 2020 capital budget;
Acquired an energy management software to track progress from the Energy
Conservation and Demand Management Plan;
Generated 652,704 kilowatt-hours of electricity from Town solar rooftop systems;
Created a Town Climate Change initiatives webpage.
Page 6 of 28
Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2019 Progress Report
April 28, 2021 Page 3 of 3
The CEAP 2020 Progress Report is scheduled to be presented to Council in September
2021 to provide sufficient time to consult with EAC in June 2021.
Attachments
Attachment 1 –Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2019 Progress Report
Attachment 2 - Corporate Environmental Action Plan 2019 Tracking Sheet
Page 7 of 28
CORPORATE ENVIRNMENTAL ACTION PLAN (CEAP)
2019 Progress Report
WATER CONSERVATION
Objective W1: Reduce Town owned facility water consumption
Objective W2: Reduce the uncontrolled and inadequately controlled storm water areas with
respect to both quality and quantity by following recommendations of the Town’s
Comprehensive Storm water Management Master Plan
Town Operations installed 600 residential meters and 200 commercial meters in 2019 as
part of its water loss reduction strategy (W1).
The Town was in the planning phase for a new project (to commence in 2020) to assess
municipal parking lots which will consider parking lot stormwater management (SWM)
controls and potential use of LIDs.
Two Town road reconstruction projects were in planning phases and include the use of
LIDs, planned for tender in 2020 (S1 and W2).
The Town's library square project is being designed using LIDs (W2).
SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT
Objective S1: Foster a sustainable green development and alternate methods of transportation to
improve the quality of life of Aurora’s residents and Town staff.
Though built in 2016, the JOC received its LEED® Gold Standard certification for its
green design in 2019. The JOC includes green design considerations to create a healthy
and efficient working environment while decreasing energy consumption and greenhouse
gas emissions (S1).
Two Town road reconstruction projects were in planning phases and include the use of
LIDs, planned for tender in 2020 (S1 and W2).
In an effort to promote sustainable transportation for Town staff, the Town participated
and maintained the Annual Smart Commute designation Award, maintaining the Gold
Standard every year since 2012 (S1).
Town staff are continuing to explore opportunities to add additional community gardens
and are in the planning phase for a new park a new park for construction in the 2C lands
in 2020 (S1).
Page 8 of 28
WASTE REDUCTION and DIVERSION
Objective D1: Implement sustainable construction practices to reduce waste, incorporate
sustainable design and reclaim or recycle materials.
Objective D2: Reduce waste going to landfill disposal.
As part of the Town’s Waste Reduction Strategies, the Town has set 2018 as a base year
for tracking Community-level waste diversion rates. In 2018, 65% of Community waste
was diverted from landfills. In 2019 65% was diverted, resulting in 12,217 tonnes of
waste avoided the landfill, which included (D2):
o 5,052 tonnes of source separated organics
o 4,524 tonnes of recycling material
o 2,639 tonnes of yard waste
o In addition, the Town collected:
15 tonnes of e-waste
63 tonnes of textile waste
1 tonne of batteries and
half a tonne of CFL bulbs.
As part of the second floor renovation at the Town Hall, staff worked with a private
company to remove office furniture. The company recycles and works with local
charities to find a second life to used items.
BIODIVERSITY and NATURAL HERITAGE
Objective B1: Enrich Aurora’s ecology by protecting and preserving biodiversity.
A new park in 2C was designed to be a natural park including, community gardens,
pollinator gardens, naturalized playgrounds and one of the main trail entry locations to
Wildlife Park (B1).
The Town successfully continued the Adopt a Park Program and built partnerships: two
additional adopt a park partnerships were formed in 2019 (one promoting butterfly
habitat and one eradicating invasive species and planting native species) (B1).
The Town successfully removed invasive species from Rotary Park with assistance from
the Town’s Adopt a Park partner. The Arboretum Committee continued work on
phragmites control. Staff continue working to control phragmites within Wildlife Park
(B1).
The Town planted 2,600 trees and shrubs on Aurora lands, including the Towns street
tree-planting program, planting days with Arboretum, Lake Simcoe Region Conservation
Authority (LSRCA) and Neighbourhood Network (B1).
Page 9 of 28
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGY
Objective C1: Prepare a Climate Change Adaptation Plan
Objective C2: Implement the Provincial Climate Change Plan Actions
Objective C3: Reduce the town’s greenhouse gas emissions by town staff and at town facilities. *
Actions pulled from the Provincial Climate Change Plan
In an effort for staff to assess climate change impacts on Town assets, Town staff
requested funds for a risk and vulnerability assessment in October 2019 as part of the
2020 capital budget process, which was conditionally approved by Council (C1).
Staff started internal stakeholder consultations for the Electric Vehicle Charging Station
Policy at Town properties, which will include provisions for the feasibility of EV charger
installation at Town parking lot resurfacing projects, new buildings and major
renovations of facilities (C2).
The Town entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ontario Power
Generation to seek Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) funding on the Town’s behalf for
the installation of eleven dual head electric vehicle charging stations (Level 2) for Town
properties (C2).
Staff initiated internal stakeholder consultations for the terms of reference of the Green
Development Standard, with a capital budget request for 2020 (C2).
Staff initiated stakeholder consultation for a Town-wide Anti-Idling Policy, which aims
to limit idling from residents, businesses and Town staff (C3).
Council approved $50,000 for the implementation of energy efficiency measures at Town
facilities under the 2020 capital budget (C3).
An energy management software was acquired in 2019 and Town staff were trained on its
use. The software allows staff to evaluate energy efficiency and renewable energy project
feasibility, as well as ongoing energy performance analysis at Town facilities and fleet
(C3).
Having an energy consumption tracking system that is updated monthly, staff are able to
monitor energy consumption, see trends, and track changes to operations (for a deeper
analysis, see Annex 1) (C3):
o Baseline energy consumption at Town Facilities (2018): 23,180,806 equivalent
kilowatt-hours
o 2019 Update: 24,641,678 equivalent kilowatt-hours
o Overall energy consumption increased by 6% compared to 2018. This translates
into an increase of 3% of greenhouse gas emissions compared to 2018 levels.
Electricity generation from the Town’s four solar power rooftop systems in 2019 is
652,704 kilowatt-hours (C3):
Page 10 of 28
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
Objective A1: Encourage the stewardship of Aurora‘s natural resources and advance green
initiatives by promoting community involvement
In an effort to increase community awareness on climate change and to seek public
feedback on energy planning, the Town hosted two events at the Aurora Farmer’s Market
in the summer of 2019 (A1).
A designated Town Webpage was developed in 2019 dedicated to all the Town's climate
change initiatives, including public engagement on the Community Energy Plan (A1).
0
200000
400000
600000
800000
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
Electricity Generation from Town Solar Panels
(kilowatt-hours)
Town Hall Library JOC SARC
Page 11 of 28
ANNEX 1
2019 Building Energy Performance at Town Facilities
Page 12 of 28
2020 Energy Performance from Town
Facilities
Electricity Use
0
200,000
400,000
600,000
800,000
1,000,000
1,200,000
Electricity Consumption(kWh)2018 -Jan2018 -Feb2018 -Mar2018 -Apr2018 -May2018 -Jun2018 -Jul2018 -Aug2018 -Sep2018 -Oct2018 -Nov2018 -Dec2019 -Jan2019 -Feb2019 -Mar2019 -Apr2019 -May2019 -Jun2019 -Jul2019 -Aug2019 -Sep2019 -Oct2019 -Nov2019 -DecMonth
Legend
Aurora Town Hall The Armoury Aurora Seniors Centre Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex (SARC)Aurora Community Centre (ACC)Aurora Family Leisure Complex (AFLC)Aurora Public Library Victoria Hall
Aurora Cultural Centre -22 Church Street Joint Operations Centre (JOC)
2019 -Highest 3 -Lowest 41 -Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex (SARC)
2 -Aurora Family Leisure Complex (AFLC)
3 -Aurora Community Centre (ACC)
4 -Aurora Public Library
5 -Aurora Town Hall
6 -Joint Operations Centre (JOC)
7 -Aurora Seniors Centre
8 -Aurora Cultural Centre -22 Church Street
9 -The Armoury
10 -Victoria Hall
0 500,000 1,000,000 1,500,000 2,000,000 2,500,000 3,000,000 3,500,000
Fuel consumption -Electricity
(kWh)
Legend
Highest 3 (63.3%)Middle (32.5%)Lowest 4 (4.3%)
Comparison -2018 | 2019Fuel consumption
Reference |
2018
Actual |
2019
Difference Difference
kWh kWh kWh %
Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex (SARC)
Aurora Family Leisure Complex (AFLC)
Aurora Community Centre (ACC)
Aurora Public Library
Aurora Town Hall
Joint Operations Centre (JOC)
Aurora Seniors Centre
Aurora Cultural Centre -22 Church Street
The Armoury
Victoria Hall
3,292,409 3,318,357 -25,948 -0.79%
2,100,942 1,989,792 111,150 5.3%
1,465,961 1,518,302 -52,341 -3.6%
709,184 1,511,434 -802,250 -113%
1,147,487 1,401,983 -254,497 -22.2%
561,820 587,831 -26,012 -4.6%
264,918 253,724 11,194 4.2%
208,338 189,707 18,630 8.9%
14,350 10,103 4,246 29.6%
7,210 6,155 1,055 14.6%
Total 9,772,619 10,787,389 -1,014,770 -10.4%
RETScreen Expert Subscriber: Town of Aurora -Professional
Page 13 of 28
2020 Energy Performance from Town
Facilities
Natural gas Use
0
500,000
1,000,000
1,500,000
2,000,000
Natural gas Consumption(kWh)2018 -Jan2018 -Feb2018 -Mar2018 -Apr2018 -May2018 -Jun2018 -Jul2018 -Aug2018 -Sep2018 -Oct2018 -Nov2018 -Dec2019 -Jan2019 -Feb2019 -Mar2019 -Apr2019 -May2019 -Jun2019 -Jul2019 -Aug2019 -Sep2019 -Oct2019 -Nov2019 -DecMonth
Legend
Aurora Town Hall The Armoury Aurora Seniors Centre Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex (SARC)Aurora Community Centre (ACC)Aurora Family Leisure Complex (AFLC)Aurora Public Library Victoria Hall
Aurora Cultural Centre -22 Church Street Joint Operations Centre (JOC)
2020 -Highest 3 -Lowest 41 -Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex (SARC)
2 -Aurora Community Centre (ACC)
3 -Aurora Family Leisure Complex (AFLC)
4 -Joint Operations Centre (JOC)
5 -Aurora Public Library
6 -Aurora Town Hall
7 -Aurora Cultural Centre -22 Church Street
8 -The Armoury
9 -Aurora Seniors Centre
10 -Victoria Hall
0 1,000,000 2,000,000 3,000,000 4,000,000 5,000,000
Fuel consumption -Natural gas
(kWh)
Legend
Highest 3 (74.2%)Middle (21.4%)Lowest 4 (4.4%)
Comparison -2018 | 2019Fuel consumption
Reference |
2018
Actual | 2019 Difference Difference
kWh kWh kWh %
Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex (SARC)
Aurora Community Centre (ACC)
Aurora Family Leisure Complex (AFLC)
Joint Operations Centre (JOC)
Aurora Public Library
Aurora Town Hall
Aurora Cultural Centre -22 Church Street
The Armoury
Aurora Seniors Centre
Victoria Hall
5,159,204 5,357,368 -198,164 -3.8%
2,753,596 2,643,184 110,412 4%
2,176,837 2,273,507 -96,670 -4.4%
1,506,699 1,633,673 -126,975 -8.4%
732,276 714,956 17,320 2.4%
561,685 616,869 -55,185 -9.8%
205,682 241,286 -35,605 -17.3%
95,403 183,678 -88,275 -92.5%
160,793 168,448 -7,655 -4.8%
56,015 21,319 34,695 61.9%
Total 13,408,188 13,854,289 -446,101 -3.3%
RETScreen Expert Subscriber: Town of Aurora -Professional
Page 14 of 28
2020 Energy Performance from Town
Facilities
Greenhouse gas emissions from Facilities
GHG Reduction Target for 2023 - 8% reduction from 2018 level
0
500
1,000
1,500
2,000
2,500
3,000
3,500
4,000
GHG emission (tCO₂)2018 2019
Years
Legend
Natural gas Electricity GHG emission -ECDMP Target -8.28%
2,995 tCO₂Reference year | 2018 Actual: 2019
Comparison -2018 | 2019GHG emission
Reference | 2018 Actual | 2019 Difference Difference
tCO₂tCO₂tCO₂%
Natural gas
Electricity
2,405 2,485 -80 -3.3%
903 932 -29.7 -3.3%
Total 3,308 3,418 -110 -3.3%
2019 -Highest 3 -Lowest 21 -Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex (SARC)
2 -Aurora Community Centre (ACC)
3 -Aurora Family Leisure Complex (AFLC)
4 -Joint Operations Centre (JOC)
5 -Aurora Town Hall
6 -Aurora Public Library
7 -Aurora Cultural Centre -22 Church Street
8 -The Armoury
9 -Aurora Seniors Centre
10 -Victoria Hall
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1,000 1,100 1,200 1,300 1,400
GHG emission
(tCO₂)
Legend
Highest 3 (74.2%)Middle (24.7%)Lowest 2 (1.1%)
Greenhouse gas emissions by Facilities
110 tCO₂
3.3%
RETScreen Expert Subscriber: Town of Aurora -Professional
Page 15 of 28
Area Item # Actions Responsibility Measures/ Key Performance Indicator (KPI)Tasks (Target) Timeline KPI result for 2019WATER CONSERVATIONObjective W1: Reduce town owned facility water consumption1 Action 1: Reduce corporate water consumption (CWC)CMS -Facilities CWC Facility TotalDevelop annual CWC reduction targets.Q1 2020 No targets setDue to deficiencies in the facilities metering system, accurate water consumption volume are not available at this time. Water consumption data was collected in 2019, Town Hall was the first facility to pilot water tracking and data was uploaded to RETScreen for analysis.WATER CONSERVATIONObjective W1: Reduce town owned facility water consumption2 Action 1: Reduce corporate water consumption (CWC).OPS- Parks CWC Parks TotalAdd CWC to Progress ReportQ2 2020 no update for 2019WATER CONSERVATIONObjective W1: Reduce town owned facility water consumption3 Action 2: Implement a water loss reduction strategyTo implement a water loss reduction strategy, involving the installation of updated water meters to both residents and businesses and the relining of aged sanitary sewer incrementally each year.OPS - Water # of Water meters installed per yearAdd KPI’s to Progress ReportOngoing 600 residential meters and 200 commercial metersATTACHMENT 2 - CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN 2019 TRACKING SHEETPage 16 of 28
WATER CONSERVATIONObjective W1: Reduce town owned facility water consumption4 Action 2: Implement a water loss reduction strategyTo implement a water loss reduction strategy, involving the installation of updated water meters to both residents and businesses and the relining of aged sanitary sewer incrementally each year.OPS - Water Sanitary sewer Km relined per yearAdd KPI’s to Progress ReportOngoing 0 kmThe Town only relines as needed and nothing has come up in the last several years. Though some sanitary mains have been replaced through Capital Projects that are managed be Engineering. WATER CONSERVATIONObjective W2: To reduce the uncontrolled and inadequately controlled storm water areas with respect to both quality and quantity by following recommendations of the Town’s Comprehensive Storm water Management Master Plan5 Action 1: Investigate ways to enhance and optimize the functioning of the current storm water management facility inventoryPDS – Engineering# of storm water ponds enhanced & optimized from their current function (1 to 2 ponds enhanced & optimized from their current function) 2023 Q4 A comprehensive investigation undertaken by LSRCA is ongoing with respect to the Town’s SWM pond inventory. This will result in a series of recommendations related to the ponds’ O&M, clean-up, retrofit and enhancementPage 17 of 28
WATER CONSERVATIONObjective W2: To reduce the uncontrolled and inadequately controlled storm water areas with respect to both quality and quantity by following recommendations of the Town’s Comprehensive Storm water Management Master Plan6 Action 2: Improve storm water quality in all new road reconstruction projects.PDS – EngineeringKm’s of road treated by oil grit separators or Low Impact Development controlsAs opportunity arises as determined during design of road reconstruction projectsOngoing Progress to be reported yearly in Q1no update for 2019WATER CONSERVATIONObjective W2: To reduce the uncontrolled and inadequately controlled storm water areas with respect to both quality and quantity by following recommendations of the Town’s Comprehensive Storm water Management Master Plan7 Action 3: Encourage at source storm water management control measures on private property. PDS – Planning / PDS – Engineering# of source storm water management control measures on private property installed that the Town is aware of / yearEncourage residents to install private LIDs such as rain barrels during public engagement & design of road reconstruction projectsOngoing Progress to be reported yearly in Q10 - Town will be issuing RFP in 2020 to have consultant assess municipal parking lots which may look at parking lot SWM controls and potential use of LIDs. - Two road reconstruction projects will be tendered in 2020 which will include the use of LIDs. Town's library square project is as another Town project being designed that will have LIDs.Page 18 of 28
WATER CONSERVATIONObjective W2: To reduce the uncontrolled and inadequately controlled storm water areas with respect to both quality and quantity by following recommendations of the Town’s Comprehensive Storm water Management Master Plan8 Action 4: Investigate new practices that may enhance pollution preventionPDS – Engineering# of new practices implemented to enhance pollution prevention(5 new practices to enhance pollution prevention by 20232023 Progress to be reported yearly in Q1 - staff investigated updating the Sewer Bylaw to include restrictive provisions for pools/ hot tub discharge. Due to limited staffing resources for enforcing such an update to the Bylaw, staff have postpone the update until resources come available.SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENTObjective S1: Foster a sustainable green development and alternate methods of transportation to improve the quality of life ofAurora’s residents and Town staff.9 Action 1: Promote Sustainable Transportation to Town staffPDS – Engineering / CS – HRAnnual Smart Commute designation Award (Maintain Gold Standard)Annual update on Progress Report Q1Ongoing The Town maintained Gold Standard status for 2019Page 19 of 28
SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENTObjective S1: Foster a sustainable green development and alternate methods of transportation to improve the quality of life ofAurora’s residents and Town staff.10 Action 2: Implement Sustainable features in the construction or reconstruction of Town infrastructure including buildings, facilities and roadsCMS -Facilities / PDS – Engineering# and types of sustainable features installed on construction projects(1 sustainable feature per construction project, when feasible)Ongoing, as construction projects arise.The JOC received LEED® Gold Standard certification for its green design in 2019. The JOC includes green design considerations to create a healthy and efficient working environment while decreasing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. - Two road reconstruction projects will be tendered in 2020 which will include the use of LIDs. Town's library square project is as another Town project being designed that will have LIDs.SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENTObjective S1: Foster a sustainable green development and alternate methods of transportation to improve the quality of life ofAurora’s residents and Town staff.11 Action 3: Set up new areas for additional community gardens in Aurora.OPS- Parks # of community gardensContinue to explore opportunities to add additional community gardens as appropriateOngoing 0 No new community gardens in 2019 however one is planned for a new park construction in the 2C lands in 2020.SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENTObjective S1: Foster a sustainable green development and alternate methods of transportation to improve the quality of life ofAurora’s residents and Town staff.12 Opportunity: Apply for green infrastructure grant funding.FS # of Town projects funded/year(2 Town projects funded)2023 Q2 Progress to be reported yearly in Q1 - The Town signed an MOU with OPG to seek NRCan funding for the installation of electric vehicle charging stations at Town properties (50% of the cost to install and procure equipment). Page 20 of 28
WASTE REDUCTION and DIVERSIONObjective D1: Implement sustainable construction practices to reduce waste, incorporate sustainable design and reclaim or recycle materials.13 Action 1: Implement sustainable construction and building practices for all Town infrastructure including buildings, facilities and roadsPDS – Engineering# and types of sustainable construction practices implemented that will reduce wasteDevelopment of best practices2021 Q4 no update for 2019WASTE REDUCTION and DIVERSIONObjective D1: Implement sustainable construction practices to reduce waste, incorporate sustainable design and reclaim or recyclematerials.14 Action 1: Implement sustainable construction and building practices for all Town infrastructure including buildings, facilities and roadsCMS -Facilities # and types of sustainable construction practices implemented that will reduce wasteImplementation of best practicesAs opportunity arises - The Town worked with a third party company for the disposal of Town Hall furniture from the second floor renovation. The third party works with local charities to reuse useful furniture.- Library square is being built in line with LEED Gold standard (including reduced waste strategies based on LEED). WASTE REDUCTION and DIVERSIONObjective D1: Implement sustainable construction practices to reduce waste, incorporate sustainable design and reclaim or recycle materials.15 Action 1: Implement sustainable construction and building practices for all Town infrastructure including buildings, facilities and roadsOPS - Roads # and types of sustainable construction practices implemented that will reduce wasteUpdate tender specifications to promote sustainable construction practices and waste reduction where feasible2019 Q1 Progress to be reported yearly in Q1no update for 2019WASTE REDUCTION and DIVERSIONObjective D1: Implement sustainable construction practices to reduce waste, incorporate sustainable design and reclaim or recyclematerials.16 Action 2: Develop a Green Procurement Policy for the Town of Aurora and its contractors.FS - Procurement Develop KPI as part of the Green Procurement PolicyPrepare a Green Procurement Policy for Council consideration2020 Q1 Procurement is planning a Modernization project for Town-wide procurement practices. Green procurement will be reviewed and incorporated into the new policy. Project expected to start in 2021. Page 21 of 28
WASTE REDUCTION and DIVERSIONObjective D2: Reduce waste going to landfill disposal.17 Action 1: Implement Waste Reduction Strategies. OPS- Solid Waste% reduction of waste from facilities community/ yearDevelop baseline to measure the opportunities to reduce waste from Town facilities/ year2020 Q1 Progress to be reported yearly in Q1 - As part of the Town’s Waste Reduction Strategies, the Town has set 2018 as a base year for tracking Community-level waste diversion rates. In 2018, 65% of Community waste was diverted from landfills. In 2019 65% was diverted, resulting in 12,217 tonnes of waste avoided the landfill, which included (D2): - 5,052 tonnes of source separated organics- 4,524 tonnes of recycling material- 2,639 tonnes of yard waste- In addition, the Town collected:15 tonnes of e-waste63 tonnes of textile waste1 tonne of batteries and half a tone of CFL bulbs.*the KPI was changed to community level waste reduction rather than corporate facilities reduction. This is due to lack of available data to track progress at the facility level. A request for operating funds was requested in 2019 to perform a waste audit at Town facilities to be able to develop a baseline. It was not approved at this time. Since the CEAP sets many waste reduction goals from the community-le el the KPI as changed toBIODIVERSITY and NATURAL HERITAGEObjective B1: Enrich Aurora’s ecology by protecting and preserving biodiversity.18 Action 1: * Encourage ecological design in landscaping of parks and retrofit projects.OPS- Parks Add 1 ecological design feature in new parks and park retrofits / yearConsideration of ecological design in all new park design and retrofits Progress to be reported yearly in Q11 Park Naturalized DesignedNew park in 2C designed to be a natural park including, community gardens, pollinator gardens, naturalized playgrounds and one of the main trail entry locations to Wildlife Park.Page 22 of 28
BIODIVERSITY and NATURAL HERITAGEObjective B1: Enrich Aurora’s ecology by protecting and preserving biodiversity.19 Action 2: Improve natural heritage significant wildlife habitat.OPS- Parks List existing partnerships and note partnerships as they occurOngoing partnerships with schools, Arboretum, Adopt-aPark and bird box programOngoing Progress to be reported yearly in Q1Continued the Adopt a Park Program and Partnership development: two additional adopt a park partnerships in 2019 (1 promoting butterfly habitat and 1 eradicating invasive species and planting native species).Eradication Efforts of Invasive Species: successful removal of invasive species from Rotary Park with assistance from the Town’s Adopt a Park partner. Arboretum Committee continued work on phramites control. Staff working to control pharmites within Wildlife Park.Trees Planted on Aurora lands, included the Towns street tree planting program, planting days with Arboretum, LSRCA and Neighbourhood Network.BIODIVERSITY and NATURAL HERITAGEObjective B1: Enrich Aurora’s ecology by protecting and preserving biodiversity.20 Action 3: Implement the Urban Forest Management PlanOPS- Parks Track the # of trees planted on Town property / year Plant an average of 1000 trees or shrubs / year on Town property. Progress to be reported yearly in Q1Planted 2600 trees and shrubs on Aurora lands, included the Towns street tree planting program, planting days with Arboretum, LSRCA and Neighbourhood NetworkBIODIVERSITY and NATURAL HERITAGEObjective B1: Enrich Aurora’s ecology by protecting and preserving biodiversity.21 Action 4: Implement the Invasive Species Act in partnership with York Region and the Province. OPS- Parks Complete 1 invasive species pilot project per year. Apply for 1 grants per 3 yearsDocument partnership with other organizations.Progress to be reported yearly in Q1Eradication Efforts of Invasive Species: successful removal of invasive species from Rotary Park with assistance from the Town’s Adopt a Park partner. Arboretum Committee continued work on phramites control. Staff working to control pharmites within Wildlife Park.Page 23 of 28
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGYObjective C1: Prepare a Climate Change Adaptation Plan 23 Action 1: Identify climate change risks by completing a vulnerability risk assessment of key departmental priorities.PDS – Engineering All relevant departments to contribute to risk assessment CreationCompletion date of each climate change risk assessment Apply for funding, document proposal approvals 2020 Q3 for first risk category 2021 Q3 for second categoryA risk and vulnerability assessment of Town assets is part of the Climate Change Adaptation Plan. Staff requested funds to retain a consultant in 2019. Council conditionally approved the project, based on the outcome of the York Region Climate Change Action Plan being released in 2020. CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGYObjective C1: Prepare a Climate Change Adaptation Plan 24 Action 2: Develop a Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan that will assist the Town to mitigate the risks of climate change. The Plan would benefit from climate change planning partnerships with other municipalities, conservation authorities and York Region.PDS – EngineeringThe preparation of a climate change action plan approved by Council consultant fee - 2020 budget 2021 Q1 2020 Budget was conditionally approved by Council for a Climate Change Adaptation Plan in October 2019.CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGYObjective C2: Implement the Provincial Climate Change Plan Actions25 Action 1: *Province Propose amendments to Municipal Act.PDS - Planning RMOY is the approval authority for Official Plan, amendments & municipal consolidationUpdate the Town of Aurora’s Official PlanOngoing Official Plan Review project planning occurred in 2019, with plans to start in 2020. The project plans to incorporate changes to the Municipal Act.CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGYObjective C2: Implement the Provincial Climate Change Plan Actions26 Action 2: *Require electric charging in surface lots.PDS - Planning Develop KPI as part of GDSAdd this requirement to the Town’s Development Policy2021 Q4 To be developed as part of the Green Development Standard - project to start in 2021.Page 24 of 28
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGYObjective C2: Implement the Provincial Climate Change Plan Actions27 Action 3: *Set green development standards.PDS - Planning Develop KPI as part of GDSPrepare Green Development Standards (GDS) for Council2020 Q4 The Green Development Standard - project to start in 2021.CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGYObjective C2: Implement the Provincial Climate Change Plan Actions28 Action 4: *Eliminate minimum parking requirements over the next 5 years for municipal zoning bylaws.PDS - Planning Develop KPI as part of GDSAdd this requirement to the Official Plan policy. Encourage TDM to replace parking requirements within development approval process2024 Q4 OP Review will consider the parking requirement.Reduced parking in the Promenade due to space restrictions.CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGYObjective C2: Implement the Provincial Climate Change Plan Actions29 Action 5: *Make climate change mitigation and adaptation mandatory in municipal official plans.PDS - Planning Develop KPI as part of GDSAdd this requirement to the Official Plan policy2021 Q4 Official Plan Review to start in 2020 and will incorporate recommendations from the Community Energy Plan, updates to the Municipal Act and the Green Development Standard.CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGYObjective C3: Reduce the town’s greenhouse gas emissions by town staff and at town facilities. * Actions pulled from the Provincial Climate Change Plan30 Action 1: Implement an anti-idling initiative.CS – HR: Organization of training timingOPS -FleetFull time staff completing anti-idling training / year. Year 1 include full time staff who drive Town vehicles. Train remainder of staff. All Staff trained by Q2 2020.ꞏ Staff initiated stakeholder consultation for a Town-wide Anti-Idling Policy, which aims to limit idling from residents, businesses and Town staff.- Town staff training for anti idling will be incorporated into the Town's Green Fleet Action Plan, under development.Page 25 of 28
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGYObjective C3: Reduce the town’s greenhouse gas emissions by town staff and at town facilities. * Actions pulled from the Provincial Climate Change Plan31 Action 2: *Develop a Green Fleet Plan.PDS – Engineering / OPS - FleetDevelop a KPI in process of preparing the Green Fleet Plan Prepare a Green Fleet Plan Add to 2020 budget 2021 Q3 Under development, expected in 2021.CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGYObjective C3: Reduce the town’s greenhouse gas emissions by town staff and at town facilities. * Actions pulled from the Provincial Climate Change Plan32 Action 3: Improve energy efficiency of existing building and business operationsCMS -Facilities Estimated Annual energy savings of newly implemented energy retrofits in Town owned facilities Implement facility energy and water conservation measures within the Capital Plan List new energy conservation measures implemented on Progress Report yearly in Q1Base year: 2018 Baseline 2018: 23,180,806 equivalent kilowatt-hours2019 Update: 24,641,678 equivalent kilowatt-hours- Council approved $50,000 for the implementation of energy efficiency measures at Town facilities under the 2020 capital budget.- Town acquired an energy management software to track energy and water use, analyze trends, estimate energy savings from significant energy saving projects, and track GHG emissions.- Historic energy consumption from Town Facilities were acquired from utility companies for software input. Page 26 of 28
CLIMATE CHANGE and ENERGYObjective C3: Reduce the town’s greenhouse gas emissions by town staff and at town facilities. * Actions pulled from the Provincial Climate Change Plan33 Action 4: Consider all green infrastructure options as part of new corporate builds.OPS - Parks / OPS - Roads /CMS - Facilities / PDS – Engineering# of green infrastructure options included in new corporate projects List chosen green infrastructure items implemented on Progress Report Ongoing, as construction projects arise.Town's library square project design: 20 sustainable development design features have been included (in line with LEED Gold).ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESSObjective A1: Encourage the stewardship of Aurora‘s natural resources and advance green initiatives by promoting community involvement 34 Action 1: Promote the use of reusable water bottles in conjunction with the new water bottle filling stations. Communication campaign is aimed at the community including staff and should include but may not be limited to the following:PDS – Engineering# of existing community events sharing reusable water bottle information Prepare messaging to share at existing community based events. First awareness campaign to take place in 2018No update for 2019ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESSObjective A1: Encourage the stewardship of Aurora‘s natural resources and advance green initiatives by promoting community involvement 35 Action 2: Increase overall community awareness of climate change:PDS – Engineering / CAO - Communications# of existing community events sharing Climate Change information Prepare messaging to share at existing community based events. 2019 Q3 - 2 Events:Town Staff presented the Community Energy plan to the public at two Farmer's Markets in the Summer of 2019. - A designated Town Webpage was developed in 2019 dedicated to all the Town's climate change initiatives, including public engagement on the Community Energy PlanPage 27 of 28
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESSObjective A1: Encourage the stewardship of Aurora‘s natural resources and advance green initiatives by promoting community involvement 36 Action 3: Develop an urban forest communication plan that delivers key messages to target audiences within the communityOPS – Parks / CAO - Communicationsannual # of trees plantedContinue to promote planting and naturalization projects1000 trees planted / year - Planted 2600 trees and shrubs on Aurora lands, included the Towns street tree planting program, planting days with Arboretum, LSRCA and Neighbourhood Network. - Designed a naturalized park: New park in 2C designed to be a natural park including, community gardens, pollinator gardens, naturalized playgrounds and one of the main trail entry locations to Wildlife Park.ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESSObjective A1: Encourage the stewardship of Aurora‘s natural resources and advance green initiatives by promoting community involvement 37 Action 4: Develop a community based communications strategy to help protect and enhance our biodiversityOPS – Parks / CAO - Communications# of public outreach campaigns promoting and protecting biodiversityIncrease signage Increase partnershipsOngoing no update for 2019Page 28 of 28