Agenda - Committee of the Whole - 20240903Town of Aurora
Committee of the Whole
Meeting Agenda
Date:Tuesday, September 3, 2024
Time:7 p.m.
Location:Council Chambers, Aurora Town Hall
Meetings are available to the public in person and via live stream on the Town’s YouTube channel.
To participate, please visit aurora.ca/participation.
Pages
1.Call to Order
2.Land Acknowledgement
3.Approval of the Agenda
4.Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
5.Community Presentations
6.Delegations
6.1 Christina Choo-Hum, Resident; Re: All-way stop installed at Tamarac and
Albery creating safety hazard
1
7.Consent Agenda
7.1 Memorandum from Councillor Thompson; Re: Lake Simcoe Region
Conservation Authority Board Meeting Highlights of June 21, 2024
3
That the memorandum regarding Lake Simcoe Region
Conservation Authority Board Meeting Highlights of June 21,
2024, be received for information.
1.
8.Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
8.1 Mayor's Golf Classic Funds Committee Meeting Minutes of July 31, 2024 5
That the Mayor's Golf Classic Funds Committee Meeting
Minutes of July 31, 2024, be received for information.
1.
9.Community Services Committee Agenda
9.1 CMS24-031 - Naming Rights Policy 9
That Report No. CMS24-031 be received; and1.
That the Naming Rights Policy be approved.2.
10.Corporate Services Committee Agenda
10.1 CS24-021 - Fence By-law Variance Request 21
That Report No. CS24-021 be received; and1.
That a variance to Fence By-law No. 6429-22 to permit the
construction of a non-compliant fence in the front yard at 241
Holladay Drive be denied.
2.
10.2 CS24-022 - Addition of Illumination Requests to the Town’s Flag Policy 32
That Report No. CS24-022 be received; and1.
That the updated Flag Protocol, Flag Raising and Illumination
Request Policy (attachment 1) be approved.
2.
11.Finance and Information Technology Committee Agenda
11.1 FIN24-038 - Asset Management Funding Strategy for 2025 and 2026 53
That Report No. FIN24-038 be received; and1.
That the short-term asset management reserve strategy for
2025 and 2026 be approved; and
2.
That the tax-funded portion of the ATS debt financing of $7.5M,
be funded from the hydro reserve fund, and not debt financed,
be approved; and
3.
That the operating budget for ATS tax-funded debt repayment
be redirected to asset management contributions be approved.
4.
12.Administration Committee Agenda
13.Operational Services Committee Agenda
13.1 OPS24-020 - Windrow Program Eligibility Criteria 62
That Report No. OPS24-020 be received; and1.
That the eligibility criteria as described, be approved; and2.
That a cost-recovery amount of $200 per participating
household be approved; and
3.
That adoption of the financial assistance criteria as proposed
be approved.
4.
13.2 OPS24-021 - Leash-Free Areas in Aurora 69
That Report No. OPS24-021 be received; and1.
That the 10-year capital priority list for future leash-free areas
be endorsed and that staff update the 10-year capital plan
accordingly as per funding availability; and
2.
That the Mayor be requested to include a capital project for the
development and construction of an off-leash trail within the
Highland Gate Subdivision in the 2025 capital budget.
3.
14.Planning and Development Services Committee Agenda
14.1 PDS24-065 - New Registration By-law for Additional Residential Units in
Single Family Dwelling Unit
89
That Report No. PDS24-065 be received; and1.
That staff bring forward the Registration By-law for Additional
Residential Units (ARUs) to a future Council meeting for
enactment.
2.
14.2 PDS24-090 - Updates to Street Naming Policy 94
That Report No. PDS24-090 be received; and1.
That Council approve the updated Street Naming Policy as
attached to this report.
2.
15.Member Motions
15.1 Councillor Weese; Re: Review of Train Whistle/Horn Cessation at All
Level Crossings in the Town Of Aurora
103
16.Regional Report
17.New Business
18.Public Service Announcements
19.Closed Session
20.Adjournment
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Delegation Request
This request and any written submissions or background information for consideration by either Council or Committees of
Council is being submitted to Legislative Services.
Council or Committee (Choose One) *Council or Committee Meeting Date *
Subject *
All-Way stop installed at Tamarac and Albery creating safety hazard
Full Name of Spokesperson and Name of Group or Person(s) being Represented (if applicable) *
Christina Choo-Hum
Brief Summary of Issue or Purpose of Delegation *
The all-way stop installed 7.17.24, while intended by council to promote traffic calming, has in fact, created a
traffic hazzard for residents whose driveways are caught in the middle of the "intersection." In addition, I would
say it has not calmed traffic and is actually causing people to drive faster to make up perceived lost time. The
traffic assessment presented at the council meeting where this was passed indicated no need for traffic
calming, and no need for an all-way stop, as per the town's own guidelines. I would like to request another
assessment to see if the all-way stop is resulting in traffic calming improvement and also, a safety
assessment, given that in three days, I have experienced two near accidents in a location where in 23 years, I
have experienced none.
Have you been in contact with a Town staff or Council member regarding your matter of interest? *
Yes No
Committee of the Whole 2024-09-03
Page 1 of 104
Full name of the Town staff or Council member with
whom you spoke
All members of council by email. Wendy Gaertner
by telephone. Ron Weese and Rachel Gilleland in
person. Michael Ha and Michael Ball. All on
multiple dates
Date you spoke with Town staff or a Council member
2024-7-12
I acknowledge that the Procedure By-law permits five (5) minutes for Delegations. *
Agree
Page 2 of 104
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Memorandum
Councillor’s Office
Re: Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority
Board Meeting Highlights of June 21, 2024
To: Mayor and Members of Council
From: Councillor Michael Thompson
Date: September 3, 2024
Recommendation
1. That the memorandum regarding Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority
Board Meeting Highlights of June 21, 2024, be received for information.
Attachments
1. Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority Board Meeting Highlights of June 21,
2024
Page 3 of 104
Board Meeting Highlights
June 21, 2024
Announcements
a)CAO Rob Baldwin thanked the Foundation staff and all the volunteers for another very
successful, sold-out Annual Dinner held on June 12th. He also thanked all the municipal
partners who attended for their ongoing support.
b)CAO Baldwin advised that he and Conservation Ontario’s Angela Coleman attended a
productive meeting with Newmarket-Aurora MPP and Parliamentary Assistant to the
Minister of Natural Resources Dawn Gallagher-Murphy for a discussion on conservation
authorities.
c)CAO Baldwin advised that he recently attended two Provincial announcements; the first on
June 13th with Ministers Andrea Khanjin and Peter Bethlenfalvy regarding the new urban
trail in Uxbridge and the second was with Minister Graydon Smith and his Parliamentary
Assistant Dawn Gallagher-Murphy on June 20th regarding invasive species funding.
Staff Reports:
Land Inventory
The Board received Staff Report No. 35-24-BOD regarding the Conservation Authority’s Land
Inventory as required by Ontario Regulation 686/21 Mandatory Programs and Services under
the Conservation Authorities Act.
Ontario Regulation 41/24 – New Hazard Regulation Guidelines
The Board received Staff Report No. 34-24-BOD regarding updates to the Conservation
Authorities Act and Ontario Regulation 41/24 Implementation Guidelines (formerly Ontario
Regulation 179/06 Implementation Guidelines). The Board approved Ontario Regulation 41/24
Implementation Guidelines for implementation effective July 1, 2024.
Confidential Human Resources Matter
The Board received Confidential Staff Report No. 36-24-BOD regarding the recipients of the
2024 Conservation Awards and approved the recipients of the 2024 George R. Richardson
Award and the 2024 Distinguished Achievement Award.
For more information or to see the full agenda package, visit LSRCA’s Board of Directors’
webpage.
Attachment 1
Page 4 of 104
Town of Aurora
Mayor's Golf Classic Funds Committee
Meeting Minutes
Date:
Time:
Location:
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
10 a.m.
Video Conference
Members Absent: Angela Covert (Chair)
Michelle Black
Shaheen Moledina
Abe Reiss (Vice Chair)
Dan Winters
Members Absent: Robert Gaby
Others Present: Jason Gaertner, Manager, Financial Management
Michael de Rond, Town Clerk
_____________________________________________________________________
1. Call to Order
The Chair called the meeting to order at 10:02 a.m.
The Vice Chair assumed the Chair at 10:11 a.m.
The Chair reassumed the Chair at 10:14 a.m.
2. Land Acknowledgement
The Committee acknowledged that the meeting took place on Anishinaabe lands,
the traditional and treaty territory of the Chippewas of Georgina Island,
recognizing the many other Nations whose presence here continues to this day,
the special relationship the Chippewas have with the lands and waters of this
territory, and that Aurora has shared responsibility for the stewardship of these
lands and waters. It was noted that Aurora is part of the treaty lands of the
Mississaugas and Chippewas, recognized through Treaty #13 and the Williams
Treaties of 1923.
Page 5 of 104
Mayor's Golf Classic Funds Committee Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, July 31, 2024 2
3. Approval of the Agenda
Moved by Michelle Black
Seconded by Dan Winters
That the agenda as circulated by Legislative Services be approved.
Carried
4. Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
Angela Covert declared a disqualifying interest for item 7.2 - Application from
Aurora Cares Community Action Team; Re: Ongoing Support Initiatives as she is
a member of the Team. Angela did not participate in the discussion or vote on
the matter.
5. Receipt of the Minutes
5.1 Mayor's Golf Classic Funds Committee Meeting Minutes of June 26, 2024
Moved by Dan Winters
Seconded by Michelle Black
1. That the Mayor's Golf Classic Funds Committee Meeting Minutes of
June 26, 2024, be received for information.
Carried
6. Delegations
None.
7. Matters for Consideration
7.1 Application from Canadian Mental Health Association York Region and
South Simcoe; Re: Mobile Youth Walk-in Clinic
Moved by Michelle Black
Seconded by Abe Reiss
1. That the Application from Canadian Mental Health Association York
Region and South Simcoe; Re: Mobile Youth Walk-in Clinic be received;
and
Page 6 of 104
Mayor's Golf Classic Funds Committee Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, July 31, 2024 3
2. That the Committee grant the funding request in the amount of
$5,000.00.
Carried
7.2 Application from Aurora Cares Community Action Team; Re: Ongoing
Support Initiatives
Moved by Dan Winters
Seconded by Shaheen Moledina
1. That the Application from Aurora Cares Community Action Team; Re:
Ongoing Support Initiatives be received; and
2. That the Committee grant the funding request in the amount of
$5,000.00.
Carried
7.3 Application from York Region Children's Fund; Re: 2024 Stay in School
Awards Program
Moved by Shaheen Moledina
Seconded by Dan Winters
1. That the Application from York Region Children's Fund; Re: 2024 Stay
in School Awards Program be received; and
2. That the Committee grant the funding request in the amount of
$5,000.00.
Carried
7.4 Application from Empowering Jack Fundraiser; Re: Help Bring Juno Home
Campaign
Moved by Dan Winters
Seconded by Michelle Black
1. That the Application from Empowering Jack Fundraiser; Re: Help Bring
Juno Home Campaign be received; and
2. That the Committee grant the funding request in the amount of
$5,000.00.
Carried
Page 7 of 104
Mayor's Golf Classic Funds Committee Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, July 31, 2024 4
8. Informational Items
None.
9. New Business
None.
10. Adjournment
Moved by Dan Winters
Seconded by Michelle Black
That the meeting be adjourned at 10:31 a.m.
Carried
Page 8 of 104
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Committee of the Whole
No. CMS 2 4 -031
Subject: Naming Rights Policy
Prepared by: John Firman, Manager, Business Support
Department: Community Services
Date: September 3, 2024
Recommendation
1. That Report No. CMS24-031 be received; and
2. That the Naming Rights Policy be approved.
Executive Summary
The Naming Rights Policy establishes the processes and criteria for naming, renaming
or dedicating municipal assets and facilities such as parks and recreation centres.
The existing Facility Naming Rights Policy was last reviewed in 2006.
Street Naming is not included in this Policy and will be addressed separately.
The new Naming Rights Policy combines two earlier policies and provides more
detail related to the naming or renaming of Town of Aurora parks and facilities.
Background
The existing Facility Naming Rights Policy was last reviewed in 2006.
Further to the Notice of Motion approved at the Council meeting on November 30, 2021,
the current Facility Naming Rights Policy was last reviewed in 2006 and the current
Public Facilities Renaming Policy was last reviewed in 2002. Both policies are therefore
due for review.
Page 9 of 104
September 3, 2024 2 of 4 Report No. CMS24-031
Analysis
Street Naming is not included in this Policy and will be addressed separately.
Street Naming under Planning and Development Services is delegated to the Director of
Planning and Development Services as the approval authority. Recently, Council
directed Staff to look at the street naming policy in more detail to ensure if captures all
the veterans and review the names again to ensure they are all proper and in
accordance with the Town’s values and review the implementation process.
Due to thespecifics of this policy, this directive is best to report back separately than as
part of the corporate policy report. A revised Street Naming Policy is being presented as
a separate report.
The new Naming Rights Policy combines two earlier policies and provides more detail
related to the naming or renaming of Town of Aurora parks and facilities.
The existing Facility Naming Rights Policy and Public Facilities Renaming Policy have
been combined into one policy. The new policy expands upon what was previously
included in the existing policies, and includes the following sections;
purpose and scope;
naming principles;
prioritization;
criteria;
processes; and
responsibilities.
While there are no significant changes to the policy, the additional detail is intended to
help clarify roles and responsibilities and other aspects related to policy
implementation, including:
What is included in this policy for naming.
o Complete facilities such as the Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex, or
an entire park.
What is not included in this policy for naming.
o Individual amenities within facilities or parks, such as pools, arenas, sports
fields, etc.
Process to be followed depending on who initiates the request for
naming/renaming (Council, staff, or a third party.)
Page 10 of 104
September 3, 2024 3 of 4 Report No. CMS24-031
Specific principles and criteria to be considered when considering a name.
o Historical significance.
o Location.
o Names may honour the significant contributions to society.
o Etc.
Advisory Committee Review
None
Legal Considerations
The proposed policy has been reviewed by the Corporate Management Team and the
Executive Leadership Team in accordance with the Town’s policy program.
Financial Implications
There are no financial implications as a result of this report.
Communications Considerations
There are no communications considerations resulting from this report.
Climate Change Considerations
The recommendations from this report do not impact greenhouse gas emissions or
impact climate change adaptation.
Link to Strategic Plan
Ensuring the availability of parks and recreation facilities supports the Strategic Plan
goal of Supporting an exceptional quality of life for all in its accomplishment in satisfying
requirements in the following key objective within this goal statement: Encouraging an
active and healthy lifestyle.
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
1. Council may provide further direction.
Page 11 of 104
September 3, 2024 4 of 4 Report No. CMS24-031
Conclusions
That Council approve the Naming Rights Policy, replacing the former Facility Naming
Rights Policy (2006) and the Public Facilities Renaming Policy (2002).
Attachments
1. Naming Rights Policy
Previous Reports
None
Pre-submission Review
Agenda Management Team review on August 14, 2024
Approvals
Approved by Robin McDougall, Director, Community Services
Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer
Page 12 of 104
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Municipal Naming Policy
Community Services Department
Contact: Manager, Business Support, Community Services Department
Approval Authority: Council
Effective: September 25, 2024
______________________________________________________________________________________
Purpose
This policy establishes the processes and criteria for naming, renaming, or dedicating
municipal assets and facilities such as parks, and recreation centres. The main
objectives of this policy are:
• To continue the current practice of naming municipal assets after significant
geographical, neighbourhood and historical features.
• To recognize, on an exceptional basis, significant contributions that
organizations or individuals have made to public life and the well-being of the
people of Aurora.
• To ensure a clear, efficient, and timely naming process.
• To ensure the application of key criteria to determine the validity of a
commemorative name.
• To ensure a proper approval process and the importance of the role of
legislative bodies (i.e. Council approval) are acknowledged.
Scope
The policy applies to all Town employees and people acting on behalf of the Town, as
well as members of Council and the public with respect to naming of municipal assets.
The policy is not intended to address:
• Individual memorial dedications such as commemorative benches, trees, or
plaques.
• Naming rights/Sponsorship opportunities of individual amenities within parks,
recreation, and culture facilities, such as arenas, pools, meeting rooms, program
rooms, sports fields, etc. (Addressed through the Recreation Facility Sponsorship
Program.)
• Street naming, which is addressed in the Street Naming Policy.
Page 13 of 104
2
Definitions
For the purpose of this Policy, the following definitions shall apply:
Amenities – Individual components of a Municipal facility or park such as playgrounds,
sports fields, pools, arenas, trails, gazebos, etc.
Asset – Any municipal facility or park, but not including specific amenities thereof.
Commemorative – The official naming of a municipal park or facility after a person,
persons, or family name.
Council – The council of the Town of Aurora.
Municipal Facility – Town-owned facilities in their entirety, such as the Aurora
Community Centre, Aurora Sports Dome, Church Street School, etc.
Street Naming Registry – A central repository of all approved street names, as per the
Street Naming Policy.
Naming Rights – Refers to the granting by the owner of the right to name a piece of
property or portions of a property, typically in exchange for financial consideration.
Parks – Shall include parkland, open spaces, valley lands, environmentally-protected
areas; references to Parks shall be in their entirety, and not include individual amenities
including but not limited to trails, playgrounds, lawns, recreation fields/courts,
courtyards.
Sponsorship - A marketing-oriented, contracted arrangement that involves the payment
of a fee or payment in-kind by a company or person(s) in return for the right to a public
association with an activity, item, person, or property for mutual commercial benefit.
Sponsorships may be in the form of financial assistance, non-cash goods or a
contribution of skills or resources.
Town – The Corporation of the Town of Aurora, its departments, and staff.
Policy
General Provisions
The naming, renaming and dedication of municipal assets shall be the responsibility
of the Council of the Town of Aurora.
Page 14 of 104
3
The intent of naming is for permanent recognition or, where approved by Council for the
purpose of providing sponsorship opportunities, such as in the naming of a community
recreation centre (e.g., Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex).
The renaming of municipal assets is strongly discouraged as it significantly impacts the
Town and the community.
Naming Principles
When a municipal asset is named or renamed, the following principles shall be
considered:
• Names shall be unique; name duplication and use of similar sounding or spelled
names is discouraged.
• Names should give a sense of place, continuity, belonging and celebrate
the distinguishing characteristics and uniqueness of Aurora.
• Names should maintain a long-standing local area identification with the residents
of Aurora.
• Names should promote pride in the Town of Aurora, acknowledge local heritage,
history, and recognize unique features and geography (such as names that relate
to local history, places, events, native wildlife, flora, fauna and natural features or
unique characteristics of a neighbourhood or area).
• The rationale associated with the use of a particular name shall be
understandable to the majority of Aurora residents.
• Names from the Street Naming Registry may also be considered, at the
discretion of Council.
• Names shall not be discriminatory, derogatory, or political in nature; names
conveying a secondary negative or offensive connotation, any sexual overtones,
inappropriate humour, slang or double meanings shall be avoided.
• Names shall assist with emergency response situations by being consistent with
street names and geographical locations.
• Names with hyphens, apostrophes or dashes shall be discouraged but may be
considered on an individual basis.
• Names may honour the significant contributions of an individual or family, including
elected or appointed public officials, Town administrative officials or staff, which
Page 15 of 104
4
shall not be considered unless the official has retired from public office.
• Names may recognize the contributions of organizations such as a
partnership or sponsorship with or without financial contributions.
• The form of signage shall be consistent with Town signage guidelines.
• The cost associated with a naming/renaming (including but not limited to
signage, ceremonial costs, legal costs, etc.) will be the responsibility of the Town
when the naming/renaming has been initiated by the Town or when
naming/renaming is part of a sponsorship agreement. The cost will be the
responsibility of the community or corporate entity when the naming/renaming
has been initiated by the community/corporate entity, unless otherwise approved
by Council.
• The Town of Aurora makes all final decisions concerning what is placed or occurs
on Town property and in its facilities.
• Naming of an asset shall not imply endorsement of a company or its products and
services and should prohibit partners from making statements which suggest a
company’s products and services are endorsed by the Town.
• Naming of a park or facility should not result in or be perceived as giving any
preferential treatment with respect to procurement or any commercial dealings with
any private entity or with respect to any Town policy and procedure.
Prioritization
Priority shall be given to naming, renaming or dedicating municipal assets after:
• The area or street in which the property or facility is located to provide a
geographical association to help the public to locate a park, bridge, or facility more
easily.
• The most dominant "constant feature either within or nearby" the selected site
such as an associated significant ecological or natural resource feature.
• A historical name related to Aurora's heritage and/or historical folklore.
• An event or person of international, national, or provincial significance.
• An organization or individual to recognize:
o particular activities and significant contributions to the community; and/or
o outstanding contributions and/or sponsorships made toward the
Page 16 of 104
5
development and/or enhancement of a property or facility.
Specific Criteria for Commemorative Naming
Where the commemorative naming of a municipal facility or park, is being requested, at
least one of the following criteria shall apply:
• The nominated individual shall have demonstrated excellence, courage, or
exceptional service to the citizens of the Town of Aurora, the Province of Ontario
and/or Canada, including veterans of military conflicts.
• The nominated individual shall have an extraordinary community service record.
• The nominated individual shall have worked to foster equality and reduce
discrimination.
• The nominated individual shall have a direct relationship or association that
existed between the place of residence or community efforts undertaken by
the individual and the property, facility, or amenity to be named.
• The nominated individual may be recognized for a significant financial contribution
to a park or facility, where that contribution significantly benefits the community
that the park or facility serves.
• The nominated individual name shall have historical significance.
Where the name of an individual or organization is so used, approval shall be
obtained from the individual (his/her family) or the organization for such
naming.
Single Use
A commemorative name should only be used once. The single use of a
commemorative name shall apply as of the effective date of this policy.
Renaming of Commemoratively Named Assets
The names of municipal assets named commemoratively should not be changed
unless it is found that the individual’s personal character is, or was, such that the
continued use of their name for a park or facility would not be in the best interest of the
community.
Page 17 of 104
6
Processes
The naming process for municipal assets may involve a different course of action
depending on the circumstances surrounding the request/requirement for naming.
Council initiated naming/renaming
• Council may at any time initiate the process of naming an asset by Member
Motion.
Staff recommendation for naming/renaming
• Staff shall review this policy to ensure that the proposed name conforms to the
criteria herein.
• Staff prepare a report to Council for consideration.
Third party initiated naming/renaming
• Upon receipt of a proposed asset naming/renaming, staff shall review the
proposal with the CAO.
• Upon approval from the CAO, staff shall review the third-party request against the
criteria outlined in this policy, and if determined to meet the criteria, staff will
prepare a report to Council for consideration.
Town of Aurora Council has the final authority for approving any naming of a municipal
asset.
Renaming
Generally, changing the name of an existing asset is not encouraged. However, if it is
deemed appropriate to change the name, the renaming process shall be identical to
the naming process and require Town Council as the final authority for approving the
proposed municipal asset name. However, the renaming of an existing
commemoration shall be subject to a minimum of a 60-day public consultation period.
If an application is intended to displace an existing commemorative name, before a
Renaming Application is accepted, the nominator must have written permission from
the family or next of kin of the person that is to be displaced. Where a renaming has
been initiated because of a development proposal, the proponent may be required to
resolve any opposition that may exist to the renaming, prior to the presentation of a
report to Council.
Page 18 of 104
7
Renaming process:
1. Requests for renaming of a public asset shall be submitted in writing to the
appropriate department (e.g., Community Services for renaming of recreation
facilities, Operational Services for renaming of parks).
2. Staff will conduct, where possible, comprehensive research into the history and
rationale associated with the existing name of the facility being proposed for
renaming. This will include communicating with any remaining family
descendants of the named person, the Aurora Museum and Archives, and the
Aurora Historical Society.
3. The receiving department shall submit a Report to Council outlining the details of
the renaming request and all of the pertinent history associated with the pre-
existing facility name and outline any potential conflicts that the renaming may
present. The report will include all aspects of the renaming proposal including
approximate financial implications associated with revision to maps, signage,
and other printed material.
4. Following the direction of Council, staff will circulate appropriate notice of the
proposed renaming to the following interested stakeholders and public, advising
of the intended name change and a timeframe within which to submit any
comments.
a. Remaining family members or individuals that can be identified and are in any
way associated or connected with the existing asset name.
b. Family members or individuals associated with the proposed new name of the
asset.
c. The Aurora Historical Society.
d. The public at large, through appropriate media and the Town’s website for a
60-day period.
e. Responses will be received from any of the above contacts for a period of 60
days from the date of the initial communication.
5. The above process does not apply to renaming of an Aaset currently named in
accordance with a Sponsorship, where that sponsorship agreement is nearing
conclusion.
Page 19 of 104
8
Other
A Member of Council may also request that a municipal asset be considered for
renaming, in accordance with the renaming process outlined above, through a member
motion.
Responsibilities
All Staff
Staff shall refer all requests for naming or renaming of a municipal asset to their
department head.
Management
Management shall refer all requests for naming or renaming of a municipal asset to
their department head and provide support in reviewing the requests where appropriate.
Executive Leadership
The Executive Leadership Team shall provide appropriate direction to staff and report to
Council in accordance with this policy.
Specific Departments
The Community Services Department shall be responsible for the administration of this
policy as it pertains to the naming/renaming of Facilities, Facility Amenities, and Park
Amenities that fall within the scope of the Recreation Facility Sponsorship Program.
The Operational Services Department shall be responsible for the administration of this
policy as it pertains to the naming/renaming of Parks and Park Amenities.
References
1. Street Naming Policy
2. Park Bench Donation Program
3. Memorial Tree Planting Policy
4. Recreation Facility Sponsorship Program
Review Timeline
This policy will be reviewed 5 years after the initial approval date.
Page 20 of 104
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Committee of the Whole Report
No. CS24 -0 21
Subject: Fence By-law Variance Request
Prepared by: Alexander Wray, Manager of Bylaw Services
Department: Corporate Services
Date: September 3, 2024
Recommendation
1. That Report No. CS24-021 be received; and
2. That a variance to Fence By-law No. 6429-22 to permit the construction of a non-
compliant fence in the front yard at 241 Holladay Drive be denied.
Executive Summary
The purpose of this report is to consider a request from the property owner of 241
Holladay Drive to erect a front yard fence with a maximum height of 1.80 metres. The
permitted height in the Town’s Fence and Pool Enclosure By-law No. 6429-22 (the “By-
law”) is 1.2 metres. The proposed fence will serve as an extension of space for the
property’s side yard, which currently serves as its backyard. If approved, the fence will
exceed the permitted height of a front yard fence by 0.60 meters.
If a variance to the Town’s existing By-law is granted, it is likely to set a
community precedent.
Historical data indicates that the Town has only received three formal requests
for a fence variance or exemption in the past.
Background
The subject property is an end unit townhome situated in the Leslie Street and Holladay
Drive neighbourhood of Ward 6. The dwelling is a corner lot which fronts onto Holladay
Drive. The Fence and Pool Enclosure By-law No. 6429-22, being a By-law to regulate
and prescribe the standards for fences and pool enclosures (the “By-law”), permits the
Page 21 of 104
September 3, 2024 2 of 4 Report No. CS24-021
height of 1.2 metres for a fence in a front yard of a residential neighbourhood. The
proposed fence will measure a maximum of 1.8 metres in height and exceeds the
permitted height. Additionally, the By-law requires front yard fences to be constructed
using Open-Fence Construction.
The property owner has proactively contacted the Bylaw Services Division to seek
approval for the proposed fence. As part of their application, the property owner has
submitted three letters of support from adjacent property owners. Bylaw Services has
provided notice to all abutting property owners advising them of the variance request
and how they can delegate to Council.
Analysis
If a variance to the Town’s existing By-law is granted, it is likely to set a community
precedent.
Fencing is a common solution to address privacy, security, and aesthetics. A variance to
the By-law would set a precedent within the community and may permit other properties
to go through the same process. By permitting the variance both current and future
decisions may be viewed as subjective and would strongly diminish the integrity of the
Town’s By-law.
Historical data indicates that the Town has only received three formal requests for a
fence variance or exemption in the past.
Available historical data indicates that the Town has only received three formal fence
exemption requests in the past. Report No. BA05-016 was brought to Council in
December 2004 to address noise and dust concerns at 15516 Leslie Street as a result
of development on the State Farm/Desjardins lands. This fence has since been
removed due to redevelopment on the property. Report No. CS19-011 was brought forth
in February 2019 for privacy reasons at 203 St. John’s Sideroad West, and in November
2021, Report No. CS21-059 was brought forth for an illegal fence on Knowles Crescent.
At the respective Council meetings, Council approved the request for 15516 Leslie
Street and refused the requests for the remaining properties.
Advisory Committee Review
Not applicable.
Page 22 of 104
September 3, 2024 3 of 4 Report No. CS24-021
Legal Considerations
In accordance with Section 9 of the By-law, where a proposed fence does not comply
with the By-law, the owner may request a variance from any of the applicable provisions
of the By-law, including height. Council is the approval authority for all variance
requests. Any decision of Council is deemed to be final without any further right of
appeal.
If Council approves the variance request, any variance granted is effective and valid
until such time as the fence to which the variance applies is substantially replaced or
removed entirely, unless otherwise specified by Council as part of its decision.
Financial Implications
There are no financial implications to the Town as a result of this report.
Communications Considerations
There are no communications considerations as a result of this report.
Climate Change Considerations
The items for consideration in this report do not impact climate change.
Link to Strategic Plan
N/A
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
1. Council approve the applicant’s request for a Fence variance at 241 Holladay Drive,
until such time that the fence requires replacement.
Conclusions
For reasons outlined in this report, staff are recommending the provisions of the By-law
be upheld and the variance request refused.
Page 23 of 104
September 3, 2024 4 of 4 Report No. CS24-021
Attachments
Attachment 1 – Property Photographs
Attachment 2 – Lot Survey
Attachment 3 – Letters of support
Previous Reports
N/A
Pre-submission Review
Agenda Management Team review on August 15, 2024
Approvals
Approved by Patricia De Sario, Director, Corporate Services/Town Solicitor
Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer
Page 24 of 104
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Page 25 of 104
Page 26 of 104
SCALE: 1 :300
PROPOSED BACKYARD EXTENSION AND FENCE RELOCATION
HAS BEEN OVERLAYED ON SNAP SHOT TAKEN FROM:
PLAN OF SURVEY OF BLOCKS 127,128,129 AND 130
PLAN 65M-4519
TOWN OF AURORA
REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF YORK
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SITE LOCATION:
241 HOLLADAY DR. AURORA, ONT.
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PROJECT NAME: BACKYARD EXTENSION-RELOCATION PRIVACY FENCE DRAWN BY OWNER: 1------------------------------------<OVID/U BERINOEAN PROJECT No
2024-01
PROJECT ADDRESS: 241 HOLLADAY DRIVE, AURORA, ONT.
DRAWING TITLE: SITE PLAN
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SCALE AS SHOWN DWG.1
Attachment 2
Page 27 of 104
Page 28 of 104
Attachment 3Page 29 of 104
Page 30 of 104
Page 31 of 104
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Committee of the Whole Report
No. CS2 4 -0 22
Subject: Addition of Illumination Requests to the Town’s Flag Policy
Prepared by: Michael de Rond, Town Clerk
Department: Corporate Services
Date: September 3, 2024
Recommendation
1. That Report No. CS24-022 be received; and
2. That the updated Flag Protocol, Flag Raising and Illumination Request Policy
(attachment 1) be approved.
Executive Summary
This report seeks approval to include illumination requests as part of the Flags Protocol
and Flag Raising policy. The report touches on the following;
The new building at Aurora Town Square, located at 50 Victoria Street, will be
able to illuminate the exterior of the façade enabling the Town to accept
illumination requests.
Minor updates to the policy have also been included for adoption.
Background
The current Flag Protocol and Flag Raising policy guides staff with regards to proper
protocol for how and where the Town displays National, Provincial and local flags. The
policy also provides criteria for the flying of community flags that promote an event or
cause.
The original Flag Protocol and Flag Raising policy was approved by Council on May 11,
2015. Since then, staff have reviewed the policy every two to three years, however,
further updates requiring Council approval have not been deemed necessary until now.
Page 32 of 104
September 3, 2024 2 of 4 Report No. CS24-022
Analysis
The new building at Aurora Town Square, located at 50 Victoria Street, will be able to
illuminate the exterior of the façade enabling the Town to accept illumination requests.
Requests for illumination of Town buildings have become more frequent in recent
years. Many charities and not-for-profits prefer the greater exposure illumination
provides (particularly at night) versus a flag raising at Town Hall. It’s also much more
cost-effective for these groups without time and flag expenditures. With the enhanced
illumination capabilities of the new building at Aurora Town Square, staff recommend
that illumination requests be accepted and approved by the Town Clerk in accordance
with the terms outlined in the attached “Flag Protocol, Flag Raising and Illumination
Policy.”
For those not familiar with illuminating the exterior façade of a building in support of a
cause and seeking an example, the CN Tower also accepts requests for illumination as
well.
Minor updates to the policy have also been included for adoption.
Staff have taken this opportunity to update language, correct errors and transfer the
policy to the new policy template.
Advisory Committee Review
None
Legal Considerations
The proposed policy has been reviewed by the Corporate Management Team and the
Executive Leadership Team in accordance with the Town’s policy program.
Financial Implications
There are no financial implications as a result of this report.
Page 33 of 104
September 3, 2024 3 of 4 Report No. CS24-022
Communications Considerations
Communications will inform the public about the changes to the Flag Protocol and Flag
Raising policy by posting to the website and updating the webpage to accept
illumination requests.
Climate Change Considerations
None
Link to Strategic Plan
Accepting illumination requests strengthens the Town’s commitment to increasing
awareness of our not-for-profit partners.
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
1. Council provide direction.
Conclusions
This report seeks approval to start accepting illumination requests for the new building
at Aurora Town Square, located at 50 Victoria Street.
Attachments
Attachment 1 – Flag Protocol, Flag Raising and Illumination Policy (clean)
Attachment 2 – Flag Protocol, Flag Raising and Illumination Policy (track changes)
Previous Reports
None
Pre-submission Review
Agenda Management Team review on August 14, 2024
Page 34 of 104
September 3, 2024 4 of 4 Report No. CS24-022
Approvals
Approved by Patricia De Sario, Director, Corporate Services/Town Solicitor
Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer
Page 35 of 104
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Policy
Legislative Services
Contact: Town Clerk, Legislative Services
Approval Authority: Council
Effective: May 11, 2015
Revised: September 24, 2024
______________________________________________________________________________________
Flag Protocol, Flag Raising and Illumination Policy
Purpose
This policy establishes a framework to govern the regular protocol for flying flags at all
Town facilities, and the criteria for the approval of the raising of International or Civic
Flags or Community Flags. Additionally, this policy defines the parameters for receiving
and approving illumination requests for the building located at 50 Victoria Street in
Aurora Town Square.
Scope
This policy applies to the flying of flags outside all Town Facilities and to illumination
requests received for 50 Victoria Street. Additionally, the “Flying a Flag at Half Mast”
section of this policy applies to any flag display regularly maintained by the Town Staff
on other lands that are not within the meaning of Town Facilities (e.g. the flag displays
located within the medians of Wellington Street).
Definitions
Clerk
The Clerk appointed by the Council pursuant to requirements of section 228 of the
Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 25, as amended, or their designate.
Council
The Aurora Town Council.
Community Flag
The flag adopted by any non-governmental organization. For greater certainty
Community Flag does not include a flag that in the opinion of the Clerk is an
International or Civic Flag.
CYFS
The Central York Fire Services.
Attachment 1
Page 36 of 104
2
CYFS Facilities
Any building owned or leased by the CYFS within Aurora.
Flying a Flag at Half-Mast
The action of flying all flags, forming a single display of flags, at a position that is equal
distance from the top and bottom of a flagpole, to mark periods of mourning or to
commemorate solemn occasions.
Illumination
The use of multi-colour lighting installations to light the façade of the building located at
50 Victoria Street in support of a cause.
International or Civic Flag
Any official flag of:
• A sovereign state other than Canada, including official territorial divisions
established by a particular sovereign state (e.g. states, provinces, municipalities,
etc.); or,
• Any recognized international governmental / treaty organizations (e.g. United
Nations, NATO, etc.)
Logo
A flag displaying a logo and / or brand of the Town but does not include the Official
Town Flag.
National Flag of Canada
The flag approved by the Parliament of Canada as a national symbol of Canada.
Official Canadian Flags
A flag recognized by a competent Canadian federal or provincial government authority
(e.g., the Sovereigns Personal Standard, The Governor General’s standard, etc.), but
does not include the National Flag of Canada.
Official Town Flag
The flag adopted by Council as a symbol of the municipality, and any flag that is granted
to the Town or approved by the Canadian Heraldic Authority but does not include a Logo
Flag.
Ontario Provincial Flag
The flag approved by the Legislative Assembly of Ontario as a provincial symbol of
Ontario.
Procedural By-law
Page 37 of 104
3
The Town’s Procedure By-law, that is enacted by Council in accordance with the
requirements of subsection 238(2) of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, as
amended.
Town
The Corporation of the Town of Aurora.
Town Facilities
Any building owned or leased by the Town for the purpose of providing municipal
services.
Policy
General Principles
The following general principles will apply in respect to all aspects of this Policy, and be
used when interpreting the Policy:
• The Town will fly flags having regards to well established protocol for the flying
of flags, including but not limited to:
o The rules and protocols established by the Government of Canada for the
National Flag of Canada.
o The rules and protocols established by the Government of Ontario for the
Ontario Provincial Flag.
• The Town will only fly International or Civic Flags of organizations that are
approved or recognized by federal, provincial or municipal governments of
Canada.
• The Town will not fly flags at any Town Facility representing groups or
organizations whose principles, purposes, or activities are contrary to the laws of
Canada, the laws of the Province of Ontario, or contrary to the principles of the
Town.
• Flags at Town Facilities will be flown at half-mast to mark periods of official
mourning or commemorate solemn occasions important to the residents of the
Town.
Customary Flag Protocol
a) The Town will fly the National Flag of Canada, the Ontario Provincial Flag and the
Official Town Flag at all Town Facilities, in a configuration described in this
policy.
b) Notwithstanding section (a) of the policy, the Town may fly a flag associated
with an award or recognition of significance received by the Town in place of the
Official Town Flag.
c) Only one flag may be flown on a single flagpole at the same time.
Page 38 of 104
4
d) Flags must be in good condition. When a flag becomes worn, noticeably faded, or
otherwise unfit for display, it must be disposed of in a dignified manner and in
accordance with the National Flag of Canada etiquette.
Three (3) Flagpole Display
e) Where a Town Facility has a three (3) flagpole display, the National Flag of
Canada, the Ontario Provincial Flag and the Official Town Flag will be flown. The
National Flag of Canada will be flown on the centre flagpole which is the
customary position of honour. To an observer facing the display, the Provincial
Flag of Ontario will fly to the left of the National Flag of Canada, and the Official
Town Flag will be flown to its right. Other flags will not be flown on these
flagpoles, except in the circumstances noted in, the “Official Canadian Flags and
International Flags” section, and the “Community Flag Raising” section of this
policy.
Two (2) Flagpole Display
f) Where a Town Facility has a two (2) flagpole display, the National Flag of Canada
and the Official Town Flag will be flown. As the customary position of honour, the
left flagpole to an observer facing the display will be used to fly the National Flag
of Canada. Other flags will not be flown on these flagpoles, except in the
circumstances noted in, the “Official Canadian Flags and International Flags”
section, and the “Community Flag Raising” section of this policy.
One (1) Flagpole Display
g) The National Flag of Canada will be flown at a Town Facility with only one (1)
flagpole. Other flags will not be flown on these flagpoles, except in the
circumstances noted in the “Official Canadian Flags and International Flags”
section, and the “Community Flag Raising” section of this policy.
Aurora Cenotaph
h) Notwithstanding the provisions of sections (a) to (f) of this policy, the flag(s)
flown at the Aurora Cenotaph will follow the protocol established by the Royal
Canadian Legion.
Logo Flag
i) Where a Town Facility has a four (4) flagpole display, the National Flag of
Canada, the Ontario Provincial Flag, the Official Town Flag, and the Logo Flag will
be flown. To an observer facing the display the National Flag of Canada will be
flown on the left flagpole, the Provincial Flag of Ontario will fly to the immediate
right of the National Flag of Canada, the Official Town Flag will flyto the
immediate right of the Provincial Flag of Ontario, and the Logo Flag will be flown
to the immediate right of the Official Town Flag. Other flags will not be flown on
these flagpoles, except in the circumstances noted in, the “Official Canadian
Page 39 of 104
5
Flags and International Flag Raising” section, and the “Community Flag Raisings”
section of this policy.
Official Canadian Flags and International Flag Raisings
The Town may fly Official Canadian Flags or International or Civic Flags as part of an
official visit by a dignitary or delegation, or for periods of time determined appropriate
by the Clerk
When flying Official Canadian Flags or International or Civic Flags, the Clerk will
coordinate the proper display of the flag or symbol in consultation with the proper
protocol authorities.
Community Flag Raisings
A request to fly a Community Flag at a Town Facility will be submitted to the Clerk in
writing at least four (4) weeks prior to the date on which the flag is to be flown.
The Clerk is delegated the authority to approve and deny any request to fly a Community
Flag at a Town Facility. When considering the request, the Clerk will have regard for the
General Principles and Community Flag Raising Criteria sections of this policy and past
practice of the Town.
Where a proclamation has been issued by the Mayor in accordance with the Procedural
By-law, a request to raise a flag associated with that proclamation will be deemed to
meet any criteria set-out in this policy.
The Clerk may refer any request to fly a Community Flag at a Town Facility for Council’s
consideration when deemed appropriate by the Clerk.
Community Flag Raising Criteria
The Town will only fly a Community Flag at a Town facility that is the flag of a non-profit
or charitable organization or group, provided that the purpose, principles and works of
that organization or group are not contrary to the principles and policies of the Town,
and are generally important to Canada, Ontario or the Town.
The Community Flag of a partisan or religious organization or group, as determined by
the Clerk, will not be flown at a Town Facility.
Flying a Flag at Half-Mast
Official Mourning
Flags at all Town facilities, as well as flag displays regularly maintained by the Town
Staff on other lands that are not within the meaning of Town Facilities, will be flown at
half-mast to mark periods of official mourning upon the death of:
a) The Sovereign.
Page 40 of 104
6
b) A Member of the Canadian Royal Family.
c) The Governor General of Canada, or a former Governor General.
d) The Prime Minister of Canada, or a former Prime Minister of Canada.
e) The Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, Parliament of Canada.
f) The Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.
g) The Premier of Ontario, or a former Premier of Ontario.
h) The Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, Legislative Assembly of Ontario
i) A local Member of Parliament, or a local Member of the Legislative Assembly
of Ontario.
j) The Regional Chair or a former Regional Chair.
k) The Mayor or a former Mayor.
l) A Member of Council or a former Member of Council.
m) A current employee of the Town.
n) A current member of Central York Fire Services.
o) A York Region Police Officer who dies in the line of duty.
p) A resident of the Town, who is a member of the Canadian Armed Forces,
killed while deployed on operations or while on active duty.
Duration of Official Mourning
In the case of a national or provincial official referred to in sections (a) to (i) under
Official Mourning of this policy, flags will be flown at half-mast for the duration
established by the appropriate federal or provincial protocol offices.
In the case of an official referred to in sections (j), (n), (o) and (p), under Official
Mourning flags will be flown at half-mast for the same duration as established by the
organization named in each of those sections.
In the case of a Town official or employee referred to in subsections (k) to (m) under
Official Mourning, flags will be flown at half-mast from the date the notice of death is
received until sunset on the date of the funeral for that individual. Flags will normally be
flown at half-mast for no more than five (5) days except in exceptional circumstances at
the discretion of the Clerk.
Annual Commemoration of Solemn Occasions
Flags will be flown at half-mast, at all Town facilities, to commemorate the following
solemn occasions on the appropriate days:
• Day of Mourning for Persons Killed or Injured in the Workplace (April 28)
• Remembrance Day (November 11)
• National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
(December 6).
Page 41 of 104
7
Other Solemn Occasions
The flying of flags at half-mast in commemoration of other periods of official mourning
and solemn occasions may be approved by the Clerk having regards to the General
Principles of this policy.
CYFS Facilities
Recognizing that the CYFS is an entity of the Town of Newmarket, the Clerk is delegated
the authority to establish protocols between the Town and the CYFS to facilitate the
flying of flags at half-mast at CYFS Facilities during periods of official mourning or the
commemoration of other solemn occasions referred to in the following sections of this
policy:
• Official Mourning
• Duration of Official Mourning
• Annual Commemoration of Solemn Occasions
• Other Solemn Occasions
Illumination Requests
Organizations can request the illumination of the building located at 50 Victoria Street
to support a specific cause. The Town will acknowledge requests from non-profit or
charitable organization or group, provided that the purpose, principles and works of that
organization or group are not contrary to the principles and policies of the Town, and
are generally important to Canada, Ontario or the Town. Requests for illumination must
be made four (4) weeks prior to the requested date of illumination and include the
following:
• Name of requesting organization.
• Contact information.
• Requested event / occasion.
• Date and time of event / occasion.
• Explanation or purpose of the event / occasion
• Description of the applicant, including any local, national, or international
affiliation, brief history, and any other relevant information
• Colour of lights requested.
When a request is received, the Town Clerk will review and approve the request based
on the following points:
Page 42 of 104
8
• The nature of the cause.
• The organization’s history and background, as provided in the request form.
• The participation of any other building(s) or monument(s).
• The diversity of causes presented throughout the year.
The Clerk may refer any request for illumination at 50 Victoria Street for Council’s
consideration when deemed appropriate by the Clerk.
The Clerk may apply discretion to approve or deny a lighting request and reserves the
right to cancel a lighting request as necessary.
Responsibilities
Council
• Approving and amending this Policy; and
• Deciding on any matter referred by the Clerk to Council.
Town Clerk
• Exercising any authority delegated to the Clerk by this Policy;
• Administering the operation of this Policy;
• Interpreting this Policy; and
• Creating any procedure that the Clerk deems necessary and expedient to
implement this Policy.
• Approving community flag raising and illumination requests.
Monitoring and Maintenance
CAO / Directors / Managers / supervisors and employees should work collaboratively to
resolve issues related to this policy. Any employee found to be disrespecting the terms
of this policy other than under exceptional circumstances, emergencies or operational
requirement is subject to an investigation and discipline deemed appropriate by their
immediate supervisor, Human Resources, the Town Clerk and / or CAO.
This policy will be reviewed two years from its effective or revision date, in accordance
with the Town of Aurora’s policy maintenance schedule.
Page 43 of 104
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Policy
Legislative Services
Contact: Town Clerk, Legislative Services
Approval Authority: Council
Effective: May 11, 2015
Revised: September 24, 2024
______________________________________________________________________________________
Flag Protocol, & Flag Raising and Illumination Policy
Purpose
This policy establishes a framework to govern the regular protocol for flying flags at all
Town facilities, and the criteria for the approval of the raising of International or Civic
Flags or Community Flags. Additionally, this policy defines the parameters for receiving
and approving illumination requests for the building located at 50 Victoria Street in
Aurora Town Square.
Scope
This policy applies to the flying of flagsflats outside all Town Facilities and to
illumination requests received for 50 Victoria Street. Additionally, the “Flying a Flag at
Half Mast” section of this policy applies to any flag display regularly maintained by the
Town Staff on other lands that are not within the meaning of Town Facilities (e.g. the
flag displays located within the medians of Wellington Street).
Definitions
Clerk
The Clerk appointed by the Council pursuant to requirements of section 228 of the
Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 25, as amended, or their designate.
Council
The Aurora Town Council.
Community Flag
The flag adopted by any non-governmental organization. For greater certainty
Community Flag does not include a flag that in the opinion of the Clerk is an
International or Civic Flag.
CYFS
The Central York Fire Services.
Formatted: Line spacing: Multiple 1.15 li
Attachment 2
Page 44 of 104
2
CYFS Facilities
Any building owned or leased by the CYFS within Aurora.
Flying a Flag at Half-Mast
The action of flying all flags, forming a single display of flags, at a position that is equal
distance from the top and bottom of a flagpole, to mark periods of mourning or to
commemorate solemn occasions.
Illumination
The use of multi-colour lighting installations to light the façade of the building located at
50 Victoria Street in support of a cause.
International or Civic Flag
Any official flag of:
• A sovereign state other than Canada, including official territorial divisions
established by a particular sovereign state (e.g. states, provinces, municipalities,
etc.); or,
• Any recognized international governmental / treaty organizations (e.g. United
Nations, NATO, etc.)
Logo
A flag displaying a logo and / or brand of the Town but does not include the Official
Town Flag.
National Flag of Canada
The flag approved by the Parliament of Canada as a national symbol of Canada.
Official Canadian Flags
A flag recognized by a competent Canadian federal or provincial government authority
(e.g., the Sovereigns Personal Standard, The Governor General’s standard, etc.), but
does not include the National Flag of Canada.
Official Town Flag
The flag adopted by Council as a symbol of the municipality, and any flag that is granted
to the Town or approved by the Canadian Heraldic Authority but does not include a Logo
Flag.
Ontario Provincial Flag
The flag approved by the Legislative Assembly of Ontario as a provincial symbol of
Ontario.
Procedural By-law
Formatted: Font: Bold
Page 45 of 104
3
The Town’s Procedure By-law, Procedural By-law 5330-11, as amended, or its successor
by-law, that is enacted by Council in accordance with the requirements of subsection
238(2) of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended.
Town
The Corporation of the Town of Aurora.
Town Facilities
Any building owned or leased by the Town for the purpose of providing municipal
services.
Policy
General Principles
The following general principles will apply in respect to all aspects of this Policy, and be
used when interpreting the Policy:
• The Town will fly flags having regards to well established protocol for the flying
of flags, including but not limited to:
o The rules and protocols established by the Government of Canada for the
National Flag of Canada.
o The rules and protocols established by the Government of Ontario for the
Ontario Provincial Flag.
• The Town will only fly International or Civic Flags of organizations that are
approved or recognized by federal, provincial or municipal governments of
Canada.
• The Town will not fly flags at any Town Facility representing groups or
organizations whose principles, purposes, or activities are contrary to the laws of
Canada, the laws of the Province of Ontario, or contrary to the principles of the
Town.
• Flags at Town Facilities will be flown at half-mast to mark periods of official
mourning or commemorate solemn occasions important to the residents of the
Town.
Customary Flag Protocol
a) The Town will fly the National Flag of Canada, the Ontario Provincial Flag and the
Official Town Flag at all Town Facilities, in a configuration described in sections
(c) to (f) of this policy.
b) Notwithstanding section (a) of the policy, the Town may fly a flag associated
with an award or recognition of significance received by the Town in place of the
Official Town Flag.
c) Only one flag may be flown on a single flagpole at the same time.
Page 46 of 104
4
c)d) Flags must be in good condition. When a flag becomes worn, noticeably
faded, or otherwise unfit for display, it must be disposed of in a dignified manner
and in accordance with the National Flag of Canada etiquette.
Three (3) Flagpole Policy Display
d)e) Where a Town Facility has a three (3) flag pole display, the National Flag
of Canada, the Ontario Provincial Flag and the Official Town Flag will be flown.
The National Flag of Canada will be flown on the centre flagpole which is the
customary position of honour. To an observer facing the display, the Provincial
Flag of Ontario will fly to the left of the National Flag of Canada, and the Official
Town Flag will be flown to its right. Other flags will not be flown on these
flagpoles, except in the circumstances noted in section (b), the “Official Canadian
Flags and International Flags” section, and the “Community Flag Raising” section
of this policy.
Two (2) Flagpole Pole Display
e)f) Where a Town Facility has a two (2) flag pole display, the National Flag of
Canada and the Official Town Flag will be flown. As the customary position of
honour, the left flagpole to an observer facing the display will be used to fly the
National Flag of Canada. Other flags will not be flown on these flagpoles, except
in the circumstances noted in section (b), the “Official Canadian Flags and
International Flags” section, and the “Community Flag Raising” section of this
policy.
One (1) Flagpole Pole Display
f)g) The National Flag of Canada will be flown at a Town Facility with only one
(1) flagpole. Other flags will not be flown on these flagpoles, except in the
circumstances noted in the “Official Canadian Flags and International Flags”
section, and the “Community Flag Raising” section of this policy.
Aurora Cenotaph
g)h) Notwithstanding the provisions of sections (a) to (f) of this policy, the
flag(s) flown at the Aurora Cenotaph will follow the protocol established by the
Royal Canadian Legion.
Logo Flag
h)i) Where a Town Facility has a four (4) flag pole display, the National Flag of
Canada, the Ontario Provincial Flag, the Official Town Flag, and the Logo Flag will
be flown. To an observer facing the display the National Flag of Canada will be
flown on the left flagpole, the Provincial Flag of Ontario will fly to the immediate
right of the National Flag of Canada, the Official Town Flag will flyflown to the
immediate right of the Provincial Flag of Ontario, and the Logo Flag will be flown
to the immediate right of the Official Town Flag. Other flags will not be flown on
Page 47 of 104
5
these flagpoles, except in the circumstances noted in section (b), the “Official
Canadian Flags and International Flag Raising” section, and the “Community Flag
Raisings” section of this policy.
Official Canadian Flags and International Flag Raisings
The Town may fly Official Canadian Flags or International or Civic Flags as part of an
official visit by a dignitary or delegation, or for periods of time determined appropriate
by the Clerk.
When flying Official Canadian Flags or International or Civic Flags, the Clerk will
coordinate the proper display of the flag or symbol in consultation with the proper
protocol authorities.
Community Flag Raisings
A request to fly a Community Flag at a Town Facility will be submitted to the Clerk in
writing at least four (4) weeks prior to the date on which the flag is to be flown.
The Clerk is delegated the authority to approve and deny any request to fly a Community
Flag at a Town Facility. When considering the request, the Clerk will have regards to for
the General Principles and Community Flag Raising Criteria sections of this Ppolicy and
past practice of the Town.
Where a proclamation has been issued by the Mayor in accordance with the Procedural
By-law, a request to raise a flag associated with that proclamation will be deemed to
meet any criteria set-out in this policy.
The Clerk may refer any request to fly a Community Flag at a Town Facility for Council’s
consideration when deemed appropriate by the Clerk.
Community Flag Raising Criteria
The Town will only fly a Community Flag at a Town facility that is the flag of a non-profit
or charitable organization or group, provided that the purpose, principles and works of
that organization or group are not contrary to the principles and policies of the Town,
and are generally important to Canada, Ontario or the Town.
The Community Flag of a partisan or religious organization or group, as determined by
the Clerk, will not be flown at a Town Facility.
Flying a Flag at Half-Mast
Official Mourning
Flags at all Town facilities, as well as flag displays regularly maintained by the Town
Staff on other lands that are not within the meaning of Town Facilities, will be flown at
half-mast to mark periods of official mourning upon the death of:
Page 48 of 104
6
a) The Sovereign.
b) A Member of the Canadian Royal Family.
c) The Governor General of Canada, or a former Governor General.
d) The Prime Minister of Canada, or a former Prime Minister of Canada.
e) The Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, Parliament of Canada.
f) The Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.
g) The Premier of Ontario, or a former Premier of Ontario.
h) The Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, Legislative Assembly of Ontario
i) A local Member of Parliament, or a local Member of the Legislative Assembly
of Ontario.
j) The Regional Chair or a former Regional Chair.
k) The Mayor or a former Mayor.
l) A Member of Council or a former Member of Council.
m) A current employee of the Town.
n) A current member of Central York Fire Services.
o) A York Region Police Officer who dies in the line of duty.
p) A resident of the Town, who is a member of the Canadian Armed Forces,
killed while deployed on operations or while on active duty.
Duration of Official Mourning
In the case of a national or provincial official referred to in sections (a) to (i) under
Official Mourning of this policy, flags will be flown at half-mast for the duration
established by the appropriate federal or provincial protocol offices.
In the case of an official referred to in sections (j), (n), (o) and (p), under Official
Mourning flags will be flown at half-mast for the same duration as established by the
organization named in each of those sections.
In the case of a Town official or employee referred to in subsections (k) to (m) under
Official Mourning, flags will be flown at half-mast from the date the notice of death is
received until sunset on the date of the funeral for that individual. Flags will normally be
flown at half-mast for no more than five (5) days except in exceptional circumstances at
the discretion of the Clerk.
Annual Commemoration of Solemn Occasions
Flags will be flown at half-mast, at all Town facilities, to commemorate the following
solemn occasions on the appropriate days:
• Day of Mourning for Persons Killed or Injured in the Workplace (April 28)
• Remembrance Day (November 11)
• National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
(December 6).
Page 49 of 104
7
Other Solemn Occasions
The flying of flags at half-mast in commemoration of other periods of official mourning
and solemn occasions may be approved by the Clerk having regards to the General
Principles of this policy.
CYFS Facilities
Recognizing that the CYFS is an entity of the Town of Newmarket, the Clerk is delegated
the authority to establish protocols between the Town and the CYFS to facilitate the
flying of flags at half-mast at CYFS Facilities during periods of official mourning or the
commemoration of other solemn occasions referred to in the following sections of this
policy:
• Official Mourning
• Duration of Official Mourning
• Annual Commemoration of Solemn Occasions
• Other Solemn Occasions
Illumination Requests
Organizations can request the illumination of the building located at 50 Victoria Street
to support a specific cause. The Town will acknowledge requests from non-profit or
charitable organization or group, provided that the purpose, principles and works of that
organization or group are not contrary to the principles and policies of the Town, and
are generally important to Canada, Ontario or the Town. Requests for illumination must
be made four (4) weeks prior to the requested date of illumination and include the
following:
• Name of requesting organization.
• Contact information.
• Requested event / occasion.
• Date and time of event / occasion.
• Explanation or purpose of the event / occasion
• Description of the applicant, including any local, national, or international
affiliation, brief history, and any other relevant information
• Colour of lights requested.
When a request is received, the Town Clerk will review and approve the request based
on the following points:
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Page 50 of 104
8
• The nature of the cause.
• The organization’s history and background, as provided in the request form.
• The participation of any other building(s) or monument(s).
• The diversity of causes presented throughout the year.
The Clerk may refer any request for illumination at 50 Victoria Street for Council’s
consideration when deemed appropriate by the Clerk.
The Clerk may apply discretion to approve or deny a lighting request and reserves the
right to cancel a lighting request as necessary.
Responsibilities
Council
• Approving and amending this Policy; and
• Ddeciding on any matter referred by the Clerk to Council.
Town Clerk
• Eexercising any authority delegated to the Clerk by this Policy;
• Aadministering the operation of this Policy;
• Iinterpreting this Policy; and
• Ccreating any procedure that the Clerk deems necessary and expedient to
implement this Policy.
• Approving community flag raising and illumination requests.
Monitoring and ComplianceMaintenance
In accordance with the Town of Aurora policies, collective agreement and applicable
legislation and policies any non-compliance with this policy will result in an
investigation. Any employee found to be disrespecting the terms of this policy other
than under exceptional circumstances, emergencies or operational requirement is
subject to possible discipline up to and including termination. CAO / Director /
Managers / supervisors and employees should work collaboratively to resolve issues
related to this policy. Employees can escalate issues to Human Resources where
difficulties continue.
CAO / Directors / Managers / supervisors and employees should work collaboratively to
resolve issues related to this policy. Any employee found to be disrespecting the terms
of this policy other than under exceptional circumstances, emergencies or operational
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Page 51 of 104
9
requirement is subject to an investigation and discipline deemed appropriate by their
immediate supervisor, Human Resources, the Town Clerk and / or CAO.
This policy will be reviewed two years from its effective or revision date, in accordance
with the Town of Aurora’s policy maintenance schedule.
References
• Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 25
o By-law-Procedural By-law-5330-11
•
Review Timeline
This policy will be reviewed 2 years after the initial approval date.
Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5", No bullets or
Page 52 of 104
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Committee of the Whole Report
No. FIN 2 4 -0 38
Subject: Asset Management Funding Strategy for 2025 and 2026
Prepared by: Sandy Dhillon, Senior Advisor, Financial Management
Department: Finance
Date: September 3, 2024
Recommendation
1. That Report No. FIN24-038 be received; and
2. That the short-term asset management reserve strategy for 2025 and 2026 be
approved; and
3. That the tax-funded portion of the ATS debt financing of $7.5M, be funded from the
hydro reserve fund, and not debt financed, be approved; and
4. That the operating budget for ATS tax-funded debt repayment be redirected to asset
management contributions be approved.
Executive Summary
The operating budget includes capital reserve contributions which is part of the overall
tax levy. This reserve contribution increases on an annual basis through the one percent
tax levy increase to support the Fiscal Strategy. Most of these funds go to support asset
management reserves, while the balance supports contributions to the growth and new
and studies and other reserves. The recently approved Corporate Asset Management
Plan (AMP) identifies the gap between the annual funding to the asset management
reserves and the annual asset management infrastructure capital requirements.
The current AMP recommends lower tax levy and rate funded contributions to
reserves than the previous AMP
Strategic use of reserve and debt management principles can be used to fund
the asset management reserves
Page 53 of 104
September 3, 2024 2 of 9 Report No. FIN24-038
Tax-funded asset management needs, for 2025 and 2026, can be met without
impacting the previously presented tax levy increase
All rate funded asset management contribution increases should be fully phased
in over a 10-year period
A roadmap is being developed to maintain the Town’s infrastructure along with
financial sustainability beyond 2027
Background
The Town’s present funding strategy includes an annual tax rate increase of one
percent in support of the fiscal strategy. Of this increase, approximately 0.16 percent is
contributed toward the growth & new and studies & other reserve. The remaining 0.84
percent annual increase is allocated in support of asset management reserves.
In the recently approved AMP, the defined level of service for the majority of tax funded
and user rate funded asset classes did not change, reflecting their present levels of
service. In support of the defined asset levels of service, the AMP recommended that
the infrastructure deficit be addressed through an annual tax rate increase over 15
years, meaning that an increase from the existing dedicated asset management annual
tax increase of 0.84 to 1.63 percent be adopted.
Similarly, for the user rate funded assets, the AMP recommends the Town adopt phase-
in periods of 15 years for water, 10 years for wastewater and 20 years for stormwater
networks resulting in dedicated annual rate increases of 2.89, 1.67 and 4.92 percent for
water, wastewater and stormwater, respectively. These recommended increases try to
find a balance between the annual burden placed on each service’s user rate, while
minimizing the time needed to reach a state of infrastructure affordability.
Analysis
The current AMP recommends lower tax levy and rate funded contributions to reserves
than the previous AMP
The current asset management plan is built upon defined levels of service for each
asset category and recommends a lower annual levy and rate increase in comparison to
the 2021 AMP recommendations which were determined based solely upon the
economic useful life of each asset class. The introduction of defined levels of service
for each asset category has enabled the Town to more accurately estimate asset
Page 54 of 104
September 3, 2024 3 of 9 Report No. FIN24-038
management needs, resulting an overall reduction to the estimated average annual
infrastructure deficit from $29.3 to $14.9 million, representing a reduction in the tax levy
pressure from 58.5 in 2021 to 27.5 percent in 2024.
The application of defined levels of service to the water, wastewater and storm water
asset categories has contributed to an increase in the estimated total average annual
cost requirement. These increases were also attributable to inflation and new additions.
Table 1 provides a summary of the levy/rate increase recommendation comparison
between current asset management plan and the 2021 asset management plan.
Table 1
Levy/Rate Recommended Annual Increase Comparison
All recommended tax/rate annual increases strive to find a balance between a
worsening infrastructure deficit and/or level of service over time with the financial
impact on the tax / rate payer by phasing in the overall increases over differing time
periods. The financial impact is influenced through changing capital asset levels of
services and/or changing the period over which the total tax / rate increase is phased
in.
Strategic use of reserve and debt management principles can be used to fund the asset
management reserves
The Fiscal Strategy highlights the importance of balancing the four pillars (capital
planning, reserve management, debt management and revenue management) over the
long-term to achieve financial sustainability. As recommended in the debt management
pillar of the Fiscal Strategy, a Debt Policy was developed for the Town in 2023. The Debt
Policy outlines that when the debt is fully repaid on an asset (excluding development
charge funded debt), the debt servicing cost included the operating budget should be
converted to an asset management reserve contribution to support future asset
management needs.
2021 AMP 2024 AMP
Category
Phase in
Period
(Years)
Annual
Tax/Rate
Increase
Phase in
Period
(Years)
Annual
Tax/Rate
Increase
Tax-Funded Assets 20 2.9% 15 1.63%
Rate-Funded Water 10 2.2% 15 1.92%
Rate-Funded
wastewater 10 0.4% 10 1.67%
Rate-Funded Storm 15 11.0% 20 4.92%
Page 55 of 104
September 3, 2024 4 of 9 Report No. FIN24-038
The operating budget includes $367,500 in funding for the repayment of the Town’s LED
streetlight conversion debt. As per the Town’s Fiscal Strategy, and debt policy, the LED
streetlight conversion debt servicing cost should be redirected toward asset
management reserves once fully paid to support of the infrastructure deficit. In 2026
one final payment will remain, so $183,700 can be converted to an asset management
reserve contribution and the balance in 2027.
The Aurora Town Square construction project’s approved funding strategy includes a
contribution of $7.5M from the tax levy to be financed over the long term. In support of
this financing strategy, a total of $510,000 for debt repayment costs is included in the
tax-funded budget. In alignment with the Fiscal Strategy, the $7.5M could be funded
through an increased draw from the Aurora Hydro Reserve which would enable the
redirection of the $510,000 in tax levy funding to asset management reserve
contributions. This solution would also result in interest savings of $3.8M over 20 years
as the additional Aurora Hydro reserve proceeds are readily available.
Tax-funded asset management needs, for 2025 and 2026, can be met without impacting
the previously presented tax levy increase
In addition, to redirecting the debt servicing cost to asset management reserves,
$895,000, part of the savings generated from the move to producer responsibility for
waste recycling, can be contributed towards the asset management reserves starting in
2026. Along with the other strategies mentioned above, the Town will be able to meet
the 2025 and 2026 asset management needs without impacting the previously tabled
tax levy increases as shown in Table 2
Page 56 of 104
September 3, 2024 5 of 9 Report No. FIN24-038
Table 2
Asset Management Funding Option
Incremental impacts in $000s 2025 2026
Asset management plan requirements:
Corporate Asset Management Plan (1.63%) 987.2 1,077.6
Natural Capital Asset Management Plan 320.0 -
1,307.2 1,077.6
Currently in budget:
1% fiscal strategy 605.6 629.3
Producer responsibility for waste 895.2
LED debt conversion (half) 183.7
Reallocate ATS tax debt repayment budget 510.0
Less:
Growth and New contributions (80.1) (226.7)
Studies and Other contributions (16.2) (45.9)
1019.4 1,440.6
Annual Balance (287.8) 359.1
Cumulative (287.8) 71.3
As shown above the strategies in this report result in slightly larger asset management
tax-funded contributions over the next two years without changing the presented tax
levy in the 2024 to 2026 Budget. This will put the Town on track to meet the tax-funded
asset management deficit over the short term. Staff will develop a plan to ensure that
the gap is addressed over the long term prior to the 2027 Budget. However, until this
gap is eliminated, service levels will decline in the interim.
All rate funded asset management contribution increases should be fully phased in over a
10-year period
Since the 2021 asset management plan update, the Town’s water, wastewater and
stormwater capital assets have experienced significant growth, as well as many of the
existing assets have begun to reach the end of their useful lives resulting in increased
asset management costs. Further, these asset’s have experienced material growth in
back-logged asset management requirements that must be caught up to ensure their
now defined levels of service are maintained.
Page 57 of 104
September 3, 2024 6 of 9 Report No. FIN24-038
Stormwater asset immediate and short-term asset management requirements have
been subject to significant growth over the past 5 years. Recent stormwater studies
have identified a large amount of asset management work requiring immediate
attention. However, the stormwater reserve has insufficient funds to meet these
identified needs, resulting in work having to be delayed. To allow all identified necessary
work to proceed, this reserve’s balance needs to be replenished more quickly than
proposed by the 2024 Asset Management Plan.
The 2024 Asset Management Plan recommends that the water, wastewater and
stormwater rates increase 32.9, 18.0 and 161.4 percent respectively, be phased in over
15 years for water and wastewater and 20 years for stormwater. In consideration of the
growing infrastructure deficit for these asset categories, it is recommended that the
water, wastewater and stormwater rate increases be phased in over a 10-year period.
Table 3 presents a summary of the proposed 2024 AMP versus staff’s recommended
phase in of the required user rate increases.
Table 3
Proposed 2024 AMP versus Staff Recommendations
Category
AMP Recommendation Staff Recommendation
Phase in
Period
(Years)
Annual
Rate
Increase
Phase in
Period
(Years)
Annual
Rate
Increase*
Rate-Funded Water 15 1.92% 10 2.25%
Rate-Funded
Wastewater 10 1.67% 10 1.5%
Rate-Funded Storm 20 4.92% 10 6.0%
*2025 and 2026 will use amounts included in the Budget, rates going forward will be
at the recommended increase.
The 2024 to 2025 Budget includes contributions to asset management for user rate
funded services. To ensure that the rates remain as presented in the Budget, the
contributions to reserve will remain unchanged, or increase if savings are available.
Then in 2027, the recommended percentage increases identified in Table 3 could be
applied. This approach results in lower contributions than recommended for water and
wastewater, but a slightly higher contribution for stormwater services in 2025 and 2026.
Page 58 of 104
September 3, 2024 7 of 9 Report No. FIN24-038
The recommended annual rates strive to close the current infrastructure gap within 10
years. These new rates also consider future inflationary increases to the operating
budget that they are applied to and the compounding of the annual percentage increase
to the reserve contributions. This mitigates the increase to the rates while ensuring the
gap can be closed in a timely manner.
These annual rate increases, that would be planned to begin in 2027, will result in an
increase of $0.11/m3 for water and wastewater combined and $1.10/month for
stormwater. The impact on the average quarterly residential bill with 54m3 of water
consumption would be $9.24 to support asset management.
A roadmap is being developed to maintain the Town’s infrastructure along with financial
sustainability beyond 2027
The current asset management plan provides a list of recommendations that will allow
the Town to achieve defined asset levels of service. The 2024 budget included the
approval of dedicated asset management staff who will expand upon the work and
recommendations of the recently approved asset management plan which will continue
to evolve over time. In collaboration with Finance, this team will continue to
review/verify recommended asset replacement costs, service levels, and review the
timing of how long the Town will take to close the identified asset replacement funding
gap and provide recommendations to Council as the 2027 Budget approaches.
Advisory Committee Review
Not applicable
Legal Considerations
The budgeted contributions to the asset management and rate funded reserves are
approved by Council.
Further, Council has already undertaken the necessary steps to access the Aurora
Hydro reserve in support of the ATS project, and therefore, Council approval is now only
required to access this reserve for a greater amount.
Financial Implications
This report proposes a financial strategy that aligns with the Town’s Fiscal Strategy to
achieve the 2024 Asset Management Plan’s financial recommendations for 2025 and
Page 59 of 104
September 3, 2024 8 of 9 Report No. FIN24-038
2026, with no impact to the 2024 Budget’s previously presented tax increases and user
rates.
The hydro sale investment reserve has a balance of $13.1M as of December 31,2023
and is sufficient to fund all previous commitments as well as the recommended
additional $7.5M contribution to the ATS construction project. Should this $7.5M
commitment be approved by Council, the remaining balance for the Aurora Hydro
reserve will be $5.6M.
Communications Considerations
The Town will inform residents of the information contained within this report by
posting it to the Town’s website.
Climate Change Considerations
None
Link to Strategic Plan
The short-term asset management reserve balance strategy aligns with the fiscally
strategy objectives of managing year over year fiscal shocks while maintaining the
desired service levels and asset replacement. Fiscal Strategy supports all aspects of the
strategic plan. Specifically, this report supports the Plan principles of Leadership in
Corporate and Financial Management, Leveraging Partnerships, and Progressive
Corporate Excellence and Continuous Improvement.
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
None
Conclusions
The recommended short-term asset management reserve balancing strategy ensures
that Aurora remains on a financially sustainable path without increasing the previously
presented levy increase for 2025 and 2026. An expanded financial strategy
commencing in 2027 and beyond will be presented to Council prior to the 2027 Budget.
Page 60 of 104
September 3, 2024 9 of 9 Report No. FIN24-038
Attachments
None
Previous Reports
Updated Corporate Asset Management Plan, FIN24-034, July 2,2024
Pre-submission Review
Agenda Management Team review on August 13, 2024
Approvals
Approved by Rachel Wainwright-van Kessel, CPA, CMA, Director, Finance
Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer
Page 61 of 104
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Committee of the Whole Report
No. OPS 2 4 -0 20
Subject: Windrow Program Eligibility Criteria
Prepared by: Luigi Colangelo, Manager of Public Works
Department: Operational Services
Date: September 3, 2024
Recommendation
1. That Report No. OPS24-020 be received; and
2. That the eligibility criteria as described, be approved; and
3. That a cost-recovery amount of $200 per participating household be approved; and
4. That adoption of the financial assistance criteria as proposed be approved.
Executive Summary
This report presents a summary of the recommended eligibility criteria for the
2024/2025 Windrow Removal Pilot Program (the Program), including options for cost
recovery and amounts, processing and additional considerations regarding financial
assistance models and income thresholds.
The previously established eligibility criteria in 2024/2025 is expanded on from
the 2023/2024 pilot program, including service standards and program delivery
criteria.
Benchmarking exercise reveals recommended $200 per participant household.
Considerations regarding financial assistance recommend using income
thresholds and various income verification related information as criteria.
Page 62 of 104
September 3, 2024 2 of 7 Report No. OPS24-020
Background
The previously established eligibility criteria in 2024/2025 is expanded on from the
2023/2024 pilot program, including service standards and program delivery criteria.
During a snow event, windrow clearing vehicles will be dispatched only after a minimum
eight centimetres snowfall. Snow will be cleared from the end of residential driveways
with a minimum of three metres (one car width) and will be stored within the boulevard
or another appropriate location on site. Snow is not cleared from the sidewalk windrow,
residential pathways, driveways or removed from the property as part of this program. If
The Town of Aurora (The Town) declares a significant weather event, windrow plows
will be dispatched following the end of the significant weather event. Driveways located
on regional roads, commercial, industrial, institutional, high-rise properties, private
roads, roads undergoing development and rear lanes would not be included in the
program.
The Program will include residential occupants aged 65 years of age or older, where all
occupants of the household must be over 65 years of age and have no other able-
bodied occupants residing at the subject property that are eligible for the program. You
must show proof of age in the form of government issued ID (birth certificate, driver’s
license) if you are under 65 years of age and all occupants of the address over the age
of 16 are unable to remove snow. All residents must be listed on the application and
provide proof of ID if above the age 16 or provide a provincial disability permit or a note
from a doctor (on doctor letterhead). All applicants will be required to sign a Waiver of
Liability with respect to the program.
Analysis
Benchmarking exercise reveals recommended $200 per participant household.
As discussed in the previous report (OPS24-016), in 2023/2024, the program delivery
cost was $253,000 based on a total of 1,100 participating households ($230 per
household). Based upon a $200 per applicant user fee, the Town would generate up to a
maximum of $220,000 in cost recoveries based upon 1,100 participants. Using an
estimated per household cost of $230 (as per 2023/2024 program costs), and
accounting for approximately 1,500 participating households, the 2024/2025 total
program cost is estimated to be $345,000. If up to 75 per cent of the assumed 1,500
participating households, pay $200 (assuming 25 per cent of applicants may apply for
financial assistance), the Town would recover approximately $225,000 resulting in a
total program estimated net delivery cost of $120,000. Note, staff anticipate that the
Page 63 of 104
September 3, 2024 3 of 7 Report No. OPS24-020
addition of 400 driveways to the program could be accommodated with the same
staffing compliment (hiring of six seasonal employees); however, would still be
completed within the 24-hour service standard under a typical snow event.
Staff recommend a participation cap at 1,500 households, which would be a marginal
increase from the 2023/2024 participation total to account for potential increased
popularity in the program and have financial certainty.
Table 1 below demonstrates municipal benchmarking of cost-recovery fees charged.
Table 1 – Municipal benchmarking of cost-recovery fees charged and financial
assistance.
Municipality Program
Fee
Financial
Assistance
Additional Information
Town of East
Gwillimbury $150** Yes
Does not offer windrow program but
provides financial compensation of
$150 to hire contractor.
City of Markham No Fee N/A Program for seniors and physically
disabled persons.
City of Mississauga $200 Yes Program for seniors and physically
disabled persons.
Town of Newmarket - - Does not offer windrow program.
Town of Wasaga
Beach $200** Yes
Does not offer windrow program but
provides financial compensation of
$200 to hire contractor.
Town of Whitchurch-
Stouffville No Fee N/A Program for seniors and physically
disabled.
** Represents where no service is directly offered, compensation only.
Considerations regarding financial assistance recommend using income thresholds and
various income verification related information as criteria.
Municipalities who offer financial assistance programs use varying income thresholds
and eligibility criteria, all of which require verification. After researching methods in
which this information may be captured and assessed, there are two prevailing
mechanisms which Council may choose to have applied to this program. The easiest
Page 64 of 104
September 3, 2024 4 of 7 Report No. OPS24-020
way to standardize and classify income levels, is to use the Statistics Canada low-
income cut-offs before tax, (LICO-BT) based on the number of people in the household.
For example, one person in household ($24,347), two persons in household ($29,632).
Based on the number of household occupants, anyone that qualifies as low-income
would be exempt from paying the $200 fee.
To verify income, there are two differing models to consider. The most used method by
other programs, is to request a tax return copy; however, this is not recommended by
the Town’s Finance Department due to sensitivity and accuracy in showing true
represented income. The preferred and staff recommended option is to request
approval letters or proof of enrollment in other income support programs, which use
similar thresholds for household income. Examples of these income support programs
include the Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP), Guaranteed Income Supplement
(GIS), Ontario Disabilities Support Program (ODSP), or Ontario Works (OW). Each of the
above-mentioned programs have statements or form letters which can be requested. To
alleviate administrative burden, staff are exploring a digital application and document
submission webpage, with digital waiver signing online, which is common practice in
other municipalities. The Town would still include an in-person application option to
accommodate any needs.
It should be noted that data collection and retention considerations regarding
submission and protection of documents and privacy should be of utmost importance.
Legal, Finance and IT Division staff have provided comment on this proposal and ensure
that all options will be considered in keeping data protected and confidential. IT and
Legal Services, in coordination with Operational Services staff, are finalizing an online
web submission form which will propose to retain sensitive data for only as long as
staff need to review the applicability and follow-up, if necessary, with a manual deletion
of data once the application has been closed. If applying in person, no documents will
be copied or retained.
Applicants will be directed to include Photo ID for all residents within a household above
aged 16 and include medical verification in an approved format, if between ages 16-65
and medically or mentally unable to perform snow removal.
Regarding cost-recovery and user payment for the program if endorsed by Council, staff
are exploring utilization of an online payment system through the web form software
currently procured by the Town to use online credit card payments. An alternative in-
person option will still be available to applicants, performed by customer service at
Town Hall or the Joint Operations Centre.
Page 65 of 104
September 3, 2024 5 of 7 Report No. OPS24-020
Advisory Committee Review
None.
Legal Considerations
Continued implementation of the Program could lead to additional claims being made
against the Town in relation to property damage or personal injury, which may have an
impact on the Town’s insurance premiums and the Town’s insurance related budget
lines. Waivers of liability should continue to be mandatory as part of the application
process to limit claims and potential damages.
Lastly, the Town must comply with all requirements as set out in the Municipal Freedom
of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and its regulations with respect to the
retention and disposal of personal information.
Financial Implications
Staff estimate that the 2024/2025 Program’s gross operating costs will remain
relatively unchanged on a per household basis to that of the 2023/2024 Program at
$230 per household.
If the recommended user fee of $200 per household is approved, the Town’s estimated
average net operating cost per household for this program would become $80,
assuming that 25 per cent of program participants apply for financial assistance.
Based upon the above assumptions, should the maximum recommended 1,500
participants enroll in the program, the total net operating cost is estimated to be
$120,000. As previously approved, this program’s net delivery cost is to be fully funded
through a contribution from the Tax Rate Stabilization reserve.
Communications Considerations
Communications will inform the public about the information contained in this report by
posting it to the Town’s website. If the eligibility criteria are approved, Communications
will inform the public about the criteria during the promotion campaign of the Program
starting in the fall and including tactics such as website, media release, newsletters,
social media, pylon signs, digital and print ads, post cards etc.
Page 66 of 104
September 3, 2024 6 of 7 Report No. OPS24-020
Climate Change Considerations
The recommendations have a minor impact on greenhouse gas emissions; however,
when staff review future windrow clearings, green procurement will be considered as it
plays an important roll mitigating the impacts of a changing climate, from air quality,
stormwater management to counteracting the effects of the heat island.
Link to Strategic Plan
The development of the Program supports the Strategic Plan goal of Strengthening the
Fabric of our Community through its accomplishment in developing a plan to review and
realign service levels to reflect current and future demographic trends.
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
1. Council proposes an alternative amount for cost-recovery per applicant.
2. Council proposes an alternative method for eligibility criteria.
3. Council does not approve the income verification process as proposed.
4. Other options as directed by Council.
Conclusions
In reviewing the existing models of the Program’s amongst municipalities in Ontario, it
is determined that program eligibility criteria previously set for the 2023/2024 pilot
remains aligned. To offset program costs, and to retain best value-added return on
investment, staff recommend a $200 user fee to offset the cost of hiring six seasonal
employees as proposed in previous recommendations (Report OPS24-016). To ensure
residents of Aurora that are considered to be low-income have an opportunity to utilize
this program, staff recommend using the Statistics Canada income thresholds (LICO-
BT) for a fee exemption and will prioritize that data collection is protected and
confidential through the review and submission processes proposed above.
Attachments
None.
Page 67 of 104
September 3, 2024 7 of 7 Report No. OPS24-020
Previous Reports
OPS24-016, Windrows Pilot Program Extension-Service Delivery Options, July 2, 2024
OPS24-007, Windrow Pilot Project – Additional Information, April 23, 2024
OPS24-004, Windrow Pilot Project-Update, April 2, 2024
OPS23-020, Potential Snow Windrow Removal Assistance Pilot Project, September 19,
2023
Pre-submission Review
Agenda Management Team review on August 14, 2024.
Approvals
Approved by Sara Tienkamp, Director, Operational Services
Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer
Page 68 of 104
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Committee of the Whole Report
No. OPS 2 4 -0 21
Subject: Leash-Free Areas in Aurora
Prepared by: Matthew Volpintesta, Manager, Parks and Fleet
Department: Operational Services
Date: September 3, 2024
Recommendation
1. That Report No. OPS24-021 be received; and
2. That the 10-year capital priority list for future leash-free areas be endorsed and that
staff update the 10-year capital plan accordingly as per funding availability; and
3. That the Mayor be requested to include a capital project for the development and
construction of an off-leash trail within the Highland Gate Subdivision in the 2025
capital budget.
Executive Summary
The Town of Aurora (The Town) currently operates one leash-free dog park, Canine
Commons located on Industrial Parkway North. The COVID-19 Pandemic saw an
increase in popularity of pet ownership, specifically dogs, and as a result, the demand
for additional leash-free dog areas also increased. This report aims to propose
additional locations for consideration of future leash-free areas (LFAs) and includes a
list of evaluation criteria and design considerations for future implementation.
The 2023 update to the Town’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan (PRMP)
includes recommendations in developing future LFAs with a focus on southwest
Aurora locations.
Proposed off-leash areas have not been historically well received in Aurora;
however, demand for locations remains high with residents.
2023 data from the Animal Service Division provides insight into the number of
active dog licences and complaints.
Page 69 of 104
September 3, 2024 2 of 10 Report No. OPS24-021
Best practice guidelines offer clear criteria to help staff and Council decide on
new off-leash park and trail locations.
Recommendations for potential additional LFAs based on new land acquisitions,
potential partnerships and current parkland.
By-law and Animal Services will serve an essential role in supporting the LFA
program by providing education and enforcement.
Background
In 2024, LFAs are commonplace in Ontario, driven by rising pet ownership, lack of
private amenity space, desire for social interaction among pet owners, and a growing
number of persons that may be unable to walk their pets a lengthy distance due to age
or disability. As a result, there is a growing demand for facilities that meet the needs of
these demographics, most notably in urbanized cities with high dog ownership rates.
The 2023 update to the Town’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan (PRMP) includes
recommendations in developing future LFAs with a focus on southwest Aurora locations.
The Town’s 2023 PRMP estimates that there may be between 5,000-8,000 dogs in
Aurora. This would mean that 37 per cent of Aurora households have dogs. Through a
community survey collected during the development of the 2023 PRMP, responses
indicated nearly one-half identified off-leash dog parks as a high priority.
As per PRMP recommendation #23, staff are tasked with developing an off-leash
strategy that identifies procedures and design criteria for establishing new dog parks:
“Develop an off-leash strategy that identifies procedures and design criteria for
establishing new dog parks. At minimum, continue to pursue the development of
an off-leash dog park in south Aurora in the short-term (Engelhard Drive) and
undertake assessments of sites within west Aurora in the longer-term based on
established criteria and public consultation.”
There is presently only one LFA in Aurora (Canine Commons) established in 2003 with
additional dog parks being evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Municipalities commonly
adopt criteria to evaluate potential off-leash dog park sites, including (but not limited
to):
Ability to maintain public safety for users and non-users, including animals
Minimum size, appropriate configuration, and site characteristics
Land ownership and cost
Page 70 of 104
September 3, 2024 3 of 10 Report No. OPS24-021
Walkability and access
Compatible and non-compatible adjacent uses, such as buffering from highly
populated residential areas, busy sports parks, and environmentally significant
areas
Consideration of fencing, on-site parking, water and shade
Community input and support from neighbours
Interest from a volunteer committee to act as park stewards
Performance measures to monitor and evaluate facility conditions and operation
Proposed off-leash areas have not been historically well received in Aurora; however,
demand for locations remains high with residents.
The Town has explored creating off-leash areas in various sites and along shared-use
trails in recent years. Despite a comprehensive evaluation, many of the previously
proposed sites were met with opposition from residents and have not proceeded, with
Council directing staff to focus on non-residential areas. Identifying suitable locations
for LFAs can be challenging due to concerns of conflicting uses, nuisance, and
perceptions of safety. Suitably sized remnant public lands and under-utilized portion of
parks that are distanced from sensitive land uses are good candidates to be short-listed
for consideration as off-leash areas. Selecting effective sites are critical to their
success and maintaining community support. Sponsorships with volunteer
organizations for site stewardship can be helpful in maintaining this support.
Naturalized lands (excluding sensitive environments) and the Town’s hydro corridors
may also present opportunities for LFAs. Communities such as Toronto, Ottawa,
Oakville, Guelph and others have had success in establishing agreements for public use
of their hydro corridors with municipalities absorbing a portion of the land tax
payments. In researching trends elsewhere, most municipalities begin by creating larger
destination spaces supported by parking such as Aurora’s Canine Commons. As
referenced in the PRMP, with a destination LFA already in Aurora, walkable spaces are
more convenient and better lend themselves to community building, local recreation,
and improved health and wellness.
2023 data from the Animal Service Division provides insight into the number of active dog
licences and complaints:
Dogs running at large (122)
Pro-active licensing (557)
Pro-active compliance (489)
Dog bites (34)
Page 71 of 104
September 3, 2024 4 of 10 Report No. OPS24-021
Poop and scoop (32)
Barking complaint (94)
As mentioned above, it is estimated that there are between 5,000-8,000 dogs in Aurora.
Analysis
The Parks Division has recently undertaken a service level needs assessment of LFAs in
Aurora, coupled with an analysis of dog licensing and population density. Staff have
also considered any overlap of Animal Services inquiries regarding leash-free
enforcement and related service requests. Attachment 1 – Needs Assessment Data
Mapping shows the correlation of heat mapped concentrations of the above-mentioned
data, representing a suggested a direct relationship between service-related calls and
density and provides meaningful data when proposing future additional LFAs.
Based on the GIS data interpretation, there is indeed alignment with the
recommendations within the PRMP, representing a need in the most densely populated
area of Town, toward the south-west quadrant, and north-east, also showing a strong
relationship between dog related Animal Services calls.
Best practice guidelines offer clear criteria to help staff and Council decide on new off-
leash park and trail locations.
As part of the study process, staff conducted a best practice review of municipal policy
for siting LFAs, which will be kept as a handbook for staff when designing new LFAs,
considering layout, features, accessibility and overall site selection. Detailed within the
handbook are specific requirements related to:
Location attributes
Proximity limitations
Site design attributes including materials, fencing, features
Setbacks
Accessibility
Signage and rules
Prohibited planting lists
Minimum requirements
Dog Park Type (Community, Neighbourhood, Nature-Trail)
Page 72 of 104
September 3, 2024 5 of 10 Report No. OPS24-021
Attachment 2 Leash Free Areas Handbook lists the handbook details which are
recommendations applicable to new installations, or replacements (exceptions will be
considered).
Recommendations for potential additional LFAs based on new land acquisitions, potential
partnerships and current parkland.
Staff have recently explored several new options and revisited considerations of
previously presented sites for future additional LFAs.
Below, are key points and factors which contribute to the decision-making process. A
prioritized strategic target list shown below in Table 1 identifies short term and long-
term targets looking ahead to the 10-Year Capital Budget:
Hydro Corridor (Wellington St E to St John’s Sideroad, corridor west of Bayview Avenue):
This option presents a very suitable site overall for a local Neighbourhood LFA
connective trail as illustrated in Attachment 3 - Hydro Corridor Proposed Site Aerial Map
of block locations with potential to be connected by one main trail or isolated for one
smaller off-leash area; however, it is situated in northeast Aurora. These blocks are
currently used regularly by residents for off-leash activity and connectivity, though such
activity is not formally permitted by Hydro One. Staff have engaged in initial discussions
with Hydro One and they are favourable of formalizing these locations for use. There are
some considerations presented by Hydro One staff including, initial review fee of
$12,000, of which $10,000 is refundable at the end of the agreed term. The Town would
also need to erect mandatory fencing and vehicle access gates meeting hydro
specifications around the towers. Further, the Town would be responsible for covering
50 per cent of the annual property tax rates to York Region, which would be
approximately $21,135, paid annually. There are also additional costs for perimeter
fencing, double entrance gates, an accessible gravel pathway, benching, installation of a
dog waste container, turf maintenance and operational costs. It is important to note, the
Town currently leases lands in this area from Hydro One; including a portion of Queen’s
Diamond Jubilee Park and Hamilton Park, which may offset some of the initial review
fees, and result in lesser tax fees, if the LFA would overlap with any boundaries within
these parks.
14378 Yonge Street: While plans for this site are still very premature, early conceptual
designs show viability for a Community LFA which would be comprised of on-site
parking, be accessible, and accommodate large and small dogs. Alternatively, there is
also feasibility for a LFA trail option. As no budget is proposed in 2025 for this site, full
feasibility and due diligence will not be conducted in the short-term. Staff will consider
Page 73 of 104
September 3, 2024 6 of 10 Report No. OPS24-021
this site a priority for future LFA area at the community scale, as it would alleviate a
service gap in the south-west portion of Town.
Highland Gate Trail: Presented to Council as a viable option for consideration but was
ultimately put aside due to public opposition in 2019. It is the opinion of staff that this
does remain an ideal option to achieve the service level recommendations within the
PRMP in the short-term, as a ‘local’ LFA which serves the south-west area of Town.
Staff recently met with a resident who suggested an off-leash trail area within the new
parkland. Two fenced areas were proposed alongside the existing park pathway, one for
large dogs and one for small dogs. Each area would have two entrances, allowing users
to enter from the main trail, walk within the fenced area and rejoin the main trail through
another gate. This design ensures that those residents using the main trail can avoid
the off-leash dog trail, if desired. Attachment 4 - Highland Gate Proposed Site Aerial
Map shows the aerial outline of the proposal.
In addition, there is dense natural buffer of trees that screen the rear yards, which could
be enhanced in some locations with some further planting between the residences and
main spine trail. It was suggested to staff that the residents adjacent to this area were
supportive but would require further investigation and outreach by staff to ensure this
was a viable option.
Staff request that the Mayor includes this location in the 2025 Capital Budget.
115 George Street: While most recent site concept plans do not show a LFA at the
newly acquired former George Street School, staff understand there is a desire within
the community to establish one in this location. A small leash-free area could be
considered in its place and would certainly fill a local gap but would not accommodate
on-site parking and would likely be limited in size to less than 0.5 acre. This area is also
identified in the PRMP as being underserviced with playgrounds and courts as there are
no immediate neighbourhood parks in this area, with the closest parks on the opposite
side of Yonge (Town Park) and Wellington St W (Fleury Park).
Engelhard Tree Nursery: The Engelhard Tree Nursery location is a large parcel of land
(10.1 hectares) with a tree nursery currently occupying approximately 0.20 hectares of
the available land. The land includes varied terrain, made up of grassland, woodlot and
several slopes. This potential LFA would be left natural with mowed trails and wood
chip footpath through the woodlot.
Staff previously suggested this as a potential location and the area was endorsed by
Council; however, there are significant accessibility issues with the site due to the
Page 74 of 104
September 3, 2024 7 of 10 Report No. OPS24-021
terrain. One of the biggest complaints regarding the current Canine Commons site is
that it is not accessible. As such, staff would like to focus on creating a new off-leash
area in one of the alternate locations that would be fully accessible to the public.
The Engelhard site will remain on the capital list for future development and would be a
good template for a Natural Heritage System LFA as it is along the Town trail system
and very pedestrian friendly. While it cannot facilitate a parking lot, one of the potential
access points is very close (150 metres) to the Hallmark Lands Park and parking lot.
Industrial Parkway South Nursery: This site (adjacent to the current Community
Garden) serves as a well-situated opportunity to relieve a need in the south and
southwestern areas of Aurora, and could accommodate a fully accessible site, with
parking, serving as a community scale LFA. As the trees currently present within the
nursery have almost reached full viability for transplant, the lifecycle of the Tree
Program should soon be reviewed, potentially accommodating a new LFA area in the
long-term.
The Table 1 indicates prioritized sites for the 10-year outlook and will be considered in
order, when funds are available:
Table 1: 10-Year Capital Priority Locations
Locations Priority Estimated Capital
Cost
1. Highland Gate First priority for neighbourhood
scale, short-term
$150,000
2. 14378 Yonge Street Top priority, long-term for
community scale site
$TBD as part full
parkland
development
3. Hydro Corridor Second priority, short-term,
neighbourhood scale
$250,000
4. Industrial Parkway
South Nursery
Long-term for community scale $250,000
5. Engelhard Nursery Long-term for trail development $250,000
6. 115 George Street Not a priority N/A
Page 75 of 104
September 3, 2024 8 of 10 Report No. OPS24-021
By-law and Animal Services will serve an essential role in supporting the LFA program by
providing education and enforcement.
By-law and Animal Services are important partners in supporting the LFA program
initiative with Parks, as education and enforcement will be essential. Park and trail
patrons will need to clearly know where they can/cannot walk their dogs off-leash as
any confusion will result in challenges educating and enforcing members of the public
on the by-law(s).
Clear and concise signage will be posted, advising these locations will be leash free
zones at all times of day, patrons need to be always in control of their dogs, responsible
for picking up pet waste etc.
By-law and Animal Services will play an active role in monitoring sites, educating users
and providing enforcement. With the additional LFA, an increased demand on staff
resources is expected, which should be addressed in future; however, staff anticipate
the additional LFA could also reduce the number of Animal Services calls.
Advisory Committee Review
None.
Legal Considerations
The implementation of off-leash dog areas in fenced areas or a less controlled
environment carries additional risk. It is reasonably foreseeable that an incident causing
injury could happen, despite the Town taking steps to mitigate the risk. While there is
legislation that requires dog owners to maintain control of their animals at all times, by
permitting off-leash zones in its public spaces, the Town may be held liable in the event
of an incident.
Where off-leash zones are approved, the Town has a duty to implement controls to
mitigate risk. Appropriate risk controls would include signage, user education and rules
governing the use of the off-leash zones. Legal Services will be consulted on the
development of risk management measures and signage.
Page 76 of 104
September 3, 2024 9 of 10 Report No. OPS24-021
Financial Implications
Should Council endorse the proposed 10-year Capital Plan for leash-free amenities,
these project’s will be inserted into the Town’s future 10-year capital plan subject to
funding availability for Council’s consideration. The funding source for these projects
would typically consist of Parks & Recreation development charges and/or the Growth &
New Reserve.
Communications Considerations
If future off-leash area locations are selected, Communications will undergo an
awareness and education campaign as they become available to inform residents and
educate users on by-laws and responsibilities in using these spaces. Communications
will include on-site signage, updates on website, e-newsletters, digital ads, social media
etc.
Climate Change Considerations
The recommendations from this report do not immediately impact greenhouse gas
emissions or impact climate change adaptation. However, during detailed design, green
infrastructure for storm water, soft landscape, building design and green procurement
were considered and implemented where feasible. They all play an important roll
mitigating the impacts of a changing climate, from air quality, stormwater management
to counteracting the effects of the heat island.
Link to Strategic Plan
Leash-Free Park facilities support the Strategic Plan Goal of Supporting an Exceptional
Quality of Life for All, by encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle.
Develop a long-term needs assessment for recreation programs, services, and
operations to match the evolving needs of the growing and changing population.
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
1. Other options as directed by Council.
Page 77 of 104
September 3, 2024 10 of 10 Report No. OPS24-021
Conclusions
In alignment with the PRMP, this report reviews long-term and short-term priorities for
10-year capital budget planning for future leash-free areas. Additionally, the included
guiding principles regarding site applicability, design criteria and minimum standards,
provide a core resource for staff and Council to implement positively impactful future
LFA spaces for users and dogs alike. Staff recommend the Highland Gate Park site be
approved as a short-term priority for the next LFA in Aurora.
Attachments
Attachment 1 – Needs Assessment Data Mapping
Attachment 2 – Leash Free Areas Handbook
Attachment 3 – Hydro Corridor Proposed Site Aerial Map
Attachment 4 – Highland Gate Proposed Site Aerial Map
Previous Reports
OPS22-010, Off-Leash Dog Park and Trail Pilot Program, May 17, 2022
OPS21-013, Future Off-Leash Dog Park Locations, June 1, 2021
OPS20-007, Off-Leash Dog Park in Highland Park, May 5, 2020
Pre-submission Review
Agenda Management Team review on August 14, 2024
Approvals
Approved by Sara Tienkamp, Director, Operational Services
Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer
Page 78 of 104
N e w m a r k e tYongeStreet74341ArmitageGlenville
YongeStreet18th Sideroad 26 1
1
53
15 1538
40
16
G O Transit–MetrolinxSnowball
A u r o r a
E versley
Oak Ridges
Mulock Drive
34
26
CanadianN ationalBoga rtt own
Wellington Street East Aurora Road15
34
12
40
26
8
8
65
CanadianNationalP reston La ke
V andorf
Wesle y Corners
Whit e Ros e
Wilcox Lake
N o rt h La k e R o a d
12
Wilcox
Lake
15
Esri, NASA, NGA, USGS, FEMA, Province of Ontario, York Region, Esri Canada, Esri, TomTom, Garmin,
SafeGraph, GeoTechnologies, Inc, METI/NASA, USGS, EPA, NPS, USDA, NRCan, Parks Canada
Map created for the Town of Aurora Planning and Development Services Department, 2024-08-09. Base data provided by York Region & the Town of Aurora.
¯
St John's Sdrd
Wellington St E
Vandorf Sdrd
Henderson
Drive
Wellington St W
UV404
UV404Leslie StYonge StBathurst StBayview AveBloomington Rd
0 500 1,000
Metres
Document Path: J:\data\data\Other Various Projects\Maps for Parks Department\Dog_Leash_Parks\Dog_Leash_Parks\Dog_Leash_Parks.aprx
Heat Map - Dog Calls in Aurora
Leash Free Areas in Aurora
Appendix A
Town of Aurora
Existing Leash Free Area (Canine Commons)
Existing Leash Free Area Boundary
Dog Calls in Aurora
Dense
Sparse
Page 79 of 104
N e w m a r k e tYongeStreet74341ArmitageGlenville
YongeStreet18th Sideroad 26 1
1
53
15 1538
40
16
G O Transit–MetrolinxSnowball
A u r o r a
E versley
Oak Ridges
Mulock Drive
34
26
CanadianN ationalBoga rtt own
Wellington Street East Aurora Road15
34
12
40
26
8
8
65
CanadianNationalP reston La ke
V andorf
Wesle y Corners
Whit e Ros e
Wilcox Lake
N o rt h La k e R o a d
12
Wilcox
Lake
15
Esri, NASA, NGA, USGS, FEMA, Province of Ontario, York Region, Esri Canada, Esri, TomTom, Garmin,
SafeGraph, GeoTechnologies, Inc, METI/NASA, USGS, EPA, NPS, USDA, NRCan, Parks Canada
Map created for the Town of Aurora Planning and Development Services Department, 2024-08-09. Base data provided by York Region & the Town of Aurora. Population data from Environics.
¯
St John's Sdrd
Wellington St E
Vandorf Sdrd
Henderson
Drive
Wellington St W
UV404
UV404Leslie StYonge StBathurst StBayview AveBloomington Rd
0 500 1,000
Metres
Document Path: J:\data\data\Other Various Projects\Maps for Parks Department\Dog_Leash_Parks\Dog_Leash_Parks\Dog_Leash_Parks.aprx
Population Density
Leash Free Areas in Aurora
Appendix B
Town of Aurora
Existing Leash Free Area (Canine Commons)
Existing Leash Free Area Boundary
Population Density
(per sq km)
VALUE
0 - 717
717 -1,433
1,433 - 2,150
2,150 - 2,867
2,867 - 3,584
3,584 - 4,300
4,300 - 5,017
5,017 - 5,734
5,734 - 6,450
Page 80 of 104
N e w m a r k e tYongeStreet74341ArmitageGlenville
YongeStreet18th Sideroad 26 1
1
53
15 1538
40
16
G O Transit–MetrolinxSnowball
A u r o r a
E versley
Oak Ridges
Mulock Drive
34
26
CanadianN ationalBoga rtt own
Wellington Street East Aurora Road15
34
12
40
26
8
8
65
CanadianNationalP reston La ke
V andorf
Wesle y Corners
Whit e Ros e
Wilcox Lake
N o rt h La k e R o a d
12
Wilcox
Lake
15
Esri, NASA, NGA, USGS, FEMA, Province of Ontario, York Region, Esri Canada, Esri, TomTom, Garmin,
SafeGraph, GeoTechnologies, Inc, METI/NASA, USGS, EPA, NPS, USDA, NRCan, Parks Canada
Map created for the Town of Aurora Planning and Development Services Department, 2024-08-09. Base data provided by York Region & the Town of Aurora.
¯
St John's Sdrd
Wellington St E
Vandorf Sdrd
Henderson
Drive
Wellington St W
UV404
UV404Leslie StYonge StBathurst StBayview AveBloomington Rd
0 500 1,000
Metres
Document Path: J:\data\data\Other Various Projects\Maps for Parks Department\Dog_Leash_Parks\Dog_Leash_Parks\Dog_Leash_Parks.aprx
Drive Time
Leash Free Areas in Aurora
Appendix C
Town of Aurora
Existing Leash Free Area (Canine Commons)
Existing Leash Free Area Boundary
Existing Dog Park
Drive Time
(minutes)
0-3
3-5
5-7
7-10
10-15
15-20
Page 81 of 104
Attachment 2 – Leash Free Areas Handbook
Location Attributes:
• LFAs should only be permitted on Town property, unless a qualified and
dedicated community organization comes forward and a private partnership is
deemed mutually beneficial by the Town of Aurora
• Consideration should be given for natural drainage, with preference to tableland
that is generally dry in spring and fall
• Consideration of Natural Heritage System (NHS) lands will be determined on a
case-by-case basis
• There is no minimum or maximum size requirement
• Natural shading and tree canopy cover is preferred
Proximity limitation zones:
LFAs adjacent to or within 50 metre of the following locations must have natural
barriers or partial fencing as a minimum:
• Children’s playgrounds or splash pads
• Athletic Fields/sports fields, including ‘playout’ buffers
• Sports courts
• Schools
• Toboggan hills
• Ornamental gardens
• LFAs should not be placed within 10 metres of Environmental Protection Areas,
or associated buffers
Site Design Attributes:
• Where fencing is required, fence must be a minimum 4 feet in height, and up to 5
feet as necessary
• When fencing is installed, a self-closing double gate is required
• Consideration should be given to location of required infrastructure for access to
electrical, and water use
• Ease of access should be considered for maintenance, and emergency response
• Design should have consideration for accessibility and age-friendly design
• Natural buffers should be sought to serve as a replacement for fencing, where
appropriate
• Privacy screening is recommended in locations adjacent to schools
Page 82 of 104
Setbacks:
• Locating of a new LFA shall respect the following setbacks:
o Shall be no closer than 250 metres from a regional road right-of-way
(without fencing); 50 metres with fencing
o Shall be no closer than 50 metres from a local right-of-way (without
fencing); 20 metres with fencing
o Shall be at least 50 metres from residential properties unless separated by
partial fencing
o Shall be at least 100 metres from commercial properties
Exceptions may be considered.
Amenities:
• Compost receptacles for excrement should be provided and maintained
• Lighting should be considered
• Covered and uncovered seating nodes, including picnic tables, shall be
considered
• Shade structures and screening for weather element protection shall be
considered, including natural shade elements
• Natural turf or wood mulch are recommended surface types
• Water supply and paw-washing stations may be considered
• On-site parking is recommended for Destination LFAs
Types of Leash-Free Areas:
Neighbourhood Park Leash-Free Area: Neighbourhood LFAs are those situated within
neighbourhood parks, with or without parking, and strong emphasis on pedestrian
walkability and surrounding neighbourhood connectivity. Minimum standard amenity
features expected. Full or partial fencing is recommended.
Community Leash-Free Area: Destination Park LFAs are those situated within larger
destination parks, with parking, accessibility and likelihood of additional amenity
features, above the minimum standard. Fencing or natural barriers are recommended
where adjacent to active recreation amenities.
Natural Heritage System Leash Free Area or Trail: Natural Heritage System LFAs are
situated within or abutting valley lands where appropriate to do so, with fencing or
natural barriers. Parking and fencing optional, based on site attributes. May also be
incorporated as a designed trail, limiting use to walking, running, not multi-use.
Page 83 of 104
Recommended Design Guidelines:
The following represents best practices and guidelines for design elements, planting
materials, and general recommended requirements:
Fencing Style and Gate Closures: Fencing style should attempt to be permeable and
translucent, with regard to safety and site aesthetics. Squared link fencing is the
preferred recommendation as shown in Figure 5. Fencing should be a minimum 5 feet in
height. Self locking double gate closures, are required for LFAs where fencing is
required.
Prohibited Planting List: Although beneficial for providing shade and visual interest,
certain trees, shrubs, and plants can be severely toxic to dogs if ingested. Staff
recommend consulting toxic plant listings for any flora that shall be included in any LFA.
Materials: Material choice installed in LFAs can greatly impact user experience,
longevity, and design of the park. The below table presents a catalog of material options
for ground cover and screening that may be installed in LFAs.
MATERIAL PROS CONS COST
Artificial Turf Does not discolour due to dog
waste
Can handle repeated traffic
Low maintenance
May overheat under direct
sunlight, damage paws
Debris can impact drainage
$$$
Grass Soft underfoot
Visually appealing
Low installation cost
High maintenance
Drainage issues may cause
ponding
Easily damaged by heavy traffic
$
Kennel Tiles May be used as dog run liner or
in surrounding areas where
surface is overused
Interlocking, flexible fit
Soft
High cost $$$
Mulch/
Woodchips
Low maintenance and cost
Allows adequate drainage
Natural & recycled material
Needs replenishment due to
decomposition
Risk of splinters in paws
May harbour bacteria from
waste
$$$
Decomposed
Granite
Sterile
Good for paths and areas with
heavy foot traffic
Does not retain waste smell
Proper drainage required
May migrate downhill
$$$
Shredded
Rubber
Soft texture Higher cost
Risk of ingestion
$$$
Page 84 of 104
MATERIAL PROS CONS COST
Does not attract weeds or
insects
Sand Natural material
Adequate drainage
Difficult to maintain and keep
clean
Not accessible for mobile
devices
May overheat under direct
sunlight, damage paws
$$
FENCING & SCREENING
MATERIAL PROS CONS COST
Woven wire Easy to install
Inexpensive
Concrete ledge may be poured
under the frame to prevent dogs
from digging
May be fragile $$
Chain Link
Fencing
Easy to install.
Inexpensive and durable
May be fragile or distorted over
time
$$
Mulch /
Woodchips
Low maintenance and cost
Allows adequate drainage
Natural & recycled material
Needs replenishment due to
decomposition
Risk of splinters in paws
May harbour bacteria from
waste
$
Decomposed
Granite
Sterile
Good for paths and areas with
heavy foot traffic
Does not retain waste smell
Proper drainage required
May migrate downhill
$$$
Minimum Standard Features include:
• Waste and excrement collection containers, and pick up bag dispensers
• Fencing and double-gate self latching closure, where required
• Signage
Additional Features for Consideration:
• Dedicated ‘small and shy dog’ area
• Paw washing station
• Dog drinking fountain
• Lighting fixtures
• Dedicated parking
• Social seating spaces (picnic tables, covered or uncovered seating)
• Shaded features, including dog-run area, also used for sudden inclement weather
• Agility training features
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Accessibility
The Town of Aurora is committed to accessibility. When designing and implementing
new LFAs, consideration must be given to provide full access where possible.
Considerations for design criteria may include:
• Accessible parking
• Hard surfacing
• Depressed curbs
• Gradual grading and slope
• Accessible gated entrances and turn around space
• Edge protection (where slope and grade changes present, including railings)
• Rest areas along path of travel to LFA (where not near parking)
• Viewing areas (inside and outside of fenced LFAs)
• Accessible transitions from pathways
• Accessible seating
Private Amenity Spaces
Staff investigated feasibility of private amenities spaces within condominium sites as
options for LFAs. Particularly with apartment style residencies, LFAs are most needed
as pet-relief without occupants having a space for their pet. This should be considered
in during development at the site plan review stage, particularly where there is no
significant private amenity greenspace. Staff will seek to incorporate this into future
policy proposals. With privately owned public spaces encouraged within the Town’s
Parkland Dedication By-Law and Official Plans, staff will explore options for
partnerships where appropriate.
Page 86 of 104
Attachment 3
Page 87 of 104
Attachment 4
Page 88 of 104
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Committee of the Whole Report
No. PDS 2 4 -065
Subject: New Registration By-law for Additional Residential Units in Single
Family Dwelling Unit
Prepared by: Wm. Jean, Manager – Building Division/CBO
Department: Planning and Development Services
Date: September 3, 2024
Recommendation
1. That Report No. PDS24-065 be received; and
2. That staff bring forward the Registration By-law for Additional Residential Units
(ARUs) to a future Council meeting for enactment.
Executive Summary
This report provides information on the procedure to be adopted by the Planning and
Development Department for the registration of Additional Dwelling Units to permit the
use of additional residential units Town-wide within detached, semi-detached, or
townhouse units, and within an accessory structure located on the same property. This
has the effect of allowing up to three dwelling units per residential lot. The current By-
law Number 5429-12, being a By-law to require the registration of Dwelling Units
Containing Second Suites (the “Registration By-law”) in the Town of Aurora is to be
repealed and replaced.
The existing Registration By-law will be repealed and replaced with the proposed
Registration By-law to require the registration of the two Additional Dwelling
Units (ARUs) to a single-family dwelling unit to create three dwelling units on a
lot.
The proposed Registration By-law will include a section on inspection practices
and issuance of Orders for non-compliance.
Page 89 of 104
September 3, 2024 2 of 5 Report No. PDS24-065
Background
Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022, received Royal Assent on November 28,
2022. The stated intent of Bill 23 is to implement some of the actions contained in
Ontario’s Housing Supply Action Plan, including the building of 1.5 million new homes in
the province by 2031. Amongst the legislative changes were those to the Additional
Residential Unit provisions of the Planning Act, which had originally been introduced
through Bill 108, the More Homes, More Choice Act, 2019. Municipalities are required
to permit the use of additional residential units Town-wide within detached, semi-
detached, or townhouse units, and within an accessory structure located on the same
property. This had the effect of allowing up to three dwelling units per residential lot.
The Town of Aurora has permitted Second Units since 2010 subject to the applicable
Zoning By-law requirements and the Registration By-law which was amended on August
14, 2012. The Town enforces the Ontario Building Code and has established registration
requirements for Additional Residential Units to ensure they are safe, legal and livable.
Analysis
The existing Registration By-law will be repealed and replaced with the proposed
Registration By-law to permit the registration of up to two Additional Dwelling Units
(ARUs) on residential parcels to create three dwelling units on a lot.
Per Bill 23, Additional Dwelling Units (ARUs) are permitted as-of-right across Ontario,
whether or not a municipality adopts an Official Plan Amendment and enacts zoning to
recognize these units. As amended by Bill 23, the Planning Act overrides existing zoning
bylaws to allow up to three residential units per lot as follows:
Up to three residential units in the primary building, or
Up to two residential units in the primary building and one in an ancillary building
or structure
The Town established the ARU Registration By-law on August 14, 2012, which requires
the registration of second units (Two-Unit Dwellings). The proposed Registration By-law
will include the term “Additional Residential Units” (ARUs) which applies to both second
and third units within a single-unit dwelling and additional units in an ancillary building.
As per Planning Act, the by-law would permit the registration of one ancillary unit, such
as a garden suite or a laneway home, with a self-contained residential dwelling unit
within an accessory building with its own facilities and sleeping area, to be located at
the rear or side yard of a detached, semi-detached, or townhouse dwelling.
Page 90 of 104
September 3, 2024 3 of 5 Report No. PDS24-065
The proposed Registration By-law will include a section on inspection practices and
issuance of Orders for non-compliance.
The Town’s proposed Registration By-law will include a section on inspections and
enforcement which was not included in the current Registration By-law. As this by-law
would be authorized pursuant to the Municipal Act, the inspection and enforcement
practices would be the same as those utilized by the Town with respect to other by-laws
authorized by the Municipal Act. It should be noted that while the inspection regulations
allow for entry onto the property, it does not allow entry into the building without the
owner’s consent. Therefore, the enforcement capabilities of this by-law will be limited.
Also, it should be noted that the registration of ARUs is part of the building permit
process for the creation of new ARUs. Registration and payment of registration of the
ARU accompanies the building permit application. Therefore, it is not anticipated that
enforcement for registration will occur. However, in circumstances where there is an
illegal ARU and uncooperative landlords, provisions in the by-law could be used for
enforcement.
Advisory Committee Review
Not Applicable
Legal Considerations
The Town’s current Registration By-law needs to be amended and updated, given the
legislative changes allowing for additional units, which override prohibitions in zoning or
official plan provisions. The proposed Registration By-law will clarify registration
requirements and the Town’s enforcement powers. Generally, it will require that all
additional units be properly registered with the Town. Additional units will be required to
meet various applicable codes and standards to become registered, with the applicant
being required to demonstrate such compliance to the Chief Building Official (“CBO”).
The CBO would also have the authority to revoke registration in cases where units are
found to no longer meet the applicable requirements or if the information provided is
false. Any decisions of the CBO would be final, without a right to appeal.
The proposed Registration By-law would be authorized by the Municipal Act, pursuant to
the authority to protect persons and property, and to pass by-laws with respect to the
health, safety, and well-being of the Town’s residents. The proposed Registration By-law
will provide Building Inspectors, as well as Bylaw Officers, with enforcement powers.
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September 3, 2024 4 of 5 Report No. PDS24-065
However, it should be noted that it will not allow entry into any buildings or dwellings,
unless consent is provided by an occupant, which limits the Town’s enforcement
capabilities.
Financial Implications
There are no direct financial implications as a result of this report.
Of note as per the current Development Charges Act, 1997, the creation of up to three
additional residential units within a single-family dwelling unit, or the creation of up to
two residential units within a single-family dwelling unit and one ancillary building or
structure, are exempt from development charges.
Communications Considerations
Staff will update the current Secondary Suites Information Guide for regulations for
ADUs for inclusion on the Building Division’s webpage.
Climate Change Considerations
This report does not impact the Town’s ability to adapt to a changing climate.
Link to Strategic Plan
This supports the Strategic Goal of Supporting Exceptional Quality of Life
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
1. Council to provide direction.
Conclusions
On November 28, 2022, Bill 23, which allows for three residential units as of right on a
residential property received royal assent.
In order to ensure ARUs in the Town are created and legalized in compliance with all
regulatory requirements and in consideration of the upward trend of ARU registrations
as an affordable housing option, the Building Division will continue to administer a
Registration program and the Provincial compliance mandate. The current ARU by-law
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September 3, 2024 5 of 5 Report No. PDS24-065
needs to be updated and staff is proposing to bring forward a new by-law to address
current legislation and enforcement needs.
Attachments
Attachment 1 – Proposed Registration By-law
Previous Reports
N/A
Pre-submission Review
Agenda Management Team review on August 15, 2024
Approvals
Approved by Marco Ramunno, Director, Planning and Development Services
Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer
Page 93 of 104
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Committee of the Whole Report
No. PDS 2 4 -090
Subject: Updates to Street Naming Policy
Prepared by: Adam Robb, MPL, MCIP, RPP, CAHP
Manager, Policy Planning and Heritage
Department: Planning and Development Services
Date: September 3, 2024
Recommendation
1. That Report No. PDS24-090 be received; and
2. That Council approve the updated Street Naming Policy as attached to this report.
Executive Summary
This report seeks Council’s approval of the updated Street Naming Policy.
The Town’s Street Naming Policy was last updated in 2007.
Updates to the Street Naming Policy are minor and address veteran poppy
symbol application, Legion notification, and other general housekeeping items.
Background
The Town’s Street Naming Policy was last updated in 2007.
The Town first adopted the Street Naming Policy in 2001. The document was updated in
2007 but no other updates or changes have been made since that time, including after
Council’s delegation of street name approval to staff in 2019 (By-law No. 6212-19). The
Town’s Bank of Street Names has continued to be updated and refreshed, including
most recently to include all names from the Aurora War Memorial Cenotaph and Altar of
Sacrifice, but the Policy document itself has been due for an update.
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September 3, 2024 2 of 3 Report No. PDS24-090
Analysis
Updates to the Street Naming Policy are minor and address veteran poppy symbol
application, Legion notification, and other general housekeeping items.
The updated Stret Naming Policy is attached to this report. The policy has been updated
as follows:
Clearly defining the scope of the application of the poppy symbol to all veterans,
not just exclusively those listed on the Cenotaph.
Including the Aurora Royal Canadian Legion as a circulation and notification
agency for the review and selection of street names.
Setting a dedicated 5-year review interval for the policy.
Other minor housekeeping/administration updates (ex: removing references to
comments being exclusively ‘in writing’; updating fees to reference the Town’s
Fees and Charges By-law; removing references to former Department/Division
names, clarifying language/content, updating to the latest document template).
These updates will ensure consistent and aligned application of the Street Naming
Policy moving forward.
Advisory Committee Review
A public delegation was made to the Heritage Advisory Committee and Council
regarding updates to the Town’s Street Naming Policy. The proposed updates as
outlined in this report specifically address those comments that were received.
Legal Considerations
The proposed policy has been reviewed by the Corporate Management Team and the
Executive Leadership Team in accordance with the Town’s policy program.
Financial Implications
There are no direct financial implications as a result of this report.
Communications Considerations
None.
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September 3, 2024 3 of 3 Report No. PDS24-090
Climate Change Considerations
None.
Link to Strategic Plan
Updates to the Town’s Street Naming Policy further the Strategic Plan goal of
Supporting an Exceptional Quality of Life for All through satisfying requirements of
Celebrating and Promoting our Culture.
Alternative to the Recommendation
1. That Council approve the updated Street Naming Policy based on any further edits.
Conclusions
The Town’s Street Naming Policy has been updated to reflect current best practices and
incorporate comments received by the public.
Attachments
Attachment 1 – Updated Street Naming Policy (2024)
Previous Reports
None.
Pre-submission Review
Agenda Management Team review on August 14, 2024
Approvals
Approved by Marco Ramunno, Director, Planning and Development Services
Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer
Page 96 of 104
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Street Naming Policy
Planning and Development Services
Contact: Director, Planning and Development Services
Approval Authority: Council
Effective: May 22, 2001
Revised: April 24, 2007; July 9, 2024
______________________________________________________________________________________
Purpose
This policy establishes the process and parameters for the street naming of public road
allowances and private streets, and street name changes within the Town of Aurora. It
is desirable that the Town of Aurora have such a policy in place to serve as a guide for
staff and to promote the input of the public in the making of such decisions.
Scope and Application
The criteria and guidelines contained in this Policy shall apply to the naming of
municipal and private streets. Notwithstanding the provisions of this policy, Council
may, under special circumstances, duplicate the name of a road with the name of a
facility, provided that the name has been selected in accordance with the Naming Rights
and Street Naming Policies.
Policy
Street Name Criteria
It is desirable to promote the outstanding and/or exemplary contributions of persons in
the community both past and present.
Street names for public road allowances shall generally be determined based on the
following criteria:
• The names of historical persons or families and others within the municipality
who have made outstanding, significant and/or exemplary contributions to the
Town. The street signs for streets named after these persons may be identified
with a professional emblem in recognition of their related service within the
community, such as Fire Protection, Police Status, or others as deemed
appropriate by Council or staff.
• The names of local Veterans; including but not limited to those who are
honoured on the Town Cenotaph, Altar of Sacrifice and at the Aurora War
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2
Memorial and Peace Park. The street signs for streets named after all Veterans
shall be identified with a poppy emblem after their name.
• Any member of Aurora Council is eligible for nomination for the Town of Aurora
Bank of Approved Street Names, however the selection of a Councillor’s name
for use cannot occur during their term of office.
• Other individual requests for street names as deemed appropriate by Council or
staff.
Street names for private streets shall generally be determined based on the following
criteria:
• In accordance with the general Street Name Criteria for public road allowances
as set out above.
• A request made by the developer.
• A theme or promotional name may be proposed to assist with marketing.
The developer and owner/applicant have the opportunity to suggest alternate street
names other than what is provided in the Bank of Approved Street Names for
consideration and review under this Policy.
Bank of Approved Street Names
The Bank of Approved Street Names shall be replenished periodically by proposing a
series of potential street names to York Region for approval on the basis of municipal
consistency for 911 purposes. Central York Fire Services shall also be consulted with
respect to those street names considered acceptable.
The Planning and Development Services Department shall maintain a bank of approved
street names available for selection and assignment within new developments. Once
all names have been approved by the appropriate agencies the list will be offered to
developers as optional names, thereby providing improved efficiencies to the process
of assigning street names to proposed new developments.
The Planning and Development Services Department will circulate appropriate notice
of selected names to the following parties:
a) New street name nominees or remaining family members of individuals that can
be identified and who are in anyway associated or connected with the proposed
street name, including the Aurora Royal Canadian Legion for Veterans. This
notice shall be provided when the nominee is added and can also be provided
when the name is selected for a new street.
b) The public at large through newspaper publication as appropriate and posting
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3
on the Town’s website for a 30-day period.
c) York Region, Central York Fire Services, and the appropriate agencies and Town
departments including the Operations Department. The Aurora Royal Canadian
Legion shall be circulated for Veteran street name selections.
Responses will be received from any of the above contacts for a period of 30-days
after selection and prior to final approval. As per Council delegation (By-law 6212-19),
the decision to approve street names is ultimately through the Director of Planning and
Development Services.
Any objection to a street name consideration will be reviewed, and the name being
considered can be removed at the discretion of the Planning and Development
Services Department. A street name consideration can be removed under the following
conditions:
a) A request is made by a street name nominee, a remaining family member, or
one of the circulation agencies noted above including the public, to have the
name be removed. This can include the removal of a street name consideration
due to potential offensiveness or reasons around sensitivity.
b) Emergency Services (Central York Fire Services, York Region – Police, EMS, Bell
911) along with the Town of Aurora Planning and Development Services
Department believe that a street name submission may potentially have a
negative impact on Emergency Services. If such an issue arises, the street name
nominee or remaining family members will be notified explaining why the name
has been removed.
The input from the public, Aurora Royal Canadian Legion, and the Aurora Historical
Society shall also be sought as required in updating future lists for potential street
naming or to consult with on any name considerations or removals.
Application of Street Naming Conventions
The general street naming guidelines to be used are set out as follows:
• Street names shall not cross arterial roads.
• “North”, “South”, “East” or “West” shall not be used as part of the formal street
name other than for descriptive purposes of streets.
• The criteria for naming street suffixes shall be applied to different road types in
accordance with the following:
“Street”, “Avenue”, and “Way” for internal streets that run in a general north-
south or east-west direction and are used generally to denote collector roads.
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4
“Road” for streets which are collector or arterial streets and are heavily used and
run in any direction.
“Drive” and “Trail” for streets where meandering is the main character.
“Boulevard” for streets where the travel lanes are separated by a planted median
divider.
“Crescent” for streets which intersect another street at both ends and which
actually forms a crescent and leads back to the same connecting street at each
end.
“Court” for streets which end permanently as a bulb/cul-de-sac, a “T”, or a
design which permits turning around through only one point of access.
“Place” and “Square” for streets where there is no exit from the street and the
street leads back to the original street entrance.
“Gate” for streets that are a short connection from a main street to another
street.
“Circle” for streets that loop back to itself.
“Lane” for streets which are generally straight and have a minimal number of
connecting streets.
A mix of different suffixes shall be assigned in circumstances where street names are
proposed to be assigned (i.e. use one “Street”, “Road”, “Avenue”, etc.) for registered
plans of subdivision.
Street Names for Public Road Allowances
Municipal street names shall be assigned by the Planning and Development Services
Department at the time that second submission engineering plans are processed and
when the developer initiates the subdivision agreement process. The developer is
instructed by the Planning and Development Services Department to initiate the street
naming process.
The street name assignment process for street names other that those listed in the
Town’s Bank of Approved Street Names involves obtaining clearance for the use of the
proposed street name(s) by York Region, and acceptance by Central York Fire Services.
Page 100 of 104
5
Additional agencies, including but not limited to the Aurora Royal Canadian Legion
and/or the Aurora Historical Society can also be consulted as required. An appropriate
suffix to the street name is assigned by the Planning and Development Services
Department subject to the configuration of the road in accordance with the provisions
of this Policy. The Planning and Development Services Department shall give notice of
the designated street names to the Town’s list of interested agencies requesting
notification once the Plan of Subdivision is registered.
Street Names for Private Streets
Street names for private streets may be allocated from the Bank of Approved Street
Names. Additionally, a developer may be permitted greater flexibility to suggest their
own names for private streets subject to the provisions of this Policy.
The process is initiated by a site plan application to the Planning and Development
Services Department, as it is at this stage that the requirement for the name assignment
is identified.
The street name assignment process for street names other than those listed in the
Town’s Bank of Approved Street Names involves obtaining clearance for the use of the
proposed street name(s) by York Region, and acceptance by Central York Fire Services.
Additional agencies, including but not limited to the Aurora Royal Canadian Legion
and/or the Aurora Historical Society can also be consulted as required. An appropriate
suffix to the street name is assigned by the Planning and Development Services
Department subject to the configuration of the road in accordance with the provisions
of this Policy. For private streets that are created through a plan of condominium, the
Planning and Development Services Department shall give notice of the designated
street names to the Town’s list of interested agencies requesting notification once the
final Plan is registered.
Street Name Changes
Requests for street name changes shall be submitted to the Planning and Development
Services Department and be accompanied by the prescribed fee from the Town’s Fee
By-law as amended from time to time as part of the annual review of fees.
Requests for street renaming shall only be considered in special circumstances, for
example, considering the impact on the existing street numbering and naming
conventions and/or emergency services. In such cases, street renumbering pursuant to
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6
the Town’s street numbering policies shall be done concurrently as may be appropriate
to ensure that consistency is adhered to.
The street name change process involves receipt of a complete application, the
preparation of a report to Council by the Planning and Development Services
Department for approval, notice of consideration of a By-law, and registration of the By-
law. The public shall be notified and the Council shall hear any person who claims to be
adversely affected by the by-law and applies to be heard. In addition to the minimum
requirements for publication, notice may be given by prepaid postage to all assessed
person affected by the change, at the discretion of the Clerk.
Usually there are a number of months from the time of approval to implementation of a
street name change in order to allow any affected residents time to alter their personal
address information and to post new street addresses should this be necessary.
Street Naming Notification
The Planning and Development Services Department maintains a list of interested
parties requesting notification for each development application. This list, as well as
those agencies referenced in this Policy shall be notified regarding street naming for the
respective development applications.
Responsibilities
All Staff
Staff shall refer all requests for street naming to the attention of the Planning and
Development Services Department.
Specific Department
The Planning and Development Services Department shall be responsible for the
administration and maintenance of this policy.
References
1. Municipal Naming Policy
Review Timeline
This policy shall be reviewed every 5 years.
Page 102 of 104
100 John West Way
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
(905) 727-3123
aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Member Motion
Councillor’s Office
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Re: Review of Train Whistle/Horn Cessation at All Level Crossings in the
Town of Aurora
To: Mayor and Members of Council
From: Councillor Ron Weese
Date: September 3, 2024
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Whereas the train tracks in Aurora are a disruptive influence on pedestrian and vehicular
traffic at all level crossings in Aurora, affecting safe and consistent travel from in
Aurora; and
Whereas there are estimated to be over 2,500 homes and residents living within 200
meters of the train tracks along the train corridor that are negatively impacted by the
train whistles/horns; and
Whereas double-track construction planned by Metrolinx will bring 15-minute service
both ways along the train corridor exacerbating the disruption to residents’ quality of life
with increased train whistles/horns at all level crossings; and
Whereas train whistle/horns signaling and vehicular and pedestrian safety measures
are regulated by external agencies to ensure that safety is maintained at all level
crossings; and
Whereas other municipalities affected adversely by train whistles/horns have included
requisite safety measures at level crossings in their municipalities to ensure the safety
of their residents; and
Whereas the Town of Aurora Strategic Plan states that a Goal is to ‘support an
exceptional quality of life for all’; and
Whereas Aurora Town Council may pass By-Laws to implement train whistle/horn
cessation once safety standards have been implemented at each level crossing; and
Page 103 of 104
Review of Train Whistle/Horn Cessation at All Level Crossings in the Town of Aurora
September 3, 2024 Page 2 of 2
Whereas the Town of Aurora Strategic Plan states that the Town should ‘work with York
Region and Metrolinx to improve transit infrastructure and commuter transportation
options’; and
Whereas the Town of Aurora Strategic Plan states that the Town should ’work with
residents and stakeholders to manage the significant changes that will impact the
Community as a result of planned investment in rapid transit’; and
Whereas Aurora Town Council has not implemented horn/whistle cessation in the past;
and
Whereas circumstances warrant a review of the requirements for the assumption of risk
that would result in improved quality of life for residents of Aurora;
1. Now Therefore Be It Hereby Resolved That staff report back on the processes
needed to create a By-law that will result in the cessation of train whistles/horns at
all level crossings in Aurora.
Page 104 of 104