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Agenda - Special Council - 20250225Town of Aurora Special Meeting of Council Agenda Date:Tuesday, February 25, 2025 Time:6 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 This meeting will serve as the Annual General Meeting of the Aurora Economic Development Corporation. 2.Land Acknowledgement 3.Approval of the Agenda 4.Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof 5.Delegations 6.Consideration of Items Requiring Discussion 6.1 PDS25-029 - Aurora Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2024 1 (Presentation to be provided by Marilee Harris, Chair, Aurora Economic Development Corporation) That Report No. PDS25-029 be received; and1. That the governing documents of the Aurora Economic Development Corporation (AEDC), including any by-laws, be updated as described in the Legal Considerations section of this report; and 2. That the appointment of the auditor or the requirement to have a review engagement be waived for the financial year; and 3. That Council appoint the following individuals to the Aurora Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) Board of Directors for a term of three years: 4. Sreyas Dasika1. Matthew Johnson2. Leslie Stuart Learmont3. Anita Mukherjee4. 7.Confirming By-law 7.1 By-law Number XXXX-25 - Being a By-law to confirm actions by Council resulting from a Special Meeting of Council on February 25, 2025 29 8.Adjournment 100 John West Way Aurora, Ontario L4G 6J1 (905) 727-3123 aurora.ca Town of Aurora Council Report No. PDS25 -029 Subject: Aurora Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2024 Prepared by: Angela Haynes, Senior Economic Development Officer Department: Planning and Development Services Date: February 25, 2025 _ Recommendation 1. That Report No. PDS25-029 be received; and, 2. That the governing documents of the Aurora Economic Development Corporation (AEDC), including any by-laws, be updated as described in the Legal Considerations section of this report; and, 3. That the appointment of the auditor or the requirement to have a review engagement be waived for the financial year; and, 4. That Council appoint the following individuals to the Aurora Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) Board of Directors for a term of three years: 1. Sreyas Dasika 2. Matthew Johnson 3. Leslie Stuart Learmont 4. Anita Mukherjee Executive Summary This report seeks Council’s approval of the Aurora Economic Development Corporation 2024’s Annual Report including receiving the Director’s Report and an election of four directors.  The Director’s report outlines all the achievements of the Aurora Economic Development Corporation for 2024. Page 1 of 29 February 25, 2025 2 of 5 Report No. PDS25-029  The AEDC does not control any finances, it does not have any financial statements and is exempted from providing an auditor’s report.  The AEDC currently has four vacant board seats to appoint, pending Council approval. Background Council is the only shareholder of the corporation and Voting Member for the purposes of the annual meeting. According to both legislation and the operating by-law of the AEDC Corporation, being By-Law No.1, the following must be presented at the Annual General Meeting:  The report from the Directors  The Financial Statements  The Report of the Auditors  Election of the Board of Directors  Appointment of Auditors for the next year, if applicable Analysis The Director’s report outlines all the achievements of the Aurora Economic Development Corporation for 2024. The Director’s report outlines all the achievements of the Aurora Economic Development Corporation for 2024. The Chair of the AEDC, Marilee Harris, submitted a Chair’s report which has outlined the activities of the board over the past year (see Attachment 1 – 2024 AEDC’s Annual Chair’s Report). The AEDC does not control any finances, it does not have any financial statements and is exempted from providing an auditor’s report. As per legislation and their By-Law No. 1, the Board is required to present the audited financial statements of the Corporation, a report of the auditors and appoint next year’s auditor at each annual meeting. However, the Town’s Finance Department and the Town’s Auditor have reconfirmed that an audit and financial statements will not be required based upon the AEDC’s present financial situation as the AEDC does not control any financials. As long as the AEDC continues to not control any financials, it will not require an annual audit, nor generation of financial statements each year. Page 2 of 29 February 25, 2025 3 of 5 Report No. PDS25-029 However, it is required due to it corporation status to submit a tax return to the Canada Revenue Agency each year. The AEDC currently has four (4) vacant board seats to appoint, pending Council approval. Currently there are four (4) board vacancies on the AEDC Board of Directors following the term ending for four (4) Directors. Following a public recruitment process, the AEDC Board of Directors are recommending the appointment of four (4) candidates. In accordance with the Municipal Act, Council will be reviewing the candidates in a closed session meeting and the names will be made public once Council selects the new Board members. The three-year term of the new appointment will be effective starting February 26, 2025, the day after the Annual General Meeting of the Corporation. Advisory Committee Review None. Legal Considerations As a result of its hybrid nature, the AEDC was incorporated as a not-for-profit corporation in 2019. Since then, the Not-for-Profit Corporations Act, 2010 (ONCA) was proclaimed into force. Organizations are required to bring their governing documents into compliance with ONCA. Legal Services conducted a review of the governing documents and noted that while they are generally already in compliance with this legislation, the governing documents could use some updates as they were in legalese and at times difficult to understand. The governing documents have now been simplified and will be presented to the Board of Directors at its next meeting. Further, since the AEDC does not have any revenue or receive any funding, ONCA permits Council to waive the AEDC from appointing auditors or having a review engagement for the upcoming year. Financial Implications There are no financial considerations at this time. Page 3 of 29 February 25, 2025 4 of 5 Report No. PDS25-029 Communications Considerations Notice of AGM is required ten (10) days before the meeting date and will be issued by email and posted on the Town’s website. The members of the Board of Directors, and newly appointed member(s) will be added to the Town’s website. Climate Change Considerations The recommendations from this report do not impact greenhouse gas emissions or impact climate change adaptation. Link to Strategic Plan The ongoing work of the Aurora Economic Development Corporation, including the election of new Board members, supports the Strategic Plan by: enabling a diverse, creative and resilient economy; promoting economic opportunities that facilitate the growth of Aurora as a desirable place to do business; and creating, implementing and regularly updating a community wide Economic Development Strategic Action Plan. Alternative(s) to the Recommendation 1. That Council provide direction. Conclusions The Aurora Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) has prepared its annual report as required by both the legislation and By-Law No.1 of the AEDC bylaws for its Annual General Meeting. Since Council is the only shareholder in the Corporation, the annual general meeting may coincide with a Council meeting. Staff is recommending that Council approve the AEDC’s Annual Report for 2024, appointment the proposed candidates to serve a three-year term on the AEDC’s Board of Directors. Attachments Attachment 1 – 2024 AEDC’s Annual Chair’s Report Previous Reports Special Meeting of Council No. PDS24-028, dated February 27, 2024 Page 4 of 29 February 25, 2025 5 of 5 Report No. PDS25-029 Special Meeting of Council No. PDS23-055, dated April 25, 2023 Special Meeting of Council No. PDS22-063, dated April 26, 2022 Special Meeting of Council No. PDS21-060, dated May 25, 2021 Pre-submission Review Agenda Management Team review on February 13, 2025 Approvals Approved by Marco Ramunno, Director, Planning and Development Services Approved by Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer Page 5 of 29 Aurora Economic Development Corporation 2024 Annual Report As Chair of the Aurora Economic Development Corporation (AEDC), I am pleased to present this report to the Corporation’s shareholders, summarizing our activities in 2024—our sixth year of operation. This report highlights key initiatives undertaken to date and provides insight into our plans for the future. This past year, we welcomed four new Board Members and continued our commitment to working with community stakeholders in implementing the Action Plan for the Town of Aurora’s Economic Development Strategy. The Action Plan serves as a guiding framework for economic development efforts and investment over the short, medium, and long term. To recap, the 2019–2023 Economic Development Strategy and Implementation Matrix— approved by both the AEDC and Town Council—outlined a series of targeted initiatives aligned with the four primary goals of the Economic Development Strategic Plan: ●Targeting growth sectors and attracting new investment ●Creating a competitive business environment ●Establishing Downtown Aurora as a destination ●Enhancing quality of life through heritage, arts, culture, tourism, and community engagement While the formal strategy concluded at the end of 2023, these four strategic priorities remain central to our work. With guidance from the Town, the Board advanced the development of the Economic Development Strategic Action Plan to ensure continued progress through concrete initiatives. This approach allows us to maintain momentum while awaiting the outcomes of major Town-led projects, such as Town Square and various ongoing studies and strategies. Given the importance of incorporating up-to- date insights, it was prudent to delay a fully new economic development strategy until new Census and employment data become available. The Action Plan was developed with input from community leaders, stakeholders, and partners and was formally presented to Council at our AGM last year. The following sections highlight key action items identified within the plan, categorized by their respective Action Teams, along with notable progress to date. A key Attachment 1 Page 6 of 29 consideration in each Action Team’s scope is a ‘tourism lens.’ Rather than establishing a standalone tourism-specific action team, the Board intentionally integrated tourism- related initiatives across all economic development activities, recognizing its cross- cutting impact on the local economy. In alignment with this approach, the Board and Town staff collaborated with Central Counties to develop the Aurora Community Tourism Plan, which will be presented to Council later this year. Key Initiatives: • Launched the Aurora Entrepreneur Resource Alliance • Launched the award-winning Emerging Aurora Cybersecurity Escape Room • Supported the Town Square Grand Opening • Supported Machell's Alley activations • Supported several business events, entrepreneurs, and grand openings • Participated in initial consultations for upcoming Town strategies and studies Innovation Team Purpose: To facilitate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in Aurora by providing support for entrepreneurs to find connections and pathways for business growth. ● Position Aurora as a hub of innovation and cutting-edge technology to attract businesses and talent ● (w/Tourism lens): Foster innovation in local industries to attract tourists interested in cutting-edge technology and products Activities: ● Establish an Innovation Hub for start-ups and tech companies (2025) ● Organize tech conferences and seminars to showcase local innovations. ● Host industry-specific conferences and workshops to showcase Aurora's expertise ● Foster partnerships with universities and research institutions for collaborative projects Tactics: (Completed/Ongoing) ● Researched and created a list/database of innovation partners/eco-system. ● Researched and created a list/database of innovation-related services in the region ● Developed and launched a unique collaboration model to engage innovators and connect them with the resources they need. (Aurora’s Entrepreneur Resource Alliance - ERA) The inaugural year of the Innovation Action Team yielded outstanding results, including the successful launch of the award-winning Emerging Aurora Cybersecurity Escape Room and the Aurora Entrepreneur Resource Alliance. Both initiatives were Page 7 of 29 strategically developed to foster collaboration among regional partners within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, providing meaningful support to Aurora’s entrepreneurs and regional innovators. The Cybersecurity Escape Room was particularly impactful, aligning with multiple Action Team objectives, including downtown placemaking, visitor attraction, marketing and outreach, and local business and community engagement. This well-rounded initiative was recognized with the Economic Development Council of Ontario’s award for ‘Visitor Attraction and Tourism Development’, underscoring its success in driving economic and community impact. The Aurora Entrepreneur Resource Alliance marked a significant milestone as the first gathering of highly esteemed entrepreneurial leaders in Aurora. As Chair, I would like to acknowledge the exceptional effort that went into making this initiative a success. I extend my sincere appreciation to the Board for its unwavering support and to all those involved in the planning and execution of the event, particularly our host, Megalab Group. The event received highly positive feedback, and a comprehensive report will be presented to the Board to guide the planning of future initiatives. Downtown Team Purpose: To facilitate the creation of a magical, distinct destination for businesses, residents and visitors that enhances Aurora’s culture, accessibility, and inclusivity. ● Transform Downtown Aurora into a vibrant cultural and entertainment hub for tourists ● (w/Tourism lens): Strengthen support for local businesses catering to tourists, enhancing their offerings and visibility Activities: ● Support major infrastructure projects as part of revitalization, including downtown business and building owner communication and support ● Host/support regular art walks, music festivals, and cultural events ● Identify vacant spaces that could be redeveloped into gathering spots, art galleries, theaters, pop-up artisans and cultural activation areas. (Machell’s Alley support) ● Develop and launch a unique collaboration and promotion model to engage downtown businesses and building owners (2025) ● Develop and launch tools to mitigate construction impacts in the downtown through revitalization efforts (2025) ● Develop and implement a wayfinding strategy, with future signage implemented (2025) Tactics: (Completed/Ongoing) ● Leverage the awareness, marketing and branding of Town Square – encourage and support participation in Town Square grand opening festivities ● Partner with local art/culture and business groups to host activations in the Downtown Page 8 of 29 ● Promote local artists and artisans through pop-up market, public installations, and exhibitions ● Support a working group for the Streetscape project, supporting consultation and communication ● Participate in traffic/parking strategies – interim and long-term ● Develop and implement technology to enhance resident and visitor experience in the downtown One of the most significant milestones for the Town this year was undoubtedly the Grand Opening of Town Square. The Board was honored to be involved from the early stages—receiving project updates, participating in hard hat tours as construction progressed, and ultimately celebrating alongside the community at the Grand Opening festivities. Congratulations to Aurora Council for its leadership and perseverance in bringing this transformative initiative to life. Town Square now stands as a lasting asset, serving as a catalyst for downtown revitalization and economic growth for generations to come. As part of the celebrations and broader downtown initiatives, the Board and staff actively supported local businesses through a range of activities, many of which align with the objectives of the Marketing and Business Support Action Teams. Under the leadership of the Downtown Action Team, we were also pleased to contribute to key initiatives, including the Streetscape and Parking Studies, the Community Tourism Plan, and the ongoing Machell’s Alley activations. Local Business Support Team Purpose: To cultivate an inclusive ecosystem to support the growth of businesses located in Aurora. ● Support and empower local businesses to thrive and contribute to Aurora's economic growth ● (w/Tourism lens): Strengthen support for local businesses catering to tourists, enhancing their offerings and visibility Activities: ● Leverage partners to enhance the Explore Aurora campaign to encourage residents and tourists to patronize local shops and restaurants ● Develop a “buy local” campaign with partners for B2B patronage between Aurora businesses – supporting each other (2025) ● Offer training and/or networking programs with partners for businesses on hospitality, customer service, and tourism marketing (2025) Tactics: (Completed/Ongoing) ● Support a working group for the Streetscape project, supporting consultation and communication Page 9 of 29 ● Participate in a traffic/parking strategies – interim and long-term ● Partner with local art/culture groups to host activations in the Downtown ● Engage with business leaders to support through the Emerging Aurora campaign ● Engage with businesses as part of the Town Square Grand Opening and ongoing downtown activities The Local Business Support Action Team serves as a vital link between the Board and the business community, ensuring that local businesses receive the support, resources, and advocacy they need to thrive. Comprising key members from Town staff, the Aurora Chamber of Commerce, and the Board, this team plays a pivotal role in fostering engagement, facilitating collaboration, and addressing the evolving needs of Aurora’s business landscape. Through ongoing outreach efforts, the Action Team works closely with business owners, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to provide guidance, share valuable resources, and create opportunities for networking and growth. Strategic partnerships have been instrumental in strengthening the local economy and supporting business success. A special thanks to the Aurora Chamber of Commerce for its continued partnership and invaluable contributions to the AEDC and the broader business community. The Chamber's dedication to fostering economic growth and championing local businesses has been integral to our collective efforts. Together, we remain committed to ensuring that Aurora remains a competitive and supportive environment for businesses of all sizes. Marketing/Storytelling Team TeamPurpose: To raise the profile of Aurora in the minds of businesses and residents, locally and beyond. ● Craft a compelling narrative and marketing strategy to elevate Aurora's brand and reputation regionally and nationally. ● (w/Tourism Lens): Craft compelling narratives and marketing campaigns to position Aurora as a must-visit destination, leveraging existing events and assets. Activities: (Completed/Ongoing) ● Leverage the Emerging Aurora brand by continuing to focus on local leaders; leverage products and services the extend beyond Aurora; media partnerships ● Develop an ongoing delegation strategy to invite and host key Embassy officials to visit Aurora and local businesses. (2025) ● Develop a cohesive branding strategy that highlights Aurora's strengths and unique selling points. Page 10 of 29 ● Create engaging content for digital platforms, print media, and public relations campaigns. ● Collaborate with influencers, thought leaders, and media outlets to amplify Aurora's visibility and showcase Aurora’s hidden gems. ● Develop a comprehensive tourism brand highlighting Aurora's unique attractions and experiences. (2025) ● Create engaging tourism-related content for social media, blogs, and travel platforms.(2025) The Marketing Action Team played a crucial role in amplifying the initiatives of the other Action Teams, ensuring that Aurora’s economic development efforts remain visible, impactful, and widely recognized. Consistent and strategic marketing is essential in reinforcing Aurora’s brand identity, attracting investment, supporting local businesses, and fostering community engagement. By maintaining a strong and ongoing marketing presence, the AEDC continues to position Aurora as a premier destination for business growth and innovation. A key pillar of these efforts is the continued expansion of the Emerging Aurora brand, which has gained increasing recognition and influence. In 2025, this brand will further evolve with the launch of the Emerging Aurora podcast—"Off the Cuff" with Vern Cunningham. Hosted by one of the AEDC’s founding Board Members, this podcast will take listeners and viewers on an engaging journey through entrepreneurial success stories, leadership insights, and Aurora’s unique economic landscape. This platform will serve as a dynamic and accessible way to reinforce the investment appeal of "Why Aurora", while also showcasing the individuals and businesses that contribute to the town’s thriving economic environment. By integrating digital media, storytelling, and targeted outreach, the Marketing Action Team ensures that Aurora’s value proposition remains front and center—not only for potential investors but also for local businesses and stakeholders who benefit from a well-promoted and connected business ecosystem. As we look ahead, continued investment in marketing will be instrumental in sustaining economic momentum and reinforcing Aurora’s competitive advantage. The Board has undertaken several internal initiatives to strengthen its foundation for the future. This included the formation of various working groups, most notably the Governance Working Group. This dedicated team has focused on refining our recruitment process, reviewing bylaws and terms of reference, and collaborating with Town staff to develop a comprehensive Board Member package. This new resource will provide essential guidance for both new and existing members, ensuring continuity and effectiveness in governance. Page 11 of 29 This year, we are pleased to welcome four new Board Members, whose fresh perspectives, diverse experiences, and expertise will further enhance our mission. As I step down as Chair, and on behalf of the founding Board Members, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Council for its trust and confidence in the Board as an extension of the Town’s economic development efforts. I take great pride in all that has been accomplished in a relatively short time—achievements made possible through the dedication and leadership of this Board. I extend my heartfelt thanks to my fellow Board Members for their commitment and contributions. The past year has been a busy and productive one, and 2025 already promises a range of exciting and impactful initiatives. I am confident that the Board will continue to provide valuable service, strategic guidance, and insightful counsel to the Town. As always, we deeply appreciate Council’s ongoing support in fostering local economic growth. Marilee Harris, Chair Aurora Economic Development Corporation Page 12 of 29 2024 Annual ReportAurora Economic Development CorporationPage 13 of 29 2•Marilee Harris, Chair•Tim Hammill, Past Chair•Mae Khamissa, Vice Chair•Mayor, Tom Mrakas•Councillor Rachel Gilliland•Richard Gong•Nima Khadem Mohtaram•Keith Loo•Bill Hogg•Tracy Smith•Owen Heritage•Sepehr AssadianStaff & Community Support:•Doug Nadorozny, CAO•Marco Ramunno, Director of Planning & Development Services•Lisa Hausz, Manager, Economic Development •Angela Haynes, Senior Economic Development Officer•Sandra Ferri, President & CEO, Aurora Chamber of Commerce2024 AEDC Board of DirectorsPage 14 of 29 3•Steve Hinder•Marilee Harris•Tim Hammill•Mae Khamissa•Richard Gong•Vern CunninghamRecognizing Founding Board of DirectorsPage 15 of 29 Leading Economic Development 4“To lead, inspire and build ongoing, sustainable and robust business growth in Aurora, which yields a vibrant, prosperous community of businesses, people and ecosystem.”(From the Aurora Economic Development Strategic Action Plan - 2024)Purpose for Economic Development in Aurora:Page 16 of 29 AEDC’s Role5•Provide a critical advisory rolein promoting economic growth and diversification in the Town of Aurora.•Provide strategic leadership and coordinationof community economic development.•Work with partners to strengthen and diversify existing business, attract new business and investment, and coordinate strategic economic development initiatives within the community. •Responsible for working with community stakeholders to develop and maintain an Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan for the Town of Aurora to guide economic development activities and investment over the short, medium and long term. Page 17 of 29 Economic Development Strategic Action Plan (recap)6Innovation TeamPurpose: To facilitate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in Aurora by providing support for entrepreneurs to find connections and pathways for business growth. Downtown TeamPurpose: To facilitate the creation of a magical, distinct destination for businesses, residents and visitors that enhances Aurora’s culture, accessibility, and inclusivity.Local Business Support TeamPurpose: To cultivate an inclusive ecosystem to support the growth of businesses located in Aurora.Marketing/Storytelling TeamPurpose: To raise the profile of Aurora in the minds of businesses and residents, locally and beyond.Page 18 of 29 Economic Development Action PlanTourism7Objectives:Enhance the visitor experience:Develop and promote unique tourism offerings that showcase Aurora's cultural heritage, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities, attracting a wider range of visitors and encouraging longer stays. Drive economic growth:Increase tourism revenue by supporting local businesses, creating new employment opportunities within the tourism sector, and stimulating investment in related industries.Aurora Community Tourism PlanPage 19 of 29 Economic Development Action PlanInnovation8Objectives:•Position Aurora as a hub of innovation and cutting-edge technology to attract businesses and talent. •(w/Tourism lens): Foster innovation in local industries to attract tourists interested in cutting-edge technology and products.Page 20 of 29 Economic Development Action PlanLocal Business Support9Objectives: •Support and empower local businesses to thrive and contribute to Aurora's economic growth.•(w/Tourism lens): Strengthen support for local businesses catering to tourists, enhancing their offerings and visibilityPage 21 of 29 Economic Development Action PlanDowntown Revitalization10Objectives:•Transform Downtown Aurora into a vibrant cultural and entertainment hub for residents and visitors.•(w/Tourism lens): Strengthen support for local businesses catering to tourists, enhancing their offerings and visibilityPage 22 of 29 Economic Development Action PlanxCraft a compelling narrative and marketing strategy to elevate Aurora's brand and reputation regionally and nationally.x(w/Tourism Lens): Craft compelling narratives and marketing campaigns to position Aurora as a must-visit destination, leveraging existing events and assets. 11Marketing / StorytellingPage 23 of 29 Aurora Entrepreneur Resource Alliance (ERA)12Page 24 of 29 Emerging Aurora: Cybersecurity Escape Room by siberX13Page 25 of 29 Advisory/Consultative Role•Promenade-Streetscape Plan•Town-wide Parking Study•Community Tourism Plan•Collaborative Downtown Engagement•Upcoming•Town website updates•Comprehensive Zoning By-law•Community Planning Permit SystemPage 26 of 29 2024 Event ScheduleJanuary 23, 2024:AEDC Board Meeting (first of 2024)February 21, 2024: Mayor’s State of the TownJune 3, 2024: Chamber Street Festival (Emerging Aurora Booth)June 18–20, 2024:Collision Conference, TorontoAug.-Sept 2024: Machell’s Alley – Alley Jam!September 3, 2024: Cyber Security Escape RoomSeptember 17, 2024:AEDC Board Meeting, Action Teams & PartnersOctober 24, 2024: Entrepreneur Resource Alliance & Eat. Sip & ConnectDecember 12, 2024:AEDC Board Meeting & Lunch (last of 2024)Page 27 of 29 Thank You!16Page 28 of 29 The Corporation of The Town of Aurora By-law Number XXXX-25 Being a By-law to confirm actions by Council resulting from a Special Meeting of Council on February 25, 2025. The Council of the Corporation of The Town of Aurora hereby enacts as follows: 1. That the actions by Council at its Special Meeting of Council held on February 25, 2025, in respect of each motion, resolution and other action passed and taken by the Council at the said meeting is hereby adopted, ratified and confirmed. 2. That the Mayor and the proper officers of the Town are hereby authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to the said action or to obtain approvals where required and to execute all documents as may be necessary in that behalf and the Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to affix the corporate seal to all such documents. Enacted by Town of Aurora Council this 25th day of February, 2025. Tom Mrakas, Mayor Michael de Rond, Town Clerk Page 29 of 29