AGENDA - General Committee - 20180501
General Committee
Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
7 p.m.
Council Chambers
Aurora Town Hall
Public Release
April 20, 2018
Town of Aurora
General Committee
Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
7 p.m., Council Chambers
Councillor Mrakas in the Chair
1. Approval of the Agenda
Recommended:
That the agenda as circulated by Legislative Services be approved.
2. Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
3. Presentations
(a) Mike Walters, Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority
Re: Flood Preparation
4. Delegations
5. Consent Agenda
Items listed under the Consent Agenda are considered routine or no longer require
further discussion, and are enacted in one motion. The exception to this rule is that
a Member may request for one or more items to be removed from the Consent
Agenda for separate discussion and action.
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018 Page 2 of 5
Recommended:
That the following Consent Agenda Items, C1 to C4 inclusive, be approved:
C1. CMS18-011 – Child Care Services Agreement
Recommended:
1. That Report No. CMS18-011 be received; and
2. That the Director of Community Services be authorized to execute the
Child Care Services Agreement with the Regional Municipality of York,
including any and all documents and ancillary agreements required to
give effect to same; and
3. That the Director of Community Services be delegated authority to renew
and execute the Child Care Services Agreement on an annual basis.
C2. PDS18-036 – Brookland Avenue Reconstruction – Managing
Construction Disruption and Improved Communications
Recommended:
1. That Report No. PDS18-036 be received for information.
C3. Finance Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of March 28, 2018
Recommended:
1. That the Finance Advisory Committee meeting minutes of March 28,
2018, be received for information.
C4. Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of April 9, 2018
Recommended:
1. That the Heritage Advisory Committee meeting minutes of April 9, 2018,
be received for information.
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018 Page 3 of 5
6. Consideration of Items Requiring Discussion (Regular Agenda)
R1. OPS18-009 – Joint Operations Centre Additional Works
Recommended:
1. That Report No. OPS18-009 be received; and
2. That this report satisfies the requirement for release of conditional
approval for capital works at the Joint Operations Centre.
R2. CAO18-005 – 2018-2021 Communications and Community Engagement
Strategy
Presentation to be provided by Stephanie Mackenzie-Smith, Manager, Corporate
Communications
Recommended:
1. That Report No. CAO18-005 be received; and
2. That the attached Town of Aurora 2018-2021 Communications and
Community Engagement Strategy be endorsed.
R3. OPS18-005 – Naming of Parks
Recommended:
1. That Report No. OPS18-005 be received; and
2. That the selection of names for nine (9) Town of Aurora parks be
approved as presented.
R4. CMS18-013 – Aurora Historical Society – Request for Funding
Recommended:
1. That Report No. CMS18-013 be received; and
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Tuesday, May 1, 2018 Page 4 of 5
2. That a grant to the Aurora Historical Society (AHS) for the storage of
historical artifacts, in the amount of $2,722.84 for 2018 to be funded from
the Council Contingency Operating Account, be approved.
R5. PDS18-047 – Award of Tender 2018-22-PDS-ENG – For Roadway
Rehabilitation on Gilbert Drive, Jarvis Avenue, Archerhill
Court, Westview Drive and McClellan Way
Recommended:
1. That Report No. PDS18-047 be received; and
2. That the total approved budget for Capital Project No. 31140 be
increased to $716,592.00, representing an increase of $75,014.00 to be
funded from the Roads Repair and Replacement Reserve; and
3. That Tender 2018-22-PDS-ENG, Capital Project No. 31140, for Roadway
Rehabilitation on Gilbert Drive, Jarvis Avenue, Archerhill Court, Westview
Drive and McClellan Way (from Bathurst Street to Spence Drive) be
awarded to Forest Contractors Ltd. in the amount of $627,895.60
excluding taxes; and
4. That the Mayor and Town Clerk be authorized to execute the necessary
Agreement, including any and all documents and ancillary agreements
required to give effect to same.
R6. PDS18-051 – Award of Contract for Consulting Services – Design for
the Reconstruction of Adair Drive, Bailey Crescent,
Davidson Road and Harriman Road
Recommended:
1. That Report No. PDS18-051 be received; and
2. That the budget for Capital Project No. 31119 be increased to $217,879
with additional funding of $77,879 provided from the Storm Sewer
Reserve Fund; and
3. That the Request for Proposal No. 2018-45-PDS-ENG for the provision
of consulting services for the design of the reconstruction of Adair Drive,
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Tuesday, May 1, 2018 Page 5 of 5
Bailey Crescent, Davidson Road and Harriman Road be awarded to
AECOM Canada Ltd. in the amount of $214,110.00, excluding taxes; and
4. That the Mayor and Town Clerk be authorized to execute the necessary
agreement, including any and all documents and ancillary agreements
required to give effect to same.
R7. Summary of Committee Recommendations Report No. 2018-05
Recommended:
1. That Summary of Committee Recommendations Report No. 2018-05 be
received; and
2. That the Committee recommendations contained within this report be
approved.
7. Notices of Motion
8. New Business
9. Closed Session
10. Adjournment
Town of Aurora
General Committee Report No. CMS18-011
Subject: Child Care Services Agreement
Prepared by: John Firman, Manager of Business Support
Department: Community Services
Date: May 1, 2018
Recommendation
1. That Report No. CMS18-011 be received; and
2. That the Director of Community Services be authorized to execute the Child
Care Services Agreement with the Regional Municipality of York, including
any and all documents and ancillary agreements required to give effect to
same; and
3. That the Director of Community Services be delegated authority to renew and
execute the Child Care Services Agreement on an annual basis.
Executive Summary
The purpose of this report is to request that the Director of Community Services (“the
Director”) be authorized to enter into a Child Care Services Agreement with the
Regional Municipality of York (“York Region”) thereby licensing the Town as an
approved service provider for Child Care Subsidy eligible families.
This report reviews the following items for Council’s information and consideration:
• Existing PLAY program
• Child Care Subsidy program
• Program availability
• Eligibility
• Program implementation
Background
York Region provides Child Care Subsidy to low income families to help offset childcare
costs for children up to 12 years of age, including summer camps. Historically, the
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item C1
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May 1, 2018 Page 2 of 5 Report No. CMS18-011
Town has not met the established criteria to be deemed a licensed child care provider
by York Region and has therefore not been eligible to receive Child Care Subsidy
payments.
This has meant that Aurora families who are eligible for and rely upon Child Care
Subsidies to enroll their children in summer camps, have not been able to register in
Town camps, as the Town was not licensed to receive these funds.
Staff have worked with York Region to resolve the licensing issue and have now been
granted approval to enter into a Child Care Services Agreement, thereby making it
possible for families in receipt of Child Care Subsidy to enroll in Town camps.
Analysis
Existing PLAY program
The Town currently partners with York Region with the PLAY program, whereby funding
is provided by York Region for approved families to participate in recreational
programming such as summer camps, after school programs, swimming lessons, etc.,
paid for by York Region.
Eligibility for this program is restricted to families in receipt of Ontario Works or Disability
benefits. York Region conducts all the screening and approvals and provides the Town
with a list of approved families.
The Town manages the program registration and invoices York Region for payment.
This program enables families who would otherwise not be able to afford to do so, to
participate in recreational programming offered by the Town.
Child Care Subsidy program
The Child Care Subsidy program provides full or partial funding for children up to age 12
for child care costs. Town summer camps are included as eligible child care services,
and therefore are acceptable alternatives to traditional daycare centres. Any family that
is eligible to receive Child Care Subsidy from York Region can now enroll their child in
Town summer camps, where prior to this agreement they were not able to.
This provides increased options and variety for Aurora families for their child care needs
during the summer camp season.
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Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item C1
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May 1, 2018 Page 3 of 5 Report No. CMS18-011
Program availability
Child Care subsidy recipients will have the same access to program registration as all
other participants, with registration dates based on residency. It is not anticipated that
these additional participants will have a significant impact on program availability.
Eligibility
Eligibility is determined by York Region Community and Health Services, Social
Services Branch. York Region provides confirmation to the Town of approved Child
Care Subsidy recipients. Town staff do not participate in the approval process.
Program implementation
This program will be implemented similar to the PLAY program, and will be managed by
the Community Services Department in cooperation with York Region.
Given that processes and resources are currently in place to manage the PLAY
program, and the similarity with the Child Care Subsidy program, there is no significant
impact on operations anticipated.
Advisory Committee Review
Not applicable.
Legal Considerations
York Region will provide a standard Child Care Services Agreement for review by Legal
Services and execution by the Director of Community Services.
Financial Implications
By providing additional opportunities for funding for low-income families, an increase in
summer camp registrations and associated revenue is anticipated. In a similar manner
as the PLAY program, the Town will register participants as approved by the Region. At
the end of the season the Region will verify the list of participants and provide funds to
the Town.
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item C1
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May 1, 2018 Page 4 of 5 Report No. CMS18-011
Communications Considerations
There are no anticipated communications implications.
Link to Strategic Plan
The agreement supports the Strategic Plan goal of Supporting an Exceptional Quality
of Life for All through its accomplishment in satisfying requirements in the following key
objective within this goal statement:
Encouraging an Active and Healthy Lifestyle: through the increased opportunity for
children from low-income families to participate in Town summer camp programs.
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
1. Council can decline to enter into the agreement to accept Child Care Subsidy
payments.
2. Council can provide further direction.
Conclusions
Staff recommend that Council authorize the Director to execute the Child Care Subsidy
agreement on an annual basis.
Attachments
None.
Previous Reports
None.
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Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item C1
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Town of Aurora
General Committee Report No. PDS18-036
Subject: Brookland Avenue Reconstruction – Managing Construction
Disruption and Improved Communications
Prepared by: Anca Mihail, Manager of Engineering and Capital Delivery
Department: Planning and Development Services
Date: May 1, 2018
Recommendation
1. That Report No. PDS18-036 be received for information.
Executive Summary
Reconstruction projects for sewers, watermains and roads have a big impact on traffic
operations as they typically occupy the municipal right-of-way. When the reconstruction
work is undertaken on major municipal roads, with vehicular traffic, cyclists, pedestrians
and commercial operations, the resulting disruption can be significant.
The purpose of this report is to present strategies to reduce the effects of Town-led
construction projects on residents, businesses and road users.
Background
At its meeting of February 27, Council passed the following motion:
“Whereas the Town of Aurora has a Ten-Year Road Reconstruction Program, and each
year there are road projects impacting residents and businesses alike; and
Whereas recent road improvement project(s) have had its challenges; and
Whereas in 2018 the Town is anticipating road projects including, but not limited to,
Yonge Street stretching from Brookland Avenue to St. John’s Sideroad; and
Whereas staff in large part has already analyzed the challenges and successes in the
case of Brookland Avenue road project, and plans to leverage the information for future
projects; and
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May 1, 2018 Page 2 of 10 Report No. PDS18-036
Whereas the Town has a Business Concierge team to partner with local businesses to
mediate potential business impacts due to adjacent road reconstruction;
1. Now Therefore Be It Hereby Resolved That staff bring a detailed report to
Council which includes, but is not limited to, the following:
a) Challenges encountered (including incidents in the Brookland Avenue road
improvement project);
b) Successes;
c) What was learned;
d) Recommendations to be included for future road projects, including how the
Business Concierge team can get involved;”
The construction of sewers, watermains and roads is by nature noisy, dusty and
disruptive work. It can cause some negative impact to adjacent property owners or
motorists, pedestrians or other roadway user affected by the construction activities.
When this work is overlaid onto Town’s streets with relatively high volumes of vehicular
traffic, cyclists, pedestrians, narrow right-of-ways and varied commercial operations, the
resulting disruption can be significant.
The Town is forecasting significant growth in capital construction in the next 10 years,
raising the prospect of higher construction-related impacts on adjacent property owners,
pedestrians, cyclists, transit and motorists. Traffic congestion, construction duration and
public disruption are the main impacts of construction within the road right-of-way, and
major concerns to road users as well as Town’s engineering staff charged with
maintaining and operating Town’s linear infrastructure assets.
The Reconstruction of Brookland Avenue from Yonge to Banbury Crescent was
undertaken in 2017. The project involved full depth road reconstruction over the entire
pavement width, removal and replacement of the sanitary sewers, storm sewers, the
watermain, the 2 culverts, one on the west side and another on the east side of the
section of road being reconstructed, and replacement of the sidewalk located on the
south side of the road where necessary.
Construction works were considerably delayed due to a very unusual wet summer, 28
rain days from July to 2017 to the end of January 2018.
For the spring/summer of 2018 the following works are scheduled: placement of the top
course asphalt with base asphalt repairs where necessary, adjustment to manholes and
catch basins, sidewalk repairs/replacement, line painting, topsoil, sod placement and
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tree planting. This work is estimated to take approximately 15 to 20 working days,
weather permitting.
Analysis
The main concerns from the residents in the Brookland Avenue area included the
project duration, traffic and access matters, business disruption with resultant business
loss, the adequacy of the contractor’s actions, schedule delays and overall contractor
performance.
The schedule delays were due mostly to the very wet summer of 2017 with very high
number of rain days (28 in total) that impacted and delayed the culverts’ replacement
work. The replacement of the linear servicing infrastructure (e.g. the sanitary sewer, the
storm sewer and the watermain), as well as the road work could not start until the 2
culverts were replaced. The schedule delays intensified the disruption to both residents
and business owners and there were complaints regarding noise, dust, mud on the
street, storefront disruption, difficult pedestrian traffic as well as difficult access into
Wimpy’s commercial plaza. Also, the size of the required work zone and the narrow
right-of-way of Brookland Avenue, intensified the construction disruption to the residents
and general public.
As a result of the issues associated with disruption and construction duration
experienced on Brookland Avenue reconstruction project, staff analyzed the facts and
plans to leverage the information for future projects. The Engineering Division will
continue to employ certain strategies used before as well as make specific
improvements in some key areas as specified below:
• Procurement Processes - Pre-qualification of contractors
• Traffic Control Plans/Traffic Management Plans
• Contract Management Improvement - Liquidated Damages
• Contractor Performance Evaluation Tool
• Communication Strategies and Customer Service
The strategies and process improvements contained in this report seek to improve the
way the Town and its contractor do business and to minimize the disruption to the area
residents and businesses due to civil engineering reconstruction projects. However, to
ensure that contractors remain liable for both the damage they cause and for the Health
and Safety of their workers, it is absolutely necessary for them to have full control of
their construction work zones and how they direct the work of their forces. The key
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strategies identified in this report provide the framework through which the Town can
continue to seek improvements in overall performance and manage disruption to the
public.
Pre-qualification of Contractors
One of the strategies being considered for 2019 by the Engineering Division in
collaboration with Procurement Services Division is to issue a Request for Pre-
Qualification (RFPQ).
A RFPQ is an additional procurement process that occurs prior to a Request for Tender
(RFT), being issued. The RFPQ consists of an evaluation process through which
contractors are evaluated based on project specific criteria included within RFPQ. The
RFPQ can also evaluate required expertise to perform work, including capacity
requirements, before they can submit a bid for the RFT. It minimizes risk of
underperforming contractors by screening out unqualified contractors.
Pre-qualifying criteria are project-specific to ensure an alignment between the
performance requirements of the project with the capabilities, capacity and experience
of the contractors bidding the job in order to confidently secure compliant contractors.
Additional criteria can be considered on a project-specific basis.
An impact to this new engineering strategy may be a reduced number of bids and
potentially increased costs.
Also, adding in this additional procurement process there might be potential increases in
project delivery timelines due to a lengthen procurement process. However, there is the
possibility of having a 3-year RFPQ roster to be used for similar types of projects that
will alleviate this issue.
The use of this strategy on a case-by-case basis will be done with consideration to
balance public disruption against increased construction costs and lengthen the overall
project delivery timelines that might result from the application of this strategy.
Traffic Control Plans and/or Traffic Management Plans
For all engineering construction project there is the requirement that contractors prepare
and submit Traffic Control Plans or Traffic Management Plans.
Where construction projects are not anticipated to cause significant traffic congestion,
there may only be a requirement to develop a Traffic Control Plan for delineating
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construction work zones, as prescribed by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation
regulations. The Traffic Control Plan identifies the proper procedures and appropriate
signage for closing traffic lanes to ensure the safety of workers and of the public when
travelling through the work zone.
For projects where the traffic impact of a construction project is considered to be
significant and extending beyond the limits of the work zone, a more comprehensive site
and area specific Traffic Management Plan can be developed by the contractor prior to
the start of construction. The ultimate objective of the Traffic Management Plan is to
ensure that road safety is maintained for the public and construction workers.
Engineering staff will ensure that the appropriate traffic plans are developed by the
contractor and that they include some key measures that help mitigate traffic disruption
within a construction zone such as limits on construction work hours, lane shifting, traffic
signal timing, phasing of construction activities within the work zone, signed detour
routes and local and through traffic restrictions.
Contract Management Improvement - Liquidated Damages
Engineering has included in all construction contracts a “Liquidated Damages” clause
which stipulates that in case the project is not completed on time, the contractor will pay
the Town liquidated damages for each and every working day’s delay in finishing the
work beyond the date of completion.
The Engineering Division will be reviewing the sum for liquidated damages and pre-
estimates in all contracts to consider how they can be used more effectively to deal with
delays caused by contractors and to provide incentives to meet schedules.
Through the Aurora Centre of Excellence (ACE) project team, the Town is also
embarking on a project to create and implement a consistent and standardized project
management framework. This framework will include a common methodology that
covers project prioritization, reporting, risks, communications, change management and
a set of templates for staff to use throughout the duration of the project. Contract
management is part of the monitoring and controlling aspect of project management
and as such the Engineering Division will look to implement the recommendations from
the ACE Project Management Framework as soon as they become available.
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May 1, 2018 Page 6 of 10 Report No. PDS18-036
Contractor Performance Evaluation Tool
The Contractor Evaluation Performance Tool has been implemented by Engineering
Division in collaboration with Procurement Services Division in 2011.
As this tool has proven to be very effective in determining whether a contractor has the
necessary expertise and capabilities to implement Town’s projects, staff will continue to
use it.
The Contractor Performance Evaluation Tool does not replace the need for project
managers to monitor and oversee their contracts properly and to maintain proper
documentation. The tool is a useful resource in summarizing and determining whether a
contractor has demonstrated the necessary workmanship, performance, expertise and
capabilities on the Town of Aurora projects to bid on future work.
The goal of the Contractor Performance Evaluation tool is to have a comprehensive
assessment and evaluation of how well a particular contractor performed on a particular
project and provides an official evaluative record, both positive and negative of a given
contract or project. The contractor Performance Evaluation tool allows the Town to
conduct interim evaluations as well as final evaluations if the project is long enough. For
a project like Brookland Avenue Reconstruction an interim evaluation is done after the
project obtains substantial performance (construction up to the base asphalt) and give
contractors the opportunity to understand how the Town sees the work progressing and
to correct any deficiencies as the project continues. The final evaluation is done at the
end of the project.
During and after the completion of each project, the contractor performance is being
thoroughly evaluated in the following areas:
• Administration, supervision and management of the project, including supervision
and decision making, coordination and cooperation with the Project Manager,
Town staff, submission of documents, reports, work schedules and invoices.
• Safety, public relations and claims handling including public safety, traffic control,
compliance with Ministry of Labor regulations, relations with the general public,
other agencies, prevention and handling of claims, including the resolution of
third party claims.
• Quality of work including adherence to plans, specifications and requirements of
the contract and ability to resolve issues.
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May 1, 2018 Page 7 of 10 Report No. PDS18-036
• Progress of Work including the completion of project within the allotted time and
budget, handling of extra work, condition, safety, reliability.
Depending on the performance evaluation total score, the contractor will be approved to
bid on future work, placed on probation to closely monitor future work or not be
recommended for future work.
Communication Strategies and Customer Service
Engineering and Communications Divisions have come up with the following
communication plan for capital construction projects:
1) Improved Communication between Departments
• A list of capital projects for the year will be sent to Corporate Communications as
soon as the capital program budget is approved.
• Engineering will provide Corporate Communications with monthly updates via e-
mail during non-peak construction times and bi-weekly updates from May to
September. Ad hoc updates will be provided as necessary.
• Engineering and Communications have created a Community Impact Evaluation
tool for all projects. The online form identifies key issues relating to the impact to
businesses, residents, schools, seniors’ facilities, public transportation and
pedestrians. The completed evaluations will be sent to Communications to aid in
the development of a communication strategy. In the event of any impact to
businesses, the form will automatically be sent to staff in the Business Concierge
area to take action.
2) Improved Communication Tools
• Large road signs will be put at the site of any works to advise general public in
the area in addition to construction signs installed by the contractor.
• Corporate Communications has created a Road Construction page for the
website. The website will list all the current projects and their status. In addition,
the page will include an interactive map created by Engineering/GIS Group
showing locations where construction is happening in the Town. Users can click
on the project and pull up information on it.
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May 1, 2018 Page 8 of 10 Report No. PDS18-036
• The current project list will also be published in the Notice Board, Aurora Matters
e-newsletter, on digital signage and posted on social media.
• Existing communications methods (i.e. letters) will continue to be utilized.
3) Quick/Concise Communications to Businesses and Residents
• For businesses: staff from Economic Development will visit businesses when a
major and ongoing disruption is anticipated and proactively discuss methods
(where possible) to mitigate the impacts. This will occur prior to the planned
disruption to ensure adequate notice is provided.
• For residents: the letter template includes a link to the construction update page
on the website.
Advisory Committee Review
Not applicable
Legal Considerations
Not applicable
Financial Implications
There are no financial implication resulting from this report. Potential cost increases or
cost savings may materialize on some capital construction projects through the
implementation of some of the strategies discussed here, however at this time they are
not easily quantifiable.
Communications Considerations
Communications will promote the new Road Construction page on the Town’s website
and use the communications tools identified in this report to ensure our community is
kept informed of ongoing projects and their impacts.
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May 1, 2018 Page 9 of 10 Report No. PDS18-036
Link to Strategic Plan
This report supports the Strategic Plan goal of Supporting an Exceptional Quality of
Life for All through its accomplishment in satisfying requirements in the following key
objective within this goal statement:
Invest in sustainable infrastructure: Maintain and expand infrastructure to support
forecasted population growth through technology, waste management, roads,
emergency services and accessibility.
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
None
Conclusions
This report discusses a series of new and/or improved strategies to control construction
duration and minimize public disruption for Town-led construction projects. Not all
strategies discussed here are applicable in all situations. Staff must consider each
situation and apply these strategies on a case-by-case basis so the benefits of the
strategies being considered outweigh possible financial impacts on capital construction
projects.
Attachments
None
Previous Reports
None
Pre-submission Review
Agenda Management Team review on April 12, 2018
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item C2
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Town of Aurora
Finance Advisory Committee
Meeting Minutes
Date: Wednesday, March 28, 2018
Time and Location: 5:30 p.m., Holland Room, Aurora Town Hall
Committee Members: Councillor Michael Thompson (Chair), Councillor Harold
Kim, and Mayor Geoffrey Dawe
Member(s) Absent: None
Other Attendees: Doug Nadorozny, Chief Administrative Officer, Dan Elliott,
Director of Financial Services/Treasurer, Techa van
Leeuwen, Director of Corporate Services, Karen Oreto,
Financial Analyst, Anna Ruberto, Manager, Procurement,
and Ishita Soneji, Council/Committee Secretary
The Chair called the meeting to order at 5:39 p.m.
1. Approval of the Agenda
Moved by Councillor Kim
Seconded by Mayor Dawe
That the agenda as circulated by Legislative Services be approved.
Carried
2. Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
There were no declarations of pecuniary interest under the Municipal Conflict of
Interest Act.
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item C3
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Finance Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, March 28, 2018 Page 2 of 4
3. Receipt of the Minutes
Finance Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of February 28, 2018
Moved by Mayor Dawe
Seconded by Councillor Kim
That the Finance Advisory Committee meeting minutes of February 28, 2018, be
received for information.
Carried
4. Delegations
None
5. Consideration of Items
1. Review of Detailed Financial Budget Information
Re: Corporate Services (CS)
Staff provided an overview of the line-by-line analysis and year-to-date
comparison of the final approved 2018 budget for the Corporate Services
department. Staff reviewed changes in departmental operations, staffing, and
provided detailed explanations respecting the highlighted items.
The Committee and staff discussed about the constraints surrounding various
revenue opportunities and the existing pressures in staffing. Staff noted that
review of staff resources and service requirements is forthcoming to help
alleviate the pressures.
Moved by Councillor Kim
Seconded by Mayor Dawe
1. That the comments and suggestions of the Review of Detailed Financial
Budget Information for Corporate Services be received and referred to
staff for consideration and action as appropriate.
Carried
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item C3
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Finance Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, March 28, 2018 Page 3 of 4
2. Memorandum from Director, Financial Services
Re: Round Table Discussion: Proposed Changes to Procurement
Thresholds
Staff provided an overview of the proposed changes to procurement
thresholds, noting that a report is forthcoming to Council. The Committee and
staff discussed various aspects of the proposed threshold changes, including
procurement approaches for various clientele, the process for final approval
and the role of Council, and emphasized the need for vendor evaluations.
Moved by Mayor Dawe
Seconded by Councillor Kim
1. That the memorandum regarding Round Table Discussion: Proposed
Changes to Procurement Thresholds be received; and
2. That the comments of the Finance Advisory Committee be referred to staff
for consideration.
Carried
3. Distribution and Introduction of Detailed Financial Budget Information
Re: Operational Services (OS)
Moved by Councillor Kim
Seconded by Mayor Dawe
1. That the detailed financial budget information for Operational Services
department be received and deferred for discussion and detailed review at
the April 25, 2018 meeting of the Finance Advisory Committee.
Carried
6. New Business
None
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
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Finance Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, March 28, 2018 Page 4 of 4
7. Adjournment
Moved by Mayor Dawe
Seconded by Councillor Kim
That the meeting be adjourned at 6:55 p.m.
Carried
Committee recommendations are not binding on the Town unless adopted by Council.
General Committee Meeting Agenda
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Item C3
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Town of Aurora
Heritage Advisory Committee
Meeting Minutes
Date: Monday, April 9, 2018
Time and Location: 7 p.m., Holland Room, Aurora Town Hall
Committee Members: Councillor Jeff Thom (Vice Chair), Bob McRoberts (Honorary
Member), Neil Asselin, Barry Bridgeford, James Hoyes,
Martin Paivio and Ken Turriff (arrived 7:06 p.m.)
Members Absent: Councillor Wendy Gaertner (Chair) and John Kazilis
Other Attendees: Councillor Tom Mrakas, Marco Ramunno, Director of
Planning and Development Services, Jeff Healey, Planner,
and Ishita Soneji, Council/Committee Secretary
The Vice Chair called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m.
1. Approval of the Agenda
Moved by Bob McRoberts
Seconded by Barry Bridgeford
That the agenda as circulated by Legislative Services, with the following addition,
be approved:
Carried
2. Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
There were no declarations of pecuniary interest under the Municipal Conflict of
Interest Act.
3. Receipt of the Minutes
Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of March 5, 2018
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item C4
Page 1 of 4
Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Monday, April 9, 2018 Page 2 of 4
Moved by James Hoyes
Seconded by Martin Paivio
That the Heritage Advisory Committee meeting minutes of March 5, 2018, be
received for information.
Carried
4. Delegations
None
5. Matters for Consideration
1. HAC18-007 – Request to Designate under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage
Act, 83 Temperance Street “Ireland-Moore House”
Staff provided a brief overview of the report.
The Committee inquired about the heritage building evaluation scores and the
originality of the existing foundation, and staff provided clarification.
Moved by Bob McRoberts
Seconded by Martin Paivio
1. That Report No. HAC18-007 be received; and
2. That the Heritage Advisory Committee recommend to Council:
(a) That the House located at 83 Temperance Street be designated under
Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act as a property of cultural heritage
value or interest; and
(b) That the Town Clerk be authorized to publish and serve Council’s
Notice of Intention to Designate as per requirements of the Act; and
(c) That the designation by-law be brought before Council for passing if no
objections were received within the thirty (30) day objection period as
per requirements of the Act; and
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item C4
Page 2 of 4
Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Monday, April 9, 2018 Page 3 of 4
(d) That the owners of 83 Temperance Street be thanked for their support
of the designation of the subject heritage property.
Carried
6. Informational Items
2. Memorandum from Planner/Heritage Planning
Re: Pet Cemetery Update
Staff provided and overview of the memorandum and the forthcoming plans for
restoration.
The Committee and staff discussed about the scope of work, details of the
inventory, and the possibility of mediating ground level during the restoration
process. Staff further noted that staff and volunteers will be provided with
training in various restoration and cleaning techniques from Memorial
Restoration Inc. to ensure proper restoration and preparation of the stones.
Moved by James Hoyes
Seconded by Barry Bridgeford
1. That the memorandum regarding Pet Cemetery Update be received for
information.
Carried
3. Extract from Council Meeting of February 27, 2018
Re: Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of December 11, 2017
Moved by Ken Turriff
Seconded by Neil Asselin
1. That the Extract from Council meeting of February 27, 2018, regarding the
Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of December 11, 2017, be
received for information.
Carried
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item C4
Page 3 of 4
Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Monday, April 9, 2018 Page 4 of 4
4. Extract from Council Meeting of February 27, 2018
Re: Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of February 12, 2018
and Summary of Committee Recommendations Report No. 2018-02
Moved by Bob McRoberts
Seconded by Martin Paivio
1. That the Extract from Council meeting of February 27, 2018, regarding the
Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of February 12, 2018, and
Summary of Committee Recommendations Report No. 2018-02, be
received for information.
Carried
7. New Business
The Committee inquired about the status of the designation process for 23 Mosley
Street, and staff agreed to provide an update at a future meeting.
The Committee inquired about the financial contribution regarding the delisting of
14452 Yonge Street from the Aurora Register of Properties of Cultural Heritage
Value or Interest, and staff provided clarification.
The Committee requested an update regarding the Aurora Heritage Awards, and
staff agreed to provide an update at a future meeting.
The Committee expressed various concerns regarding the ongoing construction at
32 Wellington Street East. Staff agreed to investigate the matter and provide an
update at the next meeting.
8. Adjournment
Moved by James Hoyes
Seconded by Neil Asselin
That the meeting be adjourned at 7:40 p.m.
Carried
Committee recommendations are not binding on the Town unless adopted by Council.
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item C4
Page 4 of 4
Town of Aurora
General Committee Report No. OPS18-009
Subject: Joint Operations Centre Additional Works
Prepared by: Allan D. Downey, Director of Operations
Department: Operational Services
Date: May 1, 2018
Recommendation
1. That Report No. OPS18-009 be received; and
2. That this report satisfies the requirement for release of conditional approval
for capital works at the Joint Operations Centre.
Executive Summary
This report seeks Council approval for additional Capital Works at the Joint Operations
Centre (JOC):
• The JOC Audit has been completed
• Approvals for the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) remain
outstanding
Background
During the presentation of the 2018 Capital Budget, additional works for the JOC was
presented for Council consideration and approval. Staff received conditional approval
at the time subject to an audit report being presented to Council regarding the JOC and
a future report to Council releasing the conditional approval. On April 10th, Council
approved the following recommendation:
That staff bring forward for approval a report of the items required to complete
the JOC as were conditionally approved in the 2018 capital budget.
Analysis
The JOC Audit has been completed
The audit on the JOC has been completed and was presented to Council on April 10,
2018. With this requirement completed, staff are reporting back to Council requesting
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item R1
Page 1 of 5
May 1, 2018 Page 2 of 5 Report No. OPS18-009
that the outstanding capital works for the JOC be approved and completed as
presented. The list of outstanding capital works are identified as follows:
Priority Description In Original
Contract?
Cost
1 Back Lot Paving and Full Build Out – To grade in fill and pave
the back parking lot at the JOC. This will provide increased
paved area for equipment and storage of supplies and allow for
proper grading to catch basins so that erosion does not
continue.
Yes $890,200
2 Upper Parking Lot and Rear Yard – Top Coat – to put a top
coat of asphalt for paved areas at the JOC. This will provide for
proper grading and reduce the risk for tripping and slips and falls
on the property.
Yes $285,000
3 JOC Landscaping – finish landscaping at the JOC, including
sod and plants. This will help control runoff and green the
property.
Yes $85,000
4 Garbage Tipping Station – need to have a location to tip
garbage from operations in a safe/efficient manner. Currently
Machell Yard is used which is bordered by residential homes.
Several complaints over the years have been received about
staff accessing the yard to tip on weekends, early mornings and
evenings. In addition, this site has been identified as a future
potential development site by the Town.
Yes $100,000
5 Storage Buildings – a request has been made for a large cold
storage building so that tools and equipment are not left
exposed to the elements. The area could also be used as a
staging area which would free up some space in the heated
bays.
No-cut from
design
$300,000
6 Automated Gate Control – To add an access gate at the
service entrance that is powered and has access control. The
existing manual gate does not provide adequate security for our
staff during and after hours. Unauthorized persons entering the
property have several risks including theft, health and safety and
vandalism.
No-new
request
$50,000
7 South Side Exterior Finishing – finish the south outside
exterior area near the greenhouse and retaining walls. This
would include fencing off the area and adding an additional
retaining wall or concrete near the building to stop erosion. This
would reduce risk of injury
No–cut from
design
$50,000
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item R1
Page 2 of 5
May 1, 2018 Page 3 of 5 Report No. OPS18-009
Priority Description In Original
Contract?
Cost
8 Furniture – Common areas, meeting rooms, collaborative
spaces
Yes $45,000
9 Entry Pylon Exterior Sign – to add a high definition pylon sign
to the front entrance of the JOC. This will improve
communication to residents and provide for better building
identification.
Yes $60,000
10 Intercom System – an intercom system would allow for better
communication to all staff throughout the building. Currently, we
are only able to communicate in the office building. This would
be especially important in the event of an emergency.
No–new
request
$20,000
11 Third Floor Build Out – to build out the vacant third floor and
use it as office space for town staff. This space will become
increasingly important in the next 3-5 years.
No–new
request
$300,000
n/a Building Exterior Sign – Add exterior signage around the
building, including the service entrance and works areas. This
will allow for better traffic flow and less confusion for residents.
COMPLETED
n/a Soil Quality at Back of Property – there had been concern
when the JOC was being built about the appearance of the salt
dome from residents. It had been agreed that vegetation would
be planted outside the fenced area to help screen the working
yard and to provide a buffer between the JOC and the
Arboretum
COMPLETED
Approvals for the LSRCA remain outstanding
Permits for the JOC were obtained from LSRCA to commence work on the site. During
the construction process, fill was placed into the valley without the approval of the
LSRCA. Staff from the LSRCA have attended the site and inspected the results of the
fill operations.
The site remains stable and erosion protection has been installed; however, ground
cover and landscaping to stabilize the slopes is required.
Staff have been in communication with the LSRCA and are awaiting either approval of
the works or direction regarding what remedial actions are required to obtain approval.
Staff have not included any cost estimates for remedial works as they are unknown at
this time. If capital funding is required, staff will prepare a separate report to Council
requesting such funding.
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item R1
Page 3 of 5
May 1, 2018 Page 4 of 5 Report No. OPS18-009
Advisory Committee Review
Not applicable.
Legal Considerations
None.
Financial Implications
The total Capital Works required amounts to $2,185,200:
• $728,400 should be funded from Parks & Facilities Development Charges; and
• $1,456,800 should be funded from Roads and Related Development Charges.
Communications Considerations
There is no external communication required.
Link to Strategic Plan
The Joint Operations finishes supports the Strategic Plan goal of Supporting
Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability for all through its accomplishment in
satisfying requirements in the following key objectives within this goal statement:
Encouraging the stewardship of Aurora’s natural resources: Assess the merits of
measuring the Town’s natural capital assets.
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
1. Council may consider not completing any or all of the works identified in this report.
Conclusions
As indicated in the Audit Report recently approved by Council, there remains a number
of outstanding Capital items that were either deleted or not included in the final
construction. Staff are seeking Council approval to proceed with these works.
Attachments
None.
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item R1
Page 4 of 5
General Committee Meeting Agenda Tuesday, May 1, 2018Item R1 Page 5 of 5
Town of Aurora
General Committee Report No. CAO18-005
Subject: 2018-2021 Communications and Community Engagement Strategy
Prepared by: Stephanie Mackenzie-Smith, Corporate Communications Manager
Department: Office of the Chief Administrative Officer
Date: May 1, 2018
Recommendation
1.That Report No. CAO18-005 be received; and
2.That the attached Town of Aurora 2018-2021 Communications and
Community Engagement Strategy be endorsed.
Executive Summary
The purpose of this report is to seek Council endorsement of the Town of Aurora
2018-2021 Communications and Community Engagement Strategy.
•Overall, the Town enjoys a high-level of satisfaction with regards to
communications.
•A clear mission, vision and guiding principles for communications will provide a
positive framework for moving forward.
•The strategy is informed by basic research, applied research, qualitative
research and quantitative research methodologies.
•Nine objectives and their associated actions, estimated costs, estimated
timelines and success measures are outlined in the document.
•Staff are recommending that Council endorse the 2018-2021 Communications
and Community Engagement Strategy.
Background
The Corporate Communications Division at the Town of Aurora is currently operating
without a formal strategy, outlining objectives and actions for improving communications
and engagement with the community.
In 2017, the Corporate Communications Manager presented to Council and outlined the
need for a communications strategy that would provide direction to the Corporate
General Committee Meeting Agenda
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Item R2
Page 1 of 44
May 1, 2018 Page 2 of 6 Report No. CAO18-005
Communications division and provide Council and the public with an overview of
communications and community engagement priorities. Following endorsement by
Council, staff moved forward with research in order to develop the attached strategy.
Analysis
Overall, the Town enjoys a high level of satisfaction with regards to
communications.
The Town currently enjoys a high level of satisfaction with regards to communications.
Ninety-one per cent of residents who responded to the 2017 Communications Survey
indicated that they were happy or neutral regarding the amount of information they
received from the Town and 88 per cent of residents indicated that they knew how to go
about getting information on Town programs and services. Only nine per cent of
residents stated that they were not satisfied with the amount of information they
received from the Town and 10 per cent were unsure where to go to get information
about the Town.
A clear mission, vision and guiding principles for communications will provide a
positive framework for moving forward.
Informed by research and best practices, the mission, vision and guiding principles
formalized in the strategy are as follows:
Mission: To foster an empowered community by providing opportunities for meaningful,
two-way communication and cultivate a culture where collaboration between
government and community is valued and encouraged.
Vision: To support the organizational mission, vision and values by providing a
framework for communications that puts the community first.
Our Guiding Principles:
1. We strive to provide opportunities for our community to engage with us on the
issues that matter to them.
2. We provide timely, relevant, accurate and accessible information.
3. We show respect for diversity and inclusivity by improving our understanding of
the many cultures and abilities that make up our community and by being
cognizant of the barriers that may prevent individuals from participating fully in
their government.
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May 1, 2018 Page 3 of 6 Report No. CAO18-005
4. We consider the wide range of communications tools available to us and utilize
the most appropriate to engage and inform our citizens.
5. We recognize that we can always do better and commit ourselves to ongoing
improvement.
The strategy is informed by basic research, applied research, qualitative research
and quantitative research methodologies.
In developing the 2018-2021 Communications and Community Engagement Strategy,
research was conducted into demographics of Aurora, Canadian internet habits,
Canadian social media usage and citizen expectations of government as they relate to
engagement and digital services. Aurora-specific research findings were gathered by
conducting a Council workshop, a communications survey, multiple focus groups and
informal feedback opportunities. In addition, a plain language audit was conducted to
evaluate the readability of Town communication products.
Council priorities as discussed in the workshop included a desire for more digital
communication tools, more in-person engagement opportunities, as well as more
proactive communications that demonstrate value for taxpayers.
Demographic data is important to understanding barriers to participation and how to
engage residents. The top five languages, other than English, spoken in the Aurora
include Chinese, Russian, Persian, Italian and Spanish. The demographic data also
illustrates that Aurora is a highly educated and wealthy community with 75 per cent of
individuals 25-64 having post-secondary education and an average household income
of $147,604. The fact that Aurora is a community of commuters, also impacts the ability
of residents to engage with government. Thirty four per cent of working Aurorans aged
15 and over work outside of York Region and only 24 per cent work in Aurora.
Aurora-specific findings were collected through a survey and focus groups. Residents
indicated that the most common methods of receiving information from the Town were
the website, social media, outdoor signs and eNewsletter. The preferred methods of
communication were consistent with how residents are currently receiving information.
The survey results also showed that the topics residents were most interested in
hearing about were special events, garbage and recycling and issues regarding roads
and traffic.
General Committee Meeting Agenda
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May 1, 2018 Page 4 of 6 Report No. CAO18-005
Youth and senior-specific findings are outlined further within the strategy and
demonstrate a clear need to provide creative digital engagement opportunities for youth
and traditional communications products for seniors.
Nine objectives and their associated actions, estimated costs, estimated
timelines and success measures are outlined in the document.
The nine objectives included in the strategy are as follows:
1. Create opportunities for customization and personalization in communication
2. Improve consistency and clarity in communications
3. Leverage technology preferences of our community
4. Promote brand recognition
5. Increase opportunities for two-way communication
6. Build diversity awareness and capacity
7. Improve capacity to proactively respond to issues and tell our stories
8. Continue to use targeted print communications
9. Ensure policies and procedures are consistent with intended outcomes
A total of 28 actions accompany the objectives and are outlined in detail in the strategy.
Staff are recommending that Council endorse the 2018-2021 Communications and
Community Engagement Strategy.
The attached strategy represents a new framework for communications at the Town of
Aurora and is based on research and best practices. Staff recommend Council endorse
the strategy attached.
Advisory Committee Review
N/A
Legal Considerations
N/A
General Committee Meeting Agenda
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Item R2
Page 4 of 44
May 1, 2018 Page 5 of 6 Report No. CAO18-005
Financial Implications
Financial implications are outlined in the Summary of Recommendations, found on
page 37 of the 2018-2021 Communications and Community Engagement Strategy.
Financial costs for 2018 are included in the 2018 budget and costs beyond will be
included in future budgets presented to Council for consideration.
Communications Considerations
Information on the Communications and Community Engagement Strategy have been
posted to the Town website. Should the attached strategy be endorsed, the document
will be posted online. Communications to the public regarding our mission, vision,
guiding principles and actions will be shared on social media, email newsletter and
other appropriate channels.
Link to Strategic Plan
The Communications and Community Engagement Strategy supports the Strategic Plan
goal of identifying new formats, methods and technologies to effectively and regularly
engage the community.
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
1. Council may choose to endorse the 2018-2021 Communications and Community
Engagement Strategy with modifications.
Conclusions
The 2018-2021 Communications and Community Engagement Strategy sets out a
comprehensive vision, mission and guiding principles for the Town that focuses on
citizen engagement and providing opportunities for two-way interaction between
government and the communities we serve.
The strategy outlines key objectives and the related actions, as well as planned
measures of success.
As stated, the strategy is a living document and will be revisited and revised on an as
needed basis. Staff will conduct ongoing research and develop a revised strategy in for
General Committee Meeting Agenda
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Item R2
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General Committee Meeting Agenda Tuesday, May 1, 2018Item R2 Page 6 of 44
DRAFT
2018 - 2021
TOWN OF AURORA
COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY
DRAFT
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DRAFT
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
4
5
6-21
22-36
37-38
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
OUR COMMITMENT TO OUR COMMUNITY
SUMMARY OF RESEARCH FINDINGS
OBJECTIVES
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONSDRAFT
General Committee Meeting Agenda
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Town of Aurora Communications and Community Engagement Strategy was developed by the Corporate
Communications Division to provide a framework for improving the way the Town communicates with members of
our community and other stakeholders.
We are guided by our mission and our vision and understand we have an obligation to provide value for taxpayer
dollars and foster a culture that encourages public participation in government by enhancing two-way communication
and ensuring our community has access to timely, relevant and accurate information.
A variety of research methodologies were used in the development of this strategy, including: an online
communications survey, youth and seniors focus groups, in-person feedback, a council workshop and data from various
research studies.
The Town currently enjoys a high level of satisfaction with regards to communications. Ninety-one per cent of residents
who responded to the 2017 Communications Survey indicated that they were happy or neutral regarding the amount
of information they received from the Town and 88 per cent of residents indicated that they knew how to go about
getting information on Town programs and services. Only nine per cent of residents stated that they were not satisfied
with the amount of information they received from the Town.
Residents currently engage with the Town most frequently via the Town website and the preferred methods of
communication were e-newsletter, the Town website and social media. Digital channels were identified as the number
one method of communication for all groups, with the exception of seniors. However, seniors are increasing their use
of email and social media, as illustrated by the data contained within this document.
We are committed to utilizing the most effective and efficient communication tools, techniques and best practices to
improve relationships with our community and make appropriate engagement opportunities available to them.
The recommendations set out in this document will enable us to meet the ever-changing needs of our growing
community and create additional opportunities for citizens to engage with their government.
It is the intention of Corporate Communications to update this strategy every three years. That stated, this document is
a living document, designed to evolve and change as the needs of our community change and as new communication
channels, tools, challenges and opportunities arise. We are committed to creating a flexible, agile and skilled Corporate
Communications Division that can adapt to change and is dedicated to ongoing improvement.
Recommendations for the execution of this strategy are laid out in the Recommendations section found on page 37
and 38 of this document.
Communications and Community Engagement Strategy 2018 to 2021 DRAFT4
DRAFT
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Item R2
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5
OUR COMMUNICATIONS COMMITMENT
TO OUR COMMUNITY
MISSION
VISION
OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES
To foster an empowered community by providing opportunities for meaningful, two-way
communication and cultivate a culture where collaboration between government and
community is valued and encouraged.
To support the organizational mission, vision
and values by providing a framework for
communications that puts our
community first.
1. We strive to provide opportunities for our community to engage with us on the issues that matter to them.
2. We provide timely, relevant, accurate and accessible information.
3. We show respect for diversity and inclusivity by improving our understanding of the many cultures that make up
our community and by being cognizant of the barriers that may prevent individuals from participating fully in their
government.
4. We consider the wide range of communication tools available to us and utilize the most appropriate to engage and
inform our citizens.
5. We recognize that we can always do better and commit ourselves to ongoing improvement.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Communications and Community Engagement Strategy 2018 to 2021 DRAFT
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6
DEMOGRAPHICS OF AURORA*
17.8%9,855 residents
under 14 years
of age.
13.2%
7,240 residents
over 65 years of
age.
69.2%
38,350 residents
between the
ages of 15
and 64.RESIDENT AGE
AVERAGE
39.8AGE OF POPULATION
AVERAGE
3.1
SIZE OF FAMILY
$147,604
$842,472 Average value of
dwellings
Average household
income (2015)
Approximate
number of homes
75%
of individuals 25 to 64 years
of age have a post-secondary
education
19,381
Our audience is our community. Understanding who they are and how they live is a critical part of understanding their
communication needs. The research contained within shows that the vast majority of Canadians do not attend public
meetings or engage in public consultations. Engaging our community in decision-making processes and keeping them
informed of Town programs and activities requires knowledge of the communication channels people prefer and an
understanding of what they are interested in hearing about.
Communications and Community Engagement Strategy 2018 to 2021 DRAFT
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7
DEMOGRAPHICS OF AURORA*
Our audience is our community. Understanding who they are and how they live is a critical part of understanding their
communication needs. The research contained within shows that the vast majority of Canadians do not attend public
meetings or engage in public consultations. Engaging our community in decision-making processes and keeping them
informed of Town programs and activities requires knowledge of the communication channels people prefer and an
understanding of what they are interested in hearing about.
While research from organizations such as Ipsos has identified certain barriers to participation - such as the
tendency for a few loud voices to dominate the process and lack of time and awareness of participation
opportunities – we also need to be aware of how people live their lives so we can move away from the expectation of
having people come to government. Instead, we can reduce existing barriers by turning the tables and instead going
to where people are. With that in mind, only nine per cent of surveyed residents indicated they were dissatisfied with
the amount of communication from the Town of Aurora. Anecdonetal experience tells us that engagement is frequently
driven by dissatisfaction and, as such, may influence engagement levels.
Aurora is considered to be one of the best places to live in Canada due to our high incomes and healthy population
growth (MoneySense Magazine, Best Places to Live in Canada, 2017). The latest Census data from Statistics
Canada, also provides significant insight into our demographics. We are considered to be a highly educated and
wealthy community with 75 per cent of individuals ages 25 to 64 having post-secondary education, an average
household income of $147,604 and average home value of $842,472.
The majority of the population (69 per cent) are between the ages of 15 and 64, while 18 per cent are under the age
of 14 and 13 per cent are over 65. Of those between 15 and 64, almost 70 per cent are employed and the Town’s
unemployment rate stands at 6.47 per cent.
Single detached homes are the most popular type of dwelling (60 per cent) and high-rise apartments are the least
popular (five per cent). The remainder of residents live in semi-detached, row homes, flats or low-rise apartments. More
than half of residents are married and the average family size is 3.1
The top five languages spoken other than English are:
1. Chinese (2,310 Mandarin & 1,780 Cantonese)
2. Russian (1,540)
3. Persian (1,520)
4. Italian (1,320)
5. Spanish (695)
Like many communities in the Greater Toronto Area, we are a community of commuters. Thirty four per cent of the
labour force aged 15 and over, work outside of York Region, 35 per cent work outside of Aurora but in York Region and
24 per cent work in Aurora. The vast majority, 78 per cent, of commuters drive their own vehicles to work while 11 per
cent take public transit. The remainder are passengers in vehicles or they cycle or walk to work. Fifty seven per cent of
commuters spend more than an hour a day commuting to work.
Given the data, we know that the majority of our population are in the middle of what is generally considered to be the
busiest of their lives as they are working, commuting to and from work, and often have young children. This presents
unique challenges regarding communications and community engagement as time restrictions may prevent individuals
from participating or waiting to participate in local government.
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8
English speaking
residents
mother tongue is
English
English is not
mother tongue
48,400 37,320
15,720
visible minority
population
14,695
IN OUR TOWN
DIVERSITY
15,815
HOME OWNERS
3,03 4
HOME RENTERS
AVERAGE
INCOMEEMPLOYMENT
$89,330$
WELCOME TO
POPULATION
AURORA
55,445
(full time workers)
* Based on Statistics Canada, 2016 Census Profile
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CANADIAN INTERNET HABITS
9
The vast majority of Canadians use the internet. According to the 2016 Statistics Canada General Social Survey,
Canadians at Work and Home, 91 per cent of Canadians aged 15 and over used the Internet at least a few times a
month. Individuals aged 15 to 44 had the highest internet use saturation rate with well over 90 per cent reporting high
usage rates. Internet use sits at 81 per cent for those aged 65 to 74 and 50 percent of those aged 75 and older using
the Internet. Nearly all Canadians under the age of 45 use the Internet every single day and 92 per cent of Ontarians
use the Internet.
Canadians are among the most engaged users in the world. According to comScore, Canadians spend more hours
online (36.7 per month) than anyone else in the world. Canadian desktop users are also among the most diverse,
seeking out an average of 3,238 unique web pages per month.
Device used most often to access the Internet*
The majority of Canadians still use a desktop or laptop computer to access the Internet (67%), but those between 18
and 34 are less likely to do so (54%). 41 per cent of Canadian Internet users between 18 and 34 report using a mobile
phone to access the Internet most often.
*Source: Canadian Internet Registry Authority, 2017
Communications and Community Engagement Strategy 2018 to 2021 DRAFT
Desktop/laptop
computer
TV
Tablet (iPad, etc.)
Smartphone/
Mobile
66%
12%
21%
1%DRAFT
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10 FacebookYouTubeTwitterPinterestGoogle+InstagramLinkedInSnapchatTumblrReddit0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
2016 Canadian Social Media Usage
5551220212327
49
71
Percentage of Canadians using Social Media by Platform
Social media use in Canada continues to increase with 91 per cent of online Canadians using at least one social media
network. Interestingly, only 35 per cent of online Canadians follow governments or government departments on social
media demonstrating potential room for growth in this area, and identifying areas for future research.
*Source: Insights West.com via CanadiansInternet.com)
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WHAT CITIZENS EXPECT
FROM GOVERNMENT
A 2017 Accenture survey demonstrated a real generational divide on citizens’ expectations of how government
engages them. Clearly, younger citizens have a preference for digital engagement while boomers expressed a
preference for in-person engagement. That said, boomers are adapting to new technologies as demonstrated by
internet usage statistics and our focus group findings.
Millennials (ages 18-34)
• 55 per cent wanted government to provide more services online
• 51 per cent wanted government to engage the public more to determine the future of government services
• 36 per cent expected government to match or exceed commercial services
• 30 per cent wanted to access more service from a smartphone
• 29 per cent wanted more face-to-face experience with government
Generation X (ages 35-54)
• 45 per cent wanted government to provide more services online
• 46 per cent wanted government to engage the public more to determine the future of government services
• 48 per cent expected government to match or exceed commercial services
• 47 per cent wanted more emphasis on face-to-face experience
• 14 per cent wanted more services from a smartphone
Boomers (ages 55+)
• 38 per cent wanted government to provide more services online
• 49 per cent wanted government to engage the public more to determine the future of government services
• 49 per cent expected government to match or exceed commercial services
• 10 per cent wanted to access more service from a smartphone
• 54 per cent wanted more face-to-face experience with government
(Accenture Public Service Consulting Canada, January 2017)
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
WITH GOVERNMENT*
A 2017 study from Ipsos indicates that interest in politics and current affairs is declining. The proportion of
young people aged 15 to 34 who stated that they never or rarely followed news doubled from 2003 to 2013 to 21 per
cent. The proportion of Canadians aged 55 and older remained largely unchanged at six per cent.
On a municipal level, only 20 per cent of Canadians have participated in a municipal public consultation, with just
12 per cent having done so in the last two years. Participation was higher amongst educated, older adults but
engagement across the board is lacking.
Surveys were the most popular way for citizens to engage with their municipal government. Of the 12 per cent of
individuals who had engaged with their municipal government in the last two years, 87 per cent had done so by
participating in a survey. Online surveys were by far the most popular, representing 73 per cent, 46 per cent by
phone and 34 per cent by mail. Only 45 per cent of the 12 per cent who engaged with their local government
participated in an in-person consultation in the form of an open house, meeting or public engagement event.
Another 26 per cent engaged in social media or an online discussion (31 per cent), 19 per cent participated in focus
groups; and 15 per cent said they provided feedback in other ways.
Despite low participation rates, those that did participate in the engagement process had overwhelmingly positive
experiences. Eighty one per cent felt that there was adequate opportunity for them to express their opinions and
77 per cent felt it was a positive experience.
Some of the barriers to participation identified by Ipsos included:
• 62 per cent: I don’t hear about them
• 55 per cent: I feel like a few strong voices always dominate discussions
• 44 per cent: I don’t think my contributions would have an impact on the final decision
• 39 per cent: They run them at times that are inconvenient
• 38 per cent: I’m not interested in public consultation
• 33 per cent: I’m too busy to participate in public consultations
While Ipsos believes that low participation rates will continue to be a challenge, with only nine per cent of
Canadians expressing that they would be “very likely” to participate in a future municipal public engagement
opportunities. Online surveys and mail surveys did generate interest (80 per cent of Canadians said they would be
interested in completing an online survey and 68 per cent indicated they would be interested in completing a mail-in
survey.)
* The Public Engagement Conundrum, July 2017, Municipal World, Catherine Knaus, Ipsos
Interest in politics and current affairs is declining. The proportion of young people aged 15-34 who stated that they
never or rarely followed news doubled from 2003 to 2013 to 21 per cent. The proportion of Canadians aged 55 and
older remained largely unchanged at six per cent.
On a municipal level, only 20 per cent of Canadians have participated in a municipal public consultation, with just 12
per cent having done so in the last two years. Participation was higher amongst educated, older adults but engage-
ment across the board is lacking . Surveys were the most popular way for citizens to engage with their municipal
government. Of the 12 per cent of individuals who had engaged with their municipal government in the last two years,
87 per cent had done so by participating in a survey. Online surveys were by far the most popular, representing 73 per
cent, 46 per cent by phone and 34 per cent by mail. Only 45 per cent of the 12 per cent participated in an in-person
consultation in the form of an open house, meeting or public engagement event. Another 26 per cent engaged in social
media or an online discussion (31 per cent), 19 per cent participated in focus groups; and 15 per cent say they provid-
ed feedback in other ways.
Despite low participation rates, those that did participate in the engagement process had overwhelmingly positive
experiences. Eighty one per cent felt that there was adequate opportunity for them to express their opinions and 77
per cent felt it was a positive experience.
Some of the barriers to participation included:
• 62 per cent: I don’t hear about them
• 55 per cent: I feel like a few strong voices always dominate discussions
• 44 per cent: I don’t think my contributions would have an impact on the final decision
• 39 per cent: They run them at times that are inconvenient
• 38 per cent: I’m not interested in public consultation
• 33 per cent: I’m too busy to participate in public consultations
While Ipsos believes that low participation rates will continue to be a challenge, with nine per cent of Canadians
expressing that they would be “very likely” to participate in a future municipal public consultation, online surveys
and mail surveys did generate interest (80 per cent of Canadians said they would be interested in completing an
online survey and 68 per cent indicated they would be interested in completing a mail-in survey.)
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
AURORA-SPECIFIC RESEARCH
HIGHLIGHTS
Throughout 2017, Communications undertook research to determine the communication preferences of our
community and understand whether they wanted more information from the Town and on what subjects. Our primary
research tool was a survey. The survey was completed both online and in-person in order to avoid an inherent bias
towards digital communication tools. With 378 responses, the results represent a statistically significant representation
of the Town. In addition, focus groups and in-person feedback opportunities were provided to residents. Results were
consistent regardless of the collection method, with the exception of some findings resulting from the focus groups
with youth and seniors, which are outlined in this document.
SURVEY
9%
Neutral
Yes
No
88%
4%
Yes
No
No answer
88%
2%
10%
Are you satisfied with the amount of information
available from the Town?
I know where to go if I need information about the Town:
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14
40
40
35
13No answer
Council meeting
Speaking with a
Council Member
Digital signs
Newspaper ads
NoticeBoard
Newspaper
stories
eNewsletter
Outdoor signs
Social media
Town website
050100150200250300281
185
168
135
130
93
81
Posters 47
Phone 56
How do you currently receive information about the Town?
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15
11No answer
20Council meeting
25Speaking with a
Council Member
Posters
NoticeBoard
050100150200250Mail 54
Text messages 63
Digital signs 46
Phone 45
Newspaper ads 70
Newspaper
stories 75
eNewsletter 213
Outdoor signs 99
Social media 205
Town website 202
4
2
How would you prefer to receive information about the Town?
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16 050100150200250No answer 12
Building
permits 54
Water 73
Finance +
budgets 132
Seniors
programs 85
Property tax
billing 139
New home and
commercial
developments 147
Bylaw services 143
Downtown
revitalization 166
Garbage +
recycling 220
216
Fitness programs
+ facilities 155
Adult programs 187
Special events 233
Kids programs 42
What information are you most interested in?
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The Town conducted focus groups with youth and seniors in the community to assess their communication
preferences, their satisfaction with the quality and quantity of communication from the Town and find out how we can
improve communications with them. Promotions and messaging went out through multiple channels to recruit focus
group participants from the general public for two scheduled focus groups but there were not enough responses to
host a general focus group. Alternatively, informal questions were asked during in-person engagement opportunities
and similar data was gathered via survey.
Seniors Focus Group
A focus group was conducted with residents 65 and older. During the two-hour long focus group, residents were asked
to review current communications materials to provide feedback on quality, assess their level of satisfaction with the
quantity of communications from the Town and share their thoughts on their communication preferences and the
subject matter that they are most interested in.
Below is a summary of the focus group findings:
Communication Preferences
• Participants stated that their preferences were to receive information through local newspapers, the Seniors’ Centre
email blasts, the Town website and in-person by visiting a Town facility.
• The information participants were most interested in: Seniors’ activities, development activity, snow removal, fitness
and leisure activities, property standards and recycling and waste.
Quality of Information
• While the majority of participants liked the design and layout of communications products, they did express concern
over small fonts used on some print materials.
• The communications material that generated the most amount of concern was the public notices. Participants found
them difficult to read and understand. They stated that they were very interested in new development and changes to
the Town but public notices in the newspapers and on signs were unclear and confusing.
Quantity of Information
• No major concerns were addressed regarding the quantity of information distributed by the Town. Most participants
knew how to access information when needed but did want to know more information about things that would
impact them.
Digital vs. Print Communications
• The majority of focus group participants were concerned that all communications would ultimately be moved to
digital platforms. They expressed their preference for having print information available to them, although many
participants did use the Internet and indicated that they did use the Town website to access information.
FOCUS GROUP & IN-PERSON
FEEDBACK HIGHLIGHTS
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Youth Focus Group
A focus group was conducted with residents 18 and under. During the two-hour long focus group, residents were
asked to review current communications materials to provide feedback on quality, assess their level of satisfaction with
the quantity of communications from the Town and share their thoughts on their communication preferences and the
information they are most interested in.
Below is a summary of the focus group findings:
Communication Preferences
• Every participant was a regular user of Snapchat and Instagram and expressed that these channels are how they find
out about activities and places to go. They recommended the Town look into focused accounts to promote teen
programs.
• The concept of youth endorsement was key and participants expressed that they would be more likely to participate
in an event or program if a peer had recommended it.
Quality of Information
• Participants were satisfied with the quality of communications generally but expressed that they would prefer to see
information targeted directly to them through the channels that they prefer.
• Language was also identified as an important factor in communication, with participants expressing their dislike for
terms such as, “youth” and “young people”. Participants preferred the use of the word, “teen”.
Quantity of Information
• The majority of participants stated they don’t currently seek out information about the Town unless it is for a specific
program or activity and did not express an interest in receiving more information.
Digital vs. Print Communication
• Participants were clear they only used digital communication channels. They may notice a poster in the LOFT or in
their school but digital communication was their main driver.
• Participants stated they would visit the website if they needed information about the Town.
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HIGHLIGHTS OF COUNCIL
COMMUNICATIONS WORKSHOP
Communications and Community Engagement Strategy 2018 to 2021 DRAFT
In 2017, Corporate Communications hosted a Council workshop to better understand Council priorities with
regards to Communications and identify what has worked, and hasn’t worked, from their perspective.
• Council expressed a desire for Communications to use more digital tools, to get out into the community to
conduct in-person engagement, proactive, communicate information to residents and share stories that represent
value for taxpayers.
• Council identified good communications as being easy to read, consistent and open to two-way conversation.
• There was a clear distinction between the way the Town should communicate versus the way the Mayor and
Council should communicate. Mayor and Council can communicate opinions and share information about motions.
The Town should communicate policy and final Council decisions.
• Council expressed satisfaction with improvements to social media, text alerts and existing print materials.
• Top concerns identified by Council included clarity and consistency of communication, community engagement
and challenges with website usability and navigation. In particular, there were concerns around how and when
residents are notified about planning and development issues.
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20
PLAIN LANGUAGE AUDIT
Communications and Community Engagement Strategy 2018 to 2021 DRAFT
Communications conducted an audit of Town communications materials in order to assess the readability of
documents. Readability is important in order to ensure readers understand what we are saying and compelling them
to read more. During the course of preparing this strategy, it became clear that many residents found some
communications difficult to read and understand. Public notices were identified as the primary concern but an
audit was conducted of all materials to identify areas for improvement.
The Flesch-Kinkaid Readability Test analyzes language and identifies the grade level that could understand the
material.
90-100: Easily understood by the average 5th grader
60-70: Easily understood by the average 8th and 9th grader
0-30: Best understood by university graduates
A score under 30 means that the text is very confusing
The average reading ease score of Town of Aurora Public Notices ranged between 18 to 20, which means an individual
would require almost two decades of education to understand the text.
The average readability rating for a sample of website text was 30-45 with the Flesch-Kinkaid Grade Level
requirements ranging from 12 to 15. For print marketing materials, the average Flesch-Kinkaid ranged from 50-70,
indicating a reading level suitable for Grade 8 and above.
The ideal education level for materials should be in the Grade 7 to 9 range, depending on the material and context.
The website, public notices and print documents also had a high percentage of passive sentences. While passive voice
is sometimes necessary, the preference is for active voice to be used whenever possible. Active sentences tend to be
more concise, compelling and easier to understand.
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21
MEASURING OUR SUCCESS
Our overall objectives in implementing this strategy are two-fold:
1. Increase community engagement with the Town by providing opportunities for two-way communications
2. Increase the positive perception of the Town
For the purposes of evaluating communications activities, there are three major types of evaluations we
utilize – Ex-ante Evaluations, Interim Evaluations and Final Impact Evaluations.
This document serves as an Ex-ante Evaluation in that it is designed to inform, guide and set out a baseline for
communications objectives and measures. It is the intention of Communications to add in additional baselines,
which will be incorporated into the 2019 resident survey and subsequent evaluation activities.
Interim Evaluations are designed to assess whether a communications plan or program is working and examine
how it can be improved. More specifically, Interim Evaluations measure inputs and outputs. For the purposes of this
strategy, inputs and outputs to be measured may include:
• Website traffic
• Social media statistics (followers, views, reach, engagement)
• Number of in-person engagement opportunities
• Number of attendees at in-person engagement opportunities
• Number of mailers or tax bill inserts sent
• Number of people visiting targeted URLs from marketing pieces
• Number of participants in online consultations
• Flesch-Kincaid ratings
• Number of survey responses
Final Impact Evaluations focus on measuring outcomes, which include changes in knowledge, attitudes and
behaviours among a target audience. Outcomes to be measured may include:
• Satisfaction with the quantity of information from the Town
• Satisfaction with the quality of information from the Town
• Understanding of communications
• Satisfaction with certain communication tools (i.e. website, in-person communication activities)
• Awareness and knowledge of Town activities, events, programs, initiatives and decision-making processes
• Satisfaction following participation in Town activities, events, services, programs, initiatives and
decision-making processes
• Change in perception of Town staff, activities, events, services, programs and initiatives
• Willingness to engage with the Town in the future
Over the duration of this strategy, Corporate Communications is committed to evaluating success measures and
adjusting activities as necessary to ensure we are achieving intended outcomes.
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OBJECTIVES
1. Objective: Create opportunities for customization and personalization in communication
Develop news portal subscription service
Action:
“Personalization – It’s about relevant content ” ~ Dan Jak
Research has shown that there is some variation in the communication preferences of residents and the type of
information they are interested in. A news portal subscription service would allow residents to go to the news
portal and select their:
• Preferred communication channel (i.e. e-mail, text message or bi-annual mailing)
• Areas of interest (i.e. special events for kids, seniors’ activities, tax bill reminders, public notices,
road closures/repairs, etc.)
• Frequency of messaging (i.e. as it happens, weekly, monthly, quarterly, bi-annual for mailings)
The objectives outlined are designed to address the challenges and opportunities identified in this document.
• Estimated cost: Cost to develop the portal to be included in a 2018 report to Council relating to the development
of a new website. Costs for text messaging and bi-annual mailing estimated to be $15,000 a year and will be
included in 2019 budget request.
• Estimated timeline: 2019
• Success measures: Sign-up rates, open/read rates for texts/emails sent, satisfaction with service and level of
awareness of Town activities, events, programs, initiatives and decision-making processes.
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
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1. Objective: Create opportunities for customization and personalization in communication
2. Objective: Improve consistency and clarity in communications
Revise public notices
Train staff on plain language writing
Simplify website language
Actions:
“If you can’t explain it to a six-year old, you don’t know it yourself.” ~ Albert Einstein
Update public notices, including newspaper and website notices and on-site signage, to better reflect
the intent of notices. Communications recommends revising notices to include images of proposed
developments or changes to an existing site, simplified language and clear details on how to get more
information.
Improve capacity of Communications staff to ensure clarity and consistency of information using plain language.
New content added to the website moving forward will be reviewed for plain language, consistency and clarity.
Existing content will be audited and edited as resources allow.
• Estimated cost: Additional $20,000 for improved signage and colour notices.
• Estimated cost: $1,605 (Three staff to attend Performance Management Consultant’s Plain Language course.
To be paid out of existing training budget.)
• Estimated cost: No cost over and above staff time.
• Estimated timeline: Proposed samples of new public notices will come to Council in 2018.
• Estimated timeline: 2018
• Estimated timeline: Ongoing
• Success measures: Increased understanding of public notices and improvement in Flesch-Kinkaid rating.
• Success measures: Ongoing audits and improvement in Flesch-Kincaid rating.
• Success measures: Improvement in Flesch-Kincaid rating and increased satisfaction with website
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Develop a Plain Language Policy
Communications will work with the Clerks department to develop a Plain Language Policy. The policy will provide a
framework for ensuring Town documents and communications use language that is readable and appropriate.
• Estimated cost: Cost of training TBD.
• Estimated timeline: 2019
• Success measures: Audited compliance with policy.
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
3. Objective: Leverage the technology preferences of our community
Create a public knowledge base to provide fast, easy answers to common questions
Actions:
“Technology is best when it brings people together” ~ Matt Mullenweg
We know our residents go to the Town website to access information, so ensuring that information is
quickly available must be a priority. A public knowledge base acts as a dynamic Frequently Asked Questions,
allowing residents to find online answers to questions that have already been asked and answered. In many cases,
public knowledge bases can be directly integrated with Customer Relationship Management software to
allow residents to submit questions or comments directly to the system, have them answered online and have
action taken if required. This is becoming increasingly popular as a website service and as the
technology habits of the community evolve and online interaction becomes preferred over in-person and phone
interactions.
• Estimated cost: TBD. Costs vary depending on functionality.
• Estimated timeline: 2020-2021
• Success measures: Usage data, reduction in Call Centre inquiries and improved satisfaction with the online
experience
Simplify language of print materials
Existing print materials have an average Flesch-Kinkaid rating of 50-70. New materials will be reviewed for plain
language, consistency and clarity. Existing materials will be audited and edited when re-prints are ordered.
• Estimated cost: No cost over and above staff time.
• Estimated timeline: Ongoing.
• Success measures: Improvement in Flesch-Kincaid rating.
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Develop a Plain Language Policy
3. Objective: Leverage the technology preferences of our community
Create a public knowledge base to provide fast, easy answers to common questions
Simplify language of print materials
Continue to grow social media presence
Social media is increasing as a communication channel, as evidenced by research results and the increase in
number of followers on Town social media platforms and number of interactions. Communications will continue to
stay on top of social media best practices and monitor emerging platforms to grow our social media presence and
increase engagement.
• Estimated cost: No additional costs
• Estimated timeline: Ongoing
• Success measures: Growth in followers (number of followers is a useful measure that indicates the number of
individuals interested in receiving information from the Town), reach and engagement of posts. Improved
perception of Town staff, activities, events, services, programs, initiatives and decision-making processes.
Increase use of video
Video is becoming an increasingly popular form of content delivery, particularly through social media. The Town
intends to utilize video to better to share events and programs through the introduction of quarterly video
summaries and other video content. The quarterly video summaries would showcase Town successes over the
previous few months in an easily accessible and engaging way.
• Estimated cost: $5,000 for video backdrops and equipment, included in existing 2018 budget.
• Estimated timeline: Ongoing
• Success measures: Views, shares, reach and engagement. Improved perception of Town staff, activities,
events, services, programs, initiatives and decision-making processes.
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Introduce a social media ambassador program for youth
The teens in our community overwhelmingly expressed their desire to find out about Town events and programs
through social media and clearly identified Instagram and Snapchat as their preferred methods of communication.
We recognize that a corporate voice may not be the best way to reach teens, which they themselves have
expressed. A social media ambassador program would allow teens to create their own content and share it through
Town-branded with accounts targeted to youth using an approvals process. The program would encourage kids to
share their visits to the LOFT, our arenas, the skate park, rock climbing well and other teen-friendly Town locations
and activities on their preferred social media platforms.
• Estimated cost: No cost over and above staff time.
• Estimated timeline: 2019
• Success measures: Reach and engagement, increased awareness and knowledge of Town activities, events,
programs, initiatives and decision-making processes.
• Willingness to engage with the Town
Pilot online advertising and promoted social media posts
With interest in online activities increasing, the Town is interested in continuing to test online advertising and
promoted social media posts.
Communications launched a pilot to test the results of online advertising on YorkRegion.com in January 2018.
The pilot is promoting the online traffic consultation through PlaceSpeak. Results will be analyzed at the end
of the pilot to determine whether or not it was successful and whether future online campaigns should be
considered.
Social media platforms regularly alter their algorithms, which affects whether or not your followers see your
post. One way to ensure posts get delivered to followers and potential followers is to pay for promoted posts.
Communications is interested in piloting promoted posts with a sample of different posts to determine whether or
not budget should be allocated for such activity moving forward.
• Estimated cost: $5,000 in 2018, included in existing budget.
• Estimated timeline: 2018
• Success measures: Cost per mille (CPM measures cost per thousand times the ad appeared in front of a user), cost
per click, cost per action (actions may include number of registrations for an event, promo codes entered,
subscriptions registered). Level of awareness and knowledge of Town staff, activities, events, services, programs,
initiatives and decision-making processes.
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Introduce a social media ambassador program for youth
Digital kiosks with cell phone charging stations
Digital kiosks at Town facilities (i.e. Library Square, Town Park,
ACC, AFLC, SARC, etc.) would enable the Town to provide digital
advertising opportunities to promote Town events, services and
programs while also selling sponsorship and advertising to local
businesses. Kiosks can take a traditional form or more
unconventional ones, such as tables. Town messaging could
include digital posters and videos to engage residents and visitors
and provide valuable information. In visible locations, the kiosks
act as passive advertising and including charging stations will
draw people to the kiosk where they will be exposed to the
advertising. With the majority of Aurora residents using cell
phones, the stations provide a useful service to the community
while acting as a communication tool.
• Estimated cost: $5,000 to $30,000 depending on number of
kiosks, type and features. Costs could be off-set by selling
advertising and sponsorship.
• Estimated timeline: 2019 - 2020
• Success measure: Usage statistics an increased awareness
and knowledge of Town activities, events, programs, initiatives
and decision-making processes.
Pilot online advertising and promoted social media posts
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4. Objective: Promote brand recognition
Update brand guidelines
Action:
“Your brand is a story unfolding across all customer touch points.” – Jonah Sachs
In 2017, Corporate Communications began the process of updating the look and feel of our communication
materials (print and digital) to include modern and updated secondary colours and fonts to complement the
existing brand, sub-brands and logos. This new look and feel has been translated across channels to promote brand
recognition. This consistency is important in order to demonstrate value and help taxpayers recognize the
wide-range of products, services and programs offered by the Town of Aurora. The existing brand guidelines and use
of logo document will be updated for 2019 to reflect the current standards.
• Estimated cost: No cost over and above staff time.
• Estimated timeline: 2019
• Success measures: Brand compliance audits and improved brand recognition for programs and services.
Improve mobile accessibility
Information is increasingly accessed through mobile devices and having a fully-mobile responsive website is
recommended. Currently, the website uses a third-party service provider to convert our existing website into a
mobile accessible format, which is not always consistent and occasionally presents challenges with functionality.
Providing our online services in a manner that is consistent and user-friendly across all platforms is a priority.
Communications will be recommending that the next version of the Town website be mobile friendly and that
additional digital platforms be fully compliant with mobile devices. A report requesting capital funding for a new
website will be provided to Council in 2018, as per the 2018 Capital Budget decisions.
• Estimated cost: $70,000 included in the 2018 Capital Budget for a new mobile responsive website (pending
Council approval)
• Estimated timeline: 2019
• Success measures: User analytics and number error messages delivered. Improved satisfaction with online
experience
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
25
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Expansion of ongoing in-person community engagement program
Throughout 2017, Town staff attended our facilities and special events, community events such as the Chamber
of Commerce street sale, Farmers’ Market and the Aurora GO station during the morning commute. Staff used the
opportunities to solicit feedback on Town activities and programs and to promote upcoming projects and events.
Feedback has been extremely positive and Communications will continue to schedule in-person
community engagement opportunities while seeking out new locations and opportunities.
• Estimated cost: $10,000 per year (included in existing budget).
• Estimated timeline: Ongoing
• Success measures: Increased awareness of Town programs and services, increased satisfaction with engagement
opportunities.
5. Objective: Increase opportunities for two-way communication
Continuation of PlaceSpeak pilot program
Actions:
“Communication leads to community, that is, to understanding, intimacy and mutual valuing.” – Rollo May
PlaceSpeak is an online public consultation tool that allows residents to comment and provide feedback to Town
staff on the issues that matter to them without having to ever attend an in-person meeting. The Traffic Safety
consultation launched in January 2018 and will continue to be evaluated throughout the year.
• Estimated cost: $30,000 per year for software and promotion (funded through non-tax levy funds related to
traffic management).
• Estimated timeline: Ongoing
• Success measures: Sign-up rates, engagement rates, level of satisfaction with tool, willingness to engage through
the platform in the future and satisfactionwith quality and quantity of information
4. Objective: Promote brand recognition
Update brand guidelines
Improve mobile accessibility
29Communications and Community Engagement Strategy 2018 to 2021 DRAFT
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“We need diversity of thought in the world to face the new challenges” ~ Tim Berners-Lee
Relationship-building with community groups and organizations
Communications staff are currently developing a contact database of community groups and organizations who
are interested in sharing Town events, programs, initiatives with their members. Through relationship-building,
the goal is to identify groups who may be willing to have Town staff attend meetings and events to conduct
in-person community engagement and share Town communications through their existing channels and networks.
• Estimated cost: Approximately $5,000 for potential marketing and communications materials. To be included
in 2019 budget.
• Estimated timeline: 2018 for database development, 2019 for associated activities.
• Success measures: Number of attendees at in-person engagement opportunities, increased awareness, willingness
to engage with the Town in the future.
Introduction of pop-up Town Hall meetings
Staff recommend piloting at least one pop-up Town Hall meeting. Instead of requiring residents to attend Town
Hall at a specific time to discuss a specific issue, Communications will explore the option of partnering with an
existing event in a community (i.e. following a school Council meeting or event at the Seniors’ Centre) to host a
pop-up Town Hall to address either a specific issue in that neighbourhood or provide general updates on key
projects.
• Estimated Cost: $1,000 an event for promotion and potential facility rental fees (included in existing budget).
• Estimated timeline: 2019
• Success measures: Number of attendees, satisfaction with meeting and willingess to engage with the Town in the
future
Communications and Community Engagement Strategy 2018 to 2021 DRAFT30
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6. Objective: Build diversity awareness and capacity
Relationship building with community and cultural leaders
Actions:
“We need diversity of thought in the world to face the new challenges” ~ Tim Berners-Lee
Communications will develop a contact database of community and faith leaders who are interested in
sharing Town events, programs, initiatives and projects with their network. In addition, the relation-building is
intended to provide additional opportunites for community engagement and two-way conversation.
• Estimated cost: $1,000 to host meetings.
• Estimated timeline: 2019
• Success measures: Number of residents reached, willingess to engage with the Town, level of awareness and
knowledge of Town activities, events, services, programs, initiatives and decision-making processes.
Develop Communications and Community Engagement Policy
Communications staff are currently developing a Communications and Community Engagement policy that
provides a framework for communication and public participation. The framework will be based on the
International Association for Public Participation Spectrum, which outlines levels of public participation ranging
from providing the public with information through to empowering the public to make the final decision on a
matter. The policy will seek to identify the appropriate level of engagement required by the Town based on the
nature of the project, program or initiative. The goal of the policy is to provide a consistent approach to
communications and community engagement and provide our community with an understanding of our practices.
• Estimated cost: No cost above staff time.
• Estimated timeline: 2018
• Success measures: Awareness of policy, number of people reading policy, satisfaction with the policy
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Relationship-building with community groups and organizations
Introduction of pop-up Town Hall meetings
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•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Diversity messaging. Continuing recognition of cultural celebrations
Translated advertising
The Town currently recognizes various cultural celebrations on social media as a way of embracing the diversity
of Aurora and promoting equity and inclusion.
In order to encourage residents whose first language may not be English to participate in Town
events and activities, Communications recommends a pilot program to translate materials into alternative
languages for distribution via community leaders and for posting in locations frequented by residents.
Proposed locations include cultural and religious facilities, language schools, Welcome Centre, Centra grocery
store and T & T grocery.
• Estimated cost: No cost over and above staff time.
• Estimated cost: $1,500 for translation and printing costs for approximately two events.
• Estimated timeline: Ongoing
• Estimated timeline: 2019
• Success measures: Engagement on social media posts related to diversity, equity and inclusion. Perception of Town
as an inclusive and welcoming place.
• Success measures: Number of unique visits to custom URL to be placed on marketing materials. Number of event
attendees.
“Marketing is no longer about the stuff that you make, but about the stories you tell.” - Seth Godin
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Use our own channels to share good news
Utilize social media, YouTube, the Town website, e-newsletter and the bi-annual mailer to share positive news
stories about Aurora.
• Estimated cost: No cost over and above staff time.
• Estimated timeline: Ongoing
• Success measures:
• Increased positive perception of Town staff, activities, events, services, programs and initiatives
Develop internal system for identifying community impacts of programs,
policies, projects
An internal protocol for identifying community impacts has been developed with regards to engineering and
capital projects. Working with the ACE project management team, an internal staff team working to develop
consistent practices for project management, Communications will assist in the development of an
organization-wide community impact assessment. This has already been completed with regards to roads projects.
• Estimated cost: No cost over and above staff time.
• Estimated timeline: 2018 and 2019
• Success measure: Increased level of understanding and level of satisfaction with the quality and quantity of
information
Diversity messaging. Continuing recognition of cultural celebrations
Translated advertising
7. Objective: Improve capacity to proactively respond to issues and tell our stories
Continue to monitor social media and traditional media
Actions:
“Marketing is no longer about the stuff that you make, but about the stories you tell.” - Seth Godin
Corporate Communications continues to monitor traditional and social media for mentions of the Town.
Monitoring assists us in clarifying misinformation and understanding the needs and wants of our community and
identifying potential concerns so we can develop proactive messaging, where necessary.
• Estimated cost: $10,000 already included in budget.
• Estimated timeline: Ongoing
• Success measures: Sentiment analysis and change in the perception of Town staff, activities, events, services,
programs, initiatives and decision-making processes.
Communications and Community Engagement Strategy 2018 to 2021 DRAFT 33
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•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Communications proposed creating a bi-annual newsletter that can be sent by mail to individuals who have signed
up, and dropped off at seniors’ residences and retirement homes. Sign up for the mailer could be done
online, through the Seniors’ Centre and by calling or visiting Town Hall. Communications staff will also attend
events to encourage sign up.
• Estimated cost: $2,000 + (depending on number printed).
• Estimated timeline: 2019
• Success measure: Number of mail sign-ups and satisfaction with newsletter/mailer
Introduce bi-annual newsletter/mailer
8. Objective: Continue to use targeted print communications
Actions:
“To effectively communicate, we must realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world
and use this understanding as a guide in our communication with others.” ~ Anthony Robbins
Communications will continue to utilize print to promote events, programs and services. All households in Aurora
currently receive at least one annual tax bill and three water bills throughout the year. Communications
frequently includes inserts in these bills that promote Town programs and services. An editorial calendar will
enable Communications to plan ahead for the year and identify potential messaging early.
• Estimated cost: $5,000 annually for printing costs absorbed into existing 2018 budget.
• Estimated timeline: Ongoing
• Success measures: Use of targeted URLs to measure response and increased level of awareness and knowlege of
Town activities, events, services, programs, initiatives and decision-making processes.
Create an editorial calendar for tax bill and water bill inserts
31 Communications and Community Engagement Strategy 2018 to 2021 DRAFT
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Introduce bi-annual newsletter/mailer
9. Objective: Ensure policies and procedures are consistent with intended outcomes
Action:
“One of the great mistakes is to judge policies and programs by their intentions rather than their results.”
~ Milton Friedman
In the past 18 months, Corporate Communications has developed two new policies related to social media,
Corporate Use of Social Media and Employee Use of Social Media. In addition, the internal Crisis Communications
Procedure was updated and new policies for Media Relations and Branding were developed and implemented.
Communications will continue to evaluate existing policies and develop new ones to ensure they meet the needs
of our employees and our community.
• Estimated cost: No cost over and above staff time.
• Estimated timeline: Ongoing
• Success measures: Policy compliance
Conduct ongoing evaluation of communications policies to ensure consistency
with strategy, goals and intended outcomes
8. Objective: Continue to use targeted print communications
“To effectively communicate, we must realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world
and use this understanding as a guide in our communication with others.” ~ Anthony Robbins
Create an editorial calendar for tax bill and water bill inserts
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COMMUNICATIONS TOOLS
OVERVIEW
• Website
• Social media
• E-newsletter
• Online community engagement platform (PlaceSpeak)
• Online advertising
• Digital signs in facilities
• Mobile and electronic signs
• Electronic sign at Yonge and Aurora Heights Drive
• Print advertising in local newspapers and magazines
• Notice Board in the Auroran newspaper
• Club Aurora newsletter
• Media releases and media relations
• In-person community engagement (Farmers’ Market, GO Transit visits)
• On-hold messaging
• Text message alerts
• Seniors’ Centre email blasts
• Seniors’ Centre social media
• Printed materials, including: posters, postcards, flyers, booklets and guides
• Bi-annual printed newsletter
• Pop-up Town Hall meetings
• Public knowledge-base
• Quarterly video summary
• Targeted advertising for diverse communities
• Translated advertising
• Outreach through community and faith leaders
• Outreach through community organizations and groups
• Social media ambassador program
• Charging station kiosks
Current Communications Tools
Proposed Additional Communications Tools
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COMMUNICATIONS TOOLS
OVERVIEW
Communications and Community Engagement Strategy 2018 to 2021 DRAFT
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
37
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Communications and Community Engagement Strategy 2018 to 2021 DRAFT
and
seniors
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38
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Town of Aurora
General Committee Report No. OPS18-005
Subject: Naming of Parks
Prepared by: Sara Tienkamp, Manager, Parks & Fleet
Department: Operational Services
Date: May 1, 2018
Recommendation
1. That Report No. OPS18-005 be received; and
2. That the selection of names for nine (9) Town of Aurora parks be approved as
presented.
Executive Summary
This report is to provide Council with information and recommendations associated with
the naming of parkland:
• Public Facilities Naming Policy 1997 provides guidelines to naming of parkland
• Historical and geographic connections to parkland blocks with no formal name
designation
Background
Nine (9) different park blocks in the Town are unnamed, of which, six (6) have been
developed and two (2) are anticipated to have construction completed in 2018. The
majority of the park blocks are part of the 2C development area.
In accordance with corporate policy on naming of facilities and parks, staff has compiled a
list of suggested names to possibly be used in the naming of the parks with no formal
designation. All the names presented have been researched by Cultural Services staff for
their historical significance as original landowners or who had a prominent connection to
the lands.
General Committee Meeting Agenda
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Item R3
Page 1 of 12
May 1, 2018 Page 2 of 6 Report No. OPS18-005
Analysis
Public Facilities Naming Policy 1997 provides guidelines to naming of parkland
The Public Facilities Naming Policy 1997 ensures consistency in the recommendations
being submitted for consideration. One of the goals outlined in the policy is to
remember/retain the memories of past residents, facilities or events which depict our
heritage.
Specifically, staff are to consider the following guidelines when recommending naming
parks, green spaces and trails:
• Geographic or historical significance of the specific location
• Historical/prominent individuals/families/groups
• Significant donation which was instrumental in making the parkland a reality
• Program/Community related name which denotes an appropriate link to its function
The eligible criteria when utilizing the geographic significance guideline, pertains to
landowners that owned or lived on properties within the present or historic Aurora
boundaries. The specific criteria to take into account when recommending
historical/prominent individuals or families is whether they have a historical connection to
the Town’s heritage or in some way made a significant contribution to the Aurora
community.
Historical and geographic connections to parkland blocks with no formal name
designation
The following chart provides name suggestions for the parks and the historical family
name connections to those lands:
New Parks in 2C Development Area Map:
Location 1 - Mattamy Phase 1 Parkette (Thomas Phillips Drive)
Suggested Name Connection to Lands Park Status
Jean Marie
Iacovetta Parkette
Parkette naming rights auctioned off as part of
the 2017 Southlake Gala, name selected by
auction bidder
Complete
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Item R3
Page 2 of 12
May 1, 2018 Page 3 of 6 Report No. OPS18-005
Location 2 - Mattamy Phase 2 Neighbourhood Park (Alex Brodie Drive)
Suggested Name Connection to Lands Park Status
Trent Park Trent family owned farm from 1882-1941 Complete
Location 3 - Mattamy Phase 3 Parkette (DeGraaf Cresent)
Suggested Name Connection to Lands Park Status
Richard and Sandra
Gladden Park
Parkette naming rights auctioned off as part of
the 2013 Southlake Gala, name selected by
auction bidder
2018 Completion
Location 4 – Mattamy Phase 4 Parkette (Forest Grove Court)
Suggested Name Connection to Lands Park Status
Forest Grove Parkette No records Complete
Location 5 – TACC Phase 2 Neighbourhood Park (William Graham Drive)
Suggested Names Connection to Lands Park Status
Edward Coltham Park Coltham family owned lands from 1900-
1963
Edward D Coltham’s death notice in the
Aurora Banner stated “ one of the best
known farmers in the section…highly
respected by all”
2018
Completion
Location 6 – DG Group Parkette (Joseph Hartman Crescent)
Suggested Name Connection to Lands Park Status
Johnathan Bales Parkette Johnathan Bales, second Bales to own
lands from 1869-1908
Johnathan Scott Bales, third Bales to
own lands from 1908-1948
Complete
General Committee Meeting Agenda
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Page 3 of 12
May 1, 2018 Page 4 of 6 Report No. OPS18-005
New Parks in Aurora Map:
Location 1 – Brentwood (Ballymore) Parkette (Woodland Hills Boulevard)
Suggested Name Connection to Lands Park Status
Benjamin Pearson Parkette Benjamin Pearson ( no connection to
Lester B Pearson) was granted the lot by
the Crown in 1806 and it remained in
family until 1867
Complete
Location 2 – Mavrinac Boulevard Neighbourhood Park (Mavrinac Boulevard)
Suggested Name Connection to Lands Park Status
Thomas Coates Park Thomas Coates owned the lands from
1854-1892; sold it to his daughter Sarah,
by then Mrs. Charles C Richardson; she
sold it to her son Charles E Richardson in
1913 who owned the lands until1949
Complete
Location 3 – Genview Parkette and Open space (Vines Place)
Suggested Name Connection to Lands Park Status
John Ashton Parkette John Ashton was granted the lot from the
Crown in 1837 and it remained in family
until 1948
Complete
Advisory Committee Review
Not applicable.
Legal Considerations
There are no Legal considerations at this time.
Financial Implications
Sufficient funds are available to construct the signs in the Parks Operating budget.
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item R3
Page 4 of 12
May 1, 2018 Page 5 of 6 Report No. OPS18-005
Communications Considerations
There is no external communication required at this time.
Link to Strategic Plan
The naming of parks supports the Strategic Plan goal of Supporting Environmental
Stewardship and Sustainability for all through its accomplishment in satisfying
requirements in the following key objectives within this goal statement:
Encouraging the stewardship of Aurora’s natural resources: Assess the merits of
measuring the Town’s natural capital assets.
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
None.
Conclusions
That Council approve the suggested names proposed for unnamed parkland.
Attachments
Attachment #1- Public Facilities Naming Policy 1997
Attachment #2 - New Parks in 2C Development Area map
Attachment #3 - New Parks in Aurora map
Previous Reports
None.
Pre-submission Review
Agenda Management Team review on April 12, 2018
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Thomas Phillips Drive
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Roy Harper AveBridgepoint Crt
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William Graham Drive
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KerrLaneStocks LnUsherwood StreetGwilliam Lane
Pedersen Drive
Radial Drive
Cottinghill Way Homer C resMcLarty Gate
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scentHartwell Way
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treetEakins Drive
CasemountStreetAbbottAvenueSt John's Sideroad East
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entR othw
ellStreetNovanCrescent
Reynolds Crescent
Petermann StreetChouinardWay
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Do w n e y Cir cleS tat e F arm Way
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NEW PARKS IN 2C DEVELOPMENT AREA
Map created by the Town of Aurora Planning & Development Services Department, April 13, 2018. Base data provided by York Region and Aurora - GIS.
¯0 250 500
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¬«1
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Mattamy Phase 1 Parkette (Trailhead) 0.21 ha (0.5 ac) Completed
Mattamy Phase 2 Neighbourhood Park 1.83 ha (4.5 ac) Completed
Mattamy Phase 3 Parkette (Vista) 0.20 ha (0.5 ac) Completion 2017
Mattamy Phase 4 Parkette 0.69 ha (1.7 ac) Completion 2017
TACC Phase 2 Neighbourhood Park 2.0 ha (5 ac) Completion 2018
DG Group Parkette (Trailhead 0.10 ha (0.25 ac) Completion 2017
Brookfield Parkette (Trailhead) 0.76 ha (1.9 ac) Completion 2017 General Committee Meeting Agenda Tuesday, May 1, 2018Item R3 Page 11 of 12
General Committee Meeting Agenda Tuesday, May 1, 2018Item R3 Page 12 of 12
Town of Aurora
General Committee Report No. CMS18-013
Subject: Aurora Historical Society – Request for Funding
Prepared by: Lisa Warth, Manager of Recreation
Department: Community Services
Date: May 1, 2018
Recommendation
1. That Report No. CMS18-013 be received; and
2. That Council approve a grant to the Aurora Historical Society (AHS) for the
storage of historical artifacts, in the amount of $2,722.84 for 2018 to be funded
from the Council Contingency Operating Account.
Executive Summary
This report seeks Council approval to fund the storage of historical artifacts owned and
managed by the Aurora Historical Society (“AHS”). Considerations include:
• The importance of the collection and proper storage
• The Aurora Historical Society five (5) year strategic plan will address long term
storage solutions
Background
The AHS has previously been storing artifacts at the Aurora Armoury (89 Mosley St.).
However, with the restoration and renovation work at this building, the items had to be
moved out at the end of December 2017. The artifacts require a secure, climate
controlled environment. The artifacts are mainly paper products, such as books and
archival material. The funding of storage for these items was discussed during 2018
budget deliberations, however more information was required and the request was not
included at that time.
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May 1, 2018 Page 2 of 3 Report No. CMS18-013
Analysis
Importance of the collection and proper storage
It is important to store this collection properly and safely to ensure the preservation and
accurate interpretation of Aurora’s cultural heritage. The collection is currently in a third
party, 10 ft. by 10 ft. climate-controlled storage facility. There are approximately 100
bankers’ boxes of artifacts.
Aurora Historical Society five (5) year strategic plan
The AHS is currently creating a five (5) year strategic plan that will address long term
artifact storage solutions. However, until the AHS is able to implement this plan,
financial assistance to pay for storage is required.
Advisory Committee Review
None
Legal Considerations
None
Financial Implications
The AHS is requesting $2,722.84 in funding for 2018 to be funded from the Council
Contingency Operating Account. The AHS is also requesting funding for 2019 in the
amount of $3,066.96 and funding for 2020 in the amount of $3,066.96. The amounts for
2019 and 2020 can be included in the 2019 and 2020 operating budgets.
Communications Considerations
There are no communications considerations.
Link to Strategic Plan
Funding to ensure proper storage for historical artifacts supports the Strategic Plan
objective of Celebrating and promoting our culture.
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Town of Aurora
General Committee Report No. PDS18-047
Subject: Award of Tender 2018-22-PDS-ENG - For Roadway Rehabilitation on
Gilbert Drive, Jarvis Avenue, Archerhill Court, Westview Drive and
McClellan Way
Prepared by: Dan Vink, Coordinator, Project Delivery
Department: Planning and Development Services
Date: May 1, 2018
Recommendations
1. That Report No. PDS18-047 be received; and
2. That the total approved budget for Capital Project No. 31140 be increased to
$716,592.00, representing an increase of $75,014.00 to be funded from the
Roads R&R Reserve; and
3. That Tender 2018-22-PDS-ENG, Capital Project No. 31140, for Roadway
Rehabilitation on Gilbert Drive, Jarvis Avenue, Archerhill Court, Westview
Drive and McClellan Way (from Bathurst Street to Spence Drive) be awarded to
Forest Contractors Ltd. in the amount of $627,895.60 excluding taxes; and
4. That the Mayor and Town Clerk be authorized to execute the necessary
Agreement, including any and all documents and ancillary agreements
required to give effect to same.
Executive Summary
To receive Council’s authorization to provide additional funding for Capital Project
31140 and award Tender 2018-22-PDS-ENG to Forest Contractors Ltd.
Background
The rehabilitation of Gilbert Drive, Jarvis Avenue, Archerhill Court, Westview Drive and
McClellan Way (from Bathurst Street to Spence Drive) is included in the Town of Aurora
10-Year Capital Reconstruction program.
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May 1, 2018 Page 2 of 5 Report No. PDS18-047
The capital funding for this project has been approved by Council for delivery in 2018 in
the amount of $641,578.00 and this report provides the details of the tendering results
and recommendation to proceed to construction.
Analysis
A total of twenty (20) companies accessed the on-line tender documents, and by the
closing date of March 29, 2018, the Town received five (5) compliant bids. The lowest
compliant bidder for this tender was Forest Contractors Ltd. as summarized in Table 1.
Table 1
FIRM NAME TOTAL BID
(excluding taxes)
1 Forest Contractors Ltd. $ 627,895.60
2 RA Crete-Scape Ltd. $ 646,027.38
3 C. Valley Paving Ltd. $ 694,379.25
4 Wyndale Paving Co. Ltd. $ 852,015.80
5 Brennan Paving & Construction Ltd. $ 857,530.00
Verification of the Tenders was undertaken by Town staff. Forest Contractors Ltd. has
successfully completed road resurfacing projects for the City of Pickering, the Town of
Whitchurch-Stouffville and the City of Vaughan.
Project Schedule
The Contract is expected to commence in June 2018.
Advisory Committee Review
Not applicable
Legal Considerations
The awarding of this tender is in accordance with the Town’s Procurement Bylaw.
General Committee Meeting Agenda
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May 1, 2018 Page 3 of 5 Report No. PDS18-047
Financial Implications
Table 2 is a financial summary for Capital Project Number 31140 as based on the
Tender submitted by Forest Contractors Ltd.
Table 2
Approved Budget
Capital Project 31140 $641,578
Total Approved Budget $641,578
Less previous commitments (Geotechnical investigation) $1,447
Funding available for Subject Contract $640,131
Contract Award excluding HST $627,896
Non-refundable taxes (1.76%) $11,051
Geotechnical Inspection (Under Separate P.O.) $7,500
Arborist Inspection (Under Separate P.O.) $2,500
Construction Signage (Under Separate P.O.) $2,500
Sub-Total $651,447
Contingency amount (10%) $65,145
Total Funding Required $716,592
Budget Variance - $75,014
Additional funding is required to proceed with this roadway rehabilitation project. It is
recommended that this budget variance of $75,014.00 be provided from the Roads R&R
Reserve.
Communications Considerations
Staff have anticipated minimal impact to local residents since the works will be confined
within the roadway and will primarily include asphalt resurfacing and adjustments of
maintenance holes and catch basins. However, staff will include extra signage on the
road and communication before and during construction. A Construction Updates page
will be created for the website which will list all the current construction projects and
their status. In addition, the page will include an interactive map showing locations
General Committee Meeting Agenda
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where construction is happening in the Town. Users can open the map, click on the
project and pull up information on it.
Construction is anticipated to commence in mid June 2018 and be completed within
fourty (40) working days, weather permitting.
Link to Strategic Plan
This project supports the Strategic Plan goal of Supporting and Exceptional Quality of
Life for All by Investing in Sustainable Infrastructure. This ensures road safety is
provided to meet the needs and expectations of our community.
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
1. Council may choose to not award this project. The Tender evaluation process
meets all requirements for the Procurement By-law and awarding this contract is the
next step in fulfilling the requirements of the tendering process. If council chooses to
not award this contract, these road segments will not be rehabilitated and future
road maintenance will be more extensive and costly.
Conclusions
The Tender review has complied with the Procurement By-law requirements and it is
recommended that Tender 2018-22-PDS-ENG, for roadway rehabilitation on Gilbert
Drive, Jarvis Avenue, Archerhill Court, Westview Drive and McClellan Way (from
Bathurst Street to Spence Drive), be awarded to Forest Contractors Ltd. in the amount
of $627,895.60, excluding taxes, and that the budget for Capital Project 31140 be
increased by $75,014.00, with the additional funding provided from the Roads R&R
Reserve.
Attachments
Appendices ‘A’ and ‘B’ – Key Plans showing the proposed road rehabilitation locations
Previous Reports
None
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
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General Committee Meeting Agenda Tuesday, May 1, 2018Item R5 Page 5 of 7
BATHURST STREETTownship of KingMeadowsDr
ButtonwoodTr
Light of ChristElementarySchool HighviewPublicSchool
NormWellerPark
Case Woodlot
McClellan
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Allenvale DrBrookeview DrSandfield Dr
Briardale Pl
Cashel CrtMahogany CrtCharingCres
Beatty Cres
TradewindTerr
Chiswick CresHaskell Cres
Stemmle DrBeechbro
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Bonny
CoventCres
PrestonThompson Pl
LOCATION OF PROPOSED ROAD RESURFACINGMCCLELLAN WAY, GILBERT DRIVE AND JARVIS AVENUE
Map created by the Town of Aurora Planning and Development Services Department, March 16th, 2018. Base data provided by York Region and Aurora - GIS. This is not a legal survey.
0 50 100
Metres
PDS18-047
Appendix 'A'
KEY PLANYONGE STREETJ
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Gilbert Drive
Railway/G
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Gilbert Drive Jarvis AvenueIndustrial Parkway South
Alm
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Falconwood HollowMeadowLark Ln
HendersonDr
CandacValley DrHuntingTrMatch Point CrtThompkinsCres
Poplar Crescent
KenSinclairCres
Timberlane Blvd0 50 100
Metres
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item R5
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VANDORF SIDEROAD BAYVIEW AVENUECir
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Engelhard DrVines PlAr
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Rickard St
Carisbrooke
BrittonTr MonkmanCrt
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LOCATION OF PROPOSED ROAD RESURFACINGARCHERHILL COURT AND WESTVIEW DRIVE
Map created by the Town of Aurora Planning and Development Services Department, March 16th, 2018. Base data provided by York Region and Aurora - GIS. This is not a legal survey.
0 50 100
Metres
PDS18-047
Appendix 'B'
KEY PLAN
Westview Drive
Westhill CrtLESLIE STREETCanadian National RailwayVANDORF SIDEROAD VANDORF SIDEROAD
HIGHWAY 404Town of Whitchurch-StouffvilleCivobel Dr0125250
Meters
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item R5
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Town of Aurora
General Committee Report No. PDS18-051
Subject: Award of Contract for Consulting Services – Design for the
Reconstruction of Adair Drive, Bailey Crescent, Davidson Road and
Harriman Road
Prepared by: Sabir Hussain, Municipal Engineer
Department: Planning and Development Services
Date: May 1, 2018
Recommendation
1. That Report No. PDS18-051 be received; and
2. That the budget for Capital Project 31119 be increased to $217,879 with
additional funding of $77,879 provided from the Storm Sewer Reserve Fund; and
3. That the Request for Proposal No. 2018-45-PDS-ENG for the provision of
consulting services for the design of the reconstruction of Adair Drive, Bailey
Crescent, Davidson Road and Harriman Road be awarded to AECOM Canada
Ltd. in the amount of $214,110.00, excluding taxes; and
4. That the Mayor and Town Clerk be authorized to execute the necessary
agreement, including any and all documents and ancillary agreements required
to give effect to same.
Executive Summary
To receive Council’s authorization to award the contract for consulting services for the
reconstruction design of Adair Drive, Bailey Crescent, Davidson Road and Harriman
Road to AECOM Canada Ltd.
The reconstruction design for these streets will:
• improve the road condition and drainage;
• reduce road and infrastructure maintenance costs;
• provide safer driving and pedestrian access; and
• improve control of storm water runoff
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item R6
Page 1 of 6
May 1, 2018 Page 2 of 5 Report No. PDS18-051
The RFP 2018-45-PDS-ENG was issued on February 27, 2018 and closed on March 20
2018. The evaluation determined that the highest ranked proposal was made by AECOM
Canada Ltd. for $214,110.00 excluding taxes.
Background
This project is included in the Ten-year Capital Plan with a $140,000 design budget for
the year 2018. The roadways to be reconstructed are all local residential with a semi-rural
cross-section with gravel shoulders and ditches for drainage. The roadways currently
have no sidewalks.
This project will involve fully urbanizing these streets replacing the gravel shoulders and
ditch with new curb and gutter and storm sewer system as well as new sidewalk on one
side of each street.
The new storm sewer system will utilize Low Impact Development (LID) techniques as
recommended in the Town’s Comprehensive Stormwater Management Master Plan to
improve the control and treatment of storm water runoff.
The streets have an existing 150mm diameter water main that requires replacement with
a new 200mm diameter water main and a sanitary sewer system that will be assessed
and replaced if required.
Existing street lights are attached to hydro poles within the street boulevards. A
photometric assessment and design for street lighting improvement will also be
completed as part of this project.
The existing roadway surfaces within the project limits are in fair to good condition,
however to urbanize these roads they will need to be fully reconstructed with all road
asphalt and granular being replaced.
These semi-rural roadways with ditches are among only a few remaining within the area
to be fully urbanized.
Analysis
Proposal evaluations
The Request for Proposal (RFP 2018-45-PDS-ENG) for the design of the reconstruction
of Adair Drive, Bailey Crescent, Davidson Road and Harriman Road was issued on
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item R6
Page 2 of 6
May 1, 2018 Page 3 of 5 Report No. PDS18-051
February 27, 2018 and closed on March 20, 2018. The Tendering Opening Committee
received four (4) proposals from the following firms:
• AECOM Canada Ltd.
• Cole Engineering Group Ltd.
• Exp Services Inc.
• Morrison Hershfield
A review of the proposals was undertaken with each proposal evaluated based on pre-
defined criteria as identified in the RFP.
Proponents were required to achieve a minimum score of 70% to proceed to the pricing
phase (52.5 out of 70 possible points).
All the four (4) firms that submitted proposals scored above the 70% threshold and their
pricing was opened and evaluated. The evaluation team determined that the highest
ranked proposal was made by AECOM Canada Ltd. with a cumulative score of 81.2 and
total bid price of $214,110.00.
Project Schedule
The project will commence in June with final design completed in late 2018. Construction
is planned for the spring of 2019.
Advisory Committee Review
Not applicable.
Legal Considerations
The awarding of this contract is in accordance with the Town’s Procurement By-law.
Financial Implications
Table 1 in this report is a financial summary based on the Proposal submitted by AECOM
Canada Ltd.
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item R6
Page 3 of 6
May 1, 2018 Page 4 of 5 Report No. PDS18-051
As indicated in Table 1, the project requires an additional $77,879.00. This increase is
due to the addition of provisional items for potential extra works involving mostly soil,
groundwater and infiltration investigations related to the LID design.
It is recommended that additional funding in the amount of $77,879.00 be provided for
this project from the Storm Sewer Reserve Fund.
Communications Considerations
Not applicable.
Link to Strategic Plan
This project supports the Strategic Plan Goal of Supporting an Exceptional Quality
of Life for all by investing in sustainable infrastructure. This ensures vehicular and
pedestrian safety is provided to meet the needs and expectations of our community
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
Council may choose to not award this project. The RFP evaluation process meets all of
the requirements of the procurement by-law and awarding this contract is the next step in
fulfilling the requirements of the tendering process. If Council chooses to not award this
contract, the reconstruction of Adair Drive, Bailey Crescent, Davidson Road and Harriman
Road will not proceed.
Table 1: Financial Summary for Capital Project No. 31119
2018 approved budget for design $140,000.00
Less previous commitments $0
Funding available for the subject Contract $140,000.00
Contract Award excluding HST $214,110.00
Non-refundable taxes (1.76%) $3,769.00
Total Funding Required $217,879.00
Budget Variance ($77,879.00)
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item R6
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General Committee Meeting Agenda Tuesday, May 1, 2018Item R6 Page 5 of 6
Seaton DrHolman CresBaileyCresAdairDrPoplar CresMu
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Murray Dr
Industrial Pkwy S
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YONGE STREETMurray DrKennedy St W
Tyler St
Golf Links Dr
Child Dr
Seaton Dr George StGlass
D
r Temperance StNisbet DrTrillium Dr
Fairway Dr
Richardson DrTimps
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Allaura BlvdVictoria StGurnett StRoyal Rd
Davis RdEdward St
Cossar Dr
Cousins Dr
Hillview Rd
Patrick DrMill StDunning Ave
Davidson RdDodie St
Lensmith Dr Hawthorne Ln
Glenview DrHarriman RdReuben St
Johnson RdWebster DrDevlin
Pl YONGE STREETHENDERSON DRIVE
WELLINGTON STREET WEST
Railway / G
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Transit Line
KEY PLAN
Map created by the Town of Aurora Planning and Development Services Department, April 13th, 2018.Base data provided by York Region and Aurora - GIS. This is not a legal survey.
0 125 250
MetresROAD RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT
Appendix 'A'
PDS18-051
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item R6
Page 6 of 6
Town of Aurora
General Committee Report
Subject: Summary of Committee Recommendations Report No. 2018-05
Prepared by: Michael de Rond, Town Clerk
Department: Corporate Services
Date: May 1, 2018
Recommendation
1. That Summary of Committee Recommendations Report No. 2018-05 be
received; and
2. That the Committee recommendations contained within this report be
approved.
Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of April 9, 2018
1. HAC18-007 – Request to Designate under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage
Act, 83 Temperance Street “Ireland-Moore House”
(a) That the House located at 83 Temperance Street be designated under Part
IV of the Ontario Heritage Act as a property of cultural heritage value or
interest; and
(b) That the Town Clerk be authorized to publish and serve Council’s Notice of
Intention to Designate as per requirements of the Act; and
(c) That the designation by-law be brought before Council for passing if no
objections were received within the thirty (30) day objection period as per
requirements of the Act; and
(d) That the owners of 83 Temperance Street be thanked for their support of the
designation of the subject heritage property.
Attachments
None
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Item R7
Page 1 of 1
Public Release
April 30, 2018
Town of Aurora
Additional Items to
General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
7 p.m., Council Chambers
• Revised General Committee Meeting Agenda Index
• Notice of Motion (a) Mayor Dawe
Re: Town Park Pathway Naming – Queen’s York Rangers Lane
Public Release
April 30, 2018
Town of Aurora
General Committee
Meeting Agenda (Revised)
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
7 p.m., Council Chambers
Councillor Mrakas in the Chair
1. Approval of the Agenda
Recommended:
That the agenda as circulated by Legislative Services be approved.
2. Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
3. Presentations
(a) Mike Walters, Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority
Re: Flood Preparation
4. Delegations
5. Consent Agenda
Items listed under the Consent Agenda are considered routine or no longer require
further discussion, and are enacted in one motion. The exception to this rule is that
a Member may request for one or more items to be removed from the Consent
Agenda for separate discussion and action.
General Committee Meeting Agenda (Revised)
Tuesday, May 1, 2018 Page 2 of 5
Recommended:
That the following Consent Agenda Items, C1 to C4 inclusive, be approved:
C1. CMS18-011 – Child Care Services Agreement
Recommended:
1. That Report No. CMS18-011 be received; and
2. That the Director of Community Services be authorized to execute the
Child Care Services Agreement with the Regional Municipality of York,
including any and all documents and ancillary agreements required to
give effect to same; and
3. That the Director of Community Services be delegated authority to renew
and execute the Child Care Services Agreement on an annual basis.
C2. PDS18-036 – Brookland Avenue Reconstruction – Managing
Construction Disruption and Improved Communications
Recommended:
1. That Report No. PDS18-036 be received for information.
C3. Finance Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of March 28, 2018
Recommended:
1. That the Finance Advisory Committee meeting minutes of March 28,
2018, be received for information.
C4. Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of April 9, 2018
Recommended:
1. That the Heritage Advisory Committee meeting minutes of April 9, 2018,
be received for information.
General Committee Meeting Agenda (Revised)
Tuesday, May 1, 2018 Page 3 of 5
6. Consideration of Items Requiring Discussion (Regular Agenda)
R1. OPS18-009 – Joint Operations Centre Additional Works
Recommended:
1. That Report No. OPS18-009 be received; and
2. That this report satisfies the requirement for release of conditional
approval for capital works at the Joint Operations Centre.
R2. CAO18-005 – 2018-2021 Communications and Community Engagement
Strategy
Presentation to be provided by Stephanie Mackenzie-Smith, Manager, Corporate
Communications
Recommended:
1. That Report No. CAO18-005 be received; and
2. That the attached Town of Aurora 2018-2021 Communications and
Community Engagement Strategy be endorsed.
R3. OPS18-005 – Naming of Parks
Recommended:
1. That Report No. OPS18-005 be received; and
2. That the selection of names for nine (9) Town of Aurora parks be
approved as presented.
R4. CMS18-013 – Aurora Historical Society – Request for Funding
Recommended:
1. That Report No. CMS18-013 be received; and
General Committee Meeting Agenda (Revised)
Tuesday, May 1, 2018 Page 4 of 5
2. That a grant to the Aurora Historical Society (AHS) for the storage of
historical artifacts, in the amount of $2,722.84 for 2018 to be funded from
the Council Contingency Operating Account, be approved.
R5. PDS18-047 – Award of Tender 2018-22-PDS-ENG – For Roadway
Rehabilitation on Gilbert Drive, Jarvis Avenue, Archerhill
Court, Westview Drive and McClellan Way
Recommended:
1. That Report No. PDS18-047 be received; and
2. That the total approved budget for Capital Project No. 31140 be
increased to $716,592.00, representing an increase of $75,014.00 to be
funded from the Roads Repair and Replacement Reserve; and
3. That Tender 2018-22-PDS-ENG, Capital Project No. 31140, for Roadway
Rehabilitation on Gilbert Drive, Jarvis Avenue, Archerhill Court, Westview
Drive and McClellan Way (from Bathurst Street to Spence Drive) be
awarded to Forest Contractors Ltd. in the amount of $627,895.60
excluding taxes; and
4. That the Mayor and Town Clerk be authorized to execute the necessary
Agreement, including any and all documents and ancillary agreements
required to give effect to same.
R6. PDS18-051 – Award of Contract for Consulting Services – Design for
the Reconstruction of Adair Drive, Bailey Crescent,
Davidson Road and Harriman Road
Recommended:
1. That Report No. PDS18-051 be received; and
2. That the budget for Capital Project No. 31119 be increased to $217,879
with additional funding of $77,879 provided from the Storm Sewer
Reserve Fund; and
3. That the Request for Proposal No. 2018-45-PDS-ENG for the provision
of consulting services for the design of the reconstruction of Adair Drive,
General Committee Meeting Agenda (Revised)
Tuesday, May 1, 2018 Page 5 of 5
Bailey Crescent, Davidson Road and Harriman Road be awarded to
AECOM Canada Ltd. in the amount of $214,110.00, excluding taxes; and
4. That the Mayor and Town Clerk be authorized to execute the necessary
agreement, including any and all documents and ancillary agreements
required to give effect to same.
R7. Summary of Committee Recommendations Report No. 2018-05
Recommended:
1. That Summary of Committee Recommendations Report No. 2018-05 be
received; and
2. That the Committee recommendations contained within this report be
approved.
7. Notices of Motion
(a) Mayor Dawe
Re: Town Park Pathway Naming – Queen’s York Rangers Lane
(Added Item)
8. New Business
9. Closed Session
10. Adjournment
Notice of Motion Mayor Geoffrey Dawe
Date: May 1, 2018
To: Members of Council
From: Mayor Dawe
Re: Town Park Pathway Naming – Queen’s York Rangers Lane
Whereas the Aurora Armoury located at the corner of Larmont St reet and Mosley Street
was built in 1874 as a drill shed for the Queen’s York Rangers; and
Whereas at the time of its closure as a National Defence Facility in 2012, it was the
longest-serving active Armoury in Canada; and
Whereas the Aurora Armoury has been an important gathering place and community
hub in our Town’s history; and
Whereas the Aurora Armoury is currently undergoing renovations to become the new
home of the Canadian Food and Wine Institute (Niagara College); and
Whereas although the restoration of the Aurora Armoury and the attraction of a post -
secondary facility has been identified as one of the priorities for the community and
Council to revitalize the downtown core, it is also important to honour the valued history
associated with the Aurora Armoury and the Queen’s York Rangers;
1. Now Therefore Be It Hereby Resolved That staff investigate naming the east/west
pathway in Town Park, between Wells Street and Larmont Street , as “Queen’s York
Rangers Lane”; and
2. Be It Further Resolved That the Aurora Armoury be given the honorary address “1
Queen’s York Rangers Lane” for historical and commemorative purposes only, and
that staff arrange for an address plaque to be placed on the building reflecting the
honorary address.
Additional Items to General Committee Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Notice of Motion (a)
Page 1 of 1