News Releases

6.2.1 Meewasin Valley Authority Financial Statements

Decision

*The Committee received the Financial Statements as information and have forwarded them to the August 18, 2016 City Council meeting.

Background

*Section 80(2) of the MVA Act states a copy of the annual audit shall be furnished to each participating party and elected officials of the City of Saskatoon.
*The Financial Statements are available here: http://owl.li/VSJj302oYvN

7.2.6 Design and Construction Agreement for Repair and Renovation of the Mendel Building

Decision

*The Committee is forwarding a report to the July 21, 2016 City Council meeting in support of the recommendations.

Background

*Capital replacements and repairs are planned for the Mendel Building when it is vacated. High-priority items include remediation of asbestos, a new boiler, new sprinklers, replacement of the fire alarm system, and accessibility improvements.
*The Mendel Building requires capital replacements and repairs by the City prior to the commencement of operations by the Museum of their tenant area.
*The City and Museum have identified that there is an opportunity to achieve efficiencies by combining responsibilities under a single design and construction agreement.
*The committee is recommending to City Council that the City enter into a design and construction agreement to repair and renovate the Mendel Building with the Children’s Discovery Museum on the Saskatchewan Inc. based on the key terms set out in this report.
*That the City endorse submission of this combined project by the Children’s Discovery Museum to the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund.

5.2 Innovative Housing Incentives – Saskatchewan Housing Corporation – 2013 Baltzan Boulevard, 474 Boykowich Street, 1528 37th Street West

Decision

*The Committee is forwarding a report to City Council on August 18, 2016, in support of the recommendations.

Background

*The Saskatchewan Housing Corporation is building three affordable residential care homes, consisting of four bedrooms each, for placement of Valley View Centre residents.
*The affordable rental units qualify for financial incentives from the City, including a capital grant and a five-year incremental tax abatement.
*The Committee is recommending $108,000 of the total capital cost of the construction of 12 affordable rental units at 203 Baltzan Boulevard, 474 Boykowich Street, and 1528 37th Street West, by the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, to a maximum of $9,000 per unit, be approved.
*The Committee is also recommending a five-year tax abatement of the incremental property taxes, estimated at $18,349, for the 12 affordable rental units be applied, commencing the next taxation year, following the completion of construction.

6.3.2 Robin Hansen – Original Kinsmen Park Playground Closure

Decision

*The Committee has resolved that the matter be referred to Administration for a report at the August 15, 2016 PD&CS meeting. Additional correspondence and speakers have been referred to the same meeting to be heard at that time (there were letters received after the deadline for submission on new items.  The bylaw does not provide for late letters or requests to speak unless it relates to an Administrative report on the agenda).

Background

*Robin Hansen presented citizens wishes regarding the re-opening of Kinsmen Park Playground as well as a petition.

7.1.1 Dutch Elm Disease Response Plan Update

Decision

*The Committee received the report as information.

Background

*The report provided an update on the implementation of the Dutch Elm Disease Response Plan.
*There’s an estimated 100,000 elm trees on both public and private property within Saskatoon, valued at more than $500 million. A complete and accurate inventory of all elm trees is being developed to support comprehensive Dutch elm disease (DED) response strategies.
*A public awareness campaign is being implemented to help prevent the spread of DED by providing citizens with information about the urban forest, the provincial DED regulations, and the importance of reporting symptomatic trees. 
*Enhanced surveillance service levels have been established in 2016 and will help with early detection of DED, and limit the spread of this disease.
*Recommendations from the Urban Forestry Civic Service Review, which is currently underway, will identify initiatives that can potentially improve Urban Forestry’s tree maintenance and inventory service levels and improve the overall health of the City’s trees.

7.2.4 Designation of Permanent Off-Leash Recreation Area and Amendment to Animal Control Bylaw, 1999, No. 7860

Decision

*The Committee is forwarding a report to the August 18, 2016 meeting of City Council in support of the recommendations in the report.

Background

*The Committee is recommending City Council approve a permanent Off-Leash Recreation Area next to Mayfair Pool between Avenues F and G, and 31^st and 32^nd Streets.
*Since the Animal Services Program began in 2004, nine Off-Leash Recreation Areas have been created in Saskatoon.

The City and its project partners, Graham Commuter Partners (GCP), continue to make progress on the North Commuter Parkway and the new Traffic Bridge which will be complete in October 2018. A new project update video is now available.

The North Commuter Parkway will support the transportation needs of citizens who live in Saskatoon’s northeast and work in the Marquis and North Industrial Areas, reducing traffic on the city’s existing bridges. The new Traffic Bridge will support the growing city centre by allowing motorists, pedestrians and cyclists to cross the river between the downtown and residential areas in the south sector of the city. The new bridge will look similar to the old bridge, but will be wider to accommodate emergency vehicles. 

Traffic Bridge Update – July 2016

This month, concrete work on Pier 3 was completed. The pier is now able to support the installation of the new span expected later this summer. Work on the new south abutment was also completed and the south abutment walls are now being built. Construction on the north abutment has now begun. Renderings showing the design concept for the new pathways on the south side of the river were also released.

North Commuter Parkway Update – July 2016

Parkway Bridge

Crews continue construction on Pier 1 - the diaphragm for the pier has been poured and is being backfilled and the columns are being reinforced. Pier 1 construction will continue over the summer. Progress on earthworks for the east embankment of the bridge remains steady and in mid-July, pile driving for the east embankment will begin. Crews have also begun stripping and backfilling work on the west embankment. 

Parkway Roadways

Clearing and topsoil stripping for the new roadways is now complete and earthwork operations continue along McOrmond Drive and Central Avenue. Storm sewer construction for the new lanes of Central Avenue between Attridge Drive and Fedoruk Drive continues and should be complete in July, at which time overhead power lines will be relocated.

Work to improve the Attridge Drive and Central Avenue intersection continues and this work, as well the Marquis Drive and Wanuskewin Road intersection, should be complete by fall.

Traffic and Trails

Residents can continue to expect increased traffic at Marquis Drive and Wanuskewin Road as trucks haul materials to the bridge construction site. Traffic restrictions and lane closures remain in place to accommodate work at Central Avenue and Attridge Drive. Beginning in July, work will start at the intersection of the Marquis Drive and Wanuskewin Road. Citizens will be notified of traffic detours through the City’s Daily Road Report, road signage, and social media.

The Spadina Crescent detour the Broadway Bridge and 3^rd Avenue will remain in place until the end of the construction period. The Saskatchewan Crescent eastbound detour to 11^th Street and westbound detour to the Victoria Avenue on/off ramps will be in place until August 2016. Rotary Park and River Landing trail detours will continue through the construction period. Access to Crocus Prairie Trail from Central Avenue is closed until winter 2016. At times, the east sidewalk at Wanuskewin Road and Marquis Drive will be restricted for vehicle crossings

Ways to Watch Construction Progress

Anyone interested can keep an eye on construction progress on the City's website. The webpage, saskatoon.ca/bridging,  includes quarterly video updates, live project webcams, time lapse videos, and photographs. Construction viewing areas are also in place at River Landing, and from the Meewasin Trail located just east of the cul de sac at the north end of Kinnear Avenue (north of Silverwood Golf Course).

Stay Safe Near Construction Zones

Citizens are reminded to obey traffic and Meewasin Trail detours, and to respect all safety measures in place including site fencing and site markings. The City is also reminding pedestrians to stay clear of work areas near the construction sites.

Summer construction season is in full swing and hundreds of potholes and utility cuts are repaired across Saskatoon every day. Since April, the City has used 1,670 tonnes of asphalt to repair the equivalent of an estimated 100,900 potholes on city streets. Favourable weather and an early snow melt have contributed to quicker repairs than in previous years.

“Better roads is a top priority for residents and everyone can help by reporting potholes online,” says Trent Schmidt, Acting Director of Public Works. “We use the information to prioritize our repair locations and continue to improve our roads throughout the summer.”

In addition to pothole repairs, utility cut repairs are ahead of schedule with the backlog of outstanding repairs from winter work expected to be completed by mid-August.

“We’ve repaired more than 675 utility cut locations so far this season, compared to approximately 500 at this time last year.” says Schmidt. “We are not only repairing utility cuts faster, we are holding ourselves and contractors to higher quality standards.”

A utility cut is a straight-edged break in the pavement from an excavation to access underground utilities. Utility cuts are maintained with sand and gravel until they can be repaired with asphalt, and are often mistaken for large potholes.  

The City thanks everyone for respecting work zones and their patience as we repair potholes and utility cuts around Saskatoon. 

Residents are encouraged to use the City’s Report-A-Pothole Map to report potholes and to consult the Utility Cuts and Repair Schedule. For more information please visit saskatoon.ca/betterroads. Emergency road repairs can be reported by calling Public Works Customer Service at 306-975-2476.

At 4:00 p.m. today, the Water Security Agency removed restrictions for Arbor Creek, Erindale, Evergreen (with the exception of Pohorecky), Forest Grove, University Heights Suburban Centre and Willowgrove under its Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory after extensive testing confirmed the water in these areas is safe to drink.

The Pohorecky area in the Evergreen neighbourhood will remain under advisory, including Pohorecky Bay, Cove, Close, Crescent, Court, Lane, Place, Rise, Street, Terrace and Way until further flushing of the system produces water samples that meet the high quality standards of the provincial regulatory agency. Yellow Drinking Advisory doorhangers will be delivered to these affected addresses as soon as possible tonight; followed by a green lifted notice when the water is confirmed safe to drink.

“After repeated flushing of the distribution system, water samples taken on Pohorecky Drive in Evergreen tested positive for a bacterial growth that we don’t like to see in drinking water,” says Acting Director of Public Works Trent Schmidt. “While it is not a serious threat to public health, we maintain high quality standards for public consumption and any level is unacceptable.”

“We are pleased to have these results before the long weekend,” says Schmidt. “The six neighbourhoods under the Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory can safely drink their tap water after running their taps for at least one minute.”

Arbor Creek, Erindale, Evergreen (except for Pohorecky) Forest Grove, University Heights Suburban Centre and Willowgrove no longer need to boil tap water for consumption and can begin using the tap water as normal after the following steps are completed:

1. Run cold water faucets and drinking fountains for at least 1 minute before using the water.
2. Drain and flush the ice-making system in your refrigerator.
3. Run water softeners through a regeneration cycle.
4. Drain and refill hot water heaters set below 45°C (normal setting is 60°C).

Business and residents have been boiling water for consumption since Monday afternoon in Arbor Creek, Erindale, Evergreen, Forest Grove, University Heights Suburban Centre and Willowgrove, after a primary water main was damaged. The City has been providing daily updates by phone, email or text message to those in the affected area using the City’s Emergency Alert System, notifynow. This will be the primary communication tool once the advisory is lifted.

“We encourage people in the six affected neighbourhoods to pay attention to our notifynow alerts or check the status of the water advisory regularly at saskatoon.ca,” says Acting Director of Public Works, Trent Schmidt. “With Friday being Canada Day and a long weekend for many people, we are telling people now what they will need to do once they get the message.”

Once the Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory is lifted, affected areas will no longer need to boil tap water for consumption and begin using the tap water as normal after the following steps are completed:

1. Run cold water faucets and drinking fountains for at least 1 minute before using the water.
2. Drain and flush the ice-making system in your refrigerator.
3. Run water softeners through a regeneration cycle.
4. Drain and refill hot water heaters set below 45°C (normal setting is 60°C).

The Water Security Agency requires two sets of water samples from multiple representative locations in the affected area be laboratory tested and confirmed safe before ending the Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory. Results from the second set of tests will be available late Thursday.

Residents affected by the Drinking Water Advisory in six Saskatoon neighbourhoods – Arbor Creek, Erindale, Evergreen, Forest Grove, University Heights Suburban Center and Willowgrove – are asked to reach out to family and friends in unaffected areas for their potable water needs.

“We know most people will look after getting their own water and we’re hoping to make that a bit easier for residents,” says Assistant Fire Chief Anthony Tataryn. “Of course family, friends and employers in unaffected areas are encouraged to help where they can by allowing those people to fill jugs of potable water from their unaffected taps.”

For those who don’t have that resource, the City has organized water filling depots at Fire Station #9 on Attridge Drive and at Fire Station #5 on Central Avenue. Residents will be able to fill large, clean water jugs at these locations. 

Residents in affected areas are advised to:

• Boil all water used for drinking or activities where it may be ingested (brushing teeth, washing fruit and vegetables, making ice cubes, etc.).
• Use an alternative water source known to be safe if you do not wish to boil tap water.
• Consult saskatoon.ca for more updates and tips.

For residents who require extra support in meeting their drinking water needs, bottled water will be available at Fire Stations #5 and #9.

“We want everyone to help each other as much as possible,” Tataryn says. “So, if you are able to get a water supply from an unaffected area, please go that route. We want to keep the Fire Stations open for the folks who may not have that as an option.”

The Water Security Agency issued a Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory for several neighbourhoods Monday afternoon, after a private contractor damaged a primary water main near McOrmond Drive, which in turn depressurized the water distribution system.

The advisory is expected to be in place until at least Thursday, once laboratory tests confirm the water is safe to drink.

Due to the size and scope of the advisory area, NotifyNow will be used on a daily basis to provide updates to people in affected areas using public phone numbers or contact information provided by subscribers until the Drinking Water Advisory is lifted.

Also, everyone can stay informed with timely Water Outage Service Alerts on our website and @YXEServiceAlert on Twitter.

Public Works and Saskatoon Water have been dealing with an urgent situation in the city’s northeast.

A contractor working on a private land development punctured a 42” Primary Water Main which resulted in significant depressurization in the neighbourhoods on the east side of the river, north of College Drive and east of Central Ave.

West side neighbourhoods are not affected.

The break was isolated at 1:15 p.m. and water service and pressure is currently returning to normal. In the meantime, and as safeguard, a Drinking Water Advisory is in effect for the above mentioned areas.

Right now, City staff are checking the system and conducting water quality tests. In addition, Saskatoon Water is performing computer modelling to determine the extent of the area affected.

NotifyNow will be used to advise affected customers and citizens of the DWA and where to find further information.

Water Outage service alerts will be issued as more information becomes available. Visit saskatoon.ca/service-alerts and follow @YXEServiceAlert on Twitter.

As the City continues its planning toward a population of half-a-million, Saskatoon Transit has finalized routing for the 8th Street corridor and surrounding areas, which will be implemented July 3, 2016.

“This is an exciting step into the future,” says Jim McDonald, Director of Saskatoon Transit. “These changes will allow us to offer high-frequency service along 8th Street which is the first step toward implementing Bus Rapid Transit.”

Transit riders will notice changes to many existing routes, including the addition of five new routes, adjustments to 22 existing routes and the retirement of six current routes. The 2016 route adjustments will allow Saskatoon Transit to provide 7.5 minute frequency along 8th Street during morning and afternoon peak periods and 10 minute frequency during off-peak times on weekdays. Transit will provide 30 minute frequency during evenings, on weekends and statutory holidays.

These service changes should allow for more convenience and a quicker daily commute for east-side customers traveling to-and-from downtown. It should drastically reduce wait times and missed connections along the 8th Street corridor. These service changes also support our new model of citizen service under Service Saskatoon.

“We are implementing transit industry best practices and working with existing resources to introduce higher-frequency service along major corridors” McDonald says.  “We’ve ended some pilot-project routes and understand adjustments to existing routes may mean a change in routine and may mean a few extra minutes on the bus, but these changes will be beneficial to the overall transit system and the majority of bus riders.” 

All new routing and schedules are available at saskatoontransit.ca and at the Transit Customer Service Centre. Customers are now able to plan their trip online through Google Transit with the routing that will be introduced on July third.

“To make sure this transition goes smoothly we’re strongly encouraging riders to check route changes now to see how this will affect their commute” he says. “Knowing before you go is the best way for riders to avoid confusion on July third.”                           

Saskatoon Transit riders will notice six new buses on city streets in the coming days. The new buses are part of Saskatoon Transit’s Fleet Renewal Strategy, which will improve rider experiences while decreasing operating costs.

“These buses are fully accessible, contain the latest Intelligent Transportation System technology and are more fuel efficient,” says Jim McDonald, Director of Saskatoon Transit. “They have more comfortable ergonomically-designed seating, improved lighting, automated announcements, air conditioning and a darker floor which will reduce windshield glare for our operators.”

These buses are the first of 10 to arrive; four remaining buses are expected to be delivered in July. Upgrading the transit fleet with new buses instead of buying refurbished models reduces the annual fleet cost by about $200,000 a year. Saskatoon Transit will soon place an order for 10 more buses for a July 2017 delivery.   

“It just makes better financial sense to update our fleet and it helps us deliver high-quality, comfortable service that Saskatoon residents expect and deserve,” says McDonald. “We’ve seen a savings of $60,000 a year in fuel costs because of the new buses purchased over the last five years.   We anticipate more savings as we replace older buses with new ones.”

Over the next 10 years, Transit will:

• Reduce its average bus age from 11.9 to 7.3 years, which will reduce maintenance costs and the size of the fleet because  fewer “spares” are required;
• Ensure every bus meets accessibility standards by 2018;
• Offer air conditioning and other improved amenities on every bus; and
• Increase capacity on busy routes by tripling the number of articulating buses.

Overall, it’s expected the new buses will provide riders with modern transportation solutions and a better overall riding experience. 

For the June 27, 2016 Regular Meeting of City Council

8.1.2 Vacant Lot and Adaptive Reuse Incentive Program – Gardens as an Interim Use

*City Council will be asked to approve the proposed amendments to the Vacant Lot and Adaptive Reuse Incentive Program Policy.

Additional Information

*At the May 30, 2016 meeting of the SPC on Planning, Development and Community Services, presentations were received expressing support for the proposed amendment and further urban food production opportunities.
*Administration has worked with community stakeholders to amend the Vacant Lot and Adaptive Reuse Program (VLAR) to help address food security in Saskatoon.
*The Administration recommends the VLAR Program be amended to include incentives for garden plots on vacant land as an interim use.
*The incentive will be in the form of a cash grant equal to 50% of the annual value of the municipal property taxes to a maximum of $500 per year for residential properties, and $1,200 per year for non-residential sites, for up to five years.
*Non-profit organizations may have on-site sales of produce in residential areas in compliance with the garage sale provisions of the Zoning Bylaw No. 8770.
*The establishment of a garden on a vacant lot will not affect the opportunity for future incentives under the VLAR Program when the lot becomes developed.

8.3.3 Functional Planning Study – Interchange Highways 11 & 16 – Award of Contract

*The SPC on Transportation is recommending that the City enter into an agreement with ISL Engineering and Land Services Ltd. for the provision of engineering services to complete a Functional Planning Study of the interchange at Highways 11 & 16 at a total cost of $160,183 (including taxes).

Additional Information

*The junction of Highways 11 & 16 is currently operating as a 1960’s era cloverleaf interchange. Both highways are considered National and Provincial primary routes and any future interchange will require a system-level interchange function and need to be flexible for conversion to an urban service-level interchange in the future. The Stonebridge partial interchange, scheduled for completion in the fall of 2016, will attract additional traffic through the cloverleaf interchange.
*This project was approved in the 2016 Capital Budget.
*Over the past 5 years 39 collisions have occurred within the existing interchange; additionally, 1 to 3 collisions involving the structure and over-height loads occur in a typical year.
*The focus of this review is a detailed engineering study of the existing and future traffic demands at this junction and the geometric improvements required to improve the safety and operation of this interchange.

8.3.8 Active Transportation Plan

*City Council will be asked:

1. To recognize and approve, in principle, the long-term benefits of the vision, goals, targets, and key directions of the Active Transportation Plan;
2. That the Active Transportation Plan be implemented in a phased, incremental
approach, requiring specific implementation plans in five-year increments; and
3. That the Administration report back with an implementation plan for the period of 2017 to 2021 with specific action items, funding and staffing resources identified.

Additional Information

*The Active Transportation Plan (ATP) was guided by community input, a vision, and goals; targets for active transportation have been developed, along with key directions and action items to improve active transportation facilities, policies and standards, support programs, and education and awareness initiatives over the next 30 to 40 years.
*Based on feedback during the early rounds of public engagement, the ATP includes a target to double the proportionate daily walking and cycling trips by the year 2045.
*The ATP contains an 80-point action plan organized around the themes of Connectivity, Safety and Security, Convenience, Land Use and Growth, Maintenance and Accessibility, and Education and Awareness. Actions have been prioritized in the short-, medium-, and long-term, and quick wins (actions that can be implemented in the next one to two years) have been identified.
*Following City Council approval in principle, a five-year implementation plan with specific action items, funding, and staffing resources will be created and brought to City Council for review.

8.4.2 2015 Safety Performance and Absenteeism Report

*City Council will be asked that the Board of Police Commissioners be requested to provide additional information on its action plans to reduce lost time injury and frequency.

Additional Information:

*The purpose of the Safety Performance Report is to provide a summary of the major activities in 2015, review the results of the City’s Safety Performance for 2015, identify strategies for improvement, as well as identify supporting initiatives to achieve the Corporate Performance target of zero lost-time incidents by 2023.
*The purpose of the Absenteeism report is to review absenteeism rates and costs, identify trends, as well as opportunities for improvement.
*Additional information can be found in this report: https://apps2.saskatoon.ca/tpapp/eamm_public/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=14357

9.6.3 Designation of Fred Mendel Park Off-Leash Recreation Area

*City Council will be asked to consider Bylaw No. 9387, The Animal Control Amendment Bylaw, 2016.

Additional Information

*At its meeting on May 24, 2016, City Council considered a report requesting approval to establish 1.28 acres as an off-leash recreation area within Fred Mendel Park and to instruct the City Solicitor to amend Bylaw No. 7860, The Animal Control Bylaw, 1999. It was later reported by the Recreation & Community Development Division that the size of the proposed off-leash recreation area had been subsequently adjusted to 1.22 acres.

9.11.1 Report from the Saskatoon Municipal Review Commission Remuneration Committee

*The Saskatoon Municipal Review Commission Remuneration Committee is making a number of recommendations. They are listed here: https://apps2.saskatoon.ca/tpapp/eamm_public/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=14371

Additional Information

*Additional information can be found in this report: https://apps2.saskatoon.ca/tpapp/eamm_public/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=14372

More than an estimated 2000 people of all ages and cultures, including religious, school, and community, participated in a Day of Reconciliation celebration in Victoria Park today. 

Participants celebrated their unique cultural heritage by wearing or holding symbols of their culture or organizations during the “Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation”.

The Day of Reconciliation continued with activities and entertainment in the park. In the spirit of Reconciliation goals, participants had an opportunity to listen to the stories of survivors and their families; learn about our history and about residential schools, in a safe, open and accessible environment; show-up to support Reconciliation in our community; and to share their personal responses to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action.

In response to the TRC Calls to Action, the City of Saskatoon, Office of the Treaty Commissioner, Saskatoon Tribal Council, Central Urban Metis Federation Inc., along with 29 supporting organizations, planned a month-long series of events to promote Reconciliation in Saskatoon. The events educated, engaged and inspired citizens on what it means to reconcile and find their own call to action.

For more information, visit saskatoon.ca/reconciliation, www.OTC.ca or phone the Office of the Treaty Commissioner at 306-244-2100.

The City of Saskatoon’s commitment to the TRC’s Calls to Action supports the City’s Corporate Strategic Goal of Quality of Life by identifying actions for enhancing Aboriginal well-being and participation in our community.

From the June 20, 2016 meeting

8.1.1 Communications Support to Councillors – Update

Decision

*The report provided the Committee with a usage update from January 1-May 31. It was received as information.

Additional Information

*An updated tabulation of City Councillor communications allowance usage can be found here: http://owl.li/Gv4g301wTnN
*An updated tabulation of the Mayor’s communications allowance usage can be found here: http://owl.li/Tr0h301wUTR

8.1.2 2016 Local Government Elections – Appointment of Returning Officer

Decision

*The report was received as information.

Additional Information

*Ms. Catherine Folkersen has been appointed Returning Officer effective May 26, 2016, for the 2016 Local Government Elections.
*In April, City Council passed Bylaw No. 9370, The Returning Officer Appointment Bylaw, 2016.
*The Returning Officer is to perform all duties and functions prescribed under The Local Government Election Act, 2015 as well as related administrative duties in accordance with the Act, bylaws and policies of the City.

8.2.4 2016 Local Government Elections – Establishment of Special Polls (Hospitals and Special Care Facilities)

Decision

*The recommendations outlined in the report are being forwarded to City Council for approval.

Additional Information

*City Council will be asked to approve:
-establishment of Special Polls, conducted as Advance Polls on Tuesday, October 18, 2016, and Wednesday, October 19, 2016.
-Approval of the establishment of Special Polls conducted on Election Day, October 26, 2016.
-Authorization for the Returning Officer to make any changes or additions to the dates or times that may become necessary to accommodate the needs of the Special Polls.
-That a mail-in ballot provision be available to voters in hospitals, personal care facilities, or similar institutions in accordance with the established mail-in ballot voting system, and the use of mail-in ballots at these locations be facilitated by delivering the ballots to the facility.

8.2.5 Appointment of Bylaw Officer

Decision

*The recommendation outlined in report is being forwarded to City Council for approval.

Additional Information

*The committee recommends Bylaw No. 7340, The Bylaw Enforcement Officers Bylaw, be amended to facilitate the appointment of a new bylaw enforcement officer responsible for prosecuting municipal bylaw offences and representing the City of Saskatoon before a justice of the peace or a judge of the Provincial Court of Saskatchewan in the prosecution of anyone charged with a contravention of a bylaw.

Saskatoon Light & Power crews responded to restore power to several city neighbourhoods following a cascading outage which originated on the city’s east side.

“It all started at 2:33 p.m. when a large poplar tree branch fell onto one of our main high-voltage transmission lines near Taylor Street and Preston Avenue,” says Trevor Bell, Director of Saskatoon Light & Power (SL&P).  “The branch tripped out the eastern portion of our transmission ring serving the city.  It caused power to go out at 18 of our 23 substations.  This affected the east side, north end, the northern portion of downtown and some other areas.”

Bell says crews responded immediately and trimmed back tree branches.  While they worked, SL&P restored power to much of downtown within 14 minutes at 2:47 p.m.

“Once it was safe to do so, we started re-energizing the rest of the city,” Bell says.  “Most areas had been restored within 42 minutes by about 3:15 p.m. and the last few customers were restored within an hour by 3:33 p.m.”

City staff used social media channels to inform the public about the outage and provided updates on Twitter and Facebook.  City staff will investigate why an off-site back-up system for City Hall failed to support the website.  Meanwhile, users were directed to a City blog for website outage information.

Basic website service has been restored; service alerts will continue to be issued as needed.

The City of Saskatoon is encouraging residents to choose to do one little green thing - to help make a big green difference!

Choose to say goodbye to your traditional paper utility bill, and make the choice to rush and go green by signing up for eBill paperless utility billing,  it’s better for the environment and more convenient for you!

“If the City gained ten per cent more customers on eBill, we could save approximately 513 kilograms of paper per year,” says Shelley Sutherland, Director of Corporate Revenue.  “Any time we can use less paper and leave less of a carbon footprint savings add up. Our eBill service has always been a customer focused initiative, but it’s also an environmental initiative for the City as we are all committed to savings, service and sustainability.”

All new customers who sign up for eBill up until November 30, 2016 will be entered into the eBill Contest. There are two planned draws: an early bird draw on October 1, 2016  for (1) Samsung digital tablet, and a grand prize draw December 1, 2016 for a pair of 2017 Season Tickets to the Saskatchewan Rush Lacrosse Club. 

All valued utility bill customers presently on eBill are automatically entered into the eBill Contest.

“Our goal is to increase the number of residents participating in eBill by at least ten per cent this year,” Sutherland says. “We are confident our new promotional campaign featuring the many faces of Bill – our fun new eco-green emoji-like character - and the chance to win great prizes, will encourage residents to choose eBill right from the start of their utility hook-up, or to switch over to eBill if they’re presently on paper-billing.”

Choosing eBill instead of traditional paper billing, reduces paper clutter and a need to file. eBill is easy to use, secure and gives customers 24/7 access to their utility account history and current consumption charges. eBill customers also receive an email notification when their bill is ready for online viewing at My Utility Account on the City’s website, saskatoon.ca.

It’s easy to sign up for your ebill!  So rush – get in to win and go green today!

Visit saskatoon.ca/ebillrush to get started.

From the June 13, 2016 meeting

7.1.1 Transit IT Roadmap Update

Decision

*The committee received the report as information.

Background

*The report provides an interim update on the progress of three Transit IT initiatives introduced in February.
*A new service for Access Transit designed to decrease cancellation rates is on target for completion by October 2016.
*The initial phase of implementing a Business Intelligence initiative to facilitate the goal of increasing Transit ridership is on target for completion by June 30, 2016.
*The initial phase of implementing service improvements designed to enhance the real-time Open Data available to our citizens is on target for completion by June 30, 2016.

7.1.2 2015 Safety Performance and Absenteeism Report

Decision

*The committee received the report and recommend to City Council that the Board of Police Commissioners provide additional information on its action plans to reduce loss time injury and frequency.

Background

*Incidents of injury/illness from the Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) decreased from 121 in 2014 to 102 in 2015. However, productive hours lost due to these injuries have increased from 19,016 to 21,236 hours.
*In 2015, the City and COS achieved a historical low for lost-time injury frequency of 3.70. This is a 20% decrease from the 2014 reported lost-time injury frequency of 4.60.
*In 2015, the COS total, as well as the City (18%), Boards (10%) and Police (25%), had reductions in lost-time injuries.
*There was an overall decrease of 11% in injury severity and the number of work days lost per 100 employees for COS.
*Overall, average days lost to absenteeism, total hours of absenteeism, and total costs of absenteeism was reduced in 2015. The City’s average days lost is below the Statistics Canada public sector.
*The majority of absenteeism is driven by short-term absences at 64% of total cost. Incidents of short-term absences continue to increase at the City.
*Costs, hours and incidents of medium-term absences continue to decrease over the last few years.

7.1.3 2015 Overtime Utilization Report

Decision

*The committee received the report as information.

Background

*Total overtime as a percentage of earnings has been trending downward since 2013. Overtime as a percentage of earnings is 5.33% (2015) down from 5.87% in 2014.
*The City has a number of services where fluctuations in workload is managed through overtime, such as demand (eg. transit services and light & power) and seasonal (eg. snow removal and road repairs).
*Fourteen job classifications (approximately 1,140 employees) accounted for 48% of the overtime amount.
*Average overtime decreased in 2015 by 9.2% from 5.87% (2014) to 5.33% (2015).

7.1.4 Saskatoon Light & Power 2015 Annual Report

Decision

*The committee received the report and resolved the Administration report on information regarding grants-in-lieu from other non-city utilities.

Background

*Our Customers – Electrical service reliability in 2015 was better than the Urban Average reported by member utilities in the Canadian Electricity Association.
*Our Finances – Saskatoon Light & Power provided a Return on Investment of $23,059,700 and paid Grants-in-Lieu of Taxes in the amount of $20,483,200, for a total financial benefit to the City of Saskatoon (City) of $43,542,900.
*Our People – There were four lost time injuries in 2015 for a total of 21.96 days.
*Our Work – Capital funding of $19,238,000 was provided to 35 capital projects.
*Our Environment – Saskatoon Light & Power began installing LED lights for all new development areas, reducing the amount of energy consumed. The Landfill Gas Power Station was in full operation in 2015 and a Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Demonstration project was initiated with two local partners.
*Our Challenges – Saskatoon Light & Power will focus on asset renewal in 2016 and report to City Council with an asset management report.

7.2.5 Martensville Wastewater Update

Decision

*The Committee is recommending to City Council:

1. That the Administration be directed to continue working towards a service agreement with the City of Martensville for the provision of wastewater and water services as outlined in the report; and
2. That the Administration report further with details on the final proposed agreement and rate structure.

Background

*In February 2014, City Council approved a Memorandum of Understanding for providing wastewater and water services between Martensville and Saskatoon.
*The City of Martensville has applied to the federal government for infrastructure funding to construct a wastewater and additional water supply line connected to the City. If approved, it is anticipated that the project could be completed by 2019.
*Martensville will continue to use their existing lagoon to buffer wastewater flows and convey wastewater to Saskatoon during off-peak hours at night.
*A number of shared principles will ensure that utility rates for water and wastewater between the two cities will remain on a level field. Martensville rates will continue to be higher than those in Saskatoon and off-site levy rates for water and wastewater will be charged at a comparable rate.
*If all required approvals are received, this project is anticipated to be tendered in 2017, with construction in the 2018 to 2019 construction seasons.

From the June 13, 2016 meeting

7.1.1 On-Street Paid Parking Time Zone Change

Decision

*The Committee received the report as information and will recommend to City Council at its June 27 meeting that a 3-hour parking limit be implemented in the Downtown, Broadway, and Sutherland BIDS with a report back in one year.   

Background

*Preliminary discussions took place with the BIDs to determine support for an increase to paid parking time zones.
*Additional discussions with the BIDs and other stakeholders are required before comprehensive implementation of three-hour time limits can be assessed.
*Consideration could be given to implementing three-hour time zones, in selected areas, as a first step.

7.1.2 Issuance of River Landing Parkade Request for Proposals

Decision

*The Committee resolved that the Administration issue a Request for Proposals for the River Landing Parkade based on the terms outlined in the report.

Background

*In November 2009, City Council approved, in principle, the development of the Art Gallery of Saskatchewan at the Destination Centre site in River Landing.
*In June 2011, City Council resolved that the underground parkade would pay its annual operating costs, contribute to the building costs for a portion of the first floor atrium, contribute to a portion of the land costs, and to fully fund the debenture.
*Within the new River Landing Parkade, there are approximately 155 public parking spaces.
*The City is seeking the services of an experienced parkade operator to run the parking program.
*The River Landing Parkade is mandated to eventually be self-sufficient through its operations.

7.1.3 North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge – Traffic Bridge South Pathways

Decision

*The Committee resolved that the report be forwarded to City Council for information.

Background

*The report is an update regarding the detailed design for the pathways on the south side of the Traffic Bridge into Rotary Park.
*The Project Agreement (PA) includes technical requirements to be met by the design being prepared by Graham Commuter Partners (GCP) for all aspects of the project, which includes a requirement to provide direct pathway connections from the Traffic Bridge down into Rotary Park.
*Based on GCP’s bridge concept, this will include 3.0 m wide pathways on each side of Victoria Avenue extending down the new bridge embankment at a maximum 5% grade and connecting to the existing Meewasin Trail.
*GCP has completed review of this design with the CPTED committee and is proceeding to the Meewasin Valley Authority to complete Development Review in July/August 2016.

7.2.1 Active Transportation Plan

Decision

*The committee recommended the following to City Council:

1. That City Council recognize and approve, in principle, the long-term benefits of the vision, goals, targets, and key directions of the Active Transportation Plan (ATP);
2. That the ATP be implemented in a phased, incremental approach, requiring specific implementation plans in five-year increments; and
3. That the Administration report back with an implementation plan for the period of 2017 to 2021 with specific action items, funding and staffing resources identified.

Background

*The ATP was guided by community input, a vision, and goals; targets for active transportation have been developed, along with key directions and action items to improve active transportation facilities, policies and standards, support programs, and education and awareness initiatives over the next 30 to 40 years.
*Based on feedback during the early rounds of public engagement, the ATP includes a target to double the proportionate daily walking and cycling trips by the year 2045.
*The ATP contains an 80-point action plan organized around the themes of Connectivity, Safety and Security, Convenience, Land Use and Growth, Maintenance and Accessibility, and Education and Awareness. Actions have been prioritized in the short-, medium-, and long-term, and quick wins (actions that can be implemented in the next one to two years) have been identified.
*Following City Council approval in principle, a five-year implementation plan with specific action items, funding, and staffing resources will be created and brought to City Council for review.

7.2.2 Taxi Meter Rates

Decision

*The Committee recommended the following to City Council:

1. That the Taxi Bylaw be amended to include the taxi industry’s request to increase the taxi meter rate by 6% effective August 1, 2016;
2. That the Taxi Bylaw be amended to include a transaction fee of up to $0.90 per direct debit transaction;
3. That the City Solicitor be requested to amend the Taxi Bylaw; and
4. That at the time this report is before City Council, the Administration include information quantifying the rate increases.

Background

*Taxi meter rate increase requests come forward from the taxi industry based on its expertise which includes immediate and complete knowledge of the market, industry expenses and profit margins.
*The taxi industry is requesting a rate increase of approximately 6% which will amount to $0.75 per 5 kilometer ride.
*The last rate increase was approved by City Council in May 2011. The Taxi Cost Index has increased by an average of 6.3% over the past 24 months. 

To promote Reconciliation at work, home, and play, the City of Saskatoon, Office of the Treaty Commissioner, Saskatoon Tribal Council, Central Urban Metis Federation Inc., along with 29 supporting organizations, are challenging residents to share their personal contributions to Reconciliation calls to action with their Facebook friends and twitter followers on using #ReconciliationSK.

Share a selfie showing your response to either of the questions below on Facebook and Twitter using #ReconciliationSK:

• What does Reconciliation mean to you?
• ​What is your Call to Action?

Template signs are available at www.OTC.ca or Saskatoon.ca/reconciliation.

Other ways to get involved with Reconciliation Saskatoon on social media:

• Read for Reconciliation - Browse the Saskatoon Library’s reading list: saskatoonlibrary.ca/reconciliation and choose a title that interests you. Option to post/tweet: “I commit to #Read4Reconciliation by reading xtitlex #ReconciliationSK”.

• Lend your voice to the Vision of Reconciliation - Read, share and comment on the Community’s Vision for Reconciliation at www.otc.ca.

• Visit our Facebook event page to say you’re attending National Aboriginal Day & Day of Reconciliation (June 21 - 22): share the event on Facebook and Twitter using the hashtag #RockYourRoots

• Tweet about Reconciliation using the hashtag #ReconciliationSK and “Like”, “Favourite” or retweet posts.

The City of Saskatoon’s commitment to the TRC’s Calls to Action supports the City’s Corporate Strategic Goal of Quality of Life by identifying actions for enhancing Aboriginal well-being and participation in our community.

The City of Saskatoon today announced its construction zone safety campaign, Respect Work Zones, urging drivers to obey signs and follow posted detours while passing construction zones this summer.

“Respecting a work zone is not just about slowing down, it’s obeying posted signage,” says Angela Gardiner, Director of Transportation. “We rely on the participation of drivers to keep workers safe. A variety of measures have been used on our side to ensure everyone’s safety; we count on drivers to meet us the rest of the way by obeying signs and staying out of work zones.”

Through programs like enhanced work zone setups, public education and increased safety training for our workers, the City has been able to record its lowest level of lost-time injuries for city workers in 2015. This shows safety is a top priority in work done by City employees for citizens, a trend that is the result of an increasingly successful safety culture. 

At times construction work may appear halted or complete, but construction signs and barriers are kept in place where the roads are hazardous to drivers. Projects that include night work have signs and speed reductions around work zones that remain in place 24 hours a day. It’s important to obey signage even when there are no vehicles or workers present and never enter a work zone or drive past signage even if it appears complete or inactive.

“The wellbeing of our employees is a priority in everything we do’” says Gardiner. “The Respect Work Zones campaign is an important message as we continue to build better roads. The work zone signs are there for your protection. And ours.

This year, through the Building Better Roads program, $59 million is being invested to build, maintain and repair more roads than ever before, which means more construction zones. Respecting these work zones will allow crews to focus on the job and safely complete this summer’s projects.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

Each year, the Project Management Institute, North Saskatchewan Chapter (PMI-NSC) recognizes one project that best demonstrates exceptional performance, leadership and delivers significant value and return on investment for the customer.  This year, the City of Saskatoon’s Neighbourhood Traffic Review program was awarded this prestigious honour for its community-wide approach to resolving traffic issues that is built around finding solutions through engagement with residents.                                                                                                                

“Rather than looking at each traffic issue individually, we take a step back and consider the traffic movements, safety requirements and culture within the entire community,” explains Angela Gardiner, Acting General Manager of Transportation and Utilities. “We encourage people to take an active role in the traffic review process for their neighbourhood so we can hear about issues that matter to them.”

A typical neighbourhood traffic review is a complex, year-long process aimed at improving the quality of life in the neighbourhood by making adjustments to how people use local and collector streets. The process begins with community meetings to collect feedback on issues such as speed, pedestrian safety, traffic volume and short cutting. In addition, residents can also provide feedback through online forums.

Studies are then conducted to measure vehicular speed, traffic volume and pedestrian usage, which are analyzed and used to develop recommendations presented for feedback by residents. The City completes eight neighbourhood traffic reviews each year.

“Each Saskatoon neighbourhood is unique and this approach allows us to get right to the core of the issue,” says Gardiner. “Our approach values the feedback of the people who are using the area every day to help solve the issue.”

The City was presented with the “Project of the Year” award today at the PMI-NSC Annual General Meeting.  

Learn more about the City’s engagement process at saskatoon.ca/shapingsaskatoon

Mayor Donald Atchison today condemned the attack at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida.

"I was shocked and saddened at the tragedy in Orlando, Florida. Once again the world stands united against an act of terrorism and hate.  Today we grieve for the victims and offer our condolences to their families and friends.  Our thoughts and prayers are also with those who are in the hospital recovering from the attack."

“Members of the LGBTQ2 community, those with different religious beliefs, or ethnicity should be safe in our communities.  Acts of terrorism and hate must not divide us rather we must unite as a community against them."

Flags on civic buildings, already at half-mast, will now take on additional significance.  The City of Saskatoon will follow the protocols established by the Government of Saskatchewan and the Government of Canada to determine timing.

Lost-time injuries for City workers were at the lowest-recorded level in 2015, while overall average days lost to absenteeism also continued to decline and remain well below the national average for public sector employees.

“We are encouraged with the positive direction reflected in this report,” says Catherine Gryba, General Manager of Corporate Performance.  “We always look for ways to be more efficient and at the same time make health and safety a top priority in the work we do for our citizens.”

The results highlighting successes in health, safety and absenteeism are outlined in a report to be presented June 13, 2016 to the Standing Policy Committee on Environment, Utilities and Corporate Services.

The report* to the Committee shows:

-Incidents of injury/illness from the Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) decreased from 121 in 2014 to 102 in 2015. 
-In 2015, lost-time injuries reached the lowest recorded frequency of 3.70 lost time days.  This is a 20% decrease from the 2014 reported lost-time injury frequency of 4.60.
-In 2015, the COS total, as well as the City (18%), Boards (10%) and Police (25%), had reductions in lost-time injuries.
-There was an overall decrease of 11% in injury severity and resultant number of work days lost per 100 employees for COS.
-Overall, for all civic employees, average days lost to absenteeism, total hours of absenteeism, and total costs of absenteeism was reduced in 2015.  The City’s average days lost is below the Statistics Canada public sector.
-Costs, hours and incidents of medium-term absences (more than 10 days and not long-term disability) continue to decrease over the last few years. 
-The majority of absenteeism is driven by short-term absences at 64% of total cost.  Incidents of short-term absences continue to increase at the City.

“These trends are the result of an increasingly successful safety culture at the City that values the wellbeing of our employees,” Gryba says.  “The trends also demonstrate everyone working for the City of Saskatoon wants to make safety a key aspect of civic operations – from beginning to end.”

Proper management of absenteeism supports the City’s Strategic Goal of Continuous Improvement and being the best-managed city in Canada.

*Throughout the Committee report, the City of Saskatoon (City) is used to denote all areas that are under the direction of the City Manager.  COS is used to denote the overall grouping of the City of Saskatoon, Saskatoon Police Service and the civic Boards. The Boards are comprised of the Saskatoon Public Library, Mendel Art Gallery (Remai Modern), SaskTel Centre and TCU Place.

Another piece of Saskatoon’s Bridging to Tomorrow project was unveiled during today’s Standing Policy Committee on Transportation. The committee was presented with a rendering of what the pathways on the south side of the new Traffic Bridge will look like.

“The rendering shows three meter wide pathways on each side of Victoria Avenue extending down the new bridge embankment and connecting to the existing Meewasin Trail,” said Dan Willems, Director of Major Projects. “The design concept will provide greatly increased functionality by enhancing pedestrian and cyclist access between the new Traffic Bridge and the Meewasin Trail in Rotary Park.”

The City’s Bridging to Tomorrow contractor, Graham Commuter Partners (GCP), will formally submit the design to the Meewasin Valley Authority over the summer months to complete Development Review. The new pathway connections will be completed with the new bridge, which remains scheduled to be complete in October 2018.

Anyone can follow Bridging to Tomorrow construction progress at saskatoon.ca/bridging. The webpage includes video updates, photos, and live webcams showing construction of the new Traffic Bridge and North Commuter Parkway. Construction viewing areas are also in place at River Landing and on the Meewasin Trail just north of the GCP construction trailer site, and from the Meewasin Trail located just east of the cul-de-sac at the north end of Kinnear Avenue (north of Silverwood Golf Course).

City Administration will be presenting the final Active Transportation Plan (ATP) report to City Council’s Standing Policy Committee on Transportation on Monday, June 13, 2016, requesting that the report be forwarded to City Council for approval, in principle, of the long-term benefits and key directions outlined in the plan.

“The ATP was developed with broad input from residents and stakeholders and establishes a long-term vision for active transportation in Saskatoon that complements the City’s Growth Plan to Half a Million (Growth Plan),” says Alan Wallace, Director of Planning and Development.  “Guided by community input, a vision, and goals, targets for active transportation have been developed, along with key directions and action items to improve active transportation facilities, policies and standards, support programs, and education and awareness initiatives over the next 30 to 40 years.”

Some of the key directions and action items included in the ATP are to:

1. address gaps in sidewalks, shared pathways and cycling facilities in core neighborhoods, existing employment areas, and other established neighbourhoods;
2. improve connectivity of sidewalks, shared pathways and cycling facilities in new neighborhoods, and employment areas;
3. address year-round accessibility and maintenance of sidewalks, pathways, intersections, and cycling facilities;
4. address road safety and personal security issues;
5. address barriers, such as crossings of major roads, river crossings, underpasses and overpasses, railways, and natural features, to provide adequate access for all active transportation users;
6. ensure adequate levels of bike parking in the downtown, at civic facilities, and other major destinations throughout Saskatoon;
7. ensure active transportation facilities are provided along key transit, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), and growth corridors, as identified in the Growth Plan; and
8. enhance education and awareness to support and promote active transportation, including promotion of sharing the road between all road users, and responsible travel behaviours and attitudes to provide more accessible, convenient, and safe transportation choices for all.

The ATP target is to double walking and cycling trips to 24% of all daily trips and 15% of all commute trips by 2045.

“Without the ATP, increased traffic congestion, longer commutes, and higher infrastructure costs are expected to impact economic growth and prosperity, quality of life, and environmental leadership as Saskatoon’s population grows to half a million people,” said Wallace.

If the ATP is approved, in principle, a five-year implementation plan will be created and brought to City Council for approval in early 2017.

Comments and requests to speak at the Standing Policy Committee on Transportation meeting may be submitted, in advance, via the City’s website at www.saskatoon.ca/writetocouncil.

For more information on the ATP, please visit the project website at www.growingfwd.ca.

If you are heading to SaskTel Centre to see Garth Brooks on Friday and Saturday, the City recommends you leave early, carpool with three or more people, and load a long playlist of Garth’s greatest hits. Most importantly, drivers are encouraged to use one of the designated routes  and obey temporary signage for direct access to parking.

First Two Phases Completed Ahead of Schedule

City motorists now have full access to Broadway Bridge and east/west access to 5 Corners, signalling a completion of the first two phases of the Broadway Improvement Project, well ahead of schedule.  “The entire project is moving along really well,” says Celene Anger, Director of Construction & Design. “Water main replacement work is progressing faster than originally anticipated, thanks to the great weather and some hard work on the part of our contractors.” 

An early finish at the intersection of Broadway and 11th Street has allowed for work at the 10th Street intersection to start early.  Connection replacements on the 600 block of Broadway Avenue are also complete and concrete repairs are taking place ahead of road resurfacing. 

The Broadway Improvement Project includes extensive water main upgrades and road resurfacing to Broadway Avenue and surrounding areas.  This large project is continually being assessed and revised to help minimize its impact on the community, allowing businesses to remain open and events to take place as normally as possible.

“Broadway is open for business;  and to make that happen, we have regular meetings with local business and property owners. Based on their feedback, we’re going to approach remaining roadwork a little differently,” says Anger.  “Instead of waiting and coming back to pave when all the water main work is done, we’re going to finish this section completely – now - and then move on.  Resurfacing between 10th and 12th Street will happen as soon as the water main work at the 10th Street intersection is done, allowing the 600 and 700 blocks of Broadway to be completely opened to vehicles and events much sooner than originally thought.”

Final resurfacing of 600 and 700 blocks should begin around the third week of June, weather permitting.

Saskatoon Transit has started using Dufferin Avenue as an alternate route during this part of the project.

For more information please visit saskatoon.ca/broadway.

Saskatoon Water is phasing-in a new Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system for water meters.

“Water meters will have a communication module added to take advantage of the benefits of AMI, which include remote meter reading, and monthly billing based on current usage, not estimates,” says Reid Corbett, Director of Saskatoon Water. “A Saskatoon Water technician requires access to the inside of homes to complete the conversion, which takes about 10 minutes.”

Saskatoon Water will notify residents with a letter when technicians are in their neighbourhood. Once a resident receives this letter, they can book an appointment online at saskatoon.ca/watermeter. It’s important to note that only residents of the areas where work is occurring can book an appointment. Currently appointments are available for water meter customers in Holiday Park, King George and Riversdale.

Between appointments, technicians will visit adjacent homes that have not made a booking to request access to their water meter. If residents are not home, they will leave a door hanger explaining the program and asking residents to make an appointment.

“We are expecting it to take approximately five years to convert all of Saskatoon’s 72,000 water meters to work with the new AMI system,” says Corbett. “The key to our success is cooperation from our customers, which includes booking an appointment online as soon as they receive our first letter.”

About 62,000 water meters newer than 1994 will have the black circular scan pad on the outside of the home replaced with a communication module. Once the communication module is in place, the wiring system that currently links the scan pad to the water meter will be attached to the new communication module.

About 10,000 meters installed prior to 1994 will be completely replaced and have the communication module added in order to work with AMI. Replacement of older water meters is part of the regular maintenance program.

To learn more about the AMI program visit saskatoon.ca/watermeter.  

The City is pleased to announce that based on results of the Request for Qualifications (RFQ), three teams have been chosen to move on to the Request for Proposals (RFP) stage for the Saskatoon Interchange Project for Boychuk Drive & Highway 16 and McOrmond Drive & College Drive.

Eight applicant teams responded to the RFQ. Following a comprehensive evaluation of the submissions, the teams that will participate in the RFP process, listed alphabetically, are:

• Flatiron Constructors Canada Ltd. (Flatiron Constructors Canada Ltd., WSP, Amec Foster Wheeler)
• Graham Infrastructure LP (Graham Infrastructure LP, ASL Paving Ltd., Tetra Tech EBA Ltd., ISL Engineering and Land Services Ltd., Clifton Associates Ltd.)
• PCL Construction Management Inc. (PCL Construction Management Inc., Cima+ Canada Inc., Trek Geotechnical Inc., Pinchin West Limited, Catterall & Wright)

The City's project team is currently working with its advisors to finalize the RFP document which will be released to the short-listed firms in June 2016.

The Saskatoon Interchange Project has bundled these two interchanges together as a way of reducing overall costs of construction. The McOrmond Drive/College Drive interchange is fully funded by adjacent land developers. The Boychuk Drive/Highway 16 interchange is funded by both federal and provincial governments (14.7 million each) with an additional $15.7 million coming from levies collected by The City of Saskatoon from developers of the Rosewood subdivision.​

May 30, 2016 Meeting

7.1.4 7.1.4 2015 Annual Report – Saskatoon Land

Decision

*The report was received as information.

Background

*Land sales for 2015 totaled $63,425,578. Sales highlights include 159 single family lot sales, 30.17 acres of institutional/multi-family sales and 20.97 acres of industrial sales/leases.
*Since 2011, Saskatoon Land, in conjunction with private-sector developers, has met or exceeded the minimum supply targets for residential and industrial land. Estimates for 2015 yearend indicate the following inventory levels for each land category: 2,002 single-family units, 3,382 multi-family units, and 183 industrial acres.
*Throughout the 2015 calendar year, a variety of accomplishments were realized by Saskatoon Land staff. Notable examples include: completion of the Green Bridge structure in Evergreen, administration of 80 leases totaling almost $2 million in annual revenue, and the successful implementation of new singlefamily lot allocation process for lot draws.
*Since 2007, $123.3 million in net proceeds from the sale of property in Hampton Village, Willowgrove, Rosewood and Evergreen have been made available for City Council to allocate to various civic projects.

7.1.5 First Quarter Results – Corporate Business Plan and Budget – Shaping Our Financial Future

Decision

*The Committee received the report as information.

Background

*The 2016 budget projections to year-end show a 0.27% negative variance upon reviewing quarter one results. The Administration will be taking all reasonable measures to bring in a balanced budget at year-end.
*The key projects and initiatives outlined in the 2016 Corporate Business Plan and Budget are on track and initiatives are progressing well.

7.1.6 Update on Key Strategic Risks

Decision

*The Committee received the report as information.

Background

*Risk Registers have been developed for each high and medium strategic risk and have been reviewed by the Corporate Risk Committee.
*At its meeting on June 22, 2015, when considering the report of the CFO/General Manager, Asset and Financial Management Department, regarding key risks and the risk based management program, City Council resolved that the Corporate Risk Committee report further on key corporate risks, and that there be an overall ongoing review and report back to the Standing Policy Committee on Finance.

7.2.7 Acquisition of Land for Future Fire Station

Decision

*The Committee will be reporting to City Council in support of the recommendations of the Administration.

Background

*The Saskatoon Fire Department continually reviews response times using mapping analysis techniques with the goal of increasing departmental efficiency placing citizen and staff safety at the forefront.
*The Saskatoon Fire Department can relocate the current Station No. 3 (1906 York Avenue) to St. Martin’s United Church’s vacant north lot. This will address aging infrastructure concerns and improve overall response protection in the southeast portion of the city.
*Notable terms of the agreement with St. Martin’s United Church include a sale price of $500,000, plus additional related disturbance and site improvement compensation.

From the May 30, 2016 Meeting

7.1.9 Landscape Design and Development Standards for Parks and Open Space

Decision

*Committee received the report as information and asked Administration to report back on feedback from residents plus housing, industrial and commercial industries and developers.

Background

*The construction of parks and open spaces that require irrigation and a high level of maintenance have become common in the city’s new subdivisions/neighbourhoods. This has contributed to increased pressures on the environmental and financial sustainability of parks and open spaces.
*Implementation of renewed Landscape Design and Development Standards (LDDS) is one of many continuous improvement initiatives identified during the 2014 Parks Maintenance and Design Civic Service Review. Since 2014, the Parks Division has been working towards implementation of a number of initiatives to ensure that required long-term maintenance services can be provided in a safe, efficient, cost–effective, and environmentally responsible manner.
*LDDS will provide formalized landscape design standards and well-defined approval processes, as identified and recommended in the Master Plan.
*LDDS is intended to be a dynamic document that outlines reasonable minimum and maximum parameters of park and open space design and development, as well as a mandatory landscape design review process. The standards will be a continuous improvement tool used by the Parks Division.

7.1.11 Saskatoon Fire Department Purchase of Used Platform for Mobile Command Vehicle

Decision

*The Committee received the report as information.

Background

*The current Mobile Command unit is no longer practical for its intended use.
*After extensive research, it has been determined that the best option is to retrofit a used Class A motorhome, designing and equipping it to be sustainable for many years to come.
*The purchase price of the used platform is $126,000 (taxes included). Additional funds will be required to retrofit the unit in accordance with identified needs.
*It is expected the unit will be complete and ready for use early in 2017.

7.2.5 City Centre Plan Phase 4: Civic Precinct Master Plan Project Update

Decision

*The Committee is forwarding the report to City Council for information.

Background

*The Civic Precinct study area encompasses approximately five city blocks, centred on City Hall.
*The purpose of the Civic Precinct Master Plan is to define a new Civic Precinct area and improve the quality, character, and cohesiveness of the public realm in the Civic Precinct.
*The timing and preparation of this Plan considers several proposed projects and initiatives that will have a significant impact on the public realm within the Civic Precinct over the long term.
*The Plan will be divided into two phases. Phase one consists of background analysis and stakeholder engagement, and phase two consists of detailed design and plan development.
*The Plan will result in a priority list of, and phased approach for, improvement projects for the public realm within the Civic Precinct.

7.2.6 Vacant Lot and adaptive Reuse Incentive Program – Gardens as an Interim Use

Decision

*The Committee is recommending to City Council that the proposed amendments to the Vacant Lot and Adaptive Reuse Incentive Program Policy No. C09-035 be approved.

Background

*The purpose of this report is to amend the Vacant Lot and Adaptive Reuse (VLAR) Incentive Program to add incentives for gardens on vacant lots as an interim use.
*The Administration recommends the VLAR Program be amended to include incentives for garden plots on vacant land as an interim use.
*The incentive will be in the form of a cash grant equal to 50% of the annual value of the municipal property taxes to a maximum of $500 per year for residential properties, and $1,200 per year for non-residential sites, for up to five years.
*Non-profit organizations may have on-site sales of produce in residential areas in compliance with the garage sale provisions of the Zoning Bylaw No. 8770.
*The establishment of a garden on a vacant lot will not affect the opportunity for future incentives under the VLAR Program when the lot becomes developed.
*Communication with the stakeholder group will continue as a means to identify additional opportunities to support urban agriculture and local food.

7.2.7 Redevelopment of the South Caswell Transit Facility Site

Decision

*The Committee resolved:

1. That the report be forwarded to City Council for information;
2. That Administration report further to the Committee on:
(a) a revised concept plan and timing;
(b) a funding strategy and the phasing of the redevelopment of the South Caswell Transit Facility Site by the end of 2016 or as soon as practical; and
(c) safety and security measures that will be implemented as soon as the South Caswell Transit Facility site is vacated.

Background

*An Expression of Interest has demonstrated there is interest in the South Caswell area from the development community in Saskatoon.
*There is considerable site preparation costs associated with the area development project. At the same time, there are significant opportunities and community expectations associated with redevelopment.
*Next steps in the process include community engagement in a renewed concept plan process, preparation of detailed site improvement plans and funding sources, and a plan for the marketing and sale of the land. Alternate procurement methods will be explored.

The Broadway Avenue Improvement Project is a full week ahead of schedule, as the first two phases wrap up Thursday.

Final work includes roadway marking application, which requires the Broadway Bridge to close at 7:00 p.m. tonight. The bridge and intersection at Broadway Avenue and 12th Street is expected to fully reopen Thursday afternoon by 4:00 p.m.

“We’re encouraged with this news,” says Celene Anger, Director of Construction & Design.  “By afternoon drive time on Thursday, the Broadway Bridge and Five Corners – the intersection at Broadway Avenue and Twelfth Street – will open completely and we’re already into the third phase of the Broadway Improvement Project.”

Phase 3 includes full closure of the intersection at Broadway Avenue and 11th Street. Extensive water main upgrades and road resurfacing began along Broadway Avenue on May 2.  When the work on Broadway Avenue is complete, the project will move onto side streets, including block sections of 10th, 11th and 12th Streets as well as a four-block section of Main Street.

 “This project was specifically designed to be completed in phases, helping to minimize the impact on the community as much as possible,” Anger says. “As we’ve said, Broadway Avenue is open for business and entertainment throughout construction.”

Commuters have been asked to reroute their commute during the summer-long project, making use of the Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge and the University Bridge.

For more information please visit saskatoon.ca/broadway.

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Saskatoon Public Works responded to a collision this morning between a street-patching truck and a cyclist at Idylwyld Drive and 29th Street.

“At last word, the cyclist’s injuries are described as serious and the City extends its compassion for this man,” says Jeff Jorgenson, General Manager of Transportation & Utilities.

A police investigation is underway and Jorgenson says Public Works Division officials are cooperating in whatever way they can. 

Our initial information is the cyclist appears to have been travelling southbound when the collision with the street-patcher happened.

In addition to the police investigation, the City follows its own protocols after a critical incident to ensure the proper operating procedures were maintained.

Saskatoon, like all municipal governments, faces many types of risk, including strategic, operational, financial and compliance risks that, if not effectively managed, can impact the successful delivery of civic services and achievement of corporate goals and objectives.

The City’s Risk-Based Management (RBM) Program has been adopted to assist Administration with enhancing intelligent risk performance in all areas of operations. “Identifying all types and levels of risk for the City ensures continuous improvement in the way the City is managed, and also supports our goal to grow public confidence in the City’s performance,” says Kerry Tarasoff, CFO/General Manager, Asset & Financial Management Department.

In 2015, the City of Saskatoon’s internal auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), assisted the Administration in conducting a strategic risk assessment in order to identify and prioritize the key strategic risks being faced by the City.  The Corporate Risk Committee, with input from City Council, then evaluated each strategic risk that was identified and prioritized them based on the likelihood of the risk event occurring on a scale of 1 (rare) to 4 (very likely), and the impact if the risk event were to occur on a scale of 1 (negligible) to 4 (critical).

“We continue to create a positive and proactive risk management culture for Administration. Our goal is to identify any risks at the very onset. Through our ongoing risk reviews we can make any necessary adjustments to our programs and practices so that risk is lowered,” Tarasoff says. “We strive to minimize risk – and importantly, maximize the likelihood of reaching our corporate goals.”

To date, each high and medium ranked risk has now been examined, the nature of each risk evaluated, and current and planned mitigation activities have been identified. Over the coming months, the Corporate Risk Committee will continue to enhance its understanding of the City’s risk environment.  Updated information will be submitted to the Standing Policy Committee on Finance for approval in late 2016 and will be incorporated into the 2017 internal audit plan update.

The City of Saskatoon is committed to the long-term strategy of creating and encouraging a workplace culture of continuous improvement – one that encourages innovation and forward-thinking under the Strategic Goal of Continuous Improvement.

To find detailed information on the City’s Risk-Based Management Program, visit saskatoon.ca/corporaterisk

The City and its project partners, Graham Commuter Partners (GCP), continue to make progress on the North Commuter Parkway and the new Traffic Bridge.

Once complete in 2018, the North Commuter Parkway will support the transportation needs of citizens who live in Saskatoon’s northeast and work in the Marquis and North Industrial Areas, reducing traffic on the city’s existing bridges. The new Traffic Bridge, also slated for completion in 2018, will support the growing city centre by allowing motorists, pedestrians and cyclists to cross the river between the downtown and residential areas in the south sector of the city. The new bridge will look similar to the old bridge, but will be wider to accommodate emergency vehicles. 

Traffic Bridge Update – May 2016

This month, crews continued refurbishing the south in-river pier (Pier 3), which will support the new bridge deck. Forms were set in place and concrete was poured into the shaft of the pier. The south abutment, the structure at the end of the bridge upon which the main bridge structure will rest, is also being constructed. Piles have been drilled to support the south abutment. Over the next month, construction of Pier 3 and the south abutment will continue. By this fall, Pier 3, the south abutment, the north abutment, and the new south span (Span 4) should be complete.

North Commuter Parkway Update – May 2016

Parkway Bridge

A cofferdam has been built in the river which will allow new bridge construction to begin. This temporary enclosure provides a dry area in which to construct the pier, and construction of Pier 1 is underway. Work includes excavating the cofferdam at the pier location and fabricating the forms for the pier. Construction on the east embankment of the new bridge is also well underway.

Parkway Roadways

Clearing and topsoil stripping for the new roadways is now complete and earthwork operations continue along McOrmond Drive and Central Avenue. Storm sewers are being constructed for the new lanes of Central Avenue between Attridge Drive and Fedoruk Drive. Work to improve the Attridge Drive and Central Avenue intersection will soon begin.

By this fall, upgrades to the Attridge Drive/Central Avenue intersection, and the Marquis Drive and Waneskewin Road intersection will be complete.  Drainage, waterline and sewer infrastructure should be installed along Central Avenue, and overhead powerlines should be relocated along Central Avenue.

Traffic and Trails

Increased traffic will be evident at Marquis Drive and Wanuskewin Road with trucks hauling materials accessing the bridge construction site.

Staring the week of May 30, traffic restrictions and lane closures will be in place to accommodate work at Central Avenue and Attridge Drive to expand the intersection and create dual left turn bays from eastbound Attridge Drive to northbound Central Avenue. Beginning in July, work will start at the intersection of the Marquis Drive and Wanuskewin Road. Citizens will be notified of traffic detours through the City’s Daily Road Report, road signage, and social media.

A detour at Spadina Crescent between the Broadway Bridge and 3^rd Avenue is in place until the end of the construction period. The Saskatchewan Crescent eastbound detour to 11^th Street and westbound detour to the Victoria Avenue on/off ramps is in place until August 2016. Rotary Park and River Landing trail detours will continue through the construction period. Access to Crocus Prairie Trail from Central Avenue is closed until winter 2016. At times, the east sidewalk at Wanuskewin Road and Marquis Drive will be restricted for vehicle crossings.

Ways to Watch Construction Progress

Anyone interested can keep an eye on construction progress at saskatoon.ca/bridging. The webpage includes a quarterly video update, live project webcams, time lapse videos, and photographs. Construction viewing areas are also in place at River Landing and on the Meewasin Trail just north of the GCP construction trailer site, and from the Meewasin Trail located just east of the cul-de-sac at the north end of Kinnear Avenue (north of Silverwood Golf Course).

Stay Safe Near Construction Zones

Citizens are reminded to obey traffic and Meewasin Trail detours, and to respect all safety measures in place including site fencing and site markings. The City is also reminding pedestrians to stay clear of work areas near the construction sites.

From the May 24, 2016 Regular Meeting of City Council

8.1.2 Application for Municipal Heritage Property Designation – Tupper House – 518 11th Street East

Decision

*City Council adopted a recommendation of its Standing Policy Committee on Planning, Development & Community Service:

1. That the City Solicitor be requested to prepare and bring forward a bylaw to designate the property at 518 11th Street East, Tupper House, as a Municipal Heritage Property under the provision of The Heritage Property Act, with such designation limited to the exterior of the building;
2. That the General Manager, Community Services Department, be requested to prepare the required notices for advertising the proposed designation; and
3. That $2,500 be allocated from the Heritage Reserve Fund for supply and installation of a recognition plaque for the property.

Additional Information

*Built in 1909, the Tupper House is a modest one-and-three-quarter-storey dwelling in the Nutana neighbourhood.
*The home is situated in close proximity to Broadway Avenue and is located directly adjacent to the Arrand Block – a multi-unit residential property that was designated as a Municipal Heritage Property in 1989.
*The Tupper House has already been identified as a heritage resource in Saskatoon through the City’s Built Heritage Database. The current owners of 518 11th Street East have requested Municipal Heritage Designation of this property.

8.3.2 Montgomery Place Neighbourhood Traffic Review

Decision

*City Council adopted a recommendation of its Standing Policy Committee on Transportation:

1. That the Neighbourhood Traffic Review for the Montgomery Place neighbourhood be adopted as the framework for future traffic improvements in the area, to be undertaken as funding is made available through the annual budget process;
2. That the speed limit on all local roads within the Montgomery Place neighbourhood be reduced from 50 kph to 40 kph

Additional Information

*A public meeting was held in June 2015 to identify traffic concerns and potential solutions within the Montgomery Place neighbourhood. Representatives from the Saskatoon Police Service were in attendance to address traffic enforcement issues. Based on the residents’ input provided at the initial public meeting and the analysis of the traffic data collected, a Neighbourhood Traffic Plan was developed and presented to the community at a second public meeting held in December 2015.

8.3.6 Plan for Saskatoon Transit 2016-2020 Update

Decision

*City Council adopted a recommendation of its Standing Policy Committee on Transportation that the report be received as information.

Additional Information

*In September, 2015, Saskatoon Transit presented the Standing Policy Committee on Transportation and City Council with a short report outlining an action plan for the 5- year period ending in 2020.
*Since that report, Transit Administration has developed an over-arching document outlining the basic principles and guidance for Transit staff over the next 5 years.

8.3.7 Idylwyld Drive Comprehensive Corridor Project and Streetscape Concept

Decision

*City Council adopted a recommendation of its Standing Policy Committee on Transportation that the General Manager, Community Services Department be authorized to release a Request for Proposal based on the Terms of Reference presented in the report of the General Manager, Community Services Department dated May 9, 2016.

Additional Information

*Traffic patterns and vehicle composition on Idylwyld Drive has changed.
*Completing a design for Idylwyld Drive was identified in the City Centre Plan Implementation Plan and prioritized by the Transportation Division.
*The purpose of the Comprehensive Corridor Project and Streetscape Design is to develop a conceptual plan to improve the function, safety, connectivity, and quality of the public realm along Idylwyld Drive, from 20th Street to 25th Street East.
*Funding for this Project has previously been approved and will be provided by both the Planning and Development and Transportation Divisions.

8.3.8 Highway 16/Boychuk Drive and McOrmond Drive/College Drive Interchanges – Status Update

Decision

*City Council adopted a recommendation of its Standing Policy Committee on Transportation that the report of the General Manager, Transportation & Utilities Department dated May 9, 2016 be received as information.

Additional Information

*Sound attenuation studies were completed to determine noise impact of the interchanges and identified.
*At Highway 16/Boychuk Drive, additional sound attenuation is required adjacent to Lakeview neighbourhood.
*At McOrmond Drive/College Drive, additional sound attenuation is required adjacent to Arbor Creek neighbourhood.
*Extension of sound attenuation beyond construction limits along College Drive, west of the McOrmond Drive/College Drive interchange, is required.
*The Request for Qualifications will shortlist three Proponents to participate in the Request for Proposal to be awarded in fall of 2016.
*A de-scoping ladder must be established to mitigate the risk of a failure to award the project, in the event that all of the financial proposals result in pricing above the City’s affordability threshold. A prioritized three-level de-scoping ladder is presented in this report.

9.6.2 Amendment to Bylaw No. 7767, The Recreation Facilities and Parks Usage Bylaw, 1998 – Operation of Model Aircraft and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles within the City of Saskatoon

Decision

*City Council passed Bylaw No. 9377, The Recreation Facilities and Parks Usage Amendment Bylaw, 2016, prohibiting the operation of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) within parks without the permission of the City.

Additional Information

*At its meeting held on August 20, 2015, City Council adopted a number of recommendations including: “1. That The Recreation Facilities and Parks Usage Bylaw, 1998 be amended to prohibit the operation of drones in parks without the permission of the City”.

The 2016 first quarter budget projections to year-end show a 0.27% negative variance from the $464.75 million total budget.  This is an early projection and subject to change through the year. As such, City staff will be taking reasonable measures to deliver a balanced budget at year-end.

“This projected shortfall is early in the fiscal year and open to many variables which may change over the course of the year,” says Kerry Tarasoff, CFO/General Manager of Asset & Financial Management. “It is based on the information we have to the end of the first quarter, so by examining our numbers now, we can look at ways to recover costs and bring in a balanced budget.”

To meet its Strategic Goal of Asset and Financial Sustainability, the City stays focused on accountability, transparency, and efficiency. Quarterly status reports help ensure that City Council and the Administration are aware of any emerging business plan, budget issues or challenges. The City is then better prepared to mitigate any financial difficulties which may result from unplanned events or emerging issues in 2016.

“We want to keep in mind this approach also helps us track the City’s progress on our initiatives and business plan, which is also reflected in our performance dashboard on the City website,” Tarasoff says.

Much of the first quarter variance can be linked to costs for increased street sweeping in the Business Improvement Districts and industrial areas, as well as less revenue from Transit fares shifting to discounted bus passes from regular fares.

The City is committed to the Strategic Goals of Continuous Improvement, and Asset and Financial Sustainability, and dedicated to: creating a more visible budget process, reducing revenue reliance on the property tax, providing financial information frequently and earlier so City Council can make informed decisions, and planning opportunities for residents to have their say to shape the 2017 Budget and Saskatoon’s financial future.

Saskatoon drivers can expect traffic restrictions at Central Avenue and Attridge Drive throughout the summer. Starting next week, the City’s North Commuter Parkway Project contractor, Graham Commuter Partners (GCP), will start work on expanding the intersection to accommodate more traffic.

“Once complete, the addition of dual left turn bays for eastbound to northbound turning movements associated with the intersection improvements will allow traffic to flow more efficiently through the intersection,” Dan Willems, Director of Major Projects says. “The work will be done in stages, with the first stage happening on the south side of the intersection.”

Willems says steps have been taken to reduce the impact of construction activities during weekday rush hours.

“All turning movements and two lanes of traffic in each direction are planned to be maintained on weekdays between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.”

Outside of peak traffic periods, lane closures will restrict traffic to one through lane on the side of the roadway where work is ongoing. For the first stage of work, starting next week, this will include a reduction to one lane eastbound and one lane southbound outside of peak traffic periods. Northbound and westbound lanes won’t be impacted within the first stage. These lane restrictions are expected to be in place by mid-week, weather permitting.

During the Central Avenue and Attridge Drive intersection expansion, GCP will also begin work on Attridge Drive to realign the offramp from Circle Drive onto Attridge Drive. The offramp will be shifted west to create more space for traffic to make lane change movements before reaching the Central and Attridge intersection.

The Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and the Honourable Jim Reiter, Minister of Government Relations for Saskatchewan, today announced funding for a new interchange at Boychuk Drive and Highway 16 in Saskatoon. His Worship Donald J. Atchison, Mayor of Saskatoon, also participated in the announcement.

One of the City of Saskatoon’s top transportation priorities, this project includes the construction of a new Eastbound left-turn loop to replace the eastbound left turn lane on Highway 16 at Boychuk Drive, aimed at resolving safety and traffic flow issues at this busy intersection. Additionally, the work will involve the addition of accessible pedestrian and cyclist facilities, which will make the area safer for cyclists and pedestrians. As the City’s growth continues, the new interchange will also provide more capacity to handle an increased volume of traffic.

The governments of Canada and Saskatchewan are each contributing up to $14,730,392 to this project through the Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component – National and Regional Projects (PTIC-NRP), with the City of Saskatoon covering the remainder of the estimated $45,180,000 total project cost.

For more information about the interchange project, please visit saskatoon.ca/boychukinterchange

Quotes

“Traffic congestion and gridlock costs Canada’s economy billions of dollars in lost productivity each year, damages our environment, and makes it harder for people to get to work and for families to spend time together. This new interchange will improve traffic flow in the area and increase safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians alike.”

The Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities

“Our government is proud to have invested more than $14 million toward this project that will help improve traffic flow for the City of Saskatoon’s road system. Projects like this help keep Saskatchewan strong by encouraging local economic growth, while also making travel safer and more convenient for the people of Saskatoon.”

The Honourable Jim Reiter, Minister of Government Relations

“Safety and security in our community is a top priority. Everyone should be safe traveling our roadways to work and going home to their families. I believe the new Boychuk Drive Highway 16 interchange will save lives. I want to thank the Government of Canada and the Government of Saskatchewan for their partnership on this project and their commitment to the new Saskatoon.”

Donald J. Atchison, Mayor of Saskatoon

Associated links

To learn more about Canada’s new infrastructure plan: www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/index-eng.html

To learn more about the Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component – National and Regional Projects (PTIC-NRP): www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/nrp-pnr-prog-eng.html 

To increase safety and service, the Saskatoon Fire Department is taking steps to improve response times and coverage to the entire City. Implementation of the new model and relocation of Station No. 3, will deliver tax dollar savings of $6 million in capital costs and $2 million in annual operating costs.

“This is all about a safer community,” says Saskatoon Fire Chief, Morgan Hackl. “Part of the model proposes decommissioning the current No. 3 station located on Taylor Street and York Avenue and building a new station on Clarence Avenue South.

“This will provide coverage in the Stonebridge area neighbourhoods while maintaining the standards in the neighbourhoods currently served. We are now presenting the proposed plan to the communities located next to the new station.”

While also providing improved service, Chief Hackl stresses the plan will strengthen the neighbourhood. He says a new station would serve the community in a variety of ways.

“Our plans include community rooms with bookable space for the public and neighbouring church congregation. We also see it as a location for regular health and wellness initiatives, such as blood pressure or car seat clinics.”

As the department works toward national standards for response times, Chief Hackl and the Fire Department are also speaking with residents living in neighbourhoods bordering the current location of fire station No. 3.

“We are letting residents know that as the City grows we want to make emergency responses more efficient, and that requires re-evaluating station locations.

The safety of the entire community is a priority in the City’s strategic goal to improve the quality of life for citizens, and specifically the four-year priority to ensure that emergency response times for the Saskatoon Fire Department meet the needs of citizens.

The report will go to City Council on June 27, if passed at Monday’s Standing Policy Committee. If approved, it’s expected construction would begin in 2017.

The City of Saskatoon (City), in partnership with the Gordon Oakes Red Bear Student Centre at the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) and Fitness 2J2, is celebrating the success of Aboriginal students’ completion of the Aboriginal Fitness Preparatory Program.

Students from the program will be recognized at a graduation ceremony on Thursday, May 19, 2016, from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Gordon Oakes Student Centre, 5 Campus Drive.  There will be nine students recognized for their efforts in completing the preparatory program, who are now at various stages of completing the Aboriginal Fitness Certification Program.

With this new partnership and development of the preparatory course, these individuals are at a greater advantage point in successfully becoming fitness instructors.  The six-week pilot program was designed to provide candidates with mentorship as they work toward becoming fitness leaders.  The course focused on the theory portion of the program and included anatomy, physiology, nutrition, mentorship, and leadership.  Students also attended fitness classes at the City Leisure Centres to get exposure to the variety of class options and teaching methods.

Fitness 2J2 facilitated the pre-theory portion of the program held at Gordon Oakes Red Bear Student Centre, which prepared students for the written exam.  “Physical fitness empowers people, who in turn empower communities,” says Joel Pedersen, Owner of Fitness 2J2.

“It is critical that we collectively support our youth to be leaders in all facets of our society.  We must normalize indigenous participation and be open to the gifts they have to offer,” says Candace Wasacase-Lafferty, Director of Aboriginal Initiatives, U of S.

“The success of the pilot program is in thanks to the partnership of financial and human resources and fitness expertise,” says Kevin Kitchen, Community Development Manager, City of Saskatoon.

The City, Gordon Oakes Red Bear Student Centre, and Fitness 2J2 recognize the hard work and dedication of all program graduates and wishes them well in their future.

The City of Saskatoon, Office of the Treaty Commissioner, Saskatoon Tribal Council, Central Urban Metis Federation Inc., along with 29 supporting organizations, today launch a month-long series of events to promote Reconciliation in Saskatoon. The events are intended to engage and inspire citizens on what it means to reconcile and find their own personal call to action.

Saskatoon has committed to responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s (TRC) calls to action, beginning with a proclamation by City Council on June 22, 2015 declaring 2015/2016 the Year of Reconciliation.

The month-long schedule of activities will give Saskatoon residents an opportunity to:

• listen to the stories of survivors and their families,
• learn about our history, about residential schools, in a safe environment that is open and accessible to all,
• show-up to support events for Reconciliation, and
• share your personal response to the calls to action with friends and family using #ReconciliationSK.

The schedule culminates in a two-day celebration. On June 21, National Aboriginal Day is open to all who want to celebrate our Indigenous community, enjoy food, entertainment and education in Victoria Park. On June 22, a Day of Reconciliation begins with the "Rock Your Roots" Walk inviting everyone to celebrate and display their unique cultural heritage. BBQ and entertainment follow in Victoria Park.

For more information on events, or to have your Reconciliation event added to the calendar, please visit OTC.ca.

Quotations

“The next month of events is an excellent example of how Saskatoon can work together to keep Reconciliation moving forward to future generations.  The organizations involved in these events are setting the foundation to the work we can all do together to improve our relationships and be all inclusive.”

• Felix Thomas, Chief, Saskatoon Tribal Council

“This Year of Reconciliation is part of a long journey. I am proud of our decades of economic success with Urban Commercial Reserves under the Treaty Land Entitlements. Now we need to take that formula for success and apply it to our social and cultural relationships to ensure that every citizen has a better understanding of Reconciliation and its importance in our community.” 

• Saskatoon Mayor Donald Atchison

“Reconciliation is a process of opening up our hearts to be inclusive of all cultures and religious beliefs. A process of understanding that we may be unique but can still live and work together in harmony. Our call to action paves the path for future generations.”     

• Shirley Isbister, President of the Central Urban Metis Federation Inc.

“Reconciliation is the restoration of a friendship after an estrangement. It does not require agreement on every aspect of how to live together. It is not an apology that has been accepted once offered. Rather, it is about the process of coming together—a conscious choice that the future will be better if we work through difficulties and differences with an openness to hearing about, and responding to, the harm that has occurred.”

• Past-Treaty Commissioner George Lafond

The City of Saskatoon’s commitment to the TRC’s calls to action supports the City’s Corporate Strategic Goal of Quality of Life by identifying actions for enhancing Aboriginal well-being and participation in our community.

From the May 16, 2016 Meeting

8.2.1 2016 Local Government Elections – Establishment of Polls and Polling Places

Decision

*A report will go forward to City Council recommending approval of the division of the City into polling areas and approval of the list of polling places.

Background

*The Local Government Election Act, 2015 and The Local Government Election Regulations, 2015 came into effect January 1, 2016. In accordance with the legislation, a number of decisions are required by City Council related to the holding of a municipal election. The report outlines recommended polling areas and places for the 2016 Local Government Election.

8.2.2 2016 Local Government Elections – Remuneration of Election Workers

Decision

*A report will go forward to City council recommending Council receive the information as set out in the report of the City Clerk.

Background

*The report outlines remuneration for election officials for the 2016 Local Government Elections.
*A review of the remuneration of election workers has been undertaken taking into consideration rates for Federal and Provincial Election workers as well as other cities in Saskatchewan. Remuneration is based on a daily rate and calculated hourly, where necessary.

8.2.3 Amendments to Bylaw No. 8491, The Campaign Disclosure and Spending Limits Bylaw, 2006

Decision

*A report will go forward to City council recommending Council consider the following amendments to The Campaign Disclosure and Spending Limits Bylaw, 2006:
1. To correct the equation used to calculate maximum allowable campaign expenses to: MCE=$0.75 x (IE ÷ IB) x P
2. To change the reference to June 1st of an election year for calculation of the CPI adjustment to March 1st of an election year.

Background

*The Bylaw was amended on April 25, 2016 by City Council and incorporated numerous changes recommended by The Saskatoon Municipal Review Commission. Upon review, further amendments are required to the Bylaw to properly implement these changes.

Building on public participation activities initiated in 2015 to Shape Our Financial Future, the City continues its commitment to create broad public awareness on the annual budget process. Citizen Budget goes live today at saskatoon.ca/financialfuture and will remain open until June 24, 2016.

This is the second year for Citizen Budget, the City’s educational and interactive online tool that invites residents to “Have Their Say!”. Citizen Budget asks residents if the City should spend more, spend less, or spend the same on a variety of key civic services. The public can experience the complexity of building a City budget – to see the trade-offs that need to be considered when increasing, decreasing or providing the same level of service. 

“We’re continuing to make strides toward measuring our successes. We hope to hear from even more residents this year by once again inviting them to participate in Citizen Budget, and in our annual budget planning process,” says Clae Hack, Director of Finance. “Saskatoon continues to grow, and that means the City must adapt to meet the ongoing needs and changing expectations of residents. Gathering public feedback about service level expectations is key.”

Aside from the online Citizen Budget tool, City staff will be ‘Taking It on the Road’, by visiting various locations around the city to meet with the public. With a goal to reach as many residents as possible, there will be a variety of budget public participation activities. Venues and dates will be announced shortly on saskatoon.ca/financialfuture. For those visiting City Hall, a Service Survey and Budget comment sheets are available in the main lobby to share views on service levels and provide comment on budget priorities for 2017.

“The public feedback we gather through Citizen Budget and our other engagement activities is valuable. Importantly, Administration and City Council will again review all public feedback and consider it prior to making key decisions for the 2017 Budget deliberation this December,” says Hack. “Other factors used for annual budgetary decision making include inflation, our growing population, Council priorities, service level changes and the City’s performance measures.” 

Citizen Budget, and other public engagement activities such as the Annual Civic Services Survey, align with all of the City of Saskatoon’s Strategic Goals. We invest in what matters most to residents; the services we provide are aligned with what citizens expect; when people are actively engaged in the future and governance of their city, and through conversation and working together, we move the city forward, together.

Visit saskatoon.ca/financialfuture today and plan to participate in Citizen Budget! An informative Budget video series is also found on the Shaping Our Financial Future web page. 

From the May 9, 2016 Meeting

7.1.1 Environmental Education Initiatives

Decision

*The committee received the report as information.

Background

*The report provides information on environmental education initiatives provided by the City for the community and corporation.
*Education is provided to encourage changes in behaviour that result in positive environmental outcomes including the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through water conservation, waste diversion, and energy conservation. Additional environmental protection benefits are also achieved through these programs.
*Utility-funded education efforts focus on supporting civic utility services while millrate-supported education programs provide information about civic initiatives that help citizens reduce their own environmental footprint.

7.1.2 Remai Modern Construction Update

Decision

*The committee received the report as information.

Background

*Construction of the EllisDon contract is approximately 90% complete.
*Secondary contracts outside of the EllisDon scope include furniture, signage and lighting.
*Contracts for the glass wall and security screen, shell gallery and restaurant fitout are being managed by the Gallery.
*The Contractor is estimating that the building construction will be complete in the fourth quarter of 2016, as long as the project does not experience delays going forward.
*The Gallery is planning the move, transition, art preparation and opening of the Remai Modern.
*Community program and public access to the building is being planned for when the building first opens in early 2017. Art exhibitions are scheduled to commence in mid-2017.
*The Administration continues to do everything possible to prudently manage the contract with EllisDon and protect the City’s interests.
*The projected funding shortfall continues to be between $2.5 and $4.5 million considering all factors.

7.1.4 Long-Term Lead Service Line Replacement and Water Main Capacity Improvement Strategy

Decision

*The committee received the report as information.

Background

*The report outlines the major factors Administration considered when developing a proposed program to accelerate Lead Service Line (LSL) and water main replacements.
*As cast iron water mains age, internal corrosion can restrict flow. Problems are most evident in pre-1940s water mains and will continue to deteriorate over time.
*Administration has identified water mains in need of capacity improvements and these water mains are in the same areas as over 80% of LSLs.
*A coordinated program of water main capacity improvements and LSL replacements is recommended. The recommended option will significantly accelerate LSL replacements and result in a completion date of 2026 for replacement of all LSLs. Alternative options are presented for completion by 2023, or 2030.
*Saskatoon Water will report on the financial impact of the recommended strategies as part of the 2016-2019 utility rate approval.

7.2.1 Integrated Waste Management Annual Report 2015

Decision

*The committee received the report as information.

Background

*A Waste Diversion Rate of 70% by 2023 has been established as a Performance Target. The 2015 rate is 21%, below the national average (2012) of 33.7%.
*Saskatonians continue to dispose less waste than the national average (which includes rural areas), but at a rate higher than most Canadian cities at 242 kilograms per person.
*The City’s membership to the National Zero Waste Council was approved on April 22, 2016.
*The City’s residential curbside recycling, multi-unit residential recycling, compost depots, public space recycling, and civic facilities recycling diverted a total of 14,678 tonnes of materials, an increase from 2014.
*1.97 million garbage carts were emptied in 2015 with a reliability rate of 99.9%. City staff responded to 2,950 calls about missed residential garbage collections.
*More than 88,000 vehicles delivered loads to the landfill. Total material deposited in 2015 was 112,418 tonnes, down from 126,174 tonnes in 2014.
*91% single family and 74% multi-family households recycle all or most of their recyclable items and 93% of residents are very satisfied or somewhat satisfied with the overall quality of the recycling service received.

7.2.1 Service Saskatoon – April 2016 Progress Report

Decision

*The Committee received the information.

Background

*Service Saskatoon was officially launched on April 6, 2016.
*A new CRM system is the technology centerpiece of the new model and supports the Systems pillar. It will help the City manage citizen requests and inquiries more efficiently and effectively. As part of the Service Saskatoon launch, five water and sewer services within Public Works have been identified to be the introductory pilot services for citizens to experience the CRM model.
*Administration is repurposing an existing software solution to provide an improved citizen experience. Since the concept of 311 was first launched, mobile technology has advanced and made it easier for consumers to access online self-services. The temporary CRM will reduce duplication of incidents and provide the ability to create a unique number to track the status and completion of work. Citizens will be able to request these services by phone or by completing an easy-to-use online form.
*Citizen input is key to accomplishing the City’s goal. The Administration will create more opportunities for citizens to shape the design of the City’s services including the opportunity to participate in a new Citizen Advisory Panel.
*The Administration will begin work to add five more water and sewer services to the CRM model. Additional services will continue to be added and will be based in large part on citizen input and priorities.

7.2.2 Water Conservation Update – Response to Environmental Advisory Committee Report – April 2016

Decision

*The committee recommended to City Council:
1. That a rebate program for indoor plumbing fixtures be considered in the 2017 Business Plan and Budget deliberations as part of the Utility Business Line;
2. That the Administration continue to develop protocols for outdoor watering schedules based on annual monitoring of peak demand at the Water Treatment Plant;
3. That the Administration report back on how the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system will encourage water conservation; and
4. That the ‘Be Water Wise’ campaign continue and a plan for 2017 - 2019 be developed for the 2017 Business Plan and Budget deliberations as part of the Utility Business Line.

Background

*Inefficient water fixtures have been largely eliminated from the marketplace.
*Toilet rebate programs have demonstrated water conservation in other jurisdictions.
*The effectiveness of outdoor water schedules at reducing water consumption varies depending on purpose and length of the restriction.
*A water monitoring program is being implemented through the AMI system and will be deployed within the next five years.
*Civic water conservation programs include the ‘Be Water Wise’ campaign, as well as internal water-saving practises.

7.2.7 Energy Efficient Building Standards in New Dwelling Construction

Decision

*The Committee forwarded the report to City Council.

Background

*The report is in response to an inquiry made at the September 28, 2015 City Council meeting, related to how other municipalities administer energy efficiency standards regarding new dwelling construction and the effectiveness of energy rating programs versus building code regulation.
*With the exception of Vancouver, which is a charter city and is granted different powers from what other communities have under British Columbia’s Local Government Act, energy efficient building standards are regulated through provincial adoption of the building code and then administered through a local municipality’s building permit program.
*Energy rating and labelling programs are tools used to evaluate and rate a home’s energy performance. These programs also encourage industry to use more comprehensive building practices that go beyond minimum code requirements, in order to achieve energy efficient performance.
*Ontario legislates advanced energy targets in correlation with updates to the building code. The advanced energy targets are legislated in a five-year cycle to provide industry time to learn the upcoming energy requirements and for supporting code to be developed.
*Building energy efficiency performance gains for new dwelling construction in Saskatoon can be achieved through collaborative partnerships, energy rating and labelling programs, capacity building programs, and incentives. By way of a working group, work has started on this initiative.

7.2.9 City Compost Depots – Award of Contract – Consulting Advisor, Equipment and Operators

Decision

*The committee recommended City Council approve the proposal submitted by Wozniak and Sons Enterprises Ltd. to provide a consulting advisor, equipment and operators for a total cost of $260,810.00 (including taxes).

Background

*A Request for Proposal was advertised on January 8, 2016, seeking an experienced contractor to provide a consulting advisor, equipment and operators for the two City Compost Depots.
*Of the five proposals received, Wozniak and Sons Enterprises Ltd. was determined to be the most favourable.

7.2.10 Solar Power Addition at the Landfill Gas Power Generation Facility – Award of Contract for Solar Photovoltaic System

Decision

*The committee recommended City Council approve the proposal submitted by Rock Paper Sun Ltd. for the supply of a 27 kilowatt Solar Photovoltaic System for a total cost of $152,725.65 (including taxes).

Background

*At its meeting in October, 2015, City Council resolved that the City Solicitor prepare a Memorandum of Agreement with the SESSC for the co-ownership of the Solar PV Demonstration Site. Administration stated it would follow up with a recommendation for award of a contract to the successful proponent for supply and installation of the solar power system.

7.2.12 Surface Flooding Control Strategy for the Storm Water Utility

Decision

*The committee recommended to City Council that Administration develop a comprehensive Storm Water Utility Business Plan, including a longer-term capital and funding plan for storm water infrastructure, that considers the factors outlined in the report; and

1.  That the Administration explore:
a)  alternate funding sources for Riverbank stabilization
b) the possibility of reducing the temporary flood protection levy and report back about both items;
2. That the Administration concurrently meet with affected residents to provide an update and further discuss options in the report as well as possible interim/short-term solutions; and
3. That the City consider offering same solution for the affected property owners experiencing flooding in top 3 priority areas as we are currently offering for St. Mary's Church.

Background

*The storm water system in Saskatoon is designed to utilize combinations of pipe and surface storage and conveyance. In neighbourhoods constructed after 1989, design changes were implemented to ensure surface storm water flow paths drained to designed low areas, often ponds, to reduce the risk of property damage. However, many areas in Saskatoon constructed before 1989 were not designed with the same provision; therefore, some residents are concerned about property damage as a result of a major rain event. To add to the problem, Saskatoon has received more precipitation in the last decade than any other similar period dating back to 1900. This precipitation has led to an increase in ground water elevation which has caused a higher level of saturation.

The 50 year old overpass on Idylwyld Drive over Ruth Street is about to undergo a major rehabilitation. Work starts Sunday, May 15, and construction will be phased with crews working on one side at a time, allowing two-way traffic to be maintained without fully closing the overpass.

“Speed restrictions will be in place and traffic will be reduced from four lanes to two,” says Rob Frank, Engineering Manager of Asset Preservation. “We do not anticipate significant traffic delays so long as drivers pay attention to signage and use the zipper merge method.”

“To zipper merge correctly, as you see the “lane closed ahead” sign and traffic backing up, stay in your current lane up to the point of merge. Then take turns with other drivers to safely and smoothly ease into the remaining lane. Vehicles in the merging lane must signal, and drivers in the through lane must let one vehicle merge. This makes the traffic flow more quickly and efficiently for drivers in both lanes.”

Extensive rehabilitation work is scheduled until the end of August and will involve:

• Removal of existing asphalt wearing surface, membrane, and top portion of concrete deck
• Placement of new concrete deck and a new concrete overlay
• Modification of the approach slab and expansion joints
• Miscellaneous concrete repairs on the overpass

To learn more about this project, please visit saskatoon.ca/bridges. Zipper merge information is available at saskatoon.ca/zippermerge.

Following extensive consultations and a Needs Assessment and Feasibility Study commissioned by the City, the YMCA of Saskatoon (YMCA) and the Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC), a community need for a city centre recreation facility was identified.  However, to benefit everyone in the community now and in the future, the partners have determined that the soundest financial investment is to pursue two opportunities moving forward.

“This approach will provide the greatest value for all citizens who will have an opportunity to participate in not one, but potentially two, new or upgraded facilities with more program opportunities in the growing city centre area,” says Director of Recreation and Community Development, Lynne Lacroix.  “In addition to being able to reach new community members and deliver increased programs and services for Saskatoon’s city centre area neighbourhoods, the facilities will bridge together the key growth areas of downtown and 20^th Street to fulfill the needs of current and future area residents and workers.”

One facility opportunity would be a collaboration between the City, STC, and a new potential partner, Saskatoon Public Schools.  Ideally, it could be located in proximity to White Buffalo Youth Lodge (WBYL) and Princess Alexandra School.  The facility would provide access to education, social, recreation, and community programs for those living in the city centre.

“The long-term goal is to improve the health of Saskatoon families and individuals regardless of income and ethnicity.  Working together on a city centre facility supports STC’s strategy to work with the community and governments to improve the quality of life of First Nations residents living in Saskatoon,” says Tribal Chief Felix Thomas.

“As we look to the future, we have begun exploratory talks with the City of Saskatoon and Saskatoon Tribal Council with regards to a new facility that may help us provide greater support to families in the community.  If there is an opportunity to increase services to our students during their educational journey that will help them to be successful, we are open to looking at those possibilities,” says Ray Morrison, Board Chair for Saskatoon Public Schools.

The second opportunity involves the YMCA and the City exploring a full range of partnership models to meet various community needs in growing areas of Saskatoon.  To do this, there is a commitment to continue to develop a long-term strategy that outlines the greatest benefit to the community.  This approach includes creating a long-term strategy based on the needs assessment, the City Recreation Master Plan, as well as the YMCA’s strategic plan.

“Through the research process and partnership conversations, the YMCA has developed a fuller understanding of the needs of the community and has also increased its understanding for the valuable work that each organization does.  We believe that at this point, the YMCA can make a significant impact in Saskatoon by focusing on specific gaps that were identified in the needs assessment.  We will do this by ensuring our services and programs continue to adapt to meet children, family, and adult needs, and we feel this is best provided by staying in our current downtown location at this time.  To reach our Vision, we will reinvest in the downtown YMCA location, which will help meet community needs by focusing on healthy living, helping families, and fostering belonging and connection,” says Dean Dodge, Chief Executive Officer, YMCA.

All the partners want to make sure their visions continue to align as they work on reducing barriers to achieve healthy lifestyles for everyone.  To meet those goals, the best choice is to reduce overlap in services and facilities, and to invest in facilities that meet the needs of Saskatoon residents.

Based on these new developments and decisions by various partners, there are now two parallel tracks moving toward creating recreation facilities in the city’s central area.  The next steps for the City, STC, and Public School Board will be to continue to solidify the financial and human resources for a project near WBYL to proceed.  The City and the YMCA will keep working on a joint long-term plan, with the YMCA continuing to provide services in downtown Saskatoon.

From the May 9, 2016 Meeting

7.1.3 Comprehensive Downtown Parking Strategy Update

Decision

*The committee resolved:
1. That the report be received as information;
2. That Administration report back on implementation of recommendations 8.1 and 8.2 outlined in the downtown parking strategy report; and
3. That the Administration further discuss with the Partnership, and the Broadway and Riversdale Business Improvement Districts, the 3 hour parking limit, including discussion on the 21st Street and 2nd Avenue exemption, and provide an update report at the next committee meeting.

Background

*The purpose of the Parking Strategy is to guide the parking decisions and actions as the City grows to a population of 500,000.
*The key directions of the Parking Strategy are divided into two categories:
a) how to address current parking challenges; and
b) how to plan for future needs.
*The Parking Strategy includes a potential Implementation Plan identifying short and long-term actions.

7.1.4 North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge Construction Update

Decision

*The committee received the information.

Background

*In September of 2015, City Council awarded the RFP for the North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge, naming Graham Commuter Partners (GCP) as the preferred proponent.
*Currently at the Traffic Bridge, GCP is continuing construction of the new Pier 3 (south in-river pier), and over the next several months will be constructing the new bridge abutments and erecting Span 4 (south bridge span).
*Final permits necessary to commence in-river construction for the new North Commuter Parkway bridge were received in late March. Berm construction began immediately and was completed in early April. Over the next several months, GCP will be constructing the new Pier 1 (west pier) and west bridge headslope.
*Clearing of the roadway alignments for McOrmond Drive and Central Avenue has been completed and topsoil stripping in these areas is ongoing.
*Upgrades at the intersection of Central Avenue and Attridge Drive and the intersection of Wanuskewin Road and Marquis Drive are planned over the 2016 Spring/Summer construction season.
*Modifications have been made to the limits of the sound attenuation along Central Avenue based on feedback from the community.

7.2.1 Montgomery Place Neighbourhood Traffic Review

Decision

*The committee recommended to City Council:
1. That the Neighbourhood Traffic Review for the Montgomery Place neighbourhood be adopted as the framework for future traffic improvements in the area, to be undertaken as funding is made available through the annual budget process;
2. That the speed limit on all local roads within the Montgomery Place neighbourhood be reduced from 50 kph to 40 kph; and
3. That the City Solicitor be requested to prepare the appropriate bylaw amendment.

Background

*A Neighbourhood Traffic Plan for the Montgomery Place neighbourhood was developed in consultation with the community in response to concerns such as speeding, traffic shortcutting, and pedestrian safety. The plan will be implemented over time as funding for the improvements is available.

7.2.7 Highway 16/Boychuk Drive and McOrmond Drive/College Drive interchanges Status Update

Decision

*The committee is forwarding the report to City Council for information.

Background

*In October of 2014, City Council approved a report to allocate $2 Million of funding to hire an Owner’s Engineer for the construction of interchanges at Highway 16/Boychuk Drive and McOrmond Drive/College Drive.
*Sound attenuation studies were completed to determine noise impact of the interchanges and identified.
*At Highway 16/Boychuk Drive, additional sound attenuation is required adjacent to Lakeview neighbourhood.
*At McOrmond Drive/College Drive, additional sound attenuation is required adjacent to Arbor Creek neighbourhood.
*Extension of sound attenuation beyond construction limits along College Drive, west of the McOrmond Drive/College Drive interchange, is required.
*The Request for Qualifications will shortlist three Proponents to participate in the Request for Proposal to be awarded in fall of 2016.
*A de-scoping ladder must be established to mitigate the risk of a failure to award the project, in the event that all of the financial proposals result in pricing above the City’s affordability threshold.

7.2.8 Sidewalk Condition and Plan

Decision

*The committee is forwarding the report to City Council as information and Administration will report to the 2017 budget deliberations with options for maintaining the current rate of sidewalk repair and replacement while phasing out the asphalt overlay repair program.

Background

*Saskatoon has 1,524 km of sidewalk with an estimated replacement value of $722M.
*Saskatoon’s sidewalks are generally in satisfactory condition, based on current inspection data and the calculated Sidewalk Condition Index.
*The Sidewalk Preservation Program is implemented on the sidewalks adjacent to the Roadway Surfacing Program. An estimated $4.9M per year is required to allow for an average sidewalk intervention treatment cycle of 20 years using the current treatment approach. This funding is available within the current funding plan, due largely to lower than anticipated roadway resurfacing contract costs.
*The Sidewalk Maintenance Plan has a budget of $1.03M and addresses safety and maintenance issues throughout the remainder of the city. The 2016 plan is to address sidewalks with the poorest condition and highest pedestrian potential.

From the May 2, 2016 Meeting

7.1.2 Quarterly Report – Builder and Developer Lot Supply – April 1, 2016

Decision

*The report was received as information.

Background

*Land developers in Saskatoon have 840 residential lots in inventory, and there is a builder inventory of 1,037 residential lots.
*Land developers in Saskatoon are projected to service 539 single-family lots in 2016, dependent on inventory levels and absorption rates.
*Land developers and builders have approximately 133 acres of multi-family land in inventory, which can potentially accommodate approximately 2,985 dwelling units. *There is a healthy supply of vacant industrial land held by recent industrial land purchasers and Saskatoon Land.