News Releases

From the January 8, 2018 Meeting

7.1.1 Aboriginal Engagement and Inclusion – Naming Process

Decision

The Committee will forward the report to City Council, and recommend that the Administration further pursue modifying the naming policy to include non-surnames as submissions.

Background

At the September 21, 2015 meeting of the Executive Committee, it was resolved, in part: “That with respect to the efforts for increased awareness for the City’s “Naming of Civic Property and Development Areas Policy”, and related processes, a further report be received in one year by the appropriate committee on the yield of nominations as a result of increased awareness.”

Furthermore, at the May 19, 2016 NAC meeting, the Administration was instructed to report back regarding revisions to the Naming Policy specifically on the admission of non-surname submissions and that the names ‘Ayishinoo’ (Métis word meaning ‘Aboriginal’), ‘Rispay’ (Métis word meaning ‘respect’), ‘Shakihi’ (Métis word meaning ‘love’), and ‘Newo’ (Cree word meaning ‘four’) be kept on hold pending said revisions.

8.1.1 Request for Funding- 2018 and 2019 Federation Internationale de Basketball 3 x 3 World Tour

Decision

The Committee approved the funding, in the amount of $190,000 dollars (spread over two years), for Tourism Saskatoon under the Special Event (Sport) category, as an exception to Policy No. C03-007, Special Events Policy, for the 2018 and 2019 FIBA 3x3 World Tour events, with the funding to be dispersed each year respectively as per policy criteria.

Background

On October 17, 2017, the Administration was made aware that Tourism Saskatoon intended to apply for a Special Event Grant for the FIBA World Tour event for 2018 and 2019, as it had signed a three-year commitment with FIBA to host this event in Saskatoon for 2017, 2018, and 2019. On November 16, 2017, the Administration met with representatives of Tourism Saskatoon to discuss this event and its grant eligibility. On November 24, 2017, Tourism Saskatoon submitted a Special Event Grant application for both the 2018 and 2019 FIBA World Tour events, requesting $95,000 in grant funding for each year, respectively, for a total of $190,000.

8.1.2 Development of the Swale – Response to Northeast Swale Watchers’ 12 Points – Northeast Swale Working Group

Decision

The Committee received the report as information and is forwarding the report to the SPC on Transportation and the Saskatoon Environmental Advisory Committee.

Background

During its March 13, 2017 Standing Policy Committee on Environment, Utilities and Corporate Services meeting, in response to the Development of the Swale – Response to Northeast Swale Watchers’ 12 Points report, the Committee resolved:

“3. That the Administration bring together stakeholders in regards to the Northeast Swale (Swale) to continue the discussion about protection of the Swale. Stakeholders should include, but are not limited to, the City of Saskatoon, University of Saskatchewan, Meewasin Valley Authority, Saskatoon Environmental Advisory Committee, Municipal Heritage Advisory Committee and the Swale Watchers. Stakeholders’ composition does not need to come back to Committee, but suggested starting points for initial discussion include integrated project management, long-term planning, financial implications, community engagement and communications.”

In addition, the Standing Policy Committee on Transportation recommended the following at its August 15, 2017 and September 11, 2017 meetings, respectively:

a) that the issue of the future of Lowe Road be referred to the Swale stakeholder group and the Administration for report back; and

b) that discussion about the speed limit on McOrmond Drive from Central Avenue to Wanuskewin Road be referred to the Northeast Swale stakeholder committee before the speed is determined.

8.2.1 Addition of Afghanistan 2001 to 2014 Plaque to Saskatoon Cenotaph

Decision

The Committee will recommend to City Council that an “Afghanistan 2001 to 2014” plaque be added to the Saskatoon Cenotaph.

Background

Commemorations contribute to Saskatoon’s urban landscape. Whether as statues, monuments, or artworks, commemorations describe connections to the past, express community and individual values, contribute to telling stories, and help to create a sense of place. In response to the importance that community places have on commemoration, the Administration developed a comprehensive policy to govern requests for commemorative art, statues, and monuments in Saskatoon. The Commemorations and Monuments Policy was adopted by City Council in May 2013.

8.2.4 Cannabis Legalization and Regulation – Overview of City of Saskatoon’s Response

Decision

The Committee will forward the report to City Council in support of the recommendations of the Administration for proposed amendments to Bylaw No. 8286, The Smoking Control Bylaw, 2004, and for the City Solicitor to prepare the necessary amendments to broaden the definition of smoking in public places.  The Committee is also supporting the recommendation for a further report from the Administration on options for municipal regulation of cannabis in relation to business licensing, zoning, and community standards within the City of Saskatoon.

Background

In February 2016, City Council received as information a report outlining the current regulatory scheme in place for medical marijuana. This was in response to an August 17, 2015 presentation from Mr. Mark Hauk regarding the prospect of regulating medical marijuana dispensaries within Saskatoon. The report indicated that a further report to City Council would be brought forward in the event of changes to the regulations applicable to the possession, consumption, and sale of marijuana.

The Government of Canada has proposed a framework for the legalization and regulation of cannabis through Bill C-45, the Cannabis Act, which is expected to become law in July 2018. At the time of writing this report, Bill C-45 had been through second reading in the Senate.

The federal, provincial, and municipal governments all have a role in the creation of a new legal and regulatory regime. The federal government will retain responsibility for regulating cannabis producers and setting rules and standards for the industry, respecting matters such as permitted products and ingredients, potency, labelling, packaging, and promotional activities.

Provincial and territorial governments will license and oversee the distribution and sale of cannabis, subject to federal conditions. They also have the option to increase the minimum age from the federally mandated age of 18 (but not lower it), lower personal possession limits, and create additional rules for growing cannabis at home or consuming it in public.

The Province of Saskatchewan (Province) is currently working on a framework for the regulation of cannabis in the Province.

8.2.5 Gordie Howe Sports Complex Master Plan – Project Update and Funding Request

Decision

The Committee will ask City Council to support the recommendations of the Administration as set out in the report.  Recommendation 2 was changed slightly to be clearer that the additional $5M was not being approved at this time but that the Administration would report further on the implications to the Recreation and Parks Game Plan Funding Plan of incorporating $6.0 million dollars of funding towards the Gordie Howe Sports Complex upgrades, including the $1.0 million dollars already approved.

Background

Since early 2013, when the capital upgrades at Gordie Howe Sports Complex began, the Friends of the Bowl has received approval from City Council to manage most aspects of the project. This has included approval to project manage the design and construction of the capital upgrades for: Saskatoon Minor Football Field (SMF Field) with artificial turf; score clock; sound system; the clubhouse; the entrance plaza and ticket booth; and most recently the replacement of the bleachers. This also included approval to solicit donor recognition for naming rights and asset-naming opportunities for the various phases of the fundraising campaign and to solicit contributions from various donors with installments paid over time.

With the final stage of the upgrades related to the SMF Field nearing completion, the Friends of the Bowl began to consider further upgrades which led to the development of a plan to upgrade all other areas of the Sports Complex.

At the September 20, 2017 Special Meeting of the Governance and Priorities Committee, the Friends of the Bowl presented an overview of the new Gordie Howe Sports Complex Master Plan and made a formal request for a $5.0 million capital contribution from the City. This request was considered at the November 20, 2017 City Council meeting, where it was resolved that $1.0 million in partial funding for the Friends of the Bowl be approved in 2018, and that a more detailed report on this project be presented at a later date for any additional funding beyond 2018.

From the December 18, 2017 Regular Meeting of City Council

8.1.2 Neighbourhood Level Infill Development Strategy – Three - and – Four – Unit Dwellings

Decision

*City Council received the information.

Background

*At its December 16, 2013 meeting, City Council endorsed the Strategy. The Strategy was completed to address growing concerns with residential infill development in established neighbourhoods. The Strategy outlined best practices, design guidelines, and regulations that provide design flexibility and minimize the impact of neighbourhood level infill development on neighbouring property owners. A report was considered by the Planning and Operations Committee on March 25, 2014, that identified four main items for implementation: garden and garage suites, development standards and design guidelines for primary dwellings, corner lot infill development, and site drainage requirements.

8.1.5 Licensing Rental Properties and Regulations of Nuisance Calls for Emergency Services

Decision

*City Council approved the recommendation that the Administration be directed to explore a licensing program for rental property businesses which includes provisions to regulate nuisance calls for emergency services, consult with key stakeholders including, but not limited to, the Saskatchewan Landlord Association, Saskatoon Housing Initiatives Partnership and Renters of Saskatoon and Area, and report back including recommendations to City Council through the Standing Policy Committee on Planning, Development and Community Services.

Background

*The City of Saskatoon currently has The Property Maintenance and Nuisance Abatement Bylaw, 2003 (the “Property Maintenance Bylaw”). The Property Maintenance Bylaw sets out minimum standards for structures and yards in the City. The Property Maintenance Bylaw regulates nuisances; however, nuisance is defined as the condition of a property or a thing that affects the amenity of a neighbourhood. The Property Maintenance Bylaw does not regulate behavioural nuisance i.e. the regulation of repeated human activity which may affect the amenity of a neighbourhood or interfere with the enjoyment of another’s property. Also, the Property Maintenance Bylaw does not address nuisance calls for emergency services.

8.2.7 Transfer of Unpaid Utilities to Property Tax

Decision

*City Council approved the recommendation that the Landlord-Tenant Agreement be amended as outlined in the report.

Background

* At its meeting on April 24, 2017, when considering a report from the CFO/General Manager, Asset and Financial Management Department, regarding the transfer of unpaid utilities to property tax, City Council resolved that the Administration bring back modified procedures regarding the transfer of tenant utility accounts to the tax accounts of landlords, such that City procedure is more reflective of those in place with other utilities such as SaskEnergy.

8.4.5 Taxi Service Proposals and Regulation of Transportation Network Companies

Decision

*City Council approved the recommendations;

1. That the Administration report on the creation of a comprehensive vehicle for hire bylaw including contents and options of same and a stand-alone bylaw for TNCs with consequential amendments to the Taxi Bylaw; and

2. That the Administration be directed to report back concerning:

   a. Amending The Taxi Bylaw to allow the implementation of part-time Flex Service licenses, issued to qualified drivers, to meet demand in peak periods;

   b. Amending The Taxi Bylaw to allow for the replacement of seasonal licenses with full-time plates, issued to qualified drivers, reflecting the Sask Plates proposal;

   c. Reviewing the current taxi meter fare structure and develop options to improve affordability

   d. Reviewing regulations applicable to the taxi industry to support a ‘level playing field’ should development of regulations for transportation network companies be approved by City Council; and

3. That the Administration provide a further report on mechanisms to evaluate the impacts of ridesharing, taxis, and autonomous vehicles on Transit and congestion, as well as the opportunity for utilizing data generated from taxi industry and potentially ridesharing to help evaluate this; and

4. That the Administration provide a further report on the current levels of service to people requiring accessible service, and the potential impacts of the incorporation of ridesharing on Accessibility services.

Background

*On May 8, 2017, the Standing Policy Committee on Transportation received a report providing an update on the regulation of TNCs which indicated that a follow up report would be coming forward with policy options for consideration.

Further, when considering the May 8, 2017 report regarding Taxi and Limousine Stakeholder Engagement regarding TNCs, the Committee resolved:

“That the Administration create a stakeholder group that includes, drivers, companies and appropriate stakeholders, in order to prepare for a report on further regulations regarding transportation network companies.”

9.1.1 Residential Fire Pits/Revision of Open-Air Fire Bylaw

Decision

*City Council approved the recommendations;

1. That Bylaw No. 7990, The Fire and Protective Services Bylaw, 2001 be amended to limit open-air fires daily from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; and

2. That the Administration report back on the potential of restricting open-air fire pits to gas burning fire pits in new neighbourhood developments, including an environmental impact component; and

3. That Administration report back on a free permitting system that would ensure users of fire pits know the rules and regulations as outlined in the Bylaw.

See Minutes.

Background

*The Standing Policy Committee on Planning, Development and Community Services, at its meeting held on May 29, 2017, received a report from Administration regarding the above item and resolved:

“That the Administration report further on the matter, including:

1. Limiting open air fires between certain hours and certain days of the week;

2. Permit process including costs to set up such a process and the cost of a permit;

3. What other jurisdictions in Canada regulate, including all of the matters identified in this request for further information;

4. Option for leaner versions to burn;

5. A phase out process;

6. Proper enforcement;

7. Outline out of the 192 complaints how many are repeats, how many are unresolved and how penalties might be structured for repeat offenders; and

8. Limitations on the duration of backyard fires.”

9.10.1 Proclamation Requests

Decision

*City Council approved all proclamation requests as set out in this report.

9.12.1 Air Support Unit Recommendations – Capital Purchase Approval

Decision

*City Council approved the recommendation that the capital purchase of $800,000 CAD to facilitate the purchase of an aircraft to replace the current leased Air 1 be approved.

Background

*See report. 

Now that the weather is warming up, so are the winter activities and events around the city. Residents are encouraged to warm up to winter with opportunities to get outside, get together, and get involved over the next few months.

“This is a chance for residents and visitors to embrace winter, and the many opportunities we have to enjoy the season,” says Brenda Wallace, Director of Environmental & Corporate Initiatives. “Events like the annual Nutrien Wintershines Festival in a few weeks or the new Crokicurl game next week, are part of the wintertime fun.”

Winter community events are just the tip of the iceberg. The City and community stakeholders are working on WinterCityYXE, an intentional effort to celebrate what makes Saskatoon unique as a four-season place that is inviting, vibrant and prosperous, even in the coldest months of the year. This Winter City Strategy will guide the changes necessary to help residents, businesses and visitors embrace winter with as much enthusiasm as they have for the summer season.

As part of the Winter City Strategy to improve the quality of life in the winter season, the City has awarded funding to recipients through the WinterCity YXE Grant program. Wallace says, “Though we can’t change winter, we can provide resources to community groups to help them make winter more fun and exciting for everyone.”

2017 WinterCityYXE Grant recipients include:

January 13 - February 25, 2018
Crokicurl
Recipient: Broadway Business Improvement District
Location: Broadway Avenue & 12^th Street
Combining two iconic Canadian pastimes, crokinole and curling, to become an exciting outdoor sport.

January 18 - 20, 2018
Theatre on the Trail
Recipient: Sum Theatre Company
Location: Meewasin Trail
Explore the wintertime beauty of Saskatoon’s beautiful Meewasin Trail through a live theatrical walk featuring a combination of professional artists, including Indigenous and Newcomer performers.

January 18-21, 2018
Winterruption
Recipient: Friends of the Broadway Theatre
​Location:  Broadway area
Encompassing 23 shows in 9 indoor venues, and also an outdoor festival featuring storytelling, free sleigh rides, face painting, free hot beverages, outdoor food and more.  As part of Winterruption, a tipi will be raised in late November as central venue for free storytelling during Winterruption.  It will also be used by Ecole Victoria School for much of the winter.

February 3, 2018
Wanuskewin Winter Festival
Recipient: Wanuskewin Heritage Park
Location: Wanuskewin Heritage Park
A family event with indoor and outdoor programming centred around Indigenous games, activities, and trapping skills. 

January - March 2018
Ice Cycle 2.0
Recipient:  Flatlanders FatTire Brigade
Location: Various locations around Saskatoon
A collection of events that will bring together local organizations, businesses, and community groups to celebrate winter cycling culture in Saskatoon.

For more information, including a full calendar of winter activities in Saskatoon, visit saskatoon.ca/wintercityyxe. To have an event or activity added to the WinterCityYXE calendar, please contact us at wintercityyxe@saskatoon.ca.

From the December 11, 2017 Meeting

7.2.1 Proposed Memorandum of Understanding with the Gabriel Dumont Institute of Native Studies and Applied Research and the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies

Decision

*The Committee will recommend to City Council that the Administration continue discussions with the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies and with Gabriel Dumont Institute of Native Studies and Applied Research regarding establishing Memorandum of Agreements with each respective party as outlined in the report.

Background

*City Council, at its meeting held on June 22, 2015, resolved, in part, “That the City of Saskatoon declare July 1, 2015 – June 30, 2016 the year of reconciliation and that the Administration work with the Office of the Treaty Commission, and other community groups, leaders and institutions in Saskatchewan, to promote reconciliation in our province.”

Separate meetings have been held between the Aboriginal Relations division and representatives from GDI and SIIT regarding strengthening the relationship between these organizations and the City. Both SIIT and GDI are interested in pursuing a more formalized arrangement with the City.

From the December 5, 2017 Meeting

6.1.1 Saskatoon Accessibility Advisory Committee – Complete Streets Design and Policy Guide

Decision

*The Committee received the information and passed a recommendation that the Administration engage the Saskatoon Accessibility Advisory Committee in future stakeholder discussion related to the Complete Streets Design and Policy Guide.  

7.1.3 Transit IT Roadmap Update – December 2017

Decision

*The Committee received the information.

Background

*At its meeting held on February 9, 2016, the Standing Policy Committee on Environment, Utilities & Corporate Services considered the Transit IT Roadmap report which detailed three near-term initiatives: decreasing cancellation rates for Access Transit, Ridership Business Intelligence, and Real-time Transit Information & Open Data.

7.2.1 Transit – Intelligent Transportation System Software Upgrade – Award of Contract

Decision

*The Committee will recommend to City Council;

1. That the City enter into an agreement with Trapeze Software Incorporated for the upgrade from Trapeze Novus Intelligent Transportation System to Trapeze TransitMaster for a total cost of $1,347,202 (including applicable taxes); and
2. That Purchasing Services issue the appropriate purchase order.

Background

Saskatoon Transit currently employs Novus ITS to provide ITS functionality. While Novus ITS does provide reliable Global Positioning System (GPS) location information to feed General Transit Feed Specification – Real Time for public facing bus location information and operational reporting, TransitMaster contains service adjustment capabilities including: Real time detour management; Real time passenger information relative to bus capacity and overloads; and Feeds to external RSS, Twitter and third party applications. 

These TransitMaster specific capabilities will be heavily relied upon by Transit’s Control Centre to ensure the successful service delivery of future Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) implementations.

7.2.2 Taxi Service Proposals and Regulation of Transportation Network Companies

Decision

*The Committee will recommend to City Council:

1. That the Administration report on the creation of a comprehensive vehicle for hire bylaw including contents and options of same and a stand-alone bylaw for TNCs with consequential amendments to the Taxi Bylaw; and
2. That the Administration be directed to report back concerning:
   1. Amending The Taxi Bylaw to allow the implementation of part-time Flex Service licenses, issued to qualified drivers, to meet demand in peak periods;
      b. Amending The Taxi Bylaw to allow for the replacement of seasonal licenses with full-time plates, issued to qualified drivers, reflecting the Sask Plates proposal;
      c. Reviewing  the current taxi meter fare structure and develop options to improve affordability; and
      d. Reviewing regulations applicable to the taxi industry to support a ‘level playing field’ should development of regulations for transportation network companies be approved by City Council.

The Committee will recommend to City Council: 

1. That the Administration provide a further report on mechanisms to evaluate the impacts of ridesharing, taxis, and autonomous vehicles on Transit and congestion, as well as the opportunity for utilizing data generated from taxi industry and potentially ridesharing to help evaluate this; and
2. That the Administration provide a further report on the current levels of service to people requiring accessible service, and the potential impacts of the incorporation of ridesharing on Accessibility services.

Background

*On May 8, 2017, the Standing Policy Committee on Transportation received a report providing an update on the regulation of TNCs which indicated that a follow up report would be coming forward with policy options for consideration. Further, when considering the May 8, 2017 report regarding Taxi and Limousine Stakeholder Engagement regarding TNCs, the Committee resolved:

“That the Administration create a stakeholder group that includes, drivers, companies and appropriate stakeholders, in order to prepare for a report on further regulations regarding transportation network companies.”

7.2.4 Roadway Preventative Maintenance Strategy

Decision

*The Committee will recommend to City Council:

That a budget adjustment of $50,000 to Capital Project #1356 – V&E Additional Vehicles and Equipment funded from the Paved Roadways Infrastructure Reserve be approved to fund the acquisition of a rubberized crack filling machine.

Background

*Investment in the rehabilitation of the road network significantly increased in the summer of 2014 with the introduction of the Building Better Roads Program. With the added investment, road conditions network-wide have improved significantly; roads in good condition require different treatments to optimize maintenance expenditures and sustain good road conditions.

7.2.5 West Material Handling Facility – 2017 Budget Adjustment Request

Decision

*The Committee will recommend to City Council:

That a budget adjustment of $383,000 to Capital Project #2259 - TU-PW Satellite Yards funded from the Reserve for Capital Expenditures be approved to purchase land for a West Material Handling Facility.

Background

*To continue to perform road maintenance on a growing network, additional property is required to manage material such as sand, gravel, and recycled asphalt pavement. This site will be in addition to existing Roadways satellite facilities at the Civic Operations Centre, Wanuskewin Road, and Central Avenue. The Civic Operations Centre is permanent and is used exclusively for snow management. The Wanuskewin Road site is temporary and is also used solely for storing snow. Central Avenue is a temporary site, situated in the Small Swale, and is currently used for both snow storage and material handling. An alternative site for handling material is needed in the short term due to space constraints and to mitigate environmental impacts. The City is currently working on a comprehensive plan for facilities to accommodate the future of Civic operations across all City divisions.

From the December 5, 2017 Meeting

7.1.1 Green Infrastructure Strategy- Update

Decision

*The Committee accepted the recommendation to receive the information.

Background

*During 2017 Preliminary Business Plan and Budget Deliberations held on November 30 and December 1, 2016, City Council approved an amended scope of work for Capital Project #2390 – Green Infrastructure Strategy (Strategy). The purpose of the Strategy is to develop an integrated approach to planning for and maintaining a sustainable, biodiverse city by considering natural and supporting areas as important infrastructure.

At its meeting held on March 13, 2017, the Committee received the Meewasin Valley-wide Resource Management Plan for information. The Strategy will investigate a similar approach to management of other green spaces that are outside of the Meewasin Valley Authority’s (Meewasin) jurisdiction.

At its meeting held on May 8, 2017, the Committee considered the Green Infrastructure Strategy report which described the expected outcomes of the Strategy and the project’s alignment with the priorities of the City of Saskatoon.

 7.2.1 Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action Update – December 2017

Decision

1. *The Committee will recommend to City Council that the information be received; and that a copy of the report be forwarded to the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) to the attention of the Director of Policy; and that in future updates, the Controlled Corporations be afforded the opportunity to provide an update.

Background

*On June 22, 2015, City Council directed the Administration to identify responses and financial implications of the TRC Calls to Action and declared July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016 the Year of Reconciliation. The Administration was directed to work with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner (OTC), and other community groups, leaders, and institutions in Saskatchewan to promote reconciliation. The Administration reported on October 19, 2015, and was directed to provide regular updates outlining successes, as well as outstanding items, along with an update of events recognizing the Year of Reconciliation in Saskatoon. The Administration was also directed to report with a plan for increased professional development and training for employees, with a long-term target of 100 percent participation. A progress report was brought to City Council on March 21, 2016 and January 10, 2017, with a commitment to report back on the Action Plan for Reconciliation in fall/winter 2017.

From the December 4, 2017 Meeting

7.2.4 Municipal Asset Management Program Grant

Decision

*The Committee will recommend to City Council:

1. That the Administration apply for a grant from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Municipal Asset Management Program for the Culvert Assessment and Drainage Study project; and
2. That if approved for the grant funding, the City of Saskatoon
   1. commit to conducting the activities proposed in the application to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities; and
   2. increase Capital Project No. 1619 TU – Storm Sewer Trunk and Collection for the amount of approved grant funding and commit the City of Saskatoon’s share of this initiative from the already existing 2018 Budget in Capital Project No. 1619.

Background

*The MAMP is a 5-year, $50 million program funded by Infrastructure Canada. Subject to funding availability, applications will be accepted on a continuous basis until June 2020.

7.2.5 Property Tax: Recognition of Unique Property Impacts

Decision

*The Committee will forward the information to City Council, and recommended that the Administration report back on options to address communications about coefficients in assessment to provide better understanding of the process.

Background

*At its June 26, 2017 meeting, City Council adopted the following recommendation contained in the report of the Standing Policy Committee on Finance: “That the Administration report back on how to address issues of gross inconsistencies of properties that are not addressed through the assessment process including, but not limited to, the approach used in other Canadian cities.”

7.2.6 Transfer of Unpaid Utilities to Property Tax

Decision

*The Committee will recommend to City Council:

1. That the Landlord-Tenant Agreement be amended as outlined in the report of the CFO/General Manager, Asset and Financial Management dated December 4, 2017;
2. That the City Solicitor be instructed to amend the Landlord-Tenant Agreement; and
3. That the City Solicitor be instructed to amend the Rules and Regulations sections as required in Bylaw No. 7567, The Waterworks Bylaw, 1996 and Bylaw No. 2685, otherwise known as The Electric Light and Power Bylaw.

Background

*At its meeting on April 24, 2017, when considering a report from the CFO/General Manager, Asset and Financial Management Department, regarding the transfer of unpaid utilities to property tax, City Council resolved that the Administration bring back modified procedures regarding the transfer of tenant utility accounts to the tax accounts of landlords, such that City procedure is more reflective of those in place with other utilities such as SaskEnergy.

From the December 4, 2017 Meeting

7.2.1 Neighbourhood Level Infill Development Strategy – Three-and-Four-Unit Dwellings per Corner Site

Decision

*The Committee received the report as information; and passed a recommendation that the Administration submit a report to the SPC on Planning, Development and Community Services in the first quarter of 2018 regarding the next steps for implementation of opportunities outlined in the Infill Roundtable Report (provided by the Saskatoon & Region Home Builder’s Association).

Background

*At its December 16, 2013 meeting, City Council endorsed the Strategy. The Strategy was completed to address growing concerns with residential infill development in established neighbourhoods. The Strategy outlined best practices, design guidelines, and regulations that provide design flexibility and minimize the impact of neighbourhood level infill development on neighbouring property owners. A report was considered by the Planning and Operations Committee on March 25, 2014, that identified four main items for implementation: garden and garage suites, development standards and design guidelines for primary dwellings, corner lot infill development, and site drainage requirements.

7.2.4 Licensing Rental Properties and Regulations of Nuisance Calls for Emergency Services

Decision

*The Committee will recommend to City Council that the Administration be directed to explore a licensing program for rental property businesses which includes provisions to regulate nuisance calls for emergency services and report back including recommendations to City Council through the Standing Policy Committee on Planning, Development and Community Services.

Background

*On May 24, 2016, City Council considered the 2015 Annual Report of the Crime Free Multi-Housing Advisory Committee, including a report authored by the Chief of Police entitled “Information Report on CFMH Best Practices and Nuisance properties – a review of programs in Canada” (the “Best Practices Report”). The City of Saskatoon currently has The Property Maintenance and Nuisance Abatement Bylaw, 2003 (the “Property Maintenance Bylaw”). The Property Maintenance Bylaw regulates nuisances; however, nuisance is defined as the condition of a property or a thing that affects the amenity of a neighbourhood. The Property Maintenance Bylaw does not regulate behavioural nuisance i.e. the regulation of repeated human activity which may affect the amenity of a neighbourhood or interfere with the enjoyment of another’s property. Also, the Property Maintenance Bylaw does not address nuisance calls for emergency services.

7.2.5 Residential Fire Pits/Revision of Open-Air Fire Bylaw

Decision

*The Committee will recommend to City Council that the information be received; and that the Fire and Protective Services Bylaw be amended to limit open-air fires daily from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Background

*The Standing Policy Committee on Planning, Development and Community Services, at its meeting held on May 29, 2017, received a report from Administration regarding the above item and resolved:

“That the Administration report further on the matter, including:

           1. Limiting open air fires between certain hours and certain days of the week;

2. Permit process including costs to set up such a process and the cost of a permit;

3. What other jurisdictions in Canada regulate, including all of the matters identified in this request for further information;

4. Option for leaner versions to burn;

5. A phase out process;

6. Proper enforcement;

7. Outline out of the 192 complaints how many are repeats, how many are unresolved and how penalties might be structured for repeat offenders; and

8. Limitations on the duration of backyard fires.”

7.2.6 Progress Update – South Caswell Redevelopment Project – Former Saskatoon Transit Sites

Decision

*The Committee will recommend to City Council that the information be received.

Background

*During its May 30, 2016 and January 30, 2017 meetings, the Standing Policy Committee on Planning, Development and Community Services (Committee) received information reports that provided an update on the South Caswell Redevelopment Project, including:

a) the planning process and community engagement aspects;

b) costs associated with site preparation and potential revenue from land sales;

c) environmental conditions of the City-owned sites and the condition of existing buildings (former Saskatoon Transit facilities);

d) plans to undertake a detailed Phase II ESA and Risk Assessment of the City-owned sites to better understand the environmental contamination and risks;

e) security measures for vacant buildings and outdoor storage areas to avoid unwanted access and/or vandalism; and

f) short-term strategies being explored to determine whether the existing structures could be utilized as holding buildings for inactive equipment and vehicles, and whether City staff could utilize the office space.

The Administration indicated in the January 30, 2017 report, that a further report with an update on the redevelopment project would be forthcoming once the detailed Phase II ESA and Risk Assessment was completed.

Impaired driving has deadly, life-changing effects.  Enjoy yourself this New Year’s Eve but make a safe choice and take Transit for free.

Since 1989, Saskatoon Transit and Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) have partnered to offer free Transit and Access Transit service on New Year’s Eve.

For Nolan Barnes, the wrong choice had irreversible consequences; an impaired-driving crash in May of 2010 left Barnes paralyzed and a close friend dead. 

“We make decisions every day, some less important than others,” Barnes says.  “Having free transit service on New Year’s Eve makes the decision not to drink and drive easy.” 

“I’m a victim of my decisions.  I lost a friend and the use of my legs before understanding how the choices we make affect more than just us.”  

Barnes says, making a choice to have a safe ride home not only helps individuals, but everyone trying to get where they’re going.  

“Make the resolution not to drink and drive,” he says.

Free bus service, starts at 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 31 and will run until 2:45 a.m. (times may vary slightly by route).

“Ding in the New Year allows residents to celebrate responsibly by taking advantage of free transit,” says Mayor Charlie Clark.  “This gives residents an option to have a safe ride home without driving under the influence and putting themselves or others at risk.”

The police service adds its support and advice for thinking ahead for New Year’s Eve celebrations.

“It is crucial everyone has a solid plan for getting home safely before they head out for the evening,” says Saskatoon Police Service Staff Sergeant Patrick Barbar.

Planning is easier than ever: customers who are new to Saskatoon Transit as well as current riders are encouraged to use the free Transit app to plan their route. Wait at a regular stop or flag down a bus at any point along the route, if you are in need of a ride.

“There is no reason for impaired driving, especially on New Year’s Eve,” says Jim McDonald, Director of Saskatoon Transit.  “We strongly encourage residents to jump on the bus and let us take you to and from your destination.”

“When flagging a bus, use caution, stand on the curb at a safe place for the bus to stop and raise your hand to get the operators attention.”

McDonald says Saskatoon Transit is thankful to have SGI as a partner again this year to provide free service.

“Impaired driving is 100 per cent preventable and there is always a better option than getting behind the wheel if you have been drinking,” says Tyler McMurchy, Media Relations Manager for SGI.  “If your New Year’s Eve plans involve alcohol, take the bus for free with Ding in the New Year or make other plans for a safe, sober ride home.”  

Following an extensive veterinary examination of injuries sustained from another animal in his elk herd, the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo had the sad responsibility on Tuesday of euthanizing one of the elk by the name of Winston. 

“We are all heartbroken by this,” says Tim Sinclair-Smith, Zoo Manager.  “We noticed Winston displayed some lameness and discovered he’d been injured near the right shoulder – likely by a kick from one of the other animals in the herd.  This can happen among animals living in a herd – it’s unfortunate but something that just occurs in nature.”

When staff noticed Winston wasn’t himself, they undertook several examinations and transported him to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan for a more in-depth examination.

Following the examination and given a very grim prognosis, Sinclair-Smith and a panel of seven veterinarians met to make the decision to euthanize the elk.

“We simply did not want him to suffer any more,” he says.  “Winston was a very calm and well-mannered elk that won the hearts of all that cared for him.  We will miss Winston and we know that all who knew him will feel the loss.”