News Releases

“When it comes to safety in our work zones, we are pleased to report that we’ve had zero life-threatening incidents this year,” says Gardiner. “However, we continue to receive reports of drivers deliberately disregarding work zone signs and barriers, so the 2018 Respect Work Zones campaign will investigate new ways to reach those people.”

Since 2014, when the Building Better Roads program began, $224 million has been invested in Saskatoon’s most aggressive road construction program ever. The proposed 2018 Operating budget recommends another commitment of $61 million for the program.

“Significant progress has been made over the past four years and we would like to thank residents for their patience and cooperation. The Building Better Roads program will continue to dramatically improve the condition, safety and longevity of Saskatoon’s road network for years to come.”

For more information about projects completed in 2017 and the Building Better Roads program, please visit saskatoon.ca/betterroads. 

The Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) continues to take steps to improve safety and service for Saskatoon residents.  To meet these goals it plans to relocate Fire Station No. 5 from Central Avenue to the College Quarter at the University of Saskatchewan.

“What we want everyone to understand about the new service model is that it’s aimed at increasing safety and decreasing overlap between stations,” says Fire Chief Morgan Hackl. “Emergency services to the Sutherland, University and other nearby area neighbourhoods will be maintained, or even improved by the new location.”

Chief Hackl says the SFD is responsible for emergency response and protection for nearly $100 billion worth of buildings and assets.

The change comes as a result of a review of SFD operations leading to the development of a new service model to make response times even better for the entire City. The model aims to ensure that the delivery of services to citizens is done in the most effective and efficient way possible as the City looks to the future and how to provide emergency response service to a city of 500,000 residents.

“This is all part of good governance,” Hackl says. “Re-evaluating station locations allows us to concentrate on spending tax dollars effectively and efficiently while working toward meeting national standards for response times.”

Come-and-go information sessions for area residents and stakeholders will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on November 7 at the Sutherland School and on November 9 at the Saskatoon Field House.

A capital budget request of $8.79 million will be included in the City of Saskatoon’s 2018 Preliminary Corporate Business Plan & Budget for the relocated station. A request for $500,000 was previously approved for 2017.

Along with the relocation of No. 3 Station, Hackl says this relocation will mean a third station in Stonebridge won’t be necessary – saving the City $6 million in construction costs and $3 million each year in operating costs.

Saskatoon Land has been working with the University of Saskatchewan to identify an adequate site for Fire Station No. 5 within the College Quarter that would assist the Fire Department in meeting national standards for response times. An announcement on the exact new location will be made when plans are finalized.

More information, including frequently asked questions and the history of Fire Station No. 5, is available at saskatoon.ca/NewServiceModel.

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.

From the October 23, 2017 Regular Meeting of City Council

8.1.1 Naming Advisory Committee Report – Third Quarter 2017

Decision

*City Council approved the recommendation to rename a portion of Victoria Park, ‘Reconciliation Circle.

Additional Information

*According to Naming of Civic Property and Development Areas Policy No. C09-008 (Naming Policy), all names proposed for the Names Master List will be screened by the Naming Advisory Committee and meet City Council’s guidelines for name selection. All requests for naming of roadways from the Names Master List will be selected or endorsed by His Worship the Mayor. Name suffixes are circulated through the Administration for technical review. At the May 18, 2017 meeting of the Naming Advisory Committee, a request was made to rename Victoria Park, or a portion thereof, to Reconciliation Park. At that time, the committee moved that further information be provided to consider a possible naming of a portion of Victoria Park.

8.1.6 Naming Major Projects – Amendments to Naming of Civic Property and Development Areas

Decision

*City Council approved the recommendations;

1. That the proposed amendments to Naming of Civic Property and Development Areas Policy No. C09-008 be approved; and

2. That Administration provide an attachment to the policy which would lay out the processes for naming major infrastructure and refer to the Naming Advisory Committee for review.

Additional Information

*During its January 25, 2016 meeting, City Council resolved, in part: “1. That City Council amend the naming policy process such that Council applies a name during the planning stages of major projects and that the Administration report back with specific wording.”

8.1.9 Vacant Lot and Adaptive Reuse Incentive Program

Decision

*City Council approved the recommendations;

1. That a five-year tax abatement up to 100% of the incremental taxes for the building and structured parking to be developed at 309 22^nd Street East, be approved; and
2. That the five-year tax abatement take effect in the taxation year following completion of the project; and

Additional Information

*The Vacant Lot and Adaptive Reuse Incentive Program is designed to encourage infill development on vacant and underutilized sites and buildings within Saskatoon’s established neighbourhoods, including the Downtown. During its June 23, 2014 meeting, City Council approved amendments to the Vacant Lot and Adaptive Reuse Incentive Program to include new incentives for offices and structured parking in accordance with the City Centre Plan.

8.2.1 External Audit Services – Award for Request for Proposals

Decision

*City Council approved the recommendation that the proposal submitted by Deloitte LLP for external audit services, at a total estimated cost of $205,000, plus applicable taxes be approved.

Additional Information

*As per The Cities Act (Section 159(1)), it is City Council responsibility to appoint an auditor for the City. The contract for external audit services for the City has expired. This service has been provided by Deloitte since 2002 after three contracts awarded through an RFP, the last one being in 2012. It is the City’s practice to issue an RFP for such services every five years. In continuation of that practice, an RFP was issued on March 31, 2017 with a closing date of May 12, 2017.

Waste Bylaw Amendments

Decision

*City Council approved the recommendation that Bylaw No. 8310, The Waste Bylaw, 2004 be amended as outlined in the report of the A/General Manager, Corporate Performance Department, dated October 10, 2017 to improve education and enforcement opportunities in the community.

Additional Information

*On May 3, 2004, City Council approved the creation of Bylaw No. 8310, The Waste Bylaw. On December 1, 2016, City Council approved the ‘Fees for Waste-Related Services 2017, 2018, 2019’ report which included amendments to The Waste Bylaw. These amendments included updates to the Rate Schedules for Landfill Fees, Commercial Garbage Collection, Residential Recycling Programs and Compost Depot Commercial Haulers.

8.3.4 Wastewater Treatment Plant – Cogeneration System Project

Decision

*City Council approved the recommendations;

1. That Capital Project #1247 – WWT – Energy Recovery and Capital Project #2211 – WWT – Electrical Redundancy be cancelled at this time; and
2. That the remaining previous approvals of $9.745 million from Capital Project #1247 – WWT – Energy Recovery and Capital Project #2211 – WWT – Electrical Redundancy be transferred to Capital Project #2579 – WWT – Digester Tank 4.

Additional Information

*Studies investigating the viability of energy recovery at the WWTP were completed by third party reviewers in 2007, 2008, and 2010. Each report concluded the potential for cogeneration to offset electricity and natural gas demands was attainable. Capital funding was commenced to implement cogeneration as part of electrical redundancy and energy recovery at the plant, with the additional environmental benefit of utilizing biogas and reducing electrical demand at the plant.

8.3.6 Update – North Commuter Parkway Bridge – Bridge Naming Engagement Process

Decision

*City Council accepted the recommendation that the report of the A/General Manager, Corporate Performance Department dated October 10, 2017, be received as information.

Additional Information

*On June 22, 2015, City Council directed the Administration to identify responses and financial implications of the TRC Calls to Action. City Council also 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. On July 21, 2016, City Council unanimously voted in favour of engaging the community in naming the North Commuter Parkway Bridge in recognition of the TRC’s calls to action, specifically #79 which is ‘Participate in a strategy to commemorate Aboriginal peoples' history and contributions to Canada.’ The process undertaken to propose a name for the NCP Bridge will be community driven, building on the community reconciliation process and Aboriginal Elders will guide the Aboriginal Cultural and Spiritual processes for the naming process. City Administration has gathered key community members to form the Steering Committee to determine and carry out a community-led process for naming the North Commuter Parkway Bridge (NCP). The Steering Committee includes representatives from City Administration, the Office of the Treaty Commissioner (OTC), Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC), Central Urban Métis Federation Incorporated (CUMFI) and the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN).

8.3.7 Special Needs Garbage Collection Service

Decision

*City Council passed the recommendations;

1. That through the Waste Utility consultation, the Administration engage with relevant stakeholders such as senior and disability services organizations as well as the Saskatoon Accessibility Advisory Committee to address accessibility needs as well as any updates required to the Special Needs Garbage Collection Service; and
2. That the report of the A/General Manager, Corporate Performance Department, dated October 10, 2017 be forwarded to the Saskatoon Accessibility Advisory Committee for information; and
3.  That the Administration report at 2018 budget deliberations outlining the potential for and impact of accepting new applicants to the Special Needs Garbage Collection Service for the interim term prior to the results of the Waste Utility consultation and resulting updated Waste Management and Services implementation.

Additional Information

*City Council at its 2016 Preliminary Business Plan and Budget meeting held on November 30 and December 1, 2015, considered the report Services and Accommodations for Seniors and Residents with Physical Limitations – Options and Possible Partnerships and resolved, in part: “That a marketing promotion campaign, like the Snow Angel Program, with a focus on neighbours helping neighbours with moving their garbage/recycle bins, including the establishment of a process for groups to be on a list for providing a low-cost fee for service in assisting with moving bins be approved, with an increase to the budget of $12,000.” City Council, at its meeting held on September 25, 2017, considered the Waste Handling Levels of Service report and resolved, in part: “That all other service level changes be considered during the development and implementation of waste utility options.”

8.4.1 Infill Lane Paving Requirements

Decision

*City Council requested that whereas infill development continues to lag behind the growth plan and the paving policy is likely to de-incentivize small and medium buildings:

a. That, as part of permanent policy development, further study be done to investigate expanding the density bonus system to incentivize infill development in areas beyond the downtown district;

b. That the Administration report back on the environmental impact of lane-paving as part of its climate change business plan; and

c.  That the Administration report back how the above will support the Growth Plan, as it pertains to infill.

Additional Information

*City Council, at its meeting held on June 26, 2017, received an informational report entitled Measures to Incentivize Infill Development, from the General Manager, Community Services Department. This report provided an overview of the various initiatives underway to support the City of Saskatoon’s infill targets, and the implementation of both the Growth Plan to Half a Million and City Centre Plan. In all new development areas, lanes are paved and developers fund the cost of lane paving. Because infrastructure costs can be spread across all benefiting property owners and included in the price of the lot, there is a funding mechanism in place that does not require input from the mill rate. Infill developments in existing neighbourhoods with gravel lanes do not have such a funding mechanism in place. It is anticipated the round table process will provide valuable input for the Administration to use in developing a formal paved lane policy that aligns with a greater infill strategy, but until that time no formal policy exists.

8.5.5 Capital Project to Support City Council’s 10 Strategic Priority Areas

Decision

*City Council accepted the report recommending;

1.       That a capital project for $50,000 be created to support the leadership of members of City Council in their assigned priority areas for consideration during the 2018 Business Plan and Budget Deliberations;

2.       That the recommended funding for this project be the Reserve for Capital Expenditures; and

3.       That the authority to approve the spending requests from this project made by members of Council be delegated to the Governance and Priorities Committee. 

Additional Information

*City Council, at its meeting held on April 24, 2017 resolved, in part, “3. That Council Member Leads be empowered to take a leadership role in citizen and stakeholder engagement in the 10 priority areas.” Additionally, in this report presented to City Council for its meeting on April 24, 2017, it was stated that the Mayor’s Office would consult with Councillors and Administration to develop a budget to support the leadership initiative of City Council and the work of the members of City Council within their assigned priority area.

9.5.1 2018 Preliminary Business Plan and Budget

Decision

*City Council passed the recommendations;

1. That the meeting agendas for the Standing Policy Committees leading up to City Council’s Budget Deliberations include “2018 Preliminary Business Plan and Budget” as a standing agenda item to allow for discussion and comment;

2. That the Administration report back on the current tax agreement with the Saskatoon Airport Authority and other potential options, including information on other municipalities;

Additional Information

*At its September 18, 2017 meeting, the Governance and Priorities Committee considered the 2018 Business Plan and Budget Update report which outlined a projected property tax increase of 4.96% for 2018.

From the October 23, 2017 Public Hearing Meeting of City Council

Decision

*City Council approved the following proclamations and flag raising requests;

6.1 Republic Day in Turkey – Proclamation and Flag Raising Request.

6.2 Global Entrepreneurship Week – Flag Raising Request.

6.3 United Nations Day – Proclamation and Flag Raising Request.

6.4 Adoption Awareness Month – Proclamation Request.

6.5 Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign – Flag Raising Request.

6.6 Restorative Justice Week – Proclamation and Flag Raising Request.

6.7 Veterans Week – Proclamation and Flag Raising Request.

Today, the City of Saskatoon officially started community engagement for the implementation of its Plan for Growth with Mayor Charlie Clark launching the first of a series of videos entitled Let’s Talk Growth.  As the City heads into implementation for its Plan for Growth, this video series emphasizes the importance of continuing a city-wide conversation about the implementation of the Plan for Growth and what it will take to welcome an additional 250,000 people to Saskatoon in the coming decades.

Mayor Clark acknowledged the importance of this infrastructure investment for Saskatoon’s future, noting that the City and the Government of Canada will share in a total contribution of $7.65 million towards the current Plan for Growth projects through the Public Transportation Infrastructure Fund (PTIF).

Following the Mayor’s remarks, the City provided updates on its current plan for growth initiatives.  As part of this update, Director of Planning & Development, Lesley Anderson, noted that the City and its partners are currently planning monthly engagement opportunities for residents and stakeholders that will begin in November leading up to a major public engagement event in March 2018.

The City and the Government of Canada will share in a total contribution of $7.65 million towards the current Plan for Growth projects through the Public Transportation Infrastructure Fund (PTIF).

Quotations:

“The Government of Canada recognizes how important it is for transit infrastructure to keep pace with community development. By investing in Saskatoon’s public transportation, we are helping create sustainable solutions for future growth that meet citizens’ needs for years to come.” – The Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, on behalf of the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities.

“Everybody loves ideas when they’re at a 40,000 foot level, but when it actually starts to have an impact on a street, on a neighbourhood, on a block that’s when people really start to take an interest.  We’re there now as a City, which is why we’re taking the process of talking to and engaging with people very seriously.  We’re working to find the right balance, while recognizing that neighbourhoods and the City must change over time to stay financially, and environmentally sustainable.  Working together, I truly believe we have a chance to be known as the city that got it right, and that’s exciting for all of us!” – His Worship Charlie Clark, Mayor, City of Saskatoon

Video Link:

Watch the Let’s Talk Growth: October Conversation video on the City of Saskatoon’s YouTube Channel

Background:

At its April 25, 2016 meeting, Saskatoon City Council approved in principle the Growth Plan to Half a Million which includes plans for a re-envisioned transit system based around Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and infill at strategic locations in the city including downtown, the university endowment lands and along major transportation corridors.  Following this approval, the City created a Ten Year Action Plan to advance a number of the core initiatives identified in the Growth Plan to Half a Million.

The City and the Government of Canada will share in a total contribution of $7.65 million through the Public Transportation Infrastructure Fund for a number of the Plan for Growth projects including:

• Bus Rapid Transit / Transit Plan Implementation
• Corridor Growth
  • Transit Villages Concept Plans
  • Corridor Planning Program
  • Brownfield Renewal Strategy

The City is undertaking work to improve Transit shelters and bus stops along with significant upgrades to the sidewalks that connect people to Transit. The work is being partially funded by the federal government, who contributed $1.5 million through the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund. One of the objectives of the fund, which is administered by the province, is to improve the active transportation network of municipalities across the country.

“Getting people where they need to go safely, quickly and comfortably is essential to creating liveable and inclusive communities. I am pleased that work is underway on these important projects that will contribute to a safer and more accessible transit system in Saskatoon,” said the Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, on behalf of the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities.

“The Public Transit Infrastructure Fund will help Saskatoon make their local transportation network better for their citizens and visitors. The provincial government is pleased to administer the PTIF program and appreciates the support of the City of Saskatoon and the federal government for their funding contribution. The provincial government values this program being available to municipalities to improve the lives of Saskatchewan citizens,” said Government Relations Minister Larry Doke.

“Undertaking improvements to Transit stops and the sidewalks that lead to them, can mean the difference between choosing to use Transit or not,” says Jim McDonald, Director of Transit. “When we’re improving bus stops and shelters, and making the sidewalks smoother and easier to navigate, we’re improving the overall Transit experience.”

With input from the public via its recent Bus Stop Blues campaign, Saskatoon Transit received over 40 location submissions on areas that would benefit from improvements. A listing of the improvements that are being implemented can be found at SaskatoonTransit.ca.

Sidewalks are being upgraded or installed at 20 locations around the city and a complete listing of these locations can be found at saskatoon.ca/BetterRoads (under Related Documents). An additional 247 sidewalk ramps – which connect sidewalk to roadway – are being installed at 124 locations across the city. The locations for sidewalk improvements were identified based on connectivity to Transit. Additional considerations included public input, Neighbourhood Traffic Review recommendations, and locations where there are no sidewalks on either side of the road (versus on one side).

The total investment in these improvements, including the Government of Canada and City contributions, is $3.03 million. 

The City is undertaking work to improve Transit shelters and bus stops along with significant upgrades to the sidewalks that connect people to Transit. The work is being partially funded by the federal government, who contributed $1.5 million through the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund. One of the objectives of the fund, which is administered by the province, is to improve the active transportation network of municipalities across the country.

“Getting people where they need to go safely, quickly and comfortably is essential to creating liveable and inclusive communities. I am pleased that work is underway on these important projects that will contribute to a safer and more accessible transit system in Saskatoon,” said the Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, on behalf of the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities.

“The Public Transit Infrastructure Fund will help Saskatoon make their local transportation network better for their citizens and visitors. The provincial government is pleased to administer the PTIF program and appreciates the support of the City of Saskatoon and the federal government for their funding contribution. The provincial government values this program being available to municipalities to improve the lives of Saskatchewan citizens,” said Government Relations Minister Larry Doke.

“Undertaking improvements to Transit stops and the sidewalks that lead to them, can mean the difference between choosing to use Transit or not,” says Jim McDonald, Director of Transit. “When we’re improving bus stops and shelters, and making the sidewalks smoother and easier to navigate, we’re improving the overall Transit experience.”

With input from the public via its recent Bus Stop Blues campaign, Saskatoon Transit received over 40 location submissions on areas that would benefit from improvements. A listing of the improvements that are being implemented can be found at SaskatoonTransit.ca.

Sidewalks are being upgraded or installed at 20 locations around the city and a complete listing of these locations can be found at saskatoon.ca/BetterRoads (under Related Documents). An additional 247 sidewalk ramps – which connect sidewalk to roadway – are being installed at 124 locations across the city. The locations for sidewalk improvements were identified based on connectivity to Transit. Additional considerations included public input, Neighbourhood Traffic Review recommendations, and locations where there are no sidewalks on either side of the road (versus on one side).

The total investment in these improvements, including the Government of Canada and City contributions, is $3.03 million.

From the October 16, 2017 Meeting

7.2.1 2018 Preliminary Business Plan and Budget

Decision

*The Committee decided;

1. That the information be received and referred to City Council’s 2018 Preliminary Business Plan and Budget meeting for consideration; and
2. That the Governance and Priorities Committee recommend to City Council:

a) That the meeting agendas for the Standing Policy Committees leading up to City Council’s Budget Deliberations include “2018 Preliminary Business Plan and Budget” as a standing agenda item to allow for discussion and comment; and

b) That the Administration report back on the current tax agreement with the Saskatoon Airport Authority and other potential options, including information on other municipalities.

Background

*At its September 18, 2017 meeting, the Governance and Priorities Committee considered the 2018 Business Plan and Budget Update report which outlined a projected property tax increase of 4.96% for 2018.

9.1 Capital Project to Support City Council’s 10 Strategic Priority Areas

Decision

*The Committee decided that a report be submitted to City Council recommending:

1.       That a capital project for $50,000 be created to support the leadership of members of City Council in their assigned priority areas for consideration during the 2018 Business Plan and Budget Deliberations;

2.        That the recommended funding for this project be the Reserve for Capital Expenditures; and

3.       That City Council delegate to the Governance and Priorities Committee the authority to approve the spending requests from this project made by members of Council.

Background

*City Council, at its meeting held on April 24, 2017 resolved, in part, “3. That Council Member Leads be empowered to take a leadership role in citizen and stakeholder engagement in the 10 priority areas.” Additionally, in this report presented to City Council for its meeting on April 24, 2017, it was stated that the Mayor’s Office would consult with Councillors and Administration to develop a budget to support the leadership initiative of City Council and the work of the members of City Council within their assigned priority area.

9.2 Strategic Areas and Priorities Update: Environmental Sustainability – Councillors Gersher and Loewen

Decision

*The Committee agreed with the recommendation that the information be received.

Background

*On April 24, 2017, City Council formally adopted a new leadership model in which each member took on a leadership role for one of ten strategic areas: Community Safety and Wellness, Core Services, Downtown Development, Economic Development, Environmental Sustainability, Information Technology, Reconciliation, Inclusion and Diversity, Recreation, Culture and Leisure, Regional Planning, and Transportation.

Weather

Environment Canada ended a wind warning for Saskatoon early this morning.

A very intense low pressure system continues to move through central Saskatchewan today.

For the rest of the day, we can expect westerly winds at 40 km/h and gusts to 60 km/h this afternoon, diminishing to 30 km/h with gusts to 50 km/h before finally tapering off to 20 km/h overnight.

Parks & Urban Forestry

Parks received five calls last night. Two were urgent with trees down over roadways.

Parks crews have not reported any extensive damage and are confident they can handle the damage being reported so far.

Parks & Urban Forestry has 11 Arborists available to be assigned on a priority basis.

There are also three crews assisting with inspections as needed and collecting branches.

Pest Management staff will also assist with inspections along the MVA trail and Horticulture Technicians are checking pathways and play areas in parks for tree damage.

Post-event priorities include: assessing reported damage and responding to City trees that have failed and are presenting potential danger to the public and clearing trees blocking access to roadways and sidewalks.

Tree branches that have failed and are on the ground are less of a risk as compared to trees that are hanging over roadways and sidewalks.

Parks technicians assessing tree damage will be attaching bright orange “Storm Damage Assessment Notice” signs to trees that they have inspected.

These signs also say, “A Forestry Inspector has assessed this tree. Required work will be performed on a priority basis as staff and equipment become available.”

As usual, everyone is advised to be cautious near trees in parks and around the city.

To report damage to City-owned trees that have failed and are blocking roadways and sidewalks, please call 306-975-2890 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

After hours tree damage can be reported to the Saskatoon Customer Service line at 306-975-2476.

Trees on private property are the responsibility of the property owner and brush that is cleared as a result of private trees obstructing public sidewalks or roadways will be left on the adjacent private property for the owner to clean up.

Any elm branches must be disposed of at the Saskatoon landfill.

Saskatoon Light & Power

SL&P crews were kept busy through the night as a result of the wind.

The City power company had outages in Sutherland, Arbor Creek, Erindale,

Evergreen, Forest Grove and the Airport Industrial Area.

Tree contacts caused stress on lines, several wood power poles broke and street light poles were knocked over.

Power in the residential areas went out around 11:30 p.m. and was restored around 1:30 a.m... Two customers were still out of power this morning. 

SL&P has the necessary resources to handle any isolated calls of downed tree limbs or other issues arising out of the windstorm.

To report a tree limb contacting or threatening a Saskatoon Light & Power service line, please call 306-975-2621.

For a SaskPower service line please call 306-310-2220.

Service Alerts with regular updates will be issued if outages occur. As always, they will provide information about the cause of the outage and the anticipated time for restoration. 

Fire Department

Firefighters responded to a grass and brush fire in the RM of Corman Park.  This incident occurred and escalated as a direct result of the strong wind gusts.  Two engine companies, two brush trucks and one water tender were used to put down the flames.

Subsequently though, three crews had to be recalled to back-fill for the absence of three crews inside city limits.

There were a total of five incidents involving electrical hazards as a result of downed power lines.

Police

The Saskatoon Police Service had an increase in alarm calls as a result of the wind event. Police handled 24 alarm calls between 8 p.m. Tuesday and 7 a.m. Wednesday.

Typically during this same time period for the month of October, police handle 6 to 7 alarm calls on a Tuesday night into the Wednesday morning hours.

Roadways & Operations

R&O will have crews available for debris pick up on roads. As usual, the Customer Service Center is available to receive calls and dispatch work around-the-clock at 306-975-2476.

From the October 10, 2017 Standing Policy Committee on Transportation
7.1.3 Infill Lane Paving Requirements

Decision

*The Committee carried a motion to recommend to City Council:

1. That the Administration report back to the next meeting of the Standing Policy Committee on Transportation what the effect would be to discontinue charging alley paving fees for infill until a permanent policy is in place;
2. That whereas infill development continues to lag behind the growth plan and the paving policy is likely to de-incentivize small and medium buildings, that the Standing Policy Committee on Transportation recommend to City Council:
3. That, as part of permanent policy development, further study be done to investigate expanding the density bonus system to incentivize infill development in areas beyond the downtown district;
4. That the Administration report back on the environmental impact of lane-paving as part of its climate change business plan; and
5. That the Administration report back how the above will support the Growth Plan, as it pertains to infill.

Background

*City Council, at its meeting held on June 26, 2017, received an informational report entitled Measures to Incentivize Infill Development, from the General Manager, Community Services Department. This report provided an overview of the various initiatives underway to support the City of Saskatoon’s infill targets, and the implementation of both the Growth Plan to Half a Million and City Centre Plan. In all new development areas, lanes are paved and developers fund the cost of lane paving. Because infrastructure costs can be spread across all benefiting property owners and included in the price of the lot, there is a funding mechanism in place that does not require input from the mill rate. Infill developments in existing neighbourhoods with gravel lanes do not have such a funding mechanism in place. It is anticipated the round table process will provide valuable input for the Administration to use in developing a formal paved lane policy that aligns with a greater infill strategy, but until that time no formal policy exists.

7.1.4 Sid Buckwold Bridge Walkway Widening

Decision

*The Committee agreed that the report of the General Manager, Transportation & Utilities Department dated October 10, 2017, be received as information.

Background

*At its meeting held on November 28, 2016, City Council approved the award of engineering services to Stantec Consulting Ltd. for completion of the design and construction services for rehabilitation of the Sid Buckwold Bridge. The Standing Policy Committee on Transportation, at its meeting held on June 16, 2017, resolved: “That the Administration report back on adding design work on the pedestrian walkway of the Sid Buckwold Bridge in order to modify the walkway, in conjunction with the 2019 rehabilitation project, in support of the Active Transportation Plan.”

7.2.1 Right-of-Way Temporary Use Fees

Decision

*The Committee carried a motion to recommend to City Council:

1. That the proposed fees for temporary use of the Right-of-Way be approved; and
2. That the City Solicitor be requested to prepare the appropriate bylaw amendment to Bylaw No. 7200, The Traffic Bylaw.

Background

*City Council, at its meeting held on April 24, 2017, considered the report Amendments to Bylaw 7200, The Traffic Bylaw – Right-of-Way Fees and Fines and resolved, in part: “4. That the Administration enter into discussions with stakeholders related to the fees for Right-of-Way usage and report to the Standing Policy Committee on Transportation before the end of 2017.”

7.2.4 Inquiry – Former Councillor P. Lorje (March 3, 2014) Time Restrictions for Parking Turnover in Residential Neighbourhoods

Decision

*The Committee carried forward motions to recommend to City Council:

1. That the Administration report back on the possibility of extending the time limit for parking in residential areas, while stipulating there will be an exemption for operational services levels; and
2. That the Administration report back on the opportunity to apply for an exemption for a finite period of time.

Background

*The following inquiry was made by Former Councillor P. Lorje at the meeting of City Council held on March 3, 2014: “Will the Administration please review the requirement for parking turnover of private vehicles in residential neighbourhoods. Currently cars have to be moved at least every 36 hours. This poses a difficulty for people who wish to park their Inquiry – Former Councillor P. Lorje (March 3, 2014) Time Restrictions for Parking Turnover in Residential Neighbourhoods Page 2 of 4 car and go away for the weekend. Can consideration be given to lengthening the time restriction to 48, 60 or 72 hours.” At its meeting held on June 12, 2017, the Standing Policy Committee on Transportation considered the Street Cleaning and Sweeping Service Level report and resolved: “That the Standing Policy Committee on Transportation recommend to City Council Budget Deliberations, Option 1 of the report of the General Manager, Transportation & Utilities Department dated June 12, 2017, which is an increase to the annual budget allocation to meet the current service level.”

7.2.5 College Drive Speed Limit

Decision

*The Committee carried a motion to recommend to City Council that a speed limit of 80 kph on College Drive, from a point 100 meters east of Preston Avenue to the end of the College Drive and McOrmond Drive interchange, be established.

Background

*City Council at its meeting held on March 23, 2015, approved a report from the General Manager, Transportation & Utilities Department to change the classification of College Drive, between the CPR tracks and the city limits, to Urban Expressway in order to improve connectivity into the Holmwood Sector. Establishing the classification of the roadway and speed limit in advance is required to proceed with design of the interchange. A speed limit of 90 kph is being recommended for this purpose.

7.2.6 Complete Streets Design and Policy Guide

Decision

*The Committee agreed to recommend to City Council:

Background

*The Growth Plan was approved in principle by City Council in 2016. The directions of the Growth Plan provide guidance for civic investments in infrastructure and support programs over the short, medium, and long-term that will shape growth patterns and increase transportation choices, in order to achieve the social, economic, and environmental aspirations of the community. The Guide is a supporting document of the original Growth Plan work.

1. That the Complete Streets Design and Policy Guide be adopted in principle; and
2. That the Administration proceed with preparing a Council Policy based on the Complete Streets Design and Policy Guide provided in this report; and
3. That the implementation plan be approved.

From the October 10, 2017 Standing Policy Committee on EU&CS

7.1.2 Special Needs Garbage Collection Service

Decision

*The Committee agreed to recommend to City Council;

1. That through the Waste Utility consultation, the Administration engage with relevant stakeholders such as senior and disability services organizations as well as the Saskatoon Accessibility Advisory Committee to address accessibility needs as well as any updates required to the Special Needs Garbage Collection Service; and
2. That the report be forwarded to the Saskatoon Accessibility Advisory Committee for information.

Background

*City Council at its 2016 Preliminary Business Plan and Budget meeting held on November 30 and December 1, 2015, considered the report Services and Accommodations for Seniors and Residents with Physical Limitations – Options and Possible Partnerships and resolved, in part: “That a marketing promotion campaign, like the Snow Angel Program, with a focus on neighbours helping neighbours with moving their garbage/recycle bins, including the establishment of a process for groups to be on a list for providing a low-cost fee for service in assisting with moving bins be approved, with an increase to the budget of $12,000.” City Council, at its meeting held on September 25, 2017, considered the Waste Handling Levels of Service report and resolved, in part: “That all other service level changes be considered during the development and implementation of waste utility options.”

7.2.3 Update – North Commuter Parkway Bridge – Bridge Naming Engagement Process

Decision

*The Committee accepted the recommendation that the report of the A/General Manager, Corporate Performance Department dated October 10, 2017, be forwarded to City Council for information.

Background

*On June 22, 2015, City Council directed the Administration to identify responses and financial implications of the TRC Calls to Action. City Council also 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. On July 21, 2016, City Council unanimously voted in favour of engaging the community in naming the North Commuter Parkway Bridge in recognition of the TRC’s calls to action, specifically #79 which is ‘Participate in a strategy to commemorate Aboriginal peoples' history and contributions to Canada.’ The process undertaken to propose a name for the NCP Bridge will be community driven, building on the community reconciliation process and Aboriginal Elders will guide the Aboriginal Cultural and Spiritual processes for the naming process. City Administration has gathered key community members to form the Steering Committee to determine and carry out a community-led process for naming the North Commuter Parkway Bridge (NCP). The Steering Committee includes representatives from City Administration, the Office of the Treaty Commissioner (OTC), Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC), Central Urban Métis Federation Incorporated (CUMFI) and the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN).

7.2.4 Waste Bylaw Amendments

Decision

*The Committee agreed to recommend to City Council:

1. That Bylaw No. 8310, The Waste Bylaw, 2004 be amended as outlined in the report of the A/General Manager, Corporate Performance Department, dated October 10, 2017 to improve education and enforcement opportunities in the community; and
2. That the City Solicitor be requested to prepare the appropriate amendment to Bylaw No. 8310, The Waste Bylaw, 2004. 

Background

*On May 3, 2004, City Council approved the creation of Bylaw No. 8310, The Waste Bylaw. On December 1, 2016, City Council approved the ‘Fees for Waste-Related Services 2017, 2018, 2019’ report which included amendments to The Waste Bylaw. These amendments included updates to the Rate Schedules for Landfill Fees, Commercial Garbage Collection, Residential Recycling Programs and Compost Depot Commercial Haulers.

7.2.5 Wastewater Treatment Plant – Cogeneration System Project

Decision

*The Committee agreed to recommend to City Council:

1. That Capital Project #1247 – WWT – Energy Recovery and Capital Project #2211 – WWT – Electrical Redundancy be cancelled at this time; and
2. That the remaining previous approvals of $9.745 million from Capital Project #1247 – WWT – Energy Recovery and Capital Project #2211 – WWT – Electrical Redundancy be transferred to Capital Project #2579 – WWT – Digester Tank 4.

Background

*Studies investigating the viability of energy recovery at the WWTP were completed by third party reviewers in 2007, 2008, and 2010. Each report concluded the potential for cogeneration to offset electricity and natural gas demands was attainable. Capital funding was commenced to implement cogeneration as part of electrical redundancy and energy recovery at the plant, with the additional environmental benefit of utilizing biogas and reducing electrical demand at the plant.