Guelph

The council addressed several administrative and operational items, including the appointment of a Closed Meeting Investigator, updates to procurement and outside water use by-laws, and the approval of a new fee structure for building permit applications. Key discussions focused on paramedic service response performance plans for 2027, the 2025 consolidated financial statements, and external audit findings. The council also considered the usage of City Hall as an overnight warming and cooling centre, downtown parking mitigation strategies, the Energy Equity Action Plan, and the Community Investment Strategy update. Additionally, the council approved the environmental assessment for McQuillan's Bridge and authorized various by-laws.

The council addressed several items, including a closed session regarding litigation and land acquisition. The council established a joint Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee for the 2026-2030 term and delegated authority for member selection to the City Clerk. Additionally, the council reviewed the 2025 year-end operating and capital budget monitoring reports, approving various surplus allocations and deficit funding, including transfers to reserve funds. Financial statements regarding reserves and debt were received, and the council directed the City Clerk to prioritize specific voting methods for the 2030 municipal election. Furthermore, the council resolved to request that the Province of Ontario amend the Ontario Heritage Act to extend the deadline for issuing Notices of Intent to Designate properties on municipal heritage registers, and approved various by-laws.

The Council convened to discuss the Affordable Housing Policy Program. Key actions included directing staff to finalize the Vacant Home Tax By-law, with excess revenues allocated to the Affordable Housing Reserve. Council also directed staff to review Property Standards and Yard Maintenance fines and fees for repeat violations to improve compliance. Further approvals included establishing a licencing framework for a Rental Renovation By-law and proceeding with a Rental Replacement By-law, which will be supported by an Official Plan Amendment and Demolition control by-law amendment. Additionally, a specific by-law was approved under the Municipal Act.

The committee addressed several items, including a disclosure of pecuniary interest related to the McQuillan's Bridge Environmental Assessment. Key actions included the approval of heritage designation reports for 19 Dublin Street South, 29 Park Avenue, 65 McTague Street, and 70 Fountain Street East. Additionally, the committee nominated representatives to attend an upcoming Committee of the Whole meeting and received an update regarding the Ward Heritage District Plan.

The committee discussed the Victoria Road and Stone Road Environmental Assessment, focusing on ensuring safe passage for cyclists and improving detour signage. Additionally, the committee addressed the need for new pedestrian crossings near schools and community centers, recommending the alignment of bus stops with these crossings and the development of educational materials on the importance of marked crossings for students. Finally, staff provided announcements regarding the upcoming municipal election and the conclusion of the current committee term.