Minutes of Committee of the Whole Meeting

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Council Chambers
Guelph City Hall, 1 Carden Street
Council:
  • Mayor C. Guthrie
  • Councillor P. Allt
  • Councillor C. Billings
  • Councillor L. Busuttil
  • Councillor L. Caron
  • Councillor E. Caton
  • Councillor K. Chew
  • Councillor D. Gibson
  • Councillor R. Goller
  • Councillor M. Richardson
Absent:
  • Councillor C. Downer
  • Councillor C. Klassen
Staff:
  • T. Baker, Chief Administrative Officer
  • C. Clack-Bush, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Public Services
  • J. Holmes, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Infrastructure, Development and Environment
  • G. Matthews, Acting Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Corporate Services
  • D. Evans, General Manager, Culture & Recreation
  • T. Gayman, General Manager, Engineering and Transportation Services
  • J. Goodram, General Manager, Economic Development & Tourism
  • S. O'Brien, General Manager, City Clerk's Office/City Clerk
  • J. Sales, General Manager, Strategy, Innovation and Intergovernmental Services
  • R. Russwurm, Manager, Design and Construction
  • S. Laughlin, Downtown Revitalization Advisor
  • G. Brennan, Council and Committee Coordinator
  • S. Osborn, Administrative Coordinator
  • A. Sandor, Council and Committee Coordinator

Mayor Guthrie called the meeting to order (12:04 p.m.).

Councillor Caron declared a pecuniary interest for item 2.5, 601 Scottsdale Drive Phase 2 – Development Charges Complaint - 2025-348, as the project land is owned by her employer.

  • Moved ByCouncillor Busuttil
    Seconded ByCouncillor Caton

    That the Council of the City of Guelph now hold a meeting that is closed to the public, pursuant to Section 239(2)(c)(d) and (f) of the Municipal Act, regarding a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board; labour relations or employee negotiations; and advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose.

    Voting in Favour: (10)Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Richardson, Councillor Busuttil, and Councillor Chew
    Carried (10 to 0)

2.1
Call to Order (closed meeting)

 

2.2
Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof (closed items)

 

2.3
Guelph Paramedic Station Lease Renewal at 34 Gordon Street - 2025-335

 

2.4
Centralization of Back-Office Support Functions Review - 2025-356

 

2.5
601 Scottsdale Drive Phase 2 – Development Charges Complaint - 2025-348

 

Mayor Guthrie called the meeting to order ( 2:04 p.m.).

Mayor Guthrie noted the following: 

Guelph Paramedic Station Lease Renewal at 34 Gordon Street - 2025-335

Council received information and gave direction to staff.

Centralization of Back-Office Support Functions Review - 2025-356

Council received information and gave direction to staff.

601 Scottsdale Drive Phase 2 – Development Charges Complaint - 2025-348

Council received information and gave direction to staff.

Councillor Caron declared a pecuniary interest for item 2.5, 601 Scottsdale Drive Phase 2 – Development Charges Complaint - 2025-348, as the project land is owned by her employer.

Councillor Caron recognized the City of Guelph for its achievements.

Mayor Guthrie recognized Kyle VanderMeer for their achievements.

Mayor Guthrie recognized environmental services staff for their achievements.

Mayor Guthrie recognized Liraz Fridman for their achievements.

  • Moved ByCouncillor Chew
    Seconded ByCouncillor Allt
    1. That report number 2025-270 entitled Administrative Penalty System for Automated Speed Enforcement and Red Light Camera Violations, be received.
    2. That Council approve the transition of Automated Speed Enforcement and Red Light Camera violations to an administrative penalty system, under and in accordance with the requirements of Ontario Regulation 355/22 made under the Highway Traffic Act, R.S.O. 1990, to take effect on or about January 1, 2026.
    3. That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute any necessary agreements with the Ministry of the Attorney General, Ministry of Transportation, and any other government agency that may be required to transition Automated Speed Enforcement and Red Light Camera violations to an administrative penalty system.
    4. That a new Administrative Penalty By-law for Contraventions Detected Using Camera Systems, substantially in the form attached as Attachment-1, be approved.
    5. That a by-law to amend By-law Number (2025)-21056, being the Screening and Hearing Officer By-law, substantially in the form attached as Attachment-2, be approved.
    6. That the City Solicitor be directed to update the policies, guidelines and procedures that apply to the administrative penalty system, as needed to give effect to the transition of Automated Speed Enforcement and Red Light Camera violations to an administrative penalty system, and make them publicly available on the City’s website.
    Voting in Favour: (10)Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Richardson, Councillor Busuttil, and Councillor Chew
    Carried (10 to 0)

The following delegates spoke:
James Nowak
Kinnery Chaparrel

  • First Motion
    Moved ByCouncillor Goller
    Seconded ByCouncillor Richardson
    1. That Council direct staff to consult with the Accessibility Advisory Committee and the "StopGap Foundation" to develop a recommended level of annual funding and implementation plan for a three-year project to increase the number of temporary accessible ramps at the entrances of businesses across the City of Guelph with a goal of improving access for people of all abilities, and
    2. That staff examine opportunities for local sponsorship opportunities for the initiative.
  • Second Motion
    Moved ByCouncillor Allt
    Seconded ByCouncillor Billings

    That the following motions be referred to the July 2025 Council meeting:

    1. That Council direct staff to consult with the Accessibility Advisory Committee and the "StopGap Foundation" to develop a recommended level of annual funding and implementation plan for a three-year project to increase the number of temporary accessible ramps at the entrances of businesses across the City of Guelph with a goal of improving access for people of all abilities, and
    2. That staff examine opportunities for local sponsorship opportunities for the initiative.
    Voting in Favour: (10)Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Richardson, Councillor Busuttil, and Councillor Chew
    Carried (10 to 0)

The following staff presented on Wyndham Street North and St. George's Square - Preparing for and mitigating construction (DTIRP Phase 1):
Jayne Holmes, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Infrastructure, Development and Environment
Reg Russwurm, Manager, Design and Construction
Stacey Laughlin, Downtown Revitalization Advisor

The following delegates spoke:
Barb Minett
Kevin Polach
Charles Nash

Council recessed (4:02 p.m.). Council reconvened (4:19 p.m.).

  • Authority to move into closed meeting
    Moved ByCouncillor Caron
    Seconded ByCouncillor Goller
    1. That the Council of the City of Guelph now hold a meeting that is closed to the public, pursuant to Section 239(2)(c) of the Municipal Act, regarding a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land by the municipality or local board.
    Voting in Favour: (10)Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Richardson, Councillor Busuttil, and Councillor Chew
    Carried (10 to 0)

    Closed Meeting Summary

    Mayor Guthrie called the meeting to order (4:51 p.m.).

    Mayor Guthrie noted the following: 

    Wyndham Street North and St. George's Square - Preparing for and mitigating construction (DTIRP Phase 1) - 2025-303

    Council gave direction to staff.


  • Main Motion
    Moved ByCouncillor Allt
    Seconded ByCouncillor Busuttil
    1. That the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program Capital Implementation Plan, 2025, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved.
    2. That the sequencing plan for Phase 1: Wyndham Street North Reconstruction including extended working hours, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved.
    3. That the recommended Concept Plan for St. George’s Square, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved.
    4. That the construction mitigation plan for Phase 1: Wyndham Street North Reconstruction, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved.
    5. That the delegation of authority by-law, By-law (2024) – 20994, be amended to delegate authority to the DCAO of Infrastructure, Development and Environment, with written approval from the City Treasurer, to modify the following user fees at various times as needed for the duration of the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program, with lost revenue being funded through the construction mitigation budget for the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program:
      - Seasonal patio program parking stall rental fees
      - Downtown hourly parking fees
      - Encroachment agreement fees related to the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program
    6. And that an amending by-law be brought forward for approval at the July 22, 2025, City Council meeting.
  • Amendments to clause 3 of Main Motion
    Moved ByCouncillor Goller
    Seconded ByCouncillor Richardson

    1.That staff be directed to include flexibility in the design of St. George’s square to allow for present and future seasonal patios and community events, including but not limited to:

    a)Consider that site furniture such as benches, chairs, and waste receptacles are designed and located to allow for easy reconfiguration or temporary removal to accommodate different uses and events.

    2.That staff be directed to integrate more natural materials and design elements that reflect the heritage and character of our downtown into the final design of St. George's Square including but not limited to:

    a)Use of stone, wood, or other natural finishes where feasible; including the use of the limestone in the city’s salvaged material storage,

    b)Incorporation of heritage-inspired features such as:
    signage or art that shares local history and indigenous stories, gateway features such as low stone walls, or planters that tie the space to the downtown's historical context, planting and landscaping with native species and that soften hard surfaces, brick or stone paving patterns that reflect traditional streetscape. 

    3.That staff provide council with final design updates (including a new main design image that can be used when sharing and telling the good news story about the redesign of our downtown) and present design details through future public engagement and online resources before the end of 2025.

    4.That staff report back on budget impacts, if applicable, associated with clauses 1 and 2, via either the 2026 budget monitoring process or the 2027 budget update.

    Councillor Gibson called a Point of Order, regarding the use of the word 'directed' in Councillor Goller's motion to amend clause three of the main motion. Mayor Guthrie acknowledged Councillor Gibson and encouraged discussion to continue.


  • Amendments to clauses 1 and 2 of the Amendment of clause 3 of the Main Motion
    Moved ByCouncillor Gibson
    Seconded ByCouncillor Busuttil
    1. That clauses 1 and 2 of the amendment to clause 3 of the main motion be revised to replace the word 'directed' with 'encouraged'.
    Voting in Favour: (9)Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Richardson, Councillor Busuttil, and Councillor Chew
    Voting Against: (1)Councillor Goller
    Carried (9 to 1)
  • Amendments to clause 3 of Main Motion
    Moved ByCouncillor Goller
    Seconded ByCouncillor Richardson

    1. That staff be encouraged to include flexibility in the design of St. George’s square to allow for present and future seasonal patios and community events, including but not limited to:

    a) Consider that site furniture such as benches, chairs, and waste receptacles are designed and located to allow for easy reconfiguration or temporary removal to accommodate different uses and events.

    2. That staff be encouraged to integrate more natural materials and design elements that reflect the heritage and character of our downtown into the final design of St. George's Square including but not limited to:

    a) Use of stone, wood, or other natural finishes where feasible; including the use of the limestone in the city’s salvaged material storage,

    b) Incorporation of heritage-inspired features such as:
    signage or art that shares local history and indigenous stories, gateway features such as low stone walls, or planters that tie the space to the downtown's historical context, planting and landscaping with native species and that soften hard surfaces, brick or stone paving patterns that reflect traditional streetscape. 

    3. That staff provide council with final design updates (including a new main design image that can be used when sharing and telling the good news story about the redesign of our downtown) and present design details through future public engagement and online resources before the end of 2025.

    4. That staff report back on budget impacts, if applicable, associated with clauses 1 and 2, via either the 2026 budget monitoring process or the 2027 budget update.

    Voting in Favour: (10)Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Richardson, Councillor Busuttil, and Councillor Chew
    Carried (10 to 0)
  • Main Motion as amended
    Moved ByCouncillor Allt
    Seconded ByCouncillor Busuttil
    1. That the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program Capital Implementation Plan, 2025, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved.
    2. That the sequencing plan for Phase 1: Wyndham Street North Reconstruction including extended working hours, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved.
    3. That the recommended Concept Plan for St. George’s Square, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved including the following:
      1. That staff be encouraged to include flexibility in the design of St. George’s square to allow for present and future seasonal patios and community events, including but not limited to:
        • Consider that site furniture such as benches, chairs, and waste receptacles are designed and located to allow for east reconfiguration or temporary removal to accommodate different uses and events.
      2. That staff be encouraged to integrate more natural materials and design elements that reflect the heritage and character of our downtown into the final design of St. George's Square including but not limited to:
        • Use of stone, wood, or other natural finishes where feasible; including the use of the limestone in the city’s salvaged material storage,
        • Incorporation of heritage-inspired features such as: signage or art that shares local history and indigenous stories, gateway features such as low stone walls, or planters that tie the space to the downtown's historical context, planting and landscaping with native species and that soften hard surfaces, brick or stone paving patterns that reflect traditional streetscape.
      3. That staff provide council with final design updates (including a new main design image that can be used when sharing and telling the good news story about the redesign of our downtown) and present design details through future public engagement and online resources before the end of 2025.
      4. That staff report back on budget impacts, if applicable, associated with clauses 1 and 2, via either the 2026 budget monitoring process or the 2027 budget update.
    4. That the construction mitigation plan for Phase 1: Wyndham Street North Reconstruction, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved.
    5. That the delegation of authority by-law, By-law (2024) – 20994, be amended to delegate authority to the DCAO of Infrastructure, Development and Environment, with written approval from the City Treasurer, to modify the following user fees at various times as needed for the duration of the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program, with lost revenue being funded through the construction mitigation budget for the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program:
      • Seasonal patio program parking stall rental fees
      • Downtown hourly parking fees
      • Encroachment agreement fees related to the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program
    6. And that an amending by-law be brought forward for approval at the July 22, 2025,  City Council meeting.

    This motion was requested to be voted on separately.


  • First Clause of Main Motion
    Moved ByCouncillor Allt
    Seconded ByCouncillor Busuttil
    1. That the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program Capital Implementation Plan, 2025, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved.
    Voting in Favour: (10)Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Richardson, Councillor Busuttil, and Councillor Chew
    Carried (10 to 0)
  • Second Clause of Main Motion
    Moved ByCouncillor Allt
    Seconded ByCouncillor Busuttil

    2. That the sequencing plan for Phase 1: Wyndham Street North Reconstruction including extended working hours, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved.

    Voting in Favour: (10)Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Richardson, Councillor Busuttil, and Councillor Chew
    Carried (10 to 0)
  • Third Clause of Main Motion, as amended
    Moved ByCouncillor Allt
    Seconded ByCouncillor Busuttil

    3. That the recommended Concept Plan for St. George’s Square, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved including the following:

      1. That staff be encouraged to include flexibility in the design of St. George’s square to allow for present and future seasonal patios and community events, including but not limited to:
        • Consider that site furniture such as benches, chairs, and waste receptacles are designed and located to allow for east reconfiguration or temporary removal to accommodate different uses and events.
      2. That staff be encouraged to integrate more natural materials and design elements that reflect the heritage and character of our downtown into the final design of St. George's Square including but not limited to:
        • Use of stone, wood, or other natural finishes where feasible; including the use of the limestone in the city’s salvaged material storage,
        • Incorporation of heritage-inspired features such as: signage or art that shares local history and indigenous stories, gateway features such as low stone walls, or planters that tie the space to the downtown's historical context, planting and landscaping with native species and that soften hard surfaces, brick or stone paving patterns that reflect traditional streetscape.
      3. That staff provide council with final design updates (including a new main design image that can be used when sharing and telling the good news story about the redesign of our downtown) and present design details through future public engagement and online resources before the end of 2025.
      4. That staff report back on budget impacts, if applicable, associated with clauses 1 and 2, via either the 2026 budget monitoring process or the 2027 budget update.
    Voting in Favour: (9)Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Allt, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Richardson, Councillor Busuttil, and Councillor Chew
    Voting Against: (1)Councillor Billings
    Carried (9 to 1)
  • Fourth Clause of Main Motion
    Moved ByCouncillor Allt
    Seconded ByCouncillor Busuttil

    4. That the construction mitigation plan for Phase 1: Wyndham Street North Reconstruction, as outlined in report 2025-303, dated July 8, 2025, be approved.

    Voting in Favour: (10)Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Richardson, Councillor Busuttil, and Councillor Chew
    Carried (10 to 0)
  • Fifth Clause of Main Motion
    Moved ByCouncillor Allt
    Seconded ByCouncillor Busuttil

    5. That the delegation of authority by-law, By-law (2024) – 20994, be amended to delegate authority to the DCAO of Infrastructure, Development and Environment, with written approval from the City Treasurer, to modify the following user fees at various times as needed for the duration of the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program, with lost revenue being funded through the construction mitigation budget for the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program:
    - Seasonal patio program parking stall rental fees
    - Downtown hourly parking fees
    - Encroachment agreement fees related to the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program

    Voting in Favour: (10)Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Richardson, Councillor Busuttil, and Councillor Chew
    Carried (10 to 0)
  • Sixth Clause of Main Motion
    Moved ByCouncillor Allt
    Seconded ByCouncillor Busuttil

    6. And that an amending by-law be brought forward for approval at the July 22, 2025, City Council meeting.

    Voting in Favour: (10)Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Richardson, Councillor Busuttil, and Councillor Chew
    Carried (10 to 0)
  • Second Motion
    Moved ByCouncillor Caton
    Seconded ByCouncillor Allt
    1. Wherever possible, the sidewalk height and slope should be raised to increase front door accessibility to buildings.
    Voting in Favour: (10)Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Allt, Councillor Billings, Councillor Caron, Councillor Caton, Councillor Richardson, Councillor Busuttil, and Councillor Chew
    Carried (10 to 0)

Council recessed (6:04 p.m.). Council reconvened (6:10 p.m.).

Councillor Alt assumed the Chair.

  • Moved ByMayor Guthrie
    Seconded ByCouncillor Busuttil
    1. That a one-time grant of $600,000 be approved for 2027 as financial investment towards Guelph Storm Limited, contingent on a successful bid in securing the 2027 Memorial Cup in Guelph.
    2. That a commitment of up to $100,000 of in-kind fees at Sleeman Centre associated with facility ice rental, licensing fees, and facility staff be approved for 2027, contingent on a successful bid in securing the 2027 Memorial Cup in Guelph.
    3. That the one-time grant of $600,000 and the in-kind commitment of up to $100,000 in facility costs for Sleeman Centre be funded from the Municipal Accommodation Tax Reserve (184) in 2027, if the Guelph Storm bid is successful for the 2027 Memorial Cup.
    4. That the Chief Administrative Office be directed to include a letter in the bid package confirming the 2027 financial investment and in-kind commitment at Sleeman Centre.
    5. That the Chief Administrative Officer be directed to formalize and execute an agreement, to the satisfaction of the City Solicitor, with Guelph Storm Limited that includes the particulars noted above and as outlined within the staff report entitled Guelph Storm 2027 Memorial Cup Bid, dated July 8, 2025.
    Voting in Favour: (7)Mayor Guthrie, Councillor Gibson, Councillor Goller, Councillor Billings, Councillor Richardson, Councillor Busuttil, and Councillor Chew
    Voting Against: (3)Councillor Allt, Councillor Caron, and Councillor Caton
    Carried (7 to 3)
  • Moved ByMayor Guthrie
    Seconded ByCouncillor Busuttil
    1. That the meeting be adjourned (6:27 p.m.).
    Carried