PRESENTATIONS

PRÉSENTATIONS

1. NATIONAL CAPITAL RACE WEEKEND

FIN DE SEMAINE DES COURSES DE LA CAPITALE NATIONALE

G01-06-05 MEM

John Halvorsen, Race Director and Jim Robinson, Event Manager introduced and familiarized committee about the Ottawa Race Weekend and discussed the significant business and economic impact of the race to the city. A copy of their presentation is held on file.

In response to questions posed about facilitating this and other events, the Deputy City Manager indicated that the Department has been working on an initiative based on an Event Central Concept lead by By-Law Services. Once a report is approved, staff would contact and categorize all annual events and contact organizers with a view to looking at potential barriers and to ensure services are in place. Such discussions may also include insurance and liability.

That the Health, Recreation and Social Services Committee receive this verbal report for information.

RECEIVED

2. PROPOSAL FOR MULTI-SERVICE FRANCOPHONE CENTRE IN WEST END

CENTRE MULTISERVICES FRANCOPHONE DE L’OUEST D’OTTAWA

G01-06-05 MEM

The following submission was received and is held on file:

1. Le Conseil des écoles catholiques de langue française du Centre-Est letter dated 5 May 2005.

Jérôme Tremblay, Ronald Saumure and Francine Levesque spoke on behalf of the Centre, noting that 45 Francophone partners are looking to put in place a new multi-service centre for the 21,000 Francophone citizens living in the west end. They spoke in detail about the progress achieved to date and discussed the feasibility study which demonstrated the need for services. A financing campaign to help raise the $2M required for this facility would be held in the fall of 2005. Their contribution would be 25% of the cost, with the hopes the senior and local levels of government would contribute the remaining percentage. At this time, however, their presentation is simply for information and to give the committee the opportunity review their proposed business plan. A copy of their presentation and supporting documentation is held on file.

Aaron Burry, Director of Parks and Recreation, advised that staff would undertake to conduct discussions with the organization as they would for any other organization seeking assistance.

Councillor Chiarelli asked the delegation to provide the same presentation at the June meeting of the Ottawa Library Board.

The following delegations spoke in support of the initiative:

Jean-Louis Schryburt, Acting Director General, ACFO urged the City to support the project, stating that it would promote Francophone culture in the west end of Ottawa, as well as increase the value of collective interests for the diverse Francophone community. He agreed with the presenters about the various needs for the centre and congratulated them for the quality of the progress they have achieved so far. A copy of his written submission is held on file.

Louis-Gabriel Bordeleau, French Language Services Advisory Committee expressed the sentiments of the FLSAC that a project of this nature would provide the equity and equality that is needed for citizens in the west end of the city. He suggested that the chronic absence of services offered in French is in a serious “catch up” phase and by ensuring that principles are applied, French-speaking will be dynamically expressed in a larger social context. The City’s support for this project would be recognition of the importance of ensuring its growth and its vitality.

Stephen Woolcombe, FLSAC urged committee to bear in mind that this is about equality of status and equal rights and privilege for English and French. The government of Canada is committed to enhancing the bilingual character of the National Capital Region.

Mark Farren, Vice-President, Dialogue Canada urged committee to support this initiative, pointing out that language is something you live and the challenge facing Ottawa is to welcome its Francophone residents in all its communities.

Georgette Montpetit stated that this centre would give the community a sense of nucleus and belonging and suggested that if the work of the organization is done well, the City must respond and put the project in its priorities and provide funding.

Andrée Myette, Communication Agent, Conseil des école publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario briefed committee on a letter of support from the President of the school board. She indicated that the need for this centre is essential because the number of Francophone residents is growing. She added that access to a French multi service centre in fields such as health, recreation and culture would bring better integration to the scholastic world and academic success socially and personally.

Adélie Ladouceur, President, Club soleil Francophone Centre-Ottawa Ouest Inc. advised that Club Soleil’s goal is to reunite as many elder Francophone citizens in the west end of Ottawa as possible because the Francophone population is growing and it is important to answer that demand. He mentioned that with the support of the government, corporations and the community itself, this project could be as successful and vital as those already existing in the east end.

Committee members recognized the gap this centre would help to fill for Francophones in the west end of the city. The comment was made that the need to provide services in French is a growing and emerging need in many parts of the city and steps must be taken to recognize the diversity of both official languages and all nationalities in Ottawa.

That the Health, Recreation and Social Services Committee receive this verbal report for information.

RECEIVED

COMMUNITY AND PROTECTIVE SERVICES

SERVICES COMMUNAUTAIRES ET DE PROTECTION

DEPUTY CITY MANAGER

DIRECTEUR MUNICIPAL ADJOINT

3. A CITY FOR ALL WOMEN INITIATIVE (CAWI)

INITIATIVE; UNE VILLE POUR TOUTES LES FEMMES

ACS2005-CPS-DCM-0002

Suzanne Doerge, Project Coordinator, CAWI gave a PowerPoint presentation on the overall goal to strengthen the capacity of full-diversity of women and to work in partnership with the City of Ottawa to create a more inclusive city and promote gender equality. She described the Initiative in detail, mentioned what has been achieved to date and listed the expected results in Year 2. A copy of the PowerPoint presentation is held on file. Also submitted and held on file are the following documents:

a. Women’s Lobby Kit: Diverse Women Influencing the City of Ottawa

b. Taking Women Into Account - Community Survey Results April 2004

c. Women’s Eyes on the Budget

d. An Integrated Approach to Gender-Based Analysis, Status of Women Canada

e. Increasing Women’s Participation in Municipal Decision-Making, FCM

Kim Trottier, Centre Francophone d’aide et de lutte contre les aggressions à caractère sexuel d’Ottawa (CALACS) addressed the diverse women’s organizations, especially Francophone women’s organizations that have to do more and more with fewer funds. She related how she participated in the Lobby Training sponsored by the Initiative and had the opportunity to review the Budget Directions Document enabling her to have input into the 2005 Budget. She urged Committee to support the recommendations and to listen to the views that diverse women bring to their attention.

Fantu Melesse, President, Ethiopian Community Association in Ottawa stated that many diverse women do not have the opportunity to participate in democratic processes and are not allowed to express their views freely. She believed the Initiative gives diverse women the energy to stand up and address issues to different politicians. She discovered while networking with other diverse women that they have similar concerns regarding specific challenges that women face in accessing good employment, safe and affordable housing, quality child care and a network of services for them and their families. She called upon City Managers and staff to work with the CAWI to integrate gender and diversity into city planning.

Valerie Collicott, Policy & Administrative Coordinator, Women’s Initiatives for Safer Environments (WISE) stated that WISE works with the City, diverse communities and all individuals to create safer physical and social environments in neighbourhood parks, workplaces, recreational pathways and schools. She spoke about two successful programs: Criminal Justice Roundtable Against Violence Against Women and the Victim’s Abuse Policy of the Employment and Financial Assistance Branch and was pleased to see that women and gender equality are now part of the Community Grant Funding criteria. Ms. Collicott asked that the City renew the partnership because specific needs in it’s Human Resource Plan need to be addressed and she hoped the City and the community could work together to implement gender inclusive practices and strategies which would fulfill the goals of Ottawa 20/20. A flyer regarding safety audits being conducted at Transit Stations in Ottawa was distributed and is held on file.

Jacqueline Nyiramukwende, Rwandese Community Association, Women’s Committee mentioned that in providing feedback to the Strategic Framework of the Community and Protective Services Department, they realized that the most-cost effective use of limited resources is to ensure the full-diversity of women and men are taken into account in consultation and planning. She urged Committee to support the recommendations in bringing and understanding gender and equality to city planning.

Councillor Feltmate referred to London, England’s equality program and wondered if that example could be used as a tool to help the City make decisions. She proposed the following:

That the City of Ottawa investigate the City of London, England’s Equality Program. This approach includes an overall framework of equality, an equality impact assessment tool; proposals on specific equality areas and progress reports.

Councillor Bédard asked whether the Federal Government’s Equity Assessment was something that could be referred to, rather than having to investigate a program initiated in England. Ms. Doerge believed there would be merit in examining both because London is a capital city and shares similarities with Ottawa. The councillor proposed adding “and other programs” for the City to investigate to the Motion. He posited that the City should not limit itself to one program and he knew the federal program was very effective and very extensive and is worth looking at. Councillor Feltmate accepted the amendment.

Shellie Bird, Health and Social Services Advisory Committee noted that the Initiative is a living example of the high level principles of the Ottawa 20/20 Smart Growth Plan. She stated that Ottawa residents desire a city that is developed to protect the quality of life for all and to ensure that citizens have the services and programs needed to reduce poverty and create opportunities for participation in the economic, social and political life of the city. She urged Committee to support the recommendations outlined in the report.

Linda Lalonde noted that the Poverty Issues Advisory Committee also strongly supports the recommendations because they recognize that to be from a diverse background increases the difficulties in participating in society and being a woman multiplies those difficulties. She commended the effective work done by CAWI especially around the budget because they accessed the community and worked collaboratively with the advisory committees.

In considering the Motion proposed, Councillor Doucet wondered if it was worth expanding it to include reference to allocating sufficient dollars for services for women. The Deputy City Manager, Steve Kanellakos indicated that first steps need to be implemented and data needs to be captured to measure the way services are utilized by different groups in the City. He explained that while he could provide small threads of information related to city services that are gender-based, most services cut across demographic and ethnic bounds and he could not pull them apart through the whole corporation without these first steps being in place.

Councillor Stavinga hoped that the City could integrate gender equality in detail at budget time and wished the message was forwarded to the City Manager and other Deputy City Managers. Mr. Kanellakos commented that the City Manager has made a commitment to Council in terms of reformatting the cycle, rolling in the corporate plan and other financial tools for the budget.

Moved by P. Feltmate

That the City of Ottawa investigate the City of London, England’s Equality Program and other programs. This approach includes an overall framework of equality, an equality impact assessment tool; proposals on specific equality areas and progress reports.

CARRIED

That Health, Recreation and Social Services Committee recommend to Council:

1. That the partnership between the City of Ottawa and City for All Women Initiative/Initiative une ville pour toutes les femmes be renewed with the aim of enabling the full‑diversity of women be included in City decision making.

2. That the City of Ottawa continue to assign 2-3 managers to participate in the Steering Committee and continue to allocate staff time to work with the initiative as needed.

3. That the City of Ottawa and Community and Protective Services, as the lead department, work with the City for All Women Initiative/ Initiative une ville pour toutes les femmes to ensure that the goal, of implementing practices and strategic plans that increase gender sensitivity and enhance gender equality, is realized.

4. That the City of Ottawa investigate the City of London, England’s Equality Program and other programs. This approach includes an overall framework of equality; an equality impact assessment tool; proposals on specific equality areas; and programs reports.

CARRIED, as amended

CULTURAL SERVICES AND COMMUNITY FUNDING

SERVICES CULTURELS ET FINANCEMENT COMMUNAUTAIRE

4. PROVINCIAL “BEST START” FUNDING FOR HEALTHY BABIES HEALTHY CHILDREN

INVESTISSEMENT DE FONDS PAR L’INITIATIVE PROVINCIALE « MEILLEUR DÉPART » AU PROGRAMME DE BÉBÉS EN SANTÉ, ENFANTS EN SANTÉ

ACS2005-CPS-HEA-0004

That the Health, Recreation and Social Services Committee recommend Council approve receipt of 100% funding from the Ministry of Children and Youth in the amount of $509,000.00.

CARRIED

EMPLOYMENT AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

EMPLOI ET AIDE FINANCIÈRE

5. ESTABLISHING A LOCAL APPLICATION SCREENING UNIT FOR ONTARIO WORKS AND OTHER EMPLOYMENT AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

CRÉATION D’UNE UNITÉ D’ÉVALUATION DES DEMANDES LOCALES POUR LE PROGRAMME ONTARIO AU TRAVAIL ET LES AUTRES PROGRAMMES D’EMPLOI ET D’AIDE FINANCIÈRE

ACS2005-CPS-EFA-0004

Linda Lalonde indicated her support for the program.

That the Health, Recreation and Social Services Committee recommend that Council approve the establishment of 18 full-time continuous positions within the Employment and Financial Assistance Branch, at no additional cost to the City, to staff the new Application Screening Unit that will be administered by the municipality effective June 2005.

CARRIED

HOUSING

LOGEMENT

6. HOUSING FIRST POLICY

POLITIQUE DE PRIORITÉ AU LOGEMENT

ACS2005-CPS-HOU-0001

The following submissions were received and are held on file:

a. D. Carr, Development Coordinator, CCOC/CAHDCO e-mail dated 4 May 05

b. B. Gifford, Gloucester Non Profit Housing Corporation e-mail dated 4 May 05

Russell Mawby, Director of Housing provided a brief overview of the report. The more salient points noted were as follows:

· there is a process currently in place to provide City-owned land for affordable housing through programs like Action Ottawa; the Housing First policy will address what happens to land that is sold outside of that process, so when there is no civic use identified, but the land is still being sold, 25% of the units must conform to the Official Plan (OP) targets for affordability;

· the policy would also improve the disposal process for getting land for Action Ottawa by undertaking a strategic review of all City-owned lands so the Corporation can plan and position the opportunities for development now and into the future.

In response to the two submissions received, and the suggested amendments to Appendix A that housing developed on the lands outside of the Action Ottawa process, be permanently affordable, Mr. Mawby indicated that it is better to deal with those matters on a case-by-case basis. He explained that there would be cost implications to putting that kind of a caveat on the sale of City-owned lands. And, as currently proposed, the policy would establish at least the baseline that the OP would be supported on an ongoing basis and anything above meeting those targets is always at the discretion of Council and does have to be weighed in the context of budget and cost.

In response to a question posed by Councillor Bédard to clarify the intent of the fifth bullet under Policy Description in Appendix A: “ensure that sufficient surplus City land or proceeds from sale of land are made available to achieve 200 of the Action Ottawa annual target of 500 units/year”, Mr. Mawby explained that this was what they felt was a reasonable target to aim for, based on what they think the availability of residential land would be. He suggested that if there is more land available to do more housing, then that amount would be higher. And, if a parcel of land is sold to the private market and it does not have any requirements for public uses, staff would expect that at least a portion of the proceeds of the sale of that property to be deposited in lieu of providing affordable housing to the OP targets.

When asked whether staff objected to the suggested amendments to Appendix A, the Director advised that if the Housing Branch identifies a parcel as a civic use and goes through the disposal process and makes it available through an RFP, the City would get long-term and permanent affordable housing as a result. Consequently, he was not comfortable inserting the recommended text as it relates to the properties that might get sold outside of the Action Ottawa process.

Linda Lalonde asked for a clarified definition of “affordable” because shelter costs should be defined as including not only rent or mortgage but also the cost of utilities. Also, and in discussions with the Poverty Issues Advisory Committee, they wanted the City to start looking at the use and acquisition for housing purposes of surplus lands from other levels of government and other public institutions, including school boards.

Councillor Cullen proposed the following:

Add to Appendix A, under Policy Description, the following:

· Ensure that the affordable housing created remains permanently affordable to the same or lower target income levels.

In response to this proposal, Mr. Mawby noted that the low-income housing developed through Action Ottawa would be permanently affordable and he inquired whether the Motion would also apply to the 25% target of affordable housing identified in the OP. The councillor confirmed this was his intention, emphasizing the need for “net” affordable housing. He wanted to ensure that what is developed as affordable housing, remains affordable. The Director indicated that on a case-by-case basis, Council can and should make those determinations and reminded committee there would be revenue implications to having that as a blanket policy to all sales of City-owned land. In response to additional questions, he believed that having this wording in the Policy would effectively tie staff’s hands and could diminish the return on the sale given that there is a competing mandate for RPAM (Real Property Asset Management) to maximize yields on land sales. Further, he assured committee that in the Action Ottawa program, permanent affordability would be achieved in the sense that the land would not get flipped because if it comes time to sell the property, the sale agreement would require that it be turned back to the City. This Motion, however, speaks to the land that would be sold outside of that program.

Doug McCaslin, Manager, Real Estate Services added that if the City sells a large parcel of land and requires a developer to comply with the 25% affordability, the challenge is that if the developer is creating homes to sell as opposed to rental housing it becomes difficult to monitor on an ongoing basis. He went on to explain that where it is rental housing and if the City insists on it being permanently affordable, it would have to offer the land at basically no cost and he suspected it would have a negative impact on the price the City would get for the property. Mr. Jacobs, Director of Planning, Environment and Infrastructure Policy echoed these concerns, stating that once land is in the hands of the private sector, it is much more difficult to manage the ongoing permanence unless there is some connection back to a publicly-sponsored/financed type of program.

Councillor Cullen believed it was a challenge for the City to honour its targets in the OP and commented that the affordability part is so weakly defined because it involves incomes going quite a level up and is not going to be affordable to people in the 20^th or 15^th income percentile. He recognized there is a lack of rental housing in the city and the only way the municipality is going to be able to provide affordable housing, is through rental housing. He believed that when there are targets, the City should ensure it has the tools to achieve those targets and he believed this amendment was a tool to do just that.

Councillor Stavinga suggested including the words “through Action Ottawa” to the Motion, to read as follows:

· Ensure that the affordable housing created through Action Ottawa remains permanently affordable to the same or lower target income levels.

Chair Holmes was concerned about the cost implications to the City if it were to buy back property when a lease or mortgage is expired. Mr. Mawby explained that the land would be bought back for the amount that was paid ($1) and there would be negotiation on the improved value with respect to the buildings on the site. Mr. McCaslin added that at the end of the lease term, and should the City choose to repatriate it, there are built-in conditions that if it ceases to become affordable, that the City claw back the value of what was given up front as incentives. The Chair argued however, that if the City does not protect the permanency of that affordable housing, the choice would be to buy back the buildings at market value which would be more expensive at that time. Mr. McCaslin confirmed this, but suggested that if it were done through Action Ottawa, the City can insist that it stay affordable. Mr. Mawby added that to date, projects in Action Ottawa have been on leased land and there is no action plan to address what happens when that lease expires. He confirmed that staff are trying to find mechanisms to ensure that housing built on City-owned lands stays affordable in the long run.

Given the discussion and the concerns surrounding the Motion, and recognizing there was no immediate urgency to deal with the item today, it was suggested that the item be referred back to staff to review the implications of permanency and the Motions presented and to report back to committee within a couple of months. The Chair asked that staff also consider an amendment to the fifth bullet under Policy Description in Appendix A to add “a minimum” to read as follows:

· Ensure that sufficient surplus City land or proceeds from sale of land are made available to achieve a minimum of 200 of the Action Ottawa annual target of 500 units/year.

Moved by J. Stavinga

That the item be referred to staff.

CARRIED

PUBLIC HEALTH AND LONG-TERM CARE

SANTÉ PUBLIQUE ET SOINS DE LONGUE DURÉE

7. NEW STAFFING FOR GARRY J ARMSTRONG LONG TERM CARE

NOUVEAUX POSTES AU CENTRE DE SOINS DE LONGUE DURÉE GARRY J. ARMSTRONG

ACS2005-CPS-LTC-0002

That the Health, Recreation and Social Services Committee recommend that Council approve the establishment of 8.0 FTEs for the Garry J. Armstrong Long Term Care Home at no net cost to the City.

CARRIED

PLANNING AND GROWTH MANAGEMENT

urbanisme et GESTION DE LA CROISSANCE

PLANNING, ENVIRONMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE POLICY

POLITIQUES D’URBANISME, D’ENVIRONNEMENT ET D’INFRASTRUCTURE

8. 2004 YEAR END REPORT ON THE PESTICIDE REDUCTION STRATEGY FOR PRIVATE PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF OTTAWA

RAPPORT DE FIN D’ANNÉE 2004 – STRATÉGIE DE LA VILLE D’OTTAWA CONCERNANT LA RÉDUCTION DE L’USAGE DES PESTICIDES SUR LES PROPRIÉTÉS PRIVÉES

ACS2005-PGM-POL-0029

The following submissions were received and are held on file:

1. Ottawa Environmental Coalition letter dated 1 April 05.

2. University of Ottawa letter dated 26 April 05.

3. Industry Task Force II On 2,4-D Research Data letter and background dated 2 May 05.

Dennis Jacobs, Director, Planning, Environment and Infrastructure Policy provided details on the 2004 year-end report on the Pesticide Reduction Strategy. A copy of his PowerPoint presentation is held on file.

Recognizing that there had been a Private Members Bill proposed at the federal level to reduce pesticide use, Councillor Chiarelli asked if staff had been in touch with the government to see what they plan to do regarding adopting this Bill, which would then make it a national piece of legislation. While staff had not been in contact with the senior level of government, Mr. Jacobs agreed to report back in the fall on this issue. With respect to the advertising campaign, the councillor believed it fell short of what it was intended to do, which was to give the public choices and options for their lawn care. Instead, he suggested the campaign simply promoted what was an acceptable looking lawn. Mr. Jacobs explained that the detailed information was provided through the City’s horticultural team as well as on their website. He agreed the Department would endeavor to provide further details through outreach and by improving the information on the website.

Councillor Cullen noted that since 2002, information had been provided by medical doctors on the harm caused by pesticides and he asked whether staff would factor such information into the fall report. Mr. Jacobs explained that staff would report on that information in the same way they would report on other feedback. Based on precautionary principles, the councillor inquired if the Medical Officer of Health believed a by-law is the correct way to proceed and Dr. Cushman supported this statement.

Councillor Feltmate asked what would be the difference in terms of moving more quickly to implement a by-law. Mr. Jacobs advised that staff are currently working under the direction of Council from 2002 and at the end of 2005 would report back on the by-law. In response to further questions posed by the councillor about whether or not to proceed with a by-law now, Mr. Jacobs explained that in order for this process to be successful, an educational campaign and a monitoring program are required to illustrate moving away from or getting closer to the proposed targets for pesticide use reduction. In this regard, he believed staff need to pursue this fully to get a better understand of the issue.

In response to questions posed by Chair Holmes, Mr. Jacobs confirmed that none of the other municipalities that have embarked on a pesticide reduction campaign have reached the 70% residential target through education alone.

Councillor Harder suggested that if the City’s own property was the showcase to prove the effective use of alternatives, then people might be more willing to support a ban. The Director agreed that the City needs to be a champion if it is going to be successful, but added that it does take time for initiatives such as the integrated turf management program to take effect. The committee recognized that the City does not spend enough on such a program.

The following three delegations spoke on behalf of the Ottawa Golf Coalition:

Ernie Ferne, Owner, Manderley Golf Course indicated that the Coalition was formed in 2004 to serve as a united voice to discuss and provide information to the City, golfers and the general public concerning the use of pesticides on golfing facilities. An immediate concern was raised with the 2002 recommendation for a 65% reduction on these courses. Mr. Fern stated that they have been reducing pesticide application for many years to the point where they only try to mitigate worst effects. He mentioned that golfing and related events have raised an estimated $5M for charities, hospitals, clubs, special needs and foundations annually, providing a strong contribution to the social, emotional, physical health and economic well-being of the city. He explained that they do not fit under any cosmetic ban because pesticides are used when necessary to produce and maintain healthy turf and as owners and operators, they do everything possible to reduce and eliminate the use of pesticides.

Eric Ruhs, Superintendent, Ottawa Hunt and Golf Club discussed six common misconceptions:

1. Golf courses apply pesticides liberally to all parts of the golf course - pesticides are expensive and courses cannot afford to apply them regularly. Fungicides are applied on a small portion of the property during the summer months, but only as a preventative measure. Water management and associated cultural practises is key to a successful turf.

2. Golf courses are against any form of anti-pesticide by-law - courses are strongly encouraging some form of pesticide control and applaud the City for its efforts. Golf Course Superintendents are educated in the use of the products and how to calibrate the application equipment.

3. Golf courses use pesticides for cosmetic purposes only - golf or putting greens are not maintained for aesthetics, the economic impact of poor turf conditions on a single green would be devastating.

4. All pesticides used on golf courses are dangerous to human health - 90% of the pesticides are fungicides that come from the fruit and vegetable industry and are regulated by Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA).

5. Any employee of the golf course can apply pesticides - only those that are licensed by the Ontario Government under the Pesticides Act may handle or apply pesticides.

6. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is only about pesticide management, not pesticide reduction and the golf courses do not take the program seriously - the program gives the turf management a step-by-step process for managing pest problems and is a more environmentally sound approach than a short-term chemical bullet.

Brian Bruni, General Manager, Rideauview Golf Club explained that the Coalition is committed to cooperate and maintain a long-standing, positive relationship with the City. He reiterated that pesticide reduction and the use of these products are only used within the context of integrated pest management as a tool of last resort. The Coalition has shared with staff, official “best practises” and “turf grass management expertise”. The golf industry supports turf grass research with both financial and technical support and agreed that pesticides are used as a tool and not for cosmetic purposes.

A copy of their joint presentation is held on file.

In response to a question posed by Councillor Cullen about how other municipalities have adopted a pesticide by-law dealing with golf courses, Mr. Ferne indicated that exemptions are given and reporting and monitoring data are asked where the ban protects the assets of the course. Mr. Jacobs acknowledged their desire to cooperate and he saw no reason why something could not be implemented.

In response to a number of questions posed by Councillor Harder relating to the business of golf, Mr. Ruhs explained that the greens and playing surfaces are the essence of the golf industry and without them, they would not be able to compete with other courses. He added that the province has not yet defined cosmetic vs. the cost of doing business, but they ensure that the industry follow guidelines under the Pesticides Act in how pesticides are handled, stored and applied. Also, the province has the authority to audit any facility to ensure courses comply with the Act.

In response to a comment from Councillor Brooks relating to exemptions, Mr. Jacobs cited the different exemptions that do not include golf courses. It was noted that pesticide reduction requirement for golf courses and bowling greens would be examined.

Chair Holmes asked that the fall report include the results of increased prostate cancers in men linked to organic phosphates.

John Sankey, Chair, Health Dangers of Urban Use in Pesticides referred to their failure to convince people that if it could be proven that applying pesticides can harm people with severe health conditions, then they would voluntarily not apply them to their lawns. He recognized the need for a by-law now, beginning this year, especially since the last two years have been spent on education. Therefore, the remaining six months could be treated as a phase-in period.

Frances McInnes, Alta Vista Environmental Network indicated that they work to improve the environmental health of the public. She commented that pesticide use has increased and a by-law is needed to ban the cosmetic use of synthetic chemical pesticides. She recalled that (DTT) DEET used to be considered safe and gave examples of the dangers of people using pesticides. She believed that a by-law was needed to protect the community from the aggressive advertising of the industry, particularly those who are environmentally sensitive.

Dr. Meg Sears, Coalition for a Healthy Ottawa spoke about how pesticides are affecting more than the immediate area they are applied to because they get washed into watercourses, thereby affecting aquatic species. She felt that the reduction targets would not be met in a meaningful way and noted that many of them are being missed. She mentioned that a survey conducted by the City asked how many people used pesticides, but it did not ask how much was used at each application. She indicated that five tonnes of pesticides are being put on lawns each year by one particular lawn care company and the industry has taken the position that as long as that five tonnes does not increase more than 73 tonnes, they would be within the Council-approved target. She noted that while education is important to help achieve the targets, it would appear that such education has been a waste of time. The CHO recommends that Council:

1 Enact a pesticide by-law to come in force in 2006.

2 Continue a public education campaign regarding pesticides and sustainable landscaping practices.

3 Request the province to pass a Pesticide Code similar to Quebec’s which would restrict sales and non-essential use of toxic chemicals.

A copy of her submission is held on file.

In response to questions posed by Councillor Cullen, Dr. Sears stated that golf course owners should lead the way and ensure they are doing things that will work. Accountability is important and a longer phase in period would be appropriate. With respect to the position of the PMRA, Dr. Sears indicated that there have been complaints to the Minister of Health regarding 2-4-D. She added that when the concern was made, they were making a statement based on a lengthy report but it was precluded before the industry had provided sufficient data. She believed there should be further assessment with respect to dioxins.

Janet Parry, Council of Women indicated they have been concerned about pesticides for over 20 years, especially 2,4-D and dioxins, and are alarmed about the balance of safety related to soft tissue cancers around golf courses. She mentioned that they rely on warnings issued by expert agencies such as the Ontario College of Family Physicians, the Canadian of Physicians for the Environment, and the International Joint Commission on the Great Lakes that provide information on pesticides. She suggested getting away from cosmetic use application and start phasing in the by-law now because Council has to do everything they can to protect the children of this city.

André J. Lebrun, ServiceMaster Lawn Care preferred to believe in the specialists, such as the PMRA and suggested that before Council tells the public what to do, it should tell them how to do it by indicating how efficient it would be in cost, time and energy. Mr. Lebrun stated that Council should vote against prohibition, but vote to continue to provide improved education for continued reduction.

Thom Bourne, Nutri-Lawn stated that his and other lawn care companies educate their clients on what they can do to minimize the use of pesticides. He noted that while their customer count is up, their pesticide usage is down and that is a success that needs to be considered. And, whether or not there is a by-law, the products are federally regulated and will remain on the shelf for homeowners to purchase and use. He was in favour of a joint Education Committee and input with the City as professionals on how pesticides can be reduced on lawns and also public education to get this type of reduction. He suggested that staff should be liaising with the industry with respect to what steps they are taking, with a view to avoiding any misinformation. A copy of his presentation is held on file.

Kate Albright noted that the PMRA is still working with the old mindset of regulations from 1985 and with the new Act such regulations cannot be used and increased pesticide use has not shown a 70% reduction. She noted that there have been many gaps in the evaluations of 2,4-D because the PMRA indicated that what they said was safe was not appropriate and they are re-evaluating a communications strategy. She urged councillors to show their commitment by getting a by-law in place by the end of 2005.

Linda Nolan-Leeming, President, Allergy & Environmental Health Association of Ottawa pointed out that an American survey of 6,800 chemically sensitive persons revealed that 60% asserted they were made ill because of pesticides. She shared impact statements from members and provided a few examples of suffering. She noted that basing the safety of pesticide application on labelling directions places the public at risk because the label is not respected. Risk management should not be the priority because the aim should be in keeping assets including children risk-free. She too urged committee to proceed with a by-law immediately.

Melanie Ransom spoke as a homeowner and taxpayer and stated that Ottawa is the only major Canadian municipality without a pesticide by-law and more and more people realize the risks of pesticide use and the fact they should not be used for beautification purposes. She posited that aesthetics and economics over health is foolishness. She was frustrated at the prospect of delaying the implementation of a by-law. She read the following quote from the Canadian Institute of Child Health: “In the case of pesticides to be used for purely cosmetic reasons around schools, child care centres and homes, we feel that the only acceptable risk is zero risk, as there is no justification for risking a child’s health for a weed free lawn.” She urged committee to speed up the process and have a by-law in place for healthy reasons indicated today.

Mike Christie noted that if a by-law had been in place in 2002, staff’s workload would have been significantly reduced because studies showed cost efficiencies that the best way to reduce pesticide use is to educate and legislate. The following justified that approach:

1. Over 36% of Canadian cities with populations similar to Ottawa are protected by a by-law.

2. Province-wide ban to be phased-in in Québec next year.

3. The report from the PMRA evaluation is suspect.

He noted that Marlene Catterall put forward a private members bill and five years ago there was to be a national ban. He mentioned that this issue has been debated for 16 years and Council should bring forward a by-law. A copy of his e-mail dated 27 April 2005 is held on file.

In considering the report, Councillor Cullen proposed the following:

Whereas in 2002 City Council adopted the City of Ottawa Pesticide Reduction Strategy in recognition of the health and environmental impacts of pesticides;

Whereas the Pesticide Reduction Strategy included both public education and voluntary, pesticide reduction targets of 100% for institutions such as schools, hospitals, retirement homes and childcare centres, 70% for residential properties, and 65% for non-residential properties, to be achieved by 2005;

Whereas the 2003 and 2004 annual reports on the City’s Pesticide Reduction Strategy, while showing progress in increasing public awareness of the health hazards posed by the cosmetic use of pesticides, indicates that the City’s Strategy is failing to reach its target objectives, indicating the need to legislate;

Whereas in 2004 the Ontario College of Family Physicians conducted an extensive review of the scientific literature on the health risks associated with pesticide use, and, based on that review, recommended that municipalities enact bylaws to eliminate cosmetic pesticide use in order to protect human health from the hazards that pesticides pose;

Whereas the Ontario College of Family Physicians position is supported by the Ontario Public Health Association, the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario, the Canadian Cancer Society and the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (among other health organizations);

Whereas the City of Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health has publicly taken the position that based on public health considerations, the City of Ottawa should enact a bylaw phasing-out the cosmetic or non-essential use of pesticides (consistent with his colleagues in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Halifax, among other municipalities);

Therefore be it resolved that the City of Ottawa prepare a bylaw to phase-out the cosmetic use of pesticides within Ottawa’s urban area by January 2007, based on the following principles:

1. Applicable to all private, industrial, commercial and institutional property within the urban area of the City of Ottawa;

2. Exemptions:

a. Agriculture and forestry;

b. Public and private swimming pools

c. Purifying water for human consumption;

d. Lowest toxicity pesticides for the protection of public health and safety;

e. Indoor use.

And that the bylaw be presented to the June 16 meeting of the Health, Recreation and Social Services Committee for approval, rising to Council on June 22, 2005.

The councillor talked about what has happened since 2002 and reminded committee that the targets set in the report were those set by the City of Toronto, which has since implemented a by-law. In light of that, plus the information provided by medical doctors, he believed the City should rethink its approach because of the publics’ continued exposure to these harmful chemicals. He posited that enacting a by-law now would enable the City to bring it into being by 2007, thereby allowing staff to start preparing what would be necessary for upcoming budgets. It would also provide fair notice to the industry and to convey to the community that the City is serious about this issue.

When asked, Mr. Jacobs advised that cosmetic use means being for the sake of appearances; this definition would have to be explained in the by-law.

Councillor Bédard recognized that once the by-law is in place, there would be some controlling required enforcing that regulation. Mr. Jacobs confirmed that all by-laws require enforcement and the resource and financial implications of that would be brought forward as part of the report in the fall. Taking into consideration the comments made by the presenters today, and in light of the fact Council, as the Board of Health, is responsible to ensure those effects are minimized as best it can, the councillor was willing to support the Motion proposed by Councillor Cullen.

While she concluded that pesticides are not healthy, Councillor Feltmate was concerned about moving forward too quickly. She questioned whether the timeframe outlined in the Motion was adequate enough to ensure proper community consultation. Mr. Jacobs did not think there would be time to have community consultation by mid-June. Alternatively, and as originally recommended by Council in 2002, putting off consideration of a by-law until the fall would allow for proper public consultation. Ned Lathrop, Deputy City Manager, Planning and Growth Management further added that staff try to avoid public consultation during a time when the public may not be available and he suggested that staff be allowed to follow through with the principles identified, which would give Council as many options as possible, thereby providing much more detail on which to base its final decision.

A majority of committee members were not inclined to change the course set by Council three years ago for the following reasons:

· accelerating the process and the expectation Council is committed to deliver outcomes for the fall of 2005, could seriously jeopardize the intended outcome of this process;

· moving forward with a by-law at this point in time would not give the opportunity to members of the public to comment on such a proposal;

· more time was required for overall public consultation.

In his closing remarks, Councillor Cullen reminded committee members that a public opinion poll revealed that the overwhelming majority were in favour of a by-law to phase out the cosmetic use of pesticides. He did not believe prolonging the inevitable served any useful purpose and, given that so many Ontario municipalities have implemented a by-law, he was not content to wait any longer. He was, however, prepared to extend the timeframe for staff bringing forward the report, as reflected in the following Motion:

Moved by A. Cullen

Whereas in 2002 City Council adopted the City of Ottawa Pesticide Reduction Strategy in recognition of the health and environmental impacts of pesticides;

Whereas in 2004 the Ontario College of Family Physicians conducted an extensive review of the scientific literature on the health risks associated with pesticide use, and, based on that review, recommended that municipalities enact by-laws to eliminate cosmetic pesticide use in order to protect human health from the hazards that pesticides pose;

Whereas the City of Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health has publicly taken the position that based on public health considerations, the City of Ottawa should enact a by-law phasing-out the cosmetic or non-essential use of pesticides (consistent with his colleagues in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Halifax, among other municipalities);

Therefore be it resolved that the City of Ottawa prepare a by-law to phase-out the cosmetic use of pesticides within Ottawa’s urban area by January 2007, based on the following principles:

1. Applicable to all private, industrial, commercial and institutional property within the urban area of the City of Ottawa;

2. Exemptions:

a. Agriculture and forestry;

b. Public and private swimming pools

c. Purifying water for human consumption;

d. Lowest toxicity pesticides for the protection of public health and safety;

e. Indoor use.

And that the by-law be presented to the July 7 meeting of the Health, Recreation and Social Services Committee for approval, to permit public participation, rising to Council on July 13, 2005.

LOST

YEAS (2): A. Cullen, D. Holmes

NAYS (4) G. Brooks, R. Chiarelli, P. Feltmate, J. Stavinga

Moved by R. Chiarelli

That Council approve that staff investigate possible procedures and requirements in place in other municipalities that could be adopted in any potential Draft By-Law in Ottawa, such that golf courses can be treated under a different framework.

CARRIED

That the Health, Recreation and Social Services Committee and Council receive this report for information.

RECEIVED

MOTIONS OF WHICH NOTICE HAS BEEN PREVIOUSLY GIVEN

MOTIONS AYANT FAIT L’OBJET D’UN AVIS PRÉCÉDENT

COUNCILLOR / CONSEILLÈRE JANET STAVINGA

9. INTEGRATED CITY OF OTTAWA DRUG STRATEGY

STRATÉGIE ANTIDROGUE INTÉGRÉE DE LA VILLE D’OTTAWA

ACS2005-CCS-HRS-0008

That the Health, Recreation and Social Services Committee recommend to Council that there be an integrated City of Ottawa drug strategy developed and that the Terms of Reference for the membership of the working group and the development of the project come to the Health, Recreation and Social Services Committee.

CARRIED

10. DRUG REHABILITATION PROGRAMS

PROGRAMMES DE TRAITEMENT POUR TOXICOMANIE

ACS2005-CCS-HRS-0009

WHEREAS evidence has been presented to the City of Ottawa’s Board of Health and the Health, Recreation and Social Services Committee that there are insufficient drug rehabilitation programs and beds in the City of Ottawa to treat drug use;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Health, Recreation and Social Services Committee recommend that Council request the Ontario Ministry of Health to meet with the Medical Officer of Health and Ottawa’s health partners to develop appropriate drug rehabilitation programs to meet the needs of the City of Ottawa.

CARRIED

INFORMATION PREVIOUSLY DISTRIBUTED

INFORMATION DISTRIBUÉE AUPARAVANT

1. PESTICIDES: YOUR HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT” CONFERENCE – 28 FEBRUARY 2005

CONFERENCE INTITULEE PESTICIDES : VOTRE SANTE ET L'ENVIRONNEMENT – 28 FEVRIER 2005

G01-06-05 MEM

INQUIRIES

DEMANDES DE RENSEIGNEMENTS

Wildlife Problems

Councillor Cullen asked staff to inform the Committee about current practices by the City of referring inquiries from the public regarding their wildlife problems. A copy of the letter dated 29 March 2005 from the Ottawa-Carleton Wildlife Centre was submitted.

Arts Court Development

Councillor Cullen asked staff to provide to the Committee a report on the status of the development of Arts Court and the adjacent lands at 60 and 70 Waller Street. A copy of a letter dated 2 May 05 from the Ottawa Arts Court Foundation was submitted.

ADJOURNMENT

LEVÉE DE LA SÉANCE

The meeting adjourned at 5:10 p.m.

Original signed by Original signed by

R. Nelson Councillor D. Holmes

Committee Coordinator Chair

Comité de la santé, des loisirs et des services sociaux

Minutes 21 / Procès-verbal 21

Thursday, 5 May 2005, 9:35 a.m.

Champlain Room, 110 Laurier Avenue West

Salle Champlain, 110, avenue Laurier ouest