Report
to/Rapport au:
Planning
and Environment Committee/
Comité de l’urbanisme et de l’environnement
and Council/et au Conseil
27 March 2007 / le 27 mars 2007
Submitted by/Soumis par: Mary Hegan, Chair/présidente
Environmental Advisory Committee/Comité
consultatif sur l’environnement
Contact/Personne-ressource: Stephanie Brown Bellefeuille,
Committee Coordinator/coordonnatrice du comité
consultatif
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Ref N°: ACS2007-CCV-EAC-0002 |
SUBJECT: ENVIRONMENTAL
ADVISORY COMMITTEE - 2006 ANNUAL REPORT AND 2007 WORK PLAN
OBJET: COMITÉ
CONSULTATIF SUR L’ENVIRONNEMENT - RAPPORT ANNUEL DE 2006 ET PLAN DE TRAVAIL
2007
REPORT RECOMMENDATIONS
That the Environmental Advisory Committee recommend that the Planning and Environment Committee recommend Council:
a) receive the 2006
Annual Report of the Environmental Advisory Committee as detailed in Document
1; and
b)
approve the objectives
contained in the 2007 workplan, as detailed in Document 2.
Que le Comité consultatif sur l’environnement
recommande que le Comité de
l’urbanisme et de l’environnement recommande que le Conseil :
a) reçoive le Rapport
annuel de 2006 du Comité consultatif sur l’environnement, tel que décrit à la
pièce jointe no 1; et
b) approuve les objectifs qui sont
présentés dans le plan de travail 2007, tel que décrit à la pièce jointe no 2.
City Council, on 6 December 2006, reconfirmed its governance structure. This included the advisory committees, and the requirement for each to complete a workplan outlining proposed projects and activities for the upcoming year. The workplan is to identify each and every activity the Committee plans to undertake in the upcoming year, whether they have a budgetary impact or not. Each item should be identified with a brief description of the project or activity.
The Lead Department Representatives are to provide the Committee with information on the departmental workplan and priorities, where the workplans of the Committees tie into that workplan, and where the Committee can assist the Department. The Lead Department Representative will also advise on what staff and/or financial resources are available as part of departmental priorities.
There was no funding approved for the advisory committee 2007 workplans.
DISCUSSION
The attached 2006
Annual Report, prepared by the EAC’s Vice-Chair, reviews the Committee’s 2006
activities and accomplishments. It was approved by the Committee at their
February 16 meeting.
The attached 2007
Workplan, also prepared by the Vice-Chair, was prepared in consultation with
staff, and is based on the Committee’s priorities for 2007. It was approved at
their January 16 meeting.
The mandate of the
Environmental Advisory Committee is to promote the
protection, maintenance and enhancement of the environment, in the City of
Ottawa, to safeguard and improve the quality of life of those who live and work
in the City of Ottawa, both now and in the future.
The complete Terms of Reference can be found at Attachment 3 of this
report.
PLANNING AND GROWTH MANAGEMENT
DEPARTMENT (Lead Department)
EAC members contribute a lot of expertise and time to providing
advice and leadership to the City on environmental matters. Planning, Transit and the Environment will
work with the EAC on the numerous items that are common to the work plan of the
department and that of the EAC. PTE
supports the Committee's proposed Work Plan for 2007.
The 2007 work plan identifies the following funding requirements:
$200 to participate in community events and outreach activities, $500 for up to
two EAC members attend the Ontario Annual Environmental Advisory Committee
symposium, and $5,000 to develop a Biodiversity Strategy through hosting a Task
Force.
Funds are not available within the City’s operating budget for the
participation in community events and outreach activities.
Funds in the amount of $30 are available within the Planning,
Environment, and Infrastructure Policy Branch for the registration fees
associated with one EAC member to attend the Ontario Annual Environmental
Advisory Committee symposium. Funding is provided in accordance with the
Council-approved Advisory Committee work plan funding restrictions.
Funds in the amount of $5,000 are available within City Clerk
Branch for the Biodiversity Task Force.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION
Document 1 – 2006 Annual Report of the Environmental Advisory Committee
Document 2 – Proposed 2007 Workplan of the Environmental Advisory Committee
Document 3 – Environmental Advisory Committee Terms of Reference
City Clerks Branch staff will forward the recommendations approved by the Planning and Environment Committee to City Council for ratification.
Document 1
2006 ANNUAL REPORT
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY
COMMITTEE (EAC)
CITY OF OTTAWA
Overview
The mandate of the EAC is to promote the protection, maintenance and
enhancement of all aspects of the environment in the City of Ottawa, to
safeguard and improve the quality of life of those who live and work in the
City of Ottawa, both now and in the future. The EAC 2006 Work Plan was very
ambitious and was a reflection of the increased interest by the citizens in
having environmental considerations integrated in the City’s decision- making
and Council decisions.
For 2006 the EAC organized its work under the following environmental
themes: land development, air quality, climate change, water, waste, community
education and involvement, transportation, special projects and liaison with
other advisory committees. The EAC key activities, identified in the Work Plan
are: Air Quality Monitoring Network, Ottawa Sustainability Fund, Communications
and Outreach with the Public, Development of a Strategy for Wetland Protection
and Green Building.
While Council has approved an environmental strategy, the City has not
yet pursued the triple-bottom-line and full life cycle cost accounting
principles in its decision-making process, as the EAC has urged for several years.
The EAC was very disappointed with the 2006 City budget that postponed key
funding for environmental programs that Council had approved in principle
earlier. The EAC approved a motion deploring in strong terms, Council’s
decision to remove funding for several environmental initiatives and requested
that funds be reinstated. The Mayor and the City Manager met with the EAC to
discuss the situation and outlined a number of environmental friendly projects
that could be funded outside the Sustainability Division resource allocation.
The Mayor also announced formation of the City Manager’s Working Group on
Environmental Initiatives. The EAC
applauds the creation of this group to ensure that a priority for all applicable
City projects as well as day-to-day operations make protecting and enhancing
the environment. The EAC, who played a critical role in the creation of this
group, will continue to monitor how well an integrated and corporate approach
is followed by the City.
At its annual planning session, the EAC prepared a set of Ottawa
Environmental Priorities for a sustainable City. These environmental priorities
were provided to the new Council and the Mayor after the fall election. The
EAC, in its advisory role to Council, sees this document used as a road map in
priority setting, and budget direction and decision.
Attached to this document is a listing of EAC recommendations to Council
and City Staff.
Achievements
Peak Oil: In January 2006, the EAC worked with the City
and residents to host a forum on “Crude Awakening” preparing Ottawa-Gatineau
for peak oil attended by about 200 citizens. The event was a success and a
report was produced to capture the outcomes of the forum and to outline the
next steps. This work is now continuing outside the EAC Work Plan through task
groups.
Water: The EAC participated in the review of the
City Water System report. Concern with the lead pipe program resulted in a
motion to accelerate the replacement of lead service lines by 2012. The EAC was
also active in the review of the Lower Rideau Watershed Strategy and the Water
Efficiency Plan.
Waste: The EAC has been engaged with City staff and
potential partners to develop a recycling program for electronic waste that
meets an environmental need. This work is still in progress. The Carp and Navan
landfill expansion projects demanded a significant level of effort in reviewing
the terms of reference for expansion, engaging communities and City staff, and
in developing recommendations on the deficiencies.
Biodiversity: The City recognizes the importance of
wildlife and the need to promote public education. Without a biodiversity
strategy and the resources to develop one, the EAC obtained Council approval to
develop such a strategy. The EAC will set up a Biodiversity Task Force with EAC
members, a member of staff from the Environmental Sustainability Division and
three members of the community. Council approved $ 5,000 to support the Task
Force.
Development Applications: The EAC has been very busy reviewing
development applications, making recommendations to the Planner or providing
specific recommendations to staff and Committee. The EAC has worked at
streamlining its own process to ensure efforts are focused on those
applications that are not routine.
Key Activities
From the above list of key activities, the following 2006 achievements
are as follows:
Air Quality:
EAC Input - EAC advised staff in the planning and public health offices of the
City on requirements and technologies to advance an urban air quality
monitoring network. Result - This work led to external funding of a
pilot project to map air quality daily, using space based satellite data in
2007.
EAC Input - Working with staff, the EAC proposed development of an idling control bylaw to reduce unnecessary vehicle emissions.
Result – The EAC motion was supported by the Planning and Environment Committee, which directed staff to produce a draft bylaw early in 2007. The EAC is ready to play an outreach role during the education phase.
EAC Inputs - As part of its pro-active agenda, the EAC prepared a discussion paper and approved a motion on a scent-free environment.
Results - Council approved a scent-free program for City buildings, Community Centres and Sport Centres including Light Rail Transit, OC Transpo and Para Transpo buses. The EAC has been active in an outreach program through newspaper articles and media interviews.
Ottawa Sustainability Fund:
EAC Input - Council
approved this initiative along with an initial one time funding of $10,000 to
formalize the fund.
Results - The fund
management is now managed under the Community Foundation of Ottawa. The EAC is
helping in the selection of projects for the Community Grants Program. The EAC
has pursued a campaign to contact potential donors. This work will continue in
2007 along with the identification of a list of potential projects that could
be supported by the Ottawa Sustainability Fund.
Communications and Outreach with
the Public:
EAC Inputs - The EAC is
participating in a pilot project to develop an EAC website on the City site.
The EAC published a number of articles such as: “A general article on the EAC”,
“Attack by Scented Products”, “Waste Management”, “Budget”, “Ottawa - Moving
Towards Sustainability”, and “Ottawa Sustainability Fund”. The EAC also
participated in the Eco-Fair and has been active with various community groups.
Result - The EAC
continued to engage communities in its outreach program and, as a result, more
and more groups are coming to speak on issues such as landfills.
Wetland Protection:
EAC Input - The EAC has
participated in a Wetlands Stakeholder Group with the mandate to assess
sensitive issues relating to wetlands.
Result - The EAC
developed a list of action items to be considered in the wetlands work plan and
policy development.
Green Building:
EAC Inputs - The EAC
made recommendations regarding green roofs and LEEDS when reviewing development
applications.
Result – The EAC will
continue to work with the City to ensure any new City buildings are green,
according to these standards.
Listing of Approved Motions
March
Review of Biosolids Management Plan and Technical Options for Long-Term
Biosolids Management
A Congestion Charge for Capital Ward
April
Reallocation of ’06 Budget Resources to Address Critical Steps for the
Implementation of the Environmental Strategy for the City of Ottawa
Galetta Windpower Project
Light Rail Transit: Approval of Walkley Road Rail Yard Brownfield
May
Greenspace Master Plan – EAC Recommendations to Council
Leitrim Wetland and Associated Development (Remer Property)
Findlay Creek Village, Phase 4 and 2
Idling By-Law
Farmer’s Market Pilot Project
June
City Strategy and Action Re: Wildlife
Biodiversity Task Force Creation Recommendation
Ottawa Carleton Wildlife Centre
Lead Drinking Water Service Lines in Ottawa
Extension of Drinking Water Supply to Russell Township
Water Efficiency and Incentive Program
July
Road Allowances
Carp and Navan Landfills
Federation of Canadian Municipalities
September
Ontario Energy Policy
Lower Rideau Watershed Strategy Advice to Staff and Council
Time Allotment for Speakers at Meetings
Brownfields
October
Lower Rideau Watershed Strategy (Second motion), EAC Recommendations
November
SRB Technologies, Pembroke (2 motions)
December
Freeing the Chaudière Falls
Species at Risk: Support for Alternate LRT Route
All Development Application Review (DAR): Number of Motions:
Jan (2) Mar (1) Apr (3) May (4) June (1) July (7) September (1) October
(5) December (4)
Document
2
2007 WORK PLAN
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
(EAC)
CITY OF OTTAWA
Introduction
In August 2006, the EAC had an informal meeting
to discuss what should be the 2007 City environmental priorities. With a fall
election, the EAC in its advisory role wanted to provide Council with a set of
environmental priorities. The EAC will also use this list of priorities in
responding to various City policy proposals such as the Corporate Plan,
long-range financial plan and the budget.
2006 has been a very active, busy and
successful year. Progress has been made on a number of fronts and success
achieved on several topics. The EAC is very fortunate to have a group of hard
working and committed citizens that want the protection of the environment to
be integrated in Council’s decisions.
The Work Plan is designed on the principle that
all members including reserve members are engaged in the development and
delivery of the work activities. With the Council’s decision not to have a
member recruitment drive in early 2007, present members will continue to serve
to December 2007. The EAC will continue to work constructively and
cooperatively with Council, staff, businesses, community groups and volunteers.
The EAC is fortunate to have a network of community experts to call upon to
help implement its Work Plan.
Vision
The EAC vision is:
“That Ottawa becomes a recognized leader within Canada and among world capitals as a sustainable community by ensuring the integration of economic prosperity, social well-being, and environmental and ecological integrity.”
Mandate
The mandate given to the EAC by Council is:
"To promote the protection, maintenance and enhancement of all aspects of the environment in the City of Ottawa, to safeguard and improve the quality of life of those who live and work in the City of Ottawa, both now and in the future."
Terms
of Reference
The terms of reference approved by Council are:
· Assisting in the development of policies, programs, and by-laws which could have an impact upon the environment,
· Reviewing existing policies, programs, by-laws and development proposals and making recommendations upon environmental implications of same,
· Identifying, researching, consulting and bringing forward to Committee and Council local and global issues which may affect the environment,
· Soliciting and facilitating public input on matters of environmental significance to Council,
· Consulting with and receiving submissions for local environmental and other groups and reporting with recommendations,
· Aiding Council by increasing awareness of the City of Ottawa Environmental policy, programs and by-laws, and issues which have an environmental impact, by means of education campaigns, public meetings, articles in local newspapers and other appropriate means as determined by the Committee,
· Advising on the design, maintenance and frequent updating of a City database on the natural, built and socio-economic aspects of the City’s environment, and environmental health,
· Liaise with other City of Ottawa Advisory Committees as appropriate.
2007 Strategy
The EAC Work Plan is organized under a strategy that supports the City environmental priorities. The strategy is anchored on the City implementing already agreed environmental strategy, plans and policies. Such an approach will serve to achieve progress towards building a sustainable city. The strategy is based on the following criteria for environmental sustainability:
a. Regeneration – Renewable resources are to be used efficiently;
b. Replacement – Non-renewable resources are to be used efficiently and their use limited to the replacement levels by renewable resources;
c. Releasing – Release of polluting substances in the environment are not to exceed its natural absorption capacity; and
d. Restoring – Damage to the environment due to human activities are to be avoided and when it occurs, steps must be taken to restore the environment to its original condition.
To harmonize the EAC outcomes, the following
strategic approach provides the guiding principles and objectives:
a.
Systems Approach
– To consider the City’s Corporate Plan, Ottawa 20/20 and other plans when
advising the City and to be pro-active on issues by anticipating local issues
and trade-offs;
b.
Responsibility
and Role – To reinforce a decision making process that will integrate
environment, environmental health, sustainability and community education and
involvement;
c.
Decisions – To
understand who are the various stakeholders in the decision making process, the
political dynamic at Councillor and staff levels to influence decisions at City
hall;
d.
Consultations –
To consult with Councillors when developing recommendations or motions, to
engage and mobilize a range of community organizations on key and complex
issues and to work with senior staff early-on in building a City response which
includes a strong environmental component; and
e.
Communications –
To increase information to the public on issues before the City in terms of
environmental impacts and how to be pro-active for the environment and public
health. Also to increase the EAC’s visibility.
2007
Ottawa Environmental Priorities
The EAC at its informal August meeting
initiated the process of preparing a set of 2007 Ottawa Environmental
Priorities. The intent of those priorities is to reinforce environmental
programs, Official Plan requirements, plans and the environmental strategy. The
proposed City’s Environmental Priorities approved by the EAC are the following:
·
Energy – The City
adopt a municipal energy and electricity consumption plan by adopting as a
priority, conservation, energy alternatives and efficiencies policies. The
purpose of the Plan will be to reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions, improve
air quality and lower electricity consumption. To achieve this end, the Plan
should establish energy targets, city-public/business collaboration programs,
and measures to incorporate energy efficiency into decisions on transportation,
land development, greening of buildings, and hybrids City fleets and buses.
·
Waste Reduction –
The City fulfill the rethink garbage programs and implement “user-friendly” recycling
and composting programs, with the goals of reducing by 20% per capita and per
commercial business solid waste disposal to landfill, incineration and
gasification in seven years. This should be reflected in an updated Integrated
Waste Management Plan.
·
Urban Design –
The City fulfill the mandate of its green building policy to ensure that all City buildings constructed or leased
in the future offer improved environmental health and energy performance
over current practices. Also, the City encourages through programs the adoption
of a green building approach by the private sector. Approval of development
applications and uses of land for public transportation, both in the rural and
urban areas, need to protect and enhance green spaces, wetlands, air quality
and energy efficiencies.
·
Air
Quality/Health –The City establish air quality monitoring stations across the
city to measure the level of air pollution and set local targets of reducing
the pollution level to meet national and provincial standards from all emitting
sources.
·
Water – The City
fulfill its policies and programs to enhance quality and quantity of drinkable
water within rural and urban areas. The City take steps to improve the quality
of recreational water. Such initiatives need to focus on implementing watershed
plans, stormwater management strategy, water consumption reduction program, and
to take a watershed approach to land development.
·
Wetlands – The
City implement a city-wide program to identify, protect and enhance all
existing wetlands. A wetland monitoring system should be implemented with an
annual report to Council.
·
Climate Change –
The City fulfill and fully implement the climate change and air quality
management plan and act to address climate change as a municipality of a country
that ratified the Kyoto Protocol.
·
The first action
for the City is to sign the UNEP accords. The Accords is not binding on the
municipality. By signing the Urban Environmental Accords, the City will
indicate a commitment to address its environmental priorities listed above and
join other world capital cities who have signed it.
The EAC is
looking for strong leadership and an unequivocal commitment by the City in
protecting and improving the environment and health conditions of this city.
Structure
The development of the Work Plan is guided by the set of 2007 City environmental priorities developed by the EAC. The work is organized under Working Groups (WGs) and Special Projects. Each WG will work with City staff and other stakeholders in moving forward an agenda. WGs will also provide updates as required at the EAC monthly meeting. WGs are organized under environmental themes and those are as follows:
Land Development: Development Application Review process, Development Application Reviews, City Land disposal and Community Design Plans;
Waste Management;
Air Quality/Human Health;
Water/Wetlands and Human Health;
Climate Change and Energy;
Community Education and Outreach;
Special Projects: City 2007 and 2008 Budgets, Biodiversity Strategy, Beaches – Water Pollution, Official Plan, Annual Reports,
Liaison with other Advisory Committees: Rural Initiatives, Ottawa Forests and Greenspace, Pedestrian and Transportation, Roads and Cycling, Ottawa Sustainability Fund, and Transportation Public Consultation Group.
The EAC has 15 regular members and 9 reserve members. As of 01 December 2006, the EAC is left with 2 reserve members. With no recruitment in 2007, the EAC will seek additional support from interested citizens to participate in Working Groups to provide additional capacity or expertise. Such an approach will be an excellent way to reach out to communities and get their support.
The EAC in its role as advisor to Council will continue to take pro-active positions on issues. It will also consider the cumulative effects of Council’s decision on its recommendations as they affect the environment and the quality of life of its citizens. The EAC will examine the cumulative effects of Council’s decisions to the environment. The challenge will be to determine the combined effects of various components together while being cognizant of the short and long term impacts.
EAC Activities
The main objective of the Work Plan is to define EAC work within 2007 while providing a structure to manage those activities, assigning people against the proposed work and identifying those priorities activities. The Work Plan presents an ambitious program with the realization that unplanned activities and new items referred to by Council throughout the year will need to be addressed. The detailed Work Plan is presented in the Tables below.
The EAC priority activities, in no specific ranking order, are the following:
Funding
The Work Plan identifies the following funding requirements:
City Council at its November 2006 meeting approved $ 5000 for the EAC develop a Biodiversity Strategy through hosting a Task Force, research and community workshop.
Conclusion
The EAC Work Plan demonstrates the strong commitment of its members to have a sustainable Ottawa. The EAC is looking for the City to deliver on its commitments made in its Environmental Strategy, Ottawa 20/20 and the Official Plan. To maintain and enhance the environment and the quality of life of all its citizens, the City must adopt a pro-active approach for the management of its growth while protecting agricultural lands and stopping urban sprawl.
EAC WORK PLAN 2007
Community Education &
Outreach Working Group
Objectives: To
host the EAC website
To inform and engage the
public through community events and community articles
Members: Patrick Quealey (lead), Ric Dagenais, Edelweiss D’Andrea, Chris
Rappell (website)
|
ACTIVITIES |
OUTPUTS |
LEAD |
TARGET |
STATUS |
|
*Website |
Active EAC Website –
City Pilot Project |
Chris Rappell |
Site to be
operational by March 07 |
|
|
*Community Articles |
Articles of interest
to the community based on EAC and City activity on environmental issues |
Patrick Quealey Edelweiss D’Andrea |
Monthly/bi-monthly
articles |
|
|
Community Events |
Help other EAC members and work teams prepare for, and present at, community events such as the Eco-Fair, Car free day etc |
Patrick Quealey Edelweiss D’Andrea Ric Dagenais |
As opportunities are
identified |
|
|
Special Events |
Where
relevant discuss the role of the EAC or environmental issues facing the city
with interested parties (presentations to schools or industry groups etc).
Have up to two (2) EAC members attend the annual Ontario Advisory Committees
Symposium |
Patrick Quealey Edelweiss D’Andrea Mary Hegan |
As required Date to be determined |
|
* Priority Work
EAC WORKPLAN 2007
Air Quality- Health Working
Group
Objectives: To advise City staff
and Council on the impact of Air Quality on Health and encourage appropriate
responses
Members: Bill Pugsley (lead), Ronald Denault (CVE), Mike Lascelles, Megan McGarrity, Serge Morin, Heather Parker, Patrick Quealey, Manuel Costa, Ann Coffey, Charles Caccia
|
ACTIVITIES |
OUTPUTS |
LEAD |
TARGET |
STATUS |
|
*Reduce vehicle emissions |
a) Mapping and monitoring - satellite derived maps of air quality - hot spot snap shots - roadside emission monitoring b) City’s response - anti- idling bylaw - greater use of roundabouts |
Pugsley(chair), Caccia (Idling), McGarrity(Idling), Morin(Roundabouts) |
Feb 2007- expect decisions on funding for satellite maps and draft idling bylaw |
|
|
*Reduce cosmetic use of pesticides |
a) form grassroots working group to bring
together both sides of debate and find common ground b) promote pesticide bylaw |
Parker (working group) Manuel Costa (bylaw) |
To be identified |
|
|
*Assess environmental impacts of Plasma Waste Conversion pilot project |
Represent EAC on Plasco advisory committee |
Parker |
Aug 2007- pilot project to begin |
Advisory role to start in early 2007 |
* Priority Work
EAC WORKPLAN 2007
Climate Change and Energy
Working Group
Objectives: To work with City’s staff on initiatives to increase by 10 to 20% the amount of climate-friendly power
To explore opportunities to reduce greenhouse
gas (GHG) emissions and promote energy efficiency
Members: Patrick Quealey (lead), Megan McGarrity, Ronald Denault(CVE), Mike Lascelles, Ann Coffey, Manuel Costa, Peter Croal, Bettina Sales, Chris Rappell, Bill Pugsley, Charles Caccia, Edelweiss D’Andrea
|
ACTIVITIES |
OUTPUTS |
LEAD |
TARGET |
STATUS |
|
Green Power Initiatives – Identify with City’s staff projects |
Increase by 10-20% the amount of climate friendly power used by the
city |
Patrick Quealey |
To be identified |
|
|
GHGs – Input into any process related to the “City of Ottawa” act |
Explore further fiscal mechanism to reduce GHG/promote energy
efficiency |
Patrick Quealey |
To be identified |
|
|
*Green Building – Support the program including the
use of green roofs Support the LEED building program Support other initiatives that will reduce energy
consumption or reduce GHGs |
Increase the number of green buildings |
Patrick Quealey |
|
|
* Priority Work
CVE (Community
Volunteer/Expert)
Linked with Air Quality and other WGs
|
Green roof strategy |
Provide inputs to City’s staff |
Patrick Quealey |
|
|
|
Creating a Car-free By-Ward market |
Explore the concept |
Patrick Quealey |
Discussion paper –
Mar 07 |
|
|
Reduction in GHGs |
Explore the use of local improvement charges Encourage climate friendly behaviour |
Patrick Quealey |
To be determined |
|
EAC Work Plan 2007
Water Working Group Work Plan
Objectives: To promote sustainable use of water
resources and to protect and ensure the sustainability of wetlands
Members: Bruce Collier (lead), Charles Caccia, Mary Hegan, Ric Dagenais, Mike Lascelles, Megan McGarrity
|
Activities |
Outputs |
Leads/others |
Target |
Status |
|
*Wetlands |
Address development issues as they arise Ideally assist in developing a longer term policy |
Mary Hegan/Charles Caccia |
Review City’s present Wetlands position. Present to EAC 3rd Q 2007 |
Ongoing review of wetland issues |
|
Well Water and Waste Management |
Identify City gaps and bring recommendations to EAC |
Bruce Collier |
3rd Q 2007 to bring forth presentation/motion |
Watershed/aquifer Characterization and status |
|
City Water Status: Quantity, consumption, conservation, quality |
Get updated status from City staff Identify areas of improvement and bring to EAC |
Bruce Collier/Charles Caccia (lead, bacteria, radiation, chemicals) |
1st Q 2007 3rd and 4th Q 2007 |
Ongoing review of programs underway with the City |
|
Stormwater Management |
Attend and input into the City’s Stormwater Management program and bring information back to EAC Develop Motion for Carp River Kanata West Development |
Bruce
Collier/Ric Dagenais |
4thQ 2007 final report and public input 1stQ 2007 Motion to EAC |
To liaise with the City’s SWM program and feedback to EAC as appropriate with the delivery in 4thQ 2007 from that program |
|
Lower Rideau Watershed Strategy |
Attend and input into the Strategy program and bring info back to EAC |
Mike Lascelles |
Report back to EAC at critical events in the process |
Ongoing review |
|
Water Environment Program and Baseline Monitoring Program |
Get an update on the City’s status Report back to EAC as required |
Megan McGarrity |
2nd Q 2007 |
Ongoing |
|
City Groundwater Strategy |
Provide advice to strategy updates and its implementation |
Mary Hegan |
2nd Q 2007 |
Ongoing |
* Priority Work
Objectives: To provide advice on all issues related to waste management and to promote the need for Ottawa to take a leadership role in waste management best practices
Members: Mike Lascelles (lead), Paul Koch, Peter Croal, Bruce Collier, Serge Morin, Heather Parker, Manuel Costa
|
ACTIVITIES |
OUTPUTS |
LEAD |
TARGET |
STATUS |
|
* Integrated Waste Management Master Plan (IWMMP) and E-Waste Strategy. |
Work with Ken Brothers and Ann Marie Fowler in support of the IWMMP. Assist city and various stakeholders
develop an e-waste strategy for the City. |
Manuel
Costa (ICI) Mike Lascelles (back up) for ICI;
monitor IWMMP |
TBD |
ICI draft TOR circulated in Dec 06 |
|
* Biosolids Plan |
Advise city |
TBD |
TBD |
|
|
Trail Road contaminated groundwater and leachate |
Support the City in extending the lifespan and improving the efficiency of operations. Give advice on on-site treatment projects and other projects when they present themselves. |
TBD |
TBD- as opportunities present themselves |
Ongoing |
|
Brownfields |
Monitor/participate in brownfield activities. |
Serge Morin |
TBD- as opportunities present themselves |
Ongoing |
|
Other Waste Management Issues |
Get involved and participate, if the issues do reappear. |
Mike Lascelles |
TBD- as opportunities present themselves |
TBD |
|
Plasma waste conversion pilot project
|
Assess environmental impacts of
plasma waste conversion Represent EAC on Plasco advisory
committee Examine ways that other waste
management components can better complement plasma technology and vice versa |
Heather Parker |
|
Advisory role on the Advisory
Committee
|
* Priority Work
EAC WORKPLAN 2007
Development Application Review
(DAR) Working Group
Objectives: To continue to review Development
Applications within the City of Ottawa while promoting and suggesting
progressive development policies and strategies to enhance the natural and
built environments of the City of Ottawa.
Members: Bettina Sales, Paul Koch, Serge Morin, Bruce
Collier, Mike Lascelles, Megan McGarrity, Peter Croal , Heather Parker, Ronald
Denault (CVE)
|
ACTIVITIES |
OUTPUTS |
LEAD |
TARGET |
STATUS |
|
Promote the adoption
of Development Guidelines |
Using the New
Westminster as a model document, either promote the adoption of this
document, or suggest another document/model. |
Paul Koch |
|
|
|
DAR review training
workshops |
Work with Staff to
develop and facilitate one or more (as needed) workshops to provide
additional training to DAR workgroup members |
Megan |
One or two workshops
in January of 2007 |
In early stages
of development |
|
*Development of a
more proactive and strategic assessment of and approach to development
undertakings within the City |
Promotion of: -
Green Roof -
LEEDs building
standards -
Porous surfaces -
Density
strategies and development ties to transportation |
Serge (Green Roof) Mike L (LEEDs) Megan (density
strategies, porous surfaces) |
|
|
|
Development
Application Review Process |
Review of
Development Applications as EAC is asked |
Bettina Sales (eastern region) , Serge
Morin (Orleans), Bruce Collier
(western region), Mike Lascelles (southern region), Megan McGarrity (central region)Peter Croal (N. Gower),
Heather Parker, Ronald Denault (CVE)(Bay Ward) |
As required |
|
|
Community Design Plans and related studies
2007 |
Represent the EAC on CDPS scheduled for 2007:
1. Rockliffe Landing CDP 2. North Gower CDP 3. Richmond Road/Westboro CDP 4. Wellington Street CDP Studies: 1. Integrated Recreational Pathway Study 2. Guidelines for Scenic Entry Routes 3. Street Design Policy and Right-of- Way
Lighting Policy |
Rockliffe Landing CDP- Lori Warren North Gower CDP – Mary Hegan Integrated Recreational Pathway Study – Mike
Lascelles Guidelines for Scenic Entry Routes Hospital Land Planning Study – Bill Pugsley
and Susan Springthorpe Street Design Policy and Right of Way Policy
– Heather Parker Richmond Road/Westboro CDP- Tess Ackland Wellington Street CDP- Mike Lascelles |
|
|
* Priority Work
CVE
(Community/Volunteer Expert)
EAC WORKPLAN 2007
Special Projects
Biodiversity Strategy
Objectives: To initiate the Council approved Biodiversity
Task Force and work with the community and staff to write the City’s
Biodiversity Strategy.
Members: Ann Coffey, Eldeweiss D’Andrea, Ric Dagenais and City’s staff
|
ACTIVITIES |
OUTPUTS |
LEAD |
TARGET |
STATUS |
|
*Task Force to write the strategy |
Produce the City’s Biodiversity Strategy |
Ann Coffey |
Dec 07 |
|
* Priority Work
Beaches – Water Pollution
Objective: To keep Ottawa beaches open
Member: Charles Caccia
|
ACTIVITIES |
OUTPUTS |
LEAD |
TARGET |
STATUS |
|
*Seek solution from
the City to establish causes of pollution and take remedial action |
Measures necessary
to reduce closure of beaches in
summer 2007 |
Charles Caccia |
June 07 |
|
* Priority Work
EAC WORK PLAN 2007
SPECIAL PROJECTS
City’s Budget
Objective: To ensure the environmental agenda is appropriately funded
Members: Mike Lascelles (lead), Ric Dagenais and Heather Parker
|
ACTIVITIES |
OUTPUTS |
LEAD |
TARGET |
STATUS |
|
Provide advice
throughout the budget process towards funding core environmental priorities |
2007 City budget can
adequately implement its environmental agenda and priorities |
Mike Lascelles |
Budget process |
|
EAC Annual Reports
Objective: To produce various reports
Members: Mary Hegan, Serge Morin and Paul Koch
|
ACTIVITIES |
OUTPUTS |
LEAD |
TARGET |
STATUS |
|
To prepare various
reports |
Reports are produced |
Mary Hegan |
TBA |
|
Official Plan
Objective: To provide inputs into the next version of the
Official Plan
Members: Megan McGarrity, Serge Morin and Bill Pugsley
|
ACTIVITIES |
OUTPUTS |
LEAD |
TARGET |
STATUS |
|
To participate in
the review of the Official Plan |
Inputs to the Plan
are provided |
Megan McGarrity |
|
|
EAC WORKPLAN 2007
Liaison Positions
Objective: To maintain liaison with other Advisory Committees who address
indirectly environment and environmental health issues
Members: See the list of names below
|
ACTIVITIES |
OUTPUTS |
LEAD |
TARGET |
STATUS |
|
OFGA (Ottawa Forests
and Greenspace Advisory Committee) |
Represent the EAC,
identify issues of common interest and provide reports |
Ric Dagenais |
On-going |
|
|
Rural Initiatives
Advisory Committee (RIAC) |
Represent the EAC,
identify issues of common interests and provide reports |
Bruce Collier |
On-going |
|
|
PTAC (Pedestrian
& Transportation Advisory Committee) |
Represent the EAC ,
identify issues of common interests and provide reports |
Serge Morin |
On-going |
|
|
RCAC (Roads and
Cycling Advisory Committee) |
Represent the EAC ,
identify issues of common interests and provide reports |
To be determined |
On-going |
|
|
Ottawa
Sustainability Fund |
Represent the EAC on
the Advisory Committee |
Patrick Quealey |
On-going |
|
|
Transportation –
Public Consultation Group (LRT) |
Participate in
various Environmental Assessments |
Bill Pugsley Mike Lascelles |
As required |
|
* Priority Work
Terms of Reference
MANDATE
The mandate of the Environmental Advisory Committee is to promote the protection, maintenance and enhancement of the environment, in the City of Ottawa, to safeguard and improve the quality of life of those who live and work in the City of Ottawa, both now and in the future.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The Environmental Advisory Committee shall be responsible for:
· Assisting in the development of policies, programs and by-laws which could have an impact upon the environment;
· Reviewing existing policies, programs, by-laws and development proposals and making recommendations upon the environmental implications of same;
· Identifying, researching, consulting and bringing forward to Committee and Council local and global issues which may affect the environment;
· Soliciting and facilitating public input on matters of environmental significance to Council;
· Consulting with and receiving submissions from local environmental and other groups and reporting with recommendations;
· Aiding Council by increasing awareness of City of Ottawa Environmental policy, programs and by-laws, and issues which have an environmental impact, by means of education campaigns, public meetings, articles in local newspapers and other appropriate means as determined by the Committee;
· Advising on the design, maintenance and frequent updating of a City database on the natural, built and socio-economic aspects of the City’s environment, and environmental health information and indicators;
· To examine health issues, guided by the objectives of the Ontario Health Protection and Promotion Act and its definition of “health hazards” (i.e. health hazard means: a) a condition of a premises, b) a substance, thing, plant or animal other than man, or c) a solid, liquid, gas or combination of any of them, that has or that is likely to have an adverse effect on the health of any person);
· Liaise with other City of Ottawa Advisory Committees as appropriate.
ORGANIZATION
The Environmental Advisory Committee shall have a
citizen membership of between 9 – 15, including:
· 9-15 residents at large (all of whom have a demonstrated interest in, and dedication to, all aspects of the environment, health, sustainability, and the community.)
· a minimum of one citizen appointment representing the rural community.
All appointments to the Environmental Advisory Committee shall be approved by both the Planning and Environment Committee and Ottawa City Council.
The process for choosing membership for the Environmental Advisory Committee will follow the approved Appointments Policy.
In addition, the Environmental Advisory Committee shall also have in a resource, liaison and/or advisory capacity, the following:
· 1 staff representative from the Development Services Department (Environmental Management Unit) (non-voting)
· In addition, staff resources from other branches/departments will be invited or required to attend Committee meetings (non-voting)
· A minimum of 1 member of Ottawa City Council, appointed by Council to act as a liaison (non-voting)
LEAD DEPARTMENT/REPORTING
RELATIONSHIP
The lead department for the Environmental Advisory Committee shall be the Development Services Department. The Environmental Advisory Committee shall report through the Planning and Environment Committee to Ottawa City Council, however may report to another Standing Committee where appropriate, depending on the issue.
WORKPLANS AND
ANNUAL REPORTS
The
Environmental Advisory Committee must report annually to City Council through
the Planning and Environment Committee (timing to be determined by the Chair,
Advisory Committee Coordinator and City Clerk) on the activities of the
Committee in the current year and on the Committee’s workplan for the following
year.
Cadre de référence
MANDAT
Le Comité
consultatif sur l’environnement (le « CCE ») a pour mandat de
promouvoir la protection, le maintien et l’amélioration de l’environnement sur
le territoire de la ville d’Ottawa, et de protéger et d’améliorer la qualité de
vie de ceux qui habitent ou travaillent à Ottawa, maintenant et à l’avenir.
RESPONSABILITÉS
Le CCE assume les
responsabilités suivantes :
·
Collaborer à
l’élaboration de politiques, de programmes et de règlements susceptibles
d’influer sur l’environnement;
·
Examiner les
politiques, les programmes, les règlements et les projets d’aménagement, et
formuler des recommandations quant à leurs incidences environnementales;
·
Cerner les
questions de portée régionale et planétaire qui risquent de se répercuter sur
l’environnement, les étudier, consulter les parties qu’elles intéressent et en
faire part au Comité et au Conseil;
·
Inviter le
public à se prononcer sur les questions environnementales, prévoir des
mécanismes pour recueillir ses vues et les communiquer au Conseil;
·
Consulter
les groupes environnementalistes et d’autres groupes d’intérêt, recevoir leurs
présentations écrites et en faire rapport en formulant des recommandations;
·
Appuyer le
Conseil en faisant connaître au public la politique, les programmes, les
règlements et les enjeux de la Ville d’Ottawa en matière d’environnement grâce
à des campagnes de sensibilisation, des assemblées publiques, la publication
d’articles dans les journaux locaux et d’autres moyens jugés utiles;
·
Formuler des
conseils sur la conception, la tenue et la mise à jour régulière d’une base de
données municipale qui réunit des renseignements sur les éléments naturels, les
aménagements et les aspects socioéconomiques de l’environnement de la ville,
ainsi que sur l’état de l’environnement, y compris des indicateurs de celui-ci;
·
Examiner les
questions de santé en regard des objectifs de la Loi sur la protection et la promotion de la santé de l’Ontario et
sa définition de « risque pour la santé » (aux termes de la Loi,
« risque pour la santé » s’entend de l’un des éléments
suivants : a) l’état d’un lieu; b) une substance, une chose, une
plante ou un animal, à l’exclusion de l’être humain; c) un solide, un liquide
ou un gaz, ou une réunion de ceux-ci);
·
Avoir des
échanges avec d’autres comités consultatifs de la Ville d’Ottawa, s’il y a
lieu.
Le CCE compte de 9 à 15 représentants du public, soit :
·
de 9 à 15
membres choisis parmi l’ensemble des résidents de la ville (qui auront
manifesté sans exception leur intérêt pour tous les aspects de l’environnement,
de la santé, du développement durable et de la collectivité et leur engagement
envers eux).
Les nominations au CCE sont soumises à l’approbation tant du Comité de
l’urbanisme et de l’environnement que du Conseil municipal d’Ottawa.
La mode de sélection des membres du CCE est conforme à la politique
approuvée concernant les nominations.
Le CCE compte aussi d’autres représentants désignés à titre de
personnes-ressources, d’agents de liaison ou de conseillers, dont :
·
un
représentant du personnel du Service de l’urbanisme et de l’aménagement (Unité
de gestion de l’environnement) (sans droit de vote);
·
de même, des
employés d’autres directions ou Services sont invités au besoin à assister aux
réunions du Comité (sans
droit de vote);
·
au moins
un membre du Conseil municipal d’Ottawa, nommé par le Conseil et exécutant
une fonction de liaison (sans droit de vote).
SERVICE RESPONSABLE/RAPPORTS HIÉRARCHIQUES
Le CCE relève du
Service de l’urbanisme et de l’aménagement. Il fait rapport au Conseil
municipal d’Ottawa par l’intermédiaire du Comité de l’urbanisme et de
l’environnement, mais il pourra aussi rendre des comptes à d’autres comités
permanents si les questions traitées le justifient.
PLANS DE TRAVAIL ET RAPPORTS ANNUELS
Le CCE fait
rapport annuellement au Conseil municipal d’Ottawa par l’intermédiaire du
Comité de l’urbanisme et de l’environnement (à une date à déterminer par le
président du Comité, le coordonnateur des comités consultatifs et le greffier
municipal) de son activité de l’année et de son plan de travail de l’année
suivante.