Members of Cornwall City Council met July 9 for their regular biweekly meeting. Here are some key highlights from the meeting.
2024 Ontario Winter Games Legacy Award Presentation
The 2024 Ontario Winter Games (OWG) Legacy Awards were presented to Leo Logan Currier and Siri Neville. Logan, a graduate of La Citadelle, is an accomplished athlete in baseball, basketball, badminton, golf, and volleyball. He will pursue a Bachelor of Commerce and Finance degree at Ottawa University. Siri, also from La Citadelle, is a versatile athlete involved in volleyball, basketball, track and field, soccer, and badminton. She will study Kinesiology at McGill University with aspirations for a graduate degree in medicine or physiotherapy. These awards, established to support the development of amateur athletes in Ontario, recognize students who have demonstrated athletic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. Each recipient receives a bursary of $1,500.
Amendments to the Procurement Policy
Council voted to defer approving the amendments to the Procurement of Goods and/or Services Policy. A hard copy wasn’t provided in the package councillors received, and several councillors did not have a chance to read through it. The updated policy includes new definitions, environmental and ethical considerations, and streamlined processes for emergency and collaborative procurement. It aims to enhance clarity, accountability, and efficiency in municipal purchasing practices.The revisions also include changes to authority levels and electronic submission provisions, ensuring the policy aligns with industry best practices and supports sustainable development.
Joint Tender for Winter Highway Coarse Salt
Council approved a joint tender for the supply and delivery of winter highway coarse salt to Cargill Salt, for 890,880 for the first year.
Purchase of Three Ambulances for Paramedic Services
Council approved the purchase of three new ambulances from Crestline Coach Limited at a cost of $881,900.87, funded through the Land Ambulance Reserve. This decision responds to the need for reliable fleet resources due to supply-chain issues that have extended the service life of existing ambulances beyond their maximum reliable expectancy.
Specialized & On-Demand Transit Scheduling Software
Council awarded Spare Labs Incorporated the contract for specialized, on-demand transit scheduling software for $440,700. This new software will enhance Cornwall Transit’s operational efficiency and customer experience, enabling better scheduling, reminders, and real-time updates for users.
Climate Lens and Human Rights Lens in Reports
Council approved the addition of a “Climate Action Plan Alignment” section in all future Council reports to ensure decisions align with the City’s Climate Action Plan. However, the proposed Human Rights Lens was not recommended for inclusion due to the complexity and confidentiality of related matters. Instead, staff will continue emphasizing community and quality of life benefits in their reports.
Guindon Park Beach Property Ownership
A memo provided information on the land ownership for the proposed beach improvements in Guindon Park. The area is owned by Ontario Power Generation (OPG) and has been used as a public park under a license agreement with the City since 1976. The agreement, set to expire in 2027, can be extended for another ten years. The City has contacted OPG for support “in principle” for the beach improvement project.
Height and Parking Restrictions
Council received a report outlining the need for a comprehensive study on removing parking minimums and height restrictions for new developments. The study will consider environmental, social, and infrastructure impacts. Due to staffing shortages, a consulting firm will be retained to conduct the study, with funding to be included in the 2025 Municipal Budget Submission.
Non-Compliant Generators Inquiry
Council requested a report detailing the purchase and installation years of non-compliant generators and when the latest TSSA generator standards came into effect. This follows a previous report indicating the need for upgrades to bring the generators into compliance.
4% Budget Goal Post
After considerable debate between a 4% and a 3% increase, council ultimately voted in favor of a 4% goal. This objective serves as a directive for the city administration and is not the final increase number.
City Renews Lease Agreement with Colts
Council passed several by-laws, including a by-law to renew the lease agreement with the Cornwall Colts Hockey Club to use the Civic Complex, Ed Lumley Arena, and Benson Centre for the 2024-2027 hockey seasons. The new three-year agreement ends in March 2027.
The next regular Cornwall City Council Meeting is Tuesday, August 13.
