Corporate Report. Recommendation That Council adopt the recommended actions contained in Appendix 2 of this report; and

Transcription

1 Corporate Report Report from Planning and Building Services, Director Date of Report: March 26, 2015 Date of Meeting: April 13, 2015 Report Number: PBS File: Subject: Port Dalhousie Improvements and Enhancements Recommendation That Council adopt the recommended actions contained in Appendix 2 of this report; and That Council direct staff to initiate the process to amend the Community Improvement Plan (CIP) to consider the designation of the Port Dalhousie Commercial Core as a priority neighbourhood; and That Council support the Business Improvement Association to work with city staff to undertake the process to expand the Business Improvement Area; and That an Open House date be established for a City initiated Official Plan and Zoning Bylaw amendment application which will look to broaden land use permissions for Dalhousie House and surrounding lands; and That immediately following the conclusion of the Zoning By-law process for Dalhousie House that a Request for Proposals be conducted by the City to garner viable proposals for the long term use of this building; and That, immediately, a Request for Proposal, be conducted to discover a viable use for the Lock Tender s Shanty. FORTHWITH. Summary The Port Dalhousie Renaissance Committee and the Port Dalhousie Business Improvement Area (BIA) have raised concerns about the overall viability of the Port Dalhousie Commercial Core and have asked Council to implement remedial and long term actions that would spur badly need revitalization and rehabilitation of the area. Staff have reviewed these concerns and offer a number of recommendations and actions to address these concerns. Report Page 1 of 10

2 Background In 2014, the Port Dalhousie Renaissance Committee and the Port Dalhousie Business Improvement Area (BIA) each made two presentations to Council requesting that certain issues related to the improvement of Port Dalhousie and its Commercial Core be addressed by the City. Council has requested that City staff address these issues in a proactive and solution-minded approach and report back to Council on a comprehensive plan of action. Council motions related to this initiative are itemized in Appendix 1. Appendix 2 sets out the issues that have been raised and provides actions that addresses or resolves the issues. Many issues require further work by either the residents group, the City or a combination of efforts and responsibilities to achieve desired outcomes. The issues identified in Appendix 2 that require additional discussion are addressed in this report. The City recognizes that actions must be undertaken to improve this area. To that end it is important to understand the amount of investment that has already occurred in the recent past to help revitalize the Port Dalhousie area, specifically: In 2011, the following works were completed in Port Dalhousie: Dalhousie House - $140,000 (electrical/structural upgrades Inner Range Lighthouse - $215,000 (exterior rehabilitation) Jaycee Park Trail Connection - $1,645,000 As well, the following is planned: Pan Am Games: Henley Island Bridge replacement $615,175 Replacement of Albano System for Royal Canadian 55,000 Rowing Course Port Dalhousie Cenotaph Rehabilitation 11,000 Roof replacement at Port Dalhousie Older Adults Centre 40,000 Library 30,000 Mobi Mats for beach area accessibility 25,000 Report Port Dalhousie Renaissance Committee: This Committee is an ad hoc group of citizens from the Conservancy who met a number of times in 2014 and was focused on identifying approaches and activities that could assist in reinvigorating the Port Dalhousie business environment and thereby revitalize the community. While it remains constituted, the committee has stated that it will meet as needed to support the initiatives of its offshoot the Beautification and Works Committee (BWC). The Committee wants to achieve as much as possible before the onset of the Pan Am Games but, more importantly, build a strong foundation that will support continuing efforts and action for the revitalization of Port Dalhousie. Report Page 2 of 10

3 In summary the Renaissance Committee has stated the following goals: - Have year round activities - Be proud of Port Dalhousie once again - Initiate beautification efforts - Achieve considerable amount of improvements before the commencement of the Pan Am Games. - Preserve and maintain Port s heritage - Create a sense of community and - Streamline approval processes as much as possible On a very positive note, stemming from the Renaissance Committee there were a number of Port Dalhousie residents who formed the BWC. They intend to target community assets that require improvement and/or maintenance in the Port Dalhousie area. The group believes that it is important to maximize the Pan Am Games opportunity to showcase Port Dalhousie and its unique recreation and heritage features by acting now to present a vibrant, attractive community. Some ongoing BWC tasks include: - Fund raising (has received a charitable status from the city) - Various beautification tasks and streetscaping for greening the Commercial Core and other areas for the Pan Am games etc. - Communication/coordination efforts (Committee and City) - Undertake flower bed and general landscaping maintenance in the Port Dalhousie area in conjunction with City forces. Expansion of the Port Dalhousie Business Improvement Area (BIA) Appendix 3 illustrates the existing BIA area defined by City By-law Authority for its establishment emanates from the Municipal Act. Within this specified area, businesses pay a BIA levy along with property taxes. The BIA s mandate is to oversee the improvement, beautification, and maintenance of the municipally owned land and buildings and structures in the area beyond that provided at the expense of the municipality generally and to promote the area as a business area and shopping area. It is the voice of business development and improvement for the Port Dalhousie Commercial Core. As well, this organization is responsible for supporting festivals and events in the BIA area. It participates in the beautification and promotion of heritage tourism and promotes the business and marketing of events. In its presentation to City Council in July 2014, amongst other requests that are addressed in Appendix 2 of this report, the BIA asked Council to consider expanding the BIA area to allow for more business involvement from the community. According to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, important steps in changing the boundary are itemized below: - Establish and demonstrate the need Build a business case which considers the economic environment and public perception of the area as well as provide for sustainable economic growth. - Communicate with all interested parties Report Page 3 of 10

4 - Establish a Steering Committee. According to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Handbook on BIA s the steering committee may wish to hold informal sessions with area businesses and property owners before any formal public information meeting is held in order to help confirm the proposed boundaries, provide clarification and confirm preliminary interest in taking the next steps to expand the area. - Establish goals and objectives - Prepare preliminary budget proposals - Establish proposed boundaries - Formalize a request to the municipality - Provide notification of the proposal. Information campaigns often inform the property owners and tenants that an expansion is being considered and focus on highlighting the potential benefits that can be provided by a BIA. - Municipality to pass an amending by-law As mentioned in the list above, before altering the boundary, the City is required to mail out a notice of the proposal to assessed prescribed business owners in the proposed BIA area. New and potential members may object. Commitment from business and property owners in the area is essential. The onus is on those with the greatest interest in developing the area to devote necessary time and resources to ensure the success of the BIA. According to the BIA Handbook as an alternative to formally adjusting boundaries some BIA s have developed associate membership for businesses not located within the boundary, however, BIA levies are not charged on an associate member and fees are voluntary. Staff recommend that in accordance with the Municipal Act, Council support the BIA working with City staff to undertake the process to expand the BIA area. City Team to Address Port Dalhousie issues: Council has requested that staff efforts be coordinated and that, ideally one staff member would be responsible for expediting all facets of Port Dalhousie liaison and improvements. Mainly because of limited resources, a proactive approach from the City perspective is to constitute a staff team who will work and communicate together to address all facets of Port Dalhousie improvements and particularly the Commercial Core (See Appendix 4). Use of the City s Community Improvement Plan The City has had a Community Improvement Plan (CIP) since This plan was very successful in generating the redevelopment, reuse and rehabilitation of the built environment including brownfield remediation. The commercial core of Port Dalhousie was never a designated Community Improvement Project Area in the originally approved CIP, nor in any amendments to the CIP plan since In November 2014, Council approved a new CIP that expanded opportunities for CIP financial incentives on properties throughout the City s urban area, which would include Port Dalhousie. The new 2015CIP identified priority neighbourhoods, Report Page 4 of 10

5 neighbourhoods demonstrating an elevated need for community renewal. Port Dalhousie was not considered a priority neighbourhood when the CIP program was reviewed in 2013 and accordingly was not included as a priority neighbourhood in the CIP adopted in November of In addition, an evaluation tool was introduced to rank Tax Increment Financing Program applications so that development projects which best aligned with the City s objectives of fostering brownfield remediation and the revitalization of priority neighbourhoods would receive a higher ranking than other proposals when being considered for approval. Given the City s limited financial resources, the review of 2015CIP applications based on a ranking system ensures those applications which best demonstrate compliance with the City s objectives, are more likely to be successful in receiving funding. The CIP targets areas in transition or in need of repair, rehabilitation and redevelopment and is intended to facilitate and encourage changes in a coordinated manner. The goal of the CIP is to stimulate more compact land use and encourage the restoration and reuse of vacant or underused buildings. Currently, the full gamut of CIP programs including Façade Improvement and Residential and Office Space Conversion programs are only available in the Downtown Area and parts of Queenston Street and Pelham Road in West Hill. Tax Increment Financing, Brownfield Tax Increment Financing and Brownfield Tax Assistance programs are available throughout the City. When Council considered the approval of the city s new CIP on November 3, 2014, the BIA requested that the following items be considered and adopted as part of the Plan: That the commercial core of Port Dalhousie (Business Association Boundary inclusive) be recognized and included as a Priority Community Improvement Project Area; That currently, there are six defined Priority CIPA neighbourhoods and are proposing that the Port Dalhousie BIA be number seven; That the Port Dalhousie Commercial Core (current Business Improvement Area) be eligible for all three grant programs and the tax cancellation program; and That Priority programs include the Urban Growth Centre Incentives Program and the Façade Improvement Program. The BIA requested that all CIP programs apply to the Port Dalhousie Commercial Area. In November 2014, Council did not approve the 2015 CIP with the inclusions requested by the BIA. Over the last number of years the Port Dalhousie Commercial Core has suffered considerable decline. Buildings have been demolished or abandoned and there is general malaise in the commercial area. Indeed, the high vacancy rates for a good part of the year, the deterioration in the appearance of building facades, large turnover of businesses, a limited customer base beyond the peak summer season, limited parking opportunities and a restricted land base beyond the defined Commercial Core area are all factors leading to a further exploration of the area as a priority neighbourhood under the 2015 CIP program. At the same time, the City is faced with financial challenges that require the stringent review of City services and programs. For the 2015 Budget year, Report Page 5 of 10

6 no funding has been afforded to the new CIP. However, when considering the dire need for revitalization and rehabilitation, Port Dalhousie s Commercial Core is a candidate area for consideration as a priority neighbourhood. Under the Planning Act, a formal amendment to the CIP is required to establish a new priority neighbourhood. As in any CIP amendment public consultation, public notice and open houses are required in accordance with procedures outlined by the Act. This process also will consider revitalization plans and involve a careful financial analysis of City resources to fund this additional priority neighbourhood under the 2015CIP. Report PBS on the Council agenda of April 13, 2015, discusses alternative approaches to development in the Port Dalhousie area. The report recommends that staff undertake the preparation of a Secondary Plan for the area. This study can also furnish the basis for Council s decision to ultimately recognize the Port Dalhousie Commercial Core area as an additional priority neighbourhood within an expanded CIP that will be considered for funding in As such, staff recommend that the process to consider the designation of the Port Dalhousie Commercial Core as a priority neighbourhood in the2015cip be commenced. Other Possible Financial Incentives The Renaissance Committee has also asked if other financial incentives are available to aid the Commercial Core of Port Dalhousie. The Municipal Act encourages good stewardship, maintenance and conservation of locally designated heritage properties. Tax relief can be approved for individually designated properties or heritage districts under Parts IV and V respectively of the Ontario Heritage Act. The City will study the possibility of implementing this form of tax relief for the Commercial Core that is located within the heritage district as part of future budget deliberations. Dalhousie House Request for Proposals (52 Lakeport Road) This building, now owned by the City, was constructed circa 1850 and for many years functioned in conjunction with the Port s dry docks and shipyard. Over the years it had fallen into disrepair. Recognizing that it was a valuable heritage resource the City undertook improvements to stabilize the slope behind the building and prevent the structure from further deteriorating. To date, under the City s ownership, the building has been gutted and remains as an empty shell with a ladder leading to the second floor. While water and sanitary sewer facilities are available on site, neither are located within the building. A new HVAC and electrical system has been installed. Recognizing that the building is within the Port Dalhousie Heritage District the City needs to determine a long-term viable use for this facility. Appendix 2 of this report itemizes actions taken to date to move towards this determination. Staff have met with the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) who have indicated that no environmental study is required for the refurbishment of the existing building provided there are no major additions. However, the Official Plan designation of Hazard Lands and Natural Area and particularly the Conservation/Natural Area (G1) zoning for the property restricts uses to park purposes such as picnic areas and shelters, trails, and boat ramps. Before the City sends out a Report Page 6 of 10

7 Request for Proposal (RFP) to determine if there is an interest in using the building for various private or public uses it would be prudent for Council to direct staff to undertake an Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendment to consider widening use permissions and, thereby, increase the possibly of finding a long term viable use for the site that would be compatible with the Port Dalhousie heritage district. Should Council wish to sell the property, depending on the proposed use, a Record of Site Condition may be required. In the meantime, staff also should prepare the RFP so that immediately after Council considers changes to the Official Plan and Zoning By-law, and presuming that those amendments are approved, that the request could be undertaken. Lock Tender s Shanty This building is the last remaining Lock Tender s Shanty of the third Welland Canal ( ). Constructed in 1887, it was used to record the number of ships passing through the Canal and collect fees. The Official Plan and Zoning By-law restricts its use to parks and limited public uses. In addition to the building improvements which are outlined in Appendix 2 of this report the Renaissance Committee has also asked that a viable use be rendered for this small building. To this end it is prudent for staff to issue a Request for Proposal for the building to garner public interest in providing a viable long term use for the building. Transient Dockage in Port Dalhousie At its meeting of June 9, 2014, Council directed staff to review transient docking in the Port Dalhousie harbour which is the former entrance point to the first, second and third Welland Canals. Day docking is made available in this section of the harbour by the City of St. Catharines and does not include the Dalhousie Yacht Club marina. Boats are permitted to stay for a maximum of forty-eight hours. The City s website and leisure guide are the only ways that the City advertises the availability of transient docking in Port Dalhousie. No advertising budget is allocated for this service. It should be noted that both the Dalhousie Yacht Club and the Marina also offer daily docking and amenities on site such as showers etc. Since 2010, actual City revenues are as follows: 2010 $19, , , ,018 While slightly increasing in 2014 revenues have steadily declined since 2010 and can be attributed to the lack of business activities and attractions in Port Dalhousie. PRCS is currently reviewing the long term management of operations of the transient docking as a municipal service. Any changes in management of transient docking are subject to the approval from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), as the Head Landlord. If a change in the management is feasible, it would take at least 120 days to receive approval from DFO. Due to the process a change in Transient Dockage management could not take effect until the 2016 season. Report Page 7 of 10

8 Financial Implications While the immediate recommendations within this report do not have an immediate impact on the City s budget, recommendations including longer term studies and considerations will likely increase budget requirements. Recommendations that may impact the budget are: Expansion of the BIA area Expansion of the CIP to include the Port Dalhousie commercial core as a priority neighbourhood. Improvements required for Dalhousie House and the Lock Tender s shanty Conclusion Together with the actions of the Port Dalhousie Renaissance Committee and the BIA staff recognize that the Port Dalhousie Commercial Core is in need of actions that will help to revitalize the area. Notification It is in order to notify the Beautification and Works Committee and Port Dalhousie Business Improvement Area. Prepared, Submitted and Approved by: James N. Riddell, M.PL., MCIP, RPP Director of Planning and Building Services Report Page 8 of 10

9 Summary of Council Motions pertaining to the Port Dalhousie Area 1 January 27, 2014: Council unanimously passed a Motion urging the developer to begin construction of the OMB approved project immediately or if the project will not be completed by the fifth year anniversary in 2015, Council strongly encourages the developer to either submit a new or a revised application for a project that revitalizes the commercial core and is consistent with applicable planning policies and heritage guidelines or sell the properties to a developer who may submit a new or a revised application. June 9, 2014: The Port Dalhousie Renaissance Committee, a sub-committee of the Port Dalhousie Conservancy Committee, addressed Council and presented their Recommendations to Increase Business and Visitors to Port Dalhousie. Council passed the following motion: That Council approve, in principle, the spirit of the three initiatives of the Port Dalhousie Renaissance Committee: 1) a pilot project to allow Pop-up stores on City property in Port Dalhousie; 2) assist in expediting permits and approvals for community festivals and events in Port Dalhousie; 3) take the necessary steps to utilize the Lock Tender s Shanty, and Dalhousie House for public use/tourism; and That Council direct staff to prepare a report as soon as possible after meeting with members of the Renaissance Committee; and That Council direct staff to review the dockage policy in Port Dalhousie. July 7, 2014: Representatives of the Port Dalhousie BIA updated Council on activities of the BIA and asked Council to support their goals to: Continue to be the voice of business development in Port Dalhousie Review the current boundaries of the BIA for possible expansion Be proactive in marketing the area through partnerships Explore options for parking both within the core and at Lakeside Park Work with Economic Development and Tourism Services for QEW tourism oriented directional signage Council received the presentation. The Council Motion also stated that Council direct staff to prepare report on the issues presented by Mr. Scott including a request for 100% funding in the amount of $10,000 per year from QEW directional signage in 2015 and September 8, 2014: Representatives of the BIA and the Renaissance Committee presented Recommendations for Revitalizing Port Dalhousie and its Commercial Core. Council Report Page 9 of 10

10 directed staff to prepare a report in response to new items mentioned in this report and that this comprehensive report come forward early in the next term of Council. The Motion also included a Council direction that staff be directed to include different strategies that can be used to bring the developer to the table. November 3, 2014: Port Dalhousie BIA representatives requested Council recognize the Port Dalhousie BIA area as a Priority Community Improvement Area and that this area be eligible for all CIP programs. December, 15, 2014 Motion 1 Directed staff to continue inspecting buildings against the City s Property Standards Bylaw and the Ontario Heritage Act. As well, the owners of these properties were strongly encouraged to restore the buildings and make them fit for rental so that they can occupied before the start of the Pan Am Games. Motion 2 Council supported the January 27, 2014 motion and requested that staff prepare a comprehensive report on the detailed background and history of the subject project so that Council can consider possible alternative approaches to the site s development and That staff be directed to explore alternative approaches to the development of the site should plan approval not be pursued. Report Page 10 of 10

11 PORT DALHOUSIE Improvements 2 Item/origin Request Action Due Date Responsibility COUNCIL MOTION JUNE 9, 2014 To promote economic vitality, the City should find viable uses for the Lock Tender s Shanty, Dalhousie House and Lakeside Park Establish a variety of uses and obtain expressions of interest for the use of the building to create an inviting area during the Pan Am Games and after. Lock Tender s Shanty needs to be restored and better utilized. Repair to the exterior and full restoration is needed as well as finding a long term use. The Shanty is designated as Parkland and Open Space in the Official Plan and zoned Minor Open Space. In 2014, a contractor with heritage expertise was retained by the City and exterior repair has occurred ie., repair of skirting board around bottom of the building. Approximately $20,000 has been allocated to this project. Painting of the exterior will commence this spring. Painting - 2ndQ/15 TES/PRCS/FMS The building is sited on a very awkward parcel of land which has no water or sewer services. RFP 2ndQ/15 FMS

12 Item/origin Request Action Due Date Responsibility A call for proposals for the use of the facility should occur 2ndQ/15 PBS/FMS immediately so that a use can be implemented before the Pan Am Games. Dalhousie House Lakeside Park Improvements More information on general maintenance and future capital works is needed. Dalhousie House is designated as Hazard Lands and Natural Area in the Official Plan and is zoned G1 Conservation/Natural Area. Staff has undertaken a review of Official Plan policies and Zoning permissions for the building, and site and have determined that consideration for broadening the permitted uses should be pursued through formal applications for amendments to the Official Plan and Zoning By-law. These City driven amendments should occur before a Request for Proposal is undertaken. The pavilion and other park and Port improvement works are contained in future capital budgets as follows: - Electrical distribution improvements - $380,000 - Washroom/concession upgrades - $360,000 - Pavilion improvements - $900,000 Future options for the pavilion were discussed at the Port Dalhousie Heritage District Advisory Committee on February 26, RFP 2ndQ/15 Approved in 2014 budget Approved in 2014 budget Approved in 2014 budget Pavilion improvements cannot commence prior to the Pan AM Games because any delay may impact the PRCS

13 Item/origin Request Action Due Date Responsibility Games. Commence in the 3rdQ/15 Explore options for Working with Developer Provide for pop-up stores in Commercial Core area and on city lands in a three year pilot project. Council directed the preparation of a staff report to explore ways to work with the Developer/ Owner in the future. The City should encourage new development in the Commercial Core. To foster business and create critical mass, the provision for pop-up retail and restaurant space should be made available on city lands such as park space. Spaces would not compete with existing businesses and selection would be based on being complimentary to existing buildings and businesses. The request is for the city to fast-track Explore alternatives for how to work with Developer to achieve development of Port Place. See accompanying PBS Report titled Development Alternatives for the Port Dalhousie Commercial Core April 13, 2015 Potentially there would be no water or electricity services available to these businesses on City lands outside of the Commercial Core. From the City s perspective, health and safety is the foremost concern. In the existing Commercial Core Zoning permits these uses provided permits are obtained under the Building Code. After careful consideration, the BIA is not in favour of locating pop-ups in any place other than on private lands in the Commercial Core. It views the possibility of City lands being used for retail or food establishments as an unfair competitive advantage in a very 2ndQ/15 (April 13, 2015) No action is required from the City. PBS N/A

14 Item/origin Request Action Due Date Responsibility the approval limited economic environment in Port process. Dalhousie. Community event/ festival facilitation is requested in the form of expediting and streamlining the approval process for any required City permits. Reduced fees are also requested. Incentives for new businesses should be instituted so that the client base can expand. Ensure adequate City budget supports the CIP to help property owners restore properties. The City should fasttrack any required permits/approvals for community initiated events and minimize fees and charges on a pilot-basis to facilitate revitalization of the area. Identify Port Dalhousie as a Priority Community Improvement Project Area under the Community Improvement Plan (CIP) so that financial incentives could be provided for new business and Existing empty commercial space is encouraged to experiment with this approach during the summer of 2015 to help rehabilitate and reuse the area. Establish an events committee in conjunction with the BIA. It is the BIA s position that events do not necessarily enhance business, but possibilities should be explored. There is a need to focus on activities that will generate year round business and interest in Port and not concentrate on summer activities. While a new CIP was approved by Council in November 2014, Council has decided that no funds are to be provided for new programs in The formal planning process to amend the CIP to include the Port Dalhousie Commercial Core as a priority neighbourhood should commence. Establish a Port events committee to liaise with the City. 2ndQ/15 Major events to be coordinated with BIA s Events Committee to ensure that there are no conflicts 2ndQ/16 PRCS Events Coordinator PBS

15 Item/origin Request Action Due Date Responsibility building restoration. The Commercial Core area should be eligible for all CIP programs. An Enhanced Communication Model is required for the City and Port Community Groups Maintain and enhance communications between the City and Business Association and the larger Community. This will ensure that people are informed or events and activities especially related to the Pan Am Games will be helpful. The City s Corporate Communications office fosters two-way communication with the public through various print and online media outlets. Communications staff also coordinate the City s social and media channels and maintains the City s website including an on-line calendar of events. Tourism staff also manage and host the tourismstcatharines.ca microsite which features an online calendar of events. Both outlets serve as a central resource highlighting an incredible range of festivals and events taking place in the community. The Port Dalhousie BIA enjoys a cooperative relationship with the various City departments and staff. A member of the Economic Development and Tourism team serves in an ex-officio capacity (no voting rights) to the BIA. This staff member attends Board and Committee meetings offering advice, support and input on a range of topics including the organization and timing On going PRCS Events Coordinator

16 Item/origin Request Action Due Date Responsibility of festivals and events. A number of staff are involved in varying facets of Port Dalhousie events development. To aid in the Pan Am Games, Rick Lane, Strategic Initiatives Director, is the team lead. 3rdQ/15 Rick Lane COUNCIL MOTION JULY 7, 2014 In conjunction with the BIA, the City should review the current BIA commercial area to expand the boundary to allow for more participation in the BIA by other Port Dalhousie businesses. The BIA area should include all commercially zoned lands in Port Dalhousie. The BIA believes that to further benefit the Port business community that the current boundary of the BIA should expand to allow other merchants the opportunity to be more actively involved in the BIA. The current boundary has been in place for over 20 The BIA will work with City staff to investigate and undertake public business engagement to ascertain the feasibility of expanding the BIA area. 3rdQ/15 BIA/Clerks/EDTS

17 Item/origin Request Action Due Date Responsibility years while the business community has continued to grow and shift in emphasis. Conduct discussion with the City on parking issues in the commercial core while investigating parking options at Lakeside Park and focus on easy transportation into and out of Port Dalhousie. The BIA believes that paid parking options in Lakeside Park should be reviewed with the opportunity of using excess revenue on the beautification of Lakeside Park and also enable new attractions in the Lakeside Park Beach front. The parking fee structure should be focused on transient parking to eliminate the vast amount of parking spaces used for multi day and overnight parking by citizens. It is believed that easy transportation will help to ease limited parking in the Commercial Core. Currently, there is an agreement with the owners of Port Place to reconstruct and reline the surface of Lakeside Park. A parking strategy study will form part of the Secondary Plan Study. See Report, April 13, ndQ/16 FMS/PBS/PCRS/ TES

18 Item/origin Request Action Due Date Responsibility Work in partnership with the City s Economic Development and Tourism department on the QEW Tourism Oriented directional signage (TODS) Consider the BIA request for 100% funding in the amount of $10,000 per year for QEW directional signage in 2015 and 2016 Implemented EDTS BIA urged the City to be proactive in marketing the area through partnerships Work together cooperatively The BIA and Economic Development and Tourism Services will continue to work together to enhance activities and Port. Ongoing PRCS COUNCIL MOTION SEPTEMBER 8, 2014 As a partner with the City, encourage a strong Community Group to effect change, beautify and enhance the Port Dalhousie area, especially the Commercial Core. City to liaise with the Port Dalhousie Beautification and Works Committee(BWC) to address: The community has formed the BWC that requests City support and cooperation. This volunteer citizen group has identified beautification projects will enhance the character of Port Dalhousie. Council has approved the group to issue charitable receipts for identified improvement projects. 2ndQ/15 PRCS Fencing/boards around construction sites The City s Property Standards By-law provides for minimum standards of upkeep around the site. Ongoing discussions with the new proponent of Port Place is occurring. 2ndQ/15 PBS

19 Item/origin Request Action Due Date Responsibility Replacement of chain link fencing on City properties BWC has identified about 1,500ft of fencing that should be upgraded to wrought iron material and is fund raising 3rdQ/15 BWC and TES Maintenance and upkeep of the Outer Lighthouse must be improved The Outer Lighthouse is owned and maintained by the Federal Government. In 2012, the City decided not to acquire it through the Federal Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act which also provides for non-profit groups to apply to the Federal government to acquire and maintain the buildings. N/A N/A Regular weeding and upkeep of plantings and flower beds on City properties A protocol was established between City and BWC to coordinate gardening and maintenance activities. Waiver forms have been devised and are being signed by BWC members. Gardening and Street scape improvements are being planned by BWC. The City will pay for 55 planters for the Pan Am Games. Lock 1/Canal 2 has been identified for improvement. City staff maintenance began in 2014 and will continue in On going PRCS

20 Item/origin Request Action Due Date Responsibility Rebuilding retaining wall at the corner of Locke and Main street must be repaired. The Region and City jointly own the wall. The Region has indicated that they are obtaining quotes to undertake minor repairs and crack sealing and finish with epoxy paint. 2ndQ/15 Region Improve signage to highlight Port Dalhousie s unique features Signage to highlight canal remnants, heritage buildings, access to the water etc. BWC to work with City to develop a comprehensive program to include plaques, an Information Centre and an APP for visitors to download. 3rdQ/15 Budget - $10,000 PRCS/PBS/ City Heritage Committee

21 Schedule A to By-law Port Dalhousie Business Improvement Area Note: Numbers shown are municipal addresses.

22 Location Map 4 Niagara Regional Air Photo (April, 2013) Port Dalhousie Commercial Core File: