Environment and Infrastructure Services Greening the Hill Report (Environment Strategy Update)

Transcription

1 Agenda Item 3 Staff Report for Committee of the Whole Meeting Date of Meeting: February 21, 2017 Report Number: SREIS Department: Division: Subject: Environment and Infrastructure Services Environment Services 2016 Greening the Hill Report (Environment Strategy Update) Purpose: The purpose of this report is to provide Council with the 2016 Greening the Hill Report, an annual progress update on implementation of the Environment Strategy. Recommendation(s): That staff report SREIS be received for information. Contact Person: Terry Ricketts, Director of Environment Services, Extension 6504 Maria Flores, Manager of Environment Strategy & Sustainability, Extension 5438 Krysten Bates, Environmental Management System Analyst, Extension 3520 Submitted by: "Signed version on file in the Office of the Clerk" Italo Brutto, P. Eng Commissioner of Environment and Infrastructure Services Approved by: "Signed version on file in the Office of the Clerk" Neil Garbe Chief Administrative Officer 11

2 Town of Richmond Hill Committee of the Whole Meeting SREIS Date: February 21, 2017 Page GREENING THE HILL REPORT A Progress Update on Implementation of Richmond Hill s Environment Strategy INTRODUCTION The Town of Richmond Hill and its community are strongly committed to protecting its environment. As federal and provincial governments sign new protocols to tackle climate change and commit to reduced emissions targets, municipalities have been playing a significant role in protecting and managing their local environment as corporate stewards, public policy makers and providers of community programming, education and outreach. Richmond Hill s Environment Strategy, Greening the Hill: Our Community, Our Future, provides a framework for the Town to protect, restore and enhance its natural environment through a number programs and initiatives. The purpose of this staff report is to update Council on the progress of those initiatives. ENVIRONMENT STRATEGY Greening the Hill A Strategy for Environmental Action Richmond Hill s Environment Strategy, Greening the Hill: Our Community, Our Future, is a corporate document that outlines both policy direction and specific actions designed to reduce our community s impacts on the environment and make improvements for a more resilient and sustainable community. Based on extensive community and stakeholder consultation, the Environment Strategy was approved by Council on April 28, 2014 and is being implemented over a 15+ year time period. The Environment Strategy focuses on areas of responsibility within the municipal mandate that impact air quality, water resources and land resources at the local level. It directs environmental management approaches for activities under our control. The scope of the Environment Strategy is defined by the following areas for which goals, objectives and strategic actions have been established: Air Quality Sustainable energy Sustainable transportation Water Resources Watershed management Surface/stormwater quality and quantity Groundwater protection, recharge and discharge Water conservation 12

3 Town of Richmond Hill Committee of the Whole Meeting SREIS Date: February 21, 2017 Page 3 Land Resources Sustainable land development Natural environment management Invasive species management Wildlife management Sustainable urban agriculture and local food production Solid waste management The strategic actions outlined in the Environment Strategy are further categorized under the Town's three primary areas of municipal influence: regulatory powers; municipal services and operations; and community programming. Implementing Richmond Hill s Strategy Our Actions and Leadership The Environment Strategy is paired with an Implementation Plan that puts our ideas into action by defining roles and responsibilities that extend across all Town departments. Initiatives outlined in the Plan are reviewed quarterly by a cross-department steering committee of directors and managers who select annual project priorities, provide updates and share information, and discuss collaborative projects and achievements. As a means of implementation, the Strategy calls for partnerships among the Town, residents, business and stakeholders to work together toward common goals. The Strategy also provides the basis for an Environmental Communications Strategy designed to provide information to the community and involve partners in reaching our goals. It also supports the creation of an Environmental Scorecard to track progress and inform future decision-making. To correspond with the Town s Official Plan, the Environment Strategy has a planning horizon to the year Both the Strategy and Implementation Plan will receive updates and reprioritization at five-year intervals, and staff will provide annual updates to Council as outlined below for HIGHLIGHTS WHAT RICHMOND HILL HAS DONE TO BECOME A MORE SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY 2016 was the second full year of implementation for Richmond Hill s Environment Strategy, which is being carried out in three phases (short, medium and long-term actions). Highlights of the Town s progress in 2016 are described below and showcased in an attached key environmental achievements leaflet (Attachment 1). 13

4 Town of Richmond Hill Committee of the Whole Meeting SREIS Date: February 21, 2017 Page 4 A detailed progress chart for Phase 1 actions was developed to identify milestone achievements each year based on the collective efforts of all departments in the Town (see Attachment 2 for details). This progress chart reflects the status of actions underway or completed in Air Quality Initiatives Our health and quality of life depends on the air we breathe. Pollutants released into the air, particularly greenhouse gas emissions, contribute to smog and climate change. A major source of air pollution comes from the combustion of fuel for energy and transportation. By promoting policies and taking actions related to sustainable energy and transportation use, Richmond Hill has the ability to influence local air quality and reduce air pollutants at their source. Sustainable Energy Detailed Energy Audits As part of implementing the Town s Energy Conservation & Demand Management Plan, energy audits were conducted and conservation measures were identified for Richmond Hill s top 13 energy consuming facilities. Recommendations from the audit findings (e.g. occupancy sensors for heating and lighting, waste heat recovery from arena compressors, etc.) will be reviewed and prioritized. Implementation will be carried out though the 10-year capital plan and by making operating improvements in specific Town facilities. Replacement of RHCPA Marquee Lights with LED A highly visible example of an energy retrofit, in 2016, involved replacing over 1,000 marquee lights at the Richmond Hill Centre for Performing Arts with energy efficient LED bulbs. Energy savings from this project are estimated at more than 45,000 kilowatt hours per year (the equivalent of taking six average-sized homes off the electrical grid or 6.5 passenger cars off the road). Energy Efficiency Upgrades Other energy efficiency projects/upgrades completed by the Town in 2016 include: replacement of lights, the cooling system and pump optimization at the Central Library; pump optimization at the main municipal office building; and upgrades to the refrigeration plant at Elgin Barrow Arena. The total estimated energy savings from projects completed in 2016 was 879,856 kwh, equal to the energy consumed by 23 typical homes in Ontario each year. 14

5 Town of Richmond Hill Committee of the Whole Meeting SREIS Date: February 21, 2017 Page 5 Sustainable Transportation Lake-to-Lake MOU and Trail Upgrades Richmond Hill is a partner municipality in the Lake-to-Lake route, a cycling and walking trail that stretches from Lake Ontario to Lake Simcoe. In 2016, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with York Region was signed and Provincial and Regional funding was secured for the first phase of Richmond Hill s portion of the Lake to Lake route. Construction will begin in 2017 and consists of a 2.25 km segment in the boulevard of Leslie Street which will connect to existing bicycle lanes on Highway 7 and the Beaver Greenway Trail. Electric Vehicle Charging Stations With recent Provincial announcements backing sustainable transportation alternatives, there has been a call for more charging stations for electric vehicles. To support this alternative in Richmond Hill, the Town s electric vehicle (EV) charge stations were made available to the public and upgraded to include thermoplastic markings, user instructions, signs and a troubleshooting protocol. Potential EV charge sites in Richmond Hill were also assessed for future feasibility. Through a new monitoring initiative it was determined that average weekly use of the Town s four Level 2 chargers is estimated to be approximately 62 vehicles per week. To further promote EV use, Richmond Hill hosted an EV event at the main municipal office in conjunction with the Smart Commute Week/workplace program. EV information was delivered to approximately 70 attendees and more than 30 EV test drives were provided courtesy of Plug N Drive. Bike Valet, Transit Advocacy tool Other sustainable transportation initiatives in 2016 include Richmond Hill s Bike Valet program at Mill Pond Splash and Concerts in the Park, run in partnership with volunteers from Blue Dot Richmond Hill, allowing 175 cyclists to attend the event by bicycle and have their bikes stored safely during their stay. The Town also developed a centralized information resource to support transit advocacy for the extension of the Yonge Street Subway to Richmond Hill. Water Quality Initiatives Richmond Hill has an abundance of water resources. The Town s kettle lakes, streams and rivers support a wide variety of plants, animals and fish. During large rainstorms, our waterways move runoff away from developed communities and help reduce the risk of flooding. Rising temperatures, changing weather patterns, and pollution from human activities all impact local water supplies. We can preserve Richmond Hill s water resources by protecting our lakes, rivers, and streams and by using water wisely. 15

6 Town of Richmond Hill Committee of the Whole Meeting SREIS Date: February 21, 2017 Page 6 Stormwater management, water quality protection, water conservation Valleyland Restoration Projects, Managing how stormwater is conveyed through our valleyland system is a priority in Richmond Hill. A number of key projects identified through the Town s Valleyland Capital Works Prioritization Study were initiated in Feasibility studies commenced for Elgin Mills Greenway, Ashfield Drive Pond, Mitchell Pond and Morgan Boyle/Pomona Creek Valleyland. Stormwater Management Pond Maintenance Plan To ensure that stormwater management ponds continue to operate effectively, a maintenance plan for sediment removal was developed and initiated in This program provides direction on priority projects over a 10-year timeframe based on environmental monitoring and is designed to extend the life of these assets. Lake Wilcox Protection Protecting water quality is also important to Richmond Hill. Monitoring under the Lake Wilcox Remediation Strategy revealed that the health of Lake Wilcox is steadily improving after a series of initiatives, such as the removal of Old Bayview Bethesda Sideroad, and the remediation of the east shore. Phosphorus levels are declining, water clarity is improving, and fish habitat and the number of fish species has increased. While the concentration of chloride from road salt has increased, actions to reduce chloride are outlined in the Town's five-year Salt Management Plan approved by Council in The plan outlines the Town s commitments to reduce and manage salt use in Richmond Hill and look at strategies to reduce/minimize salt use in the Lake Wilcox watershed. Drinking Water Trucks at Public Events In 2016, the Town introduced its new Fill it Up water trailer, which provided clean, cold water to approximately 2,000 residents at Richmond Hill s summer camps and events. This initiative helps to further the Town s community waste reduction goals by encouraging the use of reusable water bottles at Town events, all while educating residents on the importance of wise water management and conservation. Land Resource Initiatives The Environment Strategy tells us that building healthy communities means managing growth and development while respecting our natural resources. With increasing development pressures, it is important that our municipal practices consider the conservation, stewardship and restoration of natural areas. In Richmond Hill, this means exploring opportunities to enhance and restore our land-based features through sustainable land development, natural environment management, sustainable urban agriculture and solid waste management. 16

7 Town of Richmond Hill Committee of the Whole Meeting SREIS Date: February 21, 2017 Page 7 Sustainable Land Development Priority Standards for Design & Construction The Town s Standards and Specifications Manual ensures that facilities constructed within the Town are built to the Town s requirements. The standards are updated periodically for safety, functionality and sustainability. In 2016, the Town completed new cycling facility design standards to support active transportation in Richmond Hill, as well as new standards for energy efficient lighting on streets, parks and parking lots. Sustainability Metrics, Support for Green Infrastructure Other notable actions to support sustainable development included: ongoing implementation and uptake monitoring of the Town s Sustainability Metrics tool which won an Excellence in Sustainability Award from the American Planning Association; and advocacy to gain support for green infrastructure through comments on provincial legislation, participation in the Green Infrastructure Coalition report as well as a panel discussion on green infrastructure at the Grey to Green conference. Natural Environment Urban Forest Management Managing our urban forests and increasing the Town s tree canopy cover helps to mitigate flooding, reduce urban heat, absorb air pollutants, provide recreational opportunities for trails and parks, and adds aesthetic value to our neighbourhoods. In 2016, the Terms of Reference for Richmond Hill s Urban Forest Management Plan was prepared and a plan will be initiated in To help offset ash tree losses due to the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) infestation, over 2,000 park and street trees were replaced through the EAB Management Strategy last year. Biodiversity Monitoring Richmond Hill also supports biodiversity and collects information on indicator species to assess the health of our local ecosystems. A biological indicator species monitoring and inventory program was developed based on the Town s 2014 Natural Area Inventory. Monitoring will consist of a flora and fauna inventory every five years and flora and fauna/elc 1 every 10 years. Partners in Environmental Stewardship The Town s community planting and restoration programs continued in With the help of funding partners/sponsors and community volunteers, Richmond Hill s Community Stewardship Program resulted in more than 10,000 trees planted throughout the Town and 32,500m² were restored. In honour of the 10th anniversary of the Healthy Yards Program, Richmond Hill was selected by Tree Canada s TD Green Streets Program to receive a $15,000 grant which helped provide more than 1,000 residents with resources and tools to increase biodiversity and improve the sustainably 1 ELC Refers to Ecological Land Classification, which is a method for describing vegetation communities based on ecological characteristics (e.g. soils, plants, topography, moisture regime, etc.). 17

8 Town of Richmond Hill Committee of the Whole Meeting SREIS Date: February 21, 2017 Page 8 of their homes, lawns and gardens. Through the program, 1,110 native trees and shrubs, 3,500 wildflowers and nearly 200 rain barrels were sold in Education and Awareness Finally, wildlife education and awareness was promoted in 2016 with a focus on the monarch butterfly (a species challenged by declining habitat). Residents learned about the importance of biodiversity and protecting wildlife habitat at summer events, through participation in the National Wildlife Federation's 'Mayor's Monarch Pledge' and through Council's Pollinator Week proclamation. Staff also developed and facilitated a wildlife education workshop to teach kids how they can peacefully co-exist with wildlife in Richmond Hill. Sustainable Urban Agriculture and Local Food Production Urban Food Kit Pilot, Community Garden Policy With a grant from Tree Canada through their flagship TD Green Streets program, edible plants were incorporated as a permanent addition to the Healthy Yards Program in As such, they will be made available for residents to purchase along with other plants and trees each spring. Progress on the Community Garden Policy also continued in A key findings and recommendations report has been drafted and will be reviewed for final direction in Waste management Expanding the Recycling Program New waste collection service levels were established for public areas after the completion of several pilot projects. Pilot summaries for recycling bin lids, parks recycling, and super mailboxes were presented to Council in 2016 and direction was received to implement recycling in parks, at super mailboxes and in the downtown core concurrent with the next waste collection contract. Environmental Communications Strategy The Town s Environment Strategy calls for an environmental communications plan to provide information to the community and involve partners in reaching the Town s goals. It also supports the creation of an Environmental Scorecard to track progress and inform future decision-making. 18

9 Town of Richmond Hill Committee of the Whole Meeting SREIS Date: February 21, 2017 Page 9 Public Outreach Environmental education and engagement initiatives continued to promote environmental awareness within the community and provide opportunities for citizens to get involved. The Town introduced an updated Greening the Hill booth at key Town and ward events, increased environmental liaison and speaking functions to community groups, schools and the library, developed education materials and expanded volunteer opportunities for residents of all ages. Environmental Scorecard In addition to annual Council updates on the Environment Strategy actions, a commitment was made to report on the progress of Richmond Hill s environment through an Environmental Scorecard to be released every five years. The scorecard framework and focused set of indicators was established this past year and consolidation of data from the first year of implementation in 2015 has begun. The first phase of reporting for the scorecard will be released in Next Steps The Environment Strategy outlines a series of actions envisioned to take approximately 15+ years to complete. At this stage, half-way through Phase 1, implementation is on target. Almost half of the Phase 1 actions relate to ongoing processes or programs; these now form part of annual workplans. Among the remaining project-based Phase 1 actions, about 70% of those projects are now underway. In 2017, implementation of the Environment Strategy will continue with direction from the inter-departmental Steering Committee. Notable projects anticipated for 2017 include: implementation of the LED conversion project for the Town s outdoor lighting; construction of the first phase of Richmond Hill s portion of the Lake-to-Lake route; construction of Ashfield Drive stormwater management pond in Oak Ridges; potential expansion of the Sustainability Metrics monitoring tool; development of the Urban Forest Management Plan; and development of the Community Garden Policy. Financial/Staffing/Other Implications: The works outlined in this report are incorporated in the various department budgets and workplans. Relationship to the Strategic Plan: The Environment Strategy is aligned with the Town's Strategic Plan by providing: Stronger Connections in Richmond Hill: These initiatives support the improvement of connections in our built and natural environment (e.g. trails, bike lanes, natural corridors and greenspaces) and provide opportunities for people (within the corporation and within the community) to get involved and participate in making improvements for the environment. 19

10 Town of Richmond Hill Committee of the Whole Meeting SREIS Date: February 21, 2017 Page 10 Better Choice in Richmond Hill: These initiatives promote better options to move around, live, work and do business by implementing actions that support a more sustainable urban environment (e.g. infrastructure and facilities to support cycling, walking, carpooling and electric vehicles; low impact development techniques; sustainable design standards; pilot studies/demonstration projects). A More Vibrant Richmond Hill: These initiatives contribute to a sense of identity and place by creating opportunities for people to experience the Town s natural environment (e.g. actions related to restoring, protecting or enhancing the Town s natural heritage and stewardship programs for people to get involved). They also help the Town look to the future by initiating environmental improvements through corporate leadership, collaboration, innovation and the exchange of ideas. Wise Management of Resources: These initiatives result in less waste (e.g. energy and water efficiency improvements in facilities and vehicles, and waste diversion) and help to protect and enhance our environment (e.g. actions to improve the health of our natural heritage and water resource systems). Conclusion: This staff report provides an update on the implementation of the Environment Strategy in Richmond Hill s Environment Strategy, Greening the Hill: Our Community, Our Future outlines management approaches that will help the Town manage impacts to the environment, make improvements that will enhance our local ecosystems, and create awareness and support for environmentally sensitive behavior within our community. As a local government, the Town exercises influence through our regulatory powers, municipal operations and services, and community programming. By focusing on the areas where we can make the most difference, Richmond Hill continues to make progress on achieving a more environmentally sustainable community. Attachments: The following attached documents may include scanned images of appendices, maps and photographs. If you require an alternative format please call one of the contact persons listed in this staff report. Attachment 1 Environment Strategy 2016 Accomplishments Attachment 2 Environment Strategy Phase 1 Progress Chart (2016) 20

11 ATTACHMENT #1 attachmentn Environment Strategy 2016 Accomplishments Richmond Hill s Environment Strategy, Greening the Hill: Our Community, Our Future, was approved by Council in Based on community and stakeholder consultation, the Strategy outlines Richmond Hill s vision and plan to become a more environmentally sustainable community. This leaflet provides highlights from the Town s 2016 accomplishments. Leading the Energy Efficiency Charge Look out for the Lake-to-Lake Trail! Charge your EV for free! Lake Wilcox Health Improving GREENING THE HILL: Our Community, Our Future A PUBLIC GUIDE TO THE ENVIRONMENT STRATEGY Richmond Hill conserved energy, saved money and reduced pollution through the replacement of more than 1,000 marquee lights with energy efficient LED bulbs at the Richmond Hill Centre for Performing Arts. The annual estimated energy savings from this project are equal to taking 6.5 passenger cars off the road! In 2016, provincial and regional funding was secured and a partnership was established with York Region for the first phase of Richmond Hill s portion of the Lake-to-Lake Cycling and Walking Trail. This phase consists of a 2.25 km multi-use path along Leslie Street which will connect to Highway 7 s existing bicycle lanes and the Beaver Greenway Trail. Design of the route is now complete and construction will begin in Over the past year, the Town s publicly available electric vehicle (EV) charge stations got a fresh new look with branding and user-friendly instructions. An estimated 62 EVs now use the charge stations each week. The Town also assessed and earmarked future EV charge sites should provincial funding become available. The health of Lake Wilcox is steadily improving after years of work including restoration of the east shoreline, stormwater quality control and the addition of a fish and wildlife refuge. Water monitoring results from 2016 revealed that phosphorus levels are declining, water clarity is improving, and fish species and habitat have increased. 21

12 Fill it Up at Town Events! Richmond Hill debuted its new Fill it Up water trailer at Town summer camps and events in In addition to providing clean, cold water to more than 2,000 residents, the trailer helped reduce waste by encouraging reusable water bottle use at events, all while educating residents on the importance of water conservation. Sustainability Award Winners In 2016, Richmond Hill s Sustainability Metrics tool won an Excellence in Sustainability Award from the American Planning Association, a first for any Canadian municipality. Developed in partnership with the Cities of Brampton and Vaughan, the tool calculates a sustainability score for new development projects to ensure that Richmond Hill s built form becomes more sustainable over time. Partners in Environmental Stewardship With the help of funding partners and community volunteers, more than 10,000 trees were planted in Richmond Hill through the Town s Community Stewardship Program. Last year also marked the 10th anniversary of the Healthy Yards Program. To celebrate this milestone, the Town was awarded a grant through Tree Canada s TD Green Streets Program and helped more than 1,000 residents improve the biodiversity and sustainably of their lawns and gardens. Expanding Recycling Services A number of waste collection pilot projects were completed in 2016 and direction was received to expand recycling services in public areas. As part of Richmond Hill s next waste collection contract, additional recycling services will be added in parks, in the downtown core and next to super mailboxes in residential areas. Watch for these environmental projects in 2017! Conversion of more than 15,000 outdoor street, park and parking lot lights to LED lighting. Restoration of Beaver Woodland begins. Rehabilitation of the Ashfield Drive Stormwater Management Pond in Oak Ridges. Recommendations for energy conservation measures for the Town s top energy-consuming facilities resulting from detailed energy audits. Continued development of the Town s Urban Forest Management Plan. RichmondHill.ca 22

13 ATTACHMENT #2 SREIS Environment Strategy Update (2016) Staff Report - Attachment Progress Chart for Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Phase 1 Actions Time Frame Project Status ACTION Ongoing Action Initiated/ Underway Complete Milestone Achievements E1 E2 AIR Sustainable Energy Goals Investigate the opportunities and feasibility of implementing district heating or cooling systems in the Secondary Plan areas, in conjunction with the Town wide Community Energy Plan identified in action E2. Initiate a Town wide Community Energy Plan based on the recommendations of the Urban Master Environmental Servicing Plan (Urban MESP) and in keeping with the Town s commitments under the Partners for Climate Protection program (Federation of Canadian Municipalities). N/A N/A E3 Develop a Community Energy Plan for the Richmond Hill Centre. N/A E4 Develop and implement an Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan (CDM) for Town facilities, updated every five years. Report energy consumption and GHG emissions annually. (Implementati on) (CDM Plan) CDM Plan implementation underway. Energy audits completed for top 13 energy consuming facilities. Energy conservation measures identified and prioritized based on audit findings. Priority actions to be implemented though Asset Management 10-year capital plan and through improvements to operating practices in prioritized Town facilities. E5 E7 Report corporate (and community) greenhouse gas emissions in partnership with the Partners for Climate Protection (PCP) every five years in conjunction with CDM reporting. Actively research, promote, and pilot sustainable energy opportunities through demonstration projects and technological innovations. Sustainable Transportation Goals Corporate GHG emissions report completed. Conversion of Outdoor Lighting Network to LED underway. Expected completion in fall Feasibility of FIT projects for Town facilities determined through detailed energy audits. One FIT application received and endorsed in PCMP Implementation of PCMP and prep work for future update. Phase 1 Lake-to-Lake MOU with York Region complete and construction tender awarded. Monitoring of planned and prospective off-road trails underway. T1 Advocate to the Region and Province for public transit as a primary mode of transportation available to residents and commuters. Advocacy for the extension of the Yonge Subway to Richmond Hill Centre continues at every opportunity (e.g. transit advocacy working group established, centralized database and information/communications package underway, issues note finalized). T3 Develop and/or update pedestrian and cycling facility design standards as needed to provide for convenient and safe active transportation Pedestrian and Cycling Facilities Requirements complete (approved by Standards and Specifications Executive Committee in February 2016). 23 1

14 SREIS Environment Strategy Update (2016) Staff Report - Attachment Progress Chart for Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Phase 1 Actions Time Frame Project Status ACTION Ongoing Action Initiated/ Underway Complete Milestone Achievements T4 Implement pedestrian and cycling facility design standards through the planning approval process. Objectives of the standards (e.g. appropriate coverage that complements the road network, facility types that appeal to a wide range of users, and equitable and convenient access to the pedestrian and cycling network) are being considered on an application by application basis. Further implementation to take place in T6 Continue to provide education and outreach to promote and encourage active and healthy transportation options. Education and outreach programs implemented (e.g. Smart Commute workplace program events and promotion, Bike Valet program continued thorough partnership with Blue Dot Richmond Hill volunteers). T7 Actively research, promote, and pilot sustainable and active transportation opportunities through demonstration projects/programs and technological innovations. WATER RESOURCES Watershed Management Goals EV charge stations upgraded to include thermoplastic markings, user instructions, signs and troubleshooting protocol. Potential EV charge sites assessed for future feasibility. WM3 WM4 Pursue a variety of funding strategies and partnerships to preserve municipal resources for implementation of water resources stream and river rehabilitation projects. Develop and implement a Watercourse (Valleyland) Restoration Plan to address priority areas of erosion, restoration and required capital work throughout the valleyland system. (Implementati on) (Valleyland Plan) Ongoing annual monitoring of reserve funds, available grants, and opportunities for funding partnerships. Implementing recommendations - Elgin Mills Greenway Valleyland Restoration underway (study complete, detailed design in 2016/2017), Morgan Boyle Park/Pomona Creek Valleyland Restoration study initiated. WM5 Continue to work with existing partners on stream restoration projects and seek additional new partners for future projects through the Community Stewardship Program. Existing partnerships continued in Valleyland Study used to prioritize new restoration project locations. SWM2 SWM3 SWM4 Surface and Stormwater Quality and Quantity Goals: Implement Stormwater Management Rate Program. Implement Richmond Hill s Stormwater Management 10 Year Capital Plan to rehabilitate existing stormwater facilities; re-prioritize needs and re-establish the 10 Year Plan as required. Develop and implement a stormwater infrastructure maintenance program. (Implementati on) (Program) Annual rate increase adopted by Council in SWM 10 Year Capital Plan implemented. Projects completed include: Ashfield Drive Pond feasibility study and design, Elgin Mills Greenway design in 2016/2017, Mitchell Pond feasibility study. Program development complete. Implementation to begin in

15 SREIS Environment Strategy Update (2016) Staff Report - Attachment Progress Chart for Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Phase 1 Actions Time Frame Project Status ACTION Ongoing Action Initiated/ Underway Complete Milestone Achievements SWM5 SWM6 Continue to deliver stormwater facility monitoring and inspection program; update program and define roles/responsibilities to ensure Richmond Hill operates Update Richmond Hill s Stormwater Management Design Standards. Monitoring program currently under review. N/A SWM7 SWM8 GW1 GW2 Implement the Lake Wilcox Remediation Strategy; monitor measure and report results of implementation. Continue to implement the watercourse monitoring program and reassess the program with assistance from outside agencies. Groundwater Protection, Recharge and Discharge Goals Identify strategic actions in the Credit Valley, Toronto and Regional and Central Lake Ontario (CTC) Source Protection Plan that, once approved, are the responsibility of Richmond Hill in partnership with York Region and implement accordingly. Update the Town Salt Management Plan; in addition assess non-salt alternatives for Lake Wilcox area; monitor performance; work with York Region to share and adopt best salt management practices and non-salt alternatives. Water Conservation Goals LAND RESOURCES Sustainable Land Development Goals (Implementati on) (Plan) Continued implementation of Lake Wilcox Remediation Strategy recommendations based on priorities identified. Continued implementation of watercourse monitoring program. Discussions with TRCA initiated on potential groundwater recharge compensation process/tool. Targeting OP Amendment in 2018 to conform to Source Water Protection Plan (provided York Region has begun their Regional OPA by then) Update to Salt Management Plan approved by Council in

16 SREIS Environment Strategy Update (2016) Staff Report - Attachment Progress Chart for Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Phase 1 Actions Time Frame Project Status ACTION Ongoing Action Initiated/ Underway Complete Milestone Achievements LD1 Create and/or update Town-wide standards and specifications such as the Materials, Standards and Specifications Manual, and sustainable parks, trails, and open space standards, etc. to reflect the policies of the Official Plan. Priority standard updates were identified based on Sustainability Metrics & Envt Strategy actions with similar objectives (e.g. cycling facilities/t3; efficient outdoor lighting/led study E7; three-stream waste in multires/sw1; swm on site/swm6; soil volume for tree health/ne3). LD2 LD4 LD11 Develop a monitoring tool for the Sustainability Metrics to help measure performance. Link the findings of the Urban MESP to valleyland studies and restoration plans. Play an advocacy role with the Federal and Provincial Governments along with agencies such as Association of Municipalities Ontario (AMO) to provide funding for green infrastructure. (monitoring) (uptake tool) (Valleyland) Priority standard updates completed in 2016 for Cycling Facilities (T3) and to the Town s Standards for Street, Park and Parking Lot Lighting (E7). Monitoring underway of site plan and draft plan applications received since March Linkage review undertaken as part of background research for the plan. Continued support for green infrastructure provided through comments on provincial legislation in Richmond Hill noted as a partner in the State of the GTA Green Infrastructure Coalition report. Participation in a panel discussion on green infrastructure at the Grey to Green conference. LD12 Ensure that flood conveyance remediation projects incorporate ecological improvements to associated valleylands. Elgin Mills Greenway working group established to provide ongoing support to ensure ecological improvements are incorporated throughout the project. LD14 NE2 NE3 Support TRCA s existing pilot Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Plan at Lake Wilcox, and investigate working with partners to expand the program to include other Richmond Hill neighbourhoods. Natural Environment Management Goals Develop an Urban Forest Management Plan to protect, maintain and enhance the urban forest. (Note: this initiative will be of particular importance in the wake of EAB; it could be combined with the restoration planning and implementation efforts for EAB already underway). Update standards and specifications to better protect mature tree health and growth, giving consideration to soils standards. Workshops held by TRCA to continue delivering on lessons learned from the SNAP pilot. Terms of Reference drafted. Procurement to begin in N/A 26 4

17 SREIS Environment Strategy Update (2016) Staff Report - Attachment Progress Chart for Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Phase 1 Actions Time Frame Project Status ACTION Ongoing Action Initiated/ Underway Complete Milestone Achievements NE6 Develop a biological indicator species monitoring and inventory program that will provide information to assist in the planning and prioritization of restoration projects, the management of invasive species and wildlife, and the maintenance of natural heritage features. Make best use of data provided through developers. Biological indicator species monitoring and inventory program developed based on the 2014 Natural Area Inventory (consists of the flora fauna inventory every five years and flora fauna/elc every 10 years). Data will be supplemented through annual amphibian monitoring. Access to development application data currently being explored through the PALIS software review. NE7 Develop a single database/application for street trees and open spaces trees for use by multiple departments. Phase 1 of single tree asset database development complete. Protocol established to ensure roles and responsibilities. Phase 2 expected to be initiated in NE9 Continue to provide the Community Stewardship Program as a means to undertake restoration activities on Town land by strengthening existing partnerships and developing ways to encourage new restoration, enhancement and education partnerships Community Stewardship Program: over 10,000 trees and shrubs planted, 85 partner-led events, 2 partnerlead workshops, 4 Town-led community tree planting events, 32,500 m² restored, 10 outreach events attended and 1 new partnership established (LEAF). NE10 Continue to offer the Healthy Yards Program as a means to improve biodiversity and increase tree cover on private lands. Continued implementation of Healthy Yards program (e.g wildflowers, 1110 trees and shrubs, and 198 rain barrels sold). New partnership and funding provided through TD Friends of the Environment in honour of the 10th anniversary of Healthy Yards. IS5 IS6 IS7 Invasive Species Management Goals Continue to implement the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Management Strategy. Continue to promote and implement the use of a diversity of native plant species on Town land. Collaborate and partner with York Region, neighboring municipalities, Conservation Authorities and other crossboundary stakeholders to manage invasive species. Woodlot management plan completed for Beaver Woodland as part of implementation of the Long-term Woodlot Restoration Program. Benefits of native plant species promoted through outreach. Continued participation in cross-jurisdictional work on invasive species management with York Region and the Ontario Invasive Plant Council. 27 5

18 SREIS Environment Strategy Update (2016) Staff Report - Attachment Progress Chart for Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Phase 1 Actions Time Frame Project Status ACTION Ongoing Action Initiated/ Underway Complete Milestone Achievements IS8 Develop Community Education and Outreach programs for invasive species and native plant species. Educated residents on how to increase monarch butterfly habitat through participation in the National Wildlife Federation's 'Mayor's Monarch Pledge' and through Council's Pollinator Week proclamation. Wildlife Management Goals W2 Re-evaluate existing by-laws that address wildlife feeding. N/A W5 Continue to support and implement the Canada Goose Management Strategy and Beaver Management Policy. W6 Define the Town response to, as well as roles and responsibilities for individual N/A species that significantly impact the Town. W7 Develop education methods to improve the public s understanding of wildlife interactions and the benefits of living in a biodiverse community. Provide this information through various channels (Environment, By-law, Communications) Ongoing Canada Goose/Beaver monitoring and management. Wildlife educational workshop delivered to Richmond Green Library summer reading program participants. Educational signage on wildlife feeding installed. Sustainable Urban Agriculture and Local Food Production Goals Comm Community Garden policy as per Parks Plan unity Garden Community Garden Policy currently under development. LF5 Evaluate the feasibility of developing an urban food kit as part of the Healthy Yards Program. Edible plants incorporated into Healthy Yards Program in 2015 and Survey conducted to evaluate future direction (TD Friends of the Environment grant used to support survey facilitation). Edible plant pilot project is complete; edible plants will now be incorporated as an ongoing plant option moving forward. SW1 Solid Waste Management Goals Develop building design criteria requiring new multi-unit residential, IC&I, and mixeduse developments to incorporate source-separated waste collection in building design, and to participate in source-separation programs. Development of draft standards will follow finalization of the waste contract SW3 Develop and implement a Town sustainable procurement policy. N/A 28 6

19 SREIS Environment Strategy Update (2016) Staff Report - Attachment Progress Chart for Richmond Hill Environment Strategy Phase 1 Actions Time Frame Project Status ACTION Ongoing Action Initiated/ Underway Complete Milestone Achievements SW4 SW5 SW6 SW7 SW10 Conduct annual waste audits of municipal facilities greater than 10,000 square meters and implement waste reduction work plans and source separation programs for these facilities. Establish and implement service levels for diversion programs in public areas. Collaborate with York Region and local municipalities to share innovations and achieve region-wide waste reduction and diversion goals. Actively research, promote, and pilot waste management opportunities through demonstration projects and technological innovations. Develop and implement approaches for three-stream waste separation at large community events, starting with Town sponsored events and progressing to private events held at Town facilities waste audit completed and Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) waste reduction workplan developed. Waste service levels (recycling in parks, at super mailboxes and in the downtown core) approved by Council in Implementation to begin concurrent with new waste collection contract. Residential curbside waste audit completed for 100 homes to help inform waste diversion programs and education. Pilot summaries for recycling bin lid, parks recycling, and super mailboxes presented to Council and direction received to implement recycling in parks, at super mailboxes and in the downtown core. Three-stream waste diversion provided at Richmond Hill's 2016 Ribfest event (4.74 tonnes of recycling and 2.09 tonnes of organic materials diverted). 29 7