1 | p a g e - victoria, british columbiahall/mayor~council...establishing key performance indicators...
TRANSCRIPT
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #1: INNOVATE AND LEAD
Work continued in the third quarter to monitor the City’s work towards achieving its strategic objectives. The 2016 Operational Work Plan is aligned with the City’s Strategic Plan objectives and the 2016 Financial Plan. Establishing key performance indicators and aligning all of the City’s work under strategic objectives continued to be the focus for 2016, providing a complete picture of the value for tax dollars.
The City was successful in recruiting for the position of Assistant Director of Transportation. Jacqueline Weston joined the City on September 19. Weston was formerly the Director of Engineering for the City of Barrie, Ontario and brings 26 years of municipal and consulting experience to her new role at the City.
A Request for Offers was submitted in September and awarded to Odgers Berndtson to assist the City with its recruitment to lead the City’s Citizen Engagement and Strategic Planning department. The recruitment process will begin in quarter four.
In September, Council adopted a bylaw amendment requiring all cannabis businesses apply for rezoning starting in December 2016. All cannabis dispensaries are now required to purchase a business licence ($5,000) and go through a rezoning ($7,500) in order to operate.
Some of the rezoning requirements include a 200-metre distance between retailers, as well as between retailers and a school. The new regulations are designed to reduce impacts on the community while maintaining access to medical cannabis.
Storefront cannabis retailers that began operation after July 28, 2016 must comply with the new regulations immediately, meaning these businesses cannot operate until their rezoning application has been approved by City Council. Storefront cannabis retailers that were in operation prior to July 28, 2016 may continue to operate while making progress towards a rezoning, however they must comply with operational requirements immediately. City Council has established the Cannabis-Related Business Regulation Bylaw to regulate businesses selling cannabis for medical purposes. The new regulations do
not legalize or permit the sale of cannabis as this is the jurisdiction of the Federal government.
The City’s Strategic Real Estate office continued work on assessing City facilities to inform the prioritization of long-term investments and acquisitions.
Earlier this year, the review of pedicab regulations brought amendments to the Vehicles for Hire Bylaw which would increase the total number of pedicab licences to 46, to be distributed within three blocks, and limit the total number of pedicabs that a person can operate to 28. A follow-up report was presented to Council on August 25 and the Bylaw was adopted to approve the increase in pedicab licences. A lottery process was held for the pedicab licences in September. The City received positive feedback on the process being fair and transparent.
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In October, Council referred the following resolution to the next Quarterly Strategic Plan Update and directed staff to report to Council on the resource implications of adding the following 2017 Action to the Strategic Plan: “Consolidate and update the Street Vendors Bylaw to permit the licensing, operations and regulation of responsible bicycle street vending in the City of Victoria.” Conducting the necessary research, analysing the impacts of the suggested bylaw amendments and bringing forward recommendations for Council consideration will not take a significant amount of staff resources and can be incorporated within the 2017 Operational Plan if Council chooses to give that direction.
Work continued in quarter three with a local development start-up to create a City app that will make the organization’s most commonly accessed website information more easily accessible from any mobile device (e.g. latest news, contact information, service requests). A beta of the app was tested and the app was launched in early November.
The independent review of the City’s Human Resources department continued in quarter three. Once finalized, Human Resources will work on ensuring talent management, employee orientation and recognition programs are refreshed and updated.
Quarter three was a busy time for safety education at the City. In addition to delivering day-to-day health and safety activities, 61 staff were educated on lung health and fitted to their respirator. One-hundred and forty-five of the City’s 350 standard job procedures were revised, and 14 new standards were created. Seven flu shot clinics were scheduled for November, and 339 staff had their hearing tested.
Career development continued this quarter, with 12 staff receiving career development support. Twenty-five percent of staff whom Human Resources met with in quarter three have currently taken on more responsibility or are in a competitive process as a strong candidate for further development. Employees who have attended these meetings are more engaged in their career paths and job requirements at the City.
End user IT learning support continued this quarter with 21 sessions offered and six new learning events piloted. The sessions support staff in becoming fluent with the information technology currently used in City workplaces.
The City is currently developing a Corporate Project Management Policy and Framework which will be applied to projects starting in 2017. A Request for Offers was launched in September in search of an individual(s) to develop a course outline and deliver a two-day project management course. The course will be offered to select staff in quarter four.
The ongoing use of Committee of the Whole as Council’s committee system, and the use of weekly closed Council meetings if necessary at the conclusion of a Committee of the Whole meeting, were approved by Council in September. At a special Council meeting on December 18, 2015, City Council approved a resolution, approving a number of governance related issues, including a six month “piloting” of consolidating the Governance and Priorities Committee and the Planning and Land use Committee into a single Committee of the Whole, to be held weekly where any issues to come before Council at Committee would be able to be considered.
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #1: INNOVATE AND LEAD
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# of job competitions
191
176 51 58 38
% of promotions/internal movement
60%
38% (avg)
15% 53% 37%
# of learning hours # of learning events
4,009
109
5,245
103
2,629.50
45
992
26
502
21
# of employee forums
2 2 0 1 0
# of hours of sick time used
39,354 44,910 14,368 11,233 9,965
# of hours lost to workplace injury
13,610 8,528 2,410.50 4,250.75 1,434.62
# of full-time equivalents
786.73
796.48 799.98 799.98 799.98
# of Council and Committee meetings
74
103
42
46
27
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2016 Council and Committee Meeting Breakdown
Meeting Type
Total 2015
Q1
2016
Q2
2016
Q3
2016
Q4
2016
Total 2016
Council (Committee) Meetings # of Open Meetings # of Closed Meetings Total Meetings:
Open PLUC 22 +
Open GPC 46
68
Closed PLUC 10 +
Closed GPC 26
36
104
Open COTW 10 +
Open PLUC 2 +
Open GPC 3
15
Closed PLUC 2 +
Closed GPC 2 +
Closed COTW
1 5
20
Open COTW
14
Closed COTW
3
17
Open COTW
9
Closed COTW
1
10
City Council Meetings # of Open Meetings # of Closed Meetings Total Council Meetings:
28
29
57
13 9
22
18
11
29
10 7
17
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #2: ENGAGE AND EMPOWER THE COMMUNITY
In quarter three, the City continued to engage the community to obtain feedback on how they use Victoria parks and open spaces, and what they would like to see in the future. Engagement opportunities included an open house, online and phone surveys, pop-up events at community events, interviews with stakeholders and focus group interviews. This information will be used to inform the draft Parks Master Plan.
To celebrate the rejuvenation of Begbie Green, an existing City park, the community was invited to nominate new names for this green space. A jury of representatives from adjacent neighbourhoods reviewed the nominations and selected a shortlist. In July, the City asked the community to vote for their favourite shortlisted name, of which there were three. In September, the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations were invited to nominate names. The winning name – Begbie Green – was announced in October.
The City invited James Bay residents and habitat enhancement organizations to participate in a workshop to identify habit enhancement opportunities at Heron Cove, which is adjacent to Fisherman’s Wharf.
Two stakeholder workshops and an open house were held in September to inform the Visual Victoria, wayfinding and placemaking project. Common themes included how to best use public spaces, what types of programming should be in public plazas and green spaces, how to help people find their way around Victoria, and whether or not the current districts around town make sense and if they should continue or have boundaries re-visited.
In the third quarter, residents provided input to inform the draft Fairfield and Gonzales Neighbourhood Plan. Feedback included how they love the walking and cycling opportunities as well as parks, green spaces and heritage homes in their community. Feedback shared indicated that residents would like to see more traffic management and child-friendly services. In 25 years, they would like to have a neighbourhood that is affordable and innovative.
Informed by community input, in September, Council approved the draft Burnside-Gorge Neighbourhood Plan to be shared with the community for feedback at a number of events this fall. The plan includes eight big moves that aim to achieve the community’s vision for their neighbourhood over the next 25 years. Burnside Gorge neighbourhood is one of Victoria’s most diverse neighbourhoods in terms of how land is used. The neighbourhood is expected to experience significant change in the years ahead as new bus and bike lanes are built and new development projects are initiated.
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A community meeting was held in the Victoria West neighbourhood in quarter three, where the City heard that the neighbourhood plan currently in development needs to honour past visioning and plans. Traffic is the biggest issued to be addressed in this neighbourhood, followed by the desire for more local business and food production, in addition to diverse, innovative and affordable housing.
In quarter three, the City continued seeking input on the community's aquatic and recreational programming needs to help inform whether to renovate or replace the Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre. During the summer, the City heard from more than 1,000 people about their programming needs and ideas for the future of the facility.
This quarter, the Youth Team went out into the community to find out what’s important to youth and how the City can better connect with them. Members attended several events including Car Free YYJ, the Oaklands Sunset Market and Rifflandia. Based on their conversations with young people around Victoria, the Youth Team drafted an engagement strategy. The team is connecting with youth and youth service providers to validate the strategy which will be presented to Council in early 2017.
The City of Victoria Youth Council’s 2015-2016 term wrapped up in May 2016. A new group of youth began meeting for the 2016-2017 term in October, and a “meet and greet” with City Council is planned for November.
In quarter three, work continued in exploring a central system for customer enquiries and responses continued. In addition to improving the City’s customer response time, such a system will create internal efficiencies and reduce duplication of service.
In July, Council received an update on the public use six-month pilot at City Hall and approved continuation of the program for 2017. In quarter three, the City supported seven protocol events, including the Royal visit of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, a visit with international students from UVIC’s Peter B. Gustavson School of Business, and a visit with the City of Victoria’s Twin City of Suzhou, China. The City’s courtesy flag pole raised flags in recognition of the Pride Festival in July and Childhood Cancer Awareness in September. The City’s Canadian flags were lowered to half-mast in recognition of Police and Peace Officers’ National Memorial Day on September 25.
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The City was excited to welcome Their Royal Highnesses, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, for their tour of British Columbia and the Yukon. The Royal couple and their children arrived in Victoria on Saturday, September 24 and departed on Saturday, October 1. A public welcome for the Duke and Duchess was hosted by the Federal and Provincial Governments on Saturday, September 24 at 5 p.m. on the lawn of the Parliament Buildings at Victoria’s Inner Harbour. The event provided an opportunity for the public to see the Royal couple and offer them a warm welcome to the Capital City. Mayor Helps represented Victoria along with Chief Andy Thomas from the Esquimalt Nation and Chief Ron Sam from the Songhees Nation, joining other dignitaries during the official welcome ceremony. The City of Victoria gifted 50, 12-inch Chrysanthemums to adorn the main stage at the public event. In anticipation of the Royal visit, City crews were busy relocating many of the City’s hanging baskets to ensure that those in the areas where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were expected to visit were of the highest quality. Many of Victoria’s downtown flower beds were also filled with new plantings in anticipation of the Royal visit.
In quarter three, all 22 eligible 2016 My Great Neighbourhood grant applications were approved for funding provided all conditions of their application are met. The grant program was introduced last year with the intention of supporting community projects that take place in the public realm and bring neighbours together to help shape their communities. Projects range from community tool sheds, signage to edible gardens and art installations.
Quarter 3 Protocol Events
UVIC Peter B. Gustavson international students visit City Hall and Chinatown
Delegation from Victoria’s Friendship City of Nanning visit City Hall
Exchange students from Victoria’s Friendship City of Changsha visit City Hall
Delegation visit from Victoria’s Twin City of Suzhou
Official Welcome for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge
Special Recognition event at Government House with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge
Official Farewell for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge
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Quarter 3 Flag Raisings / Half Mastings
Pride Festival Flag Raising (June 30 – July 11)
Childhood Cancer Awareness (September 1 – 12)
Half Masting in recognition of Police and Peace Officers’ National Memorial Day
Quarter 3 Public Use Events
Victoria Coalition to End Homelessness – Housing First Forum
Murray Rankin Consultation on Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement
Castlereigh Theatre Project auditions
James Bay New Horizon meeting
UN Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
Mike Fisher Emergency Preparedness Event
CRD Tenant Forum
BC Water and Waste Association meeting
Persian Multicultural Business Network
CRD Arts Development
Victoria Community Association Network Meeting
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #2: ENGAGE AND EMPOWER THE COMMUNITY
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
City Website
o # of unique visitors
o # of total visits
o % of traffic via mobile visits
Webcasts o # of viewers of webcasts o # of unique visitors o # of total visits o total page views o % viewed by desktop o % viewed by mobile
781,985 1,271,016
30%
20,326 14,355 16,180 225,962
85% 15%
918,835 1,787,542
26%
19,882 16,575
19,882 195,504
93% 7%
222,445 352,038 28.24%
4,970 4,562 5,604 64,908 83% 17%
223,715 337,209 30.20%
7,944 4,603 5,547
47,853 82% 18%
222,502 331,819 35.74%
7,317 5,884 6,582 37,677 79% 21%
Social Media
o # of Facebook likes o average organic
reach
o # of Twitter followers
o YouTube channel o # of
subscribers o views of all
videos to date
9,862 1,446
18,551 -
2,500
11,186 1,440
27,300
84
34,010
11,750 1,789
29,757
129
46,190
12,154 1,905
32,444
158
55,926
12,385 3,687
36,300
177
61,679
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #2: ENGAGE AND EMPOWER THE COMMUNITY
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
o LinkedIn # of
followers
o Instagram: # of
followers (launched March 2015)
- 0
1,349
1,500
1,030
2,500
1,046
4,252
1,057
4,963
VicMap:
o Desktop: # of unique users
o Mobile: # of unique users
(*Updated Aug 2016)
28,771
7,262
30,968*
11,864*
6,880*
3,772* (+1,408 Singles Map)
7,116
4,084
6,650
4,130
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #2: ENGAGE AND EMPOWER THE COMMUNITY
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
Garbage Collection Widget Statistics:
o total # of households signed up for active reminders - email, text, phone, Twitter, iCalendar
o # of personal garbage calendars downloaded to date
o # of unique households have accessed this service ((Note: not unique users)
6,512
8,960
13,928
8,554
11,342
17,232
9,508
11,466
17,848
10,114 11,541 18,479
10,438
11,594
18,780
# of Freedom of Information requests received # of Freedom of Information requests closed
86
83
124
99
42
55
39
42
32
29
# of Bylaws consolidated
0
35
6
3
3
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #2: ENGAGE AND EMPOWER THE COMMUNITY
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# of total page views of Development Tracker page (launched in May 2015)
N/A
5,821
1,638
2,572
1,969
# of citizens engaged in person at City events
3,500
4,759
1,055
2,789
2,220
# of surveys completed
2,800
5,344 1,745 2,636 983
# of public engagement events
25
82
22
21
18
# of media enquiries (2014 # based on average of seven media enquiries per day)
2,500
-
To be tracked in
future
-
To be tracked in
future
-
To be tracked in
future
-
To be tracked in future
# of media releases
180
136
25
29 30
Total # of dog licences sold (*updated Aug 2016)
6,500
6,492
4,623*
1,123
610
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #2: ENGAGE AND EMPOWER THE COMMUNITY
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
**Online Transactions: Business Licensing
o # of transactions o $ value
Dog Licensing
o # of transactions o $ value
(launched December 2015)
Homeowner Grant o # of transactions o $ value
Parking (municipal ticketing) o # of transactions o $ value
Property Taxes
o # of transactions o $ value
3,347 $469,186
- -
7,324 $4.53 million
62,875 $1.7 million
9,069 $36.35 million
3,662 $523,257
1
$30
7,868 $4.9 million
51,971 $1.43 million
10,990 $47.49 million
1,345 $215,757
442 $13,881
N/A taxes not levied
10,772 $294,458
801 $781,850
188 $23,767
62 $3,140
7,057 $4.45 million
13,360 $362,875
7,535 $33.69 million
129 12,534
556 21,345
1,110 $669,468
13,511 $369,889
2,806 $15.35 million
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #2: ENGAGE AND EMPOWER THE COMMUNITY
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
Property Taxes PAWS
o # of transactions o $ value
Property Taxes Prepayments
o # of transactions o $ value
Property Taxes Mortgages
o # of transactions o $ value
Utility Billing
o # of transactions o $ value
Utility Billing PAWS
o # of transactions o $ value TOTAL TRANSACTIONS:
TOTAL VALUE:
28,603 $10.09 million
1,470
$458,640
2,024 $7.35 million
36,531 $15.57 million
4,120 $2.01 million
155,425
$78.60 million
30,572 $14.37 million
1,656
$539,455
2,051 $7.75 million
38,941 $16.25 million
4,287 $2.04 million
152,112
$95.40 million
8,466 $4.077 million
780
$880,232
N/A taxes not
generated
1,607 $1.018 million
712
$406,807
24,152
$7.025 million
5,623 $2.73 million
279
$87,620
1,002 $5.03 million
9,653 $3.94 million
1,457
695,882
46,252
$51.1 million
8,030 $5.55 million
330
$78,998
1,058 $2.64 million
10,662 $4.39 million
1,205
$574,383
39,397
$26.7 million
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #3: STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE IN PLANNING AND LAND USE
In July, Council approved the Project Plan for the Victoria West Neighbourhood planning process, which sets out a detailed planning and engagement strategy designed to support accelerated local area planning. The project plan was shaped by a community workshop that took place in May with the Victoria West Community Association, local groups, and other interested citizens. Since the Project Plan’s approval, a neighbourhood working group has been appointed to support the Victoria West planning process and staff have built relationships with neighbourhood stakeholders to promote and obtain input into the plan. On September 24, 60 people attended a workshop to identify a future neighbourhood vision, goals and key neighbourhood issues to be addressed through neighbourhood planning.
In September, Council approved the release of the draft Burnside Gorge Neighbourhood Plan for public review. The draft plan was the result of the input of more than 1,500 people and was developed collaboration with staff across departments over the spring and summer months. The plan includes policies to guide growth and change in the neighbourhood, as well as an implementation plan. A series of public engagement opportunities are planned for October and November to provide an opportunity for the community and key stakeholders to provide feedback on the draft plan to determine if it effectively reflects what was heard and confirm community priorities. Once feedback is received, staff will prepare a final plan and an implementation plan for consideration by Council.
Council approved the launch of a Development and Permit Fee Review in August as part of a comprehensive review of development-related fees currently charged for various land use, building, plumbing and electrical permit applications. While issues range based upon the specifics of each bylaw, in general, current fee schedules are difficult to administer, not entirely reflective of processing and administration costs and do not cover some processes or actions required by current applications. Staff are planning to engage with the Urban Development Institute and Victoria Residential Builders Association to support the updates of the various fee schedules. The engagement will be done in tandem with the update of Development Cost Charges in quarter four.
On August 18, Council received a progress report on the review of the Community Association Land Use Committee (CALUC) Procedures for Processing Rezoning and Variance Applications and the CALUC Terms of Reference. This review began in quarter one in collaboration with CALUCs, the Urban Development Institute (UDI), Victoria Residential Builders Association (VRBA) and the 2016 Development Summit.
Staff reported on numerous improvements including refinements to the CALUC Terms of Reference, updated and clarified procedures for rezoning and variance applications, new guidelines for developer-led consultation and identification of resources to better support CALUCs. At Council’s direction, staff completed further consultation in September with CALUCS and the Urban Development Institute on the appropriate role for CALUCs in areas beyond the review of development applications, as well as options to address resourcing and equity issues to enable the City to better support to the CALUC process. Staff will report back to Council in quarter four with recommendations based on the outcome of this latter phase.
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The Visual Victoria project was launched at the end of September to develop a new Downtown Public Realm Plan and City-wide Wayfinding Strategy. Between September 2016 and March 2017, the City will work with the community to identify priorities and coordinate an approach for Victoria’s downtown public spaces, as well as develop a comprehensive wayfinding strategy to better serve the public and improve the public realm. The first public workshop was held on September 20 and involved 50 participants providing feedback about Victoria’s downtown public spaces. Visual Victoria has also established regular storefront hours at CityStudio Victoria, to provide opportunities for the public to give feedback in person. The next round of public engagement events are planned for November.
To support community use of a retired public school located at 950 Kings Road, Council approved the use of $15,000 for initial repairs and $25,000 in 2016 building operating costs from the Corporate Contingency Account in 2016. Council also approved the ongoing annual operational funding in the Financial Plan of $49,000 with the specific funding source to be determined through the budget process for 2017 and beyond. The property is also to be included in the 2017-2019 permissive tax exemption bylaw.
STATUS UPDATE FOR MAJOR DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS Quarter Three – as of September 30, 2016
(Sites with “COMPLETE” status indicated, are included to note progress since previous update and will be removed with next update)
Major Development Applications
Site Application Type
Status / Notes Estimated Project Value
Burnside/Gorge
3147 Douglas (Mayfair Mall) DP Advancing to ADP review $38,000,000
2925-2929 Douglas Street – car dealership
DP Applicant revising plans and then to ADP
$9,250,000
Downtown
1312-1314, 1318 Wharf (Northern Junk) – ground floor commercial with residential above
Rezoning/DP Applicant just resubmitted $20,000,000
727 Johnson – Heritage Revitalization with additional two floors
Rezoning with DP Applicant reconsidering plans $3,975,000
613 Herald DP with Variance COMPLETE $3,200,000
Fairfield / Gonzales
1303 Dallas (Clover Point Pump Station)
Rezoning PH scheduled then postponed
$2,000,000
913 – 929 Burdett Avenue and 914 – 924 McClure - seniors at Mount St Angela
Rezoning/DP/HAP Applicant revising plans $3,800,000
1041 Oliphant - residential Rezoning/DP With applicant, following referral back to staff
$8,200,000
1120-1128 Burdett Avenue - residential Rezoning/DP Revisions submitted. Under staff review
$5,800,000
Fernwood
1310 Gladstone – mixed use OCP Amendment/ Rezoning/DP
COMPLETE Under $2,000,000 – no cost provided
1144-1154 Johnson Street/1406 Chambers - residential
Rezoning/DP Awaiting revisions from applicant before returning to COTW
$12,000,000
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Major Development Applications
Site Application Type
Status / Notes Estimated Project Value
Harris Green
N/A N/A N/A N/A
Hillside-Quadra
2813-2887 Quadra (Quadra Village) – residential
Rezoning/DP New owners proceeding with apartment development. New CALUC meeting complete. Revisions submitted.
$2,250,000
1025 – 1075 Tolmie - seven small lots and one panhandle lot
DP Revisions submitted by applicant
$2,100,000
2560 Quadra – mixed use DP with Variances Advancing to Building Permit $1,900,000
James Bay
701 Belleville Street Senior’s Housing Waiting for revisions from applicant before proceeding to COTW
$41,278,640
Ogden Point Master Plan Planning exercise that will lead to a new Zone
GVHA leading and at public engagement stage. Submission of major Rezoning Application expected in fall 2016.
N/A
71-75 Montreal Rez / DP Preparing for COTW
Jubilee (North and South)
Royal Jubilee Hospital Master Campus Plan
Planning exercise that will lead to new Zone
Campus plan complete. Requires rezoning
N/A
Turner Block – mixed use Rezoning and DP Application resubmitted July 6, 2016. Awaiting revisions from applicant.
$10,000,000
North Park
N/A N/A N/A N/A
Oaklands
N/A N/A N/A N/A
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Major Development Applications
Site Application Type
Status / Notes Estimated Project Value
Rockland
750 Pemberton Street DP, possible rezoning
Waiting for decision and revisions from applicant
Not Available
1201 Fort Street Rez, OCP Amendment, DP
Application submitted September 26, 16
$28,000,000
Victoria West
701 Tyee (Lots H & J Railyards) - residential
DP/MDA Amendment
COMPLETE $2,684,800
353 Tyee Road (Dockside) – mixed use Rezoning, MDA Amendments and OCP Amendment
Working on Amendments to MDA and satisfying other conditions.
$196,384,000
Legend
DP - Development Permit Application
REZ - Rezoning Application
HAP - Heritage Alteration Permit Application
OCP - Official Community Plan Amendment
MDA - Master Development Agreement
Under $2,000,000 – no cost provided in application submission
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #3: STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE IN PLANNING AND LAND USE
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
$ value of heritage grants to Victoria Civic Heritage Trust to administer Building Incentive Program $ value of private investments leveraged from these grants (Source: Victoria Civic Heritage Trust)
$420,000
$17.07 million
$420,000
$950,000
Measured annually
Measured annually
Measured annually
Measured annually
Measured annually
Measured annually
Measured annually
Measured annually
TBD
TBD
Heritage # of heritage designations Heritage Alteration Permit: # of permits issued # of applications received Heritage Minor Amendment Permit: # of applications received
8
13 -
34
14
21 18
23
1
(in process) 1 4
14
2
(in progress) 0 3
12
0 0 1
10
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #3: STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE IN PLANNING AND LAND USE
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
Community Association Land Use Committee # of notices generated for committee meetings # of meetings
18,053
38
18,996
43
2,328 8
1,390 7
3,356 7
Meetings # of Board of Variance meetings # of Advisory Design Panel meetings # of Heritage Advisory Committee meetings # of Technical Review Committee meetings (includes special meetings)
16 9 8
24
20 9
13
29
5 0 4 9
5 2 3
12
5 2 1
12
Applications # of rezoning applications
38
29
13
5
4
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #3: STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE IN PLANNING AND LAND USE
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# of development permit applications # of development variance permit applications # of development permit minor amendments applications (previously called Minor Development Permit) # of board of variance applications
52
13
57
37
54
18
85
39
5 7
25
10
17 3
27
12
3 5
21
12
Permits # of construction permits issued $ value of construction permits Permit Breakdown: # of building permits issued
3,452
$156 million
758
3,426
$235 million
746
962
$119,721,568
208
942
$62,293,355
221
887
$51,605,194
214
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #3: STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE IN PLANNING AND LAND USE
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# of plumbing permits issued # of electrical permits issued # of demolition permits issued (also included in total number of building permits) # of signage permits issued
951
1,604
34
88
956
1,575
69
91
265
437
17
35
268
427
17
24
251
391
16
31
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #4: BUILD FINANCIAL CAPACITY OF THE ORGANIZATION
In quarter three, overall parking revenues were $4.3 million, a 7.3% increase over the previous year’s quarter three revenues.
There was no tax sale in 2016. The City proactively engaged property owners, outlining available options with those who had three years of outstanding taxes, resulting in zero properties going to tax sale.
In quarter three, the Mayor’s Task Force on Social Enterprise and Social Procurement, comprised of business and community leaders, met three times to develop recommendations for City Council, which will be presented for consideration in quarter four 2016 or the first quarter of 2017.
Enhancements to the City’s development tracker were made so that it now displays heritage alteration permits.
The TeleStaff upgrade project introduced feature enhancements to increase the efficiency of the Victoria Fire Department’s scheduling and rostering capability. Mobile device access and automated phone calling features saves staff time and increases efficiency.
Project Online was implemented with City project managers receiving training on the new system this quarter.
In quarter three, the 2017 Draft Financial Plan got underway with over 70 staff from across the organization involved in refining budget numbers and compiling information to introduce to City Council on October 20. Detailed reviews of both the operating and capital budgets were completed by staff. The community will be invited to provide feedback on the draft Financial Plan starting in November, with an e-Town Hall planned for December 1.
This quarter, the financial planning process focused on improving metrics and summary sheets for each capital project area; introduced divisional summary sheets; provided a financial plan overview including community impacts; and outlined the “budget at a glance”.
The City’s new Budget Simulator was introduced, an interactive educational tool to help the community better understand the budget process and the decisions City Council and staff make when developing and allocating funds.
The City will soon be recruiting for external committee members to review Strategic Plan grant applications. The intent is to appoint committee members with expertise in the areas related to the strategic plan objectives most commonly referenced in grant applications to date. Those objectives are: Facilitate Social Inclusion and Community Wellness; Create Prosperity through Economic Development; Nurture Our Arts, Culture and Learning Capital; Enhance and Steward Public Spaces, Green Spaces and Food Systems; and Engage and Empower the Community.
The Committee and the new grant review process will be piloted in 2017 and the external committee will recommend grant awards for Council’s consideration in early 2017.
The City was invited to present its view on federal infrastructure grant programs at the Standing Senate Committee on National Finance. The City of Victoria was one of the few municipalities from across Canada that was invited to participate and provided input.
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In April 2016, an RFQ was issued to select a shortlist of up to three proponents to be invited to participate in the next stage of the competitive selection process - the Request for Proposal stage to replace the Victoria Fire Department Headquarters. The RFQ closed on May 4, 2016.
Three submissions were received and have undergone review and evaluation. Based on the evaluation of the submissions, at an in-camera meeting of Council on September 22, 2016, City staff were directed to negotiate with one specific proponent. The intended outcome continues to be a new headquarters/fire station as part of a multi-use development at the best value for taxpayers. Interest expressed to date continues to be confidential.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #4: BUILD FINANCIAL CAPACITY OF THE ORGANIZATION
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# of grants received (measured annually) $ value of investment
30
$16.9 million
31
$17.2 million
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
$ value of investment interest earned (measured annually)
$2.75 million
$2.76 million
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
$ value of growth/new property tax assessment revenue (measured in Q1)
$1.37 million
$2.33 million
$425,000
n/a
n/a
n/a
$425,000
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #5: CREATE PROSPERITY THROUGH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
In September, the City of Victoria was presented with the 2016 Open for Business Award for the Vancouver Island/Coastal Region at the British Columbia Legislature. The 2016 Open for Business Awards were selected by the Small Business Roundtable and awarded by Coralee Oakes, Minister of Small Business Minister and Red Tape Reduction and chair of the B.C. Small Business Roundtable, and Peter Fassbender, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development and Minister Responsible for TransLink. The City of Victoria was selected as a winner of this year’s Open for Business Awards as a result of the newly created Business Hub which is mandated to: streamline and demystify all business and development processes at City Hall; make it easier to do business in Victoria; advise on how to reduce unnecessary red tape; connect entrepreneurs with the resources they need; and accelerate the development of downtown.
In quarter three, the City of Victoria and Royal Roads University announced a partnership to enable students in the university’s Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Community Development to develop community initiatives at CityStudio Victoria, an innovation hub where City staff, students and community members co-create, design and launch projects on the ground. CityStudio Victoria provides an opportunity for students to get university credit while working as a team on real City projects.
The Royal Roads’ graduate certificate is designed for professionals working in the private and public sectors who wish to expand their expertise in sustainable community development. The program consists of two online courses and a week-long residency at CityStudio’s Johnson Street hub. Upon completion, the certificate can be applied in full toward the university’s Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies.
The residency will convene students and City staff around projects such as local area planning processes, public engagement roadmaps, housing action plans and sheltering solutions, which are among 53 projects identified in the City’s Strategic Plan and Operational Plan.
The Royal Roads University – CityStudio Victoria collaboration is one of several involving local university and college faculty and students, including courses in Royal Roads’ Master of Environmental Management program.
On July 7, 2016, a historic agreement was signed enabling Tourism Victoria to take the lead on sales and marketing for the Victoria Conference Centre. This will strengthen the Victoria Conference Optimization Network partnership, help reduce duplication of efforts and costs, and improve the consistency of branding and the ability to implement innovative marketing. Under this agreement that was approved by the Provincial government, Miranda Ji is now the Director of Sales for the Victoria Conference Centre.
In quarter three, 11 contracts were signed for new conferences, of which six were citywide conferences. Twenty-nine contracts were signed in total.
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The Victoria Conference Centre participated in the Canadian Society of Association Executives tradeshow in Toronto, Ontario, and in the American Society of Association Executives held in Salt Lake City, Utah.
A primary focus of the Business Hub is to strengthen business partnerships/relationships which will help to increase awareness of the Hub’s main functions and help build its resources available to entrepreneurs. The Business Hub participated in a number of business related events and initiated one-on-one meetings with several community organizations/businesses in quarter three.
Business Events:
Urban Development Institute Summer Social – Attended the UDI summer social at Abstract Development’s “Black and White” showroom, providing an opportunity to meet and mingle with professionals in the real estate industry.
2016 Victoria Small Business Information Session (SBIE) – Attended as an exhibitor at the SBIE organized by the Federal government. This was an opportunity to showcase the Business Hub to the small business community and interact with other small business information organizations, as well as profile upcoming events the City has sponsored.
Downtown Victoria Business Association – Organized monthly DVBA/Business Hub meetings to discuss working relationship. The Business Hub is developing a welcome package for new businesses to Victoria.
Community Engagement:
UVic ICE Program – The Business Hub met with the coordinators of ICE (the Innovation Centre for Entrepreneurs) to discuss how the City can work strategically with UVic in regards to entrepreneurship in the region.
Economic Development and Prosperity Task Force:
“Huddle in the Hub” continued in quarter three. Monthly meetings (huddles) with members of the task force took place to address the action plan; challenges, successes, and round table updates on Victoria’s business climate.
The Business Hub met with the Executive Director of the South Island Property Project to discuss ways to work together.
Business Hub - Activities:
In quarter three, the Business Hub received 92 enquiries, of which 65 pertained to starting a new business. Home-based business enquiries were the most common to the Business Hub at 37% followed by retail stores, manufacturing/light industrial, and restaurants. The most popular methods of contact is walk-in (35) and email (34). Forty-three percent of enquiries were related to business licensing (41), followed by zoning at 27% (26).
The production of fact sheets on Urban Food and a Medical Cannabis are underway. Business Hub - Top Inquiries for Quarter Three:
Pedi-Cab Licensing Requirements: The introduction of the pedi-cab lottery drew quite a few enquiries to the Business Hub, which worked with Legislative Services to address enquiries and educate the public about the process.
Medical Cannabis Regulations: A number of enquiries were received regarding the implementation of the Medical Cannabis Bylaw. The Business Hub met with various parties interested in learning
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about the upcoming regulations and process involved to have a legal dispensary or cannabis-related business. The Business Hub collaborated with Legislative Services to provide information and education to the public regarding the process.
Airbnb: The Business Hub received some enquiries regarding Airbnb policies. Upon conferring with Planning staff, the Business Hub provided information to the public regarding when
Food Trucks/Carts operating on City-owned property: Four enquiries were related to operating a mobile food vending vehicle on City property. Currently, the City does not allow this type of use.
Q3 2016 Victoria Conference Centre Events (34 Events)
1-Jul-16 Nippon Travel Agency - Assuran Joy Club 95
2-Jul-16 Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches - Emerge 900
10-Jul-16 International Biometric Society - 28th International Biometric Conference 750
16-Jul-16 Keyspire 300
18-Jul-16 British Columbia Investment Management Corporation - Town Hall 360
19-Jul-16 British Columbia Housing 220
27-Jul-16 Imprint Culture & Media Ltd. - Shanghai Pingtan Troupe 400
8-Aug-16 Unifor Local 4276 30
12-Aug-16 Keyspire 90
21-Aug-16 World Financial Group 300
23-Aug-16 Citizenship and Immigration Canada 350
7-Sep-16 UVic Peter B. Gustavson School of Business - B Com LINK Orientation 275
8-Sep-16 UVic Peter B. Gustavson School of Business - Workplace Skills Conference 300
10-Sep-16 Vancouver Island Gastrointestinal Group - BC Digestive Diseases Weekend Conference 165
11-Sep-16 UVic Peter B. Gustavson School of Business - 2016 Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year Awards 620
13-Sep-16 Captive Resources Inc - Archway Insurance Board Meeting 380
14-Sep-16 Help Your Diabetes 103
15-Sep-16 Canadian Automatic Merchandising Association - CAMA Expo 2016 70
15-Sep-16 CITRIX Systems Inc 30
17-Sep-16 Bellyfit Enterprises Inc - The Women's Health & Fitness Summit 175
20-Sep-16 Canada Life Assurance Company 118
21-Sep-16 UVic Faculty of Law - UVic Vancouver OCI's 125
21-Sep-16 Chartered Professional Accountants Western School of Business - CPA Exams 83
26-Sep-16 Union of BC Municipalities - UBCM 2016 Convention 1,200
30-Sep-16 Vintage Fair - 4th Annual Victoria Vintage Expo 2,900
Additionally: 5 Video Conference Meetings
4 City of Victoria Meetings
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #5: CREATE PROSPERITY THROUGH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# unique ParkVictoria app users (in different quarters) (App was launched Dec 5, 2014)
1,387
13,857
10,832
12,480
14,157
# of ParkVictoria transactions (launched December 5, 2014)
3,765
207,953
87,050
102,386
102,277
# of on-street transactions # of City parkade transactions
2,757,602
785,512
2,721,014
1,282,830
663,629
335,476
706,456
363,797
700,455
355,710
# of events held at VCC
181
175
58
67
34
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #5: CREATE PROSPERITY THROUGH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# of delegate days at VCC
97,827
96,590
18,374
30,187
18,456
$ value of events at VCC (based on delegate days @ average delegate spend)
$44,022,150
$43,465,500
$8,268,300
$13,584,150
$8,305,200
# of VCC contracts signed for future conferences
43
62
19
8
11
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #6: MAKE VICTORIA MORE AFFORDABLE
In quarter three, the City allocated $297,000 in funding towards the Rosalie Village project, which provides 42 units of supportive affordable rental housing for young single mothers with children who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, and vulnerable older women who are referred from transition houses or subsidized family housing. The complex is located in Saanich and is being developed and operated by the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. All levels of government contributed funding in an effort to reduce homelessness in Victoria and the Region.
In early October, the City submitted the Victoria Housing Strategy to inform the Federal government’s new National Housing Strategy. The City’s feedback will be submitted under the category of Affordable Housing and will consist of a copy of the Victoria Housing Strategy 2016-2025, which demonstrates the City’s commitment to taking action on this issue within its capacity, along with a covering letter outlining where the Federal government’s support is required to improve affordability in Victoria.
Some of the recommendations include increasing the share of non-market housing as a proportion of total housing supply, developing strategies for first time home buyers and affordable home ownership, and a system that takes into account the specific needs of First Nations individuals. The City will also encourage the Federal government to create a National Housing Strategy that is flexible and funds locally developed solutions.
In September, Council directed staff to move forward with removing the minimum size required for housing units in Victoria. Currently, downtown is the only zone where there are no size restrictions. This action is one that has been recommended in the Victoria Housing Strategy as a means of increasing affordability by adding more housing supply to the city.
On September 19, the Government of BC committed $500 million to ensure more British Columbia families have access to affordable housing. A total of 2,900 rental units will be created in partnership with non-profit societies, local governments, government agencies, community organizations and the private sector. This funding offers the opportunity to create more affordable housing in Victoria.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #6: MAKE VICTORIA MORE AFFORDABLE
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# of new housing units
361
1,025
274
256
149
# of total new dwelling unit construction in Victoria neighbourhoods (excluding secondary/garden suites)
182
933
277
241
128
# of total dwelling unit conversions (excluding secondary/garden suites)
145
78
14
2
9
# of total secondary suites (including new construction and conversions)
31
46
15
13
21
# of inspections performed
8,725
8,636
2,327
3,015
2,898
# of demolitions
55
54
17
17
16
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #6: MAKE VICTORIA MORE AFFORDABLE
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# of rental units (affordable rental) created by Housing Reserve Fund
65
89
(in
Saanich)
0
0
0
# of purpose-built rental units approved through building permits issued (excluding secondary and garden suites) (*Updated to be measured annually)
24
683
Measured annually*
Measured annually
Measured annually
Measured annually
% of overall vacancy rate in City of Victoria (Source: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation)
1.3%
.6%
Measured annually
Measured annually
Measured annually
Measured annually
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #6: MAKE VICTORIA MORE AFFORDABLE
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
$ value of average sales price for single family $ value of average sales price for condominiums $ value of average sales price for townhouses (Source: Victoria Real Estate Board)
$612,784
$349,324
$473,938
$651,810
$353,409
$488,861
Measured annually
Measured annually
Measured annually
Measured annually
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #7: FACILITATE SOCIAL INCLUSION AND COMMUNITY WELLNESS
In quarter three, work continued as the City prepares to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action that are within municipal authority. Draft Terms of Reference for a new task force that will focus on the City's response were shared with the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, and approved by both. The Esquimalt Nation designated its Chief Andy Thomas as its representative to participate in the Truth and Reconciliation Task Force (with an alternate to be determined at a later date). The Songhees Nation designated its Chief Ron Sam as its representative to participate in the Truth and Reconciliation Task Force (with an alternate to be determined at a later date). Further recruitment will take place soon, and the Task Force is expected to begin its work early in the New Year. A tentative budget allocation of $50,000 was set aside in the draft 2017 City budget, to implement the recommendations expected from the Task Force.
From June until the end of the year, the City will be working with the community to hear what is important to them when planning for the future of City parks and open spaces. Public input will inform the Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan, which will guide future decisions and investments across the parks system.
To promote summer camps offered at the Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre, a tabloid-style Summer Camps Guide was printed and distributed to local venues to increase awareness.
In August, the City distributed 36,000 Fall/Winter Active Living Guides in the community, promoting health and wellness programming available at Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre and at neighbourhood centres. Fall/Winter programming and online registration continues to be promoted on the City’s social media channels. 1,140 children registered in 60 summer camps at Crystal pool and Fitness Centre
Over a span of 10 weeks (July and August), aquatics programming guided 392 children through 176 learn to swim programs at the Crystal Pool.
The Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre was closed for annual maintenance and cleaning from Sunday, September 3 to Sunday, September 25, and re-opened on Monday, September 26. The closure allowed for the replacement of lights, mechanical and sauna repairs, and a deep cleaning of the facility. During the closure, the customer reception desk was open for registration and enquiries weekdays 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Online registration for Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre programs was available at www.victoria.ca/recreation and promoted during the closure.
In August, the Victoria HarbourCats set a new West Coast League record with 40 wins on the way to their first playoff berth in franchise history. The City’s Royal Athletic Park is home to the Victoria HarbourCats.
In September, Royal Athletic Park hosted three major events – The Great Canadian Beer Festival, Rifflandia and Nitro Circus Live! The events attracted 29,532 attendees to the facility.
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In partnership with the Victoria November Project, the City of Victoria offered the Be Victorious: Fitness Series, free fitness classes in Centennial Square once a month from May to September. The five-part series brought together 50+ participants each class and helped establish the Victoria November Project as a global leader in the free fitness movement. The Victoria November Project is a free, open-to-anyone, outdoor fitness non-profit group founded to motivate and support Victorians of all ages, shapes, sizes and fitness levels to get out of their beds, get moving, and gain the experiences a life of health, fitness and movement provide.
On August 24, the Victoria Firefighters Charitable Foundation presented a cheque for $3,500 to City summer camp staff in support of the City of Victoria’s Campership Program. The donation took place at Royal Athletic Park during a water-themed “Summer Carnival” event attended by all summer camp staff and children.
The City of Victoria Campership Program provides financial assistance to the families of children who are unable to register in summer camps due to financial hardship. Since 2013, the Campership Program has helped 154 children attend a City of Victoria summer camp.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #7: FACILITATE SOCIAL INCLUSION AND COMMUNITY WELLNESS
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre
# of visits # of registrants # of online registrations* # of in person/by phone
# of registered programs # of camp registrants # of drop-in fitness classes # of drop-in fitness participants # of aqua-fitness classes # of aqua-fitness participants # of children who learned to swim
250,000 5,223 398* 4,825
1,703
1,982
963
6,367
816 8,858
1,929
256,000 8,464 1,250 6,944
2,016
1,700
985
6,200
794 13,282
2,183
57,317 1,852 267
1,585
325
116
273 2,007
182 4,087
902
68,280 2,632 545
2,087
376
147
283 1,994
221 4,526
435
61,846 2,095 593
1,502
564
1.204
240 1,217
160 3,352
426
# of playgrounds
40
40
40
40
40
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #7: FACILITATE SOCIAL INCLUSION AND COMMUNITY WELLNESS
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# of ball diamonds and soccer fields
45
45
45
45
45
# of outdoor fitness equipment locations
4
4
4
4
4
# of bookings of Royal Athletic Park Attendance at Royal Athletic Park
76
70,000
79
60,089
1
800
22
19,774
24
52,726
# of dog leash-optional areas
12
12
12
12
12
# of public washrooms in parks
17
17
17
17
17
# of tennis courts
23
23
23
23
23
# of community/senior centres City owned or leased
10
10
10
10
10
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #8: ENHANCE AND STEWARD PUBLIC SPACES, GREEN SPACES AND FOOD SYSTEMS
In September, the City announced its purchase of two properties and a section of a third property from a private land owner to create additional parkland in the Burnside Gorge neighbourhood. The properties, located on Cecelia Road and Washington Avenue, are next to Cecelia Ravine Park and the Galloping Goose Regional Trail and close to the Burnside Gorge Community Centre. The land will be transformed into green space and will expand Cecelia Ravine Park by 0.22 hectares (0.5 acres). The City committed to a “no net loss” of parkland in the Burnside Gorge neighbourhood following the conversion of Ellice Street Park for construction of the Rock Bay Landing shelter in 2009. The acquired land is 120 square metres greater than the minimum amount to be replaced. Neighbours, parks users and the broader community will be invited to help create a vision for the additional green space in 2017.
On September 21, students from South Park Elementary school marked National Tree Day by planting 12 Garry oaks in Beacon Hill Park. City of Victoria Parks crews and Tree Canada representatives were on hand to teach the students how to plant the trees. The tree planting was sponsored by Tree Canada and TELUS, who hosted 13 ceremonial tree planting events across the country to engage Canadians in celebrating the importance of trees on National Tree Day.
In September, City staff received direction to work closely with the community to develop the Topaz Park Improvement Plan starting next year, with completion in December 2017. The broken asphalt surface and fencing where the tennis courts previously existed will be removed. The tennis courts have been closed since 2013 due to safety concerns caused by extreme surface degradation, with an expectation they would be replaced at some point in the future. Unfortunately, upon further analysis in 2015, it was determined that given the large trees which have grown around the courts and root systems close to the surface, refurbishment of the tennis courts in the same location would pose significant challenges. A comprehensive review and long-term plan are required to confirm the necessary amenities and future investment needs for this well-used park.
In quarter three, the community was invited to “lettuce” know their thoughts on four proposed changes to “Growing Food in the City”. A public hearing was held on September 8, with Council adopting the Zoning Regulation bylaw amendment to allow small-scale food production in all areas of the city, provided such use does not negatively impact neighbours with unreasonable levels of odour, noise or artificial lighting. Amendments to the Business Licence Bylaw requiring residents to apply for a business licence to sell unprocessed food were adopted by Council on September 22.
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The temporary placemaking piece, Pop-Up Ships, was installed at the end of July. Playing on the theme of Victoria’s dynamic harbour, ‘Pop-Up Ships’ features seating inspired by origami paper boats to create a welcoming community place. The ‘Beacon’, an oversized sculptural element, attracts passersby to explore the new plaza. Colour on the ground brings vibrancy to the space. A long-term plan for Ship Point will advance as the City develops a Waterfront Plan, building upon the work that has occurred in the past few years. In the short-term, ‘Pop-Up Ships’ is intended to add vibrancy and activity to the space for the public to enjoy this summer.
In September, the location of the Afghanistan War Memorial was approved for the Rockland Avenue greenway. All costs associated with the installation of the memorial will be borne by the Afghanistan Memorial Committee. Over the past year, the City developed several options for placement of the memorial for the Afghanistan Memorial Committee to consider.
At the end of quarter three, the City removed its annual hanging baskets from downtown lampposts. Plants and soil were composted and the hardware will be reused next year.
Promotion of the City’s annual Residential Leaf Pick-up service began in late September. Victoria residents have two options for leaf collection: scheduled neighbourhood leaf collection, or bagged leaves "call for pick-up" service. Leaf pick up began on October 19. This year, to help prevent leaves from clogging storm drains and causing flooding during heavy rains, the use of clear compostable plastic bags is being promoted on the City’s social media channels.
Upgrades to the playground at Vic West Park were completed in September. The playground is now larger and includes a junior play structure for children ages two to five years and a senior play structure ages five to 12 years. The new equipment features an accessible swing seat, tot swings, and a natural play area with climbing stumps and a log circuit. The new, fenced dog off-leash area is currently under construction in the north east corner of the park, and is expected to open in December. Repairs and an upgrade of the beginner bowl of the skate park began in mid-October and are anticipated to be completed by the end of January 2017.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #8: ENHANCE AND STEWARD PUBLIC SPACES, GREEN SPACES AND FOOD SYSTEMS
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2015
Total 2016
# of inquiries to remove trees from private property # of tree removal permits issued for private property (within scope of Tree Preservation Bylaw)
Not
available
38
Will track in future
62
39
8
38
26
TBD
23
# of pruning permits issued for private property
57
78
15
20
24
# of trees planted on public property
190
144
150
124
12
# of trees removed from public property
Not
Available
109
Measured annually
Measured annually
Measured annually
# of City-owned trees
32,718
32,753
Measured annually
Measured annually
Measured annually
# of City parks and green spaces
72
(parks only)
72
(parks only)
132
132
132
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #8: ENHANCE AND STEWARD PUBLIC SPACES, GREEN SPACES AND FOOD SYSTEMS
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2015
Total 2016
# of annuals produced in nursery (for hanging baskets and beds)
Not
available
86,623
n/a
72,000
total annually
n/a
# of edible demonstration gardens
2
2
2
2
2
# of hanging baskets made
1,344
1,290
n/a
1,260
n/a
# of Parks calls for service
3,300
3,404
816
1,460
1,327
# ladybugs released # Aphidoletes aphidimyza (Predatory Midge) released
92,000
500
0
149,500
n/a
n/a
105,000
134,000
n/a
n/a
# of km of boulevard
300km
300km
219.7km
219.7km
219.7km
# of hectares of parkland
191
191
198
198
198
# of rain garden locations
9
9
9
9
9
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #9: COMPLETE A MULTI-MODAL AND ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK
In mid-August, the Johnson Street Bridge was scheduled to close to vehicle traffic to accommodate the installation of the new pedestrian bridge that crosses above Esquimalt Road just east of Harbour Road. The installation was successful, and the Johnson Street Bridge opened six hours earlier than planned. Installation of the new pedestrian bridge above Esquimalt Road provides a future connection between the Galloping Goose Trail and the E&N Trail.
The quarterly update on the Johnson Street Bridge Replacement Project was received by Council in September. Quarterly reports on the bridge’s progress are prepared to keep Council and the community updated on this important project. This was the third quarterly report for 2016, with the next one scheduled for December 2016. Should any emergency issues arise, City staff will provide an immediate update to Council.
This quarter, the City completed the design, tendered and awarded the construction contract for the City’s first protected bike lanes on Pandora Avenue as part of Biketoria project. Contractor Brunnell Construction Ltd. “broke ground” in early October
The protected bike lanes along Pandora Avenue represent the first of five corridors of protected bike lanes to be installed before the end of 2018. The network of new protected bike lanes will increase safety for cyclists pedestrians and other road users and will connect the downtown core to neighbourhoods and regional trails. Once the new Johnson Street Bridge project is completed, the two-way protected bike lane on Pandora Avenue will connect the Galloping Goose Trail to downtown.
The Pandora Avenue protected bike lane represents a significant improvement from the more traditional, painted bike lanes. Users of the Pandora facility will enjoy a safer cycling experience between parked cars and the sidewalk. The Pandora bike lane will also include raised medians, planters, reconfigured vehicle parking and bollards. This project, and protected bike lanes encourage people of all ages and abilities to cycle in Victoria. The bike lane construction will start in the 500 block of Pandora near Wharf Street and move east towards City Hall and ultimately end at Cook Street. Noticeable work along Pandora Avenue during the project will include some tree removals and replanting, temporary bus stop relocations and reduced travel lanes along the corridor depending on the work taking place. There will also be significant concrete work including new curbs, sidewalk medians and traffic islands construction. The project is expected to be completed by spring 2017. In conjunction with the bicycle facilities project, the City identified Pandora Avenue from Government Street to Douglas Street for paving. The objective of the paving project is to improve the road surface condition prior to the new bicycle facilities being implemented. Paving took place in mid-October.
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In September, Council approved continued discussions with regional partners to determine how best to manage and/or integrate high-occupancy and more sustainable transportation with dedicated southbound bus lanes along the Douglas corridor. The City will also work with a local woodworking guild and education partners to ensure that wood from the trees being removed as part of the project are appropriately used. Council also approved the 24-hour bus lane design subject to executing an agreement with BC Transit for it to fund construction of a southbound bus lane on Douglas Street, and to contribute to its through-life operation and maintenance costs. An update will be shared with Council at six and 12 months after implementation, with measures of bus lane performance, impacts on ridership, and any recommendations for future improvements. A joint public education campaign on dedicated bus lanes between BC Transit, VicPD and the City is planned for November.
In the third quarter, the City completed the rehabilitation of the intersection of Blanshard Street and Hillside Avenue. The busy intersection now includes a new asphalt surface, new traffic signals, improved sidewalk and wheelchair ramp mobility access, and upgraded storm catch basins for improved drainage.
This quarter, 2.5km of storm drains and sanitary sewers were rehabilitated. The water main pipe that runs along Pandora Avenue was rehabilitated in preparation for installation of the new protected bike lane.
A report was presented to Council noting that in quarter four, the City will be focusing greater efforts
on monitoring and enforcing the lowered speed limits to 40 km/hr and 30 km/h that were introduced last year along several streets in Victoria. Speed-reader boards will be placed in strategic locations and the reduced speeds will be more broadly promoted. Speed control elements will continue to be introduced in future street designs for these and other required corridors. In order to reduce any potential delays to transit, the City will continue to work closely with BC Transit.
In quarter three, City staff were directed to work with the CRD to engage owners of the private lands designated at "Railway Corridor" in Victoria West to complete the installation of the E&N Rail Trail from Esquimalt Road to Victoria Harbour as soon as practicable. The City will also work with the CRD in completing the detailed design of the trail on the City-owned land between Bayview property and the Galloping Goose Trail/Johnson Street Bridge and report back to Council. Council also expressed interest in further exploring the viability of commuter train service on the E&N corridor between Langford and Victoria as an inter-municipal service, or under Victoria Regional Transit Commission as a commuter train sub commission.
A progress report was presented to Council on skate boarding in Victoria. In February, the Streets and Traffic Bylaw was changed to allow skateboarders on downtown streets, but maintained the prohibition for skateboarding on sidewalks. Since then, the priority has been to educate skateboarders regarding the Bylaw. To address concerns about continued skateboarding on sidewalks, VicPD and Bylaw Services staff will be focusing on greater educational awareness as well as greater enforcement, starting in November.
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This quarter, the City consulted with the community regarding plans for Heron Cove and Raymur Point bridges, and the Heron Cove Special Place, a feature of the Harbour Pathway Plan. Heron Cove which is located next to Fisherman’s Wharf will be enhanced with a footbridge, seating and access to the shoreline; Raymur Point will see a new footbridge bridge crossing to improve this waterfront connection; and Reeson Park will have an accessible pathway constructed. The public was invited to provide feedback by completing an online survey at www.haveyoursayvictoria.com. Over the next year, the City will be improving the Harbour Pathway in these three locations, with a focus on making connections, improving accessibility, and creating interesting and fun public spaces along the way.
A report to Council in July summarized the first six months of the year for parking services. When comparing January 1 - June 30, 2016, over the same period in 2015, 5,131 fewer tickets were written in the same period; the number of parking transactions in both parkades and on-street have increased, and revenue from parking transactions is forecast to be between $500,000 and $900,000 higher than budgeted. Through efficiencies in developing the in-house Parking Ambassador model, in particular related to customer service systems, the costs are expected to be less than originally estimated. Overall, this will result in a surplus of funds that is recommended to be transferred to reserves for future capital investments in parking.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #9: COMPLETE A MULTI-MODAL AND ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# of km of road paved
2.3km
2.3km
0
0.8km
0.24km
# of new crosswalks installed # of crosswalks upgraded
3 -
3 1
0 -
0 -
1 -
# of sidewalk projects completed
5
4
0
0
0
# of metres of new sidewalk installed (*updated to read as metres)
680m
440m*
0
0
0
# of metres of new bike lane (*updated to read as metres)
1,500m
230m*
0
0
0
# of new bike racks installed
14
12
0
4
6
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #9: COMPLETE A MULTI-MODAL AND ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION NETWORK
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# of bus shelters installed
3
2
0
1
1
# of new LED pedestrian countdown signals
6
6
0
0
0
# of major street rehabilitation projects completed
8
5
0
1
1
# of local street rehabilitation projects completed
6
6
0
3
1
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #10: NURTURE OUR ARTS, CULTURAL AND LEARNING CAPITAL
Downtown Victoria will be the place to be on New Year’s Eve for Spirit of 150 Victoria – First Night, a major kick-off event to launch Canada’s 150th anniversary year in 2017. In October, the City of Victoria in partnership with Greater Victoria Spirit Committee, announced a federal contribution of $224,000 from the Department of Canadian Heritage’s Canada 150 Fund to host the First Night celebration on Saturday, December 31, 2016 from 5 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. at Victoria’s Inner Harbour. The event line-up will be shared with the community in late November.
In quarter three, the new musical railing located in the back stairwell of the Bastion Square Parkade was introduced to the community. The parkade is now home to an unexpected interactive musical experience for those coming and going, or looking for fun downtown. Local artists Scott Amos and David Parfit were selected in the City's Art on Parkades competition to create an interactive musical railing to enhance the parking facility.
To create a playful musical experience for visitors, the parkade's back stairwell has been turned into a five-storey musical instrument by installing sensors that create different sound and light effects on each of the landings. When hands touch the railing sensors, sounds play through speakers on each level and LED lights illuminate, creating a unique experience for those who take the stairs. Lighting effects are more visible at night.
The City of Victoria is developing Create Victoria, a five-year Arts and Culture Master Plan designed to nurture conditions for creativity to flourish. The plan will align ideas, people, and resources around a shared vision and a set of goals, strategies and tactics to realize Victoria’s full potential.
Introduced during Thinklandia in September, the City invites the community to “Make Your Mark” by providing input to inform the Create Victoria plan, on how we can build on our strengths to become a world-class hub for creativity, innovation and artistic excellence. The City is seeking input on what types of arts and culture citizens currently participate in, and what should the City make a priority for cultural investment over the next five years. The public was invited to drop by the Create Victoria pop-up booth at events around town this fall, including the Rifflandia Music Festival at Royal Athletic Park, to learn more about the arts and culture plan, meet staff, ask questions, and contribute ideas to the Creative City wall. The public will have to opportunities to provide feedback on the draft plan in spring 2017.
On Sunday, September 11, six Mayor’s Medals were awarded at Thinklandia, Victoria’s Creative Festival. A collaboration with Thinklandia, the Mayor’s Medals are a crowd-sourced opportunity for people in Victoria to recognize their fellow citizens who might fly under the radar of other established award and recognition programs. A simple online nomination form allows citizens to nominate each other. This year, a nomination committee co-appointed by the City and Thinklandia again received a large number of submissions. Medals were awarded in the categories of Arts, Disruption, Transformation, Public, Environment, and Legacy.
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Finalists for the Victoria Book Prizes were announced September 14 and showcased at a gala held at the Union Club of British Columbia on Wednesday, October 12, 2016. Pauline Holdstock was named the winner of the 13th annual $5,000 City of Victoria Butler Prize for The Hunter and the Wild Girl (Goose Lane Editions). Dawn Green was named the winner of the 9th annual $5,000 Bolen Books Children’s Book Prize for In the Swish (Red Deer Press). The City of Victoria Butler Book Prize is a partnership between the City of Victoria and Brian Butler of Butler Brothers Supplies.
Creation, Honouring and Preservation of Pacific Northwest Indigenous Poles/Monumental Wood Carving was this year’s theme for the HIWEST Forum and Panel Discussion on Friday, September 30, 2016 at the University of Victoria Legacy Art Gallery. HIWEST (pronounced ‘hee-west’) featured a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Andrea Walsh, Associate Professor, Department of Anthropology at the University of Victoria, with artists Doug aFortune, Lou Ann Neel, Chief Rande Cook and Hjalmer Wenstob. The discussion was followed by a talk on the conservation of poles and monumental carvings by Heidi Swierenga, Senior Conservator and Department Head a t the University of British Columbia’s Museum of Anthropology.
Woven Together, the contemporary First Nations artwork by Vancouver-based mother and son Musqueam artist team Susan Point and Thomas Cannell, was installed on the exterior of the Johnson Street Parkade in July. The artwork is part of the City’s Art in Parkades initiative and is designed to enhance the facility and the downtown landscape.
Woven Together consists of colourful, powder-coated aluminum circular forms that are often used in Coast Salish art to represent the cycle of life, but also the traditional weaving spindle whorl and transportation. Colour plays a significant role in symbolizing cultures and different beliefs around the world all coming together to complete the circle. The centre is made up of four eye motifs that create four butterfly images symbolizing the ability to accept change, metamorphosis, and the beauty of nature. The number four is important within First Nations culture as it represents the four winds, seasons, directions, elements, moons and peoples. A First Nations blessing ceremony is planned for spring 2017.
On August 31, professional visual and/or media artists were invited to apply to be the City of Victoria’s first Artist in Residence. The new Artist in Residence program aims to ‘keep art in mind’, providing the opportunity for a local artist to work collaboratively with City staff to identify and develop a creative artwork for one or more capital projects over a one-year term. The Request for Expressions of Interest was open to artists and artist teams who are residents of the Capital Region which includes the Gulf Islands.
By working closely with a range of City staff and engaging the community, the selected artist will research and identify opportunities to create public art that will enhance an upcoming capital project. A capital project involves the construction, expansion, renovation, or replacement of City infrastructure. Some possible projects could include a City park/playground or street and sidewalk upgrade, or opportunities to enhance public spaces in Victoria neighbourhoods. The selection process is underway and the Artist in Residence will be announced at the end of October.
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Commercial Alley Art Gallery launched its fourth installation showcasing artwork by local artist Daniel Ellingsen on Saturday, August 27 on the west wall of the Youth Empowerment Society building on the 500 Block of Yates Street. The outdoor art gallery, featuring rolling installations by local artists, has added colour and vitality to the area since its inception in 2014.
The artist’s proposal was selected out of 24 submissions based on its arresting ability to report on west coast culture through image and text. Titled ‘Coastal Reports’, Daniel Ellingsen’s four panels feature concise text and image investigations of relevant west coast socio-cultural issues and topics. The artist’s thought-provoking panels will be presented in a graphic style where cut-outs, gold leaf, and texture highlight his observations of our locale. Ellingsen combines references from film and other pop culture media to create pieces of great interest. His work is imbued with a tone that invites multiple interpretations of a single image, or phrase.
To celebrate Canada’s 149th birthday, the City of Victoria showcased a line-up of performances, family-friendly activities, multicultural programming, an international food village, and spectacular fireworks over Victoria’s Inner Harbour on Friday, July 1, 2016, drawing close to 50,000 people downtown. Sponsors and children’s activities returned to Belleville Street with plenty of interactive fun for the whole family. Vancouver Island-based three-time Juno nominated children’s band The Kerplunks engaged audience members of all ages on the Main Stage in the early afternoon. The ever-popular Coast Capital Living Flag took place on the Legislature Lawns, and 1,500 free red and white T-shirts were available. The City of Victoria was pleased to welcome back Coast Capital Savings as the Presenting Sponsor of Victoria Celebrates Canada Day. The celebration’s increased focus on family-friendly entertainment has been made possible by the generous support of the credit union over the past eight years.
A robust and diverse musical program offered close to 100 consecutive days of free outdoor live music at the City’s outdoor stages in quarter three. The free Lunchtime Concerts in the Square ran Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 1 p.m.
The Eventide Music Series offered free live music on Thursday evenings from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. in Centennial Square, and was presented by the Downtown Victoria Business Association, the City of Victoria and the University of Victoria’s CFUV Community Campus Radio.
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Other free programming included in the Concerts in the Park series at the Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park. This year, concerts were offered Friday through Mondays. The popular Children’s Concerts in the Park also returned in July and August offering six unique performances, including magic, storytelling, music and puppetry themes on select Wednesdays at noon in Beacon Hill Park.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #10: NURTURE OUR ARTS, CULTURAL AND LEARNING CAPITAL
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# of calls to artists
1
3
1
0
1
# of calls for musicians
0
0
1
0
0
# of public art pieces
85
86
86
88
89
# of block parties
27
26
1
3
26
# of outdoor festivals and events City financially supports (Includes FIG, Strategic Plan Grants, and other direct cash funding. Not in-kind.)
29
39
2
17
20
# of special event permits issued
311
213
17
98
64
# of film permits issued
83
98
13
11
13
# of attendees at Canada Day celebrations
45,000
40,000
n/a
n/a
50,000
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #10: NURTURE OUR ARTS, CULTURAL AND LEARNING CAPITAL
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# of City-programmed concerts at Beacon Hill Park # of City-programmed concerts at Centennial Square
44
60
43
107
0 0
56
107
57
101
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #11: STEWARD WATER SYSTEMS AND WASTE STREAMS
In August, an update on the City’s solid waste management plan was presented to City Council, who approved the continuation the City’s downtown public space recycling program and directed staff to complete the resource assessment required to deliver enhanced labelling and public education in 2017. Staff will move forward with completing a business case analysis of the various options for future yard waste management (collection and/or drop off), once more information is known about the future of integrated regional waste management. City staff will meet with the CRD and neighbouring municipalities to explore the potential for a compost pilot program in 2017 or 2018 and commence a business case analysis of the related organic waste management options. A resource estimate will be developed to complete the City’s Waste Management (and Action) Master Plan in 2017.
On October 13, 2016, City Council directed staff to proceed with the removal of abandoned vessels from the Gorge Waterway and to seek injunctions as required to remove any vessels or wharves that remain in the area in contravention of City bylaws. Based on community input, on May 26, 2016, City Council approved changes to improve the management of the Gorge Waterway, limiting long-term mooring to a maximum of 48 hours, and not more than 72 hours in a 30-day period.
The changes enhance the use of the waterway for recreation, prohibit residential use and the storage of vessels, and address the negative impacts that unregulated marine activities are having on the marine environment and Victoria residents, without restricting navigation.
In mid-October, a notice was distributed asking that all vessels and wharves be removed by Friday, October 28, 2016. The previous notice, issued in mid-June, requested boats and vessels be removed from the waterway by July 18, 2016. Subsequently, three vessels voluntarily left the area.
Approximately seven of the 24 vessels are used as residences. The City is working in partnership with Pacifica Housing to offer outreach services to those living aboard these vessels to assist them in finding alternate housing. An open forum will be held on Tuesday, October 25, 2016 from noon – 2 p.m. at the Victoria West Community Centre at 521 Craigflower Road, to provide an opportunity for those living aboard vessels to connect with Pacifica Housing’s outreach team.
The ultimate goal is for all owners to remove their vessels and wharves voluntarily. After Friday, October 28, 2016, the City will begin enforcement to remove the remaining vessels according to Transport Canada’s requirements. If necessary, the City will seek an injunction to remove any remaining vessels.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #11: STEWARD WATER SYSTEMS AND WASTE STREAMS RESPONSIBLY
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# of km of sewer upgrades
1.29km
2.23km
0.77km
0km
1.45km
# of km of stormwater system upgrades
9.78km
2.08km
1.04km*
0km
1.13km
# of km of water system upgrades
2.11km
1.84km
0.30km*
0.31km
0.48km
# of properties participating in stormwater utility rebates # of properties participating in stormwater utility credits (Launched in Q2 2015)
0 0
10*
21
6*
15*
2 8
2 3
# of tonnes of residential garbage collected # of tonnes of residential organics collected (*Updated Aug 2016)
3,388
1,827
3,687
1,989
959
510
1,002
526
1,024
534
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #12: PLAN FOR EMERGENCIES INCLUDING CLIMATE CHANGE SHORT AND LONG-TERM
In August, the Climate Action Program report was presented to City Council. The City has established a long-term greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction target for both corporate and community emissions consistent with global reduction goals of 80% GHG reduction, including a specific target of 100% renewal energy by 2050. City Council will participate in a series of workshops and a staff-led Climate Action Task Force commenced in October to define expectations and build a strategy around climate action. Staff will report out annually on progress made.
During this quarter, the Victoria Fire Department continued its focus and strategic development with both emergent and non-emergent community responses, initiated evaluation and development of an enhanced emergency management program, delivered emergency social services to the community, continued to develop its public education programming, and provided “industry best” instruction to its members.
In quarter three, the Victoria Fire Department presented an update on the Hoarding Education and Action Team (H.E.A.T.). The team provides comprehensive services and increases the safety for those afflicted and impacted by hoarding. It is estimated that one in 25 people in Greater Victoria is directly affected by hoarding, which is defined as the excessive collection of items, along with the inability to discard them.
The HEAT partnership includes the Victoria and Saanich Fire Departments, Island Health, SPCA, municipal services, concerned non-profit organizations, landlords, volunteers, and private de-cluttering services. Local fire departments are frequently the first point of contact for hoarding issues, but effective help can be hampered by the complexity of hoarding situations. A peer support group is offered twice a month at Royal Jubilee Hospital.
A Request for Proposal for third party assessment for Hazards, Risks, and Vulnerabilities Assessment (HRVA) and Business Impact Analysis (BIA) is presently being reviewed and is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2016. The HRVA and BIA will lay the foundation for an updated Emergency Plan for the City. A fuel distribution plan has been created and a water distribution plan is in the planning phase.
In quarter three, the Victoria Fire Department introduced and initiated training and administration of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) program in which UAVs will be used as an effective tool in Emergency Management and emergency response. Some immediate benefits include assessment of situational awareness, locating lost or trapped individuals, performing structural analysis of damaged infrastructure, delivering emergency supplies, and capturing images from inaccessible locations. Two members are now certified as Level 2 UAV pilots.
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The Emergency Management Division set up the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) on Canada Day at the Victoria Fire Department Headquarters. The EOC Support Team volunteers assembled and tested all EOC equipment to ensure full functionality, tested network connectivity, and were in place to support operations should an EOC activation occur. Three staff from Emergency Management and Fire Operations participated in the Departmental Operations Centre (DOC) located at VicPD. Although, no significant events occurred which required action from the DOC or EOC, this opportunity allowed Emergency Management, Fire Operations, Police, and the Provincial Ambulance Service to work collaboratively and communicate effectively. This exercise also verified the communications between the DOC, EOC and field personnel, and allowed EOC volunteers to participate and practise their skills.
In August, Emergency Management hosted a volunteer recruitment night, recruiting 15 new volunteers -- a 10% increase. Additionally, 20 volunteer training sessions were held this quarter.
In September, Emergency Management Victoria promoted registration for ShakeOutBC, the annual province-wide earthquake drill. To raise awareness of the drill and encourage the community to sign up online to participate, posters, pay station signage and display panels were posted at City workplaces and in the community. A social media campaign also championed registration in #ShakeOutBC, Drop! Cover! And Hold On! and the need for personal emergency preparedness.
The Victoria Fire Department hosted a Mental Health Symposium in September which was attended by fire fighters and police personnel. The focus of this year’s symposium was mental resiliency. Topics covered included discussions on mental health, steps to foster positive mental health and well-being, and early identification and warning signs both in yourself and others, which may require a greater level of care. Attendees participated in presentations delivered by Sara Wegwitz, RN BSN, Dr. Tamara Goranson, and Michael Boyle, MSW RSW over a two-day period.
Registered nurse Sara Wegwitz continued to work with members of the Fire Department in the provision of mental health and mental resilience training in relation to first responder wellness. These sessions focus on increased performance, resilience and mental wellness. Member feedback has been very positive and the impact of these sessions is measurable through metrics provided within this report.
The department is working with the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) in developing a “train the trainer” program and additional resource with their “R2MR” program; “Road to Mental Readiness”. The R2MR Program was originally developed for the Department of National Defence, migrated and established with police forces throughout the country and now includes fire specific training. The program will be introduced in January 2017. Members of the department will become certified instructors and deliver the program internally to Victoria Fire Department and other regional participants.
Several possible training initiatives were identified, with a focus on standardizing radio communications for mutual aid events in the four core municipalities. The pending implementation of the new dedicated 700 MHz spectrum and the transition to the P25 standard for radio communications has proven timely with this initiative.
This quarter, 12 members began the Fire Officer 2 Program to meet National Fire Protection Standard (NFPA) 1021 Professional Fire Officer Qualifications. This training prepares these officer candidates for future roles as Company Officers.
There was a 23.7% decrease in the number of beach fires in 2016. In the review of beach fire responses between January 1 and September 30, the department responded to 219 beach fires in 2016 in comparison to 287 in 2015.
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In review of the Victoria Fire Department’s staffing and absence management, there was a reduction of just over 1,471 hours of sick time in comparison to the same period of 2015. In addition to sick time, the department also reduced WorkSafeBC claim hours by more than 1,580 hours. This resulted in cost savings of approximately $155,000 to date over the same period in 2015.
There were 62 life safety education sessions this quarter attended by 2,094 participants. The Fire Prevention Division and Emergency Management have created a new educational program that incorporates fire safety and emergency preparedness. This program will be rolled out to Grade 6 students as part the school education programming.
The 2006 Emergency One (E-One) 100’ Bronto Skylift has returned to the Victoria Fire Department Mechanical Division after completion of the application of new paint to match with the Victoria Fire Department’s fleet colour. The Mechanical Division is in the final process of retrofitting the apparatus for operational service. The Bronto will provide enhanced operational capabilities in support of the Victoria Fire Department’s increasing high rise emergency response operations.
The Mechanical Division completed the specifications for two new engines which will go out for RFP to be reviewed and awarded in the fourth quarter. These two engines will replace two “first line” engines that will be placed in “reserve” status.
Technology upgrades completed this quarter include the transition to Workforce 5. This version is web based and provides access from all types of media devices and improved reporting capabilities. The Fire Department Manager (FDM) software data review is underway and will continue into in the 4th quarter to bring data collection in alignment with industry best standards.
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #12: PLAN FOR EMERGENCIES INCLUDING CLIMATE CHANGE SHORT AND LONG-TERM
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
Response: # of Victoria Fire Department calls for service:
Breakdown: # Alarms Activated # False alarms # Billable false alarms (billable when more than four consecutive false alarms occur at one property within a 12-month period) # Assistance # Cyclist struck # Fire-structure # Investigation (smell of smoke, odours etc.) # Marine (Fire Boat) # Medical aid # Motor vehicle accident # Mutual aid provided to Victoria (requested by VFD) # Mutual aid provided to Esquimalt # Mutual aid standby requests by Esquimalt # Mutual aid provided to Oak Bay # Mutual aid standby requests by Oak Bay # Mutual aid provided to Saanich # Mutual aid standby requests by Saanich # Mutual aid standby requests # Automatic aid – Royal Jubilee Hospital # Other fire (beach, grass, garbage can) # Pedestrian struck # Rescue
6,645
Not available
7,741
Not available
1,612
210 211
7
44 6
29 67
2
1,098 82 1 0 0 0 3 0 6 9 3
45 4 7
1,933
229 220 25
60 12 45 77
3
1,223 90 1 0 1 1 6 1 8
15 1
155 5
25
2,104
301 301 71
60 4 30 68 1
1,260 86 0 0 1 1 1 0 4 6 0
160 6 16
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #12: PLAN FOR EMERGENCIES INCLUDING CLIMATE CHANGE SHORT AND LONG-TERM
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
# Skateboarder # Spill/Leak # Vehicle fire
# Total hours dedicated to response:
# Confirmed structure fires:
# of fires contained to the room or area of origin: # High Rise Residential/Hotel/Office # Contained to room/area of origin) # Apartment/Motel/Hotel # Contained to room/area of origin # Commercial/Industrial # Contained to room/area of origin # Single family/ Duplex/ Townhouse # Contained to room/area of origin
Not available
67
25
Not
available
Not available
67
40
Not available
1 12 2
411
12 9 0 0 5 3 2 2 5 4
0 12 6
522
14
13 1 1 5 5 3 3 5 4
0 20 6
545 9 6 0 0 4 4 2 2 3 3
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #12: PLAN FOR EMERGENCIES INCLUDING CLIMATE CHANGE SHORT AND LONG-TERM
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
Fire Prevention: # of inspections (prevention and business): Breakdown: # Company inspections # Fire investigations # Investigation hours # Incendiary fire # Customer concern calls # Customer response hours # Oil tank installations # Oil tank removals # Occupant load calculations # Smoke Alarm Installs (home visits) # Calls received - HEAT Hotline for all municipalities (calls are managed/distributed by VFD) # Hoarding calls distributed to Vancouver Island fire departments # Hoarding calls specific to Victoria # Hoarding responses in Victoria # People assisted in Victoria
1,586
Not available
34 Not
available
2,676
Not
available
34 Not
available
658
41 9
51 5
38 19 19 21 23 5
25 -
12 8
12
541
74 13 58 3
42 46 31 21 5
10 49
35 14 10 13
535
224 14 45 3 74 37 4 26 6 11 39
22 11 4 6
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #12: PLAN FOR EMERGENCIES INCLUDING CLIMATE CHANGE SHORT AND LONG-TERM
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
Life Safety Education: # Life safety education sessions # People who attended public workshops/talks (includes emergency preparedness, fire safety, school tours, hoarding, school education program, card seat installation)
Not available
4,890
Not available
6,651
35
1,129
14
1,215
62
2,094
Training and Staff Development: # Aggregate training hours: Breakdown: # Certification sessions # Members received certification # Hours for certification # Specialized drill sessions # Members participated in drill sessions # Member hours for drill sessions
14,898
Not available
16,000
Not available
3,588
10 53
1,211 128 228
2,377
4,706 9
35 1,656 136 246
3,050
4,446 8 10 640 222 270
3,360
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STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #12: PLAN FOR EMERGENCIES INCLUDING CLIMATE CHANGE SHORT AND LONG-TERM
Measurement
Total 2014
Total 2015
Q1 2016
Q2 2016
Q3 2016
Q4 2016
Total 2016
Evacuee Assistance: # ESS activations # People assisted # Volunteer training sessions
12
187 -
11
29 -
2
62
30
5 9
27
2
14
21
Fleet Management: # Services performed on Victoria Fire Department apparatus # Services performed on Regional fire apparatus
160
36
112
44
29 5
28
14
28 4
STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE #13: DEMONSTRATE REGIONAL LEADERSHIP
On August 24, 2016, the CRD’s Project Board for wastewater treatment, an independent panel overseeing the project, released an interim report stating that McLoughlin Point in Esquimalt and Victoria’s Rock Bay were shortlisted as potential locations for a new sewage treatment plant in the Capital Region. The interim report proposed three options: a single plant at McLoughlin Point; a single plant at Rock Bay; and two smaller plants — one at Rock Bay and the other at McLoughlin Point. The report by the Core Area Waste Water Treatment Project Board said the estimated project costs range from $750 million to $1.1 billion. The seven-member panel assessed the shortlisted locations in more detail before releasing its final report and recommendation on September 7, 2016, which identified McLoughlin Point in Esquimalt as the sole location for a wastewater treatment plant. The CRD Board approved this recommendation on September 14, 2016.
The City provided feedback on the CRD’s proposed 2016 Regional Growth Strategy (RGS) for consideration at a public hearing scheduled for October 19, 2016. The feedback confirmed that the RGS is consistent with the City’s Official Community Plan objectives related to growth, environment, housing, transportation and economic development. The feedback also expressed concern over incremental urban sprawl and loss of green space in the region particularly in the Juan de Fuca electoral area and that the RD take action to strengthen urban containment.
From September 26 to 29, 2016, the City of Victoria hosted the annual Union of British Columbia Municipalities convention at the Victoria Conference Centre. Mayor Helps and Councillors Alto, Coleman, Loveday and Young were in attendance. The City submitted six resolutions for consideration by the membership, all of which were endorsed and included: Respect for Local Government; Legislation and Action for a Barrier-Free BC; Time Available for Mail Ballot Process; Empowering Local Governments to Pursue Socially Responsible Investing; Transgender Rights; National Pharmacare Program.
Victoria was named “the best place to be a woman in Canada” according to a study by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives. This is the second consecutive year for the City to hold this spot. The reason for Victoria’s repeat performance is largely due to the number of women represented in politics, the third annual study notes.
Not only is Victoria one of the few cities in the study to boast a female mayor, it is also one of the only cities to have more women than men on its Council,” reads the report, noting 42% of elected officials overall are women.
Victoria’s gap in employment between men and woman is also smaller than average, but comes as the result of a low employment rate for men, whereas women’s employment rates are “typical of the national average.”